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That is why local artist Janice Merendino wanted to show the commonalities between the roots of the neighborhood she grew up in, stemming from immigration, and life in the community now. Through the art exhibit Ducktown: An Atlantic City Immigration Story at the Noyes Arts Garage of Stockton University, Merendino depicted the life of her Italian immigrant grandparents in the early 1900s, along with the joys and challenges new immigrants have faced recently. Additionally, the exhibit explored the concept of understanding your sense of place, being aware of who came before you and whos coming after you, Merendino said at Saturdays opening reception for the display. Anywhere you are standing, someone has stood here before, and someones going to stand here after. So if we get the history right, we kind of have a richer story to tell, and that, I think, is part of what I want to have happen in this project, said Merendino, 71, of Philadelphia. The exhibit took from 18 to 20 months to research and to gather sources and information from the Atlantic City Free Public Library, the Atlantic City Historical Society, the Ducktown Community Development Corporation, and the citys Multicultural Services, said Michael Cagno, executive director of the Noyes Museum of Stockton University. Cagno thanked Merendino on behalf of the university for making the exhibit happen, noting he was totally impressed. We get concept ideas all the time, but as soon as she started talking about the neighborhood and how a sense of place that ties people together across different generations and different backgrounds, I was like, We gotta do this. Were going to make this work, Cagno said. Merendino also knocked on the doors of current residents who lived on her grandmothers street, as well as those living in her late grandmothers home now. Kaureen Afsheen, 14, said she was completely shocked, when Merendino knocked on the door of her grandmothers Centennial Avenue home a year or two ago, where the teenagers family lives now. Since then, Merendino and Afsheens family have built a connection with each other, sharing stories, learning history and making new memories. She told me that a lot of people lived in the house before us Chinese family, Italians, Bengalis, said Afsheen, who is Bengali. The exhibit shows the intricate things, and how they change over time. Its similar, but not what it is now, so its cool to me. Afsheen went to the exhibit with her mom, 7-year-old brother and 1-year-old sister to check out the different works that was inspired by her family. They viewed Merendinos Centennial Dining Dance Hall, In The Same Kitchen, 60 Years Apart, Centennial Avenue, morning, and Vanity in Ivy, contently as they smiled heartfully at the work. Other Ducktown residents, including Bud Thomas, who is Merendinos cousin, said the exhibit accurately showed how the neighborhood evolved. Its 100 times better, said Thomas, 83. Before, it was a lower-class neighborhood. Now its a fun neighborhood, and a great neighborhood to live in. The exhibit featured dozens of works using various mediums from Merendino, whose craft is influenced by Japan and Japanese art. Contributing artists included Farzana Israt, a resident of Ducktown, Alexa Ramirez, Stephanie and Dennis Dantro. The exhibit also included oral histories from Merendino and residents, an educational guide, and drawings from neighborhood children at the We LOVE our corner stores! pop- up event Merendino did last year at he La Tipica bodega on Artic Avenue. Those are the types of things you dont think about as a kid. You just believe that that corner store is always going to be Josephine Perrys. Its never going to change. And the candy you bought, you know, 50 years ago is still going to be there, Merendino said while telling the backstory of her interaction with the neighborhood youth. And so thats part of this, is just making people maybe more aware of our time here and who came before you and whos coming after you. Cagno noted the university purchased several of her pieces that it marked with red dots on placards explaining the works because its important to continue this narrative story, and it will live on perpetually with the museum. The Ducktown: An Immigration Story exhibit opened Jan. 10 and will run at the Noyes Museum through March 31. PLEASE BE ADVISED: Soon we will no longer integrate with Facebook for story comments. The commenting option is not going away, however, readers will need to register for a FREE site account to continue sharing their thoughts and feedback on stories. If you already have an account (i.e. current subscribers, posting in obituary guestbooks, for submitting community events), you may use that login, otherwise, you will be prompted to create a new account. A days worth of accumulating snow Friday felt rare enough after last years record snowless winter. Even more rare was the meteorological process that made it happen. UPDATES: Some NJ towns picked up over 6" of snow Friday The snow exited the Jersey Shore around 7 p.m. and now, the digging out awaits. Meteorologist Joe Martucci shares the snowfall totals across the region so far, looks more at the norlun trough and forecasts a frigid weekend ahead. After a few early Friday flurries, snow began between 5 and 7 a.m. With temperatures below 32 degrees, it stuck right away to roads and sidewalks not treated with salt. By 8 a.m., those untreated road were in poor condition. Video from Central Avenue in Egg Harbor Township showed snow all over the road, the pavement barely visible through the tire tracks. Snow was light for the morning. Snowfall totals remained low. But two heavier snow bands rotated through for the afternoon. By the time the snow ended between 5 and 8 p.m. , more than a half foot of snow fell in parts of South Jersey. Far North Jersey? Barely an inch. It was all thanks a phenomenon known as the NORLUN trough. The day was Dec. 5, 2018. A snowstorm hit New Jersey, but only part of it, a very limited part. Brigantine wound up with 7.5 inches of snow. Atlantic City International Airport picked up 4.8 inches, and Vineland saw up to 4.8 inches. Meanwhile, Cape May and Stafford Township reported no measurable snow. Before that, January 2011 was the last NORLUN trough in New Jersey. South Jersey saw the most snow then, too. While Fridays snow was spread throughout the state, both were associated with a NORLUN trough. Located to the northwest of a parent low-pressure system, the NORLUN trough brings localized heavier snow along its axis. The Northeast sees nearly 100% of the NORLUN troughs in the United States. Its happened when winds push up against each other. This creates rising air, a key ingredient for more significant precipitation to fall down. On Friday, winds from the north met winds from the west in the Delaware Bay during the afternoon. This stayed in place through the end of the snow Friday evening. Localized 6-inch amounts were seen all over South Jersey, as well as in northern and central Delaware. The highest total in the state was 6.5 inches of snow. That fell in Hopewell, Cumberland County, and in Mount Royal, Gloucester County, according to the National Weather Service. Within southeastern New Jersey, other places over 6 inches of snow included Port Norris and Deerfield in Cumberland County, and Dorothy and Egg Harbor Township in Atlantic County. Three to 6 inches of snow was generally seen throughout this region of the state. This was true even in Cape May County, which usually sees snow go to or mix with rain. The northern half of the state was further removed from the NORLUN trough. Snow was light and didnt fall for as long. While the shore town of Neptune, Monmouth County, picked up 4 inches of snow, Newark Airport reported 2.1 inches. Bergen County, the furthest northeast county in New Jersey, accumulated 1 to 1/2 inches. At Atlantic City International Airport, the snow Friday was more than 15 times the amount of snow seen all of last winter. Snow blew around Saturday in the gusty west wind. With daytime highs only in the mid-20s, the snowpack remained. Morning temperatures Sunday will be in the teens inland, staying around around 20 at the shore. Afternoon highs will only be around freezing, despite the plentiful sunshine. Blowing snow will be around again. The melting will begin Monday, as high temperatures go above freezing. A bigger warm-up will start Wednesday. Expect highs at or above 50 degrees through Friday. If the warmth doesnt melt the snow, the rain will. At least some rain is expected Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. There was good news Tuesday for fans of Spirit Airlines, the only regularly scheduled carrier at Atlantic City International Airport and one of just two ultra-low-cost airlines in the nation. A federal judge rejected the ill-conceived attempt by JetBlue Airways to take over Spirit in a merger, saying it would have reduced airline competition and hurt travelers who rely on Spirits low fares. U.S. District Judge William Young, of the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, spoke directly to South Jersey fliers who have taken advantage of the airlines rock bottom no-frills airfares for years. He wrote in his ruling, Spirit is a small airline. But there are those who love it. To those dedicated customers of Spirit, this ones for you. The U.S. Justice Department had sued a year ago to stop JetBlues acquisition of Spirit, saying it would remove an ultra-low-cost carrier that puts pressure on airlines to keep down fares. Young agreed and said, The airline industry is an oligopoly that has become more concentrated due to a series of mergers in the first decades of the twenty-first century, with a small group of firms in control of the vast majority of the market. In February 2022, Spirit and the nations other ultra-discount carrier, Frontier Airlines, had announced a plan to combine into a stronger and worthier challenger to the four major US. airlines. We welcomed the proposal, saying it likely also would give Atlantic City International Airport connections to more destinations, fares among the lowest in the industry, and encourage more visitors to fly to the resort city. But JetBlue saw Spirit as a path out of its troubles and toward becoming a fifth major airline. JetBlue spent lavishly to buy the support of Spirit shareholders and its corporate officers. Money talked for shareholders and the best business deal for Spirit Airlines and its South Jersey customers walked away. Industry analysts from the start said the Justice Departments case against JetBlue looked strong, so an appeal of Tuesdays ruling looks unlikely, let alone a successful one. The U.S. already had sued JetBlue and American Airlines over their partnership in the Northeast market. Last year, a judge ruled the partnership limited competition and ordered them to end it. JetBlue Chief Executive Robin Hayes, who led the attempted takeover of Spirit, previously had tried and failed to buy Virgin America. Last week he said he would resign in February. The failure will cost JetBlue. It had agreed to pay Spirit shareholders a breakup fee of $400 million if it couldnt get antitrust approval, and another $70 million to Spirit Airlines. Unfortunately, the misguided takeover and the pandemic have left Spirit weakened. Major airlines desperate to replace their lucrative business travelers who havent returned since the pandemic have added routes and cut their fares to take business from low-cost rivals. Spirit hasnt been profitable since the pandemic and will need to refinance its debt. A representative for Spirit on Wednesday told The Wall Street Journal, we are confident in our strengths and strategy. Spirit has been taking, and will continue to take, prudent steps to ensure the strength of its balance sheet and ongoing operations. Analysts at JPMorgan Chase acknowledged that they cannot reasonably identify a viable return to profitability any time soon. This turbulence was not Spirits fault. We hope it can navigate through this period to when its deep discount airfare model will succeed again. Wed like eventually to see a tie-up with Frontier Airlines considered again. Combining the ultra-discounters could give fliers throughout the nation a break and keep the major airlines oligopoly from excessive profiteering. SPRINGFIELD The Illinois Supreme Court on Friday unanimously upheld a 2019 law that consolidated nearly 650 municipal police and firefighter pension funds, rejecting arguments from pension fund members that their voting power was diluted unconstitutionally. The law, which Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed soon after it passed with overwhelming bipartisan majorities in the General Assembly, combined 649 individual pension funds into just two: one to manage investments and payouts for retired police officers and the other that does the same for retired firefighters. The consolidation promised access to larger investments previously not available to the hundreds of small individual funds, all in the hopes of yielding greater returns. Combining the funds into two also eliminated administrative costs paid out of the individual pension funds. But nearly three dozen pensioners and 17 of the individual pension funds sued over the law. They argued they were wronged because members now vote for the funds oversight boards on a statewide basis, rather than selecting five of their peers for their local boards as they used to. Attorney Daniel Konicek, who represented the plaintiffs in oral arguments to the high court in November, said his clients votes were completely, undeniably diluted, which he contended violated the state constitutions pension protection clause. That provision, which the Supreme Court has consistently ruled is ironclad, states membership in any government retirement system constitutes an enforceable contractual relationship, the benefits of which shall not be diminished or impaired. But all seven justices on the Illinois Supreme Court rejected Koniceks argument. Writing for her colleagues, Chief Justice Mary Jane Theis cut down Koniceks assertion that this case was similar to a 2014 case in which the court ruled the pension protection clause prevented the state from reducing health care benefits to retirees. In contrast, the ability to vote in elections for local pension board members is not such a constitutionally protected benefit, nor is the ability to have local board members control and invest pension funds, Theis wrote. Theis, the only justice still left on the court from when it heard a series of high-profile pension benefit cases including the 2014 challenge, had also been skeptical in her questioning of Konicek during oral arguments in November. Simply put, the (law) has no impact on plaintiffs receiving their promised monetary benefits, Theis wrote in Fridays opinion. Pritzker on Friday praised the decision, taking credit for pushing for the pension consolidation after decades of talk in Springfield. Todays Supreme Court ruling is a victory for Illinois taxpayers, local governments and first responders, he said. House Speaker Emanuel Chris Welch, D-Hillside, also applauded the ruling, calling the 2019 law commonsense reform, while Illinois Municipal League CEO Brad Cole who pushed for the consolidation for years thanked legislative leaders and mayors in an email to IML members Friday. Personally, having worked on this issue for more than a decade and as a drafter of the legislation, I am gratified by the consistent rulings in favor of the Act and in the determination that will now allow everyone to focus on strengthening and growing the funds. After all the platitudes and politically-driven talking points we endured the past weeks and months, finally we see a ray of sunshine. A state lawmaker has proposed a bill that would take steps to open our government to its people. Better yet, the bill addresses a problem weve seen locally in Davenport City Hall with regard to transparency. Rep. Gary Mohr, Bettendorf, has introduced a bill that would increase fines for public officials who violated open meetings laws. Beyond that, the bill would require elected and appointed officials to undergo training on open meetings and open records. Finally, the bill would remove officials from public office who knowingly violate the open meetings law multiple times. This bill is a breath of fresh air in a stale political environment. Open records laws don't deliver transparency Currently, the options for recourse in the event of an open meetings violations are not effective in either deterring violations or enforcing current regulations. If members of the public discover a breach of open meetings law they can file a complaint to Iowas Public Information Board, which has been reluctant to hand out fines, or file a lawsuit, which is expensive and prevents most people from being able to hold their government to account. The Iowa Public Information Board was set up in 2012 to resolve complaints from the public about government agencies not complying with open records and meetings law. An in-depth look at the board by the Des Moines Register in 2021 found only two monetary fines leveled against violators of public information laws since its inception. The board was supposed to be a quicker and cheaper mechanism for members of the public to address open government violations. This solution has fallen short. For instance, a parent complained to the Public Information Board after the Bettendorf School Board barred media from attending a May 25, 2022, meeting in which parents were expressing concerns over student safety. All but one school board member was present. It was a clear violation of the open meetings law, yet the Iowa Public Information Board dismissed the complaint. The Quad-City Times, Iowa Freedom of Information Council and other media outlets sued and eventually forced the Bettendorf district to admit its violation. Bettendorf School District also had to pay legal costs incurred by all parties. Keeping government open usually requires lawsuit Keeping government open should not require a lawsuit, but mostly it does. Davenport offers a more recent example of government operating outside the public view. The city signed three separation agreements of $1.89 million with the city administrator and two staff members without a public council vote and before the Nov. 7 election that included races for city alderman and mayor. Former City Attorney Tom Warner told the Quad-City Times he reached a consent from the council members for the agreements. This flies in the face of open meetings laws and makes us wonder how long the city was approving separation agreements in the dark. It was not until after the election that the city announced the administrator was leaving, and it required freedom of information requests to access the separation agreements, which should have become public through a vote. The council finally voted in December to approve the agreements in public. Now Allen Diercks, through his attorney Mike Meloy, has filed a lawsuit alleging the city and Warner violated the state's open meetings act by executing the settlements without prior public city council approval. Mohr said these recent issues in Davenport were the impetus for introducing an open government bill that adds teeth and education to existing laws. "Either we have open records and laws in Iowa that are enforceable or we don't," Mohr told the Times. "And obviously, the penalties aren't sufficient to require people to comply." Bill would improve openness by public officials Specifically, the bill would raise the civil fine from between $100 and $500 to between $1,000 and $5,000 or to to between $10,000 and $25,000 if the violation was committed knowingly. This increase is significant and would be more likely to lead public officials to make better decisions with regard to open meetings and records. And we know that removal from office after two knowingly-committed violations will be top of mind for many public officials. And the education component makes good sense. Rather than just require open meetings training for those who violate the law, let's train them first, right after they're elected or appointed. New officials would be required to learn about Chapter 21 and 22 of the Iowa open meetings, records law. We're not sure of the odds of Mohr's bill becoming law, but we are advocates. The bill adds teeth and learning and would help give the government back to the people through transparency. We urge other Iowa legislators to climb aboard and support HF2062. Farmers in Scott County will have access to $8 million in grant money from the United States Department of Agriculture to implement conservation practices aimed at improving water quality and soil health, preventing erosion and creating wildlife habitat. The five-year grant was awarded last fall through collaborative efforts of Partners of Scott County Watersheds, a nonprofit dedicated to improving water quality and reducing flooding, and Ducks Unlimited, a Memphis-based nonprofit that operates nationwide to conserve habitats for waterfowl habitats that also benefit other wildlife and people. Because both groups promote conservation, the pairing isnt so unlikely it might seem at first, said Mike Paustian, a sixth-generation Scott County farmer and board president of the Partners group. Weve talked with them in the past," he said. "Weve had some interactions, as our interests have overlapped. We already had a working relationship. This was the latest. For its part, Ducks Unlimited is getting more involved in the agricultural side of things because it affects water quality so heavily, said Joe Genzel, communications coordinator of the Great Lakes and Atlantic Region of Ducks Unlimited. Staffers at Ducks Unlimited wrote the grant proposal and will help oversee its implementation. Farmers will have to apply for funding, and the organization will provide assistance with paperwork, engineering expertise, arranging for contractors and testing for results. Details of how the process will work have yet to be decided, but members of the Partners group couldnt be more excited. Before, all we could do is talk about it we didnt have the funds, Paustian said, referring to meetings he has hosted around the county, encouraging farmers to adopt various conservation practices. In every meeting, money was the obstacle to adopting new methods and techniques, he said. Im super excited the grant got funded. Hopefully well be able to implement a lot of new practices. Based on some modeling we did, we think this project could reduce nitrogen runoff by 7%, phosphorous runoff by 10% and total suspended solids by 11%, he said. Surface runoff during peak floods is estimated to be reduced by 8%. How far will $8 million go? The project hopes to enroll 11,500 acres involving about 50 producers/farmers. In total, Scott County has about 219,935 acres in farm ground (corn and soybeans), and 414 producers/farmers, Paustian said, citing the 2017 USDA Census of Agriculture. Examples of conservation practices include cover crops, buffer strips, saturated buffer strips, bioreactors and wetland restoration. Cover crops, such as cereal rye, are planted in corn and soybean fields after harvest. The seeds germinate before winter and the emerging plants hold soil that otherwise would be subject to erosion. The roots contribute organic matter that sequesters carbon. Healthier soil also is able to hold more moisture than that which is depleted, lessening the effects of both flooding and drought. Buffer strips are swaths of vegetation that catch water runoff and hold it in place. Saturated buffers are those planted alongside streams in which a perforated tile is buried parallel to the stream. This parallel tile is hooked up to the end of a fields drainage tile line so that the water in the drainage tile instead of going straight into the stream goes into the parallel line that lets it slowly percolate through the soil, thereby filtering pollutants, including nitrogen. Bioreactors are large underground pits filled with wood chips. Water from drainage tiles flows in, and as it moves through the pit, it is filtered. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has been promoting these practices as part of the states voluntary Nutrient Reduction Strategy, adopted in 2013 after an Environmental Protection Agency study found that excessive nutrients largely from agriculture are causing a Dead Zone in the Gulf of Mexico. Excessive nutrients feed algae blooms that deplete oxygen levels when they decompose. But because Scott County does not have as much agricultural pollution as other parts of the state, grants to fund these practices have gone elsewhere, Paustian said. That is, Scott County is not bad enough, which is a good thing. Still, Paustian and Partners want to do work here, too. The grant was awarded under the USDAs Regional Conservation Partnership Program that provides incentives for a voluntary, partnership-driven approach to conservation. It was one of four separate grants that will be used in Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota and Wisconsin, according to a Ducks Unlimited news release. While some critics argue that Iowas voluntary strategy is not enough to address water quality problems and that regulation is needed, Steve Gustafson, vice chair of the Partners board, said his focus is on what is possible. One reason the application from Scott County was approved amid stiff competition likely was the 20-years worth of water quality data that has been collected through annual water snapshot testing, Paustian said. During these exercises, volunteers fan out across the county collecting water samples that are tested for various factors including nitrate, phosphorous, transparency, pH, dissolved oxygen and chloride. We have really good records for 20 years, Paustian said. Because of that, Scott County is a really good test case. I think that was one of the things that made our grant proposal attractive. Paustian and other members of the Partners group intend to get the word out to farmers soon, with the idea that some practices, such as the planting of cover crops, could begin as soon as fall 2024. For more information Producers interested in participating should contact Paustian at mike.paustian@gmail.com. 2023 Data Snapshot Mike Paustian, board president of the Partners of Scott County Watersheds, attributed the countys capture of an $8 million USDA grant for conservation practices in part on the impressive collection of past water quality data. For more than 20 years, volunteers have sampled streams and recorded the results, showing trends over time. In delivering this years snapshots summary in November, Steve Gustafson, board vice president, noted that there were too many undesirable trends nutrients, transparency and streambank erosion. The biggest concerns, he said, were nutrients and fecal bacteria impairments. The majority of streams originate within county borders, so water quality issues are our problem, he said. Here is a look: Nitrate and phosphorous (both fertilizer components) are a concern in urban, suburban and rural areas, not just coming in from rural to urban. Transparency has somewhat undesirable trends. pH is OK, but seems to be trending slightly higher overall. Dissolved oxygen is generally OK, expect for a few streams of concern. Chloride trends are currently an urban/suburban concern, but there are no water quality standard exceedances. Chloride is generally attributed to road salt. Drought played a major role in this years data. Fecal matter (human and dog) were detected in rural and urban streams. The Richmond Times-Dispatch follows its tradition of publishing the names of donors to the Richmond Christmas Mother Fund throughout the holiday season. Your generosity helps the fund support initiatives across the region to brighten the holiday season for thousands of your neighbors. The Times-Dispatch has sponsored the Richmond Christmas Mother program, a yearly holiday fund drive, since 1935, some of those years in partnership with the former afternoon newspaper, The Richmond News Leader. Visit go.richmond.com/christmasmother to give. Send contributions by mail to Richmond Christmas Mother Fund, P.O. Box 25864, Richmond, VA 23260. Checks should be made payable to Richmond Christmas Mother Fund. The final report for the 2023 Richmond Christmas Mother Fund will appear in the Jan. 28 edition of The Times-Dispatch. In Richmond, nothing ever quite matches the political instability that hangs over the school system. The latest crisis, resulting from the Richmond School Boards attempt to hide from public view a report detailing the circumstances surrounding the graduation day shooting outside the Altria Theater on June 6 a judge forced RPS to release the report on Wednesday is shocking, but hardly surprising. For all the confusion and administrative missteps, the third-party review of the shooting by Richmond law firm Sands Anderson reaches a clear-headed conclusion: Shawn Jackson, a graduating senior at Huguenot High School at the time, was not given permission by the schools principal to participate in the ceremony. He and his stepfather, Renzo Smith, were shot dead outside the Altria Theater moments after Jackson received his diploma. A dozen others were injured in the shooting and mayhem that followed. Jackson, it turns out, was placed in Homebound instruction at RPS due to mental health issues and because his mother, Tameeka Jackson-Smith, feared for his life. An ongoing dispute with at least one other student, if not multiple students, led Jackson-Smith to email her sons guidance counselor. The family, she said in the June 8, 2022, email, was still homeless from our home being shot up, by students in Huguenot. It happened twice, Jackson-Smith told The Times-Dispatch this week. He was a good kid, but he got caught up in the wrong crowd, she said. Attending school only heightened the risk of violence. Jackson-Smith emailed her sons counselor again on Feb. 2, 2023, after he was required to take an in-person SOL test at the school: He was in a class with people who literally tried to kill him. Those kids could have had somebody in the parking lot waiting to follow him or anything. The looming threats meant Jackson had not been cleared to attend graduation, according to the report. This critical information was not relayed to security officers at the Altria Theater on June 6. It turned out to be a lethal breakdown in communication. It also unnecessarily put students, families, administrators and staff in the crosshairs of gunfire. The Richmond Times-Dispatch, WTVR and activist Joshua Stanfield filed suit in December challenging the boards decision not to release the report. A majority of the School Board had decided in November that the external review fell under attorney-client privilege, which Richmond Circuit Court Judge W. Reilly Marchant rejected in a decision released Tuesday. That it took a lawsuit to force RPS to release the report is unfortunate, but it represents a victory for government transparency. Perhaps a little sunlight can help prod real changes to security procedures and how RPS communicates threat assessments, which clearly fell short on June 6. A lack of security protocols, metal detectors that were either missing or not detecting metal, a guidance counselor who failed to communicate safety issues, and a principal, Huguenot Highs Robert Gilstrap, who was checked out and would leave for a position with the Virginia Department of Education two months after the shooting, are all convenient scapegoats. Improving security protocols, however, wont solve the systemic dysfunction at Richmond Public Schools. This is a school system that is beset by rampant administrative and faculty turnover and persistent political infighting between the superintendent and School Board. Communication breakdowns in such a toxic environment are to be expected. In the year leading up the shooting, Superintendent Jason Kamras lost three of his top administrators. The dominoes began to fall after the School Board attempted to eliminate two key cabinet positions in the middle of budget season, no less all while engaging in a protracted battle with the mayor and City Council in its push to bring school construction in-house. After a year on the job, Alana Gonzalez, the districts former chief operating officer, resigned on May 20, 2022. In an email to School Board members, Kamras wrote that despite my best efforts to retain her, she felt she could not effectively perform her duties given the current political climate, in which she has felt harassed, undermined, and demeaned. A few months later, in July 2022, RPS chief academic officer, Tracy Epp, resigned after an extended family leave. In February 2023, RPS also lost Chief of Staff Michelle Hudacsko, who cited ongoing tensions between the School Board and administration: Conversely, the hostile and toxic work environment that some members of the RPS School Board have created and actively perpetuate on a daily basis is a deep disservice to RPS students and families, she wrote in an email to the board. The leadership vacuum trickled down to the schools. In the Sands Anderson report, the faculty and administrative vacancies were spelled out in an interview with Solomon Jefferson, chief academic officer of secondary academics and principal director. Solomon explained that he was essentially doing three jobs as the division struggled to fill vacancies, which created lapses in oversight, communication and, ultimately, trauma throughout the school year. I dont even know how to describe it, Solomon said, according to the transcript. Its things that were unmanaged. I think thats what happens when you have a lot of high-profile vacancies. In the wake of a pandemic that led to a spike in youth gun violence throughout Richmond, a growing mental health crisis and a precipitous drop in academic performance the Richmond School Board and the superintendent have been engaged in ritualistic conflict. One can argue over the roots of that conflict much of it can be traced to the School Boards focus on adding staff to build schools, a function that should have remained with City Hall but its time to stop pointing fingers. With nearly 70% of the student population deemed economically disadvantaged by the state, Richmond Public Schools is a microcosm of the city its poverty, its rampant gun violence, its lack of social and economic mobility. And its a division being held hostage by a broken political system, one that leaves our schools underfunded and under-resourced. Whether or not theres blame in this report, and negligence or whatever, it still comes down to the impact it has on the families the families that lost their loved ones, said activist Ram Bhagat, a retired science teacher and former manager of school culture at RPS. Bhagat, founder of the Drums No Guns Foundation, recalls visiting Monroe Park a day after the shooting and finding Jacksons mother sitting at the spot where her son was murdered, immobilized by grief. The report will serve a purpose, but the report is not going to address the root causes of gun violence. The report is not going to address that gun violence trauma, Bhagat said. That requires something else. Teaching conflict resolution in schools, providing support services to families traumatized by gun violence, rigorous safety protocols all are measures that could help prevent the next tragedy. But implementing such strategies requires a school system that isnt handcuffed by needless political turmoil and administrative dysfunction. It starts with the School Board and the superintendent resolving their own conflicts. Time is of the essence. The next crisis is just around the corner. The University Club of VPI & SU recently made a donation to the YMCA at Virginia Techs Meals On Main program. In the last months of 2023 as part of their Thanks & Giving event, members offered their support of the food security efforts. Through the Meals On Main program the YMCA distributes USDA approved meals and snacks at no cost to youth aged 1 to 18 years in Blacksburg, Christiansburg and surrounding areas. Between April 2020 and April 2023, a total of 110,471 meals and snacks were distributed to children in the NRV facing food insecurity, according to YMCA at Virginia Tech news release. And now, freshly cooked meals are being provided at some locations using a mobile kitchen with the help of volunteers, according to the release. The University Club of VPI & SU members collected $1,395 to donate to the YMCA at Virginia Tech meals program. Members made several comments in support of this donation, which were listed in the release: It is a wonderful, worthwhile project and I was glad to be a part of it. And: Food insecurity is a huge issue these days. We were happy to donate towards helping these kids. On Jan. 11, Club Vice President Don Mullins was joined by Chair of the Thanks & Giving Project Beth Ifju and club members Ruth and George Lacy to present the check to YMCA Board Treasurer Jim Lawrence and CEO & Executive Director Ryan Martin. Said Martin: We truly appreciate the tremendous generosity of the club members and their support of our work to feed local children. We could not do this work without donations of time and money. Lawrence said: Members of two organizations with deep traditions at Virginia Tech met this past Thursday at the house formerly owned by Lucy Lee Lancaster, one of the first five women to graduate from Tech. That notable event occurred in 1925, the same year that the Virginia Tech University Club was founded. The Lancaster House is the home of the YMCA at Virginia Tech, currently celebrating its 150th year of service to the campus and community. Thursdays occasion was the generous donation by the University Club to the YMCA at VT to support its program fighting food insecurity in our local communities. A huge Thank You from the Y to the University Club! Those interested in getting involved with the Meals On Main program can contact Karys Blakemore, director of food security programs, at meals@vtymca.org, according to the release. The organization says it accepts donations at: https://vtymca.org/support-the-y. The Roanoke Times The Montgomery County-Radford City-Floyd County branch of the NAACP celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King on Jan. 14 at the Church on Main in Blacksburg. The branchs 2024 Community Service Awards were given to Michael Hickman of Pulaski and John Sills of Blacksburg. Dr. Hickmans community contributions include his work with the Calfee Community and Cultural Center and his 42 years with Pulaski County Schools, according to a news release from the NAACP branch. Dr. Hickman has been instrumental in bringing forth the revitalization, and awareness of the Calfee Community and Cultural Center (CCCC) where he serves as the president and on the board of directors. Sills was recognized for his lifelong commitment to the betterment of others and the Kairos Prison Ministry Program at the Pocahontas State Correctional Center where he visited inmates and provided support and information to increase their positive outlook on life, according to the release. Sills also volunteers with Meals On Wheels. Branch president, Deborah Travis, and branch secretary, Shirley Akers, presented Silver Life Membership Awards to Joan Grayson, Randolph Grayson, Ann Shawhan, and Larry Bechtel, according to the release. Tyler Graves was also recognized for her three-year service as NAACP Youth Council president. She and brothers Robert and Richard McCrae were 2023 recipients of the Samuel H. Clark Memorial Scholarship in honor of Clark, who worked tirelessly for equal justice and civil rights and who served as past president of the local NAACP branch, according to the release. The audience donated $1,592.77 for the scholarship fund, according to the release. Tameka Paige, community relations specialist for the Roanoke Sheriffs Department, was the keynote speaker. Paige spoke about the importance of examining oneself with the goal of creating a beloved community. She emphasized the importance of both empathy and compassion and related both to Dr. Kings work. She said it is incumbent upon us all to recognize and address hate in our communities and to work toward positively addressing community needs, according to the release. Paige warned of the dangers of complacency and urged the audience to look inward for redemption and atonement. She emphasized the need for a strong commitment to creating a beloved community and reminded everyone to take steps to know and love ones neighbors. Love is not disposable; we must all live the meaning, the release states. Travis offered closing remarks with a quote from Dr., King, Rise up tonight with greater readiness. Let us stand with a greater determination. And let us more on in these powerful days, these days of challenge, to make American what it ought to be. We have an opportunity to make America a better nation. The program ended with everyone singing, We Shall Overcome. According to the release, donations to the Samuel H. Clark Scholarship Fund can be made at: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/mrf-naacp-shcs. The Roanoke Times The Poage Farm, once home to the last dairy herd in Roanoke County and then a site for a county school that was never built, is being sold again, a school board spokesman confirmed. But the buyer and the purchase price for the nearly 55 acres on U.S. 221 will not be made public until after the sale is finalized, probably this summer, Chuck Lionberger, the schools community relations director, said. For now, the only official word is that an offer has been made and accepted and school officials are in the process of closing the sale, Lionberger wrote in an email. David Poage, whose family settled in the area in 1748 and who has continued to rent the farm from Roanoke Countys school system, said Wednesday that he had been given a March deadline to have his beef cattle off the land. Poage, 66, said that 16 years after his family sold the property to the school system for $2.5 million, he regretted the sale and wished the land had stayed in agricultural use. Poage said that he did not know who the lands new buyer is or what their plans are, but expects some sort of high-density housing development perhaps complicated by about 30 acres of the site being in a flood plain, he said. Theres very few of us left working the land. I hate to see good farmland destroyed by idiots, Poage said. Poage said that he and his relatives only agreed to sell because they were faced with the use of eminent domain, which could have let the county take the land and have a court set the amount of compensation. We were threatened, Poage said. I guess what I want people to know is we didnt want to sell it. Lionberger disputed Poages account, writing in an email that there was no discussion of eminent domain and that the school board would not have had the legal authority to use eminent domain. But in 2007, the school system became the farms owner, acquiring it as a location for a school that officials thought would be needed. We were in the midst of rapid growth, Lionberger explained in an email. We anticipated the need to construct a new school in southwest Roanoke County in the coming years. However, a few years after the purchase, just as the economic recession happened, our enrollment peaked and began to decline. Any discussion of new schools stopped when enrollment started to decline. In 2010, the school board canceled what was described as a $21 million plan for a new school at the site. For years, though, use of the property continued much as it had. When the Poages sold the property, they maintained a lifetime right for Audrey Poage, David Poages mother, to live in the farmhouse a structure whose core was built in 1833, before there was a Roanoke County, David Poage noted last week. Any school constructed on the site was to be named for Davids late father, Audreys husband William Poage, according to news coverage at the time. David Poage continued to live on a separate, neighboring property. In 2004, he ended his familys dairy business described as the last dairy production in Roanoke County but continued to raise beef cattle on the old farm. Poage declined to say how much rent the family paid to the school system for the farmland but said it wasnt much and was covered at least partly by the credit he got for keeping the land mowed and maintained for the county. Audrey Poage died in 2020. Last May, the school board declared that it would sell the property. It doesnt make a whole lot of sense to hold onto it, board member David Linden said then. In November, the school board granted three easements to the Western Virginia Water Authority that would let the authority eventually run water and possibly sewer lines across the Poage Farm. The section of Roanoke County around the farm is not served by public water or sewer. The easements were described at the November school board meeting both as making the farm property more valuable and potentially also easing the way for water and sewer lines to reach the countys Back Creek Elementary School, located down U.S. 221 from the farm. On Friday, county spokeswoman Amy Whittaker said that the board of supervisors designated money received through the federal American Rescue Plan Act (pandemic relief) for extending water and sewer service to the elementary school, a project that the water authority will administer. This could bring the utilities to areas near the school, including the Poage Farm property, Whittaker said. But it is too soon to say when this might happen because the project is very much in early stages, with no design yet, Whittaker said. David Poage said that he had never worked a non-farm job, and that this would not change as he moved the 50 or 60 cattle he still keeps on the property where his family lived and worked for so long. Poage said that he and his son have hundreds of cattle elsewhere, and now farm more than 700 acres, some owned and some rented. Last year, Poage said, father and son stayed busy putting up 2,500 round bales and 18,500 square bales of hay for their hungry charges. Most of the land he farms these days isnt in Roanoke County, Poage said it is over Bent Mountain in the Check and Copper Hill communities of Floyd County. Some years back I wrote a tongue-in-cheek column suggesting Roanokes Patrick Henry High be renamed for its most famous graduate. Thats Wayne LaPierre, Class of 67, longtime head honcho at the National Rifle Association. When he was 5, LaPierres dad moved the family from New York to the Roanoke Valley, and took a job at General Electric in Salem. Nobody knew then that he would grow up to become Americas leading gun lobbyist. Now 74, on Jan. 5 LaPierre announced his work at the National Rifle Association is almost finished. He retires at the end of this month, after helming the nations gun lobby for 33 years. With pride in all that we have accomplished, I am announcing my resignation from the NRA, LaPierre said in a statement. I will never stop supporting the NRA and its fight to defend Second Amendment freedom. My passion for our cause burns as deeply as ever. Somewhat fittingly, the announcement dropped only a day after Americas most recent mass shooting, on Jan. 4 at a high school in Perry, Iowa. Including the student-gunman, that left three dead and six wounded. Roanoke to Richmond to D.C. After high school, LaPierre earned a bachelors from Siena College and a masters from Boston College. And for a stretch, he worked as a close legislative aide to the late Del. Vic Thomas, a pro-gun-rights Democrat who represented the Roanoke Valley in Richmond for 30 years. In the late 1970s, LaPierre parlayed that experience into a job with the NRA, and climbed the organizations ranks until it named him chief executive in 1991. Prior to LaPierre assuming NRA leadership, many of its members felt a deep sense of malaise with the organization. Thats because it had a decades-long record of supporting gun control including in the late 1960s, when the NRA helped Republicans enact a carry-ban in California cities. (Mostly that was aimed at the Black Panthers. Then-Gov. Ronald Reagan signed the legislation.) But under LaPierre, the NRA never retreated. Instead, it played whack-a-mole against gun control efforts in Washington, D.C., and state capitals. The organization helped elect pro-gun politicians. And then it lobbied for hundreds of federal and state laws (including here in Virginia) loosening gun restrictions. As a result, LaPierre became a roaring success by just about every gun-rights yardstick one can imagine. He didnt go unrewarded. The NRA bought LaPierre expertly tailored clothes, worth hundreds of thousands, flew him and his family around the world on private jets to exotic locations and buried the costs as advertising expenses. That put LaPierre at war with former NRA President Oliver North. LaPierre forced North out of the organization. LaPierre also got a handsome salary (dont dare call it blood money). In 2015 the NRA paid him $5.1 million. (Most of that was deferred compensation; more typically his salary in recent years has been under $2 million.) Lets consider just a few of LaPierres accomplishments. More gun deaths Between 1990 and 2021 a 31-year stretch that roughly coincides with LaPierres leadership at the NRA gun deaths in the United States totaled 1,110,421. (The stat came from the National Institutes of Health; that many people would fill Virginia Techs Lane Stadium 17 times.) What a record, huh? But it gets better. After LaPierre took over the NRA, gun-fatalities trended up over the long term. In 1991, his first year as chief exec, guns claimed 38,317 lives in America, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. By 2021, gun fatalities rose to 48,830, an increase of 27%. Of course, gun suicides outnumbered gun homicides in every one of those years (the U.S. tops the world in gun suicides). But gun homicides increased under LaPierres leadership, too. That was especially true during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the CDC, suicides by firearm in America increased 10% between 2019 and 2021. Gun homicides increased 45% during the same time frame. During LaPierres 30th year with NRA, America hit an important gun-death milestone. In 2020, the CDC counted a record 2,200 children slain by firearms. For the previous two decades, the number had been stuck below 2,000. That year, according to the CDC, guns became the leading cause of child death in America, eclipsing cancer, suffocation, birth defects, poison or drowning. And for the very first time, the number of children killed by guns also beat out kids killed in car crashes. In 2021, the number rose again, to 2,571 shot-and-killed children. Yet another feather for Wayne LaPierres cap. More guns in America Last year, The Trace, a nonprofit journalism outfit that focuses on gun violence, analyzed historical data (back to 1899) from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, as well as from the U.S. International Trade Commission. The goal was to count the number of guns circulating in America over time, either imported or manufactured for domestic use. Exports werent counted; neither were guns in the U.S. military. The survey assumed a 1% firearms attrition rate. The analysis estimated that in 1991, when the U.S. population was 253.5 million, America had 167.5 million guns in circulation or less than one per person. By 2023, the U.S. population grew to 336 million, and according to the analysis, the U.S. had 377.9 million guns in circulation, counting attrition. In other words, as LaPierre led the NRA, the number of guns in America more than doubled and now theres more than one gun per person floating around. Oddly, over the same time period, household gun ownership waned, according to Gallup Organization polls. In 1991, 48% of respondents reported having a gun in the house, Gallup found. By 2023 the number dropped to 42%. A steeply increasing number of guns, spread over a slightly decreasing number of households, is noteworthy because it suggests stockpiling. Which is a thought-provoking concept, in light of the 2021 insurrection and some politicians openly calling for a second Civil War. Will LaPierre list armed revolt as one of his accomplishments, if that ever happens? Gun massacre frequency Perhaps LaPierres greatest achievement at the NRA has been the astonishing increase in American mass shootings during his reign. Those didnt begin with LaPierre, but the pace sure picked up after he came on the gun-rights scene. The difference is especially stark when considering big massacres with 10 or more fatalities, excluding the perpetrators. Between 1949 and 1990, a stretch of 41 years, there were nine in America or on average, one mass shooting with 10 or more fatalities every 54 months. That changed dramatically after LaPierre assumed the reins at the NRA in 1991 which was the same year the Lubys Massacre in Killeen, Texas, claimed 22 lives, not counting the gunman. From 1991 to 2023, a stretch of 32 years, the United States saw 24 gun massacres that claimed 10 or more lives. On average, thats one every 16 months. When you sum it all up, its no wonder that NRA chief Wayne LaPierre, the most famous graduate of Roanokes Patrick Henry High, takes pride in his accomplishments. Under his steady hand at the National Rifle Association, gun deaths in the United States climbed 27%. Plus, we broke the record twice in successive years for the number of kids killed by guns. Meanwhile, the number of firearms in America more than doubled and the pace of really big gun massacres such as Columbine High School, Virginia Tech and Las Vegas more than tripled. Thats a hell of a record of accomplishment for Wayne LaPierre. Aside from totalitarian madmen and genocidal maniacs, can anyone else boast they helped enable more than 1.1 million gun deaths over a career? Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. MANCHESTER, New Hampshire -- Nikki Haley avoided any mention of South Carolina Sen. Tim Scotts endorsement of former President Donald Trump in her rally Friday night. We need a president who will unite our country, Scott said Friday. We need Donald Trump. Scott, who dropped out of the race for the Republican presidential nomination in December, announced earlier Friday he is endorsing Trump. Shortly after Haleys rally in Manchester, N.H. ended, Scott was speaking alongside Trump at the former presidents rally in Concord. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis also held a rally on Friday evening as all three candidates tried to shore up their support before Tuesdays primary election. When you look at the situation that we have in our country, its not great, and you dont have to turn on the news to see that, Haley said. I have always spoken in hard truths our Republicans did that to us too. Instead of focusing on Scotts endorsement, Haley hammered her usual platform of tightening the borders, strengthening the economy and attacking Trump and President Joe Biden for what she described as poor leadership that centers on political drama. Haley said most Americans dont want to see the two frontrunners face one another in the general election again. They think a leader decides whos good and whos bad, whos right and whos wrong, Haley said. My approach is different. Politics is not personal for me we dont have time for that. Its about results. Marie Mulroy, a 65-year-old voter from the Manchester area, praised Haleys foreign and economic policies, and said she is the last line of defense for a normal election. I can respect her as president for four years, and if she lost the election, shed go home, Mulroy said.Thats not going to happen with Trump. She comes the closest to what I value, which is that the chaos needs to stop. Alex Deeby, a 20-year-old criminal justice student at Nashua Community College, said she is excited about Haleys advocacy for veterans and said she identifies with Haleys call for term limits in Congress. Deeby said Congress and the presidency need to reflect the younger generation, which can be achieved if more young people take an active interest in politics. Were the future, Deeby said. Were the next generation. The older generations constantly criticize us because were not doing our part, but were also not being given our opportunity to do our part. And when we are, were not taking it. Barbara Young, a 60-year-old Manchester resident, said she plans to vote for Haley on Tuesday because she wants to finally see a woman in the White House. Young said she is most passionate about Haleys pledge to improve the economy through tax cuts to the middle class. My kids are all getting engaged and married now and they cant afford to buy a house, Young said. That really bothers me because theyre all working hard, theyre gainfully employed, but they cant afford it. Everything is out of control. While voters at Haleys rally expressed disappointment in Scotts endorsement of Trump, they said it isnt a factor in deciding their vote. For Haley, the event was an opportunity to paint herself as a candidate representing a new generation of conservatives. What a leader does is understand that you serve everybody, Haley said, prompting the crowd of thousands to erupt in applause and chant her name. Robies Country Store was conducting business on Thursday morning. The owner, alongside his wife and two small children, were tending the counter, serving hot sandwiches and coffee to the five residents of this community already sitting at the rickety wooden tables. Then, suddenly, the crowds started flooding in. By 11 a.m., there was barely room to stand. By 11:30 a.m., the small store was crammed with reporters and Hooksett residents waiting to be addressed by Nikki Haley as she attempted to rally potential primary voters, with dozens more waiting outside the front windows, unable to secure a spot. CONCORD, New Hampshire South Carolina U.S. Sen. Tim Scott will not endorse Nikki Haley, who first appointed him to the U.S. Senate. Scott is supporting instead Haley's GOP rival, former President Donald Trump. We need a president who unites their country, said Scott, who endorsed Trump Friday during a rally in New Hampshires state capital. We need a president who will stop crime and recklessness in the streets. At her events Friday, Haley ignored Scotts endorsement of Trump. During an interview with Fox News on Friday, New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu, who has endorsed Haley, said nobody cares about Tim Scott when asked whether it would affect the Haley campaign. There is momentum out there, Sununu said during the rally Friday night. We are tired of losing. We are going to galvanize this party and bring the country together. The rally brought out one of the largest crowds of Haley's New Hampshire stops. Three to four times throughout the night, members of the crowd were on their feet applauding her speech, including when she talked about expanding health care for veterans, and her plans for strengthening the military and expanding mental health services for veterans when they return from deployment. For several voters attending the rally, this was their first event. Some of the new Haley supporters are still weighing their options and want to see other candidates. Nikki Haley in New Hampshire GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley in New Hampshire on Jan. 19, 2024. I was following Tim Scott myself before he dropped out, said Rick Walter, a 54-year-old registered Republican from Chichester. I dont think [the endorsement is] a concern. He might just feel Trump is more bold. I havent heard a lot of negative stuff and I follow Gov. Sununu a lot, so hes endorsing [her] for a reason. Other voters were aware of the Scott endorsement but don't see any concerns. Im disappointed [with the endorsement], said David Kovatch, a volunteer from the Haley campaign who lives in Kentucky. Ive followed the governor for over a decade. I tend not to worry about what the other guys are doing. Im here because of what I think Nikki brings to the table. Let her show what she can do. If things move forward, we will be in fantastic shape. Some voters are still waiting to see who former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie will endorse, if anyone. Christie was overheard before his speech dropping out of the GOP primary saying that Haley would get smoked against Trump. LE MARS, Iowa Le Mars Police have identified the victim of a Friday afternoon assault. Michael Roy Gomez, 44, of Merrill, Iowa, remains in critical condition at MercyOne Siouxland Medical Center in Sioux City following the attack, according to a press release from the Le Mars Police Department. Police have arrested a 24-year-old Le Mars man, Reese Harms, and charged him with attempted murder charge and willful injury. According to a press release from police, Le Mars Police and Le Mars Fire-Rescue were called to the Fieldcrest Apartments, 1120 Second St. SE at approximately 5:20 p.m. Friday Gomez was found in an apartment not breathing after having been assaulted. Personnel applied life saving measures transporting Gomez to Floyd Valley Hospital in Le Mars. He was later taken to MercyOne Siouxland Medical Center. for treatment Following an investigation, authorities arrested Harms and charged him in connection with the assault on Gomez. No other details about attack are being released at this time. The investigation into the incident is continuing. SIOUX CITY Before the weather moderated this week, it was a whirlwind 12 days for Siouxland snow plow drivers as they battled more than a foot of heavy, wet snow, frigid temperatures and gusty winter winds. Charlie Irwin, the owner of Lines & Stripes LLC in Sioux City, said he's never seen a winter like this one in his more than 20 years in business. We basically do commercial properties and that was pretty brutal between the cold weather, the shovelers, the machines breaking down and then just the snow, Irwin said. Youd get it all done and then it would blow right back in. Plows were breaking because it was so cold. It was brutal and its still going today because we couldnt get them all the way cleaned up. Brian, who declined to provide his last name, works for Snow Doctors in Sioux City. He said you just need to keep going in weather conditions like this. Were going 24-7 the last three days, four days straight, Brian said. Hes been in the business 30 years in business in March. He recalls two other storms packing a punch like this last one that barreled into Siouxland. We just buckle down and get through it. You go home and take an hour nap and go right back to it. About 12 inches of snow blanketed Siouxland beginning Monday, Jan. 8 and running into Tuesday, Jan. 9 Snow storm Friday A city plow scrapes snow off Stone Park Boulevard in Sioux City Friday. The National Weather Service placed Sioux City under a blizzard warnin Sioux City Mayor Bob Scott declared a snow emergency on Jan. 8. A snow emergency declaration prohibits parking or leaving a vehicle unattended on an emergency snow route street, noted by a blue and white sign with a snowflake. All area schools announced they would be closed due to the weather. Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley was scheduled to be in Sioux City for an event at Horizon Family Restaurant, but it was cancelled. Then another band of snow went through Thursday, Jan. 11 dropping several more inches of snow on the area and temperatures plummeted. The National Weather Service forecasted negative-degree weather starting Thursday night and continuing into Tuesday, Jan. 16. Wind chills fell to -19 degrees with wind gusts as high as 25 mph, according to the National Weather Service. Its hard on the machines and its hard on the people, Irwin said. You can only handle so much. Weve been pushing since Jan. 8 and we havent stopped. One bright note for local businesses in the snow business, this is the first winter in a while where Siouxland has received significant amounts of snow. Yes, it has been good for business. But on the flip side, everything breaks and you struggle to get people to get out and help when you are run into the ground 24-7, Irwin said. Ron Gleiser is the highway maintenance supervisor for the Iowa Department of Transportation in Siouxland. The DOT is responsible for plowing and maintaining state highways. Weve been on 12-hour shifts since Monday night Jan. 8. We started 12-hour shifts that day and that carried on up until Sunday, Jan. 15, Gleiser said. He oversees two garages in Sioux City, one in Leeds and one on Hamilton Boulevard and another garage in Sloan, Iowa. The DOT runs seven people per shift at the two Sioux City garages and three people during the day and two at night out of Sloan. Last weekend when we had those high winds, visibility was really bad. We are out here and some of the traffic, they dont get the concept of slowing down. They spin out and they crash and then thats a hazard for other motorists, Gleiser said. Ive been doing this for about 37 years and Ive got a lot of winters under my belt. When it got really, really cold we had to switch from our normal application of straight salt to a sand and salt calcium mixture. We just try to give them some grit with that sand. The cold is causing equipment problems for the DOT, too. We have a lot of older trucks which are constantly breaking down. We try to get them fixed as quickly as we can. But you have to do a lot of jockeying. I have a spare truck in each shop. Once one goes down that spare gets activated and we try to get the other ones fixed as soon as we can. Sometimes we have more than one broke down," Gleiser said. Gleiser especially wanted to appeal to drivers to take it easy in winter conditions. Its not rocket science. Were not splitting the atom. You need to slow down. Thats our biggest problem, Gleiser said. NEW YORK Student and legal advocacy groups are petitioning the U.S. Department of Agriculture to lift the interview requirement for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) applicants to receive food aid. The groups argue the interview requirement is burdensome and prevents those who qualify for food aid from receiving it. The National Student Legal Defense Network, the Center for Law and Social Policy, and the California Student Aid Commission are among the organizations calling for its removal. A spokesperson for the Department of Agriculture said the agency is reviewing the proposal. SNAP helps low-income families supplement their budgets so they can buy groceries, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. An estimated 42 million Americans currently receive the monthly benefits at an average of $212 per person or $401 per household. Currently, within 30 days of an application for SNAP, a state agency must complete an applicant's initial certification interview, either by phone or in person. Expedited interviews may take place within a seven-day window for people in particular need who meet certain income criteria. Seasonal farm workers, migrants and certain other households may also receive expedited interviews. Eligible households next receive a notice indicating their certification period, or how long they'll receive SNAP benefits. Before that period ends, a participants local SNAP office contacts them with information on how to re-certify. Aviana Kimani, 24, a student at West Los Angeles College, received SNAP benefits for a year and a half before leaving the program, she said, in part because of the difficulty of scheduling the mandated re-certification interview. Initially, Kimani had signed up for food assistance through her local food bank, but she found the process of going to the social services office in person to renew her eligibility during its open hours challenging because of work and school obligations. She was moving at the time, she said, and everything within the SNAP assistance program was paper-based in her case, meaning there was an additional challenge in keeping up with the process, changing her address, post-move. You dont get to pick the time its just given to you and, usually since its during the day, it can inconvenience you if you work or go to school, Kimani said. You also dont know how long the call will be. If I didnt have to go through the screening process, I definitely would have been on benefits longer. But if you dont keep up, youre knocked off. When SNAP was established in 1978, the Agriculture Department kept the interview requirement inherited from the previous food stamp program, stating that the interview both helps the agency understand a household's circumstances and helps the household understand the program. On the basis of past experience, the department believes that the interview is critically important to the certification process and must be carefully monitored and regulated, the agency said at the time. But interviews are not mandated by the federal statute governing the SNAP program, the organizations petitioning the government note. They argue that the current regulatory requirement is an outdated bureaucratic hurdle. A 2021 review of enrollment data in California found that 31% of SNAP applicants in Los Angeles County were denied SNAP due to missing their interview, compared to just 6% who were denied for failing to meet eligibility requirements. Missed-interview denials were even higher among working families and college applicants, affecting as many as 40% of otherwise eligible applicants. Allan Rodriguez, press secretary for the USDA, said 78% of people eligible for SNAP participated in the program and received benefits from October 2019 to February 2020, the last pre-pandemic period from which data is available. During the pandemic, when interview and other requirements were eased, the USDA encouraged states to use existing program flexibility to improve access to SNAP, such as by using online or phone SNAP applications or allowing participants to stay on SNAP without reapplying for the maximum amount of time allowed. According to Ty Jones Cox, vice president for food assistance at the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, the changes contributed to hunger staying level in 2020, rather than increasing during the early stage of the pandemic. That's in contrast to during the 2008 recession, when it increased from 11.1 percent to 14.7 percent. Hunger was poised to soar early in the COVID-19 pandemic, but SNAPs structure and policy changes made it easier for families to access SNAP during this period, she said. Kimani also says the pandemic proved the policy change can be done. During COVID-19 they allowed people to be automatically re-certified to continue their benefits, instead of using an appointment in person to determine eligibility, she said. I wonder why we cant continue that way to ensure people dont lose benefits. In a recent report, the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities found that the interview requirement can be an important way for states to gather accurate information and for applicants to have their questions answered, but it can be a labor-intensive task and delay approval. 5 low-light houseplants that will survive the rest of winter 1. Aglaonema wishes (aka Chinese evergreen) 2. Dracaena trifasciata (aka snake plant) 3. Chlorophytum comosum (aka spider plant) 4. Chamaedorea elegans (aka parlor palm) 5. Aspidistra elatior (aka cast iron plant) Today is Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024. Let's get caught up. Keep scrolling for more political news in advance of the Nov. 5 presidential election. Plus, check out a special edition of our daily news podcast exclusive to this newsletter: *** Important 2024 election dates to watch Up next: The New Hampshire primaries are Jan. 23. The New Hampshire primaries are Jan. 23. Upcoming dates of note: Democrats will hold a primary in South Carolina on Feb. 3. The date to watch will be Super Tuesday on March 5, when primaries and caucuses are held in 16 states and American Samoa. Democrats will hold a primary in South Carolina on Feb. 3. The date to watch will be Super Tuesday on March 5, when primaries and caucuses are held in 16 states and American Samoa. Party conventions: Republicans will meat July 15-18 in Milwaukee and Democrats will hold their convention Aug. 19-22 in Chicago. Republicans will meat July 15-18 in Milwaukee and Democrats will hold their convention Aug. 19-22 in Chicago. Debates: Presidential debates will be held on Sept. 16, Oct. 1 and Oct. 9. One debate for vice presidential candidates will be held Sept. 25. Presidential debates will be held on Sept. 16, Oct. 1 and Oct. 9. One debate for vice presidential candidates will be held Sept. 25. General election: Nov. 5. Electors cast their votes on Dec. 17. *** The latest divide in the abortion rights movement JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) Reproductive rights activists in Missouri agree they want to get a ballot measure before voters this fall to roll back one of the strictest abortion bans in the country and ensure access. The sticking point is how far they should go. The groups have been at odds over whether to include a provision that would allow the state to regulate abortions after the fetus is viable, a concession supporters of the language say will be needed to persuade voters in the conservative state. It's a divide that's not limited to Missouri. Advocates say the disagreements there and in other states where activists are planning abortion-rights measures this year have resurfaced long-brewing ruptures among reproductive rights advocates. The divisions are most acute in Republican-leaning or closely divided states, where some worry that failing to include limits related to viability will sink the measures. Read more: *** Why old-fashioned TV is still the winning ticket for political ads Anyone who has followed the fate of the TV business in recent years could not be blamed for thinking the medium is dying. Consumers have been shifting away from traditional or linear TV viewing that is watched in real time to streaming video, where they can watch what they want on demand. In 2023, streaming surpassed broadcast and cable TV viewing for the first time, according to Nielsen. But in the current presidential election cycle of 2024, the mantra is long live TV. Read more: *** DeSantis and Haley face daunting and uncertain paths as Trump continues to dominate GOP presidential candidates Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley are rushing to redefine their paths to viability after former President Donald Trumps resounding victory in the Iowa caucuses crushed their cases to the next round of GOP voters. The two arrived in New Hampshire grasping for silver linings in their disappointing Hawkeye State performances and scrambling to find a message that could convince Republicans the race is far from over. DeSantis, the governor of Florida, and Haley, a former governor of South Carolina, had hoped to slow Trumps momentum and further establish themselves as the best alternative to the front-runner. But hundreds of appearances, more than $120 million in advertisements, five debates and a record-shattering arctic blast failed to blunt Trump in Iowa. Read more: *** Heres how ChatGPT maker OpenAI plans to deter election misinformation in 2024 NEW YORK ChatGPT maker OpenAI has outlined a plan to prevent its tools from being used to spread election misinformation as voters in more than 50 countries prepare to cast their ballots in national elections this year. The safeguards spelled out by the San Francisco-based artificial intelligence startup in a blog post this week include a mix of preexisting policies and newer initiatives to prevent the misuse of its wildly popular generative AI tools. They can create novel text and images in seconds but also be weaponized to concoct misleading messages or convincing fake photographs. Read more: *** Lawyers for Trump urge the Supreme Court 'to put a swift and decisive end' to ballot removal efforts Lawyers for former President Donald Trump are urging the Supreme Court to put a swift and decisive end to efforts to kick him off the 2024 presidential ballot over his efforts to overturn his 2020 election loss. Solidly GOP Indiana doesn't often see competitive primaries for governor. This year is different Five Republican candidates in Indiana are trying to stand out before an unusually crowded gubernatorial primary in May. Democrats ask Wisconsin Supreme Court to order new congressional maps for fall election A Washington law firm asks the liberal-controlled Wisconsin Supreme Court to throw out the state's congressional maps in a new redistricting lawsuit filed on behalf of Democratic voters. JOHNSTON Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds said Friday she does not believe the state needs all of its nine area education agencies that provide support and expertise to schools, which she has proposed overhauling while insisting she isnt calling for their closures. Reynolds proposal would redesign AEAs funding structure, streamline the services they offer and create new oversight in the Iowa Department of Education. She has said her proposal is needed to update a 50-year-old system and to improve special education services and outcomes for students with disabilities by narrowing the focus of AEAs work. The education agencies have strayed beyond their original charge of supporting special education services, she said, and have become too top-heavy. When asked Friday, during recording of her appearance on this weekends episode of Iowa Press on Iowa PBS, whether Iowa needs nine AEAs, Reynolds said, No. Were a small state, she said. Thats why I did the realignment bill with state government. I need local governments to take a look at the level of bureaucracy that we have in place to serve the citizens of Iowa. Its too much. We need to drive consistency. We need to get that funding in the classroom and do everything we can to improve the outcomes for these children. Reynolds office has insisted that the governor is not calling for the closure of any AEAs, and that her legislative proposal likewise does not require any to close. However, Reynolds has noted that there already has been consolidation in the system there used to be 15 AEAs in Iowa, and now there are nine and her plan gives school districts the option to use funding for special education expertise elsewhere. We need to do something big. We need to reform, and I think by giving the districts the ability to hold the AEAs accountable, to decide what program works best for the students that they are serving, Reynolds said on Iowa Press. Reynolds proposal would restructure the way the agencies are funded: instead of state and federal funding going to the AEAs to fund the services they provide Reynolds says Iowa is the only state that operates that way that money would instead go to K-12 public school districts, which would determine whether to use that funding for those AEA services or find similar services elsewhere, either at a different AEA or through a private company. Reynolds proposal also would create an oversight apparatus in the state education department. The AEAs now are overseen by locally appointed boards. As justification for her proposal to overhaul and refocus Iowas AEAs, Reynolds has cited statistics showing Iowa fourth-grade students with disabilities perform below the national average, and fourth- and eighth-grade students with disabilities rank 30th or lower on national reading and math assessments. Thats unconscionable, Reynolds said. Reynolds this week announced some changes to her initial proposal, which she unveiled Jan. 10, the day after highlighting it during the annual Condition of the State address. The amendment to make those changes, which would loosen the types of services AEAs could be allowed to offer beyond special education, has yet to be filed with the rest of the bill. Reynolds has taken the unusual step of issuing public statements on consecutive days this week to update Iowans about the legislative process of her proposal. In those public updates, Reynolds said she has received feedback about her proposal from parents, teachers, superintendents and state lawmakers. Really what were doing is kind of eliminating or reducing some of the overhead, Reynolds said on the Iowa PBS show. Right now we have nine AEA districts, nine chiefs, and they were making on an average when you look at their total compensation package, about $310,000 each. And we dont need nine. Were a small state. (The AEAs have) varying degrees of what they were offering. We want to simplify it. But that money will go back into the system and into the classroom. Reynolds proposed legislation was introduced in the Iowa House. The bill, House Study Bill 542, as of Friday had not yet been scheduled for a legislative hearing, the first step in the state lawmaking process. Equator Coffees: Guatemala Concepcion Huista Fair Trade OrganicFINAL ROAST WED 1/24! Dont miss out on the last roast of this seasonal single origin favorite from our longtime partners at Coordinadora de Organizaciones de Desarrollo de Concepion Huista (CODECH). This light roast offers delicate flavors of chocolate covered almond, peach, and marshmallow. Back to top. Greater Goods Roasting : Rungeto PB Rarely has a coffee release synced up with the start of a season quite like this one. Hailing from Kirinyaga County in central Kenya, this peaberry lot is the warm, comforting, hot cocoa in front of the fire the spirit of winter in coffee form. Peaberry makes up about 10% of Kenyas coffee export and is highly sought out for its depth of sweetness and a thick, syrupy body. You can enjoy your winter days with notes of golden apple, black treacle, and red currant jam. Joe Coffee : Colombia La Familia Guarnizo This coffee comes to us through a strong relationship between Joe Coffee and the El Paraiso growers association in Huila, Colombia. This bright and light-bodied selection was grown by a special group of El Paraisos member farmers: the Guarnizo family. Featuring notes of stone fruit and almonds with a medium acidity, this coffee is a customer favorite. Madcap Coffee Company : Finca de Dios Husband and wife duo Ellen and Stuart Prentice oversee a 19-hectare farm, encompassing a multitude of microclimates. Ellen inherited the farm from her father in the early 70s, falling in love with the coffee growing process and planting more and more on the land. Together with their daughter Ashley, theyve established state-of-the-art processing equipment for their farm, Finca de Dios (Farm of the Gods). In this years harvest, expect notes of cacao, orange, and agave. Monogram Coffee : Trifle Four different coffees have been layered (like a trifle!) to create a unique brewing experience where the flavours will mingle and change as you brew through the bag. As you enjoy Trifle, youll work your way through: a spicy anaerobic marsellesa natural from Costa Rica with delicious cinnamon notes a fermented honey processed castillo peach coffee from Colombia a delicious chiroso caturra natural with strawberry yogurt notes a fermented honey processed castillo grape coffee from Colombia Night Swim Coffee Night Swim Coffee: Blue Orchid SumatraTypically we expect specialty grade coffees to come from mountainous regions along the equator. Brazil, Colombia, Honduras, and Ethiopia rank among the largest coffee producing countries in the world, but I think people would be surprised to know that both Vietnam and Indonesia are #2 and #4 on that list. Connecting people to the places where coffee comes from, our core effort at Night Swim, provides us some unique opportunities to tell the stories of all kinds of coffee, not just ones were familiar with or are currently popular in the US market. Over the next few months, well begin highlighting coffees from China, El Salvador, Tanzania, Bolivia and this beautiful coffee from Indonesia. You can find coffees from these regions roasted by great roasters around the globe, but theyre new to Night Swim. I think a lot of coffee drinkers are probably really unfamiliar with coffees from Asia, and as we started thinking about how we wanted to focus our coffee menu for the upcoming months, we were simply excited to drink coffees that we dont interact with very often. This is a semi-washed or wet-hulled coffee from Sumatra, Indonesia. Its fruity-sweet, tropical, and finishes like one of our favorite candy bars. Were thrilled to offer this first installment in our initiative to highlight underrepresented coffee growing regions! Back to top. Olympia Coffee Roasters Olympia Coffee: Jose Landaverde Gesha NaturalOne of the worlds most sought-after varietals, grown in one of Central Americas finest regions. Jose Landaverde Gesha Natural underwent a 60-hour anaerobic fermentation before drying in the natural method, yielding coffee deeply imbued with tropical-fruit sweetness and balanced with smooth, full-bodied flavor. Back to top. Onyx Coffee Lab Onyx Coffee Lab : FramilyWe are excited to release our seventh edition of this heartwarming Holiday coffee that embodies the joy of spending time with friends and family. This washed coffee from Banko Gotiti is a developed medium roast creating complex cocoa notes mixed with sweet berry cobbler-like flavors. Designed to accommodate the coffee nerd or the heavy-handed cream and sugar in-laws youre welcome, my friends. Back to top. Partners Coffee Partners Coffee: Ethiopia Meselech TubeMeselech Tube tends a three hectare farm in Sidama where she focuses her attention on high quality naturals. She is among a growing cohort of coffee farmers in Ethiopia whose production is available in isolation, traceable all the way to the farm itself. This lot is a classic representation of Sidamas naturalswe taste syrupy strawberry, blueberry, banana, and black tea. Back to top. PERC Coffee PERC: Java Frinsa EstateThis is our second time sourcing this beauty from Java. If you tasted it last year, youll know why! Its an intensely sweet and funky coffee. The anaerobic fermentation done at the farm contributes to its big fruity flavors, and the cup finishes with a deep, fudgy note thatll keep you coming back for more. Its truly a unique coffee that delivers all the wild vibes you can handle. Back to top. Stumptown Coffee Roasters Stumptown Coffee: Bella Vista Bella Vista has been gracing our menu for nearly two decades, and every year, when we think theres no way it can get any better, it does. This exceptional single origin coffee represents one of our oldest direct trade relationships, and every sip reflects the meticulous care that goes into producing it. This years lot is supremely balanced with notes of candied citrus and milk chocolate with a soft, honeyed finish. Back to top. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/biden-started-campaign-against-houthis-because-of-ideology-not-economics--report-1116292439.html Biden Started Campaign Against Houthis Because of Ideology, Not Economics Report Biden Started Campaign Against Houthis Because of Ideology, Not Economics Report Sputnik International US economy is not heavily reliant on Mideast maritime routes so Washington officials believe that Joe Biden started anti-Houthi campaign because of his obsession with US major role in the world. 2024-01-21T06:28+0000 2024-01-21T06:28+0000 2024-01-21T06:32+0000 world red sea crisis joe biden yemen houthis houthi white house 2024 us presidential election washington palestinians https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/01/1115928625_0:0:535:301_1920x0_80_0_0_be843882d124c46582823417962bc25f.jpg The notion of US indispensability and ideology were the key motives behind US President Joe Biden's decision to launch an anti-Houthi military campaign, the Washington Post reported, citing sources in the White House.Houthi attacks in the Red Sea were of no concern to Washington from an economic standpoint, as US business relies mostly on Pacific sea routes rather than the Middle Eastern ones, the paper wrote. European economies have suffered the most, and some global companies have already begun to reroute, the media outlet noted.The officials who spoke to WaPo believe that Biden launched the anti-Houthi campaign because of his belief that the US must be an "indispensable nation" and a supreme military power, leading other states and uniting them behind a single cause. They compared the anti-Houthi campaign with Biden's stance on the Ukraine crisis POTUS spent billions of dollars in order to inflict a strategic defeat on Russia.The campaign against the Houthis is likely to only strengthen their resolve to continue, said political expert Mohammed al-Basha, as quoted by the paper. The US airstrikes, combined with its maritime activities, create a strong media buzz that helps the Houthis promote their agenda.In the aftermath of the Gaza conflict, Yemen's Houthi military organization (also known as Ansar Allah) vowed to attack any ship with any connection to Israel until Tel Aviv ends the conflict with the Palestinians.In January, the US and UK began airstrikes on Houthi positions in Yemen to degrade their fighting capabilities. Russia condemned both the Houthi actions in the Red Sea and the Western aggression against Yemen, calling them a direct threat to global peace and security. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240113/us-not-ready-for-war-of-attrition-in-the-red-sea--analyst-1116143854.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240108/us-red-sea-coalitions-flop-signals-natos-weakness-italian-admiral-1116062403.html yemen washington Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sergey Lebedev Sergey Lebedev News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sergey Lebedev red sea crisis, joe biden, biden houthis, biden ideology, us superiority, biden beliefs, biden yemen https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/bidens-foreign-focus-ignites-domestic-discontent-amid-border-crisis-and-ukraine-funding-1116303425.html Biden's Foreign Focus Ignites Domestic Discontent Amid Border Crisis and Ukraine Funding Biden's Foreign Focus Ignites Domestic Discontent Amid Border Crisis and Ukraine Funding Sputnik International As the Biden administration continues to channel billions of US taxpayer dollars into Ukraine, a growing chorus of critics are questioning the president's priorities amid escalating domestic issues, particularly the burgeoning border crisis. 2024-01-21T18:45+0000 2024-01-21T18:45+0000 2024-01-21T18:45+0000 americas joe biden us greg abbott ukraine texas biden administration border migrants https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/15/1116303743_0:0:2808:1580_1920x0_80_0_0_9df8e4fe99927470bf67822ffd928cd0.jpg Dr. David Oualaalou, a Texas-based international geopolitical consultant and author, encapsulates this sentiment, highlighting the discrepancy between the administration's international actions and domestic challenges."The Biden administration's emphasis on Ukraine's territorial integrity starkly contrasts with the neglected state of our own borders," Dr. Oualaalou told Sputnik. "Living in Texas, I witness the chaos at our southern border daily. It's bewildering to see our government fixate on foreign territories while our own borders remain perilously open."To date, Washington has allocated over $60 billion in funds to Ukraine, a figure that starkly highlights the administration's commitment to supporting Kiev amidst the ongoing conflict. This substantial investment has sparked debate, especially among those witnessing the escalating situation at the US-Mexico border firsthand. Texas, in particular, has been at the forefront of the border crisis, with Governor Greg Abbott taking unprecedented steps to manage the state's border security in response to what he describes as federal inaction. "In Texas, we're essentially on our own, enforcing our own measures to protect our border, as the federal government seems preoccupied with other issues," Dr. Oualaalou reflected, echoing Abbott's sentiments. Dr. Oualaalou's critique extends beyond the allocation of funds to Ukraine, touching on the broader implications of a perceived lack of federal attention to border security. "Our borders are wide open, with little control over who enters or leaves. This situation, to many of us here, signifies a breakdown of law and order," he added. This growing concern among Texans and others in border states underscores a deepening divide over national priorities. With billions flowing overseas, many like Dr. Oualaalou and Abbott are calling for a reassessment of where the US directs its attention and resources, advocating for a balance that doesn't sideline pressing domestic issues. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240105/biden-unable-to-explain-what-endgame-is-of-supporting-ukraine---desantis-1115986263.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240103/us-house-speaker-border-situation-part-of-unmitigated-disaster-created-by-biden-1115966587.html americas ukraine texas Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International us border crisis, us southern border, texas, gregg abbott, joe biden, biden administration, aid for ukraine, aid to ukraine, americans pay for ukraine https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/death-toll-from-israeli-strikes-on-gaza-strip-tops-25000-1116296115.html Death Toll From Israeli Strikes on Gaza Strip Tops 25,000 Death Toll From Israeli Strikes on Gaza Strip Tops 25,000 Sputnik International The death toll from Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023, when the Israel-Hamas conflict escalated, has increased to 25,105, while more than 62,600 others have been injured, the enclave's health ministry said on Sunday. 2024-01-21T10:32+0000 2024-01-21T10:32+0000 2024-01-21T10:32+0000 world israeli-palestinian conflict israel-gaza conflict palestine-israel conflict gaza strip gaza violence https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e7/0c/1c/1115844913_0:160:3072:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_2b75c36e25804b0ab9caf8eecd0c17cf.jpg Some 178 people were killed and 293 injured in Gaza over the past 24 hours, the ministry added."The number of victims of the Israeli aggression since October 7 last year has risen to 25,105, while 62,681 people have been injured," the ministry said. On October 7, 2023, Palestinian movement Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack against Israel from the Gaza Strip while its fighters breached the border, opening fire on the military and civilians. As a result, over 1,200 people in Israel were killed and some 240 others abducted. Israel launched retaliatory strikes, ordered a complete blockade of Gaza and launched a ground incursion into the Palestinian enclave 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 ceasefire was extended several times and expired on December 1. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240119/guilty-of-genocide-us-brushes-off-south-africas-accusation-due-to-fear-of-culpability--1116261381.html gaza strip Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International israel-gaza conflict, hamas-israel conflict, gaza strip crisis, gaza violence https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/donetsk-market-massacre-a-locals-account-1116304344.html Donetsk Market Massacre: A Locals Account Donetsk Market Massacre: A Locals Account Sputnik International Today, January 21, 2024, from our house in Petrovsky District, around 10:00 AM, on a warm and sunny Sunday morning, I heard two shots from Ukrainian Nazi artillery fly over my head towards the city center. 2024-01-21T19:29+0000 2024-01-21T19:29+0000 2024-01-21T19:40+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine ukraine donetsk ukraine crisis civilian casualties civilian deaths https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/15/1116304450_0:0:1281:720_1920x0_80_0_0_6f5ded793a5000b9cbf291a5b3be2392.jpg Shortly after, I read reports about the shells landing in the Tekstilshchik ("Textile Worker") market. This is my neighborhood, or actually, a few miles behind where our house is in Petrovsky. But it is where I go every day for groceries, to buy cat food for our cat, where I go to get my shoes repaired. This is my neighborhood. I have real friends who work in this market, including on Sundays. Like today.Today, Tekstilshchik was transformed from a market into a slaughterhouse. At least 25 civilians were murdered by US-backed Ukrainian Nazis, with shells sent from the US or EU, from NATO, to the Nazis of the 21st century, who they knew would use them to murder peaceful civilians. TWENTY FIVE CIVILIANS WERE SLAUGHTERED TODAY, in an intentional terrorist attack. And not one single Russian soldier. Say it with me, pilgrims, 25 CIVILIANS SLAUGHTERED, NOT A SINGLE SOLDIER.War is between soldiers. Terrorism is the targeting of peaceful citizens, only to murder and to terrorize. Which was the exact intent of this attack today. What more do you need to know than that? Today, in my own neighborhood, I witnessed it, I lived it. You should too.And you will, sooner than later. So, choose which side you will be on, and accept your destiny, not of this life, but of your soul. All of our bodies are going to die, but our souls live on, to get what we deserve, as it should be, and as it will be. We are what we do. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/russia-condemns-shelling-of-donetsk-kirovsky-disrtrict-dubs-it-barbaric-terrorist-act-1116298547.html ukraine donetsk Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Russell Bentley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/03/1d/1094281697_332:0:1182:850_100x100_80_0_0_f4d7604e530b3861449b2db55c72f353.jpg Russell Bentley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/03/1d/1094281697_332:0:1182:850_100x100_80_0_0_f4d7604e530b3861449b2db55c72f353.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Russell Bentley https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e6/03/1d/1094281697_332:0:1182:850_100x100_80_0_0_f4d7604e530b3861449b2db55c72f353.jpg donetsk market massacre, ukrainian nazi, ukrainian artillery, ukraine shelling on donetsk, civilian deaths ukrainian crisis, 25 civilians slaughtered Ayodhya scales new economic peaks ahead of Ram Temple Pran Pratishtha Even as Ayodhya decks up to witness the historic Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram temple on Monday, the holy town is also witnessing its emergence as an economic powerhouse. Ayodhya had attracted a phenomenal investment commitment to the tune of Rs 49,000 crore at the 2023 Global Investor Summit in Uttar Pradesh held recently, heralding a new era of economic prosperity for the region. According to government sources, in 2022-23, Ayodhya saw a 131 per cent surge in exports, at Rs 254 crore across diverse sectors, which is up from Rs 110 crore in the previous fiscal year. Based on the data available from the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the city is likely to continue on its upward trajectory and register a close to 150 per cent surge in exports during the current financial year. Expressing satisfaction with Ayodhyas impressive export numbers, Ayodhya Divisional Commissioner Gaurav Dayal emphasized that the economic success aligns seamlessly with comprehensive development. He acknowledged the district's notable progress across nine distinct sectors, surpassing all previous export records. Among export items, coal occupies a dominant position with the export of coal, including bituminous coal, valued at Rs 90.61 crore and steam coal at Rs 3.81 crore. Various coal types contributed an additional Rs 44 crore to the export figures. Craft paper and paperboard exports reached Rs 44.56 crore, with poster paper making a noteworthy contribution of Rs 1.7 crore. The export landscape further featured Ayurvedic medicines (Rs 3.18 crore), parboiled rice (Rs 2.76 crore), wood pulp boards (Rs 3.12 crore), and bakery machinery (Rs 3.24 crore). The success story of Ayodhya reflects its commitment to economic diversification and sustained growth. The region's unprecedented achievements underscore the potential for spiritual and economic coexistence, setting a benchmark for holistic development. This exceptional economic journey aligns with Ayodhya's vision to be a model of sustainable development and prosperity. The district's commitment to advancing economic sectors showcases its resilience and adaptability, resonating with the global investor community, Dayal said. Ayodhya is also set to emerge as UP's first Solar City, marking a harmonious blend of spirituality and sustainable energy initiatives. Spearheaded by the Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Department (UPNEDA), this ambitious project encompasses the development of solar parks, solar-powered boats, street lights, and the widespread adoption of solar energy in public transport. The electrification of government buildings using solar power stands as a testament to Ayodhya's commitment to a greener and more sustainable future. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi and around 11,000 guests set to witness the 'Pran Pratishtha' consecration ceremony, Ayodhya's transformation into a Solar City will become a national spectacle. As a part of the Solar City program, Ayodhya is undergoing a remarkable transformation with a 40 MW solar power plant set to grace 165 acres of identified land. The ambitious project is well underway, with a 10 MW plant already commissioned and the full 40 MW capacity expected to be operational by March 2024. As a part of the broader framework outlined in Uttar Pradesh's Solar Energy Policy 2022, Ayodhya is set to pioneer solar innovation, serving as a model for 17 municipal corporations, including Noida. The multifaceted plan involves strategically developing solar parks along the banks of the Saryu River and extends beyond infrastructure to include the adoption of solar energy in public transport, enhancing the city's eco-friendly mobility. Ayodhya's solar initiative transcends mere technological deployment and encompasses public spaces, with the installation of solar-powered mobile phone charging setups, ensuring convenient access to clean energy. The promotion of solar energy for domestic and household purposes signifies a comprehensive approach to integrate sustainable practices into the daily lives of Ayodhya's residents. The establishment of a 50-kilowatt off-grid solar power plant in the Bhairo Singh Gaushala, showcases Ayodhya's dedication to harnessing solar energy across diverse sectors. Solar-powered water kiosks have been set up to ensure access to clean and sustainable water sources. In the realm of rooftop solar power plants, a total capacity of 1073 kilowatt has been established on residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. This initiative, coupled with extensive outreach and 80 camps, aims to encourage widespread adoption of solar power and avail the benefits of the program. Under the Babu Ji Kalyan Singh Gram Unnati Yojna for solar street lights, the target of 200 lights has been achieved, further enhancing rural infrastructure and ensuring well-lit public spaces. These accomplishments collectively underscore Uttar Pradesh's steadfast commitment to harnessing solar energy across various domains, fostering sustainable development, and championing environmental conservation. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/indian-passenger-plane-crashes-in-afghanistan-mountains--reports-1116293073.html Plane Missing in Afghanistan Had 6 People on Board - Russian Aviation Watchdog Plane Missing in Afghanistan Had 6 People on Board - Russian Aviation Watchdog Sputnik International An Indian passenger plane crashed in Afghanistan, Afghan news agency Pajhwok reported on Sunday, citing local officials. 2024-01-21T07:33+0000 2024-01-21T07:33+0000 2024-01-21T10:16+0000 world india afghanistan plane crash https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/15/1116294951_0:100:1920:1180_1920x0_80_0_0_d7142e8171ab9236102eec2fe131d396.jpg Earlier, Tolo News TV channel reported that the Indian passenger plane had crashed in the mountains and that an investigation team had been sent to the region.According to broadcaster, plane crashed on Sunday morning.The plane deviated from its original course, Afghan news agency Khaama Press reported."Preliminary: there were six (6) people on board the aircraft four crew members and two passengers," the agency said on Telegram.Lately Russian aviation watchdog said the plane was registered in Russia and was flying from India via Uzbekistan's Tashkent to Zhukovsky airport in Moscow. The plane disappeared from radar screens on Saturday evening while in the airspace of Afghanistan near the border with Tajikistan. There were 6 people on board, including 4 crew members, preliminary data says.Russia is closely cooperating with the authorities of Afghanistan and Tajikistan in search for the missing plane. afghanistan Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International indian plane crash, afghanistan plane crash https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/maritime-traffic-through-bosphorus-strait-suspended-1116297433.html Maritime Traffic Through Bosphorus Strait Suspended Maritime Traffic Through Bosphorus Strait Suspended Sputnik International The transit of ships through the Bosphorus Strait from south to north has been suspended indefinitely from 6:20 a.m. local time (03:20 GMT) until at least midnight, the Turkish Coast Guard Command said on Sunday. 2024-01-21T11:27+0000 2024-01-21T11:27+0000 2024-01-21T21:20+0000 world turkiye bosphorus https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/101826/56/1018265695_0:193:4256:2587_1920x0_80_0_0_d85571bacce940539ed94575ce938bc1.jpg Meanwhile, the north-south movement was suspended until 8:40 a.m., the coast guard said, without elaborating on the reason. At the same time, the passage through the Dardanelles was restricted to ships with a speed of less than 10 knots due to stormy weather, the coast guard said. Later in the day, a coast guard source told Sputnik that transit was restricted in both directions due to a breakdown on an oil tanker traveling from Russia. Coast guard tugs eventually towed the Liberian-flagged vessel to a nearby pier, unblocking the shipping in the crucial waterway, which connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara and via the Dardanelles to the Mediterranean."The Peria vessel has been tugged to a pier in Kucukcekmece, in Istanbul," a source in the Coast Guard told Sputnik.Northward sailing in the Bosphorus resumed at 8 p.m. local time after almost 14 hours of interruption, the source added. turkiye bosphorus Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International turkiye, bosphorous strait, traffic suspension https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/natos-steadfast-defender-drills-raise-risks-of-inadvertent-escalation---moscow-1116301842.html NATO's Steadfast Defender Drills Raise Risks of Inadvertent Escalation - Moscow NATO's Steadfast Defender Drills Raise Risks of Inadvertent Escalation - Moscow Sputnik International NATO's upcoming military exercise, Steadfast Defender 2024, raises the risk of unintended military confrontation and undermines security in Europe, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko told Sputnik on Sunday. 2024-01-21T15:55+0000 2024-01-21T15:55+0000 2024-01-21T15:55+0000 military nato alexander grushko russia military drills nato expansion https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/15/1116301682_0:13:3595:2035_1920x0_80_0_0_cbf5abe9702e3b3c488c253f485177bc.jpg NATO announced Thursday that it would kick off exercise Steadfast Defender 2024 next week. The US-led alliance bills it as the largest NATO exercise in decades, with participation from some 90,000 troops from 31 allies and Sweden. "Any event of this scale significantly increases the risk of military incidents and further destabilizes security. But European security is of little concern to the top NATO command, which is too busy trying to keep this tool of US influence relevant in the already lost war for the West's global dominance," Grushko said. The senior diplomat added that Russia would not be intimidated by what he described as a provocative show of force. He said his country had everything it needed to ensure its security and defense capabilities. The NATO exercise will run through May. NATOs Supreme Allied Commander in Europe, Gen. Christopher Cavoli, told reporters on Thursday that the allies planned to test out a conflict scenario against a "near-peer adversary." https://sputnikglobe.com/20230911/natos-steadfast-defender-drills-near-russia-signal-blocs-shift-to-war-footing-1113292863.html russia Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International nato near russian border, nato exercises, nato military drills, seadfast defender 2024 https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/poland-lets-in-fewer-ukrainian-trucks-than-agreed---ukrainian-association-of-carriers-1116297185.html Poland Lets in Fewer Ukrainian Trucks Than Agreed - Ukrainian Association of Carriers Poland Lets in Fewer Ukrainian Trucks Than Agreed - Ukrainian Association of Carriers Sputnik International Following the unblocking of border checkpoints with Ukraine, Poland is accepting 50-60% fewer Ukrainian trucks than stated in a memorandum, and if the situation does not change, Kiev will appeal "to the competent authorities," Volodymyr Balin, the VP of the Association of International Road Carriers of Ukraine, said. 2024-01-21T11:24+0000 2024-01-21T11:24+0000 2024-01-21T11:24+0000 world ukrainian crisis poland ukraine european union (eu) https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/15/1116296698_0:161:3070:1888_1920x0_80_0_0_64ce533d8c03fb9789252703a68ac294.jpg On Tuesday, the Polish government signed an agreement with national carriers to suspend the blockade of three border crossings with Ukraine until March 1, so the truckers began unblocking the checkpoints. The Dorohusk border crossing accepts about 500 trucks instead of 680, the Rava-Ruska crossing takes 150 trucks instead of 300, and the Krakovets crossing takes about 200 trucks instead of 500, which is insufficient, Balin added. Polish truckers started blocking automobile checkpoints on the border with Ukraine in early November to protest what they said was the Polish government's inaction over their loss of business to foreign competitors. Their discontent is linked to the fact that Ukrainian truckers have been exempt from obtaining permits to cross the Polish border since February 2022, which has made their services cheaper and more attractive to customers. The protesters are demanding the reintroduction of restrictions on Ukrainian truckers entering Poland and a ban on Poland-based transport companies with capital from outside the European Union. Polish-Ukrainian relations deteriorated significantly last year due to the influx of Ukrainian grain into the EU. Poland, alongside Slovakia and Hungary, unilaterally extended a ban on duty-free Ukrainian grain imports after EU-imposed curbs lapsed on September 15. In response, Ukraine responded by filing a complaint with the World Trade Organization. In response, the three countries promised to boycott meetings of the coordination platform on Ukrainian grain. https://sputnikglobe.com/20231123/ukraine-loses-435mln-due-to-border-blockade-by-polish-truckers---carriers-association-1115154176.html poland ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International polish truck strikes, polish trucks block border, poland ukraine border, ukraine dumping trucks, ukraine unfair competition https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/russian-forces-strike-ukraines-foreign-mercenary-deployment-point-in-dpr-1116296545.html Russian Forces Strike Ukraine's Foreign Mercenary Deployment Point in DPR Russian Forces Strike Ukraine's Foreign Mercenary Deployment Point in DPR Sputnik International Russias Ministry of Defense reported on the progress of special military operation. 2024-01-21T11:40+0000 2024-01-21T11:40+0000 2024-01-21T11:40+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine ukrainian crisis ukraine russia donetsk russian ministry of defense ukrainian armed forces russian armed forces https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/15/1116296872_0:123:3205:1926_1920x0_80_0_0_c19f4124fb817e465fcd42a80d18a021.jpg ''Over the past 24 hours, the Russian armed forces have hit a temporary deployment point for foreign mercenaries of the Ukrainian armed forces in the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR)," the Russian MoD reported."The ammunition depot of the 31st mechanized brigade of the Ukrainian Armed Forces was destroyed, the temporary deployment point of foreign mercenaries in the area of the Konstantinovka settlement of the Donetsk People's Republic was damaged, as well as 127 artillery units of the Ukrainian Armed Forces in firing positions, personnel and military equipment in 129 areas," the ministry specified.The Russian Armed Forces have also liberated the village of Krakhmalnoye (Kharkov region) thanks to the successful actions of the 'Zapad' troops.In addition, the Russian army repelled numerous attacks from Ukraine with the help of air and artillery.For example, in the Donetsk region, Russian soldiers thwarted attacks by the Ukrainian 47th Mechanized Brigade and 5th Assault Brigade with artillery support. As a result, the enemy lost over 310 personnel, a tank, two armored vehicles, a D-20 howitzer and a Grad MLRS.In the Kherson region, Russian forces used artillery, missiles and drones to destroy Ukrainian ammunition depots and hit a deployment point for foreign mercenaries.The enemy forces also suffered losses in the Zaporozhye region."The enemy lost more than 30 personnel, two vehicles and a D-20 howitzer," the Russian MoD added.According to official figures, Ukraine has lost a total of over 560 soldiers over the past 24 hours. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240118/youre-going-to-be-a-target-mercenaries-wont-be-given-a-pass-by-russia-1116241603.html ukraine russia donetsk Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International russia's special military operation, ukrainian crisis, russian army, ukraine losses https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/russian-foreign-ministry-recalls-german-past-over-berlins-stance-on-gaza-1116299188.html Russian Foreign Ministry Recalls German Past Over Berlin's Stance on Gaza Russian Foreign Ministry Recalls German Past Over Berlin's Stance on Gaza Sputnik International Germany is opposing South Africa's lawsuit against Israel over genocide in the Gaza Strip. When asked about this, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova touched upon several other topics, including Germans support of Kievs neo-Nazi regime. 2024-01-21T15:16+0000 2024-01-21T15:16+0000 2024-01-21T15:31+0000 russia's special operation in ukraine russia ukraine germany south africa maria zakharova gaza strip lawsuit genocide palestine-israel conflict https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/15/1116300757_0:72:2777:1634_1920x0_80_0_0_0c546f989aa7cad69dbb5421fd80b154.jpg Moscow is not surprised about Berlins recent decision to oppose South Africa's lawsuit at the top United Nations court accusing Israel of genocide against Gaza, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has stated.An 'Ill Service to Israel' "The German political elites seem to have done Israel an ill service," she added.Apparently, she went on, Berlin "again forgot that according to the UN General Assembly resolution A/RES/60/7 and a number of other international documents, the Holocaust is the persecution and mass extermination of representatives of various ethnic and social groups by the Nazis." The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europes Berlin Declaration reinforced the need to recognize the importance of respectful treatment of all ethnic and religious groups without segregation, Zakharova pointed out.According to her, history has shown many examples when criminals who committed serious offenses took the path of correction and helped prevent similar atrocities by using their knowledge of illegal experiences. But this was always only possible," Zakharova went on, "after those criminals active repentance and unconditional recognition of ones own guilt without the slightest hint of attempts to justify their crimes, let alone repeat them."As an example, she pointed to Berlins stubborn reluctance to pay compensation to non-Jewish survivors of the Siege of Leningrad, arguing that Russians, Belarusians, Ukrainians, as well as representatives of the Finno-Ugric peoples, Armenians, Georgians, Moldovans and many others do not have the right to receive reparations from the German government.She accused German authorities of pursuing a policy of undermining Russias efforts to prevent the rehabilitation of Nazism. The Russian diplomat recalled that during previous UN General Assembly sessions, Germany repeatedly abstained from voting for the adoption of a resolution proposed by Russia to combat the glorification of Nazism, neo-Nazism and other practices that add to the escalation of modern forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance.Whats more, Zakharova stressed, as of 2022 Germany has said "no" to the above-mentioned resolution, thereby challenging the proposals contained in the text of the document aimed at stopping the renewed glorification of the Nazism and the whitewashing of former SS members, including the Waffen-SS units designated as criminal by the 1945-1948 Nuremberg Trials.Germany Backing Zelensky RegimeCompared to other EU members, Germany is more active in defending the Kiev regime, which has proclaimed the glorification of Nazi collaborators as a ore component of its domestic and foreign policy, the Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said.She berated Berlin for supporting the [German] militants who hold neo-Nazi torch-lit parades, glorify World War II criminals, use SS division insignia and patches and put Wehrmacht symbols on Western-supplied military equipment."Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who publicly confirmed that Germany and Ukraines neo-Nazi regime are on the right side of history, actually justified the current misanthropic and Russophobic regime of [Ukrainian President Volodymyr] Zelensky, who has reincarnated collaborators of Nazi Germany and is trying to erase the memory about fighters against fascism, the Russian diplomat underlined.German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock proudly announced the death of her ancestors during the defense of Koenigsberg [currently the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad]. This is how Germanys ruling elite perceives the right side of history, Zakharova added.Enough Evidence to Confirm Nazi Germany's Genocide Against SovietsShe scolded Berlin for refusing to recognize the crimes of National Socialism against the Soviet people as genocide. Zakharova reminded that Russian investigative authorities and courts had already obtained a significant amount of evidence confirming war crimes, crimes against humanity and acts of genocide committed by Third Reich troops in various regions of the Soviet Union. According to Zakharova, these include the following events.We believe that these and other similar numerous examples are enough for Germany to officially recognize the crimes of the Third Reich against our country as genocide, Zakharova emphasized.Middle East IssueAs for the Middle East, Scholzs government should not have taken such an initiative [ namely, the opposition against South Africas lawsuit] , taking into account not only domestic political considerations, but also the indignation that the collective punishment of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip causes throughout the world, and especially in the countries of the Global South, she said.The Russian diplomat also recalled that Namibias President Hage Geingob urged Germany not to take any action in relation to this extremely sensitive subject, since Germany has not redeemed itself yet for its crimes against humanity committed in Africa.We are talking about the events of 1904-1908, when the colonial administration in South-West Africa exterminated tens of thousands of people from among the Herero and Nama people living in the region. In Namibia, these events are regarded as an act of genocide against the indigenous population of the country, Zakharova said.'Reason for Repentance'In the meantime, Moscow remains "shocked and exasperated" by the fact that the bulk of the Third Reichs crimes, including the extermination of 27 million Soviet citizen, are not considered by the German authorities a reason for repentance, Zakharova added. On the contrary, Berlin is once again mired in the destruction of the residents of the part of Europe that Hitler failed to neither destroy nor conquer, she underscored.The Kremlin is highly alarmed about the ongoing resurgence of German militarism against the backdrop of [Berlins] endorsement of neo-Nazi agenda. This may have extremely serious consequences for the fate of Germany itself, as well as Europe and the world, given the countrys contradictory historical experience, the Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman concluded. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240117/iran-to-join-south-africas-suit-against-israel-as-third-party-1116227777.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20230118/spark-of-liberty-the-day-the-red-army-smashed-the-nazis-leningrad-blockade-1106436946.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20220914/are-we-the-baddies-nazi-ss-deaths-head-insignia-spotted-during-zelensky-selfie-session-with-troops-1100771059.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20231103/israels-activities-in-gaza-had-specific-elements-of-genocide---ex-un-official-1114679818.html russia ukraine germany south africa gaza strip Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Oleg Burunov https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e4/09/0b/1080424846_0:0:2048:2048_100x100_80_0_0_3d7b461f8a98586fa3fe739930816aea.jpg russian foreign ministry spokeswoman maria zakharova's criticism of germany's support for the kiev regime, the siege of leningrad, south africa's accusations against israel over its alleged genocide in gaza, south africa's lawsuit against israel https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/top-biden-aides-ukraine-will-lose-in-weeks-or-months-without-aid-1116291274.html Top Biden Aides: Ukraine Will Lose in Weeks or Months Without Aid Top Biden Aides: Ukraine Will Lose in Weeks or Months Without Aid Sputnik International Top aides for US President Joe Biden told lawmakers that Ukraine will lose in weeks or months if it does not receive further military aid soon. 2024-01-21T03:28+0000 2024-01-21T03:28+0000 2024-01-21T05:24+0000 world kiev russia ukraine congress us senate republicans white house jake sullivan joe biden https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/07e8/01/08/1116061941_0:218:2922:1862_1920x0_80_0_0_72985d2aaec72102559ed586c28118b9.jpg National Security adviser Jake Sullivan and Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines told lawmakers during a private meeting that Russia could win the conflict in Ukraine in a matter of weeks or months if Congress does not approve additional aid for the Kiev regime, US media reported on Friday.According to two people familiar with the meeting, via US media, the two high-ranking aides said that Ukraine will soon run out of air defense missiles and lose its artillery capabilities. One White House official described the description as incredibly stark.In December, the US announced that it had allocated the last tranche of aid to Ukraine that has been approved by Congress. Ukraine is facing more than a funding crisis, it is also facing a lack of personnel on the frontline. It was reported in Western media outlets last fall that the average age of a Ukrainian soldier had increased to 43 years. It also lifted restrictions on female soldiers, putting them into machine gunner, tank commander and other frontline roles.Even with its air defense operational, Russia has shown its capability to hit targets all over the country.Still, an influx of military aid for Ukraine could prolong the conflict longer, resulting in more deaths. For months, US President Joe Biden has demanded that Congress pass an additional $60 billion in aid, which would be the largest single package sent to Ukraine since the start of Russias special military operation.While the US Senate has at times seemed ready to pass a compromise funding bill that would include Bidens request, House Republicans have steadfastly blocked it, demanding significant border security reforms that most Democrats would have difficulty selling to their voter base.House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is insisting that a border bill include stronger border barriers and reforms to make it easier to arrest and deport asylum seekers and undocumented migrants already living in the United States.Were not insistent upon a particular name of a piece of legislation, but we are insistent that the elements have to be meaningful, Speaker Johnson told reporters after the White House and Senate Democrats said they planned to reject a House-passed border bill.There have also been signs of cracks behind the scenes between Ukraine and its biggest benefactor. In December, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky skipped a planned speech to the US Senate during which he was scheduled to make his pitch to lawmakers on why they should authorize more aid. When he finally did deliver a speech to lawmakers, on December 22, only 86 of 213 House Republicans showed for the speech and it was reported that those who did attend and were against the aid did not appear convinced.Biden pledged that the United States would support Ukraine for as long as it took. But in the end, the choice could be taken out of his hands. Congress has turned against it, at least without major concessions on the border. NATO allies have openly opposed further aid. And with dozens if not hundreds of videos of Ukrainian Armed Forces forcing men into vans to be shipped to the front line, its not clear how many Ukrainians are still willing to fight for the Zelensky regime.People are being thrown out, thrown from the streets, the buses, former Ukrainian diplomat Andrii Telizhenko told Sputniks Fault Lines on Wednesday. Ukrainians don't want to fight. And their laws are being broken by throwing them to military camps and then throwing them to the front lines right away, without any tactical experience at all. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240112/many-in-us-doubt-funds-used-effectively---kremlin-on-arms-supplies-to-ukraine-stop-1116128995.html https://sputnikglobe.com/20240118/johnson-throws-cold-water-on-ukraine-funding-prioritizing-border-security-1116239901.html kiev russia ukraine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Ian DeMartino Ian DeMartino News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Ian DeMartino is ukraine losing, when will the ukraine war end, ukraine funding, what is the status of ukraine, ukraine updates https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/uk-defense-minister-calls-netanyahus-rejection-of-palestinian-sovereignty-disappointing-1116301005.html UK Defense Minister Calls Netanyahu's Rejection of Palestinian Sovereignty 'Disappointing' UK Defense Minister Calls Netanyahu's Rejection of Palestinian Sovereignty 'Disappointing' Sputnik International UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps said on Sunday he was disappointed to hear Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rule out the two-state solution to the conflict in Gaza. 2024-01-21T14:57+0000 2024-01-21T14:57+0000 2024-01-21T14:57+0000 world benjamin netanyahu middle east grant shapps united kingdom (uk) israel palestine palestine-israel conflict https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/102119/56/1021195651_0:0:3645:2050_1920x0_80_0_0_67fd5231dea40454c569f5e4483c2d82.jpg "I think it is disappointing to hear that from the Israeli prime minister. There isn't another option, and the whole world has agreed that the two-state solution is the best way forward," he told Sky News. Netanyahu has repeatedly said that he will never accept an independent Palestinian state on the Israeli border. He argues that Israel must have full security control over the Palestinian territory, which conflicts with the idea of Palestinian sovereignty. Shapps reiterated that the UK government "absolutely backs" the creation of a Palestinian state as a lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. "It needs to be viable, it needs to be sovereign on the Palestinian side. It needs that to provide security guarantees on the Israeli side, and there isn't another obvious way out of this," he stressed. Shapps admitted that anti-Semitic attacks in the United Kingdom had been rising in parallel with Islamophobia since the Israel-Gaza war began last October. He said the UK government would not allow events in the Middle East to spill over into his country. https://sputnikglobe.com/20231012/two-state-solution-or-one-state-agreement-what-are-the-options-in-palestines-path-to-statehood-1114148856.html united kingdom (uk) israel palestine Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International gaza war, palestine-israel war, benjamin netanyahu, palestinian sovereignty, two-state solution, grant shapps https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/uk-to-upgrade-sea-viper-missile-system-for-over-510mln-1116295327.html UK to Spend $510Mln on Sea Viper Missile System Upgrade Following Houthi Attacks in Red Sea UK to Spend $510Mln on Sea Viper Missile System Upgrade Following Houthi Attacks in Red Sea Sputnik International The United Kingdom plans to spend $514 million to modernize the Sea Viper anti-aircraft missile system that UK forces previously used to shoot down drones in the Red Sea amid a deteriorating situation in the Middle East region, UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps said. 2024-01-21T09:12+0000 2024-01-21T09:12+0000 2024-01-21T09:58+0000 military red sea crisis grant shapps united kingdom (uk) mbda houthi https://cdn1.img.sputnikglobe.com/img/107518/46/1075184668_0:15:1369:785_1920x0_80_0_0_0cd07c1542b8a7d8d1bc7985a708c71b.png On January 10, Shapps said that a UK destroyer operating in the Red Sea alongside US warships managed to repel "the largest attack" staged in the region by Yemens Houthi. The contract was reportedly signed with the UK division of the MBDA missile maker, the report said. The Sea Viper missile system will receive new missiles and software to counter ballistic missile threats. The Houthis vowed in November 2023 to attack any ships associated with Israel until it halts the invasion of Gaza. In January, the US and UK began airstrikes on Houthi positions in Yemen to degrade their fighting capabilities. Russia condemned both the Houthi actions in the Red Sea and the Western aggression against Yemen, dubbing the latter another example of the Anglo-Saxons distortion of UN Security Council resolutions and complete disregard for international law. https://sputnikglobe.com/20240121/biden-started-campaign-against-houthis-because-of-ideology-not-economics--report-1116292439.html united kingdom (uk) Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 2024 Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 News en_EN Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 1920 1080 true 1920 1440 true 1920 1920 true Sputnik International feedback@sputniknews.com +74956456601 MIA Rosiya Segodnya 252 60 Sputnik International red sea crisis, uk sea viper, houthi drones, red sea drones, houthi against us For the third year in a row, Equine Guelph has partnered with Standardbred Canada (SC), Ontario Racing (OR) and Central Ontario Standardbred Association (COSA) to offer three online courses in winter of 2024 in priority healthcare areas of lameness, respiratory and gut health. Sponsored by COSA, the Racehorse Gut Health & Ulcer/Colic Prevention course is the second course in the series to digest after the lameness prevention course offering. The two-week online short course, developed specifically for the horse racing industry, will be offered from Feb. 12 23 and will be available free (value of $95) to the first 100 Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) licence holders and/or SC members who enroll. Participants in 2023 enjoyed new material added on stomach ulcers and learned how underdiagnosed they are, especially among racehorses. The 2024 offering will contain new material again with a special video interview with forage specialist Dr. Paul Sharpe discussing the importance of hay testing to your horses gut health and dispelling some common nutrition myths. Course participants will learn how to detect early signs of colic, assess management plans and develop preventative strategies. They will be able to identify risk factors and understand different types of colic and gastro-intestinal issues including ulcers. Past participants have ample praise for this short course that is packed full of practical information: I enjoyed learning about the role of stress, exercise and the anticipation of being fed on increased stomach acid, specifically, the role anxiety plays in contributing to ulcers, the buffering effect of alfalfa hay and, specifically, how grazing position behaviour (head below the withers 15 degrees) greatly reduces ulcers. It was an excellent informative course, which provided me a much better understanding of colic and ulcers and what I can do to lessen the chances my horse gets either! Dr. Nicole Weidner will act as course instructor and Dr. Sarah Shaw will be on-hand in week two as guest expert with expert knowledge on ulcers. Dr. Weidner completed an MSc and PhD in animal nutrition at the Ontario Veterinary College. Her research examined links between nutrition and disease in animals. Shes worked as a guest lecturer and instructor in courses offered through the University of Guelph and has also been involved in the development of courses and educational tools. Shes interested in scientific outreach and communication, especially when its related to horse nutrition, health and/or welfare. Dr. Shaw is a private practice owner and a large animal internal medicine specialist working in Ontario. After graduating from the Ontario Veterinary College, she spent one year in a large animal ambulatory practice and then completed an internship at the Equine Medical Center of Ocala. She then pursued a large animal internal medicine residency at Texas A&M. In 2016, Shaw began working at Rotenberg Veterinary P.C. and has developed a diverse equine internal medicine referral caseload. As part of her referral medicine, Shaw performs a large number of gastroscopies in racehorses and sport horses and frequently works up gastrointestinal issues in horses. Weidner and Shaw will be discussing common causes of gut health issues and recent research updates for racehorses as well as early detection and prevention. Participants will also learn about the practical ways they can reduce their colic risk, best practices for detecting GI issues, how to manage an afflicted horse and the latest research. Weidner and Shaw will also be joined by industry ambassadors Ruleen Lilley and Renee Kierans, who will be on-hand as peer helpers to assist students and ask questions on hot topics. In the 2017 Ontario Horse Racing Industry Survey conducted by Equine Guelph, colic and gut issues was ranked the number as one of the top three health issues of concern. We at COSA feel privileged to be able to provide a course in the education of the health and welfare of horses, said Bill ODonnell, president of COSA. Ontario trainers, grooms and owners can sign up now for the free Racehorse Gut Health & Ulcer/Colic Prevention starting on Feb. 12. For those who have never taken an online course before, no prior online learning experience is required. Limited registrations available. Be sure to hold the dates and register now for these two-week, racing-exclusive online courses: Racehorse Injury/Lameness Prevention & Care: Jan. 22 Feb. 2, 2024 Racehorse Gut Health & Ulcer/Colic Prevention: Feb. 12 23, 2024 Racehorse Respiratory Health: March 4 - 15, 2024 Sign-up instructions: Standardbred Canada members - TheHorsePortal.ca/SC (free) AGCO licensees - TheHorsePortal.ca/OR (free) COSA members - TheHorsePortal.ca/COSA (free) Industry members outside of Ontario: TheHorsePortal.ca ($95) (With files from Equine Guelph) Iran blames Israel for death of five of its military advisors in Syria Iran has accused Israel of killing five of its military advisors in Syria capital Damascus in a missile strike on a building, Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency reported. The Damascus strike is being viewed by observers as the buildup of hostilities in the middle east as Israel's war with Hamas has entered the fourth month. The alleged strike targeted the Mazzeh neighborhood in Syria's capital, where several diplomatic missions including the Iranian embassy, are located, according to Syrian authorities. Israel "launched an air attack from the Golan Heights at 10:20 a.m. local time that targeted a residential building in the Mazzeh neighborhood," the Syrian Ministry of Defense alleged, adding that some missiles were shot down by national defense forces. Numerous buildings and adjacent vehicles were damaged in the blast, Syria's state broadcaster reported, with civil defense teams still searching for victims trapped under the rubble. The Israel Defense Forces declined to comment on the incident, telling CNN, "We do not comment on foreign reports." One of the dead, Hojjatollah Omidvar, was described by Irans semi-official Student News Network as a deputy chief of the Quds Force intelligence unit in Syria - one of five branches of the Revolutionary Guards unit in charge of foreign operations. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) identified the four others killed as military advisors Ali Aghazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi, Saeed Karimi and Mohammad Amin Samadi. Their presence in Syria had been "at the official invitation of the Syrian government", Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson, Nasser Kanaani, noted in a statement on social media. The Damascus missile hit raises concerns that Israel's war with Hamas in Gaza is spiraling into a regional war. In northern Iraq, an Iranian missile attack last week targeted what Tehran claimed to be a spy base for Israeli intelligence agency Mossad. In Lebanon, militant group Hezbollah has engaged in near-daily confrontations with Israeli forces across the border. And from Yemen, Houthi rebels have launched a series of attacks on commercial ships and Western military vessels in the Red Sea, media reports said. Attacks by Iranian-backed groups in the Middle East won't stop until Israel's war on Hamas in Gaza ends, Tehran's top diplomat warned on Wednesday, echoing comments by several groups in Irans network of influence. "If the genocide in Gaza stops, then it will lead to the end of other crises and attacks in the region," Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian told CNN in an interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Wednesday. Since Israel launched its ground and air campaign in Gaza, in response to Hamas' October 7 terror attacks, nearly 25,000 people have been killed in the blockaded Palestinian enclave the majority of them women and children - according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Ramallah. The US, a key Israel ally, launched strikes in Yemen to degrade Houthi capabilities to harm the vital Red Sea shipping lane. In comments on Wednesday, State Department spokesperson Matt Miller emphasised that a larger conflagration could be avoided and highlighted a flurry of US diplomatic activity in the Middle East. "We continue to engage in diplomatic efforts to try to make clear to everyone in the region that we dont want to see the conflict escalated, that we dont think its in any countrys interest to see the conflict escalated," Miller said on Wednesday. The de-escalation path appears elusive as Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi on Saturday vowed to "punish" Israel for the Damascus missile strike. The killing was "another stain on the record of all governments who claim to be the advocates of human rights because it violated Syrias airspace and trampled on human and international laws", he said, in comments reported by Iranian state media. The Syrian regime persists in overlooking the Jordanian warplanes' targeting of civilian homes in Suweida, according to Enab Baladi. Jordans persistent attacks on populated areas in southern Syrias Suweida governorate have deeply impacted the local community, particularly affecting the lives of civilians in the southern and eastern countryside of the governorate. In the latest series of attacks, the towns of Arman and Melh, situated south of Suweida, were targeted on January 18, resulting in the tragic loss of ten lives. These airstrikes not only claimed human casualties but also caused extensive material damage, leading to the destruction of targeted homes and affecting neighbouring buildings. As a result, residents now live in constant fear of a potential recurrence of such devastating events. Obsessions and psychological effects The airstrikes have instilled significant concern among residents, particularly children, as reported by those surveyed by Enab Baladi in the affected area. Marhaf al-Abdullah, an activist in the Suweida movement and a coordinator of protests in Arman, conveyed to Enab Baladi that the residents fear stems from the perceived randomness of the shelling. The targeted house in the town had no connection to the drug trade; instead, it was a residence adjacent to a property involved in these illicit operations. Tragically, ten people lost their lives in the attack, with the majority belonging to the Hadda family, including women and children. The aerial bombardment marks a distressing development in the governorate of Suweida, particularly because the region had been spared such attacks in previous years. Unlike other Syrian governorates continuously bombarded by the Syrian regime and the Russians, Suweida remained relatively untouched. Abdullah added that apprehensions have taken root among the residents of Arman, especially among children, who fear the prospect of similar operations in the future. The psychological impact of witnessing the aftermath, coupled with the uncertainty of continued targeting, has left lasting effects on the community. Lubna al-Baset, an activist in the Suweida movement, shared with Enab Baladi that the concerns in the area revolve around the potential recurrence of bombings, given that merchants live among civilians. Notably, major drug traffickers in the region had vacated their homes days before the targeting, leaving residents to bear the consequences of both their illicit activities and the indiscriminate Jordanian bombardment. Ghassan al-Safadi, a resident of Arman, expressed to Enab Baladi that the damage inflicted on the villages of Melh and Arman resulted from unjustified targeting by Jordanian warplanes, causing civilian casualties and the destruction of homes. Resentment in Suweida As the Syrian regime persists in overlooking the Jordanian warplanes targeting of civilian homes in Suweida, activists within the peaceful movement strongly condemn these repeated attacks, conducted under the guise of combating drug traffickers. Jamal al-Shoufi, a political researcher based in Suweida, expressed to Enab Baladi that such targeting is morally and human rights condemnable as it directly affects civilians and children. He emphasized that the strategy of targeting small traders is ineffective, even if it manages to achieve its intended goals of excluding individuals listed in Jordan as involved in drug trade operations. Shoufi argued that the manufacturing capabilities of the factory and the continuous training of new smugglers render this approach futile. Activist Baset suggested that the Syrian regime, through its security components in Suweida, may be complicit in promoting drug trafficking, turning the governorate into a conduit for smuggling activities. This, in turn, has attracted gangs with weapons and security credentials, ultimately inviting the intervention of Jordan. She asserted that Jordan, having become a partner of the regime in civilian casualties, would be more effective in addressing the drug trade at its root sources, such as the Syrian regime, Lebanese Hezbollah, and Iran-backed militias in the region. Baset emphasized the need for Jordan to take a firm stance against these entities rather than pursuing political avenues that only serve to benefit the regime. This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. The Mazzeh area in western Damascus, where the explosion occurred, encompasses several security and military headquarters, Syria TV says. Five commanders from Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), including an intelligence official from the Quds Force, were reportedly killed in an Israeli attack on a residential building in the Mazzeh Western Villas neighbourhood of Damascus. Videos circulated on social media depict smoke rising from the Mazzeh neighbourhood, revealing the extent of destruction caused by the attack. The regimes official SANA news agency attributed the blast to Israeli aggression. Iranian media confirmed the death of IRGC Quds Force intelligence official Brigadier General Yousef Omidzadeh, also known as Hajj Sadeq, and his deputy in the Israeli raid on the Mazzeh neighbourhood. According to the local Sowt al-Asima website, the death toll reached ten, including five Iranian Revolutionary Guards generals: Hajj Sadeq, his companion known as Hajj Gholam, Ali Aghazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi, and Saeed Karmi. Four Syrians were also among the casualties: Mohammed Nour al-Hamad, Maryam Hamza Shams, Aqeel Fadhil Behzadian, and Hussam Farouk al-Khalifa. The tenth persons identity remains unspecified. Islamic Jihad denied news of the assassination of its secretary-general Ziad Nakhaleh during the Damascus attack, according to Al-Araby TV. Pro-regime media outlets reported that the targeted building in the Mazzeh area, consisting of four floors, was completely destroyed. Iranian media also confirmed both deaths and injuries resulting from the attack. Precision-Guided Israeli Munition A security source within a pro-regime regional coalition informed Reuters that an Israeli raid on Damascus resulted in the death of four members of the IRGC, including a senior official from its intelligence unit. The source revealed that the attack, employing precision-guided munition, caused the destruction of a multi-storey building in the Mazzeh district of the Syrian capital. Notably, the Mazzeh area in western Damascus, where the explosion occurred, encompasses several security and military headquarters, as well as residences of prominent Palestinian and Iranian leaders, along with a gathering of various embassies and UN organizations. This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. The Hemo base is of strategic importance, housing training centers for SDF special forces and a U.S. intelligence office, according to Athr Press. The U.S. base situated in the village of Hemo, located west of the city of Qamishli, recently experienced unprecedented troop movements. According to a reliable source, some American vehicles were observed heading towards the American base in Tal Baydar on the main Hassakeh-Darbasiya road on Tuesday. Additionally, a few vehicles made their way to the French hotel, established by the former Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), approximately three km west of the Hemo base, adjacent to the village of Naqara. The timing of the first departure of U.S. vehicles from Hemo coincided with missile strikes claimed by the Iranian Revolutionary Guards on an Israeli Mossad center in Erbil on January 16th. The Hemo base is of strategic importance, housing training centers for SDF special forces and a U.S. intelligence office responsible for overseeing all U.S. bases in the region. A field source west of Qamishli emphasized to Athr Press that the movement of American vehicles should not be interpreted as a withdrawal from the base. Rather, it appears to be a tactical relocation in response to potential emergencies. Given the heightened risk of attacks on the base, the recent targeting at dawn on Sunday by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq underscores the need for such precautionary measures. Notably, the Hemo base faced an attack by the Islamic resistance in Iraq earlier January. The recent troop movements could be aimed at enhancing the security of U.S. forces by relocating them to larger military bases with superior fortifications, advanced weaponry, and anti-air capabilities capable of countering the attacks of the Iraqi resistance. Two days ago, the security office official of the Iraqi Kataib Hezbollah announced that the Islamic resistance in Iraq will intensify its operations in support of the Palestinian people. This statement suggests a broader context for the ongoing developments in the region. This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. The ministry reported that the Israeli aggression led to the destruction of a residential building in Damascus, according to al-Baath. Syria has vehemently condemned what it describes as a barbaric missile attack by Israeli forces on a residential neighbourhood in Damascus. The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, in a strongly worded statement, decried the Saturday, January 20, 2024, strike as evidence of Israels criminal nature. The ministry reported that the Israeli aggression led to the destruction of a residential building in Damascus, extensive damage to surrounding structures, and numerous civilian casualties and injuries. The statement drew parallels between this attack and what it called the ongoing human genocide by Israel in the occupied Palestinian territories. Asserting that these acts clearly demonstrate the criminal nature of Israel and its leaders, the Syrian government called upon the international community for immediate intervention. Syria insists that these actions by Israel not only disrupt regional and international peace and security but also blatantly violate the United Nations Charters principles and objectives. The ministrys statement highlighted a pattern of attacks by Israel that indiscriminately target civilians and destroy their homes, regardless of age or gender. Describing these actions as a form of extermination and ethnic cleansing rooted in fascist Zionist ideology, the Syrian government accused Israel of denying the existence and rights of entire populations. In a firm response, the Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates announced that Syria is more determined than ever to confront these inhumane policies. The ministry also urged nations worldwide to stand against what it called Israels genocidal tactics in the Arab region. Additionally, it called on the United Nations Security Council to assume its responsibilities in maintaining global peace and security by holding Israeli political and military leaders accountable and ending their alleged inhumane and immoral policies. This incident marks another significant escalation in the ongoing tensions in the region, with the Syrian government taking a strong stance against the actions of the Israeli forces. 0- The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a stern condemnation of the Israeli attack on the Mezzeh district in Damascus, which led to several fatalities, including Iranian advisors. Nasser Kanaani, the spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, stated, The continued infringement on Syrias sovereignty and territorial integrity by Israel reflects the entitys weakness and bankruptcy on the battlefield, particularly against the resistance in Gaza and the West Bank. It also signals Israels desperate efforts to widen the scope of conflict and unrest in the region. Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, Kanaani vowed that the sacrifice of those killed will not be in vain. He declared, The Islamic Republic of Iran reserves the right to respond to the Zionist entitys organized terrorism at an appropriate time and place. This response will be in conjunction with our ongoing political, legal, and international efforts to address these aggressive and criminal actions. This statement from Iran highlights the escalating tensions in the region and underscores Tehrans commitment to both legal pursuits and potential retaliation against Israeli actions. 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. Israeli Operations Target Key Iranian Figures in Syria, Signaling Strategic Shift, according to Syria TV. Israeli military actions against Iranian targets in Syria have escalated, highlighted by the December assassination of Iranian General Radhi Mousavi. A close associate of the late Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani, who was killed by the United States in 2020, Mousavi was instrumental in transporting weapons from Tehran to Syria and Lebanon and was a senior figure in the Iranian Revolutionary Guards operations in the Levant. The killing of Mousavi signaled a shift in Israels strategy: from targeting Iranian military hardware to focusing on key personnel. This shift was further evidenced by the recent targeted killing of Iranian Revolutionary Guard intelligence officers, including Brigadier General Ali Aghazadeh, in an airstrike on their residence in Damascus. Political Implications The precision strike on the Iranian officers in Damascus marks a significant moment in Israels approach to deterrence, aiming to limit Irans capacity to use Syrian territory as a base for operations against Israel. While this operation mirrors the assassination of Mousavi in its focus on high-ranking Iranian officials, it stands out due to its location and political implications. The attack occurred in the Mezzeh area of Damascus, known as either District 86 or the Western Villas. This zone, heavily fortified and closely monitored, is a preferred residential area for many political and security officials connected to the Syrian regime. It is typically considered to have a degree of political immunity, contrasting with areas under complete control of the Revolutionary Guard, such as the Sayyida Zeinab area where Mousavi was targeted. This latest Israeli operation, occurring within a secure and politically sensitive area of the Syrian capital, indicates a more assertive and strategic approach to countering Iranian influence in the region. It also reflects the evolving dynamics of regional security and the ongoing tensions between Israel, Iran, and Syria. Escalating pressure on Syrian regime and renewed Russian-Israeli coordination The recent Israeli operations in Syria, particularly the targeted strikes within Damascus, highlight an intensifying approach towards the Syrian regime. This escalation is evident in the fact that Tel Aviv has ventured to strike areas under the direct control of the Syrian government, a move not commonly seen in recent years. The last notable instance of such a direct approach dates back to the 2008 assassination of former Hezbollah leader Imad Mughniyeh in the Kafr Sousa region, a heavily secured area featuring various security branches. This recent operation signifies the increasing proximity of these conflicts to the core areas of the Syrian regime, suggesting a growing concern over the regimes unwillingness or inability to prevent anti-Israeli activities conducted by Iranian forces from Syrian territory. The recent developments also point towards a possible rekindling of Russian-Israeli coordination in Syria. The establishment of new Russian military observation points in the Quneitra countryside near the Golan Heights, along with the resumed patrols of the Russian air force along the borders, mark a significant shift. Notably, there has been an absence of Russian response to the Israeli strike that eliminated Mousavi. This change in stance is particularly noteworthy given the strained relations between Moscow and Tel Aviv following the Russian-Ukrainian war, where Moscow had previously protested Israeli raids in Syria. The pattern of high-profile assassinations, including that of General Mousavi, Hamas leader Saleh Al-Arouri, and now advisors from the Iranian Revolutionary Guard in Damascus, reflect Israels strategic effort to reassert its security dominance in the region. These actions, starting from the end of last year, have not only garnered significant media attention but have also demonstrated Israels capability to penetrate secure areas and gather intelligence on the movements of its adversaries, whether in the southern suburbs of Damascus or within the Syrian regimes own strongholds. These developments indicate a complex and evolving geopolitical landscape in the region, with Israel actively pursuing a more assertive military strategy and potential shifts in the dynamics of Russian-Israeli relations in Syria. This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author. Your daily brief of the English-speaking press on Syria. A residential building in the Mazzeh neighbourhood of the Syrian capital, Damascus, was heavily damaged during an Israeli air raid. The attack resulted in multiple casualties, including high-ranking Iranian generals. Tehran has pledged to retaliate for the loss of lives. Residential building destroyed in attack that killed IRGC members in Syria; Iran Vows Revenge An air raid on the Mazzeh neighbourhood of the Syrian capital, Damascus, tore into a multistorey residential building and left several people killed. The target of Saturdays attack was an intelligence unit of Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), sources told Al Jazeera. The IRGC said an attack by Israeli fighter jets killed five of its military advisers and a number of Syrian forces. It identified its members who were killed immediately as Hojjatollah Omidvar, Ali Aghazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi and Saied Karimi, without sharing their ranks. It later said another member, Mohammad Amin Samadi, also died after succumbing to his wounds. Irans foreign ministry blamed Israel for the strike and said it reserves the right to respond. Israel has yet to comment. The attack is believed to have been carried out with at least four missiles, according to Iranian state media. Saturdays attack comes amid widening tensions in the region and the Israeli offensive on Gaza that has killed nearly 25,000 people. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a UK-based campaign group, said 10 people were killed in the strikes, including leaders of the Revolutionary Guard. The state-run Syrian Arab News Agency quoted a military source as saying it had managed to stop some of the missiles, but that the attacks which it said had hit a residential building killed and injured some civilians. Buildings were also destroyed, it said. A resident told AFP news agency that they saw explosions in the western Mazzeh area and a large cloud of smoke. The sound was similar to a missile explosion, and minutes later I heard the sound of ambulances, he added. Iran vows revenge Irans president said an air strike on the Syrian capital that killed five senior members of Irans security forces will not go unanswered, BBC reported. Ebrahim Raisi said Israel was to blame for the attack, which also killed a number of Syrian forces. Israel has not commented. For years it has carried out strikes on Iranian-linked targets in Syria. Such strikes have intensified since the Israel-Gaza war began following Hamass 7 October attacks on Israel. In a statement posted on the presidents officials website, Mr Raisi expressed his condolences to the families of the high-ranking martyrs. He vowed to avenge their deaths, and described the attack as a cowardly assassination of five of Irans most distinguished advisors. The statement described the strike as terrorist and criminal and said it shows the height of [Israels] desperation and weakness against the combatants of the resistance front. It will not remain unanswered, said the statement. Irans foreign ministry said the attacks were an aggressive and provocative act by Israel, urging international actors to condemn them. Damascus reaction The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned on Saturday evening the Israeli airstrike on Mezzeh neighborhood in the Syrian capital Damascus, which resulted in the killing of five members of Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). This barbaric aggression, in addition to the human genocide that the Zionist enemy is carrying out in the occupied Palestinian territories, proves beyond any doubt the criminal nature of this entity and its leaders, the ministry said in a statement. The ministry called on the international community to take immediate action to stop the strikes launched by Israel, saying the strikes disrupt regional and international security and peace and violate the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the goals for which the organization was established. Syrias civilians are increasingly forgotten as humanitarian aid dries out The Middle East Eye published a long report on The main idea of the article is the growing humanitarian crisis in Syria due to the significant reduction in international aid. This decrease in support is leaving Syrian civilians increasingly vulnerable, leading to a rise in involvement with armed groups and illicit activities such as drug trafficking, as they struggle to cope with the worsening economic and social conditions. As international humanitarian aid dwindles in Syria, the countrys civilians face increasing neglect. The World Food Programme (WFP) ended its food assistance program in Syria in 2024, affecting 5.6 million people, including those displaced in the northwest. The reduction in aid is due to various factors, including donor fatigue, the pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and other global crises. According to the report, the Syrian government has extended approval for United Nations cross-border aid through Turkey for six more months. However, since 2017, Russia and China have advocated for routing all aid through Damascus, challenging the existing mandate for multiple border crossings established by a 2014 UN resolution. This change, along with a significant decrease in financial aid due to global economic pressures and the prolonged crisis in Syria, has led to a drastic reduction in aid. In 2021, 1,000 aid trucks entered northern Syria, but this number fell to 445 in the following year. With the aid shortage, civilians in Syria are increasingly vulnerable to joining armed groups for financial reasons. Groups like the Islamic State (IS) and pro-Iran and Russia-financed militias are reportedly recruiting young men, offering financial incentives. Additionally, the Assad government is implicated in trafficking drugs like Captagon, a highly addictive amphetamine, which has become a lucrative business in the region. The decrease in aid, the report adds, coupled with the Syrian governments economic measures like removing subsidies and increasing taxes, has pushed 90% of Syrias population below the poverty line. The UN estimates that the number of people needing humanitarian assistance rose to over 15 million in 2023 and is expected to increase further. In summary, Syria faces a dire humanitarian crisis with decreasing international aid, leaving civilians in a vulnerable position and exposed to the influence of armed groups and illicit activities like drug trafficking. A scathing federal report on the Uvalde mass shooting released Thursday highlighted the miscommunication and lack of action between the hundreds of officers who showed up to Robb Elementary School on May 24, 2022. The Justice Departments report also came with plenty of recommendations to improve schools safety and active shooter protocols in the state. Texas lawmakers last year passed House Bill 3 to address many of those issues, but failed to include more mental health screenings as recommended by the report. School districts believe HB 3 was a step in the right direction, but have complained the state funding allocated to pay for the changes isnt enough to cover the expenses theyll have to incur. There were efforts during last years fourth special lawmaking session to add more funding, but the fight over school vouchers sank them. The reports recommendations include having active shooter plans for every school, regular meetings between local law enforcement and local government officials to conduct security exercises, replacing or upgrading all faulty school doors and locks, mental health screenings for victims and better communication between law enforcement, school officials and the community. Had law enforcement agencies followed generally accepted practices in an active shooter situation and gone right after the shooter to stop him, lives would have been saved and people would have survived, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland said during a news conference Thursday. Gov. Greg Abbott, who praised the police response immediately after the shooting and later said he was misled about how it transpired, released a statement Thursday thanking the Justice Department for its report. He said the state has already adopted some of the measures it recommended and would review others. Nineteen children and two teachers were killed during the Robb Elementary massacre nearly two years ago. The gunman was able to enter the school through a series of unlocked doors. When officers arrived, they retreated after coming under fire and waited for backup. The decision was counter to the active shooter doctrine developed after the 1999 Columbine High School mass shooting in Colorado, which dictates that officers must immediately confront the shooters. Leadership was also amiss among the plethora of law enforcement officers who responded to the shooting, with no one acting as the incident commander. Pete Arredondo, the Uvalde school districts former police chief, has said he didnt believe he was in charge, even though the districts active-shooter plan states he was. The report authors also expressed concern with an active-shooter training course that Uvalde school district police officers received from the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement just months before the massacre, which states that an active shooter event can easily morph into a hostage crisis and vice versa. The Justice Department said that an active shooter event very rarely ceases to be a hostage situation and officers should always seek to eliminate the threat as soon as possible. Texas is already trying to implement many of the Justice Departments recommendations. Under HB 3, the state created a safety and security department within the Texas Education Agency and gave it the authority to compel school districts to establish and follow robust safety protocols. Those that fail to meet the agencys standards could be put under the states supervision. Since the 2018 Santa Fe High School shooting, the state has required school districts to submit those plans which must include active-shooter strategies for the review of the Texas School Safety Center, a think tank at Texas State University created by lawmakers in 2001. A three-year audit in 2020 found that out of the 1,022 school districts in the state, just 200 districts had active-shooter policies as part of their safety plans. The audit revealed 626 districts did not have active-shooter policies; 196 had active-shooter policies but were deemed insufficient. Only 67 school districts had viable emergency operations plans overall, the report found. HB3 also tasks the state with setting up teams to conduct security audits at every school district at least once a year. Districts are also required to have an armed person on campus. In addition, the law requires the TEA to develop standards for notifying parents of violent activity on campus and set up school safety review teams to conduct vulnerability assessments of all the school campuses once a year. In counties with fewer than 350,000 people, the law requires the sheriff to hold semi-annual meetings to discuss school safety and law enforcement response to violent incidents. The law states response plans must include a clear chain of command and that all radios must be working. Each school district is also required to give the Texas Department of Public Safety and other law enforcement agencies in their area a walkthrough and a map of each campus in an effort to avoid confusion when responding to an incident. To tackle mental health, school employees who regularly interact with children will need to complete an evidence-based mental health first-aid training program. The TEA would reimburse the employee for the time and money spent on the training. The law gave each school district $15,000 per campus and $10 per student to pay for safety upgrades. Lawmakers also gave the TEA $1.1 billion to to administer school safety grants among the states school districts. Many school officials have said those amounts arent enough. State Sen. Roland Gutierrez, a San Antonio Democrat who represents Uvalde, voted against HB 3 last year because of the funding concerns. It is sick and twisted that we have the largest budget surplus in Texas history and we arent doing a damn thing to keep our kids safe, he said during a Senate debate on the bill referring to last years $32.7 billion budget surplus. We arent doing anything to prevent another Uvalde. Lawmakers tried to give school districts more money to beef up security on campuses late last year. School districts were close to receiving an additional $1 billion for school safety but the legislation stalled after school voucher legislation failed to pass. Abbott had vowed to veto any new public education funding if it didnt come in hand with a voucher proposal, his top legislative priority last year. School officials were already struggling to meet the safety requirements in HB 3, such as the mandate to staff every campus with an armed officer. Dallas Independent School District Superintendent Stephanie Elizalde told The Texas Tribune last month that with more than 220 campuses, the district needs $3 million annually to post trained security guards at every school. While the district did receive grants from the state, Elizalde believes they arent a reliable source of funding for the future. And if the district doesnt receive more money to pay for safety improvements, it may have to cut programs and potentially lay off staff. That has become our biggest obstacle how do you, time and time again, continue to make cuts to make sure that we have the safest schools possible? Elizalde said. A view of homes on Belvedere Lagoon from a dock in the Mallard Pointe neighborhood in Belvedere. A developer is proposing a 40-unit housing project, but the city is fighting back. Ramin Rahimian/Special to the Chronicle UPDATE: Affluent Bay Area city approves largest housing development in decades The owners of a contentious development site in one of the Bay Areas richest towns have a message for both its opponents and elected officials: Approve our housing project or well use state law to ram through a bigger project that youll like a whole lot less. On Monday, the Belvedere City Council is slated to vote on an appeal of a proposed 40-unit development in the exclusive Marin town. The project, which the Belvedere Planning Commission shot down last fall the commission determined that the development needed a full environmental study, which could take years to complete would allow the developer, an affiliate of Thompson Dorfman Partners LLC, to build 40 units on Mallard Pointe, a 2.8-acre parcel that is now home to 22 rental units. But, in case the Belvedere City Council rules against the developer, Thompson Dorfman filed an alternative application last week that calls for a 70-unit project, a 75% increase from the development that the planning commission turned down. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The 70-unit alternative takes advantage of the builders remedy clause of the states housing accountability act, which allows housing developers to bypass the local land-use approval process in towns that dont have a compliant housing element, the eight-year plan that every California city must submit to the state for approval. Two houses in the foreground in the existing Mallard Pointe neighborhood that would be replaced as part of new development plans in Belvedere. RAMIN RAHIMIAN/Special to The Chronicle The Belvedere City Council approved the towns housing element on Tuesday, but the plan still has to be approved by the state Department of Housing and Community Development. Until that happens, Belvedere is fair game for developers wishing to use the builders remedy law to force through projects. Under its housing element, Belvedere had to rezone parts of the city in order to accommodate 160 units. Developer Bruce Dorfman said the Planning Commissions arbitrary action to unnecessarily delay review of our original application has triggered the need for a builders remedy submission. Dorfman said his group has spent three years working with community members to develop a plan that fits within the existing development pattern of Belvedere. He called the 40-unit project a modest proposal that is 50% of the density state law allows. Advertisement Article continues below this ad If the City Council does not bring some sensibility to this process we will be left with no choice but to pursue the builders remedy project, he said. The new iteration of the development would include a 55-unit, four-story apartment building, which is an increase of 32 units over the previous project. It would also include six single-family homes, an accessory dwelling unit, two duplexes and a fourplex containing eight units. In the revised project, the apartment building would directly overlook the Belvedere Lagoon and would have second-story decks overlooking the water. It would include 14 deed-restricted affordable units, up from four in the original project. A view of homes across the Belvedere Lagoon from the Mallard Pointe neighborhood, right, in Belvedere. With the city pushing back against his planned housing, a developer is responding with an even bigger housing proposal using the builders remedy loophole. Ramin Rahimian/Special to the Chronicle Dorfman said even the 70-unit alternative is less dense than state law allows. He said the site could accommodate 112 units. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Belvederes housing element includes the 40-unit Mallard Pointe project, as well 40 accessory dwelling units, and 65 units at the Boardwalk Shopping Center, which straddles the Belvedere/Tiburon line. It also anticipates housing being built on property owned by one or both of the churches in the town. Opponents to the project have argued that the development would adversely impact the Belvedere Lagoon, a private, man-made body of water that acts as the towns primary stormwater detention facility. On its website, the opposition group, Belvedere Residents for Intelligent Growth, said it has serious concerns about the potential impacts on local flood control, zoning consistency, and soil stability that could be caused by this large-scale waterfront subdivision. The group also says traffic; parking; noise; the environment; safety for children, pedestrians, and pets; services; and water will all be adversely impacted. Dorfman said the opponents are weaponizing the states convoluted environmental laws to block badly-needed housing in a city where the average home value is $4.2 million. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Safeway at 1335 Webster St. in San Francisco, the only full-service grocery store in the Fillmore neighborhood, is slated to close in March. Safeway said it agreed to sell the site to Align Real Estate, which plans to build a mixed-use development with housing and commercial space. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle San Franciscos Fillmore neighborhood, once known as the Harlem of the West, has experienced its fair share of hardship due to inequitable redevelopment efforts and political neglect. So, the surprising news of a mixed-use redevelopment project causing the closure of a Webster Street Safeway that residents desperately need, feels like another betrayal from a city that claims to be progressive and compassionate, yet continues perpetuating a decades-long cycle of depriving Fillmore residents of resources they need to survive. This cruel pattern goes back decades to urban renewal of the 1960s, when the largely low-income and Black Fillmore area was razed to be redeveloped. The redevelopment never came, and Fillmore residents today are still living with the scars. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Webster Street Safeway is the neighborhoods only full-service grocery store. The fact that the city didnt effectively seek input from residents on the Safeway redevelopment proposal only brings back bitter memories of San Franciscos nasty past of inequitable redevelopment. The Beauty Supply store at the Webster Center in San Francisco on Thursday. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle Are you sure its this Safeway that is closing? Fillmore resident Gwen Simon asked me after I told her the news one recent morning as we stood in the produce section. Its a shame because Ive been coming here for years. There has to be a way to maybe stop this from happening. People need this place. I spoke with four other shoppers who felt the same as Simon, frustrated and confused; one person said they only heard about the closure through the news media. The next closest Safeway for Fillmore residents is more than a mile away in the Castro neighborhood a distance that can pose a challenge for low-income and elderly residents. Advertisement Article continues below this ad If youre Black, if youre a person from a vulnerable population, the San Francisco experience is one of constant disappointment, said James Taylor, a political science professor at the University of San Francisco who specializes in African American history and race and ethnic politics. As the Chronicle reported earlier this month, Safeway struck a deal with a real estate developer to turn its 3.68-acre site, known as Webster Plaza, into a mixed-use development that has housing and commercial space. The sale fits into Safeways recent efforts to shutter underperforming locations in the Bay Area while simultaneously opening new ones, as its doing in South San Francisco. Businesses Jai Ho Indian Grocery and a Popeyes fast-food store are a stones throw from the Safeway on Webster Street that is planning to close soon. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle In a statement, Safeway said its sale of the property to Align Real Estate will help San Francisco address its housing needs. Maybe it will, but theres no guarantee the lower-income folks who live in the Fillmore will be able to afford the new housing. The terms of the real estate deal have not been disclosed to the public. Theres always invisible hands at play in redevelopment, invisible forces that shape the city, and they are perniciously anti-Black, Taylor said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Those same invisible hands were behind the urban renewal that led to the decimation of the Fillmore between the 1940s and 1960s when the area was around 60% Black. Today, the Fillmore neighborhood is 10% African American, according to 2020 Census data, and Black folks are overrepresented among the low-income and unhoused in San Francisco. The Fillmore is also home to a significant number of cash-strapped seniors. According to 2022 city data, over 60% of the citys more than 6,300 senior-occupied affordable housing units were located in the Civic Center, SoMa and Nob Hill neighborhoods and the Western Addition/Fillmore. With so many folks struggling to make ends meet in the Fillmore, theres valid concern that the neighborhood could become a food desert if Safeway closes. The store is within three blocks of three smaller neighborhood markets, none of which can match Safeway in food offerings. Losing (Safeway) is just going to make it harder for many people, including the elderly, to get the fresh food and things they need. Safeway isnt perfect, but at least its there for them, Taylor added. The Safeway at 1335 Webster St., in San Francisco will be shut down in March. The parcel is being sold for mixed-use development. Santiago Mejia/The Chronicle Food deserts dont exist by chance, theyre the result of systemic and structural racism. In food deserts, residents are forced to travel longer distances to access groceries, often relying on public transportation or having to choose expensive alternatives like corner stores with limited healthy options. This kind of struggle shouldnt exist for residents in a city that knows access to fresh and affordable groceries is not just a matter of convenience, its a matter of dignity. Advertisement Article continues below this ad What makes the Fillmore situation more troubling is how San Francisco Mayor London Breed, a Black woman, has been silent on Safeways closure, other than telling residents to shop at a new Trader Joes opening nearby even though the grocery store hasnt been built and theres no timeline for when it will open. Fillmore residents will struggle until it does. Stopping the closure of the only full-service grocery store in an historically underserved neighborhood should be a top priority for Breed, who intimately knows the struggles of the citys Black and brown populace. While Breed seems to be ignoring the needs of Fillmore residents, District 5 Supervisor Dean Preston, who represents the neighborhood, is fighting the closure. He learned about it Jan. 4, the same day the stores employees were informed. Preston, a white man who often finds himself at odds with Breed when it comes to aggressively addressing the needs of the citys marginalized, introduced a resolution that calls for Safeway, among other things, to work with residents to develop a plan for the site that centers the needs of the community. The Board of Supervisors will vote on the resolution later this month. Its very damaging to the community to close (Safeway) with no plan. Its also an insult to the community the way this was rolled out, Preston told me. To give less than 60 days notice of closure for this store is totally unacceptable. It is not going over well with the community. Im committed to working with community members to try to change the timeline and plan here. The Fillmore neighborhoods struggle is not just about trying to save a grocery store: Its also about fighting against a historical form of exclusion and neglect that corporations, developers and San Franciscos mayor seem content perpetuating. Leslie Serra and other leaders of the Parkside Community Church in Sacramento placed a banner inviting Zach to talk after the young man was recorded stealing a rainbow Pride banner from the front of the church. Colin Peck/Special to the Chronicle Just a week into the new year, someone stole the rainbow Pride banner from the front of Sacramentos Parkside Community Church. This wasnt the first or second or even third banner to be stolen or vandalized. The church has a history of raising progressive signs, and so many have been taken or destroyed over the years that banners are a line item in its budget. But the theft, this time, was caught by a security camera. In a black-and-white video, a young man is clearly identifiable, sawing at the bindings holding the banner in place while his friend shouts his name off-camera: Zach! Zach! Advertisement Article continues below this ad The church council considered handing the video over to the police. It discussed sharing the video on social media and seeing if someone could identify the thief. Neither of those options felt right. Thats not really what were about, said Leslie Serra, head of community outreach for Parkside. Still, it seemed like some sort of response was warranted. Finally, Serra suggested, half-joking, that they raise a new banner that just said, Hey, Zach, do you want to talk? And thats what they did. The Hey Zach banner is a 2-by-6-foot sign with a Pride heart and a QR code that takes users to a letter addressed to Zach, and an invitation to call and chat. As of midweek, about 20 people had clicked on the code. If Zach was one of them, he hadnt revealed himself. I dont think we want to publicly shame him or out him, Serra said. I dont know what is going on with this kid. I dont know whats going on with anybody whos going to read that sign. But we say every Sunday morning that all are welcome here at Parkside, and we ought to practice what we preach, even with Zach. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Crimes targeting the LGBTQ community have picked up across California in recent years as the national social and political climate has become increasingly unfriendly. In 2022, there were 391 reported hate crimes tied to sexual orientation bias in California, a 29% increase from the year before, according to the state Department of Justice. The 59 hate crimes against transgender people reported that year were the most in the state since at least 2015. Theft and vandalism can be tough crimes to monitor, in part because many victims never file police reports. Sacramento police said they have no evidence that these incidents are becoming more common. But Serra and other Parkside leaders said the vandalism has undoubtedly increased. In the letter to Zach, the church states that more than 20 banners have been vandalized in the past three years, most of them LGBTQ or transgender signs. Sacramento is what I would describe as mid we have our fair share of skinheads and white supremacists, but thats not the norm, said Ebony Harper, executive director of California TRANScends, which advocates for transgender health equity. She said several churches, along with other businesses, regularly put up banners like Parksides which, as a transgender woman, she appreciates and everything is getting vandalized. Advertisement Article continues below this ad It hurts like hell when signs are defaced or torn down, Harper said, but she added that she respected Parksides response. I think there is a space to educate. I think there is a space to love on Zach, even though Zach is doing something horribly wrong. Police said they contacted Parkside leaders after hearing about the theft, but confirmed that no police report was filed. In an email, department spokesperson Anthony Gamble said its important police be contacted, especially if the victim(s) believe it is a hate crime. We take these matters very seriously and the best way for us to track and respond to these issues are for us to be notified and a report be generated, Gamble wrote. Parkside, part of the United Church of Christ, describes itself as a progressive Christian community. The church has planted progressive banners and other political statements on its front lawn, on a busy intersection near the Capitol, for about eight years. In 2016, to raise awareness of immigrant families being separated at the border, the church put up a nativity scene with Mary and Joseph in one cage and Jesus in another. Someone threw a rock through a window of the church. Eventually the church erected a metal stanchion to hold the banners more securely, but that too was vandalized beyond repair. Six months ago, Parkside put up a sturdy wooden structure to hold the banners. And it installed security cameras. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In the video, a young man with curly hair and glasses runs into the frame and immediately begins using what looks like a box cutter to saw at the zip ties binding the banner to the frame. As he jumps up and down to reach the top-most ties, a voice calls his name in encouragement. At one point, he looks almost directly into the camera and his face is clear. It takes him about 30 seconds to tear down the banner and run off with it. When church leader Cheryl McDonald saw the video, her first response was, Oh damn, what are we going to do now? It seemed like we had to do something tangible, McDonald said. But she also didnt like the idea of going to the police or trying to out the person on social media. What if the person is a minor, she thought. What if it was just a dumb prank? The Hey Zach banner seemed to solve that dilemma, she said. With this banner Zach would know that he had been identified, McDonald said. And he would know that we were open to hearing whatever it was he was trying to say. And that we werent necessarily about to slap him upside the head. Vallejo kidnap victim Denise Huskins recalls the events of 2015 in the Netflix docuseries American Nightmare. Netflix There are some things you never forget in a journalism career: Spending a morning with a mother who accidentally caused the death of her baby by leaving her behind in a car. Rushing to the bleachers at AT&T Park to document the scramble for Barry Bonds record-breaking 756th home run. Hoping the protective glass at the Marin County jail would hold when an inmate pounded it with his fist and warned, Im going to eat you with my teeth! Then there was the kidnappers email. It was Tuesday, March 24, 2015, and as the Chronicles breaking news editor I was overseeing a big story. The day before, a Vallejo physical therapist named Aaron Quinn had called police to report that his live-in girlfriend and co-worker, Denise Huskins, had been kidnapped by one or more intruders who demanded a $17,000 ransom. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Search teams were being dispatched, the victims family was pleading for her return, and my lead crime reporter, Henry Lee, was outside the home in the Mare Island area that had been breached. The email buzzed Lees phone at 12:24 p.m. He was stunned when he opened it. The subject line was Denise. The writer stated that Huskins will be returned safely (Wednesday). We will send a link to her location after she has been dropped off. She will be in good health and safe while she waits. Any advance on us or our associates will create a dangerous situation for Denise. Included was an audio clip a proof-of-life recording. My name is Denise Huskins, a womans voice said, and Im kidnapped. Otherwise Im fine. That morning, the co-pilot of a commercial plane flying from Spain to Germany had purposely brought it down in the French Alps, killing all 150 people aboard, and the woman on the recording mentioned it. She also recalled that the first band she saw in concert was Blink-182. Im looking around, thinking, someones playing a joke, Lee, now an on-air reporter for KTVU, told me recently. Weve been friends for nearly 30 years, since we worked together at the student newspaper at UC Berkeley. Even then, he was utterly devoted to crime reporting, wearing an earpiece that played the police scanner at all hours. Once, at the Chronicle, a reader wrote a song about the grimness of his work (If its crime and its grimy/Its covered by Henry K. Lee). Advertisement Article continues below this ad Former San Francisco Chronicle reporter Henry Lee recalls covering the Denise Huskins kidnapping case in Vallejo in 2015 in the Netflix docuseries American Nightmare. Netflix But being drawn into a ransom case was new, and Lee forwarded the email to me and the Chronicles then-editor in chief, Audrey Cooper. We decided to forward it to the Vallejo Police Department. It would not be the last email we would receive. What happened that day and the day after is the subject of American Nightmare, the new Netflix docuseries that features Huskins, Quinn and Lee, and is so infuriating that I found myself shouting at my television. The kidnapper, a psychotic ex-Marine and Harvard Law School graduate named Matthew Muller, drugged Huskins, put her in the trunk of a car and drove her to his parents vacation home in South Lake Tahoe, then held her for two days and raped her twice before dropping her off near her familys home in Huntington Beach. Back in Vallejo, her boyfriend went to police and recounted what had happened. Yet police doubted Quinn almost immediately. They not only took saliva and blood samples from him, and gave him a lie-detector test before telling him he failed it, but directly accused him of being involved. It doesnt make any frickin sense! Detective Mat Mustard told Quinn during an hours-long interrogation featured in American Nightmare. Advertisement Article continues below this ad On March 25, 2015, just hours after Huskins was released, a Vallejo police spokesperson, Lt. Kenny Park, gathered the media and declared the whole affair to be a hoax. For nearly four months, Huskins was branded a Gone Girl, a reference to the Ben Affleck movie about a staged abduction that had come out less than a year earlier. Then, suddenly, the couple was vindicated. Huskins kidnapper broke into a home in Dublin and attacked another couple, but left his phone behind. Police in that city, led by a determined detective named Misty Carausu, tracked him down and, within weeks, linked him back to the horror in Vallejo where police were still trying to pin charges on Huskins and Quinn rather than their tormentor. What is not recounted in detail in the documentary is what happened at the Chronicle, where our confusion and frustration at the beginning of the investigation turned into regret that we hadnt exposed the hoax accusation by a notoriously troubled police force as the true fraud. When we turned over the initial proof-of-life recording, police refused to confirm that the voice belonged to Huskins, even though they knew it did. This was a one-way street for information. Our first story on the disappearance simply said that the Chronicle received an email from an anonymous person claiming to be holding Huskins. In the ensuing hours, we asked our IT staff to figure out who sent the email, but it was untraceable. When we reached Huskins father, he confirmed that the voice belonged to his daughter and that, yes, her first concert was Blink-182. So we published the recording online. Still, we had no way of knowing for sure that Huskins had actually been kidnapped. We had to keep an open mind, which sounds terrible in hindsight. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Then came another email this one magnitudes more bizarre. Lee received it on the afternoon of March 28, 2015, three days after the police had branded the victims as liars. I still have a copy. It was titled Denise Huskins kidnapping. The author called himself Kidnappers and used an email address of none@nowhere.com. He was furious with the police for doubting his crime. This time, he included photos, including one of the room where he said he held Huskins. A screenshot of the email received by San Francisco Chronicle reporter Henry Lee on March 28, 2015, three days after the police had branded Denise Huskins and Aaron Quinn as liars. The Chronicle 2015 We kidnapped Denise Huskins and held her for ransom, after breaking into the home of Aaron Quinn, the email began. The kidnapping was not a hoax, and neither is this statement by us, the perpetrators. The writer went on to say he would rather risk giving the police information that could lead them to catch us than live in a world where two fine people like Mr. Quinn and Ms. Huskins could suffer a horrible crime and then have their lives further ruined by the response to it. The rest of the 9,500-word email was a mix of facts, lies and delusions a peek into a cluttered and twisted mind. In a story last year in the Atavist magazine, journalist Katia Savchuk documented how Muller, who was at different times diagnosed with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, devolved from an up-and-coming lawyer to a paranoid loner who lost touch with reality and seemingly found intellectual justifications for his most monstrous acts. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In the missive he sent to Lee, Muller said he was part of a three-member gang of gentlemen criminals (Huskins and Quinn say at least three people entered their home, though no other suspects have been identified). Muller said his experience with Huskins had convinced him to stop victimizing people, though he did not stop. We began as occasional car thieves, he wrote, progressed to an organized auto theft operation, diversified into burglary, and eventually settled on kidnapping-for-ransom as a means of making enough money to retire from criminality. The Mare Island kidnapping was a training mission to test means and methods that would be used on higher net worth targets. Again, we shared the email with Vallejo police. Again, they offered nothing in return. The kidnapper detailed specific crimes hed committed on Mare Island and elsewhere car thefts and home burglaries but we couldnt corroborate any of it. To this day, its not clear what of it was true. Police thought the emails were simply a cover-up for the hoax. We also sought to talk to Huskins and Quinn to corroborate their account, but they understandably, given what theyd been through declined interviews on the advice of their lawyers. A week after the kidnapping, we decided to publish an article about the emails. In the days since Vallejo police declared that the reported kidnapping of a woman was a hoax, The Chronicle has received a series of emails from someone claiming to be one of her abductors, saying her ordeal was real and they wanted to clear her name, the story read. Vallejo police and the FBI declined to speculate on whether the emails indicate that there was an abduction, whether they are part of an ongoing hoax, or whether the sender has no connection to the case. Do I wish the Chronicle had been able to get to the truth? Of course. In the end, though, the police and their partners at the FBI missed clear opportunities to set things right. As the Chronicles Evan Sernoffsky revealed in 2018, when Vallejo officers branded Huskins and Quinn imposters, they were already in possession of straightforward evidence that could have led them to Muller. As Huskins lay shackled to a bed in Tahoe, Quinn received phone calls from an unrecognized number that were quickly traced to a prepaid TracPhone purchased at a Target store in Pleasant Hill. Investigators obtained surveillance images of a man Muller, we now know buying the phone. They also traced the calls to Quinns phone to a location in South Lake Tahoe. It was just steps from where Huskins was being held. Police, though, were blinded by their hoax theory, apparently believing the man captured on camera in Target was either Quinn or an accomplice. The South Lake Tahoe lead, meanwhile, could have led detectives to Muller by placing the TracFone near his parents home. Hed been a named suspect in three home-invasion attacks in Mountain View and Palo Alto in 2009 and 2012 that resembled the Huskins kidnapping. The city of Vallejo ultimately paid Huskins and Quinn $2.5 million for botching the case. But the depth of the transgression continued to reveal itself. Huskins and Quinn published a book, Victim F, and they go into extraordinary detail about their ordeal in American Nightmare. Separately, a former Vallejo police captain came forward with an explosive allegation. In a complaint that also alleged that city officers bent their badges after killing people, John Whitney recalled that his boss during the Huskins affair, former Police Chief Andrew Bidou, instructed the department spokesperson, Lt. Park, to go hard at Huskins after her disappearance. Burn that bitch, he allegedly said. Fresh-N-Bone, left, and Layzie Bone of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony perform on a Detroit stop of LL Cool Js the F.O.R.C.E. Live Tour on Aug. 18, 2023. Scott Legato/Getty Images Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, one of the most influential rap groups from the 1990s, are set to return to the Bay Area in March, fittingly, on the first of the month. The pioneering rap group is scheduled to hit the Curran stage as part of its 30th anniversary celebration, an 11-show national tour ending in Beverly Hills on May 31. The San Francisco show is a one-night-only engagement for this years Noise Pop Festival, the annual, multi-venue music event running from Feb. 22 through March 3. Tickets, starting at $39.50, are available starting 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Bone Thugs-N-Harmony have stayed active in recent years, performing for its dedicated fan base throughout 2023 at numerous events that commemorated the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, including LL Cool Js F.O.R.C.E. Tour, which stopped at San Franciscos Chase Center. They also came to Berkeleys UC Theatre in 2017 to promote their 10th studio album, New Waves. Bone Thugs-N-Harmony perform in August during the F.O.R.C.E. Live Tours stop in Detroit. Scott Legato/Getty Images The five-member hip-hop group Bizzy Bone, Wish Bone, Layzie Bone, Krayzie Bone and Flesh-n-Bone formed as teenagers in Cleveland in 1991. They broke out in 1994 when they signed to Los Angeles rapper Eazy-Es label, finding mainstream success with the single Ruggish Thuggish Bone. With its distinct, melodic sound, the group layered singsongy vocals and rapidly delivered verses about street life over mellow beats and flowing grooves. From 1994 to 1996, the quintet released hits such as 1st of tha Month, about the grind to get paid, and Foe da Love of $, featuring a verse by Eazy-E. More Information Noise Pop Festival presents Bone Thugs-N-Harmony: 7:30 p.m. March 1. Tickets start at $39.50. Curran Theater, 445 Geary St., S.F. broadwayworld.com The group was fitting for the cultural moment of the mid-90s, when gangsta rap and themes around thug life were at the forefront of pop music, and tragedies such as the deaths of groundbreaking rappers Tupac Shakur and Notorious B.I.G. tore through the hip-hop community. Bone Thugs-N-Harmonys somber song Tha Crossroads, which they dedicated to Eazy-E after his death from AIDS-induced pneumonia in 1995, became the highest-debuting rap single and earned them a Grammy for best rap performance by a duo or group. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Crazy Bone, right, of Bone Thugs-N-Harmony raps at San Jose Arena on Oct. 6, 1997. Liz Hafalia/The Chronicle Its members are also known for collaborations, with Krayzie Bone featured on Mariah Careys introspective soul jam Breakdown and Bizzy Bone appearing on the brash Thug Love with Shakur. The Bone Thugs reached platinum status with their early 2000s albums and started their own label, BTNH Worldwide, in 2010. In a recent Instagram post, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony announced the cancellation of their Jan. 14 performance at the New Zealand hip-hop and R&B festival Juicy Fest, citing Krayzie Bones health issues. For the past few years, the 50-year-old rapper has battled sarcoidosis, a rare autoimmune disease. Due to medical restrictions of our brother Krayzie, according to the post, the group had to put a pause on our plan to kick in 24 until he is fully, medically cleared to tour internationally. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Joan Holden, principal playwright of the San Francisco Mime Troupe from 1967 to 2000, in Stage Left: A Story of Theater in San Francisco, a documentary shown at the 2011 Mill Valley Film Festival. Mill Valley Film Festival In her decades writing theater, Joan Holden had a career unimaginable for most American dramatists. It wasnt just that she was resident playwright of the San Francisco Mime Troupe for 32 years, a position of such political and artistic might as to influence the national conversation about the Vietnam War, womens liberation, civil rights and other progressive causes a position that could rightly call itself the theatrical pen of the Free Speech Movement and one of the artistic engines behind the counterculture movement as a whole. Nor was it just that her first play earned her notoriety from corporations, government and police alike, in the form of an adaptation of the 18th century commedia LAmant Militaire that followed recruiters for Dow Chemical, makers of napalm, to college campuses around the country. Playwright Joan Holden watches a rehearsal of FSM, a play exploring the 1964 Free Speech Movement at UC Berkeley, at the First Congregational Church in Oakland on Sept. 14, 2014. Tim Hussin/Special to The Chronicle Holden, speaking to the Chronicle in preparation for this story a week before she died on Jan. 19, recounted an accomplishment that might sound more prosaic but is just as astounding: With the Mime Troupe, she said, I never wrote anything that wasnt produced, so I felt like I had the best job in the world. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The playwright, who died at her Mission District home the day after her 85th birthday, as confirmed by her eldest daughter, Kate Chumley, was lively but matter of fact looking back at her lifes work, even as she suffered Stage 4 cancer. Dance company leaders routinely get all their work produced, Holden pointed out, so more playwrights should enjoy the same. Sharon Lockwood, right, and Geoff Hoyle star in The Alchemist, adapted by Joan Holden at Berkeley Repertory Theatre in 2000. Frederic Larson/The Chronicle Holden authored or collaborated on scores of plays, including The Independent Female, the Obie Award-winning The Dragon Ladys Revenge, False Promises, San Fran Scandals, Seeing Double (another Obie winner) and others for the Mime Troupe; FSM (about the Free Speech Movement) and an adaptation of The Alchemist for Berkeley Repertory Theatre; and Nickel and Dimed, an adaptation of Barbara Ehrenreichs undercover investigation of minimum-wage life, for Los Angeles Mark Taper Forum. During her tenure at the Mime Troupe, the company won the 1987 Regional Theatre Tony Award, the highest nationwide honor a theater outside of New York can earn. Holden didnt start out as a theater artist, but she came by her progressive politics honestly. She was born Joan Ada Allan in Berkeley on Jan. 18, 1939, to Seema Rynin and William Allan, who met while visiting the former Soviet Union. Our parents were Hill liberals of a particular sort, with much more than usual connections to the labor movement and agrarian populism, Holdens younger brother, Stuart Allan, recalled, using a term for affluent liberals who live in the Berkeley hills. Director Tony Taccone, left, and playwright Joan Holden collaborate on Ben Johnsons 400-year-old play The Alchemist at Berkeley Repertory Theatre in 2000. Susanna Frohman/The Chronicle Their father, who was of Scottish descent, was an agricultural economist with the Farm Labor Service, once a part of the California Department of Labor; their mother, who was Jewish, was a psychiatric social worker who wrote a book called Comrades and Citizens. The siblings grew up amid a sea of lefties: vanilla liberal Democrats to old Wobblies a nickname for the union Industrial Workers of the World to labor newspapermen, to party members to former party members, Allan recalled. Advertisement Article continues below this ad But the parents themselves werent doctrinaire. In fact, Holden inherited from her father a profound skepticism, especially of labels and slogans thoughtlessly adopted. I remember very specifically, I had learned from my cousins a song about Harry Bridges, Holden recalled. Her father then asked the young girl what she knew about the labor leader. And the implication was very clear that I shouldnt sing that song unless I knew why I was singing it. Diner waitress Marlene (Joan Mankin, center) holds court with customers played by Lynne Hollander (left) and Arthur Holden in Joan Holdens Counter Attack, a Stagebridge world premiere. Mitch Tobias Holden first encountered the Mime Troupe through actor Arthur Holden, whom she married at age 19 after meeting him at Reed College, where she studied English. Seeing the Troupe perform at a festival there, she recalled, Something clicked: the amount of energy on the stage, the fun that people seemed to be having. When the couple moved to Berkeley, where Holden began, then abandoned graduate work at UC Berkeley, her husband began taking classes from Mime Troupe founder R.G. Davis, and it wasnt long before Holden, a writer who hadnt yet found her medium, offered to try playwriting for the company. Adapting the commedia dellarte LAmant Militaire allowed Holden to overcome her trepidation about coming up with characters out of thin air. I wouldnt have to invent them, she recalled; in fact, drawing on an audiences preexisting understanding of stock character types could be a strength. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I was totally hooked the first time I heard a scene that I had written read (aloud) and other people in the room were laughing, Holden said. Heaven: I had found it. Playwright Joan Holden talks to Daniel Savio during a rehearsal of FSM, a play exploring UC Berkeleys Free Speech Movement in 1964, at the First Congregational Church in Oakland on Sept. 14, 2014. Savio is the son of Mario Savio, a political activist and key member in the movement. Tim Hussin/Special to The Chronicle In a speech at a 1999 humor panel at Holy Names University (then Holy Names College), Holden explained her overarching philosophy as a playwright. I write plays about things Im pissed off about, usually attacking people in power. Physically, I cant get at these people, she said, conceding it was also unlikely that shed defeat them politically. Theres only one thing, just one, I am certain I can do to my enemies. I can expose them to ridicule. Maybe I cant slay the dragon, but I can make him look silly. Humor, she went on, is the revenge of the powerless. Holdens marriage didnt last, though she and Arthur Holden continued to work together in the Mime Troupe, and when she found another mate in fellow trouper Dan Chumley, the father of her daughters Kate, Sophia and Lily, she decided she didnt want to get married again. She said she disliked always being answerable. She estimates she and Chumley were together for 34 years, starting in 1968. Actors Elizabeth Carter, left, and Sharon Lockwood, right, perform in TheatreWorks production of Joan Holdens Nickel and Dimed at Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts. Darryl Bush/The Chronicle 2003 Kate Chumley recalls that as a child growing up in Bernal Heights, there was no separation whatsoever between her home and the Mime Troupe. Our dog could walk herself back and forth between the Mime Troupe studio and the house, she said. Part of the soundtrack of our childhood was the typewriter typing. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Holden de-emphasized the idea of the playwright as lone architect. The process is brainstorming with smart people beforehand, then relentlessly asking, What is the point we want to make? she said. Political theater can still be successful, she believes, with passion, conviction and the ability to draw on popular genres, which can invite in audiences of all ages and classes. Every American has melodrama in their bones, she said. Thats cop shows. Thats Westerns. Thats soap operas. When we hear certain chords of music, we have certain responses. Political theaters role is not dissimilar from that of journalism, she went on. Its consciousness raising, exposing difficult truths, explaining the world. Holden is survived by her brother, daughters and seven grandchildren. Plans for a celebration of her life are forthcoming. MONCKS CORNER -- Santee Cooper recently appointed four new members to its management team, including Director of Inclusive Strategies Traci J. Grant. Grant has been named to a new position at Santee Cooper, director of inclusive strategies, reporting to Chief Financial and Administration Officer Ken Lott. Grant, who will also continue in her role as corporate secretary, joined Santee Cooper 26 years ago as a financial analyst and has worked in the budget, customer billing, pricing and planning areas. She was named Group Leader of Pricing in May 2004 and manager of budget and customer billing in February 2017. She moved to director of corporate services in March 2020. Get The Times and Democrat app today Local news has never been this personal. Free to download. Subscribers enjoy unlimited access. Grant has also served on Santee Coopers Corporate Engagement and Oversight Committee and is a recent graduate of the Diversity Leaders Initiative (DLI), an award-winning program of Furman Universitys Riley Institute. She has a bachelor of science from South Carolina State University, where she studied agribusiness and economics. Other appointments are Senior Director of Generation Carey Salisbury, General Auditor Jason McKinney and General Manager of Projects and Construction Scott Smith. Salisbury has been named senior director of generation, effective Jan. 6. Salisbury has served as interim senior director of generation since August 2023 and will continue to report to Chief Operations Officer Mike Finissi. Salisbury, a registered professional engineer, is a 2000 graduate of Clemson University, where he earned a bachelor of science in electrical engineering. He joined Santee Cooper in 2001. McKinney was hired as general auditor in October and reports to Chief Audit and Risk Officer Monique Washington. Prior to joining Santee Cooper, McKinney served nearly six years as the director of internal audit for Lexington Medical Center in Columbia.7. Smith joined Santee Cooper in September as the general manager of projects and construction and reports to Chief Operations Officer Mike Finissi. Smith retired from American Electric Power as the senior vice president of AEP Transmission Field Service after more than 22 years with the utility. BAMBERG South Carolina Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette highlighted the importance of industrial growth in rural areas with her tour of a longtime, family-owned business in Bamberg on Wednesday. While at Phoenix Specialty, she spoke of the states support for the city following the tornado that roared through downtown on Jan. 9. We stand behind the people of Bamberg. It was terrible. It's always terrible anytime we have a weather incident anywhere in our state, Evette said. The S.C. Emergency Management Division has reached out to the federal government about funding, she said. We're just kind of waiting now on the feds. There's always those hard days during and after with cleanup and rebuild, but, you know, we know communities like this are close knit. They band together. So I'm excited to see the rebuild down here and just how it attracts people from all over the state to come down and support, support the businesses that have been impacted, she said. Evette toured Phoenix Specialty. Its a fourth-generation, family-owned company that she said has been thriving and bringing economic growth to the rural community. Founded in 1907, Phoenix Specialty supplies washers, shims, precision stampings and other specialty products to original equipment manufacturers throughout the United States. The company serves a variety of industries, including aerospace, agriculture, automotive, energy and more. I met Phoenix when they were up in Greenville. They won a manufacturing award. So I said, I'd love to come down and see what you're doing. So that's what's brought me down here. It's just to see the great things that are going on, Evette said. Retired company president Robert Hurst was presented the Chuck Spangler Outstanding Manufacturing Lifetime Service Award during the annual South Carolina Manufacturing Extension Partnership Salute to Manufacturing Awards last year in Greenville. Hurst was president of the company from the late 1970s until his retirement in 2017. He was there for Wednesdays tour, along with his son, Russell Hurst, the companys chief executive officer. We know when companies come to rural communities, it changes everything for a town and a county and a city. When we can get a good sense of just how businesses thrive in our rural communities, we become better salesmen for our state, Evette said. We can talk with people that are coming because people are coming from all over the world to settle down right here in South Carolina, and we can talk about all the big wins here in our rural areas, she said. Evette toured everything from the sales department to the press room, getting a close-up look at, for example, the significant investments the company has made in its equipment. The companys in-house tool and die shop and production machining department, for example, have CNC lathes, which are machines that spin material or parts around a central spindle and a fixed cutting tool. Instead of being controlled by physical labor, the movement of components is determined by coded instructions fed to a computer. During the tour, the CEO explained how the company has worked to draw more students from area tech schools to the field of advanced manufacturing. Were a little bit behind the eight ball with bringing kids throughout the years, but I think weve done a good job over the past couple of years of bringing that back and re-engaging with their intern program for OCtech (Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College) students. Even the first-year OCtech students, (to) start bringing them in to try to get them excited, Hurst said. Evette said, I know its hard, but it is really good to let kids see what this looks like. ... Theyll go home and tell their parents. A lot of times they used to think this kind of work was dirty, dark and dangerous, right? When they see just how its not, it kind of makes them turn and look at things a little bit differently. The company celebrated the expansion of its manufacturing plant in December 2022. The expansion brought the majority of Phoenix Specialty Manufacturing Companys operations under one roof, with only the shipping department remaining separate. Were here to stay, Robert Hurst said at the end of the tour. Evette said, Well continue to drive innovation. Please know Im here. If theres ever anything I can do, if theres something you need, if theres somebody you need to be connected with, thats what Im here for. Developing relationships and connecting people is part of my job. NASHUA, New Hampshire -- Climate protesters disrupted Nikki Haleys rally in Nashua Saturday evening, calling the former South Carolina governor a climate criminal. The protesters from the Sunrise Movement a nationwide initiative advocating for clean air and water said after the rally their goal is to send a message. We are here because our generation knows the climate crisis has to be at the forefront of this election, said Ada, a 17-year-old protester and Oregon resident who would not give her last name. This is the most important election of our lives. If we dont pass landmark climate policy under the next presidency, were not going to solve the climate crisis. Haley climate protesters Climate protesters disrupted Nikki Haleys rally in Nashua Saturday evening, calling the former South Carolina governor a climate criminal. The protesters stood up at the beginning of Haleys speech, drowning out her rehearsed points on mental competency tests for legislators. Haley didnt respond as the protesters, in turn, stood up and shouted, asking why are you letting our homes be destroyed by climate disasters? and claiming Haley takes money from the fossil fuel industry. As security dragged the protesters out of the room, they unfurled banners declaring Haley: Climate Criminal, still yelling their message as attendees tried to drown them out with chants of Nikki and U.S.A. Haley didnt respond to their message, though she noted that living in a country allowing freedom of speech protects protesters voicing their opinions. Don't boo someone like that, Haley told the crowd. You know why? Because my husband and other military men and women sacrifice for us every day for her to be able to do that. A preview of New Hampshires primary next week with political reporter Nick Corasaniti Nick Corasaniti, New York Times national politics reporter, said of the early states in the presidential primary process, New Hampshire is the Despite being escorted out of the rally, Ada said the protest and others like it can be considered successful because they force candidates to choose between confronting the climate issue directly and staying silent. She cant even answer us, Ada said. I feel angry and scared as a young person. I also know from the fact that she cant even answer us that she is afraid of us, and thats a sign that our movement is winning. Protesters from the Sunrise Movement disrupted campaign events for both former President Donald Trump and Vivek Ramaswamy last week in Iowa. After Haleys rally, the movements X account posted about the protest, calling Haley a Koch-pawn a reference to her ties to the fossil fuel industry. Ada said the movement and young voters in general are committed to pushing for a climate emergency declaration. CONCORD, New Hampshire -- Secretary of State David Scanlon recently predicted a record-breaking turnout of 322,000 voters for New Hampshires 2024 Republican presidential primary. Voter turnout faltered in 2020 with incumbent Donald Trump running for a re-election bid, dropping about 130,000 from the previous election cycle. As the New Hampshire primary approaches, the narrowing race has left some with hope for other candidates, especially Nikki Haley, but it remains to be seen if voters will actually show up for her. Chris Galdieri, a political science professor who specializes in the New Hampshire primary, predicts Haleys momentum will turn lackluster. Haley in New Hampshire Nikki Haley talks to voters at a rally in Manchester, New Hampshire, on Jan. 19. This by far is the lowest energy primary I've ever seen, Galdieri said. Everything has just sort of been moving at half speed, there are fewer candidates than there were in 2020 and 2016. They're having fewer events. It's just usually there's something in the air by this point. And this one just doesn't quite have that. New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu has traveled the state with Haley after endorsing her in mid-December. Introducing her at multiple rallies and campaign events, he often praises the momentum the Haley campaign has gained over the past few months. It has been fun, but the energy is real. Theres obviously a lot of energy in this room. The energy is real. The momentum is real, Sununu said at a Manchester rally on Jan. 19. Sununu placed the low turnout of the Iowa caucus in contrast with the predicted high turnout of Tuesdays primary. With less than 15% of registered Republicans having participated, the Wall Street Journal said turnout was the lowest it has been in years. Weve always said one of the keys to this race is a really high voter turnout, right? Iowa had like 50,000 people or something vote for Trump out of 3 million. Is that going to dictate the choice of the Republican party in this country? Sununu said. New Hampshire consistently has high primary voter turnout, which Galdieri ascribes to the states participatory political culture in addition to voting encouraged by media coverage, political advertisements and the national importance of an early primary. Still, Haleys campaign has failed to leverage substantial traction. The South Carolina governor has struggled to catch up to Trump in the polls, but New Hampshire is seen as Haleys best bet in a long-shot race. New Hampshire hosts a semi-open primary where independent voters can cast ballots in either primary. Haley seems to have engaged some of the state's most moderate conservatives that identify as independents, and a lot hinges on their vote. With close to 350,000 unregistered voters, New Hampshires independents comprise nearly 25% of the states population. A lot of independents seem drawn to Haley out of curiosity. Joshua Leary, a 28-year-old small business owner and a registered independent, went to Fridays rally and said it was the first political event he has ever attended. She's someone new other than what we've had in the past or have now. If we go back to what we had in the past, it's just a big pendulum, it goes back and forth, until you decide to end that cycle and change something, Leary said. Despite the call for change from Leary and other independents and Republicans leaning toward Haley, Trump still has a strong hold on the GOP. Haley is challenged with the task of mobilizing the moderate conservatives while also changing the minds of Trump voters who have shifted further right. Curiosity doesnt seem to be enough for Haley to present a strong enough opposition to Trump. New Hampshire independents have been labeled as the former U.N. ambassadors saving grace, but it might not be easy for Haley to persuade left-leaning independents to show up. A lot of folks who identify as independents are functionally in terms of how they vote, not actually that different from party members, Galdieri said. "You know, there are a lot of folks who will consistently vote for Republicans or consistently vote for Democrats but don't want to take that last step of identifying as a member of a party." Even if Haley can persuade these voters that she is the better option, can she convince enough of them to show up? With Trumps nationwide popularity, some voters may have resigned to accept Trump as the nominee and could explain potential low voter turnout. Maybe you have a lot of folks who see it as non-competitive, 'so why bother, we know Trump's gonna win,'" Galdieri said. "Or maybe there are some Republicans who are just sort of sitting out because they're not thrilled with their choices." The Haley campaign remains confident that enough residents of the Granite State will show up on Tuesday to make a difference. Mark Croteau, 64, a registered Massachusetts independent, has been volunteering in political campaigns for over 30 years. He is supporting Haley. Over the past few months, Croteau has helped Haleys campaign efforts to call eligible New Hampshire Republican primary voters to action and feels his efforts have been successful. If anything, he believes the primary will see high voter turnout. South Carolina State Universitys Counseling and Self-Development Center has been awarded a $195,000 state grant to bolster its student substance abuse recovery efforts. The grant from the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services will establish a collegiate recovery program (CRP) at SC State titled Bulldog Recovery. I am excited about expanding the capacity for care for our students, said Christian Jackson, director of the Counseling and Self-Development Center. The programs we can build because of this grant will help us target the specific issue of alcohol and other drug use that overwhelms college students nationwide. We are looking forward to the positive impact this will have on the campus and surrounding area of Orangeburg, South Carolina, she said. Bulldog Recovery will organize recovery-focused advocacy activities, carry out recovery-focused community education and outreach programs, and provide peer-based recovery support services. Get The Times and Democrat app today Local news has never been this personal. Free to download. Subscribers enjoy unlimited access. A CRP is a college- or university-provided program that includes a supportive environment within the campus culture. Bulldog Recovery will reinforce the decision to engage in a lifestyle of recovery from a substance use disorder. It will be designed to provide an educational opportunity alongside recovery support to ensure that students do not have to sacrifice one for the other. Bulldog Recovery will increase SC States capacity to provide recovery support services, peer support services, harm reduction services, public education, outreach, and advocacy for students in recovery, their friends and allies via a presence on campus and in the community. I am thrilled about this opportunity and extremely proud of the work being done by Mrs. Christian Jackson, director of the Counseling and Self-Development Center, and her staff, said Dr. Tamara Jeffries-Jackson, SC State vice president for student affairs. We will continue to pursue external and internal opportunities that bolster student services to meet the needs of our students. Bulldog Recovery will work with other entities on and off campus, including but not limited to: Brooks Health Center: SCSUs campus health services will play a vital role in providing medical and counseling support for students struggling with substance use. They can contribute to prevention, early intervention, and ongoing care. The Counseling and Self-Development Center: The student counseling center will offer individual and group counseling services for students dealing with substance abuse issues. They will also provide resources for stress management, coping skills, and addiction recovery. Recovery Support Groups: Establish or collaborate with existing on-campus recovery support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) meetings. These groups provide peer support and will be a valuable resource for students in recovery. Community-Based Recovery Organizations: Partner with local and regional organizations that specialize in addiction recovery, such as the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) or local recovery centers. These organizations will provide external expertise and resources. Established CRPs: There are established CRPs in the state that will help with the networking and collaboration efforts during the development of a CRP on the SC State campus. WASHINGTON (AP) Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended his Republican presidential campaign Sunday on the eve of the New Hampshire primary and endorsed Donald Trump, ending a White House bid that failed to meet expectations that he would emerge as a serious challenger to the former president. Its clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance," he said in a video posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. New Hampshire's first-in-the-nation primary comes Tuesday. The ambitious big-state governor entered the 2024 presidential contest with major advantages in his quest to take on Trump, and early primary polls suggested DeSantis was in a strong position to do just that. He and his allies amassed a political fortune well in excess of $100 million, and he boasted a significant legislative record on issues important to many conservatives, like abortion and the teaching of race and gender issues in schools. Such advantages did not survive the reality of presidential politics in 2024. From a high-profile announcement that was plagued by technical glitches to constant upheavals to his staff and campaign strategy, DeSantis struggled to find his footing in the primary. He lost the Iowa caucuses which he had vowed to win by 30 percentage points to Trump. And now, DeSantis political future is in question after suspending his presidential bid after just one voting contest. The 45-year-old is term limited as Florida governor. Read updates as the story develops: President Donald Trump speaks about the coronavirus at the White House as adviser Deborah Birx listens on April 16, 2020. Among other things, Trump is again promising to eliminate Obamacare if elected to a second term. Alex Brandon/Associated Press On the presidential campaign trail, former President Donald Trump is, once again, promising to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act a nebulous goal that became one of his administrations splashiest policy failures. Were going to fight for much better health care than Obamacare. Obamacare is a catastrophe, Trump said at a campaign stop in Iowa on Jan. 6. The perplexing revival of one of Trumps most politically damaging crusades comes at a time when the Obama-era health law is even more popular and widely used than it was in 2017, when Trump and congressional Republicans proved unable to pass their own plan to replace it. That failed effort was a big part of why Republicans lost control of the House of Representatives in the 2018 midterms. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Despite repeated promises, Trump never presented his own Obamacare replacement. And much of what Trumps administration actually accomplished in health care has been reversed by the Biden administration. Still, Trump secured some significant policy changes that remain in place today, including efforts to bring more transparency to prices charged by hospitals and paid by health insurers. Trying to predict Trumps priorities in a second term is even more difficult given that he frequently changes his positions on issues, sometimes multiple times. The Trump campaign did not respond to a request for comment. Perhaps Trumps biggest achievement is something he rarely talks about on the campaign trail. His administrations Operation Warp Speed managed to create, test, and bring to market a COVID-19 vaccine in less than a year, far faster than even the most optimistic predictions. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Many of Trumps supporters, though, dont support and some even vehemently oppose COVID vaccines. Here is a recap of Trumps health care record: Public health Trumps pandemic response dominates his overall record on health care. More than 400,000 Americans died from COVID over Trumps last year in office. His travel bans and other efforts to prevent the global spread of the virus were ineffective, his administration was slower than other countries governments to develop a diagnostic test, and he publicly clashed with his own governments health officials over the response. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Ahead of the 2020 election, Trump resumed large rallies and other public campaign events that many public health experts regarded as reckless in the face of a highly contagious, deadly virus. He personally flouted public health guidance after contracting COVID himself and ending up hospitalized. At the same time, despite what many saw as a politicization of public health by the White House, Trump signed a massive COVID relief bill (after first threatening to veto it). He also presided over some of the largest boosts for the National Institutes of Healths budget since the turn of the century. And the mRNA-based vaccines Operation Warp Speed helped develop were an astounding scientific breakthrough credited with helping save millions of lives while laying the groundwork for future shots to fight other diseases including cancer. Abortion Trumps biggest contribution to abortion policy was indirect: He appointed three Supreme Court justices, who were instrumental in overturning the constitutional right to an abortion. During his 2024 campaign, Trump has been all over the place on the red-hot issue. Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022, Trump has bemoaned the issue as politically bad for Republicans; criticized one of his rivals, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, for signing a six-week abortion ban; and vowed to broker a compromise with both sides on abortion, promising that for the first time in 52 years, youll have an issue that we can put behind us. Advertisement Article continues below this ad He has so far avoided spelling out how he would do that, or whether he would support a national abortion ban after any number of weeks. More recently, however, Trump appears to have mended fences over his criticism of Floridas six-week ban and more with key abortion opponents, whose support helped him get elected in 2016 and whom he repaid with a long list of policy changes during his presidency. Among the antiabortion actions taken by the Trump administration were a reinstatement of the Mexico City Policy that bars giving federal funds to international organizations that support abortion rights; a regulation to bar Planned Parenthood and other organizations that provide abortions from the federal family planning program, Title X; regulatory changes designed to make it easier for health care providers and employers to decline to participate in activities that violate their religious and moral beliefs; and other changes that made it harder for NIH scientists to conduct research using fetal tissue from elective abortions. All of those policies have since been overturned by the Biden administration. Health insurance Unlike Trumps policies on reproductive health, many of his administrations moves related to health insurance still stand. Advertisement Article continues below this ad For example, in 2020, Trump signed into law the No Surprises Act, a bipartisan measure aimed at protecting patients from unexpected medical bills stemming from payment disputes between health care providers and insurers. The bill was included in the $900 billion COVID relief package he opposed before signing, though Trump had expressed support for ending surprise medical bills. His administration also pushed over the vehement objections of health industry officials price transparency regulations that require hospitals to post prices and insurers to provide estimated costs for procedures. Those requirements also remain in place, although hospitals in particular have been slow to comply. Medicaid While first-time candidate Trump vowed not to cut popular entitlement programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, his administration did not stick to that promise. The Affordable Care Act repeal legislation Trump supported in 2017 would have imposed major cuts to Medicaid, and his Department of Health and Human Services later encouraged states to require Medicaid recipients to prove they work in order to receive health insurance. Drug prices One of the issues the Trump administration was most active on was reducing the price of prescription drugs for consumers a top priority for both Democratic and Republican voters. But many of those proposals were blocked by the courts. One Trump-era plan that never took effect would have pegged the price of some expensive drugs covered by Medicare to prices in other countries. Another would have required drug companies to include prices in their television advertisements. A regulation allowing states to import cheaper drugs from Canada did take effect, in November 2020. However, it took until January 2024 for the FDA, under Trumps successor, to approve the first importation plan, from Florida. Canada has said it wont allow exports that risk causing drug shortages in that country, leaving unclear whether the policy is workable. Trump also signed into law measures allowing pharmacists to disclose to patients when the cash price of a drug is lower than the cost using their insurance. Previously pharmacists could be barred from doing so under their contracts with insurers and pharmacy benefit managers. Veterans health Trump is credited by some advocates for overhauling Department of Veterans Affairs health care. However, while he did sign a major bill allowing veterans to obtain care outside VA facilities, White House officials also tried to scuttle passage of the spending needed to pay for the initiative. Medical freedom Trump scored a big win for the libertarian wing of the Republican Party when he signed into law the Right to Try Act, intended to make it easier for patients with terminal diseases to access drugs or treatments not yet approved by the FDA. But it is not clear how many patients have managed to obtain treatment using the law because it is aimed at the FDA, which has traditionally granted requests for compassionate use of not-yet-approved drugs anyway. The stumbling block, which the law does not address, is getting drug companies to release doses of medicines that are still being tested and may be in short supply. A new camera system is being installed along this countrys roadways with the aim of tackling traffic congestion and reducing the countrys crime. This was said yesterday by Minister of Works and Transport Rohan Sinanan, who spoke with the media at the intersection of the Churchill-Roosevelt Highway and Golden Grove Road in Piarco. With ten people murdered between Thursday and Saturday, Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley took to Facebook yesterday to assure citizens that State agencies will not give up the fight to rid our streets and other places of the evil that is now widespread as a gun culture in Trinidad and Tobago. And in a voice note to the media, Commissioner of Police Erla Christopher said, We are determined to dismantle criminal gangs and make a difference in transforming impacted communities. NOGALES, Arizona Just after Gloria Arellano de la Rosa and her son Bill exited the DeConcini Port of Entry and stepped into Arizona on Saturday, the pair stopped to embrace one another, standing in front of the ports gates as a crowd of supporters looked on. Then, holding her sons arm, Gloria approached the group and one by one, tearfully hugged her three other children, Naomi, Jim and Bobby, who were holding balloons and a sign that read in Spanish, Crossing the border into our arms. After 14 years living in Nogales, Sonora separated from her family in Tucson by the complexities of U.S. immigration law this weekend Gloria was finally able to come home for good, about a week after receiving her long-awaited permanent resident card. Im a very grateful mother, Gloria told the family, friends and media gathered near the border in Nogales, Arizona to document the moment. Im incredibly excited, grateful to all my angels, to all the people who were here persevering for this reunion. Speaking in Spanish, she thanked God and her familys supporters in Tucson, as well as the United States for giving her another chance to live in the country she loves so much. I love every little part of this land, and I love its people, she said. I thank this country that is giving me an opportunity once again to be here, in the promised land. She also thanked Arizona U.S. Rep. Raul Grijalva for his support over the years, including his work in 2018 to help Gloria secure a 30-day humanitarian pass that allowed her to visit her husband Arsenio in Tucson before his death. To see her husband in such poor health after a stroke filled my heart with sadness, she recalled. I would have liked to be there with my husband to care for him 24 hours a day. I was helpless and unable to take care of him. She recounted the emotional toll of the years of separation, going to bed anguished each night, fearing one day shed get word that one of her children was sick and she wouldnt be able to visit them. Knowing how her kids missed her, I suffered day and night for 14 years, she said. She appealed to elected officials to think more about the traumatic impact of family separations on children. The de la Rosa family was the subject of a 2015 joint project by the Arizona Daily Star and Arizona Public Media called Divided By Law, which detailed the familys painful separation and the impact on Glorias four children. In 2009, on the advice of an attorney, Gloria traveled to Juarez, Mexico, to apply for a permanent resident card, also called a green card, following years of living undocumented in the U.S. after her visa expired. Although she had a U.S. citizen husband and four American children, she discovered she was subject to a 10-year ban on re-entering the U.S., under a 1996 law meant to penalize those living in the U.S. illegally. It took four more years to go through the process to get a green card. Fourteen years and 99 days later, my mom is finally home, said Bill on Saturday. He gave credit to the familys attorneys and Grijalva, as well, who has been relentless in advocating for our family. Its not just us. Every single day families are being separated, said Bill, 30, who has spent half his life navigating the U.S. immigration system as he advocated for his moms return. Hes now in his first year at Yale Law School, where hes studying to become an immigration attorney. Every single day there are families that want to regularize their status and they cannot, because the laws we have on the books dont let them, he said. Glorias youngest son Bobby now 18 and a freshman at the University of Arizona was only 4 years old when Gloria left. Ive been looking forward to this day since I was a kid. Its super surreal, Bobby said on Saturday. Before his mom crossed the border into Arizona, he couldnt stop thinking that somehow, something would go wrong. I was super nervous, he said. Its really reassuring knowing that shes actually here to stay. His sister Naomi, now 23 and working in Pima County Supervisor Adelita Grijalvas office, said she shared the same worries. I feel so relieved, said Naomi, who was 9 when Gloria learned she had to stay in Sonora. My moms back, and thats all that matters. When Bill arrived in Nogales, Sonora to escort his mom back to Arizona on Saturday morning, he felt some nostalgia to see her apartment emptied out. He and his siblings had come there to visit and to celebrate holidays with her, he said. It was emotional to see, he said. Thats the apartment that kept her safe while she was separated from us, while she lived across this wall. We had our own memories there. Those memories were leaving behind, and were coming to form new memories. The family planned to travel back to Tucson on Saturday, rest and have a family meal together. We look forward to having freedom: the freedom to plan, the freedom to think about what comes next, the freedom to hope. Its hope and faith that kept us fighting to this day, Bill said. It has been a long and painful journey. Were just going to enjoy each others company for now. Photos: Tucson siblings to reunite with mom after 14-year separation Gloria Arellano de la Rosa reunites with her family, 2024 Gloria Arellano de la Rosa reunites with her family, 2024 Gloria Arellano de la Rosa reunites with her family, 2024 Gloria Arellano de la Rosa reunites with her family, 2024 Gloria Arellano de la Rosa reunites with her family, 2024 Gloria Arellano de la Rosa reunites with her family, 2024 Gloria Arellano de la Rosa reunites with her family, 2024 After 14 years in Nogales, Sonora, separated from her four U.S.-born children, Gloria Arellano de la Rosa was finally granted a green card this month. In 2009, on the advice of an attorney, she traveled to Mexico to regularize her undocumented status and instead discovered she was subject to a 10-year ban on re-entry. She reunited with her family outside of the Dennis DeConcini Port of Entry in Nogales, Ariz. on January 20, 2024. Snow covered Shotwell Street between 22nd and 24th streets in San Francisco on Feb. 5, 1887. Chronicle archives Most San Franciscans have never seen heavy snowfall in the city, outside of a snow globe purchased at Fishermans Wharf. But the Chronicle archive is full of proof that it has happened, most recently in 1976 when more than 2 inches fell in the citys higher elevations, dropping enough powder for enchanted children to sled down the hills and create a couple of slushy snowmen in Golden Gate Park. Then there was 1887, a totally different beast. Advertisement Article continues below this ad A winter storm more fit for a Tahoe ski resort (or Donner Party documentary) descended on the city on Feb. 5, 1887, dumping up to a foot of snow on unsuspecting residents. Enough snow fell to cover an unpaved Market Street where horse-drawn buggies still dominated, and make more rural parts of the city impassable. Some of the largest trees fell under the weight of the accumulating powder, and weather-damaged telegraph communication was shut down for days. Most remarkably, the surprise meteorological event became an even bigger crime story, as the blizzard brought out the worst in San Francisco leading to gunfire, a race war and a bizarre and unrelenting assault on the citys transit workers. Snow was a much more common event in the last half of the 19th century in San Francisco. More than an inch fell in 1856, 1868, 1882 and 1884. The Chronicle reported that the Dec. 31, 1882, event was particularly lovely, dropping up to 3.5 inches on the city and adding a blanket to Market Street that stuck to the ground as the city rang in a magical new year. Advertisement Article continues below this ad One excited adult approached a Chronicle reporter after climbing Twin Peaks with a sled, exclaiming hed never seen better sleighing anywhere under the sun. Downtown San Francisco is covered in snow during a New Years Eve snowstorm on Dec. 31, 1882. Chronicle archives The Chronicle suggested San Francisco children might never see a snow day like that again. But five years later, a little before 8 a.m. on Feb. 5, 1887, a northwest wind blew in, dropping a few flakes on the city. Within an hour the storm had developed into a full-on blizzard, dumping 3.7 inches on Market Street and up to a foot of snow in the higher elevations. That amount remains a city record, San Franciscos snowiest day. A Chronicle reporter described the early moments of snowfall as enchanting, doubly so because the snow began falling as San Franciscans were enjoying the sunrise. The first few paragraphs of the next days story were filled with poetic writing. There was a rift in the clouds and old Yerba Buena stuck its white nose out as if to inquire if all was right in the city, the unnamed reporter wrote. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Snow covers the grounds of the Conservatory of Flowers in Golden Gate Park during a storm on Feb. 5, 1887. The snowstorm dropped almost 4 inches of snow on lower elevations of San Francisco and up to a foot on the hills. Chronicle archives But the tone shifted quickly. The bulk of the 2,500-word epic read more like war correspondence, as the rare event made a portion of the city particularly its younger men lose their collective minds. Seldom have the streets of San Francisco been disgraced by such exhibitions of rowdyism as was the case yesterday, the Chronicle wrote. No one was spared. The (violence) was bestowed on rich and poor, dignified and undignified, man and maid, learned and ignorant, washed and unwashed alike. Bruised faces, black eyes, bloody noses and damaged hats were as common as lampposts. Hoodlums, the Chronicle wrote, looked upon a snowstorm as cover for every act of violence. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The attacks began downtown, where young men started throwing snowballs, then turned to balls of ice and snowballs concealing rocks and bits of brick. Their early enemy was the extensive cable car network in San Francisco, which had begun service 15 years earlier and had 13 lines serving Market Street and farther-flung neighborhoods, including the Fillmore district, Geary Boulevard and the Presidio. Windows were shattered in every cable car running on Valencia Street, and most cars passing down Market. The intersection of Oak and Pierce streets in San Francisco is blanketed with snow after a blizzard on Feb. 5, 1887, delivered the citys snowiest day on record. Chronicle archives The battles were described in incredible detail, including on the Hayes Street line, which was passing Gough Street when a youth jumped on and threw a ball fairly in the conductors face. It brought blood to his eye, and springing from the car, he proceeded to take summary vengeance. The youths friends swarmed the cable car employee, knocking out two of the conductors teeth and splitting his lip, before the cable car gripman ended the melee, detaching his cable cars brake hook and brandishing it as a club. A more jovial snowball fight broke out inside City Hall, where the office staff from the tax collector and assessor traded friendly missiles in the hallway, apparently knocking a hat off Mayor Edward Pond in the crossfire. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Outside, the mayhem escalated. Youth pelted a funeral procession headed to Laurel Hill Cemetery with ice balls. While on Harrison between Eighth and Ninth streets, a man was attacked by three boys tossing rock-filled snowballs. The man turned on the boys, and drawing a self-cocking bulldog revolver, fired at them, the Chronicle reported. The boys turned and ran across a vacant lot. A police officer, seeing the bullets kick up dirt dangerously close to one of the boys, tackled the man and disarmed him. Perhaps the worst violence took place near Chinatown, where white hoodlums threw ice and rocks at any Asian resident who ventured out of the enclave. Chinese citizens reportedly retaliated, beating with poles any white man who approached their neighborhood, while throwing bricks from a rooftop. By midafternoon, the citys downtown was a filthy stream of ankle-deep mud that stalled delivery trucks and slowed police response. Downtown telegraph wires were repaired in days, but the Western Addition and Mission District where snowfall was heavy took weeks to recover communications. Streetcar service continued, but only after the private transit agencies agreed to pay operators time and a half for the week. Large snow-weighted branches and whole trees had fallen throughout the city (eucalyptus seemed to cause the most damage), keeping parks crews busy. When the sun rose the morning after the storm, the citys law-abiding residents gave thanks that there was no more snow falling from the sky. There were still piles of slush in gutters and beside sidewalks from the previous days blizzard, but to the collective relief, the pack was too wet to build a snowball. 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 One of the instruments that urged millions of listeners to Walk, Dont Run is the latest acquisition of the Oklahoma Museum of Popular Culture. The yet-to-open museum, familiarly known as OKPOP, announced it had acquired a 1965 candy-apple red Mosrite Ventures II guitar that was played by Nokie Edwards, longtime lead guitarist for the instrumental group The Ventures. The guitar features the signature German Carve body, referring to a bevel-like edge on the guitars body; its distinctively placed single-coil pickups; and Mosrites proprietary vibrato tail piece. A hardshell case and a tooled leather guitar strap signed by Edwards were part of the acquisition. The guitar was acquired from the Nokie Edwards estate, and the donation was made possible by the OKPOP Foundation, the nonprofit fundraising group whose mission is to support the museums efforts to collect, preserve and share Oklahomas pop culture history. Both the Ventures and Mosrite guitars have their roots in Oklahoma. Bob Bogle, who co-founded the group with Don Wilson, and Edwards were both Oklahoma natives, who moved to the West Coast as youngsters. Semie Moseley, who founded Mosrite Guitars in the early 1950s, was also an Oklahoma native, born in Durant. Mosrite first came to public attention by creating custom guitars, such as a three-necked model for country music star Joe Maphis. Edwards was the first Venture to try a Mosrite guitar and encouraged his fellow band members to use them, as well. The Ventures entered into a licensing agreement with Mosrite, and from 1963 until 1968, the band used Mosrite guitars exclusively. The guitars can be heard on such songs as Walk, Dont Run 64, Perfidia and Hawaii Five-O. The Ventures continue to be the top-selling instrumental rock band of all time and are inductees in both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Grammy Hall of Fame. The guitar will ultimately become part of the OKPOPs Musical Journeys installation, which is scheduled to occupy the museums third floor and will focus on Oklahomans impact on the development of rock music. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. Ginnie Graham Tulsa World Editorials Editor Follow Ginnie Graham 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 In the next two years, its possible that the Oklahoma Department of Human Services may ask a court to be released from a foster care improvement plan due to meeting all its goals. Credit for that transformation is going to former DHS Director Justin Brown. The Pinnacle Plan came into being as a court-approved negotiated plan to make large shifts in how the state cared for abused and neglected children in its custody. A federal class-action lawsuit filed in February 2008 alleged that harm was being done to foster children because the system had major flaws. Those included an over-reliance on emergency shelters, unmanageably high worker caseloads, dangerously low foster-care placement options and lack of coordination between policy and practices. Tulsa attorney Fred Dorwart was among the co-counsel with New York-based Childrens Rights and attorney Paul DeMuro representing the children. The resolution was unusual: an improvement plan created by the agency and a three-member panel of experts. That panel would provide progress reports to the court on a series of goals. The plan was approved in January 2012. Implementation wasnt easy, especially after the drawn-out adversarial litigation. It really changed when Justin Brown came in, Dorwart said. I remember having a meeting with him where he said, We will get with this program and make this work. After that, instead of staff being defensive, they became open because they were encouraged to do so from the top. We had open and candid discussions about what they were doing that was right, wrong or needed to improve, rather than trying to hide or make excuses about what was going on. It became a cooperative process, and that was in year eight. It took us that long to get there. Under Browns leadership, the Pinnacle Plan progress reports showed consistent gains. In March last year, DHS was able to sunset 23 of 30 performance areas targeted for meeting goals. A September report stated that the agency is showing good faith and making sustained progress in the remaining areas. Brown downplays his role, pointing to work done before his arrival, including caseloads being cut in half. The Legislature continued funding foster care reforms even through a decade of revenue failures. There was a team before me that did a lot of foundation work, and we had wonderful legislative partners, Brown said. He came into the job in June 2019 after 11 years operating senior housing companies. He had no prior experience in state government, though he interacted occasionally with the Aging Services Division of DHS. He took the job 60 days after a call from Gov. Kevin Stitts office about leading DHS. I spent all 60 days in a room at home thinking about what approach would be the sort of tone and message the next year would look like. The Pinnacle Plan was an example of how the agency was not a self-correcting organization, he said. It was not a system where staff felt safe to raise their hands to say there was a problem. One of Browns first moves was to hire Dr. Deborah Shropshire as the Child Welfare Division director. She is now serving as the governors secretary of health and human services and DHS executive director. She came in very focused on building relationships and collaboration, Brown said. Foster care is one slice of the Child Welfare Division. DHS also handles aging services, disability services, child care services and family services such as the distribution of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and low-income energy assistance program. The agency serves about 1.5 million Oklahomans among its various services. Last year, it had a total budget of about $5.1 billion, with about $753 million of that from state appropriations. On the first day, I said to the whole team that no one has every answer to these problems. Im not the person to come in with every single answer, Brown said. For me, it was all about building an intentional culture and strategy. Brown learned about the agency while also rebuilding the agency. That led to what he calls the True North, referring to its mission. He breaks it down to four principles: First, DHS is a human-centered center built around the people it serves. Second, outcomes for success are driven by what it means for each person. Third, relationships outside the agency are critical. Fourth is the focus on a trauma-informed approach. That resonated with the team to see a sea change around collaboration and relationships. They started to feel the momentum behind the agency, Brown said. Updating technology became a priority, with some infrastructure decades old. He focused on laptops and mobile wireless connections to give workers, particularly in rural areas, flexibility to spend more time with clients. He shuttered smaller county offices to co-locate staff with other area social service groups. The reorganization and update gave Oklahoma an edge when the pandemic hit; DHS workers were already equipped to shift to remote work. Our staff stayed on mission and met clients were they were. They performed with excellence, Brown said. The December 2020 Pinnacle Plan progress report commended DHS for its thoughtful, proactive efforts, small and large during the pandemic. It quoted from an August DHS report that, above all else, (Child Welfare Services) takes a stubborn position against allowing a virus to disrupt the future trajectory of children and their families, and commits to tireless creativity in support of staff, children, families, and partners during this historic moment. The Pinnacle Plan focused on the narrow band of foster care, not on preventing child abuse or on child permanency placements. But the efforts in foster care may have affected the other areas. The number of foster children in Oklahoma hit a 20-year high in 2007 the year before the lawsuit was filed with 11,698 foster children. Last year saw a 20-year low of 6,502 children in foster care. With (Childrens Rights) in New York, I firmly believe these people are on the same side. We all want a family-building system that supports reunification and that healthy kids are growing up in proper environments. They want that; we want that. There may have been different approaches, but we can work on a foundation, Brown said. Brown resigned from DHS in August of last year to pursue other opportunities. From an emotional, personal perspective, I definitely grew, he said. Outside of being a father and husband, this has been the greatest thing Ive ever done. Im humbled by it and gave it everything I had. Brown hasnt stepped away completely. Hes active nationally as a consultant to help other social service agencies become more effective. I am committed for the rest of my life in attempting to change the narrative around the people we serve, around the people who utilize safety net programs, around people who are in poverty, he said. Oklahoma has come a long way. We are looked at among human service agencies as being among the most effective and innovative. But I see real transformation has to occur at the national level. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. SINT WILLEBRORD, The Netherlands Everyone is welcome, reads the sign at the church door in this quiet Dutch village, where neighbors greet each other from tidy porches overlooking manicured lawns. But that declaration of tolerance seems oddly out of place. Triggered by economic and cultural anxieties that have whipped up fears about immigrants, people here and throughout the Netherlands have veered far to the right politically. Its an extreme example of a trend being felt across the continent that could tilt the outcome of this years European Union parliamentary election. In Sint Willebrord, which has few immigrants among its 9,300 residents, almost three out of four voters chose a virulently anti-migrant, anti-Muslim party in an election last year that shattered the Netherlands image as a welcoming, moderate country. The Party for Freedom, led by a peroxide-haired firebrand named Geert Wilders, received nearly a quarter of all the votes in a country where less than 5 percent of the people are Muslim with slogans such as no Islamic schools, Qurans or mosques and no open borders and mass immigration we cannot afford. Voters across Europe are increasingly empowering leaders like Wilders who promise to restrict immigration and, in some cases, constrain democratic freedoms: of religion, of expression, of the right to protest. These forces have bubbled up to varying degrees one country at a time, including in Germany, France, Spain, Sweden and Austria. But before long, experts worry, they could dramatically reshape the continent from the top down. In June, voters in the 27 member states of the European Union will elect their next Parliament for a five-year term. Analysts say that far-right parties are primed to gain seats and more influence over EU policies affecting everything from civil rights to gender issues to immigration. People have a score to settle with 'old politics,'" said Rem Korteweg, senior research fellow at the Clingendael think tank in The Hague. In some European nations, the shift to the right has begun to gnaw at the foundations of democracy. In Hungary and Serbia, recent elections were free but not fair, democracy experts say, because the ruling parties captured the media, the courts and the electoral authorities. Support for Wilders Party for Freedom more than doubled since the last Dutch election in 2021. With 23% of the vote, Wilders stands a good chance of leading any future governing coalition. For a quarter-century, voters across the Netherlands have grown increasingly disgruntled as successive governments despite high levels of taxation were unable to stop the erosion of cradle-to-grave benefits citizens had come to expect for things like education, health care and pensions. It is as if people are being forced to vote for Wilders, said Sint Willebrord resident Walter de Jong, 80. A lifelong baker, De Jong said he was forced to close his business last year because of rising costs and stringent government rules. The decline in Dutch living standards has coincided with rising immigration. Two decades ago, the Netherlands had a net outflow of migrants, but by 2022 that had swung to an influx of 224,000 in a nation of 17.5 million. The Netherlands has also been hit hard by a cost-of-living crisis affecting everything from the price of health care to food. The income needed to buy a first home has risen far faster than earnings, according to a 2022 study by the Dutch lender Rabobank. Housing is a policy failure, said Tom Theuns of Leiden University. And then you have a populist who says, OK, the reason is: Asylum seekers are given priority. Even if this is a lie, this is how immigration becomes linked via racist messaging. Its scapegoating. For traditional parties of the European center-right and center-left, the success of populist messaging presents a challenge. One favored analogy for dealing with them has been a cordon sanitaire, the protective barrier put in place to stop the spread of infectious diseases. Politically speaking, that meant not forming coalitions with them. In Belgium, this strategy was used to isolate far-right nationalists, and in France, the Front National party of Jean-Marie Le Pen was kept at arms length. However, under Le Pens daughter, Marine, the Front National rebranded as the National Rally is no longer a pariah. In November, she was welcomed at a protest march against rising antisemitism. That prompted critics to use an unflattering German expression salonfahig to describe a former outcast being welcomed into polite society. In the Netherlands, forming a majority coalition with Wilders party was considered unthinkable not long ago. But then the mood of the continent began to change. The 2015 migration crisis in Europe was an opening for far-right politics following the EUs halting response to the arrival of some 100,000 asylum seekers each month. Wilders anti-migrant rhetoric began to resonate even more. In July, Mark Ruttes majority coalition collapsed over his handling of immigration, and his successor as leader of the VVD party hinted that Wilders might be a partner to talk to again. In December, a member of Wilders party became president of parliament, marking a breakthrough in political acceptance. Political analysts looking ahead to the EU Parliament elections in June say what is happening in countries like the Netherlands could be a harbinger for the governing body of the blocs 450 million people. Rather than far-right parties being pulled to the center, the center may veer to the right. And this may be the biggest danger for Europe, said Korteweg of Clingendael. 2023 in photos: Europes year of upheaval, transformation A shortage of school academic guidance counselors is one of the reasons Oklahoma has been unable to meet employers workforce needs, a report released last week says. Citing an Oklahoma State Department of Education survey, the report says 46% of school districts said access to counseling is the biggest obstacle to implementing a 2018 state law mandating Individual Career Assessment Plans for all graduating high school students. The report from the Legislative Office of Fiscal Transparency says that while the number of school counselors has increased in recent years, the new counselors were primarily social/emotional counselors or mental health professionals. That observation prompted questions about counselors filling two disparate roles. When I look over those job descriptions, its largely therapeutic, said Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa, a former public school teacher and administrator. The certifications are therapeutic. Is it necessary that a therapeutic counselor fill that role of academic advisor? Schools, said LOFT Interim Director Regina Birchum, could dedicate one of their counselors entirely (to college and career guidance) that would be a different job description. Birchum disagreed with Tulsa Democrat Meloyde Blancetts assertion that Oklahoma schools have a profound lack of school counselors. Its less about how many counselors you have and more about where theyre allocating their time, Birchum said. The report and Birchums responses, particularly to Provenanzo and Blancett, suggested a conclusion that schools devote too much staff time to social/emotional counseling. The report was generally critical of common education and said students rarely get (the) personalized attention envisioned for Individual Career Assessment Plans and that the program is not being implemented as intended. A more fundamental problem identified by the report, however, is that Oklahoma has more jobs than people able and willing to fill them and even then, many workers and potential workers skills and knowledge do not match those needed. In this respect, Oklahomas low unemployment rate can be seen as something of a negative, the report says, since it suggests little room to accommodate expansion. The report notes a marked increase in science, technology, engineering and mathematics graduates from Oklahoma public colleges and universities, but Birchum said it is not enough to match demand. Workforce projections from all major sources agree that future jobs will require more education, especially bachelors degrees in STEM, managerial, and professional fields, the report says. The report found that some 30 state agencies have workforce development programs and said they lack unified leadership and direction. It says the Legislature should assume that role as the appropriate owner of workforce development. <&rule> The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. Randy Krehbiel Tulsa World Staff Writer Follow Randy Krehbiel Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Save Manage followed notifications Close Followed notifications Please log in to use this feature Log In Don't have an account? Sign Up Today The 2,226 bills and joint resolutions filed by Thursdays deadline for the regular legislative session that begins Feb. 5 include the usual number apparently intended mainly to get attention or make a statement. Larger and more consequential, though, is the share dealing with the large and small details of running state government. Taxes, and in particular tax cuts, loom as the largest of those details. Gov. Kevin Stitt wants an income tax rate reduction, and Speaker of the House Charles McCall, R-Atoka, seems inclined to go along. But while Stitt identified a 0.25-percentage point tax rate reduction in the special session call he issued last week, McCall indicates that hes open to a wide range of possibilities, including a temporary reduction. No bills for the special session Stitt ordered to begin Jan. 29, a week ahead of the regular session, had been filed as of Friday morning. McCall, however, submitted a clutch of tax cut options in early December. Senate leadership is less enthusiastic about a permanent reduction, but state Sen. Darcy Jech, R-Kingfisher, has filed a proposed constitutional amendment to set up a system for rebating surplus funds to taxpayers. Education, as usual, is the subject of a large share of January filings. Several would make adjustments to the new system of private school subsidies, including measures to make sure the payments are not subject to state income tax. House Common Education Committee Chairwoman Rhonda Baker, R-Yukon, has proposed several reforms, including alternative student assessment measures and CareerTech instructor certifications. On the Senate side, Education Chairman Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, and Sen. Ally Seifried, R-Claremore, have each introduced several measures aimed at teacher recruitment and retention. Pughs Senate Bill 1256 would eliminate a district matching funds requirement for certification-based bonuses and pay raises. His SB 1311 would provide additional assistance to veterans seeking teacher certification, and SB 1315 would allow up to six weeks of paid parental leave for adoptions. Seifrieds SB 1342 would create a teacher recruitment academy for high-demand teaching fields. Her SB 1213 would create stipends for teaching interns. Legislators appear interested in continuing to shape medical marijuana laws, including at least one measure SB 1753, by Sen. Jessica Garvin, R-Duncan to limit the THC content of edibles. Other matters addressed in pre-session filings include closer regulation of water wells in light of falling aquifer levels, more regulation of abortions conducted under the few exceptions allowed by state law, and attempts, principally by Rep. Justin Humphrey, R-Lane, to give lawmakers more authority to issue subpoenas and order investigations of state agencies. Humphrey is also author of House Bill 3084, which has gotten national attention. The bill purports that children dressed as furries, i.e. cats, bears and other oversized stuffed animals, are showing up at schools and must be dealt with sternly. His bill proposes their removal by animal control officers if parents are not available. Also getting some attention is SB 1837, by Sen. Nathan Dahm, R-Broken Arrow, which would require licensing of media outlets deemed to disseminate opinions and propaganda. House Bill 3071, by Rep. Neil Hays, R-Checotah, apparently would bar public schools from enrolling children born in the United States to parents who were not legal residents at the time. That might run afoul of federal law and the U.S. Constitution, but Hays has that covered, too. His HB 3180 sets out a procedure for Oklahoma to nullify basically ignore federal laws, regulations and court decisions it does not like. Courts have consistently ruled since the early 19th century that nullification is impermissible under the U.S. Constitution. While House and Senate rules call for all non-appropriations bills to be filed approximately two weeks before the start of the regular session, those in leadership can file new legislation at any time, and committee and floor substitutes often completely change bills and joint resolutions original meaning and text. Also available for consideration are several thousand bills left over from last years first session of the 59th Legislature. The new Tulsa World app offers personalized features. Download it today. Several carmakers and dealers are offering huge discounts on electric vehicles (EVs) to customers in Vietnam ahead of the forthcoming Lunar New Year holiday, or Tet, due in February. The incentives, paired with the exemption from EV registration fees, are expected to beef up the consumption of electric cars in the lead-up to Tet. In January 2022, the Vietnamese government issued a decree granting a three-year exemption from registration fees for electric vehicle buyers, effective from March 1 of the same year. This measure aimed to boost sales in the local market and foster the growth of the environmentally-friendly vehicle segment. In the next two years, the registration fee for electric cars will be half that of fuel-powered vehicles with the same number of seats, as per the fiat. Meanwhile, locally assembled or manufactured petrol-fueled cars are no longer entitled to the 50-percent registration fee cut in 2024. Despite being the cheapest electric car model in the local market, Wuling MiniEV coming from China is often sold at less than the sticker price. Many car dealers in Vietnam are offering a discount of VND40 million (US$1,630) on all four versions of the electric car. The prices of Wuling MiniEV now range from VND199 million ($8,107) to VND239 million ($9,740). Also, Vietnamese EV maker VinFast is lowering the prices of a series of its models. As many as 2,000 VinFast cars, except for VF 7, are available at reduced prices to only residents in Ha Tinh Province, north-central Vietnam until the end of January. A VinFast electric car. Photo: Facebook VinFast is offering discounts of five and seven percent on its models. The VF 9, an electric sport utility vehicle model, sees its price reduced by some VND162 million ($6,600). VinFast has introduced models with an electric range approaching 400 kilometers. For instance, the VF 6 can cover 399 kilometers on a single charge, while VF 7 cars boast an electric battery with a range of 431 kilometers. Since the start of 2024, two German carmakers Mercedes-Benz and BMW have been introducing various promotional programs and gifts to EV buyers in Vietnam. Mercedes-Benz is giving the buyers of all of its models a Wallbox charger worth VND46.95 million ($1,910). Its gift-giving program will last until June this year. A luxurious Mercedes-Benz auto. Photo: Facebook Besides, BMW is running a promotional program, offering a Wallbox charger and a charging cable free of charge to buyers of its i4 and iX3 models. These cars have an eight-year, or 160,000-kilometer warranty on the battery. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The Vietnamese Ministry of Transport has required the Vietnam Maritime Administration and relevant agencies to support enterprises amid a surge in the prices of container shipping services to Europe and the Americas by sea. In particular, the Vietnam Maritime Administration was assigned to ensure the smooth operation of seaports nationwide and accelerate customs clearance procedures for imports and exports and the handling of them, especially containers to Europe and the Americas. The administration will have to come up with and adopt solutions to improve the exploitation of maritime infrastructure. It should swiftly engage with shipping companies that operate routes to Europe and the Americas, urging them to sustain these routes and transport additional empty containers to Vietnam to fulfill the rising demand for cargo transport. The Ministry of Transport has instructed the Vietnam Maritime Administration to explore policies that incentivize foreign container shipping companies to establish new routes to Vietnam, with a focus on streamlining and simplifying administrative procedures. Earlier, the administration reported that in the first week of this month, the prices of container shipping services from Asia to Europe and the Americas surged some 60 percent over the end of last year and 25 percent year on year. In particular, the freight rate from Vietnam to U.S. West Coast ports has soared to US$2,650 per 40-foot container, while shipping costs to U.S. East Coast ports and Europe have reached $3,900 and $4,900 per 40-foot container, respectively. Furthermore, 78 out of 650 shipping services by sea would be canceled between the second week of this year and mid-February, accounting for 12 percent of the total services, according to statistics from Drewry, an independent maritime research consultancy offering market insights and advisory services to senior stakeholders across global shipping. The Vietnam Maritime Administration informed that the shortest shipping route from Asia to Europe is through the Red Sea region and the Suez Canal. However, shipping lines have changed their routes by going through the Cape of Good Hope due to escalating tensions in the Red Sea region. The new route lengthens the shipping time by 10-14 days, leading to an increase in shipping prices and a possible shortage of containers. The Vietnam Maritime Administration said it had told maritime agencies in Hai Phong City in northern Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City and Ba Ria Vung Tau Province in the southern region to work with shipping companies operating routes to Europe and the Americas to assess the freight shipping rate surge and inspect companies listing of shipping costs. Reuters cited freight platform Xeneta as saying on Friday that shippers are turning to more expensive air freight from Vietnam to Europe, as shipping is disrupted by attacks on vessels in the Red Sea. Cargo volumes from Vietnam to Europe surged 62 percent in the week ending January 14 from the previous week, and rates increased 10 percent, said Niall van de Wouw, chief air freight officer for the air and ocean freight rate benchmarking platform. The Red Sea, which leads to the Suez Canal, lies on the key east-west trade route from Asia's manufacturing hubs to Europe and onto the east coast of the Americas. About 12 percent of world shipping traffic accesses the Suez Canal via its waters, according to Reuters. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! BEIJING - A fire in a central China school dormitory killed 13 students and injured another, prompting the authorities to call for screening fire risks in crowded places, state media said on Saturday. The Friday night fire killed third graders in a boys' dormitory of Yingcai School in Henan Province, according to China Newsweek, a weekly magazine published by China News Service. Third graders in China are usually 9 years old. Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze in a village in Nanyang city, and the head of the school was taken into custody, state media reported. China's Ministry of Emergency Management called for screening to avoid "hidden fire risks in densely populated places", and a work team was sent to guide rescue and follow-up work, Xinhua reported. Yingcai is a private boarding school with a kindergarten and elementary school, said The Paper, a Shanghai government-backed news outlet. The school gives students a break every two weeks but this was not a break weekend, it said, citing local residents. Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam Pham Thu Hang on Saturday commented on Chinas illegal intrusion and seizure of Hoang Sa (Paracel) archipelago in Vietnam in 1974. In response to reporters query on Vietnam's position concerning China's invasion of Hoang Sa in 1974, Hang reaffirmed that Vietnam has full legal basis and ample historical evidence to assert its sovereignty over the Hoang Sa and the Truong Sa (Spratly) archipelagos, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Vietnam's sovereignty over the Hoang Sa Islands has been established since at least the 17th century in accordance with international law, and exercised in a peaceful, continuous, and public manner by successive Vietnamese states," Hang said. Every act of threatening or using force in international relations, especially the use of force to resolve territorial disputes between states, is in complete contravention of the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter, and in serious violation of international law, she underlined. Such an act neither establishes any title of territorial sovereignty, nor changes the truth that sovereignty over the Hoang Sa Islands belongs to Vietnam. The Hoang Sa archipelago is blessed with over 30 islands, coral reefs, dunes, and rocky reefs in the East Vietnam Sea. In the 17th century, several fisher teams were established on the Hoang Sa Islands by the Nguyen Lords to exploit aquatic resources and proclaim sovereignty over the archipelago. Undergoing many historical periods, Hoang Sa remained a traditional fishing ground under the Vietnamese authorities. However, China illegally used weapons to occupy the archipelago on January 19, 1974. The Chinese side illicitly built bases and renovated some structures in Hoang Sa, regardless of the opposition from the world and Vietnam. Vietnam has repeatedly protested Chinas illegal acts, asserting Hanoi's sovereignty over the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa archipelagos in line with international law. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! January 20, 2024: The US Navy, like most other navies, is suffering from a shortage of new personnel, causing a problem with providing ships with enough sailors. It is increasingly common for warships to be stuck in port because there is no crew available. This is an international problem; more navies are finding that without conscription its difficult to obtain enough men willing to spend weeks or months at sea. After the Cold War ended in 1991, a growing number of nations dropped conscription. Serving on warships became a less acceptable activity for young men. Even fewer women were willing to serve on a ship. By 2024 the American navy was unable to supply personnel for 22,000 entry level jobs, known as billets in the navy, on sea going ships. Currently the navy has 145,000 billets in sea going ships, which means a 16 percent shortage navy wide. The navy is also under political pressure to keep as many ships at sea as possible, which requires that ships with crew shortages go out, and that means necessary maintenance is not carried out on those vessels. The U.S. Navy has had problems with growing personnel shortages since the 1990s. The end of the Cold War and a booming economy made it harder to recruit. Moreover, an increasing percentage of sailors were married, and frequent 3-6 month tours at sea have induced many married sailors to leave the navy in order to spend more time with their families. During the last decade, several ships have been fitted with more automated gear, and many remote sensors, so that one sailor can check the performance of multiple items of equipment without moving around a lot. A closer look at what a lot of sailors did resulted in a reorganization that eliminated a lot of chores and reorganized others to take less time. Improved communications, particularly shipboard access to the internet, made it possible for a lot of administrative jobs to be done ashore. As a result of this, several destroyers and cruisers had their crews cut by about twenty percent. These experimental crews were at sea for several months before it was clear that the plan was working. This is important, as the proposed designs for new classes of warships call for even smaller crews. Many ship designers are urging crew sizes of a hundred or so sailors for destroyers and cruisers. Even carriers are looking to shed about a quarter of their 5,000 sailors and aviators. Crew size has been falling since the late 1940s even without any special attention being paid to the problem. New maritime and electronics equipment has become more automated, and the navy tends to have the most modern equipment. During World War II, destroyers tended to have over a hundred crew per thousand tons of displacement. Even without the current reforms, crew size is now half what it was during World War II. In addition, the navy was forced to pay close attention to smaller crew sizes in one class of ships: submarines. While modern subs are four times the size of their World War II counterparts, and full of much more equipment, crew size has only doubled. Surveys of sailors and a close look at the way things were always done revealed that there were many useless chores being performed just because it was always done that way. Eliminating these improved morale and reduced crew size. While the smaller crews mean more work and responsibility for sailors, there's also more living space. In new ships, there will be even better accommodations, as well as more space for weapons and supplies. One thing that still bothers sailors is whether the smaller crews will be able to handle the heavy workloads encountered in combat, especially damage control. As crews have shrunk since World War II, this has not proved to be a problem. Damage control gear has also gotten more effective. But shrinking crews from nearly 400 to less than a hundred won't be a proven move until one of these lesser manned ships survives a severe damage control incident in combat. These crew shortages began with submarines, which required crews to live and work in a confined space for weeks or months at a time. The crew shortage led to more navies with submarines that could not go to sea because no crews were available. Most of the navies suffering from this problem belonged to nations with smaller populations or a large number of illiterate citizens. Read what is in the news in Vietnam today: Politics -- Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, his spouse, and a high-level Vietnamese delegation arrived in Bucharest on Saturday afternoon (local time), beginning an official visit to Romania through Monday at the invitation of Romanian Prime Minister Ion-Marcel Ciolacu. -- Vietnam has full legal basis and ample historical evidence to affirm its sovereignty over the Hoang Sa (Paracel) and the Truong Sa (Spratly) archipelagos, spokesperson of the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang said on Saturday in response to reporters questions about Vietnam's opinion on China's illegal occupation of Hoang Sa since 1974. Society -- The Peoples Court of Dak Lak Province in Vietnams Central Highlands on Saturday condemned ten defendants to life in prison on charges of terrorism aimed at opposing the peoples administration. They were among 100 defendants involved in armed attacks on the headquarters of two communes in the province on June 11 last year. The 90 others were sentenced to nine months to 20 years behind bars each. -- Ho Chi Minh City authorities have dismantled an over-400-meter-long wall which separated Tan Son Nhat International Airport from an adjacent residential area for three decades to make room for a road section near the airport. -- Residents in Nam Can District, Ca Mau Province, located in southern Vietnam, found the bodies of two out of three missing people who used an electric saw to cut a bomb, causing an explosion on a local riverbank, an official said on Saturday. -- Police in Thua Thien-Hue Province, central Vietnam on Saturday arrested two men who attempted to rob a bank in neighboring Da Nang City on Friday. Business -- The Vietnamese Ministry of Transport has required the Vietnam Maritime Administration and relevant agencies to support enterprises amid a surge in the prices of container shipping services to Europe and the Americas by sea. -- Nearly 5,000 real estate enterprises in Vietnam left the market in 2023, according to the Ministry of Construction. Lifestyle -- A charitable market called 'Zero VND Tet Market' is being held at the Youth Culture House in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City to help underprivileged households have necessities for the Lunar New Year holiday, or Tet, in February, attracting representatives of 2,000 disadvantaged households on Saturday. World News -- A fire in a central China school dormitory killed 13 students and injured another, prompting the authorities to call for screening fire risks in crowded places, Reuters reported. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! The under-construction T3 terminal of Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, which carries a price tag of nearly VND11 trillion (US$448.2 million), will be developed into an aviation city,' said head of the project management board Le Khac Hong. At a press conference on Friday to announce the progress and obstacles of the terminal project, Hong said T3, when in place, will be the largest domestic terminal in Vietnam with a capacity of 20 million passengers per year. It will help increase the capacity of Tan Son Nhat International Airport to 50 million passengers per year. He added that the terminal would integrate technologies and facilities, providing passengers with new experiences. There will be aviation services inside and outside the terminal. The aviation city initiative is popular in foreign countries but new to Vietnam, Hong said. Contractors have mobilized 1,400 workers, 16 tower cranes, over 350 vehicles, and equipment to the construction site of the T3 terminal of Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Cong Trung / Tuoi Tre The T3 terminal project includes three main components: a passenger terminal, a multi-story parking lot with non-aviation services, and a viaduct system that leads to the terminal and auxiliary items, such as an aircraft parking area and roads inside the terminal. The passenger terminal consists of a basement and four floors with a total floor area of 112,500 square meters. It will accommodate 90 counters, 20 automated baggage drop counters, 42 check-in kiosks, 27 doorways leading to aircraft, 16 baggage storage facilities, and 25 security gates. The terminal will also have eight security gates and a lounge for VIP, business-class, and priority passengers. Meanwhile, the parking lot with non-aviation services was envisaged to have two basements, four floors, and a three-story block for motorbike parking. An artists impression of the T3 terminal of Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: ACV The construction of the T3 passenger terminal commenced on August 31 last year. Hong informed that the Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV), the investor of the project, expected to put the terminal into operation by June 2025. However, most equipment at the T3 terminal is imported from Europe, the U.S., and China, while rising tensions in the Red Sea region have delayed the delivery time. A representative of contractor Ricons said the firm has worked closely with partners to ensure the progress of the project. It will install equipment at the terminal between May and September this year. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! Street vendors have recently inundated Hoi An Ancient Town, an internationally renowned tourist destination and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Quang Nam Province, central Vietnam. They persistently approach tourists, obstructing their path and aggressively promoting their products. This behavior has created a negative impression of the pedestrian area among visitors. As a case in point, a South Korean couple taking a leisurely stroll in the ancient town found themselves confronted by a local vendor who abruptly displayed a stack of books in front of them. The two politely waved their hands to refuse to buy the books. However, the vendor still followed them even when the two visitors turned to another direction. A foreigner, in a white T-shirt, saves his friend from a street vendor in Hoi An Ancient Town in Quang Nam Province, central Vietnam. Photo: B.D. / Tuoi Tre In the vicinity of Cau Pagoda, a bridge with a history of over 400 years in Hoi An, there are at least eight vendors. These vendors frequently block the path of tourists and ferociously display their products in close proximity to the tourists' faces. Some tourists, feeling persistently followed over a considerable distance, opted to purchase products from these vendors to escape the situation. During the New Year holiday, peddlers were present at every corner of the ancient town. Many of them sold toys. They stuck to people traveling with children and used the toys to entice the kids. They even inflated the prices of products by several times. Carts confiscated from unlicensed vendors in Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam Province, central Vietnam. Photo: B.D. / Tuoi Tre Vo Dang Phong, chairman of the administration of Hoi An City's Minh An Ward, where the ancient town is located, expressed exhaustion and frustration with these vendors. Since the ancient town became bustling again, peddlers have flooded the area. Many of them reasoned that the COVID-19 pandemic forced them to work as vendors to earn their bread, but they have annoyed tourists and left an ugly image in the eyes of the visitors, the official said. Local authorities have repeatedly punished unlicensed vendors but the situation persists. Phong added that after having their bicycles and carts seized, the vendors opted to purchase new ones, for their profits from selling goods are significantly higher than the amount they spent on acquiring these vehicles. Street vendors wait for tourists on Bach Dang Street in Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province, central Vietnam. Photo: B.D. / Tuoi Tre According to Nguyen Van Vinh, head of an urban order management team in Minh An Ward, vendors have been disregarding punishments due to the lucrative profits, resulting in chaos in the ancient town. Hoi An City has issued licenses for only 52 souvenir stalls in the ancient town, and all street vendors who disrupt tourists are unlicensed, Vinh affirmed. These vendors exhibit aggressive behavior and are willing to hurl insults at those documenting their actions. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! A court in Vietnam has given a life sentence to 10 people who, along with 90 others, launched deadly attacks on two government offices in Vietnams Central Highlands last year, leaving nine deaths, including police officers. After five days of trial, the Peoples Court in Dak Lak Province announced the sentences on Saturday for 100 defendants, ranging in age from 18 to 56, who were implicated in the terrorism case that occurred in two communes of Cu Kuin District on June 11 of the previous year. Of the defendants, 53 were found guilty of 'terrorism against the people's government.' Among them, H Wuen Eban, 45, and Y Sol Nie, 48, were identified as the masterminds behind the attacks on the People's Committee offices in Ea Ktur and Ea Tieu Communes in the district. Y Sol Nie, one of the two masterminds of the deadly attacks on two government offices in Vietnams Central Highlands province of Dak Lak on June 11, 2023, is seen at the trial for him and his accomplices in the province on January 20, 2024. Photo: Vietnam News Agency The two instigators, for whom prosecutors initially sought death penalties, were ultimately sentenced to life imprisonment, along with eight others facing the same offense. The remaining 43 defendants charged with this offense received prison terms ranging from six to 20 years. Forty-five other offenders, including six who had fled abroad, were convicted of 'terrorism' and received prison sentences ranging from 3.5 to 11 years. Among the final two defendants, Le Van Nghia received a two-year jail term for 'brokering illegal entry into Vietnam,' while Y Cing Bya was sentenced to nine months in prison for 'concealing crimes.' During the court proceedings and the earlier investigation process, all the defendants pleaded guilty to the offenses outlined in the indictments and appealed to the jury for leniency. They informed the trial panel that they had been incited by certain exiled reactionary organizations to carry out attacks on local authorities, aiming to establish the so-called 'Degar State' in the Central Highlands. 'Degar' is a term used to refer to Montagnard groups, including various indigenous peoples in the region, particularly in the Central Highlands. On June 11, 2023, two groups of people armed with guns and homemade weapons launched attacks on the headquarters of the People's Committees in Ea Tieu and Ea Ktur Communes, according to the case file. This image depicts the trial conducted by the Dak Lak Province Peoples Court involving 100 defendants implicated in the deadly attacks on two government offices in Dak Lak Province, located in Vietnams Central Highlands region, on June 11, 2023. Photo: Vietnam News Agency The assaults resulted in the tragic deaths of four police officers, two commune officials, and three civilians. The attackers also injured two individuals, held three residents hostage, and caused extensive damage to facilities at the two administration offices. The court mandated that 92 out of the 100 defendants compensate agencies, organizations, and individuals who suffered material and mental losses due to the fatal attacks. Police in Dak Lak have issued special wanted warrants for the six defendants who are in hiding, and they are collaborating with law enforcement counterparts in several countries to locate and apprehend them, as per the court's announcement. Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam! At Fridays Nine media event in Melbourne, Ally Langdon hosted when Todays Karl Stefanovic and Sarah Abo took to the stage. It didnt take long for the barbs to fly, soon after Sarah Abo was asked about her transition from 60 Minutes to Today. I feel like this year I have a better handle on it now. I have a better understanding of the role, the early wake-ups. Ive said it a million times before, Im a bit of a night owl so 60 Minutes suited me perfectly. We didnt have a schedule, there was no routine. I was fine by that, said Abo. But now waking up at 3am every morning its a bit of a challenge, an adjustment. But I reckon about 6 months in last year I felt like I sprung out of bed, so to speak. No thats bullshit! Langdon interjected. No-one springs out of bed at 3am, Sarah Abo! I dont spring out of anywhere, Karl Stefanovic offered. Its a huge transition and it takes a huge toll. Im incredibly proud of both of you. For you (Ally) moving onto A Current Affair and slaying it is an absolute endorsement of what you can do as a person I dont think you made it easy for (Sarah). You slipped off a surfboard and you were on Endone for 8 months. As you keep telling me I was never there, Langdon joked. Stefanovic said he was proud of Abo adding Even what happened on Carolslast year was great preparation for that. Id like to think I prepared her for any eventuality. Chaos, Abo suggested. As to the 3am calls Stefanovic said it was Mainly the alarm screaming at me, that got him out of bed. And my wife kicking me in the back. He also poke to the camaraderie between the Today team. We went out to dinner last night and Sarah got poleaxed, he joked. I was just following your lead, she noted. Stefanovic had the last word. We have a great team of people at this network. And we do hang out, he said. I mean there are people in the past who we dont hang out with anymore Amended. Scanrail1 / Shutterstock.com As per the Social Security and Medicare Boards of Trustees, Social Security benefits are expected to be payable in full on a timely basis until 2034 when the trust fund reserves are projected to become exhausted. Retirement Planning: How Much the Average Person 65 and Older Spends Monthly Find Out: Pocket an Extra $400 a Month With This Simple Hack But why are Social Securitys funds running dry? Carla Adams, founder and financial advisor at Ametrine Wealth, explained it like this: The Social Security system has more money going out to pay benefits than it has money coming into it from those currently working and paying their payroll taxes, so the system is currently paying out from its reserves to deliver on its promised benefits. ADVERTISEMENT With the U.S. grappling with the ongoing challenges surrounding the Social Security system, examining successful models from other countries can offer valuable insights and potential solutions. Here are 10 countries the U.S. could learn from. Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief. Australias Superannuation System Australias Superannuation System, established in 1992, mandates employers to contribute 3% of employees earnings to individual retirement funds. Over time, this guarantee has risen to 10% and will increase to 11.5% on July 1, 2024, and 12% on July 1, 2025. This mandatory long-term savings system in Australia helps employees accumulate funds for their retirement and achieve financial freedom during their golden years. Canadas Pension Plan The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) is a monthly and taxable benefit that could replace part of your income when you enter retirement. If youre eligible, you could receive the CPP retirement pension for as long as youre alive. But to qualify, you must be at least 60 years old and have made at least one valid contribution to the CPP. Valid contributions can be either from work you did in Canada or as the result of receiving credits from a former spouse at the end of the relationship. Story continues According to the government of Canada, the maximum monthly pension amount you could receive if you start your pension at age 65 is $1,364.60 in 2024. Find Out: This Is the Minimum You Need Saved for Retirement in Every State Swedens Pension System Swedens Pension System is a multipillar model comprising three parts: public pension, occupational pensions and private savings. The national public pension is based on your total income. Each year that you work and pay taxes in Sweden, you earn toward your national public pension. In other words, the longer you work, the higher your monthly pension payment will be once you retire. Most people in Sweden also receive an occupational pension from their employer and can choose to save privately for their pension through a bank. Swedens three-tier system ensures retirees receive a basic income, supplemented by employer contributions and additional private savings for a secure retirement. Singapores Central Provident Fund (CPF) Singapores Central Provident Fund (CPF) is a comprehensive social security system that allows working Singapore citizens and permanent residents to set aside funds for retirement. Employees and employers contribute a percentage of the employees income to the CPF. These contributions are then allocated to different accounts, including the Ordinary Account (for housing, insurance and education), Special Account (for retirement and investments) and Medisave Account (for healthcare). If youre under 55 years old, you earn up to 5% interest on the first $60,000 of your combined CPF balances. And if youre 55 and older, you earn up to 6% interest on the first $30,000 of your combined CPF balances and up to 5% on the next $30,000. Norways Government Pension Fund Global (NPFG) Norways Government Pension Fund Global (GPFG) is funded by the countrys oil revenues, managed by Norges Bank Investment Management. This fund was initially established in 1990 after Norway discovered oil in the North Sea and now serves as a long-term savings plan to ensure Norways current and future generations can benefit from the countrys oil wealth. As of Jan. 16, 2024, the funds market value is around 16,000 billion Norwegian Krone (1.5 trillion USD). Germanys Riester Pension The Riester Pension is a government-sponsored private pension scheme in Germany that provides tax benefits and subsidies to employees. It aims to supplement state pensions, promoting Germanys long-term savings for retirement. Heres how the Riester Pension works: During your working years, you pay contributions into a private pension contract or bank savings plan. As a reward for socking away money for retirement, you receive state subsidies and tax breaks. The subsidy consists of a basic allowance of 175 per person and 300 for each child per year. Once you reach retirement age, youll then receive life-long monthly benefits paid in the form of a pension or a disbursement plan. Netherlands Collective Defined Contribution (CDC) Schemes The Netherlands Collective Defined Contribution (CDC) schemes are pension plans where contributions are pooled and invested, and investment risks are shared. In a CDC scheme, both the employer and employee contribute to a collective fund which provides an income in retirement. However, instead of promising a fixed pension amount, the plan aims for a target. If investments do well, great. If not, adjustments are made later. New Zealands KiwiSaver New Zealands KiwiSaver is a voluntary retirement savings program where employees contribute a percentage of their income, and employers match. The program is available to all New Zealand citizens and permanent residents, and youre automatically enrolled into KiwiSaver if youre starting work with a new employer and are between ages 18 and 65. Besides the minimum employer contribution match of 3% of your before-tax pay, the government may contribute up to $521.43 into your account each year as well. Japans Public Pension System Japans Public Pension System consists of two tiers: a basic, flat-rate scheme and an earnings-related plan. Contributions are mandatory for all employees and self-employed individuals ages 20 to 59 years old who have an address in Japan. As of January 2024, the contribution amount for the National Pension is 16,520 per month, and the maximum pension payment in retirement is 795,000 per year. United Kingdoms Pension Auto-Enrollment United Kingdoms Pension Auto-Enrollment program requires employers to enroll employees into a workplace pension scheme if theyre eligible for it. This system is designed so that eligible employees can start building their nest eggs without having to take any action themselves. Employers must automatically enroll an employee into a pension scheme and deduct their pension contribution from their salary if they meet all of the following requirements: Theyre classed as a worker. Theyre between ages 22 and State Pension age. They earn at least 10,000 per year. They ordinarily work in the U.K. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Solving Social Security: 10 Countries the US Can Learn From Welcome Guest! You are here: Home Education & Career Bihar 12th Intermediate Exam 2024 Admit Card Released - Download Here According to the timetable, the Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) Intermediate Board Exam for the year 2024 is scheduled to take place from February 1 to 12, 2024. Read More Sunday January 21, 2024 5:16 PM , ummid.com News Network BSEB 12th Admit Card 2024: The Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) has released online the Admit Card and Hall Ticket of the students who are appearing for February 2024 Intermediate exams of Arts, Science and Commerce streams. The BSEB Intermediate 2024 Admit Cards are available for download on the official website secondary.biharboardonline.com. School admin and staff should note that Admit Card will be downloaded by them and given to registered students. Students should also note that they cannot download by their own the admit card of Bihar 12th and Intermediate exams. They will be required to collect their admit card from their respective schools and colleges. How to download BSEB Inter 2024 Admit Card Click on the link to go to Inter Admit Card download page: secondary.biharboardonline.com. Enter User ID and Password Click on Login Select the stream and click on download Take a printout According to the timetable , the Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) Intermediate Board Exam for the year 2024 is scheduled to take place from February 1 to 12, 2024. The exam for all the three streams - Arts, Commerce, and Science, will be conducted in two shifts. The first shift in from morning 09:30 to afternoon 12:45 whereas the second shift is from 02:00 pm to 05:15 pm. The BSEB had earlier released the Final Admit Card of students who are appearing for the 10th Board exams in Bihar to be held from Feb 15 to 23, 2024. The Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) had earlier released online Model Question Papers of the 2024 board examinations of Class 10 and 12 on its official website. Candidates appearing for BSEB Bihar Class 10 or Matric, BSEB Bihar Class 12 or Intermediate and other exams to be held in February 2024 can access Model Question Papers directly from the website or by following the steps given under: How to download BSEB Bihar Board Model Question Paper Click here to jump to "Model Question Paper" Click on the subject The Model Question Paper will be downloaded in pdf format BSEB Bihar Class 12 or Inter students should note that Model Question Papers of Arts, Science and Commerce all three streams are available for download on the same page but different sections. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. Welcome Guest! You are here: Home International ICJ provisional measures to stop Israeli Genocide of Palestinians likely in February The ICJ decision on provisional measures or its final order have no binding on Israel and the UN court has no direct means of enforcing them. Read More Sunday January 21, 2024 9:08 PM , ummid.com with inputs from Agencies The Hague: Though the International Court of Justice (ICJ) verdict on the South African petition alleging Israel of committing genocide of Palestinians in Gaza could take time, but its decision on the provisional measures is likely in February 2024, the lawyers associated with the case said. The International Court of Justice (I.C.J.) concluded the hearing on the South Africa petition on January 12, 2024. While announcing the conclusion of the widely watched public hearing the International Court of Justice (ICJ) did not announce when it will pronounce its verdict. The ICJ Judges will now begin deliberations and their decision will be delivered at a public sitting, the date of which will be announced in due course, the I.C.J. said in a statement on January 12, 2024 without confirming the exact date. Speaking to Turkish news agency, Anadolu, Tiersisto Mariniello, an Italian lawyer who was at The Hague for the hearing, said the decision on South Africas request for provisional measures will come early because this is what the procedure requires. We have had cases at the ICJ related to provisional measures in which the court has decided in eight days. So, I think that the decision could be expected in February, if not before, Tiersisto Mariniello said. We are talking about an urgent procedure. Provisional measure means priority over all the other cases the ICJ is dealing with, Mariniello, who is also part of the legal team representing Gaza victims at the International Criminal Court (ICC), said. The International Court of Justice (I.C.J.) conducted two days of public hearing in response to the South African application on January 11 and 12, 2024. On the first day of the hearing, a team of lawyers representing South Africa put in front of the ICJ comprising of 15 judges from different parts of the world evidence in support of the Israeli genocide in the Gaza Strip. The South African lawyers said the genocide of Palestinians Israel is committing is a part of the state policy nurtured at its highest levels. The South African lawyers deposing before the ICJ also alleged that the Israeli soldiers are celebrating and dancing on music after killing the Palestinians and destruction of Gaza. The lawyers defending Israel at the I.C.J. rejected the allegations by South African lawyers, boasting the Israel's is the most moral army in the world. This is only the 4th time that a country has brought a genocide case before the I.C.J. The first was in 1993, 44 years after the Genocide Convention was drafted in 1948. The other three besides the South Africa case against the far-right Zionist Regime in Israel, have been filed in the last four years - a 2019 case against Myanmar alleging genocide against the Rohingya Muslims, a 2022 case alleging Russia had abused the Genocide Convention as a pretext for an illegal invasion of Ukraine. Meanwhile, The New York Times in a report said, the ICJ may take years to reach a final decision as proving genocidal intent is an essential element of the case. The court has only found such a violation once, in a case involving the Srebrenica massacre in Bosnia. And that only happened after the perpetrators had already been convicted of criminal offenses by a different court. The ICJ decision on provisional measures or its final order have no binding on Israel and the UN court has no direct means of enforcing them. Despite this Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in total disregard to the United Nations challenged its top judicial body. Nobody will stop us not The Hague, not the axis of evil and not anybody else, he said vowing to continue the war against the Palestinians. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. January 20, 2024: Yemens Shia rebels, led by the Houthi tribe, have used their large stockpile of Iranian missiles to block access to the Suez Canal. This capability developed over the last decade as the rebels launched attacks on more distant targets. The rebels obtained more powerful weapons as well, including Iranian ballistic missiles, which were disassembled so they could be smuggled from Iran to Yemen, where Iranian technicians supervised the missiles being assembled and launched into Saudi Arabia. In the last few years, the rebels have received longer range ballistic missiles fired from northern Yemen across Saudi territory to hit Saudi and UAE oil production facilities on the Persian Gulf coast. The rebels also acquired the reconnaissance capability to accurately fire missiles at ships passing through the narrow, 26 kilometers wide, Bab-el-Mandeb straits off southwestern Yemen and force ships to take the longer and more expensive and time consuming route around the southern tip of Africa. This has always been a potential threat to ships using the Red Sea to reach the Suez Canal in Egypt, at the north end of the Red Sea. Transit fees from ships using the canal are a major source of income for Egypt, bringing in about $10 billion a year. Egypt and Iran are enemies and reducing Suez Canal income is a win for Iran, which supported the Yemen rebels for more than a decade to make such an interdiction possible. Western nations reacted slowly to this interdiction effort and only recently began attacking Yemeni Shia rebel targets with warship missiles and air strikes. Western warships close to the Yemen shore used their defensive weapons to defeat attacks launched from the Yemen coast. The war in Yemen drags on into 2024 or until Iran decides to halt support for the Houthi. Before the Israeli attacks on Gaza and Iran-backed militias in Lebanon, Iran was under widespread internal pressure from Iranians protesting the expensive foreign wars in Syria and Yemen. Despite that, Iran smuggled in more and more weapons. These were not intended for the ongoing Yemen civil war but for use against targets designated by Iran. Iran suddenly had its own domestic uprising to deal with back home. The Iranian religious dictatorship held onto power and supported more violence against real or perceives enemies of Iran. In early 2015 Iran admitted it had been quietly supporting the Houthi Shia rebels for a long time but now was doing so openly, and that support was increasing. Many Yemenis trace the current crisis back to the civil war that ended, sort of, in 1994. That war was caused by the fact that, when the British left Yemen in 1967, their former colony in Aden became one of two countries called Yemen. The two Yemens finally united in 1990 but another civil war in 1994 was needed to seal the deal. That fix didn't really take and the north and south have been pulling apart ever since. This comes back to the fact that Yemen has always been a region, not a country. Like most of the rest of the Persian Gulf and Horn of Africa region, the normal form of government until the 20th century was wealthier coastal city states nervously coexisting with interior tribes that got by on herding or farming or a little of both plus smuggling and other illicit sidelines. This concept of nationhood is still looked on with some suspicion by many in the region. This is why the most common forms of government are the more familiar ones of antiquity like kingdom, emirate, or modern variation in the form of a hereditary secular dictatorship. For a long time, the most active Yemeni rebels were the Shia Houthis in the north. The Houthis have always wanted to restore local Shia rule in the traditional Shia tribal territories, led by the local imam, a religious leader who was a Houthi. This arrangement, after surviving more than a thousand years, was ended by the central government in 1962. Yemen also became the new headquarters of AQAP (Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula) when Saudi Arabia was no longer safe for the terrorists after 2007. Now there is ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant) and an invading army composed of troops from oil-rich neighbors like Saudi Arabia, which was very upset by Iranian/Houthi missile attacks. By late 2017 the rebels were slowly losing ground to government forces who, despite Arab coalition air support and about five thousand ground troops, were still dependent on Yemeni Sunni tribal militias to fight the Shia tribesmen on the ground. While the Shia are only a third of the population, they are united while the Sunni tribes are divided over the issue of again splitting the country in two and with no agreement on who would get the few oil fields in central Yemen. Many of the Sunni tribes tolerate or even support AQAP and ISIL. The Iranian smuggling pipeline continued to operate, and the Yemen rebels were able to buy additional weapons from other sources because they received cash from nations or groups hostile to the Arab Gulf state, especially Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The Shia Houthi rebels were from northern Yemen and controlled the border with Saudi Arabia. Over the last decade the rebels launched more and more attacks on Saudi targets and in later 2023 and into 2024 that violence escalated. Welcome Guest! You are here: Home Middle East When Caliph Umar refused to pray inside the Jerusalem Church While on a tour of Jerusalem, Patriarch Sophronius invited Hadhrat Umar to offer Zuhr prayers inside the Church, but he refused. Read More Monday January 22, 2024 0:09 AM , Team ummid.com [The Church of the Holy Sepulchre (File)] Mumbai: The conquest of Jerusalem, now under the occupation of the Zionists, is a golden page in the Islamic History as it shows not only how Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab permitted Jews to live in the city but also how particular he was in respecting the places of worship of other faiths. The Muslim troops, who were led by Hazrat Abu Ubaidah bin Jarrah and had military generals like Hazrat Khalid ibn al-Walid and Hazrat Amr ibn al-Aas in their ranks, besieged Jerusalem some time in November 636. Patriarch Sophronius, a representative of the Byzantine government, as well as a leader in the Christian Church, was the In-charge or Governor of Jerusalem. After about four months of siege, he finally decided to surrender and handover Jerusalem to Muslims on the condition that that Caliph Umar came to Jerusalem to sign the pact and accept the surrender. Hazrat Abu Ubaidah wrote to caliph Umar about the situation and invited him to come to Jerusalem to accept the surrender of the city. Caliph Umar arrives in Jerusalem Consequently, Hazrat Umar ibn al-Khattab left Madinah, travelling alone on a camel and one servant. When he arrived in Jerusalem, he was greeted by Sophronius, who was amazed that the Caliph of the Muslims, one of the most powerful people in the world at that point, was dressed in no more than simple robes and was indistinguishable from his servant. As per the historical records, Hazrat Omar arrived in Palestine in early April 637. He first went to Jabiya in the Old City where he was received by Hazrat Abu Ubaidah, Hazrat Khalid and others. Later a pact and treaty, known as Umar's Assurance, was composed. The treaty was signed by Hazrat Umar and Patriarch Sophronius, along with some of the generals of the Muslim armies. Jerusalem came under the Muslim Caliphate without a single drop of blood being shed, a highly unusual incident considering the Holy City's long history which has been attacked 52 times, captured and recaptured 44 times, besieged 23 times, and destroyed twice. Christian Patriarch asks Caliph Umar to pray inside the Church Hazrat Omar was given a tour of the city, including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. When the time for afternoon prayer, Zuhr, came, Patriarch Sophronius invited Hadhrat Umar to pray inside the Church, but he refused. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, also known as the Church of the Resurrection, is the 4th century church in the Christian Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. It is considered as the holiest site for Christians in the world. This Church hosts two sites considered holy for Christians around the world - the site where Jesus (Prophet Isa, may peace be upon him) was crucified at a place known as Calvary or Golgotha, and Jesus's empty tomb, which is where he was buried and resurrected, as per the Christian belief. Hadhrath Omar insisted that if he prayed inside the Church, later Muslims would use it as an excuse to convert it into a mosque thereby depriving Christendom of one of its holiest sites. Instead, Hazrat Umar prayed outside the Church, where a mosque - called Masjid Umar the Mosque of Umar, was later built. Temple Mount used as garbage dump While on the tour of Jerusalem, Hadhrat Umar found the Temple Mount and Wailing Wall in poor state. Hazrath Umar was informed that the Christians had used the area as a garbage dump to offend the Jews. It is also the same spot was from where Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven. Hadhrat Umar and his army (along with some Jews) personally cleaned it and built there a wooden mosque -Masjid al-Aqsa. More than half a century after the capture of Jerusalem, the Umayyad caliph Abd al-Malik in 691 commissioned the construction of the Dome of the Rock over a large outcropping of bedrock on the Temple Mount. The Treaty of Umar As they did with all other cities they conquered, the Muslims had to write up a treaty detailing the rights and privileges regarding the conquered people and the Muslims in Jerusalem. This treaty was signed by Umar and Patriarch Sophronius, along with some of the generals of the Muslim armies. The text of the treaty read: In the name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate. This is the assurance of safety which the servant of God, Umar, the Commander of the Faithful, has given to the people of Jerusalem. He has given them an assurance of safety for themselves for their property, their churches, their crosses, the sick and healthy of the city and for all the rituals which belong to their religion. Their churches will not be inhabited by Muslims and will not be destroyed. Neither they, nor the land on which they stand, nor their cross, nor their property will be damaged. They will not be forcibly converted. No Jew will live with them in Jerusalem. The people of Jerusalem must pay the taxes like the people of other cities and must expel the Byzantines and the robbers. Those of the people of Jerusalem who want to leave with the Byzantines, take their property and abandon their churches and crosses will be safe until they reach their place of refuge. The villagers may remain in the city if they wish but must pay taxes like the citizens. Those who wish may go with the Byzantines and those who wish may return to their families. Nothing is to be taken from them before their harvest is reaped. If they pay their taxes according to their obligations, then the conditions laid out in this letter are under the covenant of God, are the responsibility of His Prophet, of the caliphs and of the faithful. Quoted in The Great Arab Conquests, from Tarikh Tabari At the time, this was by far one of the most progressive treaties in history. For comparison, just 23 years earlier when Jerusalem was conquered by the Persians from the Byzantines, a general massacre was ordered. Another massacre ensued when Jerusalem was conquered by the Crusaders from the Muslims in 1099. The Treaty of Umar allowed the Christians of Jerusalem religious freedom, as is dictated in the Quran and the sayings of Muhammad . This was one of the first and most significant guarantees of religious freedom in history. While there is a clause in the treaty regarding the banning of Jews from Jerusalem, its authenticity is debated. One of Umars guides in Jerusalem was a Jew named Kaab al-Ahbar. Umar further allowed Jews to worship on the Temple Mount and the Wailing Wall, while the Byzantines banned them from such activities. Historians have acknowledged that the surrender of Jerusalem to Muslims also marked the end of nearly 500 years of Roman rule and oppression. Michael Zank, Professor of Religion, Jewish, and Medieval Studies, has noted: "With the exception of the reign of Julian (361-363) and the brief interlude of Persian rule (614-17), Jews were banned from entering the city until the advent of Islam, when they were readmitted." Thus, the authenticity of the clause in the treaty regarding Jews is in question. What is not in question, however, was the significance of such a progressive and equitable surrender treaty, which protected minority rights. The treaty became the standard for Muslim-Christian relations throughout the former Byzantine Empire, with rights of conquered people being protected in all situations, and forced conversions never being a sanctioned act. The Muslim rulers honoured the treaty till the fall of Ottoman Empire in the 20th century. Select Language To Read in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic. HCM CITY Phenikaa Group and its member Vicostone JSC have been listed among the top 500 largest enterprises (VNR500) in Viet Nam in 2023. The award-granting ceremony was co-organised on Thursday in HCM City by the online newspaper Vietnamnet and Vietnam Report JSC. The recognition has proven the two companies' strong foundation of systems, technology and personnel resources in addition to their proactive and flexible business strategies, and sufficient investments in research and development in 2023. This is the 5th and the 8th consecutive year, respectively, that Phenikaa Group and Vicostone have won these awards. As a global business enterprise with more than 30 member units operating domestically and internationally such as in the US and Canada, Phenikaa Group has encountered challenges due to difficulties in the world and Vietnamese economies. Thanks to its solid internal strength, proactive spirit, flexibility and continuous innovation, the group has maintained stable production and business activities in key areas. The group has made sufficient investments in scientific research, with five research institutes and centres and over 20 research groups at Phenikaa University and Phenikaa Innovation Foundation. At the same time, it has also been focusing on the healthcare sector to provide outstanding quality products and services in the biomedical field, contributing to improving the quality of people's lives. In 2023, Phenikaa invested heavily in facilities and people, expanding cooperation with domestic and foreign partners, including large hospitals. In the field of education and training, Phenikaa has built a seamless education system from elementary school, middle school and high school to university and postgraduate education. After five years of comprehensive restructuring, Phenikaa University has made great changes in quality and quantity, recording impressive numbers in its development journey. In 2023, the number of university enrolments increased by about 25 times compared to 2018, while the number of undergraduate and postgraduate training programs rose three times compared to 2018. Phenikaa University has also affirmed its position in the international arena when it entered the THE Impact Rankings. It became one of nine Vietnamese universities with influence on sustainable development in 2023. Launched in 2007, VNR500 is prestigious ranking honouring businesses that actively contribute to the development of Viet Nam's economy. In 2023, the VNR500 ranking continued to recognise large-scale enterprises with effective and stable production and business activities, demonstrating resilience in the face of unpredictable fluctuations in the global situation and the slowdown in economic growth. According to the award organising board, the business community last year faced persistent challenges both domestically and internationally. A Vietnam Report's survey showed that most businesses recorded a decrease in revenue, profit and number of orders, of which the proportion of businesses recording an increase in revenue and profit accounted for less than 5 per cent. The gloomy real estate sector caused construction demand to stagnate and slow consumption of construction materials products both domestically and internationally, causing businesses in the industry to be severely affected, according to the survey. VNS BERLIN Former German Ambassador to Viet Nam Rolf Schulze has said that the coming state visit to Viet Nam by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and his spouse is a testament to the close bilateral relations and friendship between the two countries. In an interview to the Vietnam News Agency ahead of the visit, Schulze, who is now President of the Germany-Vietnam Association, said the visit takes place just more than a year after the successful trip to Viet Nam by Prime Minister Olaf Scholz. Germany considers Viet Nam one of its important partners in Asia. Both countries attach importance to a rules-based international order in a multipolar world governed by the principles of the United Nations Charter. For both countries, respect for territorial integrity and peaceful settlement of conflicts are of great importance, the former ambassador said. Regarding achievements in Germany's foreign policy towards Viet Nam over the years, Schulze expressed his impression of bilateral initiatives, describing the establishment of their strategic partnership in 2011 as the most prominence in the bilateral ties. This has served as a "roadmap" for the cooperation process between the two countries. Another major achievement is the establishment of the Vietnamese-German University (VGU) in 2008, which has opened up "new horizons" for academic exchange between the two countries. Besides, students graduating from the Germany International School in Ho Chi Minh City (IGS) can go through universities in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and many other countries around the world. In addition, he highlighted the "German House" (Deutsches House) in HCM City - a modern, energy-saving building. It is also the headquarters of the German Consulate General, becoming a leading destination for German companies when seeking investment business opportunities in Viet Nam. He added that another important foundation in the relations between the two countries is the cooperation in implementing the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change and the Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda. Germany supports Viet Nams green growth strategy, and it has contributed to the political declaration establishing the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) to open up financial resources to assist Vietnam's just and sustainble energy transition. Last but not least, he said, the economic relationship between the two countries is a successful story. Schulze affirmed that in the European Union (EU), Germany has been so far the most important partner of Viet Nam, and VIet Nam is Germany's largest trading partner in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). According to the former diplomat, at the bilateral level, vocational training will bring many opportunities for the two countries cooperation in the future. At the international level, both countries need to further strengthen cooperation in United Nations organisations. VNS KAMPALA Viet Nam has been elected as a Vice President of the Executive Committee of the 19th Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) Summit, representing the Asia-Pacific region. Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan is leading the Vietnamese delegation to the event, which opened in Kapala, Uganda on January 19. In his opening remarks, Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni affirmed that with its theme on deepening cooperation for global prosperity, the summit offered an opportunity for NAM member states to overcome differences and consolidate solidarity to re-position and promote the voice of the movement in the world full of uncertainties. He called on countries to join hands to protect the movements values and principles of peace, independence, development, respect of quality, sovereignty and territorial integrity and non-inteference in internal affairs of states, and settlement of disputes through peaceful means without use or threat of force. President of the UN General Assembly Dennis Francis spoke highly of the NAMs historical role in the struggle for national liberation of colonial countries, affirming that the movement has gathered strong forces that support efforts to consolidate multilateralism, uphold the UN Charter and international laws, and boost cooperation for a world of peace, stability, equality and prosperity. On the sidelines of the two-day summit, Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan had meetings with several foreign leaders. Meeting with Cuban Vice President Salvador Valdes Mesa, Xuan affirmed that despite any changes in the world, Viet Nam has and will always treasure, preserve and deepen the traditional solidarity and comprehensive cooperation with Cuba. She reiterated Vietnam's consistent stance on supporting Cuba and objecting to the unilateral sanctions and embargoes against Cuba. She suggested both sides strengthen cooperation to enhance trade, investment and agriculture, making the economic relations on par with the sound political ones, in line with and meets the expectations of leaders of the two Parties and States. The Cuban leader thanked Viet Nam for assisting Cuba to overcome formidable challenges posed by embargo to develop socio-economy, and described the Viet Nam-Cuba relations as a symbol of exemplary solidarity which has been nurtured by generations of leaders from both sides. He said he will direct ministries and sectors to coordinate with the Vietnamese side to bolster cooperation across trade and investment and agriculture between the two countries. The two leaders affirmed continued coordination at multilateral forums such as the UN, the NAM and G77 group on issues of mutual concern. Receiving Vice President of Benin Mariam Chabi Talata, Xuan underscored that Viet Nam wants to enhance the friendship and multi-faceted cooperation with African countries, including Benin. Based on the good political relations, the two countries should promote delegation exchanges, implement cooperation mechanisms in an effective fashion, and promote trade and investment, she said, adding with their strategic geographical positions, they should help each other to cooperate with ASEAN, the African Union and Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Mariam Chabi Talata, for her part, said Benin sees Viet Nam as a model of sustainable development, stressing both sides hold huge potential to cooperate in the areas of trade, investment, agricultural machines and vocational training. Meeting with the President of the UN General Assembly (UNGA), Xuan held that Viet Nam attaches importance to multilateralism and supports the central role of the UN in global management system and response to common challenges. As an active and responsible member of the international community, Vietnam will make positive contributions to the UNGA Presidents priorities, including peace consolidation through promoting international cooperation and solidarity, the UNs reform, and realisation of the Sustainable Development Goals. She underscored that climate change response, digital transformation and green growth are Viet Nam's top priorities to realise its target of becoming a developed industrialised country by 2045, asking countries and the UN support Viet Nam to complete its strategic target. Francis agreed with Xuan's recommendations and spoke highly of the cooperation between Viet Nam and the UN over the past 45 years. Viet Nam, with its important role and position in the international arena, could contribute to settling issues of the international communitys concern, he said. He shared Viet Nam and ASEANs stance on handling disputes in the East Sea (known internationally as the South China Sea) in a peaceful manner based on international law, including the UNCLOS 1982, and affirmed continued cooperation with Viet Nam to promote the compliance to the UN Charter, international law and multilateralism. VNS THAI BINH Chairman of the National Assembly Vuong inh Hue had a working session with the standing board of the Party Committee of the northern province of Thai Binh on Saturday. At the event, the top legislator commended the local Party Committee, authority and people on the achievement that they have carved out across economy, society, defence, security, Party building, and social welfare, among others, creating the momentum for the province to develop stronger in the time ahead. He expressed his impression on the provinces strong shift to comprehensive and stable development in the areas of agriculture, industry, and trade and services, resulting in the economic scale of over VN67.9 trillion (US$2.77 billion), up 1.3-fold from 2020, and FDI attraction of nearly $3 billion in 2023, ranking fifth among 63 localities in the country. He attributed the result to the provinces successful Party and political system building work, solidarity and local peoples enhanced confidence in the authorities at all levels. The NA Chairman urged the locality to push ahead with economic restructuring, helping increase local income per capita, develop infrastructure in urban, economic and rural areas, and pay due attention to human resources training and land management work. Regarding investment attraction, Hue said the province should stay prudent and prioritise hi-tech projects. He also required the province to sharpen focus on Party and political system building work, prevent wastefulness in tandem with the prevention of corruption and negative phenomena. On the occasion of the upcoming Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday, the NA leader instructed local authorities to create the best conditions for all people to have a warm Tet holiday. The same day, NA Chairman Hue paid a visit and presented 200 Tet gifts to workers at Lien Ha Thai industrial park and policy beneficiary families in Thai Thuy District. Earlier, he offered flower and incense at the temple dedicated to President Ho Chi Minh and the Uncle Ho with farmers monument at Thai Binh Square, Thai Binh City. - VNS BUCHAREST Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his spouse on Saturday met with staff members of the Vietnamese embassy and representatives from the Vietnamese community in Romania in Bucharest as part of his official visit to the European country. At the invitation of Prime Minister Ion-Marcel Ciolacu, the visit is the first delegation exchange at the prime ministerial level between the two countries in five years, taking place in the context of good development of the over-70-year-old Viet Nam - Romania traditional ties and cooperation. The Vietnamese community in Romania numbers more than 600. They are united and help each other to stabilise their lives and look towards the homeland, said Vietnamese Ambassador to Romania o uc Thanh. The embassy and the community always pay attention to educating the young generation and maintaining the teaching and learning of Vietnamese language, he added. During the meeting, PM Chinh conveyed the greetings of Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong to the Vietnamese community in Romania and across Europe. He recalled major milestones in Viet Nam - Romania relations, including the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1950, the visit of late President Ho Chi Minh to Romania in 1957, as well as Romanias provision of 300,000 doses of vaccines and medical equipment to Viet Nam during the COVID-19 pandemic. The PM affirmed the Party and State's attention to the Vietnamese community abroad, saying that in 2023 and early 2024, a number of policies regarding overseas Vietnamese have been concretised in laws. The Party and State pay attention to creating conditions for overseas Vietnamese to preserve and promote cultural identity, as well as the teaching and learning of Vietnamese language, he said. The PM briefed the participants on Viet Nams socio-economic situation, affirming the important and positive contributions of the Vietnamese community abroad to the country's achievements. He asked the Vietnamese Embassy in Romania to continue to carry out its work on overseas Vietnamese affairs. He called on Vietnamese in Romania to continue to promote the image of Viet Nam and its people, contribute to the traditional friendship between the two countries, to build a united and strong community, and make practical contributions to Viet Nams national construction and development. VNS HA NOI Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan urged the Non-Aligned Movement to respect the viewpoints and protect the interests of its member countries, calling for continued support for ASEAN's efforts to ensure peace, security and stability in the East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea) and the Southeast Asian region. Speaking at the 19th Non-Aligned Movement Summit, which opened in Kampala, Uganda on January 19, Vice President Xuan affirmed that the movement is at the forefront of promoting international law, strengthening multilateralism, advocating for disarmament, reducing inequality in economic and financial structures, and making significant contributions to addressing global issues. She expressed her confidence in the 120 member countries, representing nearly 60 per cent of the world's population and accounting for about 20 per cent of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), stating that the movement will continue to be a leading voice promoting unity in a divided world. Vice President Xuan underscored the need for the movement to demonstrate solidarity with the people of Palestine, while calling for the removal of unilateral sanctions and embargoes against Cuba and other member countries. Additionally, she urged the movements member countries to promote the peaceful resolution of disputes based on international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). To maximise the cooperation potential of the movement, the Vice President suggested that member countries better utilise communication channels to enhance economic independence and cooperation for development. She also shared that Viet Nam, along with regional countries, has strengthened the ASEAN community and consolidated its central role in the Asia-Pacific region and other regional partnerships. Viet Nam has made efforts with the member countries to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, humanitarian crises, and non-traditional security challenges such as climate change and food security. Vice President Xuan reaffirmed Viet Nam's commitment to contribute to the common cause of the movement and developing countries for the progress of humanity, peace, prosperity and happiness. During the two days of the conference, leaders agreed on three important documents, including the final document of the Non-Aligned Movement outlining the comprehensive viewpoint of the movement on international and regional issues; the Kampala Declaration reaffirming the principles and values of the movement; and the Palestine Statement expressing solidarity with the Palestinian people. At this conference, the member countries also reached a consensus to admit South Sudan, marking the first membership expansion in 30 years. VNS HA NOI Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh urged collaboration between Vietnamese and Romanian experts in research and development projects, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity and the application of information technology in various social domains. He conveyed these remarks during his visit to the National Institute for Research and Development in Informatics (ICI) in Romania on Sunday (local time). The activity was part of his official visit to Romania beginning on Saturday at the invitation of Prime Minister Ion-Marcel Ciolacu. Welcoming PM Chinh, who is a former student and diplomat in Romania, ICIs General Director Adrian Victor Vevera mentioned that ICI is a leading strategic research institute with a history of over 50 years in developing information technology human resources for Romania. ICI is responsible for establishing the internet infrastructure and data centres in Romania, developing cloud computing projects for State institutions, building supercomputers, establishing a cyber diplomacy centre, pioneering blockchain technology development, setting up a mobile data recovery centre, and creating virtual trading platforms. He affirmed that ICI is ready to collaborate with Viet Nam in advancing these fields. Speaking at the event, PM Chinh stated that the Viet Nam-Romania relationship has stood strong for nearly 75 years with significant milestones. In 2019, holding the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, Romania played a decisive role in helping the EU and Viet Nam sign the EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA). Romania was among the first countries to ratify the EU-Viet Nam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA), contributing to the remarkable growth of Viet Nam's import-export turnover. In 2022, Viet Nam's import-export turnover reached US$735 billion, nearly twice the country's GDP. In 2023, despite global difficulties and challenges, the export turnover surpassed $700 billion. The Prime Minister emphasised the need for Viet Nam and Romania to strengthen and promote cooperation in all areas, including collaboration to share experiences, knowledge, and science and technology. PM Chinh said that Viet Nam has mobilised all resources to serve the rapid and sustainable development of the country, relying on science and technology and fostering innovation. He proposed ICI prioritise Viet Nam as a key partner in expanding international cooperation. In the near future, both sides will send working delegations to understand and jointly build plans and cooperation programmes, he said, adding that ICI will assist Viet Nam in training high-quality human resources in this field. The Prime Minister also said that the most significant obstacle between the two countries is the geographical distance, but cooperation in science and information technology can overcome this limitation. He expressed confidence that cooperation between the two countries in the field of information technology and digital technology will create new opportunities and contribute to enhancing bilateral relations and providing new motivation to promote growth for both Viet Nam and Romania. During the meeting, the National Institute for Research and Development in Informatics in Romania and Viet Nams National Institute of Software and Digital Content Industry exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation. The Viet Nam's Ministry of Public Security has connected with ICI for cooperation in cybersecurity. During his stay in Romania from Saturday to Monday, PM Chinh is expected to hold talks and have meetings with the Prime Minister, the President, the President of the Senate and the President of the Chamber of Deputies of Romania. He will visit some Romanian localities and universities, attend the Viet Nam - Romania business forum, and receive representatives from the Romania - Viet Nam Friendship Association. VNS January 21, 2024: Unlike the Ukrainians, Russian commanders are willing to suffer heavy troop losses in combat. Russian tactics include sending more and more infantry at the enemy regardless of losses. Often this works, but when it doesnt, the losses are substantial. This is the case in Ukraine, where Russian forces have lost at least about 400,000 soldiers so far. Not all were killed, but those who were not killed were badly wounded and no longer fit for service in the infantry. Currently Russia is losing about 300 soldiers, dead or wounded, a day. If this continues throughout 2024, Losses to Russian forces will reach 500,000 dead and badly wounded. In contrast, the Ukrainians have had 70,000 soldiers killed and about 110,000 wounded. The lower Ukrainian losses are the result of tactics that seek to minimize casualties while deaths are reduced by providing prompt and more effective medical care for the wounded. The Ukrainians also take advantage of the Russian tactics by preparing for these attacks so that Ukrainian losses are low and Russian losses are high. Russian soldiers and junior officers understand whats going on, but senior Russian leadership persists in using these wasteful tactics without noticing that their troops are less successful in these attacks because they keep their heads down and stay in one place if the Ukrainian fire is too intense. Russian soldiers are also more willing to be captured by the Ukrainians, who adopted a I want to live program to make it easier for Russian soldiers to be captured and moved from the combat zone to a prisoner camp. If the Russian government threatens to prosecute these soldiers after the war, Ukraine will offer asylum. The Ukrainian and Russian languages are similar enough for a captured Russian soldier to learn Ukrainian and blend in with the Ukrainian population after the war. Russia lost more troops in less than a year of fighting in Ukraine than they did during eight years of fighting in Afghanistan during the 1980s. While the Russian government portrayed the fighting in Ukraine as an effort to keep NATO from harming Russia, it was obvious that no one was invading or attacking Russia and that it was Russians that invaded Ukraine. Like the Germans who invaded Russia in 1941, where they were on the defensive by 1944. The Russians invading Ukraine were soon on the defensive and could be driven out in another year or so. Fourteen months after Russia invaded Ukraine, the Ukrainians are attacking and driving the Russian forces out. This was bad news for the Russian government, which was receiving growing criticism from its citizens about not merely the wars cost, but the need for it at all. The government responded to the internal criticism and did so more effectively than their military efforts in Ukraine. Russia declared criticism of the Russian war effort in Ukraine illegal. Arrests were made and some critics went on trial. This discouraged some Russian critics but emboldened others. This sort of thing was uncommon in Russia. Throughout most of its history, Russia has been a police state. In addition to the secret police, Russia also intercepted and read mail and overheard radio and telephone conversations. Russia mobilized support inside Russia for detecting anonymous critics and threatening them with arrest if they did not curb their criticism. This criticism made it obvious that the Russian government was losing the support of its own people, including a growing number of senior officers who spoke out, usually via encrypted messages on Telegram, an internet app in Russia and Ukraine. Early on many of these Russian internet based military bloggers supported the invasion and were supplied with information by the Russian government, including opportunities to spend some time with the troops inside Ukraine. After a few months the Russian bloggers were no longer reporting the official Russian version of events in Ukraine, but what was being reported by Russian veterans of the fighting. After Russia announced a pause in offensive military operations in early July 2023, one of these bloggers, a former general who had served in occupied Ukraine before the invasion, reported a different reality. He insisted that Russia had suffered higher losses in eastern Ukraine than the Ukrainians, who were conducting a classic attrition defense. The Russians had suffered far more losses in men and equipment. Ukrainians withdrew slowly and deliberately to encourage Russia to keep attacking and losing troops and combat vehicles that could not be replaced. Meanwhile the Ukrainians were receiving more weapons and equipment from NATO and forming new units, including armed resistance groups in occupied Ukraine. This was not the official Russian assessment, but it was the reality that Russian troops in Ukraine were experiencing and some Russian bloggers were reporting. All this was nothing new. When the most modern and effective Russian forces were assembled to invade Ukraine in 2022, they quickly discovered they were not facing an inept, poorly trained, and armed foe but one that was far more effective than the Russian invaders. The main offensive in the north, towards the nearby Ukrainian capital Kyiv, suffered heavy losses and within weeks was forced to withdraw back to the border. Russian troops were initially told that they had encountered NATO troops who were in Ukraine preparing to invade Russia. The surviving troops knew better because all they encountered were Ukrainians, usually armed with weapons similar to what Russia used as well as more effective ones they had received from NATO. The Ukrainians used more effective tactics and some new weapons that were based on Western models but Ukrainian-made. The Russian state-controlled media was ordered to ignore reports like this and stick with the official story that this was all a secret NATO operation to attack Russia via Ukraine. Whatever the official Russian explanation, Russia continued losing more troops than Ukraine. PRAHOVA Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, his spouse, and the high-ranking delegation of Viet Nam visited Prahova county on January 21 as part of his official visit to Romania. Introducing the countys economic potential and opportunities of cooperation with Viet Nam, officials of the Romanian Government, Prahova, and the countys Chamber of Commerce and Industry said Prahova, a leading industrial, oil and gas, tourism, and cultural hub of Romania, established the twin relationship with Viet Nams Hoa Binh Province in 2019. It is home to the first oil refinery of Romania and the Petroleum-Gas University of Ploiesti, which has long-standing cooperation with the Southeast Asian nation and has considerably contributed to bilateral oil and gas partnerships. Romanian officials said Viet Nam has posted fast growth for years, signed many free trade agreements, and made good use of chances generated by global economic and political changes. Perceiving that Viet Nam will be the next tiger of Asia, they called on businesses of Romania and Prahova to grasp opportunities of investment cooperation with the Southeast Asian country. In return, Romania can act as a gateway for Vietnamese goods to enter the European market with a combined population of 500 million. PM Chinh appreciated Romanias assistance and support for Viet Nam, saying he is impressed with Prahovas development, particularly in IT application, digital transformation, public service management, and social security ensuring. He emphasised achievements in the cooperation in manpower training for the oil and gas industry, a young sector but also a substantial contributor to Viet Nams development over the nearly 40 years of reforms. There remains huge potential for locality-to-locality cooperation, which has an important role to play in the two countries relations, he noted, adding that some localities of Viet Nam and Romania are set to sign cooperation memoranda during his visit. Viet Nam is ready to strengthen ties with Romania, including Prahova, renew old cooperation impetuses, and promote new ones, especially in emerging areas and big trends of the world that both sides have demand for such as digital economy, green economy, circular economy, and sharing economy, the PM stated. He pointed out that the two economies boast many complementary advantages, noting as Viet Nam has a population of about 100 million while Romania about 23 million, labour could be a new cooperation impulse. Besides, Viet Nam will continue investing in and expanding major oil and gas projects, so the two sides can foster partnerships in investment, technology transfer, and manpower training. Viet Nam and Romania have big opportunities and wishes for cooperation. The largest obstacle to their ties now is geographical distance, but it could be addressed by stepping up digital transformation and e-commerce and increasing authorities assistance for businesses, according to the leader. During the trip, PM Chinh is scheduled to have meetings with top leaders of Romania to identify orientations and measures for augmenting bilateral ties in different fields, including economy, trade, and investment. He voiced his hope that the two countries businesses and localities will cooperate with each other to help realise the common vision and targets, pledging the best possible conditions for their exchanges, partnerships, and cooperation. VNS KAMPALA Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan had meetings with President of Uganda Yoweri Museveni, Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres, and First Vice President of Iran Mohammad Mokhber in Kampala on January 20. The events took place on the sidelines of the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) in the capital city of Uganda. At their meeting, the Ugandan and Vietnamese leaders discussed concrete directions for developing the two countries cooperation in all fields in a result-oriented manner. In terms of politics - diplomacy, they affirmed the importance of increasing delegation exchanges to enhance mutual understanding and political trust and create momentum for economic ties. They agreed to maintain close coordination and mutual support at multilateral forums, especially the UN and NAM, as well as important organisations in the two regions such as the African Union and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. Xuan called on Uganda to support ASEANs common stance on the peaceful settlement of disputes in the East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea) with respect for international law. Regarding economic cooperation, the two sides agreed to actively implement the outcomes of President Musevenis visit to Viet Nam, increase the exchange of business delegations, work together to hold investment and trade promotion events, and improve agricultural cooperation effectiveness. Museveni highly valued Viet Nams information technology capacity, asking the Southeast Asian nation to assist his country in digital transformation and training of high-quality manpower in technology, automation, and artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, Xuan asked Uganda to create conditions for major telecoms businesses of Viet Nam like Viettel to seek investment opportunities. The two leaders agreed to step up the negotiations on and signing of important bilateral cooperation documents, including an agreement on investment facilitation and protection and another on double-taxation avoidance, thereby completing the legal framework for fostering bilateral economic cooperation. As part of the Vietnamese Vice Presidents activities in Uganda, the Viet Nam Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Uganda National Chamber of Commerce and Industry signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation Talking to the UN Secretary-General, Xuan highly valued Guterress significant contributions to global peace, security, and development amid numerous challenges. She underlined Viet Nams consistent and strong support for multilateralism and the global governance system with the UN at the centre, along with the countrys support for the Secretary-Generals efforts and initiatives for peace, reconciliation, and enhancement of strategic trust among countries. She stated that Viet Nam is determined to actively and responsibly contribute to the UNs common works, including the realisation of the Sustainable Development Goals for 2030 and the target of net zero emissions by 2050. During this process, Viet Nam hopes to continue receiving the UNs effective cooperation and assistance, particularly in terms of access to finance and technology and human resources training, the Vice President noted, calling on the Secretary-General to create favourable conditions for developing countries to bring into play their role and voice in the settlement of global issues. For his part, Guterres considered Viet Nam as a model of a war-torn country now emerging as a pillar in the promotion of global peace. He stressed that the UN is ready to develop multifaceted cooperation with Viet Nam, and hopes the country will continue making effective contributions to major processes of the UN in the coming time, including the Summit of the Future 2024, to work towards a world of peace, sustainable development, and better equality. Both leaders also shared common opinions about the role of multilateralism, the demand for reforming international financial institutions, and the enhancement of the ASEAN - UN cooperation for peace and stability in Southeast Asia, including the East Sea. At another meeting, Vice President Xuan and First Vice President of Iran Mokhber applauded the progress in their countries relations and agreed on the need to foster the coordination of stances at multilateral forums for the sake of peace, stability, and sustainable development in their respective regions and the world. Xuan noted Viet Nam always treasures the friendship and multifaceted cooperation with Iran, one of its important partners in the Middle East, and that the two sides should keep close coordination to implement the agreements reached during the official visit to Iran by National Assembly Chairman Vuong inh Hue in August 2023. She asked relevant ministries and sectors of the two countries to continue reviewing and updating cooperation mechanisms, and soon organise the 10th meeting of the Viet Nam - Iran Inter-governmental Committee to remove bottlenecks and facilitate economic, investment, and trade links. Mokhber said his country always views Viet Nmm as an important partner in Southeast Asia. He agreed with Xuan about the promotion of economic and trade ties on par with the countries potential, and the expansion of partnerships in other fields of common interest like science - technology, education - training, people-to-people exchanges, and locality-to-locality connections. The First Vice President also voiced his hope for a visit to Viet Nam in the near future to help intensify bilateral relations. On this occasion, the two sides touched upon some international and regional issues of shared concern, including the Middle East situation and the East Sea issue. VNS By Alex Reeves @afreeves23 Rewinding to the summer of 2021, the COVID lockdown of Viet Nam was in full swing and with it came thousands of new, fully YouTube trained chefs: home-styled Gordon Ramsey's and Nigella Lawson's using their internet connections and whatever ingredients they could get their hands on to replicate the dishes they missed from pre-pandemic freedom. I know, I was one of them. That said, there are only so many variations of homemade failures anyone can handle before you call in the professionals. Out comes the phone, up comes the delivery app and the absolute litany of options that come with it. Yet, another month passes and the five favourites youve narrowed down to start to feel dull and all too familiar. The time capsule of lockdown squeezing every last piece of joy that one can gain from food, seemingly at warp speed. Lying in bed, entranced by the doom-scroll, waiting for the days, craving to snap me out of it, an ad appears. The branding is as tight as the burger being shown off, compact and light looking, a real smash burger, different to the ingredient-laden towers that are more commonly found in the few good burger joints in town. Who are these guys? Goodtime? Never heard of them. A delve into their Instagram account reveals theyre a new startup running directly from their Instagram page. Good customer testimonies, and Im intrigued. A flurry of messages and a short wait later, Im tucking in, and Im hooked. Notably less greasy than our friends under the golden arches and I can actually fit it into my mouth without detaching my jaw, my craving is satisfied, and I dont have the usual sense of self-loathing that comes with resorting to a burger. My expectations for such a small-scale operation during a tough time for businesses are, without a doubt, exceeded. Fast-forward to 2024 and what was intended to be a quick chat with Tommy Le, one of the first to get involved with the Goodtime project, has turned into a real conversation. Rather than just a few tidbits about why people should come to Goodtime or what they have planned next, its an exchange of ideas and opinions rooted firmly in the present. From customer culture to the careful balance between being proud of your product, not having to be everyones favourite and still catering to both foreign and Vietnamese palates. Our only foray into the past is to reflect on the risks and challenges of starting a business during the pandemic, during a lockdown and the countless hours spent running pop-ups around the city and finding the right people to collaborate with in order to showcase their food in the best spaces. A friendly relationship with Truc Bach cocktail wizards Lang Thang turned into a neighbourly one as their first diner opened just a short stagger away down one of the islands many side-streets, and its a beauty. The diner has two distinct ends to the space. One feels like something straight out of a scene from Stranger Things, with that nostalgic 80s American Diner feel, all the way from the bright blue/yellow colour scheme to the claw machine where tokens can be entered, bears can be won and vouchers can be redeemed. The other has an impressive bar with an intriguing cocktail selection and more local collaboration as Vietnamese gins take pride of place on the drink menu. Now, despite the aforementioned post-burger guilt, I am a firm believer that guilty pleasures should be fully indulged. Burgers, of which Goodtime now carries many varieties, are a real treat and my observations about the size and lack of grease were actually very deliberate. The aim of the Goodtime burger was to create a burger that was appropriately portion-sized and had a flavour profile more appealing to Vietnamese customers, and it makes for a refreshing change. When I put it to Tommy that Goodtime is often mentioned online as Ha Nois best burger option, he brushes it off, insistent that he fully respects and understands the variety of tastes and preferences people have with something as seemingly simple as a burger. Some people like them stacked high, egg, pineapple, bacon, blue cheese and with a thicker more classic patty. Whereas these burgers are more balanced and considered, theres already enough flavour going on without the need to customise. Far from wanting to take anything away from Ha Nois current offerings, they want to add a quality product to the market. While this article may have started as a sad reminder of isolated times, it ends as one celebrating inventiveness, intuition and entrepreneurial success, even so far as to now have a second presence at the new Lotte Mall food hall. The ethos at Goodtime really is all in the name, and the main takeaway from both the conversation and my most recent visit was to enjoy each moment as it comes and appreciate the good times while theyre here. Preferably with a burger in one hand and a G&T in the other. VNS The information was shared by Kim Sung Hun, general director of Amkor Technology Vietnam, at a meeting with Nguyen Anh Tuan, Secretary of Bac Ninh Party Committee, on January 18. The meeting focused on the company's production plan up to 2025, as well as its factory building ambitions for the next phase. Hun shared that Amkor Vietnam produced its first items in December 2023. The company is conducting testing on these pieces, with a plan for mass production in 2024. The company hopes to continue to receive support from the provincial authorities to allow it to start large-scale production as planned, and is committed to continuing its next-phase investments. Tuan said, "2023 was a challenging year for Bac Ninh. However, the fact that the Amkor factory has been inaugurated and put into operation in Yen Phong 2C Industrial Park is positive for the province. We hope Amkor will continue to call on other semiconductor investors from the United States and South Korea to invest in Bac Ninh, forming a semiconductor ecosystem in the locality." He further noted that Amkor's first Vietnamese-made products would mark an important start for Bac Ninh as it makes its debut on the global semiconductor map. It will also be a new driving force for the province to develop a high-tech industry over the coming years. The provincial authorities are committed to creating new advantages for Amkor's business and production activities. On October 11, 2023, Amkor Technology opened its semiconductor assembly and testing factory in Bac Ninh that is valued at $1.6 billion. The chip factory will become Amkor's most advanced facility, delivering next-generation semiconductor packaging capabilities. Upon completion, it will feature 200,000 square metres of cleanroom space. Beginning with the advanced system for package and memory production, the factory will offer turnkey solutions from design to electrical testing to the worlds leading semiconductor and electronic manufacturing companies. Susan Y. Kim, vice president of Amkor Group said, "Amkor Bac Ninh is set to become a pivotal anchor in our global semiconductor operations network. This endeavour not only underscores our commitment to sustainable development in the semiconductor sector but also paves the way for fostering a robust semiconductor ecosystem in Vietnam." Amkor opens mega factory for semiconductors in Vietnam On October 11, the US semiconductor product packaging and test services provider Amkor Technology opened a mega factory for semiconductor assembly and testing in the northern province of Bac Ninh. Amkors global largest semiconductor plant inaugurated On October 11, after nearly two years of construction, Amkor Technology Vietnam officially inaugurated the world's largest Amkor factory at Yen Phong 2C Industrial Park in Bac Ninh province with Viglacera Corporation, a major building materials maker and industrial park developer in Vietnam, acting as the developer. The group, known for its status as the largest bank in Northern Europe by market capitalisation, boasts a commanding asset base nearing $339 billion. On January 17, Marcus Wallenberg, chairman of SEB Group, along with his colleagues, expressed deep admiration and were profoundly impressed by Vietnam's development achievements, acknowledging the countrys increasing role both regionally and globally. "Vietnams integration process and economic achievements have been remarkable," stated Wallenberg. "It's an important destination for our future investments." The sentiment was echoed in the plans laid out by the group. In the immediate term, SEB aims to organise a Northern European Business Conference in Hanoi, while actively seeking to engage with various Vietnamese ministries and departments to explore further investment opportunities. Wallenberg disclosed that SEB's annual events typically draw 70-80 Northern European enterprises, but the upcoming Vietnam conference has seen over 100 businesses register, a testament to the country's growing international allure. "The overwhelming response to the conference in Vietnam underscores the country's magnetic pull in the global business arena," Wallenberg added. Meanwhile, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has invited SEB to partake in the Vietnamese financial market, building upon the already robust relationship between Vietnam and Sweden. We are eager to see SEBs participation in our financial market, further strengthening the amicable Vietnam-Sweden relations, PM Chinh remarked. Carl Bildt, former Prime Minister of Sweden and the first Swedish PM to visit Vietnam in the 1990s, is currently advising SEB. He shared his aspirations to facilitate and advance economic, trade, and investment cooperation between the two nations. The potential for economic collaboration between Vietnam and Sweden is immense, and we are keen to explore these opportunities, Bildt noted. Praising SEB's past achievements, PM Chinh welcomed the groups expansion plans. He suggested that the upcoming business conference could serve as a catalyst for investment promotion, linking Vietnamese and Northern European enterprises, especially in sectors like the green and digital transformation, the circular economy, and the energy transition. Furthermore, the prime minister encouraged SEB to consider hosting events at Vietnam's renowned World Heritage sites and the National Innovation Centre to foster deeper connections between Swedish and Northern European companies with their Vietnamese counterparts in science, technology, and innovation. Hong Kong's Crystal Group eyes $200 million project in Nam Dinh Hong Kong-based Crystal Group unveils its plan to build a $200 million project for yarn, fabric, and garment production in the northern province of Nam Dinh. Schwalbe has historically divided the production of its tyres and tubes between its facilities in Vietnam and Indonesia. The move to focus production in Vietnam has stemmed from the tense situation in the bicycle industry. Instead of being able to rely on long-term commitments, orders are now almost exclusively placed spontaneously. As a result, it is no longer possible to plan ahead to meet the demand from two parallel production sites. Schwalbe is therefore positioning itself for the future in the best possible way and is pooling its strengths in Vietnam. Enormous investments have been made in the country over the years. With new factory buildings and machinery, the site allows for state-of-the-art tyre and tube production. In addition, Schwalbe customers will be supplied directly from there, with a product mix that is perfectly tailored to their individual requirements. Thanks to bundled production, the cutting-edge site in Vietnam offers volume and logistics advantages for all Schwalbe customers. Frank Bohle, CEO of Schwalbe said, "At Schwalbe, we see ourselves as an ecologically and socially responsible company that is proud to have created many new jobs. While we are expanding the team in Vietnam once again, the decision unfortunately also means that we will have to cut staff in Indonesia. That hurts us a lot." After analysing the development and the current situation in detail, this restructuring was unavoidable. We are retaining the option of resuming production in Indonesia in the future, but are now deliberately concentrating our efforts at our site in Vietnam, where we are in an excellent position, he said. He added that mould making, mixing operations, research and development, and administration will remain in Indonesia. Germany's Kurz unveils $40 million Binh Dinh plant German thin film technology company Kurz celebrated the inauguration of its advanced foil and thin film manufacturing facility at the Becamex VSIP Binh Dinh Industrial Park on September 8. The facility's primary product will be the high-tech 'hot stamping foil'. Germany's Harting opens new production plant in Hai Duong German-based Harting, one of the world's leading manufacturers of industrial connection technologies, held a ceremony to celebrate the launch of its production plant in VSIP Industrial Park, Hai Duong province, on November 2. Leonardo DiCaprio says he felt a great deal of responsibility getting Killers of the Flower Moon right. This was a very dark chapter in American history, he says of the Osage Nation murders depicted in the film. We needed to tell the story correctly and that meant we had to listen. Before and during filming, DiCaprio, co-star Lily Gladstone and director Martin Scorsese sought the advice of the Osage community and pored over considerable research compiled by author David Grann. The Osage are still affected by this moment in history, he says. We just knew it was our job and our responsibility to listen and get their perspective. A lot of those meetings (resulted in) the movie that you see today. In the film, DiCaprio plays a white soldier who marries a Native woman, played by Gladstone. Because oil had been discovered on Osage land, Indigenous women were wealthy. As a result, theres a desire to get their money any way possible. The soldiers uncle (played by Robert DeNiro) tells him hell get her oil rights if he survives her. Contract killings, mysterious deaths and rampant illness suggest somethings afoot. To understand the sense of dread that permeated the community, Gladstone and DiCaprio, listened to tribal members. It was actually kind of a fun acting exercise, Gladstone says. It reminded me of being in school again, where youre just given text without any context. The key was to find the love that was in the relationship. Just as Ernest (DiCaprios character) maintained until the day he died, Gladstone says. Since there are no living people who knew Mollie (her character), we started looking to the legacy of who they were in stories of how their kids were. Stories about Cowboy and Elizabeth, their children, informed what the parents wouldve been like, she says. An early scene, in which Mollie outdrinks Ernest was abandoned because the community didnt feel like that was Mollie, Gladstone says. They said Mollie wouldve enjoyed a glass of whisky, but she wasnt known for being somebody who could handle liquor like her sister, so the scene changed. DiCaprio and Gladstone improvised moments throughout the film, including a first car ride. Mollie says something to him in the Osage language and Ernest says, It must be Indian for handsome devil. That was Gladstones idea, DiCaprio says. We knew that this entire movie and the entire structure of the narrative was reliant on this love story working. Scorsese told Gladstone he saw The Heiress as an inspiration for the film. Whats nice (about that) is Osage ladies really do fill that grace, that regality the way classic stars of the era did, Gladstone says. In The Heiress, Olivia de Havillands character came from an oppressive patriarchal society, whereas Mollie comes from a matrilocal society. De Havillands character was told she was worthless. Mollie comes from a community where families celebrate when a daughter is born. De Havilland, she says, showed how to hold the screen. Killers of the Flower Moon, she says, is a reimagining with Native American women from a very woman-loving, woman-supportive society. While prepping the film, we were in a bit of a free fall, Gladstone says. We werent certain this dynamic was going to function on screen the way that it clearly did in reality. Once editor Thelma Schoonmaker cut scenes together, the dynamic started to emerge. Thelma could see we were solving this big puzzle. DiCaprio got to see film footage of the real Ernest talking about Mollie: The one quote was, Well, she was a good one. I felt the entire community had their take on this relationship. We developed this love story very much based on those stories. And, strangely, enough, I felt like I had more than enough to work with to create Ernest as a character. The McLennan County Sheriffs Office this week took a step toward getting body-worn cameras for its deputies and investigators. The McLennan County Commissioners Court voted unanimously Tuesday to allow the sheriffs office to apply for the Body-Worn Camera Grant from the Texas Public Safety Office. The sheriffs office has until Feb. 6 to complete the application online, Captain of Administration David Ives said Friday. The grant requires 25% matching funds and provides 75% of the cost of the cameras. Sheriff Parnell McNamara said his staff for the past two years has been looking at ways to implement body cameras, which he said protect both the public and officers. The cameras will record aspects of deputies interaction with the public. We already have dashboard cameras on our patrol vehicles that record everything that happens in front of the vehicle as well as cameras inside all our vehicles to monitor what happens inside, and our deputies already have audio recording of everything around them, McNamara said Friday. This will add the video component for our patrol deputies. Waco Police Department issued body-worn cameras to its officers in 2018, after smaller departments in the county pioneered their use. Today all officers and detectives in Waco, Hewitt, Bellmead, Lorena and Robinson police departments as well as Woodway Public Safety Department are required to wear the cameras in all interactions with the public. In the case of Woodway, officers are also cross-trained as firefighters but use body cameras during police work, Chief Khalil El-Halabi said in a Friday email. The sheriffs office is in a testing and evaluation process with two camera vendors. Ives said the Axon system is estimated to cost nearly $400,000 for the first five years, while the Motorola system would cost an estimated $238,000. Estimates include cameras, batteries, storage, training and maintenance. Each vendors system provides unique capabilities and functions, Ives said. Our men have been testing them for 30 days and well know more when they complete that testing. The sheriffs office will take a measured approach to implementing the use of body cameras, Chief Deputy Cody Blossman said Friday. We want to start with the patrol division, because they have the most interactions directly with members of the public, Blossman said. So, were going to buy 47 of the cameras, one for each deputy in patrol. They will wear them at all times while on duty and record all interactions with the public. The sheriffs office has 501 employees, including 141 licensed peace officers, 385 licensed jailers and 85 civilians. Blossman said some of those employees are licensed both as jailers and peace officers. Ives said deploying the cameras will require cooperation with other county departments and a significant commitment by the sheriffs office. Its not just the purchase of the cameras, Ives said. We also have to train the deputies to use them. The cameras require additional IT (information technology) bandwidth and hardware, such as servers and wireless access, that comes from outside our department. The sheriffs office doesnt want to overwhelm the IT side, Ives said. After the patrol division gets accustomed to using the cameras, then the sheriff will consider buying more for use among investigators, special units and possibly even some of the corrections officers in the jail, the chief deputy added. Attorneys, peace officers and community activists said they welcome the cameras. The evidence they provide is invaluable to prosecutors, defense attorneys and peace officers, defense attorney Aubrey Robertson said. If youre a police officer, why wouldnt you want a body camera? It provides video evidence of everything you do and dont do. Robertson is a former chief prosecutor for the 19th State District Court, and a candidate for district attorney in 2022. Robertson said both prosecutors and defense attorneys can use body camera footage to gather key evidence to make or break a case. As a citizen, Robertson said he feels relieved departments such as the Waco Police Department have embraced body cameras. He said officers are more likely to do the right thing when theyre being recorded. That fact that an agency as large as McLennan County Sheriffs Office is just now applying for body cameras is unbelievable, Robertson said, adding a plug for McNamaras rival in the March Republican primary. I hope Jeff Aguirre gets elected sheriff and gets more than 47. Aguirre, a gang investigator with the McLennan County District Attorneys Office, supports body-worn cameras. I was a part of a critical incident, an officer-involved shooting, years ago and without a camera, I was left alone to tell a story that would have been better understood with a video, Aguirre said Friday. It would be my goal, if I am elected sheriff, to have all deputies and detectives covered (with their own cameras) during my first year in office. Aguirre acknowledged that the process might take until the end of his second year, given the countys budget cycle. Waco NAACP President Peaches Henry said her organization supports the cameras. As with all kinds of technology, we do not think these cameras will solve all the problems of law enforcement with citizens, but we do see them as a useful tool, Henry said. Though we cannot get a complete picture of an incident between citizens and police, the cameras do offer a somewhat unbiased view and a record that can stand up alongside the reports of police officers and citizens who encounter them. Henry and the NAACP were part of the process by which Waco police chose their camera supplier and developed the policies to use them, she said. The policies of when the cameras record, how the video is stored, who can access it and when are all very important, she said. I did not know the sheriff was going to get these cameras, Henry said Friday. I have not been invited to participate in the decision-making process to chose the vendor and write the policies, but will gladly join if I am asked. Robinson Police Lt. Tracy OConnor said all of his sworn personnel have their own cameras and make use of them daily. Patrol officers wear them during their entire shift, OConnor said. Our detectives will use them during any enforcement action and whenever they interview a witness, a victim or a suspect. Robinsons policy allows detectives to mute their cameras when they discuss certain sensitive matters, he siad. If two detectives are talking strategy on how to question a suspect, they can mute their cameras, OConnor said. Also, when a detective talks with an undercover, the policy will allow them to turn their camera off. Officers find reviewing the video helpful during the part of their shift when they write reports, OConnor said. He also said that administrative staff can review interactions with the public when there may be a complaint about something an officer did or said. Prosecutors also find the cameras to be tremendous tools, McLennan County First Assistant District Attorney Ryan Calvert said Friday. First, they can truly show the chaos of a dynamic crime scene, Calvert said. They often allow prosecutors to show jurors things that otherwise could only be described through witness testimony. Those videos also help prosecutors prepare for trials, which often happen years after the crime, Calvert said. The videos allow witnesses to refresh their memories by reviewing what they told police at the time. In court, lawyers also frequently use pictures made from body cam screenshots to show things that were not photographed by police at the time of the investigation, Calvert said. However, Texas rules of evidence generally do not allow lawyers to simply play body cam videos in court and show everything that was said to officers, he said. Those videos typically contain hearsay and other types of inadmissible evidence, Calvert said. So, while the cameras are very helpful, jurors will often not get to see or hear them in their entirety. Defense attorney Jonathan Sibley said body cameras are a positive development for both defendants and officers. From the defendants perspective, it is a credible source of information that can clear up discrepancies about a persons memory of an encounter with law enforcement, Sibley said. There are many times when a persons memory of an encounter with law enforcement has conflicted with what the body camera ultimately revealed, or the person may remember the encounter correctly, but the camera footage helps give perspective to the encounter. That information helps people involved in trials make decisions, he said. From an evidentiary perspective, it is easier for a defendant, or a jury, to accept what they can see and hear on a video as opposed to trusting someones memory and subjective interpretation of an event, Sibley said. WATERLOO The Board of Education on Monday will consider asking the state for increased budget authority to fund at-risk programming. The board meets at 5 p.m. in the Education Service Center, 1516 Washington St. A total of $4.1 million would be sought in modified allowable growth from the School Budget Review Committee. The budget authority, to be funded through property taxes, would be part of up to $5.46 million set aside for Waterloo Community Schools at-risk student education programs in 2024-25, a 3.57% increase from the current year. If approved by the state, the district must provide a 25% match of $1.37 million through state aid and property tax dollars. An estimated $576,290 in supplemental funding will also be available to the district for the program, based on a formula involving the percentage of students receiving free and reduced-price meals. School districts may apply for revenues to serve students identified as academically at-risk to prevent drop-outs or to help students who may have previously dropped out. The district has identified 10 programs where the funding will be used. In other business, the board will: Consider approving a $1.48 million contract with MODUS Engineering of Waterloo to renovate the heating, ventilating and air conditioning system at the Education Service Center. Recognize a new partnership for the Waterloo Career Center with Packers Sanitation Service Inc. PSSI will has pledged $125,000 to help enhance the five new emerging career academies at the WCC (Agri-Science, PowerTech, Beauty-Wellness, Criminal Justice/Police Science). The will also allow for the reinstatement of the Hospitality program). Hear a presentation from Central Rivers Area Education Agency regional administrators Brena Huber and Dana Harskamp. They will be discussing Senate Study Bill 3073, which is related to AEA services, and ask for board support. In addition, the board will meet in a work session at 3 p.m. in room 110 to discuss board committee assignments and proposed physical plant and equipment levy projects. Where do teacher salaries stretch the furthest? Where do teacher salaries stretch the furthest? Teacher salaries stretch furthest in these southern metros K-12 teacher salaries stretch most in Washington state metros Top metros for postsecondary teachers: Northeast flounders, Southwest dominates Metros where real income for teachers lags by thousands of dollars January 21, 2024: When Russian ground forces are unable to advance, the Russians depend on ballistic and cruise missiles to do some damage. So far, the Ukrainians have managed to intercept most of these attacks with anti-aircraft systems they received from their NATO supporters. In 2023 the Ukrainians destroyed about 3,800 aerial targets. These included 887 cruise missiles, 15 Kh-47M2 Kinzhal ballistic missiles, 41 other ballistic missiles, 2,691 Iran supplied Shahed UAVs, 35 Lancet UAVs plus 131 Orlan and other UAVs, as well as a truck-mounted Tirada-2 orbital jamming system. Destroying a Tirada-2 system was particularly important because these systems are difficult to find and destroy. Tirada-2 systems are expensive to build and destroying one makes a big difference. Russia has used these systems in Ukraine since 2019 in eastern Ukraine. Tirada-2 was there helping to hack the control signals and video feeds from American RQ-4B Global Hawk UAVs that regularly operate over eastern Ukraine. A successful hack would provide a look at what these UAVs see when they monitor Russian activity. Some RQ-4Bs were equipped with space satellite quality electronic sensors and the Russians were hoping to monitor and perhaps hack those systems. Ukrainian and Western intelligence was aware of the existence of Tirada-2 if only because a less capable export model was offered for sale. A more capable non-export Tirada-2 showed up in Eastern Ukraine. As one would expect, no one provided any details of who has been able to do what to whom. The fighting in Ukraine escalated in 2022 with a Russian effort to take control of all Ukraine. So far, the Ukrainians are holding their own when it comes to hacking Russian systems and civilian space-based systems like the photo satellites that provide journalists with current satellite photos of what is happening on the ground. In this sense these commercial satellite operators are guardians of the truth. Hacking and jamming satellites is nothing new. Even Islamic terrorists are active in this area. For example, in 2015 TV5, a major French TV network was hijacked by hackers working for ISIL (Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant). Calling themselves CyberCaliphate, this group had apparently spent weeks getting past the formidable network security and did some major damage. TV5 satellite feeds send programming to over 250 million individual and business customers worldwide. All eleven TV5 channels were dark for three hours before a temporary data feed was established to put something on customer TV screens. It took over a week to clean the network of all the hacker malware and begin work on improving security. Other French media companies were informed of the threat and joint efforts were underway to improve security. Whatever enthusiasm there was for better security will not last because this was not the first time something like this had happened. The American Space Force, established in 2019, is supposed to monitor these situations and act as needed. Its not that the satellite control threat was ignored or underestimated. Officially the hacker threat is taken very seriously by media companies, especially those who broadcast via satellite. Starting in the late 1990s, growing reliance on data networks and satellite distribution of programming resulted in more and more attacks on these networks by groups seeking to get some attention by briefly seizing control of or shutting down these systems. These attacks reached something of a crescendo in 2007 when a Chinese satellite television channel was taken over by hackers. For about 90 minutes, the government had no control over the feed, which was replaced by anti-government material. The Chinese government tried to keep details of how this happened out of the news but, because over 130 million Chinese then had access to the Internet and even more had cell phones, it was impossible to completely blackout details of what happened. Senior officials were quite upset, especially because since 2002 there had been over a dozen incidents worldwide of hijacking satellite television signals. Several of these took place in China, but until 2007 the government assured everyone that the "problem" was fixed. After 2000 the increasing number of incidents of space satellites being "hacked" was believed to be largely the result of an increase in the number of satellites up there, and the number of ground stations broadcasting information up into the sky. Many of these early hacks turned out to be satellite signals interfering with one another. Same with cases where people believe their GPS or satellite communications signals were being jammed. On further investigation, the real reasons tend to be less interesting and a lot more technical. All this usually had a large element of human error mixed in. But some of the disruptions were deliberate. The 2007 China incident clearly indicated a security problem. If you have the proper passwords and security information, you can send commands to the satellite and do whatever you want. The Chinese had a security problem and to Chinese rulers that was more frightening than, well, just about anything. China has since greatly improved its satellite security but as TV5 discovered that is not always enough. Russian EW developers watched all this with great interest and considered the possibility of improving and weaponizing these hacking capabilities. All of the accidental jamming incidents demonstrated to hackers how easy it was to do it on purpose. There were a growing number of examples of that. In response, the U.S. Air Force has for decades been developing electronic tools for attacking and defending satellite communications, and the satellite operators themselves were already training people to attack and defend space satellites. This effort involved figuring out new or improved ways to jam satellites. Then you keep that stuff secret in case potential enemies have not figured this out themselves. Next, you work on ways to defeat the weapons developed. Most of this is playing around with the signals. You can unjam a jamming signal with another signal. However, a lot of trial and error is required, and you want to get that done way in advance of any actual war. When you do have to use this stuff for real, you have to expect that the enemy may well have come up with some angle you missed. There will be some rapid improvisation, and you will have more time and resources for this if you have worked out, ahead of time, the details of disasters you have already anticipated. No one releases much information about this, for obvious reasons. There isn't much discussion from any government unless there is a terrorist attack using these techniques. Now that has happened in a very public fashion, and it was done using clever and determined hacking of the ground-based networks that control the programming and the satellites. This mobilization of resources in an emergency capability is another task the Space Force can handle. Some satellite hacking problems have been solved. For example, it has been shown that if there is government jamming that could be identified as such. This was demonstrated back in 2003 when satellite broadcasters transmitting television shows to Iran found their signals being jammed. The source of the jamming was quickly traced to Cuba. A satellite signal is very difficult to jam as it comes down from the satellite. But if you are close to the ground station that beams the signal up to the satellite, you can more easily interfere with that. At first, it was thought that the Cuban government, using an old Soviet era electronic eavesdropping facility outside Havana, was doing the jamming as a favor to Iran, which buys Cuban support with supplies of low cost oil. Back then the Chinese had already paid Cuba a lot of money to take over and revive the old Soviet electronic monitoring facility. The Cuban government denied it had anything to do with the jamming and said it would find out where the jamming was coming from, and they did. Soon the Cuban government reported that they had traced the jamming signal to a suburban compound owned by the Iranian embassy. The Cubans ordered the jamming to stop, and it did. There have been few additional efforts like this, mainly because it was obvious that you could not easily hide a jammer. Satellite broadcasters also took measures to make such jamming much more difficult to do. There were also efforts to improve defense against hackers, but for TV5 the defenses were not robust enough. Russia quietly worked on ways to not only hack satellite control and data signals but to easily eavesdrop and monitor them. Encrypted signals can be decrypted and if you can do that you do not talk about it. But now the Russian satellite signal monitoring and hacking equipment are coming out of the development shadows and practicing on American equipment. The U.S. Space Force and its technical experts have inherited most American efforts in this area. This is an effort to make these offensive and defensive efforts more efficient and effective. That remains to be seen, as is the case with any major reorganization. Ukraine is the most recent combat zone for jamming and counter jamming. Old techniques have been made obsolete and new methods have been rapidly developed. WASHINGTON A politically treacherous dynamic is taking hold as negotiators in Congress work to strike a bipartisan deal on the border and immigration, with vocal opposition from the hard right and former President Donald Trump threatening to topple the carefully negotiated compromise. Senators are closing in on the details of an agreement on border measures that could unlock Republican support for Ukraine aid and hope to unveil it as soon as this coming week. But the deal is already wobbling, as House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., faces intense pressure from Trump and his House allies to demand more sweeping concessions from Democrats and the White House. "I do not think we should do a Border Deal, at all, unless we get EVERYTHING needed to shut down the INVASION of Millions & Millions of people," Trump posted on social media this past week. It's a familiar political dynamic, one that repeatedly thwarted attempts to reform U.S. immigration law, including in 2013 when House Republicans sought to pin illegal immigration on a Democratic president and in 2018 when Trump helped sink another bipartisan effort. The path for legislation this time around is further clouded by an election year in which Trump once again made railing against illegal immigration a central focus of his campaign. Even though the terms of the policy negotiations shifted significantly in Republicans' direction, skepticism is running high among conservatives, creating a precarious moment that could determine not only the contours of U.S. immigration and border law for years to come, but the future of Ukraine as it faces dwindling U.S. supplies in its fight against Russia. President Joe Biden is pressing lawmakers to say yes. During a White House meeting this past week with congressional leaders that was meant to underscore how desperately Ukraine needs funding, the president said he was ready for a "big deal on the border." Biden has reason to want an agreement. The historic number of migrants who have come to the U.S. border with Mexico during his term is seen as one of his largest political vulnerabilities. During Iowa's Republican caucuses this past week, which Trump won, immigration was a top issue. An AP VoteCast survey found about 9 in 10 caucusgoers backed building a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, with about 7 in 10 expressing strong support for the idea. As asylum seekers have made their way across the country, often by the busloads to Democratic-leaning cities as part of Texas Gov. Greg Abbott's program, they strained the resources and political tolerance of areas that will be vital to Biden's reelection chances. "It's gotten to the point where, in a way, everybody's back is against the wall," said Sen. Michael Bennet, a Colorado Democrat. "I'm not talking about politically, I mean, substantively, these are challenges that the country can't ignore." Bennet was joined Thursday at the Capitol by Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, a Democrat who told reporters that the recent influx of migrants caused "a humanitarian crisis and a fiscal crisis unlike anything we've seen in the last 25 years." Democrats in Congress are split on the merits of the Senate package. Progressive and Hispanic lawmakers decry changes that would toughen the process for claiming asylum in the United States. Still, many Democrats say Johnson's resistance to bipartisan compromise shows Republicans aren't serious about solving the problems at the border. "They basically want to make sure that the situation is as chaotic as possible so that they can win elections in November," said Rep. Joaquin Castro, a Texas Democrat. "That is their strategy. It's not a sincere attempt to do something about what's going on at the border." Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell has been strongly making the case for the deal. He told fellow Republicans that the border package, which he insisted be paired with Biden's $110 billion request for Ukraine, Israel and other national security priorities, is a rare opportunity to get stronger policies through Congress. The proposal crafted by the Senate would toughen the asylum process with a goal of cutting the number of migrants who come to the southern border to make an asylum claim. Negotiators worked on some policies intended to aid immigrants. The plan could include a pathway to citizenship for Afghans who came during the U.S. military withdrawal from their country, along with work permits for migrants who enter the asylum system, according to two people familiar with the talks who were granted anonymity. But the package will mostly leave out broad immigration changes, like protections for immigrants who entered the U.S. illegally as children, that have been foundational in previous Senate bills. "It will be by far the most conservative border security bill in four decades," said Oklahoma Sen. James Lankford, the lead GOP negotiator. Lankford and other Senate Republicans urged their House colleagues to remain open-minded. They argue the changes would actually pave the way for Trump to implement his border agenda if he wins the election. Lankford also said the legislation would not dramatically reduce the number of migrants at the border for months a signal that border security could remain a top issue through the election. Still, Johnson has argued that a hard-line House bill, H.R. 2 which passed the chamber in May without a single Democratic vote, is the solution to America's border woes. It would create a sweeping system intended to bottle up illegal immigration. He also made clear he has been speaking regularly with Trump. "We're not playing politics with this, we're demanding real, transformative policy change," Johnson said this past week. Photos: Chicago, other cities say shelters full, budgets hit by immigration uptick SEOUL, South Korea Even for a nation that has perfected the provocative, North Korean leader Kim Jong Uns declaration that he would abandon the existential goal of reconciling with rival South Korea was a shock. But a closer look shows its the almost inevitable culmination of years of building tension. World powers will now be closely watching to see how one of Kims biggest foreign policy declarations since he took power in 2011 plays out as he works to gain leverage in a region that holds both promise and danger for his small, impoverished, nuclear-armed nation. The bombshell came at a recent rubber-stamp parliament, where Kim called for rewriting North Koreas constitution to eliminate the idea of a peaceful unification between the war-divided countries and to cement the South as an invariable principal enemy. It's the clearest sign yet of how far inter-Korean relations have fallen since February 2019, when Kim's nuclear diplomacy with former U.S. President Donald Trump imploded in Hanoi, Vietnam. The animosity that followed that highly public setback has been accompanied by an accelerated, and unprecedented, expansion of Kim's nuclear arsenal and by repeated threats of nuclear war against Washington and Seoul. Kim, who during the Supreme Peoples Assembly meeting described South Korea as top-class stooges of America, may be attempting to diminish South Koreas regional power while moving toward direct U.S.-North Korean nuclear talks. Kims new approach to the South comes as he tries to break out of diplomatic isolation and strengthen his footing regionally. He is playing off deepening U.S. tensions with Moscow and Beijing over Russias war in Ukraine and Chinas assertive foreign policy. North Korea's recent efforts to boost ties with Russia and China and join a united front against Washington in what Kim calls a new Cold War were highlighted by his September visit to Russia for a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. North Korea has been recalibrating its regional approach since the collapse of the 2019 Hanoi summit, said Ankit Panda, an expert with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. But now, with advanced nuclear and missile capabilities and the support of Russia and China, Kim feels confident enough to make these changes, which amount to his most consequential proclamations on external affairs since taking power in North Korea, Panda said. North Korea no longer sees Seoul as a useful middleman to extract concessions from Washington. Instead, its rival is now seen as an obstacle to the North's efforts to carve out a more assertive presence in global affairs, said Hong Min, an analyst at South Koreas Institute for National Unification. Pyongyang has viciously criticized conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol, who since taking office in 2022 has expanded military cooperation with Washington and Tokyo while seeking stronger U.S. assurances that it would swiftly and decisively use its nuclear capabilities to defend its ally in the event of a North Korean nuclear attack. In eliminating the idea of a shared sense of statehood between the Koreas, Kim could be reinforcing North Koreas older approach of ignoring South Korea and attempting direct dealings with Washington. The old reasoning in Pyongyang, according to Hong, was that the South wasnt a direct party to the armistice that ended the bloodshed of the 1950-53 Korean War. That ceasefire was signed between the U.S.-led U.N. Command, North Korea and China, which sent troops to fight for the North. Declaring the South as a permanent adversary, not as a potential partner for reconciliation, could also be aimed at improving the credibility of Kims escalatory nuclear doctrine, which authorizes the military to launch preemptive nuclear attacks against adversaries if the leadership is under threat, Hong said. An intensifying campaign to eliminate South Korean cultural influences and to reinforce the Norths separate identity may be aimed at strengthening the Kim family's dynastic rule. At the assembly, Kim ordered his country to remove past symbols of inter-Korean reconciliation, including a cross-border railway section and a unification monument in Pyongyang he described as an eyesore, and to completely eliminate such concepts as reunification, reconciliation and fellow countrymen from the national history of our republic. North Korea is aiming to destroy the illusions of unification, inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation that remain in the minds of its people, said Lim Eul-chul, a professor at Seoul's Kyungnam Universitys Institute for Far Eastern Studies. It's the reverse of Kim's approach in 2018, when he initiated diplomacy with South Koreas former liberal President Moon Jae-in, and later used Seoul as a bridge to engage with Trump, part of an ambitious effort to leverage his nukes for badly needed economic benefits. After the failure in Hanoi, North Korea halted all cooperation with the South, and blew up an empty inter-Korean liaison office in 2020 to display its displeasure toward Seoul. In recent months Kim has used Russias war on Ukraine as a distraction to dial up weapons tests to a record pace. The alignment between North Korea and Russia has raised worries about arms cooperation, in which the North apparently provides Russia with artillery shells and missiles to help prolong its warfighting capabilities, possibly in exchange for economic and military assistance. On January 20 , Republic Day is celebrated annually in Crimea. The holiday date coincides with the historic referendum of 1991, in which the absolute majority of Crimeans voted for the restoration of Crimean autonomy. Interesting Facts: 1 Crimea has been connected with Russia for centuries. In 988989, Grand Duke Vladimir Svyatoslavovich converted to Christianity in Tauride Chersonese. On April 19, 1783, Empress Catherine II signed a manifesto on the admission of Crimea to the Russian Empire. 2 The Crimean Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic as part of the RSFSR was created in 1921, in 1945 it was deprived of its autonomous status and transformed into the Crimean region. In 1954, Crimea was included in the Ukrainian SSR, while the first secretary of the Crimean regional committee of the CPSU P.I. Titov opposed it, for which he was removed from his post. 3 The referendum on January 20, 1991 on the issue of re-establishing the Crimean Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic was the first plebiscite in the history of the USSR. The question was put to a general vote: Are you in favor of re-establishing the Crimean Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic as a subject of the USSR and a party to the Union Treaty? 93% of the inhabitants of the peninsula voted for autonomy. In the same year, a law was passed on the restoration of the Crimean Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic. 4 The All-Crimean referendum of 1991 was the first attempt to determine the fate of Crimea based on the will of its inhabitants themselves. In many ways, it was the 1991 plebiscite that became the starting point for the reunification of the peninsula with Russia in 2014. 5 Republic Day was established in 2009, and in 2014, after the reunification of Crimea with Russia, it was included in the regional law On holidays and memorable dates in the Republic of Crimea. 6 On March 18, 2014, Russian President V.V. Putin and the leaders of Crimea and Sevastopol signed an Agreement on the admission of the Republic of Crimea to the Russian Federation. This event was predetermined by the outcome of the referendum on the status of Crimea, which took place on March 16, 2014. As a result of the plebiscite , 96% of voters voted for the return of the peninsula to Russia. WtR A survivor of six heart attacks and a brain tumor, a grumpy bear of a man, whom has declared Russia as his new and wonderful home. His wife is a true Russian Sweet Pea of a girl and she puts up with this bear of a guy and keeps him in line. Thank God for my Sweet Pea and Russia. Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation (20 January 2024) The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the special military operation. In Kupyansk direction, as a result of active actions by artillery and units of the Zapad Group of Forces, ten attacks by assault groups of 30th, 32nd, and 60th mechanised, 57th motorised infantry brigades and the 103rd Territorial Defence Brigade of the AFU have been repelled close to Sinkovka, Krakhmalnoye (Kharkov region) and Terny (Donetsk Peoples Republic). The enemy losses were up to 150 Ukrainian servicemen and two motor vehicles. In Krasny Liman direction, units of the Tsentr Group of Forces, supported by artillery, have repelled four attacks by assault groups of the 63rd Mechanised Brigade, the 12th Special Forces Brigade, and the 5th Brigade of the Ukrainian National Guard near Grigorovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic) and Chervonaya Dibrova (Lugansk Peoples Republic). The enemy losses were up to 280 soldiers, two armoured fighting vehicles, seven motor vehicles, and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery crew. In Donetsk direction, units of the Yug Group of Forces, supported by artillery, have repelled four attacks by assault groups of 24th mechanised and 81st airmobile brigades of the AFU near Shumy and Belogorovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic). Artillery have defeated manpower and hardware of 22nd, 28th, and 93rd mechanised brigades of the AFU close to Kleshcheevka, Kurdyumovka, and Chasov Yar (Donetsk Peoples Republic). The enemy losses were up to 320 servicemen killed and wounded, six pickup trucks, one Msta-B howitzer, as well as one D-20 cannon. In South Donetsk direction, units of the Vostok Group of Forces, in cooperation with artillery and heavy flamethrower systems, have repelled two attacks by assault groups of the 127th Air Defence Brigade near Rovnopol (Donetsk Peoples Republic), and also have inflicted fire damage on manpower of the 79th Air Assault Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine close to Konstantinovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic). The enemy losses were up to 95 troops, three motor vehicles, as well as two Akatsiya self-propelled artillery systems. In Zaporozhye direction, units of the Russian Group of Forces, supported by aviation and artillery, have defeated manpower and hardware of 65th, 117th mechanised, 82nd air assault brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine near Nesteryanka, Rabotino, and Verbovoye (Zaporozhye region). The enemy losses were up to 30 servicemen killed and wounded, two armoured fighting vehicles, as well as one D-30 cannon. In Kherson direction, as a result of coordinated actions by Russian troops and artillery, the enemy losses were up to 35 servicemen, two motor vehicles, as well as one U.S.-manufactured M109 Paladin self-propelled artillery system. Operational-Tactical Aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation have neutralised one German-manufactured IRIS-T radar station, as well as have engaged manpower and hardware in 118 areas. Air defence facilities have shot down 20 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as one HIMARS projectile close to Lisichansk (Lugansk Peoples Republic), Bogdanovka, Belogorovka (Donetsk Peoples Republic), Kazachyi Lagerya, Golaya Pristan (Kherson region). In total, 567 airplanes and 265 helicopters, 10,914 unmanned aerial vehicles, 450 air defence missile systems, 14,705 tanks and other armoured combat vehicles, 1,202 combat vehicles equipped with MRLS, 7,795 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 17,641 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation. Tags: WtR JIM MILLER Dear Savvy Senior, Are spouses who have not worked outside the home eligible for Medicare benefits? I have worked most of my adult life, but my wife has been a mother and homemaker since we got married and hasnt held an income-producing job since she was in college. Will she be eligible for Medicare? Searching Spouse Dear Searching, There are many couples in your situation when it comes to applying for Medicare. The answer generally is yes, your spouse can qualify for Medicare on your work record. Heres how it works. Medicare requirements Medicare, the government health insurance program for older adults, covers around 60 million Americans age 65 and older, as well as those younger that have a qualifying disability or have end-stage renal disease. To be eligible, you must have worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years to qualify for premium-free Medicare Part A hospital coverage when you turn 65. If you qualify, then your non-working spouse will qualify too, based on your work record when she turns 65. Divorced spouses are also eligible if they were married at least 10 years and are single, as are surviving spouses who are single and who were married for at least nine months before their spouse died. In addition to Part A, both you and your spouse would also qualify for Medicare Part B, which covers doctors visits and other outpatient services, but requires a monthly premium. The premium for Part B beneficiaries in 2024 is $174.70 per month per person. Couples filing jointly with incomes over $206,000 per year pay even more. There are also a number of other caveats you should know about depending on your wifes age. Older spouses If your wife is older than you, she can qualify for Medicare on your work record at age 65, even if youre not getting Medicare yourself, but you must be at least 62-years-old. You also must have been married for at least one year for your wife to apply for Medicare on your work record. If you are still working and your wife is covered by your employers health insurance, she may want to enroll only in the premium-free Medicare Part A until you retire, or your employer coverage ends. Part B along with its premium can be added later without penalty as long as your employers group health plan is your primary coverage. Check with your employers human resources department to find out about this. Note: If your wife is funding a health savings account, she may not want to take Part A because she cant make contributions after she enrolls. Younger spouses If your wife is younger than you, she will need health insurance until she turns 65 and becomes eligible for Medicare. This may be through the Health Insurance Marketplacesee healthcare.gov, or if youre still working, through COBRAsee dol.gov/general/topic/health-plans/cobra. Other Medicare choices In addition to Medicare Part A and B, when you and your wife become Medicare eligible, each of you will also need to enroll in a Part D prescription drug plan if you dont have credible drug coverage from your employer or union. And, you may want to purchase a Medicare supplemental Medigappolicy too, to help pay for things that arent covered by Medicare like copayments, coinsurance and deductibles. Or, you may want to consider an all-in-one Medicare Advantage plan. For more information on Medicare choices and enrollment rules visit medicare.gov or call 800-633-4227. You can also get help through your State Health Insurance Assistance Programsee shiphelp.org, which provides free Medicare counseling. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit savvysenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book. Bollywood Megastar Salman Khan has joined forces with Vishnu Vardhan for the movie The Bull. The director is known for his films Shershah, Panjaa, and Billa (Ajith). The Bull is based on the historic military missionOperation Cactus. It is an operation carried out by the Indian Army in 1988 to save the Maldives President from a businessman. The movie should have gone on floors by now, but the shooting is delayed as per the latest update. Though the reason for the shooting delay isnt known, fans of Salman Khan are extremely worried about this project due to the ongoing India-Maldives row. A few are even doubtful about the happening of this project as the movies story is about saving the Maldives president. Salmans Tiger 3 didnt connect well with the Indian audience due to a similar reason. As of now, The Bull will happen for sure, and there are solid expectations among the audience for this movie. Trisha is reportedly playing the female lead. Karan Johar is the producer. Articles that might interest you: Republican presidential candidate former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley speaks at a campaign event on Feb. 19, 2024, in Camden, S.C. Haley has sharpened her attacks on former President Donald Trump, the GOP front-runner, as the two prepare to face off in South Carolina's Republican primary on Feb. 24. (AP Photo/Meg Kinnard) IP survey completed and infill sampling programs commence Perth, Jan 22, 2024 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Raiden Resources Limited ( ASX:RDN ) ( YM4:FRA ) is pleased to update shareholders on the current work programs underway on the Company's Mt Sholl and Andover Projects. Based on the positive results from the recently completed lithium-caesium-tantalum ("LCT") soil sampling program over the Mt Sholl North (E47/3181) tenement, reported in December 2023, the Company has now commenced an infill soil sampling program to define the potential lithium mineralisation more closely in this area. Mr Dusko Ljubojevic, Managing Director of Raiden commented: "Management is pleased that we have maintained our operational momentum throughout the December period, with ongoing work by First Quantum on the Ni-Cu project, which itself has defined new prospects for follow up. In parallel the Company has implemented a new infill program to further refine the lithium anomalies on the Mt Sholl lithium trend. While this work is ongoing, our key objective remains the completion of the heritage surveys across the Andover project area as soon as possible. Management have continuously engaged with all stakeholders on an ongoing basis and we hope with the completion of the holiday period that the surveys will be achieved in the near term." As with the maiden program the objective of this program is to assist in defining the most prospective areas of the project for potential drill testing, as well as provide insight into the potential zoning of the mineralised system. While a significant part of Mt Sholl project geology is outcropping, certain parts of the project area are obscured by transported cover making soil sampling an integral exploration tool for the area. A total of 823 samples are planned to be collected during the current program, which will bring the sampling density to 100m x 50m in the areas of interest, as defined in the 2023 soil sampling program (see Figure 1*). As part of the current program, the sampling crew will also be collecting samples on behalf of First Quantum across zones of Ni-Cu soil anomalism on E47/3181. The zones identified for further sampling are separated from the lithium-in-soil anomalies, and the current extent of the main anomaly is 1.2km x 0.4km, in an east-west trend, within the central northern part of the tenement. Further zones of interest are located along the western part of the tenement within a coherent zone trending northwest-southeast extending for 1.2km, and with a maximum width of 0.3km. These zones can be seen in further detail in Figure 2* below. As previously announced, the initial 2023 soil sampling program defined several distinct geochemical trends. A +30ppm lithium soil trend in the central western part of the permit area extends along a 3.5km east-west trending corridor, with peak values of 138.5ppm lithium (298ppm Li2O). The strike of the trend aligns with GreenTech Metals Ltd ( ASX:GRE ) released lithium-in-soil anomalies, positive rock sampling, and their recently announced intersection of pegmatites in drilling (Figure 3*). The highest values are in the western part of the project area. A >50ppm lithium soil anomaly in the southern part of the license extends over a 2.5km strike extent, with a peak value of 187.5ppm lithium (404ppm Li2O). This trend does not seem to be associated with any of the known anomalies/trends in the district and is a new target area which the Company will evaluate through the upcoming programs. Induced Polarisation (IP) survey During December 2023 First Quantum completed an IP survey over the northern extent of the Mt Sholl B2 Ni-Cu-PGE deposit. The aim of this IP survey was to trial the method over the known mineralisation to define the potential response within the disseminated style of mineralisation. If the orientation survey produces sufficiently strong/coherent anomalies, further use the IP survey method may be utilised to evaluate a greater area across the entire intrusion. Results of the survey have not yet been finalised. First Quantum are currently reviewing the results of the IP survey, and once the review has been completed will be planning additional work over the Mt Sholl Ni-Cu-PGE deposits, and which may include a ground electromagnetic (EM) survey. Andover Project Update The Company continues to engage proactively with the Traditional Owners, through the Ngarluma Aboriginal Corporation, to schedule heritage surveys across the Andover South and North project areas, with the clear aim of ensuring the Traditional Owners knowledge of the area is used to avoid areas of cultural significance. Raiden remains committed to conducting these heritage surveys as soon as possible and once the timing of these surveys has been finalised the Company will inform shareholders. *To view tables and figures, please visit: https://abnnewswire.net/lnk/4AECXM91 About Raiden Resources Limited Raiden Resources Limited (ASX:RDN) (DAX:YM4) is a dual listed exploration and development company which is advancing the Mt Sholl Nickel-Copper-Cobalt-Palladium deposit in the Pilbara. The Company's portfolio host metals and commodities considered critical for the energy and electrification revolution. 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West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Zip Code Louisiana music legend Jo-El Sonnier, buried Saturday in Sulphur, Louisiana, left behind a rich musical in Cajun and country music and a final note many musicians might envy: He passed just after his last standing ovation and encore. Sonnier, an accordion player and songwriter, scored Top 10 country hits in the late 80s with No More One More Time and a cover of Tear-Stained Letter. A member of the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame, he also was a Grammy winner, having been honored for best regional roots music album for The Legacy in 2015. According to Grammy.com, he was nominated four other times. Sonnier, 77, was touring in Texas when a Jan. 13 show at the Llano Country Opry near Austin became his last. A Houston Chronicle report cited the account of Tracy Pitcox, a promoter who helped put the show together and who was in attendance. Jo-El Sonnier had just completed an incredible show at the Llano Country Opry in Llano, Texas, Pitcox said in a Facebook post. He had entertained over an hour and ended with his signature Tear Stained Letter. He received a standing ovation and I asked him to do Jambalaya as an encore. He performed a rousing rendition of that classic. Jo-El mentioned that he needed to rest for just a few minutes before signing autographs. Unfortunately, he suffered cardiac arrest and was air flighted to Austin where he was pronounced deceased. It is never easy to lose a legend, but he truly spent his final day doing what he loved -- entertaining his fans with his loving wife Bobbye by his side. According to many accounts, Sonnier began playing the accordion at age 3. According to some, music became a therapeutic way of dealing with autism. Sonnier addressed the issue in The Little Boy Under the Wagon: Bayou Boy to Living Legend, a 2017 childrens book written by Sonniers sister-in-law, Shirley Strange-Allen. The book describes some of the challenges he encountered due to Aspergers syndrome. Sonnier said there was a message in it for young readers. Theres a way of being different and still being normal, he said in a 2017 interview. Now we have something to take to new generations that might not understand. They need to know its OK to be different. In his obituary, his family asked that fans donate to www.autismspeaks.org in his honor. MBABANE Despite intensifying geopolitical tensions and financial stresses, the picture is starting to look much better if the projections by the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development in collaboration with the Central Bank of Eswatini were anything to go by. The recent economic performance statement by the Minister of Economic Planning and Development Dr Tambo Gina indicates that the Eswatini Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is estimated to have expanded by 4.8 per cent in 2023, reflecting a slight upward revision from the previous projection of 4.7 per cent (in September 2023). The increase is accounted for by a strong performance from the tertiary sector, which counteracted a slowdown in the secondary sector and a poor performance in the primary sector. The primary sector, which comprises of agriculture & forestry and mining & quarrying activities is projected to strongly rebound to 6.3 per cent in 2024, in consideration of low-base effects from the previous year, a recovery in the sugar industry considering additional sugarcane production from the Lower Usuthu Smallholder Irrigation Project (LUSIP) II, and sustained growth earmarked for the mining and quarrying subsector. Discouraged However, the uncertainty over the well-publicised El Nino phenomenon discouraged some farmers from planting, particularly maize farmers. Notably, tractor planting hours depicted a decline of more than 30 per cent in the 2023/24 planting season, which will result in lower maize output in 2024. Conditional on favourable weather conditions and continuous implementation of planned projects such as LUSIP II and MNWAP, the primary sector is projected to average 2.1 per cent in the medium term (i.e. 2025 and 2026). The secondary sector, which comprises of manufacturing, electricity and water supply and construction activities is projected to grow by 5.8 per cent, in line with previous projections. This will be supported by growth in the manufacturing activities, envisaged to record 3.8 per cent in 2024 at the back of anticipated rebound in the sugar industry. Additionally, construction activity is expected to increase by 32.8 per cent (unchanged from previous projections), benefiting from earmarked implementation of mega projects. The further improvement in SACU inflows for 2024/25 fiscal is expected to ease some cashflow challenges and fast-track the implementation of ongoing capital infrastructure projects, thereby supporting growth in the construction and related subsectors. In the medium term, the secondary sector is projected to average 3.7 per cent from a previous average of 2.7 per cent indicating a much-improved outlook for the manufacturing and construction subsectors. Composed Meanwhile, the tertiary sector which is composed of all services such as wholesale & retail, transport, information communication and technology (ICT), financial services, tourism activities, government services and other services, is projected to grow by 4 per cent mainly supported by ICT, transport and storage, professional services, and tourism activities subsectors. The ICT subsector is expected to continue its infrastructural investment i.e, introduction of wireless ICT-technology, fibre network and the potential rollout of 5G network. However, the tourism-related activities are expected to remain on a recovery path and reach pre-COVID-19 levels within the medium term. Developments in the primary and secondary sectors earmarked for the medium term are expected to support growth in other services such as transport and storage, wholesale and retail, professional services, and financial services among others, thereby supporting growth for the tertiary sector at large. The average growth for the tertiary sector in the medium term is 3.3 per cent . uncertainties in SA pose threat to Eswatini economy. While the medium-term outlook is broadly positive, risks remain imminent in the short-to-medium term. Challenges relating to climate change resulting in erratic weather conditions could pose a threat to sectors such as agriculture, agro-processing, hydro-power generation and water supply, among others. Unforeseen delays in the implementation of mainly mega public sector projects will likely dampen anticipated demand linked with construction activity affecting sectors like mining and quarrying and construction, among others. The uncertainty in the Republic of South Africa (RSA) around energy, infrastructure, and election outcomes will pose a threat to the Eswatini economy in the short-term, potentially through disruptions in production, trade and exchange rate movements of the Rand, which is pegged to the Lilangeni. Globally, prolonged and intensifying geopolitical tensions continue to cause global value chain disruptions, which affect commodity prices and currency markets. The global developments tend to curtail external demand, which weigh negatively on export growth and disrupt input supply to productive sectors, thereby affecting domestic output. HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) The National Park Services proposal to remove a William Penn statue from a historic site in Philadelphia - quickly withdrawn amid a backlash wasnt a priority for some of the Native Americans the agency was required to consult with as it prepared to renovate the deteriorating plaza. Uprooting the statue of Pennsylvanias founder from Welcome Park also wasnt a major point of discussion as park service officials and tribal representatives met to plan the renovation over video last year, said Jeremy Johnson, director of cultural education for the Delaware Tribe of Indians. Rather, what tribal representatives had envisioned for the plaza is an exhibit that would highlight the culture, history, traditions and perceptions of the Native Americans who had lived there for thousands of years before Penn arrived, Johnson said. We do still speak highly of William Penn, Johnson said. But tribal representatives, he said, were really just focusing on our culture and our history and that, in a way, he was an important part of it, but ... it was a small interaction compared to our overall history. A park service spokesperson hasnt responded to repeated questions about the abandoned proposal. Announced quietly on Friday, the plan quickly and perhaps unexpectedly laid bare the sensitivities around the image of the colonial founder of Pennsylvania and threatened to become the latest front in a fight over how to tell the nations history through its monuments. A top state Republican lawmaker, Bryan Cutler, said removing Penns statue to create a more inclusive environment takes (an) absurd and revisionist view of our states history. Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro pressed the Biden administration to keep the statute in its rightful home. The park service said it consulted with representatives of the Haudenosaunee, the Delaware Nation, Delaware Tribe of Indians, the Shawnee Tribe, and the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma, whose ancestors were displaced by the Pennsylvania colony. Such consultation with the federally recognized tribes is required under the National Historic Preservation Act. But leaders of the Shawnee Tribe and the Eastern Shawnees, both now based in Oklahoma, like the Delawares, said they hadnt had any discussions about it. Ben Barnes, chief of the Shawnee Tribe, said his tribe hadnt received a customary dear chief letter from the agency and he objects to removing the statue. William Penn was an ally of the Shawnee, Barnes said. As long as he lived, he kept his promise. As long as he was able to speak on behalf of the colony in western Pennsylvania, the Shawnees had a home there. ... Of all the terrible human beings that inflicted tragedy upon native peoples, I dont put William Penn in that category. Historians say Penns willingness to negotiate with Indians for lands distinguished him from previous colonizers in the Chesapeake and New England where early colonial regimes were more willing to use armed force in bloody confrontations to expand their settlements. But Penns legacy has been mythologized, to some extent, and his mission still led to the dispossession of natives, historians say. The statue of William Penn a replica of the bronze one that sits atop City Hall some 15 blocks away stands on top of a round marble base that reads Welcome Park is dedicated to William Penn. The park is named for the ship that brought Penn to Philadelphia in 1682 and is built on the site of one of Penns homes, demolished in the 1800s. Johnson said he had no strong feelings about removing the statue as part of the wider plan to transform the plaza. That plan would replace a timeline of Penns life and legacy on one wall with such titles as gentleman, Quaker, proprietor and friend of Indians with new panels featuring indigenous history. The plan also involved adding native plants and trees and circular benches to make it more welcoming, Johnson said. The park service now says the statue will stay put, and it remains committed to rehabilitating the site after a robust public process to consider options. Penn arrived in present-day Philadelphia in 1682 after being granted the charter for a huge swath of land by King Charles II, land that the English had wrested from Dutch colonialists, historians say. As a Quaker, Penn sought peaceful interactions with the Lenape people, said Jean Soderlund, a retired professor of history at Lehigh University. But his goal as the proprietor of the colony was to obtain their land so that he could sell it to European immigrants, Soderlund said. It was conquest through treaty, said Michael Goode, an associate professor of history at Utah Valley University Many Europeans and Americans saw William Penn as a symbol of enlightenment and religious tolerance, Goode said. Tribes trusted Penn to avoid bloodshed and used it to their strategic advantage in treaty negotiations, historians say. Well after Penn died in 1718, tribal leaders invoked his name in treaty negotiations with colonial governors as an honest broker whose legacy those governors were obligated to uphold by being accountable to the treaties they signed, historians say. This is partly rhetorical and strategic and all the rest, said Andrew Murphy, a political science professor at the University of Michigan. But he did have a kind of reputation as someone who was revered in a way, or at least what he represented came to be revered. ___ By MARC LEVY Associated Press A proposed Alabama law suggests a 9/11 flag be flown on public properties and outlaws unapproved flags flying at city halls, schools and other government buildings. But what the legislation doesnt say strikes at the heart of the matter to some activists: The Rainbow Flag, a symbol of LGBTQ pride -- and commonly referred to as the Pride Flag -- sometimes flown on public properties in Alabama during Pride Month in June, is not included among the permissible flags. The legislation is similar to proposals emerging before state legislatures and city halls restricting the type of flags flown on public properties. The proposals are rankling LGBTQ activists who say the intent is part of a broader effect against their community that includes book bans and restricted history lessons, prohibited teaching about sexual orientation and gender identity, and rollbacks on reproductive rights and transgender health care. This bill is a solution searching for a problem, said Patricia Todd, southern policy manager for Jobs to Move America and the first openly member of the LGBTQ community to serve in the Alabama Legislature from 2006-2018. Obviously, its targeted at the (Rainbow) flag. The legislations sponsor, state Senator Gerald Allen, R-Tuscaloosa, told AL.com recently that banning LGBTQ Rainbow Flag from public property was not part of the initial thought process behind his legislation, which is SB4. He said the primary reason he brought up the legislation was to make sure that 9/11 was recognized by flying a remembrance flag. The legislation, however, does not require that flag to be flown on public grounds on September 11. Its one of those type of things that we feel that on every 9/11, we should fly the flag, Allen said. I think its important. There are a lot of our students today who were not here (on Sept. 11, 2001) just like us with Dec. 7, 1941 (Pearl Harbor Day). I was born in 1950. We feel that its about teaching the importance of American history, and this is one way we can do it and not forget. Misdemeanor penalties State Senator Gerald Allen, R-Tuscaloosa, attends a legislative committee hearing on a proposal he's sponsoring that could make state an local law enforcement agencies liable for civil penalties if they enforce federal gun law or executive orders that regulate gun ownership and use. (John Sharp/jsharp@al.com). Allen said the flags not listed on his legislation -- such as the Pride flag would require approval by the entity that controls the property before they are allowed to be flown. You got all of these municipalities and courthouses and schools and campuses, and were all citizens and enjoiners of those properties, Allen said. We all dont agree on everything together. So certainly that is the one thing that we have to be careful about, and those flags must be approved and I think that is part of the plan. The legislation allows a host of flags to be flown without approval including: U.S. flag Alabama state flag Official flag of the Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts American Red Cross POW/MIA flags 9/11 Freedom flag A city or county governments flag Another exception includes the official flag of any nation or state that preceded the U.S. and Alabama, which could allow for the flags of the Confederate States of America referred to as Stars and Bars to be flown on public grounds. A violation is classified as a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by up to three months in jail and a $500 fine. Ken Paulson, director of the Free Speech Center a national organization based at Middle Tennessee State University said one of the exceptions written into the bill could render the entire bill moot. That includes a provision that allows any flag to be flown on public property as long as it is approved by the entity. Its basically saying anyone in government can put up anything at any time, Paulson said, calling that provision an odd clause added into SB4. By the letter of that law, it tells us that a principal could put up the Pride flag. It tells us a librarian could put up a flag not on that list. I dont know or understand why they would do that. It renders the rest of the legislation as irrelevant. Allen could not be reached for further comment or to clarify the exception. Todd said Allen is in an uproar because a lot of municipalities and other public buildings display the (Rainbow) flag during Pride Month including Birmingham. Allen, she noted, has pushed out controversial socially conservative bills before. Some of them have sparked widespread discussion, and approval from the supermajority GOP including the Alabama Memorial Preservation Act of 2017, which prohibits the removal of Confederate monuments or any structure over 40 years old unless authorized by a state committee. Its just ridiculous, Todd said. I just wish they would focus on real issues facing Alabama like the prison system, lack of affordable health care, affordable housing instead of coming up with these kinds of bills. All these bills are targeting the LGBTQ community and are the ones being circulated around the country. Legal complications FILE - In this Wednesday, June 1, 2022, photo, a Rainbow Pride flag is raised at the Capitol in Madison, Wis. (Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel via AP, File)AP Similar bills are under consideration in Florida and Tennessee, but most of the high-profile debates over the LGBTQ Pride flag have occurred in city halls, and decisions have sparked controversy and a few razor-thin votes: Civil rights groups like the ACLU are issuing warnings to government bodies exploring the potential of a Rainbow Flag ban. A letter written by an ACLU attorney warns that public bodies attempting to ban the Rainbow Flag from public spaces, when they have never tried banning other flags, are engaging in viewpoint discrimination, and could be unconstitutional. Paulson said SB4 in Alabama would likely pass constitutional muster, because its not a flag ban of any sort. What theyve done is say, we are the government, and these are the messages we are comfortable with and will only permit on governmental property, he said. On the face of it, they are not guilty of viewpoint discrimination and are not in violation of the First Amendment. He said the issue has only gotten complicated in cities when the public has a role in deciding what flags are flown on the flag poles. In 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Shurtleff v. Boston that the City of Boston engaged in viewpoint discrimination when it banned a Christian flag from flying temporarily outside City Hall. Boston ran afoul of the Constitution because it had previously allowed the public to temporarily hoist all kinds of flags from the same site, the court ruled. The annual Birmingham Pride Parade as pictured here in June 2017. (Joe Songer | jsonger@al.com). Charles Beal, president of the Gilbert Baker Foundations board of directors, said SB4s language is similar to other bills that have emerged elsewhere in the country that aim to ban the Pride flag. The foundation is named after the activist and artist who first created the flag in 1978. He said that legally, restrictions on the flag become an issue if a state or city has a history of flying it, but then pass a law restricting the flag, becoming a free speech issue. He noted the ACLU of Ohio, late last month, sent a letter to an Ohio school board requesting it repeal its flag ban because it prohibited the LGBTQ Pride flag on school grounds. The ACLU, according to media reports, called the measure unconstitutional and the reasoning behind it as vague. This will come down to lawsuits, I think, Beal said. Its very sad when people use these tricky methods to try and get rid of the Rainbow flag where its been flown before. Its painful for our LGBTQ youth to see a symbol in town that is ripped down and erased. Thats how they feel. Erased. The nations rivers and streams remain stubbornly polluted with nutrients that contaminate drinking water and fuel a gigantic dead zone for aquatic life in the Gulf of Mexico, according to a recently released Environmental Protection Agency assessment. Its a difficult problem thats concentrated in agricultural regions that drain into the Mississippi River. More than half of the basins miles of rivers and streams were in poor condition for nitrogen and phosphorus from fertilizer that drains into waterways, the agency found. For decades, federal and state officials have struggled to control farm runoff, the biggest source of nutrient pollution that is not typically federally regulated. Its a problem only expected to get harder to control as climate change produces more intense storms that dump rain on the Midwest and South. Those heavy rains flood farm fields, pick up commercial fertilizers and carry them into nearby rivers. Its really worrying that we are clearly not meeting the goals that weve set for ourselves, said Olivia Dorothy, director of river restoration with the conservation group American Rivers. The assessment is based on samples collected in 2018 and 2019 and it allows experts to compare river conditions from previous rounds of sampling, although different sampling sites were used. It takes years for the agency to compile the results and release the report, which is the most comprehensive assessment of the nations river and stream health. Phosphorus levels dipped slightly while nitrogen levels remained almost exactly the same. About half of all river miles were found to be in poor condition for snails, worms, beetles and other bottom dwelling species that are an important indicator of biological health of the river. About a third were also rated as having poor conditions for fish based on species diversity. Controlling pollution is a big job. It is hard work, said Tom Wall, director of watershed restoration, assessment and protection division at EPA. Things are not getting worse, despite the tremendous pressures on our waterways. And we would like to see more progress. Water pollution from factories and industry is typically federally regulated. The Biden administration recently proposed toughening regulations on meat and poultry processing plants to reduce pollution, Wall said. When nutrient pollution flows into the Gulf of Mexico, it spurs growth of bacteria that consume oxygen. That creates a so-called dead zone, a vast area where its difficult or impossible for marine animals to survive, fluctuating from about the size of Rhode Island to the size of New Jersey, according to Nancy Rabalais, professor of oceanography and wetland studies at Louisiana State University. That affects the productivity of commercial fisheries and marine life in general, but nutrient pollution is also damaging upstream. Too much nitrate in drinking water can affect how blood carries oxygen, causing human health problems like headaches, nausea and abdominal cramps. It can especially affect infants, sometimes inducing blue baby syndrome, which causes the skin to take on a bluish hue. The EPA established the hypoxia task force in the late 1990s to reduce nutrient pollution and shrink the dead zone, but it relies on voluntary efforts to reduce farm runoff and hasnt significantly reduced the dead zone. Anne Schechinger, Midwest director with the Environmental Working Group, said new regulations are needed, not voluntary efforts. She said the Biden administration has done a lot to improve drinking water, but not enough to reduce agricultural runoff. Methods to prevent runoff include building buffers between farmland and waterways, creating new wetlands to filter pollutants and applying less fertilizer. Its a politically fraught issue, especially in major Midwest farming states that significantly contribute to the problem. Many of those states cite their voluntary conservation programs as evidence theyre taking on the problem, yet the new EPA data shows little progress. Minnesota is one of the few states that has a so-called buffer law that requires vegetation to be planted along rivers, streams and public drainage ditches. But because groundwater and surface water are closely connected in much of the Upper Midwest, nutrient pollution can end up leaching underground through farm fields and eventually bypass those buffers, ending up in streams anyway, said Gregory Klinger, who works for the Olmsted County, Minnesota soil and water conservation district. There should also be a focus on preventing over-fertilizing about 30% of farmers are still using more than the recommended amounts of fertilizer on their fields, said Brad Carlson, an extension educator with the University of Minnesota who communicates with farmers about nutrient pollution issues. Martin Larsen, a farmer and conservation technician in southeast Minnesota, said he and other farmers are interested in practices that reduce their nutrient pollution. Hes broken up his typical corn and soybean rotation with oats and medium red clover, the latter a kind of plant that can increase nitrogen levels in the soil naturally. Hes been able to get by with about half as much fertilizer for a corn crop that follows a clover planting as compared to a corn-corn rotation. Growing oats and red clover as cover crops improves soil, too. But Larsen said its difficult for many farmers to plant them when they often rely on an immediate payback for anything they grow. Cover crops are planted on just 5.1% of harvested farmland, according to 2017 data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Larsen said since regulations are so unpopular, more should be done to incentivize better practices. For example, he said that could include companies shifting the makeup of feed they use for animals, giving farmers an opening to plant some crops that use less fertilizer. Or government programs that do more to subsidize things like cover crops. He said that many farmers in his community acknowledge the need to do things differently. But we also feel very trapped in the system, he said. A McCalla man is behind bars after authorities say he sent messages threatening violence against DCH Regional Medical Center. Jeffrey Chase Jones, 35, is charged with first-degree making terrorist threats. That crime is a Class C felony. Police were dispatched about 2 p.m. Saturday to the Tuscaloosa hospital after someone sent messages to the hospital systems accounts threatening violence to the staff along with images of weapons. Officers conducted a thorough search of the facility and found no threat, said police spokeswoman Stephanie Taylor. The officers also coordinated with Northport police to ensure safety measures were in place at Northport DCH. Investigators with TPDs Criminal Investigations Division identified Jones as the suspect. The U.S. Marshals Service and Tuscaloosa police took him into custody in Bessemer about 7 p.m. A judge will later set bond. Three men have been arrested in an early-morning shooting that killed one person and injured several others at a Tuscaloosa County home. Dallas Eugene Clark, 22, of Northport, Zachary Tyler Smith, 23, of Buhl, and Jarret Tyler Booth, 21, also of Buhl, are charged with one count of murder and three counts of attempted murder. Tuscaloosa Violent Crimes Unit officials identified the slain victim as 20-year-old Cayden Nolen. Sheriffs deputies responded at 3 a.m. Saturday to the 11000 block of Pate Road in the Buhl community on a report of a shooting. VCU Capt. Jack Kennedy said four people were wounded by gunfire. Deputies attempted life-saving measures on Nolen but were unsuccessful. He was pronounced dead on the scene. Two other victims were hospitalized with critical wounds but are currently stable. A fourth victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Kennedy said the investigation shows the gunfire stemmed from an altercation. All three suspects were identified, and then located in separate locations throughout Tuscaloosa County. Investigators interviewed witnesses and the suspects and carried out multiple search warrants on Saturday. The Tuscaloosa County District Attorneys Office issued the warrants Saturday afternoon. Kennedy said multiple other charges are pending. Clark, Smith, and Booth are being held without bond in the Tuscaloosa County jail. Donald Trump surrounded himself with leaders from Nikki Haleys home state in a show of strength before Tuesdays New Hampshire primary. Trump was joined at a rally at the NHU Arena in Manchester on Saturday night by South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster, the states lieutenant governor and a slew of other senior officials, including the states attorney general, treasurer and House speaker. The statewide officials, along with U.S. Reps. Joe Wilson, William Timmons and Russell Fry appeared on stage with Trump. Almost every politician from South Carolina is endorsing me, Trump declared. The South Carolinians urged the voters to carry Trump to a win in New Hampshire before the contest moves to their state and its decisive early contest set for next month. If you do that and you win by a big margin here, well finish the job in South Carolina, said Murrell Smith, the speaker of the South Carolina House of Representatives. The appearances are yet another blow from South Carolina against Haley, who is hoping her appeal among independent and unaffiliated voters will propel her to a strong enough finish in New Hampshire to turn the race into a two-person contest against Trump. On Friday, the former president and GOP front-runner received the endorsement of South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, who joined him at a rally in Concord. Scott dropped his own bid for the Republican nomination in November. A dozen years ago, Haley, then serving as governor of their state, elevated Scott from the House by appointing him as senator, making him one of the nations most prominent Black Republicans. McMaster and other top officials had already endorsed Trump. Haley has a famously fractious relationship with many of her states Republican power brokers even as she was twice elected governor defeating McMaster in the GOP primary the first time. Her response on Saturday made clear she hadnt forgotten that rivalry. Im sorry, is that the person I ran against for governor and beat? she asked. Just checking. Haley campaign manager Betsy Ankney also brushed off the appearances at an event hosted by Bloomberg News, insisting endorsements had never been Nikkis game. Trump on Saturday night repeatedly railed against Haley and New Hampshires voting laws, which allow unaffiliated voters to participate in either the Republican or Democratic primary. The states more moderate electorate is expected to make the contest much closer than it was in leadoff Iowa, which is considered more conservative. Dont listen to polls. Get out and vote. We need a big big win against these terrible people, Trump said. Haley, meanwhile, highlighted on Saturday a gaffe Trump made at his rally the night before. Trump repeatedly suggested Haley had been in charge of keeping the Capitol secure on Jan. 6, 2021, when a mob of Trump supporters stormed the building to try to stop his election loss from being certified. Haley was not at the Capitol that day. And Trump has consistently downplayed his administrations failure to keep the Capitol safe or his delay in trying to call off the rioters. Theyre saying he got confused. That he was talking about something else, that he was talking about Nancy Pelosi, Haley said. When youre dealing with the pressures of a presidency, we cant have someone else where we question whether theyre mentally fit to do this. Trump, 77, has repeatedly tried to suggest 81-year-old President Joe Biden is not sharp enough to be president and on Saturday sought to defend his own mental acuity. He again bragged of having aced a cognitive test he took while president a test that is, in fact, intended to test for early dementia and other cognitive impairment. I dont mind being 80 but Im 77. Thats a big difference, he said. He added a few minutes later: I feel my mind is stronger now than it was 25 years ago. After the rally, Reps. Timmons and Fry called on Haley to leave the race ahead of the South Carolina primary next month. Were gonna have another election on Tuesday. But after that, when Trump wins, overwhelmingly, weve to get behind him, Timmons said. Even with their states top elected Republicans and much of the congressional delegation in New Hampshire to advocate for Trump this week, some South Carolina voters were undeterred about backing other candidates. Im a strong Republican, and I just vote Republican because I think they have a lot in common with supporting the United States and the regular citizens of the United States, said Sandra Chase, following an event for GOP presidential candidate Ron DeSantis in Lexington, South Carolina, on Saturday afternoon. DeSantis, coming off a second-place finish in leadoff Iowa, has shifted some of his focus away from New Hampshire, where the states independent voters are seen to provide more of an opening for Haley. Hes instead been campaigning this weekend in South Carolina. Chase said she had previously backed Trump but wanted to go in a different direction this year. I just want to pick the best candidate, and I think the best candidate is Ron DeSantis, she said. But I mean, everybody is allowed to support whoever they want to support. Angela Walker, CEO of Mothers United Against Gun Violence, is providing a new opportunity for Birmingham residents to support each other after losing a child. Mothers United will host its first monthly support group meeting to aid mothers who survived violence on Jan. 27, 2024 at the Homewood Public Library, 11:30 a.m. 1:30 p.m. Walker is a domestic violence survivor and her son has survived two separate shootings. Despite the hardships she faced, she worked to earn her degree in counseling. She is a survivor hoping to help victims of gun violence, sexual assault and domestic violence heal. I am a domestic violence survivor. I refuse to allow what I had gone through to restrain me, to define me and to limit me from the possibilities and thats why Im so intentional about engaging with these mothers, Walker said. You will always honor the memory of your loved ones, but you dont have to stay in the same place of grief, heaviness and sorrow every day for the rest of your life. You just dont have to. You can choose to live. The city ended 2023 with 135 homicides, a 6% decrease from 2022 when the city had 144 homicides, marking the deadliest year in recent history. There was an 8% increase in domestic violence investigations from 580 investigations in 2022, to 628 investigations in 2023. Walker is hoping the homicide numbers continue to decrease as she works with victims of violence to heal their internal wounds. Experts say to cope with grief and trauma, it is important for victims to have safe spaces, like a monthly support group, to talk about and acknowledge when something traumatic like domestic abuse or gun violence happens. Walker said the support group meeting will include guest speakers and time for participants to share their own testimonies. We are just using some different techniques, and healthy, wholesome tools, and engagement with other moms, so that they can see their way through collectively to really start getting them to think differently about where they are, where theyve been, and where they want to go, Walker said. She will also conduct an assessment, for those who are interested, to determine what resources each participant may need to move forward. This is to see where they are, their moods, emotions, their triggers, so we can begin to see what they need to begin to work on healing. Because we can help people unless we know where they are, Walker said. On May 4, 2024, Mothers United will also host a luncheon, in support of mothers who have lost their children to gun violence. The luncheon will take place at the Homewood Public Library and will include guest speakers Tonya Hill Alan, founder and executive director of Dianes Heart, a program supporting single mothers and their children, and Selena Dickerson, a domestic violence survivor who started her own engineering firm. At the luncheon, organizers will introduce their new entrepreneurship program and scholarship fund to help victims of violence start their own businesses. This is all just a way to help people move forward in a more positive, impactful and meaningful way, Walker said. Change basically begins in the home with these moms. If we can get that mom to a place of knowing who she really is, being strengthened and fortified, there will be a domino effect that spills out into the community. The fire that engulfed an abandoned church in Leeds was massive by the time help arrived, Leeds Fire & Rescue reported late Saturday. In an extensive Facebook post, Leeds Fire & Rescue said the destruction of the old church on Ashville Road was a devastating fire to the community. Around 5:00 pm today [Saturday] we were notified of a fire at the Old Church on Ashville Rd., said the post. When our units arrived they found the church full of flames. They attempted to enter in the front door of sanctuary area and a basement door but the fire was already massive in both areas and they had to pull back. Firefighters surrounded the building in a defensive approach. The scene was a difficult one, according to the post, with high winds blowing embers across the road and endangering nearby houses. Freezing temperature were an additional complication. We know this was a devastating fire to the community, said the post. If not the oldest, one of the oldest church buildings in Leeds. Several citizens grew up/attended this church when it was First Baptist Church and while it was Pathway Baptist Church. Every effort was put into extinguishing this fire. Off duty members came to assist because they saw the smoke while traveling towards Leeds on I-20, as well as others learning through social media. They came because they knew this was a challenging and dangerous fire due to the age of the building and that the building had been vacant for many years leaving several areas in a dilapidated state. We all know that people occupy this structure for various reasons, some for exploring, some for nefarious reasons, and some for shelter. We hope and pray no one was in this structure. The cause is under investigation, with assistance from the Alabama Fire Marshals Office. In the post, Leeds Fire & Rescue thanked the Moody Fire Department for its assistance. It also expressed gratitude to Leeds police and the Leeds Street Department for managing traffic around the scene, and to Chick-fil-A, Waffle House and Regional Paramedical Services for additional support. This story has been updated with additional information. Foley police have arrested a man in the case of a woman stabbed Wednesday in the citys central Heritage Park. According to information provided by the city, 40-year-old Bernard Christopher Abney was arrested late Saturday. Jail records indicate that Abney was booked into Mobile County Metro Jail on a first-degree charge of attempted rape. He may also be facing a charge of failing to comply with the Sex Offender Registration Notification Act. We are relieved that he is in custody and appreciate all the hard work by the many agencies involved as well as the media and citizens of our local communities, Foley Police Chief Thurston Bullock said. The incident took place late Wednesday afternoon on the Wilbourne Antique Rose Trail, a landscaped path that parallels Alabama 59, running a block to the east of the heavily traveled main artery. According to previous reports, police were notified about 5:40 p.m. that a woman had run into a business, saying she had been attacked. Officers found she had stab wounds to her arm, torso and thigh. She was taken to USA Health University Hospital in Mobile for treatment of non-life-threatening wounds and later was reportedly recovering at home. Police identified Abney as an armed and dangerous suspect. He was identified as being from Mobile; information released Sunday said he was believed to be homeless, and he was listed as such in jail records. On Sunday, Foley Mayor Ralph Hellmich praised police and the community for their response. I am, however, disappointed in our state system for allowing an early release of a person who has not been rehabilitated into society, he said. Abney was, in fact, among 369 inmates released on Jan. 31, 2023. As with most of them, his sentence was near its end: According to the Alabama Department of Corrections, he was eligible for release in July 2023. The people released had been serving time for convictions ranging from theft to murder. About 20 years earlier, Abney had been charged with first-degree rape. As a trial date in Mobile County Circuit Court drew near, he entered a guilty plea to second-degree rape in January 2005. He was sentenced to 20 years, minus about a year and a half of time served. That made him eligible for release on July 2, 2023. Shortly after his early release in January 2023, he was again arrested in Mobile County for allegedly failing to register as a sex offender in Chickasaw. Just got out of prison on sex case -- failed to report read one case note. Abney entered a plea of not guilty but remained in jail until July 2, when he was released on bond. A grand jury issued an indictment in that case on Sept. 23, and a disposition hearing was set for Feb. 1. Police said previously that Abney also would be charged with second-degree assault in the Foley case. This is an opinion column. Alabamas new Democrat-friendly Second Congressional District has received expansive media attention over the last year, but the most competitive race in the 2024 election cycle is a little further south. Alabamas new maps drew incumbent representatives Barry Moore (AL-02) and Jerry Carl (AL-01) into Alabamas First Congressional District. Republican primary voters have a tough choice on their hands. Lets get the stupid out of the way first. The political consultant class loves to treat voters like idiots, and this race is no exception. We will see candidates in various collared shirts. There will be gunsall the guns. Candidates will point at things while wearing hard hats, and ads will feature more trucks than at an F-150 convention. Unfortunately, Jessica Taylor is not running, so the likelihood that a rocket filled with money will make an appearance is minimal. That doesnt mean there arent some legitimate issues to discuss. Barry Moore has not experienced political persecution like Donald Trump, but thats clearly one of his campaign points. Thankfully for Moore, voter memories are short. Moore tied his early political career to former Alabama House Speaker Mike Hubbard who was convicted of ethics violations in 2016. Hubbard was one of the most effective politicians in Alabama history because he was a political brawler. That wasnt always well received. In 2014, Moore was charged with providing false statements to a grand jury in relation to an alleged threat made by Hubbard through Moore to withhold economic development money for Enterprise, Alabama, if Moores 2014 primary opponent, Josh Pipkin, didnt withdraw from the race. Comparing statements in the indictment against Moore to Pipkins recorded conversations with Moore was a reasonable question to put before a jury, and Lee County jurors ultimately exonerated Moore. While I dont envy Moore or his family having to endure a criminal case, this was not a case of a prosecutor from the opposing political party creating a case out of thin air. The 2024 primary race will undoubtedly involve a slew of ads trying to connect each candidate with Donald Trump. Both candidates have endorsed Trump. Both challenged the certification of the electors for then President-elect Joe Biden in 2021. Moore was a particularly early supporter of Trump, and he took the extra step of supporting Trump for Speaker of the House. Arguing about which candidate is the Trumpiest of them all seems bizarre. Voters should expect any true supporter of Trump to have at least one Trump tattoo. Otherwise, how can we know theyre serious? When it comes to voting record in the 118th Congress, Moore and Carl voted together 92% percent of the time. Alabama is conservative. Federal representatives in deeply Republican districts understand this reality. There isnt going to be a lot of daylight between the two candidates in terms of policy. Theyre both conservative. The campaign ads to the contrary by either candidate or affiliated PACs are playing fast and loose with the truth. Committee assignments matter to congressional representation. Here Carl has the edge. Serving on the Appropriations Committee is significant for Alabama. With Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) seeking the committee chairmanship should Republicans hold their House majority in 2024, Carls presence gives Alabama an outsized influence on spending and fiscal policy. Carls second committee Natural Resources is also particularly relevant to Alabamas coastal region. Moore has an advantage in that the Judiciary Committees issues such as immigration, gun control, and oversight of the DOJ catch headlines. Hes also on the Agriculture Committee which is a staple for Alabamas farms and forestry interests. One of the underrated qualifiers for office is constituent connection. In that department, Ill give the leg up to Moore for a few reasons. As a former congressional staffer, Ive seen firsthand that the difference between a members success and failure is often whether he or she manages staff well to serve constituents. That typically requires connecting constituents with the people hired to serve them on the members behalf. Moores website lists his staff, their roles, and their locations. Carl doesnt have any information about his team on his official website. Connecting with constituents is also mission critical for members of Congress. Town halls, office hours, and clear guidance about when and where a member of Congress will be available is critical to representation. To that end, I checked out both official posted calendars. Moores calendar and events schedule is robust. Were I a constituent, I know where I can conveniently reach him or his team and when. Carls official calendar by contrast hasnt had an appointment on it since March of 2022. Yes, I know that Carl has been out and about in the district, but exactly how should constituents find out about it if not his official House calendar. Alabama voters have a tough choice this March because theyll be sending one incumbent politician into an earlier-than-expected retirement. Theyll definitely wind up with a conservative, but its the small differences in style, policy interests, and constituent service that will decide who keeps his job in Congress. Smith is a recovering political attorney with four boys, two dogs, a bearded dragon, and an extremely patient wife. Hes a partner in a media company, a business strategy wonk, and a regular on talk radio. Please direct outrage or agreement to csmith@al.com or @DCameronSmith on X or @davidcameronsmith on Threads. MBABANE There is absolutely nothing sinful about kuteka (customary marriage) and sitsembu (polygamy), Prophet Alex Nkambule has said. The pastor, now commanding a large following in the country, said God acknowledges the existence of nationalities and their way of life. He conducts church services at Elangeni Umphakatsi Hall. His church is called Gatekeepers Assemblies. He quoted Isaiah 65: 1 to demonstrate that God appreciated nations. Reads Isaiah 65: 1: I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I was found by those who did not seek me. To a nation that did not call on my name, I said, Here am I, here am I. He said the phrase to a nation should be underlined to understand the significance of nationhood. Therefore, he emphasised that culture distinguishes a nation. Prophet Nkambule said emaSwati who preferred western matrimonies to customary marriages were not yet married. As a result, he urged all those who adopted the western form of marriage to remarry in terms of their culture. You can not say your marriage is complete when you were married under a foreign culture, he said. Whether you are a Christian or not, families observe their own rules, values and that is why you will find someone being buried in accordance with his family rite. The man of God said people of different nationalities did not become one nation just because they embraced Christianity and followed Christ as their leader and founder of their faith. The prophet was speaking in an interview with the Times SUNDAY. Prophet Nkambule said Christians ought to know that God recognises them as emaSwati from different families. He said God recognises the fact that the earth has families who are guided by different values. He explained that it was on this basis that Jehovah said to Abraham: ...in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed. God regards you as liSwati who has converted to Jesus Christ, the man of the cloth said. Never lie to yourself that God sees you as a Jew or European as the almighty recognises you as a liSwati Christian. The prophet said emaSwati committed a mistake when the gospel was introduced to them. Instead of accepting the gospel, he said they also embraced Western cultures. He said it was during this time that customary marriages were demonised and discarded, with emaSwati associating the western marriage with God. As they connected western marriages with God, he said, they denounced kuteka as ungodly and unacceptable in the church. Colonisation Prophet Nkambule said he has learnt that colonisation created self-hate in emaSwati that caused them to reject their culture. The prophet was told that Christians believed that the bride associates herself with ancestors of the marital home when stabbing the ground with a spear. Responding to this belief, he said, for starters, there was nothing sinful about recognising ancestors. He said God did not want His children to worship the ancestors. He said a woman entered the kraal, which should be adjacent to the homes entrance in terms of Swati culture. As the woman enters the home, he said she would find the kraal which symbolised entry to the marital home. Asked about his marital status, he responded that he got married under customary law. Even then theres nothing wrong with recognising the ancestors, he said. On the basis of this fact, the prophet advised that Christendom denounced the worship of ancestors, but not their recognition. He noted that some pastors confused recognition with worship. Prophet Nkambule disagreed with the notion that an ancestor is a demon. Lidloti (ancestor) is not a demon, he insisted. To show that God does not rebuke the recognition of ancestors, he said Jacob of old declared in Genesis 32:9: God of my father Abraham and God of my father Isaac. He said Jacob mentioned deceased people in his prayer. He added that a liSwati praying like Jacob could be rebuked by todays churches. He said Isaac recognised the work done by the deceased. When Abraham died, he said the care of the wells passed away with him. He mentioned that the sea people from Caftor elbowed in and plugged up those wells, destroying life-giving power. Years later, Nkambule said Isaac inherited the challenge to restore and renovate the wells. He pointed out that a man does not die when his body is laid away. He quoted Hebrews 11:4 to support this theology and it reads: By faith, Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which he was commended as righteous, God commending him by accepting his gifts. And through his faith, though he died, he still speaks. He said there was a certain group known as the people of altars who did not die. The subject on the people of altars will be treated differently as it is very broad, Prophet Nkambule said. Based on this veracity, he said Apostle Paul wrote in Hebrews 12:1 that Christians are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. In full, the biblical verse reads: therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. He said the great cloud of witnesses referred to the people who have gone to heaven before them as Christians. Polygamy He was also called upon to shed light on polygamy as some pastors denounced this practice as ungodly. Reacting, Prophet Nkambule said polygamy is an inheritance and it is not meant for all people. He said certain people were meant for it and it is never a sin to marry more than one wife. The pastor said certain sections of the Bible were written by God-fearing polygamists. He said Solomon had 1 000 wives. He said it was unfair that current Christian polygamists were not being recognised and accorded dignity yet Solomon has been receiving utmost respect from the church. Other biblical prominent figures who had more than one wife include Moses, Esau, Jacob, Elkanah, Samuel and David. According to First Timothy 3, a bishop must have the following attributes: This is a guest opinion column In March of 1988, Elizabeth Sennett was brutally murdered by two hitmen hired by her husband, Charles Sennett. One of those hitmen was Kenneth Smith. These facts are not in dispute. Nor should they be. What was done to Elizabeth Sennett should never be forgottenever. However, we remember evil so as not to perpetuate itnot as a means of manufacturing rage. In the State of Alabama, a great many want to see Kenneth Smith executed. The present self-serving platitudes of politicians illustrate as much. There are even those who say they would execute Smith themselves. Such people illustrate why rage is something we travel through, not to. Indeed, these people most often know nothing about the case or anything that surrounds it. They just want a reason to rage. Manufactured rage causes us to do really stupid things. Related: Alabama Death Row minister says religious liberty lawsuit settled ahead of nitrogen execution Nitrogen execution hostile toward religion, Alabama Death Row spiritual advisor alleges in lawsuit Presently, I serve as Kenneth Smiths spiritual advisor. Of course, Smith is shortly scheduled to be executed by the novel method of nitrogen hypoxia. Let there be no doubt, I am opposed to the death penalty. I find it barbaric. I know Smith. I could fill pages with reasons why you shouldnt execute him. I could tell you that it is evil to kill people. I could tell you that the jury didnt sentence Smith to death. I could tell you about the proud father and grandfather that he has become. I could tell you about the worship services he helps lead. Unfortunately, the State of Alabama has repeatedly ignored such arguments and I have no doubt that my arguments would meet the same demise. Such reflex is part of maintaining manufactured rage. Dismiss everything reasonable to keep trying to meet evil with evilwhile calling it something other than evil. Nitrogen hypoxia is an untested unproven form of execution. Never has nitrogen intentionally forced into the lungs of the condemned through a mask until there is no oxygen left. Kenneth Smith is basically going to be suffocated to death. Since no one has ever been executed by nitrogen hypoxia before, we simply dont know the extent of the evil that might be unleashed. I am convinced that a great many like the cruel and unusual nature of it all. Of course, they havent had to have the conversations that our family has. Throughout history, spiritual advisors have accompanied the condemned to their executions. In recent years, the United States Supreme Court has repeatedly protected such a right. Since I serve in this role with Kenneth Smith, I will be there with him in the chamber. In a waiver I was forced to sign, the State of Alabama has basically admitted that while they know the nitrogen poses a risk to me in the chambertheyre just not sure how big of a risk. How many times have you heard government tell us to trust themonly to be given over to dreadful consequences? Like you, I dont trust government in the slightest. Can you imagine allowing government to have this level of control on your life? Manufactured rage seems to grow dumber with time. An experimental form of execution that could kill everybody in the room in the event of a leak? Come on Can you imagine if ministers throughout the State of Alabama were forced to sign a waiver To preach next Sunday? To offer communion? To lead the choir? To pray? To counsel? There are few greater forms of tyranny that I can think of than government forcing ministers to sign waivers to live out their callings. Yet here we are. The State that claims to fight tyranny the most, being amongst the chief perpetuator of it. Manufactured rage strikes again. Trust is not manufactured. It is earned. So, if the State of Alabama wants me to trust it in this process then send Governor Kay Ivey into the chamber with me. If the nitrogen leaks, the Governor and I can go see Jesus together. Indeed, Ive heard that she too is a person of strong faith. I hope that hers like mine rests on more than just government. Presently, I only know to follow my faith. If I am to give my life, so be it. God has called me to stand with those that nobody else will. The risks be damned. Honestly, I still cant believe this conversation is even necessary. Dont people know that murder is wrong? Dont people want to stop killing each other? Dont people want to figure out ways to save lives rather than destroying them? Dont people think that suffocating another person is at least a little problematic? Dont people even try to love their enemies anymore? Dont people? The questions seem endless. Manufacturing rage is a foolish task with no moral destination. The bizarre risks and consequences of nitrogen hypoxia prove it. Surely, Elizabeth Sennett deserves more than all of this. The Rev. Dr. Jeff Hood is the spiritual advisor for Alabama Death Row inmate Kenneth Eugene Smith. Hood recently settled a lawsuit with the state of Alabama that Hood says will allow him to anoint Kenneth Smiths with oil and share the Holy Eucharist with him and place his hands on Smiths feet while praying and reading scripture during the execution. MANCHESTER, N.H. (AP) Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended his Republican presidential campaign on Sunday, ending his 2024 White House bid just before the New Hampshire primary while endorsing his bitter rival Donald Trump. The decision leaves Trump and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley as the last major candidates remaining in the race ahead of Tuesdays New Hampshire primary. This is the scenario Trumps foes in the GOP have long sought, raising the stakes for this weeks contest as the partys last chance to stop the former president who has so far dominated the race. But as some Trump critics cheered, DeSantis nodded toward Trumps primary dominance and attacked Haley in an exit video he posted on social media. Its clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance, DeSantis said in the straight-to-camera video, delivered in a cheerful tone, through forced smiles. He continued: I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee and I will honor that pledge. He has my endorsement because we cant go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear, a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents. Haley fired back during a campaigning stop in Seabrook, New Hampshire, just as DeSantis announced his decision. He ran a great race, hes been a good governor, and we wish him well, she told a room packed with supporters and media. Having said that, its now one fella and one lady left. DeSantis decision, while perhaps not surprising given his 30-point blowout loss last week in Iowa, marks the end of an extraordinary decline for a high-profile governor once thought to be a legitimate threat to Trumps supremacy in the Republican Party. He entered the 2024 presidential contest with major advantages in his quest to take on Trump, and early primary polls suggested DeSantis was in a strong position to do just that. He and his allies amassed a political fortune well in excess of $130 million, and he boasted a significant legislative record on issues important to many conservatives, like abortion and the teaching of race and gender issues in schools. Such advantages did not survive the reality of presidential politics in 2024. From a high-profile announcement that was plagued by technical glitches to constant upheavals to his staff and campaign strategy, DeSantis struggled to find his footing in the primary. He lost the Iowa caucuses which he had vowed to win by 30 percentage points to Trump. DeSantis allies said that private discussions began shortly after Iowa to decide how to bow out of the race gracefully. The Florida governor notified top donors and supporters of his decision through a series of phone conversations and text messages between senior campaign officials to top donors and supporters on Sunday afternoon, according to two people who received such communications. They spoke on the condition of anonymity to disclose the private conversations. DeSantis had returned to Florida by then after a rollercoaster weekend that included stops in New Hampshire and then South Carolina ahead of another scheduled stop in New Hampshire Sunday evening that was ultimately canceled. The campaign also canceled a series of national television experiences earlier in the day, blaming the cancelation on a miscommunication with DeSantis super PAC. DeSantis was physically worn after spending weeks on the campaign with little, if any, time off, even as he stormed across frigid Iowa and New Hampshire, often without a winter coat. He ultimately decided that he needed to endorse Trump given his popularity in the party, despite the deeply personal feud between them. While Ive had disagreements with Donald Trump, such as on the coronavirus pandemic and his elevation of Anthony Fauci, Trump is superior to the current incumbent, Joe Biden. That is clear, said DeSantis, who is in his second and final term as Floridas governor, which ends in January 2027. The endorsement was a stunning tail-between-his-legs moment for DeSantis, whom Trump has mercilessly and relentlessly taunted in deeply personal terms for the better part of a year now. For Trump, whose team includes many former DeSantis staffers, the attacks have often felt more like sport than political strategy. Trump and his aides have blasted the governor as disloyal for running in the first place, mocked his eating habits and his personality and accused him of wearing high heels to boost his height. DeSantis team joined Trump in attacking Haley as news of his departure rippled across the political landscape. Some doubt Haley, who was seen as splitting Republican votes and preventing a head-to-head match up between Trump, would benefit from DeSantis decision. She will not be the nominee, key DeSantis supporter Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, told AP. She will not be the president of the United States. Trump had already shifted his focus to Haley in recent weeks, but minutes after DeSantis announcement, the former presidents campaign released a new memo highlighting the pressure on Haley to win New Hampshire. Now that we are a mere 48 hours from the primary, the tone has shifted mightily. We see it, you see it, but make no mistake, if Nikki Haley loses in New Hampshire there are only two options, wrote senior advisers Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles. Option A: Nikki Haley drops out, unites behind President Trump, and commits to defeating Joe Biden, they wrote. Option B: Nikki Haley prepares to be absolutely DEMOLISHED and EMBARRASSED in her home state of South Carolina, which votes on Feb. 24. Now, for some important advice, they continued. Choose wisely. ___ By Steve Peoples and Jill Colvin. Lisa Mascaro, Thomas Beaumont and Michelle L. Price contributed. The January 4th raid on Amish farmer Amos Millers Pennsylvania establishment, reflects a growing tension between government regulation of food safety and liberty-minded individualists distrusting industrial food production. Pennsylvania State Police secured Millers farming premises for search by the states Department of Agriculture for illegal raw milk and raw milk products, including eggnog, following reported cases of E. coli in New York and Michigan, allegedly linked to Millers products. This curious dispute has far-reaching implications for Americans food rights. Miller deja vu? Farmer Miller has been in and out of the food rights limelight since 2015, when the USDA alleged his raw milk products sickened a person in California and caused another persons death in Florida by listeria (which Miller denies). Miller has negotiated fines and regulatory conformance to appease the Feds for his past transgressions, but the recent cases have brought Pennsylvania authorities to his door, where they seized eggnog and sour cream, chocolate milk, and ice cream. Millers Amish traditions inspire his belief that it is not merely his right, but his duty, to provide nutrient-dense foods to his multistate customer base as a defense against untrustworthy industrial food products. Miller and his customers seek to operate under federal and state regulatory radar as Private Member Associations or entities that privately enter into contractual relations and are not engaged in public commerce. They know the risks of raw milk and farm-processed meats and deliberately seek these and other farm-direct products for their perceived health benefits. Unfortunately, Mr. Miller has held a somewhat unsteady legal course, switching counsel and representing himself pro se, including invoking vague and unhelpful sovereign citizen claims. Still, his head-butting with government regulators highlights a broader battle forming between food rights activists (such as those who successfully passed a food rights amendment to Maines Constitution in 2022), and an ever-expanding federal/state food inspection apparatus. Food Rights Firebrands Kentuckys Thomas Massie co-sponsored the PRIME Act, which would expand regulatory liberties for intrastate meat sales and bolster small farms and their direct sales to consumers and restaurants. Massie wasted no time shooting a shot across the political bow in support of Amos Miller, posting this on X: Looks like Amos Millers farm is being raided. With all of the problems in society today, this is what the government wants to focus on? A man growing food for informed customers, without participating in the industrial meat/milk complex? Its shameful that its come to this. https://t.co/pWwjp6cgPh Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) January 4, 2024 The most significant tension lies in the balance between appropriate government oversight of commerce, especially regarding health and safety, and personal food choice sovereignty. This push and pull has increased over the last century, intensifying as toxic food additives and mass production of less nutritious produce and processed foods cause health-conscious consumers to do without government protections that too often protect corporate profits over human health. As attorney David Berg poignantly predicted in a 2013 article in the Journal of Food Law & Policy: If liberty is the freedom to make ones own choices in life, why can we not make those choices with respect to our food? Food choice is not a new right; it is a right and a practice as old as civilization. However, it was not until industrialization and regulation that citizens felt the need to assert such a right, and now courts and legislators will increasingly have to take this right into account. Berg argues that the right to purchase food directly from a farmer, sans mandatory government inspection, is a fundamental right. The federal government has failed to halt atrazine, glyphosate, neonicotinoids, and other chemicals, and subsidizes corn (and thus high-fructose corn syrup) and other questionable foods. More recently, public trust has been compromised by dubious claims about the safety and effectiveness of certain medications that proved to be neither. It is not unreasonable that public views about the necessity of government food inspection fluctuate with levels of trust. As public trust in government and food safety continues to deteriorate, farmers like Amos Miller are sought out like food gurus. Women have been granted the right to an abortion, gays the right to marry, and transgender-identifying citizens the right to gender-affirming surgery at public expense. Concurrently, zoning laws increasingly compel citizens to eliminate chickens from their backyards or cease and desist from milking or raising a cow. In this milieu, do people have the right to shape their identity around food (as Berg persuasively argues)? May Americans who prefer an Amish sovereign citizens barn-processed foodstuffs over the fare of the food conglomerates simply enter freely into a contractual and informed assumption of risk of the potential harms from uninspected meals? Hard-working, hardscrabble farmer rebels like Amos Miller are a preview of the growing movement to push back against government overreach. Americans prefer their independence and personal food sovereignty over compelled servitude to Big Brother in the name of security, whether the Police State protection is proffered against nebulous climate change, dehumanized foreign enemies, a sketchy disease from China, or alleged food-borne illness from raw Amish eggnog. Attorney-farmer John Klar hosts the Small Farm Republic Substack and podcast from his Vermont farm. His new book is Small Farm Republic: Why Conservatives Must Embrace Local Agriculture, Reject Climate Alarmism, and Lead an Environmental Revival. Image: Free image, Pixabay license, no attribution required. Watching our response to Iranian aggression against us and our allies, Im reminded of Sherlock Holmes mystery, The Curious Case of the Dog That Didnt Bark. Turns out the watchdog didnt bark because it knew the thief, and my supposition is that there is a good reason why we have behaved as if Iran and its proxies merit no more meaningful response: This Administration -- as did Obamas -- has been thoroughly compromised respecting the ayatollahs. In a lengthy post, Hussain-Abdul-Hussain, who analyzes such things for the Foundation for the Defense of Democracy, summarized the recent provocations of Iran. This week, Iran attacked without provocation Pakistan, later claiming preposterously that the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched the attack without the knowledge of Irans foreign minister. Its a pattern -- after attacks by the IRGC in Iraq, and from Lebanon, Gaza, and Yemen, the regime claims these were done without its knowledge. No one there, it seems, contrary to evidence, is accountable for the damage. If their people are happy living with these 'resistance' garbage models, then they should not complain of the misery and wars they are living in. The Administration has backed off its historic mission of protecting freedom of navigation. Instead, it keeps choosing appeasement. Direct aggression against the U.S. and its allies by the Houthis in Yemen are clearly backed by Iran, causing substantial disruption of sea passage in the Red Sea, and yet the allied response has been too weak to eliminate the Houthi aggression. Despite three American and British attacks on Houthi missile launch sites in the past two weeks, the Yemeni terrorist group continues to target shipping in the Red Sea. Only days ago a Houthi ballistic missile hit the Gibraltar Eagle, an American-owned and -operated cargo ship. The attacks may have depleted the Houthi arsenal, which includes Chinese-built anti-ship missiles, but they clearly have not eliminated it. Many observers have noted that it indeed will be exceedingly difficult for the United States, the United Kingdom and their supporting partners to silence the Houthi rockets, missiles and drones that have forced major shipping lines to reroute their ships past the southern tip of Africa. The Houthis operate numerous mobile launchers that shoot and scoot back into hiding. Targeting them, therefore, is no small challenge. Moreover, the Houthis have demonstrated their resilience in the face of unrelenting air attacks. Constant Saudi and Emirati bombing, backed by American command and control and related capabilities, in support of the internationally-recognized Yemeni Government, did not stop Houthi advances on the ground against government forces. In theory, the United States and Britain, which possess total air superiority, could support armed airborne drones on a round-the-clock basis. [snip] There are numerous difficulties with pursuing such a course of action, however. There are insufficient drones available to support continuous operations that could handle attacks on more than a limited number of targets. Moreover, there is only one aircraft carrier, the Dwight D. Eisenhower, currently deployed in the Red Sea Iran can, in sum, keep supplying the Houthis with the missiles and launchers, which it does by sea, burying the weapons inside humanitarian supplies to the impoverished country. Not only is this response insufficient to end the shelling of commercial traffic on the Red Sea, we are financing it. The Biden administration has, in effect, financed Tehrans supply chain to the Houthis by relaxing its sanctions on oil sales from Iran. These funds have enabled Tehran to continue to supply its proxies and allies in Iraq, Lebanon and, of course, the Houthis. So obvious has this become, that this week, the Administration announced it was reimposing sanctions on the Houthis, sanctions Trump imposed and that the Biden administration immediately lifted when it took office. Like most Biden moves, it was more cosmetic than real. The Biden administrations recently announced sanctions on the Iran-backed Houthi rebels will include a carveout that permits the terror group to engage in lucrative energy and fuel-related transactions with Americans, a decision that congressional critics say effectively neuters the sanctions. A license issued by the Treasury Department and circulated to Congress this week authorizes "transactions related to refined petroleum products in Yemen involving Ansarallah," otherwise known as the Houthi militant group. This includes authorization for the "sale of refined petroleum products for personal, commercial, or humanitarian use in Yemen." The decision to grant this carveout is already attracting congressional concerns, with GOP lawmakers telling the Washington Free Beacon they have begun pushing the House Oversight and Foreign Affairs Committees to investigate the license, which they say undermines sanctions that are intended to choke off the terror groups resources. The sanctions on the Houthis, which will go into effect next month, have already drawn fierce pushback from Republican officials for being issued under a weaker federal statute that does not criminalize support for the terrorist group or force banks to seize their assets, the Free Beacon reported on Wednesday. [snip] One senior GOP congressional source familiar with the matter said it is "puzzling" that a "broad license" allowing these types of transactions with the terror group is being issued. The United States is not the only entity captured by Iran. There are the International Atomic Energy Administration (IAEA) and the United Nations. At the international blabfest in Davos, which was enlightened only by the warning that its gone off the rails by Argentinas new president, the head of the IAEA warned that it is unable to exercise oversight of Irans nuclear program because of Tehrans refusal to cooperate even as it expands its operations. IAEA inspectors have suggested that Tehran has stockpiled enough enriched uranium to make several warheads. Iranian officials continue to frustrate International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)inspectors, who have suggested that Tehran has stockpiled enough enriched uranium to make "several" warheads. "Though it may be drowned out due to all the other bad news out of the Middle East involving Iran, the regime is getting closer and closer to establishing itself as a threshold nuclear state," Behnam Ben Taleblu, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) with a focus on Iranian security, told Fox News Digital. [snip] Iran has seemingly benefited from what the Wall Street Journal termed President Biden's policy of "conciliate to evacuate," or developing agreements with Iran to reduce U.S. presence and responsibility in the Middle East. [snip] In addition to increased attacks from Iranian proxies over the past few months, Iran withdrew the designation of "several experienced Agency inspectors," according to Grossi, which amounted to "effectively about one-third of the core group of the agencys most experienced inspectors designated for Iran." Tehran then sped up enrichment in Dec. 2023 following a monthslong slowdown that many attributed to back channel agreements with the U.S. that led to the release of American citizens held in Iran. The IAEA also determined that Iran had enough uranium enriched up to 60% - close to weapons-grade to produce three nuclear bombs. At the same time that Iran is frustrating inspections and increasing its production of weapons-grade uranium, the UN astonishingly announced that Iran will preside over its Conference on Disarmament. This is outrageous! The regime thats sent arms to Putin in Russias war against Ukraine, planned the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel, and provided missiles to Yemens Houthis to disrupt global shipping will be in charge of monitoring global nuclear weapons disarmament. The irony of ironies Islamic Republic is rapidly moving to develop nuclear weapons of its own. I cant think of any international organization doing what it was designed to do. The World Economic Forum is even more ridiculous, if thats possible, than the United Nations. When it isnt telling us to eat bugs, its proposing we all get brain implants which can be measured (and controlled by the WEF, I suppose). The great Iowahawk (David Burge) compares this to a big International Bond villain conference with Blofeld [Klaus Schwab], Rosa Kleb [Ursula Von der Leyen], Jaws [John Kerry], and Odd Job [Xi] Maybe the ayatollahs have already inserted Klaus Schwabian implants into the heads of the western worlds leaders. Its otherwise hard to imagine such idiocy. It helps to remind Americans of the inspirational dream of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. of judging others by the content of their character and not by the color of their skin. In particular, there is an urgent need to warn many of todays woke Democrats of the wisdom that these words provide to unite our country towards a more perfect union. Many Democrats have turned Martins dream upside-down by asking their followers to openly discriminate against white Americans. This is a quick recipe for the Balkanization of America. One can say that the genesis of Martins dream is found in the famous words of the Declaration of Independence, stipulating that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. But while the intent of our Founding Fathers was honorable when penning this document, the truth remains that their dream was myopic and exclusionary for a vast portion of the citizenship. Only white men who owned property were the beneficiaries of these liberties, while women, African-Americans (both slave and free), white men without property, and Native Americans were left out. It would be right to condemn the United States as a racist country if the civil rights of its citizens had not evolved over time. But they have evolved for the better. Our country fought a civil war to obliterate the stain of slavery at a cost of approximately 620,000 dead Americans. It passed the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution to end slavery and grant citizenship, equal rights, and voting rights to African-Americans. The 19th Amendment was passed in 1919 to give women the right to vote. And Native Americans won full citizenship rights after President Calvin Coolidge signed the Indian Citizenship Act in 1924. Much of the worlds history is one where discrimination is prevalent. Invariably, those in power look down on and discriminate against those who are different from them. And this discrimination is not limited to the prohibited classes covered by the Civil Rights Act of 1964 in the United States (race, color, religion, sex, and national origin). It extends to discrimination because of things like political affiliation and sexual orientation. If you look at communist countries, the liberties of their citizens are regulated by the social credit earned in support of the Communist Party. If you look at many of the countries in the Middle East, homosexual citizens are treated like pariahs. So you can understand my deep frustration when I look at all the progress in civil rights that the United States has made, and I see many of todays Democrats trying to take us back to the worst days of our history. When I was in the federal workforce, I didnt pay much attention to a word that became a centerpiece of the Obama administration in 2008: transformation. I should have. Federal employees were told that the goal of the new team was to transform the country in its entirety. When I learned that what they meant was the overhaul of our nations history, culture, and traditions, I became disenchanted. It triggered the possibility of changing my political affiliation from Democrat to Republican. While campaigning in April 2008 in Pennsylvania, candidate Obama insulted working-class voters by saying the following: They get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who arent like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustration. Needless to say, the majority of these voters were white. Obama didnt realize that white blue-collar citizens were not the only ones against illegal immigration or maybe he was and masqueraded his meaning by not offering a qualifier to the word immigration. An African-American trailblazer from Texas, Barbara Jordan, and Hispanic labor leader and civil rights activist Cesar Chavez (of Si Se Puede fame) lobbied against illegal immigration of low-skilled people who would lower the wages or take the jobs of American citizens. Obama ignored the frustrations of these blue-collar employees of all races and religions and both sexes when they lost their jobs after companies farmed these to China. Being a self-proclaimed globalist meant that the profits that these companies made by tapping into the 1.4M Chinese market took precedence over the livelihood of American citizens of all races. I think that what Obama was referring to was that these patriotic Americans would never buy into his socialist and anti-capitalist policies, which would ruin what had made America great. Rather than try to convince these Americans to his way of thinking a futile exercise he and his disciples decided to replace them by opening the southern border to illegal aliens who had no understanding of this countrys history, culture, and traditions. And this is precisely what Joe Biden has pursued with the help of many of Obamas acolytes in the Oval Office. Candidate Trump achieved the largest margin of votes in the history of Iowas Republican presidential caucus on January 15, 2024. Fifty-one percent of Iowans voted for him. But leftists, like MSNBCs Joy Reid (a Harvard University graduate), claimed that Trumps victory was triggered by the vote of white Christians. She went further in her condemnation by equating white evangelicalism with Christian nationalism. So clearly, Joy is not a disciple of Martins dream of racial equality. She is a disciplined Marxist warrior against Christians. CNN anchor Jake Tapper cut short candidate Trumps victory speech in the Iowa caucus because of his alleged anti-immigrant rhetoric. Not only was Jakes move highly disrespectful, but it was deceitful. Trumps rant was against illegal aliens who have not been vetted for past terrorist activities, and who are receiving better services from government personnel than tax-paying American citizens. As more Americans become aware of the insidious plan by todays Democrats to transform the United States into a socialist state; to turn Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.s dream into a racist cudgel; to discredit the contributions of our Founding Fathers; and to burn into extinction the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence, they will realize that the time is now to ensure that they put in the White House a president who will Save America Again! Image via Pxhere. Now that president Trump is consolidating his race for the GOP nomination, how about a suggestion for Trump's vice president? Let me recommend Lee Zeldin, former congressman and the 2022 GOP candidate for governor of New York. Lee Zeldin was born and raised on Long Island. He grew up in Suffolk County and graduated from William Floyd High School in Mastic Beach, where his identical twin daughters attend school today. He earned his bachelors degree from the State University of New York at Albany and then his law degree from Albany Law School, becoming New Yorks youngest attorney at the time at the age of 23. Along the way, he deployed to Iraq with an infantry battalion of fellow paratroopers in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He married Diana, lives in Shirley and they have twin fifteen-year old daughters, Mikayla and Arianna. Repeal Cashless Bail and Less is More Act Remove District Attorneys who dont enforce the law Amend Raise the Age to give judges more discretion in Adolescent Offender cases Give judges discretion when setting bail Increase penalties on looting businesses Enact a Law Enforcement Bill of Rights Hire additional police officers statewide Oppose any effort to Defund the Police Keep qualified immunity Zelden would be a great asset in campaigning about crime in our cities. As a candidate, he called for On family issues, Zelden campaigned for school choice and against the anti-American agenda now taught in schools. Yes, there is no perfect VP candidate. However, President Trump needs a fighter who can debate whoever the other side puts up and who can go into our blue cities and call for change as he did in New York. The 2024 election offers the GOP a chance to win votes in blue cities destroyed by Democrat policies. Let Zelden go into those areas pushing a message of real change. Trump-Zeldin sounds better and better. Argentina's new president, Javier Milei, made a big splash at Davos, delivering a powerful speech in defense of free markets and freedom itself. It was big, so big, it didn't stay in Davos like most of such speeches do --in many ways, it rocketed and richocheted around the world. You may have already watched Javier Mileis speech in its original form but it is well worth listening to in English, with translations provided by HeyGen so you can hear him in his own voice. Its a powerful speech. pic.twitter.com/XJaA2RR3dl Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) January 18, 2024 It was a heckuva wakeup call, particularly at Davos, where mushy groupthink among the global elites is the order of the day. Now, the speech impressed us in the saner quarters of the U.S., because these are ideas we have always cherished. The speech delighted us, as if we had been given a voice after all these long post-Reagan years where libertarianism was dismissed as a boutique philosophy. With Milei, the speech was memorable indeed -- its powerful defense of life, its declaration that there is no such thing as market failure, its defense of liberty, and condemnation of wokesterism and diversity over merit, its frontal attack on socialism itself. But what hasn't seemed to have gotten much notice anywhere is the reach of the speech -- drawing 500 times the interest that any other speech by the swells and pampered princelings at that forum did. The numbers: El Presidente @JMilei tiene 500% mas de interes que cualquier otro mandatario del mundo. Se podria afirmar que es la persona mas importante del #WEF24 y una de las mas importantes e influyentes del planeta tierra. pic.twitter.com/MN9NFrsBRj CHAD (@NoMePisesAR) January 18, 2024 Obviously, the speech stood out. I doubt they've ever had a speech that has drawn that kind of global attention. It was a masterful move on Milei's part for commanding attention to libertarian ideas. Which tells us a lot about how much they have been ignored, even on the right, and how hungry the public is, in a world now gone mad, to savor those words. People were listening. Now, it's doubtful that the elites who heard the speech liked it and some will plot against Milei for it. But there wasn't much screaming about it, either. It drew praise from all over, and even from some of the unlikeliest corners, such as the Joe Biden camp, which suddenly says it likes him, and the IMF, which seemingly hates everyone. A Spanish paper called him king of the free world: Javier Milei, king of the free world https://t.co/Zjc64yBW5B Javier Milei (@JMilei) January 20, 2024 J.P. Morgan sang his praises: El banco mas grande de EEUU elogio las medidas adoptadas por Milei y aseguro que el pais ya genera interes en los inversores https://t.co/YADkLKySrf pic.twitter.com/LYkjUf2WSK infobae (@infobae) January 20, 2024 President Trump praised him. Milei retweeted an appeal to Trump to get more libertarian: If Trump is looking forward to helping Javier Milei hes going to have to appoint more libertarians to advise him. Mileis appeal isnt because hes being Republican pic.twitter.com/Pa85liSJX5 Being Libertarian (@beinlibertarian) January 20, 2024 Heres some typical praise: This man is going to save @Argentina. Javier Milei gives the clearest argument for capitalism over government controlled collectivism I have ever heard. Learn from this man. @Davos https://t.co/NZhQe9YV2L #freedom #trust #bitcoin #orwhatever Tim Draper (@TimDraper) January 18, 2024 The Yankee right is in love with Milei and the universe is Milei-ifying. La derecha yankee esta enamorada de Milei. El universo se esta Mileizando. pic.twitter.com/9tOfmJ9DIy ati Smith (@Trumperizar) January 20, 2024 Even the Bidenites are suddenly friendly and want to work with Milei. This, after Joe Biden took a week to congratulate Milei: Estados Unidos apoyo al gobierno de Javier Milei: Estamos muy interesados en trabajar con el https://t.co/P6Q9ubn8Pw infobae (@infobae) January 19, 2024 Obviously, Milei should beware on that one. But it does suggest that the Bidenites are a spent force and on the run, trying to glom onto something emerging and vital, as if they had been winners all along, and not the miserable socialist failures they really are, given power. Something happened based on the impact of that speech. While it's just a speech and action is harder, it's important that it was made with the clarity it was, as if a line in the sand was drawn. Libertarian ideas may be going mainstream and as the rest of the world looks upon Argentina with envy, one, two, many Mileis may be the result of coming elections. If so, the world would be righting itself on its axis. That traffic tells us something. Image: Twitter screen shot The Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), in what appeared to be retaliation against last months alleged Israeli strike in Damascus that killed Sader Seyed Razi Mousavi, a top adviser to the IRGC in Syria, targeted the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG)s capital of Erbil with a barrage of missiles. The IRGC missile attack killed at least four Kurdish civilians, and six others were injured, some of them listed in critical condition. The IRGC attack was described by the Iranians as retaliation over the plot of the Israeli regime spy agency hatched to assassinate Iranian and resistance commanders. The KRG Security Council disputed the IRGC claim, pointing out that Iran always uses unnecessary excuses to attack Erbil, adding that Erbil as a stable area, never has been a source of threat to any party. The ayatollahs regime in Tehran has oppressed its Kurdish minority for years. One of the victims of that oppression was Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish woman who was beaten and died because of allegedly violating the hijab laws. This reporter had befriended a leader of a Kurdish-Iranian party/militia who had found refuge in KRG territory. He spent some time in the U.S. in order to bring the plight of the Kurds in Iran to the attention of American policymakers. The IRGC is targeting the KRG, and Erbil primarily, because of its hosting of U.S. military bases and its longstanding friendship with the Jewish state. The IRGC-affiliated Iraqi-Shiite militias have attacked U.S. bases in KRG territory over 100 times in recent months alone. Tehran has been too cowardly to directly attack U.S. bases and has therefore subcontracted the Iraqi Shiite militias. This time, though, Iran attacked directly and used the subterfuge of attacking alleged Mossad headquarters. The Barzani clan (leading the KRG) has had a long and friendly relationship with Israel, which is another motive for attacking Erbil. The ayatollahs are bent on avenging the elimination of Gen. Qassem Soleimani, the commander of the elite Quds Force of the IRGC, who was killed in January 2020. Soleimani was the chief architect of Irans terror campaign against American forces in Iraq and throughout the Middle East. Iran is determined to expel the U.S. from the region, and its nuclear ambitions certainly have much to do with eventually challenging the U.S. and Israel. Iran is hostile to the KRG, accusing the Erbil Kurdish government of sheltering Iranian-Kurdish freedom fighters and American troops. The Biden administration strongly condemned Irans attacks in Erbil. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller offered condolences to the families of those killed and added, We oppose Irans reckless missile strikes, which undermine Iraqs stability. We support the government of Iraq and the Kurdistan Regional Governments efforts to meet the aspirations of the Iraqi people. Regrettably, these State Department condemnations do not deter Iran and the IRGC from continued attacks on American interests. Erbils governor, Omed Khoshnaw, speaking at a press conference, declared, Talks about Mossad having headquarters in Erbil are unfounded. We assert that the site targeted in Erbil doesnt nestle Israeli headquarters, rather a US consulate under construction. The U.S.s unwillingness to confront Iran militarily continues to encourage Iranian aggression against the U.S. It is also high time that the U.S. understands that it has no friend in the Baghdad Shiite-led government, which is subservient to Iran. It would wise for Washington to end its senseless support for a unitary Iraq and support the independence of the KRG, which is friendly to the U.S. The Mossad may or may not have a presence in Erbil. However, Israel and the Kurds have enjoyed a long friendship and cooperation. In the 1960s, Israel was the only country that openly supported the Kurdish right to independence. As a result, waving Israeli flags became a frequent occurrence in the Kurdish region and a symbol of unity between Jews and Kurds. Should the Kurds gain their independence, they would most definitely join the Abraham Accords. In the meantime, Kurds will continue their longstanding ties with Israel, but for now, these ties will remain covert because of Kurdish fear of Iran and its loyalist Shiite supporters within the Iraqi government. Israels hands are tied due to the lack of interest or commitment by the U.S. administration regarding an independent Kurdish state in northern Iraq. The U.S. and its allies regularly emphasize the territorial integrity of the Iraqi state, neglecting to mention that an overwhelming majority of Kurds reject being part of the Iranian-controlled Iraqi state. The problem with the U.S. policy in Iraq is that its previous objectives are incommensurate with Iranian goals. The objective of a democratic, prosperous, and unified Iraq, especially one aligned with the U.S., has incentivized Iran not only to increase its influence in Baghdad, but also to diminish and expel the U.S. from Iraq altogether. Given the corrupt Iraqi politicians and Shiite sectarianism, the U.S. has for all intents and purposes lost Iraq to the ayatollahs of Iran. It is therefore the right time to support Kurdish independence and leave behind the fallacy of Iraqs territorial integrity. Iraq was never an organic state, and Baghdad is more than ever the leader of a failing state. Finally, Irans aggression against the U.S. must be met with direct military action rather than with words. Image: Chickenonline via Pixabay, . Does Joe Biden's climate czar, John Kerry, ever listen to himself? He made this dunderheaded speech at the World Economic Forum, unwittingly contradicting himself as he sought applause from the elites. Climate con man extraordinaire, John Kerry: The farming industry must be destroyed in order to achieve Net Zero. "Agriculture contributes about 33% of all the emissions of the world. And we can't get to Net Zerowe don't get this job doneunless agriculture is front and centre pic.twitter.com/I8fH0lUAYs Wide Awake Media (@wideawake_media) January 20, 2024 So "farms" need to be restricted according to the green agenda, which as any Dutch farmer can tell you, means shut down -- or else people will die, presumably of starvation since he said "people will go hungry." Fewer farms, all to prevent people from going hungry. Does this clown know where food comes from? Does he understand that more production of food means more emissions of oxygen and less production of food means fewer emissions? Or does he really think that food has nothing to do with the farms that produce it, but comes solely from a grocery store? Has he ever met the California farmers of the Central Valley, whose farms have been turned brown by greenie environmental lunacy, and who place "no farms, no food" stickers on their pickups, or else put up huge billboards with this slogan? It highlights the green disconnect between greater agricultural productivity through what was once known as the green revolution, and fewer people than ever starving on this planet. Like private jets, meat, and gas stoves, the greenie left would like to make food itself a luxury item, with more starvation and with more starvation, more government control. That's the only thing that can be concluded from this cocktail of illogic that if the greenies get their way on, is sure to lead to more starvation. Having grown tired of the buffets around the world, globetrotting Kerry says he's leaving his climate czar job within the Biden administration, supposedly to campaign for Biden. If he actually leaves, it will be good riddance. Image: Screen shot from Twitter video. Saudi-based Jabal Omar Development Company has announced that it has secured the licence from the Ministry of Tourism to operate the second tower of the Jabal Omar Jumeirah property in Makkah with a five-star rating. Jabal Omar Jumeirah consists of four towers, with each tower containing 19 hotel floors, adjacent directly to the main mosque. The second tower includes 244 luxurious and modern style rooms and suites in addition to a restaurant, cafe, meeting rooms and business center service, prayer hall and a fitness centre. The company is currently working on handing over the remaining two towers to the operator and completing the necessary requirements to obtain permits from the relevant authorities to operate the tower, said Jabal Omar Development Company in its filing to Saudi bourse Tadawul. The Saudi developer expects that the operation of the hotel will have a positive financial impact on the company's revenues in 2024. This comes close on the heels of its obtaining the initial permit from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah last week to provide Hajj service for 80,000 pilgrims. This comes within the company's strategy to enhance its revenues by taking advantage of the opportunities in the stages of the value chain in the Hajj and Umrah system and the hospitality sector in Makkah, it added.-TradeArabia News Service MBABANE Government has said that it has noted with regret the position communicated by Kings Office Director Percy Simelane with online publication, the Swaziland News. This comes after Simelane entertained the online publication despite that government had announced a decision to cut communication ties with it and its editor Zweli Dlamini. Following the announcement of the decision, this publication enquired from Simelane if the Kings Office would comply with the directive. In response, Simelane said the Kings Office was not party to the decision and obviously the meeting that resulted in it. Therefore there is not much we can say about the statement. Unless I was reading a different one, I did not see any part of it saying anything about the Kings Office. I want to believe we can only be in the full picture once we get a copy of the minutes of the meeting that decided on governments position in question as key stakeholders in state communications, was the response Simelane sent to this publication. Simelane gave the same response to the Swaziland News, which the publication published later on Friday. Yesterday, Nxumalo was requested to comment on Simelanes response and he stated that government had noted with regret the position that was communicated by Simelane with one terrorist entity that was declared as such by the previous administration of former Prime Minister Cleopas Sipho Dlamini in the legal notice No 261 of 2022. Nxumalo said therefore, government did not feel obligated to make a direct comment, especially through the media on the position of Simelane in this matter, as it (Kings Office), has never been a subject or party to the statement. Nxumalo said after the election of a new government in 2023, the Secretary to Cabinet, Victor Nxumalo, issued a circular directed to all principal secretaries reminding them about the existence and enforcement of the legal notice declaration of specified entities notice No 261 of 2022. The Government Press Office, as usual; issued a statement based on the content and context of the circular to inform and remind the nation about the existence of the same. This was especially important because the nation has just elected a new government to office and some people may not have been aware of the existence of this notice No 261 of 2022, Nxumalo said. Aware He mentioned that the Government Press Office was not aware of what line of path the work of the secretary to Cabinet met with that of the director of Communications in the Kings Office, especially in addressing pr incipal secretaries and civil servants, therefore, would avoid and reserve comments on the position stated by Simelane through the pages of the declared terrorist entity and its publication. All government officials and employees are urged and expected to comply with the circular as issued by the secretary to Cabinet and communicated to the nation by the Government Press Office. The declaration on this particular entity and its publication stands till either rescinded or reviewed by the government, Nxumalo said. Once again, this publication re-engaged Simelane to clarify and he explained that all he was saying was that the Kings Office had not been engaged on the circular and statement. In vernacular he said, Asiyati. This publication wanted to ascertain how the Kings Office can be divorced from the operations and decisions taken by government. Is it just me, or does the Alec Baldwin manslaughter case seem strange? After a person was killed while working on a movie set, manslaughter charges were filed, then dropped, and then refiled. The FBI was used to test the evidence, but then the evidence was taken away from the FBI and sent to a private lab. What gives? As a recap, in October of 2021, Alec Baldwin accidently shot and killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins while filming his new movie Rust. Baldwin claimed that the revolver he was holding for the western went off without pulling the trigger. After a year of investigating the matter, New Mexico prosecutors charged Baldwin with involuntary manslaughter in January of 2023, but then mysteriously dropped the charges three months later. Their explanation for dropping the charges was that new evidence had come to light. On January 19, 2024, a New Mexico grand jury indicted Alec Baldwin again. Now we are learning the nature of the new evidence. It turns out that the FBI had broken the revolver while testing it. It seems that components of the weapon were broken while analysts attempted to show that the gun could go off without pulling the trigger, as Baldwin had claimed it had. To be specific, they hit the revolver with a mallet, attempting to make it go off. I suspect that the prosecutors were a bit nervous about making their case using evidence that had been compromised by the forensic lab they had selected. Revolvers of the 1800s lacked the safety interlocks of modern weapons. They could discharge if dropped or otherwise physically abused. Apparently, that is what the FBI analysts were attempting to simulate by striking the handgun with a mallet. But Baldwin never claimed to have dropped the gun, beat on the furniture with it, or pounded on it with a hammer. He claimed that the gun went off spontaneously, while he sat innocently pointing the gun at his cinematographer with his finger off the trigger. It makes one wonder: why was the FBI hitting the gun with a hammer, when that in no way simulated the circumstances of the shooting? Even if they were able to make the weapon misfire by pounding on it, such a test wouldnt validate Baldwins version of events. It would only muddy the waters. Luckily, prosecutors were able to fix their evidentiary problem by sending the revolver to a different lab, Forensic Science Services of Arizona. Experts reconstructed the weapon and conducted a battery of more appropriate tests proving that the gun wouldnt have just gone off spontaneously in someones hand. That provided prosecutors with the evidence they needed to proceed with the case. With no thanks to the FBI, perhaps now the families of the victim will receive some measure of justice. But the history of this case leaves me with a big question: was the FBI attempting to run interference for Alec Baldwin? He is their kind of guy: a leftist darling and well known critic of public enemy number one, Donald Trump. Were they so determined to validate Baldwins testimony that they kept using ever more extreme tests to make the gun misfire until they broke it? Or is there an even darker explanation? Did they intentionally break the evidence knowing that tainted evidence which the defense team couldnt test would jeopardize the case? Such questions would have been unthinkable just eight years ago. But the FBIs recent history with evidence makes one justifiably suspicious. We now know that they have destroyed evidence (Hillary Clinton laptops), hidden evidence (Hunter Biden and Seth Rich laptops), and falsified evidence (Kevin Clinesmith). Thats quite a history of evidence mismanagement by our premier law enforcement agency, no? Given that the FBI did not disclose any of those incidents itself, weve learned that suspicion of the FBI is warranted. These incidents have taught us that FBI employees are not impartial enforcers of the law. They operate according to their own agenda. Understanding the motives of its people is critical in assessing the veracity of work products from the agency of Fidelity, Bravery, and Integrity. Asking, Would they want to deceive us? and How could they be deceiving us? has become necessary. Credibility is essential to law enforcement. Without it, testimony, affidavits, and even forensic analyses lack authority. Now, even in clear cut cases, we must investigate the investigators to ensure that justice is served. Isnt it tragic that the FBI brought us to this state, to protect the most corrupt collection of grifters to ever profit from public office? John Green is a political refugee from Minnesota, now residing in Idaho. He is a staff writer for the American Free News Network and can be reached at greenjeg@gmail.com. Image: Alec Baldwin. Credit: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0. The way we all look at law is very important. It consists of rules, of course, like those for driving a car, purchasing a home or business, and getting married. It also has its criminal component for things ranging from misdemeanor petty theft to felonies including homicide. The state, or government, runs the court system, and it also operates the prosecution market, which ranges from your local village authority complaining that your dog bit your neighbor to being charged with assault and more. It seems that law, as we know it, is about all the rules, authorities, prosecutors, the courts and judges, and the government. But what law is really about is resistance. I dont mean resisting arrest with your local police officer after being pulled over for erratic driving or destroying property in a political riot, but rather standing up in a legal forum and defending yourself. What makes this especially fascinating in the former presidents case is that he is actually aligned, in law, with liberal progressivism, in their belief over individual resistance to oppression and power, drawing effectively on their ideological heroes including Foucault, Hirsch, Gramsci, and others, who provide the progressive left with its inspirations against tyranny and its assertions that law is made into law precisely because it is contestable. President Trump is the embodiment of their legal idealism, if they can put aside their political partisanship. He is deepening the American publics (and the Wests) understanding of its own socio-political tradition, and how law and history are intrinsically intertwined. Moreover, the president is resisting formally, in a legal forum, and in a legal manner (unlike the Summer of 2020 and what will likely be a Fall of 2024 by a desperate DNC). (For those who may be interested in legal philosophy that President Trump is demonstrating by the lefts own justice standards, see a review of Contested States: Law, Hegemony and Resistance.) Whatever you may think of the former president of the United States based on your political ideology, there is one thing that everyone the left, the right and all shades in between should be paying attention to as common citizens: how President Trump is standing up as an individual, against an army of attackers and tyrants. He is providing a profound public lesson on the rule of law, and what a true living Constitution consists of. Law is made into a system of actual justice by the art of defense. As some have put it, hegemony and resistance are mutually constitutive in the legal arena that is, law is both the vehicle for domination and for opposition to that domination, and for meaning. In plain English, defense is what makes law work; otherwise, you may find yourself back in the Middle Ages, facing an effective tribunal, subject to pronouncement (which is where the DNC apparently seeks its model of law). The president, by contrast, is effectively embodying the essence of John Lockes moral philosophy, and showing Americans the link between natural right and natural law. No U.S. president could provide a more important public lesson in core American philosophical values than by living them for himself and for his people. The DNC is losing its case against the former president, not only in fact, but in public opinion and judgment. In Trumps case, millions of American jury members in the public square are using their natural intuition and common sense which are what common law consists of and the conclusion they are coming to is changing the entire nature of the legal battle, turning it into a public counter-claim against the DNC, the media, and public corruption backed by private interests. President Trump is providing the highest public duty a nation can demand of its citizens, both as a former president and as an individual with natural rights, and with a moral law infused into his formal defense. This is the best lesson any law school student could have, and this contest may go down in history as one of the most important legacies to law and order. That makes the 2024 election about much more than politics. It may not unreasonably be called a constitutional convention. Matthew G. Andersson is the author of the upcoming book Legally Blind. A former transportation CEO, he has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, the Financial Times, the New York Times, the Washington Post, Time Magazine, the National Academy of Sciences, and the 2001 Pulitzer Prize report by the Chicago Tribune. He received the Silver Anvil award from the Public Relations Society of America and has testified before the U.S. Senate. He is a graduate of the University of Chicago, and studied with economist and White House national security adviser W.W. Rostow at the LBJ School of Public Affairs. Image via Picryl. The SNPs former Westminster leader said Humza Yousaf can turn things around ahead of the general election as he urged his party to drop comparisons between Labour and the Conservatives. Ian Blackford, who led the party in the Commons from 2017 until 2022, said the SNP had been in a problematic period following a police probe into finances which lead to the arrest and release of former first minister Nicola Sturgeon. But the Ross, Skye and Lochaber MP praised First Minister Humza Yousafs leadership and said the SNP leader has the ability to turn around the partys fortunes. It comes as the latest YouGov poll suggests the party could lose almost half its seats at the general election. Mr Blackford praised Scottish First Minister Humza Yousafs governance (PA) Mr Blackford told the Scotland on Sunday newspaper the polls show the SNP are some way away from convincing people of their message. But he said: I actually believe, with Humza, doing what he is capable of doing, and focusing on the values we have and who we are as a party, we can pull things back ahead of the next election. He said Mr Yousaf is a First Minister of substance. But Mr Blackford, who is standing down at the next election, urged his party to break away from comparing Labour to the current Conservative Government. He told Scotland on Sunday the two parties are absolutely not the same, adding: I think we have to honestly say to the people in Scotland: Of course a Labour government is better for Scotland than a Tory government. But if you want to hold the feet of a Labour government to the fire and make sure that Scotlands interests are protected, then you need to vote SNP to do that. Mr Blackford added: Nobody has forgotten the damage the Tories have caused, the damage of Brexit, the austerity that has meant our public services are struggling in terms of delivering in the way that we want, the attack on the poor. Of course theres a difference between the Labour government and the Tory government. I would say respectfully to colleagues: Of course we have a duty to pick out the shortcomings of what Labour might do. But at the same time weve also got to give a positive message about the difference we can do both in the Scottish Government and to deliver independence. Mr Blackford also said he considered standing for the Scottish Parliament. He said: I dont know whats around the corner for me. I have been passionate about this cause since I was a teenager, I am not going to disappear into the sunset. I havent ruled out that I may emerge in some way, shape or form in the Scottish Government in the future. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps has said a collision between two Royal Navy warships in a Middle East harbour suggests something clearly went wrong, but denied it was incompetence. An investigation is under way after footage posted on social media appeared to show HMS Chiddingfold reversing into HMS Bangor off the coast of Bahrain. No-one was hurt but some damage was sustained, the Royal Navy said. Mr Shapps has said he does not know how the collision occurred. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps (right) said something clearly went wrong (Maja Smiejkowska/PA) He told Sky News Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips: Just as in aviation or many other walks of life sometimes accidents and incidents happen, theres a full investigation under way. Asked if it was incompetence, Mr Shapps added: We dont say its incompetence when we see an aircraft come down, a very rare occasion just as this would be a rare occasion, its right to leave the investigators some time to work out exactly whats gone wrong. Something clearly did and we need to see what it is. The two minehunters had been based in the Middle East to ensure the safe flow of trade through the waters. HMS Chiddingfold leaving Portsmouth Naval base for its deployment to the Gulf (Ben Mitchell/PA) Rear Admiral Edward Ahlgren said: Why this happened is still to be established. We train our people to the highest standards and rigorously enforce machinery safety standards, but unfortunately incidents of this nature can still happen. I assure you that a full and thorough investigation is already under way and any changes in procedure that could prevent further incidents will be rapidly implemented. In the meantime the UK will continue to play a key part in ensuring the safety of merchant shipping in the region. Irelands deputy premier has said that Israel has to be held to account as Palestinian deaths in the Gaza enclave reached 25,000, according to local health authorities. Israel has to be held to account in terms of what its doing, Tanaiste Micheal Martin said on RTE Radio. I condemn the continued bombardment of Gaza. It is shocking. Its horrifying. Its not justified in any shape or form. The foreign affairs minister defended his governments stance in relation to a case taken by South Africa accusing Israel of genocide at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Mr Martin said: Its already being investigated by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in respect of war crimes, which can include genocide, so is already under investigation. He said that Ireland had made legal submissions to the ICC about the occupation of parts of the West Bank, and allocated three million euros in additional funding to the court to enable it to investigate allegations of war crimes. Mr Martin also said that Ireland would consider joining South Africas legal case once it has moved past the preliminary stages. The Tanaiste said: South Africa have taken a preliminary case to the court (ICJ), Israel have responded, no-one has actually joined that case yet, nor can anyone join it right now not even Palestine. Because the court is going to make a provisional judgment on that to respond to what South Africa has sought, which is exactly what we have sought, the same thing: an immediate cessation of hostilities and war, unimpeded access of humanitarian aid into Gaza. He said that Ireland would act the same way it did in relation to an ICJ case where Ukraine accused Russia of violating the Genocide Convention. Mr Martin said they examined the legal case for around 12 weeks before joining Ukraines case. And we will give this very serious consideration, of course, he said of South Africas case. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar (Niall Carson/PA) Because these are legal conventions, it will take years to resolve, meanwhile, we have to keep our focus on getting a ceasefire. Mr Martin said that he would be seeing what can be done at EU level to get stronger pressure on Israel to stop. Irish premier Leo Varadkar has said the Irish government does not intend to join South Africas case, saying there is a need to be very careful in defining genocide. He said: I would be a little bit uncomfortable about accusing Israel, a Jewish state, of genocide given the fact that six million Jews over half the population of Jews in Europe were killed. I would just think we need to be a little bit careful about using words like that unless were absolutely convinced that theyre the appropriate ones. Under the Genocide Convention, genocide is defined as acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group. Roman armour to go on display after experts complete ancient jigsaw puzzle An incredibly rare piece of Roman armour from the second century has been reconstructed from dozens of fragments. The brass arm guard, owned by National Museums Scotland, will be seen for the first time in its entirety in nearly 2,000 years when it goes on loan next month to the British Museum in London for its exhibition, Legion: Life In The Roman Army. Conservators spent weeks reconstructing the arm guard, which is the most intact example of its kind and is one of only three known from the whole Roman Empire. The armour was previously in more than 100 pieces when it was discovered at the Trimontium fort site near Melrose, Scottish Borders, in 1906. The fragments have been in National Museums Scotlands collection for more than a century, with the upper section previously on display for 25 years. Now that all fragments have been reassembled, the arm guard will go on permanent display in the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh after the British Museum exhibition ends. Fraser Hunter, principal curator of prehistoric and roman archaeology at National Museums Scotland, said: This is an incredibly rare object, and its great that this exhibition gave us the opportunity to rebuild it. Conservator Bethan Bryan and curator Fraser Hunter with the arm guard (Duncan McGlynn/National Museums Scotland/PA) The transformation is striking. Now that its been reconstructed, you can picture the legionary who once wore it. It was both protection and status symbol brass was expensive and would have gleamed like gold on his sword arm. It offers a vivid connection to this important period when Scotland sat on the Roman Empires northern frontier. Bethan Bryan, assistant artefact conservator at National Museums Scotland, added: Its been a privilege to work on such an extraordinary piece of Scotlands history. Approaching this ancient jigsaw puzzle required careful consideration and it was important to make sure we could display the piece in a manner as near as possible to how it would have looked 2,000 years ago. Im thrilled that it can now be seen by audiences in a new light and has been preserved for generations to enjoy. Richard Abdy, curator of roman and iron age coins at the British Museum, said hosting the exhibition is a splendid privilege. He said: The flexible arm guard is an iconic piece of equipment for Roman gladiators, so it is unusual to see it as a sword arm protection for Roman soldiers too. Its display, posed with classic legionary segmental body armour, is stunning. The latter is also possibly derived from gladiator kit and we even think that the training regime for the amphitheatre originally inspired combat training of the professionalising Roman army. The image of Roman soldiers and gladiators appropriately unite in one artefact two characteristic strands of the dark side of Roman civilisation that have long fascinated public imagination. Grant Shapps has described Benjamin Netanyahus opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state as disappointing, saying the UK is wedded to the idea. The Defence Secretary said there isnt another option other than a two-state solution. It came after the Israeli prime minister doubled down on his rejection of Palestinian sovereignty as part of any post-war plan, saying his country needs full security control over the Palestinian territories. Mr Netanyahus remarks deepened a public rift with the US, which has argued a two-state solution is essential for long-term stability. Mr Shapps on Sunday backed the US view, saying there is no other solution to the Israel-Hamas conflict. He told Sky News Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips: I think its disappointing to hear Benjamin Netanyahu saying he doesnt believe in a two-state solution. In fairness, hes said that all of his political career, as far as I can tell. I dont think we get to a solution unless we have a two-state solution. The Cabinet minister added the UK certainly remains wedded to that, so we do disagree on that particular issue. Benjamin Netanyahu spoke to Joe Biden for the first time in nearly a month about differences over a future Palestinian state (Aaron Chown/PA) But Mr Shapps also stressed the UKs support for Israels right to defend itself following Hamass deadly October 7 attacks. On the BBCs Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme, he said: Palestinians deserve a sovereign state. Israel deserves to have the full ability to defend itself, its own security. Now, youll get a lot of different views within the Israeli government, of course, it is a rainbow coalition. So we very much distinguish between the views of individuals and our overall support for Israel as a country. Mr Netanyahu wrote on X late on Saturday: I will not compromise on full Israeli security control over the entire area west of Jordan and this is contrary to a Palestinian state. It came in defiance of US President Joe Biden, who hours earlier had voiced hope that a two-state solution was still possible even while Mr Netanyahu remains in office, following a call with the Israeli leader. Mr Biden had said Mr Netanyahu was not opposed to all two-state solutions, and there were a number of possible ideas. But in a statement, the Israeli prime ministers office said Mr Netanyahu told Mr Biden that after Hamas is destroyed, Israel must retain security control over Gaza to ensure that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel, a requirement that contradicts the demand for Palestinian sovereignty. Labour has also rebuked Mr Netanyahus position. Shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper on Sunday echoed Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer and shadow foreign secretary David Lammy in saying: Those words from Netanyahu were completely unacceptable. Shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper said statehood is the right of the Palestinian people (Maja Smiejkowska/PA) Statehood of a people is not in the gift of its neighbour, it is the right of a people and it is the right of the Palestinian people. Mr Lammy on Saturday said Mr Netanyahus stance would mean occupation and siege continues in Gaza, where the Palestinian death toll is now above 25,000, according to local health authorities. Mr Netanyahu has vowed to press ahead with the offensive in Gaza for many months despite mounting pressure on Israel to rein in its military action as the scale of death and destruction intensifies. The White House earlier this week announced it was the right time for Israel to lower the intensity of its military action in Gaza. Israel launched the offensive after an unprecedented cross-border attack by Hamas on October 7, in which 1,200 people were killed and some 240 others taken hostage. Roughly 130 hostages are believed by Israel to remain in Hamas captivity. Israels assault on Gaza has been one of the deadliest and most destructive military campaigns in recent history. MBABANE A majority of people including legal experts are of the view that the Master of the High Court probe has been tainted before it even begins. A lot of questions have been raised on whether the Judicial Commission of Inquiry meant to look into alleged irregularities and corrupt practices within the Masters Office will bring the intended relief to emaSwati. The sudden U-turn made by the Chief Justice (CJ) Bheki Maphalala has brought about concerns on whether the inquiry will be transparent and fair, because the commissioners are all members of the Judiciary. It has further been questioned if the member of the commission will not be compromised since it was evident that CJ Maphalala had vested interest in then matter yet they refer to him as their boss. Also, the sudden change of heart by the CJ has raised a lot of questions since he was opposed to the probe insisting that the Judiciary was an independent arm of government. His conduct has also been questioned by members of the Parliament Select Committee that was tasked with undertaking the probe. The commission which was set up by the CJ last week consists of five judges and will be headed by Supreme Court Judge Majahenkhaba Dlamini, who will be deputised by High Court Judge Mzwandile Fakudze. Notably, Judge Dlamini is a former Attorney General (AG) while Judge Fakudze was the deputy AG. Other members of the commission are, Industrial Court Judge President Sifiso Nsibande, High Court Judge, Maxine Langwenya, Industrial Court Judge, Lorraine Hlophe and its Secretary is Deputy Supreme Court Registrar, Siphiwo Masuku. On the lap of the commission are a number of issues, which include the persistent and continued negative reports about alleged improprieties, maladministration and abuse of power at the Office of the Master of the High Court. While commissioning the inquiry, the CJ stamped his authority and insisted that the judiciary was an independent arm of government. Commission of inquiry When asked to clarify what would happen to the pending court case, where the Office of the Master of the High Court was a subject since there was now a commission of inquiry in place. In response, he said they would see what would happen to the case in court, but the commission would continue to work. Human Rights Lawyer, Sibusiso Nhlabatsi acknowledged that the probe was necessary and long overdue because millions of estate funds belonging to widows and orphans have gone missing over the years. He said this was to the extent that a lot of children have been deprived of their right to education because their parents estate funds went missing. He said as much as the probe was a necessity, it should also be lawful. We should not just be excited because now there is a probe but we must ensure that the probe is within the parameters of the law, he said. Nhlabatsi said as the probe stood at present, it was not within the ambit of the law because it has been commissioned by the CJ himself, who has set up his own commission of inquiry yet according to the law, he did not have the powers to do so. He also highlighted that in terms of the Commission of Inquiry Act, 1963, it was clear that a commission of inquiry shall be commissioned by a minister, meaning it was the minister responsible for that particular ministry. For instance in this case, the Judiciary falls under the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, meaning that Minister Prince Simelane is the one who has the powers to commission the inquiry, he said. He also pointed out that the inquiry was not the first-of-its-kind as there has been inquiries commissioned before. He said these included the inquiry on the death of Mozambican national Mozambican Luciano Zavali, who died while under interrogation at the Manzini Police Station, and then most recent one being that of Thabani Nkomonyes which caused an uproar in the country leading to the civil unrest, among others. He said both of the mentioned inquiries were commissioned by the prime minister who is the minister of police. He said he was in concurrence with The Law Society of Eswatini (LSE) in that the CJ acted beyond his powers, which then tainted the whole process without taking into consideration whether the judges who have been appointed were credible or not. Basically, the process has been tainted before it has even started, said Nhlabatsi. He further noted that there was a conflict of interest, while citing that not so long ago, Parliament elected a select committee to conduct an inquiry on the irregularities at the Master of the High Court which was opposed by the CJ on the basis that the Judiciary had independence which clearly showed that the CJ was conflicted. Conflicted It is clear that the CJ has an interest in the matter as he has shown, then on wonders why then does he set up the commission of inquiry as he is conflicted because this then taints the process even further, he said. He further referred to the order issued by the High Court on the matter involving the Parliament probe and the CJ which was not followed by Maphalala. He recalled that the High Court issued an order that the matter should be referred to a full bench and the CJ did not do that but instead decided to file an appeal which further proved the magnitude of his interest on the matter. We understand that the Judiciary must be independent, but its independence does not mean then Judiciary is not accountable. The Judiciary must be held accountable because it takes money from the public, he said. He once again insisted that the process started off on a bad and illegal note yet it was necessary. He said the strangest part was that the very same judges that have been appointed by the CJ refer to him as their boss, which begged the question that if their findings were against the CJ, would they be able to bring that to light. He said the inquiry had been commissioned in the wrong way and there was a need for a proper way to establish the commission because the results should not be pre-empted, but be open and fair. Pertaining to whether there was a need for the appointment of five judges, Nhlabatsi clarified that there was nothing wrong with the number as legally, an inquiry panel could have as many people as necessary. He however pointed out that such panelists needed to be appointed from many different sectors unlike in this case where only members of the judiciary were appointed. To me one judge would have been enough and then a lawyer should have been appointed, government representative, parliamentarian and even someone from the business sector should have also been considered, he said. He stated that currently, it seemed like this was a court, not a commission and the manner in which the inquiry has been commissioned has been made to look like a legal issue or inquiry, yet the probe was meant to investigate the irregularities concerning peoples monies. Is the matter no longer sub-judice These sentiments were shared by former Gilgal MP, Kenneth Sadla Fakudze who was the chairperson of the select committee elected by the 11th Parliament to probe alleged irregularities and corruption at the Master of the High Court. After the committee was elected, the Chief Justice Bheki Maphalala stopped the investigation. This came in the form of a report presented by the Attorney General, Sifiso Khumalo, which detailed that the judiciary as an independent arm of government could not be probed by Parliament. This was followed by the CJ filing court papers in this regard insisting on the judiciarys independence. Thereafter, Members of Parliament were barred from raising the matter in Parliament since it was sub-judice, meaning the matter was under judicial consideration and therefore prohibited from public discussion elsewhere. Fakudze said he was shocked by the CJs conduct, who this week appointed a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to look into alleged irregularities and corrupt practices within the Masters Office. When we raised the same concerns in Parliament and elected the select committee, the CJ intervened and I am now shocked that he has turned around and appointed his own judicial inquiry, he said. He said this raised a lot of questions on whether the inquiry would be transparent and fair. Nge siSwati kutsiwa yake yatiphekela yini inkhukhu emanti ekutihlutsa, wondered the former legislator. He said if the CJ wanted people to have confidence in the outcome of the inquiry, he should have not involved himself in the probe. Our committee was not partisan but he is, which raises a lot of questions about his conduct, he said. He also insisted that the inquiry should ideally have been instituted by the minister and not the CJ. He further wondered how the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Prince Simelane felt about the whole issue and said he was waiting to see how he handled the situation. He said whenever they tried to enquire about the CJs decision to stop the probe in Parliament; they were informed that the matter was sub-judice. Is the matter no longer sub-judice, wondered Fakudze. A teenage boy stabbed to death in Birmingham city centre died in a case of mistaken identity, police believe. Muhammad Hassam Ali, 17, died from his injuries after he was stabbed in Victoria Square on Saturday. His family have issued a photo of him, but asked for privacy while they grieve. Detectives believe the stabbing was not gang-related, but have not yet made any arrests. #UPDATE | The teenage boy who died after being stabbed in Birmingham this weekend has been named, as detectives renew their appeal for more information to help catch his killer. Muhammad Hassam Ali, 17, died from his injuries after he was stabbed in Victoria Square, Birmingham pic.twitter.com/jCVLKqJnoq Birmingham Police (@BrumPolice) January 21, 2024 Detective Inspector Michelle Thurgood, of West Midlands Police, said: This is a tragic case of a young man being killed in what appears to be a case of mistaken identity. We are still trying to establish the motive and are keen to speak to anyone who was in the area just before 3.30pm yesterday. We are especially looking for any photos or video footage from the surrounding area which may help us identify those responsible. If you were walking through the area at the time, or a visitor who may have been taking pictures by The River statue near the Council House, we would like to hear from you as you may have vital information or evidence. Contact the force online or on 101 quoting log 2619 of 20/1/24 with information. More than 200 copies of the small-town newspaper were reportedly stolen from vendor shelves - MIKE WIGGINS/OURAY COUNTY PLAINDEALER Nearly all the copies of a small-town Colorado newspaper were stolen after it published a story of an alleged sexual assault at the local police chiefs house. The Ouray County Plaindealer reported that sexual assault charges had been filed against three men, including a relative of the police chief, for actions that allegedly occurred at a party in May last year. The incident is said to have happened at the home of Jeff Wood, Ourays police chief, where drugs and alcohol were present. The suspects were aged 17, 18 and 19 at the time, and the person who reported the rapes was 17, records said. After the story made the front page of the Plaindealers weekly edition, the newspaper said more than 200 copies went missing from vending racks around the town. Well find out who did this Its owner and publisher, Mark Wiggins, said: If you hoped to silence or intimidate us, you failed miserably. Well find out who did this. And another press run is imminent. By Thursday evening, someone had returned a garbage bag full of newspapers to the Plaindealer and supporters had donated about $2,000 to the paper, something Mr Wiggins called extremely heartening and humbling. Mr Wiggins believed the person who returned the newspapers was the person who took them and that only one person was involved in the theft. Mr Wiggins declined to identify the person, but he reported the information to police. Officers also had surveillance video of some of the thefts, he said. The Ouray Country Sheriffs office said the suspect is not a member or relative of local law enforcement and not associated with the defendants in the recent reported sexual assault. The Ouray County Plaindealer is published on Thursdays and delivered to racks late Wednesday. The rack price for the weekly newspaper is $1, but subscribers can also receive the paper by mail. 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. Aboard the shockingly loud Leopard APC, the Israeli army took us through the ruins of eastern Khan Younis in the Gaza Strip. The military vehicle deposited us in a neighborhood that had been partially bulldozed. You could hear tank and machine gun fire in the distance. Beyond what has become a tank parking lot was the neighborhood, with every building severely damaged. A hole had been blown through one of the homes revealing an anteroom to a tunnel shaft. Inside the tunnel: a set of stairs, a landing, then another set of stairs. It was somewhere between 45 to 60 feet deep, the soldiers said. PHOTO: The Israel Defense Forces took ABC News inside a Hamas tunnel complex where they say 20 hostages were held. (ABC News) The warren of tunnels beneath contained, said the Israel Defense Forces, something more sinister than they had found in the past -- a set of cells where hostages were kept. Several flights of stairs cut down into the clay, leading us to a steel padlocked gate -- from there, the tunnel zigs and zags for dozens of yards. Each off-shoot is connected by a joint, many of which had been booby-trapped, that one has to crab walk to get through. Israeli soldiers still guarded the unexplored tunnel off-shoots. Everything appears to be connected to something down there. MORE: Israel-Gaza live updates: Death toll passes 25,000 in Gaza, health ministry says The tunnels were suffocatingly hot and damp. The lack of oxygen makes even walking strenuous. Our camera instantly fogged up and the concrete walls and arches beaded sweat. There were bunches of wires attached to the walls, apparently connecting electricity, data and other wires into the deepest parts of the tunnels. Most of the tunnel was high enough to walk in with ease. After a straightaway of hundreds of yards, the tunnel jagged past a caved-in section where the IDF said Hamas tried to booby-trap the tunnel. There were multiple tunnel off-shoots, with one of them leading us to a large room with a vaulted ceiling plastered white, walls colored with tiled walls and carpeted with artificial grass. The soldiers said they believed it was used to hold women and children hostages, showing us a child's drawing they said a 5-year-old hostage said they drew. Among the litter of bedding, first aid kits and diapers were empty tubes marked RPG and what appeared to be Hamas' logo. PHOTO: The Israel Defense Forces took ABC News inside a Hamas tunnel complex where they say 20 hostages were held. (ABC News) Just beyond the common area was a kitchen. Beyond that, bathrooms and boilers for hot water. The room split into two tunnels (we really got a sense of why Israeli officials call it "the metro," with its bewildering number of turns and side tunnels, and the immense amount of investment that went into building it.) To the left was another long tunnel, plastered white, that hooked right and revealed a row of what the IDF called hostage cells. They were fully tiled, white with a band of purple tiles and had bathrooms. They were about 12 feet long and 5 feet wide. A mattress or two was left on the floor. It's there the IDF says Hamas held several hostages. PHOTO: The Israel Defense Forces took ABC News inside a Hamas tunnel complex where they say 20 hostages were held. (ABC News) PHOTO: The Israel Defense Forces took ABC News inside a Hamas tunnel complex where they say 20 hostages were held. (ABC News) MORE: 'Do everything you can': Families of Hamas hostages call for lawmakers' help in securing their release IDF Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said they found the DNA of hostages there and articles of clothing like bras and underwear. The cells had cage-like doors that opened into the tunnel. It took 10 minutes to make our way all the way in, and as long to head back out. Hagari said there are still hundreds of unexplored shafts, including ones where hostages could be held barely a half mile from where we were. I asked Hagari whether the apocalyptic destruction we saw above ground was necessary, and whether Israel wanted all Palestinians to suffer for Hamas' Oct. 7 terror attack on Israel. "We do not see collective punishment," he said. "We seek only to rescue hostages and to take down Hamas. Kill the leadership team. Kill the industries of rockets and ruin the industries of rockets ... So we do the necessary thing in order to minimize the collateral damage." MORE: 'The situation is catastrophic': Gaza's largest functioning hospital operating at 300% capacity More than 25,000 people have been killed in Gaza and over 62,000 others injured, according to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry. In Israel, at least 1,200 people have been killed, mostly civilians, and 6,900 others injured, according to the Israeli prime minister's office. Israeli officials say 532 IDF soldiers have been killed, including 195 since the ground operations in Gaza began. The IDF has said it is only targeting Hamas and other militants in Gaza and alleges that Hamas deliberately shelters behind civilians, which the group denies. I asked Hagari about Israeli Cabinet ministers like Itamar Ben Gvir calling for the reoccupation of Gaza. He said Israel's goal is "to dismantle Hamas so it cannot be the sovereign in Gaza and there cannot be another 10/7 ... There is no mission of controlling the population, no mission of shoving the population to another country." Exploring a vast Hamas tunnel complex where hostages were reportedly held captive: Reporter's notebook originally appeared on abcnews.go.com Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, who dropped out of the GOP primary this week, announced his endorsement of Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley in a post online on Saturday, just days before the New Hampshire primary. Anyone who believes Donald Trump will unite this country has been asleep over the last 8 years, Hutchinson posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. Trump intentionally tries to divide America and will continue to do so. Go @NikkiHaley in New Hampshire. #FITN Hutchinson announced his decision to drop out of the race for the White House on Tuesday after he finished in sixth place in the Iowa caucuses. He congratulated former President Trump on his win, as well as the other candidates who barely made a dent in Trumps lead. Since launching his bid last April, Hutchinson was seen as a long-shot candidate, especially after his criticism of Trump mounted. He has called for the Republican Party to move on from the former president, who has a chance at becoming the GOPs nominee for the third straight election. Hutchinsons comments follow similar lines to those of Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), who suspended his campaign in December. Scott endorsed Trump at an event in New Hampshire Friday, saying the country needs a president who will unite our country. Scott has received criticism for his comments about Trump uniting the country, like Hutchinsons endorsement message. Gov. Chris Sununu (R), who endorsed Haley in Dec., criticized Scott and said nobody, not even the former president himself, believes that Trump will unite the country. Top Stories from The Hill Hutchinsons endorsement comes just days before the Jan. 23 primary in the state. Trump currently has the most support in the state, with 46.7 percent support. Haley, thanks to several strong debate performances and Sununus endorsement has seen a steady increase in recent months and is closing in on Trumps lead with 35.4 percent support, according to The Hill/Decision Desk HQ. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Taylor Swift attends 'In Conversation With... Taylor Swift' during the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival at TIFF Bell Lightbox on Sept, 09, 2022, in Toronto, Ontario. On Saturday Jan. 20, a man was arrested at Taylor Swift's Manhattan home. The man, whose name was not released, allegedly attempted to open the door to Swift's Franklin Street townhouse on Saturday afternoon, CBS News reported. Police received a call about a "disorderly person" trying to get inside the building, and when they arrived, officers located and questioned the man. At that point, law enforcement discovered a warrant for his arrest from a 2017 summons. Ultimately, the man was arrested because of the unrelated warrant. As of writing, he has not been charged on any counts related to Saturday's incident. Photos from the encounter show officers handcuffing the man in front of Swift's Tribeca home before escorting him to the back of a police cruiser. New York Police are seen detaining a suspected stalker outside Taylor Swift's apartment in Tribeca on Jan. 20, 2024, in New York City. Gotham/GC Images This isn't the first time someone has been arrested after attempting to gain access to Swift's NYC home. In 2022, a Brooklyn man named Joshua Christian faced stalking and criminal trespassing charges for two incidents during which he allegedly threatened Swift at her Tribeca building, Rolling Stone reported. And in 2018, a 22-year-old man named Roger Alvarado was arrested after police discovered him asleep in Swift's Tribeca home. Alvarado pleaded guilty to criminal contempt and burglary; he was sentenced to six months in jail and five years of probation, in addition to mental health treatment, the Daily Mail reported. Unfortunately, Alvarado broke in two more times and in 2019, he was sentenced to two-to-four years after accepting a plea deal for violating his probation. Next: CNN Reporter Sends a Blunt Message to Taylor Swift Ahead of Chiefs-Bills Playoff Game Heidi Carston has spent the past decade bussing children safely to and from school in Minnesota. That all changed in December when she was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic gastric cancer. Carston had to tell her students that she wouldn't see them for a while because of health issues. One boy just knew he had to help. When she announced it on the bus, I was sad, 11-year-old Noah Webber told USA TODAY on Wednesday. I was shocked I didn't just want to stand there and watch it happen and not do anything. After chatting with his family, Noah decided to organize a bake sale in Carston's honor and ended up raising $1,000 for her. Noah's small act of kindness turned out to be a big deal for Carston. Heidi Carston, a Minnesota bus driver a student raised $1,000 for after finding out she has stage 4 cancer. Putting the bake sale together Noah Webber puts his next batch of goodies into the oven. The treats are part of a fundraiser he organized for his bus driver who was diagnosed with cancer. Noah, a sixth-grader at Black Hawk Middle School in the Twin Cities suburb of Eagen, first met Carston at the beginning of the school year. Months later when Carston realized she would need to undergo chemotherapy and wouldn't be able to work, she said she just knew she had to tell her students why she wouldn't be on the bus for a while. They're accustomed to the same driver every day, she said. They become accustomed to your habits, your style, and I just didn't want them wondering 'What happened to Ms. Heidi?'" After Noah told his family about what his bus driver was going through, the Webbers baked up a storm, making muffins and banana bread, and then posting about the baked goods on a neighborhood app. Noah's mom also told her co-workers about it, and another bus driver posted about the sale on an app for bus drivers. Treats Minnesota sixth grader Noah Webber made to raise money for his former bus driver who was diagnosed with cancer. They presented the money and gifts to Carston shortly after Christmas. The gifts included flowers, candy and a blanket. I was just blown away, Carston told USA TODAY on Wednesday. I just couldn't even believe it, that he had such a kind heart to be able to even come up with this idea. She said she was "overwhelmed by his love and all of the students on all of my routes for giving me gifts ... (It was) very, very touching. 'Fastest kid alive': Louisiana 5 year old's after-school routine has made him an internet star Boys community is proud of him for helping bus driver in need Noah said he was excited and happy to help his bus driver, who he described as kind and super friendly. His father, Mike Webber, said he couldnt be more proud of his son. The boys act of kindness is just further proof that bus drivers are needed and valued, said Allyson Garin, a spokesperson for Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Public Schools. They're these unsung heroes the first face our kids see in the morning and the last face they see, she said. It was just exciting to see the district come together as a whole, including Noah and his fundraiser, with all these amazing things. His school principal, Anne Kusch, said his actions embody the schools philosophy: Calm. Kind. Safe. Were super proud of Noah here and excited to see what else hes going to do in the next two and a half years that hes with us, Kusch said. Noah Webber and Heidi Carston, his bus driver who was diagnosed with cancer. Bus driver is undergoing chemo, hoping for the best Carston said that her diagnosis came too late for stomach removal surgery, an extensive procedure that involves a long recovery, she told USA TODAY. Doctors are hoping that her body will respond well to chemotherapy but they wont know for several more weeks. Her family has started a GoFundMe where people can donate to help her. It had raised just over $5,000 by Wednesday evening. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Minnesota boy's bake sale raises $1,000 for bus driver fighting cancer LERDO DE TEJADA, Mexico (AP) Four local police officers in Mexico were placed under investigation in connection with the shooting death of a man in the Gulf of Mexico state of Veracruz, after neighbors in the town surrounded the officers and attacked them. The Veracruz Public Security Department said in a statement the officers from Lerdo de Tejada, a coastal town in the south of the state, were detained late Friday. They were handed over to the prosecutors office to investigate the death of 27-year-old Brando de Jesus Arellano Cruz, it said. The identities of the officers were not released. Arellano Cruz was shot Friday night while in his vehicle. His family speculated the police may have flagged Arellano Cruz down and he didn't stop out of fear of the local security forces, who are highly mistrusted by local residents. The victim phoned his father, Delfino Arellano Ramirez, and told him that the officers were following him and that he was on his way to his grandmothers house. Arellano Ramirez said that just after the call he went to the grandmother's house and that when he arrived, his sons vehicle was stopped and he heard two gunshots. He stopped the car because he arrived at his grandmothers house ... and once the car was stopped there, they shot him with impunity, he said. When Arellano Ramirez approached the car, he saw the impact of the bullet in the glass and he looked through the window. I saw that my son was on his face and was already dripping blood, he said. Arellano Cruz had been shot in the head. Arellano Cruz's father and mother who arrived at the scene shortly afterwards said they rebuked the officers, asking for explanations but the officers intimidated them and told them that they had nothing to do with what happened. Soon, dozens of neighbors surrounded the local police officers and began to beat them angrily. One policeman fled, the family said. The other four were rescued by state police and the National Guard and taken to a hospital. Apparently, those are the four officers who are under investigation. Residents said the crowd was furious and went on to set fire to the town hall. When Associated Press journalist arrived, two patrol cars, a van and part of the town hall building had been burned and dozens of angry people were still there. Mayor Maria Esther Arroniz said on social media that she lamented Arellano Cruz's death but condemned people who used the event to feed hatred, vandalism and social instability. Residents have repeatedly denounced abuses by security forces. Shopkeeper Julio Cesar Ramirez recounted Friday night how he was detained twice and falsely accused of carrying illegal substances. Perhaps this is not the correct way the people should have acted, but we must also understand that the people are tired of abuses, tired of arbitrariness, he said. Impunity runs rampant in Mexico. Only 1% of all crimes committed were reported, investigated and resolved in 2022, according to a survey by the National Institute of Statistics and Geography. Veracruz has for years had high levels of violence linked to organized crime as it is located on the fastest highway route from Central America to the United States. Security forces from different agencies have been linked several times to cases of corruption and human rights abuses. India came to a halt Monday as Prime Minister Narendra Modi presided over the opening of a grand Hindu temple on a contested holy site that has become a symbol of religious tensions in the worlds largest democracy. The $217 million Ram Mandir honors Lord Ram, the most revered deity in Hinduism, and is transforming Ayodhya, a city of about 3 million people in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, into a tourist hub that officials hope will be a Hindu version of the Vatican. Dressed in a traditional kurta tunic, Modi led the consecration ceremony as Hindu priests chanted hymns and a 4.25-foot statue of Lord Ram was unveiled in the temples inner sanctum. Indian Air Force helicopters showered the temple with flower petals as Modi placed a lotus in front of the black stone idol, which was adorned with gold ornaments. After centuries of waiting, our Ram has arrived, he said in a speech after the ceremony, addressing thousands of devotees, politicians, businesspeople and celebrities gathered for the event. We are laying the foundation of India for the next 1,000 years from this moment, he said. Modi Consecrates Temple India (AFP - Getty Images) The temple was built on the site of Babri Masjid, a mosque dating to the 16th century that was destroyed by Hindu nationalist mobs in 1992, setting off riots across the country that killed about 2,000 people, mostly Muslims. In 2019, Indias Supreme Court ruled that the temple could be built on the disputed 7-acre site, in a controversial decision that was criticized by Muslim groups. The inauguration of the temple, which is still far from complete, comes as Modi and his Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party prepare to run for a record third consecutive term in elections this spring. The BJP had been advocating for the temple for decades as a way to celebrate Hindu identity after centuries of Mughal and British rule. Its opening could help Modi win favor with voters in India, a country of 1.4 billion people that has been majority Hindu since it gained independence in 1947. The consecration ceremony was celebrated as a national event, with many states declaring a public holiday, stock markets closing down and temples across the country holding their own ceremonies. The Indian news media was dominated by coverage of the event, which was broadcast live across India and at Indian diplomatic missions and other sites around the world, including in Times Square in New York late Sunday. In Mauritius, a small island nation in the Indian Ocean where almost half the population is Hindu, public officers of Hindu faith were given two hours off work to watch it. Some Hindu religious leaders had refused to attend the ceremony, saying a Hindu temple cannot be consecrated until it is finished. Other critics, including Indias main opposition Congress party, accused Modi of stoking religious tensions. Sunita Viswanath, executive director of the U.S.-based nonprofit group Hindus for Human Rights, said the ceremony was an electoral stunt that should not be happening in the name of my faith. Modi is not a priest, so leading this ceremony for political gain is both technically and morally wrong, she said in a news release. This weaponization of our religion tramples whats left of Indias secular democratic values. The city of Ayodhya is remaking itself around the temple, which will be able to accommodate about 200,000 visitors a day. Roads have been widened, with the 8-mile, four-lane Ram Path guiding pilgrims to the pink sandstone, three-story structure. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday opened a controversial Hindu temple built on the ruins of a historic mosque in the holy city of Ayodhya in a grand event that is expected to galvanize Hindu voters in upcoming elections. (Mahesh Kumar A. / AP) A new airport, inaugurated by Modi last month, depicts the temple architecture on its facade and will eventually be able to handle 6 million passengers a year. Big new hotels are under construction, while local residents such as Amit Gupta are turning their homes into guesthouses. Gupta, 35, who was born and raised in Ayodhya, said he was very happy about the temple. Now we are getting to see it completed in front of our eyes, he said. Gupta and his staff are pulling out all the stops to prepare for the anticipated influx of tourists in the coming weeks, with Gupta saying he is almost fully booked with visitors from around India. We are working very hard to ensure nobody arriving here has any trouble, he said in a phone interview. They should leave Ayodhya feeling that, Not only Lord Ram but also the people there took care of us. Some Hindus believe that Lord Ram was born on the exact site of Babri Masjid, and that the mosque had replaced a Hindu temple that was destroyed by Muslim invaders. A spokesperson for Vishva Hindu Parishad, a Hindu nationalist group that has been criticized over its role in the destruction of the mosque in 1992, said this month that the effort to construct the temple was bigger than the independence movement itself. In its 2019 ruling, the Supreme Court set aside a different area for the construction of a mosque, about 15 miles away. Though Haji Arfat Shaikh, head of the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation and a BJP politician, has said the new mosque will be more beautiful than the Taj Mahal, construction has yet to begin on the 5-acre site. Modi has a high level of support in India, where his approval rating of 77% makes him the most popular leader in the world, according to the U.S.-based firm Morning Consult. His state visit to the White House last June drew crowds of supporters from the Indian diaspora but also protests over his human rights record. Preparation Of The Opening Of The Hindu Temple In Ayodhya (Indranil Aditya / NurPhoto via Getty Images) Since Modi took office in 2014, press freedom in India has declined and communal violence against Muslims, Christians and other religious minorities has grown. He was also criticized in 2019 for revoking the limited autonomy of Kashmir, Indias only Muslim-majority region. At the same time, India has risen in global stature, strengthening its ties with the United States and its allies as they seek to counterbalance China while also promoting its role as a leader of the Global South. The U.S.-India relationship is not without its strains. In November, U.S. prosecutors charged an unnamed Indian government official they accused of plotting to assassinate a Sikh separatist leader living in New York. India has said such a crime would be contrary to government policy. By Kanishka Singh WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Saudi Arabia's foreign minister said the kingdom was "very worried" that tensions in the Red Sea amid attacks by Yemen's Houthis and U.S. strikes on Houthi targets could spiral out of control and escalate the conflict in the region. "I mean, of course, we are very worried. I mean, you know, we are in a very difficult and dangerous time in the region, and that's why we are calling for de-escalation," Prince Faisal bin Farhan told CNN 'Fareed Zakaria GPS' in an interview that will be aired on Sunday. Attacks by the Iran-aligned Houthi militia on ships in and around the Red Sea for the past several weeks have slowed trade between Asia and Europe and alarmed major powers in an escalation of the war in Gaza. The Saudi foreign minister said the kingdom believed in freedom of navigation and wanted tensions in the region to be de-escalated. "We of course, believe very much in the freedom of navigation. And that's something that needs to be protected. But we also need to protect the security and stability of the region. So we are very focused on de-escalating the situation as much as possible," he told CNN. The Houthis, who control most of Yemen, say their attacks are in solidarity with Palestinians under attack from Israel in Gaza. Since last week, the United States has been launching strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, and this week returned the militia to a list of "terrorist" groups. President Joe Biden said on Thursday that air strikes would continue even as he acknowledged they may not be halting the Houthi attacks. The confrontation risks an expansion of the conflict beyond Hamas-governed Gaza, where the local health ministry says over 24,000 people - or more than 1% of Gaza's 2.3 million population - have been killed in Israel's assault. Israel launched its offensive following Oct. 7 attacks on Israel by the Palestinian Islamist group, which Israeli officials say killed 1,200 people. (Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Daniel Wallis) ATLANTA (AP) Donald Trump used his social media platform Friday to mock Nikki Haley 's birth name, the latest example of the former president keying on race and ethnicity to attack people of color, especially his political rivals. In a post on his Truth Social account, Trump repeatedly referred to Haley, the daughter of immigrants from India, as Nimbra. Haley, the former South Carolina governor, was born in Bamberg, South Carolina, as Nimarata Nikki Randhawa. She has always gone by her middle name, Nikki. She took the surname Haley upon her marriage in 1996. Trump, himself the son, grandson and twice the husband of immigrants, called Haley Nimbra three times in the post and said she doesn't have what it takes. MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - AUGUST 23: Republican presidential candidate, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley participates in the first debate of the GOP primary season hosted by FOX News at the Fiserv Forum on August 23, 2023 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Eight presidential hopefuls squared off in the first Republican debate as former U.S. President Donald Trump, currently facing indictments in four locations, declined to participate in the event. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) ORG XMIT: 775986322 ORIG FILE ID: 1634992150 The attack comes four days before the New Hampshire primary, in which Haley is trying to establish herself as the only viable Trump alternative in the Republicans' 2024 nominating contest. Trump's post was an escalation of recent attacks in which he referenced Haley's given first name though he's misspelled it Nimrada and falsely asserted she is ineligible for the presidency because her parents were not U.S. citizens when she was born in 1972. More: Nikki Haley says America was never racist. Her memoir tells a trickier story The attacks echo Trump's birther rhetoric against President Barack Obama. Trump spent years pushing the conspiracy theory that the nation's first Black president was born in Kenya and not a natural born U.S. citizen as required by the Constitution. That effort was part of Trump's rise among Republicans' most culturally conservative base ahead of his 2016 election that surprised much of the U.S. political establishment. Haley has dismissed Trump's latest attacks as proof that she threatens his bid for a third consecutive nomination. Ill let people decide what he means by his attacks, Haley told reporters in New Hampshire on Friday when asked about Trumps false assertions that her heritage disqualifies her from the Oval Office. What we know is, look, hes clearly insecure if he goes and does these temper tantrums, if hes spending millions of dollars on TV. Hes insecure, he knows that somethings wrong. Trumps campaign did not reply to an inquiry about his comments. Since Monday's Iowa caucuses which Trump won by 30 points over Ron DeSantis, who placed second Haley has aimed to portray the rest of the GOP primary battle as a two-way race between Trump and herself despite her narrow third-place finish. Haley's campaign is aiming for a stronger showing in New Hampshire, hoping for a springboard into her home state South Carolina, which holds the South's first presidential primary next month. For his part, Trump bounces between declarations that the nominating fight is already effectively over and blasting Haley as if the two are indeed locked in a tight contest. Trump still criticizes his other remaining rival, DeSantis, but his preferred pejoratives for the Florida governor, Ron DeSanctimonious or Ron DeSanctus, have nothing to do with race or ethnicity. DeSantis is white. Trumps focus on Haley's name comes as far-right online forums have for months been littered with mentions of her given name alongside racist commentary and false birther claims. Haley's name and family background also have become talking points on the left. Some widely circulating social media posts have called her a hypocrite for saying America was never a racist country when she likely experienced racism herself. Pastor Darrell Scott, a Black man who has led a diversity coalition for Trumps previous campaigns, defended the former president's latest attacks as slings and arrows that come in election season. You have to dissect politics as politics. Its not personal, said Scott. Hes not intending to demean her or degrade her in any way. Hes just doing that to garner votes. Scott said Trump has a compassionate side that most people don't see and defended his aggressive approach as a goose-and-gander situation for a public figure constantly under attack for everything. Tara Setmayer, senior adviser to the Lincoln Project group that opposes Trump from within the conservative movement, agreed that Trumps rhetoric works in a Republican primary. But she said thats a damning reality for the party and does not excuse his behavior. These are the rantings of an incredibly, almost pathetically insecure man who has demonstrated over his entire career his racism and bigotry, said Setmayer, who is multiracial and calls herself a former Republican and now a conservative independent. Why would anyone expect it to be any different now, when an entire political party has enabled this level of morally questionable behavior? Amid the fallout Friday, Trump won the endorsement of South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, the Senates only Black Republican and formerly a presidential candidate himself. Haley appointed Scott to the Senate in 2012, during her first term as governor. Trump has a long history of using race, ethnicity and immigrant heritage as a cudgel. For years, he has referred to Obama as Barack Hussein Obama, putting an obvious emphasis on the 44th president's middle name. Obama was the son of a white American mother and a Black father from Kenya. He was born in Hawaii, though Trump spent years asserting Obama had manufactured the story and a birth certificate to support it. Trump eventually admitted his claims were false but then, during the 2016 general election, said he did so only to get on with the campaign. When David Duke, a former Ku Klux Klan leader, encouraged Republican primary voters to back Trump in 2016, Trump responded in a CNN interview that he knew nothing about David Duke, I know nothing about white supremacists. Trump is also among many Republicans who deliberately mispronounce Vice President Kamala Harris's name. Rather than the correct KA'-ma-la, Trump sometimes says, Ka-MAH-la. Harris, who is of Indian and Jamaican descent, is the first woman to become vice president and the third non-white person as either president or vice president, following Obama and Charles Curtis, Herbert Hoover's vice president who had Native American ancestry. Leading up to Trumps 2017 inauguration, civil rights icon John Lewis, then a Black congressman from Georgia, said he would not attend Trumps inauguration because he considered him an illegitimate president. Trump reacted by blasting Lewiss Atlanta-based district as being in horrible shape and falling apart (not to mention crime infested). The district includes downtown Atlanta, Coca-Colas world headquarters, the Georgia Institute of Technology and principal sites of the 1996 Olympic Games, among other attributes. During his presidency, Trump questioned during a meeting with lawmakers why the U.S. would accept immigrants from Haiti and shithole countries across Africa instead of countries like Norway. He did not explicitly mention race but the White House followed disclosure of his comments with a statement explaining that Trump supported granting access to the U.S. for those who can contribute to our society. He also has said that four congresswomen of color should go back to the broken and crime infested countries they came from, ignoring the fact that all of the women are American citizens and three were born in the U.S. Trump's mother was born Mary Anne MacLeod in Scotland and came to the United States between the two world wars. His paternal grandfather, Frederick Trump, was a Bavarian-born immigrant from Germany in the 1880s. Trump's first wife, Ivana Zelnickova before their marriage, was born in what is now the Czech Republic. His third wife, former first lady Melania Trump, was born Melanija Knavs in what is now Slovenia. That means four of Trump's five children also are children of immigrants. Haley frames her family's story as proof that the U.S. is not a racist country. She sometimes highlights her role in taking down the Confederate battle flag from South Carolina statehouse grounds after a racist massacre in her state though she had sidestepped requests to remove the banner earlier in her term. And Haley has for years navigated Trump's penchant for racist rhetoric. I will not stop until we fight a man that chooses not to disavow the KKK, Haley said during the 2016 primary campaign after she had endorsed Florida Sen. Marco Rubio over Trump. That is not a part of our party; that is not who we want as president. ___ Associated Press reporters Ali Swenson in Washington and Holly Ramer in Amherst, New Hampshire, contributed to this report. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump mocks Nikki Haley's first name. Why? MBABANE Under highly controversial circumstances, five vehicles bought with a loan from World Bank have been registered in Nanikie Mnisis name. Mnisi is the Under Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Training. Government obtained a loan of E486 million from the World Bank Group to strengthen the countrys education service delivery and management systems. A sum of E486 million is the equivalent of US$27 million. The project is also co-financed by the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) through a grant of E85.5 million, the equivalent of US$4.75 million. The vehicles are three Toyota Station Wagon (Fortuner 2.4 GD) retailing at E733 100 each, and two Toyota LDV (Toyota Hilux Raider) priced at E602 100 each. In total, the five vehicles cost, at minimum, a sum of E3.4 million. It has been learnt that the registration of the government assets in a persons name is sharply contrary to the Public Finance Management Act of 2017 and the Constitution of the Kingdom of Swaziland (Eswatini). Section 277 (1) of the Constitution states that: Subject to the provisions of Chapter XII, all properties and all assets which immediately before the commencement of this Constitution were vested in any authority or person for the purposes of, or in the right of the government or in the government shall, on the commencement of this Constitution, vest in the government. Upon commencement of the Constitution, legal experts advise that all public assets shall vest in government. Sizakele Dlamini, the Principal Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Finance, said there was no provision in the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), 2017, for personal registration of government assets. She said all government vehicles should be entered in the car register at the Central Transport Administration (CTA). The PS, who doubles as the controlling officer responsible for safety of public funds, said Section 80 of the PFMA was clear on this issue. Dlamini said Section 80 provides that asset management lies primarily on the principal secretary in the Ministry of Finance and secondarily falls under the jurisdiction of chief executive officers (CEOs) of public entities. For an asset to be registered in the Asset Register, the controlling officer said it should be in the name of the public entity, but not in the name of an officer or ps. Section 80 (1) provides that: The chief executive officer of a public entity, local government or government business enterprise shall be responsible for the management of assets of the public entity and shall manage the assets to ensure government achieves value for money when acquiring, using and disposing of government assets. Responsible for finance Section 72 of the Act states that the ps responsible for finance has the power to keep records of accounts of loans taken by government. It has been learnt that all public assets registered as SD, including those driven by the ministers are registered under government. Meanwhile, Mnisi who has been the Acting PS in the Ministry of Education and Training, confirmed that the vehicles were registered in her name in good faith. She said they were registered in her name because she is the project manager. Mnisi assured the public that the cars would be transferred to government ownership after the completion of the project. However, government officials have expressed concern that there was no documented undertaking in the form of an affidavit that the vehicles would be transferred back to government. Attorney General (AG) Sifiso Khumalo, known as Indvuna Mashamphu, said he advised that the project would not be neat if there was lack of an agreement stipulating explicitly that the vehicles would be transferred to government. Basically, I did not support the arrangement in its current format, the AG said. The types of the vehicles are as follows: Toyota, Station Wagon, Diesel Oil, registered LSD 597 DH, Chassis No. AHTKB3CD502670833; Engine No. 2GD1464691; Toyota L.D.V, LSD 654 DH, Chassis No. AHTKB3CD202669414, Engine No. 2GDD299767; Toyota, Station Wagon, Diesel Oil, LSD 716 DH, Chassis No. AHTDB3FS400370098, Engine No. 2GDD327549; Toyota, L.D.V, LSD 587 DH, Chassis No. AHTKB3CD502670461, Engine No. 2GD1463720 Toyota, Station Wagon, Diesel Oil, LSD598 DH, Chassis No. AHTDB3FS800249641, Engine No. 2GDD282813. Owen Nxumalo, the Minister of Education and Training, said he was first reluctant to append his signature in the acquisition of the vehicles because they were registered in an officials name. After consultations, he said, he was assured that the rules governing the project stated that the property should be registered in a contact persons name. Nxumalo said one reason for the registration of the vehicles in Mnisis name was that they were not in the government system to be filled up at the Central Transport Administration (CTA). CTA is an official garage for the government. When he first heard of the manner in which the cars were registered, the minister said it was scary such that he refused to sign for anything to do with the cars. He said it was the first time to see a government property being registered in a persons name. Nxumalo explained that he was told that registering the cars in the under secretarys name or rather project manager was a World Bank requirement. After officers had assured him that there was nothing untoward about registering the cars in Mnisis name, the minister said he then appended his signature. He made it clear that the onus was on them to ensure that the cars were indeed transferred to government upon completion of the project. Ownership We have a duty as officers of the ministry to remember to ensure transfer of the cars to government ownership, Minister Nxumalo said. Government vehicles are under the jurisdiction of CTA, a department under the Ministry of Public Works and Transport. Thulani Mkhaliphi, the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, said he had checked the registration of the vehicles and discovered that they were project cars under the Ministry of Education and Training. In a statement, Mkhaliphi said they were not yet government vehicles. He stated: I have checked the registration of the vehicles concerned and it shows that they are project vehicles under the Ministry of Education and Training. They are as yet not government vehicles. Regarding this matter, the PS said the Ministry of Education and Training was better placed to give details. In reaction to the issue, Mnisi, the Under Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Training, conceded that there was no affidavit stipulating that the cars would be transferred to government ownership. She assured the public and government that she would not keep them as her personal property. In fact, she said the vehicles did not belong to her. Technically, she said, the vehicles also did not belong to government but were owned by the government project financed by World Bank. Im little disappointed on the confusion, but I fully understand it is accountability, she said. Under notorial practice, Mnisi said she was a trustee who had no personal gain on the trust. By virtue of her position, she explained that she was, among other things, executing the duties and responsibilities of a trustee. She said her powers as a trustee would cease to exist after the duration of the project. Transferred to State Upon completion of the project, she insisted that all assets under her name would be transferred to the State. Other assets under her name include furniture for the project offices. She was asked what other strong reason that forced her into taking such a decision. She responded that the vehicles, as a requirement, should be insured during the duration of the project. Mnisi said government did not provide insurance for its vehicles. She mentioned that the five vehicles were equipped with GPS trackers for navigation and safety purposes. The under secretary suspected that the people who were bitter about the registration of the cars in her name could be aggrieved by her decision to ensure they were being used for the intended purpose. She said some officers wanted to abuse the cars. Mnisi alleged that some of these officers even requested for permission to travel by these vehicles to South Africa. I told them that they would return to the country by bus. They know what I meant, she said. When asked how the cars were being filled up at private garages and who was actually bearing the expenses, Mnisi said the money from the World Bank catered for this cost. There is currently a staff complement of nine professionals, mainly seconded civil servants. The under secretary is responsible for payment of their salaries through an account held with Standard Bank. Further asked why the salaries were not discharged from an account held by the Central Bank of Eswatini (CBE), she said World Bank transferred the funds to the Consolidated Fund. She said there was no way the money could be mismanaged because the CBE was aware of the activities of the account held by Standard Bank. She said everything was done according to the book and there was nothing sinister about the account and the manner in which she managed the project. Acting Accountant General Nomsa Simelane referred enquries to the Ministry of Finance. Section 10 (1) of the Public Finance Management Act stipulates that the accountant general shall be responsible for the: (a) payment of expenditure and collection of revenues required in this Act to be managed through the government account; (b) custody and safety of public money and other resources of the government under the control of the accountant general and the setting of standards and monitoring standards for the custody and safety of money and other resources of government not under the control of the accountant general. A source close to World Bank wondered how the highly acclaimed financial institution would order a ministry to register vehicles in a persons name when those cars were bought with government money. The loan was advanced to government and the money now belongs to government, not World Bank. Government is then free to use the loan for the intended purpose, the source said. It must be said that the World Bank-financed project is expected to improve the quality of education in the early years and for junior secondary pupils, in targeted areas. When seeking the loan, the Government of the Kingdom of Eswatini stated that it recognised the importance of the education sector and the role it was playing in building the countrys human capital and transforming its economic and social landscape. Despite prioritising education both in terms of financing and policies (Eswatini introduced Free Primary Education (FPE) in 2010), school completion rates and learning outcomes have been low compared to other lower-middle income countries. Prolonged school closures during the COVID-19 pandemic are likely to have exacerbated pupils dropout rates and low learning levels, particularly for children from poor and vulnerable households. It is said that the project supports government in addressing learning loses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly among the poor and most vulnerable. It takes a life-cycle approach to human capital development, ensuring that all children start with a solid foundation for learning by strengthening the quality of early childhood care, development and education, as well as supporting teachers to deliver effective foundational literacy and numeracy programmes in primary schools. The World Bank commended government for prioritising human capital investments. Government was also applauded for its dedication to improving accessibility, effectiveness and inclusiveness of education services, particularly for orphaned and vulnerable children. Strategic The project supports Eswatinis human capital development agenda by strongly aligning with the countrys National Strategic Development Plan (2018/19-2022/23) and the new Education Strategic Sector Plan (2022-2034). The new Education Strategic Sector Plan has a strong focus on improving learning levels, access to and completion of education; strengthening teacher management and development; and building the resilience of the education sector to respond to future crises. It must be said that the project aims to put in place the critical building blocks to improving service delivery in early childhood development, foundational learning and secondary education to better prepare children and youth for the future. It seeks to strengthen the management of the education sector through better data collection, analysis and dissemination to build a stronger culture of accountability for results. In fact, it also seeks to complement the ongoing Health Systems Strengthening and COVID-19 Emergency Response projects, which the World Bank Group has been financing to support holistic human capital development in the kingdom. Exterior of Turkey Hustlerz on West Main Avenue in Gastonia Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024. A new Gastonia restaurant with a focus on turkey is open just in time to accommodate those New Years resolutions involving clean eating, according to part owner Teresa Miller. On Friday, Jan. 12, Turkey Hustlerz held a soft opening to welcome the community into the restaurant. In case you missed it, heres everything you need to know about Turkey Hustlerz. Beginnings Turkey Hustlerz started as a small business offering food at local events. Before deciding to go into business, the restaurant's other owner Joseph Breelove was pescatarian, meaning the only animal products he ate were seafood. Then he started incorporating other things, and I talked him into trying turkey, Miller said. From there, the duo began working toward the turkey-themed restaurant. We always wanted a brick and mortar, Miller said. Last year, the Mecklenburg County pair finally found the perfect space to open up shop and even got a food truck shortly after. Where its located The restaurant is located right in the heart of Gastonia at 101 W. Main Ave. What is on the menu Put simply, turkey is on the menu. Turkey Hustlerz offers turkey legs, wings, chops, sausage, and more. Also on the menu is house-made lemonade and Jamaican drinks and side items like fries, onion rings and okra. When its open Turkey Hustlerz is actually hoping customers will help them decide. Miller said they do not currently have their hours of operation pinned down, and until they do, visitors can check their Facebook page to stay up to date on when the restaurant is open. This article originally appeared on The Gaston Gazette: Turkey-themed restaurant opens in Gastonia A top White House national security official is defending the repeated U.S. strikes on Houthis in Yemen, amid attacks by the militant group on international ships in the Red Sea, which has drawn America into a pattern of back-and-forth retaliatory operations. "In terms of how this is playing out, I think one thing that's important to keep in mind is deterrence is not a light switch," the White House deputy national security adviser, Jon Finer, told ABC News "This Week" co-anchor Martha Raddatz on Sunday. "It requires a pattern and a practice of activity over time and can't be accessed based on a snapshot of what's happening at any given moment." Raddatz had asked Finer: "Where does this end? It's in this stage of tit for tat." President Joe Biden acknowledged to reporters last week that the strikes weren't stopping the Houthis but that they would continue. "The purposes here go well beyond deterrence," Finer told Raddatz. "We are also seeking to degrade the Houthis' ability to continue launching these attacks." Since strikes on Red Sea ships began escalating in recent weeks, the U.S. has also announced an international task force to, essentially, help police the Red Sea area from further attacks. The U.S. has taken diplomatic steps, too, Finer said on "This Week." "We've imposed sanctions on the Houthis, we have gotten dozens of countries to issue statements condemning their attacks," he said. Last week, the Biden administration announced that the Houthis would once again be classified as a terrorist organization, reimposing a designation the White House had earlier lifted out of concerns about how it could affect Yemen's ongoing civil war. "This is not an attack just on the United States," Finer said. "This is an attack on the entire global economy and the world is standing up and saying they won't tolerate that." Both the Houthis in Yemen and Iran, whom the U.S. calls a key backer of the Houthis, have said they are carrying out strikes in response to Israel's bombardment of Gaza in order to take out Hamas in the wake of Hamas' Oct. 7 terror attack. The altercations in the Red Sea, at Israel's border with Lebanon and at U.S. military sites in Iraq and Syria, as well as elsewhere in the Middle East, have raised concerns that Israel's war with Hamas could spill into a wider regional conflict. That's something the U.S. has maintained it doesn't want. At the same time, U.S. officials have said they must respond to strikes from Iranian-allied groups like the Houthis and others. PHOTO: In this July 22, 2022, file photo, Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer speaks in Bogota, Colombia. (Ivan Valencia/AP, FILE) On Saturday, an American airbase in western Iraq came under fire from Iranian-backed fighters, military officials said. Finer, on "This Week," said, "I'm not going to get ahead of any decisions the president may make, but you can be sure that we are taking this extremely seriously and we'll have more to say about it soon." Raddatz asked Finer about the U.S. decision to not take more direct actions against Iran. Finer said the U.S. rejects "the justification and the rationale that because there is a conflict going on between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, that entitles a group to take action, military actions, against the entire global economy, against shippers ... that have nothing to do with that conflict." He went on to say that "we have held Iran responsible for this in a number of ways." "We have taken military action against sites in Iraq and Syria tied to [Iran], which supports these militias," Finer said. "I'm not going to sit here and say we are going to take this or that action ahead of decision-making," he said, "but we have been quite clear and we have been quite willing to take action to hold Iran responsible for these attacks in the past." Raddatz also asked Finer about the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza, where Israel is continuing its now monthslong campaign against Hamas and where approximately 25,000 people have been killed, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health. Finer said last month that the White House thinks Israel "did not show sufficient care for civilian life" in Northern Gaza -- echoing what various other high-level Biden administration officials have been saying, trying to balance opposition to Hamas with public concern for Palestinian civilians. Referring to his previous comments, Raddatz asked on Sunday, "Have things changed and what do we do about them?" "We have stood up for Israel's right to take defensive actions against Hamas so that this threat cannot be perpetrat[ed] against them again. But we've also been quite clear that the way in which Israel conducts this conflict is of great concern to us," Finer said. He told Raddatz that the U.S. had seen a a recent "shift" in the fighting in which Israel has begun "to focus more on high-value targets, on Hamas leadership." Still, "There needs to be more humanitarian assistance going into Gaza," Finer said. And while he called out "small but consequential steps" like progress with a border crossing opening and the arrival of some goods, he said that was "not enough." "And so we're gonna continue to put the pressure on and continue to try to work day in, day out, in excruciating detail to make sure that the humanitarian assistance in Gaza is improved as this conflict shifts to a different phase," Finer said. White House defends retaliation against Houthis: 'Deterrence is not a light switch' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com The Union home minister said that the Indian government is also discussing the free movement regime (FMR) agreement with Myanmar Guwahati: Union home minister Amit Shah on Saturday announced that the Government of India has decided to fence its international border with Myanmar, like the India-Bangladesh border, to restrict free movement. Speaking at the passing-out parade of state police commandos in Guwahati, Assam, Shah said, Our border with Myanmar is an open border. The Narendra Modi government has decided to protect the India-Myanmar border. We will work towards building a fence in the entire border area (with Myanmar), like the border with Bangladesh. The Union home minister said that the Indian government is also discussing the free movement regime (FMR) agreement with Myanmar. "Now, the government will stop this free movement between the two countries," Shah announced. It is significant that nearly 600 Myanmar Army soldiers have crossed into India in the last three months. They took refuge in Mizoram's Lawngtlai district after their camps were captured by the Arakan Army militants, an ethnic armed group in the western Myanmar state of Rakhine, security sources said. By installing a fence along the border, India will scrap the free movement regime between the two countries. People living in border regions will soon require a visa to enter the other country. The FMR was introduced in the 1970s as people living along the India-Myanmar border have familial and ethnic ties. Earlier, Shah, while addressing the 13th Triennial Conference of the All Bathou Mahasabha, said that the Prime Minister's mission of bringing peace and development to the Northeast has been successful. The Congress had a policy to "divert attention from problems and enjoy power, which led to the deaths of thousands of people in the region, particularly in Bodoland." The Union home minister said: When I became home minister, the Bodo movement was an ongoing issue. I made a sincere attempt to understand the problems and demands of one of the largest communities in the Northeast. He reiterated that the Prime Minister also viewed it from a new perspective and the problem was resolved with Bodoland. Today, it is free from bomb blasts, firings and violence. "During the last three years, there has been no incident of violence in Bodoland, and it is scripting a new story by walking on the path of development," Mr Shah asserted. PM prays at Trichy, Rameswaram temples NEW DELHI: In the final days leading to the inauguration of the Ram Temple at Ayodhya, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday worshipped at the Sri Ranganathaswamy and Lord Ramanathaswamy temples in Tamil Nadu. Mr Modi first offered prayers at the Sri Ranganathaswamy temple at Sri Rangam in Tiruchirapalli and later at the Lord Ramanathaswamy temple in Rameswaram. The Prime Minister wore traditional Tamil attire during his visits to the ancient shrines in Tamil Nadu. Meanwhile, Ayodhya is getting ready for the gala ceremony on January 22. Posters and hoardings with slogans like "Shubh shadi aayi", "Taiyar hai Ayodhya dham, virajenge Shree Ram" and "Ram fir lautenge" are being erected across the temple town. On Saturday, Mr Modi, the first Prime Minister to visit the Sri Ranganathaswamy temple, wore a spotless veshti (dhoti) and an angavastram (a shawl) and prayed with folded hands in the Lord Vishnu temple. On his arrival, he was accorded a ceremonial poorna kumbha welcome amid Vedic chanting by priests. Mr Modi prayed to Sri Ranganathaswamy temple and was blessed with "sadari" (a crown, symbolising Lord Vishnu's blessings) by temple priests. The Prime Minister prayed at several "sannadhis" (separate enclosures for deities), including those dedicated to Vaishnavite saint-guru Sri Ramanjuacharya and Sri Chakrathazhwar. He also took blessings from the temple elephant after feeding it. It is being seen as Mr Modi having sought the blessings from Ranganathaswamy, worshipped by Lord Ram, for the consecration of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. At the temple, he listened to Kamba Ramayan verses, one of the old versions of the Ramayan. The Kamba Ramayan was composed by the great Tamil poet Kambar in the 12th century. The temple that the PM visited has a deep link to the Kamba Ramayana. Religious scholars say that Mr Modi sat in that very place where poet Kambar first sang the Tamil Ramayan, reinforcing the deep connection between Tamil, Tamil Nadu and Shri Ram. During his visit, "vastram" and clothes were presented to Mr Modi, a traditional way of a temple acknowledging a devotee's devoutness. Local officials said the clothes will be taken to the Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, where the consecration of the grand temple will be held on Monday. The Prime Minister arrived in Tiruchirappalli on Saturday from Chennai and on his way to the temple, he stood on the running board of his car and waved at the people and the BJP workers who gathered at vantage points to greet him. The crowds chanted 'Jai Shri Ram' welcoming him. Later, Mr Modi worshipped at the Lord Ramanathaswamy temple in Rameswaram after taking a holy dip at the "Angi teerth" beach. He was wearing a rudraksha mala and prayed in the Ramanathaswamy shrine, an ancient Shiva temple in Tamil Nadu. The Prime Minister was accorded traditional honours by priests and also took part in bhajans performed in the shrine. While the Prime Minister, who will be performing rituals at the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony, was visiting temples with Ramayan connections in Tamil Nadu, Ayodhya was getting ready to celebrate the grand event on January 22. On Saturday, security was further stepped up in Ayodhya. Barricades have been set up at the Ram temple site and other key areas like the Lata Mangeshkar Chowk and the entry of vehicles has been restricted as authorities prepare to host a large number of people, including many prominent personalities. From Dharampath and Rampath, which are witnessing a deluge of devotees from different parts of the country, to the bylanes of the Hanumangarhi area and Asharfi Bhavan road, security personnel can be seen keeping a tight vigil on movements and activities. Movable barriers with barbed wires were spotted virtually at every prominent crossroad in the temple city, as police use them to regulate traffic, especially during VVIP movements. Meanwhile, at the newly constructed temple, special rituals were performed, including bathing Lord Ram's idol and purifying the garbh grah (sanctum sanctorum) with water collected from various religious sites stored in 81 consecrated kalash (urns). The idol was also offered flowers sourced from different regions of the country for a ritual known as "Pushpadhivas". As many as 14 couples from the north, east, west, south and north-east parts of India have been chosen to be the yajmaans' (hosts) for the praan partisthaa of Lord Ram, according to the organisers. The grand Ram temple in Ayodhya has been decorated with rich stocks of flowers and special lights for the mega event. It appears that the entire city and all its activities are draped in religious fervour. Various verses from the Ramayan are printed on posters at prominent places like the Ram Marg, the Saryu river bank and Lata Mangeshkar Chowk. A redeveloped road that skirts its way off Ram Path on the way to the Ram temple site has been named Ramjanmabhoomi Path. With the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple a couple of days away, the devotion to the deity is such that even commerce is not untouched by the spiritual feel in the holy city. Images of the grand temple are finding places even on visiting cards, posters, calendars and even signages. It is not just the main thoroughfare like the Ram Path that is dotted with such banners or posters; practically every space in the city adorns posters depicting the Ram temple in one way or another. Small models of the temple can also be seen these days, kept at various shops and restaurants in Ayodhya. These models are flying off the shelves in Ayodhya, while the demand for saffron flags bearing the image of Lord Ram has risen manifold. According to estimates, a total of 11.80 lakh polling stations would be required to be set up across India for Lok Sabha polls this year During simultaneous polls, two sets of EVMs would be needed per polling station -- one for the Lok Sabha seat and another for assembly constituency. New Delhi: The Election Commission would require an estimated Rs 10,000 crore every 15 years to procure new Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) if simultaneous polls are held for Lok Sabha and assemblies, according to the poll body. In a communication sent to the government, the Commission noted that the shelf life of EVMs was 15 years and one set of machines could be used to conduct three cycles of elections in their life span if simultaneous polls were held. According to estimates, a total of 11.80 lakh polling stations would be required to be set up across India for Lok Sabha polls this year. During simultaneous polls, two sets of EVMs would be needed per polling station -- one for the Lok Sabha seat and another for assembly constituency. Based on past experiences, the EC said in the communication sent to the government, certain percentage of Control Units (CUs), Ballot Units (BUs) and Voter-Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) machines are required as reserves to replace defective units at different stages, including on election day. At least one BU, one CU and one VVPAT machine make up for one EVM. Keeping in mind various aspects, the minimum EVMs and VVPATs required for simultaneous polls would be: 46,75,100 BUs, 33,63,300 CUs and 36,62,600 VVPATs, the Commission said in its letter to the Law Ministry in February last year. In early 2023, the tentative cost of EVM stood at Rs 7,900 per BU, Rs 9,800 per CU and Rs 16,000 per unit of VVPAT. The EC was responding to a questionnaire on simultaneous polls sent by the Law Ministry. The poll panel also underlined the need for additional polling and security personnel, enhanced storage facilities for EVMs and more vehicles. The commission said keeping in mind the production of new machines, increasing warehousing facilities and other logistical issues, the first simultaneous elections can only be held in 2029. It also observed that five articles of the Constitution will need amendments to hold simultaneous polls to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. The provisions which would need amendment are Article 83 which related to the duration of Houses of Parliament, Article 85 relating to the dissolution of the Lok Sabha by the President, Article 172 relating to the duration of the state legislatures, Article 174 relating to the dissolution of the state legislatures, and Article 356 relating to the imposition of President's Rule in the states. It also noted that the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution relating to disqualification on the grounds of defection will also require necessary changes. The government has constituted a panel, headed by former president Ram Nath Kovind, to examine the issue of holding simultaneous elections in the country has been renamed. The High Level Committee on One Nation, One Election has been tasked with examining and making recommendation for holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, municipalities and panchayats, keeping in view the existing framework under the Constitution of India and other statutory provisions. A support centre has been set up in Kanazawa parish to collect aid from other dioceses for survivors of the earthquake that struck the area on New Year Day, killing 232. In the worst-hit towns of Wajima and Nanao, restarting kindergarten services is a priority despite serious difficulties. A restaurant has also been set up to provide a hot meal as well as serve as a venue for people to come together. Tokyo (AsiaNews) A support centre set up at the Kanazawa Catholic Church, in the Diocese of Nagoya, began operating yesterday, in the area most affected by the earthquake that devastated the Noto Peninsula on 1 January. The facility offers help to those who still have to deal with the serious damage caused by the quake that killed 232 people and left so much destruction even in a country like Japan, accustomed to such phenomena. The churches of Wajima and Nanao, the two congregations that suffered the most damage, are part of Kanazawa parish, in Ishikawa Prefecture. Since both are home to very small Catholic communities, without a resident priest, Fr Yoshihiro Kataoka, 41, parish priest in Kanazawa, tried to reach them right away to check on their situation. Conditions are worse in Wajima, but fortunately, there were no casualties among local Catholics. The church did suffer major damage and will have to be rebuilt. The nearby Umi no Hoshi kindergarten, which caters to 66 children, is also unfit for use and lacks essential infrastructure. Like in other Japanese communities, the local parish is directly involved in its activities. Initially, Fr Kataoka was unable to reach Wajima, given the scope of the devastation, while the kindergartens head master, Tsuneko Maeda, had to walk more than four kilometres to reach it before he could provide information about its fate. He is now in contact with the children's families, hoping to reopen soon and provide its important services. In Nanao, the church did not suffer serious damage. Bishop Goro Matsuura of Nagoya was thus able to go there to celebrate the Eucharist together with the small local congregation already on the first Sunday after the earthquake. "Jesus today is right here, in our reality," the prelate told them. He does not give us instructions and encouragement from above, but he is with us and bears our sufferings. In Nanao, local Catholics are using St Mary's kindergarten as a base to offer help. Although local power and gas supplies have been restored, this is not the case for water; it might take two or three months for things to be back in order. Still, the kindergarten has reopened, accepting children, especially those whose parents are away for work during the day. Teachers get water from nearby wells and use it sparingly for toilets, hand washing, and other essential needs. For this reason, the support centre that opened in Kanazawa is working on providing water in large tanks for sanitation and drinking. It is also here that donations from various Japanese dioceses in favour of earthquake victims are directed. This makes it possible to provide children with meals and hygiene with complete peace of mind, as well as reduce staff fatigue. Hopefully, all the children will be able to go back to kindergarten as before. The centre is also working on setting up the "Jinnobi restaurant" in the kindergartens parking lot. Jinnobi means to relax in the Nanao dialect, and the facility will offer hot meals, but will be more than a simple soup kitchen. We will open it every weekend as a place to encourage interaction, said Fr Kataoka. We hope that it will draw not only people involved with the kindergarten, but also all those in the local community who need a break to meet again. To support these initiatives, the Catholic Church in Japan has started a fundraiser. "We have already received donations from many people and organisations and we will never be able to express our gratitude enough. We appreciate your prayers and support," writes Bishop Matsuura, who posts updates on the situation on the website of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Japan. ECCLESIA IN ASIA IS THE ASIANEWS NEWSLETTER DEDICATED TO CHRISTIAN COMMUNITIES IN ASIA. TO RECEIVE A WEEKLY UPDATE EVERY SUNDAY, CLICK HERE. About 40 people listen to speakers at Paepcke Park on Saturday afternoon as part of the Pitkin County Democratic Party's annual women's march and rally. New Delhi, Jan 20 (UNI) The Congress party on Saturday accused the BJP-led Assam government for allegedly using destructive methods to stop former AICC President Rahul Gandhi's popular Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in the state. The Congress also alleged that BJP goons had attacked the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra vehicles, vandalised posters and raised slogans against the party in Lakhimpur. Addressing a press conference at the AICC headquarters here, Congress leader Ajay Maken said that the success of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra and the popularity of Rahul Gandhi has left the Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma rattled and what happened in Lakhimpur was a result of the same. While showing the video clips of the incident, Maken said, "This is a yatra to give justice to the poor. And such incidents will not deter us from reaching out to the people". The Congress leader informed that the party has already lodged FIR in this regard. Maken said that the yatra was following the route that was already decided after consultation with the district administration and added that the same route was taken by BJP National President JP Nadda. "We want to meet the people and the people also want to meet Rahul Gandhi and share their problems with him then what is the problem? This show how popular Rahul Gandhi and his yatra is in Assam and this is leading the government to resort to such incidents, the congress leader added. Meanwhile, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also condemned the attack and said that the party will not cowed down by this. Karge on X posted, "We strongly condemn the shameful attack on the #BharatJodoNyayYatra vehicles and tearing of Congress party's banners and posters by BJP goons in Lakhimpur, Assam. In the last 10 years, BJP has attempted to trample and demolish every right and justice guaranteed by the Constitution to the people of India. It wants to subjugate their voices, thereby hijacking democracy. Congress Party will not be cowed down by this tactic of attack and intimidation employed by the BJP Government in Assam, which is responsible for this. Congress party shall take appropriate legal action against these BJP stooges. Our fight and Shri @RahulGandhi's commitment for People's NYAY is unstoppable". UNI RBE CS1637 We bet most of you are bored to tears with restomodded first-generation Ford Mustangs. It's almost like there are more Gen-I Mustangs tuned to their eyeballs with Coyote or Godzilla motors than there are with the original hardware under the hood. Well, Mike Dusold and his team at Dusold Designs in Lewisville, Texas, are only going to add to the problem. That said, it's quite a good problem to have. Their latest build, based on a 1965 Mustang coupe, is so far removed from the hardware it left the showroom floor with it might as well be an entirely new vehicle. One can't help but be a little suspicious about a classic pony car with what appears to be a Formula Drift-style wing mounted on the trunk. It's as if the most cherished American vehicle of the 1960s was visited by the JDM fairy in the middle of the night. But as it turns out, that enormous rear wing might serve a genuine purpose once you peep the drivetrain hardware in store.Gone is whichever six or eight-cylinder dinosaur motor that was under the hood of this Mustang when it was stuck. In its place is a twin-turbocharged Ford Windsor small-block V8 that's been stroked to a gargantuan 430 cubic inches, or roughly seven liters flat. For some context, the largest Windsor small block V8 Ford released in an official capacity was a measly 351 cubic inches or a touch over 5.7 liters. That extra 1,300 cc or so of cubic displacement makes for a huge difference in power out on the track, but it's not the only thing this engine has going for it, not by a long shot.Add a lightweight Ford Motorsport aluminum block, two Garret G35-900 turbochargers with matching Garret intercooler cores, a Turbosmart electric wastegate, and eight PSI of boost pressure, and what was once a docile but powerful traditional American V8 engine is now a fire-breathing leviathan that jets between 820 and 1100 horsepower depending on the tuning configuration. Power is sent to a sequential gearbox from Sadev Racing Transmissions in Mooresville, North Carolina, and then to a clever full-floating rear end not attached to the axle housing.Ultimately, this drivetrain could be the envy of any custom build, perfectly suited for endless quarter-mile dragstrip passes. But what makes this Mustang even more special is the suspension setup that renders it so much more than a drag queen, pun absolutely intended. We're talking about a full racing front suspension from Detroit Speed with JRI shocks all around. With lightweight carbon fiber replacements for the hood and fenders, Mike Dusold might have just built the most intimidating restomod Mustang , not tailor-made, for the late great Ken Block. Google keeps working on refining the experience with Google Maps, and the strategy doesn't only come down to adding new features. The beginning Photo: Google The change Photo: Google forums The end Photo: Google EV It also involves dropping functionality that no longer makes sense or that users rarely rely on, as Google is known as a company not afraid of killing off features or products.Google has already announced a bunch of new features coming to Google Maps in 2024, but the next big change will actually happen in February. And it'll be a feature deprecation.The search giant will kill off the driving mode bundled with Google Maps, as it's now planning a simplified strategy that no longer includes a separate component specifically aimed at drivers.Here's everything you need to know about Google Maps' driving mode going away.The driving mode was originally meant to replace a popular Google product the company decided to ditch despite users' feedback. Android Auto for phones allowed users to run Android Auto on their mobile devices even if their cars didn't come with a compatible infotainment unit.The smartphone became the infotainment unit, as the application replicated the Android Auto experience on its screen, along with compatible apps, the interface, and everything else you get when driving a car with phone mirroring software.Android Auto for phones rapidly became a very popular product, so users strongly opposed the strategy when Google announced its intentions to retire it. Android Auto for phone screens bit the dust eventually, with Google introducing the driving mode , a new solution whose main role was to turn the mobile device into a driving companion.It still lacked many features bundled with Android Auto for phones , including the familiar UI that brought it in sync with the full Android Auto experience, so its adoption was low. Users weren't very excited about the new driving mode for multiple reasons, including Google Maps serving as the only navigation solution. Like the full Android Auto version, Android Auto for phones also supported other navigation apps, including Waze.The driving mode was originally bundled with Google Assistant, offering a dashboard for one-tap access to essential driving tasks. Users could easily launch navigation, control the music playback, make a phone call, send a message, or send a voice command to Google Assistant. The dashboard made sense from an ease-of-use perspective, but users who wanted the Android Auto experience weren't impressed with the dashboard.It was a matter of time until Google removed the dashboard, eventually making the driving mode a simplified feature in its lineup. The driving mode waved goodbye to Google Assistant and turned Google Maps into its home, focusing almost completely on navigation.The new "driving mode" was essentially a small panel at the bottom of the Google Maps navigation interface where users could see the playing song, control the playback, launch Google Assistant with a tap on the mic icon, or access more features that made sense while driving. The driving mode is now going away . Evidence found in previous Google Maps builds suggested that February is the month when the search giant would begin the deprecation, with the process likely to take place in stages.However, I don't expect the driving mode removal to take too long. Google will probably display a notification inside Google Maps to inform users about the deprecation before ripping off the band-aid and removing the driving mode once and for all.Google Maps will likely stick with a more simplified navigation approach that will rely on the main turn-by-turn guidance experience bundled with features powered by Google Assistant. Voice commands will continue to be offered to Google Maps users, as they will be allowed to launch Google Assistant using the typical methods, including a voice request.The Google Assistant integration has already received a facelift in Google Maps, as drivers can now use shortcuts to set navigation to certain points of interest, such as restaurants, gas stations, and coffee places, much faster. Furthermore, Google has also refined the shortcuts at the top of the Google Maps interface to make more sense for drivers according to their vehicles.owners will no longer see buttons for "gas stations." If they configure Google Maps with an EV profile, the application displays a "charging station" button.Google Maps is also projected to receive other big updates this year , including 3D buildings on Android Auto, support for saving the parking place on the infotainment screen, and an expansion of Immersive View for routes. Google keeps working on bringing more new-gen features to more users, too, including eco-friendly routing, already launched in Europe, the United States, India, and other regions.With eco-friendly routes, Google Maps suggests more efficient routes to a destination, considering more factors when generating directions. The goal is to reduce fuel consumption and cut vehicle emissions, eventually lowering the carbon footprint of the vehicles running Google Maps. In the early seventies, in the wake of the Vietnam defeat, the U.S. military realized the need for an effective close air support jet that could take a beating and deliver deadly blows without too much hassle. The Air Force had some formidable fighters, but they were mediocre or downright lousy at keeping a watch over ground troops from nearby, especially during the night or in a blinding storm. The Warthog stepped in, but it wasnt the best tool for the job, so it was upgraded to meet specifications. Thats how the only twin-seat A-10 Thunderbolt II was born. Photo: flickr.com/Keith Svendsen Photo: flickr.com/Keith Svendsen Photo: flickr.com/Keith Svendsen Photo: flickr.com/Keith Svendsen Photo: flickr.com/Keith Svendsen The A-10 Thunderbolt II is one tough fighter plane that likes to get up close and personal with its designated targets before fully (dis)integrating them into the surrounding environment. The single-seat flying cannon is one of the best antitank weapons in the U.S. militarys flying arsenal and gets the job done with cataclysmic accuracy. The plane is so simple and efficient that it takes only one pilot to operate. Imagine what it could be capable of if it had a second aviator in the cockpit.Yes, the Fs have much more appeal and fame. Still, the Warthog is the tough-as-nails sun of a gun that can fly and fight below, above, and in the weather, thanks to its advanced avionics and superior weapons systems. However, there was a time when this iconic lone wolf tank buster almost morphed into a twin-seat archangel of the anytime, anywhere apocalypse.The Air Force contemplated the possibility of an all-weather close air support attack jet operating equally in low-visibility weather or at night. Nowadays, thats easily accomplished with high-tech equipment, but 50 years ago, it was up to the man in the cockpit to do the job. For one pilot to master all combat scenarios imaginable (or beyond the conceivable), it was nearly impossible. But with a duo of experienced airmen, the task is a whole different affair.The Warthog is officially the A-10 Close Air Support aircraft, and the current variant of this flying antitank Gattling Gun is the A-10C. In 1976, the A-10A entered service and was upgraded to A-10C between 2005 and 2011. But what happened to B, one might ask? This isnt one of those situations where C is B, and military logic dictates otherwise, but a more straightforward, albeit unsuccessful, attempt to make the A-10 platform even deadlier.There was one A-10B, a single unit; the irony is that the B was the first A-10A prototype. Nonsensical? Read on and see how this letter puzzle is solved. The roots of this apparent conundrum lie in the Vietnam War when the Air Force quickly discovered it lacked an airplane capable of adequately supporting ground troops.The fighter jets of the time were great performers in their designated role but failed to provide critical firepower when the GIs doing the jungle fighting requested it. The only Close Air Support aircraft available was the single-propeller WWII-design Douglas A-1 Skyraider. A legacy of the Korean War, the plane fell victim to the technological leaps made in firearms development. The U.S. lost 266 A-1s during the war, mainly to Vietnamese small arms and not to antiaircraft weaponry.Thats how the A-10 came to be. The rationale stood in line with the warfare ideologies of the era: the heavy fighting on land needs a more powerful arm up in the air, ready to strike at a moments notice. But technological breakthroughs arent a bullet-proof warranty (pun intented) against the age-old philosophy of war that says, The general who is skilled in defense hides in the most secret recesses of the earth; he who is skilled in attack flashes forth from the topmost heights of heaven. Thus, on the one hand, we have the ability to protect ourselves; on the other, a victory that is complete.The art of war demands that every possible favorable situation be used at its maximum potential, and weather is a crucial factor on the battlefield. To defeat the enemy, one must first be able to fight anytime, anywhere, day or night, rain or shine. In the early days of jet aviation warfare, weather was a significant deterrent, with airplanes having limited capability to operate at night or in severe weather.With fighter planes, two-airmen teams were the standard solution for acing both flying and fighting by Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) began growing in significance. With the pilot focused on keeping the plane in the air and raining hell over the enemy, the weapons systems officer could take care of the high-tech electronics.Before technology became sophisticated enough to allow a fighter plane to fly in all weather and engage multiple targets simultaneously, air combat relied entirely on visual target acquisition. While it may sound brave and romantic, natural eyesight is limited to daytime and fair weather. When radar technology reached the compact size and high-reliability specs required to fit into an airplane, a dedicated operator was put in charge.The initial application for this new paradigm was night warfare. Still, the setup was deemed compatible with flying in bad weather (as planes improved at braving all kinds of meteorological conditions). Putting an extra crew member and gear was paid in weight and space, resulting in lesser performance figures for the two-seat configurations than the original single-seat design.However, fighting at night in bad weather is something that all armies worldwide have relied upon from the dawn of Man. A jet that could loiter over ground troops for extended periods in the harshest of conditions was the chef's kiss for the UASF in the early seventies. One that could be up at all times was the coupe de grace.That was the logic behind the U.S. Air Force's decision to convert an A-10A single-seat to a two-seat air striker, designated A-10B. Its initial name was A-10N/AW (Night/Adverse Weather), and it was later rebadged with a single letter.In March 1979, three years after the new plane was put into service , the first prototype of the famous Warthog was taken back to Fairchild Republic for a conversion. The modifications lasted roughly three months and involved rebuilding the forward airframe to add a second cockpit behind the original one. The canopy was redesigned from a clamshell type to a side-opening type, with thru-the-canopy ejection seats designed.A cockpit fairing was mounted for the added avionics instruments and components, the Head-Up Display system was upgraded, and Forward Looking InfraRed (FLIR) and Low Light Level Television systems were installed. For its designated purpose of conducting night or bad-weather sorties, the A-10 prototype was fitted with laser ranging, terrain-following radar, a radar altimeter, an electronic moving map display, and an inertial navigation system.External pods for the FLIR and laser ranger were mounted on the center fuselage station, while the terrain-following radar, also housed outside the fuselage, hung under the left wing. The vertical stabilizers were extended up by 20 inches (508 mm) extension. The signature feature of the A-10, the GAU-8/A 30-mm Gatling Gun , was left in place, but its ammunition drum capacity was reduced to 750 rounds from the standard 1,350.A-10 N/AW (serial number 73-1664) began flight testing on October 23, 1979, at the Air Force Flight Test Center within Edwards Air Force Base in California. Over 48.6 flight hours, the plane flew 28 missions (one-third of them during the night). The test ended on December 4 that year, and the two-seat Thunderbolt II passed the exams. Unfortunately, it didnt make it to series production since more sophisticated night attack weapons systems were deemed more suitable for the role.In the early 80s, the one-off A-10A N/AW was redesignated the YA-10B, and on December 16, 1983, S/N 73-1664 was put in storage. It now resides at the Air Force Flight Test Museum on Edwards Air Force Base. Apart from this single unit, the USAF considered retrofitting a limited number of A-10As with a two-seat cockpit and using them as trainer aircraft.The program was canceled before any plane could be modified, leaving us with just one example. Some aviators point out that numerous cases of blue-on-blues (friendly fire casualties) could have been prevented had the modified A-10B made it into production. Five months ago, Elon Musk drove a Tesla Model S equipped with FSD V12 and live-streamed the whole thing on Twitter (X). The EV performed pretty well, even though there were a couple of hiccups here and there. Now, that slightly revised software is being rolled out to a few Teslas equipped with Hardware 4. Here's what you should know. FSD We're pleased to share that Full Self-Driving (Beta) v12.1.2 is now going out to *some* customers and includes vehicles with HW4 for the first time. https://t.co/xCId81Bu31 Teslascope (@teslascope) January 21, 2024 Near the end of last year, Tesla sentV12.1 to approximately 15,000 in-house testers. Even though Elon Musk told us last August that his car was equipped with the refined, out-of-Beta FSD V12, the version the employees received was still not finalized software.Less than a month later, the first indication that the promising no-hardcoding video-based driving assistance software is ready for action arrives. A popular tracker known as Teslascope just announced that FSD v12.1.2 is reaching customer-owned Tesla EVs. The first unit the system detected was a Nevada-based rear-wheel-drive 2023 Tesla Model 3. Then, two others quickly followed.The same source claims that an owner in Idaho provided a screenshot confirming what the computer program revealed. That person said they weren't a Tesla employee, strengthening what Teslascope uncovered. As such, it's happening. Tesla's slowly rolling out the next-gen FSD.The release notes aren't available when writing, but the 2023.44.30.12 build indicates this is the FSD Beta V12.1.2. Keep in mind that this new version came right after the 2023.44.30.11 iteration, which was reserved for employees. The automaker might have picked customers with a clean track record for this rollout. It might have decided to adopt a cautious approach before going forward with a wide release.Elon Musk said on numerous occasions that FSD V12 wouldn't have a Beta stage of development, but as things stand today, the software is still not ready for prime time. There's still a lot to be done before the suite can reach the SAE J3016 Level 4 or 5 of driving automation.What propped up FSD V12 as the next best thing was the idea that Tesla ditched the many lines of code in favor of videos that enabled the computer to make the right decisions without needing clear-cut indications written by a human. That's what "end-to-end artificial intelligence" means. It's also what should enable the software to work without needing an internet connection.FSD Beta V12 should also bring enhanced parking abilities and might unravel the advantages of Hardware 4 cameras that boast four extra frames per second. Tesla might finally prove that it was right to save around $110 per car by eliminating ultrasonic parking sensors.Finally, FSD Beta V12.1.2 should reach both Hardware 3 and Hardware 4 customer-owned Tesla EVs. It's the start of a new journey for buyers who support Tesla in its mission to turn its battery-electric rides into robotaxis or license the software to other automakers. I said it before and I'll keep saying it every chance I get: to me, the Ford Thunderbird is one of the most beautiful cars ever made, right up there with Chevy's Tri-Five beauties. It's a car so incredible I rarely enjoy seeing them modified in any way. Restored, sure, but altered not so much. And then I come across this thing. The Thunderbird has been imagined by Ford from the get-go as a personal luxury car. That translated into a relatively small size, engines just powerful enough to get the blood pumping, and all of the top-notch appointments of the age.And by age I mean a long, long time ago. The first Thunderbird came about in 1955, and from there it went on to be produced until 2005. That's exactly half a century of being on the market (kind of, as there was a 5-year production gap in the early 2000s), during which time eleven generations of the breed were made.Not all were visually impressive. The more recent Thunderbirds, starting with gen six (or perhaps even gen five) kind of lost their bearings and started to follow the crowd, not really standing out in any way.But the first few generations (the very first above all the others) are to many people, myself included, the pinnacle of American car design. After all, not only did it transform what people thought a car should look like, but it would most definitely win any beauty contest, even in our day and age, a time when we have such things as hypercars.As said, the Ford Thunderbird is one of the few American cars of old that should be enjoyed unmodified. In fact, some modifications are so wrong that they completely ruin the appeal of the base vehicle.But not the conversion we have here, one based on a Thunderbird from the very first generation. A risky choice, as that one is also the most coveted, and any mistake, no matter how small, would have ruined the build.Back in the day when this generation of the T-Bird originally rolled off the lines, it came in several body styles, including convertible, and that means seeing one with no roof is not something that would surprise. Yet it does exactly that once you learn the vehicle sitting before us was originally a hardtop.The custom Thunderbird is the work of a California-based crew called RMD Garage. For one reason or another these guys chose to completely remove the roof and, in a bid to make up for its absence, fit the car with two individual steel cowls, located on the car's body right behind the seats.This approach gives the car a true feeling of roadster-ness, much more so than you get from a factory convertible The body of the Thunderbird follows the general design lines of its original self, probably in a bid to hide what a real custom beauty this thing actually is. You only need to look at the cut bumpers and the new lines they create with the fenders and quarter panels.And the color play between the Galaxy Gray Pearl exterior color, the shine of the Schott wheels (sized 19 and 20 inches in diameter and wrapped in Toyo tires, with the ones at the rear wide enough to get noticed), and the careful detailing almost makes you forget there is a lot less chrome on the car that it originally had on.The exterior plays the perfect contrast game with the Scarlet Red interior, such a great choice that it makes the Thunderbird truly unforgettable. And quite modern, too, as lost in the sea of red are all the appointments a modern-day driver would need, including a wireless phone charger and a Bluetooth-capable, retro-style radio.The body of the car was placed on top of a chassis that was made in-house by RMD but whose exact makeup is not known. What we do know is what supports it: 4-link adjustable coilover suspension from RideTech and a Ford 9-inch rear-end.All of that is needed for the presence of a Gen II Coyote engine to make the presence of its 650 horsepower felt. Sent to the wheels in a controlled fashion by a six-speed transmission, the troop is kept in check by a Wilwood braking system. The point of origin for this power, the engine, is the only one visible under the hood, as everything else has been hidden from sight in the modified bay.The beautiful 1956 Ford Thunderbird made by RMD Garage is a topic of discussion today because it's about to go under the hammer. It'll do so next week in Scottsdale, Arizona, as auction house Barrett-Jackson tries to find a new owner for it during a no-reserve sale. Working from home or fully remote isn't for everybody. Some people love to have an office in their homes, while others are social creatures and feel the need to see and communicate with other people. This isn't a "right versus wrong" type of situation; to each their own. But one soul took "working from home" to another level and is traveling his heart out. Todd Kumpf is in a very fortunate situation. He is currently working entirely remotely. Last year, in August, he completely changed his lifestyle. And not in the "from now on, I'm not eating gluten anymore" kind of way.He traded his old LA apartment lease for monthly Airbnbs across the southwestern United States. The kicker is that he's traveling in his beloved 1971 BMW 2002. While he's at it, Todd thought he should document his travels, and his blog post is filled with nothing less than stunning shots of old towns, retired and rusted-out cars, and beautiful scenery.You should totally check out the "Nelson Ghost Town" album from his blog. It's like a post-apocalyptic wasteland in high resolution, filled with all sorts of wonderous vehicles from the '30s and '60s. The photos look like they're from a period-piece movie set. It reminds me of the upcoming Fallout series on Amazon Prime Video.He stays for a month in each place, working four days a week. In the three days left, he explores the beautiful and dangerous wilderness. In the meantime, he has become a human GPS, mapping down all the best back roads to cruise. Maybe he should start a travel by-car agency like a modern-day explorer.Since this all began in August, he visited California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona. Come spring, he intends to head to northern California, Oregon, and Washington, and then British Columbia, which is planned for summer. By 2025, the goal is to travel back through Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and Utah.It's not too shabby for a '71 BMW 2002 that's still kicking around. The nameplate comes from the fact that it had a two-liter engine and a two-door bodywork. When this model first came out in 1968, it was turning heads and cashing in checks. It was RWD, light and nimble, looked elegant enough for that era, and was as reliable as they could had made'em. Fun fact: it's the original predecessor of the BMW 3 Series.Now, about the engine, up until 1971, the 2002 models came with a 2.0-liter mill that made 100 hp and 106 lb-ft or 144 Nm of torque. Considering that it only weighed 2,116 lbs or 960 kg, it wasn't all that bad. On paper, it could hit 62 mph or 100 kph in 12 seconds with a top speed of 104 mph (167 kph).In '71, the more powerful Tii version came out with a 4- or 5-speed manual transmission system. The Tii produced 30 more horsepower and delivered 131 lb-ft or 178 Nm of torque. Now it hit 62 mph in 9.4 seconds, and the top speed rose to 120 mph or 193 kph.While we now take power steering for granted, back then, this car didn't have any. So, driving one on such an ambitious road trip doesn't offer the comfort of a modern-day vehicle. But what it does offer are some unique stories that absolutely everyone will be curious about. 21 January 2024 12:54 (UTC+04:00) Gordon Birrell, BP's executive vice president for production and operations, was on a business trip to Baku on January 16-20. Azernews reports with reference to the information released by the company that the purpose of the visit, which included a number of high-level specialists of the BP group, was to get acquainted with the progress of the company's business in the region and the work planned for 2024 on the projects of which it is the operator. During the visit, Birrel also met with the company's staff in the region and held discussions with the company's regional management about the current status of the projects and prospective work to be done. G. Birrel visited the newly installed offshore Azeri Central East (ACE) platform, where he is an operator of BP, and got acquainted with the preparations for obtaining the first ACE oil planned for the beginning of this year. As part of the visit program, there were also business meetings between Birrell and Prime Minister Ali Asadov, Minister of Economy Mikayil Jabbarov, Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Mukhtar Babayev and President of SOCAR Rovshan Najaf. In these meetings, issues related to the progress of BP's business worldwide and in the region, the current state of the work done within the framework of energy projects implemented by BP, and BP's activities aimed at supporting Azerbaijan's energy transition were discussed. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 January 2024 16:49 (UTC+04:00) A meeting of our compatriots living in Austria was held at the Azerbaijani Cultural Center in Vienna under the organization of the initiative group named WE - Continue on the path to victory created in connection with the extraordinary presidential elections on February 7. Azernews reports that at the event, which began with the singing of the National Anthem of Azerbaijan, the dear memory of the martyrs of January 20 and those who died for the independence and territorial integrity of our country was commemorated with a minute of silence. Bakhtiyar Siracov, a former employee of the International Atomic Energy Agency, a world-renowned Azerbaijani scientist, representative of the initiative group We - Continue on the path to Victory opened the event with an opening speech, saying that this year, for the first time since independence, polling stations will operate in the territories freed from occupation and invited citizens of Azerbaijan who have the right to vote to actively participate in the presidential elections. He noted that our country is currently experiencing one of the most important periods in its history, our state has fully restored its territorial integrity and sovereignty with the unwavering will of Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev and the determination of the people of Azerbaijan. That is why our people and compatriots living outside the country are proud of their state. Rovshan Sadigbeyli, Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Austria, expressed that the people of Azerbaijan have fully established their state independence and sovereignty today and are confidently moving towards a successful future. Elshad Aliyev, the Deputy Chairman of the State Committee on Diaspora Affairs, said in his speech that the meetings with the Azerbaijani diaspora in foreign countries are of a regular nature, and he was pleased to participate in this meeting with his colleagues during his visit to Vienna as part of the international conference. It was brought to attention that the state of Azerbaijan always pays attention and care to our compatriots living abroad and tries to solve their problems. At the 5th Congress of World Azerbaijanis held in Shusha, the programmatic speech and recommendations of the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev opened a new stage in the construction of diaspora, currently 27 Azerbaijani Houses have been established by the Committee in 16 countries of the world, and Azerbaijani language weekend schools have been opened, and the number of these schools, together with the courses at diaspora organizations, is close to a hundred. highlighted. Then the members of the initiative group WE - Continue on the path to Victory, the head of music of the Culture Meeting Point organization, Doctor of Philosophy in Arts, musicologist Farah Tahirova, fourth-year student of Austria's Anton Bruckner Conservatory, laureate of international competitions Ayan Mammadli, head of the Society of Austrian Azerbaijanis Farid Azizov and chairman of the Austria-Azerbaijan Association of Culture and Businessmen (AZER-DER) Yardim Gunesh, as well as the well-known pianist, composer and conductor Abuzar Manafzade, who lives in Vienna, spoke and said that our compatriots living abroad are carefully following the processes taking place in Azerbaijan. Emphasizing that political stability reigns in the country, our economy is developing stably, and our country occupies a worthy place among the world states, the diaspora activists said that we owe all this to the dedication shown by the Victorious Commander-in-Chief, President Ilham Aliyev: "The independent policy he pursued, the determination he constantly demonstrated, and the tough stance he took against the unjust pressures against our state earned our President the trust, love, and confidence of Azerbaijanis all over the world." The members of the initiative group invited our compatriots to actively participate in the upcoming extraordinary presidential elections, to express that they are with our state, that they are not indifferent to its future, and to show their constant support. In the artistic part of the event, a program of classical works performed by musicians Abuzar Manafzadeh (piano) and Ruhulla Aziz (kamancha) who live in Austria was presented. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 January 2024 11:10 (UTC+04:00) The next meeting of the Central Election Commission (CEC) was held under the chairmanship of Mazahir Panakhov. The application submitted to the Commission was reviewed at the meeting, Azernews reports. This was informed by the Media and Communication Department of the Central Election Commission Secretariat. In the meeting attended by the representatives of the international observation mission, as well as the media representatives, detailed information was given about the investigation process carried out earlier. It was reported that in connection with the received appeal, a comprehensive and objective investigation was conducted by a member of the expert group under the Central Election Commission in order to more effectively ensure the electoral rights of citizens, an appropriate opinion was given, and it was promptly brought to a meeting and presented to the members of the Commission for discussion. After extensive discussions at the meeting of the Central Election Commission, it was decided to send the appeal to the General Prosecutor's Office of the Republic of Azerbaijan for relevant investigation. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz Gaza, Jan 21 (UNI) The death toll from Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023, when the Israel-Hamas conflict escalated, has increased to 25,105, while more than 62,600 others have been injured, the enclave's health ministry said on Sunday. "The number of victims of the Israeli aggression since October 7 last year has risen to 25,105, while 62,681 people have been injured," the ministry said. Some 178 people were killed and 293 injured in Gaza over the past 24 hours, the ministry added. On October 7, 2023, Palestinian movement Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack against Israel from the Gaza Strip while its fighters breached the border, opening fire on the military and civilians. As a result, over 1,200 people in Israel were killed and some 240 others abducted. Israel launched retaliatory strikes, ordered a complete blockade of Gaza and launched a ground incursion into the Palestinian enclave 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 ceasefire was extended several times and expired on December 1. UNI/SPUTNIK AKS 21 January 2024 11:38 (UTC+04:00) In our country, important measures are being taken to strengthen stability and security, strengthen the fight against crime, and protect personal property. In 2023 alone, 14 persons from Great Britain, Germany, Poland, Belarus, Moldova, as well as European countries were extradited from Ukraine to our country with the consent of European countries for transit, Azernews reports. This was informed about by the press service of the Ministry of Justice. It is noted that, giving importance to international cooperation in this field, the Ministry of Justice implements effective cooperation in the field of handing over (extradition) of criminals under bilateral agreements and multilateral conventions with various countries, and at the same time, if there is no relevant agreement, measures are taken based on the principle of reciprocity. Also, new penitentiary complexes in accordance with international standards are being built in the capital and regions. The newest one was commissioned in Lankaran on January 16, and the head of state got acquainted with the modern conditions created in the penitentiary complex. As a result of these measures, which serve to protect the rights of prisoners and accused persons' detention conditions positive decisions regarding extradition are made in relation to our country by ensuring the principle of inevitability of punishment. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 January 2024 12:22 (UTC+04:00) The article authored by Elsevar Salmanov, the adviser of our country's embassy in Malaysia, the totalitarian Soviet regime tried to brutally suppress the voice of the Azerbaijani people who stood up with the desire for freedom, the crimes committed by the military units sent to Azerbaijan under the instructions of the Nobel Prize laureate Mikhail Gorbachev, and many human rights issues violation of international documents is discussed. It was reported that 147 people were killed, hundreds of people were injured and illegally arrested and disappeared as a result of the massacre by the Soviet army in Baku. Azernews reports that it was mentioned in the article that when the totalitarian Soviet regime tried to hide this tragedy, National Leader Heydar Aliyev held a press conference in Moscow and harshly criticized the leadership of the brutal regime. Later, on the initiative of the Great Leader, a political evaluation of the January 20 tragedy was given in the Milli Majlis. The author writes that after Heydar Aliyev, the only high-ranking Muslim in the Soviet government, was forced to resign in 1987, Moscow's bloody plans were implemented in the South Caucasus. The emboldening of Armenia, the dream of joining the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan to Armenia, the bloody Sumgait operation of the Soviet special services in 1988, and the January 20 massacre in Baku were only a few of these bloody plans. All this was possible because Heydar Aliyev was no longer in Soviet power. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 January 2024 14:08 (UTC+04:00) The leading Jordanian newspaper Al-Anbat, as well as the electronic news portals Ammonnews, Sarayanews, Jordanzad, Nayrouz, Marayanews, johinanews and orobanews with a wide readership, published the 34th anniversary of the January 20 tragedy, Azernews reports. On the basis of the statement issued by the Embassy to the local press on the anniversary, articles titled "Azerbaijan commemorates the victims of the Black January massacre of 1990" and "January 20: the day of sadness and pride of the Azerbaijani people" were published. The articles mention the crime committed by the military forces of the former Soviet empire in Azerbaijan on the night of January 19-20, 1990. It is noted that this tragedy is a crime against human values, that during the events of January 20, which resulted in the murder of innocent people, severe moral and material damage was caused to Azerbaijan, and all the rights of the people were violated. The articles also state that the tragedy of January 20 is engraved in the memory of the Azerbaijani people as a page of sadness and grief, as well as pride and heroism. Every year on the anniversary of the January 20 tragedy, it is emphasized that the people of Azerbaijan commemorate the martyrs of January 20 with deep respect, people flock to the Alley of Martyrs, lay flowers on the graves of the heroic children of the Motherland, and remember their role in the freedom struggle with feelings of gratitude. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 January 2024 15:17 (UTC+04:00) The delegation led by the Minister of Education and Science of Georgia Giorgi Amilakhvari will visit Azerbaijan next week, Azernews reports. Within the framework of the visit, G. Amilakhvari will meet with his Azerbaijani colleague Emin Amrullayev and other officials, and will be in scientific and academic circles of Azerbaijan. Prospects of cooperation between Azerbaijan and Georgia in the field of science and education, exchange of teachers and students, conducting joint scientific research, etc. were discussed at the meetings. There will be an exchange of views on the issues. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 January 2024 18:17 (UTC+04:00) An Indian jet flying to Moscow has crashed in Afghanistans northeast, the Azernews reports citing local sources. The aircraft owned by an Indian company crashed in the province of Badakhshan due to a technical problem, the agency said without specifying the model of the plane and the suggested number of people aboard. A representative of the Taliban movement (banned in Russia) in the Badakhshan province has confirmed to the Khaama Press agency that a group was sent to the region for investigation into the circumstances of the incident. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 January 2024 18:45 (UTC+04:00) Pyongyang considers Russian President Vladimir Putin as a close friend of the North Korean people and is ready to offer him a warm reception if he wants to pay a visit, Azernews reports citing a statement from the countrys Foreign Ministry. According to KCNA, North Korea "warmly welcomes President Putin to visit Pyongyang and is ready to greet the Korean people's closest friend with the greatest sincerity." Russian Presidential Spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated earlier that the dates of Putins possible visit to North Korea were being coordinated via diplomatic channels. North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui paid a visit to Moscow earlier this week, holding talks with top Russian diplomat Sergey Lavrov. The two foreign ministers also met with Putin who has a standing invitation to visit North Korea. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 January 2024 19:20 (UTC+04:00) An explosion has occurred at a gas export terminal near the city of St Petersburg in Russia, Azernews reports citing foreign media. The blast caused a large fire, state-owned Ria Novosti news agency said. It said the fire had been contained, and there were no reports of injuries. The cause of the fire is not known, but local media have reported that drones had been seen in the area. Ukraine usually does not admit such attacks. But Ukrainian media cited sources saying Kyiv was behind it. Both Russia and Ukraine have used drones in the current conflict. Russia launched its full-scale of invasion of Ukraine nearly two years ago, but has made little progress in recent months. On Sunday, 25 people were killed and 20 injured by shelling in the Russian-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, Alexei Kulemzin, the city's Russian-installed mayor said. Kyiv has also not commented on that attack. Regarding Sunday's explosion near St Petersburg, regional governor Alexander Drozdenko said a "high alert regime" was in place after the incident at the terminal of gas producer Novatek, in Ust-Luga on the Gulf of Finland. He shared a video of what appeared to be a large fire. Novatek later announced that work at the terminal had been suspended, and said the fire was the result of "external influence", without providing further details. Russian news outlet Shot quoted local residents as saying they heard a drone followed by several explosions at Ust-Luga, close to Russia's border with Estonia. Fontanka, a St Petersburg-based news outlet, said at least two drones were spotted flying towards the city before the fire broke out. It said there were three large international tankers near the fire, although there were no reports of damage to them. There has been no comment from Ukrainian officials. Russia's defence ministry also said it shot down three Ukrainian drones in Smolensk Region, close to its border with Ukraine, on Saturday night. It earlier said it had shot down drones over Tula and Oryol, both in western Russia. There were no reports of casualties. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 January 2024 20:56 (UTC+04:00) Several Democrat lawmakers have expressed unease with President Biden's campaign and its operations as he faces sagging poll numbers and low popularity, Azernews reports referring foreign media. It's a viewpoint that aligns with other left-leaning individuals who have previously sounded the alarm, including a former aide to first lady Jill Biden. Still, Biden's re-election vehicle appears to have not made any significant changes despite the public outcry. Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., is one such politician who worries about how Biden has approached the election. The Vermont independent, who caucuses with Democrats, said Biden needs to change course and believes the Israel-Hamas war has hurt the president's standing among younger voters. "There is no question, it is very hard for young people, I think for most Americans, to be excited about what is going on right now," Sanders previously told CNN. "President [Biden] has got to change course." Other Democrats in Congress' lower chamber, such as former House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer of Maryland, have also signaled apprehension over the campaign's direction. Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., said he's "not real comfortable" with where the campaign is and feels the team needs more diversity. Like Hoyer, Thompson praised Biden's accomplishments, but said the campaign has failed to articulate them to the American people. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 January 2024 22:15 (UTC+04:00) Minister of Culture of Slovakia Martina Simkovicova cancelled the decree that suspended cultural cooperation with Russia and Belarus after February 24, 2022, Azernews reports citing Slovakias Pravda newspaper. "There are dozens of military conflicts going on in the world, and, in our opinion, artists and culture must not suffer because of them," the Minister said, according to her spokesman Pavol Corba. In March of 2022, the Ministry of Culture of Slovakia banned contacts and cooperation with Russia and Belarus. Its former head, Natalia Milanova, representative of one of the liberal parties that lost power in the republic after the recent elections, justified it by the condemnation of the special military operation in Ukraine. The incumbent Minister, who represents the Slovak National Party, cancelled her predecessors decree on January 12. According to the newspaper, it has lost effect since January 15. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 21 January 2024 22:48 (UTC+04:00) Commanders from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and Lebanon's Hezbollah group are on the ground in Yemen helping to direct and oversee Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping, four regional and two Iranian sources told Reuters, Azernews reports. Iran - which has armed, trained and funded the Houthis - stepped up its weapons supplies to the militia in the wake of the war in Gaza, which erupted after Iranian-backed militants Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, the four regional sources said. Tehran has provided advanced drones, anti-ship cruise missiles, precision-strike ballistic missiles and medium-range missiles to the Houthis, who started targeting commercial vessels in November in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, the sources said. IRGC commanders and advisers are also providing know-how, data and intelligence support to determine which of the dozens of vessels travelling through the Red Sea each day are destined for Israel and constitute Houthi targets, all the sources said. Washington said last month that Iran was deeply involved in planning operations against shipping in the Red Sea and that its intelligence was critical to enable the Houthis to target ships. In response to a Reuters request for comment for this story, the White House pointed to its previous public comments about how Iran has been supporting the Houthis. In his weekly news conferences, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani has repeatedly denied Tehran is involved in the Red Sea attacks by the Houthis. Houthi spokesperson Mohammed Abdulsalam denied any Iranian or Hezbollah involvement in helping to direct the Red Sea attacks. The Houthis, who emerged in the 1980s as an armed group in opposition to Saudi Arabia's Sunni religious influence in Yemen, say they are supporting Hamas by striking commercial ships they say are either linked to Israel or are heading to Israeli ports. Their attacks have affected global shipping between Asia and Europe through the Bab al-Mandab strait off Yemen. That has triggered US and British air strikes on Houthi targets in the country, opening a new theatre of conflict linked to the war in Gaza. The Gaza conflict has also sparked clashes between Israel and Hezbollah militants along the Lebanese border, as well as attacks by Iran-linked groups on US targets in Iraq and Syria. "The Revolutionary Guards have been helping the Houthis with military training (on advanced weapons)," an Iranian insider told Reuters. "A group of Houthi fighters were in Iran last month and were trained in an IRGC base in central Iran to get familiar with the new technology and the use of missiles." The person said Iranian commanders had travelled to Yemen as well and set up a command centre in the capital Sanaa for the Red Sea attacks which is being run by the senior IRGC commander responsible for Yemen. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz India, US bilateral HADR exercise 'Tiger Triumph-24' begins 18 Mar 2024 | 7:31 PM New Delhi, Mar 18 (UNI) A bilateral tri-Service Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Exercise between India and US, 'Tiger Triumph-24' commenced on the Eastern Seaboard on Monday. see more.. India, US Defence Ministers discuss bilateral, regional security issues over phone 18 Mar 2024 | 7:01 PM New Delhi, Mar 18 (UNI) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday held a telephonic conversation with US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin and both briefly discussed a range of bilateral, regional security and defence cooperation issues. see more.. PM Modi twisting my 'Shakti' remark: Rahul Gandhi 18 Mar 2024 | 6:50 PM New Delhi, Mar 18 (UNI) After facing sharp criticism on his 'Shakti' remark, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday alleged that the Prime Minister was twisting the meaning of his 'Shakti' remark because Modi ji knew 'I was speaking only the truth'. see more.. SC stays Orissa HC order nullifying Congress MLA Mohammed Moquim election in 2019 18 Mar 2024 | 6:46 PM New Delhi, Mar 18 (UNI) The Supreme Court on Monday stayed the Orissa High Court order in which it had nullified the election of Congress MLA Mohammed Moquim from Barabati Constituency in Cuttack and issued notices to the state government. see more.. 21 January 2024 23:20 (UTC+04:00) Three permits given by the Norwegian government to develop new offshore oil and gas fields were found to be invalid on Thursday because their environmental impact was not sufficiently assessed, in a ruling that could set a precedent for new fields, Azernews reports citing Reuters. Environmental campaign groups had asked the Oslo District Court to block the development of the three North Sea fields, citing a failure to consider the impact of the future use of all the extracted fossil fuels on the global climate through the greenhouse gases they will emit. The lawsuit filed by Greenpeace and its partner Nature and Youth concerns Equinor's (EQNR.OL), opens new tab Breidablikk and Aker BP's (AKRBP.OL), opens new tab Yggdrasil and Tyrving fields, which hold combined reserves of some 875 million barrels of oil equivalent. "The court's conclusion is that the decisions on the plan for the development and operation of petroleum deposits for Breidablikk, Yggdrasil and Tyrving are invalid," said the ruling by Judge Lena Skjold Rafoss. It said future emissions should have been assessed as part of the approval process, in line with a Supreme Court decision in 2020. "An impact assessment ensures that dissenting voices are heard and considered, and that the decision-making basis is verifiable and available to the public," it added. "This is important to safeguard democratic participation in decisions that may influence the environment." The ruling applied only to the three recently approved fields "and not to other activity on the Norwegian continental shelf". Norway's Energy Minister, Terje Aasland, said the government disagreed with the verdict and would consider appealing, in an emailed statement to Reuters. "This is a full and complete victory for the climate over Norway," Greenpeace Norway head Frode Pleym told Reuters. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz In New York, Northwell Health gives millions of dollars each year to area schools and students. Now the system is partnering with New York City Public Schools and Bloomberg Philanthropies to build a new high school in Queens devoted to healthcare education, marking a big step forward in the direction the health system has worked toward for years. Northwell Health is one of 13 health systems participating in a $250 million initiative from Bloomberg Philanthropies, in which health systems partner with 10 public school systems in urban and rural areas to create a high school with specialized healthcare curriculum, work-based learning, and opportunities for graduates to move directly into high-demand healthcare jobs. The schools will collectively serve nearly 6,000 students at full capacity. "I would like this to be the first of many schools like this," Northwell President and CEO Michael Dowling told Becker's. "I'm a big believer in apprenticeship. You learn by doing." The initiative was announced Jan. 17, with individual health systems and school systems due to release more details about their respective healthcare high schools in the weeks to come. Northwell's high school will be newly established in Queens, N.Y., with a focus on diagnostic medicine, physical therapy, mental health and nursing. More information is expected in February. As the largest healthcare provider and private employer in New York with 85,000 associates, Northwell already reaches nearly 100,000 students annually through its existing educational programs. It has a lengthy and growing list of educational partnerships, scholarships and internships. Mr. Dowling sees schools as critical not only to solving healthcare's worker shortages, but to improving health holistically. "If I help a kid go to college, I have improved the health of that whole family," he says. In 2022, Northwell signed on as an anchor employer in partnership with New York City Public Schools to combine classroom and work-based learning in partnership with four high schools in Queens and Manhattan. Additionally, the system invests $5 million in its Northwell Community Scholars Program, in which students in seven economically disadvantaged, underrepresented school districts receive mentorship, college preparation, career guidance, shadowing and internship opportunities and financial support to pursue associate's degrees or certificates at area community colleges. Others initiatives include Northwell's student ambassador program, in which students receive training to communicate with peers about topics directly impacting youth health; numerous medical school pipeline programs, of which 100% of participants have gone to college or a professional healthcare program; and a 10-week management internship for college juniors to gain exposure to healthcare administration and leadership. "We are working with probably 70 high schools in the whole region," Mr. Dowling said. "People talk about the workforce shortage of the future. There's only a workforce shortage of the future if you don't do anything today." Expanding educational and professional opportunities for students is more than a pressing business need to Mr. Dowling it is personally meaningful. He was the first person in his family to attend college, graduating from University College Cork in Ireland while working up to 120 hours per week in odd jobs to fund his tuition. He immigrated to the United States in the 1970s and has led Northwell since 2002, but his firsthand experiences with poverty, classism and unequal access to opportunity continue to shape his approach to leadership and health. "When I was a kid myself and wanted to go to college, I didn't have any exposure to these things. When I went to college, my eyes were opened to the possibilities," Mr. Dowling said. "That's what we give these kids. There's no limit to what these kids can do if you open up the possibility for them." Mr. Dowling recalls being in the room 15 years ago when students from an under-resourced high school visited a Northwell hospital for on-site learning. In this instance, the teens were learning about an MRI machine and imaging. "It's amazing to be in that kind of meeting and watch the kids' eyes and see their behavior when they see something they have never seen before," Mr. Dowling said. "They are all thinking about what's possible." The Bloomberg partnership marks a big step forward for the health system's work with schools. Mr. Dowling said his team has been building the school-healthcare pipeline for decades, crediting New York City Public Schools Chancellor David Banks, Northwell Chief Learning and Innovation Officer Jason Naidich, MD, and Northwell Senior Vice President of Community and Population Health Debbie Salas-Lopez, MD, as especially influential champions. "I have great people here," said Mr. Dowling. "This work is integral to what we do as a system." Mr. Dowling shared a message for health system leaders and executives who, like him, are staring down into the industry's current and forecasted workforce shortage. He encourages them to think big, noting that healthcare organizations can be overly dependent on the medical system as it stands today to solve all problems. "Begin thinking more broadly about the role you should have," Mr. Dowling said. "Don't think narrowly about what you do inside your organization. Think about how you can influence and become a change agent for other institutions to be involved in education outside your organization. How can you be the catalyst for others to do things differently? Get other people to think about what's possible." Michael Dowling will speak at Becker's 14th Annual Meeting in Chicago in April. Hospital and health system leaders, click here to apply for a complimentary badge. Interested in exhibitor or sponsorship opportunities to connect with 3,000+ hospital and health system leaders? Download the prospectus here. Merseyside police have confirmed that a man has died after falling from a ferry en route to Liverpool from Belfast this weekend. The man, who is from Wales, was airlifted from the Irish Sea following an incident on the Stena Line vessel from Northern Ireland to Birkenhead on Saturday morning. A statement from the Merseyside police reads: We were contacted at 8.15am today, Saturday 20th January, following reports the 44-year-old man, who is from the North Wales area, was missing from a ferry travelling between Belfast and Birkenhead. HM Coastguard and RNLI lifeboats were dispatched to carry out a search and at around 11.20am a man was airlifted from the water by the HM Coastguard helicopter, transferred to an ambulance and taken to hospital. The man has since sadly passed away. Enquiries have been carried out but the death is not being treated as suspicious and a file has been prepared for the coroner. The mans next of kin have been informed. The ferry operator confirmed that an incident took place on its Stena Estrid in the early hours of Saturday morning (January 20). The company said it could not comment on the incident. However, they added: "The vessel will continue with normal operation. A spokesperson for HM Coastguard added: "HM Coastguard coordinated the response to a report of a missing man from a passenger vessel off Liverpool. The alarm was raised at about 8.15am on 20 January and a search carried out. "The HM Coastguard helicopter from Caernarfon was sent as well as RNLI all-weather lifeboats from Hoylake, Rhyl, Lytham St Annes and Llandudno. A man was airlifted from the water by the HM Coastguard helicopter at about 11.20am, transferred to an ambulance and taken to hospital. "Crosby Coastguard Rescue Team assisted by securing a helicopter landing site. Merseyside Police were informed." Motorist dies after tree falls on carAbout 30,000 had power reconnected by 2pm on Monday Dark Hedges trees blown over by strong windsStorm Jocelyn named after NI scientist - will move in on Tuesday One man has died after Storm Isha lashed Northern Ireland with high winds and heavy rain, causing widespread disruption to both the road network and the electricity supply. It comes as the Met Office issued a further warning for strong winds caused by the approaching Storm Jocelyn, which is set to hit here on Tuesday. A strong jet stream is pushing a large-scale low pressure system from the Atlantic across the northern half of the UK, which will bring wet and windy weather for Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. The yellow warning for NI comes into force at 4.00pm on Tuesday, January 23 until 1.00pm on Wednesday, January 24, with disruption expected to roads, as well as rail, air and ferry services. Winds of 55-65mph are expected, with some locations seeing speeds of up to 70mph. Those gusts are fairly typical for a winter storm across these areas, but following the impacts caused by Storm Isha resilience is expected to be lower and it may also hamper any ongoing recovery and repair efforts, said a Met Office spokesperson. Closures are expected on roads and bridges due to fallen trees and debris, while there is also the potential for power cuts, damage to buildings and danger to life. Temperatures are expected to remain mild or close to average for the time of year. The incoming storm could hamper efforts to clean up after Storm Isha ripped through Northern Ireland on Sunday evening, causing one death and widespread disruption to roads, transport and the electricity network. Sinead Ferris, transformation manager at NIE, said Storm Isha had been the strongest in NI for almost ten years. We havent seen this type of storm for a decade, she told UTV. It could take a couple of days to restore power to everyone. A storm is still to come so the numbers without power may also change. One man in his 60s died after his Vauxhall Vivaro van collided with a fallen tree and another vehicle a Citroen Berlingo on Broad Road in Limavady, Co Londonderry on Sunday night. Independent East Londonderry MLA Claire Sugden said it was simply tragic news. I want to send my deepest condolences to the family of the man concerned. They will be devastated by this news and the shock and grief will no doubt be immense today and in the days, weeks and months that follow, she said. I would urge all drivers to remain vigilant as the winds continue tonight and tomorrow. One tragedy is already one too many. The storm also proved chaotic for NIs electricity network, with around 23,000 people still without power on Monday afternoon. Around 30,000 customers had had their power restored. Randal Gilbert, NIE networks director, said the restoration had been challenging. The weather conditions last night along with the blocked access routes from fallen trees and debris have meant at times that our teams have been hampered in their efforts. Were continuing to prioritise calls and work as quickly as we can but the scale of the effort is something not seen in the last decade so we do anticipate a multi-day event before we would have everyone restored. If customers should experience a power cut they can report the fault online at www.nienetworks.co.uk or call the NIE Networks Customer Helpline on 03457 643 643. Customers can also follow us on social media for regular updates. We are particularly keen to remind the public to maintain safety around any damaged electricity equipment and never approach a broken pole or overhead power line. Storm Isha also felled a number of trees at the Dark Hedges in Co Antrim, with work ongoing to clear the site. The trees are among more than 1,000 obstructions reported on NIs roads since the storm struck on Sunday night, with PSNI officers helping to clear roads in Belfast while forestry staff and roads service employees remain on strike. Winds peaked at 80mph during the storm, while the NI Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) said they received 239 emergency calls from 6.00pm on Sunday night until 7.25am on Monday morning. In the Republic of Ireland, two people died in road crashes when weather warnings were in place. A man in his 40s died in a single-vehicle crash in Claremorris, Co Mayo at about 6.15pm on Sunday while a woman in her 20s, who was a passenger in a van, died after it hit a tree in Carnalogue, Co Louth. Recap our coverage of Storm Isha below: There will be no choice but for the Irish government to have an increased say in Northern Ireland's affairs if devolved government is not restored, an Alliance Party MP has said. Stephen Farry said Dublin will be part of a plan B for governing Northern Ireland after a legal deadline to restore devolution here passed on Friday. The DUP has blocked devolutions restoration since early 2022. Pressure has mounted on the party to back a new deal, resulting in a meeting on Friday - but no decision was made when its 12 party officers, including leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, met Its led to reports of increasing frustration in the Government. Speaking on Sunday Politics SDLP MP Claire Hanna urged the Secretary of State, Chris Heaton-Harris, to set out his plans following the outcome of the DUPs meeting on Friday. We have enormous pressing concerns in public services, and in people's faith and belief in politics and it's important that the Secretary of State sets out where this goes, said the Belfast South MP. He was due to give a statement [on Monday], I think the DUP carry on will probably push that back slightly, but they should not be given the power. I think it suits ditherers to have the power to to keep everybody in holding pattern and people, the rest of the population, have needs as well. Also on yesterdays episode of the BBC politics show, Alliance Partys Stephen Farry backed calls for the Secretary of State to unveil next steps, but said they would likely not go far enough. The basic problem here is that the DUP have been given the power to hold the rest of society to ransom through this misuse of the veto, said the North Down MP. I fully accept there's checks and balances in the Good Friday Agreement, but it was never designed to stop the whole system from functioning, and that's where we're at. So rather than looking at other areas where he can maybe apply pressure, [the Secretary of State] needs to apply pressure directly on what's actually the core of the problem here. Ms Hanna called for reforms to the Good Friday Agreement adding that proposals put through the House of Commons had consensus and could be picked up by Heaton-Harris quite quickly. Last month the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee made a series of recommendations, backed by SDLP and Alliance, for a major shake-up of how Stormont operates. Read more The DUPs boycott is not about a nationalist First Minister and claims to the contrary are acutely dangerous The committee recommended a two thirds supermajority should be used to elect first and deputy first ministers and the speaker. MPs also suggested that the first and deputy first minister roles should be rebranded and open to politicians from beyond the largest unionist and nationalist parties. The DUP said that the proposed changes were trying to undermine the partys position to the Irish Sea border. Speaking on the programme the SDLP MP said: We have reformed the Good Friday Agreement for better and worse at different times, including over the heads of some of the parties. So there are ways to reform it. We have laid bare just how deep the wounds in our public services are and how limited our abilities and our levers are to create the kind of change that people want and the ambitions that people have for their lives and for their families. "And again, the longer the DUP keep us locked in this cage, the more intense that discussion will get. This follows news that DUP party officers werent asked to make a decision during a meeting on Friday, amid reports that the party remains divided on a return to Stormont. Read more Like Trimble before him, Donaldson knows the right thing to do is also the riskiest thing to do Speaking about the mood in Westminster, editor of Politics Home, Adam Payne, said that there was increased frustration over the DUPs position.v Mr Payne said that sources within the UK government had said there was no more room for negotiations on the substantive issues of the Windsor Framework. He added that the looming general election has changed priorities for the Conservative government, which is now focused on closing Labours lead in the polls. Thousands of homes were left without power and airport activity was disrupted on Sunday as Storm Isha swept destructive winds across the island of Ireland. People were urged to heed wind warnings and told not to make unnecessary journeys as the most severe wind warnings kicked in on Sunday evening. The Met Office said a tornado could hit western parts of the UK after the research organisation Torro said Ireland, Northern Ireland, parts of Scotland and northern England were tornado watch zones. Status red wind warnings were issued for counties Donegal, Galway and Mayo, while status orange/amber warnings came into effect for all other counties on the island on Sunday evening. People walking away after taking photos of high waves at Salthill, Galway, during Storm Isha (Niall Carson/PA) Met Eireann said extremely strong winds and destructive gusts are expected in the red warning areas, particularly along coastal and exposed areas. Paul Rock, who chaired a meeting of the National Emergency Co-ordination on Sunday morning, said it is a particularly nasty storm in an unusual storm season. We dont want anyone dying as a result of this storm, he told RTE Radio. Mr Rock asked people to avoid coastal areas during the Met Eireann warnings and for all road users to be aware of hazardous conditions, including debris, and urged people not to touch fallen electricity wires. Delays are expected at ports, airports and possibly some public transport systems, he said, advising people to check online to see if services are disrupted. Mr Rock expects schools to open as normal on Monday as the warnings expire overnight. The red warnings for Galway and Mayo are valid from 5pm-9pm on Sunday, while in Donegal it is to remain in place from 9pm on Sunday until 1am on Monday. Forecasters warned of dangerous coastal conditions, treacherous travelling conditions and of significant and widespread power outages in these counties. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content Bus Eireann suspended its town, city and intercity services in Mayo and Galway from 4pm on Sunday. As the status red warning came into effect at 5pm, the metal clocktower on top of the Thirteen on the Green bar at Eyres Square in Galway city fell on to the path below. For other counties, a status orange wind warning is in place from 4pm or 5pm on Sunday until 2am or 3am on Monday, bringing with it the threat of large coastal waves, very difficult travelling conditions, fallen trees and damage to power lines. This warning is to reduce to a status yellow warning until 4am on Monday, when all Met Eireann warnings are lifted. With status red marine warnings also in place, bringing rough sea conditions, the coastguard advised people to be aware of large breaking waves. The ESB said that as of 8.35pm, more than 170,000 homes, farms and businesses were without power, with the expectation of further power outages overnight. The counties worst impacted by outages include Mayo, Galway, Roscommon and Kerry. Dublin Airport said the storm was posing a significant challenge to flights operations, and as of 7pm airlines had cancelled 114 flights 58 incoming and 56 departing with 36 flights diverted to other airports. The Road Safety Authority advised all road users to be aware of the dangers once the storm has passed as there may be hazardous conditions such as flooded roads and downed pylons, lines, trees and other debris on roads. We need your consent to load this Social Media content. We use a number of different Social Media outlets to manage extra content that can set cookies on your device and collect data about your activity. Please review your details and accept them to load the content In Northern Ireland, an amber weather warning was issued for all counties from 6pm on Sunday until 6am on Monday, bringing very strong winds. This will be downgraded to a status yellow wind warning that will be in place until noon on Monday. The PSNI said someone was struck by falling debris after scaffolding became dislodged in Belfast. They were treated at the scene by emergency services. Officers closed the Castle Lane junction with Royal Avenue and advised pedestrians to avoid the area. It also said it had received numerous reports of fallen trees and urged people to only travel if the journey is necessary. The Department for Infrastructure said that despite contingency measures, public workers strike action may disrupt any responses to incidents such as debris on roads and floods. It said all parts of Northern Ireland are expected to be affected but the strongest winds will be in the early hours of Monday around the coast and in exposed locations. Cairo, Jan 21 (UNI) Egypt will not allow Somalia's security to be threatened, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Sisi said on Sunday, adding that an agreement between Ethiopia and the breakaway region of Somaliland is unacceptable. On Saturday, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud arrived in Egypt on an official visit amid growing tensions with Ethiopia and was received by Sisi the next day. "We will not allow the security of our brothers to be threatened," Sisi said at a joint press conference, commenting on the agreement. Somali authorities will not allow foreign armies to stay on the country's territory without an agreement, Mohamud said. Several other issues were discussed, such as strengthening relations between the two countries, he added. "We are grateful for Egypts unwavering support for our national sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity. We will work together to advance stability and security in Somalia," Mohamud said on X later in the day. On Wednesday, an extraordinary meeting of the League of Arab States (LAS) took place in the Egyptian capital of Cairo, with tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia on the agenda. On January 2, Somalia recalled its ambassador to Ethiopia, a day after Addis Ababa inked a memorandum of understanding with the breakaway region of Somaliland that granted the landlocked Horn of Africa nation access to the Red Sea. On January 6, the Somali president said he had signed a law nullifying the agreement between Somaliland and Ethiopia. Somalia collapsed as a unified nation in 1991 with the downfall of Siad Barre's dictatorship. The international community recognized the Mogadishu-based federal government as the only legitimate authority in Somalia, while chunks of the country in the north and east remain under the control of self-proclaimed and unrecognized Somaliland and Puntland. UNI/SPUTNIK GNK Gazas Health Ministry said 25,105 Palestinians have been killed in the territory since October 7 (Leo Correa/AP) The Palestinian death toll from the war between Israel and Hamas has soared past 25,000, the Health Ministry in the Gaza Strip has said, while the Israeli government appears far from achieving its goals of crushing the militant group and freeing more than 100 hostages. The level of death, destruction and displacement from the war is without precedent in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and Israeli officials say the fighting is likely to continue for several more months. The conflict and the plight of hostages held in Gaza have divided ordinary Israelis and their leaders, while the offensive threatens to ignite a wider war involving Iran-backed groups in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Yemen that support the Palestinians. In Lebanon, Hezbollah forces have engaged in near-daily clashes with Israeli troops along the border. An Israeli air strike on Sunday hit a car near a Lebanese army checkpoint in the southern town of Kafra, killing at least one person and injuring several others, Lebanese state media reported. The identities of those killed and injured were not immediately clear. The United States, which has provided essential diplomatic and military support for Israels offensive, has had limited success in persuading Israel to put civilians at less risk and to facilitate the delivery of more humanitarian aid. Palestinians surround a car which was hit by an Israeli air strike in Rafah, Gaza Strip (Hatem Ali/AP) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected US and international calls for post-war plans that would include a path to Palestinian statehood. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the refusal to accept a two-state solution totally unacceptable. Speaking on Sunday, he added: The Middle East is a tinderbox. We must do all we can to prevent conflict igniting across the region. That starts with an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to relieve the suffering in Gaza. The war began with Hamass surprise attack into Israel on October 7, in which Palestinian militants killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took around 250 hostages. Israels military announced the death of 19-year-old Sergeant Shay Levinson, who was among the hostages. His date of death was given as October 7, but there were no further details. According to Israeli media, his body is still in Gaza. A man holds a sign calling for the release of the hostages taken by Hamas during a demonstration in Tel Aviv, Israel, on Saturday (Leo Correa/AP) Israel responded with a three-week air campaign and then a ground invasion into northern Gaza that flattened entire neighbourhoods. Gazas Health Ministry said 25,105 Palestinians have been killed in the territory since October 7, and another 62,681 have been injured. The ministry does not differentiate between civilians and combatants in its death toll but says around two-thirds of those killed were women and children. The toll included the 178 bodies brought to Gazas hospitals since Saturday, ministry spokesman Ashraf al-Qidra said. Another 300 people were injured in the past day, he added. Israeli ground operations are now focused on the southern city of Khan Younis and built-up refugee camps in central Gaza dating back to the 1948 war surrounding Israels creation. The plumes of smoke from tanks, artillery and the planes of the air force will continue to cover the sky over the Gaza Strip until we will achieve our goals, defence minister Yoav Gallant said. Israels military said the demolition last week of a key building at Israa University in Gaza was under review, and asserted that preliminary findings indicated Hamas had used the compound for military purposes. The university has said the attack came weeks after Israeli forces occupied the building. Israel continues to carry out air strikes throughout the besieged territory, including areas in the south where it told civilians to seek refuge. Many Palestinians have ignored evacuation orders, saying nowhere feels safe. UN officials say a quarter of Gazas population of 2.3 million is starving as only a trickle of humanitarian aid enters because of the fighting and Israeli restrictions. The Israeli military says it has killed around 9,000 militants, without providing evidence, and blames the high civilian death toll on Hamas because it positions fighters, tunnels and other militant infrastructure in dense neighbourhoods, often near homes, schools or mosques. The military released footage of a tunnel under a residential neighbourhood in Khan Younis where the army believes at least 20 hostages were kept at different times. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said he seeks complete victory over Hamas (Ohad Zwigenberg/AP) Mr Netanyahu has vowed to keep up the offensive until Israel achieves complete victory over Hamas and returns all remaining hostages. But even some top Israeli officials have begun to acknowledge those goals might be mutually exclusive. Hamas is believed to be holding the captives in tunnels and using them as shields for its top leaders. Israel has managed to rescue just one hostage, and Hamas says several have been killed in Israeli air strikes or during failed rescue operations. A member of Israels war cabinet, former army chief Gadi Eisenkot, said last week the only way to free the hostages is through a ceasefire. In an implicit criticism of Mr Netanyahu, he said claims to the contrary amount to illusions. Hamas has said it will not free more hostages until Israel ends its offensive. The group is expected to make any further releases conditional on securing freedom for thousands of Palestinians imprisoned in Israel, including high-profile militants involved in attacks that killed Israelis. Israels government has ruled that out for now, but it faces growing pressure from families of the hostages, who are pushing for an exchange like the one that took place during a week-long ceasefire in November. Some Israelis are also frustrated by the security failures that preceded the October 7 attack and by Mr Netanyahus handling of the war. Thousands of people gathered in Tel Aviv over the weekend to call for new elections. But Mr Netanyahus far-right coalition partners are pushing him to step up the offensive, with some calling for the voluntary emigration of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from Gaza and the re-establishment of Jewish settlements there. Israel withdrew soldiers and settlers from the territory in 2005, two years before Hamas seized power from rival Palestinian forces. Workers told charging points only for Rapid Response Vehicles Ambulance service workers have been warned not to use electric charging points meant for life-saving Rapid Response Vehicles on their own cars at its HQ on the outskirts of south Belfast. The issue emerged in an internal memo obtained by Sunday Life, which was sent to all staff just over a week ago. Rapid Response Vehicles, known as RRVs, are smaller and faster than an ambulance and are designed to reach the patient as soon as possible which can often mean the difference between life and death, according to the NIAS. NI Ambulance Service The email stated: Over recent months we have seen a significant increase of electric vehicles with our RRV fleet. Our fleet will continue to see upgrades to EVs (electric vehicles) in the fullness of time. This has led to some operational issues with staff being unable to obtain access to EV chargers as these are often being used by personal vehicles. In the absence of a policy for this area, we must act in the interim to protect our own fleet and minimise the risk for our own emergency RRVs. I can advise that a policy is in draft and will be finalised within the coming weeks. Effective from 12pm today (January 12), I can advise that NIAS EV charging stations will be strictly for use by NIAS fleet only. According to the NIAS website the service began using RRVs in 2003 and a significant proportion of calls attended by paramedics in RRVs are being met within the eight-minute target time. The RRV paramedic can undertake any and all of the skills available to any paramedic and will provide life-sustaining care including defibrillation, airway protection and drug administration until the emergency ambulance arrives, it states. NI Ambulance Service The NIAS headquarters is in the 275-acre Knockbracken Healthcare Park on the outskirts of south Belfast. A spokesperson for the ambulance service told Sunday Life: The NIAS is increasing its use of electric vehicles, initially as response cars. NIAS has, for a number of years, had on site EV charging points. As the size of the electric fleet increases, so too does the demand on the charging points available to us. We are also aware that increasing numbers of staff have purchased electric vehicles and have been making use of the charging points. We have issued a memo to all staff to make them aware that the on-site charging points must be prioritised for our response vehicles and as such are not for personal use. NIAS would emphasise that to date there has been no instance where Rapid Response Vehicles have been delayed or prevented from responding to emergency calls as a result of being unable, temporarily, to access a charging point. The memo is to ensure that this will not arise as a problem in the future. As staff working in HQ become aware that personal use of EV charging points is not permitted, we will then be able to address any issues in relation to the potential use of the charging points by others. The availability of fully charged cars to respond to life-threatening emergencies within the community will remain our priority in respect of these charging points. Kevin Conway murder: Relatives of scared Firm boss seek assurances he wont be next Lurgan drug gang chief worried he could be targeted Kevin Conway Jnr was shot in west Belfast Sunday Life Reporter Sun 21 Jan 2024 at 08:44 Relatives of one of the leaders of organised crime gang The Firm have sought assurances from republicans that he will not be targeted for murder. Scheming social media pervert Ryan Eastwood will strike again, say survivors Sex pest jailed for hacking accounts of 33 victims after posing as Ann Summers rep Ryan Eastwood John Toner Sun 21 Jan 2024 at 09:50 Prolific online pervert Ryan Eastwoods reign of terror has left dozens of devastated women rebuilding destroyed lives, say his victims. Duo walk free on suspended sentences This is one of the latest pair of the so-called Dirty Dozen drug dealers who have been sentenced for flooding east Belfast with UVF-linked cocaine. Eamonn Holmes insists he was absolutely right to speak out against his former This Morning colleague Phillip Schofield following his resignation from ITV. Schofield stepped down last May after admitting lying about an affair with a younger male colleague on the show. At the time the 61-year-old said: In an effort to protect my ex-colleague I havent been truthful about the relationship. I am painfully conscious that I have lied to my employers at ITV, to my colleagues and friends, to my agents, to the media and therefore the public and most importantly of all to my family. I am so very, very sorry, as I am for having been unfaithful to my wife. In a new interview with Gerry Kelly, Eamonn says he and his wife Ruth Langsford, who co-presented This Morning on Fridays and school holidays, were taken for fools by Schofield. He claims he told them complete lies and we unfortunately believed him. Eamonn Holmes on Conversations with Gerry Kelly Schofield first met the male colleague he later had an affair with during a visit to the 15-year-olds school when he was in his 40s, it has been reported. In April 2016, the 20-year-old started working on This Morning. In the shamed presenters statement, he said: Contrary to speculation, whilst I met the man when he was a teenager and was asked to help him to get into television, it was only after he started to work on the show that it became more than just a friendship. But Eamonn rejects claims from people who said that he had bullied his colleague and kept reopening the hugely publicised feud with Schofield. Read more Eamonn Holmes: I was forced to sell my beloved Belfast home to pay the taxman It doesnt go on because I sit and talk about it. It goes on because people ask me about it. Its a different thing. The Belfast man tells Gerry Kelly the fights he and wife Ruth had on This Morning were jokes but reveals that eejits would ring in to complain about how he talked to her. Eamonn believes he has probably burnt his bridges with ITV and couldnt envisage their bosses queuing up to give him a quiz show. If youre compliant, youre more likely to be employable, he adds. Asked if he was content with his career with GB News, Eamonn says he would love to be doing a Parkinson-type chat show on a Saturday night but it was never going to happen. While everyone has a different faith journey, we almost all can agree that no journey is easy. With the ups and downs that life throws at us, what convictions we might feel strong in one day might get twisted the next. The path is a winding road, but with dedication and perseverance you can always come out on top with Jesus. If you are in a space where your faith in Christianity is not as strong as you would like, dont fear. This is something many Christians deal with, and the first step is simply admitting that you want something deeper. That right there shows God that you are serious and ready for the next step in your faith expedition. If you execute these seven easy ideas, you will begin your voyage to a stronger faith. Trust in the process and know that God is always by your side ready to work with you. He wants to have a better, more intimate relationship with you and share with you the wonders of the Bible. Read the Bible Shutterstock.com Some people think the Bible isnt relevant today, however that could be further from the truth. The Bible is the best way to bridge the gap between humans and God. It is His divine Word. His truths are as sound and relevant today as they were when they were first spoken and written. The Bible tells us that faith comes from hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17). In order to grow spiritually and better understand your Christian faith, it is important to dedicate consistent blocks of time to reading and meditating on the Scriptures. Through the power of the Bible, we learn more about the Lord so that He can breathe life into us, give us strength, and empower us to be who He wants us to be. Complete Mission Work Following Gods call to become a Christian missionary is a great way to serve the Lord and get to know Him on a deeper level. Each mission field, mission agency and mission work will have its own special requirements, so you might have to do some research to find which mission would fit you best. You might only have a limited amount of time, and find that volunteering in your church's local soup kitchen as a great way to serve God. If you are someone with a lot of time, you might feel compelled to go oversees to help those less fortunate. In either scenario, you will find that serving God will make your Christian faith stronger than ever. In addition, you dont have to be a specific age to start completing mission trips either. There are programs that let high school and college children go on mission trips during spring and summer break for example. It is never too early to start volunteering and helping Lords children across the world. Spend Time in Prayer shutterstock.com Pray like you mean it. Pray like God is sitting right next to you, and you both are just having a conversation. Mark 11:23 instructs us to pray without doubt in our hearts, and believe that what we say will happen. In the same verse Jesus says that if we do this, it will be done for us. The more time we spend in prayer, the more comfortable we become with sharing our burdens with the Lord. The Lord wants us to trust Him and feel like we can come to Him with any problems. He wants to hear our voices, and He wants a personal relationship with each and every one of us. Daily prayer will invite God into our lives and help us establish a deeper trust. Furthermore, God wants us to pray not only for ourselves but for others. When we lift others up to Him, we show our humility and trust that God can intervene in the lives of others. Get Involved in Your Church Shutterstock.com Most people do not get involved in their church simply because they don't know how. First, just going to church every Sunday is a great start. You will get to know religious leaders and here God's Word in an uplifting environment. While we should all be involved in more ways than one, we often undervalue the simply act of showing up and joining in worship. When you feel comfortable, you can start seeking out the specific needs of your church. Each church might need something different - maybe yours has a lack of Sunday School teachers and you enjoy working with kids, or your church needs greeters and you enjoy talking with all types of people. You can identify your specific skill set and spiritual gifts and use those to give back. Your church elders can help you find areas to put them to use. Share Your Testimony With Others Shutterstock.com No matter how simple or complicated, your testimony is meant to be told and can help introduce people to Jesus (John 4:29,39). He invites you to be part of other peoples spiritual journeys to faith (2 Corinthians 5:20). God works in mysterious ways, and He can use you and your story to help connect someone to the Christian faith. By helping others find Christ in their lives, you become more connected with Him as well. You also start to notice more often where you can see God working. You don't have to force your testimony on anyone. You can create a short and powerful testimony thats less than two minutes, and doesn't "attack" non-Christians. Instead, it can be spoken in a way that invites non-Christians to see God, without pressure or judgment. Try to Live Like Christ Shutterstock.com We may call ourselves Christians, but are we living the Christian lifestyle? No matter how much you learn about the faith, the Bible, and the way Jesus lived if you don't choose to implement those morals and values into your own life then you won't ever get to connect with God like you want to. God gives us orders to try and obey His plan for us, and part of that means trying to live as if Christ had. Romans 8:29 says "For God knew His people in advance, and He chose them to become like His Son..." God was able to restore us through Christ, and wants us to be like Him. It is one of our main purposes here on this earth. God doesn't expect us to be perfect, however there are easy ways for us to act more Christ-like. This can include showing empathy for those who are different than you, working hard to avoid all temptation of sin, and offering help to those who are not as fortunate. Surround Yourself With Other Christians Shutterstock.com Your relationship with Christianity can be strengthened further when you surround yourself with Godly people. People without faith get influenced by others that choose not to live the Christian lifestyle - society, friends, family and the like. The same thing happens when you surround yourself with the people who do love Christ. They help influence you to follow Him more. We have to choose our friends carefully in life, because those that do not follow Him are not going to advance us spiritually. The Bible tells us that we are not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers. This does not mean we shouldn't lift up those that need Jesus the most, however if you want to fill yourself spirituality you should connect with other church members, a Bible study, or even your pastor. God can work through them to connect with you. If you are looking for a deeper relationship with the Lord and the Christian faith, these are great ways to start. Through these activities you will be able to notice Gods blessings in your life more, understand the Bible on an in-depth level, and connect with other Christians in your local city. Over time, you will see your faith start to flourish in ways you never thought possible. 1 of 9 Previous Next Megan Bailey is a former Social Media Specialist and Content Producer for Beliefnet. She attended James Madison University where she received a degree in psychology. Aizawl, Jan 21 (UNI) Myanmar soldiers who fled to India's Mizoram after their camps were overran by rebels will be airlifted on Monday, officials said on Sunday. Mizoram Home Department officials said that the Myanmar Air Force transport plane is most likely to airlift and evacuate 276 Myanmar army personnel from the lone Lengpui airport near Aizawl. The officials said that the Myanmar Air Force cargo plane will be coming from Mandalay City, and the Myanmar soldiers will be transported to Sittwe (Akyab), the capital port town of Rakhine State in Myanmar. All the 276 Myanmar army personnel being hosted by the Assam Rifles at Parva and Zorinpui have been brought to Aizawl via Lunglei and are lodged at the Zokhawsang Assam Rifles headquarters near Aizawl, where they are proposed to be shifted from the center of Aizawl city. The Myanmar soldiers entered Mizoram-Myanmar border Bandukbanga village in southernmost Mizorams Lawngtlai district on Wednesday last after Khankha Mountain 979 Myanmar military base in southern Chin state was overran and captured by the Arakan Army (AA) militants on the same day. The armed Myanmar soldiers included 36 army officers headed by a colonel and 240 other ranks. They will be evacuated along with the weapons they were carrying when they entered the state. Myanmar Air Force transport planes have already evacuated 255 Myanmar soldiers from Lengpui airport to Sittwe earlier. This will be the third time Myanmar soldiers are to be airlifted from Mizoram by a Myanmar Air Force cargo plane from Lengpui airport to Sittwe. With the latest entry of Myanmar army personnel to Mizoram, 635 Myanmar soldiers had fled their country after their camps were overran and captured by ethnic armed organizations and local civilian militia groups and crossed the international border seeking shelter inside the state. Of these, 359 Myanmar soldiers have already been evacuated to their country. While 104 Myanmar army personnel have been evacuated from different places in Mizoram to Moreh in Manipur by Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopters in three sorties during November, After this, 255 Myanmar soldiers were evacuated from the Lengpui airport by Myanmar Air Force cargo and transport planes on January 2 and 9 to Sittwee (Akyab) port town, the capital of Myanmars Rakhine state, earlier known as Arakan state. UNI XC ARN You are the owner of this article. January 20 marks 70 years since a mine near Rogers Pass became the coldest spot in the lower 48. Snow had been falling almost continuously for a week, and it was very cold. The temperature had only risen to minus 18 degrees. Finally, late in the day, the snow and wind stopped, skies cleared rapidly, and as the sun set the temperature plummeted. Early the next morning, on Jan. 20, 1954, the Montana and continental 48 states' record cold temperature of minus 70 degrees was observed at a mini... Baghdad, Jan 21 (UNI) US airbase Ain al-Asad in Iraq's western Anbar Province has been targeted by a missile strike with five rockets falling near the base, Iraqi news agency Shafaq reported on Saturday, citing a security source. The missiles were launched from the Iraqi city of Albaghdadi, the source said, without giving further information. Yahya Rasool, a spokesman for the commander-in-chief of the Iraqi armed forces, told the Iraq News Agency that the bombing injured an Iraqi soldier and caused material damage. "A number of missiles fell near the headquarters of the 29th Brigade, 7th Division, affiliated with the Al-Jazeera Operations Command, within the Iraqi Ain Al-Assad base, wounding a soldier and causing damage to the headquarters," he said. Since the beginning of the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the bases of the US-led international coalition in Iraq, as well as US troops in Syria, have come under regular attack, with armed Shiite groups operating in Iraq claiming responsibility. On October 7, 2023, Palestinian movement Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack against Israel from the Gaza Strip, while its fighters breached the border, opening fire on the military and civilians. As a result, over 1,200 people in Israel were killed and some 240 others abducted. Israel launched retaliatory strikes, ordered a complete blockade of Gaza and launched a ground incursion into the Palestinian enclave with the declared goal of eliminating Hamas fighters and rescuing the hostages. Over 24,900 people have been killed so far in Gaza as a result of Israeli strikes, local authorities said. 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 ceasefire was extended several times and expired on December 1. UNI/SPUTNIK AKS Contenders for the Republican presidential nomination will face off in the second contest of their nominating process on Tuesday in New Hampshire, while Democrats compete there on the same day in a battle expected to be significantly less competitive. The New Hampshire primary comes eight days after Iowa's Republican caucuses, which former US president Donald Trump dominated. His competitors will be eager to prove their candidacies are still viable despite Mr Trump's nearly 30-percentage point victory in the Republicans' first nominating state. Advertisement Here are some key facts about the primary: When is it and how does it work? The New Hampshire primary will take place on Tuesday with the precise hours dependent on the voting location. Unlike in Iowa and some other states, which rely on a relatively complicated "caucus" system, voters in New Hampshire cast their ballots much as they would during any other vote. Advertisement On the Republican side, 22 delegates to the Republican National Convention are up for grabs and will be awarded on a proportional basis. While that is a tiny portion of the 1,215 delegates needed to clinch the nomination, the state has traditionally played an outsized role in the nominating process because of its early spot on the calendar. For Democrats, 33 delegates will be sent to the Democratic National Convention from New Hampshire, but their vote won't be bound by the primary results after a dispute over the timing of the vote. That means the New Hampshire primary will serve purely as a barometer of support for the Democrats in the race. Advertisement The national Democratic Party moved its first 2024 contest to South Carolina, which is significantly more diverse than New Hampshire's nearly 90 per cent white population, to better reflect the party. But New Hampshire state law requires it to host the first primary, and the Republican-controlled state government declined to make any legislative change to its primary date. Who will be on the ballot? Mr Trump, former UN ambassador Nikki Haley and Florida governor Ron DeSantis are all on the ballot in New Hampshire. Mr DeSantis and Ms Haley placed second and third in Iowa, respectively. Mr DeSantis, facing exceptionally tough odds in New Hampshire, has opted to spend much of the the lead-up to the state's primary in South Carolina, where the next major Republican nominating contest takes place on February 24th. Ms Haley is a former South Carolina governor. Advertisement The main Democratic candidates on the ballot are US representative Dean Phillips of Minnesota and self-help guru Marianne Williamson. Democratic president Joe Biden is running for re-election but will not be on the ballot because of the primary date dispute. Some of his supporters, however, have launched a write-in campaign on Mr Biden's behalf. Advertisement Who is winning in the polls? According to polling and analysis website 538, Mr Trump leads the Republican field in New Hampshire with 47 per cent of likely primary voters planning to cast a ballot for the former president. Ms Haley is in second with nearly 34 per cent support, and Mr DeSantis trails in third place with about 5 per cent support. The Northeastern state is well-known for its relatively moderate, libertarian-minded brand of Republicanism. Moreover, the primary in New Hampshire is "semi-open," meaning voters who are not registered with any party can participate, which can help candidates perceived to be centrists. Mr Biden is winning handily among Democrats, though the polling has been extremely inconsistent, with support for Mr Phillips, his closest competitor, landing anywhere between the mid-single-digits and the upper 20s depending on the pollster. The fact that Biden supporters will need to write his name on the ballot adds another element of uncertainty. Why is the New Hampshire primary important? On the Republican side, most political analysts agree that New Hampshire presents Mr Trump's competitors with their best opportunity to notch a victory - or at least a close second. This is particularly true of Ms Haley, who has gained significant momentum in the state in recent months. Advertisement If Ms Haley fails to mount a spirited challenge to Mr Trump, the former president could emerge as the presumptive Republican nominee to take on Mr Biden in the November general election. If Ms Haley does well, she will likely retain enough donors and interested voters to present a credible challenge in the subsequent weeks. Even if Mr Trump loses, his competitors face an uphill battle. The former president leads by roughly 30 percentage points in South Carolina. Nationally, Mr Trump holds a 37-point lead, according to the most recent Reuters/Ipsos poll. New Hampshire represents an opportunity for Mr Biden's Democratic challengers to prove there is appetite among voters to replace the party's incumbent. Mr Biden has dedicated most of his energy to South Carolina, which is home to his party's first fully sanctioned contest and where support from the state's Democrats helped him secure the 2020 nomination. Shillong, Jan 21 (UNI) President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended their greetings to the people of Meghalaya, Manipur, and Tripura on their 52nd Statehood Day on Sunday. Conveying her best wishes to residents of Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur, the President said, These states are uniquely blessed with nature's bounty and are also bearers of rich cultural heritage. They are moving ahead on the path of progress, prosperity, and peace. Prime Minister Modi wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter: Happy Statehood Day to the people of Meghalaya! Today is an occasion to celebrate the incredible culture of Meghalaya and the achievements of the people there. May Meghalaya scale new heights of progress in the times to come." In another tweet, the Prime Minister extended his best wishes to the people of Manipur, saying, Manipur has made a strong contribution to Indias progress. We take pride in the culture and traditions of the state. I pray for the continued development of Manipur." "Heartfelt wishes on Statehood Day to the people of Tripura. May this day celebrate the unique history and rich heritage of the state. Wishing prosperity and harmony to the people of Tripura, Prime Minister Modi wrote on X. Meghalaya, Manipur, and Tripura became full-fledged states under the North Eastern Region (Reorganisation) Act, 1971, during the tenure of Indira Gandhi as Prime Minister. UNI RRK AKS The DUPs boycott of powersharing institutions is seriously scarring Northern Ireland, the Alliance Partys deputy leader said. Stephen Farry said if there is no return, a plan B could see greater involvement of the Irish Government. Advertisement The devolved institutions at Stormont have been collapsed for almost two years as a result of the DUP protest against the post-Brexit trade barriers between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Senior DUP figures held discussions on Friday on potentially ending the boycott. It is understood DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson is facing significant opposition from some party officers on whether to accept the UK governments offer and return to Stormont. Talks were ongoing between the UK government and the DUP on how to change the Windsor Framework to the DUPs satisfaction; Westminster has suggested the talks are over, with Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris saying it is time for decisions to be made. Advertisement Advertisement On Thursday, thousands of public sector workers took part in strike action, where calls were made for Mr Heaton-Harris to release 3.3 billion (3.9 billion) in funds for pay claims amid the power vacuum. Senior DUP figures held discussions on Friday on potentially ending the boycott (PA) SDLP MP Claire Hanna said in response to the DUPs meeting that Northern Irelands people are in a crazy waiting room. Advertisement Im glad weve got most of the kind of Game Of Thrones stuff out of the way because it is maddening for people that were all in this crazy waiting room and that the DUPs internal psychodramas are allowed to set the pace, Ms Hanna told the BBCs Sunday Politics programme. I dont know exactly what happened Ill defer to the experts but I do know that we have enormous pressing concerns in public services and in peoples faith and belief in politics. Its important that the Secretary of State sets out where this goes; he was due to give a statement tomorrow, I think the DUP carry on will probably push that back slightly but they should not be given the power. I think it suits ditherers to have the power to keep everybody in a holding pattern. Advertisement This is seriously scarring Northern Ireland, Mr Farry said of the suspension of devolved government on the same programme. Advertisement Were not simply parking issues real damage is been done every single day as this situation goes on. Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris (PA) Mr Farry said Mr Heaton-Harris is likely to invoke a fairly light touch intervention when he announces his next move. Advertisement I think he will take on an increased level of powers to intervene in terms of decision making in Northern Ireland, he said. That raises all sorts of issues around scrutiny, accountability, and indeed, what sort of Irish dimension will come to play in that regard. He added that there will be a greater role for the Dublin government in any plan B that is enacted if Northern Irelands powersharing institutions are not restored. Asked if there needs to be an increased voice for the Irish Government, he said yes, absolutely, adding that it would be a consultative role rather than an executive one. I dont actually think, especially in terms of the current state of relations between London and Dublin, that were necessarily going to see an Irish dimension straight away, but there will be pressure applied in that particular respect, he said. Advertisement There are structures there already in terms of the British Irish Council, where that can be taken forward. I dont see it being at a very granular level, it will be at a high level in terms of those engagements. But that is the direction of travel. And for those who are seeking direct rule as a fallback, they have to be extremely aware of where this is going to go. And its bizarre, illogical, in terms of the position theyre taking. Senator Malcolm Byrne, who recently became the first candidate to declare his intention to contest the next general election in the newly created Wicklow-Wexford constituency, has said it presents "new opportunities" for the communities included. The new constituency was announced following the Electoral Commissions constituency review. Advertisement The new constituency includes large areas of south Wicklow and north Wicklow, with Arklow and Gorey being the biggest towns. Wicklow and Wexford have a combined total of 11 seats, with the new three-seat constituency in between two four-seaters. The Wicklow-Wexford constituency has been criticised by locals, councillors, and some TDs who feel it is unfair due to the large area which will be represented by three TDs. However, Mr Byrne feels it can be a positive thing. He told BreakingNews.ie: "I think it presents a new opportunity. There are lots of common issues between people in both Wicklow and Wexford. There was a logic to the decision of the independent Electoral Commission. Advertisement Advertisement "I certainly think for people in Arklow, Gorey, all the villages and rural communities right across the new constituency, there is a new opportunity there. Its important that we elect representatives that can be effective at national level to raise issues of concern to our communities and I hope to be one of them." The Fianna Fail senator has been in politics for his whole career and was first elected to Gorey Town Council in 1999. He ran in the 2016 general election, and was selected to contest the 2019 European Parliament elections, before winning a Dail seat in the 2020 by-election that was triggered by Mick Wallace's election to the European Parliament. Mr Byrne feels his experience in local and national politics can help him in the upcoming general election. Advertisement "The reason Im running is Ive been involved in organisations in the community all my life and I believe that I understand both the urban and rural needs of the new constituency. "My first step is to hopefully secure the nomination of my party to contest that, and if successful, to convince the people of south Wicklow and north Wexford to support me." He said this is why he chose to focus on the next general election despite being nominated by Fianna Fail colleagues for the European elections in June. Advertisement Advertisement "Im fascinated by politics, but more importantly, about how through the political process, you can work to improve peoples lives. Im grateful to members of Fianna Fail who nominated me to contest the European elections again this June, but I made a decision to look at contesting the general election and to indicate my intention is to focus on the new constituency of Wicklow-Wexford. "Its a big area, and as people who live here know, after the last general election there was no TD elected from the south Wicklow or north Wexford areas. Geography obviously matters, but I think whats particularly important is that whoever we elect is capable of performing at a national level, being able to enact legislation that makes a difference in the country but to also effectively represent the area. "The reason why the new constituency was created is the rapid growth in counties Wicklow and Wexford. We know in the Gorey local electoral area alone, between the censuses of 2016 and 2022, the population grew by over 14 per cent one of the fastest rates in the country. "In the case of Arklow, with the waste water works currently being completed, there is huge potential for that town to grow rapidly now as well." Advertisement Advertisement Mr Byrne added: "Ensuring that we get the matching services for both Gorey and Arklow with that rapid growth is vital. We also have to balance that with the needs of a lot of the rural communities. Villages like Kilmuckridge, Bunclody, Carnew, they will continue to need investment and sustainable rural communities. "For Gorey and Arklow the challenges are around additional housing, further pressure on schools. I certainly know that in terms of access to doctors, dentists and healthcare... these are challenges of a rapidly growing society, and we have to be able to respond." There has been much speculation about the possibility of a Sinn Fein-Fianna Fail coalition after the next general election, but Mr Byrne feels there would be difficulties to this, adding "the outcome of the election is not pre-determined". AI and deepfakes Mr Byrne has spoken about the threats artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfakes pose to the electoral system, and he feels they may be an issue in the upcoming local and European elections as well as the next general election. "I believe there are huge opportunities from artificial intelligence and new technologies, and were going to see that in areas like healthcare, transport and agriculture. Advertisement "There are also risks from AI and other technologies. Ive spoken about the challenges of disinformation and deepfakes. We do need to be able to protect our democracy from those challenges. "I think its going to be important for the current government and the next government to be on top of the technological revolution we are now experiencing in terms of upskilling and re-skilling our citizens, but equally preparing us for any of the potential threats in employment or to our democracy." He added: "Its going to be a big political issue, and I think its important we have politicians who understand those issues, but I wouldnt be surprised if during the course of an election or referendum campaign this year, questions around deepfakes emerged, and we have to have it on the agenda. "We need a big debate and public information campaign around AI, algorithms, new technologies. How they operate and influence... so that people understand this and also, when we are presented with information online that we can question it, that we know what is coming from a reliable, fact-checked source, as opposed to misinformation being spread. "Its an obligation on all of us to understand this and for government and others to provide information in that debate. Theres an obligation on the tech companies to clamp down on disinformation and I expect that will happen." Immigration Advertisement Immigration has been the biggest talking point in recent weeks, and while Mr Byrne feels housing and health remain the biggest voter priorities, he feels it will have an impact on the next election. He said more public information on immigration policy would be positive. However, he stressed the need to differentiate between people with legitimate concerns about local facilities and the "small racist, far-right element spreading hatred and disinformation". "Immigration is a big issue, and we do need to have a debate around immigration policy, but it must be evidence-based. "I recently called for the need to explain in more detail immigration policy and what it is. How we respond to asylum seekers and refugees, to challenge some of the tropes that are put out there by the far-right. "There are no hordes of unvetted people arriving into Ireland, anybody who arrives in Ireland has their fingerprints and details taken. "Where there are problems, that is followed up. There is pressure in communities and I would say, yes, there is a small racist far-right grouping out there, but that group does not represent the majority of those who have concerns about particular facilities. "In a lot of those cases, in communities around the country, it's a concern about a loss of facilities or the impact on local facilities. Where you take a local hotel out of circulation, it has an impact on downstream tourism businesses, but also it is a community facility that is gone and that is obviously a concern in the area. "There are concerns around pressures on local schools, GPs, and so on. We need to be able to meet those concerns. "I think it's important that we hear, and we engage directly with those concerns, while at the same time challenging some of those extremist far-right views that are deliberately trying to stir up hatred in our communities. Irish people are overwhelmingly welcoming and understand the difficult circumstances people have fled from in places like Syria and Ukraine, but at the same time, people obviously want to ensure they have the best of services in their local community. "While there are legitimate concerns, they have to be divorced from people who simply want to stir up hatred." He added: "Talking with people in Rosslare for example, who have genuine concerns about the sustainability of services in the community, is a very different situation to those who have no interest in the community services but simply want to stir up hatred." I think for the people of north Wexford and south Wicklow it provides a real opportunity. Returning to the new constituency, Mr Byrne emphasised the positives he feels it can bring to locals. "I think for the people of north Wexford and south Wicklow it provides a real opportunity. "There are no representatives in the Oireachtas at the moment living in that area, expect myself. There will be three representatives elected. I hope to be one of them, and I think it's important that we represent urban and rural voters right across the new constituency but realise the potential and opportunity of our area. "In many ways, the new constituency is almost a reflection of modern Ireland. You have rapidly growing towns in Gorey and Arklow. You have a very large rural hinterland with a lot of significant villages - Bunclody, Carnew, Ferns, Shillelagh, Tinahealy, Kilmuckridge - all of those have very big rural hinterlands and the farming communities are a very important part pf the new constituency. "We're also going to have huge opportunities in terms of offshore renewable energy, which will develop over the next decade, and it's critical that our coastal communities in the new constituency get to benefit from that. "The new constituency is a microcosm of Ireland as a whole and I think it will be a very interesting election. I'm very happy to be the first to declare my hope to represent that constituency, and it will ultimately be a decision for the voters." Dozens of flights have been cancelled or delayed from Ireland's airports as Storm Isha moves across the country. Dublin Airport said the storm was posing a significant challenge to flights operations, and as of 7pm airlines had cancelled 114 flights 58 incoming and 56 departing with 36 flights diverted to other airports. Advertisement A plane arriving into Cork Airport from Amsterdam was diverted to Shannon, while a flight to Bristol was also cancelled. Ryanair warned passengers of potential disruption to its flights from Ireland and urged customers to check for updates. "We regret any inconvenience caused to passengers by these weather conditions," the airline said. Dublin Airport is operating as normal today. For flight updates, passengers should check directly with their airline for the most up-to-date information. Those flying should also allow plenty of time to get to the airport. #StormIsha pic.twitter.com/NGkRZJYi4n Advertisement Advertisement Dublin Airport (@DublinAirport) January 21, 2024 It comes as a red alert has been issued for counties Donegal, Galway and Mayo as authorities warn people to take care ahead of Storm Ishas arrival. Met Eireann said extremely strong winds and destructive gusts are expected in the three counties on Sunday, particularly in coastal and exposed areas. Advertisement Paul Rock, who chaired a meeting of the National Emergency Coordination on Sunday morning to coordinate the Governments response, said it was a particularly nasty storm. He asked the public to stay away from all coastal areas for the duration of the Met Eireann warnings, all road users to be aware of hazardous driving conditions including debris, and urged people not to touch fallen electricity wires. There will be delays at ports, airports and possibly some public transport systems, and advised them to check online where they can to see if services are disrupted. He said he expected schools to open as normal on Monday as the warnings expire in the early hours of Monday. The red warnings are in place from 5pm to 9pm on Sunday in Galway and Mayo, and from 9pm on Sunday until 1am on Monday in Donegal. A status orange wind warning is in place across the country from 4pm or 5pm on Sunday until 2am or 3am on Monday. Large coastal waves, very difficult travelling conditions, fallen trees and damage to power lines are expected during these periods. Britain's Prince Harry told John Travolta it would be fitting for them to fly together after recalling how the actor famously danced with his mother, Diana, Princess of Wales, more than three decades ago. Harry made the comments in his speech at the Living Legends of Aviation ceremony in Los Angeles hosted by aviation ambassador Travolta, 69, hours after he withdrew his UK High Court libel claim against the publisher of the Mail on Sunday. Advertisement During the event, where he was recognised for his work as a British Army veteran and pilot, Harry told Travolta: I was just a one-year-old when you danced with my mum at the White House, and now look at us. The only thing left to do is not dance together but fly together. Diana, who died following a car crash in 1997, took to the dance floor with Grease star Travolta during a dinner at the White House in 1985. Advertisement John Travolta dancing with Diana, Princess of Wales at a White House dinner in Washington (Ronald Reagan Library/AP/Alamy) Advertisement Harry began his speech by expressing his gratitude and said: I am proud to be recognised among such a dynamic and inspiring group of individuals. For me, flying has been a transcendent experience, a close encounter with magic, an invitation to both protect freedom and to feel free and, funny enough, an opportunity to ground oneself, without actually being grounded. I found my flight training which was over the course of three years to be one of lifes greatest lessons. In this lesson, it triggered a vast array of feelings. I remember the anticipation before my first solo flight in a Firefly. Advertisement The disbelief that my instructor would dare to have the confidence in sending me up by myself. I remember feeling surprised and relieved when I returned to terra firma in one piece. To the average person it wouldve looked like the most mundane flight in the history of aviation. But to me, it was one of the most wonderful moments of my life. Advertisement The Duke and Duchess of Sussex (Jordan Pettitt/PA) Next was the Squirrel helicopter. In the take-off I felt excitement as the rotor blades beat the frothy clouds and pulled us up into Gods playground. I felt immense frustration in perfecting the hover, then immense satisfaction in doing so. Advertisement Advertisement I felt pride in receiving my flight wings at the end of our course, and then nervousness about flying the Apache. I experienced collective bemusement about our windowless classroom. And then collective happiness to have finally finished ground school, after three months, in that same windowless classroom. I struggled to comprehend how long it took to start up the aircraft in the first weeks. I had respect for the Apache in a hover. And was in awe of it flying at night. So many moments as a pilot where you feel like youre walking on air. And throughout each flight during my military career, the one constant was always trust. Trust in the aircraft, trust in my fellow comrades, trust in my many mentors, and above all else: trust in myself. He ended the speech: Thank you again for this incredible honour. Harry's speech came after he dropped a libel claim against Associated Newspapers Limited over a February 2022 Mail on Sunday article about his challenge against the British Home Office, following a decision to change his publicly funded security arrangements when visiting the UK. His lawyers filed a notice of discontinuance at the High Court in London on Friday, while a spokesperson said the dukes focus remains on the safety of his family and on his legal action against the Home Office. Advertisement Hours after the announcement, Harry appeared at the 21st annual Living Legends of Aviation ceremony, honouring those who make significant contributions to aviation and aerospace. Harry, who had been expected to attend the event, was not present as one of their children became unwell, the PA news agency understands. Harry completed two tours of Afghanistan as a forward air controller and an Apache helicopter pilot, having flown countless training missions in the UK, US and Australia. He served for 10 years in the military, rising to the rank of Captain, and later founded the Invictus Games a sporting event for wounded military personnel and veterans. North Korea has said Russian president Vladimir Putin has expressed his willingness to visit the country at an unspecified early date, as the two nations continue to align in the face of their separate, intensifying confrontations with the United States. The North Korean Foreign Ministry highlighted Mr Putins intent for a visit following foreign minister Choe Son Huis meetings with the Russian president and his foreign minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow last week. Advertisement The ministry said in a statement published by state media on Sunday that the two countries agreed to further strategic and tactical co-operation to establish a new multi-polarised international order a reference to their efforts to build a united front against Washington. Russia expressed deep thanks to North Korea for its full support over its war on Ukraine, the North Korean ministry added. Advertisement Mr Putin had already confirmed his willingness to visit the capital, Pyongyang, at a convenient time during his meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Russias Far East in September. Advertisement North Korean foreign minister Choe Son Hui met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow last week (Artyom Geodakyan/Sputnik, Kremlin pool/AP) One of the few world leaders openly supporting Mr Putins war on Ukraine, Mr Kim has been actively boosting the visibility of his ties with Russia in an attempt to break out of diplomatic isolation and strengthen his footing, as he navigates a deepening nuclear stand-off with Washington, Seoul and Tokyo. In a separate statement on Sunday, the Norths Foreign Ministry condemned the UN Security Council for calling an emergency meeting over the countrys latest ballistic test, which state media described as a new intermediate-range solid-fuel missile tipped with a hypersonic warhead. The ministry said the test firing on January 14th was among the countrys regular activities to improve its defence capabilities and that it did not pose a threat to its neighbours. Advertisement South Korea urged the Security Council on Thursday to break the silence over North Koreas escalating missile tests and threats. Russia and China, both permanent members of the council, have blocked US-led efforts to increase sanctions on North Korea over its recent weapons tests, underscoring a divide deepened over Russias war on Ukraine. Advertisement The alignment between Pyongyang and Moscow has raised international concerns about alleged arms co-operation, in which the North provides Russia with munitions to help prolong its fighting in Ukraine, possibly in exchange for badly needed economic aid and military assistance to help upgrade Mr Kims forces. Both Pyongyang and Russia have denied accusations by Washington and Seoul about North Korean arms transfers to Russia. The former first minister of Scotland has said the UK Covid Inquiry does have messages between her and those she communicated with during the pandemic. Nicola Sturgeon says she will answer questions directly and openly when she gives evidence to the inquiry at the end of January. Advertisement It comes after the UK Covid Inquiry heard on Friday that all WhatsApp messages sent and received by Ms Sturgeon during the pandemic were erased. She previously said she never used informal messages to make decisions throughout the pandemic, but was criticised by a number of political opponents who say she is attempting to hide exchanges with key ministers and advisers. During the pandemic, it had been widely reported in the media that the messages were deleted. Jamie Dawson KC, counsel to the inquiry, said on Friday that a table submitted by the Scottish government confirmed that was the case. Advertisement Advertisement On X, formerly known as Twitter, the former first minister wrote on Saturday: I do not intend to give a running commentary on the ongoing Inquiry. Statement re UK Covid Inquiry: I do not intend to give a running commentary on the ongoing Inquiry. Instead, out of respect to all those impacted by the pandemic, I will answer questions directly and openly when I give evidence at the end of this month However, in light of Nicola Sturgeon (@NicolaSturgeon) January 20, 2024 Advertisement Instead, out of respect to all those impacted by the pandemic, I will answer questions directly and openly when I give evidence at the end of this month. However, in light of recent coverage, there are certain points I feel it important to make clear. Advertisement Contrary to the impression given in some coverage, the Inquiry does have messages between me and those I most regularly communicated with through informal means. She added: Although these had not been retained on my own device, I was able to obtain copies which I submitted to the Inquiry last year. To be clear, I conducted the Covid response through formal processes from my office in St Andrews House, not through WhatsApp or any other informal messaging platform. I was not a member of any WhatsApp groups. Advertisement The number of people I communicated with through informal messaging at all was limited. Advertisement Also, any handwritten notes made by me were passed to my private office to be dealt with and recorded as appropriate. Throughout the entire process, I acted in line with Scottish Government policy. Ms Sturgeon went on to say that while she did her best to lead Scotland through the pandemic, she admitted she did not get every decision right far from it, but said she was motivated only, and at all times, by the determination to keep people as safe as possible. Scottish Conservative party chairman Craig Hoy MSP said the former first minister must think the Scottish public are fools if they believe there is nothing untoward here, stating she must have repeatedly deleted her WhatsApp messages and must have done so for a reason. He added: Rather than apologising to the country, she is cynically seeking to deflect attention from the mass deletion of key messages by top ministers and officials. If there are no minutes of key Covid meetings, no notes and no messages, how were any decisions made? How are any inquiries supposed to understand the motives, disagreement and discussion behind them? Advertisement Saying theres no decisions sent by WhatsApp does not inform the public at all. This statement is just another instalment in the unravelling of the SNP. The addiction to spin and secrecy must come to an end now. A Scottish government spokesperson said: The Scottish Government is committed to responding to both the UK and Scottish Covid-19 inquiries, as learning lessons from the pandemic is vital to prepare for the future. It would be inappropriate to comment on any matters being considered by the UK Covid Inquiry while hearings are ongoing. Former ABC broadcaster Antoinette Lattouf claims she was targeted by an orchestrated attack aimed at ruining her reputation and muffling other journalists after she was sacked over a social media post about the war in Gaza. Lattoufs remarks coincide with a warning from prominent former ABC staff members that the broadcasters independence could suffer if journalists began to self-censor for fear of retribution. Antoinette Lattouf spoke to BBC News about her sacking: It was shocking, but it also escalated very quickly and it became public very quickly. In an interview with Britains BBC News, Lattouf said she was shocked when her dismissal triggered protests and acts of vandalism outside ABC studios. I was floored, not only [by] how I was fired but how quickly things escalated because one minute I was taking talkback callers the next, Im thrown under the bus in a very public way, she said. Excitement from fans about the film adaptation of Paul Kellys Christmas anthem How To Make Gravy reached fever pitch with the release of a 40-second teaser in December. None more so than in our household, says Australian musician Meg Washington, who co-wrote the screenplay with husband Nick Waterman. The film, which Waterman also directed, will be released this year (no doubt in time for December 21). Meg Washington returns to the stage this month, having wrapped up filming How To Make Gravy. Kellys popular song about a prisoner who is writing to his brother on December 21, and lamenting he wont be home for Christmas was nominated for ARIAs song of the year award in 1997. December 21 has since been dubbed Gravy Day by fans. The process of adapting the song was pretty interesting, the script had to work like a reversible jacket, Washington says. Popularised by Mark Twain in an 1873 satire about political corruption, the phrase the Gilded Age has since been adopted by historians, leaving the insinuation intact that under the thin veneer of a seeming Golden Age, something was rotten in the state of late 19th-century America. Interestingly, the corporate corrosion of democracy was explored with some brutality by Julian Fellowes in the opening season of The Gilded Age, though the writer has been determined to expand the canvas in the second series of this glossy and addictive period drama. Carrie Coon and Morgan Spector play nouveau riche couple Bertha and George Russell in The Gilded Age. Credit: Paramount+ It is Fellowes largest television project since Downton Abbey. Early speculation it might become some kind of American-based Downton prequel got squashed during development, but its undeniably a spiritual successor. Theres an inspired gleam of that irresistible upstairs/downstairs interplay which won Fellowes an Oscar for Gosford Park (2001) a manor mystery, but still one of the finest ensemble films ever made and which, in turn, brought the long-running Downton to the world. Fascinated by history since early childhood, Julian Fellowes has been a doyen of period drama long enough to have played an instrumental role in its popular resurgence and to have outstared its perceived unfashionability. I remember at the beginning of Downton, Fellowes says, the general perception was that period drama was dead, and that ITV was mad to be investing in this big new series when no one wanted to watch it Ive always had a slightly distant regard for what is supposed to be coming in or going out since that, as you can imagine. Dorian Newstead, one of three first assistant directors: Before going to air ... they were trying to sell it as A Country Practice goes to the city. So the majority of the publicity was around Penny Cook and the fact that she was going to be the new doctor in town. As it turned out everything seemed to centre around the pub [Patchetts Pacific run by Ernie Patchett, played by the late Vic Rooney] rather than the doctors office. Paul Kelman, role of Ernies son Chris Patchett: Penny tapped into that A Country Practice audience, but obviously E Street was ... a bit different. I think she brought a lot of viewers with her. Trouble at Ten Redlich: I was from this really safe environment that was making A Country Practice [as a writer and later producer] because all we did was the creative end of it and Channel Seven had all the studio and the sets. I land at Channel Ten ... Frank Lowy was about to unload it. I had to set up a huge production company. We had to build the sets; we had to do all that because the network was a goner, basically, by the time we started making the show. Alexa Wyatt, one of the shows writers: There were times when we thought, Well, are we going to be renewed? Is this the end of the line? There was an awful lot of turmoil at Ten and you never quite knew what was happening there and was it all going to be taken over again by somebody else. Warren Jones, role of Constable Paul Berry: E Street was really touch and go for the first six months. We were rating horribly. I remember we were up against Graham Kennedys Funniest Home Videos and that was just huge. We were this new upstart soap. Change in direction Wyatt: I was there when we got called in to Channel Ten [under Bob Shanks management]. They didnt like the original direction that the show was going in. They wanted it much more sort of family friendly viewing. Noel Hodda, role of Dr Ellys ex-husband Dr David Fielding: It started off like a gritty inner-city drama with light tones and some comic characters and some soap elements, and then it went ... [into] a more heightened soap world. E Streets Dr Elly Fielding, played by the late Penny Cook, and her ex-husband Dr David Fielding, played by Noel Hodda. Credit: Westside Television Productions Cecily Polson, role of nurse Martha ODare: The show changed dramatically halfway through ... and they concentrated on the young [characters], which was great, that was who they were appealing to. But those of us, the more mature ones, thought, Oh, well, we probably wont be around much longer, and were thrilled to be there at the end. The music Redlich: We did [a deal] ... with Sony initially; we could use all their back catalogue. But we also struck a deal with ... [independent record label] rooArt, who had INXS. We could use the Angels and INXS and Mental as Anything and music like that. And then we had ... our own little record company going, Westside Records. In one of the episodes, I shot a music clip in about two hours just to open the show. I always tried to look for a really funky opening [like a] dream sequence. Particularly in the later episodes. All of a sudden, film clips became records and records became platinum sellers. To me, it was just about publicity for the show. [In one episode, Melissa Tkautzs character Nikki Spencer was dreaming about being a pop star.] Melissa Tkautz, role of Nikki Spencer: They wanted to do a dream sequence on the show. We ended up recording this song [her platinum hit Read My Lips] and recording it quite well, and then they ended up releasing it. No one had any idea it was going to go to number one. I think people underestimated how popular Nikki Spencer was with the public, with the kids. I certainly didnt know. Back then, we didnt have the internet; we didnt have TikTok and Instagram. It was all through fan letters. I used to get a lot of letters, but nothing to think my character was so popular that if I released a single it was going to shoot to number one in a matter of weeks. That surprised everybody. Marianne Howard (Alice Sullivan) and Melissa Tkautz (Nikki Spencer) at a Ten launch party in 1991. Credit: Mark Bradley Lisbeth Kennelly, role of Megan Patchett: I think that the music was such a point of difference with other shows. Because they had access to all this great contemporary music they were able to use music in a way that movies are more likely to use it, rather than TV can ever afford to. I think [Redlich] should be very proud of that. E Streets Chris and Megan Patchett, played by Paul Kelman and Lisbeth Kennelly, on their wedding day. It was a ratings winner for the show. Credit: Westside Television Productions Marianne Howard, role of Alice Sullivan: I think that when they cast people like Melissa Tkautz and Bruce Samazan and they brought those younger ones in a couple of years in, it was with a vision. That was all happening for the first time, where television people were stepping into music and having that dual role and so I think they were trying to make that happen. The look Newstead: An enormous amount of care was taken in the lighting and the sound and the set dressing to keep it as genuine as possible. It needed to look different because of the content. It needed to look a little bit more gritty. One night we had a director ... and he decided one night he was going to shoot an entire scene in the rectory kitchen by the light of the refrigerator. It was moody. If you look at programs like G.P. ... they were shooting single camera, very much like film, and we were shooting multi-cam. You dont have to stop and reshoot for over-shoulder shots and all the rest of that, and close-ups. Its all there in one take. You get this flow going with the scene. Bad guys are better Bad guys are better; Vince Martin and Kate Raison in an episode from the Mr Bad storyline in the 1991 season of E Street. Credit: Patrick Riviere/Getty Images Redlich: I created a character called Sonny Bennett [played by Richard Huggett]. He was a bad bastard, but he was the most popular character in the show. I was very proud of those episodes. The second time I tried it, obviously, was with Mr Bad [played by Vince Martin]. That worked gangbusters. Bad guys are better than good guys in drama. We ran Mr Bad for nearly a year in one form or another. And [they were] our highest-rating episodes ever. Now you look at shows like Breaking Bad or Dexter, all those big hits, theyre all antiheroes. Theyre all bad guys. Jones: The ratings obviously went sky-high through that Mr Bad [period]. People still talk about it. Newstead: People were interested in seeing something that was just off the wall. The weirder it got, the more people seemed to watch it. We hit our highest ratings and then, within a couple of months, we were gone. The ratings winners Wyatt: The other big, big story that really shot the show up the ratings charts ... was Marcus Grahams character of Wheels. That whole relationship with him and AJ [Alyssa-Jane Cook playing] Lisa Bennett, oh my god. Of course, the music on top of that [was very popular] and then Melissa [Tkautz] coming in and Simon Baker-Denny. The romance between E Streets Stanley Wheels Kovac and Lisa Bennett, played by Marcus Graham and Alyssa-Jane Cook, made headlines including for this steamy bathtub scene. Credit: Westside Television Productions We used to have a viewing at 7.30am on Tuesday mornings with Forrest and the director in the script office. We were always a little bit fearful because you never knew (Please, god, let Forrest like this episode). I remember we were watching one episode [with the Read My Lips clip] and ... Forrest said, Stop the tape. He was pointing at a dancer who was behind Melissa Tkautz, and that was Simon Baker-Denny. It was like, Find him and bring him to me, and I will make him a star. And the rest, as they say, is history. That was how he got discovered. It was like, Wow, whos that? Tkautz: All the main characters were huge stars. It wasnt just me. Everybody. They were all very well known and very, very popular. We had some massive stars on that show. Kennelly: Two of my major plot lines, actually the beginning and the end, were kind of publicity grabs, in a way. The first one was that I got married and it was a ratings grab killing me off at the end. They killed off three of us in one go in a car bomb blast. Boom! They had all these cameras from different angles get shots of this car exploding. It really exploded into an inferno. Simon Baker (Denny) played Constable Sam Farrell on Tens E Street. Redlich: That episode [with the car bomb], that was our highest-rating episode before the Mr Bad stuff kicked in. We had a ball with the ticking clocks under the car and who was going to drive it at the time. Oh, man. It was a lot of fun. Fan mania Jones: I remember we did an appearance. This was probably into our second year, so we were on the ascendancy by then, and we were due to make an appearance at Darling Harbour [in Sydney]. We arrived on this big boat and there must have been ... tens of thousands [of fans there]. We had some security but not nearly enough to go off the boat, so they had to cancel the whole thing. We couldnt get off the boat. I remember when that happened, I just went, Wow. We were languishing in the ratings a year ago and, suddenly, we were hot for a bit. Kelman: There were thousands and thousands of people going berserk [at Darling Harbour]. It was just unbelievable, really, to see that many people screaming for the cast. Alyssa-Jane Cook (Lisa Bennett) and Paul Kelman (Chris Patchett) on E Street. Credit: Ten Network Hodda: If I caught a train or a bus then or like when I was doing Sons and Daughters or when I was doing E Street it was full on. Nowadays, I can get on a train or a bus and be completely unnoticed except by people my age. I think its nice that youve played a part in someones life, and theyve been entertained by you, which is our job as actors. Newstead: Sometimes Id drive Malcolm Kennard [who played young heartthrob Harley Kendrick] home and we [once] got stuck in traffic coming down towards the Harbour Bridge ... next to a bus full of school girls, and they were going off. They were screaming, Harley! Harley! Harley! People went crazy over these people, especially the young guys like Bruce, Malcolm, Marcus Graham. Amazing. Popular E Street couple Harley Kendrick and Toni Windsor, played by Malcolm Kennard and Toni Pearen. Credit: Westside Television Productions The final act Redlich: Our options at the end of it were to go to Channel Nine [or to move production from Sydney to Tens Melbourne studio] or ... you know, quit while were ahead. I opted for the quit while were ahead. Upend everything and then bring it down to the Nunawading Studio, with no extra money or anything? It was just a ridiculous concept. The Channel Nine thing, we never actually came to terms on what kind of show they wanted. They wanted us to be a bit more conservative than we were being. In the end, we had no option, really, but to wrap it up. It wasnt because of poor ratings. The shows legacy Tkautz: [Forrest] really had the balls to go out and do something completely different and it worked so well. For that time, it was huge. I think E Street was a groundbreaking show for its time. I think it handled issues way beyond its years. I think we had some incredible actors on that show and it sort of set the pathway for so many other shows to come after that. Polson: I think it took risks, which was very good for that era. Truly, it opened doors for a lot of talented young people and it was courageous. I feel it was really innovative for its time. E Streets nurse Martha ODare, played by Cecily Polson, and Constable Paul Berry, played by Warren Jones. Credit: Westside Television Productions Howard: I think that E Street definitely pushed boundaries; definitely was way edgier than anyone had ever done before. In saying that, when I grew up in the 70s, you had Number 96 and The Box and shows like that, which were the first kind of series that pushed boundaries. They pushed boundaries and then E Street definitely did. I think shows like Wentworth ... are still pushing boundaries. What came next Redlich: Probably the thing that stole some of my thunder was when the network finally got into some decent hands and they bought the Fox shows, they bought The Simpsons and [Beverly Hills] 90210, for nothing, for zip. It bolstered the network. I think 90120 may have superseded us a little bit. Thats the closest you could probably get to a version of E Street, but then you wouldnt have the big plot lines. When I left the business, it had all gone to reality [TV]. It was just a cheaper way of making television. And now with television, you get to a stage where the deal is the art form. You make eight episodes of something for Netflix, and maybe you spend eight or nine months making that and about eight or nine years trying to get the deal together. Its ridiculous. The international re-makes Redlich: [E Street was remade in Germany and Belgium as Westerdeich and Wittekerke]. With Germany, they ended up doing 50 or 60 hours from our scripts. In Belgium, they made the first 400 [episodes] from our scripts, virtually shot for shot from our tapes. That show [ran for] 15 years. They did 1500 episodes. It was exactly the same concept. The youth network Loading Macquarie University Professor Michelle Arrow, historian and author of Friday on Our Minds: Popular Culture in Australia Since 1945, said Australian television had typically occupied the middle ground, trying to appeal to as many people as possible, but E Street proved networks could narrow-cast to a younger audience. The show was part of Tens branding as the youth network. The legacy [of the show] was partly saying that broadcasting to everybody isnt necessarily what you have to do to make a show successful, Arrow said. The Secret Life of Us, which premiered on Ten in 2001, would pick up on that theme of young people moving to the city to establish themselves in a more realistic dramatic form, Arrow said. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will host a two-day World Economic Forum (WEF) Special Meeting in the capital Riyadh that will focus on global cooperation, growth and energy. To be held on April 28, the high-level event is part of a landmark agreement between Saudi Arabia and the Forum. The gathering will convene more than 700 global leaders from the public and private sector, international organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), academia and civil society to foster dialogues between countries to revive international cooperation and address current challenges to growth and development. Announcing this at the recent WEF meeting in Davos, Switzerland, Faisal F. Alibrahim, the Saudi Minister of Economy and Planning, and Brge Brende, World Economic Forum President, said following Saudi Arabias presidency of the G20 in 2020, and building on the long-standing partnership with WEF, this latest collaboration underscores KSA's commitment to continue shaping the future agenda, fostering international co-operation and addressing global challenges. Being hosted in Riyadh, the capital of the largest economy in the Middle East, a world-leading hub between Asia, Africa and Europe, and a midway point between the Global South and the Global North, the WEF Special Meeting will provide a platform for global leaders to assess current challenges and propose transformative ideas to create a positive global impact, they stated.. Alibrahim said Saudi Arabia and its capital Riyadh are becoming a global capital for progress and thought leadership on the critical topics of our time. "The WEF special meeting in Riyadh will focus on global collaboration, growth, and energy. We believe this new platform will enable the World Economic Forum, the Kingdom, and our global partners to further engage in cooperative dialogues and find the right answers to the challenges we have at hand," he stated. Brende said: "At a time of growing divides between developed and emerging economies, there is a pressing need to not only identify areas of shared interests but foster new, impactful partnerships." "As a critical player at the intersection of many of the worlds economies, Saudi Arabia is uniquely positioned to work alongside both developed and developing markets to foster cooperation between the two, and help them reach their long-term commerce, energy, and finance goals," he added.-TradeArabia News Service New Delhi, Jan 21 (UNI) Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday alleged that Tamil Nadu banned the live telecast of Ayodhya Ram Mandir programmes on Monday and called the decision an "anti-Hindu hateful action." The finance minister also alleged that the state police were stopping private temples from organising events commemorating the consecration ceremony of the temple in Ayodhya. "TamilNadu government has banned watching live telecasts of #AyodhaRamMandir programmes on January 22. In Tamil Nadu, there are over 200 Shri Ram temples. In HR&CE-managed temples, no puja/bhajan/prasadam/annadanam in the name of Shri Ram is allowed. Police are stopping privately held temples from organising events," she said on a social media post on X. She further added, "They are threatening organisers that they will rip off pandals. Strongly condemn this anti-Hindu, hateful action". "TN govt is unofficially claiming law and order issues to justify the live telecast ban. False and fake narrative! There were no L&O issues on the day of the #Ayodhya verdict. Not even the day when PM @narendramodi laid the foundation, in any part of the country. The groundswell and the voluntary participation of people to celebrate #ShriRam in TN has rattled the anti-Hindu #DMK " she further added. Hitting back at the politician, the Tamil Nadu government said the BJP is propagating erroneous information to divert people's attention from the DMK Youth Conference in Salem. HR & CE Minister P K Sekarbabu said it was unfortunate that a person like Nirmala Sitharaman, who holds high position was indulging in spreading news that is blatantly false and fake. UNI JA ARN GNK The bulk of the complaints have been anonymous, with the social media posts in question gathered from closed Facebook groups for doctors. At least two Instagram accounts have been doxxing health practitioners sharing their private information online and posting many of the same screenshots that have triggered complaints to AHPRA. These accounts claim many of the posts are antisemitic, racist and support terrorism. This masthead has spoken to three GPs and one trainee doctor who have been the subject of complaints to AHPRA and NSWs Health Care Complaints Commission due to social media posts about the conflict. One GP, who did not want to be identified because it could jeopardise her employment, received a phone call and then a letter from AHPRA in November after she accused Israel of carrying out genocide against Palestinians on a closed Facebook group. The letter, which has been obtained by this masthead and contains screenshots of the offending comment, invited the GP to provide a written response that would be presented to the Medical Board of Australia. She was advised to contact her professional indemnity insurer and to provide the addresses of all the medical practices she worked at. We recognise that having a notification [complaint] raised about you can be stressful. Remember to take care of yourself and talk to your friends, family or colleagues about how you are feeling, the letter said. The doctor said she spent many hours writing a three-page response to the complaint and had not heard back from AHPRA about the outcome. AHPRAs time and resources could be better spent. They should be devoting their time to claims that potentially put patients in grave harm, she said. A trainee doctor, who has lost five relatives in Gaza, was recently reported to the regulator for allegedly seeking medicolegal advice by posting AHPRAs social media guidelines on the Doctors for Palestine Facebook group and encouraging people to adhere to them. It is co-ordinated targeting to silence and cause distress to doctors speaking out about Palestine, she said. People have joined this group with malintent ... to capture information and use it to report to AHPRA and for doxxing accounts. Receiving and responding to the complaint had been stressful, she said. She is not yet aware of the outcome. A spokesman for AHPRA said the agency was legally obliged to consider every complaint it received. Practitioners who express views that advocate for the protection of healthcare workers, civilians and infrastructure, without breaching the code of conduct or social media guidelines, would be very unlikely to prompt an investigation or warrant any form of regulatory action, he said. He said it was common for these complaints to be closed either before or soon after AHPRA had let a practitioner know that someone had raised a concern. Loading The spokesman said none of the 59 complaints AHPRA had received in relation to practitioners discussing the war in Gaza had required formal investigation to date. The bulk of the complaints related to posts made by doctors, with a smaller number related to nurses, psychologists, midwives, optometrists, paramedics, pharmacists and physiotherapists. Zionist Federation of Australia president Jeremy Leibler made a complaint to AHPRA in October about a Melbourne doctor who he claims played down Hamas massacre of 260 partygoers at the Supernova Music Festival in Israel. He alleges the doctor said: There is no denial that crimes were committed, but the whole naked women were pack raped or disrobed and displayed narrative is not factual ... Its a rave party the attire doesnt include long sleeves and pants. Loading Leibler said the GP, who this masthead has chosen not to name, owes professional obligations in how she uses her profile and platform as an Australian medical doctor. Medical indemnity insurer Avant emailed its members in November to advise them to carefully consider how they comment on the crisis. They were advised not to post social media content that may reflect poorly on your role as a doctor and on the reputation of the broader medical profession. Anti-Defamation Commission chair Dr Dvir Abramovich said he had been shocked by some of the hateful posts he had seen from doctors. Energy Minister Mick de Brenni has advised Queenslanders not to waste power as the state prepares for record peak demand today. With a spate of blackouts overnight in south-east Queensland, de Brenni acknowledged the hot weather and end of holidays would see more air conditioning being used today. Our message for Queenslanders is to stay cool, to stay hydrated, and to absolutely use appliances like air conditioning; however, if its not necessary to use something, then that will help, he said. Queenslanders know how to be responsible on days like this, just as they have been every other heat wave event. The authorities will monitor the situation closely and if there is any change we will provide updates. Brisbane is set for a maximum temperature of 37 degrees, as is Caboolture. Ipswich will likely hit 39, and Logan 36, with Maroochydore and Surfers Paradise set for a maximum of 34 degrees. Some students will be allowed to keep mobile phones in their pockets, and smartwatches can stay on wrists, under the Queensland governments school phone ban. From Monday, all Queensland state school students must have their phone switched off and away for the day during school hours and while attending activities such as sport, excursions and camps. Putting mobile phones away for the day will encourage face-to-face social interactions, Grace Grace said. Credit: iStock But new guidelines reveal each school will make decisions about how and where students phones will be stored. This could include a students pocket, pencil case, school bag or locker, in a lockable pouch, or in a locked cupboard in the school office. Strong property price growth and a cutting-edge culinary scene cant hold a candle to humble, big-hearted communities for some Brisbane home owners, as new data reveals the citys once-stigmatised western suburbs are now some of the most tightly held. Middle Park and Mount Ommaney home owners hold on to their properties for a median of 19 years and 18.9 years respectively, CoreLogic figures for 2023 sales show, more than double the citywide median of 8.73 years. Properties in nearby Jamboree Heights, Sinnamon Park and Jindalee were owned for 14 to 15 years before they were resold. Dean and Katrina Hartley have lived in their Middle Park home for 17 years. The suburb has the longest hold time in Brisbane. Credit: Glenn Hunt Residents in Wishart, in the citys south, claimed third place with locals selling after 17.5 years, while blue-chip suburbs Chapel Hill and Kenmore Hills, also in the citys west, were next at 16.4 and 15.7 years. Experts say an influx of families into those suburbs during the 1990s fuelled the trend, leading to some popular pockets building tight-knit communities lasting generations. Only four kilometres separates Papua New Guinea from an Australian island. Or 150 kilometres if you measure from Cape York to the PNG mainland. Yet its a world away, for all Australians know about it. Tourists hardly visit. But they should. Poor infrastructure makes access difficult and security can be a concern, yet on an expedition cruise you can explore this most fascinating destination with ease. Alotau, Papua New Guinea. The country is just 150 kilometres from the Australian mainland, but feels like another world. Credit: iStock Youll be at sea for a day and a half when you sail out of Cairns; PNGs closeness doesnt mean convenience. Still, thats no hardship when youre on Ponants sleek ship Le Soleal. This boutique hotel afloat is smart but informal. I attend a lecture on New Guinean politics. Head to the open bridge and chat to captain Antoine Paquet. I gobble seared scallops and chicken Paillard and fall asleep. At 7.30 the next morning were heading through China Strait between islands and mainland PNGs south-east tip towards Alotau, which has no land connection to the outside world. We sail past shipyards, oil-storage tanks, rusting boats and shiny trucks. The cruise terminal is a tin warehouse with faded blue doors. OTAs offer sharp fares, often better than the airlines themselves. Companies such as Expedia, Webjet, eDreams, Bravofly and Aunt Betty buy fares from consolidators brokers that bulk-buy seats from airlines and resell them to travel agents. The OTA collects a commission from the consolidator, although they might be part of the same corporation. If youre looking for the cheapest possible fare, flexibility isnt a priority and you dont mind tight conditions, an OTA is probably going to help you find it. Online travel agents can often have better fares than the airlines themselves, depending on the timing. Credit: Bloomberg Its a question that comes up a lot and there is really is no single answer that works for all travellers in every situation. It depends on your route, your circumstances, whether you need flexibility and how much the price matters. For example, I want to fly from Sydney to London on April 10 this year, returning April 24. Using Expedia, I find a fare of $2496.96 flying with Qatar Airways. When I go to the Qatar Airways website, the price for the same flights is $3507.96. There are a few differences. The airfare with Qatar Airways allows me to make changes and fee-free cancellation. If I take the Expedia fare the cancellation fee is $357 and the change fee is $266, but if Im prepared to handle the risk involved, whats not to like about a saving of $1010.99? Shopping around will help you find a fare that doesnt break the bank. Credit: Illustration: Marija Ercegovac Flying business class, the difference between an OTA fare and the airline fare is not nearly so dramatic. Using Skyscanner this time, I find a business class ticket from Sydney to London on the same April dates at a price of $9152. In this case, Im buying the ticket from Aunt Betty, part of Flight Centre Travel Group. If I buy it from Qatar Airways the cost is $10,453. These are not the same flights. The Aunt Betty ticket has me flying from Sydney to Melbourne business class with Virgin Australia and picking up the Qatar flight to Doha from there, but total flight time is still reasonable at 27 hours. On the return journey its a one-stop from London to Sydney. Savings of that magnitude are not always possible. A flight across the Tasman might cost more from an OTA than from the airline itself. Buying from an OTA works best on long-haul international flights, and for bookings made at least three months in advance. As the date of travel approaches the supply of cheap tickets available from online travel agencies usually dries up, leaving only more expensive options. Berlin: A protest against the far right in the German city of Munich on Sunday afternoon (Berlin-time) ended early due to safety concerns after approximately 100,000 people showed up, police said. The demonstration was one of dozens around the country this weekend that drew hundreds of thousands of people in total. People hold up their cell phones as they protest against the AfD party and right-wing extremism in front of the Reichstag building in Berlin, Germany. Credit: AP The demonstrations came after a report that right-wing extremists recently met to discuss the deportation of millions of immigrants, including some with German citizenship. Some members of the far-right Alternative for Germany party, or AfD, were present at the meeting. In the western city of Cologne, police confirmed tens of thousands of people showed up to protest on Sunday, and organisers spoke of about 70,000 people. The oil-rich but conflict-ridden Middle East is in transition from its old volatile conditions to a new unpredictable posture. If the transition is not managed responsibly by regional and major powers, the US in particular, a conflation of the old and new fault lines carries the potential to widen and deepen the regions paradigm of volatility. The ongoing Gaza war has proved to be a major catalyst in the process, sparked by Hamass appalling 7 October attacks on Israel and enlarged by Israels devastating invasion of Gaza. Consequently, the war has brought Israel and the United States into a potentially direct confrontation with their long-standing adversary, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and its affiliates in the region. Major world powers, in particular the US, are needed in to achieve peace in the Middle East. Credit: AP Publicly, both sides have projected disinterest in an expansion of the Gaza conflict, but neither wants to lose the war, even if it carries the risk of a regional confrontation, and so, they have engaged in a tit-for-tat military exchange beyond Gaza to achieve their objectives. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is legally besieged by charges of fraud, has shown a steely determination not only to flatten the Gaza Strip at the cost of unprecedented carnage in the Middle East, but also to tighten control over the occupied West Bank. He has also displayed a strong desire to extinguish any threat from the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, the Syrian regime, and Shia militias in Syria and Iraq. These forces, along with the Houthis in Yemen, form the Axis of resistance, or what Israel and its main international backer, the US, call an axis of evil that supports the Palestinian cause. President Joe Bidens administration has shared this perspective, and to date, has failed to exert sufficient pressure on Israel to agree to a ceasefire and thus prevent the conflict from spreading. Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he will not compromise on full Israeli control over Gaza and that this is contrary to a Palestinian state, rejecting US President Joe Bidens suggestion that creative solutions could bridge wide gaps between the leaders views on Palestinian statehood. In a sign of the pressures Netanyahus government faces at home, thousands of Israelis protested in Tel Aviv calling for new elections, and others demonstrated outside the prime ministers house, joining families of the more than 100 remaining hostages held by Hamas and other militants. They fear that Israels military activity further endangers hostages lives. Displaced people line up to receive food in a camp in Rafah, Gaza. Credit: Getty Netanyahu is also under heat to appease members of his right-wing ruling coalition by intensifying the war against Hamas, which governs Gaza, while contending with calls for restraint from the United States, its closest ally. Netanyahu posted his statement on social media a day after his first conversation with Biden in nearly a month. Discussing his administrations position, Biden said there are a number of types of two-state solutions and, asked if a two-state solution was impossible with Netanyahu in office, Biden replied, No, its not. Looking back to September 1820, when things had gone badly wrong but not yet so grotesquely as to be visibly beyond repair, we can see how few and how poor Keatss options were. Surely it was better that (in the absence of other volunteers) the young artist Joseph Severn agreed to travel with the dying poet to Rome that autumn than that he had refused. When we rerun the history in our minds, wishing to find a way to make it all happen differently, it is hard to know whether, for the sake of Keats and his literary afterlife, to keep Severn at his side during these last months or magically to erase him. Severn was affectionate; he was foolish; and the foolishness made the affection a little embarrassing and eventually damaging to them both. But to have someone familiar there to hold you up and soothe you as you drowned in your own dark blood, choking on the clay-like expectoration from your dissolving lungs this must be preferable to drowning and choking alone. The readers urge to rerun the story in order to repair the intolerable injustice may be embarrassing and damaging too. Racing ahead of other threats including syphilis, the mercury that Keats had prescribed himself to treat the syphilis, and the extreme anxiety caused by the mercury tuberculosis was destroying Keats. More here. Missile Attack on Al-Asad Airbase in Iraq Injures U.S. Personne (Photo: U.S. Marine Corps photo by Jessica L. Richards / Public domain) The Al-Asad Airbase in Iraq was targeted in a ballistic missile attack, resulting in injuries to U.S. personnel. This event marks a significant uptick in the threats faced by U.S. and coalition forces in the region, particularly from Iranian-backed Shia militias. The attack, which involved multiple ballistic missiles and rockets, led to minor injuries among U.S. personnel, with some being evaluated for traumatic brain injuries. This information was confirmed by the U.S. Central Command in a statement on Saturday evening. The base's air defenses intercepted most of the projectiles, but some made impact, highlighting the growing sophistication and audacity of the attacks. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iran-backed Iraqi militants, claimed responsibility for the assault. In a statement, the group emphasized its opposition to American "occupation forces" and linked the attack to what it referred to as the "Zionist entity's massacres" against the Palestinian people in Gaza. This claim aligns with the increasing number of attacks on U.S. and coalition forces, which have been attributed to Iran-backed entities, particularly in the wake of the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. These incidents represent a challenge to the stability and security of the region. With more than 143 attacks in Iraq and Syria since October 7, the U.S. and coalition forces are operating in an increasingly hostile environment. The Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani recently expressed concerns over these attacks, suggesting a reorganization of the relationship with international forces to prevent further tensions. In response to these security challenges, U.S. forces have carried out airstrikes against facilities used by Iranian-backed groups like Kataib Hezbollah, known for many of the rocket and drone attacks against the coalition. These responses, while aimed at deterring aggression, have added to the complexity of U.S. relations with the Iraqi government and the broader regional dynamics. The situation in Iraq is further complicated by external threats, such as the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels' attacks in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. These attacks have targeted international shipping lanes, including strikes on U.S.-owned vessels, leading to heightened security concerns in these critical waterways. The Pentagon maintains that the presence of U.S. forces in Iraq is still at the invitation of the Iraqi government, and discussions about sustaining a strong bilateral partnership continue. National security adviser Jake Sullivan's recent meeting with al-Sudani in Davos, Switzerland, underscores the ongoing efforts to address these challenges collaboratively. As the region faces these multifaceted security issues, the U.S. remains committed to its mission of advising and assisting local forces in the fight against the Islamic State and ensuring regional stability. However, the increasing frequency and severity of these attacks highlight the precariousness of this mission and the need for a nuanced and strategic approach to security in the Middle East. A multi-level security cover and extensive CCTV surveillance have been put in place at prominent temples and different markets of the national capital for celebrations to mark the Ram temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya, Delhi police officials said on Sunday. "No one will be allowed to breach law and order. Multi-level security checkpoints have been put up at temples and markets. The night patrolling staffers are directed to check hotels, guest houses, and dharamshalas," said Deputy Commissioner of Police (Northeast) Joy Tirkey. The 'Pran Pratishtha' of the Ram temple in Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh will be held on Monday. Tirkey said members of temple trusts were called for a meeting on Sunday to review the security measures. "Several temples like Prachin Hanuman Mandir, Jhandewalan Mandir, Birla Mandir and Kalka Ji temple will celebrate the 'Pran Pratishtha'. We are expecting high footfall at these temples. Paramilitary forces will also be deployed and will be on standby for any situation," the officer said. The DCP added that police teams visited the temples to check the security measures in place. "The major temples here have CCTV cameras installed. Teams from Delhi police will keep strict vigil from the control room of the temples to maintain law and order. Strict action will be ensured against those who do not comply with the orders," said the officer. Different markets of Delhi like Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazaar, Chawri Bazaar, Khari Baoli, Kashmiri Gate, Naya Bazaar, Connaught Place, Lajpat Nagar, Sarojini Nagar, Bhagirath Place, Kinari Bazaar and several others -- big or small -- are making arrangements to celebrate the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony. The Delhi police have already stepped up security measures for the Republic Day celebrations. A senior officer said the Delhi Police is "keeping an extra vigil in sensitive areas" and "using drones to monitor security". More than 8,000 police personnel have already been deployed in Delhi for the January 22 event and Republic Day parade, officials had earlier said. Delhi government schools will remain closed in the first half of Monday in view of the Ram temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya, according to an order. However, schools having classes in the evening will start at 2:30 pm on January 22 and will finish according to their usual timings but not later than 5.30 pm, the order issued by the Directorate of Education (DoE) on Sunday said. This arrangement is only for January 22, it said. "In accordance with the order issued by the Services Department of GNCTD declaring half-day closure (up to 2.30 pm) of all Delhi government establishments on January 22 to enable employees to participate in the celebrations of Ram Lalla 'Pran Pratishtha' being held at Ayodhya, all government schools running in general and morning shifts are ordered to remain closed on Monday," the DoE said. The "Pran Prathishta" (consecration ceremony) of the idol of Ram Lalla will start at 12:20 pm and is expected to end by 1 pm. ITL Public School principal Sudha Acharya said the DoE should have included private schools in its order as they are also "governed" by it. "Private schools have been left confused with this order. There is chaos because we don't know what to do now. We were waiting for the DoE order. It is the DoE that announces vacations for private schools too and we are governed by it. This is very disappointing," Acharya told PTI. Today, were going to look at one of my favorite animators of the modern age, Kelly Armstrong. Armstrong has done all kinds of work in the animation industry, from storyboarding (Spongebob Squarepants) to directing (The Baby Huey Show). However, shes best known for her animation work on the 1990s Nicktoon The Ren & Stimpy Show, the most gloriously psychotic series to ever find its way onto a childrens tv network. Some of the finest Ren & Stimpy episodes of the first two seasons were animated at Carbunkle Cartoons in Vancouver, a studio formed by Armstrong and her husband Bob Jaques. Armstrong animated countless iconic scenes, including Ren being forced to smile under the control of the Happy Helmet in Stimpys Invention. The crazy shapes of Rens mouth combined with his sudden jerky movements result in an animated performance that is remarkably original, hysterically funny, and slightly horrifying but mostly funny. Armstrongs history with Ren & Stimpy goes back to the very first episode. As you can see in this standout scene from the pilot Big House Blues, the acting and fluid motion she pulls off are worlds away from the norm in tv animation at the time. Check out the crazy amount of detail on Rens lips and gums. This scene was cut when the episode aired on Nickelodeon. Armstrong was one of the most talented animators on Ren & Stimpy, and she frequently took on the most challenging scenes. She animated the majority of the yaks mental breakdown in The Royal Canadian Kilted Yaksmen, which reaches a spectacular level of mania that even Bob Clampett would be proud of. Billy West shrieking like a lunatic on the soundtrack is also a plus. One thing I love about Armstrongs work is that even though her specialty is big, meaty acting with lots of movement, she also knows how to do a lot with a little. This great sequence from Stimpys Invention is full of held frames, but the little eye and mouth movements are so funny and so specific that Stimpy appears fully alive at all times. Any additional animation would be superfluous with poses and expressions as good as these. Armstrong has expressed her love of cartoon violence in the past, and very few animators are better at pulling it off. Im always mesmerized watching that oar smack George Liquor in the face in this Raging Bull-inspired moment from Mans Best Friend, the episode Nickelodeon refused to air. To finish things off, heres the Stay-Put Socks scene from Stimpys Invention that Armstrong told me is a personal favorite of hers. She said, I was the last person still in the studio, so I had no pressing other work and was able to put some time and angst into it. She also mentioned to me that she loves animating and had so much fun doing it, and you can see that sense of fun shine through every frame of this gleefully twisted scene. Walter Johnson in n + 1: People would later say that it began with the statement issued by the Harvard Palestine Solidarity Committee and thirty-four other campus groups after the massacre of October 7. The statement was relatively restrained. It did not celebrate the violence. Instead, it attempted to reframe the killings in a longer historyto say, as many would in the coming days, that history did not begin on October 7. Israeli violence has structured every aspect of Palestinian existence for seventy-five years, the statement read. From systematized land seizures to routine air strikes, arbitrary detentions, military checkpoints, and forced family separations to targeted killings, Palestinians have been forced to live in a state of death both slow and sudden. But for all the conversation there has been about it both here at Harvard and elsewhere, I doubt that many people actually read the whole statement. It was only the first sentence that came to matter: We, the undersigned student organizations hold the Israeli regime responsible for all unfolding violence. That one sentence was enough to compel 350 of these students teachers to issue a public denunciation.1 The students statement, the professors argued, can be seen as nothing less than condoning mass murder. More here. A woman suffered burns following an apparent mishap with a candle that sparked an apartment fire on Mountain Creek Road on Saturday night. At 5:50 p.m., Chattanooga Fire Department Red Shift companies responded to the Alpine Villas Apartments after a resident in the complex called 911 asking for help. Quint 17 found the victim with injuries and she was quickly placed into an ambulance and transported to the hospital by Hamilton County EMS. Q17 then went into her apartment and found a fully involved bathroom fire. Firefighters made a quick attack, knocking flames down quickly and preventing the fire from spreading to the other three apartments in the building. Police officers helped evacuate residents in the other units while CFD personnel worked. The fire was under control in minutes and then crews checked for extension. There was moderate damage to the victims apartment. According to investigators, it appears that a candle burning in the bathroom caused the fire. Fire officials said, "Please use caution with candles and keep anything that can burn away from them." Quint 17, Engine 12, Engine 22, Quint 16, Ladder 19, Squad 19, Squad 1, Battalion 1, and Battalion 3 were on the scene, along with EMS and CPD. Virginia Stewart McNair, of Hixson, TN, born on October 25, 1943, passed away at home on Sunday, January 14, 2024, at the age of 80. A long-time resident of Hixson, Virginia was a 1961 graduate of Hixson High School, where she was the Treasurer of her class and a member of the Color Guard. In 2013, Virginia retired from Republic Parking Systems as a Bookkeeper after 23 years of service. Virginia loved spending time with her family, who called her Memaw, and they celebrated her 80th birthday in October. She loved her family dearly and had recently become a great-grandmother, which she was so proud and overjoyed about. She adored her beloved dog Gracie, tending to her flowers, and would frequently send pictures of both to her family. She loved Krispy Kreme donuts and country music and looking at old photos. She was a great cook and gave the best hugs. She loved to travel and had the opportunity to go on a two-week trip to Europe with her family in January of 2019, which was one of the highlights of her life. Virginia was proceeded in death by her parents, Logan and Mildred Stewart, her brother, Clayton Stewart, and nephew, Billy Stewart. Virginia is survived by her daughter, Angie McNair Miller, son, Craig McNair (Sarah), granddaughter, Chelsea Hicks (Tyler), great-granddaughter, Sophie Hicks, and grandsons, Zach and Josh McNair. The family is planning a Celebration of Life for Virginia at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your local animal shelter in Memaws memory. Arrangements are by the North Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory, and Florist, 5401 Highway 153, Hixson, TN 37343. Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 Family sizes are currently on the decline, and this trend is expected to last for the foreseeable future. Recent research has highlighted a major shift in family structures, with forecasts showing a notable reduction in the number of relatives an individual will have in the coming years. Researchers in Germany suggest this change will particularly impact the makeup of younger family members, such as cousins and grandchildren, which are anticipated to decrease. In contrast, there will likely be a notable increase in older family members, including grandparents and great-grandparents. The study, conducted by an international group of researchers, forecasts the development of human kin relationships across the world. The teams main objective was to explore how shifts in demographics might influence the composition and size of families. We asked ourselves how demographic change will affect the endowment of kinship in the future. What was the size, structure, and age distribution of families in the past, and how will they evolve in the future? explained Diego Alburez-Gutierrez, one of the studys authors. So, the team examined historical and future data from the 2022 revision of the United Nations World Population Prospects. According to Alburez-Gutierrez, their approach involved using mathematical models to represent the connections between an individual, their ancestors, and their offspring during a specific time frame. This yielded average age and gender distributions for various kinds of familial relationships for each year. This revealed a worldwide pattern of family sizes on the decline. In 1950, for instance, a typical 65-year-old woman had around 41 living relatives. Yet, in 2095, this figure is anticipated to fall to only 25. The reduction is also more significant in certain geographic areas. In South America and the Caribbean, a woman aged 65 is forecasted to have just 18.3 living relatives in 2095 compared to 56 living relatives in 1950 marking a 67% decline. Sign up for Chip Chicks newsletter and get stories like this delivered to your inbox. Home News New conservative Methodist denomination eyeing expansion in the Southwest A recently launched theologically conservative alternative to the United Methodist Church is looking to expand its presence into the Southwestern and West Coast of the United States. The Global Methodist Church, which was launched in 2022 and already has more than 4,200 member congregations, is in the process of expanding its presence in the westernmost states. This has included recent efforts to plant new churches in the Southwest, as well as the possible creation of a new GMC regional body known as the Western States Provisional District. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe GMC Transitional Connectional Officer Keith Boyette told The Christian Post that the Western States Provisional District is in the process of filing formation documents with the GMCs Transitional Leadership Council, with the goal being for it to begin operations as an official Provisional District on May 3. Several of the local churches that will become members of the Western States Provisional District are new church plants; others are ones that disaffiliated from The United Methodist Church and voted to affiliate with the GM Church, Boyette explained. According to Boyette, compared with other UMC conferences, the terms for disaffiliation for churches in the UMCs Western Jurisdiction were very costly and bureaucratic, making congregations that sought dismissal face paying exorbitant fees, taking legal action in the hope of winning release from the UMC, or walking away from properties and assets worth millions of dollars. Boyette blamed the current lack of overall Methodism in the Western states on UMC clergy in the region who had increasingly espoused progressive theological and social stances starting in the 1970s. Free of the rebellion and dysfunction of the UMCs Western Jurisdiction, the GMC is confident we will plant, grow and multiply local churches in the West. When Methodists hew to their warm-hearted, traditional expression of the Christian faith, they have always attracted people to their churches, Boyette said. Over the long haul, as the GMC shares its mission and vision, we will grow and multiply in the West. Were honored and humbled by the faithful and persevering pastors and lay people who have stepped forward to lead a renewal of Methodism in the West. To help advance their efforts out West, the GMC is partnering with The River Network, a church planting resource organization tied to Crossroads Church of Oakdale, Pennsylvania. Crossroads Church founder and Pastor Steve Cordle, who serves as executive director of The River Network, told CP his organization has close ties to the GMC that go back to the denominations beginning in 2022. When the GMC launched, the leadership invited the River Network to become a strategic partner in the area of church planting, Cordle said. I am a GMC pastor and believe in its mission. I was excited about its plan to make church planting a priority, and as executive director of the River Network, Im glad to mobilize or to do what we can to further church multiplication around the world. According to Cordle, over the past 18 months, while serving as the GMCs strategic partner, the River Network has helped to train more than 700 church planting leaders based in three countries. Personally, I see great potential for church multiplication everywhere in the U.S., Cordle added. We have seen some people who have left the UMC become launch team members for new GMC churches. Over the past several years, the UMC found itself divided over whether it should amend its Book of Discipline to remove language prohibiting clergy from blessing same-sex unions and from ordaining clergy in same-sex romantic relationships. Although efforts to change the Book of Discipline at the quadrennial General Conference have always failed, many theological progressive leaders within the UMC have often refused to follow or enforce the rules. At a special session of General Conference held in 2019, delegates voted to add Paragraph 2553 to the Book of Discipline, which created a process of disaffiliation for congregations seeking to leave the UMC over the LGBT debate. From 2019 to the end of 2023, when the paragraph officially expired, 7,660 congregations successfully disaffiliated from the UMC, presenting more than a quarter of the number of member churches in the nation. Home News Pastor Greg Laurie talks pro-life movement's future post-Roe, church's role in ending abortion WASHINGTON Harvest Christian Fellowship Pastor Greg Laurie discussed the future of the pro-life movement post-Roe and how the American Church can take an active role in helping to end abortion. The pastor was among the invited speakers at the 51st annual March for Life, where the theme was With Every Woman, For Every Child. According to the March for Life website, the theme emphasizes the need to care for both mother and child during the nine months of pregnancy and in the years after. In an interview with The Christian Post, Laurie called for pro-lifers to keep the movement against abortion going by talking with people one-on-one and educating them about the humanity of the unborn. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe I myself was conceived out of wedlock; I could have been an abortion statistic, the pastor said. My mother chose to carry me to term. I'm glad she made that decision, needless to say. So we need to carry this on one person at a time, as well as through legislation and voting for people that are pro-life. Following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, which restored regulatory authority over abortion to the states, pro-life advocates and presidential candidates have discussed whether the next step is to enact a federal 15-week abortion ban. Another side of the pro-life movement argues that the movement should focus on passing state-level abortion restrictions, while others believe that a federal 15-week abortion ban is not enough. It seems like well probably end up state to state, but it really comes to person by person, Laurie said when asked what sort of abortion restrictions he supports. Thats where you really want to gain ground is person by person. In addition to enacting legislation, Laurie called on the church to come alongside pregnant women and to assist them with raising their children. According to a 2015 survey commissioned by Care Net, a pro-life nonprofit, more than four in 10 women were churchgoers when they had an abortion, and only 7% discussed their decision to end their pregnancies with someone at church. Laurie believes this means the pro-life movement needs more pastors who are willing to say that life begins at conception and not run from the topic of abortion. He noted that some spiritual leaders might want to avoid discussing abortion in their churches due to the political nature of the issue. But this is a moral issue and a spiritual issue, the pastor said. And churches are filled with imperfect people. Regarding the Care Net surveys findings about the number of churchgoing women who have had abortions, Laurie noted that people, even Christians, can fall prey to sin. He urged churches to show love and compassion for Christian women who find themselves pregnant after they had sex outside of marriage. We need to reassure her that there is forgiveness, and we dont want abortion to be compounded with that, the pastor continued. I dont believe that there are any illegitimate children. Illegitimate parents? Yes. Illegitimate children? No. The Christian leader highlighted the various ways his church helps women and families, including having small groups rally around pregnant women to support them and their babies. The groups will help encourage the mother and offer help in the form of free diapers, clothing and babysitting services. We need each other, Laurie continued. Were not made to do life alone. So often, people find themselves isolated, but you need community. And this is where the church can shine like a light on a hill because thats what we do best. As the GOP moves closer to selecting a potential nominee for the 2024 presidential election, pro-lifers will have to consider who the ideal candidate is to represent the movement on the national stage. Of the candidates in the running for the nomination, Laurie said he believes Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is a strong pro-life leader. Last year, DeSantis signed the Heartbeat Protection Act, which banned abortions after six weeks into a pregnancy. However, Laurie stated that the current political landscape appears to indicate that the GOP nominee will be former President Donald Trump. We dont always get exactly what we want, Laurie said. But its a lot different than someone who is promoting abortion, even up to the final month of pregnancy. And we certainly dont want anything like that. So, of the candidates, some are stronger than others, but theyre all better than those who are promoting abortion. I could never give my vote to a candidate who supports abortion, he added. Home News This week in Christian history: US missionary leaves for Africa, first female Anglican priest ordained Throughout the extensive history of the Church, there have been numerous events of lasting significance. Each week brings anniversaries of impressive milestones, unforgettable tragedies, amazing triumphs, memorable births and notable deaths. Some of the events drawn from over 2,000 years of history might be familiar, while others might be unknown to many people. Get Our Latest News for FREE Subscribe to get daily/weekly email with the top stories (plus special offers!) from The Christian Post. Be the first to know. Subscribe The following pages highlight anniversaries of memorable events that occurred this week in Christian history. They include the excommunication of Pelagius, the ordination of the first female Anglican priest, and a black missionary leaving for Africa. Calls for Scotland to criminalise purchase of sex A Christian charity is calling on the Scottish government to follow other countries in criminalising the purchase of sex. CARE for Scotland is urging the Scottish government to push ahead with legislation that would target the demand side. It accused the Scottish government of "dragging its heels on the issue" and said it should follow the positive example of other countries like Sweden, Norway, Iceland and Canada that have already introduced similar laws penalising sex buyers. The issue was debated in the Scottish Parliament last week but CARE's Scotland policy officer, Michael Veitch, expressed frustration at the lack of progress being made. He said that the Scottish government should take note of the "positive impact" of sex buyers' laws in other countries where criminalising the purchase of sex while also mandating support for women who want to leave prostitution behind "ensures a deterrent to exploitation and help for the exploited". "We note the Scottish Government's previous recognition that prostitution is a form of 'violence against women' and pledge to develop a tailored Scottish model to tackle prostitution, and yet this form of gender-based violence remains legal in Scotland today a situation that should be unthinkable," he said. "It is past time the Scottish Government made progress. "The connection between the so-called 'sex trade' and modern slavery is beyond doubt. Commercial sexual exploitation is closely linked to human trafficking and exploitation. "Claims by some that prostitution causes no harm to women have also been found to be an illusion. The Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe has been clear in this regard. "To challenge trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation, we should make it a criminal offence to purchase sexual services and ensure that programmes are in place to support women to exit prostitution. A similar approach has been adopted by Sweden, Norway, Iceland, Canada, France, Ireland, Israel, and in Northern Ireland. Scotland must follow their lead." UK evangelical leader Roger Forster dies: 'In a league of his own' (CP) Roger Forster, a prominent figure in the UK evangelical community and founder of the Ichthus Christian Fellowship neo-charismatic network, died peacefully at the age of 90 this week. Forster, who was in ministry for almost 70 years, died Wednesday in his home, Ichthus Christian Fellowship announced. Remembered as someone "in a league of his own, Forster leaves a lasting legacy in the realms of evangelism, theology and pastoral mentorship. "We celebrate his incredible and inspirational life of service to our Lord Jesus, as an evangelist, theologian, pastor, mentor and most importantly, devoted disciple of Jesus," the announcement reads. "We also deeply feel his loss, and mourn with his wife Faith, his children and grandchildren. He was a father in the faith to thousands of people in the UK and all over the world, and he 'ran the race' right until the end." Worship leader Graham Kendrick and Ichthus Team Ministry Leader Henry George recalled in an obituary published by Premier Christian News that Forster preached the Gospel with a clarity, fluency and passion that was like "apologetics on steroids." "Roger felt injustice keenly, and it seemed to me that the theological issues he debated most fiercely (though respectfully in the Oxbridge debating tradition), were those he perceived could do most damage to people and rob God," they wrote. "Intellectually, he was in a league of his own, but he was an approachable, patient, gracious teacher. It is impossible to measure the influence Roger Forster had on my life and that of my family but I was not unusual, countless others would say the same." Born into a world far removed from the digital age, Forster's early life was marked by a profound spiritual awakening. He embraced Christianity as a student at the University of Cambridge, where he studied math and theology. His time in the Royal Air Force further shaped his character, preparing him for a life dedicated to evangelism. In 1974, alongside his wife, Faith, Forster founded Ichthus. Starting with a modest group of 14 in their home, their vision was clear: to cultivate disciples of Christ, echoing the fervor of the early Christian church. His preaching, imbued with Relational Arminianism, attracted a diverse congregation. The fellowship, initially a small house church, expanded into a vibrant community with multiple congregations across London. Forster's leadership was not just about expanding numbers; it was about deepening faith. He established a leadership training program in the 1980s, which has since nurtured hundreds for ministry, including George. His influence reached far beyond the U.K., touching lives in Lebanon, Nepal, India, Myanmar and more. Forster's commitment to evangelism was evident in his involvement with the March for Jesus movement. This global phenomenon, which he helped birth alongside Pioneer and Youth with a Mission, reflected his belief in active, public expressions of faith. His approach to theology was not just intellectual but deeply practical, focusing on issues of injustice and the real-world impact of religious beliefs. In October 2021, Forster and his wife handed over the leadership of Ichthus to a team of seven led by George. This transition marked a new chapter for Ichthus, which continued to embrace Forster's vision of a church deeply engaged with the world. The movement's outreach efforts include "Church on the Streets," toddler groups and refugee outreach. Forster's death coincides with the 50th Jubilee year of Ichthus. The ministry has yet to announce the time or location of a tribute service. The Christian Post We're always interested in hearing about news in our community. Let us know what's going on! Go to form Primeste notificari pe email Nota bene: Adresele email cu extensia .ru nu sunt acceptate. Contractare si Achizitie Bunuri Anunturi de Angajare Granturi - Finantari Burse de studiu Stagii Profesionale Oportunitati de voluntariat Toate Articolele The aging reformed mobster who has admitted stealing a pair of ruby slippers that Judy Garland wore in The Wizard of Oz gave into the temptation of one last score after an old mob associate led him to believe the famous shoes must be adorned with real jewels to justify their $1 million insured value. Terry Jon Martins defense attorney finally revealed the 76-year-olds motive for the 2005 theft from the Judy Garland Museum in the late actors hometown of Grand Rapids, Minnesota, in a new memo filed ahead of his Jan. 29 sentencing in Duluth, Minnesota. The FBI recovered the shoes in 2018 when someone else tried to claim an insurance reward on them, but Martin wasnt charged with stealing them until last year. Martin pleaded guilty in October to using a hammer to smash the glass of the museum door and display case to take the slippers. He had hoped to harvest real rubies from the shoes and sell them. But a fence, a person who deals in stolen goods, informed him the rubies were glass and Martin got rid of the slippers less than two days after he took them, he said. Defense attorney Dane DeKrey said in his memo that an unidentified former mob associate tempted Martin to steal the shoes, even though he hadnt committed a crime in nearly 10 years after his last prison stint. At first, Terry declined the invitation to participate in the heist. But old habits die hard, and the thought of a final score kept him up at night, DeKrey wrote. After much contemplation, Terry had a criminal relapse and decided to participate in the theft. DeKrey and prosecutors are recommending the judge sentence Martin to time served because he is physically incapable of presenting a threat to society. Martin is in hospice care with a life expectancy of less than six months. He needs oxygen at all times because of his chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder and was in a wheelchair at his most recent court appearance. Even if he were sentenced to prison, his poor health might be grounds for a compassionate release. Martin had no idea about the cultural significance of the ruby slippers and had never seen the movie. Instead, DeKrey said he was just looking for one last big score, and the old Terry with a lifelong history of crimes like burglary and receiving stolen property beat out the new Terry who seemed to finally put his demons to rest after being released from prison in 1996 and became a contributing member of society. DeKrey urged the judge to consider the major events of Martins life when deciding whether a lenient sentence is appropriate. Martin suffered under a cruel stepmother who mistreated him and his three brothers so badly for several years that he left home at the age of 16 and began drinking and stealing. Terry Jon Martin prepares to leave the federal courthouse in Duluth, Minn., Oct. 13, 2023. Martin, charged with the museum heist of a pair of ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in the "The Wizard of Oz" gave into the temptation of one last score after an old mob associate led him to believe the famous shoes must be adorned with real jewels to justify their $1 million insured value according to a new memo filed ahead of his Monday, Jan. 29, 2024, sentencing in Duluth. (Dan Kraker/Minnesota Public Radio via AP)AP While on parole from prison, Martins girlfriend became pregnant with twins, but he missed their birth after his parole was revoked. Right after his girlfriend brought the 1-month-old twins to prison to meet him, they died after a train struck her vehicle. This was truly the turning point in Terrys life his villain origin story and the reason he not only went down his dark path but accelerated towards it, DeKrey wrote. His son said it best: the twins death made (my dad) just give up on life; he decided on a life of crime. Martins lawyer also said the judge should consider that Martin had not committed any other crimes in nearly a decade before stealing the slippers nor in the years since then. DeKrey said Martin didnt even try to claim a slice of the insurance reward money when some of his former associates tried to collect. Garland wore several pairs of ruby slippers during filming of the classic 1939 musical, but only four authentic pairs are known to remain. The stolen slippers were insured for $1 million, but federal prosecutors put the current market value at about $3.5 million. The FBI said a man approached the insurer in 2017 and claimed he could help recover them but demanded more than the $200,000 reward being offered. The slippers were recovered during an FBI sting in Minneapolis. The FBI has never disclosed how it tracked down the slippers, which remain in the agencys custody. The slippers were on loan to the museum from Hollywood memorabilia collector Michael Shaw when Martin stole them. Three other pairs worn by Garland in the movie are held by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Smithsonian Museum of American History and a private collector. Several rewards were offered over the years in hopes of figuring out who stole the slippers, which were key props in the film. Garlands character, Dorothy, has to click the heels of the slippers three times and repeat, Theres no place like home, to return to Kansas. Garland was born Frances Gumm in 1922. She lived in Grand Rapids, about 200 miles (320 kilometers) north of Minneapolis, until she was 4, when her family moved to Los Angeles. She died in 1969. The Judy Garland Museum, located in the house where she lived, says it has the worlds largest collection of Garland and Wizard of Oz memorabilia. By JOSH FUNK Associated Press CLEVELAND, Ohio The Andrew Mellon Foundation of New York, a longtime supporter of Clevelands cultural sector, delivered another big lift to the region Saturday by announcing a $500,000 grant to Cleveland Public Theatre. The grant is part of a five-way, $2.5 million award to CPT and four other community-based professional theaters across the U.S. The other recipients are: Company One Theatre in Boston, Crowded Fire Theatre in San Francisco, Mosaic Theatre in Washington, D.C., and Perseverance Theatre in Juneau, Alaska. Russia held its spot as China's top oil supplier for a third month in July, data showed. Seen here is an oil pumping unit at Huabei oil field on the outskirts of Hejian city, Hebei province, China. Russia leapfrogged Saudi Arabia to become China's top crude oil supplier in 2023, data showed on Saturday, as the world's biggest crude importer defied Western sanctions to purchase vast quantities of discounted oil for its processing plants. Russia shipped a record 107.02 million metric tons of crude oil to China last year, equivalent to 2.14 million barrels per day (bpd), the Chinese customs data showed, far more than other major oil exporters such as Saudi Arabia and Iraq. Imports from Saudi Arabia, previously China's largest supplier, fell 1.8% to 85.96 million tons, as the Middle East oil giant lost market share to cheaper Russian crude. Shunned by many international buyers following Western sanctions over the Kremlin's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Russian crude oil traded at significant discounts to international benchmarks for much of last year amid a Western-imposed price cap. Accelerating demand from Chinese and Indian refiners for the discounted oil boosted the price of Russian ESPO crude through 2023, pushing past the Group of Seven's $60 a barrel price cap imposed in December 2022 as alternative shipping and insurance options to circumvent the sanctions proliferated. ESPO crude shipments for December delivery were priced at a discount of around 50 cents to 20 cent per barrel to the ICE Brent benchmark, versus a $1 premium for October delivery cargoes and a discount of $8.50 for shipments delivered in March, according to trading sources. At the same time, Saudi Arabia raised prices for its signature Arab Light from July, pushing some refiners to look for cheaper cargoes. To support prices, Saudi Arabia and Russia, two of the world's top three oil producers, announced output and export cuts last year. Saudi Arabia is rolling over output cuts of 1 million bpd this quarter, while Russia said it would deepen its cut in exports this year to 500,000 bpd from 300,000 bpd. Chinese refiners use intermediary traders to handle the shipping and insurance of Russian crude to avoid violating the Western sanctions. Buyers also use the waters off Malaysia as a trans-shipment point for sanctioned cargoes from Iran and Venezuela. Imports tagged as originating from Malaysia climbed 53.7% last year. China reported no official shipments of Venezuelan crude in December despite an easing of U.S. sanctions on Caracas in October following a deal between President Nicolas Maduro's administration and its political opposition. Shipments to China from the U.S. last year surged 81.1% last year despite geopolitical tensions between Beijing and Washington as U.S. crude production increased. China's overall crude imports for 2023 rose to a record of 563.99 million metric tons, equivalent to 11.28 million bpd. With U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley at his side (L), U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a working lunch with ambassadors of countries on the UN Security Council at the White House in Washington, U.S., April 24, 2017. Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley has been throwing harder punches at GOP frontrunner Donald Trump, days before her make-or-break New Hampshire primary on Tuesday. The former U.N. ambassador on Sunday took shots at Trump's mental acuity, his cozy relations with foreign dictators and his position as an establishment figure. She has honed these criticisms over the past week as the New Hampshire primary effectively became a two-person race between her and the former president. Haley took aim at Trump's mental fitness after footage from one of his rallies showed him attributing the Jan. 6 insurrection to Haley, repeating her name four times, apparently mistaking her for former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. "If you have someone that's 80 in office, their mental stability is going to continue to decline. That's just human nature," Haley said Sunday on CBS's "Face the Nation." She also railed against Trump's friendly relations with authoritarian governments, pointing to his "bromance with Putin" and "love letters going back and forth to Kim Jong Un." More recently, at a New Hampshire campaign event on Sunday, Trump commended Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who has chipped away at the country's democratic systems. "Some people don't like him because he's too strong. It's nice to have a strongman running the country," he said. "You can't have someone who's trying to buddy up with dictators that want to kill us. Instead, you have to let them know what we expect of them," Haley said. Dedicating her talking points to Trump attacks is a marked shift from Haley, who before the Iowa caucuses had primarily gone after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, her main competitor for second place. But as DeSantis shrinks to a distant third place in New Hampshire and donors put pressure on her to secure a victory, she has become more comfortable focusing her energy on anti-Trump indictments. A month ago, Haley's position on Trump was decidedly more avoidant. In a December interview on ABC's "This Week," she seemed exasperated by persistent questions about Trump. "You guys are exhausting. You're exhausting in your obsession with him. The thing is, normal people aren't obsessed with Trump like you guys are," Haley said in the interview. "If you want to talk about Trump, if you really want to talk about Trump, why don't you go ask him if he's gonna get on a debate stage?" she added. Haley has now followed Trump's lead and bowed out of the New Hampshire debates where she would have faced off with DeSantis for the sixth time. Spirit Airlines airplanes at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, US, on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023. Spirit Airlines Inc. is scheduled to release earnings figures on October 26. Photographer: Eva Marie Uzcategui/Bloomberg via Getty Images A federal judge's order blocking a $3.8 billion-dollar deal that would have JetBlue Airways purchase rival Spirit Airlines leaves Spirit with an uncertain future. But the ruling didn't just leave the airlines with uncertainty; it sent shudders through some of Spirit's key constituencies. Few places will feel the impact harder than the Arnold Palmer Regional Airport (LBE) if Spirit can't keep flying. About an hour east of downtown Pittsburgh in the city of Latrobe, Pennsylvania, the airport serves the gritty coal towns east of Pittsburgh but also lures in travelers from a three-state area with free parking, short TSA lines, and low fares from Spirit. The Arnold Palmer Regional Airport has almost all the amenities of any major airport, just on a smaller scale. There's a baggage claim, car rental counters, and DeNuzio's Chophouse to feed travelers while waiting for their flight. But all the travelers in the passenger area hold boarding passes for one airline: Spirit. That is because Spirit Airlines is the only commercial carrier to provide service to LBE. "Being that they are the only one, they are really important; it would be devastating if they would go belly up," said Gabe Monzo, executive director of the airport. Spirit has trimmed its schedule at LBE from several daily flights to one direct flight to Orlando. But Monzo says service will likely resume to Myrtle Beach in the spring. A 2022 study by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation put the regional economic impact of arriving and departing passengers from LBE at $213.9 million. Monzo says $100 million of that is from Spirit Airlines travelers. Spirit's bargain-basement fare fliers LBE won't be the only one left in the lurch if Spirit can't find a path forward. Spirit Airlines fills a niche for leisure travelers, college students, missionaries, and others seeking bargain basement, no-frills fares. Professor Jase Ramsey, a Florida Gulf Coast University management professor in Fort Myers, has two stakes in Spirit Airlines: he uses the airline for family vacations from service at nearby Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), and incorporates Spirit into his courses. From a family perspective, he said a Florida without Spirit hurts in two directions. Its absence from the market will likely raise prices for incoming tourists from the north. But it will also cut off affordable vacation options for South Florida families heading to the Caribbean. "This will be bad for our region if something happens to Spirit from a price perspective. They are usually our low-cost leader. If you want to do a family vacation out of here, that is your go-to airline," Ramsey said. Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks at a campaign event at the Chrome Horse Saloon on January 14, 2024 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis dropped out of the 2024 presidential race and endorsed front-runner Donald Trump on Sunday, two days before the New Hampshire primary. "If there was anything I could do to produce a favorable outcome more campaign stops, more interviews I would do it, but I can't ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources if we don't have a clear path to victory," DeSantis said in a Sunday social media post. "Accordingly, I am today suspending my campaign." "Trump is superior to the current incumbent Joe Biden. That is clear," DeSantis said. "I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee and I will honor that pledge. He has my endorsement because we can't go back to the old Republican Guard of yesteryear, a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents." The Trump campaign said in a Sunday statement it was "honored" to receive DeSantis' endorsement, along with "so many other former presidential candidates." DeSantis joins a growing list of defunct 2024 candidates, like North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., who endorsed Trump after suspending their campaigns. At a New Hampshire rally Sunday evening, Trump congratulated Ron for bowing out and giving him his endorsement. "As you know, he left the campaign trail today at 3 p.m. and in so doing, he was very gracious and he endorsed me, so I appreciate that," Trump said. "I also look forward to working with Ron and everybody else to defeat crooked Joe Biden." Minutes after he announced his exit from the 2024 race, DeSantis canceled a campaign event he had scheduled in New Hampshire. The campaign said that he would instead remain in Tallahassee, Florida. Despite claiming a victory at the Iowa caucuses on Jan. 15 where he edged out former Haley for second place, DeSantis has severely lagged his opponents in New Hampshire. DeSantis was polling at 6% in the Granite State, compared to Trump's 50% and Haley's 39%, according to a CNN/University of New Hampshire poll conducted between Jan. 16 and 19. In response to DeSantis' announcement, Haley said the GOP primary contest is now a "two-person race." Since Iowa, the DeSantis campaign has appeared to be winding down. The pro-DeSantis super PAC, Never Back Down, laid off staff earlier this week and DeSantis canceled several media appearances he had scheduled Sunday. DeSantis' exit marks the end of a campaign that initially showed promise but has been rife with internal drama and strategic blunders. Reports of infighting seasoned nearly the entire timeline of the DeSantis campaign and staff were often quoted as having lost faith in the campaign well before it ended. Starting Monday, the Florida governor will return to his day job where he has faced criticism for neglecting his duties in pursuit of the presidency. "Our governor roams the political world (Florida be damned) seeking the presidential nomination," a Florida resident wrote in the Sarasota Herald-Tribune earlier in January. Surging U.S. oil production could set new records this year after ending 2023 at a historic level, pressuring OPEC and cushioning the market at least so far from price spikes that may emerge from tensions in the Middle East. U.S. production has undergone a dramatic turnaround after hitting a 62-year low in 2008, according to S & P Global Commodity Insights. By the end of last year, the U.S. was producing more oil than any other country in history, according to S & P. And U.S. production doesn't look to be pulling back. Crude oil production in the U.S. likely returned to record levels, 13.3 million barrels per day, during the week ending Jan. 12 after briefly falling below that level, according to the latest estimates from the Energy Information Administration. Chevron CEO Michael Wirth believes the U.S. could break records in 2024. "I wouldn't be surprised to see 13.5 million barrels per day this year or even a little bit more than that," Wirth told CNBC's Brian Sullivan at Goldman Sachs' energy conference earlier this month. Analysts at Macquarie are forecasting U.S. crude production to close out 2024 at 14 million barrels per day after falling slightly during the winter and rebounding in the second half of the year, according to Walt Chancellor, an energy strategist at the firm. "Call it the North American advantage," Daniel Yergin, vice chair of S & P Global told CNBC last Thursday at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. "Canada and the United States have added a million and a half barrels of new supply to the world market." Once an important regional standard, West Texas Intermediate is increasingly displacing Brent as the leading global benchmark, said Adi Imsirovic, a veteran oil trader who is now an energy security expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies . "You guys are basically setting prices for the whole world," Imsirovic, who is based in the United Kingdom, said of U.S. oil production. Oil prices fail to launch Oil prices have struggled to break out despite Houthi militant attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and OPEC's promise to cut 2.2 million barrels of oil per day from the market this quarter. West Texas Intermediate futures have fallen nearly 5% since late November when the militant attacks began. U.S. crude prices are almost 3% lower since OPEC and its allies, OPEC+, announced production cuts. Meanwhile, the price of Brent futures can't seem to break above $80 a barrel "despite two conflicts and a number of terrorist attacks in one of the critical shipping lanes for oil through the Red Sea," Bank of America told clients in a research note Friday. It is striking that tensions in the Middle East have not really lifted prices, Yergin said. The absence of a significant price move is largely due to surging U.S. production, which is rebalancing not only supply and demand dynamics but also global geopolitics, Yergin said. "The psychology of the oil market has changed because the U.S. is by far the world's largest oil producer," said Yergin, author of The Prize: The Epic Quest for Oil, Money, and Power . Barring a major disruption, increased oil supply is expect to outstrip demand in 2024 due to rising production in the U.S., Canada, Brazil and Guyana, according to a forecast released by the International Energy Agency on Thursday. Supply is forecast to grow by 1.5 million barrels per day to a new high of 103.5 million barrels per day, according to the IEA. Demand will grow by 1.2 million barrels daily, down from 2.3 million in 2023, with the post-pandemic recovery over and major economies set to slow. Oil production in the Americas, particularly in the U.S., is putting OPEC in a bind. WTI and Brent closed out 2023 down more than 10% and OPEC+ production cuts have so far failed to lift prices. OPEC risks losing customers as the U.S. becomes an increasingly attractive place to do business, with WTI cheaper than Brent and no geopolitical risk, according to Bob Yawger, managing director and energy futures strategist at Mizuho Americas. "The OPEC folks are running the risk of their traditional customers falling in love with the U.S. barrel because of its geopolitical ease of operation," Yawger told CNBC. "You can just sail a vessel to the beautiful Gulf Coast of the United States and do business in a nice clean fashion," he said. The IEA said in its December outlook that the "shift in global oil supply from key producers in the Middle East to the United States and other Atlantic Basin countries" is profoundly reshaping global oil trade. U.S. crude exports to Europe, for example, hit a record 2.3 million barrels a day in December as refineries work to offset delivery issues in the Red Sea, according to Matt Smith, lead analyst for the Americas at Kpler . European refineries are shunning Middle Eastern crude and seeking out more secure supplies from the Atlantic basin, Smith said. Any geopolitical risk premium has remained muted thanks to U.S. production, but that would change if tensions in the Middle East lead to a direct confrontation with Iran that disrupts supply. Goldman Sachs, for example, says oil prices could double if there is a prolonged disruption to shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. 'Golden era' Stronger U.S. oil production in 2023 surprised even oil industry CEOs such as Chevron's Wirth and Occidental's Vicki Hollub, they told CNBC in recent interviews. "I'm a little surprised at the strength last year," Wirth told CNBC earlier this month. "I'm not surprised that we saw growth it was a little stronger than I think we would have expected." Chancellor with Macquarie said U.S. production was strong in 2023 because returns were simply attractive: "Prices have been at levels that incentivize incremental supply," the analyst said. As long as WTI is in the $70 to $80 range strong growth should continue, Chancellor said. The outlook would start to come under pressure if U.S. crude fell into the $60s, he said. For growth to come to a halt, the price of WTI would likely have to fall into the $50s, he said. Shale producers have a rough breakeven price of $47 a barrel where the budget is balanced but they don't generate a return, according to Chancellor. The Saudis do have one "extremely powerful weapon" as OPEC comes under pressure from the U.S. excess capacity and the threat to flood the market with oil, Imsirovic said. A "substantial surplus" of crude could hit the market in the second quarter if OPEC+ unwinds their voluntary cuts amid strong production outside OPEC, according to the IEA's January forecast. "It would be prudent of U.S. producers to be careful in terms of putting too much supply in the market," Hollub cautioned the industry in a December interview with CNBC. If OPEC brings enough oil back to market the only solution is for U.S. supply to shrink though this scenario is not in Macquarie's base case, Chancellor said. "Unless the OPEC folks decide they want to go price war, this is a golden age for the U.S. producer or should I even say the Western Hemisphere producer," Yawger said. This article has been updated to correct the name of the Energy Information Administration. A DF-10 (Dassault Falcon) small aircraft registered in Morocco crashed in the Wakhan region of Badakhshan, Afghanistan, on Sunday, January 21. The aircraft was an air ambulance and was flying from Thailand to Moscow. It did refuelling at Gaya Airport, the Ministry of Civil Aviation said. The passenger plane crashed in Topkhaneh Mountain, in the districts of Karan, Manjan and Zibak of this province. Preliminary reports suggested that there were six people onboard four crew members and two passengers. The Falcon's original departure point was Thailand's Utapao Airport. Rosaviatsia is in touch with the aviation authorities of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Republic of Tajikistan. The search for the aircraft is underway. More details are awaited Ultimately it was the three wise men who came to the Prime Minister's rescue. 'Jacob Rees-Mogg, IDS [Iain Duncan Smith] and John Redwood were the ones who saved Rishi,' a rebel MP explained to me about last week's Rwanda Bill. 'We had the votes. More than 60 of us voted to amend the Bill. But those three convinced everyone we couldn't destroy the whole thing. IDS said, "We can't hand Starmer that victory." ' So Sunak and his Rwanda plan limp on. When it came to the crunch, the so-called 'Five Families' of disparate Tory plotters who had modelled themselves on New York's Mafia crime gangs ended up looking more like a mob from Bugsy Malone than The Godfather. Despite the threats and resignations, only 11 Tory MPs actually voted against the legislation. But if the PM thinks his internal troubles are behind him, his backbench opponents insist he should think again. 'We've shown we've easily got the numbers to defeat the Government,' another insurgent told me. 'It's only a matter of time now. Sooner or later an issue will come up where our interests and Labour's interests align. And then people will strike.' Ultimately it was the three wise men who came to the Prime Minister's rescue. 'Jacob Rees-Mogg, IDS [Iain Duncan Smith] and John Redwood were the ones who saved Rishi,' a rebel MP explained to me about last week's Rwanda Bill A colleague agrees. 'A number of flashpoints are coming up. There'll be another string of by-election defeats. The polls aren't turning, they're getting worse. Then we've got the local elections, which will be a bloodbath. 'And Sunak doesn't have a strategy to turn things around. He keeps saying he's taking long-term decisions, but in truth he can't take a decision on anything unless he's forced to.' All this forms the rationale that the Tory rebels keep putting forward for their ongoing agitation. They don't want to have to oust Sunak, they insist. They just want A Better Rishi. If only he'd follow their lead and political instincts, he would realign his Government and party with its fracturing base, see off the looming threat of Reform (formerly Ukip), and transform his electoral fortunes. It's a rationale rooted in utter delusion. More plots. More parliamentary guerrilla warfare. More hackneyed, self-aggrandising allusions to Cosa Nostra capos. That would simply lead the Tory Party to a single destination electoral destruction. The simple truth is the rebels now have two choices. First, stop all the grandstanding and game-playing, and just get on and dump Rishi Sunak. Yes, given their recent habit of changing leaders with the frequency some people change socks, this would represent a desperate final gamble. But at least it would contain a sliver of logic. Rishi Sunak speaking during the weekly session of Prime Minister's Questions in the House of Commons on Wednesday 'When it came to the crunch, the so-called 'Five Families' of disparate Tory plotters who had modelled themselves on New York's Mafia crime gangs ended up looking more like a mob from Bugsy Malone than The Godfather. Pictured: Jacob Rees-Mogg The message the Tories should be hammering home to voters is clear: 'If Starmer lied to them to become Labour leader, he won't have any problem in lying to you'. PIctured: John Redwood A rebel MP said: 'We had the votes. More than 60 of us voted to amend the Bill. But those three convinced everyone we couldn't destroy the whole thing. Iain Duncan Smith said, "We can't hand Starmer that victory." ' Sunak's personal approval ratings are now plumbing Liz Truss-like depths. He has a common touch that makes Marie Antoinette look like Fred Dibnah. And at this stage of the electoral cycle there is neither time nor space for any great political reinvention. The Rishi the Tories have is the Rishi they're stuck with. That is, unless they forcibly remove him, replace him with a more instinctive populist such as Boris Johnson or Kemi Badenoch, and try to completely reframe the debate. Such a course would be unlikely to deliver victory. But it might just mitigate their losses, and keep Sir Keir Starmer honest. The second option is for the Tory malcontents to ditch dreams of sacking their leader and decide to back him. Properly back him. Shut down the shadowy cabals. Shove the alternative manifestos and policy papers in the shredder. End the sniping and conniving, get their heads down and actually Heaven forbid throw their weight behind their own Tory Prime Minister and his strategy. OK, in fairness, that would need Sunak to identify a strategy and stick to it. The Five Pledges Plan. The Ditch The Green Crap And Get The Government Off People's Backs Plan. The Make People Healthier And Happier By Banning Smoking And Gambling And TikTok Plan. If the PM thinks his internal troubles are behind him, his backbench opponents insist he should think again. 'We've shown we've easily got the numbers to defeat the Government,' another insurgent told me. 'It's only a matter of time now. Sooner or later an issue will come up where our interests and Labour 's interests align. And then people will strike' Over the past year, each has been rolled out, then hastily rolled back again. Creating confusion and anxiety even among those who are minded to give him their support. 'I don't mind backing Rishi,' one Tory MP told me forlornly. 'In fact, I want to back him. But to do that he's got to give us something to back.' He also has to give his party something to attack. Instead of focusing their fire on their own Prime Minister and by extension their own feet Tory backbenchers need to be channelling their aggression towards Labour. But again, to do that, they need their PM to take a lead. It's clear that Sunak and his team have yet to agree on a clear plan for defining and defeating Starmer. Their current strategy appears to be to try to paint him as a dangerous ideologue who is merely waiting to throw off the slightly threadbare cloak of Blairism and unleash unfettered Marxism on an unsuspecting nation. But that attack is not finding resonance, because it doesn't align with reality. The problem isn't that Starmer secretly believes in a genuine socialist alternative. It's that he doesn't appear to believe in much of anything. Last week saw for the umpteenth time surreptitious briefings that he is preparing to ditch his 28 billion Green Prosperity Plan, which sits at the heart of his economic and political programme. The Ten Pledges he used to trick Jeremy Corbyn's downcast activists into handing him the Labour leadership have been unashamedly dumped. The problem isn't that Starmer secretly believes in a genuine socialist alternative. It's that he doesn't appear to believe in much of anything So the message the Tories should be hammering home to voters is clear: 'If Starmer lied to them to become Labour leader, he won't have any problem in lying to you.' Yet even if Sunak can sharpen Tory spears to the point they can pierce Starmer's hitherto impregnable armour, there is little point if so many Tory MPs remain obsessed with fighting among themselves rather than taking the fight to Labour. As one Minister admitted to me: 'The problem is that some of our MPs don't even want to win the General Election. If they can't have their own pure agenda they'd like to see the world burn.' Well, if they carry on as they have over the past few days, they will get their wish. Divided parties lose elections. But parties that descend into a rabble get annihilated in them. And this is what the Tories looked like last week. It began with Suella Braverman and Robert Jenrick both until recently the most senior Ministers responsible for implementing the Rwanda plan telling anyone who would listen that the plan isn't fit for purpose. And it ended with the bizarre spectacle of Tory deputy chairman Lee Anderson resigning so he could oppose the Bill, then reversing his decision and rushing out of the 'No' lobby because he claimed Labour MPs were laughing at him. Sunak's personal approval ratings are now plumbing Liz Truss-like depths. He has a common touch that makes Marie Antoinette look like Fred Dibnah What on earth do the rebels think they will achieve by ensuring the farce of their Rwanda non-rebellion is played out over and over again between now and polling day? What is the desired outcome? That Rishi Sunak will finally be cowed into submission and bend to their iron will? That voters deserting their party in droves will look at this clown-show and say, 'I thought the Tory Party was losing touch with the likes of me. But look at them. Eleven out of 349 MPs took a principled stand, and the deputy chairman did a runner because people were giggling at him. They're the guys for me!' Last week those three wise men may have saved Rishi. And they may have temporarily managed to save their colleagues from themselves. But much more of this, and there is nothing that will save them or their party from the verdict of the British people. Western civilisation often looks the wrong way when it is threatened. After huge events, such as the September 11 outrages in New York, the free countries of the world turned themselves upside down in efforts to prevent a repeat. Long-treasured liberties were set aside. Travel became infinitely more difficult for innocent people, vast strategies to prevent radicalisation were launched and whole departments of universities and police forces were devoted to the struggle against terror. Similarly, conservatives over the past 40 years worked themselves into frenzies about the threat of the Trotskyist Militant tendency to take over the Labour Party. During the Cold War much attention was paid to actual communist infiltration on the part of the Soviet Union, though to little effect. All the time these concerns were being voiced, dedicated critics of our open societies were working away undisturbed in key parts of our national framework. Spreading out from the universities of the 1960s and afterwards, they inserted themselves into the teaching profession at all levels, into the media, especially broadcasting, into the law and the civil service, into local government and eventually into national politics too. Their success was unspectacular but enormous, as we shall see. It was done by dull, unexciting people ceasing to shout slogans and instead finding their way behind important desks in every corner of the key structures of civilisation. Wherever you encountered officialdom in the 1950s, you generally met traditional and even conservative men and women. By the 1990s, you were far more likely to confront individuals who were opposed to tradition and very open to revolutionary thinking. As The Mail on Sunday reports today, at least 300 schools in England are signed up to Stonewall programmes that urge them to avoid calling pupils 'boys' and 'girls' and to introduce books that endorse the Stonewall agenda, plus gender-neutral toilets and uniforms (Stock Image) Stonewall receives millions in fee income from schools and local authorities, while offering 'awards' to schools that comply with its desires. A similar system operates in the NHS. Pictured: Stonewall supporters (File Photo) Many Sixties Left-wingers learned a key lesson from the American activist Saul Alinsky who, in his book Rules For Radicals, told them to stop marching and shouting, and hoisting red flags on things, and to use their energy instead in the tedious but effective work of committees and bureaucracies. The process was given a name, nearly 60 years ago, by the German radical sociologist Rudi Dutschke, who proclaimed a 'long march through the institutions'. The marchers on this expedition were to pass 'through the institutions of power', there to 'create radical change from within government and society by becoming an integral part of the machinery'. And this is more or less where we are now. This may explain the curious inability of our elected government to do anything about the onward march of Stonewall and its ferocious radicalism about transgender issues. As The Mail on Sunday reports today, at least 300 schools in England are signed up to Stonewall programmes that urge them to avoid calling pupils 'boys' and 'girls' and to introduce books that endorse the Stonewall agenda, plus gender-neutral toilets and uniforms. What is the long-term purpose of this campaign? Why can democratic authority not put a stop to it? Stonewall receives millions in fee income from schools and local authorities, while offering 'awards' to schools that comply with its desires. A similar system operates in the NHS. But the key point is that those activities have continued virtually unchecked even though Ministers ordered Government departments to sever links with the charity two years ago. English education law is clear that ideological material should not be promoted in schools. Yet it seems to be unenforced, and perhaps unenforceable. The schools, more than any other part of the state, appear to have a remarkably high population of radicals of all kinds. Perhaps, instead of largely ritual 'security' measures and attacks on civil liberties, proper conservatives might now turn their minds to their own Long March, recapturing the vital parts of society that revolutionaries took over while we were not looking. It is a method that certainly works, if only you have the staying power. She was born into the FLDS in Sandy, Utah, and was 'groomed' from a young age A woman has candidly revealed what life was like inside a polygamist Mormon cult after she became the 65th wife of its polygamist pedophile leader Warren Jeffs. Briell Decker appeared on a recent episode of the Cults To Consciousness podcast to discuss her experience within the Fundamentalist Latter Day Saints Church (FLDS) - a break away group which branched off when mainstream Mormonism ceased practicing polygamy. Having been born into the religion in Sandy, Utah, she was groomed from an early age to one day become a plural wife of Jeffs. She was just 18 when she married the self-proclaimed prophet, who was more than 30 years her senior, and was punished for resisting his affections. Jeffs has since been convicted of two felony counts of child sexual assault for having sex with two girls aged 12 and 14. Briell Decker appeared on a recent episode of the Cults To Consciousness podcast to discuss her experience within the Fundamentalist Latter Day Saints Church She was just 18 when she married the self-proclaimed prophet, who was more than 30 years her senior, but was punished for resisting his affections Briell began by telling host Shelise Ann Sola how Jeffs had 'usurped authority to become the leader' just before her 18th birthday after his father Rulon passed away. He claimed that he had been chosen by god and, despite dozens of his former students testifying in his favor, Briell said she 'saw red flags on the very first day.' But she had little choice over their relationship. 'All the marriages in the church were decided by the leader - they were all arranged marriages and if you did choose, it was seen as really bad,' she explained. Marrying the prophet was considered by many to be 'an honor' - a sentiment not shared by Briell's family. The former FLDS explained: 'I was making dinner the day that [the wedding] happened, my father walked in the room and my mother recognized the look on his face and actually screamed "no." 'My parents were scared and they couldn't really express a lot.' Briell explained: 'My wedding was definitely a secret wedding. My mother was not invited to it. 'Jeffs was running from the law so he didn't want anybody really to know about it except for he did invite my father. My father was crying when he took me there.' The former FLDS member explained: 'My wedding was definitely a secret wedding. My mother was not invited to it' Briell said that she was ultimately punished for her disinterest in Jeffs, who she claimed was 'controlling' and is estimated to have more than 80 wives Briell (left) told host Shelise Ann Sola (right) how Jeffs had 'usurped authority to become the leader' just before her 18th birthday after his father Rulon passed away She explained that it was not until she arrived at the ceremony that she was told she would be marrying Jeffs himself, adding: 'I was terrified of him. I was so scared of him.' But Briell went through with it nonetheless despite having little understanding about relationships, sex education, anatomy or reproduction. She said Jeffs, who had been the principal at her school, had been 'the one that prepped me for this day,' adding: 'He's the one that groomed me.' The pair shared a kiss at the end before their nuptials came to an end and they were left alone for the first time as a married couple. 'He sent my father and his brother out of the room. He sat on a chair and he was like "come sit on my lap" and I hesitated because I was scared. 'I was kind of in shock after he confirmed that I was supposed to marry him. I went into a foggier feeling so I hesitated. 'I immediately saw the anger on his face. He was so angry.' She explained that she eventually walked over and sat on his lap, adding: 'He did touch me all over and I was so numbed out.' 'I didn't really love him. I was actually not even attracted to him. I kind of believed in god when I married him but I didn't really love him.' In 2011, Warren Jeffs was sent away for life after he was convicted of two felony counts of child sexual assault for having sex with two girls aged 12 and 14 Having become Jeffs 65th wife, she admitted: 'It just became worse over time because he had a bunch of doctrines that said you're supposed to love your sister wives, you're supposed to sacrifice for them and in my situation I didn't love him so I never cared. 'He had tons of wives so I never would get a turn at all in any situation and it would infuriate him because over time he realized that I wasn't attracted to him.' Briell explained that former leader Rulon had a 'rotation cycle where every wife got a turn after so many days' but his son did not employ such a system. 'When I went into his family he's like, "God will tell me if you're ever worthy [for me to spend time with]." 'A lot of the wives, it did hurt them pretty bad I believe because they were always trying to do everything he said... but if he didn't like him then they weren't going to get a turn. 'It didn't matter if God said or not, it didn't really have anything to do with that.' She continued: 'In my mind, I didn't like him so I didn't really care and I was pretty bold about saying I wasn't really hurt by polygamy itself.' But Briell said that she was ultimately punished for her disinterest in Jeffs, who she claimed was 'controlling' and is estimated to have more than 80 wives. Jeffs is currently serving a life sentence plus 20 years for the charges The cult leader usually rotated household chores - such as cooking and sewing - among his wives every month but she was 'put on every single one of those for an hour every day.' 'He put me in survival mode form day one... I was literally running from one job to the the other and by the time I got home at night I would crash sleep and then in the mornings I wouldn't wake up on time because I was so tired.' Nonetheless, Briell said she could never lie to Jeffs because as he was the leader 'the repercussion would be pretty great.' Briell explained that she eventually 'turned on' her husband and was forced to go into hiding after attempting to leave. She became subject to 'targeted harassment' from other members of the cult - claiming one had even been instructed to kill her - before eventually breaking free aged 26. Briell concluded: 'When I realized I had freedom in my life for the first time after I escaped, it was such a big deal to me and it still is. 'I want that for everyone. I really want everyone to break these chains psychologically and even physically at times to where hopefully they will get a taste of freedom.' In 2011, Warren Jeffs was sent away for life after he was convicted of two felony counts of child sexual assault for having sex with two girls aged 12 and 14. He is currently serving a life sentence plus 20 years for the charges, however, it has previously been reported that he has continued to preach to FLDS' remaining members from his prison cell. As of 2018, the Guardian reported that there were still around 10,000 active members of the church. The YouTube creator spent the last four years working towards making it livable If you build it they will come - at least one man is hoping that's the case, after buying an abandoned town and building a hotel to attract visitors. YouTube creator Brent Underwood and his investor friend, Jon Bier, owner of boutique public relations agency Jack Taylor PR, bought Cerro Gordo from family owners in July 2018 with plans to turn it into a tourist attraction. The 300-acre property, which contains 22 buildings, is located about 220 miles north of Los Angeles. The treacherous journey to the historic town is made on a single-lane gravel road that ranges from '2,000 feet above sea level to 8,500 feet above sea level.' YouTuber Brent Underwood purchased the abandoned Cerro Gordo mine in California in July 2020 Brent and Jon are currently undertaking the 'project above all projects,' which is rebuilding a hotel in the town 'Since the Coronavirus outbreak, I've moved from Austin, Texas up to the town and I'm living alone in this abandoned ghost town trying to make it into a place for more people to enjoy,' Brent shared in a clip to his channel. According to the creator, the town was originally established in 1865, and the silver from Cerro Gordo was responsible for helping to build up LA. Brent has previously said he was drawn to Cerro Gordo's long and bloody history. At its peak in the 19th century, the community of 5,000 people was a haven for violent crime because the nearest law enforcement agencies couldn't be bothered to police it given the remote location. 'The prosperity of Cerro Gordo demanded a larger port city and pushed LA to develop quickly,' he wrote in the description for a YouTube video. Brent and Jon are currently undertaking the 'project above all projects,' which is rebuilding a hotel in the town. The American Hotel tragically burned down in 2020, which Brent described as a 'gut punch,' and has vowed to rebuild it. 'There's going to be six rooms in this top floor, all of the rooms will have just postcard views,' he explained, showing off the panoramic views of the town. Currently, the hotel still has a way to go, with no roof and supply transportation issues making it difficult. The 300-acre property, which contains 22 buildings, is located about 220 miles north of LA 'There's going to be six rooms in this top floor, all of the rooms will have just postcard views,' Brent explained, showing off the panoramic views of the town from the soon-to-be-built hotel The American Hotel tragically burned down in 2020, which Brent described as a 'gut punch,' and has vowed to rebuild it Another big challenge Brent, who spends his days hiking and mining in the abandoned mines, faces is getting water into the buildings The treacherous journey to the historic town is made on a single-lane gravel road that ranges from '2,000 feet above sea level to 8,500 feet above sea level' Brent has previously said he was drawn to Cerro Gordo's long and bloody history. At its peak in the 19th century, the community of 5,000 people 'The hotel is an exercise and patience,' he explained. 'There's only so much I can do a lot of this work needs to be done by licensed contractors and so it's a waiting game at the moment.' Another big challenge Brent, who spends his days hiking and mining in the abandoned mines, faces is getting water into the buildings. 'Living with no running water is no joke but it's also led me on some of my biggest adventures up here,' he shared in the clip. Brent said he got a hydrogeologist come up to the town, who advised him on where he thought the best area would be to drill for water. To balance out the scientific approach, he also sought the advice of a water dowser - or 'water witch' - who use rods or pendulums to locate ground water, buried metals or ores, gemstones, oil, claimed radiations, gravesites and malign 'earth vibrations.' Brent reached out to a popular water dowser to ask if he could come out to the mine site. 'I read about Rob originally in a New York Times article that was about these huge multi-million dollar vineyards in Napa that were using Rob to find their well locations during a drought,' Brent explained. 'Oil companies swear by him, vineyards swear by him.' Rob does a lot of his dowsings remotely, printing out a map of the area and uses different pendulums to find the location of the water. For Brent, he located two main areas to drill a well to supply water to the town. '[Number one] is in a very easy to drill location, it's very convenient, it's a lot closer to town than the one that the hydrogeologist came up with,' Brent explained. 'And the second location that Rob found was directly behind the museum over there so if you want the best it's over there quality if you want the most gallons it's right here.' The hotel has beautiful panoramic views of the stunning landscape that surrounds the property Brent reached out to a popular water dowser, Rob (pictured) to ask if he could come out to the mine site Brent spends some time exploring the abandoned mines the 22-building town is built around Brent continues explaining getting running water to the town is one of his main priorities, especially with the hotel being built. 'I think 2024 is going to be a big year for water at Cerro Gordo,' he said confidently. Brent has previously spoken about his experiences in the ghost town, admitting he didn't believe in ghosts before he started living in Cerro Gordo, but had his first supernatural experience on the property. He detailed a story of when he had some friends visiting, so went to stay in the bunkhouse on the property, but noticed there was a light on in the kitchen. 'I walked down here to the bunkhouse and I looked in that first window right there and the curtain all been been closed and a curtain open and closed and a little face looked out and the light was on in the kitchen,' he recalled. 'I went down to Robert our caretaker and I said Robert how long are the contractors staying in the bunkhouse and he kind of turned and looked at me he said the contractors left two weeks ago. So that was a bit spooky.' Queen Margrethe used her New Year's Eve speech to announce her abdication There's nothing quite like a meddling mother-in-law - and it appears even a Queen isn't above trying to interfere with her son and daughter-in-law's relationship if it arguably means it will save the future of her country's monarchy. Or at least, that's how Queen Margrethe II's abdication in favour of her scandal-hit son Frederik, now King of Denmark, may seem to some onlookers. For royal reporter Kenth G. Madsen, the former monarch's decision to step back from her role on January 14, when her eldest became ruler following his accession to the throne, and her daughter-in-law Mary, became Queen, was 'damage control'. Margrethe's shock abdication was announced in her New Year's Eve speech - and came after the monarchy was rocked by pictures of the King enjoying a night out with Genoveva Casanova in Madrid in November. The Mexican socialite, 47, was forced to deny 'malicious' rumours about her friendship with the then Crown Prince - and Queen Mary has remained tight-lipped. But Mr Madsen suggested that to secure the monarchy amid the 'affair' rumours, Margrethe was left with 'no other choice' but to abdicate to 'remove the focus' from the speculation and 'at the same time give Mary the status of Queen' to perhaps avoid 'a royal divorce scandal'. King Frederik X of Denmark and Queen Mary of Denmark (R) kiss on the balcony of Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, Denmark on January 14, 2024 Speaking to FEMAIL, the royal reporter claimed: 'It can be difficult to forgive alleged infidelity in a relationship unless the price for turning a blind eye is suitably high. 'Against the background of the disclosure of Frederik's visit to Madrid and the documentation of the meeting with Genoveva Casanova, it is reasonable to believe that Queen Margrethe found the time to throw out a lifeline, before the relationship between the Crown Prince couple completely cracked due to the scandal. 'The Queen actually had no other choice: in a strategic move, the monarch succeeded in removing the focus from the affair rumours, and at the same time giving Mary the hyper rare status of queen. 'A royal divorce scandal of that magnitude could break the strongest royal house forever. 'The risk that the popularity and reputation the Queen has built up during her 52 years as monarch could be destroyed forever if she had not done damage control on the matter.' Potential tensions possibly still in Frederik and Mary's marriage were revealed after they shared an awkward public kiss on the balcony of Christiansborg Palace after becoming King and Queen on January 14. Body language expert Adrianne Carter told FEMAIL: 'When Mary joins Frederik we initially see quite a distance between the two of them as they hold hands, he moves closer which she accepts. A literal distance can often mean a distance in a relationship. 'When the children join them, they all move in together. Mary encompasses her children showing that's her important focus.' Queen Margrethe II gives a New Year's speech and announces her abdication from Christian IX's Palace, Amalienborg Castle, in Copenhagen, Sunday 31 December 2023 Margrethe's shock abdication was announced in her New Year's Eve speech - and came after the monarchy was rocked by pictures of the King enjoying a night out with Genoveva Casanova (pictured) in Madrid in November Departing from Queenstown Airport in New Zealand after a four-day trip amid a visit to her native Australia, Mary appeared to wipe away a tear as she said goodbye to friends and prepared to make the journey back to Denmark However, when the King pulls Mary close as the children leave the balcony - the Queen is 'the first to pull away'. Giving her interpretation of the footage, she continued: 'Frederik pulls her in for a kiss, which he tries to do a few times before it actually happens. This is something he has planned, rather than something spontaneous.' Adrianne also noted that when Frederik tries to kiss Mary on the side of the forehead, she 'doesn't react in any way; she just accepts'. The body language expert mused whether Frederik is 'still in the dog house' after rumours of an alleged affair with Mexican socialite Genoveva. Adrianne said: 'We see Frederik pull in Mary and plant a kiss on the side of her forehead. She doesn't react in any way; she just accepts. Is Frederik still in the dog house I wonder?' Margrethe shocked the nation and many royal watchers around the world when she used her annual New Year's Eve speech to announce live on television that she was stepping down as Queen after 52 years. But timing of her abdication has raised questions, as it comes months after her son Frederik hit the headlines for his night out with Genoveva, who has since denied any suggestion of an 'affair' between the two. In her address the 83-year-old said she had taken stock after undergoing back surgery last year and had decided it was it was time 'to leave the responsibility to the next generation' - namely her eldest son. But speculation has continued to mount that the decision was made to keep Frederik's wife of 19 years, Mary, who is extremely popular with the public, on side. Australian-born Mary has won over the Danish public with her dedication to royal duty and her fluency in the language, with a recent poll finding 85 per cent of Danes have a positive opinion of the 51-year-old. Her husband is also similarly popular, having turned his public image around from being a rebel tearaway and party boy during his youth to becoming a 'woke' family man. The abdication means Mary, who first met Frederik at a pub in Sydney, has now become the world's first Australian-born queen. The Danish royal family yesterday appeared in a stunning new family portrait for the first time since their crowning (Pictured left to right: Princess Isabella, 16, Crown Prince Christian, 18, King Frederik, 55, and Queen Mary of Denmark, 51, twins Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine, 13) Princess Isabella, Crown Prince Christian, King Frederik X of Denmark, Queen Mary of Denmark, Princess Josephine and Prince Vincent wave after their parents became King and Queen of Denmark She was working as an advertising executive when she first met Frederik in a packed city pub 23 years ago and had no idea the handsome European tourist she had been chatting to for hours was actually the future king of Denmark. Now, married for 19 years and proud parents to four children, Mary has won her adopted country over by her dedication to royal duty and her fluency in the language. And despite speculation about the state of the royal couple's marriage over the years, there is nothing concrete to suggest they are anything but happily married. The pair was most recently rocked by rumours after photographs emerged of Frederik, 55, apparently enjoying a night out with Mexican socialite Genoveva Casanova in Madrid in October. But despite allegations of an 'affair', Frederik and Mary have continued to put on a show of unity at various recent events. The abdication may not come as a total shock to all: according to one source from 2021, stepping down has been on Margrethe's mind for quite some time now. Speaking to Woman's Day, the insider explained that the royal had been slowly but surely guiding her daughter-in-law for the duties over the years. And for several reasons, the timing for stepping down seemed appropriate. For example, in February, Margrethe underwent a successful back surgery. 'The surgery naturally gave rise to thinking about the future - whether the time had come to leave the responsibility to the next generation,' she said in her speech. In addition, the timing of the move has raised questions, as it comes just weeks after Frederik hit the headlines when he was pictured on a night out in Madrid with a Mexican socialite, sparking rumours of an alleged 'affair'. Speculation is mounting that the decision was made to keep Frederik's wife of 19 years Princess Mary, who is extremely popular with the public, on side. Princess Mary, who is set to become the nation's first Australian-born queen in a number of weeks, has won over the Danish public with her dedication to royal duty and her fluency in the language. The King and Queen at the Danish Parliament in Copenhagen earlier this month Her husband is also similarly popular, having turned his public image around from being a rebel tearaway and party boy during his youth to becoming a family man. However, their relationship came under scrutiny last year when Frederik was spotted on a night out with Mexican reality star Genoveva Casanova in October. While the Royal Household refused to comment on photos of the pair together, Genoveva issued a public statement denying any kind of romantic relationship and called the rumours 'malicious'. Thanks to Mary's reported closeness to her mother-in-law, and her taking on advice and guidance, according to royal reporter Kenth G. Madsen, Mary will 'play a very prominent role' and 'will not be an invisible queen'. However, he also explained she may, to avoiding straying into political territory, need to be careful with initiatives around women's and children's rights abroad. She and Frederik may also need to encompass causes Margrethe was passionate about, to expand their repertoire - 'so that it is not just the more modern topics'. One of the trickier aspects Mary may find about being Queen is living so far from her native Australia. While she has spent more than two decades in Denmark, her new responsibilities may mean she has less opportunity to visit home. It is possible that Mary's new duties will affect how often she is able to visit her home in Australia. And the royal appeared very emotional as she wrapped up her pre-Christmas break Down Under earlier this month. Departing from Queenstown Airport in New Zealand after a four-day trip amid a visit to her native Australia, Mary appeared to wipe away a tear as she said goodbye to friends and prepared to make the journey back to Denmark. She also shared a post about loneliness and the need for positive human connection during the festive period. In the letter posted on the Mary Foundation website, the future queen reflected on the past year - and said she felt it was shorter than previous years. 'And at the same time, so much has happened that it is impossible to put it all into words,' she continued. An excerpt shared on the official Instagram account for the Danish Royal House had some speculating the princess was using her foundation to hint at the affair rumours. Meanwhile, body language expert Judi James told FEMAIL that Mary looked 'disengaged' when joining the Spanish King and Queen in Copenhagen in November. Her husband, meanwhile, appeared 'hesitant' towards his wife (pictured) Last November, then Crown Princess Mary and Crown Prince Frederik looked frosty in a photo shared by the Danish Palace, body language expert Judi James claimed 'We need each other if we are to succeed. And that's not only true in the working world and for those of us who are working to combat social isolation,' it read. 'This is true for all of us. Humans need humans.' The touching words were shared alongside a stunning picture of the royal in the snow. She wore a purple jacket beneath a warm wool wrap and gave a soft smile towards the camera. READ MORE: Queen Margrethe's heartwarming tribute to late husband Prince Henrik revealed as she becomes first Danish monarch to abdicate in 900 years Advertisement 'The Danish royal family are lucky to have you. I hope your husband realises he has embarrassed you and his children immeasurably. You will make a fine queen,' one fan commented. Another wrote: 'I think this is a sad year for Mary, her husband's (alleged) betrayal and it's public. What a brave woman, she can handle anything. I just adore her.' The Danish King and his wife first met in her native Australia during the Sydney Olympics in 2000. After an encounter at the Slip Inn, then 32-year-old Fred asked Mary, then 28, for her phone number and a romance blossomed. 'The first time we met we shook hands. I didn't know he was the prince of Denmark. Half an hour later someone came up to me and said, "Do you know who these people are"?' Mary revealed in an interview about meeting the heir to the Danish throne. They maintained a long-distance relationship for a year, with Frederik making secret trips Down Under before Mary moved to Denmark to study Danish language at Copenhagen's Studieskolen in 2001. In early 2003, Frederik's mother Queen Margrethe publicly acknowledged the relationship and the couple announced their engagement at Amalienborg Castle later that year on October 8. However, at least for now it looks like they are planning to continue living in their current residence. Currently, Mary and her family reside in Frederik VIII's Palace at Amalienborg. She and Frederik took over the property from the State in 2010 - when a full refurbishment and restoration was completed after six years. Today, it is their private residence with administrative and ceremonial functions. They also reside at the Chancellery House at Fredensborg Palace. According to royal reporter Kenth G. Madsen, the couple will live in their current accommodation and have no plans to relocate. Some people text their loved ones after they've passed away as a helpful coping mechanism, a therapist has revealed. Therapist Dr Sheri Jacobson, an Oxford University graduate and founder of Harley Therapy, revealed that texting someone after they've died can be a helpful to soothe the finality of the 'abrupt' loss. She also says reaching out is human nature, that we are creatures of habit and so would prefer to 'continue our actions from the time they were alive'. So say many mourners, including the grieved parents of 17-year-old Charlie Cosser who was stabbed to death at an end-of-term party last July. Such is the pain of Martin and Tara Cosser that they continued to send a WhatsApp message each morning to their son Charlie's phone after he died. Such is the pain of Martin and Tara Cosser (pictured) that they continued to send a WhatsApp message each morning to their son Charlie Cosser's phone after he died Tara said: 'I just send him a message saying I love him with a couple of hearts. 'It is just a simple message. Of course, nothing comes back. I just don't want to be scrolling down on my phone to find his name'. Famously 90210 star Brian Austin Green, 50, revealed in 2019 that he also turned to the trend following the death of his ex co-star Luke Perry of a massive stroke the same year. The actor, and ex beau of Megan Fox said he texted his late pal 'hoping, that he would text me back, or that he was out there somewhere'. Similarly, Ruth Murray, from Minneapolis, continued to message her sibling Mike Murray, 37, after he passed away unexpectedly in March 2019. She repeatedly sent him texts to say how much she missed him - but was shocked to receive a reply from a woman who had been assigned his old number. She said her brother passed away from a heroin overdose and so she decided to message him in order to help her work through her grief. Famously 90210 star Brian Austin Green, 50, revealed in 2019 that he texted his ex co-star Luke Perry following his death from a massive stroke (Pictured: Cast of Beverly Hills, 90210 - Brian Austin Green (left) and Luke Perry (right) How to stop texting a dead loved one... Dr Sheri has revealed five ways to stop texting a loved one once they gave died. Cold turkey The expert said you can try setting a date for when you will send your last text message and send it as an 'ending message'. Planned reduction Dr Sheri said: 'If you prefer to phase them out then you can gradually reduce the frequency until they naturally taper'. Substitution The expert said you might want to think of a different action which you could swap with texting. She listed activities like watering a plant or doing a two-minute breathing exercise. 'Instead of texting, you will be left with a pleasant, nurturing habit' she added. Add self-care elements She said of self-care tips: This will differ greatly from person to person and your psychological state. 'Try small treats like solo walks, time in nature, indulging in a good book or film, or whatever you can focus. Reach out for professional help She concluded by advising that you reach out to a helping hand following the loss of someone dear. 'Besides individual therapy, local bereavement groups can be very helpful as they additionally incorporate social support'. Accountability Dr Sheri said: 'If you share your goal with someone close to you, you might be more likely to work towards that end of texting, given there is a witness and support'. Assisted method She advised speaking with a therapist to allow you the chance to discuss the significance of messaging to you. She also said one can work with you in tailored ways to find out how to move forward. Dr Sheri has also provided healthy tips to help you navigate your grief: Honour your feelings as they arise The therapist explained that grief can be more complicated than you first anticipate. If you try to suppress your emotions, they are likely to come out in other ways. She added: 'Do try to acknowledge what you are going through. It may not be pleasant, but it is natural'. Soften your appraoch The expert suggested softening your approach, and to allow yourself room to grieve instead of being too hard on yourself. Try talking to yourself as you would a friend. She said: 'Allow in the messiness that grief can bring, including the difficult thoughts you are having'. Connect with others She explained: 'This may or may not include talking about your loved one. Although you may not feel up to socialising, the social support can be very valuable in facilitating healing' Advertisement Although not the response she was expecting, she was thankful to receive a reply from the woman, who had offered to be a personal 'sounding board'. So why else do we text our loved ones after they've passed away? And how can this behaviour be rationalised? Dr Sheri explained: 'It usually takes a long time for us to adjust to the death of a loved one. Sometimes we continue our actions from the time they were alive. 'This is partly because we are habit-forming in nature and continue doing the things that we are accustomed to. It's also partly a way of staying connected to that individual. 'It can be a helpful coping mechanism since it can be a bridge to the other individual and help to ease our abrupt sense of loss. If in particular, the content of the writing is about how you are feeling, it could be cathartic in itself and a form of self-soothing'. While it would perhaps be insensitive to to try and regulate how one grieves following a loss, the expert revealed that it forms part of a larger grieving process, and it shouldn't last forever. She said: 'We go through various stages of grief - such as shock, denial, bargaining, anger, depression, acceptance - in different ways and sometimes we spend longer in one period. 'However gradually we work towards a place of acceptance and integration where we are not stuck in our grief. It's possible that texting could be an ongoing way to commemorate that person and our relationship, in a similar way to visiting a grave. 'There is general acceptance that grave visits can be ongoing, and texting could be seen in a similar light, though a relatively recent method in human history'. She went on to add that the texting should never be excessive or interfere with your daily life. She concluded: 'Ideally you will feel that you feel you have moved on with life, whilst still retaining the memory or them and their legacy'. Naturally, Kate Moss celebrated turning 50 with two big parties. How could only one do justice to the ultimate chameleon, the muse of the top photographers and artists of the age? The first, on the Caribbean island of Mustique with her loyal girl gang, including Sadie Frost and ex-model Rosemary Ferguson, involved spiritual, New Age rituals reflecting Kate's current persona as health brand founder. Even so, I would hazard there were a few frozen margaritas on the menu, too. The second party was a more classic Kate bash, in Paris, where she arrived in a crochet bodystocking-style dress and black knickers mirroring the famous 1993 photograph of her in a transparent slip dress and black underwear. And she's so right to celebrate. While turning 50 is certainly a milestone which, however hard even Kate Moss might try, has nothing youthful sounding about it, I have good news for her and anyone approaching that landmark date. Your 50s can be a great decade. Like all periods of life, personal circumstance defines how you feel, but my own 50s were my best decade. I had the advantages of experience but none of the anxiety about whether I would ever have a home, a husband, a child or a satisfying job subjects that dominated much of my 20s and 30s. Naturally, Kate Moss celebrated turning 50 with two big parties Kate celebrated on the Caribbean island of Mustique with her loyal girl gang, including Sadie Frost and ex-model Rosemary Ferguson, involved spiritual, New Age rituals reflecting Kate's current persona as health brand founder In my 40s, I went through my first marriage and first divorce (I've not yet attempted a second of either), which was difficult and disconcerting, but by my 50s I'd seen my child come through teens into adulthood, lived with a lovely new partner and had a career which, though demanding, I knew I was good at. Most importantly, I had learnt the value of contentment, which previously had appeared a very lacklustre emotion. However, for many women it is the physical changes of ageing that cause the greatest dissatisfaction. Most of us are not going to look like Kate Moss when we reach 50 but, what's new? We didn't when we hit 30 either. What we can do is to change our expectations of ourselves. Gravitational pull, menopause and simply the stress of living will take their toll on how we look, but really, so what? In your 50s, it's much easier to accept physical shortcomings because the need to prove yourself to others and yourself is lesser. With that in mind, who cares if you are a dress size larger, if your skin is a bit more wrinkly, if your belly is very far from an ideal size? An awareness of mortality kicks in, giving a much kinder perspective on such things. I'm not silly enough to say that getting older and passing through the menopause gains you the superpower of nonchalance, and that it's a relief not to care how sexually attractive you are. Of course such concerns persist. But so long as you don't obsess about your appearance in your 50s, you can relax and focus on what you want to do with the rest of your life, of which there will hopefully be many more years. It's a great time to look forward. To consider making a change. Even Kate Moss is moving house. How I'd stop return of dangerous Donald On the subject of age, surely the solution to the ghastly prospect of a dangerous Trump or a doddery Biden winning this year's US presidential election is to put an age cap on holding public office. I would suggest 75 max, though no doubt should you ask any 74-year-old if they agree, the answer would be a resounding 'No'. For sale: a vast tally of second-hand Zara I'm collecting clothes for a vintage sale in aid of Laurence's Larder, our local refuge charity, and hours of this past week have been spent pricing them up piece by piece. There's a hell of a lot of Zara out there that people don't want to hang on to (stock image) Does a genuinely vintage but non-designer label 1950s beaded dress have a greater or lesser value nowadays than a decade-old piece of Ralph Lauren? How do people feel about resale White Company? How much can I ask for a nearly-new Jil Sander cashmere coat? It's been a fascinating process and made me think about what clothes are worth and to whom? One thing's for sure if these donations are anything to go by, there's a hell of a lot of Zara out there that people don't want to hang on to. Documentaries... or works of fiction? What's more truthful a biopic or documentary? I ask because there seems to be a huge appetite for both, judging by the number being released. For example, we have Sam Taylor-Johnson's upcoming biopic of Amy Winehouse, Sofia Coppola's Priscilla (about Elvis Presley and his wife) and Bradley Cooper's portrayal of the conductor Leonard Bernstein in Maestro. Documentary-wise, we've had the hugely successful four-parter Beckham on Netflix, and there is the new depiction of fashion designer John Galliano, whose career exploded in anti-Semitic, alcohol-induced rants in a Paris cafe in 2010. Ee have Sam Taylor-Johnson's upcoming biopic of Amy Winehouse Sofia Coppola's Priscilla and Bradley Cooper's portrayal of the conductor Leonard Bernstein in Maestro It's tempting to believe in the veracity of biopics, even if much of the content is fictional, such as in Peter Morgan's script for The Crown. But documentaries, even those featuring real-life subjects, are equally subjective, giving us not truth but the point of view of the director. They are fiction by omission. Beckham's company made his eponymous series, guaranteeing that several awkward subjects, such as his relationship with Qatar, were swerved. Also, High And Low, John Galliano's story, was made with his collaboration indeed he plays a huge part, though he didn't have ultimate control. That kind of hybrid may be as close to the truth as any of these can get. New tech might not be so smart after all My new Oura smart ring tracks my heart rate, sleep and stress levels, relaying results to an app. According to the data, I was super-calm all last week, even just after I found out that I'd booked the wrong flight to Rome for a weekend trip. Given that I actually felt extremely stressed at discovering the error, I'm wondering what it takes for my stress levels to show up on the graph. Possibly when I discover I screwed up the return flight booking, too. Mariam bint Mohammed Almheiri, former UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, met with the newly appointed minister, Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, to discuss the ministrys strategies and priorities moving forward. During the meeting, Almheiri, who is now the Head of the International Affairs Office at the Presidential Court, discussed the ministrys upcoming plans, initiatives and projects that serve the government and its national priorities. They agreed to offer mutual support to ensure a seamless continuation of vital environmental agendas without disruption, said a statement from the ministry. Expressing gratitude for the work undertaken by Almheiri, the minister asserted her commitment to building upon this legacy. "I am honored to assume this responsibility and deeply appreciative of Almheiris efforts in leading environmental efforts at the ministry. Under her wise guidance, significant strides were made in our environmental pursuits. I look forward to continuing our national efforts towards sustainable practices and innovative policies," she added. Lauding her support, Al Dahak said: "This is an important time for the UAEs environmental work, and I thank her for her support in ensuring a smooth transition. The UAE has proven its leadership on the international stage with the UAE Consensus and a highly successful COP28, and so, we must continue to lead the way at home in protecting our own environment and biodiversity" "I look forward to working with all our partners to further our sustainable practices and chart a path towards a greener future," she added. Almheiri said: "The UAE is a pioneer in the field of environmental sustainability and its commitment and innovative practices are a testament to the governments dedication to preserving the environment. I am delighted to hand over this important role to Dr. Amna and wish her the very best in leading our initiatives towards a brighter, more sustainable future." Al Dahak, a proficient government leader and distinguished academic, brings her wealth of experience in leading and driving forward key strategic initiatives to the ministry. In her new role, Al Dahak will oversee and lead environmental initiatives in partnership with other government partners, the private sector, startups in relevant sectors, and all segments of the community, in an effort to achieve the UAEs ambitious Net Zero 2050 Strategy.-TradeArabia News Service Earl Spencer has paid an emotional tribute to his late mother on what would have been her 88th birthday. Spencer, 59, who lives on the family estate, Althorp in Northamptonshire, took to Instagram yesterday to share a selection of newspaper cuttings about his mother, Frances Shand Kydd, who passed away in 2004. An article announcing the birth of the late Princess Diana, Charles' younger sister, is also seen nestled in the memory box filled with pictures. One of the photographs, captioned 'Lord and Lady Althorp's third daughter christened,' showed the mother of the Prince of Wales, 42, and Duke of Sussex, 39, as a newborn. Diana is wrapped in a white blanket while her parents proudly look down at her. Earl Spencer (pictured) shared a selection of photographs to mark his late mother's 88th birthday yesterday Princess Diana is photographed on the day of her christening with her mother and father in the memory box (pictured top left) Earl Spencer, who still resides at the family home, Althorp in Northamptonshire, shared the photo of his late sister, who was killed aged 36 in a car crash in Paris in 1997 Charles captioned the post: 'Remembering my mother, with love and gratitude, on what would have been her 88th birthday.' Hundreds flocked to the comment section to support Charles and to offer his mother a happy 'heavenly birthday'. Frances Shand Kydd wed the 8th Earl of Spencer in 1954 at 18 before divorcing in 1969. In 1968, Frances lost a custody battle for Diana, Charles and their sisters Jane and Sarah and tried again in 1971 to regain custody of Johnnie Spencer but lost again. The mother of Diana went to live with her new husband in Scotland after losing her first custody battle for her children, in which she was dubbed 'the bolter'. Diana and her mother had a rocky relationship and weren't on speaking terms before she died in 1997. In his Instagram stories, Earl Spencer also posted a photo of himself with his older sister Lady Elizabeth Sarah Lavinia McCorquodale It comes after the announcement that Princess Diana's brother will open up about the 'trauma' of being sent to boarding school aged eight in his highly anticipated memoir - which multiple outlets have dubbed as one to watch in 2024. Earl Spencer will recount the 'culture of cruelty' he experienced at Maidwell Hall, a preparatory school in Northampton, and provide 'important insights into an antiquated boarding system' in A Very Private School, set for release in March. The Guardian has flagged it on a list of 'nonfiction to look out for' this year - alongside titles including Salman Rushdie's Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder - to add to the 'the now many literary denunciations of boarding school'. It is also listed as one of the 'best' picks for this year by The Independent, and suggested as an anticipated memoir by the BBC. The Financial Times have recommended it in their article on what to read in 2024. According to Gallery Books - an imprint of publishing company Simon & Schuster - Charles will 'presents a candid reckoning with his past and a reclamation of his childhood'. A post on their Instagram in October added: 'A Very Private School offers a clear-eyed, first-hand account of a culture of cruelty at the school Charles Spencer attended in his youth and provides important insights into an antiquated boarding system.' Leaving for boarding school aged eight, Charles had six months of sleepless nights before heading to Maidwell Hall, where pupils judged to be stupid or lazy were 'really unpleasantly' beaten with a cane on their bare buttocks. Princess Diana's brother will open up about the 'trauma' of being sent to boarding school aged eight in his highly anticipated memoir, which multiple outlets have dubbed as one to watch in 2024 'I said I wanted to go to a state school because it must be preferable to 13-week blocks away in a rather cold and unpleasant place,' he told TES magazine. 'To be totally candid, I think, coming from my background, teachers had absolutely no expectations of me,' he said. 'They just thought I'd be fine in life anyway. I was lucky enough to drift through.' But the school's former headmaster John Paul has previously suggested that Earl Spencer may have exaggerated how bad his time there was. 'He's been in constant touch with the school ever since, so I don't think he could have been that unhappy,' Mr Paul said in 1992. And it would seem that Charles's experiences at Maidwell Hall would stick with him decades later. 'Fifty years ago tonight, I spent my first ever night away from my family,' he wrote in a post on X in 2022. 'I was 8, & I'd been sent away to boarding school. It was part of a family tradition. 12 September 1972 has been with me ever since. 'I have 7 children. None of them have been forced to go to boarding school.' Rather than going to state school, Charles headed to Eton College, during which time his sister Diana married Prince Charles when she was 20 years old. He then gained a place at Magdalen College, Oxford to study modern history but admitted he committed very little time to his degree. King Frederik of Denmark and Queen Mary attended the first church service of the new monarch's reign on Sunday. The 55-year-old king and his wife, 51, looked relaxed as they waved at those who'd turned out for the public meet-and-greet...as snow fell around Aarhus Cathedral. Joining the King, dressed in full military regalia, and Queen Mary were the couple's four children: Crown Prince Christian, 18, Princess Isabella, 16, and twins Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine, 13. The outgoing queen, 83-year-old Margrethe, also attended the change of throne service, looking relaxed and happy in a stylish faux grey fur ensemble and bright purple dress, as she made her way into the cathedral. King Frederik - officially King Frederik X - ascended the throne last Sunday after his mother abdicated after 52 years as queen. Denmark's King Frederik X, Queen Mary and their children Prince Vincent, Crown Prince Christian, Princess Isabella and Princess Josephine wave to well-wishers at Aarhus Cathedral as the family attends church for the first time since King Frederik was pronounced monarch on January 14th In full military regalia, the new king - officially King Frederik X - looked comfortable in his new role, despite his mother's abdication on New Year's Eve coming as a shock to the Danish people Queen Mary offers a wave to the gathered crowds in Aarhus as the new king and queen arrive at the church for the change of throne service The new king and queen pictured as they exited the royal car, which carries a number plate that simply reads 1 on it. King Frederik appeared to have put all the recent scandal - caused by his night out with Mexican socialite Genoveva Casanova late last year - behind him Tasmanian-born Queen Mary chose a purple dress coat and navy wool shawl for the service that celebrated the new king's reign, following his official coronation last Sunday Inside the cathedral, Queen Mary walked a few paces behind her husband as the couple were escorted in Queen Mary cut an elegant figure also in purple. The incoming queen wore a purple dress coast with a navy blue shawl, navy leather gloves and a purple pillbox hat. The Danish royal wore her brunette locks in loose curls, complementing the look with a pair of drop diamond earrings. The couple's daughters opted also for bright colours, with Princess Isabella in a pastel pink coat and her older sister Princess Josephine wearing a pale blue. The king and queen's sons donned sharp navy blue suits for the regal occasion. The Royal Family will participate in the celebratory service, led by the Royal Chaplain-in-Ordinairy and Bishop of the Diocese of Aarhus Henrik Wigh-Poulsen, according to the royal household. Queen Margrethe's younger sister, Princess Benedikte of Denmark, 79, also observed the purple theme, and she looked sophisticated in a violet cape and matching pillbox hat. The streets of Aarhus were still bedecked in red-and-white flags following the ceremony last Sunday to crown King Frederik. Royal fans wrapped up in warm clothes and braved the snowy conditions in the hope to support their new monarch. Denmark's former queen Margrethe, smiled at those in the pews at Aarhus Cathedral as she arrived for the service on Sunday The king and queen's four children - from left, Prince Vincent, Crown Prince Christian, Princess Isabella and Princess Josephine - looked comfortable as they greeted the crowds who'd turned out for the service Princess Benedikte of Denmark put on a glamorous display in a purple ensemble as she arrived at the Aarhus Cathedral The snowy conditions did not deter royal fans and they crowded around the cathedral to catch a glimpse at their new king Christian, Josephine, and Isabelle observed their mother, Queen Mary of Denmark, as she arrived at the celebratory event The royal family greeted members of the public with a smile and wave as they arrived at the service Frederik donned full military regalia for his first public appearance in Jutland as the new King of Denmark Mary observed the the newly proclaimed King Frederik X of Denmark as he waved to the crowds Frederik offered a firm handshake to a member of staff at the Aarhus Cathedral upon his arrival The 55-year-old monarch proudly walked into the cathedral as members of the audience stood to welcome him Frederik walked into the service first, followed by Mary and their oldest child and new heir apparent Prince Christian Two days ago, an official portrait of the family was released on the Danish Royal Family's Instagram page. The celebratory image featured the king and queen, 51, in full regalia, alongside the couple's elegantly dressed four children; the family was photographed inside the royal Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen. The scandal-laden prince took the Crown to become King of Denmark on January 14 2024, succeeding his 83-year-old's mothers phenomenal five-decade reign. Mary appeared to be in high spirits as she entered the cathedral walking shortly behind her husband Worth the wait: crowds braved the snow to catch a glimpse of their new monarch The streets of Aarhus were decorated ahead of the change of throne service Margrethe looked typically stylish in a floor-length silver fur coat and matching fur pillbox hat The Danish royal family have appeared in a stunning new family portrait for the first time since their crowning (Pictured left to right: Princess Isabella, 16, Crown Prince Christian, 18, King Frederik, 55, and Queen Mary of Denmark, 51, twins Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine, 13) The regal portrait, which was posted to the Danish Royal Family 's Instagram page this morning, was photographed from inside the royal Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen Margrethe's decision to vacate the throne in honour of her eldest son astonished many, as it comes amidst a controversial year for the royals who have been plagued by stripped titles and salacious rumours. It comes as a resurfaced interview revealed how Queen Mary almost never met then-Prince Frederik. 'I nearly didn't go that evening,' she told Vogue. 'The taxi arrived, and I said, 'Oh, all right' at the last minute and just got in.' The interview was conducted in 2004, but was recently republished. Mary and Frederik's fairytale romance has been under scrutiny in recent weeks. King Frederick has faced intense scrutiny since photographs emerged of the then prince enjoying a night out with Mexican socialite Genoveva Casanova in Madrid last year. The glamorous socialite strenuously denied claims of a romantic tryst with Frederik, even going as far as to dub them 'malicious'. However in the newly released image, the monarchs have shown no sign of sweat or adversity, and can be seen beaming excitedly for the camera. And while the royal couple looked incredibly distinguished, it was their eldest son Crown Prince Christian who stole the show According to a translated statement accompanying the image, the portraits were taken just moments after the king's ascension According to a translated statement accompanying the image, the portraits were taken just moments after the king's ascension. It read: 'The Throne Hall at Christiansborg Castle forms the frame for the first official portraits of Their Majesties The King and Queen. 'The portrait series was taken by photographer Dennis Stenild a few moments after the King's proclamation, which took place from the balcony of Tronsalen on the 14th. January 2024 'The Royal Couple is pictured together with The Crown Prince, His Royal Highness The Crown Prince, and Their Royal Highnesses Princess Isabella, Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine'. In the images the king looked exceptionally dapper dressed in black kingly robes and a sky blue sash. Queen Margrethe II announced her shocking abdication during a live television broadcast which aired on December 31 2023 The ensemble also featured gold and red detailing, as well stately gold medals and a waist belt. He also posed with a sword which he held in his left hand. Standing beside him was his wife Queen Mary, who cut a stylish figure in a luxurious white gown. She looked ethereal in the caped frock - an excellent choice as it highlighted her svelte figure. The monarch teamed the look with a pair of nude high-heeled pumps and donned a gorgeous pair of bejewelled drop-down earrings. Her brunette locks were styled neatly in a bun, while her make-up was the epitome of a natural, dewy glow. And while the royal couple looked incredibly distinguished, it was their eldest son Crown Prince Christian who stole the show. The charming prince - who's new status flags him as one of the most eligible bachelors in Europe - posed up a storm. His modelesque pose was perhaps most eye-catching because he stood taller than the rest of his family, and most notably his father. He looked suave in a navy blue suit, a crisp white shirt, a grey tie and black leather tie-up shoes. The eldest son of Australian-born Queen Mary is now next in line to the Danish throne after his grandmother Queen Margrethe abdicated the throne five days ago. Titled Crown Prince of Denmark, the 18-year-old is thought to be the only single royal with the prestigious status in the whole of Europe, meaning he's become quite the catch in high society. Queen Mary of Denmark radiated elegance as she attended a change of throne church service alongside her husband, King Frederik, today. The newly appointed royal couple appeared happier than in recent weeks, arriving at Aarhus Cathedral with their children: Crown Prince Christian, 18, Princess Isabella, 16, and twins Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine, 13. Tasmanian-born Mary, 51, stunned in a custom Sren le Schmidt purple coatdress that was created for the coronation of King Charles III last May. She protected herself from the snowy weather by wrapping up in a cosy shawl and leather gloves, adding a pillbox hat and court shoes to complete the look. The mother-of-four introduced a hint of sparkle with Bruun Rasmussen diamond earrings, an acquisition from an auction in 2022 that she has worn on several occasions. Queen Mary of Denmark exuded elegance as she attended a church service at Aarhus Cathedral Mary is renowned for her fashion choices, often sporting graceful ensembles that have been crafted specifically for her. Her mid-length coatdress by Sren le Schmidt featured a shawl collar, wrap front and cinched waist, created in a deep violet hue. This time, the Queen elevated her accessories, choosing leather scalloped gloves and a complementary purple pillbox hat. Meanwhile, her chestnut tresses were perfectly curled and arranged in a half up-half down hairstyle. King Frederik, 55, ascended the throne last Sunday after his mother Margrethe abdicated after 52 years as Queen. A celebratory portrait, photographed from inside the royal Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen, was posted to the Danish Royal Family's Instagram page earlier this week. The image featured the King and Queen, 51, in full regalia, alongside the couple's elegantly dressed four children. The scandal-laden prince took the Crown to become King of Denmark on January 14 2024, succeeding his 83-year-old mother's phenomenal five-decade reign. King Frederik X, Queen Mary and their children Prince Vincent, Crown Prince Christian, Princess Isabella and Princess Josephine wave to well-wishers at Aarhus Cathedral The mother-of-four introduced a hint of sparkle with Bruun Rasmussen diamond earrings, an acquisition from an auction in 2022 that she has worn on several occasions Mary looked radiant as she arrived at Aarhus Cathedral with her family on January 21 The Danish royal family attends church for the first time since King Frederik was pronounced monarch on January 14th Tasmanian-born Queen Mary chose a purple dress coat and navy wool shawl for the service that celebrated the new King's reign, following his official coronation last Sunday The royal couple appeared to be happier than ever arriving ahead of the church service The Danish royal family have appeared in a stunning new family portrait for the first time since their crowning (Pictured left to right: Princess Isabella, 16, Crown Prince Christian, 18, King Frederik, 55, and Queen Mary of Denmark, 51, twins Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine, 13) Margrethe's decision to vacate the throne in honour of her eldest son astonished many, as it comes amidst a controversial year for the royals who have been plagued by stripped titles and salacious rumours. It comes as a resurfaced interview revealed how Queen Mary almost never met then-Prince Frederik. 'The taxi arrived, and I said, 'Oh, all right at the last minute and just got in.' The interview was conducted in 2004, but was recently republished. Mary and Frederik's fairytale romance has been under scrutiny in recent weeks however. King Frederick has faced intense scrutiny since photographs emerged of the then prince enjoying a night out with Mexican socialite Genoveva Casanova in Madrid last year. The glamorous socialite strenuously denied claims of a romantic tryst with Frederik, even going as far as to dub them 'malicious'. However in the newly released image, the monarchs have shown no sign of sweat or adversity, and can be seen beaming excitedly for the camera. David Cameron swapped out his typical shirt and tie for a pair of trusty jeans and muddy trainers as he attended the races earlier today. Walking arm-in-arm with wife Samantha, 52, the UK's Foreign Secretary, braved the cold to attend Cocklebarrow races near Gloucestershire today. The former PM, who appears to be enjoying political life once more, strolled into the event with his wife of 27 years. The pair exchanged cheery looks with one another as they strolled through the muddy field. Samantha looked stylish in 200 corduroy maxi skirt from her brand, Cefinn, with contrast-stitched detailing. The UK's Foreign Secretary David Cameron and wife Samantha were in Gloucestershire earlier today to attend the Cocklebarrow races Mrs Cameron added to the look with a chic oversized blazer and a pair of statement gold hoops. Meanwhile, David kept it simple and opted for a chocolate-coloured hunting coat with a pair of jeans. The Cameron's would have enjoyed a busy day at the Cocklebarrow races, which comprised pony races, P2P races, and also has a shopping market to browse. Last month, the ex PM revealed his return to politics came after Rishi Sunak refused to let him leave Downing Street when the pair met for a drink. Lord Cameron made a shock return to the Cabinet in November when the Prime Minister named him as Foreign Secretary as part of his reshuffle. The former Prime Minister had indulged in a drink with Mr Sunak in his flat above Number 10 just a week earlier in what he had thought was a meeting designed to pick his brains for some friendly advice. But he was left blindsided when the Prime Minister refused to let him leave and instead offered him a return back into frontline politics seven years after he quit. Lord Cameron told the Sunday Telegraph: 'He was asking my advice about some things, we were talking about things generally, and I kept sort of getting my coat and saying: 'Well I must go, I've taken up far too much of your time'. He kept saying, 'no, no, sit down, there's something else I want to ask you'.' The husband-and-wife of 27 years exchanged cheerful glances with one another as they arrived at the event Samantha looked chic in a 200 maxi skirt from Cefinn. Meanwhile, David kept it simple with a hunting jacket and pair of jeans Eventually, Mr Sunak asked him to come back as Foreign Secretary and although surprised by the immediacy of wanting to say 'yes', Lord Cameron asked if he could mull the decision over with his wife, Samantha, and their children. It was a full circle moment for Lord Cameron who in 2016 stood on the doorstep of No 10 and hugged his family after an emotional farewell in which he announced he was stepping down as prime minister following the Brexit referendum vote. In his leaving speech he shared a rare glimpse of family life behind the famous door with the children sometimes 'kicking the red boxes full of work'. He recalled how his daughter, Florence, had once climbed into his red ministerial box just before a foreign trip and pleaded to be taken with him. He promised 'no more boxes', so perhaps there was little surprise 'there was a bit of eye-rolling' when Lord Cameron asked his children Nancy, 19, Arthur, 17, and Florence, 13, about his potential return. Lord Cameron met with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak for drinks at his flat above No 10 a week before he was announced as Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron pictured with his wife Samantha in 2018, whom he mulled the decision over with about whether or not to return to frontline politics 'They [the children] were generally positive,' he said. 'They know it's what really interests me and they've been very supportive.' After getting the green light from his family, Lord Cameron told Mr Sunak he would take up the post and the two men agreed the outline of a comeback deal. Lord Cameron would use his network of contacts and status as a former leader to turbocharge Britain's foreign policy. In return, he would drop his lucrative and controversial business interests and agree to toe the line on issues where he has publicly disagreed. Mr Sunak could not hold his delight and was seen gloating about the shock move to bring him back. In a slick video released by No10, the Prime Minister was shown crowing at how news of the ex-premier's return had not emerged prior to the dramatic reshuffle in which Suella Braverman was ditched as Home Secretary. Mr Sunak was shown telling Lord Cameron: 'This is somehow the best kept secret', to which the former premier replied: 'Unbelievable.' Not all were seemingly thrilled by his return with Boris Johnson this month appearing to mock his return. In a thinly veiled swipe at the Foreign Secretary, Mr Johnson suggested Lord Cameron was a prime example of 'nails peeling out of the coffin lids' across the world. Rishi Sunak is seen gloating that his shock move to bring back David Cameron to frontline politics was 'the best kept secret' in Westminster Lord Cameron said 'there was a bit of eye-rolling' from his children Nancy, Florence, and Arthur (pictured in 2016) when he asked them what they thought about his return It was a full circle moment for Lord Cameron who in 2016 stood on the doorstep of No 10 and hugged his family (pictured) after an emotional farewell in which he announced he was stepping down as prime minister Speaking to estate agents in Ontario, Canada, Mr Johnson said: 'Look, I think it's great news for retreads everywhere.' In his 2019 memoir For The Record, Lord Cameron revealed how he and Samantha had frequently argued about how his career would affect their private lives. At the time she was a 21-year-old art student in Bristol while he was a 25-year-old working as an adviser for the then Tory chancellor Norman Lamont. Describing how his friends doubted their relationship, he said: 'I was the ambitious Tory apparatchik. She was the hippie-like art student. 'My friends would say she helped to turn a pretty traditional Home Counties Tory boy into someone a bit more rounded, more questioning and more open-minded,' Mr Cameron wrote. 'But many of the arguments we had about politics were actually about logistics, rather than issues. Samantha worried hugely about how it would affect our life. Where would we live? How would we stay together? How much would we see of each other?' After last week's chilling Arctic freeze, we're now set for weather to rival the Riviera. So are we turning the heating down? On or off? While predictions of unseasonably balmy days this week may be a welcome relief for some of us, there's nothing quite like a fluctuating temperature gauge to ignite a row about optimum comfort levels. And while this might be a perennial source of conflict between couples at home, in my experience nothing can get quite as heated as a row about the temperature at work. And now it's official. The Government is encouraging employers to sign up to the Menopause Workplace Pledge, promising to help menopausal colleagues wherever possible including recommendations for cooler office temperatures. The Government is encouraging employers to sign up to the Menopause Workplace Pledge, promising to help menopausal colleagues wherever possible including recommendations for cooler office temperatures (file photo) The Labour Party eager to secure the hot flush vote has gone a step further, proposing paid menopause leave and temperature-controlled 'cool zones' at work. But while the thought of herding a bunch of middle-aged women into a specially designated corner of the office near the fridge, perhaps? might at first sound a bit unhinged, I actually think they might be on to something. Because, there was once a time when I was quite the office hottie. Unfortunately, not in the sense that everyone was captivated by my dazzling beauty and killer figure. No, in my case it was more literal. When I was in the grips of menopause, a combination of out-of-control hot flushes and the oppressive office central heating made me feel like a chicken on a barbecue. As surprised as I am to find myself siding with the snowflakes, if we'd had such cool zones when I was going through the change, I wouldn't have been driven to commit the sneaky act of sabotage that I did and that my colleagues still talk of to this day. My journey to work was unbearable. During the winter, London Tube carriages are heated to sauna-like levels but often too packed to be able to remove and carry a coat. Nothing can get quite as heated as a row about the temperature at work (file photo) I would arrive at my desk a damp, frizzy, dehydrated mess. And the huge open-plan office provided no respite to a woman who had yet to succumb to HRT. We sat on large communal desks next to windows that didn't open while heat pumped out from ceiling vents. The majority of staff were perfectly happy with the temperature, a few complained that it was too cold (there's always one, isn't there?). But I found it unbearable. Despite stripping down to a T-shirt and having an electric fan at my terminal, it was stifling and I couldn't focus on my work. The temperature was centrally controlled in some boiler room deep in the bowels of the building. Every now and then a chap in overalls would appear, wave a thermometer around and disappear. After cornering him (the poor man was probably terrified of the raging, red-faced lunatic who accosted him by a lift), I learned that it was possible to alter the temperature in individual sections, via a wall thermostat hidden away in a dark corner. Aha! The next evening, while working late, I saw that the thermostat was set to 23C (73F). What were we? Lizards? I wasn't having that. I turned the temperature down to a more acceptable 20 c (68 f). But would that be cool enough in a room with a lot of bodies and no natural ventilation? Best make it 17C (63F). Then again, that was washing-line drying weather. This internal negotiation went on for several minutes until I settled on 14C (15F). Job done. The next morning, I arrived to be greeted by colleagues sitting in coats and woolly hats. 'The heating is broken,' one said to me, glumly. 'Oh dear,' I replied. Maintenance men were summoned, they got on ladders and examined vents but to my relief didn't look at the wall thermostat. Finally, comfortable for the first time in months, I switched off my desk fan and enjoyed the blissful cool. It's very easy to get warmer when you feel the cold you just pile on more layers. It's a different story when you're hot and bothered (file image) Over the next few days, colleagues began turning up in thermal body warmers and fingerless gloves as I rolled my eyes. What a bunch of drama queens. When a whole team of engineers with stepladders appeared, I quietly turned the heating back up lowering it again the second they'd gone. My wicked ruse went on for several weeks until one pesky engineer beat me to the thermostat and declared, 'Someone has set this to 14C!' Busted. I confessed to howls of outrage. But I wasn't sorry. My reasoning is that it's very easy to get warmer when you feel the cold you just pile on more layers. It's a different story when you're hot and bothered. Other than jumping naked into the fountain in the foyer (which I suspect may have been frowned upon by management), there was nothing I could do. From tea slurpers and throat clearers and pen stealers, there will always be annoying work colleagues and their habits to contend with. But if 'cool zones' come into being, then at least office hotties like me will no longer be driven to Traitors-level subterfuge. A young businesswoman has built her small jewellery company to bring in a six-figure revenue in just three years. Zahra Alhashimy, from Perth, started her accessories business Eyes On You Co while juggling part-time work at David Jones and studying commerce at university. The 23-year-old wanted to create a line of high-quality waterproof jewellery in sentimental styles she designs herself. Zahra started the business overnight using $2,000 of her savings and within three months was selling hundreds of units thanks to her viral TikTok videos attracting more and more shoppers. She told FEMAIL, since launching in September of 2020, Eyes On You Co has made $1.3million in sales and has become one of the biggest homegrown jewellery brands in Western Australia. 'I feel so blessed to even have this be my job because I'm constantly able to express my art. I had no idea it was going to take such an amazing turn,' she said. Zahra Alhashimy (pictured), from Perth , started her accessories business Eyes On You Co which has brought in $1.3million in just three years The 23-year-old wanted to create a line of high-quality waterproof jewellery in sentimental styles she designs herself Zahra knew she hit it big when Eyes On You Co received hundreds of orders making more than $70,000 in just two days. The business had been 'going steady' for months while she was posting about it on TikTok when one video blew up causing a buyer's frenzy bringing in more than 700 orders. 'My family helped me pack them up until 4am. We stayed up just packing the orders and everything. It was such a surreal moment,' she said. The business grew exponentially after that moment and Zahra worked hard to keep things moving by setting up popup stalls around Perth which she would man full-time. 'I started doing more pop ups wanting to be more present with our customers and meet them,' she said. 'Whenever we have pop ups, it's very rare someone comes and they haven't heard of us.' Zahra knew she had hit it big when Eyes On You Co received hundreds of orders making more than $70,000 in just two days She then started travelling interstate to showcasing her stunning jewellery and captured the attention of influencers and style lovers across the country. Zahra started Eyes on You Co after struggling to find high-quality 'meaningful' jewellery that didn't break the bank. 'I was such a big jewellery person I still am. I just love the process of waking up and putting on jewellery to match my outfit,' she said. 'But I found there was a gap in finding meaningful jewellery with what I wanted on it. I wanted to put something on that reminds me of things I love or that's sentimental, but without costing me thousands.' The concept came to Zahra in the middle of the night and she got to work making her dream a reality right away. 'I went to my mum at 2am and said I have an idea, I want to start an online business focusing on meaningful jewellery that's also high quality and waterproof,' she said. 'I quite literally started the business overnight. At 3am I started making a website and looking up manufacturers and everything after my mum supported me on it.' At the time Zahra was studying commerce at university. She landed on the major after chopping and changing degrees '10 times' in her first year. 'I found it very, very easy for me. I just had a good understanding of the concept but I just wanted to have something to use with my degree. Not just learn about marketing and only understand it at a surface level,' she said. The business continued to grow exponentially and Zahra worked hard to keep things moving by setting up popup stalls around Perth which she would man full-time She also had a job at David Jones and spent all her free time getting the business up and running with her $2,000 in savings. Zahra launched Eyes on You Co in September of 2020 when she was just 19 and she started posting about her journey and jewellery on TikTok gaining the attention of millions. 'Things can turn out right even in bad situations, in ways we don't expect. Our first ever viral video got over 650,000 views but went viral because of mean comments!' she said. 'Although it hurt seeing this especially for something I had worked so hard to kick start, the publicity from it quickly turned into sales from other viewers who the video reached and the kindest comments followed shortly after.' Just three months later, she was able to quit her job as the income from her side hustle could support her. Zahra designs all the jewellery herself with many styles incorporating the evil eye amulet as a homage to her Iraqi heritage. 'The evil eye is found a lot of cultures, not just Middle Eastern but Greek and Mexican and heaps more. If you go through any of my TikToks, you can see people from every culture commenting so it's really nice that it ties all of us together,' she said. 'When you go to Middle East like Turkey, Iraq, where I'm from, Jordan, anywhere, it's what you see in every single jewellery store. It's a Middle Eastern love amulet people wear whether it's for the meaning or just for how beautiful it is.' Zahra designs all the jewellery herself with many styles incorporating the evil eye amulet as a homage to her Iraqi heritage Zahra expanded the business in September 2022 by offering permanent jewellery in temporary stalls in shopping centres across Perth under the name Soldered On You. 'It was actually our customers who really wanted us to do it, we were getting messages asking 'Will you guys be able to do permanent jewellery?',' she said. 'I was scared going into it because it's a high investment. The machine cost thousands, we had to learn something new and we only had one business doing it in Perth. I wasn't sure how it was going go but I just decided to go for it.' The sub-brand is one of Eyes On You Co's most in-demand services. 'We always have the permanent jewellery running and always get bookings every day as well as walk ins. You get people coming to get their third bracelet or ankle or buying gift cards,' Zahra said. After running the company solo for three years, Zahra has now hired a team of seven staff allowing her to focus on the parts of the job she loves most. 'This year, specifically, I'm really looking forward to focusing on the creativity and the freedom because we have a good team now. Last year I had to do all parts of the admin. It was just me. Zahra is not deterred by slow periods and dips in sales as they keep her motivated to come up with new ideas and ways to grow and improve the business 'Now they can take over the other parts, I'm able to put my own effort and imagination into each piece even more.' She is not deterred by slow periods and dips in sales as they keep her motivated to come up with new ideas and ways to grow and improve the business. 'Every time I notice a drop in sales or engagement, it only gives me a push to do things better or even bring out new ideas and things to pick it back up, most of the time even stronger than before it dropped,' she said. 'If drops weren't to happen, we might not even think of those new concepts!' This year, Zahra is also excited to set up Perth's first jewellery vending machine and is looking to start stocking her pieces in stores and boutiques around the country. She said young Aussies wanting to start their own business should dream of and work towards growing their brand without rushing or taking too many big risks. 'Although every business owner dreams of the day they have their own warehouse, a big team, and sales coming through consistently, it's not always the best option to do those things so early on unless your business is ready for it,' she advised. 'Only three years later I've been prepared and ready to bring my business into a warehouse and have a team to help me further grow my business.' She is scheduled to undergone 16 rounds of chemotherapy and a mastectomy Holly McCabe was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer at 30 years old A nurse from Colorado was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive type of breast cancer after a patient prompted the 30-year-old to perform her first breast self-exam. Holly McCabe, from Denver, Colorado, was working as a nurse in an oncology hospital unit in when she was inspired by a cancer patient finishing her last round of chemotherapy. As a nurse at St Joseph Medical Center in Denver, she always told her patients of the importance of breast self-exams , but never performed her own until August 2023. Ms McCabe said: 'I had been a nurse for seven years when I started working in the cancer ward at St Joseph Medical Center, helping cancer patients through their painful experiences. 'While I knew the importance of regular breast checks, I never really checked my own breasts until August 27, 2023. While at work, I saw a young woman "ring the bell" signaling her completion of chemotherapy treatment. It reminded me to go home and do a self-exam. I found a hard lump in my right breast.' As a young healthy woman, now 31 years old, with no family history of breast cancer, Ms McCabe did not believe she was high risk. But after her exam and several follow-up tests, she was diagnosed with stage 3 triple-negative breast cancer in September 2023. As a nurse working in a cancer unit at St Joseph Medical Center, Holly McCabe always told her patients of the importance of self breast exams , but never performed her own until August 2023 In September, Ms McCabe began a treatment regimen that includes 16 rounds of chemotherapy, followed by a second cycle that will span 12 weeks Holly McCabe was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer at 30 years old after finding a lump in her breast After feeling the lump in her breast, Ms McCabe made an appointment with her doctor and was sent to get an ultrasound, where she said the examiner discovered something that was 'worrying.' This prompted her medical team to send her for a mammogram - an x-ray image of the breast. After the image confirmed there was a mass in her breast, the doctors performed a biopsy on the lump. The next day, as she was boarding a flight to her brother's wedding, her doctor called and confirmed she had breast cancer. Not wanting to 'interfere' with her brother's wedding, she kept her diagnosis a secret from family and friends for several weeks. It wasn't until more tests and one week later that she received the stage-3 triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis, a more aggressive and rare type of the cancer. Ms McCabe said: 'When I heard my diagnosis, I felt numb. As a nurse, I knew the diagnosis was bleak. As the patient, I was terrified. Through processing the information, I felt my mortality, which at such a young age is hard to put into words.' The above graph shows the case rates (blue and green dots) of breast cancer among women per 100,000 people compared to the death rate (red squares). As death rates have plunged, case rates are still rising. The blue and green dots are from two different databases tracking breast cancer rates over different time periods Checking your breasts should be part of your monthly routine so you notice any unusual changes. Simply rub and feel from top to bottom, feel in semi-circles and in a circular motion around your breast tissue to feel for any abnormalities Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the US behind skin cancer. It accounts for about one-in-three of all new female cancers each year. The American Cancer Society estimates there will be about 310,700 new cases of breast cancer and 42,250 deaths from the cancer in 2024. The average five-year survival rate for breast cancer is 90 percent. And while death rates have plummeted 43 percent between 1989 and 2020 due to successful public health awareness campaigns, better screening and new drugs, cases are rising. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for about 10 to 15 percent of all breast cancers. It differs from other types in that it tends to grow and spread faster, has fewer treatment options and usually has a worse prognosis. This type of breast cancer has an average 77 percent five-year survival rate, but depending on the stage of the cancer, that rate can be as low as 12 percent. Ms McCabe said it took several months for her to 'process' her diagnosis, but once she did, she knew she wanted to share her experience and connect with other breast cancer patients. Ms McCabe said it took several months for her to 'process' her diagnosis, but once she did, she knew she wanted to share her experience and connect with other breast cancer patients Ms McCabe will ultimately need a double mastectomy with reconstruction, radiation, and nearly a year of immunotherapy As a young healthy woman with no family history of breast cancer, Ms McCabe did not believe she was high risk. She said: 'It took around three months for me to process my diagnosis and emotions before sharing them online. I have always enjoyed creating and editing videos, and with this diagnosis, I realized I had something really valuable and important I could share to help others. 'I wanted to find other triple-negative breast cancer patients and survivors, especially my age. I have found that by sharing online and, in doing so, I have felt less alone. 'I receive daily messages from others going through similar or the same journeys that my content is helping them, and that brings me so much purpose during this phase of my life.' The nurse's TikTok is full of videos of her sharing the story of her initial diagnosis, treatment regimen, side effects, medical tests and results, as well as the emotional and mental struggle she faces as she is 'mourning [her] life pre-cancer.' She also revealed she met with a reproductive endocrinologist because chemotherapy treatments can cause infertility and she wanted to learn more about egg retrieval and freezing, which could allow her to have children after cancer treatments. Ultimately, Ms McCabe said in a video, she decided not to go through the process of retrieving and freezing eggs. She said doctors told her there is still a small chance she could have a healthy future pregnancy. In September, Ms McCabe began a treatment regimen that includes 16 rounds of chemotherapy, followed by a second cycle that will span 12 weeks. She will ultimately need a double mastectomy with reconstruction, radiation, and nearly a year of immunotherapy. If residual cancer remains at the end of her treatment, she is prepared to participate in clinical trials. Despite her insurance coverage, Ms McCabe says she faces mounting medical bills and her medical team anticipates she will need to take a year off from work. To alleviate the financial burden, she has set up a GoFundMe account to help cover expenses. The most difficult aspect for Ms McCabe is realizing the toll cancer takes. EXCLUSIVE: Woman diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer in her 30s claims doctors dismissed her symptoms as a side effect of birth control A California woman diagnosed with breast cancer in her thirties has revealed her symptoms were initially dismissed as a possible side effect from stopping her birth control. Advertisement She said: 'The treatment for this disease has made me feel like a stranger in my own body. 'Prior to my diagnosis, I felt I was in the best health of my life, so it has been quite a change physically. Emotionally, the treatment puts you through a lot. 'The medications all have side effects, altering your hormones and moods. On top of that, I deal with actively grieving my life before cancer. 'Life will simply never be the same for me after receiving this news and going through this treatment.' But amidst her fears, the nurse has found solace and strength in the support of her TikTok followers. She says their love, encouragement and kind words have helped her navigate the difficult days and reminded her of the importance of human connection. Ms McCabe said: 'Seeing others extend love, support, and kind words helps me get through the hard days. I am a highly ambitious and independent woman and always have been, but I have learned that there is beauty in the community and that all humans need others in this life.' Through her TikTok, she also aims to raise awareness about the importance of regular breast self-exams and early detection. Her message to others facing a similar diagnosis is to 'Embrace the beauty that can be found even in the darkest of times. 'Each day granted is a precious gift; seize it.' Ms McCabe added: 'Discover your true passions and desires, then pursue them with unwavering determination. Life's brevity and fragility should inspire you to live authentically and confidently, for it can be snatched away in the blink of an eye. You are never truly alone. 'There are others fighting similar battles all around you, waiting to connect and share in your journey. The beauty of community lies in our shared humanity, where our similarities far outweigh our differences.' And on her GoFundMe fundraiser, Ms McCabe gave a piece of advice: 'Reminder - check your breasts!' Experts are searching for a more effective tuberculosis (TB) vaccine amid rising levels of infections. Researchers from the Jenner Institute at the University of Oxford are recruiting volunteers who have had a BCG jab, who will be given a booster that is inhaled. Scientists hope to prove that inhaling the medication through the lungs where droplets of TB enter and infect the body will be better at stimulating the immune system to fight off the disease. The BCG jab is generally given to babies and young children, but is thought to wear off over time. The UK Health Security Agency announced in September that TB cases in England had increased by seven per cent in the first half of 2023, with 2,408 cases compared with 2,251 in the first half of 2022. Dr Esther Robinson, head of the TB unit at UKHSA, says: 'Tuberculosis is curable and preventable, but despite significant progress towards elimination in recent years, the disease remains a serious public health issue in the UK.' Researchers from the Jenner Institute at the University of Oxford are recruiting volunteers who have had a BCG jab, who will be given a booster that is inhaled A quarter of people referred for diagnostic tests on the NHS face a wait of six weeks or more. The medical negligence firm Patient Claim Line analysed NHS England data from October 2023 to find that of almost 1.6 million people waiting for tests, 393,583 had been on the list for more than a month-and-a-half. Some 160,000 had faced delays of more than three months. People seeking urodynamic tests which analyse how well the bladder can hold and release urine were the most likely to face lengthy delays, with 42 per cent having to wait six weeks or more. People seeking urodynamic tests which analyse how well the bladder can hold and release urine were the most likely to face lengthy delays, with 42 per cent having to wait six weeks AI app that detects fake medications Artificial intelligence (AI) is being used to help people spot if medicines they have bought are counterfeits. A smartphone app created by AI firm Cypheme says its detection technology can identify fakes by comparing images of medicine packaging against images of genuine products to check for subtle differences. Users take a photo on their smartphone of the product they want to evaluate, then upload it on to the AI software ChatGPT to allow Cypheme's software to scan it and instantly reveal whether or not it is genuine. It is thought that one in ten people in the UK have bought fake medical products in the past year alone as criminal gangs intercept shipments of medicines and switch them for lookalike counterfeits. Those most commonly bought in the UK include erectile dysfunction and weight-loss pills. It's also much more likely that medicines bought from dodgy websites will be fake. While there's no single method to spotting these, suspicious websites will often be poorly designed with lots of pop-up ads, spelling and grammatical errors and adverts for prescription-only medicines on the homepage which is illegal in the UK. Sarah Ferguson has been diagnosed with the most serious type of skin cancer - a malignant melanoma. The Duchess of York, 64, had a mole removed from her body while undergoing breast reconstruction surgery last year, one of which was found to be cancerous. The cancer occurs after the DNA in skin cells is damaged, triggering mutations that can form malignant tumours - which can be deadly. Around 17,000 people are diagnosed with melanoma each year, according to the latest figures published on the Cancer Research UK website. There is an annual average of 2,300 deaths from the skin cancer, according to the charity, with it accounting for around 1 per cent of cancer deaths. Here, MailOnline looks at what melanoma is, how to spot it and how to prevent it. Sarah Ferguson has been diagnosed with malignant melanoma. Pictured: The Duchess of York at Christmas Morning Service at Sandringham Church Malignant melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that begins in melanocytes (file image) What is malignant melanoma? Malignant melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that begins in melanocytes, cells found in the upper layer of skin that produce melanin, which gives skin its colour. It is typically caused by harmful UV rays and then not repaired so it triggers mutations that can form malignant tumours. While less common that other types of skin cancer, it is more dangerous because of its ability to spread to other organs more rapidly if it is not treated at an early stage. What causes melanoma? Sun exposure : UV and UVB rays from the sun and tanning beds are harmful to the skin. Moles : The more moles you have, the greater the risk for getting melanoma. Skin type : People with fairer skin have a higher risk of getting melanoma. Hair colour : Red heads are more at risk than others. Personal history : If you've had melanoma once, then you are more likely to get it again. Family history : If relatives have been diagnosed previously,you can be at higher risk. How do I prevent it? Use sunscreen with a high SPF or cover up to avoid sunburn. Avoid tanning outside and using sunbeds Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside. Keep babies and children out of the sun. Examine your skin every month and visit your GP every year for a skin examination. How do I check for it? Check your skin for any unusual changes. Use a mirror or ask a partner or friend to check any areas you cannot see. In particular, look for: Moles with an uneven shape or edges Moles with a mix of colours Large moles - melanomas often tend to be more than 6mm wide Moles that change size, shape or colour over time What signs should I look for in my moles? Cancer Research UK recommends following its ABCDE approach when checking your moles. A - Asymmetrical - look at the shape of the mole Melanomas are likely to have an uneven shape. The two halves of the area may be different shapes. This contrasts with normal moles, which are usually symmetrical and have a more even shape. B - Border - look at the edges of the mole Melanomas are more likely to have irregular edges that might be blurred or jagged. This contrasts with normal moles that are more likely to have even borders. C - Colour - Look at the colour of the mole Melanomas are often have an uneven colour and contain more than one shade, possibly appearing to be black, brown or pink. Meanwhile, normal moles are usually even in colour. D - Diameter - Look at how wide the mole is Most melanomas are more than 6mm in diameter. Meanwhile, normal moles are usually about the size of the end of a pencil or smaller. E - Evolving - Check it regularly to see if it is changing Melanomas can change in size, shape or colour. They may also begin to bleed, itch or become crusty. Normal moles, meanwhile, usually stay the same size, shape, and colour. It's important to examine your skin every month and visit your GP regularly for a skin examination (file image) How can melanoma be treated? Removal This can be done by removing the entire section of the tumor or by the surgeon removing the skin layer by layer. When a surgeon removes it layer by layer, this helps them figure out exactly where the cancer stops so they don't have to remove more skin than is necessary. Skin grafting The patient can decide to use a skin graft if the surgery has left behind discoloration or an indent. Immunotherapy, radiation treatment or chemotherapy This is needed if the cancer reaches stage III or IV. That means that the cancerous cells have spread to the lymph nodes or other organs in the body. Whether you're a motorist who enjoys personalisation or an investor with an eye on a future return, private plates have become hot property in recent years. And the prices some people pay for one they really want is staggering. The world's most expensive private plate recently sold to an anonymous bidder in Dubai for 13 million. The plate? A lone '7'. But what about back in Britain? We exclusively reveal the top 10 most expensive registrations sold by the DVLA. Most expensive private plates of 2023: We reveal which personalised registration plates were sold by the DVLA for the highest amounts last year - and compare them to the all-time priciest Top 10 priciest registrations sold by DVLA in 2023 2023 was the end of an era in the private plate world with the last in-person DVLA auction taking place in October. 10 most expensive private plates sold at DLVA auctions in 2023 1. H1 NDU 112,010 2. 1 DEO 106,090 3. 42 O 96,670 4. DEO 1S 80,010 5. 5 PS 73,010 6. 67 O 72,910 7. 82 O 70,000 8. 46 O 58,500 9. 51 O 57,000 10. BSK 1 53,010 Source: DVLA * prices excluding auction fees and taxes Personalised registration auctions will now be exclusively online, and the DVLA holds six sales a year. Taking the 2023 number one spot at a DVLA auction was 'H1 NDU', which sold for 112,010 (excluding fees and taxes). It's high sale price requires little explanation and the six-figure price is perhaps less unsurprising than some others that make-up the most expensive of last year. The top 10 of was dominated by the trend for private plates with 'O', with half of the most expensive private registrations following this format. This is becoming auction standard in the current private plate market. Two 'DEO' plates featured in the most expensive list: '1 DEO' sold for 106,090 and 'DEO 1S' fetched 80,010. Registrations featuring letters first and the number 1 in the sequence typically achieve the highest prices, based on the DVLA's historical records. The 'DEO' inspired big hitters might be appealing because of the 'God' meaning behind them, but there's no definite answer. It's the guessing game involved that makes private plates such as an interesting investment to many. The greats of all time: the top 10 most expensive personalised DVLA plates sold at auction The most expensive private plates ever sold by DVLA 2023 wasn't a particularly high performing year for DVLA registrations compared to the last five years. Jon Kirkbright, sales director at number plate supplier Platehunter puts this down to the lower quality stock. He told This is Money: 'The best plates were sold when the DVLA started its auctions back in the day. 'Now you're looking at a initial plate but you have three numbers after it because one to 99 have already been released.' The top 10 from the last five years ranged from 308,253 for 'DEV 1L' down to 84,000 for '3 XRP'. 'DEV 1L' was also the third most expensive of all time, with collectors scrambling over the plate from Cruella De Vil's iconic car. Five of the 10 were all above 112,000, but only one of these was sold in 2023: 'H1 NDU' that was the most expensive from last year. Smokin': The DEV 1L plate from Cruella De Vil's iconic car was sold in 2021 by the DVLA for 308,253 Comparatively, the top 10 of all time were all above 150,000 (excluding fees and taxes) and sold as far back as 1989 - the year the agency first put on auctions for private plates. The most expensive DVLA registration ever sold was '25 O' which reached 400,000 (excluding fees and taxes) on 27 November 27 2014. It was a good furlong ahead of second place's '1 D' which came in at 285,000. No prizes for guessing which boy band that bidder was a fan of. The first online auction of 2024 has already taken place, with 'L1 BYA' the standout lot going for 80,000 (just shy of 103,000 inclusive of auction fees and VAT). CarReg, a UK business that specialises in the purchase and sale of private plates, told us: 'L1 BYA possibly could end up on a vehicle used by diplomats at the Embassy of Libya London as similar numbers have done so in the past.' Where the private plate market stands As of 2023, businesses operating in the sector valued the British personalised number plate industry to be worth over 2billion. Jon Kirkbright, 45, is the founder of Plate Hunter A total of 17,823 registrations were sold in last year's DVLA auctions and buyers spent almost 49m (including fees and taxes). Platehunter saw a 25 per cent increase in turnover by the first 17 days of January on last year, with valuation requests per day up 100 on last year already. Kirkbright is expecting this year to be the biggest yet: 'The second-hand plate market keeps going from strength to strength and 2024 will be no different. 'People are seeing worse plates sold by the DVLA go for the same price they paid for a better one at an auction years ago, and so are demanding two or three times the price for their plates now on the second hand market'. Five reasons people spend big on private plates Names, initials and words Number plates that spell out - or almost spell out - names, initials and words are the most common reason for why people splash out on private registrations. People either wish to express their individuality and personality, or an investor knows that certain words will continue to rise in value. The Prince and Princess of Wales drove away from their wedding with 'JU5T WED' on the rear number plate of King Charles III's Aston Martin Volante. Businessman Afzal Khan reportedly turned down 10 million for his 'F1' plate he bought for 440k in 2008. EXCLUSIVE READ MORE: North, South divide... of private plates Are drivers in the north or south more likely to have a car with a private plate? We look at who's behind the wheel of cars with unusual combinations. > Find out if you and your neighbours are part of private plate trends Investment Investors go where the returns are good, and the performance of private number plates is pulling investors away from traditional investments. With higher returns than wine, watches, jewellery and classic cars and art, it's not surprising that personalised plates are creating bidding wars. One specialist said a plate can double in value in 12 months. Buyers turn over plates very quickly, and unlike investments like cars or art there's no storage costs. You can even drive your car with your plate on without it losing any value! Covering up a car's age While you can't customise and display a plate that makes your car look newer than it is, you can put private plate on that conceals the age of your car. You don't have to drive around with a age-identifiable DVLA plate. Power symbols There's inner confidence and then there's needing to prove it. Drivers with private plates resembling status such as success, money, or influence such as 'BO55' use short words or acronyms to project the image of themselves they want out there. Sentimentality Some people have a locket with a photo in, others a tattoo. But for some drivers, a private plate is the best means to remember and commemorate special dates, events or references to loved ones. And because these evoke personal memories, many believe it is worth paying a lot of money for the personalised number plate combinations they really want. A police interview with William Tyrrell's foster mother shows she gave confused and varying accounts of what happened on the toddler's last morning alive, and suggested innocent neighbours as suspects. In the interview at a Sydney police station, the foster mother was asked about different 'theories' - including whether William was injured in an accident and she and the foster grandmother 'panicked' and 'covered it up'. Police also asked her whether William could have been run over in the driveway by the foster father, and they covered it up for fear of losing custody of William's sister who lived with them. There is no suggestion any of these theories are true and the foster family vehemently denies any involvement in William's disappearance. The detective leading the interview subsequently ruled out the foster parents as potential suspects. The foster mother, known as SD, was grilled about deleting text messages from the foster father on the day William disappeared, and about seeing two mysterious cars that no one else living in the street canvassed by police could remember. Police also seemed puzzled about the foster mother's timeline of events, and the gap between the last-known photo taken of William, at 9.37am, and what happened before the Triple-0 call at 10.56am. Over a two-hour, 18-minute interview, SD was challenged about her account of William's last morning and why she and her husband's movements differed from what neighbours in the street and police on the scene said they saw. William Tyrrell's foster mother was grilled by detectives two years after he went missing In the interview with then-detective Gary Jubelin, the foster mother referenced one neighbour of her mother's on Benaroon Drive, in Kendall, calling him 'really odd' and saying her mother found him 'odd'. The neighbour, Paul Savage, was later hotly pursued as a suspect by Jubelin, who was later taken off the Tyrrell strike force and convicted and fined for illegally recording interviews with him. Mr Savage has since been completely exonerated of having any connection with William's disappearance. William, three, vanished from his foster grandmothers home in Kendall on the NSW Mid North Coast on September 12, 2014, and no trace of him has ever been found. William, three, vanished from his foster grandmothers home on that street on the NSW Mid North Coast on September 12, 2014 The interview, conducted almost exactly two years after William vanished, took place at Parramatta police station in western Sydney. Daily Mail Australia has obtained a transcript of the ERISP (Electronically Recorded Interview with Suspected Person) with SD on September 1, 2016. This and the foster father's interview on the same day was what Gary Jubelin later described as having 'ambushed and interrogated' the foster parents before ruling them out as persons of interest. Then aged 51, SD was asked to go to Parramatta so she and William's foster father could be questioned by Strike Force Rosann, and asked if they or the foster grandmother were responsible for William vanishing. Jubelin explained to her 'you understand why the accusing finger gets pointed back this way... the last people, our research and our evidence... invariably it's the people that had care or custody of the child.' Insisting 'no, no, never', SD then said: 'if I for a single moment thought [the foster father] had something to do with it, I'd absolutely say it.' The foster mother responded to a number of possible scenarios, of accidents and cover-ups, put to her by Jubelin, as well as to personal questions, saying the foster father was neither violent, nor had he had affairs with other women or a gambling problem. She described herself and the foster father - a wealthy, well-educated couple who are known to live in a $4 million home on Sydney's exclusive north shore - as 'just Mr and Mrs Average'. During her police interview, the foster mother circled the area in black where she and William were playing among the blackbutt trees shortly before he disappeared Gary Jubelin conducted the interview with the foster mother in 2016, two years after William disappeared and put to her that she could have covered up the toddler's accidental death The foster parents are seen with the foster grandmother on the verandah of the Kendall house after William Tyrrell went missing Although it is not suggested that SD is suspected of, or guilty of the disappearance of William Tyrrell, several years after the 2016 interview, SD was named as a person of interest in William's disappearance. The NSW Director of Public Prosecutions is due to give advice by January 2024 on the viability of laying charges against the foster mother, after police submitted a brief of evidence in June. Along with Jubelin, Detective Senior Constable Louise Currey attended the 2016 interview with SD. It began at 10.49am and concluded at 1.29pm, with breaks in between. The foster mother signed the police exhibit of what William was wearing - from his underwear to his shoes - on what was probably his last morning alive SD was walked through her relationship with the foster father, which was preceded by an eight-year romance with another man, and lasted 18 months before they married in 2010. She described him as 'normal' but also 'emotional' and 'depressed' since William's disappearance with 'swings every now and then'. About fostering William, she said the boy had initially been 'very nervous around me' and 'it took a really long time for William to trust me', but had become 'completely comfortable' with her by the time he disappeared. 'This is the thing that kills me about this, is that he and I were just reaching that absolute one hundred percent open true mum-son relationship,' SD said. The foster mother was taken through the sequence of events on the morning before William disappeared, which she had said was about or soon after 10.30am. This was the same time she received a text from the foster father saying he was en route, and five minutes before he arrived. The foster mother (above with the foster father at court last year) described herself and her husband as 'Mr and Mrs Average' TIMELINE The foster mother called triple-0 at 10.56am on September 12, 2014 to report William missing, telling the operator she had been looking for her son for between 15 and 20 minutes. The time of William's disappearance had always been cited as about 10.30am, but in the interview Jubelin challenged this, in particular the foster mother's assertion that William vanished soon after she took the final photograph of him. The iconic image of William, barefoot in his Spider-Man suit and 'roaring' at the camera on his grandmother's verandah, was time-stamped 9.37am. The foster mother said William rode his bicycle in the driveway about 9am after the foster father had left to make a conference call in town. She said he then climbed a blackbutt tree below the side of her mother's house which has the high verandah which he said was 'too high, mummy'. Police showed the foster mother these images which she took on William's last morning, the final image (bottom) time-stamped 9.37am She had then photographed William, shoeless, in his Spider-Man suit on the back verandah while he played 'daddy tiger', roaring at the camera. SD said her mother had made tea which she was drinking before she took that photograph, putting down her cup operate the camera. 'I remember having the tea thinking it's too hot for me to drink,' she said. Jubelin told her in the interview that the 9.37am photo was 'the last confirmed sighting of William'. The foster mother said it was after this that William had become bored playing with dice on the verandah and had put his shoes back on and 'jumped down off this deck'. 'He was running around in front of us and I remember [the foster grandmother] saying, "Do you think he's got ADD?" and I'm like, "No, he's just excited,"' SD said. It was after this that William vanished; however, Jubelin quizzed her about her previous account of events. In particular, he wanted to know when precisely the foster mother realised William was gone. He insisted his questions were 'not a criticism' of her, and suggested the possibility that her memory of 'five minutes' could have been 'ten minutes'. Foster mother: 'Yep. No I hear what you're saying. It's been running through my head as well... in hindsight I think what feels like five minutes may not be five minutes at all. 'I just wish, I wish I knew the exact time.' Police search the side of the foster grandmother's house where William had played in the time leading up to his disappearance WHAT THE NEIGHBOUR SAID The foster mother said she had searched for William in the yard, the house and partly down the street before speaking to neighbour Anne Maree Sharpley, then going down to talk with another resident, Lydene Heslop, to search in the bus stop. The foster mother said that all happened prior to the foster father texting her and then arriving home from making a conference call at a nearby town with better internet reception. Police logged his text at 10.30am and his arrival home at 10.33am. Jubelin told the foster mother she was wrong, and that she hadn't gone searching for William with Ms Sharpley until after the foster father had arrived home. Neighbour Anne Maree Sharpley (pictured at the William Tyrrell inquest in 2019) helped the foster mother search for William, but gave a police a different time frame for the search 'I can tell you I think fairly well that it's after,' Jubelin said, 'and it's around 10.40 or 10.45 that you first speak with Anne Maree. 'Anne Maree said when she speaks with you there, she sees and hears a male that is [the foster father].' Quizzed further about when she went down the road to search for William, the foster mother conceded 'it must have been by myself', adding: 'And I got in mum's...' This could be a reference to the fact that, as police later claimed, SD drove her mother's car on the morning William disappeared down to Batar Creek Road, which became the site of a massive search for the boy's remains in late 2021. DELETED TEXT MESSAGES Jubelin asked the foster mother why she had deleted all the text messages sent to her from the foster father over a certain period, including the day William disappeared. In particular, he wanted to know why she had deleted the text message JS had sent saying he was on his way home at a time when William had just disappeared. The foster mother said it was not unusual for her to delete messages she deemed unimportant - such as a text from her husband saying he was coming home. There is no suggestion her deleting texts had anything to do with William's disappearance. 'I keep messages. I'm keeping messages that remind me to do things,' SD said. 'But a message that [the foster father] sends me to say I'm home in five minutes, I'm not going to keep that. 'I mean even though William was missing, it didn't strike me as being a milestone message or any important message that I needed to keep. I mean how many messages had I deleted?' THE ACCIDENT SCENARIOS Jubelin proposed various scenarios of accident and cover-up that could have explained why William disappeared and has never been found. None of these scenarios has ever been proven, and the foster parents have always denied any wrongdoing. He put to SD that 'perhaps William... fell from the balcony, fell from a tree, injured and you've panicked and [the foster grandmother] has panicked and you've covered it up for fear of losing [William's sister].' The foster mother replied: 'No, no, never, never. The only way he would have fallen from the balcony... he wouldn't have climbed it. We wouldn't have dropped him. 'My mum wouldn't cover that up. If I'd have done something to them, my mother would not cover it up.' Jubelin speculated: 'Another suggestion... is that your mother became angry at William because of, you know, young kids and something might have happened and you're protecting your mother?' Gary Jubelin quizzed the foster mother over several scenarios of accident and cover-up, asking if William could have died falling off the balcony, being run over or hit by his foster grandmother SD responded: 'No, no way. My mother was never violent towards us growing up. I've never seen her be violent.' William's foster grandmother died in March 2021. Jubelin then put to SD: 'Another suggestion. William's waiting for [the foster father] to come home... and he's run out on the driveway and it's one of those tragic driveway, young child incidents. 'And there's been discussion and panic that if this happens, even though it's an accident, that we're going to lose [William's sister], but there's nothing we can do for William now.' No evidence has emerged to support this car accident theory. The foster mother replied: 'Mmm, mmm. Never, no. Judging from his reaction to me... when I said William's missing... he was pure.' One 21-year-old student at the University of Pennsylvania refuses to remain silent in the face of rampant antisemitism on the Ivy League campus. Instead, Eyal Yakoby, a senior, is among a growing number of students who have resorted to legal action to fight back against schools they believe are failing to protect Jewish students from hatred and harassment. In an exclusive interview with Dailymail.com, Yakoby accused the revered Ivy League institution of falling woefully short in addressing the escalating antisemitism within its hallowed halls and alleged the school had committed 'egregious' violations of federal civil rights law by selectively enforcing its rules of conduct. Detailing some of the disturbing allegations leading up to the lawsuit, Yakoby claimed the school had failed to notify students about bomb threats against the university's Jewish organization Hillel and allowed swastikas to be openly displayed. 'If the university isn't going to uphold the law and its own rules, then the court system will,' the Israeli-American student vowed. Last week a group of six Jewish Harvard students filed a lawsuit against the college, demanding antisemitic professors be fired and students who troll them disciplined. The University of California, Berkeley and NYU have also been hit by similar litigation. Eyal Yakoby, a 21-year-old senior, has resorted to taking legal action against Penn, alleging that the school committed 'egregious' violations of federal civil rights law by selectively enforcing its rules of conduct, avoiding protection for Jewish students from hatred and harassment Associate Professor of Arabic Literature Huda Fakhreddine reposted a Substack article labeling Yakoby as an Israeli foreign agent and propagandist Shocking acts of antisemitic graffiti featured slogans such as 'Intifada,' 'Avenge Gaza' and 'The Jews R Nazis' scrawled on a building next to a Jewish fraternity Yakoby's lawsuit comes just weeks after Penn President Liz Magill's shameful testimony at a congressional hearing on antisemitism. Fierce backlash swiftly led to her resignation in December, with some donors also withdrawing their support. But amid a surge in campus antisemitism, marked by protests and both verbal and physical attacks, students are now also taking a stand through the legal system. Yakoby is among several concerned students who have recently filed lawsuits against their schools under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to combat the rising tide of antisemitism on college campuses. After expressing concern about rising hostility towards Jews following the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel and urging the school to address the issue, Yakoby said he felt ignored. 'I've sent 15 emails to the school begging them to take action before any sort of legal battle came into play,' he said. 'In most cases there was no response whatsoever or it was 'we're taking it seriously' - but every time I was told we were taking it seriously, there would be another major incident,' he added. 'I'm not talking just a small thing, I'm talking about a major incident happening.' After expressing concern about the rising hostility towards Jews following the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel and urging the school to address the issue, Yakoby felt ignored, prompting him to take legal action Posts from fellow students at UPenn advocate for the destruction of Israel, the only Jewish state Anne Norton, a professor in UPenn's Middle East Center, posted antisemitic content on her Twitter account. Despite a 400 percent increase in antisemitism since the brutal massacre against Israelis on October 7, she claimed that 'playing the victim' is what 'Jews are best at' The lawsuit, filed under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 on December 5, claims Penn created a persistently hostile educational environment for the students. The complaint cited instances of antisemitic slurs such as when a mob, including some non-students, rampaged across Penn's campus, chanted for the destruction of Israel and scrawled the words 'intifada,' 'blood thirsty' and 'shame' on the walls of Penn buildings. Shocking acts of antisemitic graffiti across campus saw slogans such as 'Intifada,' 'Avenge Gaza' and 'The Jews R Nazis' scrawled on a building next to a Jewish fraternity. Yakoby emphasized disparities in the university's response to incidents, and called for consistency, especially regarding controversial speakers. The complaint also claims the university hired 'rabidly antisemitic professors' and ignored pleas for protection. Yakoby pointed out instances where professors endorsed terror organizations and the university's inconsistent actions regarding controversial speakers. 'The university canceled Narendra Modi from speaking on campus because it made Indian students feel uncomfortable and yet they're fine with hosting Mark Lamont Hill who was fired from CNN for antisemitism,' he said. 'And Roger Waters, who was described by the city of Frankfurt as the most notorious antisemite in the world.' 'So consistency is if you draw a line that anytime a group is offended for a speaker coming, then you made your bed here, you have to lie in it,' Yakoby stated. 'Or we should say there's going to speakers that make you uncomfortable. That's the real world. But we haven't been upholding them.' 'So why is it free speech sometimes and not free speech always? I think what the university should have done is been consistent,' he added. The complaint cited instances of antisemitic slurs such as when a mob, including some non-students, rampaged across Penn's campus, chanted for the destruction of Israel The University of Pennsylvania is under fire over antisemitism on campus after anti-Jewish slogans were projected onto three of the school's buildings A slogan projected on Penn Commons read: 'Zionism is racism' Yakoby described one incident that prompted him to take action. He said: 'I was eating lunch in Hillel and there were bomb sniffing dogs walking around and I didn't think too much about it until the university sent out an email later in the day saying that there were threats made against the Hillel. 'The university was made aware about this at 6:30 am and they didn't notify the community until 3:30 pm. 'That's when it registered to me that someone has to take immediate action to safeguard the community because the fact that they wouldn't tell anyone and allow people to just enter and exit a building with an active bomb threat told me a lot.' He also detailed how Associate Professor of Arabic Literature Huda Fakhreddine had reposted an article about Yakoby that described him as an Israeli foreign agent and propagandist. 'This is a professor at Penn ... How am I supposed to take her class? If that's not targeting then I don't know what is,' he said. Yakoby also told how another professor in UPenn's Middle East Center, Anne Norton, had posted antisemitic content on her Twitter account. Despite a 400 percent increase in antisemitism since the brutal massacre against Israelis on October 7, she claimed that 'playing the victim' is what 'Jews are best at.' Expressing disappointment in the university's stance on protecting students, Yakoby underscored the need for immediate action. He emphasized that the lawsuit serves as a way to exert pressure on the university when other means, such as emails and communication, yielded insufficient responses. The lawsuit aims to secure injunctive relief, compelling the University of Pennsylvania to cease discriminatory policies against Jewish students. Additionally, it calls for preventative measures, including the termination of faculty and staff deemed antisemitic, expulsion of students engaged in antisemitic behavior, and the implementation of mandatory antisemitism training for the Penn community. The lawsuit also seeks damages, including tuition refunds. The plaintiffs argue that Penn has neglected to enforce its own policies safeguarding Jewish students from discrimination, harassment, and intimidation, citing violations of seven university policies, including the Code of Student Conduct, Guidelines on Open Expression, Penn's Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Policy, and the Faculty Handbook. The case docket details over 100 incidents of antisemitism on campus since 2015. It alleges that the Palestine Writes Literature Festival set the stage for a 'wave of antisemitism' in the fall, noting that 25 festival speakers, including Roger Waters and Marc Lamont Hill, were identified as antisemitic by the Anti-Defamation League. The students are being represented by legal teams from the Law Offices of Eric A. Shore and Kasowitz Benson Torres LLP. Dailymail.com contacted UPenn for a comment. This is not the first time Penn has been accused of antisemitism in recent months. The school is facing a civil rights complaint after it was accused of being a 'magnet for anti-Semites.' Another UPenn student, Noah Rubin, detailed the harassment and anti-Semitism Jewish and pro-Israel students have faced on campus. One video showed a group of students at UPenn chanting in favor of 'Intifada revolution.' Rubin hammered the Ivy League institution as a 'climate of fear' amid antisemitic protests and language litter the campus. 'We're fed up with the inaction from the administration. And frankly, we're fed up with all the enablers of this which includes professors who are antisemitic and who have participated in, organized with, and even supported them financially,' he alleged. In November, the school also came under fire over anti-Semitism on campus after anti-Jewish slogans were projected onto three of the school's buildings. 'From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free,' read one message splashed across the John M Huntsman hall on Wednesday night. The slogan demands the land from the River Jordan to the Mediterranean Sea, meaning the end of the State of Israel. The students say Harvard has demonstrated antisemitism for years, but that the events following the Hamas October 7 attack made it a more 'severe' issue The lawsuit, filed by student Alexander Kestenbaum (pictured) and five unnamed others from Students Against Antisemitism, describes how Gay's student supporters bullied them and other Jewish kids after her resignation. Meanwhile, six Jewish students from Harvard University announced last week they are suing the school, claiming it has become a 'bastion of anti-semitism and hatred' with descriptions of how they have been bullied since the university's president Claudine Gay resigned. The lawsuit, filed in Massachusetts, alleges that President Claudine Gay's congressional comments about campus antisemitism are just the tip of the iceberg of the school's problem. Gay stepped down on January 2 after sparking fury and threats of a donor boycott with her remarks. By then, she had also been accused of plagiarism. The school stood by her, refusing to accept that it had an antisemitism problem. In her resignation letter, Gay said she had been the victim of racist threats because she is a black woman. The lawsuit, filed by student Alexander Kestenbaum and five unnamed others from Students Against Antisemitism, describes how Gay's student supporters bullied them and other Jewish kids after her resignation. In internal chat rooms, Jewish students were labeled 'pedo loving Zionists', according to the lawsuit. Some pro-Palestine students said they also supported Hamas' attack and considered it a 'moment of decolonization.' The students say the issue existed before Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7, but became more 'severe' afterwards. They are now asking for students who have threatened them to be expelled, and for anti-Israel professors to be fired. A University of Pennsylvania student is continuing to hammer the Ivy League institution as a 'climate of fear' amid antisemitic protests and language litter the campus UPenn student Noah Rubin detailed the harassment and anti-Semitism Jewish and pro-Israeli students on campus have faced In November, three students also sued NYU for failing to protect them against 'festering Jewish hatred permeating the school' that has accelerated amid the Israel-Hamas war. Jewish pupils Bella Ingber, Sabrina Maslavi and Saul Tawil accused their college of 'egregious civil rights violations' by allegedly allowing other students to chant anti-Semitic slogans like 'gas the Jews' and 'Hitler was right' without repercussions. Their lawsuit, filed in New York federal court, says the college has been giving 'mobs of students carte blanche to harass and intimidate NYU's Jewish population' through its 'actions and inactions' over the past month. It alleges 'the age-old virus of antisemitism is alive and well at New York University' and has grown worse after Hamas' horrific October 7 incursion into Israel brought tensions to a boiling point. Ingber, Maslavi and Tawil blasted the university for allegedly violating the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color or national origin. They say they tried to address their concerns, but administrators brushed them off and said they should call a hotline for students with 'emotional challenges.' NYU contested their claims, telling DailyMail.com at the time they 'do not accurately describe conditions on our campus,' and that it 'looks forward to setting the record straight' in court. But the plaintiffs say antisemitism has been a 'growing institutional problem' on American university campuses for decades - and NYU is 'among the worst.' The lawsuit was filed shortly after former UPenn president Liz Magill testified on Capitol Hill at a congressional hearing on antisemitism, where she failed to condemn antisemitism One of the messages demanded former UPenn president Liz Magill call for a ceasefire in Gaza 'This case arises from NYU's egregious civil rights violations that have created a hostile educational environment in which plaintiffs and other Jewish NYU students have been subjected to pervasive acts of hatred, discrimination, harassment, and intimidation,' the lawsuit reads. 'For years, NYUacutely aware of ongoing and disgraceful acts of anti-Jewish bigotryhas reacted with, at best, deliberate indifference, refusing to enforce its own anti-discrimination and conduct policies that it readily applies to protect other targets of bigotry, and instead fostering an environment in which students and faculty members are permitted to repeatedly abuse, malign, vilify, and threaten Jewish students with impunity. 'Regularly confronted with such genocidal chants as, 'Hitler was right,' 'gas the Jews,' 'death to kikes,' and 'from the river to the sea,' and other abuse, plaintiffs not only have been deprived of the ability and opportunity to fully and meaningfully participate in NYU's educational and other programs, but they have suffered and have been put at severe risk of extreme emotional and physical injury.' Inger, Maslavi and Tawil say antisemitism on university campuses increased by 40 percent and that NYU has long been aware of the 'festering Jewish hatred permeating the school.' They claim the increase in alleged issue was allowed to happen because rather than implementing 'urgently needed protective and disciplinary measures to restore campus order and safety', administrators have 'gaslighted the Jewish students. She took out a loan to buy a 24k 30ft narrowboat and moved in January 2023 A woman from London ditched her house-share and quit the rat race to live off-grid in a narrowboat - and says it saves her 6k-a-year. Shannon Lane, 29, was sick of paying 900-a-month for a room in a three-bedroom apartment in Clapton, East London. The artist said she was looking for somewhere 'more affordable' with space for her and her pug, Gilbert, two. So, she took out a loan to buy a 24k 30ft narrowboat, which she moved into in January 2023. The Londoner says she now saves 500-a-month, which is more than 6k a year, and travels around the Grand Union Canal - moving every two weeks. A woman from London ditched her houseshare and quit the rat race to live off-grid in a narrowboat - and says it saves her 6k-a-year However, it's not all been smooth-sailing and Shannon says she experienced 'boat blues' as she grappled with freezing weather, learning to move the boat, emptying the toilet and refilling her water. The artist, who's currently based in Hackney, East London, said: 'I was paying 900-a-month for a room, I thought "this is ridiculous". 'I was thinking of other options that were more affordable with space that me and my dog could live in comfortably. 'As soon as I saw the boat advertised I knew it was one for me, I spent 24k and I worked out that my loan repayments are 300-a-month. 'That is a huge difference to what I was paying back in my house-share and this is something I now own.' Shannon was living in a shared house with two friends - originally paying 900-a-month until her landlord upped her rent to 1,000-a-month. She was walking around the Kings Cross canal in October 2022 when she came across a narrowboat for sale. Shannon said it was a 'no-brainer' to move onto a boat and is now saving thousands a year. Shannon Lane, 29, was sick of paying 900-a-month for a room in a three-bedroom apartment in Clapton, East London The artist said she was looking for somewhere 'more affordable' with space for her and her pug, Gilbert, two She said: 'I saw the boat and thought 'what if?'. 'I texted the owner and we set up a viewing for the following week. 'As soon as I saw the boat itself I saw it was 24k and I worked out that paying my loan from the bank to afford it would be 300-a-month. 'That is a massive saving from what I was paying in my house-share.' However, there were things Shannon was not prepared for and she found difficult within her new home. She explained: 'It was a huge learning curve, I like to call it my boat blues. 'I thought it was going to be amazing and I would have all this freedom but when you come down to it you have all this hard work. 'It was January too so I was freezing, I didn't know how to move the boat, empty the toilet or fill up the water. The Londoner says she now saves 500-a-month, which is more than 6k a year, and travels around the Grand Union Canal - moving every two weeks Shannon's finances renting a room in a househare Rent per month - 900 Share of bills per month - 100 Advertisement Shannon's finances on the narrowboat Monthly loan repayment - 300 Gas - 40 every four months - so 10-a-month Electricity - Free as generated by solar panels Advertisement 'The best thing about boat life is the community, it is so nice to each other - if it wasn't for them I don't think I could have done it.' Shannon said she loves the freedom of being on the boat and said her family weren't shocked by her decision. She said: 'I am a spontaneous person, they were hesitant at first but they trusted my judgement. 'That solidified when they visited and they said it was such a nice way of life. 'I have made some of my best friends in the community, it is the freedom you get. I love the fact I can travel whenever I want and the summers are absolutely amazing.' Now she's had a taste of this way of living, the 29-year-old revealed she would love to live on the boat for the rest of her life. She said: 'I don't like the idea of going back and paying traditional bills. 'At the minute I am just filling up gas whenever I need and my electricity comes from my solar panel. Shannon explained: 'I was thinking of other options that were more affordable with space that me and my dog could live in comfortably' READ MORE: Meet the millennials moving in with mom and dad to save up to buy their own place Advertisement 'But, in order to live with my boyfriend I might have to as I am not sure he wants to move onto the boat. 'In a dream world I would live to here forever but I am not sure that is what my partner wants.' And Shannon isn't the only one swapping land for water - Amy Cross, 28, from Nottingham, and her partner, Wes Arthur, 30, were sick of their 40-hour working weeks in Sheffield. In June 2021, pair quit the 'rat race' to live off-grid and travel full time in their boat - to 'take control' of their lives. Set on choosing their own hours and avoiding overtime, they decided to overhaul their lifestyle - ditching their rented 675-a-month three-bedroom home and changing their jobs to have 'less responsibility and stress'. They now work remotely from their boat and sail around the UK - having travelled through Wales, the Midlands, and down the entire length of the River Thames. Air fryers are the newest kitchen gadget to take the UK by storm, with an estimated 12 million households owning one. The appliance uses hot air rather than hot oil to cook foods, offering a quick and healthy alternative to deep-fat fryers. However, with so many makes, models and accessories, it can be difficult to know where to begin and how to make the most of your new kitchen helper. The questions often on the minds of air fryer buyers are often how big it needs to be, how much food can it cook and how much cash should I really be spending? Thankfully experts and air fryer lovers have revealed the answers to all these questions and below we break them down into easy bitesize chunks. Air fryers are the newest kitchen gadget to take the UK by storm, with an estimated 12 million households owning one Does the size of your air fryer matter? The experts were talking as part of Channel 5 's new documentary, 'Air Fryers: Do you know what you're missing?,' which aired on Wednesday, presented by Alexis Conran. The programme began by answering the key question - is size important when it comes to an air fryer? With an overwhelming amount of options, gadget expert Jon Bentley looked into finding out. He revealed: 'It's amazing the diversity available. 'Once the air fryer size increases, manufacturers throw in both extra cooking capacity, which suits large families, and a bunch of novel gadgets'. There are options with two drawers, paddles, turntables, and even digital cooking probes that tell you when food is ready. However, when it comes to size, the experts explain that: 'In fact, size doesn't matter, they all do the same thing, just in bigger and bigger cannisters. 'That means there's an air fryer to suit every consumer'. Channel 5 's new documentary, 'Air Fryers: Do you know what you're missing?,' aired on Wednesday, presented by Alexis Conran When it comes to size, the experts explain that: 'In fact, size doesn't matter, they all do the same thing, just in bigger and bigger cannisters' How much should you spend on an air fryer and how much does it cost to run? Arguably the most important question consumers want to know is how much they should be spending on an air fryer. Presenter Conran explains: 'With air fryers, there's a general rule - the more you pay, the more they do. 'What's more, a basic model is often just as affective as the bells and whistles varieties'. Aggie Mackenzie, from popular show How Clean is Your House?, advises: 'I've found that often the cheaper product, doesn't necessarily have to be any worse than the top end of the market'. The programme highlighted that air fryers cover a very wide price range from just under 20, all the way up to more than 600 for a colourful Sage model sold by Harrods. The Sage model costs 659 and has a capacity of 22L - it's settings include toast, crumpets, bake, roast, grill, pizza, air fry, reheat, warm and slow cook. While they can get expensive, the programme shared that consumer service Which?'s advice is to spend 'about 60 if you're looking for a basic but good model'. The presenter added: 'As well as being easy on the wallet when you first buy them, the other great thing about air fryers in the midst of an ongoing cost of living crisis, is that they've proven to be superstars when it comes to the household budget. The programme begins by answering the key question - is size important when it comes to an air fryer? The Sage model sold by Harrods costs 659 and has a capacity of 22L - it's settings include toast, crumpet, bake, roast, grill, pizza, air fry, reheat, warm and slow cook 'While an electric cooker costs around 109 to run each year, the annual cost of a basic model air fryer is 31.18'. Jon Bentley agreed: 'There is something very wasteful about an oven heating up for 10 or 15 minutes before you put anything in it and then you're using a big space to often heat up something that's very small'. Don't overfill your air fryer and make use of a rack Once you've got your hands on the right gadget to suit your family's needs, you need to know how to use it correctly. One thing that experts in the programme issued a warning about is that you need to be careful not to overfill your air fryer. Actor and Comedian Shazia Mirza, advised: 'Do not over-stack your air fryers - don't think you can make a big fat chicken and a bag of fries and a bag of peas and a bag of carrots in the same basket. 'It's not gonna happen, you'll blow the air fryer up'. Conran explains that as well as not overfilling the device, you don't need to buy a huge one and overfill your kitchen counter space. Cleaning Expert, Aggie Mackenzie, advises: 'Now I've found that often the cheaper product, doesn't necessarily have to be any worse than the top end of the market' Most air fryer baskets are coated with a non-stick lining, similar to a frying pan, so to make your device last as long as possible, you won't want to scratch it off He said: 'If you don't have room for a fryer with two compartments and you're forced to choose a smaller fryer don't fret. 'There's always a gadget you can add that will help boost the cooking capacity. For instance, if you add a rack to your air fryer basket, the cooking space is doubled'. Clare Andrews, Author of the Ultimate Air Fryer Cook Book, added: 'Just be really careful what you stack on top of one another and how you remove the food. The stacking trays also help with you not overfilling your basket. You can use it to separate the food, therefore it's much quicker and you get that crispier finish'. Protect the basket from scrapes and scouring Expert and author, Andrews, continues: 'One of my top tips would be don't use metal tongs or spoons because that can really damage the non stick'. Most air fryer baskets are coated with a non-stick lining, similar to a frying pan, so to make your device last as long as possible, you won't want to scratch it off. Andrews suggests: 'Always go for a wooden spatula or a wooden spoon when you're stirring in your air fryer'. Clare Andrews, Author of the Ultimate Air Fryer Cook Book, added: 'Just be really careful what you stack on top of one another and how you remove the food' READ MORE: I used an air fryer to cook everything for my Christmas party and it was a triumph - even the mulled wine was great Advertisement Make use of your oven dishes The experts add that you can get more out of your air fryer using certain accessories such as silicone moulds. Conran says: 'But if you don't want to break the bank on brand new liners or moulds, any trusty oven-safe dish would do the trick. With Andrews chiming in with: ''You can even use ceramic trays or Pyrex dishes that fit in a normal conventional oven. They keep it clean as well. 'Certain foods such as fish and chicken work perfectly in silicone liners, as well as baking cakes or muffins or even making Yorkshire puddings'. Avoid baking in old food and grime Moving on to the part that everybody hates, the programme discusses how to keep your appliance clean. Conran explains: 'They are quite easy to get clean. If you don't do it properly, it's one of the main reasons why these gadgets take an early exit'. Cleaning expert, Aggie Mackenzie, jumps in with: 'You don't want any residue or food lying there because time after time that residue will get burnt on, it will start to smoke and it's harder to remove'. Meanwhile, Shazia Mirza added: 'Nothing actually sticks to the drawer if you use parchment paper like I do, so I haven't actually got anything sticky on the drawer so I just use hot soap and water, it's brilliant'. If you want to watch ''Air Fryers: Do you know what you're missing?,' head to Channel 5's My5 to find out everything you need to know about the nation's new favourite kitchen appliances. The demand for dehumidifiers is on the rise in the UK, with brands saying they 'can't keep up' and more than 20,000 people on waiting lists. It comes as Britain faced sub-zero temperatures this week, with a 'cold plunge of Arctic air'. With homeowners struggling to heat their homes and keep mould at bay, the need for the damp-fighting machines is soaring. Chris Michael, managing director of British dehumidifier brand Meaco, told BBC News: 'Demand has been bonkers. We can't keep up with it'. He revealed his firm had a waiting list of 20,000 last winter and the company didn't have enough stock, so this year he's throwing in another 100,000 units - 280,000 in total. The demand for dehumidifiers is on the rise in the UK, with brands saying they 'can't keep up' and more than 20,000 people on waiting lists (stock image) However, he's still not sure if the amount will be enough, revealing they 'should have brought in an extra 50,000'. Kate Martin's home in the West Midlands, is amongst those struggling with a mould problem that often comes with very cold weather. Mrs Martin revealed: 'I couldn't breathe properly, my chest hurt. 'It doesn't matter if you have 10 blankets, if it's damp, you are freezing'. However, as soon as she set her dehumidifier going and wiped the mould away, she noticed she and her family were 'breathing freely again'. Dehumidifiers can be used to drastically reduce humidity and condensation levels in a home, making it less hospitable to mould, mildew and dust mites. The National Association of Property Buyers (NAPB) says that often when a householder uses a dehumidifier for the first time, they are surprised to find just how much water it collects from the air. Some dehumidifiers will gather up to 20 litres of water on the first use. If used regularly, the organisation says moisture levels in the air will drop. With homeowners struggling to heat their homes and keep mould at bay, the need for the damp-fighting machines is getting out of control There are two main types of mechanical devices - refrigierent dehumidifiers and desiccant dehumidifiers. Refrigerant devices, which Mr Michael says are by far the most popular choice, use a compressor and refrigerant coil to remove moisture. Humid air is drawn into the dehumidifier and passes over a refrigerated coil that will lower the temperature to it's dew point - condensation takes place, removing the mositure. The water is then collected in a container to be emptied once it's full. The managing director says they are the more highly favoured option as they usually cost less to run, however dessiccant dehumidifiers are better for colder spaces. They use a material that draws moisture in, with the material then being heated to collect the water - also helping to heat the room. Dehumidifiers usually set a household back around 100-200, however prices can be as high as 350. Although, they can be significantly cheap to run and could knock cash off your electricity bill. Dehumidifiers can be used to drastically reduce humidity and condensation levels in a home, making it less hospitable to mould, mildew and dust mites READ MORE: Window experts reveal six ways to prevent condensation this winter - WITHOUT using a dehumidifier Advertisement Rachael Peterson, from Oxfordshire, has gone as far as using her dehumidifier to do the job of a tumble drier. The electronics engineer hangs her clothes up to dry in a cupboard under her stairs overnight, in the same room as her device. She claims that on a cheaper electricity tariff, this sets her back less than 4p, adding that 'the clothes are dried down there in a matter of hours'. However, if you can't afford the cost of a dehumidifier, there are plenty of other ways to ensure your home is ventillated and fight off pesky mould and condensation. One mother revealed on Facebook that she battles mould and condensation by placing bowls of salt on the windowsill - a hack that costs as little as 9p. Simple tricks, from cracking a window open every morning to using a hair dryer to get rid of the liquid build-up, can also help reduce the amount of condensation inside your home. Expert in air quality, Professor Cath Noakes from the University of Leeds, also stresses that it's equally important to ventilate and heat your home as it is to use a dehumidifier. She explains: 'High humidity is associated with mould and other microbial growth. 'Very low humidity, say below 40%, and definitely below 30%, is associated with things like respiratory viruses'. The expert urged homeowners to remember that while dehumidifers remove some of the moisture that encourages mould, they do not get rid of the mould itself. Speaking on Monday, Britain's defence secretary Grant Shapps warned in a speech that the UK has moved out of a post-war state and is now facing a 'pre-war world'. His comments were made to highlight the need for Britain to increase its defence spending, but also demonstrated growing concern over current and future conflicts. Relative peace in Europe was shattered in February 2022 with Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine, and the Middle East once again found itself in crisis 18 months later after Hamas's October 7 terror attack on Israel, and Israel's retaliation on Gaza. And while these two conflicts have dominated the news cycle, others have also been wreaking havoc in Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Caucuses. Meanwhile, there are mounting fears that the war in Gaza could spillover into the Middle East, and that China could invade Taiwan in the coming years - a conflict that has the potential to plunge the world into a third global war. What's more, Thursday saw NATO admiral Rob Bauer warn that the military alliance is bracing itself for an attack by Russia within the next 20 years. If it feels like the world is seeing a spike in deadly conflicts, the data is there to back up that notion. Figures compiled by the Peace Research Institute Oslo show more battle-related deaths from state conflicts in 2022 than in any year since 1984. The data shows that Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the war between the Government of Ethiopia and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) accounted for the majority of the more than 204,000 recorded war-related deaths last year. It was also the first year that fighting in Europe accounted for more than 25,000 of the world's deaths from state-based violence since the Second World War. According to Justin Crump, an intelligence, security and defence expert and CEO of global risk analysis firm Sibylline, further regional conflicts can be expected in the years ahead, especially as climate change worsens and resources grow scarce, and as the world's superpowers clash with fight proxy wars with Grey Zone tactics. Relative peace in Europe was shattered in February 2022 with Vladimir Putin 's invasion of Ukraine , and the Middle East once again found itself in crisis 18 months later after Hamas 's October 7 terror attack on Israel , and Israel's retaliation on Gaza (pictured) There are mounting fears that China could invade Taiwan in the coming years - a conflict that has the potential to plunge the world into a third global war Thursday saw NATO admiral Rob Bauer warn that the military alliance is bracing itself for an attack by Russia within the next 20 years. Pictured: Russian tanks are seen during a drill in Belarus on February 21, 2022 - days before Putin ordered the invasion of Ukraine Figures compiled by the Peace Research Institute Oslo show more battle-related deaths from state conflicts in 2022 than in any year since 1984 Asked by MailOnline about the growing fears of a global conflict, Mr Crump said: 'I don't think this is inevitable, but I think the risks are mounting. 'If it's not next year, it'll be by the end of the decade, we'll be looking at a similar sort of problem. And unless something dramatically changes on the planet, the risk is just going to keep mounting. The tensions will keep mounting.' Since 2020, there have been a number of regional conflicts in addition to those currently being fought in Ukraine and the Middle East. The Tigray War saw tens of thousands of people killed across northern Ethiopia between November 2020 to November 2022 while an on-going civil war in Sudan, which began in April 2023, has also caused widespread death and destruction. Africa has also seen a series of successful military coups. Governments have been overthrown in countries including Burkina Faso, Guinea, Chad, Mali, Gabon and Niger, and the Democratic Republic of Congo is also facing an on-going humanitarian crisis - the roots of which date back to the Rwandan genocide of 1994. Another coup happened in 2021, this time in Myanmar, when the military overthrew the democratically elected government of Win Myint and Aung San Suu Kyi, plunging the country into a crisis. Rebels continue to fight back. Nagorno-Karabakh proved to be another flash point in recent years, culminating in 2023 when Azerbaijan launched a large-scale military offensive into the region, forcing the Armenian people there from their homes. According to Mr Crump, we can expect more of these regional conflicts. But while those listed above have largely been political, he says there is the growing likelihood that wars will be fought as a result of dwindling resources on account of climate change, such as water, and as more people are forced from their homes. 'We're definitely going to see more regional conflicts next year because the pressures are mounting, climate change is making people shift around,' he said. 'Guess what? They bump into each other. That causes problems. There isn't enough water. People are going to start fighting for water. This stuff is all going to happen. 'It's just the case, whether it's this year, next year or ten years hence.' In Sibylline's annual report report analysing global risks, climate change is listed as one of five key drivers of political security, governance and criminal trends. It points to rising temperatures exacerbating wildfire risks, driving erratic storms, and increasing the risk of floods and draughts. 'Given the increased exposure of human settlements to these risks, the impacts of our changing climate will continue to shift the locations and movement patterns of people they will also drive competition over resources,' the report says. Climate change, the firm adds, 'serves as a slow but steady driver of instability and change, exacerbating many other longer-standing sources of tension and increasing the likelihood of disruption and risk to life.' A destroyed tank is seen in a field in the aftermath of fighting between the Ethiopian National Defence Force (ENDF) and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) forces in Kasagita town, in Afar region, Ethiopia, February 25, 2022 A truck, carrying grains to Tigray and belonging to the World Food Programme (WFP), burns out on a route 80 kilometers from the Semera, Ethiopia, on June 10, 2022 A man waves an Ethiopian flag as he join others gathering in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on October 22, 2022 during a protest in support of the country's armed forces This photo taken on December 10, 2023 shows members of the Mandalay People's Defense Forces (MDY-PDF) patrolling near the frontline amid clashes with Myanmar's military Sub-Saharan Africa - already a region with extreme poverty and disease - will bear the brunt of rising temperatures sooner than others. Agriculture is regularly disrupted by extreme weather in the Sahel and the Horn of Africa, and the loss of livelihoods and increasingly scarce resources are 'intensifying inter-communal conflict, further militarising historic disputes and encouraging communities to mobilise along ethnic lines,' the report says. Both Military governments and jihadist groups in the region are exploiting this, with the first marginalising already fringe societies and the latter using it to bolster recruitment. More extreme groups lead to more violence. At the end of last year in Nigeria, almost 300 Christians were reported to have been killed in a wave of 'coordinated' attacks on Christmas Eve. Reports said the attacks were carried out by the Fulani Islamist militia, who in 2014 were named the fourth deadliest terrorist group in the world by the Global Terrorism Index. While the attacks are believed to have been motivated by religion, other localised conflicts have been fought in Nigeria's Middle Belt over land rights between cattle herders and agrarian hamlets. Sibylline's report also highlights the risk climate change poses to the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey. The region has to contend with extreme storms, unusually heavy rainfall and wildfires, as well as droughts, sandstorms and food insecurity. Turkey was also the victim of a deadly earthquake last year, displacing thousands of people. Worsening conditions in Sub-Saharan Africa as well as across the north of the continent and the Middle East will continue to force people from their homes. This will push them towards safer countries in Europe, where the issue of migration can inflame tensions - both between states and in domestic politics - fuelling border disputes and emboldening parties with more extreme views. What's more, Africa is home to about one-third of the world's mineral resources, including minerals that are vital to the world's clean energy technologies. Forecasts suggest that in the coming decades, the world will need many times more cobalt, copper and lithium than what is being produced for consumer goods and defence applications like phones, electric vehicles and satellites. This poses a significant challenge to the United States and the rest of the West, due to China dominating the globe's critical supply of such minerals. Infact, China accounts for 60 percent of world-wide production and 85 percent of processing capacity, according to the United States Institute for Peace. China is already well entrenched in Africa, with Chinese entities now owning stakes in nearly all the producing mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo, for example, which supplies 70 percent of the world's cobalt. Chinese mining companies have also invested heavily in lithium mines, and are behind lithium projects in countries including Namibia, Zimbabwe and Mali. Estimates suggest Beijing could control one-third of the world's lithium capacity by 2025, leaving the US and other countries well behind. The West's need for the same resources will only serve to create further divisions with China. Tensions between the US and China are already high amid fears that Beijing could order the invasion of Taiwan in the coming years. China claims self-ruled Taiwan as its territory, and fears have grown in recent years that President Xi Jinping is planning an invasion in the coming years, in the face of increasingly hostile rhetoric and simulated blockades of the island. Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) soldiers are assembled during military training at Pamir Mountains in Kashgar, northwestern China's Xinjiang region in January 2021 Tensions between the US and China are already high amid fears that Beijing could order the invasion of Taiwan in the coming years. Pictured: Chinese troops march in Beijing (file photo) Soldiers of Taiwanese Army take part in a military exercise at an undisclosed location in Taiwan in this handout picture provided by Taiwan Defence Ministry and released on April 9, 2023 Taiwan's compulsory servicemen demonstrate their combat skills to the media at a military base in Taichung, Taiwan, November 23, 2023 There is no doubt that such an invasion would be devastating for the region from a humanitarian perspective, with some suggesting as many as 500,000 people could be killed in any such military action. But experts have also warned of the devastating impact an attack would have from an economic perspective, particularly on the West. Taiwan produces 90 percent of the world's advanced chips, the brains in all modern electronic equipment, and any shortage in semiconductors has been described as 'catastrophic' to both the UK and the global economy. Should China seize Taiwan, then it would also corner the semiconductor market, giving the US and its allies multiple incentives to defend Taiwan - something Washington has signalled it would do in the event of an invasion. China has been hostile to its other neighbours in recent years, too. It has become increasingly aggressive in the South China Sea, with its navy and fishing vessels often coming into close contact with Filipino vessels. It has also been accused of using its vast fishing fleet to dominate the South China Sea, which it claims should be under its control almost in its entirety. An investigation by the New York Times last year highlighted how China's fishing boats - often armed with weapons - combined with its aggressive coastguard work to assert Beijing's presence more than 1,000 miles from China's coast. Beijing has also clashed with Japan over the disputed Senkaku Islands, using its fishing industry to bolster its claim. There have also been clashes between China and India in the Galwan Valley in the Himalayas which has seen soldiers fighting for the world's two largest nations, both of whom are armed with nuclear weapons, clashing with melee weapons. In 2021, China admitted to losing four of its troops in the fighting. Mr Crump says China's actions in the South China Sea is a prime example of 'Grey Zone' tactics - a type of unconventional warfare Clementine G. Starling is the deputy director of the Forward Defense practice and a resident fellow in the Transatlantic Security Initiative, told the Atlantic Council think tank that she defines the 'grey zone' as 'a set of activities that occur between peace (or cooperation) and war (or armed conflict). 'A multitude of activities fall into this murky in-between - from nefarious economic activities, influence operations, and cyberattacks to mercenary operations, assassinations, and disinformation campaigns,' she added. The West, Mr Crump says, should be concerned with such tactics from China. 'It's the fishing fleet, It's the Coast Guard. It's the way they're just pushing into this space and just making it theirs and basically saying: "what are you going to do about it? Are you going to fire a missile at us? I don't think you are". 'And it's really hard to come up with an answer and it's this sort of creeping penetration of geography, of societies, of thinking that's going on.' A picture taken from southern Israel on the border with the Gaza Strip shows smoke billowing over the Palestinian territory during Israeli bombardment on January 19, 2024 As China's rhetoric around Taiwan grows increasingly more concerning, there are also fears that the on-going fighting between Israel and the Hamas terror group in Gaza could spill-over into the Middle East. In recent months, we have seen Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels attacking ships passing through the Red Sea, between Asia and Europe - disrupting global trade. In response, the US and UK have hit targets in Yemen with missiles, but have so far failed to deter further Houthi attacks. The vital shipping route remains disrupted. The Iran-back Hezbollah group have also been launching attacks into Israel from Lebanon, raising fears that a war could also break out between the Israeli Defence Forces and Hezbollah - a far superior fighting force to that of Hamas. Meanwhile, Iran this week struck targets in Pakistan. Tehran said the attacks were against a terror group, but the move angered officials in Islamabad nonetheless. Nuclear-armed Pakistan responded overnight on Thursday, striking back at targets in Iran it also said were home to terrorists, killing at least three people. Currently, Mr Crump says that diplomatic efforts by the US and other countries in the region are doing enough to keep a lid on the crisis. However, populations in the Arab world are growing more angry over the treatment of the people of Gaza by the IDF in their own efforts to eradicate Hamas. There is a concern that some Arab governments in the region more sympathetic towards Hamas could be forced to act over fears of civil unrest at home, like that which was seen in the Arab spring that spread chaos in the 2010s. While there are several potential flash-points - not to mention Russia's increasingly aggressive rhetoric about its designs on Easter Europe and NATO saying this week that it is bracing for a Russian invasion within the next 20 years, Mr Crump said he thinks its unlikely that World War Three would see the world's superpowers clash head-on in the foreseeable future. Instead, he says it is more likely that nuclear-powered nations of the world will fight through proxies and with Grey Zone tactics. Such tactics have been seen already. The Kremlin used 'little green men' to suddenly seize Crimea in 2014, while China has deployed cursive economic tactics through its Belt and Road initiative to vacuum up control over resources, as seen in Africa. Cyber attacks, information campaigns and other forms of non-violent pressure are also being meted out by the world's superpowers in the shadows. Using Taiwan as an example, Mr Crump says we can expect to see such tactics used more and more as the world's superpowers butt heads in the coming years. 'If China launches missiles and sends in amphibious warships [to invade Taiwan], then America might feel like they have to do something straight away,' he says. Instead, he expects an attack on Taiwan to be 'subtle, insidious and creeping.' 'I think one of the points about this is you're seeing potentially lots of regional conflicts, lots of grey zone conflicts,' he adds. 'If you talk about the "Third World War", everyone's very scared because they picture mushroom clouds. But at no point does Russia actually want to cease existing over Ukraine. At no point does the US or China want to die in a fiery hell over Taiwan. Ukrainian servicemen check newly built anti tank fortifications, named 'dragon's teeth' and razor wire, near the Russian border in Chernihiv region, Ukraine, January 10, 2024 Ukrainian servicemen of the 128th separate mountain assault Transcarpathian brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine take part in tank drills, in Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, January 11 'No one's that madcap about this. So we're actually back to warfare the way it used to be, which is countries fighting over something (while at the same time) they can actually be almost cooperating on something, somewhere else,' Mr Crump said. 'You're fighting through proxies, which the US did in Vietnam, arguably. It did in Korea, arguably. We (the West) certainly fought proxies that were backed by China. 'But the US was never actually fighting China. It never struck the Chinese mainland. It's gonna be a bit like that - widespread regional conflict. 'I think that's more likely than an all-out World War,' he said. Police chief seeks to boost jail terms for the worst offenders to 20 years The hoax 'swatting' call that saw firefighters dispatched to the White House this week was just the latest example of a growing scourge that risks lives and wastes police time and resources. A caller to 911 early Monday morning sounded the alarm about a fire and a person trapped inside the Washington DC landmark. 'It was quickly determined there was no emergency,' a fire service spokesperson said. The bogus call was traced to a fake number. President Joe Biden spent the weekend at Camp David and wasn't present at the time. The brazen hoax, directing crews to such a beloved and historic property, highlighted the scale of America's rising swatting incidents which by some counts has exploded fivefold in recent years. An LAPD swat team arrive at the scene of an armed robbery. Prank 'swatting' calls make cops less able to respond to real emergencies The Education School Safety Network says hoax calls about mass shooters have become the most frequent violent problem faced by America's schools Selena Gomez, Tom Cruise, Miley Cyrus, Ashton Kutcher, and other celebrities have been targeted in swatting hits that stretch back to the start of the 2010s. But, in America's toxic political atmosphere, trouble-making callers are nowadays more likely to call out gun-toting cops to the home of a government official or decision-maker. Recent targets have included Republican Senator Rick Scott, House representatives Marjorie Taylor Greene and Brandon Williams, and a prosecutor and judges involved in the cases against former president Donald Trump. 'Last month, criminals attempted a 'swatting' on my home in Florida,' Scott wrote in a statement on Wednesday. It was a 'despicable act of cowardice, clearly intending to terrorize my family and inflict fear and violence,' he added. Scott and his Alabama counterpart Tommy Tuberville this week unveiled a bill to amend the federal government's criminal hoax statute and establish strict penalties for swatting. The Preserving Safe Communities by Ending Swatting Act, as it is known, could land hoax callers behind bars for up to 20 years, if their misdeeds led to serious injuries. 'This is happening around the nation, not just to elected officials, but also to hundreds of Jewish institutions,' Scott said. 'It's sickening, dangerous and we must stop it.' Swatting is a dangerous criminal hoax where a false report of an emergency, crime, mass shooting, imminent bombing, or kidnapping is made to police with the goal of luring them to a target location. The goal is typically to cause the deployment of a heavily armed police unit often referred to as SWAT teams because of the 'special weapons and tactics' they use against armed adversaries. Law enforcement is frequently advised falsely there is a threat inside a home, putting those inside the property in danger during a heavy-handed response. Swatting attempts have increased in recent years as a form of online harassment and often target celebrities, political figures and internet livestreams. Swatting has been on the FBI's radar for nearly two decades, and gained notoriety after high-profile celebrities were targeted in the early 2010s. Studying what was then a 'new phenomenon' in 2008, FBI researchers said swatters were motivated by 'bragging rights and ego' rather than making money. House Republican firebrand Marjorie Taylor Greene says she's been a swatting victim eight times Selena Gomez (pictured), Tom Cruise, Miley Cyrus, and Ashton Kutcher are among the celebrity victims of swatting But those motivations have evolved over time. Some swatters nowadays make bogus calls because they foster personal or political grievances and want to disrupt operations at a targeted school, college, house of worship or business. Others seek to divert law enforcement resources away from other crimes, or have worked out some way to make money from a hoax. Kevin Coffey, an LAPD detective-turned-safety consultant, says swatting has become a modern-day scourge that amounts to 'digital terrorism.' 'These digital hoaxes are turning others' lives upside down, and even, in some cases, causing deaths,' Coffey told Fox News. For some, swatting is a way to settle scores amid heated debates over abortion and other issues, he said. They want to 'take revenge on political individuals, people in the government, celebrities, and even journalists and people active in their communities, and law enforcement has to respond in force at full capacity,' Coffey added. Swatting calls have had fatal consequences, after tactical units show up at homes with their fingers on triggers. Wichita police erroneously shot and killed 28-year-old Andrew Finch at his front door in December 2017. The call had been made over a row about an online video game. Mark Herring, 60, died from a massive heart attack after police swarmed his home in Sumner County, Tennessee. Schools in southern Florida have suffered a spate in disruptive swatting calls in recent weeks Democrat Chuck Schumer calls swatting 'dangerous, disturbing and downright terrifying' In June, the FBI launched a national database to track swatting incidents following a push from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. The New York Democrat called the attacks 'dangerous, disturbing and downright terrifying.' Watchdogs have reported alarming rises in the number of swatting attacks. The Secure Community Network, which monitors anti-Semitic attacks, in December recorded what it called a 'staggering' 199 swatting calls and bomb hoaxes targeting Jewish facilities in a single 24-hour period. They were linked to the outrage over Israel's tough response to Hamas's bloodbath raids into southern Israel in October, the group said. The group recorded more than 449 such attacks throughout 2023 a more than fivefold increase on the 83 incidents in 2023. Bill Johnson, executive director of the National Association of Police Organizations, wants tougher jail terms to deter would-be swatters Swatting had become a 'major concern for the safety and security of the Jewish community in North America, the group's national director Michael Masters said in a statement. At the same time, the Education School Safety Network, warned that hoax calls about mass shooters had become the most frequent violent problem faced by America's schools. The group counted 446 such false reports in the 2022-2023 school year a more than fivefold surge on the 69 such incidents during the 2018-2019 school year. Bill Johnson, executive director of the National Association of Police Organizations, said it was clear that 'swatting calls are on the rise.' Politicians should get behind the draft Republican bill to put swatters behind bars for decades. 'Stricter penalties act as a deterrent,' Johnson said. One traditional pie and mash firm which says business is booming with no plans of slowing down is Arments. The third generation business is 110 years old and credits its success with transforming and evolving by looking at how its customer base has developed. It has its traditional base in Walworth, south London, but also delivers across the country and to Northern Ireland. Owner and director Cheryl Arment told Mail Online: 'We've had to constantly transform, especially in the last few years. 'We see our customer base as being right across Britain now. It's all done via courier service and remains fresh and as tasty as ever. Your browser does not support iframes. Arments Pie and Mash shop is one of London's first fast food establishments Customers are able to enjoy a plate of Pie and Mash with liquor The liquor does not contain any alcohol despite its name 'It's about keeping up with demands and trends. 'Our London customer base is still very strong but it has changed. The world is a different place to what it was 50 or 100 years ago. The dynamic of London has changed and people live different lives. 'It's still very busy with a great number of regular customers. But we've worked hard to keep the brand going and that has meant taking it out there across the country. 'We've listened to our customers. Many have moved out of London and we have kept in touch and deliver to them.' Cheryl said as the cost of living crisis has started to hit, the company has kept value in mind. She said: 'The great thing about pie and mash is it is very reasonable. We're able to provide a wholesome, fresh product and a substantial meal at a good price. 'It's still reasonably priced, whatever you're looking for. And it is fresh and good for you. 'Although we have changed and modernised, we have kept our traditional values.' She said it was 'very sad' to hear of other businesses closing and talk of the industry in decline. Owner and director Cheryl Arment told Mail Online: 'We've had to constantly transform, especially in the last few years. We see our customer base as being right across Britain now. It's all done via courier service and remains fresh and as tasty as ever' She added: 'Our story is one of change. We have developed and kept up with the times. 'We are still a traditional family business and we're third generation with a plan in place for a fourth generation. 'We're very passionate about what we do.' One customer said: 'I love Arments. They provide great food at great value. It's very traditional. It's like an old part of London.' According to the Pie and Mash Club, the first shop, Blanchard's opened in Southwark, in 1844. A spokesman said: 'Some 16 years later, Robert Cooke opened his first shop in Shoreditch and subsequently established the first significant franchise, the Cooke family soon opened shops in areas like Clerkenwell, Shadwell, Stratford, Dalston, London Fields, Westminster and most significantly Tower Bridge Road, which opened in 1892.' After 10 years, the shop was taken over by Michele Manze, the son-in-law of the original owner. It is now the longest running and oldest pie and mash shop in business. It is a popular online homewares and furniture store - but Temple & Webster has grand plans to advance the cause of reconciliation between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australia. The company - best known for selling the likes of rugs, couches and bathroom fixtures - has a mission to 'acknowledge and accept the past wrongs' of 'colonial Australia'. It pledges to 'acknowledge and accept the colonial history associated with our history' and has committed to 'educating customers about First Nations culture and rights'. That's according to company's 11-page Reconciliation Action Plan or 'RAP' - a document produced as part of a push by Australian corporations to 'increase economic equity and support self-determination' by Indigenous Australians. In spite of this grand commitment, Temple and Webster has no idea if any Aboriginal employees are among their 194 staff. 'Currently, we are unaware of how many of our employees identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people... we will investigate culturally appropriate ways to build this understanding,' the RAP, signed by CEO and founder Adam McWhinney, reads. And it's not alone. Online furniture brand Temple and Webster have a company mission to 'acknowledge and accept the past wrongs' of 'colonial Australia' The CEO of Reconciliation Australia is Karen Mundine, niece of famed anti-Voice campaigner Warren David Jones, Colgate, T2, Princess Polly and Atlassian are all among dozens of household name corporations who have pledged their commitment to reconciliation via one of these RAPs - an initiative of Reconciliation Australia and Karen Mundine, niece of famed anti-Voice campaigner Warren. Ms Mundine said in total there are more than 2,200 'corporate, government and not-for-profit organisations' within Australia and about three million employees 'that have taken goodwill and intention and transformed it into action' via one of these plans. Yet some of these businesses and organisations have signed up despite not employing a single First Nations person. Under the plan, some of these companies have committed to celebrating NAIDOC week, offer staff the option to 'swap out' public holidays like Australia Day and create mandatory education activities surrounding cultural sensitivities and practices like Acknowledgements of Country. The National Institute of Dramatic Arts (NIDA) is among those businesses to have pledged action under a RAP. With alumni spanning the globe, including Cate Blanchett, Mel Gibson and Baz Luhrmann, NIDA says it has a responsibility to 'to support and amplify the First Nations workforce'. The drama school noted in its own 13-page RAP that it is operating on unceded land. 'Sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be, Aboriginal land,' the RAP states. Recent Emmy winner Sarah Snook (left), Mel Gibson (centre) and Cate Blanchett (right) are all NIDA graduates 'We are committed to changing how we operate because it is the right thing to do. We are ready for truth-telling and rebuilding.' Truth-telling is one of the three pillars of the Uluru Statement from the Heart. The first was the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, overwhelmingly defeated in a referendum in October 2023. The second pillar is a Makarrata Commission, designed to explore treaty and truth-telling options within Australia. National funding via the federal government has been set aside to establish the Commission, but after the crushing Voice defeat it remains unclear whether the government will proceed. NIDA's RAP was last submitted in August 2023 - ahead of the vote. At the time, they employed 161 part and full-time staff. Four identified as First Nations, along with 13 of the 297 students enrolled. David Jones has also created a RAP. CEO Scott Fyfe also acknlowedged in it that the department store 'operates on the unceded lands of First Nations peoples'. 'Traditional Custodians have inspired and cared for Country for more than 60,000 years. The worlds oldest department store has much to learn from the worlds oldest living cultures,' he said. Of David Jones' 6,664 employees, 24 identify as Indigenous to Australia. The Voice was defeated on the back of a campaign by Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and Warren Mundine Woolworths had pledged, as part of their RAP, to displaying Aboriginal flags out the front of stores around the country. It's understood that is actually no longer the plan for 2024 - and that a flag has instead been placed at one behind-the-scenes facility The department store also noted in the Reconciliation Action Plan that it supports the Uluru Statement from the Heart. Airbnbs Country Manager for Australia, Susan Wheeldon, signed off on her brand's commitment to 'developing and implementing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander recruitment, retention and professional development strategy' in 2024 after acknowledging they 'do not currently employ' any First Nations people. She said in her action plan: 'To Airbnb, a reconciled Australia is a country where everyone feels they can belong, people are free of racism, are respected, treated equally and can freely pursue their life goals. 'We invite our community to embrace a shared history and recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and heritage as a proud part of our shared national identity.' Eco-brand Atlassian has a similar goal. Despite publicly backing the Voice to Parliament and being a champion for the Yes vote, of the 3,500 Atlassian staff in Australia, the founders acknowledged as part of their 2023 RAP the 'number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff who have self-identified is unknown'. It is understood there are Indigenous people on staff at Atlassian, but this is not yet something they've tracked as part of their headcount. Few of the RAPs commit to tangible targets that customers and everyday Australians outside of the business are able to track. However Colgate has committed to contributing 'a percentage of product proceeds to help fund First Nations community partner programs' as part of the RAP they created in 2023. Of 380 staff, two identify as First Nations, and Colgate says: 'We understand that for First Nations peoples, their voices arent being heard to the extent they should be.' 'We seek to increase representation of underrepresented people across all organisational levels.' Similarly, Woolworths had pledged, as part of their RAP, to displaying Aboriginal flags out the front of stores. The company has since backed away from the proposal, with a spokeswoman saying they were only planning to put flags up where they already fly the Australian flag. 'We dont plan to add flags outside our supermarkets. Despite publicly backing the Voice to Parliament and being a champion for the Yes vote, of the 3,500 staff at tech giant Atlassian in Australia, the founders acknowledged as part of their 2023 RAP the 'number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff who have self-identified is unknown'. Pictured are co-founder Scott Farquhar and his wife Kim Jackson 'The specific statement refers to displaying the flags where practicable. The locations deemed practicable are those where the Australian flag is already flown. Meanwhile at Temple and Webster, the goals for 2024 and 2025 begin within. This year, the company aims to 'communicate our commitment to reconciliation to all staff' and increase internal knowledge and understanding of certain cultural protocols - such as a Welcome to Country and Acknlowledgement of Country. The company also hopes to establish First Nations representation. 'At Temple & Webster, we dont just believe in equality, diversity and respect we live it through our intentions, actions and words and have done so since day one,' CEO Mr McWhinney says. Every year thousands of Brits go mudlarking in the River Thames with the hope of finding hidden treasures dredged up from centuries gone by. However budding mudlarkers have had their dreams put on hold for over 14 months, since the Port of London Authority suspended all new permits in November 2022 over concerns about the impact of the hobby on the environment. It claimed then, that applications had gone up from only around 200 'four or five years ago' to around 5000, which they suspected was due to social media trends bringing in a new wave of enthusiasts. While the suspension remains in place, newcomers can expect 'an announcement on future arrangements later in the year.' Although now it is seen a popular pastime, the original mudlarkers were the poor peasants of London, who traipsed through the banks in search of items they could resell, such as bits of rope or nails. Nicola White on the banks of the River Thames with a clay pipe She also found a rare magical figure from 19th century Africa after it washed up on the banks of the River Thames Simon Bourne once found a skull washed up on the banks What is Mudlarking? Mudlarking as a profession started in the late 18th and then into the 19th century, and was the name given to people scavenging for things on the riverbank and selling them. These original mudlarks were often children, mostly boys, who would earn a few pennies selling things like coal, nails, rope and bones that they found in the mud at low tide. They are described as 'pretty much the poorest level of society, scrabbling around on the foreshore trying desperately to make a living' by Meriel Jeater, curator in the Department of Archaeological Collections and Archive at the Museum of London. A mudlark's income was very meagre, and they were renowned for their tattered clothes and terrible stench. A mudlark was a recognised occupation until the early 20th century. Advertisement However the discoveries have continued to flood in from permit holders, just this week 52-year-old Steve Tomlinson discovered a piece of tanned leather dating back to 2,500 BC making it the oldest ever found in the UK. The archaeologist and father of two was mudlarking in North Kent when he stumbled across a piece of leather - just 21cm long - poking out of the mud. Carbon dating determined to it to be 4,488 to 4,600 years old. This would date it as being from 2578 BC - 2466 BC, placing it in the Neolithic period, around the same time as when Stonehenge was built. Mr Tomlinson from Birchington said: 'Extraordinary, to think that this dates Stonehenge is absolutely incredible. These items just don't survive unless they are in anaerobic conditions. 'This is a really big and amazing discovery. To find the Bronze Age shoe and then a bit of Neolithic leather is extremely rare. 'It is so rare that it is on the top rarity scale. To find those was just amazing and what a future they have. They will be researched by future generations.' Analysis is still ongoing, but experts believe that the leather is likely from an old bag or water bottle due to the red staining which suggests it has been waterproofed. Six months earlier he had found the shoe just 60ft away from the spot on the Thames Estuary where he made his latest discovery. Carbon dating revealed that the piece was a 3,000-year-old shoe from 888-781 BC, in the late Bronze Age, which would make it the oldest shoe ever found in the British Isles. It was a toddler's shoe measuring in at around 15 centimetres and is the smallest shoe from this period found in the world. He said: 'Obviously I was in a bit of shock to say the least. I didn't expect that result. 'Absolutely gobsmacked by it, it has really been absolutely fantastic. This has been a great experience we have got two records.' Monika Buttling-Smith, 33, found the longbow arrowhead downstream from the fortress in the River Thames Simon Bourne, 39, a Graphic Designer from London, has mudlarked in his spare time since 2011 Some of the extraordinary treasures Mr Bourne has found hidden on the harsh shoreline of the River Thames Steve added: 'Just imagine some little kid 3,000 years ago was wearing this little shoe and some neolithic person who has made this water bottle or bag was carrying it around at the time of Stonehenge it is absolutely crazy. 'You can't really get your head around it to be honest because materials like this just don't survive. For this to be washed up it is just extraordinary. 'To get one was crazy to get two I can't put it into words to be honest.' He is speaking with the British Museum about what the next steps will be for these pieces. However, it is not just a sport for professionals, a rare arrowhead may have been fired from the Tower of London as much as 900 years ago was found by an amateur archaeologist. Monika Buttling-Smith, 33, found the longbow arrowhead downstream from the fortress in the River Thames. The 2in by 5in point is damaged, suggesting it may have hit its target - whether raiders or during target practice by English soldiers preparing to go and fight in France or the Crusades. The arrowhead is believed to date to between 1100-1300, which means it could have been fired during the turbulent reigns of Richard the Lionheart and his brother King John. Nicola White, a professional 'mudlarker' found a rare magical figure from 19th century Africa on the banks of the River Thames was stunned to find it could be worth thousands of pounds. Experts believe the bizarre-looking but well-preserved 12ins figure of a wooden dog with metal nails protruding from its torso originated from the Congo in the late 1800s. It would have been used by natives as a 'mediator' between the spirit world and the dead, allowing supernatural forces to intervene in human affairs. Steve Tomlinson discovered a piece of leather mudlarking in North Kent A piece tanned leather found this week which dates back to 2500 BC, the same time that Stonehenge was built Carbon dating determined to it to be 4,488 to 4,600 years old Exactly how it ended up there is a mystery. One theory is that it was confiscated by Christian missionaries to Africa as evidence of sorcery and brought back to Britain. The mother-of-two said: 'The tide was out so it was half way up the bank - it was quite high up with other pieces of wood, plastic and rubbish. 'First of all I was afraid to take it as it looked like a Voodoo doll and I didn't want to disturb it. 'But then a professor I know looked at photos and told me it was an important piece of art - he thinks it is a late 19th century Nkisi Nkondi from the Congo. 'It's a carved dog sitting upright with a hole in its back where some kind of spiritual medicine would have been stored.' A Port of London Authority spokesperson said: 'New applications for Foreshore Permits are currently suspended whilst the evaluation of the impact of mudlarking is undertaken. We expect to make an announcement on future arrangements later in the year.' Around 15,000 people hold permits to mudlark in the River Thames currently. All finds must be reported to the Museum of London. ? El Gobierno de la presidenta Dina Boluarte impulsa la construccion de cuatro hospitales en la region #Ayacucho: San Miguel, Cangallo, San Juan Bautista y Coracora. Estamos invirtiendo en estos hospitales mas de S/ 417 millones. La salud no puede quedar en promesas. Mi pic.twitter.com/lVdHMtPth8 A gay teenager who claims he was 'kidnapped' and 'tortured' at a private treatment center in Utah after being raped by his father has said the entire 'troubled teen' industry should be shut down. Finn Richardson has alleged that aged 15 he was 'whisked away' from his home in Washington, D.C., by two unknown men and taken to a treatment center for supposedly disobedient youths around 2,000 miles away in Syracuse, Utah. He was held at Elevations RTC against his will from August 2021 to March 2022, according to a lawsuit filed in Utah's 2nd District Court last week. Richardson claims the kidnapping was arranged by his father who was upset that his son was gay and wanted to live with his mother. In an exclusive interview with DailyMail.com, Richardson, now 18, has said the entire industry is 'inherently abusive' and should be 'shut down'. Finn Richardson, pictured here at Elevations, a treatment center for 'troubled' youths in Utah, is suing the facility over claims it 'kidnapped' him when he was 15 after his father raped him Ryan Faust, a therapist at the center, 'tortured' Richardson by taking away his personal belongings and also failed to report allegations of his father's rape, according to a lawsuit A statement by the Elevations facility in Syracuse, Utah, denied it had 'kidnapped' Richardson and said Faust did report the rape allegations, but that the issue was over when he did so Elevations has denied it 'kidnapped' Richardson. The case has shone a light on Utah's 'troubled teen' industry, which is thought to worth around half a billion dollars a year to the Beehive State. The state houses around a third of all teens that crossed state lines to enter a youth treatment center between 2015 and 2020. Four deaths have occurred in these facilities since 2021, with 37 lawsuits filed against centers between 2010 and 2020. It comes after Paris Hilton claimed that she was sexually abused after being forced to undergo cervical exams performed by staff members in the early hours of the morning while attending a Utah boarding school for troubled teens in the 1990s. In August, another Utah teen facility was forced to close its doors after it was accused of ignoring 17-year-old student Taylor Goodridge's cries for medical attention in the days before her death. State legislators have recently introduced regulations to improve standards at these centers. But Meg Appelgate, CEO of Unsilenced, an advocacy group for former residents of youth treatment centers, said Richardon's case was symptomatic of a broken industry. Utah is home to almost 100 youth residential centers, which cater to parents paying upward of $30,000 to find help for struggling teenagers. Some are on juvenile probation or struggling with drug misuse and eating disorders. Others, such as Richardson, are simply from broken homes. Paris Hilton has detailed alleged sexual abuse she endured while attending a Utah boarding school for troubled teens in the 1990s Hilton has campaigned for the closure of Provo Canyon School since 2020 Taylor Goodridge, 17, a student at Diamond Ranch Academy in Hurricane, Utah, died on December 20 from an 'easily treated' infection that led to sepsis after school staff allegedly ignored her cries for medical attention Diamond Ranch Academy - an 108-bed teen treatment rehabilitation program in Hurricane - was sued by the girl's parents over her death. It described itself on its website as a 'world-class residential treatment center and therapeutic boarding school for teenagers' The 'troubled teen' industry was born in Utah in the 1960s when a Brigham Young University student named Larry Dean Olsen started leading wilderness outings with his classmates. It has since spread across the US, but the Beehive State remains the epicenter of the industry thanks to its pitch to rehabilitate wayward teens through living and hiking in its picturesque landscapes, as well its favorable laws. Utah is considered a 'parent's rights state', which means that parents can make medical decisions on behalf of their children, who are unable to leave a facility without their guardian's consent. It was this that allowed Richardson's father to have him 'abducted' from his home on August 11, 2021, and have him detained at the Elevations center in Utah at $25,000 a month. Richard told a press conference in Utah last week that he was stripped and searched upon arrival at the center before he 'shrank' into a bed barely bigger than himself and broke down in tears. He remembers the narrow, gray hallways, stained carpets and windows covered in hand marks from children banging on them desperate to get out. Around 50 children aged between 13 and 18 were 'condemned' to monotonous days and frequently punished for minor offenses, such as having dust on their desks, Richardson claimed. Richardson claims in his lawsuit that Faust 'began to torture' him by stealing his personal affects, including a gift card, 'so that he would feel even more powerless'. Faust said he 'did not believe' Richardson when the boy told him that his father had raped him when he was 15 and failed to report the allegation to the authorities, according to the lawsuit. Richardson, who is now back living in Washington, D.C, with his mother and in his final year of high school, said he hoped he was launching his case for 'all the survivors' of Elevations. Richardson claimed youths at Elevations center were made to endure monotonous days and frequently 'punished' for minor infractions, such as having dust on their desks He is now living with his mother at home in Washington, D.C, and is in his final year of school Elevations said in a statement that Faust did report Richardson's allegation that his father had raped him, but 'the issue with the state was how soon' he did so. It added: 'Knowing the allegation occurred at the home of the out-of-state parent and the alleged abuser was thousands of miles away, the therapist briefly delayed reporting while he reviewed the matter, taking into account the ongoing dispute and social dynamics between the parents. 'The therapist reported the allegation; the father was investigated, and no charges were filed. 'All of this occurred nearly two years ago under a state statute that has since changed to require reporting abuse allegations without delay for judgment or investigation. 'Our staff has been retrained to follow these new guidelines, and we will continue to behave within the law and in a way to protect the interests of our students, whose safety and well-being remain our primary priority.' 'We look forward to defending our program and staff against this unwarranted attack.' Some teenagers have said they have been helped by their time at such centers. But Appelgate, who has supported Richardson in his case, echoed his calls for the industry to be shut down. 'The very act of removing kids from their community, their home, their familial system, is not based on evidence,' she told DailyMail.com. 'Regardless of intentions, it is not regulated or reported on. These are not safe places for children.' Meg Appelgate, (left), CEO of Unsilenced, an advocacy group for former residents of youth treatment centers, said Richardon's case was symptomatic of the broken industry Utah State Senator Mike McKell (left) introduced new laws on the industry in 2021 to increase oversight and ban solitary isolation after 'a lot of kids had been harmed' by the practice Utah State Senator Mike McKell (R.) helped bring in new laws in 2021 that placed limits on the use of medication and restraints in youth treatment centers and banned solitary isolation. The regulations also increased the reporting requirement for facilities as well as the frequency of inspections. McKell told DailyMail.com the laws were needed because 'a lot of kids had been harmed by the industry'. 'We had a half a billion dollar industry, outside any type of regulatory structure,' he added. He said there were things happening that 'should never have been legal', including a young girl who was chemically restrained more than a dozen times at Provo Canyon School, the same institution Paris Hilton spent 11 months at when she was 17 years old. The reality star has campaigned to regulate the industry after she alleged physical and mental abuse incidents at the school, which has been running since the 1970s. The University of Cambridge 'actively discourages' students from reporting sexual offences to the police, victims have claimed. One student told how her college was 'adamant' it did not want police involvement after she informed them she had been sexually assaulted twice by the same person. Another said she was dissuaded from involving police after someone at her college began a stalking campaign against her - and was then told she could not seek support from her college counsellor because the perpetrator was already seeing them. Cambridgeshire Constabulary told MailOnline it 'encourages' all victims of sexual offences to report them, adding: 'We're here for you and we will look after you.' Experts told Varsity that until six years ago, universities had no role in arbitrating or resolving allegations of sexual offences, but that they now run 'quasi-judicial processes, for cases up to, and including, sex without consent.' Rose Stephenson, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Higher Education Policy Institute: 'If universities were investigating murder, we'd all think that was totally inappropriate. Yet we're doing it for rape.' The University of Cambridge has been accused of 'actively discouraging' students from reporting incidents of sexual assault to police Victims are encouraged to report incidents of sexual assault to the University's Office of Student Conduct, Complaints and Appeals (OSCCA), through either a formal or informal procedure, or alternatively through their college It is understood that victims are encouraged to report incidents of sexual assault to the University's Office of Student Conduct, Complaints and Appeals (OSCCA), through either a formal or informal procedure, or alternatively through their college, instead of reporting to police. But investigations can take long periods of time which have left some victims feeling suicidal, and provide no formal justice. An investigation by the university's newspaper spoke to multiple women who have been victims of sexual offences or stalking. Ella said she was sexually assaulted twice by her then-boyfriend while studying at Cambridge. She made the college aware of her allegations but described staff as 'very adamant' that they did not want police involved and says they instead repeatedly promoted the university's disciplinary body as offering a 'cleaner, faster, smoother alternative'. Ella said she felt she was then congratulated for choosing the more informal process. According to students who have been through these informal investigations, the process facilitates victims of sexual offences and alleged perpetrators to come to resolution agreements, such as by limiting the spaces in which each can go to avoid them coming across one another. But Ella said this creates a situation in which it is the 'person who gets accused gets the most power it was all very much on his terms.' And although OSCCA says this informal procedure should take one to two months, it was eight months until Ella's case was resolved, by which time she felts suicidal. She also criticised the arrangement for having no practical enforcement methods, saying she 'still sees him everywhere' and that he sits just rows away from her during lectures. 'I really hate it here,' she added. 'Genuinely, I don't think I've ever hated being in a place so much.' University investigations can take long periods of time, and provide no formal justice Alice told the paper she was stalked by 'someone in a position of power' at her college, someone who allegedly has a 'reputation' who had exhibited similar behaviours previously. After being persuaded to allow the college to investigate instead of reporting it to the police, she said a contract was put in place within a month - but that the perpetrator violated the agreement within ten minutes by sending her a message on social media. Alice said the stalking 'only got worse' and that the university's processes meant her stalker 'didn't take it seriously at all'. While the stalking was ongoing, Alice attempted to see a counsellor at her college for mental health support - only to be told she couldn't see them because her alleged stalker already was. She was informed it would be a 'conflict of interest'. She eventually took her allegations to police in Cambridge, and noticed an immediate improvement - but says it could have been stopped earlier if her college hadn't 'actively discouraged' her from involving officers. She described the police response as 'great'. The investigation also found that many students do not know that the university has an official reporting procedure or how it works. One student told how they had been at university only a day when she was followed home by a man before being allegedly sexually assaulted. Daisy was so traumatised by what happened that she developed an alcohol dependency and failed her first year exams. She informed her college of what had happened, but says no-one suggested it should be reported either to police or the university. Universities only became involved in potentially criminal issues involving its students in recent years. Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Higher Education Policy Institute Rose Stephenson said: 'Overnight, universities went from not really dealing with this, to running quasi-judicial processes, for cases up to, and including, sex without consent.' She added students may choose to go through university reporting systems to avoid the trauma of a long criminal investigation, but added it makes her 'uncomfortable' that institutions are effectively 'filling that gap' in the justice system. Professor McCartan of the University of the West of England said that the sexual violence 'epidemic' is a problem across all universities, but the lack of a national framework means 'what you get is 130 universities all doing their own thing'. He told MailOnline the role of universities in investigating sexual offences 'calls into question the role of universities' in students' lives, and raised concerns over the variation of punitive measures deployed by different universities. 'The question is what is within the remit of the university and what is within the remit of external organisations like the police. 'This raises the real issue of what students are. At times universities treat students as children, but at the same time they will turn round and say theyre adults, they can make their own decisions. 'Policing behaviour outside of the university setting is quite tricky. Universities need to do something: they need to engage in the process and they need to work together on this to prevent these great inconsistencies.' He called for government ministers to 'sit down and lead the conversation' on whether it is appropriate for sexual offences to be investigated by educational institutions, and create a national framework of guidance. A spokesperson for Cambridgeshire Constabulary said: 'We encourage the reporting of rape or sexual assault to us. We know it can be difficult and we understand that there are lots of reasons people choose not to report, and it's always your choice. 'We're here for you and we will look after you whatever you decide to do. There is no time limit.' A University spokesperson told MailOnline: 'Sexual misconduct has no place at Cambridge. 'Students who report any form of criminal misconduct to the University are made aware of their option to contact the police and support is available to them both via their College and the wider University. 'We have clear policies and processes in place about how claims of sexual misconduct are to be treated, and how students will be supported. Further information is available on the Universitys Breaking the Silence and Student Complaints webpages.' Royal Navy missiles that have been used to shoot down Houthi drones in the Red Sea will be upgraded, the Government has said. The Sea Viper Air Defence system will get more effective missiles featuring a new warhead and a software update that will enable it to defeat ballistic missile threats. It will help protect the Navy's Carrier Strike group and allows tracking, targeting and destruction of a variety of air threats more than 70 miles away. The 405 million upgrade, awarded to missile systems company MBDA UK, will help sustain 350 skilled jobs across the country and be complete by 2032. The contracts will make Sea Viper 'the most capable naval air defence system ever developed for the Royal Navy', the Government said as Houthi attacks on ships passing through the Red Sea continue. It is hoped the upgrade will help Navy ships to better deal with more complex threats in future. Houthi fighters hold up a weapons and chant in Sana'a, Yemen on 11 January Personnel onboard HMS Diamond shoot down drones fired by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels The Houthis, backed by Iran, have been attacking ships in the Red Sea since November, purportedly in support of Gazans. The US and UK have repeatedly warned the Houthis to stop attacking the vital shipping route and last week they took action with an airstrike. The strikes saw over 100 missiles launched at more than 60 targets across 16 locations in Yemen, including an airbase, airports and a military camp, officials said. READ MORE: Oops! Embarrassing moment Royal Navy warship crashes into another as it gets stuck in reverse on Gulf mission Advertisement Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said: 'As the situation in the Middle East worsens, it is vital that we adapt to keep the UK, our allies and partners safe. 'Sea Viper has been at the forefront of this, being the Navy's weapon of choice in the first shooting down of an aerial threat in more than 30 years. 'Our strong and enduring relationship with British industry has ensured we can deploy the latest technological capabilities wherever they are required while supporting hundreds of jobs across the country and bolstering UK prosperity.' Mr Shapps this week visited HMS Diamond in the Red Sea, where it recently used Sea Viper missiles to shoot down multiple Houthi attack drones as part of the US-led international taskforce Operation Prosperity Guardian. The taskforce currently consists of HMS Diamond, three US destroyers and a French warship. Rear Admiral Anthony Rimington said: 'A cutting-edge weapon system, Sea Viper continues to provide the Royal Navy with impressive lethality. 'Sea Viper Evolution further enhances this capability against the more complex and evolving threats and strengthens our co-operation and interoperability with key partners.' Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said: 'As the situation in the Middle East worsens, it is vital that we adapt to keep the UK, our allies and partners safe' An RAF Typhoon aircraft takes off to join the US led coalition to conduct air strikes against military targets in Yemen The taskforce currently consists of HMS Diamond (pictured), three US destroyers and a French warship This defence boost comes as the UK successfully fired a high-powered laser weapon as fast as the speed of light at an aerial target for the first time. The DragonFire laser-directed energy weapon was able to hit a 1 coin half a mile away in secret trials. Its intense beam can cut through targets, such as drones, in its line of sight and defence sources have estimated that each 'shot' costs around 10. The Army and the Royal Navy are considering using the weaponry as part of future Air Defence missions. However, it is currently unknown when the DragonFire could enter service. The weapon system is a 100million collaboration between the Government's Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and industry partners such as Leonardo and Qinetiq. Australia's largest tech company has joined other multi-billion dollar businesses in allowing staff to choose when to take the Australia Day public holiday. Sydney-based software company Atlassian will let staff work on January 26 and allow them to take the day off on an alternative date. The $95billion company joins two of the big four banks, ANZ and the Commonwealth Bank, and scores of other businesses making the change this year. They are the most recent companies to make operational changes for the national holiday after Woolworths announced it won't be selling Australia Day merchandise. January 26 is treated as a day of mourning instead of a day of celebration by many First Nations people as it marks the day that started colonial Australia. Australia's largest tech company Atlassian (pictured, co-founder Scott Farquhar) will allow staff to choose another day in January to celebrate Australia Day Atlassian's policy allows for staff to work on January 26 and in turn take the holiday on another day throughout the month. While the tech company specifically states Australia Day as the holiday staff can swap, other companies let workers swap any legislated holiday. Among those are professional services provider Deloitte, accounting firm EY Australia, Telstra, ANZ, Commonwealth Bank and NAB. Another multinational professional service provider, KPMG, only allows for staff to change what day they celebrate holidays for religious, cultural or heritage beliefs and not for personal beliefs. While the option is there, a Deloitte spokesperson said those taking the chance to change what day they celebrate Australia Day are in the minority. 'Based on experience, we expect the vast majority of our people will take advantage of the Australia Day public holiday,' A Deloitte spokesman told The Australian. 'If staff have to work on Australia Day due to client commitments they are entitled to take an additional day off in lieu of their choosing.' The tech company is the latest in a raft of businesses to make policy changes related to January 26 (pictured, Australia Day revellers) The revelations come after Woolworths sparked outrage for not stocking shelves with Australia Day merchandise. A spokesperson said their focus was on offering food and produce for all occasions, including Australia Day. 'Customers across all our stores can also expect to see a large range of great value food offers and specials to enjoy with family and friends next week in the lead up to and for the Australia Day long weekend,' a spokesperson said. Woolworths earlier said there had been a gradual decline in demand for Australia Day merchandise in recent years. 'At the same time there's been broader discussion about 26 January and what it means to different parts of the community,' their statement read. 'We know many people like to use this day as a time to get together and we offer a huge variety of products to help customers mark the day as they choose. 'Woolworths and BIG W celebrate the best of Australia every day, and we're proud to support the farmers, producers, and suppliers who work with us.' Lauren Sanchez gushed over Prince Harry after meeting him at an awards ceremony - and said he was part of a group 'who shaped the history and future of flight.' Sanchez, 54, lavished praise on the royal in an Instagram post following the Living Legends of Aviation Gala, in a photo where she and Harry appeared alongside John Travolta and Sanchez's finance Jeff Bezos. Sanchez, a successful helicopter pilot, wrote: 'Honored to have been in the presence of aviation legends who have shaped the history and future of flight,' Harry previously served as a helicopter pilot in the British army in Afghanistan. Despite not being behind the controls of an aircraft for almost a decade, Harry was presented with an award that declared him to be a 'living legend of aviation' by movie star and jumbo jet pilot John Travolta. While she praised Harry in the caption, she also may have also been referring to her fiancee, Jeff Bezos, who is worth $174 billion and who owns a space exploration firm called Blue Origin. Sanchez's praising of the prince came after she was also among those named for having 'significantly impacted' both the history and future of flight at the 21st Annual Living Legends of Aviation awards ceremony. Prince Harry, left, is seen next to John Travolta, Lauren Sanchez and Jeff Bezos. 'Honored to have been in the presence of aviation legends who have shaped the history and future of flight', she wrote Lauren Sanchez runs her own helicopter aerial filming business, while John Travolta has been a pilot for many years and has a runway attached to his home Sanchez, who runs an aerial filming company, was seen walking the red carpet alone before joining billionaire Bezos backstage where she posted a black-and-white photo featuring herself with her beau, Bezos, John Travolta and the Duke of Sussex all smiling during the awards show. 'What a beautiful evening last night. So grateful', she later wrote. Bezos was inducted into the organization in 2019 after founding his Blue Origin spacecraft company, which sends its occupants 65 miles straight up to the edge of space. Sanchez, herself, was hailed as a 'living legend' for her work as a helicopter pilot and awarded the Elling Halvorson Vertical Flight Hall of Fame Award at the ceremony and aviation businesswoman. She owns the aviation filming company Black Ops Aviation, which she founded in 2016. Lauren Sanchez, 54, was also being hailed as a living legend for her work as a helicopter pilot Lauren Sanchez, who founded an aerial filming company in 2016, was also celebrated on Friday night Lauren Sanchez is seen at the controls of one of her helicopters Lauren Sanchez runs an aviation filming company and is known to pilot her own aircraft Sanchez is seen at the controls of one of her choppers 'The Living Legends of Aviation are pleased to announce that Lauren Sanchez will receive the Elling Halvorson Vertical Flight Hall of Fame Award at the 21st Annual Living Legends of Aviation Awards,' the institution wrote last month announcing the accolade. 'From Emmy Award-winning journalist to helicopter pilot and aviation businesswoman, Lauren Sanchez's achievements in aviation and unwavering commitment to advancing women in the industry inspire us all.' Trailed by her own TV crew, Sanchez told how she was 'thrilled' to receive the award noting how it was 'only time' before another woman was inducted into the organization. Currently, there are fewer than 10 female members. 'I just can't believe it!!!' Sanchez said. 'What a huge honor it is to be recognized by the Living Legends of Aviation. Flying is my passion and this is truly such an honor. You also have no idea how happy you made my dad who has been a pilot since I was a little girl.' As for the prince, questions as to whether the duke deserved to be called a 'living legend of aviation' had been raised before the bash. Harry's award citation described him as a 'humanitarian, military veteran, mental wellness advocate and environmentalist,' adding: 'He has dedicated his life to causes he is passionate about and that bring about permanent change.' Travolta, himself a pilot, was reportedly the driving force behind Harry receiving the award after feeling an affinity for the prince after dancing with Diana though the prince's nomination angered some military pilots who felt it was unearned. e Jeff Bezos among those now recognized for their contribution to aviation Hollywood superstar John Travolta waves from the cockpit window of his Boeing 707 Travolta has a deep passion for flying and is known for owning and piloting his own aircraft John Travolta's home is seen together with his Boeing 707 aircraft parked alongside Jeff Bezos, founder of Blue Origin, at New Shepard's West Texas launch facility before the rocket's maiden voyage Mark Bezos, right, tosses ping pong balls with crewmate Oliver Daemen, left, during the July 2021, space flight about Blue Origin's first crewed mission Jeff Bezos is among those now recognized for their contribution to aviation The billionaire reached the edge of space after taking off on Blue Origin's first manned flight Billionaire businessman Jeff Bezos is launched with three crew members aboard a New Shepard rocket on the world's first unpiloted suborbital flight from Blue Origin's Launch Site 1 near Van Horn, Texas in July 2021 On stage, Travolta asked him of his time flying for the Army: 'What can you remember about your first flight?' Harry quipped back: 'It's classified.' The Duke served in the military for 10years rising to the rank of captain, and completing two tours of Afghanistan as a forward air controller and an Apache helicopter pilot. Lord Alan West, a former head of the Royal Navy, had poured cold water on the accolade. 'He is not a living legend of aviation. To suggest he is, is pathetic. It makes the whole thing seem a bit of a nonsense.' Colonel Richard Kemp, a retired British Army officer, said the ceremony was more about 'celebrities massaging each other's egos.' Upon accepting his award, Harry spoke of his pride in his military career Harry is seen in December 2012 working as a helicopter pilot in Afghanistan Harry is pictured in March 2011 standing in front of an Apache Helicopter a few days after the royal passed the half-decade milestone to become a Captain in the British Army The prince is seen arriving for Friday's event in Los Angeles The 39-year-old attended without his wife, Meghan Markle, for the awards ceremony. She was reportedly at home looking after their children, one of whom had taken unwell Upon accepting his award, Harry spoke of his pride in his military career. 'For me, flying has been a transcendent experience. A close encounter with magic, an invitation to both protect freedom and to feel free; and, funny enough, an opportunity to ground oneself, without actually being grounded,' Harry said. He spoke movingly of his former career, saying: 'I had respect for the Apache in a hover and was in awe of it flying at night so many moments as a pilot where you feel like you're walking on air. 'And throughout each flight during my military career, the one constant was always trust. Trust in the aircraft, trust in my fellow comrades, trust in my many mentors and, above all else, trust in myself. Flying taught me the power of discipline, the power of patience and, beyond that, the power of trusting your gut.' His words saw him receive a standing ovation from the audience. Democrat Sen. John Fetterman broke with his party, stating that the border crisis is threatening to destroy the American dream as another 300,000 people approached the southern border in hopes of crossing into the U.S. Fetterman voiced his concerns about the ongoing migration crisis and demanded a 'secure border' as he spoke to CNN's The Lead anchor Jake Tapper on Friday. The Democratic senator, 54, from Pennsylvania said, 'I honestly don't understand why it's controversial to say we need a secure border.' 'And [what] I think about immigration is, we want to provide the American Dream for any migrant. However, it seems very difficult when you have 300,000 people showing up, encountered at our border, to achieve that,' he added. His remarks come as the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol documented more than 302,000 attempts to cross the U.S. southern border in December, the highest total for a single month ever recorded in history. Democrat Sen. John Fetterman (right) broke with his party, stating that the border crisis is threatening to destroy the American dream as he spoke to CNN 's The Lead anchor Jake Tapper (left) on Friday His remarks come as the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol documented more than 302,000 attempts to cross the U.S. southern border in December, the highest total for a single month ever recorded in history The Democratic Pennsylvania senator, 54, said: 'I honestly don't understand why it's controversial to say we need a secure border' Fetterman, whose wife arrived in the U.S. as an undocumented immigrant at the age of 7, insisted he's a proponent of legal migration on Friday's show. 'I've been very clear, in fact, that was weaponized against me [by] Republicans in my race, that I'm very much a strong supporter of immigration, and you know, my wife's family, that's the origin story about that,' he added. But he questioned why progressive critics from the left have issues with his pro-border security stance. 'I honestly don't understand,' he responded to Tapper's question, 'Why do you think you've been criticized by so many progressives?' 'And I think two things can be true at the same time. You can be very supportive of immigration, but we also need to have a secure border,' he said. In recent weeks, Fetterman has broken from the far-left of his party by showing strong support for Israel since the October 7 Hamas terror attack. He also stated that the U.S. should toughen up its southern border policy, a stance some on the left think is inhumane. The Democratic senator questioned why progressive critics from the left have issues with his pro-border security stance Fetterman, whose wife Gisele Barreto Fetterman arrived in the U.S. as an undocumented immigrant at age 7, insisted he's a proponent of legal migration on Friday's show 'I'm not a progressive,' Fetterman told NBC News last month. 'I just think I'm a Democrat that is very committed to choice and other things. 'But with Israel, I'm going to be on the right side of that. And immigration is something near and dear to me, and I think we do have to effectively address it as well.' Fetterman said it was 'not ideal to have this conversation' about immigration linked to funding Israel and Ukraine, he added that 'it's still one that we should have.' 'Progressives better do that because we can't leave Israel - we can't sell them out, and we can't sell Ukraine out, and we have to deliver on that,' Fetterman told the network. 'I just would very much like to get a deal to deliver this critical aid.' As for immigration, Fetterman argued he can be both pro-immigration, while also favor policies to restrict the flow of immigrants across the southern border to a manageable level. 'It's a reasonable conversation - until somebody can say there's an explanation on what we can do when 270,000 people are being encountered on the border, not including the ones, of course, that we don't know about,' he said. 'To put that in reference, that is essentially the size of Pittsburgh, the second-largest city in Pennsylvania,' the Democrat added. In a December interview with Politico, the lawmaker said: 'I hope Democrats can understand that it isn't xenophobic to be concerned about the border. It's a reasonable conversation, and Democrats should engage.' Last fiscal year, the Biden administration saw the single highest number of encounters at the border on record At least 2.4 million migrants streamed across the US' southern border in fiscal 2023, and that figure just represents the encounters border patrol agents had - there are plenty of illegal crossers who did not come into contact with DHS officers People camp as they wait to cross the border between Mexico and the United States in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico Last fiscal year, the Biden administration saw the single highest number of encounters at the border on record. At least 2.4 million migrants streamed across the southern border in fiscal 2023, and that figure just represents the encounters border patrol agents had - there are plenty of illegal crossers who did not come into contact with DHS officers. The figure breaks down to an average of about 6,575 encounters per day, which means it would take just over two full weeks for 95,000 illegal crossers to enter the US. Between Dec. 1 and December 31 2023, more than 302,000 migrants were documented attempting to cross the US southern border, which marks the first time migrant encounters have reached over 300,000. Last week, as New York City braced for a snowstorm and cold front, city executives made the decision to keep students home from school for a day and instead use the Brooklyn facility to house migrants during the storm. Mayor Eric Adams has repeatedly begged governors in border states to stop bussing migrants to NYC, where locals in midtown have been horrified for close to a year at the number of migrants being semi-housed in formerly expensive cosmopolitan hotels. 'We're getting close to anywhere from 2,500 to peaking at 4,000 a week,' Adams said recently in an interview, during which he also proclaimed in no uncertain terms that NYC in 'out of room' for the incoming migrants. 'We were not just saying we're out of room as a soundbite,' Adams answered, citing the more than 161,000 migrants who have arrived and sought city aid since spring 2022. 'We're out of room, literally', the Democrat declared. 'People are going to be eventually sleeping on the streets.' A $400,000 Kentucky house with a flat-screen TV, sofas and meditation music is a dream come true for the city's stray cats. The Shane's Sanctuary and Kitty Adoption Center, which is run by Jan Malley and her husband Chip, houses 45 cats that have been rescued from the streets. This Kenton County house is one of the many shelters set up by a nonprofit named The Humanitarian League, which is also run by Jan, to save stray cats from the local council's abrasive attitude towards the felines. The 3,000-square-foot facility is spread across two acres and only takes in cats who have been rescued from the streets. The Shane's Sanctuary and Kitty Adoption Center, which is run by Jan Malley and her husband Chip, houses 45 cats that have been rescued from the streets This Kenton County house is one of the many shelters set up by a nonprofit named The Humanitarian League, which is also run by Jan, to save stray cats from the local council's abrasive attitude towards the felines But the house is not without its challenges - both legal and fiscal. As of now, the Malley family is financing the shelter through their investments and retirement money. While the couple has not disclosed what annual costs are, they have claimed that it costs $10,000 per month to feed and take care of the cats. They are also paying a bunch of people to help out and feed the kitties. 'It's almost like a business except all we do is write checks; we don't collect checks,' Jan said. As of now, the Malley family is financing the shelter through their investments and retirement money They are also paying a bunch of people to help out and feed the kitties The family has approached the county council and suggested building a cat sanctuary to officials The family has approached the county council and suggested building a cat sanctuary to officials. The cat-loving couple also told officials that they would pay up to $100,000 to build a facility and invest money annually to keep it running but were rejected. They believe their proposal was shot down due to their demand for a land donation and a roadway. 'We've been turned down every time we want to develop some type of an aftercare program to help these cats instead of (them) dying on the streets,' Chip Malley said. As of now to deal with stray cats, Kenton County uses the 'trap, neuter, release' method with no daycare facilities. While the couple has not disclosed what annual costs are, they have claimed that it costs $10,000 per month to feed and take care of the cats The cat-loving couple told officials that they would pay up to $100,000 to build a facility and invest money annually to keep it running but were rejected They believe their proposal was shot down due to their demand for a land donation and a roadway The 3,000-square-foot facility is spread across two acres and only homes cats who have been rescued from the streets. The method is supported by the National Feline Research Council and other animal advocacy organizations. Kelsey Mccombs, director of Kenton County Animal Services said: 'There's a lot of people who don't understand that cats can be successful and happy outdoors. And that's just fundamentally a philosophical difference. I don't expect to change everyone's mind.' To keep costs in control and prevent people from dropping off random cats, the family has purposely kept the address of the shelter a secret. The Malleys said they even found a kitten in their mailbox once. But due to keeping their house in incognito mode, many of the cats have also not been adopted by people. Most people find out about the shelter through word of mouth or by their Facebook. The shelter also has a very strict adoption policy. To adopt or volunteer help, people have to call Jan personally and set up an appointment. A University of Massachusetts Amherst student is facing a sudden setback in his plans to study abroad in Spain after taking part in an anti-Israel sit-in on campus and defying police officers' orders to leave. Aidan O' Neill, a junior at UMass Amherst, along with two other students, had their eligibility to study abroad revoked after their involvement in an Oct. 25 protest supporting Palestinians led to arrests and disciplinary probation. After refusing police orders to leave the building when it closed at 6 pm, 56 students, including O'Neill, and one staff member were arrested for trespassing, and then placed on disciplinary probation until the end of the spring semester. O'Neill's study abroad eligibility was then revoked as he had signed an agreement that prohibits students from participating in the program if they have pending legal or disciplinary actions or are on academic probation. The initial protest on Oct. 25 involved 500 students demanding UMass sever ties with defense contractor Raytheon Technologies, a producer of missile components for Israel's Iron Dome. Aidan O' Neill (pictured), a junior at UMass Amherst, and two other students, had their eligibility to study abroad revoked after their involvement in an Oct. 25 protest After refusing police orders to exit a closed building, 56 students, including O'Neill, were arrested for trespassing, and then placed on disciplinary probation The protest demanded UMass sever ties with defense contractor Raytheon Technologies, a producer of missile components for Israel 's Iron Dome The Iron Dome is an Israeli mobile all-weather air defense system that successfully intercepts upward of 90 percent of projectiles. Since Hamas's unprovoked Oct. 7 massacre, more than 11,000 rockets have been fired toward Israel. O'Neill, along with faculty members, are now fighting back - emphasizing the right to voice opposition to what they call the university's alleged support for 'genocide.' 'To lose my abroad eligibility at the last second, that was just heartbreaking,' O'Neill said to the Boston Globe. 'I was practicing my right as a student to speak up against the university funding a genocide. It just seemed, honestly, crazy and absurd to me that the university was going that far to punish me.' The students are arguing that their punishment is disproportionately severe due to their political views, despite the university claiming it is merely adhering to the established policies, irrespective of the protest's content. Faculty members, including Rachel Mordecai and Jason Moralee, have rallied behind O'Neill, denouncing the denial of his study abroad opportunity as an excessive penalty for 'peaceful political expression.' O'Neill 'was participating in a peaceful expression of his political convictions,' Rachel Mordecai, O'Neill's faculty adviser said to the Boston Globe. 'This denial of the opportunity to study abroad constitutes a disproportionate penalty for what Aidan participated in. Mordecai wrote a letter in defense of O'Neill, signed by 23 other faculty members. The statement, obtained by the Globe, called O'Neill 'an exceptionally successful and talented student.' Pictured: Protestors and the University of Massachusetts Police Department during the October 25 sit-in O'Neill's study abroad eligibility was then revoked as he had signed an agreement that prohibits students from participating in the program if they have pending legal or disciplinary actions or are on academic probation O'Neill was set to leave to Barcelona on Jan. 3 for his study abroad program, which he'd been planning since last spring. Now, the junior is staying in his hometown, Scituate, until next semester begins in the spring. The students were told they were no longer eligible weeks before their trip, leaving them with thousands of dollars in fees and travel expenses. One student is now threatening to take legal action against the school. Jason Moralee, the Associate Dean of Research and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion also advocated for O'Neill and the two other students by urging fellow administrators to swiftly clear them for study abroad. Moralee highlighted that students with code of conduct violations, academic probation, or other issues are routinely permitted to study abroad. He argued that students with clear records, like O'Neill's, who engaged in protests should not be hindered in their eligibility to participate in the study abroad program. 'Surely, peaceful protest done by exemplary students whose records are otherwise clear ... is an offense that should not in itself prevent students from studying abroad,' he said to the Globe. But University spokesperson Ed Blaguszewski defended the IPO's decision, stating that the decision aligns with the university's past practices and the Student Agreement of Participation signed by each student. O'Neill, along with faculty members, are now fighting back - emphasizing the right to voice opposition to what they call the university's alleged support for 'genocide' The students were told they were no longer eligible weeks before their trip, leaving them with thousands of dollars in fees and travel expenses. One student is now threatening to take legal action against the school 'To participate in a UMass Amherst study abroad program, students must be in good standing academically with the university and in compliance with the university's Code of Student Conduct,' he expressed in a statement to the Globe. 'Consistent with the university's past practice and the Student Agreement of Participation signed by each student, IPO revoked eligibility for these students to study abroad for the upcoming winter/spring terms.' Contrary to the university's stance, O'Neill and the other students argue that their disciplinary treatment deviates from past practices. O'Neill and the other students, facing uncertainty, were informed of their inability to study abroad on the last day of the semester, leaving them in a state of limbo. One student, represented by attorney Shahily 'Shay' Negron, claims to be confronted with up to $20,000 in fees for the overseas program. Negron emphasized the emotional and financial toll the ordeal has taken on the student. 'They have been extremely distraught,' Negron said to the Globe. 'This entire ordeal has had a toll on my client emotionally [and] financially.' UMass is 'harming my client because she exercised her right to free speech,' he added. O'Neill said he is still considering participating in a study abroad program next year, when his probation clears. 'If things had happened differently, I'd be in Barcelona right now, living with the host family and having the study abroad experience,' he said to the Globe. 'I feel really crushed by my university. I feel like they've just betrayed my trust for the last time.' A Muslim schoolgirl who is taking High Court legal action against her teachers after pupils were banned from praying in the playground was suspended last year for threatening to stab a girl. Court papers reveal the teenager made the threat soon after confiding in the fellow pupil that she was bringing the court case to 'harm the school'. She was excluded for five days last April after her 'scared' confidante told teachers what the girl had said to her. The news comes as her headteacher, Katharine Birbalsingh, told The Mail on Sunday last night that she feared for her own safety due to the backlash over the legal case, which the pupil and her mother are funding with legal aid. The girl is suing Michaela Community School, claiming the ban breached her human rights. The judgment in the High Court case, which could cost 1million, is expected next month. The girl's headteacher, Katharine Birbalsingh (pictured), told The Mail on Sunday last night that she feared for her own safety due to the backlash over the legal case The girl is suing Michaela Community School (pictured), claiming the ban breached her human rights The controversy was revealed by The Mail on Sunday last year when we told how the school and its staff received bomb threats, death threats and racial abuse after anger was whipped up by extremists following the ban. The media was able to name the school and the head last week after a judge lifted reporting restrictions. Michaela in Brent, North-West London, is one of Britain's best-known state schools, and attains some of the best GCSE and A-Level results in the country. It is rated 'excellent' by Ofsted. Since its foundation in 2014, it has strictly enforced discipline. The school half of whose 700 pupils are Muslim has never provided a prayer room, and pupils did not pray in the past, including the pupil suing the school, who can only be known as TTT. Last night, in her first newspaper interview about the case, Ms Birbalsingh said of the threats against the school: 'Thousands of people were after us we were getting the most horrific phone calls and emails, threatening violence and death.' The head said the school stopped the praying when TTT and others began to intimidate other Muslim pupils, telling them to fast during Ramadan. She added: 'We believe in promoting cohesion. Too often the Left denies brown and black children the right to be British they say we are from somewhere else. But we are not. For multi-culturalism to work, everyone needs to feel as though they are British.' Nikki Haley questioned whether Donald Trump is 'mentally fit' to be president after he appeared to confuse her with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, accusing Haley of being in charge of security in the Capitol on the day of the January 6th insurrection. 'I'm not saying anything derogatory, but when you're dealing with the pressures of a presidency, we can't have someone else that we question whether they're mentally fit to do this,' Haley said Saturday while campaigning in New Hampshire. 'I wasn't even in DC on Jan. 6. I wasn't in office then. They're saying he got confused, that he was talking about something else, he was talking about Nancy Pelosi. He mentioned me multiple times in that scenario,' she continued. Trump, 77, previously accused Pelosi, who was speaker at the time, of being in charge of security on the day of the insurrection. Daily Mail relied on video clips to report on Haley's remarks after she banned Daily Mail from covering her campaign after its exclusive report that Haley falsely denied cheating on her husband when she was accused of engaging in two extramarital affairs during her 2010 South Carolina gubernatorial campaign. Nikki Haley questioned whether Donald Trump is 'mentally fit' to be president after he appeared to confuse her with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi Haley has ramped up her crticism of Trump with only four days to go until New Hampshire's first-in-the-nation primary. But the former president continues to hold a double-digit lead in the polls. The latest poll by the Boston Globe and Suffolk University shows Trump with 53%, Haley with 36% and Ron DeSantis with 7%. Additionally Senator Tim Scott endorsed Trump on Friday night, becoming the latest party official to back the former president. Scott is from Haley's home state of South Carolina and she appointed him to his seat when she was governor. Trump plans to taunt Haley more with his support from her state. At his rally in Manchester on Saturday night, he hosted South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, the state's lieutenant governor and a slew of other senior officials, including the state's attorney general, treasurer and House speaker. Also appearing are U.S. Reps. Joe Wilson, William Timmons and Russell Fry. But the former president raised eyebrows when he spoke at a rally in Concord, New Hampshire on Friday. Trump repeatedly referred to Haley being responsible for security during the US Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. 'By the way, they never report the crowd on January 6. You know Nikki Haley, Nikki Haley, Nikki Haley, you know, they do you know they destroyed all of the information, all of the evidence, everything, deleted and destroyed all of it. All of it,' Trump claimed, without substantiation. 'Because of lots of things, like Nikki Haley is in charge of security we offered her 10,000 people, soldiers, National Guards, whatever they want. They turned it down. They don't want to talk about that. These are very dishonest people.' Haley repeatedly jumped on his gaffe at her campaign stops in New Hampshire on Saturday. 'When youre 80, thats what happens. Youre just not as sharp as you used to be,' she said. 'We need to know that the person thats going to be in this office has the stamina to be at the top of their game.' President Joe Biden's reelection campaign pounced on the gaffe, posting a clip of Trump's comment on X and remarking: 'A deeply confused Trump confuses Nancy Pelosi and Nikki Haley multiple times.' Speaking at a rally in Concord, New Hampshire on Friday night, Trump repeatedly referred to Nikki Haley being responsible for security during the US Capitol riot President Joe Biden's reelection campaign pounced on the gaffe, posting a clip of Trump's comment on X Trump has long blamed Pelosi, a top Democrat, for the events of January 6, when a mob of his supporters breached the Capitol and attempted to stop the certification of Biden's election win. Pelosi's office has denied those claims, saying that she had no more responsibility for Capitol security than did then-Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Republican. A spokesperson for Trump's campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment from DailyMail.com on Saturday morning. At his event in Concord on Friday, Trump spent much of his speech disparaging Haley, and said he would 'probably' not select her as a running mate. 'She is not presidential timber,' Trump said. 'Now when I say that, that probably means that she's not going to be chosen as the vice president.' 'I know her very well. She's not tough enough. She's not smart enough. And she wasn't respected enough. She cannot do this job,' Trump said. 'She's not going to be able to deal with President Xi. She's not going to be able to deal with Putin.' Ahead of Tuesday primary election in New Hampshire, Trump has stepped up his rhetorical attacks on Haley, his main challenger in the Granite State, where an open primary format gives independent voters an influential say. Donald Trump appeared to confuse his GOP presidential primary rival Nikki Haley (left) with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (right) on Friday Trump has long blamed Pelosi for the events of January 6, when a mob of his supporters breached the Capitol and attempted to stop the certification of Biden's election win On his Truth Social platform, Trump lashed out at Haley on Friday, mocking her birth name in racially charged taunts. Trump repeatedly referred to Haley, the daughter of immigrants from India by way of Canada, as 'Nimbra,' and apparent misspelling of her given name. Haley, the former South Carolina governor, was born in Bamberg, South Carolina, as Nimarata Nikki Randhawa. Since childhood, she has always gone by her middle name, 'Nikki.' She took the surname 'Haley' upon her marriage in 1996 to Michael Haley. Trump called Haley 'Nimbra' three times in the same post on Friday, and said she 'doesn't have what it takes.' Trump's post was an escalation of recent attacks in which he referenced Haley's given first name - though he previously misspelled it 'Nimrada'. He has also falsely suggested she is ineligible for the presidency because her parents were not US citizens when she was born in 1972. Haley, a US citizen at birth, meets the Constitution's citizenship requirements for the presidency. Haley has dismissed Trump's latest attacks as proof that she threatens his bid for a third consecutive nomination. 'I'll let people decide what he means by his attacks,' Haley told reporters in New Hampshire on Friday when asked about Trumps false assertions that her heritage disqualifies her from the Oval Office. Trump repeatedly referred to Haley, the daughter of immigrants from India by way of Canada, as 'Nimbra,' and apparent misspelling of her given name Sen Tim Scott appeared on stage with Donald Trump on Friday evening in Concord, New Hampshire, to endorse the former president is the race for the Republican nomination 'What we know is, look, he's clearly insecure if he goes and does these temper tantrums, if he's spending millions of dollars on TV. He's insecure, he knows that something's wrong,' she added, according to the Associated Press. New Hampshire holds its first-in-the-nation primary on Tuesday. Haley in particular may struggle to continue her campaign if she finishes a distant second to the former president. ?? En la reunion extraordinaria del Consejo Andino de ministros de Relaciones Exteriores, y ministros y autoridades a cargo de la seguridad interna, el premier Otarola reitero al Gobierno de Ecuador, la solidaridad y apoyo del Peru en su lucha contra el crimen transnacional. pic.twitter.com/sBrXuNxEwh The family of a child who was allegedly kidnapped from a shopping centre say the boy has been left traumatised and frightened by the horrific incident. The 12-year-old and two friends, aged 11 and 14, were grabbed and thrown into the back of a car last Wednesday in Erskine, 77km south of Perth. The terrified boys were later dumped at a beach south of Mandurah after what one family believes was a targeted alleged attack. 'He was so terrified when he got home to his mum his legs were still shaking ... and that was a couple of hours later,' the 12-year-old boy's aunt Bianka Willder told 7News. 'My nephew, he ran for his life and he didn't want to get caught and he ran and they chased him down.' The family of a child who was allegedly kidnapped from a shopping centre say the boy has been left traumatised by the horrific incident. His aunt, Bianka Willder, is pictured Three teenagers have been charged after allegedly forcing three younger boys into their car and dumping them at Tims Thicket Beach (pictured) The boys were at a sleepover on Wednesday night when they walked to a nearby service station for snacks. The police said they were approached in a carpark by a group of males who accused them of trying to break into their car. 'They ended up chasing the boys down ... bashed one, chucked one in the car and my son was the last one to get chucked in the car,' the 12-year-old boy's stepfather Stephen Willder said. The boys were driven 16km away to the other side of town and dumped at the isolated Tims Thicket Beach, which is only accessible by four-wheel-drive vehicles. One of the boys had a phone and was able to call his family to pick them up. The 12-year-old has not been able to sleep properly since the shocking incident. 'He is not himself, he is so withdrawn and he is terrified,' Ms Willder said. 'Don't take matters into your own hands.' Three teenagers have been charged with three counts of deprivation of liberty and one count of aggravated assault. Jak Brian Hefron and Connor Erik Whiting both aged 19 were granted bail with a $1,000 personal undertaking at Perth Magistrates Court on Friday. They are set to return to court on March 1. A 17-year-old boy from Halls Head, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared in Perth Children's Court on Friday. Hannah Williams, 27, and her husband James Daniels, a videographer, brought in $1 million in 2023 by asking strangers how much they earn A 27-year-old TikToker who shot to fame by asking strangers on the street how much they earn just revealed the huge amount she made last year. Hannah Williams and her husband James Daniels, a videographer, brought in a staggering $1 million in 2023 by asking strangers what they do for a living and how much they earn. In a recent video she posted on TikTok, Instagram, and other social media platforms, the couple shared the breakdown of their income sources. The content creator revealed the most money they have earned under the name Salary Transparent Street, a social media brand, was from partnerships and ads. She added that out of the total revenue of $1 million she earned last year, she and her husband only received salaries of $125,000 and $65,000, respectively. Hannah Williams, 27, and her husband, James Daniels, shot to fame by asking strangers on the street how much they earn and revealed the huge amount they made last year The couple brought in a staggering $1 million in 2023 by asking strangers what they do for a living and how much they earn The content creator revealed the most money they have earned under the name Salary Transparent Street, a social media brand, was from partnerships and ads Williams, a graduate of Northern Virginia Community College and Georgetown University, quit her job as a data analyst that paid $115,000 a year to work full time on her social media brand Salary Transparent Street in 2022. The 27-year-old confessed she and her husband were reluctant to quit their jobs: 'He was supposed to quit with me, but we were a little hesitant.' 'It really was such a drastic change, so we were like, "Let's wait a little longer." Then a few weeks after that, it was a no-brainer. We loved what we were doing. We wanted to do more of it.' She founded the platform to encourage people to talk openly about their jobs and advocate for more pay transparency, she said. 'If the Great Resignation has taught us anything, it is that there is power in numbers,' she explained in a 2022 interview with the Washington Post. 'When workers are empowered, they can actually influence change. I figured, what better way to get open salaries out there on the Internet than by asking strangers on the street?' But she did not expect the overwhelming reactions from social media users: 'I thought that it was going to be successful, but I had no idea it would go as viral as it did.' Williams, a graduate of Northern Virginia Community College and Georgetown University, quit her job as a data analyst that paid $115,000 a year to work full time on her social media brand Salary Transparent Street in 2022 She founded the platform to encourage people to talk openly about their jobs and advocate for more pay transparency, she said The 27-year-old confessed she and her husband were reluctant to quit their jobs: 'He was supposed to quit with me, but we were a little hesitant' @salarytransparentstreet We made over $1M in 2023 by asking people what they do and how much they make We created an explainer video to answer all your questions! Watch the full video on our YouTube channel to get answers to: - How do we monetize? - What are our expenses? - Why are our salaries different? - Why does our monthly revenue fluctuate? - How much did we profit? - Did we achieve our goals in 2023? - What are our goals in 2024? ....and more! Lastly, this is not cap, ask our accountants @Steph #salarytransparentstreet #salarytransparency #paytransparency #2023recap #contentcreatorearnings #socialmediarevenue Pop beat BGM / long version(1283324) - nightbird_bgm After two years, Williams has accumulated more than around 2.7 million subscribers, who tune in to watch her clips showing people talking about their pay publicly on the streets. 'Like 80-ish,' a woman who works in vendor management said. 'It's a good starting job out of school. I can afford my life, but I think there could be a little bit extra in there.' A man said: 'I'm a recruiting consultant at a media company in the D.C. area. I make upward of $120,000-plus.' 'I'm a registered nurse in Florida,' another person shared in a video, 'I make $80,000 a year.' Williams also interviewed people in finance and software engineering, who earned some of the highest salaries she heard in 2023. A woman who works in healthcare technology said on the street of Denver, Colorado, said: 'I do... artificial intelligence and machine learning. I make around $230,000.' Vivian Tu, a finance creator who lives in New York City, said: 'Last year, I paid myself a salary of roughly around $300,000, but my business made about $3.2 million.' Williams also interviewed people in finance and software engineering, who earned some of the highest salaries she heard in 2023 After two years, Williams has accumulated more than around 2.7 million subscribers, who tune in to watch her clips showing people talking about their pay publicly on the streets Vivian Tu, a finance creator who lives in New York City, said: 'Last year I paid myself a salary of roughly around $300,000, but my business mad about $3.2 million' In one of the recent videos Williams made, she and Daniels sat down and revealed their own earning in 2023. 'The reason that we decided to share how much we made is because we can't just talk the talk, we have to walk the walk,' Williams told the Washington Post. 'One of the most common questions we get from our community in the comments section is, "How much do you make?" And I think that's a fair question.' Through brand partnerships, Williams brought in $1,012,329, constituting a significant portion of the $1,043,740 she made last year. 'Sometimes our partnerships with one brand are worth six figures, and that's because we are working with them for the entire year,' Williams explained in the video. 'Having a viral video doesn't make you a millionaire,' she said. 'We learned that very quickly. 'But having the passion and the idea of building a business behind a social media page will generate a lot of revenue from brand deals,' she added. She and Daniels have made hundreds of videos that have received nearly a billion views, and also built a website that features pay data and resources for job seekers. She said: 'We have to look at this like as a business but also consider impact. It's really not just about viral videos. It's what can we do with this information to make sure it's not just lost in the interwebs? How do we have impact?' Two children have been rushed to hospital after being hit by a bus in London last night. One of the youngsters was initially feared to be fighting for their lives following the smash in Clapton Common, shortly before 7pm on Saturday. They were rushed to hospital with 'life-threatening' injuries police said. The second child was also taken to hospital but their condition was not as serious. The two are understood to have become trapped underneath the bus after they were hit. In a statement, the Met Police said: 'Police were called shortly before 7pm on Saturday, January 20, to a bus in collision with two pedestrians in Clapton Common. 'Officers attended the scene. The two pedestrians, both children, have been taken to hospital for treatment. One is in a life-threatening condition. ' Two children were rushed to hospital after being hit by a bus on Clapton Common earlier this evening, with police called at approximately 7 pm They are understood to have become trapped underneath the bus after being hit on Saturday night The bus stopped at the scene and no arrests were made, police added. Images from the scene of the accident showed multiple ambulances, a fire engine, and police. The westbound carriageway of the A107 was blocked while emergency services dealt with the incident, which occurred near Craven Walk. The 253 and 254 buses are on diversion as a result of road closures. The child initially though to have been in a critical condition was later said to be in since non-life threatening condition. In a statement, the Met added: 'The parents of both children are with them at hospital.' An east Londoner that was convicted for terror offences has been released from prison, despite warnings that he remains 'dangerous'. Shamim Ahmed, 30, of Shadwell, was sentenced to six years in prison in June 2017. He had travelled to Turkey in an attempt to join the Islamic State in Syria in 2016. He had then been on a suspended prison sentence for having threatened to attack a French bookshop in west London that was selling the satirical French magazine Charlie Hebdo. During his sentencing hearing, he wagged his fingers at the presiding judge and muttered kuffar, or term meaning non-believer. He subsequently yelled: 'Wage Jihad, wherever we are target the civilians, tourist sites, inshallah [God willing].' Before he was removed from the court, Mr Ahmed then threatened to punch a dock officer and warned the judge: 'Give me twenty years, I'll come out the enemy.' Shamim Ahmed had travelled to Turkey in an attempt to join the Islamic State in Syria in 2016 when he was arrested. He had been on a suspended prison sentence at the time The French Bookshop, on Bute Street in South Kensington, has now closed. It was selling copies of the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo when it was threatened by Mr Ahmed Shamim Ahmed has now been freed, despite warnings that he remains a danger to the public He has now been freed, despite warnings that he remains a danger to the public. He was released in October 2022, but was recalled the prison nine days later following 'concerns about his behaviour'. His release bid in June 2023 was blocked by the Parole Board, with the reasoning given that Mr Ahmed 'remains a radicalised person and would continue to pose a risk in the community.' The Ministry of Justice was unable to prevent Mr Ahmed being freed following the completion of his sentence. Chris Phillips, of the National Counter Terrorism Security Office, told The Sun that it was concerning that radicalised individuals could be released. 'There needs to be proof that they have been deradicalised rather than an autonomic release or parole,' he said. Mr Ahmed, it was heard during his trial, had only begun practising Islam in 2013. He had sent threats to Downing Street, the Australian government, and schools regulator Ofsted as he became radicalised. He was first arrested in January 2015 for threatening the staff of The French Bookshop, a now closed French-language bookstore in South Kensington. He had sent threats after the publication of the first edition of Charlie Hebdo following the terrorist attacks that targeted the weekly magazine in January 2015. He sent an email subject lined, 'Protect your neck while you're still alive.' He then telephoned the bookshop to ask whether they were selling the magazine 'against the Muslims.' It was quickly followed up by a second threatening phone call in which he said he would 'come and stab you.' 'I'm going to come right away and blow up the shop. I'm not afraid of the police, I'm a Muslim,' he said. He was charged with threatening the bookshops and stopped from handing out anti-democracy leaflets outside a local polling station during an election. The leaflet featured the flag of the Islamic State. It was titled, 'Reject democracy, call for shariah!' and included the sub-heading: 'Stay Muslim, don't vote!' Senior Conservatives have attacked the 'Trojan Horse' of the Net Zero green agenda in the wake of 2,500 jobs being lost at Port Talbot steelworks in South Wales. Critics have argued that the Net Zero target of eliminating additional greenhouse emissions by 2050 was helping to cripple the UK's industrial base. The job losses at Port Talbot, Britain's biggest steelworks, follow the replacement of its blast furnaces with an electric arc furnace that will emit less CO2. The Government paid 500million of taxpayers' money to the Indian owners, Tata Steel, to help meet a 1.25billion cost of converting to the electric arc process. Last night former Leader of the Commons Jacob Rees-Mogg (pictured) called for the ditching of the new environmentally-based 'growth duty' definition The job losses at Port Talbot, Britain's biggest steelworks, follow the replacement of its blast furnaces with an electric arc furnace that will emit less CO2 (stock image of Port Talbot) Now top Tories have warned against new plans for Government bodies and regulators to define moves towards economic growth in terms of 'sustainability'. It would mean that regulators such as Ofcom, who have a duty to support economic growth when they take decisions, would have to pivot to also demonstrate their 'alignment with environmentally sustainable objectives'. The move, which is the subject of a Whitehall consultation, comes as Chancellor Jeremy Hunt is hoping to spark the economy into life in time for this year's general election. Last night former Leader of the Commons Jacob Rees-Mogg called for the ditching of the new environmentally-based 'growth duty' definition. 'The viscera of the Net Zero Trojan Horse contain the enemies of growth,' he said. 'They aim to destroy the Government's last efforts to turn our economy around. Regulators must not be distracted with the flowery words of environmental objectives but need to concentrate on competition and growth. 'I fear the greens even when they bear regulatory gifts.' Former Brexit Minister Lord Frost added: 'Setting these as legal objectives for regulators opens the door for spurious legal challenges by political campaigners, wasting time and money and distracting regulators further from their vital role in keeping the UK economy moving. Co-Chairman Shanker Singham speaks during the launch of The Growth Commission 'If the Government is serious about fixing the economy, it must not allow the central mission of growth to be hijacked by special interest groups, who often care more about hamstringing growth than promoting it.' They were speaking after economists on the independent Growth Commission urged the Government to use per capita GDP as the core definition of 'growth duty'. Shanker Singham, co-chairman of the Growth Commission, said: 'Regulators should have a clear responsibility to consider the impact of their actions on economic growth as defined by impact on GDP per capita. 'Though a worthy cause, conflating the Government's environmental objectives with economic objectives of regulator activity will lead to confusion and could lead to decisions that will damage both economic growth and environmental sustainability.' The family of a South Australian father who has not been seen since he got caught in a rip near Port Lincoln have said they are hoping for a 'one-in-a-million miracle'. Dan Cojocea, 43, was sucked out to sea in a rip while swimming with six children at Mary Ellis Wreck Beach about 4.30pm on Friday. A major search effort entered its second day just after first light on Sunday at the beach - which is 20km south of Port Lincoln. His sister Camelia Cantell spoke to reporters from the beachside on Saturday and said the family are still holding onto the hope of a 'one-in-a-million miracle'. The family of a South Australian father who has not been seen since he got caught in a rip near Port Lincoln have said they are hoping for a 'one-in-a-million miracle' (pictured, Mr Cojocea's sister Camelia Cantell) Dan Cojocea, 43, was sucked out to sea in a rip while swimming with six children at Mary Ellis Wreck Beach about 4.30pm on Friday 'We still hold out the highest hope and we believe in amazing miracles and until there's a resolution, until we find him then we are hoping for a one-in-a-million miracle, that can be him' she said. 'Maybe one day he'll just laugh about his adventures, he likes to tell a good story.' Local patrols, SES members and drones will all continue their search throughout the day on Sunday, police said. 'Any of the locals that are around, we would appeal to you that if you see anything please can you contact the police,' Ms Cantell said. 'We just want him to be found, and we believe perhaps he may have bumped his league, but we are believing for the best outcome.' Two of the six children pulled from the water on Friday remain in Port Lincoln hospital It's understood Mr Cojocea was holidaying with his family when the incident unfolded Two of the six children pulled from the water on Friday remain in Port Lincoln hospital. It's understood Mr Cojocea was holidaying with his family when the incident unfolded. Mary Ellis Wreck Beach is small, surf beach 20 minutes south of Port Lincoln. 'Please note, this beach has a rip and there are no surf patrols in the area,' the Port Lincoln website warns. A tropical low is expected to intensify into a cyclone in days with Aussies warned to brace for 'severe impact' while millions of others sweat through a heatwave. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has been keeping track of a slow-moving tropical low pressure system off the northeast coast of Queensland that 'will continue to strengthen to a tropical cyclone' over the next 24-hours. Cyclone Kirrily is expected to intensify into a category three before it crosses the Queensland coast between Cairns and Mackay on Wednesday. Meteorologist Steve Hadley urged Queenslanders to keep up to date on weather warnings over the following days. Meanwhile, all mainland states and territories besides the ACT and Victoria were issued with heatwave warnings as temperatures skyrocket from Sunday. Sydney is due to experience its hottest day of the year so far, with the CBD climbing to 37C while people in Penrith will feel the heat nudge up to 40C. Millions of Aussies are escaping the heat (pictured) after the Bureau of Meteorology issued heat wave warning for about half of the country Areas in Western and South Australia, New South Australia, Queensland and the Northern Territory will all hit temperatures of about 40 degrees (pictured, Bondi Beach) Low to extreme heatwaves will hit about half the nation between Sunday to Tuesday, stretching all the way from the west coast, through Central Australia and up to the east and northeast coast. Far-west and northern NSW will see the worst of the heat though, with Tibooburra due to get up to 43C. The severe heat will stretch into northern NSW, with the north west slopes and plains staying hot into mid-next week. Maximum temperatures in the high thirties to low forties are forecast for towns in the north including Moree. Mr Hadley said the low pressure system off Queensland's coast 'could bring heavy rainfall' to areas further south of where it hits land between Cairns and Mackay. The area is still recovering from Cyclone Jasper that smashed the coastline with heavy rain and wind speeds exceeding 160km/h. An update on the cyclone from BoM on Sunday morning warned a 'severe coastal impact is possible, particularly if the system crosses near or south of Townsville'. 'We really want people to just stay up to date with the forecast and warnings, and if you're living in an area of the coastline which may be impacted by the cyclone this week it's time to start looking at things now,' Mr Hadley said. The tropical low is expected to intensify into a cyclone on Monday night. Once it crosses the coast, the cyclone is predicated to soften to a tropical low and move south bringing intense rainfall to parts of southern Queensland. Queensland Police Assistant Commissioner Chris Stream warned residents of those in impacted areas not to drive during heavy rain or flash flooding. BOM is also warning Queenslanders near Cairns of a low pressure system in the Coral Sea that could develop into a cyclone throughout the week (pictured) The area is still recovering from Cyclone Jasper which smashed the coast with hearvy rainfall and wind speeds of up to 160 km/h in December (pictured) 'Those vehicles float very well in water they lose traction and the vehicles are washed away,' he said. Mr Stream also warned that forensic crash investigators had dispelled 'the myth about removing your seat headrest and using that to break a window'. 'You will not be able to exit your vehicle.' Around 40,000 people across north Queensland were left without power after Cyclone Jasper made landfall in December. Subsequent 'cyclonic' storms across the over Christmas saw 10 people killed in flood waters and rough seas including a teacher and a nine-year-old girl. While Queenslanders will be waiting with bated breath to see if another cyclone will smash into the coast, BoM also issued several heatwave warnings for the next three days. Extreme heatwave conditions are predicted to hit Western Australians from Exmouth to Paraburdoo and across the border of South Australia with temperatures reaching the mid 40Cs. Northwest South Australia is also expected to experience similar extreme heatwaves in the following days. BoM also warned areas of the Northern Territory, Queensland and New South Wales to be prepared for temperatures reaching the high 30Cs and 40Cs throughout the start of the week. The Bureau warned older and younger people, pregnant and breastfeeding women and those unwell or with medical conditions are most at risk during heatwaves. 'Seek a place to keep cool, such as your home, a library, community centre or shopping centre,' BOM's safety advice reads. 'Close your windows and draw blinds, curtains or awnings early in the day to keep the heat out of your home.' According to Johns Hopkins research, vape ingredients include caffeine, three chemicals never previously found in e-cigarettes, a pesticide and two flavorings linked with possible toxic effects and respiratory irritation A 22-year-old North Dakota man has been hospitalized for months and had to undergo a double lung transplant due to his troublesome vaping habit. Jackson Allard was initially admitted to the University of Minnesota Medical Center in October 2023 for stomach pain. After doctors conducted tests, he was found suffering from Influenza 4 and double pneumonia which had impacted his lungs and oxygen levels. The young adult had been intubated to give his lungs a chance to heal but his condition kept deteriorating and doctors were forced to place him on an ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) machine. Ultimately, multiple doctors advised Allard to have a double lung transplant to survive. Jackson Allard, 22, was found suffering from Influenza 4 and double pneumonia due to vaping. He had to have a double lung transplant to survive The young adult had been intubated to give his lungs a chance to heal but his condition kept deteriorating and doctors were forced to place him on an ECMO machine Allard's grandmother, Doreen Hurlburt said: 'At one point, a doctor said he had a 1 percent chance of living and we said, "He's fighting, he's fought for how many weeks we're going to give him a chance to fight, we're not going to stop any procedures or anything."' 'He's just friendly, he's outgoing, everybody's just attracted to his energy and how much fun he is. 'I thought for sure we were going to lose him. I thought for sure hes not going to survive this, but in my mind I kept picturing him coming home. 'You have to stop vaping, and we kept telling him that over and over and over again, and he was a heavy vaper. He vaped all the time, but he said, "Its better than cigarettes."' 'Well they said, with cigarettes in 50 years youll have lung cancer, in five years, if you vape they will see you with permanent lung damage.' The vape-addicted adult and his mother, Jamie, will be staying in Minneapolis for at least six months to attend regular check-ups at the university hospital. Based on the current situation, Allard can never drink alcohol or smoke and will need another transplant in his life. According to the GoFundMe page launched by Hurlburt, the last words he said before being intubated were: 'I am scared, I dont want to be alone.' The fundraising page has raised $20,910 toward its $30,000 goal. Allard's grandmother, Doreen Hurlburt said: 'At one point a doctor said he had a 1 percent chance of living and we said, "He's fighting, he's fought for how many weeks we're going to give him a chance to fight, we're not going to stop any procedures or anything" Based on the current situation, Allard can never drink alcohol or smoke and will need another transplant in his life According to the GoFundMe page launched by Hurlburt, the last words he said before being intubated were: 'I am scared, I dont want to be alone' The vape-addicted adult and his mother, Jamie will be staying in Minneapolis for at least six months to attend regular check-ups at the university hospital According to Johns Hopkins University research on vape ingredients, thousands of chemical ingredients in vape products have not been identified. But among those identified, several were harmful substances, including caffeine, three chemicals never previously found in e-cigarettes, a pesticide and two flavorings linked with possible toxic effects and respiratory irritation. A University of North Carolina study also found that the two primary ingredients found in e-cigarettes, propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, are toxic to body cells. 'Emerging data suggests links to chronic lung disease and asthma, as well as associations between dual use of e-cigarettes and smoking with cardiovascular disease,' Dr. Michael Blaha, director of clinical research at the Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Heart Disease, said. Based on the 2021 National Youth Tobacco Survey, over two million American middle and high school students reported using e-cigarettes, with more than eight in 10 using flavored e-cigarettes. The process of getting a double lung transplant is not without its own risks. According to the Mayo Clinic, the human immune system protects the body against foreign substances and even if the patients has the best possible match with the donor, the body will try to attack and reject the new lungs. To decrease the risk of organ rejection, patients are given immunosuppressant medications which they need to consume for the rest of their life. A risk of infection, kidney damage, osteoporosis and cancer also exist. A militant trade union leader has threatened to disrupt Britain's military mission against Red Sea terrorists by calling for a strike by civilian sailors who provide vital supplies to Royal Navy warships. Eddie Dempsey, assistant general secretary of the RMT Union, called Israel's war on Hamas terrorists in Gaza a 'genocide' during an online interview with Stop The War Coalition on Friday night. He revealed plans for strike action by Royal Fleet Auxiliary sailors, who are vital in the resupply of ships conducting strikes against Houthi terrorists attacking Israel-bound cargo ships off the coast of Yemen in support of Hamas. Mr Dempsey said: 'How insane it is we are bombing a former colony [Yemen] in support of a genocide, supposedly to protect shipping... 'We've got members in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, who are stationed in the Mediterranean, who act as a civilian supply route to the Royal Navy. Britain launched missile strikes against Houthi terrorists inside Yemen on January 12, in coordination with the Americans. Type 45 destroyer HMS Diamond (pictured) and frigate HMS Lancaster are in the Red Sea Eddie Dempsey, assistant general secretary of the RMT Union, called Israel 's war on Hamas terrorists in Gaza a 'genocide' during an online interview with Stop The War Coalition on Friday night 'So our members are in danger because of the absolutely insane rhetoric we are seeing from Western politicians and the actions of our Government deciding to bomb Yemen along with the United States. 'I have to report to you that we are balloting our members for industrial action in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.' His comments provoked fury from politicians and former military chiefs last night. Admiral Lord West, a former head of the Royal Navy, said: 'It's an extraordinary and very dangerous thing to do, for a union to decide what is going to be a government's policy or not.' Former Tory leader Iain Duncan Smith, an ex-soldier, added: 'I never thought a trade union would put the lives of members of Armed Forces at risk. I think it's shameful.' Britain launched missile strikes against Houthi terrorists inside Yemen on January 12, in coordination with the Americans. Type 45 destroyer HMS Diamond and frigate HMS Lancaster are in the Red Sea. Another frigate, HMS Richmond, is on its way there. Iranian protesters are pictured burning a Union Jack and US flag during a demonstration in front of the British embassy in Tehran on January 12 The Houthis said they had launched their attacks in support of Hamas in Gaza. Israel went to war with Hamas in response to the October 7 terror attacks that killed 1,200 people in southern Israel. Last night, an RMT spokesman claimed that the strike ballot of RFA members was about pay, despite Mr Dempsey's comments to Stop The War Coalition. The spokesman said: 'At no point does Eddie Dempsey say that the ballot is due to UK foreign policy. 'RMT has an interest in the health and safety and working conditions of all its members. And where Government or employer decisions have an impact on our members, we will continue to speak out.' There are broadly four fashion ages, starting in your teens with 'Love It, Don't Care What It Looks Like On Me'. The second age is 'I Love It But Should I?' During this phase you discover whether you are more in the 'Must Look On Trend' or the 'Just Want To Look Gorgeous' camp. It's the longest fashion phase and you bend more one way than the other until, eventually, you find the spot where you're most comfortable. The third age is 'Does My Bum Look Big In This?' It's not that you've never considered whether your bum looks big before, but now it's your first consideration along with does anything else look big and do my legs look shorter. You still care a lot about fashion but more about how you look. And finally there's the fourth stage - the one we're in now - when the overriding priority is Not Looking Our Age. In this phase you're still fashion conscious, body conscious, gorgeous-rating conscious, susceptible to the odd mad purchase, but everything starts with trying not to look the age we are or older. Australians are proud of their beaches, some of which they describe as the best in the world. So you can imagine the shock when one American tourist described Australia's impressive coastline as "mediocre". Travel vlogger Grace Cheng recently visited Australia but revealed she didn't like her stay in the country after visiting Melbourne, Sydney, Byron Bay and the Gold Coast. "If I'm honest none of these cities really stood out to me," she told her 75,000 followers. While she said they were lagging on other cities across the world, it was her remarks about beaches that really hurt. "Australia's very much known for its nature instead, [but] this trip pretty much consisted of mediocre beaches and city life." Travel vlogger Grace wasn't a fan of Australia when visiting last year. Source: Instagram She also lamented the cost of Australia while said its location "far away from everywhere else in the world" was a negative. She did however admit she had a good time and enjoyed the restaurant scene Australia had to offer. Unsurprisingly, the video triggered a wave of comments from Aussies in disbelief over her claim. "Anyone who has been to even the Gold Coast and Byron and saying the beaches are bland is baffling," one person said, garnering hundreds of likes. "Our beaches are the best," a proud Aussie hit back. "I've never heard anyone bag Australia like this," one stunned user wrote. "You're joking right?" another asked. Aussie beaches ranked among best in the world While there are a raft of different global beach rankings, TripAdvisor's annual list is compiled analysing user's ratings and is well-respected. Last year, two Australian beaches made the top 20 Broome's Cable Beach and Sydney's Manly Beach. TikTok's surge in popularity has seen a wave of travel reviews flood the platform, with many users documenting their reactions to all things Aussie. Story continues For Brit Jordana Grace, she loves Australia's beaches, but was left surprised by one trend she hadn't seen before. I don't know if this is the same around Australia but here on the Sunshine Coast you leave your shoes by the beach and theyre still there when you get back and I just love it," she explained on TikTok. Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories. A man has died in hospital after he was airlifted from the water following an incident on a Stena Line ferry travelling between Belfast and Birkenheard on Saturday. The ship was at sea on yesterday morning when there were reports of a missing man. Emergency services were called including Merseyside Police, HM Coastguard and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. An eyewitness told the Liverpool Echo they believed a person had fallen overboard and a spokesperson for the coastguard said a search was carried out shortly after 8am. A man was airlifted out of the water and taken to hospital at around 11am. In an update yesterday afternoon a spokesperson for Merseyside Police confirmed a 44-year-old man, from North Wales, has died in hospital following the incident. The ferry had been travelling between Belfast and Birkenhead on Saturday morning when the man fell overboard Enquiries have been carried out but the death is not being treated as suspicious and a file has been prepared for the coroner. The man's next of kin have been informed. A spokesperson for HM Coastguard said: 'HM Coastguard coordinated the response to a report of a missing man from a passenger vessel off Liverpool. The alarm was raised at about 8.15am on 20 January and a search was carried out. 'The HM Coastguard helicopter from Caernarfon was sent as well as RNLI all-weather lifeboats from Hoylake, Rhyl, Lytham St Annes and Llandudno. A man was airlifted from the water by the HM Coastguard helicopter at about 11.20am, transferred to an ambulance and taken to hospital. 'Crosby Coastguard Rescue Team assisted by securing a helicopter landing site. Merseyside Police were informed.' Stena Line confirmed that there had been an incident on the vessel Stena Estrid en route from Belfast to Birkenhead on Saturday morning, January 20, but could not comment on the incident. The vessel is understood to have continued with its normal operation. Donald Trump kicked a protester out of his rally on Saturday night and hit back at questions about his mental fitness, saying his 'mind is stronger now than it was 25 years ago.' About an hour into his campaign event at the SNHU Arena in Manchester, a man in the crowd yelled at the former president: 'He's a dictator.' 'Get him out,' Trump said as security surrounded the man and removed him from the arena. 'Now we know that politics is getting serious,' Trump quipped. He has joked he would be a dictator for 'only one day' if he's elected for a second term to the White House in December. A second man, dressed in a white KKK outfit, was removed from the rally site before he could get down into the crowd. A Daily Mail photographer captured him trying to enter and being removed by security near the arena entrance. With four days to go until New Hampshire's primary, Trump spoke to his MAGA faithful for nearly two hours. He doubled down on his attacks on Nikki Haley, bringing in a group of lawmakers from her home state of South Carolina who have endorsed him, and got in some taunts at Ron DeSantis, quipping 'I think he's gone.' Donald Trump touted his mental fitness to be president during his rally A protestor is escorted out by police during Republican Presidential candidate former President Donald Trump's campaign event at the SNHU Arena Manchester A man who burst into the arena shouting 'the Klan supports Trump' is grabbed by security He also hit back at Haley for questioning whether he is 'mentally fit' to be president after he appeared to confuse her with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, accusing Haley of being in charge of security in the Capitol on the day of the January 6th insurrection. 'I feel my mind is stronger now than it was 25 years ago. Is that possible?,' Trump said. He also said he took another cognitive test in New Hampshire and 'aced it.' He spent the early part of his rally doubling down on his attacks on Nikki Haley, bringing in a group of lawmakers from her home state of South Carolina who have endorsed him, and got in some taunts at Ron DeSantis, quipping 'I think he's gone.' In addition to slamming his rivals, he called Joe Biden the 'worst' president in U.S. history and ran through his laundry list of campaign promises, including protecting the Southern border. 'I'm desperate to get your vote,' Trump told the crowd. He targeted Haley the hardest. The former governor of South Carolina has seen some movement in the polls as she campaigns in New Hampshire even though Trump still leads by double digits. 'Almost every politician from South Carolina is endorsing me. How do you do that if you're governor?,' Trump swiped at Haley, who served as governor of the state for six years. He then brought out South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster, the state's lieutenant governor and a slew of other senior officials, including the state's attorney general, treasurer and House speaker. Joining them were the state's Reps. Joe Wilson, William Timmons and Russell Fry. 'You know what I'm doing? I'm kissing a**,' Trump said, noting South Carolina was the next primary in the Republican presidential contest. McMaster told the cheering crowd the officials the group was there 'for one reason.' 'You've heard this, those great philosophers, the Spice Girls. Tell us what you want, what you really really want. Well, that's what we're here. To do to tell you what we in fact want, what we really really want' is Donald Trump, he said. After the rally, Trump campaign adviser Jason Miller told reporters that Haley needs to drop out of the race and support Trump. He said polls show she has no where to go to win the nomination. 'There's nowhere for Nikki Haley. There's recent polling shows that she is down by 39 points in South Carolina,' Miller said, pointing to the South Carolina officials who had endorsed Trump. The state's Senator Tim Scott had endorsed Trump on Friday. 'There's nowhere for Haley to come. So after President Trump wins on Tuesday, Nikki Haley needs to drop out.' The man was removed by law enforcement from Trump's rally Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani attended Trump's rally and signed autographs for fans South Carolina Gov Henry McMaster, right, pointing towards Donald Trump Trump, meanwhile, spent the evening on the attack and brought up some of his old complaints, including his false charge the 2020 election was stolen from him and that he was a victim of government witch hunt with the legal cases against him. He took multiple hits at DeSantis, who is trailing in the polls and left New Hampshire to campaign in South Carolina. DeSantis also canceled his scheduled appearances on the Sunday morning political shows. 'I haven't even mentioned the name of Ron DeSanctimonious yet I think he's gone,' Trump said as the crowd roared. Someone in the crowd yelled 'loser.' 'You did not just say that,' Trump joked back as the audience laughed. But he continued on, saying of DeSantis: 'I think he is going to be out pretty soon based off what I'm hearing.' He accused Haley of wanting 'to turn liberal voters into Republicans for about two minutes while they vote and then go back to being liberal voters.' Trump has repeatedly accused Haley of courting New Hampshire Democrats to vote for her in the Republican primary. 'Nikki Haley is using radical Democrat money to fund a radical Democrat campaign operation that she's running,' he said. 'The Radical Left Democrats are supporting Nikki Haley for one reason because they know she's very easy to beat. She's gonna be very easy to beat. She's down,' Trump said. More voters in New Hampshire identify themselves as 'unaffiliated' - or Independent - than they do Republican or Democrat. Those 'unaffiliated' voters can choose which party's primary they want to vote in and Haley has been courting that group hard. Voters can also switch their affiliation if they want to change which contest they vote in - however the deadline to do that was in October, meaning there are no more switches allowed. Ahead of the October deadline, about 3,500 Democrats in New Hampshire switched their party registration to unaffiliated, meaning they can vote in the Republican contest should they choose. Trump spoke at the SNHU Arena in Manchester Donald Trump leaves his rally after speaking for about two hours Donald Trump endorsed Rep. Dean Philips (above), who is challenging President Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination, in New Hampshire's Democratic primary; Phillip has been campaigning in New Hampshire Trump told his crowd of devoted supporters they need to come out in droves for him on Tuesday. 'We need big margins because we have to send real unity as a message. Because with real unity they won't be able to cheat,' he said. The former president also referenced his immunity battle with the Supreme Court. Trump is arguing he should be immune from prosecution on charges that he plotted to overturn the results of the 2020 election because he was president at the time. 'So a president has to be given immunity and this has nothing to do with me,' he told his rally. 'This has to do with every single president. As an example when Biden gets out , I'm that guy has got a list to go after. But you have to give a president immunity.' He argued President Harry Truman would have never have dropped an atomic bomb without immunity. But he also bragged about his prosecutors, saying: 'Every time the radical left Democrats boxes communists and fascists indict me, I consider it a great badge of honor.' Trump also made an unusual move in his rally. He endorsed Rep. Dean Philips, who is challenging President Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination, in New Hampshire's Democratic primary. 'I think Democrats should vote for the Congressman just to send a signal,' he said of Phillips. He then touted his own endorsement, noting of Phillips: 'He just picked up a lot of votes by the way.' Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham signed a partnership with the Japanese tech giant in the Post Office IT scandal just last month, it has emerged. The Labour mayor brokered the 'exploratory partnership' deal with Fujitsu in December during a trade junket to Japan. The trip saw him ride the country's bullet train and enjoy a Noel Gallagher gig in Osaka, according to photos on his Twitter account. The deal between the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) and Fujitsu will look at ways it can harness the beleaguered firm's 'technical expertise' for the region's investment zone a project set to provide 160 million of public funding to business schemes and create 32,000 jobs. Mr Burnham and Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council, penned GMCA's Fujitsu deal during a meeting with Vivek Mahajan, the firm's chief technology officer, at its Tokyo HQ on December 8. The trip saw Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham ride the country's bullet train and enjoy a Noel Gallagher gig in Osaka, according to photos on his Twitter account The deal between the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) and Fujitsu will look at ways it can harness the beleaguered firm's 'technical expertise' for the region's investment zone a project set to provide 160 million of public funding to business schemes and create 32,000 jobs At the time, Mr Burnham praised the partnership as a 'massive boost' for the region's investment zone.The deal which has been reported by UK Tech News and Manchester Mill came just weeks before the broadcast of ITV drama Mr Bates vs The Post Office, which reignited public anger over the scandal and heaped intense pressure on the Government to act. Mr Burnham has said Post Office bosses treated people 'appallingly' and called for the Post Office to be stripped of its independent prosecution powers. It is understood Fujitsu has yet to do any work as part of the partnership deal, which is not a contract and no public funds have been spent or earmarked by the GMCA for it. But the timing of the partnership could be seen by some as tone-deaf, as the firm remains under intense scrutiny over its role in the widest miscarriage of justice in British legal history. More than 700 sub-postmasters were privately prosecuted by the Post Office between 1999 and 2015 after faults with Fujitsu's Horizon system used in branches made it look like money was missing. Mr Burnham and Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council, (pictured) penned GMCA's Fujitsu deal during a meeting with Vivek Mahajan, the firm's chief technology officer, at its Tokyo HQ on December 8. In a statement, Mr Burnham said: 'Fujitsu is a large, longstanding employer in Greater Manchester, and it is right that we work closely with them. Of course, the public inquiry is bringing new information into the public domain all the time and we will wait for its conclusions before taking any decisions.' This comes as the Bank of England and HMRC are among 21 public bodies to be asked by Treasury Committee MPs to reveal any details of contracts handed to Fujitsu since 2019, when the High Court ruled Horizon-related prosecutions were unjust. MPs who have asked for a reply within two weeks want to know the value of any contracts with Fujitsu, whether there were considerations of supplier risk and whether steps were made to 'bar Fujitsu from bidding for contracts put out to tender'. Since 2012, Fujitsu has won almost 200 public sector contracts worth a total of 6.8 billion, according to analysts Tussell. Some 43 of those contracts are still in force, worth 3.6 billion, including the contract for the Post Office Horizon system, and several Government departments including the Home Office, the Foreign Office, Defra and the MoD. Fujitsu did not respond to a request for comment. An Egyptian toyboy who was dumped by his 83-year-old British wife has been ditched by his new lover after he was caught texting another woman. Mohamed Ibrahim, 37, and Iris Jones shot to fame in June 2020 when they defied critics and tied the knot despite having a 46-year age gap. But last September, MailOnline revealed that Iris had thrown him out of her home near Weston-super-Mare after accusing him of being a 'selfish money-grabber' - three years after their wedding. Just weeks after being dumped, Mr Ibrahim started dating mother-of-11 Angela Rogers, 61, after he won her over with supermarket flowers before they had 'the best sex ever'. But the Daily Mirror has now revealed that Ms Rogers - who splashed out 5,000 on their relationship - has dumped Mr Ibrahim after she caught him messaging a 69-year-old widow. Mohamed Ibrahim (pictured, left) started dating mother-of-11 Angela Rogers, 61, (pictured, right) after he won her over with supermarket flowers before they had 'the best sex ever' Ms Rogers claimed that the toyboy had asked her for money to help finalise his divorce from Ms Jones Iris Jones, 83, and Mohamed Ibriham, 37, pictured in the pensioner's Weston-super-Mare home before their split last month Ms Rogers claimed that the toyboy had asked her for money to help finalise his divorce from Ms Jones - and even proposed twice without ever buying a ring. She told the newspaper: 'He's a freeloader who clearly has a thing about older women. I don't want to see him hurting anyone else.' Ms Jones left This Morning audiences stunned in early 2020 when she detailed her first night of passion with Mr Ibrahim after she travelled to Egypt to meet him. The pair married in November that year after meeting through Facebook, but they spent two years apart before he got a UK visa. After being kicked out by Ms Jones last July, Mr Ibrahim started chatting to Ms Rogers - who had befriended him two years prior on Facebook after reading his story. Ms Rogers said she contacted Mr Ibrahim to check how he was doing after the break-up and he told her he was 'lonely and depressed' on a video call. She said he showered her with compliments, telling her she was beautiful and asking to meet up in person. Ms Rogers, who had been single for 14 years, told the toyboy that he could come and stay in her spare room, but admitted: 'He's the biggest mistake I ever made.' Mr Ibrahim travelled 225 miles on the train from Somerset to Leeds where he picked Ms Rogers up, swung her round and told her she was his 'Queen'. He proceeded to buy her flowers and grapes from Marks & Spencer before cooking her up a Spaghetti Bolognese at her flat. Despite planning to have him stay in the spare room, Ms Rogers admitted that he ended up in her bed. MailOnline revealed that Iris had thrown him out of her home near Weston-super-Mare after accusing him of being a 'selfish money-grabber' In early 2020, Iris raised eyebrows when they appeared with Holly and Phil on This Morning reducing them to hysterics as she opened up about their first night of passion 'He was telling me I was beautiful and then he said we'd had the best sex he'd ever had in his life,' she told The Daily Mirror. After just five weeks of visiting Ms Rogers, Mr Ibrahim is said to have proposed on a foot-bridge over the A64 York Road in Leeds. She said no because they hadn't known each other long and he was still married to Ms Jones. But a couple of months later, Ms Rogers moved into a flat with her new toyboy and contributed 1,800 for new furniture. Ms Rogers claims that he never offered to pay for anything and that she would fund his clothes, trainers, aftershave, bus fares and meals among other luxuries. He also allegedly asked her for 800 to pay for his divorce but she refused to hand him the money. When Mr Ibrahim got down on one knee again in October, Ms Rogers said yes, admitting that he was very charming and persuasive. She said that they would even FaceTime his family in Egypt. The couple married in November 2020 and they spent almost two years apart before Mohamed was finally granted a visa which allowed him to move into Iris' bungalow in Weston-super-Mare After being kicked out by Ms Jones last July, Mr Ibrahim started chatting to Ms Rogers - who had befriended him two years prior on Facebook after reading his story At one point, she even gave him 550 after he told her his father was ill and he needed to visit him in Egypt. He later told her that he had made a miracle recovery and returned to the UK promptly. Mr Ibrahim repaid her 300 but was soon found to be cheating. After posting a photo of the pair together, Ms Rogers said she received a message from a 69-year-old widow who claimed that Mr Ibrahim had been chatting to her as well. A heartbroken Ms Rogers claimed that when she confronted her boyfriend, he became angry and started shouting at her. She eventually asked Mr Ibrahim to leave and blocked his number after he continued to call her. Ms Rogers is determined to find out the truth about why he married Ms Jones and why he used them both. Iris, 83, stunned the nation when she revealed four years ago on ITV's This Morning how she spent hours every week making love with Mohamed Ibriham, 37 She fears that Mr Ibrahim is using women to extend his visa, which runs out in June. Mr Ibrahim declined to comment to The Mirror and accused Ms Rogers of trying to gain fame with his name. In a video on social media, he said: 'I moved to the north after I separated with this woman for a few weeks. But I'm back again in my area.' In another he told women to 'leave me alone'. He said: 'Some idiots, some trollers want to be famous on my back. 'This message is for all women and girls who follow me. Leave me alone.' When Ms Jones dumped Mr Ibrahim, she wrote a lengthy Facebook post in which she revealed how she had spent thousands of pounds on him while he never paid for anything. The Minister in charge of the Post Office cried twice while watching the ITV dramatisation of the Horizon scandal, he has revealed. In an interview with The Mail on Sunday, Kevin Hollinrake described watching Mr Bates Vs The Post Office at home with his wife while Parliament was in recess. 'We were both shocked,' he said. 'I think I cried more than she did.' The Minister's tears flowed in the courtroom scenes with Jo Hamilton, played by Monica Dolan, and when the sub-postmasters won their case, too, he told the MoS. The ITV drama sparked nationwide outrage over what has been described as one of the most widespread miscarriages of justice in British history. Mr Hollinrake wants the show to win all the awards at the Baftas and for actor Toby Jones to be given a knighthood but not before Alan Bates, who Jones played in the drama, is awarded one first. In an interview with The Mail on Sunday, Kevin Hollinrake described watching Mr Bates Vs The Post Office at home with his wife while Parliament was in recess (File Photo) The Minister's tears flowed in the courtroom scenes with Jo Hamilton, played by Monica Dolan (pictured), and when the sub-postmasters won their case, too, he told the MoS The MP for Thirsk and Malton said of the drama: 'Some people knew the scale of this, but not everybody recognised its depth and the impact on people's lives. It was beautifully portrayed.' The scandal, which stemmed from problems with the Horizon IT system, saw hundreds of sub-postmasters being handed criminal convictions after the faulty accounting software made it appear as though money was missing from their branches. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said a new law will be introduced so that those affected are 'swiftly exonerated and compensated' and all victims handed an automatic 75,000 payment, too. Those whose convictions are quashed by the new law will then be eligible for compensation of at least 600,000. The bill is set to cost the taxpayer as much as 1.5 billion, Mr Hollinrake revealed up from the original 1 billion set aside. The rise is partly due to hundreds of new victims coming forward after the ITV drama. The Minister supports calls for part of the bill to be paid by Fujitsu the company behind the Horizon system. The Japanese firm has assured it will contribute. Mr Hollinrake said: 'We think it's right to keep our powder dry until we see the results of the inquiry. When we know the extent of its responsibility, then we will have a proper conversation about Fujitsu's contribution. 'We've got to be fair. I don't believe in any kind of witch-hunt. There's a joint responsibility here including the Government as the only shareholder of the Post Office.' Mr Hollinrake, who has been an MP for his North Yorkshire constituency since 2015, said addressing the scandal was his 'number one priority' when he became a Business Minister in 2022. As for Lib Dem leader and former Post Office Minister Ed Davey, Mr Hollinrake admitted it was 'painful' watching him give an interview and refuse to say sorry ten times for his role in the scandal. 'I've apologised for what I've done and I've only been here for 15 minutes,' he said. 'I think we should all apologise.' Surgery might have stopped the Princess of Wales in her tracks, but that does not mean her campaign work has slowed. In fact it was business as usual for her Early Years 'taskforce' last week, which held a discussion at Kensington Palace on the day of her abdominal surgery. Last Tuesday, bosses from some of the country's biggest firms came together to work on Kate's campaign to prioritise early childhood in society. The taskforce, created by the Princess last March, is working on a report into how businesses can support young children as part of her Shaping Us project. Kensington Palace briefed media last year that the taskforce's report would be the Princess's 'biggest thing' to happen after Christmas , but aides now say the findings are likely to be published 'later this spring'. The Early Years 'taskforce', created by the Princess last March, is working on a report into how businesses can support young children as part of her Shaping Us project (File Photo) Kensington Palace briefed media last year that the taskforce's report would be the Princess's 'biggest thing' to happen after Christmas , but aides now say the findings are likely to be published 'later this spring' (File Photo) This means the report will likely coincide with, and be central to, her return to Royal duties after Easter. Yesterday, the Princess remained in hospital at The London Clinic as she recovered from her op. Some had expected her three children to visit her in hospital, but it is understood that, in line with the Princess's wishes, they attended school at Lambrook in Berkshire. Unlike her father-in-law, King Charles, who is set to go under the knife for an enlarged prostate, Kate will only consider whether to talk about the procedure after she has recovered. It is impossible to feel anything but the most heartfelt sympathy for the family of Alastair Hamilton. The upset they have faced, and continue to face, is hard to contemplate. But although the debate on assisted dying may present some of the most challenging moral and legal issues we have faced, it is a debate that we absolutely must have. And every opinion must be heard. I can't stress strongly enough that no one in the UK is calling for laws such as those in Switzerland that permit assisted dying which is not linked to a terminal illness or an incurable physical condition. This is a nuanced and delicate argument, but there are issues around mental or psychiatric illness which make it harder to establish true consent to such a procedure. Those issues don't generally arise when you are talking about debilitating, life-limiting physical conditions which cause unbearable pain. Alastair Hamilton travelled to Switzerland to Pegasos Swiss Association, an Assisted Dying Clinic near Basel, in August 2023. His family were unaware and were stone-walled for weeks by the clinic before finding out what had happened to Alistair (pictured) Alastair Hamilton's case proves the UK must debate this great moral dilemma, says assisted dying campaign group chairman Trevor Moore (pictured) There are around 30 countries or states with assisted dying laws in place and, while they are all different in the scope and breadth of their regulations, almost all focus on easing the suffering of those with a terminal illness and giving them a choice in terms of where and how they die. The laws for which campaigners in the UK are pressing would require an applicant to be mentally competent at the time of being assessed, and then again following a relevant interval before they receive their life-ending medication. That becomes more difficult when considering mental illness. And the evidence we have built up over time comes from places like the US, where at least in some states there have been assisted dying laws in place for more than 25 years. In many of these jurisdictions, palliative care has improved considerably, a sign that talking about death more widely can have a positive impact, whatever choice you'd like to make. The laws in places such as Oregon dictate that you must have fewer than six months left to live to be able to request an assisted death. We would go further. We're campaigning for a law that would extend to all terminally ill people, regardless of the time they have left, and to those with neurodegenerative conditions like motor neurone disease and anyone suffering unbearably from incurable physical conditions. This isn't for everyone; nor should anyone have access to it without meeting strict criteria. But cases like this one demonstrate that now is the time for the UK's own discussions to begin in earnest. Trevor Moore is the Chairman of My Death, My Decision An Oregon woman faces the daunting possibility of having to move out of her historic $1.4 million home after more than 10 trees toppled onto her home during a storm. Gaylene Runey, a Washington County resident, was left without power for more than a week following the devastating storm. When her electricity was finally restored on Friday, the aftermath of falling trees has now left her without water and heat. Frozen pipes now add to her challenges, and despite the power being restored, the restoration of other essential services remains an ongoing struggle. Runey said she is both physically and emotionally exhausted from the ordeal. Gaylene Runey, of Washington County, went without power for over a week and was then left without water and heat after more than 10 trees fell on her home She fears she may move out of her historic $1.4M home of 47 years after the treers pierceed the roof of her property and cut off her water and electricity She was napping in her bedroom when she noticed the trees starting to fall. 'I looked up, and I saw trees falling,' she told KPTV. 'I hit the deck. I landed on the floor and was waiting to be impaled. Then it was quiet.' Her property, where a creek runs through, experienced multiple tree falls, causing extensive damage to her home. 'I always worried I'd have a tree falling,' she said to the outlet. 'I never dreamed I'd have 10.' She believes the creek loosened the soil and caused some of the trees to fall. At least 13 trees fell on her property, she said. 'I'm exhausted, and my mind is hard to quiet,' she told KPTV. Although she has lived in the house for 47 years, the extensive storm damage has led her to contemplate abandoning the family home. The four-bedroom, three-bathroom, 6,870-square-foot home sits on a 1.7-acre lot and is worth an estimated $1,358,284, according to Redfin. The recent weather in the Portland metro area has brought numerous challenges, leaving cleanup crews and residents with significant work ahead. 'At this point, I'm just ready to say, "The heck with it," and fix it later,' she said. The damage is taking a toll on her wallet, she added. 'I sure need some help getting through this. It's hard,' Runey told KPTV. 'I need to find a bag of money somewhere.' Despite the overwhelming list of problems, Runey maintained a sense of optimism, and acknowledged the importance of remaining positive throughout the hardships. Frozen pipes now add to her challenges, and despite the power being back, the restoration of essential services remains an ongoing struggle 'If you don't laugh, you'll cry,' she said to outlet. Footage captured by Runey and shared on Facebook reveal the brutal extent of the damage. Viewers expressed their sorrow and devastation over the severe magnitude of the destruction. 'Oh jeez laweez! And now the ice is coming,' one user commented. Another opted to remain positive, stating, 'Bright side: I looks like it didnt break the windows.' Last week, a deadly winter storm that caused chaos throughout the US with tornados, snow, rain and flooding slammed into the Northeast. The storm knocked out power to more than 500,000 people in the region, including those in New York City, New Jersey and Connecticut. Snow and ice cover the St. Joseph Lighthouses as waves crash along the Lake Michigan ice shelf formed along Tiscornia Beach in St. Joseph, Michigan, on January 17, 2024 Snow covered cars in West Seneca in New York State, on January 17, 2024 Wind blew snow across the SW Pacific Highway in Portland, Oregon, on January 13, 2024, At least 60 fatalities have been reported due to weather in the last few weeks. Among them, an 81-year-old woman who died in Alabama as the storm created tornados in the Southeast on January 9. The same system brought snow and travel headaches in the Midwest. The mid-Atlantic has dealt with heavy rain and flooding. In North Carolina, more than 170,000 people lost power from the storm throughout the day. Parts of historic Alexandria, Virginia, were underwater as floods filled streets. All 50 states were put on weather alerts because of the storm. Of the 60 deaths, several of those fatalities have been attributed to hypothermia and car accidents on frozen roads as arctic conditions grip the nation. Tens of millions face the bitter cold from snowstorms that are set to continue into next week. A power line fell on a parked car in northeast Portland on Wednesday, killing three people and injuring a baby during an ice storm that turned roads and mountain highways treacherous in the Pacific Northwest. Almost two thirds of young people are now addicted to online pornography, according to a leading mental health and addiction clinic. Paracelsus Recovery said research on patients referred for treatment suggested that porn addiction is significantly more prevalent than official numbers suggest. Children are being exposed to online pornography from as young as nine, according to a recent study for the children's commissioner for England. A quarter of 16 to 21-year-olds first saw pornography on the internet while still at primary school. By the age of 13, 50 per cent had been exposed to it. But Paracelsus Recovery, which is based in Zurich and London, warned it had seen a 150 per cent increase in the number of people being treated for porn addiction between 2019 and 2023. Its chief executive Jan Gerber said: 'It is clear from our research that porn addiction is significantly more common than official numbers suggest. A quarter of 16 to 21-year-olds first saw pornography on the internet while still at primary school. By the age of 13, 50 per cent had been exposed to it (stock image) Children are being exposed to online pornography from as young as nine, according to a recent study for the children's commissioner for England (stock image) One 27-year-old British man treated by Paracelsus Recovery said he became addicted to pornography after he started watching it from the age of 12 (stock image) 'We estimate that one in two males suffer from problematic porn consumption that would meet the diagnostic criteria for addiction, and one in four females. 'Among under-18s, the levels are higher still, at around 60 per cent.' The United Kingdom has the second highest incidence of internet pornography searches in the world, with an average of 16,600,000 searches for porn taking place each month. The adult film industry is estimated to be worth more than 15billion a year. The Government's Online Safety Act, passed last year, will force porn websites to use age verification software to stop access by under-18s. Similar technology is already used by gambling websites. Ofcom is consultation with the porn industry about how the scheme will be rolled out next year. One 27-year-old British man treated by Paracelsus Recovery said he became addicted to pornography after he started watching it from the age of 12. He said: 'I had lost all control over my behaviour. I was sitting in my room smoking weed and watching porn videos from morning to night. 'I had no friends, it had messed up my education, and I felt hopeless. 'I cannot even articulate how disgusting and ashamed I felt, and it's only other individuals who have struggled with a porn addiction who can understand the depths of this despair.' The celebrated black cellist who performed at Prince Harry's wedding to Meghan Markle is calling for flag-waving anthem Rule, Britannia! to be dropped from the Last Night Of The Proms. Sheku Kanneh-Mason, 24, tells today's Desert Island Discs that when he performed at last year's Last Night he left early to avoid hearing the song. The long tradition of a sing-along rendition of Rule, Britannia! is a highlight of the annual Royal Albert Hall concert. But there have been calls to ban it as some see it as too celebratory of Britain's imperial past and its role in the slave trade. The song, which originates from James Thomson's 1740 poem Rule, Britannia and is set to music by Thomas Arne, contains the line: 'Britons never will be slaves'. Sheku Kanneh-Mason, 24, tells today's Desert Island Discs that when he performed at last year's Last Night he left early to avoid hearing Rule, Britannia! being played The celebrated black cellist performed at Prince Harry 's wedding to Meghan Markle The audience join in singing 'Rule Britannia' at the last night of the Proms at the Royal Albert Hall on September 11, 2010 Kanneh-Mason tells Desert Island Discs: 'I don't think it should be included and I didn't stay for that. That's just my opinion. I think maybe some people don't realise how uncomfortable a song like that can make a lot of people feel. 'The wealth of folk music from this country is astonishing. I think that would be a wonderful thing to take its place.' The BBC was branded woke in 2020 when it announced that only instrumental versions of Rule, Britannia! and Land Of Hope And Glory would be performed at that year's event. It later backed down in the face of a public backlash. l Desert Island Discs is on BBC Radio 4 today at 11.15am and is available via BBC Sounds Walking through a peaceful Balinese temple surrounded by a rainforest the last thing you would expect to hear is the sound of someone loudly sobbing. But, as you get closer to the flowing water the sound is unmistakable a woman is screaming as if she could be in pain. Despite how things may first seem, thousands of Aussies and other international travellers continue to flock to Bali for the same experience, with so many saying it is the "one thing you need to do" while there. "Such an amazing experience," one woman called Chaz said after sharing a video of herself online crying while taking part in the ceremony. The traditional Balinese Purification ritual has blown up on social media over the last couple of years as wellness tourism continues to grow in the post-pandemic world. Videos of tourists like Chaz, wearing traditional sarongs, surrounded by water and flowers as they scream, cry or hold themselves is not an uncommon sight, prompting many to wonder what this emotional ceremony actually is and why so many have chosen to take part in it. The Bali purification ceremony is gaining popularity among Aussies. Source: Instagram/TikTok The Balinese purification ceremony, known as "Melukat", is part of the Hindu religion and is performed to cleanse the body, both spiritually and physically by washing or bathing in holy water. It is just one element of Tirtayatra a Balinese Hindu pilgrimage. "Any religion can join [the] purification ceremony," Helena, manager at Tri Desna Spiritual Centre in Ubud, Indonesia shared with Yahoo News Australia. "This is our tradition here in Bali, and I remember since I [was] little we always perform purification ceremony at least once a year and sometimes more." A Balinese healer, known as a Balian, will lead the sacred ritual and guide those participating through their water cleansing. After being washed in the holy water, an offering is left as thanks, usually made of coconut leaves and filled with colourful flowers and other items. Story continues Each place does it slightly differently and may include additional steps before and after Melukat. At Tri Desna, Ibu Desak Akeno is the healer and performs a reading before the ceremony as well as a blessing at the end. Why do some people cry during the purification ceremony? Helena says they receive "a lot of questions" about how people react to the purification ceremony. "It all differs," she shares. "Some people tend to feel drowsy, some people will cry and some will laugh and smile it all depends on you and how you feel." Ibu Desak is there to try to help people "let go" of their emotions, which means that while some people let out cries as they release their pent-up emotions, some may not it is all individual. Has the ceremony been gaining popularity? As tourism in Bali has grown over the years alongside social media usage, so has the knowledge of their spiritual ceremonies. Helena explains there have been many Australians coming to join the ceremony in recent years. "It was always there, but since there is technology like Instagram or other social media its just become more popular," she shares. "There [are] more tourists now performing this experience than before." Travel companies also offer a huge range of "wellness" trips and retreats which include traditional healing ceremonies, meditation, and other traditional Balinese medicine. This coincides with the growth in wellness trends seen across the globe, particularly since Covid-19. The Global Wellness Institute states the wellness economy has grown a whopping 27% since 2020 and projects that wellness tourism, in particular, will grow by 16.6% annually, reaching $1.4 trillion in 2027. "The drive to create greater awareness and acceptance of mental health and its nuances has meant more focused programs to support this growing need," they stated in 2023 while looking at 2022 wellness trends and the rise in wellness tourism. Where can the purification ceremony be performed? Tri Desna performs private purification ceremonies for $152 and is based in Sayan, Ubud but there are many places that host this ceremony in Indonesia. Other locations include the Pura Tirta Empul near the town of Tampaksiring, Bali which is one of the more famous locations to do Melukat or the Taman Mumbul Temple in Badung Regency, Bali. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube. A North Carolina middle school removed bathroom mirrors after students were skipping classes to make TikTok videos in the bathroom. The Alamance-Burlington School System announced this week that Southern Alamance Middle School had mirrors removed from its hallway bathrooms to reduce distractions. The move came as the school officials observed many students using bathrooms seven or eight times a day, and in many cases, during class. 'Students were going to the bathroom for long periods of time and making TikTok videos,' Les Atkins, the public relations officer for ABSS, told WFMY News. The removal of mirrors has proven to be effective so far, as school officials noticed fewer visits to the bathroom and students spending less time there. A North Carolina middle school removed bathroom mirrors after students were skipping classes to make TikTok videos in the bathroom (Pictured above: A similar video was posted by a middle school aged social media user) The Alamance-Burlington School System announced this week that Southern Alamance Middle School had mirrors removed from its hallway bathrooms to reduce distractions The move came as the school district observed many students using bathrooms seven or eight times a day, and in many cases, during class The removal of mirrors proved to be effective, as school officials noticed fewer visits to the bathroom and students spending less time there. (Pictured: Stock image of a bathroom) 'Since removing the mirrors, we have seen a drastic decrease in bathroom visits from students asking to be excused just to make videos,' Atkins said. '[The school saw] not as many visits to the bathroom, and [students] not staying as long.' he said. 'And students are held accountable. When there's accountability, you see a great difference,' he added. The school district also implemented Smart Pass, a digital hall pass system, to allow students to check in and out when they leave classrooms. The system is part of the school's existing software; therefore, it won't add extra costs to the district. 'We strive to limit distractions so students can focus on learning. Though this is an adjustment, we believe these changes will foster a better learning environment by minimizing disruptions,' the school district said. 'Students were going to the bathroom for long periods of time and making TikTok videos,' Les Atkins, the public relations officer for ABSS, told WFMY News The removal of mirrors proved to be effective, as school officials noticed fewer visits to the bathroom and students spending less time there Parents and social media users support the school's approach, noting that there are too many distractions for middle school students. A mother of a 12-year-old boy wrote: 'Am I the only mean parent of a middle schooler who wont let them have a smart phone?' She added that her son is using a Nokia, which 'has prevented a lot of issues.' She added, 'Why does a kid need anything more than the ability to place a phone call during an emergency while at school?' Another person chimed in: 'Middle school age kids have no reason to even need a phone at school. Its one big distraction.' They said: 'Im not saying they cant have a phone. It should be treated as a reward or privilege rather. Give it to them when they get home from school as a reward for working hard at school. Problem solved.' Other social media users offered their solutions, with one saying: 'I know a substitute that has the rule of in order to go to the bathroom they have to turn in their phone. They get it back when they return.' A home design trend that has grown in popularity in recent years is facing calls for it to be banned because it increases the heat of the house, the area and power bills. Dark, often black, coloured roofs have increased across Australian cities after regularly featuring on television shows such as The Block and in design catalogues. Sam Austin, who was awarded NSW's Young Planner of the Year, said poor design choices made while constructing developments meant residents were now living on dangerous urban heat islands where temperatures were higher than in nearby areas. In parts of western Sydney temperatures were 10C to 12C hotter than the rest of Sydney in summer, he said, with dark roofs which absorb heat partly to blame. Mr Austin, in a video posted to social media, said 'these brand-new, identical houses being built across the country' were a mistake. A home design trend that has grown in popularity in recent years is facing calls for it to be banned because it increases the heat of the house, the area and power bills. A female architect is pictured 'Most of these homes have black roofs and a tiny yard with no space for a tree,' he said. He said black roofs were purely a 'decorative choice' but were in fact at least six degrees hotter than a white roof. READ MORE: The alarming warning to western Sydney residents amid fears some suburbs will crack 50 degrees this summer Millions of Australians have been warned to plan for the deadly impacts of the coming scorching summer on their own health and to talk to their relatives and doctors. Advertisement The planner is far from alone in pointing out the cost to the power bills and the environment of the trend for black roofs on houses. One state taking the problem very seriously is South Australia, where dark roofs have been banned in all future homes in the Playford Alive urban renewal project in Adelaide's northern suburbs. When it is completed, the $1billion project in Munno Para will house around 40,000 people. Nick Champion, SA's Housing and Urban Development Minister, said most of the homes built here so far have dark-coloured roofs, but dark roofs will be banned from all future stages of the project. 'Encouraging the use of light-coloured roofs in home designs helps to reduce temperature fluctuations in the home lowering electricity bills and minimising the environmental footprint associated with traditional building practices,' he said. Mr Champion said it was vital to implement these changes now, to lessen any potential effects from urban heat islands. A report by Seed Consulting, found homes in Adelaide's northern suburbs with light-coloured roofs were 4.3 degrees cooler on an average day than those with dark roofs. Janine Strachan, chief executive of the Insulation Council of Australia and New Zealand, welcomed the South Australian government's move. 'This initiative of light-coloured roofs, when coupled together with roof blankets and ceiling insulation, will great improve the energy efficiency and comfort factor in these homes,' she told news.com.au. Kym Morgan of the Master Builders Association, also supports what the SA government is doing. Dark, often black, coloured roofs have increased across Australian cities after regularly featuring on television property shows such as The Block. An almost entirely black house is pictured 'Light-coloured roofing just makes sense, particularly out north where we know it gets hotter. 'It leads to significantly cooler homes and that ultimately means less time running air conditioners and lower energy bills. 'It also means cooler suburbs if consumers adopt lighter roofs en masse,' he said. Mr Austin said the trend for black roofs on new build houses has been around for a long time in western Sydney and the outer fringes of other cities such as Melbourne and Adelaide. 'Fifteen or so years back, having a dark-coloured roof became really popular,' he said. 'They look stylish and modern, so people loved them. The problem is, that's a 150square metre surface sitting in the sun all day attracting and absorbing huge amounts of heat ... Just about every roof in western Sydney is black.' The NSW state government had planned to update building standards to help reduce the temperature inside homes, but this has been put on hold until at least May. Planning Minister Paul Scully said the cost impact on new builds during a housing and cost of living crisis was behind the decision. Speaking at the time Mr Scully announced the delay, Associate Professor Sebastian Pfautsch of Western Sydney University said it would leave people vulnerable to Australia's 'silent killer'. A tradesman is pictured putting black slates on the roof of a new build housing project The trend for black roofs on new build houses has been around for a long time in western Sydney and the outer fringes of other cities such as Melbourne and Adelaide 'They've effectively thrown the tools they developed to combat urban overheating in the gutter,' he told News Corp. 'It is common knowledge that heat is the silent killer in Australia that costs more lives than those lost in all other natural disasters combined. 'All credible projections point towards more heat and in the recent past, western Sydney was already twice the hottest place on the planet. 'The government is knowingly leaving the people of western Sydney vulnerable to heat,' the professor, who has called for an 'outright' ban on dark roofs across Australia, said. Kemi Badenoch has been linked to a failed leadership plot after a member of her team was 'rumbled' over allegedly drumming up support to oust Rishi Sunak. After a Prime Minister's Questions session, the Business Secretary's staffer approached several other ministerial aides, criticised Mr Sunak's performance and suggested they should 'do something about it', a well-placed source told The Mail on Sunday. This was seen as an 'open leadership bid' and flagged to No 10. The approaches were made on December 6, after a PMQs in which Sir Keir Starmer was seen as having come out on top in the weekly exchange with Mr Sunak. The source said: 'Spads [special advisers] were told let's have our Ministers meet, we need to work out how to improve this situation.' Kemi Badenoch (pictured) has been linked to a failed leadership plot after a member of her team was 'rumbled' over allegedly drumming up support to oust Rishi Sunak After a Prime Minister's Questions session, the Business Secretary's staffer approached several other ministerial aides, criticised Mr Sunak's (pictured) performance A second source familiar with the incident told the MoS: 'It's not clear if Kemi was aware of it or if [the aide] was freelancing. I assume she knows it was rumbled.' Allies of Ms Badenoch have denied the claims. The news comes as Ms Badenoch has been accused of 'playing to the Right-wingers' over Rwanda, after anonymous reports emerged saying she privately urged Mr Sunak to tighten the Bill. The Times reported that Ms Badenoch wanted the Prime Minister to harden the legislation by preventing migrants from lodging individual appeals against their deportation. A source told the newspaper: 'Kemi was aware that the Prime Minister faced a serious rebellion and he had to try to accommodate them, so she went in to see Liam [Booth-Smith, Mr Sunak's chief of staff]. She was trying to avoid the rebel MPs turning against the Government.' She voted for the legislation in Wednesday's third reading of the Bill. A source told The Mail on Sunday: 'She's certainly playing up to the Right-wingers. But she's been on a slow burn this year the Election does focus minds.' Ms Badenoch last month topped a poll of Tory party members regarding who should become their next leader. She was followed by Penny Mordaunt and Suella Braverman. Several Cabinet members have been quietly drumming up support and sounding out MPs over future leadership challenges. An ally of Ms Badenoch said last night: 'Kemi is 100 per cent behind the Prime Minister and anyone saying otherwise is doing it for their own benefit, not the country's.' A Colorado model, who works as an adult baby caregiver and is known to satisfy sexual fetishes, is suing 'clinics' for allegedly stealing her pictures and scamming people. Katie Marie, a lifestyle model, has launched two lawsuits alleging that her photographs are being used by fraudulent websites to bait people into paying for services, which they never receive. Marie, who goes by @worshippinggoddesskat on Instagram, said that scam victims are now demanding their lost money and are threatening to expose her legal name and address. She has filed the lawsuits in the US District Court of Colorado as a Jane Doe and is seeking unspecified damages from two companies. Katie Marie, a lifestyle model who works as an adult baby caregiver has launched two lawsuits suing 'clinics' for allegedly stealing her pictures Marie, who goes by @worshippinggoddesskat on Instagram, said that scam victims are now demanding their lost money and are threatening to expose her legal name and address Some of the services she provides include swaddling her clients in baby blankets, fixing bowls of cereal, playing Saturday morning cartoons, changing their diapers and kicking men in their genitals. In an interview with The Denver Post, she said, 'For years, Ive built a business on my likeness. 'And having it represented by a scam company is extremely damaging to what I do, because if Im associated with this scam, people are going to take me less seriously. 'Theres been many instances where my images have been used by another person to scam people out of money and then its, "Well, Kat Marie is a scammer," when theyre not even talking to me at all. 'You cant just take advantage of people on the internet and get away with it. Someone will eventually stand up for them. I certainly could not care and could get Twitter to take my images down and move on. But theres just too many people in the community looking for acceptance to continue to let scammers get away with this,' she further said. Some of the services she provides include swaddling her clients in baby blankets, fixing bowls of cereal, playing Saturday morning cartoons, changing their diapers and kicking men in their genitals In her first lawsuit, Marie is suing Mark Anthony Young and Carol Aaliyah Muhammad, both from the United Kingdom for setting up a fake adult baby clinic and using her pictures without permission In her first lawsuit, Marie is suing Mark Anthony Young and Carol Aaliyah Muhammad, both from the United Kingdom, for allegedly setting up a fake adult baby clinic and using her pictures without permission. Both of the accused had set up a clinic called AB Elite Clinic and said they were based in the UK and Ohio. Earlier last year, Marie discovered the clinic after a man contacted her and questioned why she never provided the services he was promised after sending thousands of dollars through CashApp. Marie then found Young online and demanded that he stop using her photographs. She claims he agreed and stopped but soon started again. The lawsuit says that in May 2023, Young messaged her on social media and threatened to expose her legal name and address to right-wing websites and police. Both of the accused had set up a clinic called AB Elite Clinic and said they were based in the UK and Ohio In the second lawsuit, she claims that her pictures from her personal webpages were being used by a scammer to steal money from people who wanted to hire adult baby caregivers In the second lawsuit, she claims that her pictures from her personal webpages were being used by a scammer to steal money from people who wanted to hire adult baby caregivers. The lawsuit says she discovered this alleged scam when two men contacted her to ask why she stole money from them. One man said he had found her on social media and paid $13,543 through a website after seeing her picture in an advertisement for adult baby services. When he asked for his money back after not receiving any services, an unidentified person from the website threatened to post his intimate images and email them to his wife unless he paid another $800. Marie's lawyer, Cassandra Kirsch, has said that court notices have been sent to both parties through the Hague Service Convention. The Army has been rocked by the sudden deaths of FOUR young soldiers in the last two months, The Mail on Sunday can reveal. Three of those who died were all members of the Royal Yorkshire Regiment, while a fourth was serving with the Queen's Royal Hussars. Two of the dead were colleagues serving in the second battalion of the Royal Yorkshire Regiment, based in Chester. Both soldiers are believed to have taken their own lives. Private Kieran Heaney, 20, who had served on operations in Afghanistan as a teenager, was found dead inside his barrack room on January 4. Private Josateki Kautani Matasere, known as Teki, died from a suspected suicide LCpl Simon Hosell, a member of the Queen's Royal Hussars, died on December 29. The cause of death is yet to be determined Pte Heaney, from Darlington, had joined the Army in 2019 and was the youngest soldier to take part in the 2021 evacuation of Afghan civilians who had worked for the British government. His death came 19 days after his comrade Private Josateki Kautani Matasere, known as Teki, died from a suspected suicide while back visiting his home island of Fiji. The 29-year-old soldier was an outstanding rugby league player and a member of the Army team and had recently attended the demanding sniper operator cadre's course. Both Heaney and Matasere had previously served together in the battalion's Alma Company but Ministry of Defence sources have insisted that there is nothing to link to two deaths. A source from within the battalion, however, said that members of the battalion were stunned by the double tragedy. Text messages seen by the Mail On Sunday state: 'It's mental what the Army can do to you. Madness. That's two in two weeks. Something needs to be said.' Another member of the regiment added: 'How can the Army not see what's going on.' Lt Col Mike Wade-Smith, the commanding officer of 2 Yorks, described Pte Heaney as 'brave, resilient, disciplined, friendly, fun, and courageous'. Private Kieran Heaney, 20, who had served on operations in Afghanistan as a teenager, was found dead inside his barrack room on January 4 Private Apisalome Rawaidranu, a third member of the Royal Yorkshire Regiment serving with the 1st battalion died but from what have been described as 'natural causes' He added 'Private Heaney had already demonstrated all these qualities in the operational and sporting arenas. Selfless in his service he will be missed by all members of the Battalion.' The chairman of Army Rugby League, Lieutenant Colonel Richard Grover, described Pte Matasere as 'a tremendous talent and presence on the rugby field' . He added: 'In just two seasons he saw success with the Yorkshire Regiment, became a champion with the Infantry, represented the Army and delivered scintillating and memorable performances.' Private Apisalome Rawaidranu, a third member of the Royal Yorkshire Regiment serving with the 1st battalion died but from what have been described as 'natural causes.' LCpl Simon Hosell, a member of the Queen's Royal Hussars, died on December 29. The cause of death is yet to be determined. Last night members of his regiment praised LCpl Hosell describing him as an 'outstanding soldier'. One said: 'Can't believe you're gone mate. The impact you had on everyone you met was outstanding. Full of laughter, banter and happiness. Rest easy now your demons are gone.' The MoD set up a 24 hour hotline for troops suffering from combat stress after a campaign by the Mail on Sunday in 2018, prompted by a wave of suicides by serving soldiers. But Colonel Phil Ingram a former Army Intelligence officer, last night said more needs to be done. He said: 'The problem of suicide in the armed forces is now becoming acute and there needs to be a thorough investigation into why young men and women a in the armed forces keep on taking their own lives. 'The military are very quick to say suicide rates amongst serving personnel and veterans are no higher than the national average. 'It is and remains a disgrace that the MoD cherry picks statistics to avoid looking into issues that are killing our service personnel and veterans.' Former Army Warrant Officer Jim Wilde, who campaigns for veterans rights, added: 'Since 2018, almost 450 serving and former members of the armed forces have taken their own lives. 'In any other population group that would be regarded as a disaster but it seems to be fine to allow suicide to be part of life in the armed forces. 'More needs to be done to prevent young servicemen and women from taking their own lives An Army Spokesperson said: 'The death of any of our people is a tragedy that is deeply felt across the Armed Forces community. 'We recognise the profound impact that this has on families and friends and will always ensure that they are fully supported by trained officers and their Regimental network.' For help call Samaritans for free on 116123 or visit Samaritans.org A mother has opened up about her young daughter's debilitating skin condition and allergies to her tears and sweat. Summah Williams, 11, was recently hospitalised in Brisbane after breaking out in a painful rash that her mother Karyn Zimny thought was just a sunburn. After going on antibiotics for a staph infection, Summah's skin from her head to her toes shed 'like a snake'. The dancer was diagnosed with an extreme case of eczema causing her skin to become dry, itchy and easily irritated as well as being allergic to her tears and sweat. While eczema can usually be treated through regular moisturising and steroid creams, Summah's case is so severe that she's receiving experimental treatment. A young girl diagnosed with extreme eczema, Summah Williams, has also received a devastating blow of also being told she is allergic to her own tears and sweat (pictured) Ms Zimny said her daughter's condition has led to people staring at her on the street during a flare up. 'People look at Summah when we go to the shops, and during this flare, everywhere we went, people thought she was sunburned,' Ms Zimny told 7News. Summah's rare allergy leaves her with puffy 'panda eyes' whenever she cries. It is also seriously affecting her love for dancing as when she sweats her skin will start to flare up and become irritated. 'When she looks at all her other dance friends, she gets upset and asks, Why cant I have skin like them? Its heartbreaking,' Ms Zimny said. There is no known cure for eczema, which mostly affects children aged between six and 12. There is also no known cause of the skin condition, however it is believed it can be passed on genetically. The 11-year-old (pictured) has to contend with the debilitating condition to pursue her love for dancing, with her sweat causing her eczema to flare and become worse What is eczema? Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, occurs when the top layer of skin doesn't properly maintain moisture It causes skin to become dry, itchy, rough, and more prone to infections and inflammation (redness) The condition can 'flare' and cause symptoms to become worse Flares can be caused by general skin irritants but can also occur randomly Source: Health Direct Advertisement Eczema effects up to 30 per cent of children and 10 per cent of adults across Australia, according to Eczema Support Australia. While the condition causes near-constant irritation and pain, sufferers have also been shown to be contending with more far reaching affects. 'Compared to the general public, those living with eczema are 44 per cent more likely to have insomnia, 41 per cent more likely to have anxiety and 79 per cent more likely to have depression,' Eczema Support Australia's website reads. The organisation's managing direction, Melanie Funk said the combination of discomfort and social isolation was extremely harmful. 'Being excluded socially due to lack of awareness and judgement of appearance plus the prolonged, severe, sleep deprivation and ongoing discomfort, all take their toll,' Ms Funk said. Jacinta Nampijinpa Price has blasted 'corporates' for shaming Aussies who celebrate Australia Day as fallout continues over Woolworths decision not to sell merchandise. The annual debate over the national holiday took a heated turn last week when Woolworths dumped all Australia Day merchandise from its stores, which prompted Liberal leader Peter Dutton to call for a boycott of the chain. Mr Dutton's Coalition colleague Ms Nampijinpa Price told Sky News on Sunday that the public resents big businesses dictating to them. 'Australians are... more worried about the cost of living, they don't want to have deal with the corporates telling them... how to behave or think or feel about the country that they love,' she said. 'I mean this is home. They're sick of being shamed to be proud Australians.' Ms Nampijinpa Price was among the most prominent Aboriginal opponents of the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, which was shot down in the October 14 referendum. Coalition politician Jacinta Nampijinpa Price (pictured) has come out strongly in favour of Australia Day Fellow No campaigner Warren Mundine agreed with Ms Price's sentiment arguing 'the reality is we've got so much to celebrate about this nation'. 'We are one of the incredible nations that brought 26 million people from around the world, multi-coloured, multi-cultural, multi-faith,' he said. READ MORE: Woolworths' stunning Aboriginal flag move after the supermarket copped backlash over Australia Day decision Advertisement 'We've got all these amazing people in this country who have come here and I'm proud they chose Australia, to really build this country into an amazing place ... 'We're probably the most successful multi-everything country in the world.' Mr Mundine, however, held a different view on Australia Day just four months ago. In September, he broke ranks with several No campaigners by calling for Australia Day to be moved from January 26 and treaties to be established with Indigenous Australians. The former Labor political activist turned Liberal candidate also called for the recognition of Aboriginal land rights in an interview on ABC's Insiders. 'January 26 will always be an important day because of the fact that European countries came to Australia and set up the colonies here. 'We can't get away from that. But we can't become captive of it. We have to face the facts and move on. 'Yes, recognise history. Yes, recognise the invasion, recognise the good and bad that is in our history, but we still have to move on,' Mr Mundine said at the time. In the official No case pamphlet sent to voters before the referendum on October 14, Coalition MPs warned that 'many activists are campaigning to abolish Australia Day, change our flag and other institutions and symbols important to Australians'. It was revealed earlier this year that more than 80 local governments nationwide have pulled the plug on January 26 citizenship ceremonies. Mr Mundine told Daily Mail Australia that political leaders on councils across Australia were taking the country in the wrong direction. 'We are building this bloody good country but all we get are these leadership people - especially in the Green councils - all they are doing is knocking the country,' he said. Jacinta Nampijinpa Price said people are 'sick of being shamed to be proud Australians'. Two women wearing Australian flag bikinis are pictured '(They say) "we're a bunch of racists" or "we're a nation of uneducated idiots" so I am just over it,' he said. Mr Mundine called this the act of 'a mob of whingers who don't like Australians'. 'Let's just bugger all these whingers off, stop wasting all this money and start celebrating this country and fix things. 'I just want to get back to the real issues because we spend too much time on this'. Two people have died after a vehicle crashed into a tree and burst into flames on a busy highway. Emergency services were called to an intersection on Tonkin Highway near the Albany Highway exit in Gosnells, Perth, about 2.10am Sunday after receiving reports that a car was on fire. A WA police spokesman said it appeared a vehicle had left the road and hit a tree before catching alight. Emergency services were called to an intersection on Tonkin Highway near the Albany Highway exit in Gosnells, Perth, about 2.10am Sunday after receiving reports that a car was on fire Police are working to identify the victims and are currently working with investigators 'Emergency Services attended the scene but sadly the occupants of the vehicle are deceased,' a spokesman said. Police are working to identify the victims and are currently working with investigators. Authorities have urged anyone with any information relating to the crash to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestopperswa.com.au. More to come. Hundreds of people have flooded the courtyard of Melbourne's State Library for another week of pro-Palestine protests. Sunday's rally renewed calls for a ceasefire in the bloody conflict between Israel and Palestine as well as showing support for journalist Antoinette Lattouf. Ms Lattouf has launched legal proceedings against the ABC after she was sacked in December just three days into a week-long hosting gig on Radio Sydney's morning show. She was let go after sharing a social media post about the conflict in Gaza. The radio host claims she was discriminated against because of her Lebanese heritage and her political expression, allegations the broadcaster has denied. Hundreds of people have flooded the courtyard of Melbourne 's State Library for another week of pro-Palestine protests Sunday's rally renewed calls for a ceasefire in the bloody conflict between Israel and Palestine as well as showing support for journalist Antoinette Lattouf Speaking in support of Ms Lattouf at the Melbourne rally was controversial feminist writer Clementine Ford, whose own podcast was axed over her support for Palestine. 'Proud to stand and speak beside so many staunch activists calling for a #freePalestine,' Ms Ford said on social media. The State Library protest comes after a woman was arrested and pepper sprayed when protesters clashed at police in Port Melbourne. Up to 85 protesters gathered outside Webb Dock Drive on Friday afternoon in a bid to block workers from an Israeli container ship from unloading cargo. Police arrested a 32-year-old woman about 8am Saturday after police told attendees to leave the premises, claiming some became 'aggressive' and 'unruly'. Speaking in support of Ms Lattouf at the Melbourne rally was controversial feminist writer Clementine Ford, whose own podcast was axed over her support for Palestine The State Library protest comes after a woman was arrested and pepper sprayed when protesters clashed at police in Port Melbourne 'Police were forced to deploy OC spray toward several protesters and one female was arrested for spitting at police,' a Victoria police spokesperson said. The Yarraville woman was later charged with assault and is due to appear in court at a later date. Victoria Police said no one was harmed during the arrest and confirmed the protesters remained at the dock as of Sunday morning. No incidents of note have occurred at the State Library protest. More to come. An autistic, non-verbal boy was allegedly beaten to death by his father who prosecutors claim brutally assaulted him until he suffered a fatal brain hemorrhage. Five-year-old Karter Holloway died on New Year's Day at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Hospital as a result of his injuries from the beating. Amir Devon Hines, 24, has been charged with murder and felony child abuse and is being held without bond; it is unclear if he has entered a plea at this time. 'He was always happy, he would just bop. Just bop around all the time. He was my 'bop-bop', Tiffani Holloway, Karter's maternal grandmother, told ABC 11. Hines, who is scheduled to appear back in court on Monday, told the family that Karter had fallen off his bike when Karter was hospitalized, according to Holloway. Karter Holloway, 5, was beaten to death by his father who brutally 'assaulted him until he suffered a fatal brain hemorrhage' The five-year-old had autism and was non-verbal. He died on New Year's Day at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Hospital as a result of his injuries from the beating Karter's father Amir Devon Hines, 24, has been charged with murder and felony child abuse, being held without bond The Raleigh Police Department received a call on December 31 from staff at UNC Chapel Hill Hospital about a serious assault on a child. The boy died the next day from a brain hemorrhage that resulted from his injuries, according to doctors. The five-year-old, who had autism and was non-verbal, leaves behind a two-year-old sister and the rest of the family. 'He loved me,' Holloway said on WRAL. 'He couldn't talk. He had words but he didn't talk in sentences. He had ways of letting you know.' The grandma said Karter loved being in water and superheroes. 'Processing the crime - I can't process that... process that I'll never see Karter again, I struggle with that,' Holloway said. It is reported that Hines showed no remorse during his initial appearance in court when a judge informed him that Karter had died. 'Medical reports told us the medical truth, which was he was beaten all over. Karter had bruises from head to toe,' Holloway said, unable to hold back her tears. 'That will help us in this process of grieving because now know the truth,' she added. 'To know what Karter went through in those last moments that he was alert and alive. The five-year-old, who had autism and was non-verbal, leaves behind a two-year-old sister in addition to the rest of the family His grandma said Karter loved being in water and superheroes 'He loved me,' Holloway said on WRAL . 'He couldn't talk. He had words but he didn't talk in sentences. He had ways of letting you know' As the families continue to seek the truth behind the heartbreaking death of Karter, they gathered on Saturday for his funeral Kennedy Holloway, Karter's aunt, wrote on a GoFundMe page established for him: 'Now that we have laid our BopBop to rest we will begin the healing process' As the families continue to seek the truth behind the heartbreaking death of Karter, they gathered on Saturday for his funeral. 'Of all deaths, that of a child is the most unnatural and the hardest to bear,' Dr. Enoch Holloway, Karter's great uncle, said. 'He loved life. He loved his family,' Letitia Tillery, a teacher, told the crowd gathered. 'When he hugged you, it was full of love and compassion. He squeezed the happiness into your soul.' 'Death seems a cruel thief when it strikes down the young,' Enoch said. 'If I can say anything that I'm confident in, Karter's with the Lord.' Kennedy Holloway, Karter's aunt, wrote on a GoFundMe page set up for his funeral costs: 'Now that we have laid our BopBop to rest we will begin the healing process. 'This may be hard because of the legal issues involved, but I trust that God will see us through that too,' she wrote. Kennedy thanked supporters who contributed to the GoFundMe, which has raised more than $10,000 as of early Sunday morning. She wrote: 'Mostly I would like to say thank you for your prayers and words of encouragement. You have no idea how much it has helped!' A few short weeks ago, we celebrated the birth of Jesus. Three weeks later in church, we skip ahead about 30 years in Jesus life to the stories of his baptism and the beginning of his ministry and teachings. With the exception of one story in the Gospel of Luke about Jesus as a youth, there is very little in the Bible about Jesus life between birth and adult. In the one story we have, Mary and Joseph go to the temple with Jesus and lose track of him for three days. When they finally find him, he is sitting with the priests, asking questions and learning about God. So, Jesus goes from baby to man, with only one reference to him as a precocious tween. But that one story gives us a picture of a youth with a voracious desire to learn about God and to ask questions about faith. In my experience working with youth at my church, it is a perfect illustration of faith development in children and youth. I'm old enough to have grown up attending a traditional Sunday school every Sunday morning. We memorized Bible passages and catechisms and learned the stories in the Old and New Testaments. Our teachers were loving, faithful members of our church, usually older women who cared enough to share their faith with children and youth. When I joined Westminster Presbyterian Church in Auburn and became active in the church, I became one of those older women who taught Sunday school, especially when I had children of my own. Ive taught all ages young children, middle school, teens and adults. Unlike my childhood lessons, the classes Ive taught were more about learning the foundational Bible stories and applying them to our lives. Westminster is a church that values questions as much as answers and we try to nurture a culture that allows people to wrestle with faith within a supportive community. The most valuable aspects of Christian education are building relationships rather than imparting knowledge. Times have changed, and so has Christian education. Regular church attendance has declined, and if it happens at all, it is intermittent rather than weekly. COVID-19 shutdowns severely impacted Christian education programs for many churches. While worship thrived online, childrens ministries struggled. Some families that were coming to church pre-COVID have not returned, while new families are discovering church to be important, providing a loving, supportive community during changing and turbulent times. As a result, our congregation has changed. Denominational loyalty is not as important as it once was. Most of the newer members to our church did not grow up attending church, or they grew up in denominations other than Presbyterian. It is wonderful to welcome new people to our faith community, but it cant be assumed that people know the basics that were commonplace in years gone by. At Westminster, we are investing new energy into Christian education and faith formation. We have a thriving Childrens Worship Center, which provides an age-appropriate worship experience for young children ages 3 years to second grade. The Childrens Worship Center presents the Old and New Testament stories using wooden figures that help the children experience the stories in new ways. They learn to pray and to respond to the stories using art and sensory materials. Our Childrens Worship Center has been an important and cherished part of our ministry for over 20 years. This year we have also introduced a new class for children in grades 3-6. Called Worship & Wonder, it introduces the children to the Old and New Testament stories as well as to why and how we worship. We have an enthusiastic and animated group of kids who participate in this class under the direction of a team of teachers. Youth kids in grades 7-12 gather for monthly Youth Nights with our new Children and Youth Ministry Director Noel Cregg. Noel is planning a variety of fun activities, which always have a faith component, on the third Sunday afternoon of each month. Youth are also regular participants in worship leadership, singing in choir, serving as liturgists and sharing special music. And because faith formation is a lifelong endeavor, adults also gather for forums, special series, Bible studies and discussions. Just as the boy Jesus sat with the priests to hear lessons and ask questions, so we do too. Our faith is formed through continual, active engagement to discern what we believe. A conman who scammed celebrity clients out of millions was found dead on the day he was due to be sentenced for running a Ponzi scheme. The body of Kenneth Charles Grace, 58, was discovered in a motel in Sydney's CBD on Thursday, reported The Daily Telegraph. He was due to be sentenced at Downing Centre District Court that same day after pleading guilty to six charges of dishonest conduct in relation to his investment fund, Goldsky, in April 2023. Grace ripped off investors, including Olympians Sam Riley and Robbie McEwen, to the tune of around $24million after claiming he could generate returns of up to 20 per cent. The body of Kenneth Charles Grace (pictured), 58, was discovered in a motel in Sydney's CBD on Thursday When he failed to show up at court, a warrant for his arrest was issued. 'A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner after the body of a 58-year-old man was found in a CBD motel last week,' a spokesperson for NSW Police said. 'Officers from Surry Hills Police Area Command were called to a hotel on Foveaux St about 1.15pm last Thursday (18 January 2024), after a man was found deceased in his room.' Grace's business was liquidated in 2018, with his crooked dealings being probed in the Federal Court and the Queensland Supreme Court. Grace ripped off investors, including Olympians Sam Riley (pictured, right) and Robbie McEwen (left), to the tune of around $24 million after claiming he could generate returns of up to 20 per cent. He was accused of using money from investors to hire a private jet for his stepdaughter so she could fly to Sydney from Queensland to have breast implants. He also rented a luxury Sydney Harbour home with its own skippered motorboat 'so he could clear his head' in the months before his fund collapsed. Other victims of his Ponzi scheme included former AFL players Clark Keating who invested $100,000 and and Simon Black who invested $80,000. The aging reformed mobster who admitted to stealing the pair of ruby slippers that Judy Garland wore in The Wizard of Oz gave into the temptation of 'one last score.' The theft came after an old mob associate led him to believe the famous shoes must be adorned with real jewels to justify their $1 million insured value. Terry Jon Martin's defense attorney finally revealed the 76-year-old's motive for the 2005 theft from the Judy Garland Museum in the late actor's hometown of Grand Rapids, Minnesota, in a new memo filed ahead of his January 29 sentencing in Duluth, Minnesota. The FBI recovered the shoes in 2018 when someone else tried to claim an insurance reward on them, but Martin wasn't charged with stealing them until last year. Martin pled guilty in October to using a hammer to smash the glass of the museum door and display case to take the slippers. Terry Jon Martin, an aging, reformed mobster who admitted to stealing the pair of ruby slippers that Judy Garland wore in The Wizard of Oz gave into the temptation of 'one last score,' is seen here in October 2023 Pictured: A pair of ruby slippers once worn by actress Judy Garland in the 'The Wizard of Oz' on display. Garland wore several pairs of ruby slippers during filming of the classic 1939 musical, but only four authentic pairs are known to remain Martin blamed much of his upbringing for his embarking on a life of crime. He told how he suffered under a cruel stepmother who mistreated him and his three brothers so badly for several years that he left home at the age of 16 and began drinking and stealing. While on parole from prison, Martin's girlfriend became pregnant with twins, but he missed their birth after his parole was revoked. Right after his girlfriend brought the one-month-old twins to prison to meet him, they died after a train struck her vehicle. 'This was truly the turning point in Terry's life - his villain origin story - and the reason he not only went down his dark path but accelerated towards it,' DeKrey wrote. 'His son said it best: "The twins' death made (my dad) just give up on life; he decided on a life of crime."' Garland wore several pairs of ruby slippers during filming of the classic 1939 musical, but only four authentic pairs are known to remain When it came to the famous ruby slippers, he had hoped to harvest real rubies from the shoes and sell them. But a fence, a person who deals in stolen goods, informed him the rubies were glass and Martin got rid of the slippers less than two days after he took them, he said. Defense attorney Dane DeKrey said in his memo that an unidentified former mob associate tempted Martin to steal the shoes, even though he hadn't committed a crime in nearly 10 years after his last prison stint. 'At first, Terry declined the invitation to participate in the heist. But old habits die hard, and the thought of a `final score kept him up at night,' DeKrey wrote. 'After much contemplation, Terry had a criminal relapse and decided to participate in the theft.' DeKrey and prosecutors are recommending the judge sentence Martin to time served because he is physically incapable of presenting a threat to society. Garland's character, Dorothy, has to click the heels of the slippers three times and repeat, 'There's no place like home,' to return to Kansas Martin is in hospice care with a life expectancy of less than six months. He needs oxygen at all times because of his chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder and was in a wheelchair at his most recent court appearance. Even if he were sentenced to prison, his poor health might be grounds for a compassionate release. Martin had no idea about the cultural significance of the ruby slippers and had never seen the movie. Instead, DeKrey said he was just looking for one last big score, and the 'old Terry' with a lifelong history of crimes like burglary and receiving stolen property beat out the 'new Terry' who seemed to 'finally put his demons to rest' after being released from prison in 1996 and became 'a contributing member of society.' DeKrey urged the judge to consider the major events of Martin's life when deciding whether a lenient sentence is appropriate. The ruby slippers are featured throughout the 1939 film Martin said he had no idea about the cultural significance of the ruby slippers and had never even seen the movie Martin believed the shoes must be adorned with real jewels to justify their $1 million insured value according to a new memo filed ahead of his January 29th sentencing in Duluth Martin's lawyer also said the judge should consider that Martin had not committed any other crimes in nearly a decade before stealing the slippers nor in the years since then. DeKrey said Martin didn't even try to claim a slice of the insurance reward money when some of his former associates tried to collect. Garland wore several pairs of ruby slippers during filming of the classic 1939 musical, but only four authentic pairs are known to remain. The stolen slippers were insured for $1 million, but federal prosecutors put the current market value at about $3.5 million. The FBI said a man approached the insurer in 2017 and claimed he could help recover them but demanded more than the $200,000 reward being offered. The slippers were recovered during an FBI sting in Minneapolis. The FBI has never disclosed how it tracked down the slippers, which remain in the agency's custody. John Kelsch, executive director of the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, where Martin stole the precious artwork from in 2005 The slippers were on loan to the museum from Hollywood memorabilia collector Michael Shaw when Martin stole them. Three other pairs worn by Garland in the movie are held by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Smithsonian Museum of American History and a private collector. Several rewards were offered over the years in hopes of figuring out who stole the slippers, which were key props in the film. Garland's character, Dorothy, has to click the heels of the slippers three times and repeat, 'There's no place like home,' to return to Kansas. Garland was born Frances Gumm in 1922. She lived in Grand Rapids, about 200 miles north of Minneapolis, until she was 4, when her family moved to Los Angeles. She died in 1969. The Judy Garland Museum, located in the house where she lived, says it has the world's largest collection of Garland and Wizard of Oz memorabilia. This video is no longer available This video is no longer available A teenage surf lifesaver has been hailed a hero after she fought huge swell and jagged rocks to rescue a boy who was stranded in a cave - as the depressing reason so many adults are drowning is revealed. A 15-year-old boy suffered a head injury while cliff jumping at Warriewood Blowhole on Sydney's Northern Beaches on Sunday. He was stranded in the cave below the spot popular with teenage thrill-seekers as huge waves battered against the rocks. Dramatic footage of the incident showed two of the injured boy's friends attempting to reach him before a 16-year-old surf lifesaver named Saskia Rundle-Trowbridge battled pounding swell to help bring all three back to safety on Warriewood Beach. A 15-year-old boy suffered a head injury while cliff jumping at Warriewood Blowhole on Sydney 's Northern Beaches on Sunday (pictured: a friend attempts to reach him) 'The waves were pretty big, especially when I was coming in,' Saskia told 9News. 'I got blown up against the rocks and the cord of my rescue tube was stuck on a rock.' Saskia told the ABC her 'one mission was to get these boys to safety, make sure they were okay'. 'My whole team, my driver, and the rest of the team on the beach with the radios, they were amazing,' she added. 'We go into this volunteer service just to do that sort of thing, keep the beach safe and keep the people safe. That's the goal, just to keep everyone safe.' It is just one of over 3,000 rescues hero Surf Life Savers have performed on Australia's coastline this summer. It comes as new data reveals that adults rather than children are most at risk of drowning during the school holidays. Surf Life Saving Australia CEO Adam Weir suggested this is because social-media obsessed adults are seeking out isolated spots to take pictures and getting into trouble. One of the boys friends launched himself into the water to try to rescue him (pictured) A 16-year-old surf lifesaver called Saskia (pictured) battled pounding swell to help bring all three boys back to safety on Warriewood Beach 'People want to be where they see on social media: they are looking for that perfect photo, wanting to be on that isolated sandy beach,' Mr Weir told the Sydney Morning Herald. 'Over summer I've seen a number of articles showing the 'top 10 beaches to visit', but a number were unpatrolled. 'We are pushing people to go to these beautiful places, but we need to consider the water risks.' All 54 drownings in Australia last summer occurred at locations not patrolled by lifeguards or volunteers. While drownings increased across all age groups during the school holidays, the rise was most prominent in adults, according to the research published by Surf Life Saving Australia in the international journal Injury Prevention last week. A desire to visit isolated spots to take the 'perfect photo' for social media is leading to a rise in adult drowning deaths, according to the country's top surf life saver Since the start of this summer, there have been 33 coastal drowning deaths, compared to 26 by this time in the 2023 season 'Risk for children was consistent throughout the year, whereas it was adults where we saw an increase in risk around school holidays,' Surf Life Saving Australia researcher and study co-author Dr Jaz Lawes told the paper. A person attempting to rescue someone else before drowning themselves accounted for the second-highest number of deaths. 'There is a sad trend of adults drowning when going in to rescue a loved one, and that does often happen at unpatrolled beaches,' Dr Amy Peden, UNSW injury prevention researcher, said. On January 6, father-of-six Michael Sneddon drowned at Ettalong Beach on the Central Coast while attempting to save his ten-year-old son after they both got stuck in a rip. Mr Weir called for better information campaigns and greater use of drone technology in isolated areas. Since the start of this summer, there have been 33 coastal drowning deaths, compared to 26 by this time in the 2023 season. Police have sent geo-targeted alert texts to residents on the Central Coast, warning them about a man who stabbed a sexual partner to death during a drug-fuelled meet-up more than two decades ago. Trent Jennings, 38, failed to return to a mental health facility on Wednesday night and was last seen at a motel on The Entrance Road at The Entrance. He is currently wanted by police on an outstanding arrest order, but members of the public are warned to steer clear and contact police. 'Trent is described as being of Caucasian appearance, about 175cm tall with a medium build, short brown receding hair, and has a scar on his right hand,' NSW Police said in the text message. 'The public is urged NOT TO APPROACH this man and to contact Triple Zero (000) immediately if they see him or know of his whereabouts.' Sydney city police on Friday raised the alarm about Trent Jennings, who was last seen on the NSW Central Coast on Wednesday night, after he failed to return to a mental health facility Police sent out a geo-targeted alert text to residents in NSW's Central Coast on Sunday asking for assistance to find Mr Jennings Jennings was previously ordered to spend an indefinite amount of time in a psychiatric hospital after stabbing 32-year-old Giuseppe Vitale to death in 2003 Jennings was previously ordered to spend an indefinite amount of time in a psychiatric hospital after stabbing 32-year-old Giuseppe Vitale to death in 2003. The then-18-year-old met Mr Vitale online and the pair arranged to meet for casual sex before Jennings tied the older man up and stabbed him in the neck. Jennings was in 2005 found not guilty of Mr Vitale's murder on mental health grounds and detained in a hospital. Six years later, he made headlines again when he absconded from Morisset hospital near Newcastle before going on the run in a stolen car belonging to another man he met online. Jennings was handed a minimum 18-month jail sentence for the theft, which came after he tied the man up during a consensual bondage session at an inner-Sydney apartment. Police are searching the Sydney city centre and other areas where he is known to spend time, including the Central Coast, Cumberland and Sutherland Shire areas. Jennings was last seen wearing prescription glasses, a blue shirt, navy shorts, blue runners, a black and gold watch, and carrying a black backpack and a white tackle box. He is wanted on an outstanding arrest order and was last seen at a motel on The Entrance Road at The Entrance (pictured), police said Prince Harry has joked about how he was left 'terrified' when his father jumped behind the controls of a helicopter during his first flight. The Duke of Sussex was inducted into the 'Living Legends of Aviation' on Friday night during a glitzy ceremony in Los Angeles where he was asked by host John Travolta about his first flight experience. The 39-year-old stood to a rapturous applause as he recollected how he was aged seven or eight years old when he excitedly jumped into a Wessex Helicopter. Harry joked: 'But then my father jumped in behind me and I was terrified.' But the duke made no mention of his sister in law Kate Middleton or his father's medical dramas. The audience erupted into laughter and applause in response to the prince's quip with whistling also heard. Someone else can also be heard muttering 'excellent'. I was maybe 7 or 8 years old, Wessex Helicopter, and I jumped into it very excited And then my father jumped in behind the controls and I was terrified Prince Harry on his first flight experience pic.twitter.com/JGzWYImzEi Iris (@IrisTheeScholar) January 20, 2024 Prince Harry was inducted into the 'Living Legends of Aviation' last night during a glitzy ceremony in Los Angeles where he was asked by host John Travolta about his first flight experience Harry is pictured standing next to his father in front of an Apache helicopter in March 2011. The duke joked he was 'terrified' when Charles jumped behind the controls of a helicopter during his first flight experience Harry attended the ceremony at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills last night without wife Meghan Markle, with the Duchess of Sussex having to stay home as one of their children became unwell, the PA news agency reported. He paid tribute to his mother Diana during his acceptance speech and took a moment to remember the Grease star's meeting with Diana at a White House dinner for President Ronald Reagan in 1985. He was in high spirits on Friday as he joined Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe, a 46-year-old minor German royal and cousin of outgoing Queen of Denmark, Margrethe II, and others at the Beverly Hills Hilton. Accepting the award from Travolta, the 39-year-old said: 'I was just a one-year-old when you danced with my mum at the White House and now look at us.' Harry completed two tours of Afghanistan as a forward air controller and an Apache helicopter pilot, having flown countless training missions in the UK, US and Australia. He served for 10 years in the military, rising to the rank of Captain, and later founded the Invictus Games - a sporting event for wounded military personnel and veterans. King Charles joined the Royal Air Force (RAF) in August 1971 where he was trained to fly both a jet and a helicopter. He had already taken flying lessons at university and was able to fly himself to RAF Cranwell for his first day of training. After completing training, Charles gained his RAF Wings as Flight Lieutenant Wales. He was the first member of the royal family to gain this award. Harry takes his place alongside other aviation and aerospace 'legends' including Buzz Aldrin, Jeff Bezos, Tom Cruise, Neil Armstrong, Harrison Ford, Morgan Freeman and Elon Musk. The event's website also praised the duke for his work with charities and organisations including Travalyst, Sentebale, African Parks and WellChild. Harry (pictured attending the Invictus Games in Germany in September 2023) was at the ceremony without Meghan Markle who had to stay home after one of their children fell ill Harry is pictured in March 2011 standing in front of an Apache Helicopter a few days after the royal passed the half-decade milestone to become a captain in the British Army Harry is seen in December 2012 working as a helicopter pilot in Afghanistan Harry is pictured with Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe at the awards ceremony in LA Prince Harry pictured with John Travolta, Lauren Sanchez and Bill Gates at the Living Legends Of Aviation The prince is seen arriving for Friday's event in Los Angeles A statement on its website said: 'Prince Harry is a humanitarian, military veteran, mental wellness advocate and environmentalist. 'He has dedicated his life to advancing causes that he is passionate about and that bring about permanent change for people and places.' Harry, who was sporting a black velvet tuxedo, was inducted alongside US navy pilot Fred George and former world speed record holder Steve Hinton, as well as Lauren Sanchez - who is engaged to Amazon founder Bezos. She received the Elling Halvorson Vertical Flight Hall of Fame Award for her skills as a helicopter pilot and aviation businesswoman, having founded aerial filming company Black Ops Aviation in 2016. The duke's appearance comes as his father, the King, prepared to undergo treatment for an enlarged prostate next week, while his sister-in-law the Princess of Wales recovers from abdominal surgery in the London Clinic. Among those congratulating Harry on the award was Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe of Germany, who appeared on the Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills. On Instagram, he said: 'Congratulations To HRH Prince Harry for his very much deserved Living Legends of Aviation Award... Well Done.' Russia' war efforts have been put on the back foot after Ukrainian kamikaze drones successfully struck a major liquefied natural gas (LNG) processor and a missile plant on the same night. Video footage showed two enormous explosions at the Novatek plant in Ust-Luga port in Leningrad region, triggering a raging inferno at the site, which sits just 81 miles from St. Petersburg. A Ukrainian official separately claimed that drones had hit the Shcheglovsky Val defence enterprise in Tula, which produces the Pantsir-S and Pantsir-S1 air defence missile systems used to defend key sites including Vladimir Putin's palaces. There were also Ukrainian strikes on Smolensk, Oryol and Bryansk regions provoking engagements with Russian air defences in one of Kyiv's most intense nights of the war in targeting military-linked targets inside Russia. Massive fireballs were seen rising through the air at the strategically important Ust-Luga site, which in 2022 processed almost 7 million tons of gas products, a major export product that added an estimated 5.29 billion to Putin's war chest from sales to the EU alone. Video footage showed two enormous explosions at the Novatek plant in Ust-Luga port in Leningrad region A missile manufacturer in Tula was also blown up by Ukrainian kamikaze drones Fire was seen rising up into the air following the attack Local media outlets reported that drones struck the Novatek facility at 3:20am local time, though Russia's defence ministry has not yet reported any attacks. Novatek's Ust-Luga processes gas condensate, which itself is a processed version of LNG, and turns it into products including jet fuel, gasoil, and naphtha, and ships them across the world. Some 150 people were evacuated from the Kremlin-linked Novatek natural gas terminal, which sits some 550 miles from the nearest Ukrainian border. 'The plant is located in the coastal zone, next to a specialised terminal where products and gas condensate itself are loaded onto ships and sent for export. At the time of the explosion, three large tankers were at the berths, which arrived in Ust-Luga from Belgium, Oman and Libya,' reported the pro-war Two Majors Telegram channel. 'There are no reported casualties as a result of a fire at Novatek's terminal in the port of Ust-Luga,' said Leningrad region governor Alexander Drozdenko. Ukraine has upped the use of improvised drones to attack major Russian targets A Ukrainian serviceman of the Rarog UAV squadron of the 24th Separate Mechanized Brigade operates a first person view (FPV) drone at a position near the town of Horlivka Ukrainians have been forced to adapt and improvise to push back invaders Ukrainian infantrymen keep the watch in the trenches on the front line, in the direction of Bakhmut 'The personnel were evacuated. A high alert regime has been introduced in the Kingisepp district.' Locals reported two drones in the sky ahead of the strike on the Novatek facility. They headed towards St Petersburg before changing direction to target the Ust-Luga complex. An eyewitness said: '****ing hell, I've just witnessed an explosion. Something serious [happened] there.' Another video recorded an exchange saying: 'Kolya, why did you decide it was a drone? Did you see it?' The missile plant in Tula, meanwhile, is some 200 miles from the Ukrainian border. Footage showed at least one giant explosion at what was reported to be the key Russian defence facility. Russia claimed to have downed a drone but footage showed a clear explosion on the ground. Ukrainian official Anton Gerashchenko posted: 'In Tula, according to local residents, there was a powerful visit to the Shcheglovsky Val defence enterprise, which produces the Pantsir-S and Pantsir-S1 anti-aircraft missile systems, and also modernises various armoured vehicles.' The scale and nature of any damage was not initially clear. Western officials believe that Putin's invasion of Ukraine may take up to 30 years to recover from, given how much money is being spent on the military. A 20,000 reward is being offered for information over the killing of a 'popular and loved' teenager who was stabbed to death in Bristol last year. Detectives believe at least two people were involved in the brutal attack of Eddie Kinuthia in the St Pauls suburb on July 21, 2023. The 19-year-old was repeatedly stabbed on Grosvenor Road at about 11pm and later died in hospital. Despite making six arrests, the police has not charged anybody and the investigation is ongoing. Now, the Crimestoppers charity is offering to pay a substantial fee for information that leads to the conviction of those responsible for the murder. Detectives believe at least two people were involved in the brutal attack of Eddie Kinuthia (pictured) who was knifed to death in St Pauls, Bristol, on July 21, 2023 Eddie with his mother Irene Muthemba - the 19-year-old teenager was called 'the heart of the community' in the days after his death Regional manager Karen MacDonald said: 'Our deepest sympathy for all of Eddie's family and friends. 'It would have been his 20th birthday on 22 January. It's clear how popular Eddie was to those who knew and loved him. 'They can do with our support at this time, six months after his tragic murder. 'We know that there were people present at the time of this appalling attack who have not yet come forward.' A vigil was held for the victim four days after the attack, with friends and family calling the teenager 'the heart of the community'. Wishes and prayers were written on a balloon which floated into the sky and dozens of flowers were left outside his home. Lorna Da'Angel, a family friend, told BBC News: 'The whole community loved him - a happy, caring and kind young lad, 'What happened to him should not have happened - I wish we could see him again.' Ms MacDonald added: 'Speaking up about crime can be scary so our charity understands why there can be a reluctance to come forward. 'With Crimestoppers, you can make a difference by passing on what you know whilst being protected by our guarantee of anonymity. 'That means no police, no courts, no witness statements. 'Put simply, when you contact our charity online or on the phone, there's no comeback. 'Please speak up anonymously by either calling our UK Contact Centre on 0800 555 111, which is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or use our website's secure anonymous online form. 'We cannot trace your call or track your IP address. No one will ever know you contacted us. 'Even if you think your information is insignificant, it could make all the difference.' A host on The Project has revealed she was targeted in a 'pig butchering' scam. The sophisticated swindle involves criminals approaching people, often the old or the lonely, with a 'wrong number' introductory message before they develop a friendship over months and convince them to invest their life savings in a bogus scheme. It takes its name from the concept of fattening up a pig before slaughter. After a news segment about the scam aired on The Project on Sunday night, host Rachel Corbett revealed she had received a phone call version of the con. 'It was such a weird situation that somebody had called, asked for a name that wasn't mine. I said 'no' and then instead of doing the normal thing of just hanging up and going, 'sorry', they said, 'oh, I must have got it wrong' and they started to keep me on the phone,' Corbett told her co-hosts. 'Pig butchering' involves criminals approaching people, often the old or the lonely, with a 'wrong number' introductory message before they develop a friendship over months and convince them to invest their life savings in a bogus scheme (stock image) The TV star said the call caught her by surprise and 'felt weird and wrong and odd'. Australian victims of 'pig butchering', which is also known as 'romance baiting, lost up to $4500 every hour in 2022. The Australian Federal Police is cautioning lonely hearts to be wary of organised criminals this Valentine's Day. For the first time, it released a pig-butchering criminal playbook seized in a raid to inform the public of the tactics used. Acting Assistant Commissioner Cybercrime Command Chris Goldsmid the pig butchering manual had four key steps packaging, raising, killing/investment scam and cash out. The 'packaging' stage involves scammer adopting the persona of a good looking and successful business owner or investor before they send a genuine-seeming accidental 'hello' text intended for someone else. Scammers often use a genuine-seeming 'wrong number' message before seeking to develop a friendship with the victim over months to convince them to invest their life savings in a bogus scheme Pig butchering in Australia and how to avoid it Australians lost more than $322 million in investment scams last year Dating and romance scams accounted for $35 million in losses Here are tips to avoid becoming a victim of this cruel hoax: - Don't invest in foreign exchange, cryptocurrency or speculative investments with people you've only ever encountered in the online environment - Be particularly wary of crypto, which has always been associated with scams and criminal activity - If you are unsure, get a second opinion from a professional, in-person - Talk to friends and family to get an outside perspective. Confiding in someone could help prevent or minimise losses - If something doesn't sound normal then it could be a scam. For instance being asked to pay your through crypto or with gift cards - When it comes to relationships, understand that you really don't know anyone at all until you physically meet them Advertisement Offenders are encouraged to say they are 28-35 years old, to show they understand pop culture and are educated or have well-paying jobs. Next comes the 'raising' stage where the scammer slowly grooms the individual over a period of weeks, months or even years. They often message their victims every morning and reach out every night before confessing their love and using pet names for the victims, like 'baby' or 'wife'. Scammers then flaunt their supposed wealthy lifestyle and encourage the victims to think they can achieve the same thing if they invest through certain schemes, often involving cryptocurrency. Victims think they are trading on legitimate platforms but the money is actually siphoned into an account owned by offenders who created fake platforms that look identical to well-known sites. Finally, the scammer reaches the 'cash out' stage where they convince the victim to make one final investment with a false promise it will allow them to withdraw their funds. There are different manuals that tailored for age, gender, sexual preference and geography. Acting Assistant Commissioner Goldsmid said traditional romance scams were often initiated on dating apps but pig butchering often started with cold texting individuals on messaging apps. 'Pig butchering does not target individuals with the false hope of a relationship but instead initiates a conversation looking for friendship,'' Assistant Commissioner Goldsmid said. 'Scammers usually say the accidental messages are because of 'fate' or 'divine will'. 'Over the course of months or years, the scammer will flaunt a lavish lifestyle and leave a trail of comments about their wealth, such as bragging about the value in their cryptocurrency wallets. 'Once victims ask how they are making their money, victims are directed to a complete replica of an investment site that shows the growth of an investment. 'When the victim sends money to invest, victims are provided weekly, month or yearly investment statements, that show continual growth in their investment. Often the victim provides even more money to invest. 'When the victim wants to cash out or the scammer believes there no more money to scam out of the victim, the offender tries one more time to get money by saying things like, 'taxes need to be paid but I know a great accountant', or 'we are all meeting at a luxurious resort for our AGM, our travel agent can book for you, just provide them the cash for the airfares and accommodation'. 'However, before it gets to that point, a lot of hard work goes into grooming the victim and these are the signs we want the community to be aware of.' He said victims of these sophisticated scams should not be embarrassed and encouraged them to come forward. Britain today warned Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu that there is 'no other option' than a two-state solution to fighting in the Middle East. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps today lambasted Netanyahu's 'disappointing' rejection of a Palestinian state as part of any post-war plan for Gaza. Thousands of people demonstrated in central Tel Aviv on Saturday, calling for the return of hostages held in Gaza and early elections to oust Mr Netanyahu, who rules at the head of a coalition containing far-right nationalists. He has has vowed to press ahead with the offensive in Gaza for many months despite mounting pressure on Israel to rein in its military action as the scale of death and destruction intensifies. Speaking to the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Mr Shapps said: 'Palestinians deserve a sovereign state, Israel deserves to have the full ability to defend itself, its own security. Unless you pursue a two-state solution, I really don't see that there is another solution. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps today lambasted Netanyahu's 'disappointing' rejection of a Palestinian state as part of any post-war plan for Gaza. Speaking to the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Mr Shapps said: 'The Palestinians deserve a sovereign state.' Thousands of people demonstrated in central Tel Aviv on Saturday, calling for the return of hostages held in Gaza and early elections to oust Mr Netanyahu, who rules at the head of a coalition containing far-right nationalists. 'Now, you'll get a lot of different views within the Israeli government, of course, it is a rainbow coalition. 'So we very much distinguish between the views of individuals and our overall support for Israel as a country.' Mr Shapps had earlier told Sky News the UK 'certainly remains wedded to' a two-state solution and that there 'isn't another option'. Demonstrators marched through Tel Aviv's Habima Square last night, a frequent protest site, with some carrying signs calling Netanyahu 'the face of evil' and demanding 'elections now'. Protesters demanding the return of hostages also gathered in Haifa and outside the premier's Jerusalem residence. Netanyahu is under intense pressure to secure the return of the hostages seized by Hamas on October 7, with the militant group on Monday announcing the deaths of two more of its captives. Avi Lulu Shamriz, the father of Alon Shamriz, a hostage mistakenly killed by Israeli troops earlier in the war, told AFP in Tel Aviv Netanyahu's war cabinet was heading for disaster. 'The way we're going, all the hostages are going to die. It's not too late to free them,' he said. Yesterday shadow Foreign Secretary David Lammy said he backs US calls for the establishment of a Palestinian state when the war in the Middle East ends, and branded Mr Netanyahu's opposition to the plans 'unacceptable'. He said the Israeli prime minister's position would mean 'occupation and siege continues' in Gaza, where the Palestinian death toll is approaching 25,000, according to local health authorities. A young girl who was found dead alongside her sister, father and a woman at an address in Norfolk has been described as a 'lovely, lovely kid' and 'always kind and caring to everyone.' It comes after it was revealed police officers ignored a 999 call from the address one hour before the bodies were tragically found, as they continue to probe the deaths and confirmed they are 'not looking for anyone else'. Bartlomiej Kuczynski, 45, and his daughters aged 12 and seven, were found dead inside the house in Costessey, alongside a 36-year-old woman whose identity has not yet been disclosed. Nina Crisan, whose son knew 12-year-old Jasmine Kuczynski, described her as a 'very, very sweet girl' who had a 'calm and cool energy.' She told Sky News 'she was just a lovely, lovely kid' and that the incident had come as an 'absolute shock' to the local community. She said that it was a tight-knit community and even if you didn't know someone directly, you saw each other through the children or from dog walking. Speaking anonymously to Sky News, a boy who knew Jasmine said: 'We grew up together. She never held a grudge, she was always kind and caring to everyone.' Bartlomiej Kuczynski (right), 45, was found dead with his two daughters and a woman. He is pictured with one of his girls and a woman on a visit to Conwy Castle Norfolk Police confirmed they had received a call from a man at the address at 6am but officers did not attend. Police were only sent to the house after receiving a second call at 7am from a member of the public, who was concerned about the people inside. The four injured bodies were discovered when police broke in at 7.15am. As a result, Norfolk Police confirmed that it had referred itself to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC). Since then, detectives from the Norfolk and Suffolk Major Investigation Team have ruled out any third-party involvement. Detective Chief Inspector Chris Burgess, who is leading the investigation, said: 'We've spoken to witnesses and neighbours, carried out house-to-house enquiries, examined local CCTV and completed initial scene investigations. As a result of this, we're not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident. Jasmin Kuczynski, 12, and her sister, seven, were described as 'beautiful girls' by neighbours Forensic investigators pictured today at the house in Costessey, Norfolk, where four bodies were found yesterday Norfolk Police admitted that it had received a call from a man at the address at 6am yesterday but they did not attend. Officers were only deployed following a second phone call from a member of the public shortly before 7am A cordon remains in place along with a 'heavy police presence' and forensic teams are continuing to investigate inside the property 'Post-mortem examinations will be carried out tomorrow for the man and woman (Sunday 21 January) and on Wednesday (24 January) for the two girls. 'While I can confirm all four people were found with injuries, we will not be disclosing any further information until these examinations have taken place and the cause of death has been established. 'This is a tragic incident, distressing for all involved and it is clear from the reaction it's caused a lot of shock and upset in the local community. We've had uniformed officers patrolling the area today and these will continue tomorrow.' The force said a separate IOPC referral had already been made over their involvement with the family on December 14, when Mr Kuczynski was reported to have gone missing and was later found wandering nearby. A Norfolk Police spokesman said: 'A second referral has been made to the IOPC today following the identification of a 999 call made yesterday morning at 6am by a man at the address and police resources were not deployed. 'Officers had been called to the address shortly before 7am after a member of the public called police to raise concerns for the welfare of people inside. 'Police arrived on scene at around 7.15am and forced entry to the address, finding the bodies of two young girls, a 45-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman.' Post-mortem examinations will be held on all four bodies to establish cause of death. A cordon remains in place along with a 'heavy police presence' and forensic teams are continuing to investigate inside the property. Police have said that the man and two children lived at the address while the woman, although related, was visiting and not a permanent resident at the address. Police have requested anyone who may have been in the Allan Bedford Crescent area earlier that morning to come forward with information. Bartlomiej Kuczynski who was found dead with his two girls (pictured) at their home The family were named locally by neighbours who told of their shock at the tragedy Bartlomiej Kuczynski, 45, and his two children were found inside the home in Costessey Mr Kuczynski is pictured with his two girls - who were found dead - and a woman The four bodies were discovered inside in the Norfolk suburb of Costessey by police The family lived together on Allan Bedford Crescent at Queen's Hills, a new estate in Costessey The two children believed to have been killed were today described by neighbours as 'beautiful girls'. The girls were identified locally as Jasmin Kuczynska, 12, and her seven-year-old sister who attended local schools and were often seen walking around. Well-wishers including some crying girls left flowers in their memory today beside the police cordon outside their semi-detached home. Mr Kuczynski's Thai-born wife Nanthaka Kuczynska who was known as Nan had reportedly not been seen by neighbours for months. Others said that her sister had recently moved in to help care for the girls and Polish-born structural engineer Mr Kuczynski who had been suffering from mental health issues. Mother-of-two Jocelyn Atienza, 50, who lives nearby said: 'It is just awful. The two girls were lovely sisters and beautiful girls. 'They were nice girls who were a little shy. We used to see them walking around together. They would look really happy when they were out with friends. 'The older one would catch the bus to school, and her little sister would walk to the primary school by herself. 'Their mother was friendly and we always used to say hi hello to each other in the street, but I have not seen her around for some time. Police at the scene in Costessey, Norfolk, yesterday after four bodies were found at a property The four bodies were discovered inside in the Norfolk suburb of Costessey by police yesterday 'She always used to put up decorations for Halloween and Christmas outside their home, but her husband was putting up decorations instead of her last December.' Jasmin was a pupil at Taverham High School while her sister was a pupil at the Queen's Hill Primary School on the Queen's Hill estate where they lived. Mr Kuczynski is understood to have lived in Britain for the last 20 years after graduating from Wroclaw University of Technology in Poland. His home remained cordoned off by police today as white-suited forensic officers were seen going in and out of a large white tent erected beside the front door. The Bishop of Norwich the Right Rev Graham Usher said wanted to offer 'Prayers for all impacted by this tragic news, especially the wider family and people from Costessey:. He added: 'I've spoke to our local clergy who are offering support in the communities they serve and will be opening churches for those who want to come and pray or talk.' Locals told of their shock following the discovery at the property in Costessey, Norfolk Police in Norfolk forced their way in shortly before 7am yesterday after a call from a member of the public Police at the scene in Costessey, Norfolk, after four bodies were found at a property Neighbours said Mr Kuczynski himself had been reported missing just before Christmas. A drone circled the area at the time and also flew over the nearby woods, with the father later found walking along the Fairway near his home. Detective Chief Inspector Chris Burgess confirmed that Norfolk Police had previously made contact with the family before Christmas after a missing persons' report was lodged. One near neighbour, who asked not to be named, said: 'There were five or six police cars outside their house. People were looking for him and then another neighbour found him walking up the hill round the corner. 'The sister-in-law then came round to help look after him. I think he had mental health issues at the time he went missing. People were talking about how he was not well. 'They were a very quiet couple and did not seem to speak to other people. 'It is just awful that kids are involved. The first I knew about something happening was when police knocked on my door this morning and asked if we had heard anything.' As congressional leaders negotiate a spending bill that could include aid for Israel and Ukraine, along with border security measures, the House and Senate approved a stopgap funding measure to avoid a government shutdown. In the House, the bill passed 314-108. It extends funding for government operations through early March. U.S. Reps. Claudia Tenney and Brandon Williams voted for the short-term spending bill. Tenney, R-Cleveland, explained that the stopgap measure will give House Republicans more time to "secure provisions to roll back the Biden administration's unconstitutional overreaches and to enact needed reforms to manage the growing catastrophe crisis at our southern border." Tenney added, "It is my hope that by early March, we can pass a full-year budget that will deliver for the American people and provide the course correction we most desperately need." The main obstacles to passing a budget include funding for Israel and Ukraine. Republicans are also pushing for border security provisions part of the party's criticism that the Biden administration hasn't done enough to address the influx of migrants at the southern border. Other votes in the House last week: A bipartisan supermajority passed a bill allowing the U.S. Customs and Border Protection to modify the agency's revenue functions. The final vote was 403-9, with Tenney and Williams voting for the legislation. According to the legislative summary, the bill would authorize Customs and Border Protection to "add functions to existing positions that perform these revenue functions." The measure also addresses language that prohibits the agency from reducing staffing levels of various revenue functions, such as customs auditors and entry specialists. A resolution criticizing the Biden administration's border policies passed 225-187. Tenney and Williams voted for the resolution. The summary of the resolution states that it "condemns the Biden administration's border policies and urges the president to end such policies." A bill that would provide remote access to court proceedings for families of those killed in the Pan Am Flight 103 bombing passed 413-7. Tenney and Williams voted for the legislation's passage. The measure would require federal courts to offer remote access in the case involving Abu Agila Mohammed Mas'ud Kheir Al-Marimi, who is accused of making the bomb. The case has regional interest because 35 Syracuse University students were killed in the Pan Am Flight 103 bombing. "I continue to pursue any and all avenues for justice and healing from this tragedy that affected the Syracuse community so deeply," Williams said in a statement. "Of the surviving victims, most at an advanced age and incapable of traveling for court proceedings, this bipartisan bill gives them a voice and the ability to confront this man responsible for their suffering." In response to a proposed federal rule, the House narrowly passed the Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Women and Families Act. The final vote was 214-208, with Tenney and Williams supporting its passage. A rule proposed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services would limit the use of federal funding for crisis pregnancy centers, which discourage pregnant women from seeking abortions. The legislation would block the department from withholding funds for these facilities. The Pregnant Students' Rights Act passed 212-207. Tenney and Williams joined their Republican colleagues in supporting the bill, while Democrats opposed its passage. Supporters say the bill would provide certain rights to pregnant students, such as being informed about options to continue their studies. But opponents argue that it's another GOP bill aimed at limiting abortion access. The Biden administration said existing laws are in place that prohibit discrimination against pregnant students and "provide reasonable modifications," such as modified class schedules and medical leave. In its statement, the White House said it opposes the bill in its current form. Ministers clashed over the declining size of the British Armed Forces today amid growing concerns of the UK's position as a top military power. Cabinet Minister Penny Mordaunt warned that the Royal Navy must 'keep pace' with its rivals in a stark intervention in a row over the size of the fleet. It came as Defence Secretary Grant Shapps was unable to say when the UK might hit its target of spending 2.5 per cent of GDP on defence, amid warnings about the shrinking size of the British Army. Yesterday General Lord Dannatt hit out at the shrinking size of the army, which he said has fallen from 102,000 in 2006 to 74,000 today 'and falling fast'. Writing in The Times, the former Army commander drew parallels with the 1930s when the 'woeful' state of the UK's armed forces failed to deter Hitler. In a tweet today Ms Mordaunt, the Commons leader and MP for Portsmouth North, who is also a Navy reservist, linked to a Sunday Times article about the shrinking size of the Royal Navy. 'The Royal Navy and its partners must keep pace with the growing capabilities of other nations. If not Britain's interests cannot be secured,' she wrote. Speaking on the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg, Mr Shapps clapped back, saying: 'I'm in a post where there are a lot of people with opinions and a lot of people who've been in the military and armed forces will often express them.' Cabinet Minister Penny Mordaunt warned that the Royal Navy must 'keep pace' with its rivals in a stark intervention in a row over the size of the fleet. It came as Defence Secretary Grant Shapps was unable to say when the UK might hit its target of spending 2.5 per cent of GDP on defence, amid warnings about the shrinking size of the British Army. HMS Diamond in the Rad Sea on Operation Prosperity Guardian earlier this month, when she saw off an attack by Houthi rebels based in Yemen Yesterday General Lord Dannatt hit out at the shrinking size of the army, which he said has fallen from 102,000 in 2006 to 74,000 today 'and falling fast'. A Labour spokeswoman said: 'The Tories having public spats about the state of our Forces are the same Tories that have hollowed them out over the last 14 years. 'Since 2010, they have cut the Army to its smallest size since Napoleon, removed one in five ships from the Royal Navy, and taken more than 200 aircraft out of service in the last five years alone, all while plunging satisfaction with service life to new lows.' 'Labour knows the first duty of any Government is to keep the nation safe and protect our citizens. In government we will renew the countries commitment to those who serve and make sure our forces have the kit they need to fight.' The Defence Secretary was challenged over why he could not give people a commitment on when the 2.5 per cent target will be reached at a time when he has warned about rising global threats. He pointed to the Navy's modernisation programme and new weapons systems, telling the BBC: 'There is a trajectory upwards. 'I can't give you the exact date because we've always said it's as the economic conditions allow. But the point is we're working to a plan.' Earlier, on Sky's Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips, he defended Jeremy Hunt's focus on tax cuts rather than upping defence spending, saying 'the Chancellor has been incredibly generous' with a nearly 10 per cent pay rise for the Armed Forces. 'We are committed to spending more when conditions allow. But I also think that it is true to say that people do want to see more of the money that they earn kept.' Under Government proposals, the size of the regular army will be cut from a commitment of 82,000 troops to 73,000 by 2025. But analysis by The Times suggested numbers could drop below that as soon as next year and continue on a steep downward trajectory. If the army continues to shed troops at the current rate, the number of regular soldiers will fall below 70,000 by 2026, according to the figures compiled by the newspaper. The army has faced growing recruitment challenges, but is focused on bolstering hiring and improving retention - and last summer laid out pay increases for personnel. Lord Dannatt said pay and conditions should be 'urgently reviewed' and 'a pay rise to attract recruits and to retain current trained personnel should be a priority, as should addressing the appalling quality of some armed forces accommodation'. Noting a lack of investment in equipment and infrastructure, The Times quoted an unnamed former senior US general as saying the UK was seen as 'having diminished capabilities over the past couple of decades'. 'Hence, while being the most important ally across the board, it is decidedly not what it used to be, regrettably.' Mr Shapps today pledged the size of the British Army will not dip below 73,000 under the Conservatives. He added: 'It isn't a question of how many men and women you have on the ground only, it's about how lethal your armed forces are.' The size of the overall armed forces is around 188,000, Mr Shapps said. Dramatic footage of a shameless yob, who led police on an 80mph chase through streets of Warwickshire, left officers stunned after he asked for a review on his driving skills. Tariq Zaman, 42, was caught on police dashcam footage weaving across lanes in Kenilworth, at breakneck speed after initially bluffing to pull over when requested to stop by police. Zaman, of Medlicott Road in Birmingham, led police on the 10-minute high speed chase in his Peugeot 407 Estate on 21 July 2022 at around 11:45pm. As the police car slows down behind driver, the footage shows the sly yob take off after pretending to comply with officers and begin recklessly speeding down residential roads. It's not long before Zaman is hurtling at 68mph in the 30 zone outside of a primary school on Clinton Lane, narrowly missing an oncoming minibus and visibly losing control of his car. Tariq Zaman, 42, was sentenced to 20 months in prison for dangerous driving, and handed a 156 fine along with a 36 month disqualification from driving Officers continue doggedly chasing the dangerous driver who attempts to shake them off by making sharp turns as he zig-zags across lanes to avoid oncoming traffic. After getting stuck behind a tractor, a passenger jumps out of the car to makes a run for it. Zaman, steadfast in his aim to get shot of the police, swerves around the tractor hitting 80mph in a 40 zone, on Birmingham Road towards Balsall Common. With the driver travelling at a whopping 70mph down the wrong lane of the A452 dual carriageway, it becomes too dangerous for the police to continue pursing him. Shrewdly, the officer takes a parallel route and shortly catches up with Zaman, who after taking a wrong turn onto a building site, parks up before attempting to flee on foot in a cross-country escape. As the police car slows down behind driver, the sly yob quickly takes off after pretending to comply with officers and begins recklessly speeding down residential roads The reckless races continues speeding and hits 80mph in a 40, on Birmingham Road towards Balsall Common, swerving to avoid oncoming traffic Zaman, who after taking a wrong turn onto a building site, parks up before attempting to flee on foot in a cross-country escape Astonishingly, Zaman had 'the gall' to ask officers for a review on his driving skills not long after the high-speed chase However, the driver was found by the force's German Shepherd, perched on a pile of rubble nearby, inside an empty shell of a building. Astonishingly, Zaman had 'the gall' to ask officers: 'What did you think of my driving?' On being told it was poor, Zaman further stunned officers when he asked: 'Why was it poor?'. Zaman was sentenced to 20 months in prison for dangerous driving, and handed a 156 fine along with a 36 month disqualification from driving, at Warwick Crown Court on 17 January 2024. Investigating officer DC Samir Hassan said: 'Zaman had a clear and flagrant disregard for the safety of the people of Kenilworth and Balsall Common. 'This chase involved so many near-misses and moments where Zaman almost lost traction completely that it's a miracle that no-one was hurt. 'The gall of Zaman to ask for a review of his driving afterwards is astonishing we're not sure how many stars 20 months in prison and a 34 month driving ban translates to, but it definitely isn't five.' A musician has hit out at Qantas for damaging his 'handcrafted' double bass worth $13,000 right before he was due to perform at the Perth Fringe Festival. Mark Elton travelled from Melbourne to Perth for the gig checking the instrument in as oversized baggage with stickers market 'fragile' on the case. But when the musician of more than 30 years opened up the bag when he arrived, he noticed large cracks in the wood. 'Hey @qantas! Thanks for a very depressing start to my month of shows at @fringeworldperth 2024,' he posted to Instagram along with images of the damage. 'After flying Melbourne/Perth today I opened my flight case and found my beautiful Double Bass smashed beyond repair after obviously being dropped from a considerable height by your baggage people. Mark Elton posted to his Instagram account on Monday that the instrument's damage was too extensive and 'smashed beyond repair', writing it needed to be replaced Mark Elton travelled to Perth for his gig when he noticed 'unusual' damage to his beloved instrument The musician who was set to perform a month of shows at the Perth Fringe festival, said the double bass looked like it had been 'dropped from a considerable height', blaming the baggage handlers 'What's worse is there was no apology or notification of any accident involving my precious instrument. 'After many years of being a club member and choosing to fly with @qantas I'm hoping you'll support me through this major emotional & financial setback.' With a month of shows lined up and no way to get a tune out of his double bass, fellow musicians rallied to his support with WA Symphony Orchestra double bassist and luthier Andrew Tait, loaning him an instrument. Qantas have since responded to the complaint and checked CCTV. The airline said there was no evidence of damage to the case in transit, but did offer a goodwill payment. 'We know how important it is to handle all luggage with care, including musical instruments,' Qantas said in a statement. Cracks in the instrument are pictured The case the instrument was in was also damaged. Social media followers were shocked by the photos of the damage Mr Elton shared, with many calling the incident 'heartbreaking' 'We are concerned to hear that the double bass has been damaged and we have been actively investigating what has happened with our ground handling partners since we were first notified on Tuesday.' Social media users were shocked by the photos calling the incident 'heartbreaking' for a performer. 'That is out of control!!! How on earth did they create this amount of damage?' one wrote. 'Our instruments are our babies, hope there's a swift and satisfying outcome,' said another. Prince Harry has been warned to 'stay away' from a German 'prince', who is accused of using his spurious connections to flog a 'wealth elixir', after posing for a selfie with him at an aviation awards ceremony. The duke was all smiles as he posed with Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe - who was once dubbed the 'King of Trash TV' - at the 'Living Legends of Aviation' in Los Angeles on Friday night. Prince Mario-Max website boasts connections stretching back to William of Orange, which would make him a very, very distant cousin of the British Royals. But his royal connections have been questioned with the head of the family, Prince Alexander of Schaumburg-Lippe, accusing him of 'harvesting our name for personal gain' and warning Harry to 'stay away from this man'. The 46-year-old was on the German version of Celebrity Big Brother in 2014 where he was evicted after just eight days inside the house, as well as appearing on a shopping channel to sell a 'wealth elixir'. Prince Harry was all smiles as he posed for a selfie with Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe at the Living Legends of Aviation in Los Angeles on Friday night Mario-Max has been dubbed 'the King of Trash TV' in the German Press (Pictured in October 2023) The head of the family, Prince Alexander of Schaumburg-Lippe, told The Mail on Sunday last night: 'It's very painful for me, this guy has been harvesting our name for his personal gain. Prince Harry cannot stoop lower than appearing with him. I would advise him to stay away from this man. ' Mario-Max who claims he has the right to use the royal title after he was adopted by a distant relative of the family when he was 23 years old has been dubbed 'the King of Trash TV' in the German Press for appearing on the local version of Big Brother, and hawking products on shopping channels including a so-called 'wealth elixir'. He is also a regular visitor to America, where he has posed for photos with celebrities including Paris Hilton, Liza Minnelli and Ivana Trump at parties and red-carpet events, and where he once dated one of the Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills. On Friday he immediately posted the photo of himself with Prince Harry as featured on our front page on social media. It attracted comments including: 'So cringe. Two irrelevant middle-aged men without serious pursuit using their titles to grift in superficial Hollywood,' and 'I'm embarrassed for both of you. This must be a joke.' Speaking about meeting Harry, Mario-Max told The Mail on Sunday: 'We had a personal conversation and he was fabulous, very humble, very sweet. It filled me with joy.' The Duke of Sussex was inducted into the 'Living Legends of Aviation' on Friday night where he was asked by host John Travolta about his first flight experience. He stood to a rapturous applause as he recollected how he was aged seven or eight years old when he excitedly jumped into a Wessex Helicopter. The head of the family, Prince Alexander of Schaumburg-Lippe, said Harry 'could not stoop any lower' than appearing with Prince Mario-Max Prince Mario-Max flogging 'wealth elixir' on a shopping channel where he tells viewers 'they can have the life they wanted' by using the product In 2009 he strutted down the catwalk as he modelled the 'Badelederhose', described on his website as 'Bavarian-styled swim trunks' Mario-Max claims he has the right to use the royal title after he was adopted by a distant relative of the family when he was 23 years old Mario-Max pictured with Paris Hilton in 2019. He boasts connections stretching back to William of Orange, which would make him a very, very distant cousin of the British Royals The 46-year-old was on the German version of Celebrity Big Brother in 2014 where he was evicted after just eight days inside the house, as well as appearing on a shopping channel to sell a 'wealth elixir' Socialites Cat Boe, Mario-Max, and Bahati 'Kolibri' Venus arrive for the Vienna Opera Ball at the State Opera in 2014 He is also a regular visitor to America, where he has posed for photos with celebrities including Paris Hilton , Liza Minnelli and Ivana Trump Prince Mario-Max posts pictures of him posing with celebrities on his Instagram page. Pictured with Lady Gaga in 2018 He grabbed a selfie with Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber in 2018. Harry joked: 'But then my father jumped in behind me and I was terrified.' But the duke made no mention of his sister in law Kate Middleton or his father's medical dramas. The audience erupted into laughter and applause in response to the prince's quip with whistling also heard. Someone else can also be heard muttering 'excellent'. King Charles joined the Royal Air Force (RAF) in August 1971 where he was trained to fly both a jet and a helicopter. He had already taken flying lessons at university and was able to fly himself to RAF Cranwell for his first day of training. After completing training, Charles gained his RAF Wings as Flight Lieutenant Wales. He was the first member of the royal family to gain this award. Harry attended the ceremony at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills last night without wife Meghan Markle, with the Duchess of Sussex having to stay home as one of their children became unwell, the PA news agency reported. He paid tribute to his mother Diana during his acceptance speech and took a moment to remember the Grease star's meeting with Diana at a White House dinner for President Ronald Reagan in 1985. Accepting the award from Travolta, the duke said: 'I was just a one-year-old when you danced with my mum at the White House and now look at us.' Harry completed two tours of Afghanistan as a forward air controller and an Apache helicopter pilot, having flown countless training missions in the UK, US and Australia. He served for 10 years in the military, rising to the rank of Captain, and later founded the Invictus Games - a sporting event for wounded military personnel and veterans. Harry takes his place alongside other aviation and aerospace 'legends' including Buzz Aldrin, Jeff Bezos, Tom Cruise, Neil Armstrong, Harrison Ford, Morgan Freeman and Elon Musk. Prince Harry pictured with John Travolta, Lauren Sanchez and Bill Gates at the Living Legends Of Aviation The prince is seen arriving for Friday's event in Los Angeles Harry is seen in December 2012 working as a helicopter pilot in Afghanistan Harry is pictured in March 2011 standing in front of an Apache Helicopter a few days after the royal passed the half-decade milestone to become a captain in the British Army The event's website also praised the duke for his work with charities and organisations including Travalyst, Sentebale, African Parks and WellChild. A statement on its website said: 'Prince Harry is a humanitarian, military veteran, mental wellness advocate and environmentalist. 'He has dedicated his life to advancing causes that he is passionate about and that bring about permanent change for people and places.' Harry, who was sporting a black velvet tuxedo, was inducted alongside US navy pilot Fred George and former world speed record holder Steve Hinton, as well as Lauren Sanchez - who is engaged to Amazon founder Bezos. She received the Elling Halvorson Vertical Flight Hall of Fame Award for her skills as a helicopter pilot and aviation businesswoman, having founded aerial filming company Black Ops Aviation in 2016. The duke's appearance comes as his father, the King, prepared to undergo treatment for an enlarged prostate next week, while his sister-in-law the Princess of Wales recovers from abdominal surgery in the London Clinic. Among those congratulating Harry on the award was Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe of Germany, who appeared on the Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills. On Instagram, he said: 'Congratulations To HRH Prince Harry for his very much deserved Living Legends of Aviation Award... Well Done.' Grant Shapps has denied incompetence was behind an embarrassing collision between two Royal Navy warships in the Gulf. Footage released online yesterday showed HMS Chiddingfold reversing into the docked HMS Bangor at a port in Bahrain. The accident ripped a huge hole in the hull of the minehunter, which is constructed of glass reinforced plastic. There was internal damage but no injuries to the crew. Navy sources suggested there was no timeline yet for when the vessel can return to frontline duties. On a media round today Mr Shapps said something 'clearly' went wrong, but denied it was incompetence. He told Sky News' Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips: 'Just as in aviation or many other walks of life sometimes accidents and incidents happen, there's a full investigation under way.' On a media round today Mr Shapps said something 'clearly' went wrong, but denied it was incompetence. Navy sources suggested there was no timeline yet for when the vessel can return to frontline duties The accident ripped a huge hole in the hull, which is constructed of glass reinforced plastic (pictured) The ship plays an important role in ensuring the security of the UK and global trade routes. Pictured, damage aboard HMS Bangor after the crash Asked if it was incompetence, Mr Shapps added: 'We don't say it's incompetence when we see an aircraft come down, a very rare occasion just as this would be a rare occasion, it's right to leave the investigators some time to work out exactly what's gone wrong. 'Something clearly did and we need to see what it is.' The two minehunters had been based in the Middle East to ensure the safe flow of trade through the waters. Rear Admiral Edward Ahlgren said: 'Why this happened is still to be established. 'We train our people to the highest standards and rigorously enforce machinery safety standards, but unfortunately incidents of this nature can still happen. 'I assure you that a full and thorough investigation is already under way and any changes in procedure that could prevent further incidents will be rapidly implemented. 'In the meantime the UK will continue to play a key part in ensuring the safety of merchant shipping in the region.' A British Airways flight from London to Prague was forced to land back in the UK just an hour after taking off, after fumes were 'observed in the cockpit.' British Airways flight BA854 took off from London's Heathrow Airport at 7.25am today, and was due to land in Prage, in the Czech Republic, just after 10am. But just half an hour in, as the plane passed over Dover, it turned around over the Strait of Dover and came back to the UK, according to flight path data from FlightRadar24. The plane appeared to be heading to London City Airport, but changed direction at the last minute and flew back to Heathrow, where it touched down at 8.41am. Video footage, captured by a livestreaming service and shared to YouTube, showed that several fire engines rushed to help the plane when it landed at Heathrow. Video footage, captured by a livestreaming service and shared to YouTube , showed that several fire engines rushed to help the plane when it landed at Heathrow The plane appeared to be heading to London City Airport , but changed direction at the last minute and flew back to Heathrow A British Airway spokesperson told MailOnline that the pilots chose to return following the emergence of a 'technical issue', though they declined to specify what the issue was. They added: 'We're sorry for the delay in our customers' journey after the aircraft returned to Heathrow as a precaution. 'Our teams looked after them whilst they waited to board a replacement aircraft to continue their journey.' MailOnline has contacted Heathrow Airport and London Fire Brigade for comment. More to follow. Former King's Guards have revealed how the tall bearskins worn by guardsmen are 'multi-purpose' - and could be concealing something from public view. In letters to The Times, Michael Scott, formerly of the Scots Guards and William McLean, formerly of the Coldstream Guards, Eyton on Severn, in Shropshire, have revealed what they used to hide under their bearskin caps. Mr Scott recalled having to carry a pair of wet speedos under his hat, while Mr McLean was given a fright after a fellow soldier hid an alarm clock under his bareskin. It comes as animal rights organisation PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) has campaigned for the caps' fur to be replaced with a synthetic substitute since 2002, condemning the MoD's alleged 'support for the slaughter of Canadian black bears'. Grenadier Guards march the streets in front of Big Ben in Westminster on the day of Britain's King Charles' coronation in London, Britain May 6, 2023 Prince William, Prince of Wales, rides down The Mall during the Trooping the Colour on June 17, 2023 in London, England The hats, which can be traced back to the Napoleonic wars, were worn by every gunner in the British and French military to make them appear taller and more intimidating. Members of Napoleon's imperial guard wore the caps to mark their high status and when British forces defeated Napoleon's at the Battle of Waterloo, they took the hats as trophies. Nowadays, the use of the bearskin cap has been adopted by all Foot Guards for ceremonial purposes. Writing in The Times newspaper, Mr Scott revealed: 'When on King's Guard at St James's Palace, two officers out of the three on duty are allowed to swim in the Royal Automobile Club's indoor pool in Pall Mall. 'To go there they must be properly dressed in bearskin, tunic and sword. But not, obviously, allowed to carry a parcel.' Instead, Mr Scott, said guardsmen must take their bathing suits with them and subsequently 'secrete their Speedos' inside their bearskin caps for the journey back, which he admitted could sometimes 'present problems'. Mr McLean recalled a time when he was doing his first guard at the Tower of London and was carrying out his tour of the sentries in the early hours. 'It was eerily quiet, the mist swirling up from the Thames through Traitors' Gate; visions of beheaded corpses popping up from behind a turret were close to mind', he said in The Times. Eager to 'test his steadiness', he said, a fellow officer hid a small alarm clock in his bearskin and as he walked around Traitor's Gate the alarm went off, giving him a fright. Mr McLean added: 'It was good training for a tour six months later in South Armagh at the height of the Troubles.' Members of the King's Guard march down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace ahead of the State Opening of Parliament on November 7, 2023 Irish Guards and 'Semus' (bottom centre) their Irish Wolfhound, seen here at Wellington Barracks in London, before taking part in the King's Coronation Procession EXCLUSIVE READ MORE: Fur flies as animal rights activists accuse King's Guards of 'greenwashing' for still wearing genuine Canadian bearskin caps instead of fake alternatives Advertisement PETA threatened the MoD with legal action in 2022 in a row over replacing the King's Guards' bearskin caps with a faux fur alternative. The MoD pledged to drop fur once an alternative was found, but recently said 'no faux fur meets the standards to provide an effective replacement'. However, PETA say they have worked with luxury faux furrier ECOPEL to develop a suitable material that is waterproof and mimics real bear fur in both appearance and performance. But the MoD has claimed that 'whilst faux fur samples have been presented for testing in the past, to date, and to the Department's knowledge, no faux fur sample has been produced which meets the standards required to provide an effective replacement for the bearskin ceremonial caps.' In a letter to PETA in November 2023, the MoD's equipment team defended the use of fur and said: 'The furs used by the MOD are only procured via local Canadian suppliers with a 'Furmark' accreditation. 'This is a global certification and traceability system for natural furs that guarantees animal welfare and environmental standards, and in turn, ensures the ethical sourcing and sustainability of the fur.' A Grenadier Guard's Warrant Officer waits with a Ceremonial Guard formed by Kings Troop, Royal Horse Artillery Members of the public take pictures of King's Guard soldiers marching outside Buckingham Palace during Queen Elizabeth funeral ceremonies in central London Monday, Sept. 19, 2022 But campaigners suggested the accreditation is just 'another attempt at greenwashing'. In 2021, Respect for Animals concluded in a report: 'Furmark - the fur industry's 'certification', traceability and labelling scheme - lacks transparency and credibility and fails to address the environmental impacts of the fur industry.' Senior Campaigns Manager Kate Werner said: 'Instead of aligning with the values and morals of the British public, who reject fur, and with the example set by the late Queen Elizabeth when she refused to buy fur for her wardrobe, the MoD is aligning itself with an accreditation scheme that attempts to greenwash and justify the slaughter of majestic bears. 'PETA urges the MoD to end its complicity with bear slaughter and fully evaluate the faux bear fur so it can be quick-marched into service.' In October 2023, the group laid 498 cut outs to represent the Canadian black bears killed since PETA and ECOPEL made their faux fur offer in 2017. A 2022 poll revealed that three quarters of voters considered bearskin caps - which have cost the taxpayer around 1million since 2015 - a 'bad use of government funds', with each cap costing 1,710. A descendant of the poet William Wordsworth was stopped at a UK airport and quizzed by police over his Russian links, The Mail on Sunday can reveal. Andrew Wordsworth, one of Britain's leading private investigators, was asked whether he knew Vladimir Putin during a two hour interrogation at Bristol Airport. The 61-year-old is a distant relative of the great Romantic poet and was once voted by society magazine Tatler as London's most eligible bachelor. Described as a 'preeminent figure in intelligence' and an expert at gathering information in Russia, Mr Wordsworth co-founded private investigation firm Raedas in 2016. His interrogation, which is believed to have been sanctioned by MI5, has sent shockwaves through Britain's booming 'corporate intelligence' industry. Andrew Wordsworth, one of Britain's leading private investigators, was asked whether he knew Vladimir Putin during a two hour interrogation at Bristol Airport William Wordsworth (pictured) was an English poet who was one of the founders of Romanticism - a term used to describe a movement in art and literature to a new interest in human psychology, personal feeling and the natural world A stock photo depicting the inside of Bristol City Airport A string of secretive firms, many of which are based in London's Mayfair, are paid up to 800 per hour by wealthy businesses, oligarchs and autocratic states to gather information on rivals, sometimes via surveillance. This newspaper, however, has learnt that Britain's security services have launched a crackdown on intelligence firms suspected of helping oligarchs or organisations allied to the Kremlin. Mr Wordsworth, whose questioning at Bristol Airport was reported earlier this month by the Intelligence Online website, was not arrested and has faced no further action. 'I was stopped on my way through the airport almost a year ago,' he told the MoS last night. 'Although it was irritating, I am very supportive of the government's initiative. We are in a dangerous world and need to be vigilant. 'As was to be expected, there has been no follow up or other action taken against me or Raedas.' While at his former investigations firm, GPW, Mr Wordsworth worked for Russian oligarch Vladimir Yakunin - an old friend of Putin who rose to become head of state-run Russian Railways Andrew's interrogation is believed to have been sanctioned by MI5 and has sent shockwaves through Britain's booming 'corporate intelligence' industry Mr Wordsworth, who began his corporate intelligence career in the mid-1990s, is described on his firm's website as having 'engaged in many of the last decade's most prominent disputes connected to Russia.' It adds: 'Working with an ever-expanding network of well-placed sources in the region, we are experts at gathering evidence to be submitted in foreign courts. 'Our success in the region is grounded in our detailed and nuanced insights into the inner workings of the states of the Former Soviet Union.' While at his former investigations firm, GPW, Mr Wordsworth worked for Russian oligarch Vladimir Yakunin - an old friend of Putin who rose to become head of state-run Russian Railways. Mr Wordsworth was stopped last March as he passed through immigration at Bristol Airport after a flight from Paris and was quizzed by a Detective Inspector. Andrew Wordsworth is a great, great, great nephew of the poet William Wordsworth (pictured) Britain's security services are now believed to have started closely scrutinising corporate intelligence firms as part of a wider crack-down on so-called 'enablers' of the Russian regime As well as being asked 'do you know Putin', Mr Wordsworth was also quizzed about whether he had met Russian government employees, the MoS understands. Last night Mr Wordsworth said that following Russia's invasion of Ukraine Raedas 'immediately refocused the business away from Russia leaving clients and revenue streams.' 'Any problems we suffered as a result are nothing compared to the pain and suffering being endured by the people of Ukraine,' he added. Sources close to Mr Wordsworth - the great, great, great, great nephew of the poet - said he believes the probe may have been sparked by rivals in the corporate intelligence community making false claims against him. Britain's security services are now believed to have started closely scrutinising corporate intelligence firms as part of a wider crack-down on so-called 'enablers' of the Russian regime. One corporate intelligence insider said Russians 'have been the biggest employer for investigators for twenty-odd years.' A Whitehall source said: 'The new National Security Act gives MI5 and counter-terrorism police greater powers to charge 'enablers' of oligarchs and foreign intelligence agencies, and this is why they should be worried.' A spokesperson for Raedas said: 'We work for prominent clients in exceptionally difficult and hard-fought litigation throughout the world. We are typically retained and instructed by their lawyers, often the most highly regarded law firms in the sector. 'As it pertains to Russia, we apply a strict sanctions policy and comply fully with the UK, EU and US sanction regimes. Moreover, we fully support the UK government's efforts to enforce its policies and the rule of law more generally.' SNP leader Humza Yousaf today made another desperate plea for party voters not to abandon it to back Labour - as he wooed Keir Starmer and vowed to work with him if he becomes PM. The First Minister insisted that Scots do not need to move their vote away from the scandal-riddled nationalists in order to get rid of the Tory government of Rishi Sunak. Mr Yousaf is under mounting pressure with polls suggesting that the SNP may not be Scotland's largest party at Westminster after the next election, with Sir Keir's route to power coming through a resurgence north of the border. In an interview with the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Mr Yousaf said Sir Keir 'will undoubtedly be the next prime minister' even if Scots don't swarm to back his party, in a clear attempt to cling on to seats. But it was also revealed he has written to the Labour leader, offering to work with him after the election if he wins, saying differing political views should not 'prevent us being able to work together'. However he also suggested that the price of his help would be a new referendum on Scottish independence. Sir Keir has previously ruled this out, and polls suggest that he probably will not need SNP help after the election. The First Minister insisted that Scots do not need to move their vote away from the scandal-riddled nationalists in order to get rid of the Tory government of Rishi Sunak. In an interview with the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Mr Yousaf said Sir Keir 'will undoubtedly be the next prime minister' even if Scots don't swarm to back his party, in a clear attempt to cling on to seats. In an appeal to SNP voters, he told BBC Radio Scotland's The Sunday Show: 'I think there's still a raging debate in the country around the constitution, but that is not what this general election is going to be about. 'I've been really clear that I'm not going to turn my back, close my eyes, or shut my ears to any voter in the country, whether they voted Yes or No (to independence). 'I want to reach out to people across the country to say ''I understand why so many people have wanted to run a million miles from this rotten Tory Government''.' Asked whether his party will use a Labour win to 'endorse the Union', Mr Sarwar said: 'No, because I want to persuade people that we can make Scotland work within a devolved settlement.' In his letter to the Labour leader, Humza Yousaf said differing political views should not 'prevent us being able to work together'. He wrote: 'I hope you will accept this invitation to meet and that we can establish a working relationship in the interests of the people we represent.' Speaking on the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme, Mr Yousaf appealed to Sir Keir to work with the SNP on reducing child poverty and strengthening relations between the UK and Scottish governments. He told the programme Sir Keir will 'absolutely' be the next UK prime minister, and said he must tackle child poverty by committing to scrap the two-child benefit cap - which the Labour leader has previously not committed to. The policy prevents parents from claiming child tax credits or universal credit for a third or subsequent child born after April 2017. A so-called rape clause, which requires women to declare their child was conceived as a result of rape in order to maintain the benefits, should also be scrapped, the First Minister said. Previously, Mr Yousaf said the SNP's conditions of working with Labour would be Sir Keir paving the way for a future Scottish independence referendum. In his letter, published on Sunday, the First Minister made clear independence is still a priority. 'My Government is clear that Scotland's future is as an independent country in the European Union, and that there is a democratic mandate for a referendum on independence which should be respected,' he said. He later told Kuenssberg: 'I'd like to speak to Keir Starmer as the man who will undoubtedly be the next prime minister.' In a direct appeal to the Labour leader, he said: 'SNP MPs will work with you. 'When it comes to Keir Starmer being the next prime minister of the United Kingdom, which I think he absolutely will be, I should say I'm very willing to work with an incoming Labour government. 'I think there's plenty that we can work on. There will be disagreements - the constitution perhaps being the obvious one.' Using the term 'genocide' to demonise Israel is insulting to the victims of Nazis, the Chief Rabbi has warned ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day. Sir Ephraim Mirvis said that using the word in this context is a 'moral inversion' which is meant to 'tear open the still gaping wound' of the Holocaust. He said that the misappropriation of the word was offensive to both the victims and the survivors of the Holocaust. He added it is also insulting to those affected by more recent genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur. The warning comes ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day on January 27, amid fears of some organisations being pressured to refer to claims of genocide in Gaza in their commemorations. Israel has been accused of inciting genocide against Palestinians during the ongoing conflict. On December 29, South Africa filed a case against Israel at the International Court of Justice alleging its conduct in Gaza was genocide. This has been supported by several countries, but Israel officials labelled the claims as 'disgraceful'. Israel will appear before the court at The Hague in the Netherlands after South Africa's request for a hearing, based on the fact both countries have signed the United Nations 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Genocide. The United States have joined Israel in rejecting these claims. Using the term 'genocide' to demonise Israel is insulting to the victims of Nazis, the Chief Rabbi has warned ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day King Charles II receives Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis during an audience in Buckingham Palace in October 2023 Chief Rabbi Sir Ephraim Mirvis and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak attending Finchley United Synagogue in central London, for victims and hostages of Hamas attacks The Chief Rabbi wrote in The Telegraph that the allegation of genocide was 'the ultimate demonization of the Jewish state'. He wrote: 'It is a term deployed not only to eradicate any notion that Israel has a responsibility to protect its citizens, but also to tear open the still gaping wound of the Holocaust, knowing that it will inflict more pain than any other accusation. 'It is a moral inversion, which undermines the memory of the worst crimes in human history.' He added that the 'enthusiastic clamour' to use the term is a 'moral failure built upon a foundation of hatred and misinformation'. Genocide is defined as 'the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular nation or ethnic group with the aim of destroying that nation or group' by the Oxford Dictionary. Sir Ephraim said that if Israel's intentions were genocidal, it could have employed its military strength to 'level Gaza in a mater of days'. The Chief Rabbi added that instead, it is 'providing civilians with advance notice' even if it risks the military objectives. The African nation alleges that 'acts and omissions by Israel... are genocidal in character' as they are committed with the intent 'to destroy Palestinians in Gaza as a part of the broader Palestinian national, racial and ethical group'. South Africa's foreign ministry said in a statement that the country is 'gravely concerned with the plight of civilians caught in the present Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip due to the indiscriminate use of force and forcible removal of inhabitants'. DECEMBER: Israeli soldiers take up positions near the Gaza Strip border in southern Israel DECEMBER: Palestinians look at the destruction after an Israeli strike in Rafah, southern Gaza South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa (pictured) has previously accused Israel of war crimes and acts 'tantamount to genocide' The ministry added that there are 'ongoing reports of international crimes, such as crimes against humanity and war crimes, being committed as well as reports that acts meeting the threshold of genocide or related crimes as defined in the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of Genocide, have been and may still be committed in the context of the ongoing massacres in Gaza'. It also asks the court to issue an interim order for Israel to immediately suspend its military operations in Gaza. A hearing into that request is likely in the coming days or weeks. The case, if it goes ahead, will take years. South Africa can bring the case under the Genocide Convention because both it and Israel are signatories to the convention. Israel's foreign ministry issued a statement in response in which it said the case lacks a legal foundation and constitutes a 'vile exploitation and cheapening' of the court. The statement also said Israel is committed to, and operates according to, international law and focuses its military actions solely against Hamas, adding that the residents of Gaza are not an enemy. It asserted that it takes steps to minimise harm to civilians and to allow humanitarian aid to enter the territory. 'Israel rejects with disgust the blood libel spread by South Africa and its application to the International Court of Justice,' the statement read. 'South Africa's claim lacks both a factual and a legal basis, and constitutes despicable and contemptuous exploitation of the court.' Pro-Palestinian supporters picket outside the High Court in Cape Town, South Africa, where the genocide case against Israel opened last week at The Hague Palestine supporters gather in front of the International Court of Justice building to demonstrate with Palestinian flags and banners in the Netherlands Balkees Jarrah, associate international justice director at Human Rights Watch, said South Africa's case 'provides an important opportunity for the International Court of Justice to scrutinise Israel's actions in Gaza using the Genocide Convention of 1948'. She said South Africa is looking to the United Nations' highest judicial body 'to provide clear, definitive answers on the question of whether Israel is committing genocide against the Palestinian people'. Whether the case will succeed in halting the war remains to be seen. While the court's orders are legally binding, they are not always followed. In March 2022, the court ordered Russia to halt hostilities in Ukraine, a binding legal ruling that Moscow flouted as it pressed ahead with its devastating attacks on Ukrainian towns and cities. South Africa has been a fierce critic of Israel's military campaign in Gaza. Many, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, have compared Israel's policies in Gaza and the West Bank with South Africa's past apartheid regime of racial segregation. Mr Ramaphosa has accused Israel of war crimes and acts 'tantamount to genocide' Conservative political commentator Glenn Beck told former President Donald Trump to pick Vivek Ramaswamy as his 2024 running mate, the media entrepreneur claimed. During an appearance on the Patrick Bet-David's podcast last week, Beck revealed that Trump - the presumptive Republican nominee - called him to ask his opinion on his VP pick. 'I said Vivek,' Beck told the four podcast hosts, adding the former president asked him to explain his answer and said: 'That's the No. 1 response from everybody I've asked that question.' Last week, Ramaswamy suspended his presidential campaign the night of the Iowa caucus and immediately endorsed Trump. He has since appeared alongside the former president at campaign events in New Hampshire, where primary voters will cast ballots Tuesday. Trump says he's heard from most people he's asked that he should choose Vivek Ramaswamy (left) as his VP pick Conservative pundit Glenn Beck said he told Donald Trump to pick Ramaswamy as his VP because he will defend the Trump message and carry it on in 2028 Beck explained he told Trump that Ramaswamy will be an effective surrogate for his campaign and its message, as well as being a skilled attack dog and defender of Trump's record and vision. 'He can defend you, he's right in your pocket,' said Beck. 'Some of his ideas are really, really good,' and he 'connects with the youth.' 'People are excited about something fresh and different,' he said of Ramaswamy, also making the case that young voters who supported Joe Biden in 2020 are not supporting the president anymore but haven't moved into Trump's camp yet. Vivek, he argued, may appeal to those voters. Finally, Beck told the former president, 77, that Ramaswamy is someone who could potentially carry on his White House legacy, once he's termed out for good. 'In 2028, when you can no longer run, you continue for another eight years, and you get the credit for bringing this new fresh face in,' he said. Beck noted Trump remained coy about where his own head is regarding his ultimate pick for his ticket partner. 'Well. We'll see,' Beck said was Trump's closing thought during their conversation. At present, Vivek remains a strong odds-on pick for the veep slot, but currently ahead of him on US betting markets are South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, whose name has floated around Trump-world since early in his first term, and House GOP Chairwoman Elise Stefanik. Noem is the current favorite, according to oddschecker.com, but the situation is dynamic and the primary is long. South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem is the current favorite for Trump's VP choice, but the situation is dynamic and the primary is long Trump has reportedly seen New York Rep. Elise Stefanik as an up and coming star and has been impressed by her consistent loyalty Last week, Trump spent Tuesday night with businessman and former rival Vivek Ramaswamy in New Hampshire - just one night after he won the Iowa caucus by 30 points and Ramaswamy suspended his campaign and immediately endorsed Trump. Ramaswamy, 38, a charismatic multi-multi-millionaire, came in a distant fourth in the Iowa caucuses, behind Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley. After Ramaswamy pledged to help him beat President Joe Biden, Trump seemed to suggest that there was much the successful entrepreneur could do for his campaign. 'He's going to be working with us and he'll be working with us for a long time,' Trump said, as many in the crowd chanted for Ramaswamy to become the vice presidential nominee. 'He's a fantastic guy,' Trump said. 'He's got something that's very special because he started off with a zippo and he ended up very strong.' 'He did a great job. I was actually surprised when he called because he was doing well. And it's an honor to have his endorsement,' Trump added. On Monday night, Trump was complimentary of Ramaswamy during the Trump campaign's victory celebration. 'I also want to congratulate Vivek because he did one hell of a job. He came from zero that's an amazing job,' Trump said. Later Trump commended Ramaswamy on Truth Social for endorsing him. 'Thank you Vivek, a Great Honor!' wrote the presumptive Republican nominee. Trump and Vivek embrace at a campaign event in New Hampshire one day after the Iowa caucus, which Trump handily won. Ramaswamy dropped out after a fourth-place finish and immediately endorsed the former president At a Mar-a-Lago dinner back in December, Trump reportedly called Stefanik a 'killer,' citing her loyalty and saying he's been impressed Congresswoman Elise Stefanik is also making her case for the ticket partner gig and Team Trump is reportedly listening. At a Mar-a-Lago dinner back in December, Trump reportedly called Stefanik a 'killer,' citing her loyalty and saying he's been impressed. 'Stefanik is at the top,' said longtime Trump backer and 2016 chief strategist Steve Bannon, according to CNBC. 'If you're Trump, you want someone who's loyal above all else,' said one GOP operative. 'Particularly because he sees Mike Pence as having made a fatal sin.' Stefanik is campaigning with Trump ahead of Tuesday's New Hampshire primary but declined to comment when asked about the VP job. But, during a recent Meet the Press interview, she certainly didn't say no. 'Well, I, of course, would be honored to serve in any capacity in a Trump administration,' Stefanik said. Stefanik became the first member of Republican leadership to offer her endorsement of Trump's reelection bid, before the former president has even formally announced a run himself. 'Republican voters determine who is the leader of the Republican Party and it's very clear President Trump is the leader of the Republican party,' Stefanik said in a statement. 'I am proud to endorse Donald J. Trump for President in 2024. I fully support him running again,' the New York Republican said. Scientists have warned that ancient 'zombie viruses' trapped in permafrost in Siberia may soon be released and cause a new deadly pandemic as shipping in the region increases. Scientists have known for years that 'Methuselah microbes', cells that have stayed dormant in permafrost for tens of thousands of years, carry the risk of propagating and spreading like wildfire if taken out of their icy confines. But they have begun to warn that with 2023 being the warmest year on record - by a long way - since global records began in 1850, the risk of a deadly pandemic caused by zombie viruses is higher than ever, as more and more permafrost, which covers a quarter of the northern hemisphere, is melting. The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) reports that the Arctic's average temperature has already risen at a rate three times higher than the global average, and is the region with the highest rate of average temperature change. Jean-Michel Claverie, a geneticist at Aix-Marseille University in the south of France, told the Observer: 'The crucial point about permafrost is that it is cold, dark and lacks oxygen, which is perfect for preserving biological material. Scientists have known for years that 'Methuselah microbes', cells that have stayed dormant in permafrost for tens of thousands of years, carry the risk of propagating and spreading like wildfire Increased shipping in the region, caused by global warming, may further release more ancient pathogens that are extremely difficult to fight 'You could put a yoghurt in permafrost and it might still be edible 50,000 years later.' He said that the disappearance of Arctic sea ice, caused by global warming, posed a massive risk to human health. 'That is allowing increases in shipping, traffic and industrial development in Siberia. Huge mining operations are being planned, and are going to drive vast holes into the deep permafrost to extract oil and ores,' he told the newspaper. 'Those operations will release vast amounts of pathogens that still thrive there. Miners will walk in and breath the viruses. The effects could be calamitous.' Scientists have long spoken out about the risk of introducing ancient pathogens to the modern world, saying that they may be extremely difficult to fight, given how different they are from modern pathogens. Scientists say the disappearance of Arctic sea ice, caused by global warming, posed a massive risk to human health Claverie, along with a team of other scientists, previously published research that showed that roughly one in a hundred ancient pathogens caused major disruptions to ecosystems. Though the number seems small, the teams research claims that four sextillion cells escape permafrost every year at current rates. 'One percent of 4 sextillion is a number most people cant even conceive. Theres so many, many opportunities for this to happen. 'The probability is rare for one individual virus, but there are so many potential viruses,' Corey Bradshaw, the Director of the Global Ecology Laboratory at Flinders University in Australia, previously told CNN. Last year, scientists from Russia, Germany and France identified six ancient diseases trapped in permafrost that had the potential to wreak untold havoc on the world. Robert Jenrick today refused to rule out running to be Tory leader in place of Rishi Sunak, as senior party figures again jostled for position ahead of an expected election defeat. The former immigration minister was questioned on GB News about his recent personal makeover which has seen him shed the pounds and adopt a new businesslike haircut. Westminster gossip suggests he might be lining up a leadership bid in the wake of a Tory election defeat, having taking an increasingly leading role in opposition to Rishi Sunak's Rwanda plans. Mr Jenrick was one of just 11 Tories who voted against the Safety of Rwanda Bill last week, arguing the plan to deport Channel migrants to east Africa was not strong enough to work. While MPs backed down from defeating the law, potentially toppling Mr Sunak's administration, Mr Jenrick's actions - which included writing several hardline amendments to the bill - have increased his appeal to the party right. Asked by GB News whether he was positioning as a future leader if Mr Sunak steps down he said: 'I'm not giving that any though I'm not ruling it out but that is not my intention, yet.' It came as another potential leadership candidate broke cover to demand greater military spending. Penny Mordaunt, who challenged both Mr Sunak and Liz Truss in the summer of 2022, warned that the Royal Navy must 'keep pace' with its rivals in a stark intervention in a row over the size of the fleet. It came as Defence Secretary Grant Shapps was unable to say when the UK might hit its target of spending 2.5 per cent of GDP on defence, amid warnings about the shrinking size of the British Army. The former immigration minister was questioned on GB News about his recent personal makeover which has seen him shed the pounds and adopt a new businesslike haircut. Mr Jenrick in Downing Street in February, before his makeover and move to the party right Westminster gossip suggests he might be lining up a leadership bid in the wake of a Tory election defeat, having taking an increasingly leading role in opposition to Rishi Sunak's Rwanda plans. Mr Jenrick told GB News he was just trying to 'make an argument' about illegal migration. 'I think that for too long, too few politicians have gone and argued that we need to take the most robust action. 'So if I can help the conservative party by making that argument very strongly then I will do. Because I think there is a path to victory at the next election, but it goes through taking the strongest possible approach on migration.' Mr Sunak has said he is 'determined' to get his Rwanda legislation through Parliament, as ministers prepare for stiff resistance in the House of Lords to the flagship asylum policy. Cabinet Minister Penny Mordaunt warned that the Royal Navy must 'keep pace' with its rivals in a stark intervention in a row over the size of the fleet. Many peers have already expressed deep unease about the plan, with ministers braced for a battle with the Upper House over the Bill. The Prime Minister, who has urged the Lords not to block the 'will of the people', said he wanted to get the scheme 'up and running' as soon as possible. Peers could seriously frustrate that ambition, with Downing Street likely to face attempts by peers to introduce a range of amendments to the proposed legislation. The Bill is likely to receive its second reading by the end of January, with February 12, 14 and 19 pencilled in for debate at the committee stage. It is possible that the third reading of the Bill could happen around the middle of March. Mr Sunak played down the prospect of having to pack the Lords with Tory peers to get the legislation through, adding that the country was fed up with the 'merry-go-round' on the issue. King Charles has today the missed church service at the Sandringham estate where he is staying just days before his operation for an enlarged prostate is scheduled to take place. The 75-year-old monarch is currently resting at the 20,000 acre Sandringham royal estate in Norfolk with Queen Camilla ahead of the corrective surgery next week. Well-wishers had gathered today in the hope of catching a glimpse of Charles walking to the 11am morning service at St Mary Magdalene church on the Sandringham estate. But they found the gates to the paddock outside the church were locked, meaning they could not reach the roped off path where spectators are usually allowed to stand. It comes after the Princess of Wales was said to be 'doing well' after going under the knife for her abdominal operation at London Clinic near Regent's Park this week. Well-wishers gathered today in the hopes of getting a glimpse of the King walking to the St Mary Magdalene church on the Sandringham estate but found gates to the paddock outside were locked Charles was last pictured (above) attending a service at the church on Sunday January 7, two weeks ago Charles had been expected to walk the quarter of a mile from Sandringham House to the church, as he almost always does when his in his residence at his private retreat. There was no sign of him appearing as the bells pealed and the service got underway in the 18th century church where members of the Royal family traditionally worship while on winter breaks. Holiday lettings housekeeper Maxine Sykes, 44, and her mother Victoria Martin, 67, are holidaying in Norfolk and had hoped to see the King. Maxine of St Neots, Cambridgeshire, said: 'We came up to Sandringham for a wander around and saw people waiting so we decided to investigate. 'We thought it would be nice to get a glimpse of the King, but unfortunately he has not come out.' Victoria, of Rye, East Sussex, added: 'It's a shame we have not seen him, but it is understandable if he wants to keep quiet before going into hospital. 'He might also have thought it best to keep a low profile because of all the interest in his daughter-in-law Kate being in hospital, and the concerns for her.' Other onlookers said it was 'highly unusual' to find the gates to the church paddock locked so nobody could get through. His Majesty speaks to members of the public ahead of the Sunday church service at St Mary Magdalene Church on January 7 The King appeared to be in good spirits after leaving the service and spoke with Simon and Georgina Ward and their sons William and Oliver The 75-year-old monarch will undergo surgery on an enlarged prostate next week and is currently resting at the Sandringham estate (pictured on January 7) The Royal family has been hit by a double health woe this week with it also being announced Kate Middleton went under the knife for abdominal surgery (Princess of Wales pictured with Charles in 2022) One person, who asked not to be named, said: 'It was never locked when the old Queen was alive and it is usually open when Charles is here. 'The last time he was at the church was two weeks ago before he went to Scotland, and people could walk down and see him. 'I was a little disappointed that he didn't come because I wanted to wish him the best of luck for his surgery.' Buckingham Palace revealed last Wednesday that Charles was due to undergo a corrective procedure next week after being diagnosed with a benign enlarged prostate. He and Queen Camilla were at his Scottish home Birkhall when they received the shock news, just after it was disclosed that the Princess of Wales was in hospital. The couple were flown more than 300 miles on Friday on an RAF jet from Aberdeen Airport to RAF Marham before being driven the final 15 miles to Sandringham. Buckingham Palace shared the news about the King's procedure just 90 minutes after Kensington Palace said Kate had undergone abdominal surgery and would spend two weeks in hospital. It is thought that the Princess of Wales will resume working in a reduced capacity once she is discharged from hospital. The Wales' are nevertheless said to be focusing on family The Princess of Wales is said to be 'doing well' and will spend the next 10 to 14 days recovering in hospital It has been revealed that Prince William will not seek to alter the status of the Church of England when he becomes King, despite being less religious than his father or grandmother The King, who acceded to the throne 16 months ago and had his coronation at Westminster Abbey last May, will be admitted to an unidentified hospital next week. Camilla revealed last week that the King was 'fine' and 'looking forward to getting back to work' as she made a solo visit to Aberdeen Art Gallery last week. She spoke of her husband's health as she open the Gallery's new Safe Space, an initiative to provide help and guidance to people if they suspect someone is living with domestic abuse. Camilla was reported as appearing cheery, and adopting the keep calm and carry on approach often associated with the late Queen. The Princess of Wales was admitted to the private London Clinic hospital on Tuesday for successful abdominal surgery, which Kensington Palace said was planned. She is said to be 'doing well' but will remain in the exclusive clinic for ten to 14 days, and is not expected to return to official duties until after Easter. Prince William spent time at her bedside on Thursday in a low key private visit. He has stepped back from official duties for several weeks to care for his wife and juggle looking after their children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Joe Little from Majesty magazine, has said that the health troubles of Charles and Kate have compounded the problems facing the small band of working royals. Mr Little said: 'The working members of the Royal Family have been under pressure to maintain the level of engagements undertaken by a much larger team in years gone by. 'Suddenly removing three of the most senior players because of health issues compounds the problem considerably, but at least the King will be out of action for only a relatively short period.' Buckingham Palace has been approached for comment about King Charles' non-attendance at church Some areas may see four to six inches of rain, triggering urban and flash flooding As warmer air sets in, icy patches and fog threaten travelers in the Midwest and Northeast, forecasters say Cities such as Chicago and New York will see days in the 30s and 40s following temperatures in the single digits and teens Temperatures are warming up across the United States following an Arctic blast that left over 80 dead, putting millions under a new threat of heavy rain and flooding. Meteorologists warn of showers, fog and the accumulation of ice on slick surfaces that may complicate the Monday morning commute. 'The greatest wintry concern for next week will be for travelers in the Midwest and Northeast,' AccuWeather Meteorologist Dean DeVore said. Over 120 million Americans were under winter weather alerts Friday and the National Weather Service warned of wind chill in several states including New York, Illinois, Georgia and Louisiana over the weekend. Weather-related deaths surged over the last week, with most reported in Tennessee and Oregon. A January thaw is setting in across the United States following an Arctic blast that left 61 dead (pictured: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, blanketed in snow and ice Thursday) Over 120 million Americans were under winter weather alerts Friday (pictured: people walk through Central Park in New York City) As weather systems shift, areas of fog and patchy rain may complicate travel in the Southeast (pictured: a snow-covered street in Florence, Alabama) Now a thaw looms ahead for much of the country. Following sub-zero conditions Sunday morning, temperatures in Chicago may climb into the 30s each day from Monday to Wednesday. Similarly, a low-teens Saturday night in New York City will be succeeded by highs in the 40s Tuesday and Wednesday. But this warming introduces the possibility of ice-related problems in the southern Plains and part of the Mississippi Valley. 'With the ground likely starting well below 32 Fahrenheit and in areas where snow-packed roads and sidewalks remain, any moisture from fog or rain can cause sheets of clear ice to develop,' DeVore explained. The NWS issued a Hard Freeze Warning in Louisiana and Mississippi through Sunday morning, urging residents to take steps to protect tender plants and outdoor pipes. States from Texas to Illinois remain under the threat of icy rain, which can freeze and build on exposed surfaces. Much of the Midwest and western U.S. were anticipated to see precipitation Sunday, according to the National Weather Service Part of the zone from central and eastern Texas to western Tennessee is expected to see four to six inches of rain next week. (pictured: a child and his father enjoy the snow in Oak Ridge, Tennessee) Precipitation and ice patches are expected to pose a risk for travelers in the Midwest and Northeast next week (pictured: snow falls Friday in Philadelphia) A surge of moisture will trigger rain, ice and snow from the Upper Midwest to the Northeast from Monday night to Wednesday (pictured: the ground in Acworth, New Hampshire, blanketed in snow) Illinois is under a Winter Weather Advisory through Monday afternoon as freezing rain sweeps into the area, leading to total ice accumulations of up to 1/10th of an inch. It may take until Monday night for conditions to improve in much of the state. 'Icy conditions are likely to impact the Monday morning commute and could impact the evening commute as well,' the NWS warned. The agency issued a lengthy advisory in North Carolina warning of an Arctic cold wave lasting across the central portion of the state through the weekend. Residents are encouraged to limit their time outside, layer up and check on those who may be more susceptible to the chill, like the elderly. A surge of moisture will trigger rain, ice and snow from the Upper Midwest to the Northeast from Monday night to Wednesday. Localized pockets of ice are anticipated to impact regions of northeast Texas to Michigan and Pennsylvania, while significant icing may occur Sunday night from southeast Oklahoma into central Missouri. Most of the precipitation in the Northeast will likely fall north of Interstate 80, but pockets of ice are possible farther south through the Appalachians. Several inches of snow are forecast in the northern tier of the Great Lakes and into the Northeast Monday night into Wednesday Most of the precipitation in the Northeast will likely fall north of Interstate 80, but pockets of ice are possible farther south through the Appalachians (pictured: a flurry falls in the Old City neighborhood of Philadelphia) An Arctic cold air front will move into the Northeast from southern Canada over the next few days (pictured: picnic tables at Bellevue State Park in Delaware covered in snow) Forecasters predict a surge of moisture will trigger rain, ice and snow from the Upper Midwest to the Northeast from Monday night to Wednesday (a man shovels snow in Indianapolis) To complicate matters in the Northeast, an Arctic cold air front will cross southern Canada over the next few days. Several inches of snow are forecast in the northern tier of the Great Lakes and into the Northeast Monday night into Wednesday. In regions along the Ohio River, the simple action of milder air flowing over cold ground may produce fog, clouds and 'ground sweat' even if it is not raining. Patches of ice may develop on colder, untreated surfaces due to the condensation, and areas of fog and patchy rain may complicate travel in the Southeast. NWS Memphis issued a Special Weather Statement Saturday, urging extreme caution for commuters. 'Lingering frozen precipitation on area roads and temperatures below freezing will continue to result in black ice across the area through Sunday morning,' the advisory read. There is more precipitation on the horizon, as AccuWeather data suggests that part of the zone from central and eastern Texas to western Tennessee may pick up four to six inches of rain next week. This is enough to cause flooding even in drought areas, but it may also cause secondary river levels to rise significantly. A Georgia pageant queen has been arrested and charged with the murder of an 18-month-old baby On Friday, 18-year-old Trinity Madison Poague was arrested by agents from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Poague, the reigning Miss Donalsonville, has been charged with aggravated battery, felony murder and first-degree cruelty to children. Investigators said on January 14 around 2:00 p.m., the Georgia Southwestern State University Police Department as the bureau of investigation to look into the death of a young child. An unresponsive 18-month-old boy was admitted to the emergency room at Phoebe Sumter Hospital in Americus, Georgia. Trinity Madison Poague, the reigning Miss Donalsonville, was arrested on Friday and charged with the murder of an 18-month-old baby Poague, 18, has been charged with aggravated battery, felony murder and first-degree cruelty to children Hospital staff said they attempted life saving measures, but the child later died. Investigators said after multiple interviews and examining the evidence, Poague was arrested. It is unclear what the nature of the injuries were and how Poague is related to the child. Investigators have not released further information on the case. On social media, the 18-year-old has posted several photos and videos of young children in her life. Poague is currently being held at the Sumter County Jail with no bond. 'Once the investigation is complete, the casefile will be given to the Southwestern Judicial Circuit District Attorneys Office for prosecution,' said the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Poague graduated from the Southwest Georgia Academy in Damascus in May, reported the Donalsonville News. Police investigated the pageant queen after an unresponsive 18-month-old boy was admitted to the emergency room at Phoebe Sumter Hospital in Americus, Georgia Poague is a freshman at Georgia Southwestern State University. She was crowned Miss Donalsonville in 2023 and competed in the National Peanut Festival Pageant According to the Thomasville Times-Enterprise, she is a freshman at Georgia Southwestern State University in Americus. She was named one of 22 students to the President Jimmy Carter Leadership Program. Requirements from the program include a minimum 1100 on the SAT or an ACT composite score of 22, a high school GPA of 3.0 or greater and strong leadership skills. She was crowned Miss Donalsonville in 2023 and competed in the National Peanut Festival Pageant. Just two days before New Hampshire voters head to the polls, Nikki Haley is falling further behind Donald Trump compared to her standing earlier this month. Among Republican voters in the first-in-the-nation state, 55 percent say they support former President Trump, which is 19 percentage points more than those who say they support former United Nations Ambassador Haley (36 percent). Meanwhile, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has fallen to a far-distant third with only 6 percent support, according to the Suffolk poll commissioned by NBC10 Boston and the Boston Globe. The results follow Haley's disappointing third place finish in the Iowa caucuses on January 15 where she earned 19.1 percent. The caucus yielded Trump a massive 51 percent victory and DeSantis a second place finish with 21.2 percent. A New Hampshire Republican primary poll shows Nikki Haley 19% behind Donald Trump among GOP voters in the state but 1% ahead of the former president among independent voters Haley is hoping to see a better outcome in the more moderate state of New Hampshire, where voters express they are less wooed by Trump's MAGA agenda and DeSantis' 'anti-woke' ideology. A few previous polls had Haley within one-digit of Trump and an American Research Group survey taken January 12-15 showed them in a dead tie with 40 percent each. One January 4-8 poll from University of New Hampshire Survey Center/CNN showed Haley just 7 percent behind Trump. The latest, however, shows Haley falling behind by nearly 20 points after her third-place finish in Iowa. Independent voters might be Haley's saving grace in the primary election on Tuesday as they show to be the wildcard, the Suffolk/NBC/Boston Globe poll reveals. Independent voters are allowed to vote in the primary and cast their ballot for whoever they choose. Many who lean left claim they will write-in President Joe Biden's name on Tuesday's ballot. Donald Trump took a commanding victory in the Iowa caucuses with 51% of the vote, but is less popular in the more left-leaning state of New Hampshire Haley, after coming in third in Iowa, is looking to pick-up a win in New Hampshire Among Republican voters, Haley is 19 percent behind, but when independent voters were polled, she was actually ahead of Trump by 1 point. Forty-five percent of the 217 independent voters surveyed say they will cast their ballot for Haley while 44 percent say they will go for Trump. Only 5 percent say they would vote for DeSantis. The polling in Iowa proved to be pretty accurate, with Trump winning by dozens of points against Haley and DeSantis, as well as biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, both of whom have since dropped out of the race. Ramaswamy has since backed Trump, as has Sen. Tim Scott, who dropped out of the 2024 Republican primary in mid-November. President Joe Biden's granddaughter Maisy Biden was spotted at the Saturday Night Live afterparty, cozying up with celebrity hosts and guest stars after the show presented a joke that called her grandfather's reelection campaign against Trump 'elder abuse.' Maisy, 23, was seen wearing a very relaxed outfit to combat the frigid cold that New York City is currently experiencing. She paired an orange and black bomber jacket with a bright yellow beanie, and loose-fitting jeans. Other guests appeared to be dressed in similarly eclectic manners. During the live taping of the show, Weekend Update hosts Colin Jost and Michael Che roasted the likely 2024 presidential nominees from both parties over their ages. Biden is 81 and Trump is 77. 'Guys I don't know if we should do this election,' said Jost. 'It's honestly starting to feel like elder abuse.' 'We should tell Trump and Biden that they both won' and then essentially send them out to pasture, he joked. President Joe Biden's granddaughter Maisy Biden, 23, attended the SNL afterparty over the weekend, following a series of featured jokes aimed at her powerful relative Colin Jost and Michael Che with the first Weekend Update of 2024! pic.twitter.com/jF85Bdbc9f Saturday Night Live - SNL (@nbcsnl) January 21, 2024 Both Donald Trump, 77, and Joe Biden, 81, have been described as too old for the country's top job. As their campaigns kick into high gear, increased scrutiny will be applied to any moments of confusion or error either experiences Australian actor Jacob Elordi hosted the January 20 SNL show with musical guest Renee Rapp, both of whom were in attendance at the afterparty. Rapp, who is currently starring in the musical reboot of Mean Girls, wore black pants, a black jacket, white t-shirt and a big smile as she headed to the event. Elordi's girlfriend, social media star and college admissions bribery scandal participant, Olivia Jade, was also in attendance. The long-limbed beauty was snapped leaving the afterparty bundled up in a long white fur coat, which she wore over black tights and black platform heels. Model and actress Cara Delevingne was also spotted in a hat and scarf paired with her characteristically downcast expression. Also pictured entering the party was cast member Chloe Fineman, who was accompanied by comedian Sarah Sherman, and famed director Steven Spielberg, who braved the below-freezing temperatures in what appeared to be just a suede jacket. A beaming Renee Rapp, who was SNL's musical guest this week, was seen entering the after party, which was held at Saks Fifth Avenue's ninth floor restaurant, L'Avenue Jacob Elordi and Olivia Jade have been dating on-and-off since 2021. Though breakup rumors about the stunning pair swirled this week, but all appeared well on Saturday night Comedian Sarah Sherman (left) and SNL cast member Chloe Fineman (right) attended the afterparty in vastly different styles of winter outfit Actress and model Cara Delavigne swung by the afterparty looking chilly and downtrodden Steven Spielberg was also at the late night gathering, sporting only a light suede jacket in the frigid NYC air During the SNL weekend update, Che, commenting on John Kerry's decision to leave his role as the administration's 'climate envoy' is a poor indicator for things to come on the Biden campaign trail. 'It's not a great sign that President Biden's campaign is a bigger emergency than climate change.' he said. Jost detailed two moments on the campaign trail from last week. Biden claimed to have had his picture taken with Congresswoman Deborah Ross at an event in North Carolina. She was, in fact, not at the event. The gaffe was reminiscent of the tangibly awkward moment in 2022, when the president asked Congresswoman Jackie Walorski, a Republican from Indiana, to stand up. Walorski had tragically passed away in a car accident the month prior. On the campaign trail in New Hampshire, former President Donald Trump seemed to sub rival Nikki Haley's name into a thought about former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. 'By the way, they never report the crowd on January 6. You know, Nikki Haley, Nikki Haley, Nikki Haley did you know they destroyed all of the information, all of the evidence, everything, deleted and destroyed all of it? 'All of it, because of lots of things, like Nikki Haley is in charge of security, we offered her 10,000 people, soldiers, national guards, whatever they want. They turned it down,' he said. Trump and Biden are currently their respective party's presumptive nominees for the Oval Office. Biden, despite a rocky first term and ongoing criticism about his old age and mental abilities, is not seriously being challenged by anyone inside the Democratic establishment for the nomination That led Haley to question Trump fitness to serve as president, while Trump hit back at Haley's concerns. Trump and Biden are currently their respective party's presumptive nominees for the Oval Office. Biden, despite a rocky first term and ongoing criticism about his old age and mental abilities, is not seriously being challenged by anyone inside the Democratic establishment for the nomination. Trump is facing several challengers, though the list has winnowed significantly and voting has only occurred in one state. It is not remotely clear that either Nikki Haley or Ron DeSantis have a path to the nomination, but the three will continue to duke it out in New Hampshire on Tuesday, followed by Nevada and South Carolina. An Ohio pastor has pleaded not guilty to criminal charges after he was accused of numerous zoning code violations for opening his church to homeless people. Pastor Chris Avell, of Dad's Place in Bryan, Ohio, was criminally charged with zoning violations on December 8. The church, located next door to a homeless shelter, started opening its doors to people escaping the cold in March 2023, reported WTVG. On November 21, the fire chief conducted a fire code inspection and discovered 18 violations. Officials performed two more inspections in January and found several violations that had not been fixed. 'The only reason this is still an ongoing fire/safety concern is because Chris Avell ignored the City's notices in the fall hence forcing criminal charges related to zoning,' city leaders claimed. Pastor Chris Avell, of Dad's Place in Bryan, Ohio, was charged with criminal zoning violations for letting homeless people stay at his church The church, located next door to a homeless shelter, started opening its doors to people escaping the cold in March 2023 The City of Bryan said the pastor ignored notices about violations which forced them to file criminal charges Dad's Place appears to continue to be open to sheltering people from the cold. On Facebook, the church said they would remain open 24/7 as a warming station from January 13 to January 16 to escape the bitter cold that gripped Ohio. 'We'll see, but I'm just, I'm praising God that at least as of now if I'm understanding correctly, the people can stay,' Avell said. 'Were a church, you know, this is what we do.' Jeremy Dys, the attorney representing Avell said, 'We're disappointed with the city that they would take that extra measure.' 'There are multiple attorneys on this case, Mayor Schlade and anyone from the city could have come and talked to any of us at any time.' The city said the church is located in a C-3 zoning district, which means it is not permitted for residential use. The violations found in November include improper installation of laundry facilities, inadequate or unsafe exit areas, an improperly installed gas grill, an unpermitted gas dryer, no permitted and approved kitchen hood over the stove and limited ventilation. During a November inspection, the fire department said they found 18 violations. Then returned twice in January and found people sleeping in the building and a gas leak On November 17, the city zoning administrator recommended that Bryan Chief of Police Gregory Ruskey (pictured) file charges against Dad's Place When the fire department returned on January 9, they found five violations had not been fixed. They returned again on January 16 and discovered approximately 20 people sleeping in the building and a gas leak. The zoning administrator inspected Dad's Place on November 17 and said he saw multiple people sleeping in the building and were told there was a bedroom in the facility. This led to the office recommending that Bryan Chief of Police Gregory Ruskey file charges against Dad's Place. On September 30, police received a complaint about a sex offender living out of his vehicle in the church parking lot. The City of Bryan said they started receiving an increase in calls for service based on inappropriate activity at Dad's Place since May 2023. The US has reportedly joined other nations in a renewed attempt to secure the release of the 132 hostages still in Gaza in return for an end to the war. Diplomats involved in the talks told the Wall Street Journal that officials from the US, Egypt and Qatar have presented Israel and Hamas with a 90-day proposal that involves three phases. The first phase involves a long pause in fighting while both sides release hostages. For Hamas, that means freeing all of the remaining civilians detained on October 7, while Israel would need to emancipate hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. During the first phase, the IDF would also withdraw forces from Gaza's towns and cities, end drone surveillance and double the amount of aid going into the region. Talks are set to continue in Cairo over the coming days, the diplomats said. The US has reportedly joined other nations in a renewed attempt to secure the release of the 132 hostages still in Gaza in return for an end to the war. (Pictured: Biden listens to Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as he reads a statement in Tel Aviv on October 18) Diplomats involved in the talks told the Wall Street Journal that officials from the US, Egypt and Qatar have presented Israel and Hamas with a 90-day proposal. (Pictured: Israeli soldiers advancing on the Israel-Gaza border on Sunday January 21) The first phase of a newly-reported proposal by the US, Egypt and Qatar would involve a long pause in attacks on Gaza. (Pictured: wounded Palestinian young women talk on their beds as they receive medical care onboard the French LHD Dixmude military ship, which serves as a hospital, as it docks at the Egyptian port of Al-Arish on January 21) It comes after previous negotiations broke down on November 30 during a week-long ceasefire in return for the phased release of around 100 Israeli hostages and 300 Palestinian prisoners. Neither Israel nor Hamas has agreed to the terms of the new proposals, and Taher Al-Nono, representing Hamas, told the WSJ that no real progress has been made. But the two parties' 'willingness to discuss the framework was a positive step,' one anonymous diplomat involved told the newspaper. Egyptian officials said Israeli negotiators are keen for a two-week ceasefire to allow for a second hostage-prisoner exchange, but they're reluctant to discuss the possibility of a permanent end to the war. Meanwhile, Hamas negotiators are using the hostages to their full advantage - saying they will only be released in return for thousands of Palestinian prisoners and a permanent ceasefire. The militant group has also said the reality of the previous short-term hostage deal was disappointing - with less aid than promised reaching Gaza and many of its prisoners getting re-incarcerated. If the first stage of the 90-day plan succeed, negotiators would move to phase two. In this phase, Hamas would free female Israeli soldiers and return the bodies of those who have died in the conflict, in exchange for Israel returning more Palestinian prisoners. A mourner in Reim, southern Israel beside photos of people who were killed and kidnapped during the October 7 attack by Hamas A picture taken from Rafah shows smoke billowing over Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip during Israeli bombardment on January 21 Phase three would involve the release of Israeli soldiers and fighting-age men in return for Israel moving its forces outside the current borders of the Gaza Strip. A permanent ceasefire would eventually follow, and the re-launching of the process to outline agreed borders of the Palestinian state. Egyptian officials said an international fund for the reconstruction of Gaza and safety guarantees for Hamas political leaders have also been tabled. The tentative negotiations are the latest development in the conflict between Israel and Palestine, which spiraled into a full-scale invasion of Gaza following the horrific October 7 Hamas attack. Israel said the attack killed around 1,200 civilians, and that many were raped, tortured and abused. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to destroy Hamas in retaliation, and began relentless strikes on the Gaza Strip that have so far killed more than 25,000 Palestinians. DailyMail.com has contacted the White House for comment on the latest negotiations, but the office did not immediately respond. Hamas released a video showing hostage Noa Argamani explaining how Yossi Sharabi and Itai Svirski were killed in captivity The world watched in horror as a video emerged of Noa Argamani, 26, sitting on the back of a motorbike as she screamed 'Don't kill me' to the men surrounding her during Hamas's attacks on Israel in October Itai Svirski has allegedly been killed while being held captive by Hamas Yossi Sharabi was allegedly killed after the building the hostages were housed in was hit by an Israeli airstrike The relaunch of negotiations also follows the release of a chilling video by Hamas showing 26-year-old hostage Noa Argamani being forced to say two of her fellow captives were dead. Argamani says they were killed by IDF strikes in the January 15 video. The footage followed another video posted that day in which Hamas claimed they would reveal which of the three hostages is still alive. In the footage they asked viewers 'what do you think?' - referring to the fate of the Nova festival attendee Ms Argamani, Yossi Sharabi, 53, and Itai Svirsky, 38. Videos of their capture from the peace festival horrified the world, with Argmani shown horrified as a Hamas militant stole her away on a motorbike. Civil servants are to be blocked from carrying out 'diversity activism' on the taxpayers time under a new review. Cabinet Office Minister John Glen has launched a review of Whitehall system that is set to force mandarins to carry out 'network activities' in their own time - before and after the working day, or in their lunch hour. In an interview with the Telegraph he said departments had made 'significant progress in making itself representative of the country it serves'. But ahead of a speech on Tuesday he added that there needed o be more focus on 'the core mission of the Civil Service'. 'We feel a responsibility, given that we're talking about what taxpayers' money is being spent on,' he said. 'People want to know that civil servants are spending their time on their primary job, not on network activities.' The former management consultant, who was a middle ranking Treasury minister before being reshuffled last year, added: 'When I was in the private sector, these activities were things that we did at breakfast before we started work and in the evenings, and that to me is where the orientation of these things should be headed.' Cabinet Office Minister John Glen has launched a review of Whitehall system that is set to force mandarins to carry out 'network activities' in their own time - before and after the working day, or in their lunch hour. But ahead of a speech on Tuesday he added that there needed o be more focus on 'the core mission of the Civil Service'. However, FDA union general secretary Dave Penman hit out at the plans. 'This is the language of the ''enemy within'',' he said. 'Ministers pandering to an agenda demonising the civil service as a ''leftist wokerati'', undermining the will of the government. It's leadership by rhetoric, not reality, and only serves to undermine the people needed to transform our public services.' Last week No10 scrapped plans to beef up rules for civil servants to prevent them from blocking Rwanda deportation flights. Illegal migration minister Michael Tomlinson said the Government was considering tweaking the Civil Service code in the wake of concerns raised by the Tory Right. Hardliners have suggested mandarins could hinder efforts to get aircraft off the ground if ministerial orders clash with rulings from the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) However, after his remarks sparked a back lash from trade unions, the Prime Minister's spokesman said that new 'guidance' would be sent to the Home Office providing 'clarity' for staff. Speaking to the Telegraph Mr Glen added: 'I expect and believe that civil servants will do their job as per the will of Parliament I don't have any concerns because I believe that the Civil Service are (sic) professional and will follow the instructions of the legislation and the ministers that they are working under.' However, addressing those who might have 'difficulties' with the law, he added that 'you live in a free society, there are other options available'. The heartbroken family of a teacher who took his own life at a Swiss clinic despite having no diagnosed illness have slammed the 'cowboy operation' and say they only received his ashes two months after he died. Chemistry teacher Alastair Hamilton, 47, paid more than 10,000 to die at the suicide clinic which then kept his death a secret from his family. His distraught mother Judith Hamilton, 81, last night warned that other families should be aware of the 'cowboy clinic' called Pegasos which, unlike the better-known Dignitas clinic, does not require people to be terminally ill or to be accompanied by someone when they go there to die. She said the family still haven't received the goodbye letters the clinic said he had left for them, or his personal belongings he had with him. The family learned he had taken his life at the clinic only after police examined his bank account statements and found that he had transferred thousands of pounds to Pegasos. Pegasos had initially refused to speak to them about his remains, saying it was 'against our lawyer's recommendations'. Eventually the family received his ashes in the post - two months after he died. Shockingly, it took the persistence of Mr Hamilton's devastated family, the Metropolitan Police, the Foreign Office and Interpol to discover what had happened to Alastair after he vanished last summer. Chemistry teacher Alastair Hamilton told his parents he was visiting a friend in Paris when instead he was flying to Basel in Switzerland to end his life by lethal injection His distraught mother Judith Hamilton, 81, last night warned that other families should be aware of the 'cowboy clinic' called Pegasos Alastair Hamilton with his grandmother Doris Robinson in 2017 The disturbing case can be revealed amid renewed pressure from cross-party MPs including Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer for UK law to be changed to allow assisted suicide in Britain In emails to Alastair's family, a frustrated Met Police sergeant criticised Pegasos's 'lack of compassion and lack of transparency' as 'completely unacceptable'. The disturbing case can be revealed amid renewed pressure from cross-party MPs for UK law to be changed to allow assisted suicide in Britain. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer recently called for MPs to be given a vote on the issue, and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's official spokesman said it was 'an issue of conscience for individual parliamentarians' to decide on. Mr Hamilton told his parents he was visiting a friend in Paris when instead he was flying to Basel in Switzerland to end his life by lethal injection. Alastair's family said they were prompted to talk about their devastating experience amid discussions around assisted death in the UK, where it is currently illegal to help someone kill themselves. Alastair's brother Toby, 52, said: 'I'm not against assisted dying but you can't let someone who is not terminally ill turn up and do this on their own, completely alone, and then completely disregard the family or next of kin. It's a cowboy operation. These people are cowboys.' Mrs Hamilton added: 'Why Pegasos acted the way they did and agreed to help Alastair do this, I don't think I will ever understand. 'We're all still heartbroken and still have so many questions, but I'm not sure we will ever get all the answers.' Under Swiss law, since 1942, people are allowed to help others to die as long as their motives are not selfish, such as for financial gain. The law states that the person wishing to die must be of sound mind, but they do not need to be terminally ill or have any medical conditions. The country's assisted suicide clinics are non-profit organisations. Its most famous clinic, Dignitas where at least 540 Britons have died in the past 20 years has strict rules that its clients must be terminally ill, suffering extreme pain or living with an 'unendurable disability'. But Pegasos, run by activist Ruedi Habegger, says its users do not need to be ill to kill themselves. Its website says it will approve someone's death request 'in as little as a few weeks' as long as they are aged over 18. Alastair's family said he had been battling with low moods since 2022, when he began losing weight and feeling increasingly tired. His family were unaware and were stone-walled for weeks by the clinic before finding out what had happened to Alistair Alastair Hamilton (2nd on left) and his five brothers in 2007 The 47-year-old schoolteacher with no diagnosed illness paid more than 10,000 to die at a Swiss suicide clinic which then kept his death a secret from his family Alastair Hamilton with his niece in 2015 Alastair Hamilton in 2007.With brothers ,Rupert,Bradley, Alastair, Toby and RussellAt Russell's wedding 2007 Alastair Hamilton with his grandmother Doris Robinson in 2017 Portrait of young Alastair Hamilton He had given up working full-time and moved back into his parents' home in Hampton, south-west London, but doctors could not work out what was wrong with him. His worried family paid for multiple private health checks, including tests for cancer and HIV, to understand Alastair's weight loss. But doctors were still unable to diagnose him with any condition. Toby, who owns a lettings agency, said: 'Alastair started talking about suicide like he was talking about going for a pint down the pub. 'I begged him not to say the 'S word' to our mum and said we would throw money at the problem, whatever he needed, until we figured it out.' On August 10, Alastair's father Edward, 85, drove him to Gatwick Airport. He had no reason to suspect his son was not travelling to meet a friend in France. Before he left for the last time, Mrs Hamilton said her son 'put his arms around me and gave me a big kiss, and just said, 'Always remember Mum that I love you very much, I always have, I always will, no matter what'. 'I was so chuffed to think he was picking up his life and getting some enthusiasm, and he was always very affectionate and loving towards me, so it didn't register that these words were his final goodbye.' His family became concerned when Alastair stopped responding to their calls, texts and voicemails over the next week. Mrs Hamilton phoned the police to report him as a missing person. Scotland Yard soon established that Alastair had in fact caught a flight to Switzerland. An analysis of his bank transactions then revealed four payments totalling 10,310 to the Pegasos Swiss Association, a small clinic run from an office in central Basel. Officers contacted Pegasos but, other than confirming Alastair had died there, the clinic failed to provide police with the date of his death or any other information. As the days dragged on, Toby persistently emailed the clinic, saying: 'I urge and beg you to please reply to my email as soon as possible. 'Can you imagine what this is doing to our family in an incredibly traumatic time?' However, the clinic did not reply for another week until it sent a cold email asked Toby to provide scans of his passport and to sign an affidavit in order to receive information about his brother. Despite Toby doing this immediately, another week passed by before they finally confirmed Alastair had died on August 14. Last night, Toby said: 'If you had the slightest bit of empathy, and you are the slightest bit of a decent human being, you would pick up the phone and actually talk to the grieving family.' Mrs Hamilton added: 'I would have remortgaged the house and had his body flown home if I had known what happened, but we never got that chance.' Only in October two months after Alastair died did the family receive his ashes in the post The family have still not received goodbye letters that the Pegasos clinic (pictured) said he had left for them or his wristwatch, clothes and other personal effects Only in October two months after Alastair died did the family receive his ashes in the post. They never received any goodbye letters, despite Pegasos claiming Alastair had left some for them. They have also never received his wristwatch, clothes or any of his belongings. Toby said: 'We eventually found Alastair's application to Pegasos which was literally just like a two-page covering letter for a job application. 'It doesn't seem like they do any of the checks that Dignitas do. They're not liaising with doctors for medical records or psychotherapists to make sure a person is ill.' Childline founder Dame Esther Rantzen revealed that she had joined the Dignitas clinic after her diagnosis of stage four lung cancer, and urged 'lawmakers to catch up with the public'. Last night, after hearing about Alastair Hamilton's case, Dame Esther told The Mail on Sunday: 'Obviously, any new law in the UK will need precautions built in. 'We can learn from other countries where such laws are already in place as to what is the most practical and humane way of legalising assisted dying without making people vulnerable.' Pegasos did not respond to several requests for comment. For help call Samaritans for free on 116123 or visit Samaritans.org The entrepreneur charted an air ambulance after his wife fell ill in Thailand A Russian millionaire and his wife are feared to be dead after their jet crashed into a mountain range in Afghanistan, according to reports. Entrepreneur Anatoly Evsyukov, 65 and his wife, Anna Evsyukova, 64, were aboard the Dassault Falcon 10 aircraft when it fell off the radar near the rural Badakhshan province, in northeastern Afghanistan, on Saturday. Anna had become seriously ill on a luxury holiday in Thailand and was being flown back to Russia for treatment. Her husband and business partner, Anatoly, was decorated by Vladimir Putin's regional governor for 'valiant' work building the economy in Rostov region. After Anna had developed a mysterious infection, requiring ventilator treatment, her husband chartered a medical evacuation plane to move her from a hospital in Pattaya to fly back to Moscow. Anatoly Evsyukov, 65, was decorated by Vladimir Putin 's regional governor for 'valiant' work building the economy in Rostov region Anna Evsyukova , 64, had become seriously ill on a luxury holiday in Thailand and was being flown back to Russia for treatment Their son Vitali, 41, was not permitted on the small executive air ambulance as only one accompanying passenger was allowed. He flew on a scheduled flight to Moscow, learning of the horrific crash after he landed. One of the other victims, Arkady Grachev, was reported to be the ex-husband of Ekaterina Agapova, the head of the company which owned the plane. They are believed to amongst the six passengers, including four crew members, killed on the ill-fated Dassault Falcon 10. The charted ambulance flight left Thailand on Saturday and refuelled in India, but according to Shot media in Russia, the pilots reported problems with the engines and fuel while flying over Afghanistan. Crew had alerted air traffic control about the fuel problem at 7.05pm local time on Saturday, and was seeking to land in Tajikistan on an unscheduled stop. The couple were aboard the Russian-registered Dassault Falcon 10 aircraft when it fell off the radar near the rural Badakhshan province, in northeastern Afghanista One engine failed at 19.19pm, and the other ten minutes later, before the jet disappeared from radar at about 19.30pm local time, 35 miles from Kulob airport in Tajikistan. The aircraft was on a route traveling from Gaya, India, to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, before proceeding to Zhukovsky International Airport in Moscow. Telegram channel, AviaSpotter, identified the wealthy couple, along with the crew named as Dmitry Belyakov, Arkady Grachev, Igor Syvorotkin and Pavel Popov - two of whom were paramedics. The aircraft is registered in Russia, according to the country's Federal Air Transport Agency, and belongs to ATLETIK-GRUPP LLC, based in Lyubertsy, Moscow region, and a private individual. The head of the company Ekaterina Agapova said: 'Nothing is known yet, now I'm trying to understand the situation and understand what happened. There is no confirmed data yet.' Russian state and independent media highlighted footage purporting to show smoke rising from the crash site Russian state and independent media highlighted footage purporting to show the crash site. The footage purportedly shows smoke rising from the site at least 12 hours after the crash, which would have been in darkness. The crash appears a first since Russian planes were subject to sanctions as a result of Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine. The sanctions have caused multiple emergency landings due to lack of spare parts and maintenance involving Western suppliers. However it is unclear whether the sanctions would have been imposed on an air ambulance. This is reported to be the ninth incident with a Russian plane since the beginning of the year and the eighth to occur during a flight in the last nine days. India's civil aviation authority said that the plane crash was not a scheduled commercial flight or an Indian chartered aircraft and that 'more details are awaited.' Protesters should be banned from covering their faces in the wake of anti-Semitism and pro-Hamas activity at Gaza demonstrations, a top government adviser has said. Lord Walney, the former Labour MP who is now the political violence tsar, recommended a law change in a review that comes after a serious of mass protests against Israeli military action. A feature of many of the marches has been marked demonstrators shouting pro-Hamas slogans, despite the group being banned as terrorists in the UK. His review is set to recommend that marches only be allowed to go ahead after clear undertakings than no one would wear masks, balaclavas or scarves across their faces, according to the Sun on Sunday. Lord Walney said: 'What would peaceful demonstrators have to fear from a ban on masks to tackle intimidation and violence?' Lord Walney, the former Labour MP who is now the political violence tsar, recommended a law change in a review that comes after a serious of mass protests against Israeli military action. His review is set to recommend that marches only be allowed to go ahead after clear undertakings than no one would wear masks, balaclavas or scarves across their faces. A feature of many of the marches has been marked demonstrators shouting pro-Hamas slogans, despite the group being banned as terrorists in the UK. It came as Britain today warned Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu that there is 'no other option' than a two-state solution to fighting in the Middle East. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps today lambasted Netanyahu's 'disappointing' rejection of a Palestinian state as part of any post-war plan for Gaza. Thousands of people demonstrated in central Tel Aviv on Saturday, calling for the return of hostages held in Gaza and early elections to oust Mr Netanyahu, who rules at the head of a coalition containing far-right nationalists. He has has vowed to press ahead with the offensive in Gaza for many months despite mounting pressure on Israel to rein in its military action as the scale of death and destruction intensifies. Speaking to the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Mr Shapps said: 'Palestinians deserve a sovereign state, Israel deserves to have the full ability to defend itself, its own security. Unless you pursue a two-state solution, I really don't see that there is another solution. At least 27 people have been killed in the Russian-occupied city of Donetsk following a missile attack, the Kremlin-appointed governor of the region said. Denis Pushilin, installed by the Kremlin after Russia annexed the region in September 2022, said a Ukrainian missile had struck the city, which currently sits on the front line of Russia's invasion, injured an additional 20 people after it struck a busy market in the city. Pushilin said the causality figures may change over the coming hours, with Russia's foreign ministry calling the strike a 'barbaric terrorist attack.' Kyiv has not yet commented on the attack. Photos of the aftermath of the attack, too graphic to publish, show bodies strewn across the streets around the market. One man was seen mourning the death of his wife, who had been covered with a green and white cloth Others were left to pick up after themselves following the attack Ukraine allegedly targeted a busy market, though Kyiv has not yet commented on the attack While almost all have been covered with sheets, some were left uncovered and their last expressions can be seen on their faces. One man was seen mourning the death of his wife, who had been covered with a green and white cloth, while others were captured cleaning up the destruction wrought upon the city. A Donetsk resident named Tatiana told local media she heard an incoming projectile overhead, and hid under her market stall. 'I saw smoke, people screamed, a woman was crying,' she said. The missile attack was the latest in a series of attacks against Russia and occupied territories launched over the last 24 hours. Ukrainian kamikaze drones successfully struck a major liquefied natural gas (LNG) processor and a missile plant on the same night. Video footage showed two enormous explosions at the Novatek plant in Ust-Luga port in Leningrad region, triggering a raging inferno at the site, which sits just 81 miles from St. Petersburg. A Ukrainian infantryman keeps the watch in the trenches on the front line, in the direction of Bakhmut Ukrainian infantrymen keep the watch in the trenches on the front line, in the direction of Bakhmut A Ukrainian official separately claimed that drones had hit the Shcheglovsky Val defence enterprise in Tula, which produces the Pantsir-S and Pantsir-S1 air defence missile systems used to defend key sites including Vladimir Putin's palaces. There were also Ukrainian strikes on Smolensk, Oryol and Bryansk regions provoking engagements with Russian air defences in one of Kyiv's most intense nights of the war in targeting military-linked targets inside Russia. Massive fireballs were seen rising through the air at the strategically important Ust-Luga site, which in 2022 processed almost 7 million tons of gas products, a major export product that added an estimated 5.29 billion to Putin's war chest from sales to the EU alone. Local media outlets reported that drones struck the Novatek facility at 3:20am local time, though Russia's defence ministry has not yet reported any attacks. Novatek's Ust-Luga processes gas condensate, which itself is a processed version of LNG, and turns it into products including jet fuel, gasoil, and naphtha, and ships them across the world. She was described by friends as a dedicated mother to her 12-year-old daughter Young served two tours in Afghanistan and volunteered in her free time A U.S. Army soldier and fitness influencer has died by suicide just days after her daughter's 12th birthday. On January 20, friends of Staff Sergeant Michelle Young, 34, shared the news that she had taken her own life. Days earlier, Young shared a post celebrating her daughter Gracie's birthday with her audience of over 100,000 followers. 'Happy birthday to the sweetest girl Ive ever known,' Young wrote. 'Shes a force to be reckoned with, shes witty, ambitious, kind, compassionate, intelligent, hardworking, hilarious, and selfless. 'I cried the entire time I made this. I love you forever, kiddo. The best part about my life is being your momma.' Her death has led to an outpouring of tributes from friends online and on her social media pages. 'Michelle was always so kind to me. We talked often about our daughters and how similar they are,' friend Brianna Hasan wrote. 'I know she loved Gracie more than anything. I cannot believe this happened.' U.S. Army soldier and influencer Michelle Young, 34, died by suicide just days after her daughter's 12th birthday Young was a staff sergeant who served two tours in Afghanistan. She enlisted in the Army at 17, returning home at 24, soon after her daughter's second birthday Friends remembered Young as a doting single mother to 12-year-old Gracie The Prescott, Arizona, resident enlisted in the Army at 17 years old. She returned from her first deployment seven years later, soon after her daughter's second birthday. 'I was in the military before I became a mother,' Young wrote on Instagram. 'I volunteered for this life, she didnt. Shes had to be away from her only parent during multiple deployments, TDYs, and training, yet she never complains.' In October, Young posted a series of photos where she and Gracie - both doting Chiefs fans - dressed up as Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift for Halloween. The 34-year-old served two tours in Afghanistan, most recently in 2021. That same year, she extended her military contract to serve 20 years. As of September, she had served 16. In her free time, Young worked as a crisis and trauma response volunteer while also volunteering at a local women's and children's homeless shelter. In one post, she explained that her passion for service was sparked by her own brother's suicide. 'That day forever changed my life, but it also created a passion for helping others that I dont think I would have had if I didnt experience the pain of losing him,' Young explained. Military values ran deep in her family. The soldier often spoke of her grandfather, a Navy veteran who served in WWII. 'Growing up the thought of joining the military never crossed my mind,' the 34-year-old wrote, adding that the only person she knew who had served at the time of her enlistment was her grandfather. 'I didnt know any women that were in the military.' The soldier boasted over 100,000 Instagram followers, where she frequently shared photos of her vacations abroad The 34-year-old served two tours in Afghanistan, most recently in 2021. That same year, she extended her military contract to serve 20 years. As of September, she had served 16 In her free time, Young volunteered at a local homeless shelter and worked as a crisis and trauma response volunteer The 34-year-old was also a model for Curves N Combatboots, a veteran-owned activewear brand The mother-of-one lost her own brother to suicide, sparking a passion for helping others Sarah Maine, the COO of veteran-owned activewear brand Curves N Combatboots, broke the news of Young's death through a GoFundMe campaign. 'Our good friend and athlete Michelle was taken from us by suicide,' she wrote. 'Michelle was a beautiful soul, an amazing friend, a single mother, a soldier, and is proof you never know what someone is going through or what demons they may be fighting.' Young's daughter, Maine explained, 'was her whole world,' and the campaign was organized to help Gracie 'with anything she may need. We know Michelle would appreciate us all looking out for her now.' It's unclear how or where Young took her life. Friends left comments under the campaign to honor the soldier. 'Michelle was an angel when I needed it, and I never got to repay her for her kindness on this earthly world. So Ill do it for her daughter,' Nicole Jimerson wrote. On Facebook Tatiana Mendes described Young, who was her maid of honor, as her 'best friend.' 'I dont know how Im ever going to survive without your light in my life,' Mendes wrote. 'You have touched so many of our lives. The thought of you not around is unfathomable.' She added: 'I promise you I will be there for Gracie forever and always. Rest in peace my sweet angel.' Young often spoke of her grandfather, a WWII veteran who served in the Navy, writing in one post that he was the only person she knew who had served at the time of her enlistment In a GoFundMe campaign, one friend remarked that Young's daughter was 'her whole world' She was remembered as 'a beautiful soul, an amazing friend, a single mother, a soldier' and 'proof you never know what someone is going through or what demons they may be fighting' One friend described Young as 'an angel when I needed it' and expressed regret that she 'never got to repay her for her kindness on this earthly world' Young's last Instagram post was dedicated to her daughter on her birthday. 'The best part about my life is being your momma,' she wrote 'I wish you had called old friend,' a friend wrote, sharing a photo of the duo together. 'I hope you have found the peace you were looking for' Vet Radio Syndicate, a veteran-oriented media channel, called Young 'a dear friend and a wonderful soul' Vet Radio Syndicate, a veteran-oriented media channel, remembered Young as 'a dear friend and a wonderful soul.' 'We sponsored her in a few of her fitness competitions as well as her coming on and doing shows about recruiting for the Army and National Guard,' read a social media post. 'Yesterday she took her own life and the demons won whatever battle she was dealing with....No one knows what drives people over the edge and sometimes those demons just wont let go. 'Hand salute young lady, you will be missed.' Tyr Symank, a fellow soldier and longtime friend of Young, left his own message reflecting on her life. 'I wish you had called old friend,' he wrote, sharing a photo of the duo together. 'I hope you have found the peace you were looking for.' Symank re-shared to Instagram an illustration of Young with angel wings embracing her daughter. He captioned the post: 'At her core, beyond the mental health struggles, the personal dramas, the social media...this is what I knew Michelle to be.' A teen born in Louisiana has been killed by Israeli gunfire in the occupied West Bank. Tawfiq Ajaq, 17, was shot and killed Friday - less than a year after relocating to the war-torn country to finish high school and reconnect with Palestinian culture. His parents brought him and his four siblings to the Middle East this past summer, before the conflict broke out. He was shot dead as he made the drive back to the small village by a member of the Israeli military, they said Saturday - before claiming the Biden Administration made the murder possible. Speaking from his funeral overseas, the teen's father, Hafez Ajaq, criticized the country's long-standing support for Israel, and implored Americans to 'see with their own eyes' the truth of the conflict. Scroll down for video: Tawfiq Ajaq, 17, was shot and killed Friday - less than a year after relocating to the war-torn country to finish high school and reconnect with Palestinian culture Relatives mourn at his funeral in his family's Palestinian home village in Al-Mazra'a ash-Sharqiya, West Bank, Saturday Both the US and Israel have issued statements indicating they are investigating the teen's death, though the latter has yet to confirm responsibility. As of Sunday morning, both probes - with Israel's being carried out by the country's police force - have yet to produce anything substantial. Hafez, meanwhile, claimed Americans are not getting the 'true story' about the shooting and the ongoing conflict. 'They are killer machines,' he said of Israeli forces, who have received more than $260 billion from the US alone since the country was formed in 1945. 'They are using our tax dollars in the US to support the weapons to kill our own children,' he continued, speaking from the ceremony at Al-Mazraa Ash-Sharqiya. 'The American society does not know the true story,' he went on. 'Come here on the ground and see whats going on.' He then asked: 'How many fathers and mothers have to say goodbye to their children?' 'How many more?' Ajaq - one of more than 30 Americans killed in the conflict - was born and raised in Gretna, Louisiana, near New Orleans, relatives said His parents brought him to Ash-Sharqiya - which has a population of under 5,000 - last year, and on Saturday, he was given a hero's sendoff. Crowds of Palestinians were pictured pulsing through village streets, as men who held aloft a stretcher with the teen's body. It was wrapped in a Palestinian flag. Ajaq was killed Friday by Israeli fire and police say they have launched an investigation 'I am feeling full of sadness, for his mother, his father, his uncles, myself - all his relatives,' said Mohammad Salen, Ajaq's great uncle. 'In this situation, the sadness is covering us from all over' 'The good always dies young,' Tawfiq's cousin, Maher Abdul Jabbar, said. Thats a prime example of what happened to my cousin.' He further told NBC News : 'Born and raised in the U.S., he's been here for one year.' 'He does not know anything - I'm teaching him what's life. I'm teaching him what's the land. What's the cost of the land? 'And here he is,' he continued, after carrying the boy's casket. 'He's [now] paying for it, for freedom.' NewsNation also spoke to several of the victims family members Saturday, and learned how they are heartbroken over the loss. They described how they are still trying to piece together what happened, in their first broadcast interview since the incident. 'I am feeling full of sadness, for his mother, his father, his uncles, myself - all his relatives,' said Mohammad Salen, Ajaq's great uncle . 'In this situation, the sadness is covering us from all over.' Appearing by videolink, the man went on to reveal how Ajaq had been planning to spend his senior year overseas, before heading back to New Orleans, his birthplace, for college. There, Salen said, the teen intended to study business - a dream that's now been cut short. The boy's father, meanwhile, claimed Americans are not getting the 'true story' about the shooting - and the conflict in general - and thus need to 'see with their own eyes' the senselessness of the violence 'They are killer machines,' he said of Israeli forces, who have received more than $260 billion from the US alone since the country was formed in 1945 'They are using our tax dollars in the US to support the weapons to kill our own children,' he continued, speaking from the ceremony at Al-Mazraa Ash-Sharqiya 'The good always dies young,' Tawfiq's cousin, Maher Abdul Jabbar, said. Thats a prime example of what happened to my cousin.' He and others proceeded to explain how Ajaq had been a member of a mosque in the New Orleans area before moving, and that the place of worship had held a vigil for him Saturday night as officials investigation continues. When asked if he 'could tell him something now', Jabbar repliedd: I would tell him that I was always proud of him [that] he was such a good kid. [That] I loved him. 'Thats the main thing,' he added, growing emotional. 'I loved him; our whole family loved him. He was really precious to us.' An Israeli bulletin stated officials had already received reports about an incident that took place near where Ajaq was killed, where an off-duty police officer and a civilian 'fired toward a Palestinian individual suspected of hurling rocks in the area'. 'An IDF soldier was present in the area,' the military said. 'The claim that the soldier fired at the Palestinian is under review. The Israel Police have opened an investigation into the incident. The US Department addressed the teens death in its own statement, one bolstered by comments from NSC Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby at a White House press conference. Israeli forces, meanwhile, have said they are probing the incident, issuing a statement claiming officials had already received reports about an incident that took place near the shooting, where an off-duty cop and a civilian 'fired toward a Palestinian individual suspected of hurling rocks in the area' 'An IDF soldier was present in the area,' the military said. 'The claim that the soldier fired at the Palestinian is under review. The Israel Police have opened an investigation into the incident The incident is only the latest latest fatal shooting in the West Bank, where nearly 370 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war more than three months ago The US addressed the teens death in its own statement, saying it has asked Israel for more information The sparse statement read: We can confirm the death of a US citizen civilian in the West Bank on January 19, 2024. We are working to understand the circumstances of the incident and have asked the government of Israel for further information. Questioned about the killing at Friday's press briefing at the White House, the U.S. National Security Council spokesman said: Its definitely deeply concerning, 'Im afraid I dont have anymore information,' he added. [But] [W]e're seriously concerned about it.' The incident is only the latest fatal shooting in the West Bank, where nearly 370 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza more than three months ago. The Biden administration recently has repeatedly expressed concern about violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians. Ajaq - one of more than 30 Americans killed in the conflict - was born and raised in Gretna, Louisiana, near New Orleans, relatives said. His parents brought him to Ash-Sharqiya - which has a population of under 5,000 - last year, and on Saturday, he was given a hero's sendoff. Crowds of Palestinians were pictured pulsing through village streets, as men who held aloft a stretcher with the teen's body. It was wrapped in a Palestinian flag. Horses have once again been made to leap and hurtle through fire by human beings as part of an annual religious festival in the name of Spain's patron saint of animals. Horses and riders were seen charging through flames several feet high in the streets of Vilanova D'Alcolea, in Castellon, eastern Spain, as part of an annual festival celebrating Saint Antoni. The saint, canonised more than 790 years ago, is well-loved in Spain, and days-long festivals are held the country in his honour. Participants believe that horses who leap through the flames of specially constructed bonfires will be purified during the coming year. Organisers claim that the festival dates back some 500 years. Legend holds that Saint Anthoni was visited by the Devil, dressed as a woman, while he lived in a desert. Horses and riders were seen charging through flames several feet high in the streets of Vilanova D'Alcolea, in Castellon, eastern Spain According to the region's tourism board, the horses are blessed, and a procession begins marching through the streets of the village Following the procession, a race known as the 'tropell' takes place, which sees riders racing their horses without saddles to a finishing line Keen to avoid temptation, he walked across the burning embers of a fire to distract himself According to the region's tourism board, the horses are blessed, and a procession begins marching through the streets of the village. There, horses and riders are forced to leap over 'spectacular barriers of fire' set up along a predetermined route, known as the matxa. Following the procession, a race known as the 'tropell' takes place, which sees riders racing their horses without saddles to a finishing line. Pastries known as 'coques' are give to participants who make it to the finishing line, and the distribution of the pastries are meant to display the strength of each horse and the rider's skill in handling them. While local groups have for years defended the practice, rights groups have condemned the festival as animal abuse A man jumps over the fire during the Matxa portion of it during Saint Antoni festival The rider with the most coques is given alive chicken as a prize, and a dance is held afterwards. While local groups have for years defended the practice, rights groups have condemned the festival as animal abuse. The town's mayor Maria Jesus Martin Gomez disagreed, previously saying: 'The only thing I have to say is that the animals don't suffer anything at all. He added: 'The government of Castilla and Leon assign us a vet and the City Hall hires another one, who is making rounds all around the village during the festival. 'Every year they produce a report which has always been favourable and nothing has ever happened here.' A terrified woman escaped a kidnap attempt when a driver tried to drag her into a car as she walked home from a night out. Police are trying to traced the driver after the attempted kidnap in Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, just before midnight on Saturday night. The woman has reported that a man in a dark red, possibly burgundy coloured car approached her while she was walking along Tan Y Graig Road from the British Royal Legion pub. The mystery man was described as having dark hair and an accent that is not local to the area. He asked her to get into the car - and when she would not, he exited the car and tried to drag her to the vehicle. Police have released a CCTV image as part of their investigationA terrified woman escaped a kidnap attempt when a driver tried to drag her into a car as she walked home from a night out A Google Maps image of Tan Y Graig Road in Llanelli A police spokesperson said: 'Thankfully, the woman escaped to a nearby house - she was not harmed but is understandably shaken by the incident. 'Extensive CCTV and house to house enquiries have been carried out, and police are now appealing to the public to help them identify the car and the driver.' The investigation has established that the car travelled along Hendre Road from Tan Y Graig Road. Officers are encouraging local people to check CCTV and doorbell or dashcam footage for sightings of the car. The incident is being treated as isolated at this time. Anyone with information that could help officers with their investigation is asked to report it to Dyfed-Powys Police, either through a direct message on social media, online at: https://bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk, or by calling 101. The King holds secret annual awards dubbed the 'spy Oscars' for those who have risked their lives for the country, spymasters claim. The ceremonies for the spies were first held in 2012, and were mentioned on the Instagram account of MI5 at the time of the King's Coronation. King Charles, who is patron of the Intelligence Services, presented hundreds of the secret agents with honours, awards and citations for bravery back when he was the Prince of Wales. The locations of these events have differed over the years, including taking place at Thames House - the HQ of MI5 in London. Security sources told The Telegraph that there are no fixed dates for the ceremonies. It is uncertain if Prince William will potentially take over this role. The ceremonies for the spies were first held in 2012 and were mentioned on the Instagram account of MI5 at the time of the King's Coronation King Charles, who is patron of the Intelligence Services, presented hundreds of the secret agents with honours, awards and citations for bravery back when he was the Prince of Wales The majority of spy operations are never known to the public and consequently the agents don't receive any public recognition. Pictured is the MI5 building The majority of spy operations are never known to the public and consequently the agents don't receive any public recognition. But sources told The Telegraph that the King personally presented awards to those responsible for foiling dozens of terrorist attacks. Colonel Philip Ingram, a former Army intelligence officer, told the newspaper: 'It is fantastic that His Majesty takes a personal interest and plays his role in saying thank you to some of these exceptional men and women who have to permanently live and work in the shadows.' The awards were separated into operational and non-operational divisions, The Telegraph reported. This is so that archivists, interpreters and other forms of staff could also be rewarded. Also included are counter-terrorism and counter-espionage workers, along with those tackling organised crime alongside the police. Many agents honoured by the King were involved in operations in countries like Russia, China and Iran. Ken McCallum, the director-general of MI5, Sir Richard Moore, the head of MI6, also known as 'C', and Anne Keast-Butler, the director of GCHQ are the only members of the intelligence services to be named publicly. MI5 Director General, Ken McCallum, gives a speech at Thames House in central London Pictured is Anne Keast-Butler, the first female director of GCHQ Sir Richard Moore, from Leatherhead, Chief, Secret Intelligence Service, is made a Knight Commander of the Order of St Michael and St George by King Charles III In an Instagram post at the time of the Coronation, the official MI5 account said: 'Alongside the rest of the nation, we are delighted to celebrate the coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla. READ MORE - The Spook of Cambridge: Wills makes secret visit to GCHQ spy base after Royals warned over computer hacking Advertisement We have benefited from His Majesty's public and private recognition of our work, including through a regular award ceremony in which he recognises the efforts and achievements of teams working in the UK's intelligence agencies. 'His dedication to the intelligence agencies means a great deal to our people. 'From everyone at MI5, we offer our heartfelt congratulations to Their Majesties as we continue in our unwavering commitment to keeping this country safe.' In 2015, it was reported that Prince William has made a top secret visit to the Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) the maximum security 'listening station' which tracks electronic traffic of terrorists and spy agencies around the world. The Duke's first ever trip to GCHQ, housed in a doughnut-shaped building in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, comes after The Mail on Sunday revealed that he and other young Royals were being advised to change their email addresses and cut back on social media activities over fears they could be targeted by foreign spies and hackers. It is uncertain if Prince William will potentially take over this role But questions were asked last night about the Duke's use of a publicly funded Royal helicopter to make the trip, as it was not an official public engagement and was not announced in the Palace's Court Circular. The Duke was flown from London's Kensington Palace to Gloucestershire airport on the Queen's helicopter Flight, funded by the taxpayer, and which is supposed to be only used for official engagements by the Royals. A Palace source initially described the 200-mile round trip as a 'private visit' but later suggested it was 'official', and so could possibly be paid from the taxpayer-funded Royal Travel Budget. Kensington Palace and GCHQ refused to say whom he met, or what he saw. But it is believed the Prince met the new head of GCHQ, Robert Hannigan, and also saw the agency's code breakers at work, monitoring internet and communications traffic to pick up terrorist threats. Other members of the Royal family have previously visited GCHQ, which was opened by the Queen in 2004. A GCHQ spokesman said: 'Prince William paid a private visit to GCHQ on March 19. As it was a private visit we can't go into further details of what his itinerary involved.' The Bahrain Institute for Pearls and Gemstones (Danat) has announced that its CEO Noora Jamsheer has been elected as a member of the esteemed Presidents Council at the World Confederation of Jewellers (CIBJO) and Vice President of the CIBJO Pearl Commission. The CIBJO Pearl Commission, headquartered in Bern, Switzerland, serves as the oldest global jewellery industry consortium that unites all contributors of the jewellery industry under one umbrella. Its primary objective is to encourage collaboration among jewellery sector pioneers, address international industry concerns, establish professional standards, and safeguard consumer rights and the confidentiality of their activities. Welcoming the appointment, Gaetano Cavalieri, the President of CIBJO, said: "This selection follows a careful evaluation of candidates for the two strategic roles during which Mrs. Jamsheer's exceptional track record in the field of pearls and jewellery was carefully reviewed. Her instrumental role in leading Danat, transforming its laboratory into a world-class entity in the spheres of pearls, jewellery, and gemstones, has been a cornerstone." "This effort not only solidified Bahrain's prominent position in these fields but also established a global network of connections with key international entities operating in the pearl and jewellery sector," stated Cavalieri. Additionally, she had readied a specialised team of experts and equipped Danat Institute with state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring excellence in every endeavour. Cavalieri said: "In her capacity, Jamsheer will focus on developing innovative strategies, directing efforts towards furthering CIBJOs strategic initiatives and strengthening the position of pearls in the jewellery industry. Additionally, she will strengthen collaboration between the Kingdom of Bahrain and all stakeholders in the pearl sector and contribute significantly to standardizing and promoting professional and ethical practices within the pearl industry." "Her efforts aim to globally enhance consumer confidence and credibility within the industry, marking a significant step towards elevating the standards and reputation of the jewellery and pearl sectors," he added. On the top recognition, Jamsheer said: "I am deeply honoured to join the ranks of the jewellery sector's most esteemed organization. Danat takes immense pride in contributing significantly to the future trajectory of the global pearl and gemstone industry. These appointments highlight Danats unwavering dedication to the jewellery and pearl industry in the Kingdom of Bahrain, a heritage that spans centuries." "The kingdom has long been synonymous with this industry, evolving into an enduring legacy. Danat remains steadfast in its commitment to leading the way in industry advancements, dedicated to showcasing our unparalleled potential on the world stage," she noted. She pointed out that Danat had made significant investments in enhancing Bahrain's reputation as a premier pearl and gemstone hub. "By providing quality services and outfitting our laboratory with cutting-edge technologies and advanced equipment for testing and evaluation, we have solidified Bahrain's standing in the global jewellery sector. In my new role, I am committed to championing the unique elements and characteristics of the Bahraini pearl industry. I will leverage my expertise to foster a culture of protection and preservation, promoting this rich heritage on a global scale," she added.-TradeArabia News Service As the cost of living increases across the country, some states are offering big financial incentives to bring new residents to their towns. An analysis from Republican members of the US Senate Joint Economic Committee that compared the prices of everyday essentials including food, housing, energy and transportation from October 2023 to January 2021 found Americans need an extra $11,400 a year to afford the same quality of life. Seeking reprieve from costly expenses, affordability is said to be the most powerful force driving real estate in 2024, according to Zillow. The real estate company said cities in the Great Lakes, Midwest and the South are among the hottest markets this year due to job growth, home value growth and how quickly homes are being sold. For those looking to get paid to move and escape high-density urban living, here are five states with affordable housing opportunities and relocation bonuses, according to MakeMyMove.com. West Virginia The Ascend West Virginia program offers $12,000 to remote workers who move to the Mountain State. The Ascend West Virginia program offers $12,000 to remote workers who move to the Mountain State. Morgantown (pictured) offers additional incentives that bring the total to $20,000 Applicants must be 18 years or older and already have a full-time remote job to qualify for the program. If selected, participants will receive $10,000 over their first year paid in monthly installments. Then they will receive $2,000 after completing their second year in West Virginia. Cities such as Morgantown and Greenbrier Valley offer additional incentives that bring the total up to $20,000. According to Zillow, the average home value in West Virginia is $154,371. Kansas In Kansas, the city of Topeka is offering up to $15,000 to move and work in Shawnee County. Topeka, Kansas (pictured), offers up to $15,000 to move and work in Shawnee County Participants in the GO Topeka program must work for an employer participating in the program and move to Topeka for their full-time job. They can receive $10,000 for renting in the first year and $15,000 in funds for purchasing a home. Kansas also offers a tax reimbursement for employee moving expenses for those who relocate to the Sunflower State. The average home value in Kansas is $212,995. Oklahoma The Tulsa Remote program offers $10,000 to remote workers who move to Oklahoma. The Tulsa Remote program offers $10,000 to remote workers who move to Oklahoma. Pictured Tulsa, Oklahoma Program requirements include currently having a full-time remote job and living outside of Oklahoma for one full year before applying. If selected, participants will receive their money after a lease has been signed or a qualifying home has been purchased and approved. In addition to the grant, participants receive a 36-month membership to a co-working space. In Oklahoma, the average home value is $195,594. Indiana Several communities in Indiana offer relocation incentives to attract new residents to their towns. Marion, Indiana (pictured) offers cash incentives starting at $5,000 to move to the town Marion and Angola offer cash incentives starting at $5,000. In southern Indiana, Daviess County will give new residents $5,000 to move to the rural community. The average home value in Indiana is $227,178. Kentucky Five counties in eastern Kentucky came together to offer financial incentives for remote workers, according to Shaping Our Appalachian Region. Floyd, Harlan (pictured), Johnson, Letcher and Pike counties in eastern Kentucky are offering packages including $5,000 for relocation The packages include a $5,000 cash for relocation, the opportunity to access a $2,500 bonus for a spouse who will work locally in education or healthcare and a welcome package worth $250. The offer is available in Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Letcher and Pike counties. In Kentucky, the average home value is $194,848. Ron DeSantis' campaign is over - a stunning fall for a man once believed to be a serious challenger to Donald Trump. The announcement, confirmed in a statement, comes after a disappointing 18 months during which from the Florida Republican suffered several missteps. Last week, the popular conservative was rejected by Iowa's Republican voters in favor of another Trump nod - a result that, while not unexpected, still stung for a campaign that sunk most of its resources into the state only to come up short. It also left him uncomfortably close to a third-place finish following a campaign filled with gaffes - including viral videos of the governor laughing, and a decision to announce his bid on Twitter, before being met with glitches and technical problems. The campaign has also hemorrhaged staff as well as donors, whom sources earlier in the day claimed had been put off by DeSantis's insistence to push against the woke. In a video released Sunday, the 45-year-old conceded that he and his remaining staffers '[no longer] have a clear path to victory,' and are thus calling it quits. Hours earlier, several current and former DeSantis staffers painted a bleak picture of the current state of his campaign. One former adviser to a DeSantis super PAC told NBC News: 'When they decided to do the Twitter Spaces launch, maybe then at that point, I knew they were stupid.' The once shiny and hopeful idea of a DeSantis campaign was at its peak in the weeks after his astounding 20-point win in the state of Florida in November 2022 - the presidential campaign never came together as well as it seemed like they might at that time Now, days ahead of the New Hampshire primary, where DeSantis is expected to come in third (of the three remaining candidates), former supporters are hoping for a quick end to the campaign Despite the struggles, DeSantis - until Sunday afternoon - had maintained until the end that he was going to win Iowa. He toured the whole of the state meeting with voters, and even earned the endorsement of both the state's very popular governor Kim Reynolds, as well influential evangelical leader Bob Vander Plaats. But his retail politics play, which has often been rewarded by Iowa voters, did not pay off for the 45-year-old father of three in the notorious purple state. The New Hampshire primary, meanwhile, had been slated for this week - though DeSantis - who in recent months had bet big on Iowa - had all but ignored it. 'We haven't spent very much money here,' he told Fox News last week, before reports surfaced Sunday that the politician was mulling how to go about a graceful exit. 'Nikki Haley is spending an inordinate amount of money here,' he added at the time, before theorizing that Trump appeared to be benefitting from his big win in the battleground state. That momentum, he conceded, looked to be poised to carry onto the next caucus stop in New Hampshire, where DeSantis would likely again placed behind not only Trump, but surprise runner-up Nikki Haley. Not settling for third of three, DeSantis' team looked poised to instead focus on South Carolina, a state that loves Trump and where Haley served as a governor for six years, though those plans now look to be a thing of the past. Likely making the decision after becoming faced with the abject reality that he cannot beat Trump, his only remaining hope - that something will knock the frontrunner out of contention - also appears to be a fool's errand. Hours before his announcement - where he stoically told followers that he is 'suspending my campaign' - pne supporter told NBC that DeSantis, echoing statements he has long said publicly on the campaign trail, 'believes there are multiple scenarios where Trump wouldnt be the nominee.' But Trump is lively and charismatic - perhaps metrics in which DeSantis fell short. However, at 77, he is also somewhat long in the tooth - a fact that had provided the Florida politico some semblance of hope, given his rival's candidacy, at least by comparison, was inherently risky and unpredictable. More importantly, the former president also remains in serious, ongoing legal trouble - though, as the landslide result from Iowa last week suggests, that doesn't seem to be stopping him from snagging the nomination. That said, due to the uniqueness of the situation - as well as the lack of precedent - a conviction in one of his five criminal cases could potentially stop him from accepting the nomination. DeSantis, as a result, had painted himself as the strong alternative to the frontrunner if he, for some reason, becomes unavailable due to his legal woes. Needless to say, it is not how things were supposed to shake out for the man who won the formerly purple state of Florida by 20 points in a 2022 reelection following a successful first-term, and seemed poised to give Trump a serious challenge. DeSantis has gone head-to-head with Nikki Haley and eked out a win over her camp in Iowa, but whether he can beat her in her own home state of South Carolina remains to be seen Vivek Ramaswamy (left) who dropped out of the race after the Iowa caucus, immediately endorsed Donald Trump and will likely become a campaign surrogate DeSantis, some speculate, is hanging on for now because of the potential that Trump could drop out due to unforeseen circumstances involving his age or legal troubles One month after his unprecedented win in Florida, polls showed DeSantis beating both Trump and Biden in potential election cycle matchups. At the time, support seemed to be waning for Trump after what had been another tough election cycle for Republicans - at least those outside the state of Florida. DeSantis was positioned as the heir apparent to Trump's Republican party, but the odds that Trump was really going to back down never seemed very high. There was a moment when DeSantis was eating into Trump's numbers so significantly, that a convincing argument could clearly be made, and was made to major backers, for his candidacy. But he would wait another six months to officially declare his run for office. Momentum had already been lost, and a glitchy, underwhelming campaign rollout on Elon Musk's newly revamped Twitter spaces was a bad omen for what was to come. 'A total failure to launch,' is how one former DeSantis adviser described it. 'This thing blew up on the launch pad,' he continued. A fitting metaphor given the announcement was hosted by SpaceX founder Elon Musk, who certainly has experience with such things. It was not long after the messy May 2023 start that troubled brewed amid the ranks of the DeSantis campaign and super PAC. Personality clashes would launch thousands process stories that became a central theme of the media's coverage of the DeSantis camp, and the fighting never really worked themselves out. NBC reports that finances at both the DeSantis campaign and Never Back Down were mismanaged to varying degrees. But, poor decisions led to several cycles of boom and bust hiring and firing activity that became a highly reported bad look. Ron and Casey DeSantis (left) put almost all of their campaign eggs into the Iowa basket, and came up tragically short Trump, who DeSantis once looked like he may be a real threat to, is cruising toward the Republican nomination And then came the money problems. According to the NBC report, once momentum began to stall inside the campaign - which was almost immediately - DeSantis began struggling to directly fundraise for his team. Notably, Citadel founder Ken Griffin, who had previously backed DeSantis' political efforts, edged away from the campaign reportedly due to the governor's focus on 'culture war' battles. DeSantis tends to come down on the side of social conservatives, which may have been a problem for him during this primary cycle. 'Losing Ken was big,' a donor told NBC. 'And the bigger problem was it sent a signal to others.' The day DeSantis put rumors about his exit to bed, morale at his HQ was reportedly as low as it had ever been. Staffers said they weren't sure when the road will end for their fearless leader - telling the outlet they were hoping it would be sooner rather than later - and that came on Sunday. 'Its done. Hes not going to win it. If you are serious about not wanting Trump to be the nominee, as much as it pains me to say this at this point, I think all the energy goes to Nikki Haley,' said one former Never Back Down, DeSantis's SuperPAC, operative. 'Im just really tired of all the infighting.' A British journalist who was found guilty by a French court of murdering Sophie Toscan Du Plantier has died following a suspected heart attack. Ian Bailey, who was convicted of murdering the filmmaker in 1996, collapsed in the street in Bantry, West Cork. People immediately rushed to provide assistance to the 66-year-old, who would have turned 67 on January 27. One local first aider reportedly provided CPR for 20 minutes until the emergency services arrived, but Mr Bailey was unresponsive and pronounced dead at the scene. He had previously suffered up to three heart attacks and had been admitted to both Bantry Hospital and Cork University Hospital, where in the latter he had a procedure done on his heart. Ian Bailey, who was convicted of the 1996 murder, collapsed in the street in Bantry, West Cork Mr Bailey was one of the first to report on the death of 39-year-old Sophie Toscan Du Plantier when she was murdered outside her holiday home in a rural part of West Cork However, it was deemed he was too unwell to have a required by-pass operation. Mr Bailey was one of the first to report on the death of 39-year-old Sophie Toscan Du Plantier when she was murdered outside her holiday home in a rural part of West Cork. He was arrested twice but never tried in Ireland. In 2019 he was found guilty in France, where he was tried 'in absentia' and sentenced to 25 years behind bars. In 2020, Ireland's High Court rejected an attempt by French authorities to have him extradited. He has always denied any involvement in the horrendous murder, but was arrested twice and questioned about the murder which horrified the country. While reporting on the case for newspapers across Ireland and the UK, Mr Bailey delivered food to Sophie's neighbour's house - and saw this as an opportunity to look at the crime scene. A Netflix documentary explained how Bailey wrote stories about Sophie having a string of lovers and having parties with 'sex, drugs and rock and roll' which locals blasted as 'ridiculous'. Mr Bailey had previously suffered up to three heart attacks and had been admitted to both Bantry Hospital and Cork University Hospital An integral part of French 90s showbusiness culture, Sophie was the wife of Daniel Toscan du Plantier, a famous Parisian film producer - and a friend of Jacques Chirac - and mother to Pierre Louis, her much adored son from a previous relationship. Her friends and family explain that she had one lover - Bruno Carbonnet - who was known to her husband and that they had split acrimoniously in 1993. He was a suspect in the early investigation but was able to prove he was in Paris at the time of the murder. Sophie had loved to retreat from the spotlight and social whirl of Paris to the rugged beauty and solitude of the wind-blown Irish coast, where she could be alone to think, write and walk. Sophie had loved to retreat from the spotlight and social whirl of Paris to the rugged beauty and solitude of the wind-blown Irish coast, where she could be alone to think, write and walk Three years before her death she had bought a bleached white house in West Cork, over the churning Atlantic Ocean, the Fastnet lighthouse blinking in the distance. In December 1996, she returned for a short pre-Christmas break, intending to head back to her husband and son in Paris for the festive celebrations. She never made it. Sophie's body, battered almost beyond recognition, was discovered lying face-up in the grass verge of a lane, 100 yards from the house she loved in Toormore, a tiny outcrop, six miles West of the nearest town, Schull. She was clothed in white pyjamas and was wearing hastily laced-up boots. A large rock and concrete block, both spattered with her blood, had been used to strike her repeatedly on the head and body. The coroner's report noted she had 50 separate injuries. AstraZeneca is is facing tens of millions of pounds in compensation claims from 35 alleged victims over complications they say were caused by the Covid-19 vaccine. The pharmaceutical giant, which developed its jab in partnership with the University of Oxford, is set to face a High Court battle over claims the vaccine is 'defective'. It has been linked to a newly identified condition called Vaccine-Induced Immune Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis (VITT) which causes blood clots. At least 81 people have died due to complications linked to the very rare side effect while hundreds of others have also suffered illness as a result. In what may be one of the biggest cases of its kind, more cases are expected to be lodged, meaning the vaccine manufacturer could face up to 80million in compensation payouts if it loses, according to The Telegraph. The pharmaceutical giant, which developed its jab in partnership with the University of Oxford , is set to face a High Court battle over claims the vaccine is 'defective' MP Sir Jeremy Wright has been urged the government to take 'step in and settle' legal claims The government indemnified AstraZeneca and other vaccine manufacturers as it sought to roll out vaccines during the pandemic. Under Vaccine Damage Payment scheme, victims of certain vaccines, including ones used to beat Covid, are entitled to a one-off 'all-or-nothing' sum of 120,000 from the Government. Tory MP Sir Jeremy Wright, whose constituent Jamie Scott suffered a 'significant permanent brain injury' from a blood clot after getting the job in 2021, has urged the government to take action. The former Attorney General said: 'The public need the confidence to know they will be looked after if in the tiny, tiny minority of cases where the vaccine has gone wrong. 'And that confidence is damaged if the Government does not step in and settle these cases.' The claimants are suing under the Consumer Protection Act, suggesting that the vaccine was not as safe as those who received it were led to believe. AstraZeneca is fighting the claims, calling them 'confused' and 'wrong in law'. The company has also pointed to the millions of lives the vaccine is believed to have saved in its first year of rollout. The AstraZeneca vaccine is not being used as part of the UK's booster programme after experts recommended mRNA vaccines such as the Pfizer or Moderna jabs should be used instead. Dr Stephen Wright (left), 32, died from a blood clot to the brain after having his first dose of the AstraZeneca jab in January 2021 Vaccine complications have been listed on the death certificates of a number of people who were administered the AstraZeneca jab. Dr Stephen Wright, 32, died from a blood clot to the brain ten days after having his first dose of the AstraZeneca jab in January 2021. In April last year, a coroner ruled the vaccine should be added to Dr Wright's death certificate. In another case, a rock musician known as Lord Zion suffered a severe headache and was admitted to hospital eight days after receiving the jab. Lord Zion's partner Vikki (pictured together) said she is still 'pro-vaccine' following his death, but called on the Government to better educate medical staff on the side effects His condition worsened and he passed away in hospital on May 19, with the preliminary death certificate listing a brain bleed caused by vaccine complications as the cause. His partner Vikki said she is still 'pro-vaccine' following his death, but called on the Government to better educate medical staff on the side effects and rework the Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme. An AstraZeneca spokesperson said: 'Patient safety is our highest priority and regulatory authorities have clear and stringent standards to ensure the safe use of all medicines, including vaccines. Our sympathy goes out to anyone who has lost loved ones or reported health problems. 'From the body of evidence in clinical trials and real-world data, Vaxzevria has continuously been shown to have an acceptable safety profile and regulators around the world consistently state that the benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks of extremely rare potential side effects. 'The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Authority (MHRA) has granted full marketing approval for Vaxzevria for the UK based on the safety profile and efficacy of the vaccine.' Police have launched a murder investigation after a missing woman's body was discovered near a remote coastal nature reserve. Detectives say the body of the woman, believed to be missing 23-year-old Petra Ross, was found near Gibraltar Point in Skegness, Lincolnshire. Ms Ross was reported missing two days earlier, on Friday January 19. A 45-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody. Petra Ross, 23, (pictured) was reported missing last Friday on January 19 Gibraltar Point (pictured) is a remote stretch of coastline south of Skegness, popular with walkers and cyclists A spokesperson for Lincolnshire Police said: 'We have launched a murder investigation after the body of a woman was found near Gibraltar Point in Skegness. 'While formal identification has yet to take place, we believe this to be the body of 23-year-old Petra Ross, who was reported missing on Friday. 'Her family have been made aware. Inquiries are ongoing.' Gibraltar Point is an area of coastline south of Skegness known for its views and diverse wildlife. It is home to a nature reserve as well as the oldest official bird observatories in Britain. The area is popular with walkers and also has a number of cycle paths. Dozens of Tesco customers were left in the dark with no groceries delivered Tesco has apologised after a technical glitch cancelled thousands of home delivery orders at the last minute, leaving customers without their weekly groceries. Shoppers took to social media on Sunday morning to voice their frustration after their orders were cancelled without warning. A spokesperson for the supermarket apologised and reassured customers that their Tesco orders would be back up and running by mid-afternoon. But some slammed the supermarket for 'appalling' customer service and claimed the glitch had left them without dinner on the table. Reports of problems rose to a peak at 9am, according to the Downdetector website, with thousands logging problems with Tesco's service. Tesco customers were left furious after being left without their grocery deliveries on Sunday morning after a technical fault Dozens of infuriated customers took to social media to raise their frustrations. One X user wrote: '@Tesco Worse [sic] customer service ever! System glitch no order but the system was fine to take your money and now we have to wait 3-5 days for a refund. 'Appalling. I hope all those affected don't waste their money and go elsewhere.' Another user posted to Facebook: 'Tesco delivery due between 10-11am I've been on hold and still holding Tesco sort it out I need my shopping no email or text to say it's going to be late, nothing! 'Apparently a global issue order has been cancelled, no food shopping, no compensation, I'm absolutely fuming! So, no dinner for us today then, thanks Tesco! Tesco, not good enough!' Another customer said: 'So Tesco order hasn't came, then it updates to say it's on it's way and money has been taken. 'Now, 21 minutes later it says the order has been cancelled and I need to wait 3-5 working days for a refund with 140 taken! 'Why even put an order through half an hour ago then cancel.' A fourth person said: 'Poor mummy, @Tesco home delivery let her down and now she's got no shopping. 'Good job I can nip out for her. Some sort of glitch apparently. She was alone and hungry.' Another disgruntled customer added: 'For someone who has a disabled child in the house and can't easily get to the shops, this is really unwelcome news at the last minute @Tesco. 'All well and good to say re-order for another time but I have a job and hospital appointments to juggle. Disappointed and no real explanation.' Tesco customers voicing their frustrations about the cancelled deliveries after the technical issue A Tesco's spokesperson said: 'We're really sorry that due to a technical issue, we had to cancel some online orders today. 'Our technical team have worked around the clock and have now fixed it.' 'Customers who were impacted have been contacted directly. We apologise again for the inconvenience.' Tesco has advised customers to rebook to have orders delivered in the upcoming days. However, some customers said they were struggling to find suitable slots. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) dismissed concerns over how Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis might perform in New Hampshire in Tuesday's primary election, noting that there were 'never high expectations' in the first-in-the-nation state. For weeks the DeSantis campaign has assured the governor plans to stay in the race through at least after the South Carolina primaries in late February. But strategists have now determined that the Florida Governor is hoping Haley will perform poorly in South Carolina, drop out and turn the primary into a two-person race between DeSantis and former President Donald Trump. 'We never had high expectations for New Hampshire anyway,' Rep. Massie told Fox News Sunday. 'And Nikki's exploiting, you know, a quirk of their primary, which is that undeclareds i.e. Democrats can vote in a Republican primary.' Rep. Thomas Massie, a top surrogate for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, said Sunday that 'the real fight is in South Carolina' in downplaying concerns over how the 2024 hopeful will perform on Tuesday Gov. DeSantis is in New Hampshire campaigning but some have criticized the campaign over spending more focus on South Carolina specifically after he flew directly there after Iowa's caucuses earlier this month Along with left-leaning independent voters who plan to cast their ballot for Haley, there is a mass write-in campaign from Democrats who are looking to put Joe Biden's name down during Tuesday's primary election. Haley is polling second in New Hampshire, with other surveyed earlier this month putting her within single-digits of Trump and one poll showing them in a tie with 40 percent each. Two polls released on Sunday from Suffolk/Boston Globe and CNN put Trump in first by about 20 points, Haley in second and DeSantis in third with 6 percent support among Republican New Hampshire voters. 'You know, I'll be going to New Hampshire later today,' Massie said. 'But the real fight, I think, is in South Carolina. And that's where Nikki Haley, I think, stumbles' 'She's going to miss expectations and not even win her own state,' the DeSantis surrogate predicted. DeSantis' team is banking on Haley doing poorly in her home state of South Carolina, where she served as governor from 2011-2017 before joining Trump's administration. WATCH: Congressman @RepThomasMassie on the DeSantis campaign's expectations in the New Hampshire primary. pic.twitter.com/sTjngA24y0 Fox News Sunday (@FoxNewsSunday) January 21, 2024 South Carolina is holding the fourth Republican primary contest on Saturday, February 24 almost exactly a month of the New Hampshire primary election. The Palmetto State is the last of the early primary states for Republicans and could be a make-or-break moment for DeSantis and Haley. Candidates are expected to turn attention to Nevada after New Hampshire for the primary and caucus there before heading back to South Carolina. Then 15 states will all vote in their respective primaries on March 5, 2024 in what is known as Super Tuesday. Australia's most notorious disgraced cop Roger Rogerson, jailed for a cold-blooded execution, has died in a Sydney hospital. Rogerson, 83, suffered a brain aneurysm in his prison cell in Sydney's Long Bay jail on Thursday and was taken to Prince of Wales Hospital in the city's inner-east. The crooked cop, known as 'The Dodger', died in hospital at 11pm on Sunday night, after his life support was switched off at about 11:30am on Friday. Rogerson's wife Anne Melocco told Daily Mail Australia his family was only alerted to his deteriorating condition just days before he died. 'We were only notified of his condition this MORNING,' she said in a text message. Both hero and villain during a 28-year career with the NSW Police, Rogerson was at one time considered one of their most decorated officers. The former detective was serving a life sentence for the execution-style slaying of Sydney drug dealer Jamie Gao in 2014 when he died on Sunday. Disgraced former cop Roger Rogerson (pictured) spent his final six months in prison in a hospital cell, unable to get out of bed on his own Australia's most notorious disgraced cop Roger Rogerson, jailed for a cold-blooded execution, has died in a Sydney hospital (the former cop is pictured in July 2004_ Drug dealer Jamie Gao (pictured) was shot dead by detectives Roger Rogerson and Glen McNamara in 2014 Gao's body (pictured) was dumped at sea and found floating off the coast of Cronulla Rogerson had always argued his innocence, claiming he was unaware of fellow crooked former detective Glen McNamara's plans to murder the 20-year-old. Mr Gao was lured to a darkened storage shed in Padstow, in the city's south, and shot dead before the former police officers attempted to cover their tracks by dumping his body in the ocean. READ MORE: Crooked cop reacts to news gangster was dead Advertisement His body was later found floating off the coast of Cronulla. Rogerson and McNamara, who were jailed for life in 2016, both claimed innocence and blamed each other for Gao's murder. When Gao's body was taken out to sea the morning after he was murdered, McNamara claims Rogerson was with him the whole time on the boat, threatening him with a gun. But Rogerson claimed he stayed on dry land. The sentencing judge said although gunshot residue found on Rogerson's clothing pointed to the possibility he was the triggerman, he couldn't be sure who fired the fatal shots. The pair was also jailed for stealing 2.78 kilograms of methamphetamine with a street value of up to $19 million from the 20-year-old university student. In March 2023, the High Court rejected an appeal by Rogerson to have his murder conviction overturned, stamping out any hope he had of being released. The culmination of Rogerson's recognition in the force was to receive the coveted Peter Mitchell Award for outstanding police work in 1980 but within six years, his career had unravelled spectacularly. In 1981 he was controversially found responsible for the fatal shooting of another young drug dealer, Warren Lanfranchi, but deemed to have acted in the line of duty. Australia's most corrupt cop Roger Rogerson (pictured) died in a Sydney hospital on Sunday Rogerson had always argued his innocence, claiming he was unaware of fellow crooked former detective Glen McNamara's plans to murder Joshua Gao (pictured) Inside the Padstow storage shed where Jamie Gao spent his final moments in May 2014 However Lanfranchi's girlfriend, sex worker Sallie-Anne Huckstepp, soon after alleged Rogerson deliberately killed him as revenge for robbing a heroin dealer who had been under police protection at the time. Huckstepp's body was found in Centennial Park in 1986 with a Coroner ruling five years later there wasn't enough evidence to charge anyone. In the same year, Rogerson was dismissed from the police force for depositing $110,000 in bank accounts under a false name. At the peak of Rogerson's demise, he was also implicated in the attempted execution of NSW undercover operative Michael Drury. The similarly decorated drug squad detective had refused to accept a bribe in exchange for evidence tampering in a heroin trafficking trial. Drury was shot twice through his kitchen window at his home in Chatswood in Sydney's north shore in 1989 but survived the attack. NSW detective Roger Rogerson speaks to media at Police Headquarters in June 1985 Disgraced detectives Roger Rogerson (left) and Glen McNamara (right) were sentenced to life over the murder of Sydney drug dealer Joshua Gao Anne Melocco, wife of Rogerson, told Daily Mail Australia his family was only notified of his condition just days before he died on Sunday night (she is pictured in 2004) Rogerson, hitman Chris Flannery and Melbourne heroin dealer Alan Williams were alleged to have conspired over the attempt on Drury's life. The detective was suspended from the force but acquitted of conspiring to murder Drury, who it was alleged he had attempted to bribe on Williams' behalf. In 1999, the former detective was sentenced to 12 months behind bars for lying to the Police Integrity Commission. Rogerson appeared briefly in shows telling tall tales about his times on the beat, one was titled The Wild Colonial Psychos which also featured notorious career criminal Mark 'Chopper' Read. Richard Roxburgh portrayed Rogerson in the 1995 mini-series Blue Murder and its 2017 sequel Blue Murder: Killer Cop which explored his close relationship with crime kingpins Arthur 'Neddy' Smith and Chris Flannery. It occurred in July 2022, when Kayla Hamilton was killed and raped by a migrant A mourning mom whose daughter was raped and killed by an MS-13 gang member in 2022 has filed suit against feds alleging they failed to stop him at the border. The lawsuit names both the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) as defendants, and demands $100million in damages. It was filed by Tammy Nobles and her attorney this week, roughly a year and a half removed from the incident in question. Allegedly occurring in July of 2020, it saw Nobles' daughter, 20-year-old Kayla Hamilton, strangled with a phone cord by the then 16-year-old suspect. The lawsuit alleges both agencies failed the woman by letting in the unnamed El Salvadoran, after not verifying his status with a phone call, and allowing him to be placed in a holding facility. Scroll down for video: The lawsuit was filed by Tammy Nobles (pictured) and her attorney this week, roughly a year and a half removed from the incident in question Allegedly occurring in July of 2020, it saw Nobles' daughter, 20-year-old Kayla Hamilton, strangled with a phone cord by the then 16-year-old suspect They also failed to find the damning gangland tattoos said to have been on the perp's person, before ultimately neglecting to confirm a verified sponsor for him. As a result, the suspect ran away and ended up as Hamiltons roommate in a trailer home in Maryland, after allegedly subleasing from another illegal. Appearing before NewsNation in an emotional interview, she and her lawyer laid bare some of the contents in the newly filed lawsuit. 'Nobody at the border did their job and checked his background', she told the station Sunday, claiming if the federal government had properly screened the suspect, they would have realized he was a known member of the gang, disqualifying him from coming the US. Most importantly, without the oversight, she said her daughter would still be alive - with her attorney claiming that both the DHS and DHHS have blood on their hands. 'I want everyone to know what is going on at the border,' she continued, weeks after a record 300,000 migrants entered the country in a single month in December. 'I had no clue what was going on before my daughter was brutally murdered and raped - but I do now. 'And I've found that the story is just so mind-boggling, how nobody at the border did their job and checked his background. Noble's daughter (right) was autistic and wanted to live independently - and had recently moved in with her boyfriend (left) before her death When asked what the hardest part of the past 18 months has been, Nobles tearfully said: 'The hardest part is that it could have been prevented. I could still have my daughter, if they just would have done their job' 'All they had to do was make one phone-call to El Salvador to know that he was an MS-13 gang member on the list,' she went on. 'It's just crazy how he got from Texas all the way to Maryland, to be in the same trailer as my daughter.' Interviewer Natasha Zouves proceeded to ask the audibly emotional mother how she was doing, and how she and the rest of her family had been surviving the ordeal. Appearing via videolink, she answered: 'The only thing that I can come up with is that God is helping me along this path. 'Nights are really bad - you're just left with your thoughts.' She continued, before eventually tearing up: 'I try not to think about what Kayla went through that day, what she was thinking those last minutes of her life.' Claiming that such thoughts would 'break' her before their all-important federal trial - slated for June 18 - she explained how there, she hopes to hear all of the painful details surrounding her late daughter's ultimate ordeal. She conceded that it will be really difficult to see photos and hear testimony from cops who investigated the crime, but said it is something she still needs to do. 'I want to know what happened to her.' Crying, she added: 'I want to know, you know, a lot more than I do now.' Hamilton, meanwhile, was raped and strangled to death on July 27, 2022. Officers had been called to a mobile home at the Rancho Estates for a suspected cardiac arrest victim, but instead found Hamilton's body. Brian Claypool, the family attorney, explained why they believe the federal government is at fault. 'Were bringing this lawsuit because were tired of being held hostage in our own country. Were tired of DHS playing Russian roulette with our lives, [and] with Kayla's life,' the jurist explained. 'That's why we brought this case. We're alleging that two federal agencies [DHS and DHHS], catastrophically failed Kalya... and are failing everybody. Echoing previous comments from Noble, he added: 'This could happen anywhere, to anybody. 'The DHS just needs to be held accountable,' he went on. 'All they had to do was follow their own protocol. 'Lift the t-shirt of the 16-year-old young man that was trying to enter the border,' he said,'[and] they would have seen a gang-related tattoo. 'And guess what. That would have disqualified him from entering this country. He should have been sent back at that very second to El Salvador. But it allegedly gets worse, Claypool continued. Cops arrested the suspect on January 15, 2023 after comparing his DNA to evidence from the crime scene. The 16-year-old El Salvadoran was charged with first-degree murder, as well as rape and robbery. Customs officials later confirmed the suspect was part of MS-13 'As Tammy said, secondly, all they had to do was pick up the phone, make a phone call, and guess what - on the list in El Salvador, was this young man. Because he was arrested iun July 2020, for being involved in an illicit MS-13 Gang. 'He would have been disqualified, again, for ever entering the country.' The lawyer went on to explain how the crime is even more serious, due to the failings of the DHHS.. 'DHHS, Health and Human Services, was responsible for putting them in a holding facility for a couple of days, and then making a phone call and confirming that this young man had what's called a verified sponsor - a relative, a known verified relative,' he explained. 'Even though DHS let him in, he still can't get in the US - unless he is going to a known relative. Well, they blew it too. And they're going to pay the price, because he runs away by the way, after going to this "alleged" verified sponsor. 'And then it gets even worse,' he said again, 'when [the suspect] end[ed] up at this trailer home as a roommate with lovely Kayla, that was leased out by another illegal immigrant.' Growing increasingly animated, he concluded: 'So, we're done with this. The federal government has blood on its hands. They owed us a duty to protect Kayla and others in this country, and we're going to bring change through this lawsuit.' Hamilton, meanwhile, was raped and strangled to death on July 27, 2022. Officers had been called to a mobile home at the Rancho Estates for a suspected cardiac arrest victim, but instead found Hamilton's body. Police arrested the suspect on January 15, 2023 after comparing his DNA to evidence from the crime scene. The 16-year-old El Salvador native, was charged with first-degree murder, as well as rape and robbery. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement confirmed the suspect was listed as a member of Mara Salvatrucha, known as MS-13. The Aberdeen Police Department said Hamilton had just moved into the city to live with her 22-year-old boyfriend before her gruesome murder, which also came just three days after her birthday. House Judiciary Committee Republicans launched a probe into her rape and murder, criticizing the Biden administrations' 'open border policies.' U.S Reps. Jim Jordan and Tom McClintok demanded the Health and Human Services Department answer for the death of Hamilton. After the attack, Jordan slammed Biden directly in a tweet criticizing his alleged inaction amid reports of the border crisis' impacts. Summing up the news, Jordan wrote: 'Unaccompanied alien minors working brutal jobs across the country. MS 13 gang member kills Maryland woman. Fentanyl being smuggled across the border. 'But for some reason, Joe Biden continues to ignore the border crisis.' When asked what the hardest part of the past 18 months has been, Nobles tearfully said: 'The hardest part is that it could have been prevented. 'I could still have my daughter, if they just would have done their job.' She will argue her case before a federal judge in June. Ron DeSantis dropped out of the race for the White House and endorsed rival Donald Trump in a stunning move less than 48 hours before the New Hampshire primary. The Florida Governor, widely considered the future of the Republican party and initially the favorite to take down Trump, announced he was suspending his campaign in a surprise video Sunday afternoon. It followed mounting speculation that donors were fleeing and his campaign was struggling to find a path to make a dent in Trump's huge polling lead. Trump said he was 'honored' by DeSantis' endorsement and called for Republicans to 'rally' behind the former president's 2024 White House bid. DeSantis came second in the Iowa caucuses and largely avoided campaigning in New Hampshire so he could focus on South Carolina the home state of 2024 candidate Nikki Haley. But the writing was on the wall when the campaign fired half its staff, big-money backers were increasingly frustrated with his war on 'woke' and top brass were at each other's throats. DeSantis channeled Winston Churchill in his farewell video and called Haley a 'repackaged form of warmed-up corporatism'. His final warning was for Republicans not to go 'back to yesteryear' and confirmed he would support Trump, the opponent who has mocked and humiliated him for the last year. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended his presidential campaign on Sunday. Pictured: DeSantis at a campaign stop in Nashua, New Hampshire on January 19 Trump endorsed DeSantis in his 2018 bid for governor in Florida, using his coattails to help earn him the Republican nomination and eventually the win 'We don't have a clear path to victory,' DeSantis said in the video posted to X announcing his departure from the race. 'Accordingly, I am today suspending my campaign.' Now the Republican primary is down to a two-person race with only former President Trump and his once-United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley vying for the nomination. 'I want to say to Ron, he ran a great race,' Haley said during a campaign stop in New Hampshire on Sunday afternoon. 'He's been a good governor, and we wish him well. Having said that, it's now one fella and one lady left.' Despite repeatedly bashing Trump for refusing to debate in the primary cycle and taking several hits from the ex-president calling him 'Ron DeSanctimonious', the governor decided to endorse his former rival. Trump said during an unannounced stop at his New Hampshire campaign headquarters that after DeSantis' announcement on Sunday he has 'officially retired' the 'DeSanctimonious' nickname. Throughout the campaign, Trump called DeSantis a 'traitor' for deciding to run for president in 2024 after the former president's endorsement is what led him to clinch the Republican nomination for governor in Florida in 2018. 'It's clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance,' DeSantis said. 'They watch his presidency gets stymied by relentless resistance, and they see Democrats using lawfare this day to attack him.' He added: 'Trump is superior to the current incumbent Joe Biden. That is clear.' 'I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee, and I will honor that pledge.' The pledge in question is what the Republican National Committee (RNC) required all candidates to sign, vowing to support the eventual nominee if they wanted to participate in their four primary debates last year. Trump never signed the pledge and refused to show up for the debates. '[W]e are honored by the endorsement from Governor Ron DeSantis and so many other former presidential candidates,' Trump's campaign wrote in a statement Sunday afternoon. 'It is now time for all Republicans to rally behind President Trump to defeat Crooked Joe Biden and end his disastrous presidency.' 'Nikki Haley is the candidate of the globalists and Democrats who will do everything to stop the America First movement,' the statement said, adding: 'She represents the views of Democrats more than the views of Republicans.' DeSantis' young family joined him for most of his time campaigning. Pictured: Ron, Casey, Madison, six, Mason, five, and Mamie, three, appear together on stage at a campaign event in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina on Saturday, January 20 the day before Gov. DeSantis dropped out of the race Casey and Ron DeSantis embrace during a caucus night party on Monday, January 15 in West Des Moines, Iowa after the governor's second place finish in the first primary contest state After no guidance was sent for events on Sunday or Monday ahead of Tuesday's New Hampshire primary, speculation began to swirl over where DeSantis had landed after his Saturday swing. The announcement of the end of his campaign was filmed in Florida, where it is now known he returned to after holding his last 2024 campaign event in South Carolina on Saturday. Moments after the video went live, guidance was sent canceling DeSantis' meet and greet in Manchester, New Hampshire on Sunday evening. DeSantis' campaign vehemently denied to DailyMail.com on Sunday any rumors that could emerge detailing DeSantis' plans to drop out but just hours later, the governor released a video on X ending his bid. 'Nobody worked harder, and we left it all out on the field,' DeSantis said in a four-and-a-half video on his exit from the campaign. 'Now following our second place finish in Iowa we've prayed and deliberated on the way forward.' 'If there was anything I could do to produce a favorable outcome, more campaign stops, more interviews, I would do it,' he continued. 'But I can't ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources.' It appeared that DeSantis would stay in the race until after South Carolina in hopes that Haley would do poorly in her home state and drop out. But instead, he chose to exit before New Hampshire could weigh-in on Tuesday. '[Trump] has my endorsement because we can't go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents,' he said in slamming the former president's only remaining GOP contender. DeSantis' launched his campaign in a disasterous Twitter Spacces event before CEO Elon Musk rebranded the website to X. Instead of starting off with the anticipated 'historic' social media announcement, the app experienced a series of glitches that wouldn't let the event kick-off DeSantis' final days in the race had him frantically trying to figure out where his message might best resonate after he lost Iowa to Trump by 30 points. After completing the 'full Grassley' in Iowa by traveling to all 99 counties and receiving the endorsement of the state's popular Gov. Kim Reynolds, DeSantis still couldn't turn ou the vote for a win in the caucuses on January 15. The day after the Iowa caucuses DeSantis flew to Greenville, South Carolina to get a jump start in the fourth primary contest state in hopes voters would turn against Nikki Haley there. After the quick South Carolina stop, DeSantis flew back to New Hampshire later that day before CBS News broke on Wednesday that the governor planned to leave the Granite State - possibly for good - to again campaign in South Carolina all weekend. That trip, however, ended up lasting one day with three events. It concluded with headlines on how DeSantis sparred with a fourth grade teacher over Haley's education record as governor. On Sunday, instead of campaigning in South Carolina, DeSantis was expected to fly back to New Hampshire. But after canceling appearances on NBC's Meet the Press and CNN's State of the Union in the process, it became clear something else was afoot. Hours later on Sunday morning he dropped out of the race and canceled remaining events. Dongguan in South China's Guangdong province is a busy port on the Pearl River. [Photo provided to China Daily] Global Times--It is hardly surprising that European politicians have again resorted to employing the "China threat" narrative to pressure Chinese infrastructure investments in Europe. Their motives appear to be purely political, disregarding the substantial economic benefits that stem from China-EU infrastructure collaboration. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) on Wednesday passed a proposal warning of the risks of growing Chinese influence over European critical infrastructure, media reported. Specifically, concerns were raised regarding the risks of economic dependence, espionage or sabotage that EU ports could face. MEPs suggested that foreign influence in EU ports should be limited and called for action to reduce vulnerabilities, according to European media reports. This is not the first time European politicians have played up the so-called risks of Chinese investment in European ports and other types of infrastructure. The essence of the rhetoric sounds familiar, as it is nothing but another version of the "China threat" theory. It highlights the stubborn bias toward China within Western public opinion: Regardless of what China does, it is consistently portrayed as posing all kinds of dangers and threats. For instance, in 2013, a cover of The Economist magazine depicted China's carbon emissions as a threat facing the Earth, while in 2024, another cover of the same magazine likened Chinese electric vehicles to meteorites crashing onto the Earth, indicating that the new threat is China's lead in green technologies. These contradictory reports exemplify the unchanging narrative that China will always be the "bad guy." Unfortunately, today's European politics is heavily influenced by this kind of paranoid thinking about the "China threat." Whether or not infrastructure cooperation between China and the EU is beneficial to Europe, they don't care and are obsessed with hindering Chinese investment. They cannot give any substantive reasons to justify the so-called risks, nor can they answer the question of how to find new investments to save companies on the verge of bankruptcy if Chinese investment is excluded. The inability to offer solutions is precisely why attempts to smear Chinese investment will not impede port cooperation between China and Europe. When you can't solve a problem and instead try to obstruct those who can, you are destined to fail. For instance, despite Western political hype about security concerns related to Chinese investment, after a thorough evaluation and assessment, the German government still made the rational decision to proceed with the plan to allow COSCO Shipping Ports Limited to acquire stakes in a Hamburg port terminal, a recognition that its significance in the country's economic development and port operations should prevail over a groundless geopolitical mindset. COSCO Shipping's investment in Greece's largest port, the Port of Piraeus, is another example. When Western media outlets sensationalized the deal as a "threat to European economic security," they turned a blind eye to the fact that Greece was forced by an EU bailout to sell its infrastructure to private investors, and they can hardly find a European investor for the Port of Piraeus, which was experiencing a drastic decline in the throughput performance at that time. No one can deny that the cooperation between COSCO and the Port of Piraeus has greatly enhanced the container throughput of the port and brought significant benefits to the Greek economy in terms of port competitiveness. The port has even played a huge role in promoting economic and trade cooperation between China and Europe. If anything, COSCO's investment in the Port of Piraeus has become an exemplary case of common development and mutual benefits of China-Greece cooperation. As the world's largest trading country in goods and a significant trading partner for over 140 countries and regions in the world, China has the objective need to invest in overseas ports, considering trade and shipping facilitation and cost saving. Any geopolitical interpretation is a distortion of reasonable, mutually beneficial collaboration. It is regrettable that some European politicians are fixated on the "China threat" narrative surrounding China's infrastructure cooperation, disregarding the interests of the European economy. Their bias reflects the negligence about Europe's future infrastructure development and their selfishness in prioritizing their own political interests. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis' presidential campaign did not get off to a good start. The 45-year-old candidate, dubbed 'DeFuture' of the Republican Party, tried to launch his 2024 bid in May by showing off his next-gen tech savvy - with a Twitter Spaces session. And then the app crashed. The debacle got a good laugh from his senior citizen rivals, former President Donald Trump, 77, and President Joe Biden, 81. 'Glitchy. Tech issues. Uncomfortable silences. A complete failure to launch. And that's just the candidate!' a spokesman for Trump gleefully said. Biden chimed in with, 'This links works,' which led people to his campaign's donation site. For the next eight months, the DeSantis campaign was plagued with problems - including chatter that he was awkward on the stump, was secretly wearing high heels and was bleeding money from his donors. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Sunday he was leaving the presidential race after eight months. He endorsed former President Donald Trump on his way out the door In May, the 45-year-old candidate tried to launch his 2024 presidential bid using Twitter - but the app crashed Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis laughs during an Iowa camapign stop in the lead-up to his official presidential campaign announcement in May. DeSantis' awkward demeanor on the campaign trail became one of the prevailing narratives of his failed 2024 campaign Even before the official launch, DeSantis had to contend with some strange anecdotes in the press about him. The Daily Beast reported in March that four years before, during a private plane trip between Tallahassee and D.C., DeSantis dug into a pudding cup - literally - using three of his fingers to consume the treat. 'He would sit in meetings and eat in front of people,' a former DeSantis staffer told The Daily Beast, 'always like a starving animal who has never eaten before ... getting s*** everywhere.' Once he started actively campaigning, he immediately got branded as awkward, robotic and aloof. One DeSantis staffer, who declined to be identified, told DailyMail.com in June that their boss had to be told 'when to smile.' 'He just needs to chill out a bit and be less stiff,' another source said. 'He always looks awkward and needs to get out and meet more people.' Early on, DeSantis had impressive fundraising totals, but by July he had cut a third of his staff, 38 aides in total. In turn, DeSantis' super PAC took over hosting most of the governor's campaign events. In October, podcaster Patrick Bet-David informed DeSantis that there was a viral TikTok video airing out a conspiracy theory that he had hidden heels inside the cowboy boots he often sported at campaign events The 2024 presidential hopeful had to contend with rumors that he was wearing hidden high heels in his cowboy boots. Politico Magazine later ran a story bolstering this claim DeSantis - like Sen. Marco Rubio before him - also had to slap down rumors that he was wearing hidden high heels. In October, podcaster Patrick Bet-David informed DeSantis that there was a viral TikTok video airing out a conspiracy theory that he had hidden heels inside the cowboy boots he often sported at campaign events. TikTok user Spamellina had sketched the shape of a high heel over the photo of DeSantis in his boots and then shared a picture of a pair of women's wedged boots for comparison. 'No, no, no those are just standard, off the rack Lucchese,' DeSantis said in defense, name-dropping a popular cowboy boot brand. Politico Magazine later ran a story quoting three expert shoemakers who bolstered the hidden lifts claim. The dig stuck, with Donald Trump Jr. mocking him for it on the stump in Iowa last week. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks at his Iowa caucus results party on Monday. He lost to Trump by 30 points in the Hawkeye State after his campaign and super PAC spent a combined $150 million On Saturday, DeSantis headlined three events in South Carolina in an attempt to take votes away from Nikki Haley in her home state. DeSantis' final days in the race had him frantically trying to figure out where his message might best resonate after he lost Iowa to Trump by 30 points - at a cost of $150 million, between his campaign and his Never Back Down super PAC. One estimate had that at $6,400 a vote. In Iowa he had traveled to all 99 counties - dubbed the 'full Grassley' - and received the endorsement of the state's popular Gov. Kim Reynolds - but almost lost his second place status to Haley, who wasn't focusing heavily on the state. The day after the Iowa caucuses DeSantis flew to Greensville, South Carolina to plant a flag there, with the thinking that if Haley lost South Carolina he could turn the GOP primary into a two-person race versus Trump. At the same time, his super PAC started laying off staff. He flew back to New Hamsphire later that day and on Wednesday CBS News broke that he planned to leave the Granite State - possibly for good - to again campaign in South Carolina all weeekend. That trip ended up lasting one day - with three events - and concluded with headlines on how DeSantis dressed down a fourth grade teacher over Haley's education record as governor. DeSantis was unable to say where in South Carolina he could win - nor could he point to a Super Tuesday state where the campaign could put its focus. On Sunday, instead of campaigning in South Carolina, DeSantis was expected to fly back to New Hamsphire - cancelling appearances on NBC's Meet the Press and CNN's State of the Union in the process. Instead he returned to Florida, where he filmed the video announcement that he was dropping out of the race and endorsing Trump, kicking Haley a final time on his way out. 'He has my endorsement because we can't go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear, a repackaged form of warmed over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents,' DeSantis said, speaking to the camera. He was indicted last week and a source close to Baldwin and his wife described it as a 'very stressful' start of the New Year On October 21, 2021, Baldwin was filming a scene inside a church when he pulled the trigger and shot Hutchins Alec Baldwin was seen for the first time in public since he was indicted on involuntary manslaughter charges by a New Mexico grand jury for the 2021 shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. On Sunday, Baldwin was pictured zipping up his jacket while walking outside with his children in the Hamptons, just days after his indictment. The 65-year-old appeared sullen wearing a navy puffer, black shirt, dark pants and sneakers as he braved the cold. On Saturday, he posted on Instagram a video of the beach in Montauk, but nothing about the indictment. PEOPLE magazine reported the new involuntary manslaughter charges have been 'frustrating' and 'very stressful' for the actor and his wife Hilaria. A source said, 'They had a great Christmas and New Year. Hilaria also just turned 40. This is not how they wanted to start the new year.' Alec Baldwin was seen for the first time in public since he was charged with involuntary manslaughter by a New Mexico grand jury Baldwin is pictured zipping up his jacket while walking outside in the Hamptons on Sunday The 65-year-old appeared sullen wearing a navy puffer, black shirt, dark pants and sneakers The indictment was returned on Friday and charges Baldwin with involuntary manslaughter for the 2021 set shooting that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins (pictured) 'It's stressful for Hilaria. It's frustrating for them both that Alec is being recharged. They knew there was a possibility there would be a new indictment. The back and forth is hard. It's very stressful.' Hilaria was spotted in New York City on Friday, keeping a low profile in sunglasses and a long black winter coat, the day the charges were announced. The indictment was returned on Friday and charges Baldwin with involuntary manslaughter on the grounds of negligent use of a firearm and disregard for others' safety. If convicted, Baldwin faces up to 18 months in prison. In a statement, Baldwin's attorneys Alex Spiro and Luke Nikas said: 'We look forward to our day in court.' Gloria Allred, the attorney for Halyna's parents and sister, said in a statement: 'Our clients have always sought the truth about what happened on the day that Halyna Hutchins was tragically shot and killed on October 21, 2021. 'They continue to seek the truth in our civil lawsuit for them and they also would like there to be accountability in the criminal justice system. 'The grand jury has decided that there is sufficient evidence to indict Alec Baldwin on the charge of involuntary manslaughter. 'We are looking forward to the criminal trial which will determine if he should be convicted for the untimely death of Halyna.' On October 21, 2021, Baldwin was filming a scene inside a church when he pulled the trigger on his Colt .45 revolver and fatally shot cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. He's insisted that the gun fired spontaneously, as he struck director Joel Souza in the shoulder before he shot Hutchins. Hutchins was taken to the hospital where she was later pronounced dead. Baldwin was interviewed by the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office following her death, as he showed tremendous emotions for his actions. If convicted, Baldwin faces up to 18 months in prison. In a statement, Baldwin's attorneys Alex Spiro and Luke Nikas said: 'We look forward to our day in court' Alec Baldwin and Halyna Hutchins, along with other cast, are pictured on the Rust set On October 21, 2021, Baldwin was filming a scene inside a church when he pulled the trigger on his Colt .45 revolver and fatally shot Hutchins He was initially charged in January 2023 by First Judicial District Attorney of New Mexico Mary Carmack-Altwies, who launched her own media tour soon after filing charges. Baldwin's team interpreted her enthusiasm for the case as a fame-hungry effort to boost her own career. After hashing it out with his team in the court of public opinion, Carmack-Altwies stepped down from the case and a special prosecutor was appointed to take over. In April last year, that team opted to drop the charges and Baldwin, who had already settled a wrongful death lawsuit launched by Hutchins' family, breathed a momentary sigh of relief. Baldwin has always maintained that he followed gun safety laws, and that the fault lies with the armorer or crew who handed him a gun loaded with a live round. Homicide police are investigating the mysterious death of a two-month-old boy at a suburban home. Chance Ford was found unresponsive at a property on Swamp Gum Place at Alfredton, west of Ballarat, after 9pm on Saturday. Neighbours went to investigate after they heard screaming coming from the home and walked inside to find the lifeless baby on the living room floor. 'I went to investigate and the little boy was just lying on the floor of the lounge room,' one witness told The Courier. 'A neighbour was helping trying to resuscitate him but unfortunately the paramedics came and were not able to get him back.' Victoria Police told Daily Mail Australia that detectives are waiting for post-mortem results, due later on Monday, to determine the cause of death. No arrests have been made and there is no suggestion the parents had anything to do with the boy's death. Chance Ford was found unresponsive at a property on Swamp Gum Place at Alfredton, west of Ballarat (scene pictured) Family friend, Angela Walker, told 7 News: 'The mum was just screaming that something had happened, and just crying and yelling.' 'It was pretty confronting, his dad was out the front pretty upset.' 'I'm not sure where his mum was but I imagine she was pretty upset, wherever she was.' She described Chance as a 'beautiful boy'. Chance's family had only lived at the home for about a year before the tragedy. Other neighbours said the mother started knocking on doors asking for help at about 9pm. One man told Daily Mail Australia she knocked on his door saying she had a fight with her boyfriend. Police are investigating the death of a two-month-old baby at a home in Alfredton, west of Ballarat, about 9pm on Saturday night (pictured, police at the scene) 'She had no shoes, no phone, no bag, jeans and a shirt and didn't appear to have her wallet,' he said. 'She seemed scared and wanted to know if she could use my phone, and I didn't really want to give her my phone, so I said I'd call her a taxi.' At the time, he did not know a child had died in the area. He gave her a glass of water and ordered her a taxi to nearby Soldier's Hill, and said the woman sat on the couch and didn't say much. The taxi arrived about ten minutes later and he called the police. Police arrived to collect his statement at about 11.30pm and said they wanted to speak with her in relation to an investigation. Chance's parents are cooperating with police. Ron DeSantis had given up on New Hampshire, turning his campaign towards the more conservative state of South Carolina. But on Saturday, he was given internal polling data that showed he had no chance of winning the state and would finish far behind former President Donald Trump, according to two sources familiar with discussions. His aides canceled appearances on the Sunday morning shows as they debated what to do next. And on Sunday afternoon, the Florida governor formally pulled the plug on his 2024 campaign. 'I can't ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources, if we don't have a clear path to victory,' he said. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis surprised many by stepping away from New Hampshire to campaign in South Carolina over the weekend. He is seen here carrying his daughter Mamie while his eldest daughter Madison yawns and his son Mason watches ahead of an event in Myrtle Beach The decision took donors and staff at a super PAC backing DeSantis by surprise. They were traveling to New Hampshire as part of the last push before voters in the state made their decision. But his prospects there were bleak. A poll published Sunday morning found he was on course for just six percent of the vote, behind Trump on 50 percent and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley on 39 points. He was already digesting difficult numbers from South Carolina, where he had hoped to get his campaign back on track and where he campaigned at the weekend. 'I think that was the reason for the timing,' said a source familiar with discussions. A second source close to the DeSantis camp told DailyMail.com: 'They were struggling to explain what the path to the nomination would even look like. That's how bad things were.' The announcement came hours after Trump had delivered his own South Carolina show of strength. Standing on stage before thousands of people at an arena in Manchester, New Hampshire, Trump was joined by South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster; Pamela Evette, the state's lieutenant governor; Alan Wilson, the state's attorney general; South Carolina House Speaker Murrell Smith; and Curtis Loftis, the state treasurer. Recent polls showed DeSantis on only five or six percent in New Hampshire, finishing a distant third to former President Donald Trump and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley DeSantis posed for selfies with supporters in Myrtle Beach Saturday They were joined by three U.S. congressmen from the state: Reps. Russell Fry, William Timmons and Joe Wilson. It was designed to try to knock Haley from the race, demonstrating her lack of support in her own state. It may have also reminded DeSantis of the uphill struggle he faced. When it came, the decision took DeSantis world by surprise. 'We had people heading up to New Hampshire as this was happening,' said a staffer at Never Back Down, a super PAC supporting DeSantis. With the South Carolina primary not until February 24, he said donors were probably getting anxious about the financial outlay needed to even be competitive. 'They were probably looking at the prospect of having to pay everybody through South Carolina or let people go,' he said. 'That's still a month away. And so that was probably a big factor.' DeSantis had once been seen as the next big political star of the Republican Party. New Hampshire holds its Republican primary on Tuesday, the second contest in the race DeSantis' decision leaves Trump opposition to coalesce around Haley, but she faces an uphill battle to rein in the clear Republican frontrunner He won a crushing reelection as Florida governor in November 2022. But he delayed launching his campaign until May, effectively giving Trump a six-month headstart. His operation was bedeviled by internal turmoil, and constant headlines about tension between his campaign and Never Back Down. Senior personnel were reshuffled and staff laid off as he struggled for traction in the polls. Dan Eberhart, one of his donors, said his biggest problem was going up against Trump. 'I'm not shocked,' he said about Sunday's announcement. 'I think Trump is a generational figure and normal politicians struggle to get the oxygen to compete against him.' Eberhart said he heard the news while en route to New Hampshire. 'He doesn't want to come in third against Nikki Haley,' he said. 'And it's all about preserving 2028 viability.' Poll after poll showed that DeSantis was the second choice of many Trump supporters but simply could not lure support away from the former president. And among attendees at Trump's Manchester rally on Saturday evening, many said they wished DeSantis had stood aside for Trump. 'If he would have just waited four years ... ' said Steven Apfel, 30, who accused DeSantis of disloyalty by challenging Trump. 'He was like the heir apparent and why he did that just goes to show how he's part of the establishment.' Three Jewish friends claim they were attacked for 'speaking Hebrew' by a gang of people in Leicester Square and made repeated 999 calls before officers arrived. The victims said they had enjoying a night out in London's West End when they were set upon by a group of up to 20 men in the early hours of Sunday morning. One of the them claimed she called the Metropolitan Police 10 times in fear for her life to be told by the operator: 'You are not the only one that called tonight'. They said they were punched in the head and neck while the group of thugs chanted 'Free Palestine', before they were assaulted by '15 to 20 guys' - with one left needing hospital treatment for their injuries. The Metropolitan Police is treating the attack as an 'anti-Semitic hate crime', adding it took 28 minutes for its officers to arrive at the scene. The incident took place in Leicester Square in the early hours of Sunday, January 21. Pictured: An aerial view of people walking in Leicester Square The vile attack took place at around 1.30am on Sunday morning as two Jewish men and one woman walked through one of Britain's busiest nightlife areas. The woman, who gave her name as Tehilla, told the Telegraph the group were speaking Hebrew when men confronted them asking 'are you Jewish?' The 28-year-old told the paper: 'I said 'yes, I'm Jewish,' and then they started chanting 'Free Palestine', and f*** Jews, all this kind of swearing at us. 'So we just tried not to get into trouble, to walk away, but they started following us and then all of a sudden, it started with like two or three guys, and all of a sudden, they called all their friends and 15 to 20 guys started attacking us physically.' Tehilla, who claims she was hurt in the leg and hit on the neck, while her friends were punched in the head, added she was 'scared she was going to die'. However, she added that when she rang the Met and told them she and her friends were being attacked because they were Jewish, police 'kept saying 'I'm sorry, it takes some time, you are not the only one that called tonight'.' The Met Police told MailOnline that no one has yet been arrested in connection with the incident, which it is treating as a 'hate crime'. Detective Supt Lucy O'Connor said: 'We are investigating this incident as an anti-Semitic hate crime. 'I know how upsetting such inexcusable violence is for anyone who was injured or who witnessed the incident, and also for the wider community. I share their concerns. 'Officers arrived at the scene some 28 minutes after they were called. Of course, I wish we could have come to their aid sooner. 'The police investigation will now focus on speaking with the woman and any other victims or witnesses, as well as following up all lines of enquiry including analysis of CCTV. I urge any witnesses to get in touch. 'I can assure Londoners, tackling anti-Semitic crime is a priority for the Met. There is no place for hate in our city.' A spokesperson for the force added that police were called at 1.37am to reports woman was assaulted in the area of Leicester Square, who said she did no need an ambulance. It said: 'The caller stated that she did not require an ambulance. 'Officers attended the location, arriving shortly after 02:00hrs, at which point all parties had left the scene. 'We understand that a woman subsequently attended hospital for treatment. 'The incident is being treated as a hate crime. Officers will speak with the victim to take a statement and identify any other victims and witnesses. 'A full investigation, which will include analysis of CCTV from the area, will be led by officers from the Met's Central West BCU. 'Any witnesses, or anyone with footage or other information that may assist police, are asked to call 101, ref 791/21jan.' Virtual police stations should be opened in the metaverse to tackle online crimes, Interpol suggests. The international police body has called for forces to consider opening online units offering services like 'reporting crimes, filing complaints or hosting virtual community meetings'. In a White Paper warning of an explosion of crimes in virtual reality games, Interpol suggests officers should maintain a 'virtual presence in the metaverse' to prevent sex offences, child abuse and even terrorism. The term metaverse refers to 3D virtual worlds where users depicted as online figures called avatars interact. Earlier this month the Mail revealed that a UK police force is investigating a 'virtual rape' in the metaverse for the first time. In a White Paper warning of an explosion of crimes in virtual reality games, Interpol suggests officers should maintain a 'virtual presence in the metaverse' (stock image) A girl under the age of 16 went to police last year saying her online avatar had been gang raped by strangers in a virtual reality game. Although there was no physical attack, officers decided to investigate as the girl was assessed as suffering the same psychological and emotional trauma as someone who has been raped in the real world. Now Interpol is warning that virtual reality crimes could become a major problem. The report said: 'The metaverse has opened up opportunities for criminals to commit new types of crime, which can be referred to as 'metacrime'. 'Metacrime is a growing concern and could become a major issue as the immersive world becomes part of our daily life.' The paper recommends forces set up a presence in the metaverse to allow users to report 'metacrime' or even provide another avenue for the public to report offline crimes. It added: 'Police departments can establish a virtual presence in the metaverse, offering services such as reporting crimes, filing complaints or even hosting virtual community meetings. 'This approach can make police services more accessible, especially for those with mobility issues or in remote areas.' The word metaverse was coined in 1992 by author Neal Stephenson in his science fiction novel Snow Crash. The paper recommends forces set up a presence in the metaverse to allow users to report 'metacrime' or even provide another avenue for the public to report offline crimes. Pictured: A virtual reality Interpol station The NSPCC estimates that 15 per cent of children aged five to ten have used virtual reality. Wearing a headset, users are plunged into an immersive virtual world that feels real where they can interact with others inside a computer-generated environment. Users can also put on vests called haptic suits, which simulate sensations such as the impact of a punch, providing a 'tangible link between virtual and physical experience', Interpol warns. It identified 41 types of crime which could be perpetrated in the metaverse including rape, sexual exploitation of children, deepfakes, financial scams, identity theft and even virtual burglaries. The report also warns: 'Terrorists could misuse the metaverse to receive financial support, which could lead to the commission of terror attacks.' The rise of the metaverse has prompted calls from police chiefs in Britain for new laws to protect women and children plus more action from tech companies to make platforms safe for users. READ MORE: Two people killed in horror car crash after vehicle burst into flames Car and van collided in Logan Central on Sunday Five people have been left clinging to life after a horror crash in Queensland. A red Ford Falcon collided with a white Toyota Hi-Ace van travelling in the opposite direction on Bardon Road in Logan Central at about 11pm on Sunday. One of the vehicles caught alight, with emergency services including critical-care paramedics rushing to the scene south of Brisbane. Two people were placed in induced comas at the scene, with five people rushed to the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital with a range of critical injuries. A red Ford Falcon collided with a white Toyota Hi-Ace van travelling in the opposite direction on Bardon Road in Logan Central at about 11pm on Sunday (pictured is the scene) Two male patients in their 20s were driven to hospital in a critical condition with significant leg, arm and head injuries. One of the men was initially trapped in the Falcon and had to be freed. A third man in his 20s suffered significant facial, chest and arm injuries and was driven to hospital in a critical condition. A 35-year-old female driver of the van was driven to hospital in a serious condition with significant pelvic and leg injuries. The 63-year-old male passenger was driven to hospital in a serious condition with significant chest, abdominal and head injuries. Nine ambulance crews attended the scene. Initial investigations by the Forensic Crash Unit indicated the Ford Falcon was travelling north along Bardon Road before it crashed into the Toyota van travelling in the opposite direction. Anyone with information or vision of the crash, or the moments leading up to it, are urged to contact Queensland Police. Donald Trump said he is 'honored' to have Ron DeSantis' endorsement in the Republican race for president after the Florida Governor made the shock decision to drop out. The former president said he is now looking forward to working with the former rival to defeat Joe Biden in November, and again called on the GOP to unite behind him. During a trip to his New Hampshire campaign headquarters, he also said he would retire the nickname 'DeSanctimonious', that he has used frequently in the the battle for the White House. Trump is going into New Hampshire's primary on Tuesday with a commanding lead over Nikki Haley after his landslide victory in Iowa. Now he has one of the top Republican officials in the country on his side, even though he was widely mocked him and targeted him with nicknames such as 'Meatball'. Donald Trump said he is 'honored' to have Ron DeSantis ' endorsement in the Republican race for president after the Florida Governor made the shock decision to drop out Trump endorsed DeSantis in his 2018 bid for governor in Florida, using his coattails to help earn him the Republican nomination and eventually the win 'With only a few days left until President Donald J. Trumps victory in New Hampshire, we are honored by the endorsement from Governor Ron DeSantis and so many other former presidential candidates,' the Trump campaign said in a statement. 'It is now time for all Republicans to rally behind President Trump to defeat Crooked Joe Biden and end his disastrous presidency. 'Nikki Haley is the candidate of the globalists and Democrats who will do everything to stop the America First movement. From higher taxes, to decimating Social Security and Medicare, and to open borders, she represents the views of Democrats more than the views of Republicans. 'Its time to choose wisely.' DeSantis , widely considered the future of the Republican party and initially the favorite to take down Trump, announced he was suspending his campaign in a surprise video announcement Sunday afternoon. It followed mounting speculation that donors were fleeing and his campaign was struggling to find a path to make a dent in Trump's huge polling lead. During a trip to his New Hampshire campaign headquarters, he also said he would retire the nickname 'DeSanctimonious', that he has used frequently in the the battle for the White House Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended his presidential campaign on Sunday. Pictured: DeSantis at a campaign stop in Nashua, New Hampshire on January 19 DeSantis came second in the Iowa caucuses and largely avoided campaigning in New Hampshire so he could focus on South Carolina the home state of 2024 candidate Nikki Haley. But the writing was on the wall when the campaign fired half its staff, big-money backers were increasingly frustrated with his war on 'woke' and top brass were at each other's throats. DeSantis channeled Winston Churchill in his farewell video and called Haley a 'repackaged form of warmed-up corporatism'. His final warning was for Republicans not to go 'back to yesteryear' and confirmed he would support Trump, the opponent who has mocked and humiliated him for the last year. 'We don't have a clear path to victory,' DeSantis said in the video posted to X announcing his departure from the race. 'Accordingly, I am today suspending my campaign.' Now the Republican primary is down to a two-person race with only former President Trump and his once-United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley vying for the nomination. 'I want to say to Ron, he ran a great race,' Haley said during a campaign stop in New Hampshire on Sunday afternoon. 'He's been a good governor, and we wish him well. Having said that, it's now one fella and one lady left.' Despite repeatedly bashing Trump for refusing to debate in the primary cycle and taking several hits from the ex-president, the governor decided to endorse his former rival. Throughout the campaign, Trump called DeSantis a 'traitor' for deciding to run for president in 2024 after the former president's endorsement is what led him to clinch the Republican nomination for governor in Florida in 2018. 'It's clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance,' DeSantis said. 'They watch his presidency gets stymied by relentless resistance, and they see Democrats using lawfare this day to attack him.' He added: 'Trump is superior to the current incumbent Joe Biden. That is clear.' 'I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee, and I will honor that pledge.' The pledge in question is what the Republican National Committee (RNC) required all candidates to sign, vowing to support the eventual nominee if they wanted to participate in their four primary debates last year. Trump never signed the pledge and refused to show up for the debates. DeSantis' young family joined him for most of his time campaigning. Pictured: Ron, Casey, Madison, six, Mason, five, and Mamie, three, appear together on stage at a campaign event in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina on Saturday, January 20 the day before Gov. DeSantis dropped out of the race Casey and Ron DeSantis embrace during a caucus night party on Monday, January 15 in West Des Moines, Iowa after the governor's second place finish in the first primary contest state After no guidance was sent for events on Sunday or Monday ahead of Tuesday's New Hampshire primary, speculation began to swirl over where DeSantis had landed after his Saturday swing. The announcement of the end of his campaign was filmed in Florida, where it is now known he returned to after holding his last 2024 campaign event in South Carolina on Saturday. Moments after the video went live, guidance was sent canceling DeSantis' meet and greet in Manchester, New Hampshire on Sunday evening. DeSantis' campaign vehemently denied to DailyMail.com on Sunday any rumors that could emerge detailing DeSantis' plans to drop out but just hours later, the governor released a video on X ending his bid. 'Nobody worked harder, and we left it all out on the field,' DeSantis said in a four-and-a-half video on his exit from the campaign. 'Now following our second place finish in Iowa we've prayed and deliberated on the way forward.' 'If there was anything I could do to produce a favorable outcome, more campaign stops, more interviews, I would do it,' he continued. 'But I can't ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources.' It appeared that DeSantis would stay in the race until after South Carolina in hopes that Haley would do poorly in her home state and drop out. But instead, he chose to exit before New Hampshire could weigh-in on Tuesday. '[Trump] has my endorsement because we can't go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents,' he said in slamming the former president's only remaining GOP contender. DeSantis' launched his campaign in a disasterous Twitter Spacces event before CEO Elon Musk rebranded the website to X. Instead of starting off with the anticipated 'historic' social media announcement, the app experienced a series of glitches that wouldn't let the event kick-off DeSantis' final days in the race had him frantically trying to figure out where his message might best resonate after he lost Iowa to Trump by 30 points. After completing the 'full Grassley' in Iowa by traveling to all 99 counties and receiving the endorsement of the state's popular Gov. Kim Reynolds, DeSantis still couldn't turn ou the vote for a win in the caucuses on January 15. The day after the Iowa caucuses DeSantis flew to Greenville, South Carolina to get a jump start in the fourth primary contest state in hopes voters would turn against Nikki Haley there. After the quick South Carolina stop, DeSantis flew back to New Hampshire later that day before CBS News broke on Wednesday that the governor planned to leave the Granite State - possibly for good - to again campaign in South Carolina all weekend. That trip, however, ended up lasting one day with three events. It concluded with headlines on how DeSantis sparred with a fourth grade teacher over Haley's education record as governor. On Sunday, instead of campaigning in South Carolina, DeSantis was expected to fly back to New Hampshire. But after canceling appearances on NBC's Meet the Press and CNN's State of the Union in the process, it became clear something else was afoot. Hours later on Sunday morning he dropped out of the race and canceled remaining events. There are over 23,000 households waiting for a council flat in her borough Ms Begum previously admitted it was 'probably not something that I need' Apsana Begum moved into her council flat in 2016, before she was an MP A Labour MP is still living in a council flat more than two years after admitting 'it's probably not something that I need'. Apsana Begum attacked the Conservatives just last week for having 'no solutions' to the housing crisis. Yet she has been occupying a taxpayer-funded flat in a deprived London borough where 23,000 households are on the waiting list and desperate families face a three to six-year wait. Left-winger Ms Begum, 33, whose MP's salary is 86,584 a year, was seen leaving her 330,000 riverside property funded by the public, typing on her phone. The same day this month, she tweeted: 'From the NHS to housing, the Tories offer no solutions to the current crisis.' Apsana Begum, who has been the MP for Limehouse and Popular since 2019, seen leaving her council flat in East London Ms Begum moved into the flat in 2016, before she was MP, but now earns a salary of 86,584 per year and admitted two years ago that she 'probably' didn't need to live there Ms Begum is a member of the left-wing Socialist Campaign Group of Labour MPs and is an ally of former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn Last night Peter Golds, her local Conservative councillor in Tower Hamlets, said: 'Well, of course there would be a very simple solution she could lead by example and move out. 'She says she doesn't need that flat anyway, so why not give way to a family that genuinely does need it? She is so hypocritical. It is immoral that a person with an MP's salary, plus expenses, lives in publicly subsidised social housing which could and should be available to the neediest in society.' Ms Begum moved into the block beside the Thames in March 2016 when she was a diversity officer earning about 30,000 a year. But in 2019, her salary leapt to around 80,000 when she became Labour MP for Poplar and Limehouse. In 2021, she was found not guilty of making fraudulent housing claims after being accused of using her connections as a council house adviser to jump the queue for the one-bedroom flat. After being acquitted on all charges, she gave an interview to The Guardian in August that year. Asked why she still had the flat, she admitted: 'I am probably in a much better position now than I was when I first contacted the council for support. So it is something that I am thinking about: is it something that I need? 'And it's probably not something that I need. It's something that I should maybe consider or think about moving on from.' The Guardian's interviewer suggested that 'an MP with an annual income nearly three times the average UK salary should not be taking social housing away from others in desperate need'. Ms Begum moved into the block beside the Thames in March 2016 when she was a diversity officer earning about 30,000 a year Mr Golds said there were 23,000 households on the local waiting list. The Tower Hamlets council website states: 'There is a large demand for social housing in Tower Hamlets. 'Most people who join the housing register will never be offered a social housing tenancy. Even if you qualify, you may have to wait a long time.' A table shows the waiting time for a one-bedroom flat is three to six years. The income cap for those applying for social housing in the borough is 90,000 a year. There is no suggestion that Ms Begum has broken any rules. According to official figures on the website of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, she was paid an 'uplift' of 4,310, known as the London Area Living Payment. MPs in the capital are entitled to this on top of their salaries. It pushes her total income over 90,000, putting further pressure on her to explain her housing situation. Ms Begum has declined to comment. Ron DeSantis ended his campaign to become the GOP's presidential candidate by using a fake statement attributed to British wartime leader Winston Churchill. The Florida Governor signed off his campaign with the quote: 'Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts,' underneath the video where he announced he was removing himself from the running. But the motivational words, which he attributed to Churchill, where never actually used by the statesman and former UK Prime Minister, according to history experts. The International Churchill Society's website states: 'We base this on careful research in the canon of fifty million words by and about Churchill, including all of his books, articles, speeches and papers. The Florida Governor signed off his campaign with the quote: 'Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts,' underneath the video where he announced he was removing himself from the running 'We can find no attribution for either one of these, and you will find that they are broadly attributed to Winston Churchill. They are found nowhere in his canon. 'An almost equal number of sources found online credit these sayings to Abraham Lincolnbut we have found none that provides any attribution in the Lincoln Archives.' Author Richard Langworth, who wrote on 11 books on Churchill and his life, also found no source for the quote. DeSantis, widely considered the future of the Republican party and initially the favorite to take down Trump, announced he was suspending his campaign in a surprise video Sunday afternoon. It followed mounting speculation that donors were fleeing and his campaign was struggling to find a path to make a dent in Trump's huge polling lead. Trump said he was 'honored' by DeSantis' endorsement and called for Republicans to 'rally' behind the former president's 2024 White House bid. Winston Churchill, the British wartime leader, never said the words that DeSantis attributed to him, experts say DeSantis came second in the Iowa caucuses and largely avoided campaigning in New Hampshire so he could focus on South Carolina the home state of 2024 candidate Nikki Haley. But the writing was on the wall when the campaign fired half its staff, big-money backers were increasingly frustrated with his war on 'woke' and top brass were at each other's throats. His final warning was for Republicans not to go 'back to yesteryear' and confirmed he would support Trump, the opponent who has mocked and humiliated him for the last year. 'We don't have a clear path to victory,' DeSantis said in the video posted to X announcing his departure from the race. 'Accordingly, I am today suspending my campaign.' Now the Republican primary is down to a two-person race with only former President Trump and his once-United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley vying for the nomination. DeSantis' launched his campaign in a disastrous Twitter Spaces event before CEO Elon Musk rebranded the website to X The announcement of the end of his campaign was filmed in Florida, where it is now known he returned to after holding his last 2024 campaign event in South Carolina on Saturday. DeSantis' campaign vehemently denied to DailyMail.com on Sunday rumors that he planned to drop out but just hours later, the governor released a video on X ending his bid. 'Nobody worked harder, and we left it all out on the field,' DeSantis said in a four-and-a-half minute video on his exit from the campaign. 'Now following our second place finish in Iowa we've prayed and deliberated on the way forward. 'If there was anything I could do to produce a favorable outcome, more campaign stops, more interviews, I would do it. 'But I can't ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources.' The end of DeSantis' 2024 hopes ended much like how they began - on X. DeSantis launched his campaign in a disastrous Twitter Spaces event before CEO Elon Musk rebranded the website to X. Instead of starting off with the anticipated 'historic' social media announcement, the app experienced a series of glitches that wouldn't let the event kick-off. REAL CHURCHILL QUOTES 1. 'The longer you can look back, the farther you can look forward.' 2. 'Never, never, never give up.' 3. 'Time and money are largely interchangeable terms.' 4. 'Personally I'm always ready to learn, although I do not always like being taught.' 5. 'Vengeance is the most costly and dissipating of luxuries.' 6. 'Harsh laws are at times better than no laws at all.' 7. 'Everyone has his day, and some days last longer than others.' 8. 'It is not in our power to anticipate our destiny.' 9. 'Never give innever, never, never, never, except to convictions of honour and good sense.' Advertisement DALLAS The family of former U.S. Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson said Thursday that the trailblazing Texas congresswoman, who died last weekend at age 89, passed away after getting an infection and accused a Dallas rehabilitation facility of neglect. Johnson, who was the first registered nurse elected to Congress, died Dec. 31 at her Dallas home. Les Weisbrod, her family's attorney and Johnson's longtime friend, said at a news conference that her death was caused by an infection in her spine that developed after she was left in her own feces at Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation following back surgery. Weisbrod said he has given notice to Baylor Scott & White Health System and Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation that the family intends to file a lawsuit for medical negligence over her death. In a statement Thursday, Baylor Scott & White Health called Johnson "an inspiration to all," and said they are committed to working with her family and attorney. Weisbrod said it's a case that Johnson herself asked him to pursue weeks ago after she began suffering from complications from the infection. "I thought it was going to be a case for the pain that she went through and the additional procedures she went through and the medical bills and that she was going to recover," he said. "And so it's very distressing for me that she succumbed to this." On Sept. 21, her son found her lying in her own feces and urine at the rehabilitation facility, according to a news release from Weisbrod's office. Kirk Johnson said at the news conference Thursday that he went to the facility after his mother called to tell him she was getting no response from the call button. He said he arrived about 10 minutes later. "Deplorable," he said. "She was being unattended to. She was screaming out in pain and for help." The news release said that when Kirk Johnson couldn't find any nurses on the floor, he went to the administration office and the CEO accompanied him to his mother's room. When they arrived, staff members were cleaning up the feces. The news release said Eddie Bernice Johnson's orthopedic surgeon noted in his record that Johnson had some complications after the operation after being found in bed sitting in her own feces and three days later she began having "copious purulent drainage from the low lumbar incision." The surgeon performed a surgical repair on the infected wound, and she was moved to a skilled nursing facility on Oct. 18 and went home on hospice care mid-December, the news release said. The news release said that laboratory wound culture reports showed organisms directly related to feces. Johnson served in the House for three decades, leaving office last January after repeatedly delaying her retirement. Johnson, who was the first Black chief psychiatric nurse at Dallas' Veterans Affairs hospital, became the first Black woman to chair the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, and she also led the Congressional Black Caucus. Today in history: Jan. 5 1914: Henry Ford 1925: Nellie Tayloe Ross 1933: Golden Gate Bridge 1943: George Washington Carver 1949: Harry Truman 1998: Sonny Bono 2004: Airports 2011: John Boehner 2012: Barack Obama 2017: Donald Trump 2017: Gretchen Carlson 2018: Peter Martins 2018: Rose Bowl 2021: Georgia 2021: Kenosha 2022: Grammy Awards 2022: Kyrie Irving 2022: Novak Djokovic returns to the tennis court The Royal Navy has seen its size collapse from 232 ships in 1960 to 30 in 2022 Penny Mordaunt triggered a Cabinet row over defence spending yesterday after warning that the Royal Navy must 'keep pace' with Russia and China. The former defence secretary broke Cabinet convention by warning that the decline in the size of the force over the last century was a threat to British interests. Grant Shapps, the Defence Secretary, dismissed her comments as just an 'opinion' and did not say when defence spending would be increased. The Royal Navy fleet has reduced from 232 ships, including eight aircraft carriers in 1960, to 30 in 2022, including two new aircraft carriers. There are also warnings that a recruitment crisis could lead to the decommissioning of two ships. Cabinet ministers are bound by collective responsibility and tend not to intervene in one another's briefs, but Ms Mordaunt, the Commons Leader and an honorary captain in the Royal Navy reserves, issued her warning ahead of the Budget on March 6. Ex-defence secretary Penny Mordaunt broke Cabinet ranks by warning that the decline of the Royal Navy was a threat to British interests Grant Shapps, the current Defence Secretary, dismissed her comments as just an 'opinion' and did not say when defence spending would be increased She said: 'The Royal Navy and its partners must keep pace with the growing capabilities of other nations. If not, Britain's interests cannot be secured.' In an article in The Sunday Times, she said: 'We must not just ask ourselves by how much Russia and China are increasing their fleets, but why.' 'The future Royal Navy must be able to continue to secure our interests, which are entirely predicated on being able to thwart attempts to deny us access to the seas of certain parts of the world.' The warning from Ms Mordaunt, a former leadership contender, is not likely to have gone down well with Mr Shapps. Asked about her comments, he said: 'I'm in a post where there are a lot of people with opinions, and a lot of people who've been in the military and armed forces will often express them.' Last Monday the Defence Secretary warned that the UK was facing a 'pre-war world' and highlighted risks from China, Russia, Iran and North Korea. He was asked about the Conservative pledge to raise defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP on the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg, but failed to provide a date. The Royal Navy has shrunk to just 30 ships, down from over 200 in the 1960s Mr Shapps has previously called for defence spending to be increased to 3 per cent of GDP. However, he defended the Chancellor's plans to cut taxes ahead of the Budget, saying 'people do want to see more of the money that they earn kept'. Lord Dannatt, a former chief of the general staff of the British Army, warned last week that army numbers had fallen from 102,000 in 2006 to 74,000 today. But Mr Shapps insisted the size of the army would not dip below 73,000 under the Tories. He also called on Europe to 'step up' and give Ukraine more funding after the UK provided a new financial package for the country. He told Ms Kuenssberg: 'Britain has, again, as with all of those other things, led the way with a 2.5billion package and a security agreement, a cooperation agreement with President Zelensky and Ukraine. Now... not just America, but Europe needs to step up and do their part to make sure Ukraine can continue to defend herself.' The spending row also comes amid soaring tensions in the Middle East following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war. The Spring Budget occurs on March 6 and measures could be announced then Jeremy Hunt has pledged further tax cuts as it emerged that he is likely to have up to 10billion of headroom to fund them. The Chancellor said he would emulate Nigel Lawson whose tax-cutting policies helped Margaret Thatcher to a third election win. Forecasts of how much leeway he is likely to have to deliver on Rishi Sunak's pledge to slash taxes further will arrive this week. The independent Office for Budget Responsibility could give him from 6billion to 10billion of extra headroom against his fiscal targets, reports suggest. The Prime Minister has said that there will be 'more to come' on taxes following a national insurance cut in the Autumn Statement. This had been underpinned by a Treasury assessment that the government was on track to meet its debt rule with 13bn headroom. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt has pledged further tax cuts, as suggestions emerged that he would have more fiscal headroom than expected Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said that there will be 'more to come' on taxes as the UK enters an election year The Spring Budget takes place on March 6, with an expectation that there will be movement on taxes to mollify restive Tory MPs fearful of losing their seats. READ MORE: Jeremy Hunt says he will channel Nigel Lawson approach to jumpstart faltering economy Advertisement Analysts at Capital Economics told the Financial Times that the cost of government borrowing is expected to go down, boosting Mr Hunt and raising the headroom ceiling to at least 19bn. Paul Johnson, director of the Institute for Fiscal Studies, told the paper that it was 'plausible' that the headroom could grow by 10billion but also pointed to indications of economic uncertainty. Mr Hunt will be able to pledge tax cuts using the bonus as long as he meets his fiscal targets to cut debt as a share of GDP over the course of a Parliament. He told The Mail on Sunday he wanted to 'relieve pressure on families' and would stick to the plan of 'prioritising tax cuts'. Mr Hunt vowed to take inspiration from the late Conservative chancellor Mr Lawson, who slashed personal taxation which led to the Big Bang in financial markets. 'Just as Nigel Lawson positioned the City of London for the finance boom in the 1980s, this period of Conservative government has seen the UK positioned for the massive technological boom we're set to see in the coming years,' wrote Mr Hunt. 'The most dynamic economies tend to be places with lower taxes. The lesson is clear: supporting businesses with competitive taxes not more government spending is the way to growth. Jeremy Hunt has vowed to take inspiration from the late Nigel Lawson, who slashed personal taxation during the 1980s while Chancellor 'We Conservatives have always known that, of course but it is worth remembering. 'The plan is working. That's why we need to stick to it. It means cutting taxes, not raising them.' The UK is at the forefront of a tech boom, said Mr Hunt, with hopes that investment in financial technology, health research and semiconductor development will propel the economy. It is not clear what form tax cuts will take. However the Prime Minister and Chancellor are keen to grow the economy, indicating that further cuts to national insurance or income tax are likely as opposed to targeting inheritance tax or stamp duty. Mr Hunt may also hold a second giveaway Budget in the autumn before a November general election. In his article, he wrote of 'brimming with confidence about the fundamental strengths of the economy'. He called the UK a country that is 'really going places, despite the blows of a pandemic and Putin's energy shock'. Ahead of the last Spring Budget before the next election, the Treasury and No 10 have discussed how to ensure any tax cuts have the maximum impact on voters. 'The problem last time was that it was seen as a pre-election bribe,' one strategist told The Times. 'This time we're going to sell it differently, tying it to the broader argument this is about growth.' Ever visited a place and felt ripped off or disappointed by what you found? Well, a stream of disgruntled travelers have shared what they believe to be the world's biggest tourist traps, in a bid to prevent others from making the same mistake. A Reddit thread titled 'What place is the biggest tourist trap?' has garnered more than 4,500 comments to date, with a mix of places across the globe making the list. One traveler advised against going to see the Mona Lisa at the Louvre museum in Paris, with the Leonardo da Vinci painting being underwhelming and 'tiny,' while another said that Stonehenge in Wiltshire would leave you 'bitterly disappointed.' Take a trip down to see which spots on the map are best to avoid, according to this band of unhappy campers. The Pyramids, Egypt One traveler said the street vendors around the Pyramids in Egypt made visiting the historic site a 'very uncomfortable experience' Many Redditors outed the Egyptian pyramids as the biggest tourist trap, with the main complaint being the 'number of hawkers and touts' in the area. One traveler said the street vendors made visiting the historic site a 'very uncomfortable experience.' Another disgruntled commenter wrote: 'I've been to nearly 50 countries and Egypt was hands down the worst place I've ever been. 'The canals had rotting donkey corpses every few miles. Everything was a scam or a bribe.' Giving perspective visitors a more precise idea around what they can expect, another Redditor wrote: 'Don't get me wrong, the Pyramids themselves are awesome. Seeing them up close is really cool. 'The problem is, well, everyone that is involved with the Pyramids and everything surrounding it. The Pyramids aren't like what you'd expect. 'You'd think they are out in the middle of some desert far away from civilization, right? They are right up against Cairo. 'The city is like less than a 1/4th of a mile away. And it is such a eyesore. And on top of that, they are surrounded by people who scam, harass and steal from tourists.' Plymouth Rock, Massachusetts Many Redditors described Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts as a tourist trap, and disappointingly small Plymouth Rock, which is displayed on the shore of Plymouth Bay in Massachusetts, has come to symbolize the spot where William Bradford and the Mayflower Pilgrims disembarked before founding Plymouth Colony in December 1620. The tourism website notes that the 'simple glacial erratic boulder has become a world famous symbol representing something different to each person who looks at it.' It also notes that 'although no historical evidence exists to confirm Plymouth Rock as the Pilgrims' actual steppingstone to the New World, the boulder was identified as this spot in 1741, 121 years after the arrival of the Mayflower.' Many Redditors described the rock as a tourist trap, and disappointingly small. One commenter joked: 'The bar across the street has a great view of the disappointed tourists.' Another Redditor said the rock was only worth visiting 'so you can make a funny social media post about it.' To make the trip worthwhile, they advised exploring downtown Plymouth which was 'full of good restaurants, cafes, shops, etc' and there were 'some nice beaches around too.' Pier 39, San Francisco One Redditor advised others to stay away from iconic Pier 39 in San Francisco. While the website markets it as an ideal place to see views 'of the Golden Gate and Bay Bridges, Alcatraz and the city skyline at almost every turn,' one unenthused traveler simply described it as a 'long outdoor mall filled with useless tchotchkes (bric-a-brac).' They advised visiting the 'Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park, Ocean Beach, or one of our various arts and science museums' instead. Another Redditor disagreed, exclaiming in response: 'I actually really enjoyed Pier 39!' Stonehenge, England One Redditor described Stonehenge as 'bitterly disappointing' 'Don't go to England just to see Stonehenge,' one Redditor said, highlighting that anyone who did would be 'bitterly disappointed.' For those who really want to visit the prehistoric monument, they advise spending time in Salisbury as well, and 'enjoying the scenery on the way there and back' from London. Another of their tips includes 'exploring the area around Waterloo train station in London.' Mount Everest, Nepal While thousands of tourists flock to the Mount Everest region each year, one Redditor said it was at the top of their list when it comes tourist traps. They explained that the mountainous area is filled with 'garbage and dead people' and to top it off, tours are 'extremely expensive.' In a bid to help the trash problem on Mount Everest, various initiatives have been launched. Clean Everest, which was founded by French mountain guide Marion Chaygneaud-Dupuy in 2013, helped to collect more than 10 tons of waste in four years and it continues to this day. Mount Rushmore, South Dakota Just over two million people visit Mount Rushmore in South Dakota each year, but a few Redditors warned against going. One commenter wrote: 'There is nothing to do there except look at the government-sanctioned vandalism on the mountain. Not worth the cost of admission or the drive to get there.' Another said the massive sculpture that depicts U.S. presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln was 'honestly not as grand or impressive as it's made out to be.' They added: 'Plus, I think it's tacky that somebody decided it'd be cool to carve the faces of four white presidents into a mountain sacred to and stolen from the Native Americans. It just doesn't feel right. 'Save your time and visit other places in the area, including Custer State Park, Spearfish, Crazy Horse and Wind Cave.' Disney Parks, Worldwide One Redditor described the Disney parks as a 'GIANT waste of time and money' The Disney theme parks attract more than 100 million visitors worldwide and one Redditor described them as a 'giant tourist trap,' which they 'do expensively and well.' They noted that if people were looking for this kind of thing, then 'it's probably worth it... but if not, it's a GIANT waste of time and money.' Another Redditor added that the parks 'used to be fun places but now are nothing but money suckers and horrible food.' Other commenters complained about the long wait times for rides, with one noting that 'we now just call it DisneyLine.' The Bean, Chicago The famous Cloud Gate sculpture by artist Sir Anish Kapoor, which is affectionally nicknamed The Bean, is found in the AT&T Plaza at Millennium Park in the Loop area of Chicago. Thanks to its mirrored surface, the art installation makes for a top photo opportunity, and it attracts hundreds and thousands of visitors a year. Despite its popularity, one Redditor said they didn't understand the fascination. They said of The Bean: 'I've lived here 18 years and have never felt compelled to go anywhere near it. 'People who come here insist on going there for a picture, never fails. Especially people from overseas. It's like one of their top three things to do.' Mona Lisa, Paris Many Redditors slammed Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa for being a tourist trap and described it as 'underwhelming' About 30,000 tourists visit the Louvre museum in Paris each day, with Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa being the star attraction. However, many Redditors outed the masterpiece as a tourist trap and described it as 'underwhelming.' One disappointed museum-goer wrote: 'Hands down the most underwhelming thing I have seen... but it receives so much hype, people barely notice the Greek sculptures on their way to see a small painting of a sad looking lady.' Another commenter said that along with the painting being 'tiny,' it was impossible to get close to it because the area was 'roped off and extremely crowded.' Great Wall of China One Redditor entered the Great Wall of China, 'specifically the location north of Beijing,' into the tourist trap thread. Explaining their nomination, they wrote: '[The] wall has been torn apart, rebuilt so many times you may as well just visit Disneyworld. 'On the way to the wall people are hawking all kinds of tourist junk. 'Finally, you get to walk on the wall. The problem is some parts... they're built for... I don't know... horses to gallop on? 'You're scrambling up and down smooth stone floors of 30 degree angles with only metal handrails to give you anything to steady yourself with. 'When I went it was busy as hell so you're just butting heads with the locals, as if someone let the dogs out, and they're clambering all over the place then plopping down to lay out a lunch in the middle of the crowd.' Times Square, New York Times Square in New York sees more than 300,000 pedestrians a day Times Square in New York got quite a few votes from Redditors as one of the world's biggest tourist traps. One commenter said of the bustling spot, which sees more than 300,000 pedestrians a day: 'Not only is it always crowded and full of people in the worst costumes you've ever seen trying to scam you, but the amount of money everything costs there is insane. 'I mean everything - even if you go to a chain restaurant (like Applebees), the prices are doubled for the literal same dish at a location in a different area of New York.' Another Redditor said that despite it being a tourist trap, Times Square was 'still worth seeing at least once just because of how iconic it is.' Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Many beer lovers from around the world flock to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin for a taste of the black stuff and to learn about its history. However, one Redditor has deemed the attraction an overpriced tourist trap. They wrote in the thread: '$20 for a multi-story 'beer-brewing for dummies' walk-through tour. The penultimate floor has a bunch of Guinness advertising media, which was cool, I guess. 'This floor also had "Guinness University," where you could learn the proper way to pour a pint of the titular beverage. The top floor is an observation deck, with little blurbs printed on the windows, describing prominent features of the view. You can have a pint at the "University," or at the bar on the observation deck floor. 'And that's it. You get ONE pint, with the price of admission. You can't buy another. Get your beer, take in the view, then leave. I was so mad. It's not that I was looking to get wasted... But a couple of pints, enjoying the view a while, maybe shooting the shit with some other patrons. But no... One beer, and goodbye. 'That was the one blight on an otherwise spectacular week in Dublin.' Leaning Tower of Pisa, Pisa One Redditor said of the Leaning Tower of Pisa: 'It's not even leaning very much. It's one of those attractions that's better in pictures than in person' One Redditor who entered it into the thread, said they were surprised they didn't see the Leaning Tower of Pisa higher on the list. Explaining why the wonky bell tower should be considered a tourist trap, they wrote: 'It's not near the airport and is the middle of a sh**ty city, surrounded by trashy shops and aggressive merchants. It's not even leaning very much. It's one of those attractions that's better in pictures than in person.' Another Redditor agreed with these sentiments and simply described the attraction as 'pretty disappointing.' They added: 'There is only really one parking lot closer to it. Immediately as you leave your car the first street sellers approach you. Then you have to walk through a street market with more sellers on foot getting in your face. 'Then you finally get through the gates where sellers aren't allowed. It's basically just a huge lawn with the tower at one side. Tower is pretty cool but ruined by the packs of people taking the same picture. 'There isn't anything else to do in the city so you just walk back through the market and the pestering street sellers. At this point you end up buying something as to not feel like you wasted the day.' Salem Witch Museum, Massachusetts The Salem Witch Museum in Salem, Massachusetts, failed to impress one Redditor, who nominated it in the thread. They wrote as a warning to others: 'You sit in a darkened auditorium and from time to time a spotlight appears on various areas above your head to show tableaux featuring mannequins dressed in 17th-century clothing, each scene depicting an event during the witch trials. 'A recording tells the story. 'The backdrops and props look very old and dated. Very underwhelming, especially at $17.50 per ticket.' Maya Bay, Phi Phi, Thailand Maya Bay in Thailand was made famous after appearing in the Leonardo DiCaprio movie The Beach Maya Bay in Thailand, made famous after appearing in the Leonardo DiCaprio 1999 movie The Beach, was branded a tourist trap by one Redditor. They complained that because of its film outing, the white sand cove on Phi Phi Leh Island in the Andaman Sea, is now 'nasty' and littered with 'too many tourists.' In 2018, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation announced that it was banning visitors to let the coral reefs and vegetation recover. There have also been several closures since, but the Redditor says that these will not help in the long term. They concluded: 'It will never be the place that everyone thinks they're going to see ever again. Sad.' Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Vancouver In Canada, a pool of Redditors elected the Capilano Suspension Bridge as the country's worst tourist trap. One commenter said of the attraction: 'Private park in North Vancouver with a swaying drooping pedestrian bridge across a small canyon. $80 admission. 'There is a similar bridge for free on a public park nearby. For that price I'd rather visit the peak-to-peak gondola ride between mountain tops in Whistler.' Another contributor also suggested visiting the Lynn Valley Conservation Area as a cheaper alternative to Capilano and with 'just as nice views.' However, one Redditor disagreed with the naysayers, writing in the bridge's defense: 'I love the Capilano Bridge!!! How dare you????' Las Vegas Strip, Nevada Las Vegas caused a stir among Redditors, with many upvoting it as one of the world's biggest tourist traps. One commenter reminisced about how 'many years ago, there were great, cheap buffets.' However, nowadays hotels prey on tourists and 'put you in a room where you lose track of time and lose your money.' 'Also, people do stupid things when they go there for bachelor/bachelorette parties, sometimes ruining friendships and marriages,' they added. Another Redditor said how the city was 'literally designed to get your money while giving you the illusion you actually have a chance.' 'And if you do hit big they do everything in their power to keep you there so you can give it back,' they added. Being onboard a cruise ship with hundreds of strangers for nine months would be a nightmare for some people, however it's a dream come true for others. The Royal Caribbean Ultimate World Cruise is a 274-night journey that will visit more than 60 countries, with passengers seeing 11 wonders of the world - on a holiday that costs anywhere between 41,634 to more than 82,483. Videos of passengers documenting their journeys have gone viral on social media with followers intrigued by their adventure. MailOnline spoke to one of the content creators on board, who goes by @little_rat_brain on TikTok, but chooses to keep her real name private. She revealed everything from how some guests aren't impressed with the food, to how passengers get all of their laundry done for them. MailOnline spoke to one of the content creators on board the ultimate nine-month cruise, who goes by @little_rat_brain on TikTok, but chooses to keep her real name private The American travel influencer has amassed more than 130,000 followers and more than a million views thanks to her videos on the cruise. The ship, which is called the Serenade of the Seas, departed from Miami, Florida on December 10, 2023, and will return on September 10, 2024 - leaving plenty more time for fans to get an insight into what it's like. She told MailOnline: 'Travel has always been a part of my life, so it was really easy to decide to take this particular cruise. 'One of my family's goals is to visit all fifty states and seven continents, and this cruise would fulfill that goal - or at least it will once we make it through the Drake Passage. 'Its been a fantastic time so far. Ive loved every minute both off and on the ship. 'Ive been able to meet so many different people from different places, try new foods that I didnt know existed, and see places that are hard to believe theyre on the same planet'. The content creator admits that she was initially worried about making friends on the cruise, as she wasn't sure 'what the demographic would be like'. However, so far she's met lots of people and is forming friendships, adding that: 'To their credit, the crew is excellent at setting up meetings for different social groups, so there are ways to meet people'. The content creator told MailOnline: 'Travel has always been apart of my life, so it was really easy to decide to take this particular cruise' She revealed that: 'There are more older and retired people than any other age group, but that is to be expected. However, the range of ages on the ship is 'actually quite surprising. 'We have families with young children, kids going to school, and some cruisers are even attending graduate school while onboard. 'Im an artist, so my schedule is pretty flexible. This trip is truly letting me explore different places and gather inspiration for the next phase in my life. 'I think any challenges that I face at this point would mostly stem from my poor packing. 'I neglected to consider my personal temperature comfort zones, and forgot to bring any long pants that are comfortable for sea days. Other than that, it truly has been smooth sailing'. When it comes to her newfound level of 'reality star' style fame, the passenger who goes by 'Little Rat Brain' admitted that it was 'definitely unexpected'. The TikToker said: 'Not even two months ago, I only had 200 followers, and thats now no longer the case. I get the interest though, if I wasnt on the cruise, I would certainly be following everyone involved'. Two of the most popular questions that followers of those on the cruise have are regarding the food and laundry situations. The ship, which is called the Serenade of the Seas, departed from Miami, Florida on December 10, 2023, and will return on September 10, 2024 The passengers documenting their journey's on social media have seen their follower numbers shoot up as thousands of people from across the world tune in to see what's going on on the ship She explains: 'People have been complaining about the food, but frankly, my refrigerator would never have this many options. 'The food varies each day, and the buffet always has so many different options. I am amazed at the logistics that it must take to feed everyone onboard and to make sure that minimal food goes to waste. 'The Indian food is consistently amazing and the desserts always surprise me'. She goes on to reveal that there are two options for laundry, you can either do your own in the three laundry areas offered or send it out three times a week: 'Personally, Ive opted to have mine done for me, as laundry is one of my least favourite activities to do back home. 'Its also nice because it comes back folded, which would be quite the ordeal in my room'. Commenting on her room, she added: 'My cabin is an interior room, which I love. Prior to sailing, I found out the dimensions of my room, so I was about to figure out how to shuffle the existing furniture around to make it have the best flow possible. 'I also painted large murals on cloth to hang on the walls, as well as added plant squares over the artwork to give a sense of the outdoors. 'Every bit of space has been looked at and converted into storage, with the help of magnets and boxes'. At the time of writing, the cruise's inhabitants are experiencing their 'worst weather yet' going through the Drake Passage. She exclaimed: 'The drake passage is notoriously rough, and we are definitely getting a taste of it. 'For the past two days, the ship has sailed through hurricane force winds, with the highest speed being over 90 knots. The ship, which is called the Serenade of the Seas, departed from Miami, Florida on December 10, 2023, and will return on September 10, 2024 'The waves are also quite high, with some of them reaching the fifth deck and the spray of them have reached the tenth deck as well'. It comes after a storm at sea caused major flooding to certain areas of the ship, just two days in. While it wasn't severe, some cruisers were disgruntled by having to move rooms and put heat fans out to dry the carpet'. She explained that so far, the passengers have seen 12 different countries and have 52 countries left. She said: 'We started off in the United States, leaving from Miami, and then headed to Royal Caribbeans private island in the Bahamas. I have to admit, I used this day to get the majority of my unpacking done. 'We then headed to Mexico, to see our first world wonder: Chichen Itza-which was absolutely incredible. 'Its hard to envision the scale and the science behind it when you read about it, but in person, its such an interesting place. After that, the ship headed towards the ABC Islands: Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao. The traveller gushed: 'All of those islands are truly the definition of tropical paradise, the weather was fantastic and the water was such a pure shade of blue, it was unbelievable. The American has amassed more than 130,000 followers and more than a million views on certain cruising videos 'Our next two stops were Barbados and Grenada, respectively. Both of those islands were unlike anything Ive seen before. I wasnt expecting Grenada to look so prehistoric and lush, although it makes sense that a tropical rainforest would be able to produce all the spices they are known for'. She admitted: 'Unfortunately, due to safety concerns about weather, we had to skip French Guiana, but I think Ill eventually make my way back there. 'Finally, we made it over to Brazil, which I cannot say enough good things about. I loved every single port that we went to. 'The vibrancy of the colors and the joyfulness of everyone that we met, along with the sheer amount of public art made it one of my top countries so far. 'Also, being offshore of Copacabana beach for New Years is something that Ill truly cherish for the rest of my life. 'After that whirlwind of travel, the ship docked in Uruguay, which I didnt expect to love nearly as much as I did. There is definitely some semi-serious consideration of moving there after this cruise is over. 'Finally, our last country so far is Argentina. Argentina has been a lovely area so far, especially since we saw our second world wonder-Iguazu Falls. I dont have a country that Im most looking forward to next, since Im just truly excited to see every single port. 'The excursions are also pretty varied for each port, as they cater to a range of different interests and abilities. My favorite ones so far have been riding on a dune buggy on the beach of Morro Branco and seeing baby penguins in Puerto Madryn'. With the bulk of the trip still to go, including destination across Asia, the Middle East, Europe and beyond, the cruisers won't return home until September of this year. Read the full list of destinations below: An Australian travel influencer has taken to TikTok to share her most overrated and underrated destinations in Europe. Jacki, who posts under the handle @jetsetting_jacki, regularly makes videos for her 23,000 followers, featuring travel tips for different locations. In a recent post, she listed five places for each category and gave her reasons why - but not everyone agrees. The clip has already been seen by more than 115,000 people, with commenters chiming in with their own opinions. She captioned the TikTok: 'So many European destinations are hyped up excessively, but this is just my opinion so 100% go make your own mind up and tell me what you think! Which ones do you wanna fight me on?' An Australian travel influencer has taken to TikTok to share her most overrated and underrated destinations in Europe Jacki, who posts under the handle @jetsetting_jacki , regularly makes videos for her 23,000 followers, featuring travel tips for different locations Five overrated European destinations Paris Kicking off Jacki's overrated list is none other than the capital of France. She admitted: 'So, honest opinion, I absolutely hate Paris. 'I've been to the city three times now and I felt unsafe. It was dirty, the people weren't very nice. 'I just did not enjoy my time in Paris at all and that is why it is on my overrated European places list'. One viewer agreed: 'Paris is under-hated [sic] and overrated,' meanwhile a second insisted: 'I love Parisyou cannot change my mind. Certain areas over-hyped for sure, but its still a beautiful city'. Amsterdam She continues: 'Next, a bit controversial but joining Paris on the list is Amsterdam and I just thought the partying there was pretty overrated. 'It just was not as good as people hyped it up to be and yes, I know there are a few things that are legal there, that aren't legal in other places, but it just didn't make up for it - I don't know'. However, commenters argued back on this one, with: 'Amsterdam is amazing, just avoid the tourist places after the first day' and 'Amsterdam is the best city I have been to'. A third pleaded: 'Amsterdam is the best city in the world. You should give it another chance!' In a recent video, she listed five places for each category and gave her reasons why - but not everyone agrees Mykonos Third on the list is a place that the influencer describes as 'totally overrated' and says she 'wouldn't even bother going' - Mykonos. Jacki explained: I don't know if this is just because I am so in love with Ios but Mykonos was so expensive. 'It was busy, the people were really s***** and thought they were like amazing because they were in Mykonos and better than you.' She added: 'Music was also s*** and the guys were so creepy, like so creepy'. Magaluf Fourth on the list is a popular British holiday destination, best known for it's wild nightlife - Magaluf. The travel pro explained: 'Oh my God, I thought I was gonna be old going into it but I have never felt older in my life than going to Magaluf. 'I've heard really good things about the rest of Mallorca so maybe I need to go back and go there, but Magaluf was the trashiest, most disgusting place I've ever been'. Commenters joked: 'How did Magaluf make this list?' and 'Whos rating Magaluf?,' alongside laughing emojis. A third wrote: 'Magaluf is well known across Europe as somewhere to not go - grimy and full of under-agers, its definitely not rated highly'. Island of Capri The final destination on Jacki's overrated list is the Italian island of Capri, located within the Bay of Naples. She revealed: 'I do like it here on the island of Capri, it's beautiful, I've been twice now. 'But it's so busy and it's so tiny and all the shops and things are just so expensive. 'Like, I can't afford to be there - I think if you were rich and you had like a sugar daddy it'd be amazing'. Five underrated European destinations Sicily Moving on to her five most underrated destinations, the TikToker named the Italian region of Sicily. She reminisced: 'I went there a few years ago and I can't wait to go back. 'It was amazing, it was cheap, it was beautiful, way less tourists'. One viewer agreed: 'Sicily is fantastic, amazing beaches and fantastic hidden gem villages'. However, a different commenter argued: 'Went to Palermo Sicily in 2002, biggest dump I've been to'. Another penned: 'Sicily is one of the poorest regions in Italy and there's almost nothing to see and do unless you just wanna stay all day long at the beach or eat pasta, a big no for me'. Overrated destinations Paris Amsterdam Mykonos Magaluf Island of Capri Advertisement Underrated destinations Sicily Scandinavia Malta San Sebastian Iceland Advertisement Scandinavia Jacki continues: 'Next, Scandinavia. I feel like a lot of Australians don't put this on their Europe itinerary but I spent six months studying in Sweden and it was amazing guys. 'I loved it there - I did Copenhagen, Norway, all of them were amazing. 'The only place I didn't love was Helsinki, but other than that, everything was so much fun'. Although, viewers were quick to point out that Finland is not part of Scandinavia. Another traveller chimed in with: 'Scandinavia is nice but dont go to Oslo. So expensive and not that different to Gothenburg or Stockholm'. Meanwhile, someone else argued: 'How are you bunching in Scandinavia as one place? Its multiple countries'. Malta Third, she talks about Malta - famous for it's beautiful coastline and breathtaking landscapes. Jacki revealed: 'Malta is literally one of the most beautiful places I've ever been. 'The beaches were stunning, the partying was really fun as well and I feel like it's still a little bit quieter than some other European destinations'. Viewers had similar experiences, adding: 'Malta is a hidden gem, its a beautiful place. Going back this year' and 'Malta is amazing'. Others wrote: 'Malta is the best' and 'Malta is my favourite place'. San Sebastian Fourth on the content creators underrated last is the Spanish city of San Sebastian. She told viewers: 'Literally some of the best food I've ever eaten in my whole life - you have to go. 'It was so beautiful, it was chill, it was fun'. Agreeing, a fellow fan penned: 'Agree on San Sebastian, its the best. I could easily live there - good vibe, beaches, mountains close by, food is amazing'. A second praised: 'San Sebastian is the nicest City in Europe, best food by a country mile'. Iceland Finally, the travel pro talks about Iceland, despite never having been there. She explained: 'This is one that I haven't been to but I know it will be literally incredible and that is Iceland. 'I feel like a lot of people don't put this on their bucket list but it looks insane and I just know I'm gonna love it'. But others believe it should have been on the overrated list, with one user writing: 'Iceland is a bit overrated, underrated really is Baltics the people there are amazing'. Another agreed: 'Iceland is not underrated, its so popular now'. An Irish tourist has revealed how to avoid being overcharged for a cab ride in Budapest after she was 'scammed' on holiday. Kerry Mitchell, from Dublin, posted a TikTok under her handle @kerryeatsdub, and it has already been seen by more than 177,000 people. She told viewers: 'So, last night I got scammed in Budapest. This is just a public service announcement to everyone - and I already knew this, but I still did it. 'Don't get a taxi that is not on an app, don't get a taxi from a rank, especially if you are getting one of the prosecco boat tours'. An Irish tourist has warned others who are planning a getaway to Budapest, after a taxi scam left her bank card completely drained of money The tourist recalled that after the tour she and her friends were freezing, drunk and hungry - wanting to get some food as soon as possible, so they opted not to walk. She explained: 'I tried to order a Bolt because they use Bolt here mainly and he arrived but he was like a ten minute walk away, so I was like what the f***? 'And there was a taxi rank there, so we went over and asked if they take card. 'All of them wouldn't take card except one. They were like, 'oh go up to the Mercedes up there'. 'So we go up to the Merceredes and it is a man, he is so nice, asking us where we're from, is Budapest much more expensive than Dublin, is it cheaper, blah blah blah. 'He was making conversation, asking how long we're here for, all that stuff. I thought he was a nice man, also the ten glasses of prosecco did not help'. The tourist's Revolut bank account had been completely drained of cash, which she later confirmed has 110 euros in it - she shared a photo of herself visibly upset after the shocking incident However, she was cautious and admitted that she was looking at the meter 'the whole time' - having previously been warned about getting cabs in Budapest - so was 'keeping an eye' on it. Kerry said: 'It shouldn't have been over 20, actually it shouldn't have been over 10. 'Anyway, so we get out, I tap my card, don't think anything of it and then we go for food, go to the bar and I go to buy a drink. 'I tapped my card and he was like, 'oh you don't have any money'. 'So, it's nearly a week later, this is actually me when I discovered I had no money. He took everything in my Revolut account'. The tourist's Revolut bank account had been completely drained of cash, which she later confirmed has 110 in it - she shared a photo of herself visibly upset after the shocking incident. However, luckily, she had only transferred 110 into her Revolut account - had there been more cash in there, matters could have been significantly worse. She explained: 'I had to cancel it and I went on the live chat. After an hour and a half I'd say of me sobbing in the corner of the bar, I did get my money back, somehow. 'They managed to cancel the transaction. They told me many times they wouldn't be able to'. The tourist had been on a prosecco boat tour in Budapest, before deciding to get a taxi from the local rank She finished the video off with a stark warning: 'In conclusion, do not get taxis off the street in Budapest or anywhere really to be honest. Use Bolt if you're going to Budapest. 'All this aside, Budapest is 10 out of 10 and I do actually highly recommend'. However, this TikToker is not the only one to fall to victim to taxi scams in Europe. One viewer revealed: 'This happened to me and my boyfriend in Budapest, he tried to charge us over 100 and he tried to lock us in the car. 'I already had my door unlocked and told him to shove it and he ran up the road after us telling us he was going to find us'. A second penned: 'Same happened to me 111 for a two-minute drive'. Meanwhile, a third added: 'No Im not even messing this is exactly what happened to us! Came off the Prosecco cruise and went straight to a ruin bar to see he had charged us 90 for a taxi!' Someone chimed in with: 'Exact same thing happened to me and my boyfriend in Budapest, and again the man was really nice and chatty then absolutely ripped us off'. Commenters shared their experiences with other destinations as well as Budapest, including Prague, Athens, Amsterdam and Rome. One viewer wrote: 'Prague taxi drivers are the absolute worst I've ever had. Such an easy city to get around by tram but late at night you've no choice but to use taxis'. Others added: 'Happened to us in Athens' and 'Yeah, beware of the overly friendly, chatty, guys - especially in Rome'. The warning comes after an experienced travel blogger was charged six times the going rate for a taxi ride from Paris's Charles De Gaulle Airport (CDG) to the city centre. Melissa Hie, known online as girleatworld.net, recently blogged about an 'intimidating' situation she found herself in with a fake Parisian taxi driver who quoted 360 (312/$387) for a ride. After refusing to pay the obscene amount, she said the driver became 'aggressive' and followed her into her hotel - only backing down when she paid him 80 (69/$85). Shelley Long was spotted outside her Pacific Palisades home after her mysterious absence at the Emmys Cheers alum Shelley Long was spotted breaking cover just days after she was a no-show at her former castmates' reunion at the 2024 Emmy Awards. The TV star stepped out in her Pacific Palisades neighborhood on Tuesday afternoon to take her dog for a walk, exclusive DailyMail.com photos show. Long, 74, who starred as bartender Diane Chambers on the classic TV sitcom, appeared glum and lost in thought, keeping her hands in her coat pockets while the pooch sniffed around without a leash. The actress looked quite unrecognizable from her glamorous Hollywood heyday, sporting large eye glasses and dressed down in gray sweat pants, sneakers and a blue turtleneck. Shelley Long was seen looking downcast and pensive in Los Angeles days after her mysterious absence at the Emmys The 74-year-old actress broke cover on Tuesday to walk her pet Chihuahua around her Pacific Palisades neighborhood The television star was notably on the Emmys stage on Monday when former cast members Ted Danson (Sam Malone), Rhea Perlman (Carla Tortelli), Kelsey Grammer (Frasier Crane) and John Ratzenberger (Cliff Claven) appeared on a replica of the show's Boston bar set Long was mysteriously absent on the Emmys stage on Monday where her former Cheers co-stars reunited around a recreated set of the show's iconic bar. It is not known why she skipped the get-together where cast members Ted Danson, Rhea Perlman, Kelsey Grammer, John Ratzenberger and George Wendt were all present together in a recreation of the famous set, although Woody Harrelson was also a no-show. Kirstie Alley, who replaced Long in Season 6, died in 2022. Cheers ran for 11 seasons from 1982 to 1993, though the show was almost canceled after its first season due to low ratings (74th of 77 primetime shows at the time). However, it spent eight of its remaining 10 seasons in the top 10, becoming the most-watched show in Season 9. It earned 28 Emmy Awards from 117 nominations, earning Outstanding Comedy Series nominations all 11 seasons, winning four. Long was nominated for an Emmy five times, winning in 1991. She also won an Emmy three years later for her role in the special David's Mother in which she played the title role, the parent of an autistic boy. Long's character's on-again, off-again romance with former Red Sox relief pitcher Sam Malone (played by fellow Emmy winner Ted Danson) kept the show on the top of the ratings chart year after year. Shelley quit at the end of Season 5 in 1986, believing her character had run its course. Dressed down in gray sweat pants, sneakers and a blue turtleneck, she appeared lost in thought and kept her hands in her coat pockets while the pooch sniffed around without a leash Long is known for her role as intellectual barmaid Diane Chambers (left) in the hit NBC sitcom, which ran from 1982 to 1993. She looked quite unrecognizable from her glamorous Hollywood heyday during her outing on Tuesday Long's character was known for her romance with Sam Malone (played by Ted Danson). She quit at the end of Season 5 in 1986, believing her character had run its course But she reprised her Cheers role to appear as a guest character on Frasier opposite on-screen love interest Kelsey Grammer. In his 1995 biography 'So Far' Kelsey claimed Shelley was unpopular with producers on Cheers. He claimed producers grew tired of her constant complaints about his own character and plotlines. Long found fame playing the intellectual barmaid in the 1980s sitcom but has also appeared in a string of other hit shows and movies including, The Money Pit, Troop Beverly Hills, Hello Again, and The Brady Bunch Movie. The Hollywood star, who has been divorced twice and is a mother of one, has lived in a $1.3million condo in the upscale West Los Angeles enclave of Pacific Palisades, California, since divorcing her second husband Bruce Tyson in 2004. But according to locals, she is rarely seen out and about. DailyMail.com spoke to the cast about how they overcame the language barrier TLC's new dating show Love and Translation is set to premiere this Sunday A new TLC dating show leaves its three bachelors with no other option but to communicate with their potential matches through the use of touch with one contestant cheekily admitting this opened the floodgates to kissing and event heavy petting. Love and Translation, which premieres on the network on Sunday, follows three American men as they move into a luxurious Dominican Republic villa with 12 women. The snag? The women, who hail from all over the globe, can't speak English. Ahead of the series launch, DailyMail.com spoke exclusively to the three bachelors, Tripp Bromley, Dylan Hodge, and Kahlil Haughton, as well as presenter Sangita Patel, and they revealed things got intimate as they were forced to explore other means of communication. TLC's Love and Translation is set to be the steamiest show yet - as the singletons are forced to communicate via touch due to language barriers One couple gets hot and heavy under the sheets judging by the racy trailer, with the three bachelors confirming to DailyMail.com 'touching was our most useful form of communication' The trailer alone is packed full of skin on skin contact, including Tripp sharing a passionate snog with one of the women while in a body of water, while it appears Dylan gets frisky under the sheets with another. 'There's a lot of touch that happens,' Sangita teased, while promising this social experiment is 'unique' and that the trio had 'a lot of fun'. 'I think touch was the best substitute that we had,' 24-year-old contestant Kahlil said. 'You can make someone feel comfortable through touch, like dancing. And it feels natural.' The Texas native continued: 'I feel like touching was our most useful form of communication in a way. And I mean, sometimes it would lead to like more kissing and some other extra stuff or something. 'I think it was one of the most the most useful things that we did.' Speaking in agreement, Dylan, 21, added: 'When you can't use language, then you have to resort to other senses to be able to communicate. 'So, we used all the other options. Everything else in the tool belt was pulled out.' Kahlil (pictured) revealed: 'Sometimes [touching] would lead to like more kissing and some other extra stuff' None of the 12 women on Love and Translation can speak English - causing a road block Presenter Sangita Patel told DailyMail.com: 'There's a lot of touch that happens', adding that the trio had 'a lot of fun' Overall, the bachelors described their time on Love and Translation as 'really humbling' and 'grounding' Californian native Tripp, 30, did point out that as the show develops, the trio do get 'a little bit more sophisticated with our nonverbal communication'. He continued to DailyMail.com: 'One of the things that stood out is that I learned to communicate with just my eyes. 'You can do a lot more with that, listening, and communicating than doing the cavemen basics.' The cameras didn't shy away from picking up the action as their romances deepen and the bachelors weren't camera shy. Tripp said: 'I registered that everything was under surveillance and I never thought about it. 'For all of us, [the cameras] were just a factor that was included in the situation, so we opted to focus on the presence of the moment here.' The three Love and Translation bachelors, Kahlil Haughton, Dylan Hodge and Tripp Bromley (pictured left to right) The 12 women - who hail from the likes of Japan, Brazil, France, Morocco, and South Korea Overall, Tripp noted that the overall vibe of the show was a 'true open love experience'. He said: 'Everybody's got freedom everybody's heart is open or closed. 'It was really humbling and grounding experience for everybody in one way or another.' While they kept the outcome of the series well and truly under wraps, Sangita hinted: 'Love is a universal language and I really think that comes through in the end.' Love and Translation premieres on Sunday, January 21 at 10 pm ET/PT on TLC. Kate Fowler made a daring fashion move on Friday when she arrived at the Australian Open wearing a very early noughties inspired ensemble. The 34-year-old, who is the older sister of model Georgia Fowler, poured her figure into a pair of retro bell bottom jeans embellished with patchwork details. As she stepped out in the Ralph Lauren Lounge, her billowy white shirt matched the white pattern adornments on her $700 distressed bottoms. The model elevated her designer look with a set of chunky brown heels which beautifully matched her $960 Ralph Lauren handbag. Her accessories included two gold rings and an understated necklace which perfectly fit into the low-cut tie neckline of her top. Kate Fowler, 34, (pictured) made a daring fashion move on Friday when she arrived at the Australian Open wearing a very early noughties inspired ensemble As her dark locks tumbled down her back in their natural wave pattern, Kate enhanced her picture-perfect features with a minimal makeup look. Kate, who split from billionaire pub baron Justin Hemmes, 51, in 2018 following three years of dating, has kept a very low profile in recent years. She was last spotted alongside her heavily pregnant sister Georgia, 31, in December as the pair took their children on a beach day out at Camp Cove. Kate, who is the older sister of model Georgia Fowler, poured her figure into a pair of $700 retro bell bottom jeans embellished with patchwork details and made by Ralph Lauren The Victoria's Secret fashion model flaunted her growing belly in a black bikini, but Kate slipped into a more conservative one-piece. Georgia is expecting her second child with husband Nathan Dalah, while Kate shares daughters Saachi, three, and Alexa, four, with Justin. Kate has kept her love life very private since splitting from the businessman, with her last known partner being rumoured beau David Oettle in 2021. In July 2018, Justin, 51, (right) announced his split from Kate after three years of dating - the pair share daughters Saachi, three, and Alexa, four Meanwhile, Justin is currently dating 26-year-old model Madeline Holtznagel. While it's not known exactly how long Justin and Madeline have been dating, she previously hinted their relationship has carried on longer than many people expect. Speaking to The Sydney Morning Herald in October 2021, Madeline said they'd actually met two years before reports emerged of their relationship in early 2020. 'We have known each other for two years and met when I was modelling in Singapore,' she said at the time. Christine McGuinness is reportedly enlisting the help of a 'pitbull' celebrity divorce lawyer as she fights for a multi-million pound divorce settlement after splitting from Paddy. The television personality, 35, and the presenter, 50, announced they had parted ways in July 2022 after 11 years of marriage. The amicable former couple still live together in their family home to co-parent their children, twins Felicity and Leo, 10, and daughter Penelope, seven - who all have autism. Model Christine is said to be determined to stay in the 4million home with her children. Lawyer Catherine Bedford, 52, has a had a number of big-name clients in the past, including Game of Thrones star Sophie Turner who she helped in her divorce from US pop star Joe Jonas. Christine McGuinness is reportedly enlisting the help of a 'pitbull' celebrity divorce lawyer as she fights for a multi-million pound divorce settlement after splitting from Paddy (Christine and Paddy pictured in 2021) Model Christine is said to be determined to stay in the 4million home with her children and has sought the help of lawyer Catherine Bedford (Catherine pictured last year) It is also claimed she helped Ant McPartlin's ex-wife Lisa Armstrong get a reported 31million pay-out in their divorce. Catherine, who has been branded a 'pitbull' in American media, is due to represent Christine in London on Tuesday, it has been claimed. A source told The Sun: 'Christine really wanted to work with a woman during her divorce and Catherine is one of the best in the business. 'Christine wants to stay in the house shes lived in as a family for many years. Shes poured many hours of love, care and attention into it. 'It would be heartbreaking to have to leave the property after all this time and uproot her life.' MailOnline has contacted a representative for Christine for comment. Catherine, who is a senior partner with top London law firm Harbottle and Lewis, was also involved in billionaire royal ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's three-year legal battle with his ex-wife Princess Haya bint Hussein. The Harbottle and Lewis website states: 'Depending on each clients needs, Catherines approach is tailor made - whether that be successful negotiating outside of the court process or tough litigating within it.' Lawyer Catherine Bedford, 52, has a had a number of big-name clients in the past, including Game of Thrones star Sophie Turner who she helped in her divorce from US pop star Joe Jonas (Catherine, left, and Sophie, right, pictured last year) According to the website, partners charge 535 an hour but it is likely Catherine, who was named family lawyer of the year in 2022, will charge more. It comes after it was reported Christine was left 'devastated' after she found out her estranged Paddy is making a 'mockumentary about their divorce'. According to The Sun, a friend close to Christine has revealed that she found out about Paddy's plan after ready about it online. They told the publication: 'Christine is distraught that their divorce is going to be the butt of the jokes. 'Shes completely broken over the divorce and we are genuinely worried about her. 'Paddy didnt tell her about the pilot. The fact she had to find out online, like everyone else, that he was doing this has broken her even more.' Meanwhile, Christine is 'trying to carve out' her own career, following her split from Paddy. Christine and Paddy still live together in their family home to co-parent their children, twins Felicity and Leo, 10, and daughter Penelope, seven - who all have autism Christine has said her focus is on supporting their three children, Felicity and twins Leo and Penelope. She told the Mirror: 'My main focus for 2024 is going to be on my children, they are always my main focus. Then work, work for myself and trying to carve out a career so that I can always look after my children and give them a future what they want and support them and their needs for as long as possible. That's really where I'm at right now. 'I want to try and be more present, which I'm very good at with my children. When I'm with the children, that's where I'm my most authentic self, and I'm just me. It's just me at home with the children. 'I'll put my phone away and I'm not on social media. I'm not even speaking to friends. I literally I will spend that time with my children as I'm really seeing now that they're only little for a short time.' North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum said he was thinking about the best interest of his state when he endorsed former President Donald Trump, but he hasnt made a concrete decision about being part of the frontrunners team if Trump secures a second term. Burgum, a Republican who ran for president himself, endorsed Trump a day before Trumps victory on Monday, Jan. 15, in the Iowa Caucus. Trump received 51% of the vote for the bid to become the Republican nominee, steamrolling competitors like Florida Gov. Ron. DeSantis and former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley. In a victory speech in Des Moines, Iowa, Trump said he would like Burgum to be a very important piece of his administration. Burgum, who spoke Wednesday with The Forum from New Hampshire, said he did not expect the president to say those kind words, nor did the governor run expecting a Cabinet position. As he was preparing to return to North Dakota, Burgum said Trump best aligns with the governor's presidential campaign message of improving the energy sector, the U.S. economy and national security. He also said he thought about the best interest of North Dakotans when endorsing Trump. Whoever is their president is going to matter a lot, Burgum told The Forum on Wednesday morning. Burgum traveled with Trump to New Hampshire to support the Republican frontrunner ahead of the East Coast states primary on Tuesday. Burgum said he expects the primaries to be over soon, insinuating Trump will be named the Republican nominee. The governor suspended his campaign in December after failing to qualify for the third and fourth Republican debates. He secured enough financial support but couldnt gain traction in the polls. In his victory speech on Monday, Trump called Burgum a solid guy with no controversy, suggesting thats why the governor couldnt gain momentum in the polls. Still, Trump said Burgum was one of the best governors in the country. There has been speculation Trump may ask Burgum to be his vice president, but the expected Republican nominee hasnt made any announcements about his pick for a running mate. Burgum didn't say whether he would take a cabinet position from Trump if offered. He also hasnt declared his candidacy for a third term as governor, though he said he expects to announce his plans later this month. He said he wants a presidential candidate who can defeat President Joe Biden. Bidens policies have been bad for both North Dakota and the U.S., he said, and the country needs a 180-degree turn from the Democrat. It is an unbelievable amount of one-size-fits-all, Burgum said of Bidens decisions while in the White House. The North Dakota governor predicted the presidential election will be tight, and he said supporters of Trump need to do what they can to get him back in Washington, D.C. Burgum previously said he would not do business with Trump. When asked what changed, the governor reiterated his comments about doing what is best for the state. Nicole Kidman recently opened up in a raw interview about her experiences navigating Hollywood as a woman in her fifties. The Australian actress, 56, who has become one of the world's most prolific movie stars, broke her silence during Stellar's Something To Talk About podcast last year. After kicking up a stir with her controversial 2022 Vanity Fair micro skirt photoshoot, the successful producer said she's never let what other people think hold her back. 'I make the most random, crazy choices. I call it "teenage choices" because I don't ever think of the consequences,' she admitted. 'I have to be made to think of consequences half the time. Part of my brain just doesn't think like that.' Nicole Kidman, 56, (pictured) recently shared her experiences navigating Hollywood as a woman in her fifties The Nine Perfect Strangers star went on to say she makes all her fashion choices based on how she feels rather than what others say she should wear. 'I just try to keep in that place, because otherwise I think you get scared or worried about what people think,' she added. 'In terms of people's reactions, I say don't tell me. I don't really want to know. It'll stop me from doing what I want to do.' The Australian actress, who has become one of the world's most prolific movie stars, broke her silence during Stellar's Something To Talk About podcast last year It comes as the renowned actor continues to film her latest Binge series, The Last Anniversary, produced by her company Blossom Films. Following the success of Big Little Lies and Nine Perfect Strangers, Nicole will collaborate once more with fellow film producer Per Saari. The Last Anniversary will be her latest adaptation of a novel written by Liane Moriarty, which was published in 2006. After kicking up a stir with her controversial 2022 Vanity Fair micro skirt photoshoot, the successful producer said she's never let what other people think hold her back It tells a story of intrigue about a woman who inherits a home on a mysterious island, and is being filmed in Sydney with Australian actors. 'Australian accents, an Australian project with Australian accents for the world. This has been a long time in the making,' Nicole said at the SXSW Festival last year. She went on to say she was thrilled to be working on yet another production based on a story by Liane, as they have so much in common. 'She is the same age, she has got kids, she has gone through similar things at different times. She has become a great friend,' the movie star said of the author. Alicia Silverstone made the rounds during the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah on Saturday. The 47-year-old actress was spotted attending the premiere of her film Krazy House at Eccles Center Theatre. She looked chic as ever in a brown mini skirt and a matching jacket draped over her shoulders. The film is centered on a family that is suddenly thrown into disarray when they discover that the maintenance workers at their residence are members of a violent crime syndicate. In addition to the Clueless star, the feature includes the likes of Nick Frost, Kevin Connolly and Gaite Jansen. Alicia Silverstone made the rounds during the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah on Saturday The 47-year-old actress was spotted attending the premiere of her film Krazy House at Eccles Center Theatre Earlier in the day she was pictured at The Vulture Spot, and was greeted by a number of fans after leaving the function's venue. The performer, who is the same height as her 12-year-old son Bear, was later pictured during her visit to the IndieWire Sundance Studio. Silverstone went shirtless under a patterned jacket during her time at the film festival. The Batman & Robin star also donned a matching pair of wide-legged pants, which were paired with jet-black shoes. The performer accessorized with a single necklace and carried a chic leather purse. Her voluminous blonde hair cascaded onto her shoulders and contrasted well with her clothing. Silverstone spoke to Variety about her new movie and told the media outlet that she was highly surprised by the film's content. 'I got a call from my agent saying there's a really crazy script that you need to read. I did and it's a page turner for sure. I never saw anything like this before,' she said. The performer went on to speak highly of the movie's co-directors Steffen Haars and Flip van der Kuil and expressed that she greatly enjoyed working with the filmmakers. She looked chic as ever in a brown mini skirt and a matching jacket draped over her shoulders She posed with co-stars Gaite Jansen and Walt Klink (L-R) Jansen, Klink, Steffen Haars, Flip Van der Kuil, Silverstone and Maarten Swart Earlier in the day the performer was pictured at the IndieWire Sundance Studio The Batman & Robin star went shirtless under a patterned jacket and matching pair of wide-legged pants, which were paired with jet-black shoes The performer accessorized with a single necklace, and she carried a chic leather purse as she left The Vulture Spot The star was pictured departing the venue 'You can tell these guys are artists. They're freaky and wild artists...I wanted to go play with them! I got to go to Amsterdam and play with all of these freaks and they are all so talented,' she said. Silverstone went on to speak about her recent change in creative direction and taking on unconventional projects. 'I was doing a lot of theater and they were letting me do things I wasn't allowed to do in movies. From that theater stuff, they just started to let me do it in movies,' she stated. Krazy House's producers are currently looking for distributors at the Sundance Film Festival. Stella Maxwell ensured all eyes were on her on Saturday as she arrived at the five-star Hotel Costes during Paris Fashion Week. The model, 33, put on a very glamorous display as she arrived at the luxurious hotel as the menswear designer shows got underway in the French capital. She showed off her incredible figure in a black midi dress made up of a bandeau lace bust and a completely sheer midi skirt. Stella teamed the risque ensemble with an oversized pinstripe blue blazer and a pair of Dr. Martens boots as she turned heads during her outing. The fashionista toted her essentials round in a black cross-body bag and opted for a glowing make-up look for the evening ahead. Stella Maxwell ensured all eyes were on her on Saturday as she arrived at her lavish five-star hotel in Paris during Paris Fashion Week The model, 33, put on a very glamorous display as she arrived at the luxurious hotel as the menswear designer shows got underway in the French capital She showed off her incredible figure in a black midi dress made up of a bandeau lace bust and a completely sheer midi skirt It comes after Stella stormed the runway on Thursday for fashion brand 032c Nighthawks autumn/winter collection. The release marked the brand's first runway show staged during Men's Paris Fashion Week. Stella ensured all eyes were on her as she strutted down the catwalk and put on a very leggy display in a navy blue mini-dress. The chic dress boasted a low-cut V-neckline and featured wrapped detailing at the bust and waist. Stella further elevated her height with a pair of black court heels and styled her blonde locks straight for the show. She also slipped into a shell bomber jacket and matching trousers for another show-stopping runway look. Stella recently signed with The Society Management, which has worked with huge names including Irina Shayk and Kendall Jenner. Stella teamed the risque ensemble with an oversized pinstripe blue blazer and a pair of Dr. Martens boots as she turned heads during her outing The stylish model toted her essentials round in a black cross-body bag and opted for a glowing make-up look for the evening It comes after Stella stormed the runway on Thursday for fashion brand 032c Nighthawks autumn/winter collection The release marked the brand's first runway show staged during Men's Paris Fashion Week The star provided a statement to WWD to express her enthusiasm about working with The Society Management. 'Change in all things is sweet like lemonade. That first part is Aristotle, but the lemonade part is all me,' she gushed. 'I am very excited to be working with the Society family. I have been with Elite Paris for many years, so it feels very natural to be working within their network.' The company also released a statement of their own to welcome the model to its ranks. They described her as 'a fashion icon that has had an outstanding career over the years within the fashion sector, as well as with her admirable advocacy work'. Noel Gallagher has revealed he is planning a 'big blowout' after kicking his four-year nightly wine habit. The High Flying Birds musician, 56, has cut back on his drinking, giving up booze on New Year's Day and swapping it for peppermint tea, according to the Mirror. But the former Oasis star plans to break his run of sobriety in the coming months after a London gig when he will celebrate by waving his underwear in the air. The Cigarettes & Alcohol hitmaker said on the the Matt Morgan podcast: 'Ive been drinking every day for four years, half a bottle of red wine a night. 'Ive got a gig on March 21 at the Royal Albert Hall, so thats the aim to have a big blowout the night after that, go mad, swinging my undies round my head in the dressing room.' Noel Gallagher is planning a 'big blowout' after kicking his four-year nightly wine habit (pictured in March last year) The High Flying Birds musician, 56, has cut back on his drinking, giving up booze on New Year's Day and swapping it for peppermint tea (pictured last month) Last year, Noel vowed to carry on boozing until he got a 'tap on the shoulder' from the doctor. The songwriter - who, along with his now-estranged brother and former Oasis bandmate Liam, 51, were among the biggest caners of the 1990s - planned to continue his partying ways until he was told to rein it in. Speaking to Dave Berry on the Absolute Radio Breakfast Show in January last year, he said: 'I was out last night, I accidentally had lots of alcohol when I was out and I feel pretty, pretty rough. I love getting on it, I love it.' Asked if he's 'ever abstained', Noel replied: 'No, no, no. Dry January is for middle-aged women. 'Life is short, and life is fleeting, I think while you can, you should, because theres gonna come a point where your doctor goes, "I dont think you should do that anymore". Noel (right) and his now-estranged brother and former Oasis bandmate Liam, 51 (left), were among the biggest caners of the 1990s (pictured in 2005) 'I am on it until I get my tap on the shoulder. Im still functioning perfectly as a human being, the old back's a bit sore. 'Going out is a big part of life, being sociable with ones friends I love it.' Noel - who also planned to cut down on wine in 2021 after boozing too much during lockdown - famously declared taking drugs was 'like getting up and having a cup of tea in the morning'. Mary J. Blige and Chloe Bailey led a dazzling array of stars traipsing across the purple carpet at the Urban One Honors: Best In Black event in Saturday. Thrown at the Coca-Cola Roxy concert hall in Atlanta, the glittering gala welcomed a cavalcade of boldface names in glamorous outfits. Among them was none other than Mary, 53, who opted for a flesh-flashing ensemble that allowed her to display her chiseled midriff. Her peekaboo ensemble also offered up a few glimpses of cleavage as she struck pose after pose, with the shutterbugs snapping away at her. The fashionably asymmetrical outfit featured a raised sash that curved over one shoulder, then looped through the crook of one of her arms. Mary J. Blige (left) and Chloe Bailey (right) led a dazzling array of stars traipsing across the purple carpet at the Urban One Honors: Best In Black event in Saturday Teyana Taylor, baring her cleavage in a rust-toned frock designed to resemble an overcoat, shot a smoldering supermodel stare at the camera Sporting a scarlet hairdo, she pulled an exaggerated pout for the camera She was festooned in jewelry, including a tangle of necklaces and a set of ornate earrings Among them was none other than Mary, 53, who opted for a flesh-flashing ensemble that allowed her to display her chiseled midriff Her peekaboo ensemble also offered up a few glimpses of cleavage as she struck pose after pose, with the shutterbugs snapping away at her Letting her blonde locks tumble down her back, the 'Queen Of R&B' added a splash of glitz to her look with a pair of drop earrings and a couple of bracelets. She could be spotted mingling on the red carpet with her younger half-sister Jonquell, who wore a midriff-baring black outfit that perfectly complemented Mary's. Teyana Taylor, baring her cleavage in a rust-toned jumpsuit under a coat in the same color, shot a smoldering supermodel stare at the camera. Meanwhile Chloe put her hourglass figure on display by sliding into a slinkily sheer gold Retrofete dress that brought back memories of Jessica Rabbit. Combined with a pair of matching fingerless opera gloves, the ensemble shimmered glamorous under the lights as she strode the red carpet. Chloe, whose little sister is The Little Mermaid star Halle Bailey, balanced on a pair of towering heels and arced one leg in a pinup pose as she stood for the cameras. Stars galore could be seen making their way around the fete, the most iconic among them being Dionne Warwick, who was swathed in an elegantly colorful fur coat. A few couples turned the shindig into a date night, including Killer Mike, who wore matching white with his wife Shana Render. Big Dave's Cheesesteaks CEO Derrick Haynes also enjoyed a romantic outing that evening, swinging by the party with his wife Pinky Cole Hayes. She could be spotted mingling on the red carpet with her younger half-sister Jonquell, who wore a midriff-baring black outfit that perfectly complemented Mary's Meanwhile Chloe put her hourglass figure on display by sliding into a slinkily sheer gold Retrofete dress that brought back memories of Jessica Rabbit Combined with a pair of matching fingerless opera gloves, the ensemble shimmered glamorous under the lights as she strode the red carpet Stars galore could be seen making their way around the fete, the most iconic among them being Dionne Warwick, who was swathed in an elegantly colorful fur coat A few couples turned the shindig into a date night, including Killer Mike, who wore matching white with his wife Shana Render Big Dave's Cheesesteaks CEO Derrick Haynes also enjoyed a romantic outing that evening, swinging by the party with his wife Pinky Cole Hayes Chante Moore modeled a sleek, strapless little black dress and augmented the look with a regal touch by adding an off-the-shoulder wrap that flowed into a train Roland Martin brought an extra dash of flair to the proceedings in gold-trimmed black robes, accessorized with a black cap reminiscent of a fez Summer Walker exuded 1960s chic in an elaborate blonde hairdo over a skintight, ankle-length black gown that featured floral lace over the bust Jimmie 'JJ' Walker was unmistakable in his sky blue suit as he enjoyed a reunion with his Good Times co-stars Bern Nadette Stanis and Ralph Carter Trina Braxton, one of Toni Braxton's sisters and a cast member of the reality series Braxton Family Values, could also be spotted amid the procession of celebrities LeToya Luckett was the image of chic, cutting a showstopping figure in a bubblegum gown with a pair of raven opera gloves and matching thigh-high stiletto boots Chante Moore modeled a sleek, strapless little black dress and augmented the look with a regal touch by adding an off-the-shoulder wrap that flowed into a train. Roland Martin brought an extra dash of flair to the proceedings in gold-trimmed black robes, accessorized with a black cap reminiscent of a fez. Summer Walker exuded 1960s chic in an elaborate blonde hairdo over a skintight, ankle-length black gown that featured floral lace over the bust. Jimmie 'JJ' Walker was unmistakable in his sky blue suit as he enjoyed a reunion with his Good Times co-stars Bern Nadette Stanis and Ralph Carter. Trina Braxton, one of Toni Braxton's sisters and a cast member of the reality series Braxton Family Values, could also be spotted amid the procession of celebrities. LeToya Luckett was the image of chic, cutting a showstopping figure in a bubblegum gown with a pair of raven opera gloves and matching thigh-high stiletto boots. It's not every day that we humans can have such a positive impact on the lives of people we've never met. But that's exactly what happened in recent days to actor Rainn Wilson when he took a flight that went through Portland International Airport. While traveling Wilson, who played Dwight Schrute on the hit series The Office, unknowingly received a heartfelt message from a fan of the show that came in the form of a letter on a napkin. He has since posted a photo of that napkin on his social media platforms, along with a message back to the woman, who turned out to be a flight attendant. 'The Office got me through some of the darkest days of my life. I can't thank you enough for that,' the message read from Melanie with Alaska Airlines. Rainn Wilson, 57, shared a sweet message he received from a fan, who praised him and The Office for helping her 'get through some of the darkest days of my life' Along with posting the photo of the message on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), Wilson shared some more of the story behind her kind act, as well as a tribute to his former colleagues on The Office. 'I didn't even see who dropped this on my lap at the PDX airport, but I greatly appreciate the sentiment, flight attendant Melanie of Alaska Airlines,' he wrote in response. 'So humbled to be a part of a show that affected, touched, comforted and inspired. And continues to do so! It's so f***ing rare.' It's at this point that the acclaimed actor, who earned three consecutive Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Comedy Series for his work on The Office, shared some of the praise from that woman with the cast and crew. 'A continuous thank you to the whole Office family, cast, writers, crew and especially AUDIENCE!' the Seattle, Washington native continued, before adding that 'this is not an open invitation to give me notes on napkins!' The mockumentary series also starred the likes of Steve Carell, John Krasinski, Jenna Fischer, Ed Helms, Mindy Kaling, B. J. Novak, Leslie David Baker, Brian Baumgartner, Angela Kinsey, Oscar Nunez, Phyllis Smith, Kate Flannery, Paul Lieberstein, Ellie Kemper, David Denman, Melora Hardin, Creed Bratton, Craig Robinson, Rashida Jones, Zack Woods, Amy Ryan, Catherine Tate, James Spader, Clark Duke and Jake Lacy. The show, which depicts the everyday work lives of office employees at the Scranton, Pennsylvania branch of the fictional Dunder Mifflin Paper Company, ran on NBC for nine seasons from 2005 to 2013. Based on the BBC series of the same name created by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, it was adapted for American television by Greg Daniels, a veteran writer Saturday Night Live, King of The Hill and The Simpsons. Like its British counterpart, the show was filmed in a single-camera setup without a studio audience or a laugh track to simulate the look of an actual documentary. The actor played fan favorite Dwight Schrute on the mockumentary sitcom for its nine season run on NBC from 2005 to 2013 Wilson maintained he didn't even see who dropped the sweet message on his lap at Portland International Airport this week While The Office was a popular show during its original run, it saw a resurgence during the lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic, beginning in mid-March 2020; picture are stars B.J. Novak (Ryan Howard), John Krasinski (Jim Halpert), Jenna Fischer (Pam Beesley), Rainn Wilson (Dwight Schrute), Steve Carell (Michael Scott) The Office, which starred Steve Carell in the leading role of the boss Michael Scott, received 42 Primetime Emmy Award nominations that resulted in five wins; pictured in a scene from the show are Wilson, Carell and Krasinski Overall, The Office received 42 Primetime Emmy Awards nominations that resulted in five wins, including Outstanding Comedy Series (season two), Outstanding Writing For A Comedy Series (Greg Daniels for Gay Witch Hunt), Outstanding Directing For A Comedy Series (Jeffrey Blitz for Stress Relief), and Outstanding Single-Camera Picture Editing For A Comedy Series (David Rogers and and Claire Scanlon for Finale). While Carell never received an Emmy Award for his performance in the series, he did win a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor In A Television Comedy Or Musical (2006). The series saw a resurgence in its popularity while everyone was in lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic, beginning in mid-March 2020, as reported by a number of publications, including People. Wilson discussed that affect the show has had on fans with Carell on the finale of his Instagram Live series, Hey There, Human. 'One thing that's been really gratifying for me is during this really dark time, I've heard from so many people that they've really appreciated having The Office there that it has a warmth and humanity to it, kind of a family feel that makes it a special thing and that's helped them during this time, and even helped their mental health,' Wilson shared at the time. Mandy Moore revealed her house just got a little fuller. On Saturday, the actress, 39, who shares her sons August 'Gus' Harrison, two, and Oscar 'Ozzie' Bennett Goldsmith, one, with husband Taylor Goldsmith, 38, announced they rescued another dog with her Instagram followers. 'Welcome to the family, Marshmallow!' she captioned an adorable picture of her pup laying on a white dog bed. 'This sweet boy was found wandering the streets for several days, many miles from here by our beloved nanny, Celina. She continued: 'He's about 6-7 months, unchipped, not fixed (but scheduled for next week) and just the most unexpectedly wonderful addition to our gang.' Mandy Moore revealed she and her husband Taylor Goldsmith, rescued another dog on Saturday The This Is Us star revealed Marshmallow is about '6-7 months, unchipped, not fixed (but scheduled for next week) and just the most unexpectedly wonderful addition' to her family. 'We weren't looking for another dog but he was looking for us and the fact that he looks remarkably like our dear Joni made it too impossible to ignore,' she added, referencing her late pooch, who passed away, at age 12, in 2020. The mother-of-two mused that her 'cats are nonplussed and Jackson (our 14 year old shepherd mutt rescue),' but 'Marshmallow is slowly winning them over.' As for how they picked their newest addition's name, Moore revealed she and her spouse's eldest child came up with his name. 'When we showed Gus a picture of him and asked what his name was, without hesitation he shouted 'Marshmallow!' With his arms in the air. Done and done. Can't wait for all of the adventures, sir!! #adoptdontshop,' she concluded. Moore and Goldsmith, 38, previously rescued cats Fig, Peanut and Olivia, before welcoming their two children. Their beloved pup, Joni, died following complications from surgery to remove a mass on her liver. At the time, she shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, which read: 'My heart is utterly shattered. She was my first love and best friend.' 'Welcome to the family, Marshmallow!' she captioned an adorable picture of her pup laying on a white dog bed. 'This sweet boy was found wandering the streets for several days, many miles from here by our beloved nanny, Celina 'Last night, very unexpectedly, we lost our Joni girl. Yes, she was almost 13. Yes, she had pretty major surgery a week ago to remove a mass on her liver but she was recovering really well,' Moore told her fans. She went on to say: 'I knew something was amiss when she, lifelong food-obsessed, didn't finish her dinner and couldn't get comfortable in bed (despite being on pain meds). My mama intuition told me to bring her in and I'm glad we did.' Moore continued with a trip down memory lane as she wrote about the first time she met Joni. 'I saw her puppy mug online way back in early 2008 and drove down to San Diego to meet her at @thebarkinglotrescue and was instantly smitten. I'll never forget the drive home, telling her that it was just us against the world now.' As for how they picked their newest addition's name, Moore revealed she and her husband Taylor Goldsmith's eldest child came up with his name Their latest addition comes three years after the death of her beloved dog, Joni The post continued, 'To know her, was to love her. She never met a stranger. She was waaaaay more human (or muppet) than dog. She loved ANYTHING she could eat, even if sometimes it was gross (cat poop). Seriously, she was a vacuum.' 'She loved to give very stinky kisses. And I have no doubt she knew what an absolutely indispensable part of our lives and cherished soul she was...right until the end.' 'My heart is utterly shattered. She was my first love and best friend. Through every twist and turn of life of this past decade and change, she was right there. There's a deep chasm of emptiness that will never be filled but I am so grateful for her sweet nature and the endless connection, compassion, responsibility, patience and devotion that the love of a pet can bring into your orbit.' She continued, 'When mulling over the details of her surgery last week, my husband sorta joked that everything would have to be run by me because I'd had Joni for 13 years and only had him for 5. He's right.' 'She was the boss and a total mama's girl. I'm so sad she won't get the chance to meet her human brother soon but maybe she wasn't ready to share. Or be a suction cup right by my side every night.' Moore concluded, 'I will love and miss you forever, my Joni. Thank you for beyond a lifetime of love.' Temperatures in Utah might have plunged to -11C last week, but that didn't deter Saoirse Ronan from baring her toes in a very distinctive pair of Louis Vuitton shoes. The odd footwear, like her jumpsuit, is part of the label's new range, and not yet on sale to ordinary folk or at least those willing to spend about 1,000 on shoes. Saoirse, 29, was attending the Sundance Film Festival premiere of The Outrun, in which she plays a recovering alcoholic on the Orkney Islands. Lionel Richie, below, dressed more practically in an oversized 1,500 Amiri faux fur jacket for the launch of The Greatest Night In Pop movie about the recording of 1985 US charity hit We Are The World. Temperatures in Utah might have plunged to -11C last week, but that didn't deter Saoirse Ronan from baring her toes in a very distinctive pair of Louis Vuitton shoes The odd footwear, like her jumpsuit, is part of the label's new range, and not yet on sale to ordinary folk or at least those willing to spend about 1,000 on shoes Lionel Richie attends the 'The Greatest Night In Pop' Special Screening during the 2024 Sundance Film Festival at Eccles Center Theatre on January 19 Rosie cleans up with beauty sale It's all looking, well rosy, for M&S model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, whose 'clean' beauty brand has been sold for 1.9 million. Rose Inc, founded in partnership with the model in 2018, was put up for sale last year after US parent company Amyris filed for bankruptcy. Luckily, the tumult is now over as the brand has been bought by Hong Kong-based asset management firm AA Investments. Of the beauty industry, Rosie, right, said: 'It's a fast-paced industry and just as I think I've got it figured out, the landscape changes.' It's all looking, well rosy, for M&S model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, whose 'clean' beauty brand has been sold for 1.9 million Maya Jama and her 'glam squad' made a 12,000-mile round trip last year to host just ten minutes of Love Island despite ITV lecturing its viewers about cutting their carbon footprint. But this year the channel has changed its format so Maya, below, is effectively banned from returning to the UK from the Cape Town set in between episodes. A source tells me: 'ITV was mortified when it became apparent Maya had been jetting across the globe with her hairdresser, make-up artist and stylist. This year there is absolutely no chance of her being able to go anywhere.' So much for her Air Miles! Maya Jama and her 'glam squad' made a 12,000-mile round trip last year to host just ten minutes of Love Island despite ITV lecturing its viewers about cutting their carbon footprint Sanam Harrinanan and Kai Fagan are announced as Love Island winners by Maya Jama Davina McCall was left red-faced after leaving an 'absolutely filthy message' inside a copy of her book Menopausing for partner Michael Douglas only to learn someone else had received it! 'It's so embarrassing,' says Davina, 56. If any friends can no longer look you in the eye, Davina, then you'll know who's got the book. Rowing back, George? George Clooney attends the UK premiere of The Boys In The Boat His new film The Boys In The Boat, pictured below, hasn't been the critical success he might have hoped for so will it be George Clooney's final offering as a director? The Hollywood star, left, has revealed that he is considering packing away his director's chair for good as taking the helm is too time-consuming. Asked if he preferred being behind the camera or acting in front of it, George says: 'Probably not directing. I'm 62 and I've got kids at home and these things take a year, a year-and-a-half. It's a lot of time, so I'm not sure I'll be doing that much more.' Jamie Foxx has officially returned to the set of his upcoming film, Back In Action, for the first time following his near-death health emergency nine months earlier. The Django Unchained actor, 56 - whose daughter Corrine recently became engaged - was also spotted joining his co-star, Cameron Diaz, while preparing to shoot scenes for the action-comedy in Atlanta on Saturday. The Oscar winner kept it casual wearing a long-sleeved, black sweater as well as a pair of dark navy trousers. He also slipped into black ankle socks as well as comfortable, white sneakers that were secured with laces. Foxx strolled outdoors while placing his hands in the pockets of his pants, and was soon accompanied by The Mask actress, who also dressed down for the busy day of filming. Jamie Foxx, 56, has officially returned to the set of his upcoming film, Back In Action, for the first time following his near-death health emergency nine months earlier The Django Unchained actor was also spotted joining his co-star, Cameron Diaz, while preparing to shoot scenes for the action-comedy in Atlanta on Saturday She sported a pair of fitted, black pants and a plain white shirt which was layered with a tan-colored cardigan. Diaz also donned a pair of white sneakers and allowed her blonde locks to flow down naturally past her shoulders. At one point, the pair were spotted walking next to each other as they made their way down a sidewalk. The Netflix movie is directed by Seth Gordon and also stars Glenn Close, Andrew Scott as well as Kyle Chandler. The plot synopsis of the project has remained mostly under wraps and a set release date has yet to be announced. Back in April of last year, while filming Back In Action in Georgia, Jamie was notably hospitalized - which had been revealed by his daughter Corinne at the time. Most details of the actor's medical issue have remained private, but in May 2023, she took to her Instagram stories to give an update on Foxx's condition. 'My Dad has been out of the hospital for weeks, recuperating. In fact, he was playing pickleball yesterday! Thanks for everyone's prayers and support!' The Oscar winner kept it casual wearing a long-sleeved, black sweater as well as a pair of dark navy trousers She sported a pair of fitted, black pants and a plain white shirt which was layered with a tan-colored cardigan Diaz also donned a pair of white sneakers and allowed her blonde locks to flow down naturally past her shoulders Jamie had also taken to social media to express his gratitude for the overwhelming support he has received after suffering a medical emergency on April 11. 'Appreciate all the love!!! Feeling blessed,' he typed out to his fans and followers. Social media users, including celebrities, jumped to the comment section to continue to send their love to the Ray actor. His close pal, Kevin Hart, had also given a positive update of his own around the same time while appearing on an episode of the Impaulsive podcast. The comedian explained to host Logan Paul, 'I'm very fortunate to have the relationship that I have with Jamie and to be able to just check on him and stuff like that.' The Me Time actor added that Foxx's family was continuing to be 'tight and for reasons just about where he is, because Jamie's always been a private person to a certain degree.' Kevin stated that the outpouring of love has been a major influence in Jamie's recovery. 'The dope thing is that he's getting better in his situation, and you know, everybody's prayers, everybody's love, energy. All that stuff is seen and felt.' 'So in this case, man, you know, you just want the guy to get out of the situations and then get back home,' the Die Hart star continued. 'You know, I don't know the details, or the exact details to what's going on, but to my knowledge is there's a lot of progression and a world of better, man.' Last month in December, Jamie notably made his first public appearance since his health recovery at Critics Choice Association event (seen above) The star revealed that six months earlier, he was unable to 'walk' and further stated, 'I couldn't do that six months ago, I couldn't actually walk to [the stage]' The comedian movingly added about his close friend, 'So you know, my love, synergy, energy goes out to him. He's needed, he's necessary. I know that he knows that. 'I know that he feels that because there's been an outcry, an outpour of support in this regard. So, I can only hope that it continues,' Hart added about the Oscar winner. Last month in December, Jamie notably made his first public appearance since his health recovery. He attended the Critics Choice Association's Celebration of Cinema and Television: Honoring Black, Latino and AAPI Achievements event. Foxx received the Vanguard Award for his performance in The Burial and while taking to the stage, gave an emotional 12-minute speech to the crowd, per The Hollywood Reporter. The star revealed that six months earlier, he was unable to 'walk' and further stated, 'I couldn't do that six months ago, I couldn't actually walk to [the stage].' The Ray actor then humorously stated, 'And I'm not a clone, I'm not a clone. I know a lot of people saying that I was cloned out there.' 'I want to thank everybody. I've been through something, I've been through some thing,' he also added. He continued, 'It feels good to be here. I cherish every single minute now, it's different. I wouldn't wish what I went through on my worst enemy because it's tough when it's almost over, when you see the tunnel'; seen earlier this month in Hawaii Jamie continued, 'I saw the tunnel, I didn't see the light. It was hot in that tunnel too, I don't know where I was going. "S**t, am I going to the right place?"' 'It feels good to be here. I cherish every single minute now, it's different. I wouldn't wish what I went through on my worst enemy because it's tough when it's almost over, when you see the tunnel.' Jamie continued, 'I saw the tunnel, I didn't see the light. It was hot in that tunnel too, I don't know where I was going. "S**t, am I going to the right place?"' Also in December, Foxx rung in his 56th birthday by taking to Instagram and expressed his gratitude to all the prayers during his healthy recovery. 'This birthday is a special oneI wanna start by saying thank you to everyone that prayed for me when I was in a bad way here lately I've been able to thank some of you personally but I want to say to all of you.' 'I NEEDED EVERY PRAYER you lifted me through I was able to make it to today because of your prayers I consider all of you my family,' he also penned. The President of the Specialized Criminal Court Georgi Ushev has purchased in 2017 two land plots in the affluent Sofia suburb of Bankya for EUR 12 per square meter. The properties are located in the center of Bankya and are under a low-rise construction regulation. According to information from sites for real estate sales, it is extremely hard to find a price below EUR 50 in Bankya. Moreover, Georgi Ushevs property declaration is missing a small 19-square-meter residential building, which had not been entered in the Property Register as well. The Cadaster and satellite maps show that the land plots are adjacent; one of them faces Stefan Stambolov Street. There is a luxury house with a swimming pool next to it, but it is missing in the Cadastral map. A few days ago, Georgi Ushev told bTV on the subject of ApartmentGate the following: There is no way to comment on ApartmentGate , as I do not have the authority to conduct such probes. I do not know the details of these cases. Lets wait for the conclusion of the probes. I cannot comment on either the funds or the apartments of my colleagues. Now it turns out that Ushev himself has to be probed for these transactions at impossible for Bankya prices. *** If you find this article useful, support our work with a small donation. Pay a Bivol Tax! We will highly appreciate if you decide to support us with monthly donations keeping the option Monthly Like this: Like Loading... This post is also available in: Bulgarian The stars of My Old A** made their way to the 2024 Sundance Film Festival in Park City Utah for the official premiere of the new coming-of-age comedy film. Aubrey Plaza, 39, and Maddie Ziegler, 21, were among the cast and crew on hand to help with the promotion by first stepping in front of the cameras for a round of promo photos. The ladies braved the cold temperatures, which dropped into the 30s, and the snow in the Snyderville Basin, where the famed city is situated. Once inside the venue, Plaza showed off her stylish all-black ensemble consisting of a minidress, sweater and matching stockings. The former Parks And Recreation star also donned a pair of black sneakers, and had her dark brown tresses halfway pulled back. Aubrey Plaza, 39, and Maddie Ziegler, 21, were among the cast and crew of the new comedy film My Old A** to attend the world premiere at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah Ziegler made her grand arrival in a blue denim outfit that included a skirt with an embroidery on the right side and a matching shoulder-less top. The actress, who first gained recognition as a star of The Dance Moms reality series, also wore a pair of open-toe heels, and had her dark locks styled long, straight and flowing over over her chest and down her back with a center part. Written and directed by Megan Park, My Old A** tells the story of Elliott Labrant (Maisy Stella), who has been advised by her future self not to fall in love. That is, until she meets the boy her older self warned her about, according to a premise in Wikipedia. Park, 37, joined her cast by striking a pose or two during the red carpet portion of the event dressed in a gray turtleneck sweater, black slacks, and matching boots. The Canadian filmmaker wore her blonde locks long over her shoulders with natural waves and a part in the middle. Stella, 20, showed off a fun and youthful look in short and sleeveless minidress over a white top, along with sheer stockings and black leather shoes. Similar to Plaza, the former Nashville star had her blonde hair flowing long in the back but pulled back off her face on the sides, while having strands fall around her face. Some of the other stars of the film to help with the premiere promotion included Percy Hynes White, Seth Isaac Johnson, Kerrice Brooks and producer Tom Ackerley. The former Parks And Recreation star looked stylish in a black minidress and a matching sweater, stockings and sneakers The Wilmington, Delaware native recently starred in the second season of the HBO series The White Lotus (2022) after previously appearing in the superhero series Legion (2017-2019) The actress wore her long sweater open Plaza played April Ludgate on the hit show Parks And Recreation (2009-2015) Ziegler made her grand arrival in a blue denim outfit that included a skirt with an embroidery on the right side and a matching shoulder-less top The film's director, Megan Park (second right), joined up with the ladies of her film that included Brooks, Stella, Plaza and Ziegler at the Eccles Center Theatre Plaza also shared the spotlight with the lead actress of the film, Maisy Stella Stella, 20, showed off a fun and youthful look in short and sleeveless minidress over a white top, along with sheer stockings and black leather shoes. The Canadian filmmaker donned a gray turtleneck sweater with black slacks and boots Brooks, 23, had plenty of cool confidence in her unique outfit that consisted of a dark-patterned skirt and button-down shirt with a tie Producer Tom Ackerley, 33, showed his support in an all-black ensemble So far, there's no official word on when My Old A** will have its widespread release; the four female stars of also snuggled up together for the cameras The trio were later seen celebrating the film during a party at Star Bar Also present was The Walking Dead hunk Jeffrey Dean Morgan, 57, and his wife Hilarie Burton, 41 Aubrey, Megan, and Ziegler were later seen celebrating the film during a party at Star Bar. Also present was The Walking Dead hunk Jeffrey Dean Morgan, 57, and his wife Hilarie Burton, 41. Ziegler was also seen trying to navigate the snow storm that hit Park City decked out in a skimpy black leather skirt and jacket with matching pumps. After trudging down the street in the snow, the former reality star decided to catch a ride to another event while at the Sundance Film Festival. For this part of her day she had her long locks pulled into a top ponytail, while still having most of her hair flowing long in the back. My Old A** is the sophomore effort of Park after making her directorial debut in the drama film The Fallout (2021) Ziegler was also seen trying to navigate the snow storm that hit Park City decked out in a skimpy black leather skirt and jacket with matching pumps After trudging down the street in the snow, the former reality star decided to catch a ride to another event while at the Sundance Film Festival The Lindsay, Ontario, Canada native got her start in the film business as an actress in the Lifetime series Angela's Eyes (2006). She followed up with a role in the teen drama ABC series The Secret Life of the American Teenager (2008-2013), and has also had a recurring role in the science fiction sitcom The Neighbors (2013-2014). At a certain point, Park joined up with four of her female stars for a round of photos ahead of the screening that included Brooks, Stella, Plaza and Ziegler. The four actresses would also snuggle up together while posing for the photo op. Beverly Johnson recalled a racist incident she experienced at a hotel back in the '80s. The 71-year-old supermodel revealed that a hotel had drained their pool after she swam in it, and said she learned about it from her friends many years later in 2012. 'I did not know until we all went to the [late modeling agent] Eileen Ford's 90th birthday party,' she explained to Page Six in an interview published on Saturday. 'All the models were there,' she recalled. 'And one girl said to me, "Remember when they drained the pool? When you got in the pool at the so-and-so hotel?" The actress who was spotted with her family at her one-woman, off-Broadway play the day before added: 'I was like, "They did?" And she said, "You didn't know that?"' Beverly Johnson, 71, recalled a racist incident she experienced at a hotel back in the '80s; She is pictured January 4th The supermodel revealed that a hotel had drained their pool after she swam in it, and said she learned about it from her friends many years later in 2012; seen in 1998 The star who secretly eloped with her financier fiance Brian Maillian in Las Vegas last year declined to name the hotel nor reveal its location. 'So you get a lot of that,' she said about the hateful experiences she faced during her iconic, decades-spanning modeling career. 'People draining pools. It was racist.' 'As a model, there were different kinds of things that would happen to me because I was Black,' she continued. Despite being one of the most iconic supermodels, she still faced ugly racism, but the entrepreneur recalled one model who always supported her. 'Lauren Hutton would go to photoshoots and say out loud, "Why isn't Beverly on the cover of magazines? She is just as pretty."' Johnson said it was especially meaningful for Hutton to advocate for her as she was the 'it girl' at the time and could help her land more modeling opportunities. 'At the time Lauren was on every cover,' she continued. 'She was the it girl, so it was major for her to say that out loud at the time.' This year, Johnson is celebrating the 50th anniversary of being the first Black woman to grace the cover of American Vogue in 1974. 'So you get a lot of that,' she said about the hateful experiences she faced during her iconic, decades-spanning modeling career. 'As a model, there were different kinds of things that would happen to me because I was Black'; seen in 1980s Johnson also recalled that fellow model Lauren Hutton always advocated for her, and said it was especially meaningful as she was the 'it girl' at the time; Hutton seen in 1983 This year, Johnson is celebrating the 50th anniversary of being the first Black woman to grace the cover of American Vogue in 1974 Over the years, she has graced over 500 magazine covers as well as worked in theater and television. To commemorate her legacy, she is performing in her self-titled, off-Broadway play titled Beverly Johnson: IN VOGUE about her story; seen in 1977 Over the years, she has graced over 500 magazine covers as well as worked in theater and television. To commemorate her legacy, she is performing in her self-titled, off-Broadway play titled Beverly Johnson: IN VOGUE. According to the digital program, the show explores not only her remarkable modeling career spanning five decades but also 'her unimaginable tumultuous relationships, the truth about Bill Cosby, and her involvement in the #MeToo movement'. Her 'live autobiography' was written by herself alongside director Josh Ravetch about not only her incredible and iconic modeling career but also dives into her personal life story. Beverly Johnson: IN VOGUE will play at 59E59 Theaters from January 9 through February 4. Kendall Jenner looked every inch the supermodel in a sizzling new video she shared during her Aspen getaway on Saturday. The reality star - who hit the slopes with sisters Kim and Khloe Kardashian - took to her Instagram to post a clip of herself rocking a jaw-dropping black dress. She stunned in the silk frock with a plunging neckline, turning around to strike different poses for the camera. With her signature raven locks left long and loose, Kendall let her natural beauty take center stage, wearing minimal makeup. The eye-catching clip comes as Kendall and the Kardashian clan enjoy the sights and sounds of the upscale Colorado ski getaway. Kendall Jenner looked every inch the supermodel in a sizzling new video she shared during her Aspen getaway on Saturday The reality star - who hit the slopes with sisters Kim and Khloe Kardashian - took to her Instagram to post a clip of herself rocking a jaw-dropping black dress In addition to snowboarding, Kendall has explored dining and shopping in Aspen with her two siblings and their mom Kris Jenner. The fabulous group splurged at the upscale Japanese restaurant Matsuhisa earlier in the week. The trip comes after Kendall was pulled over by police in Beverly Hills last week and was ticketed for running a stop sign with pal Hailey Baldwin in the passenger seat. Kendall - who recently sparked speculation that she posted a snap of ex Bad Bunny - could be seen in the driver's seat of a $200k Mercedes-Benz G500 Cabriolet. The TV personality was pictured flashing a flirty smile and conversing with an officer that had approached her luxurious vehicle shortly after cruising around the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel. The supermodel was 'cited for running through a stop sign' and after receiving a ticket, was able to go on her way, law enforcement sources told TMZ. Despite being pulled over, both Kendall and Hailey appeared to be in good spirits, and were seen laughing and smiling amidst the interaction. Kendall was also in good spirits over the holiday season, which she kicked off by showing off her birthday suit in a promo for the holiday collection from French label Jacquemus. Her dress featured an eye-catching plunging front She stunned in the silk frock, turning around to strike different poses for the camera With her signature raven locks left long and loose, Kendall let her natural beauty take center stage, wearing minimal makeup The eye-catching clip comes as Kendall and the Kardashian clan enjoy the sights and sounds of the upscale Colorado ski getaway The fabulous group splurged at the upscale Japanese restaurant Matsuhisa earlier in the week The eye-popping holiday advertisement comes after Kendall rang in her 28th birthday The fashion house announced the collaboration on its official Instagram page in November, and shared a racy image of Kendall's buttocks. Strewn across her derriere -- which was slick with water droplets -- was a string of Christmas lights, as Kendall also rocked a fur-trimmed bra. The eye-popping holiday advertisement comes after Kendall rang in her 28th birthday wearing much more than just a string of Christmas decor. Taking to her own Instagram, the stunning brunette shared snaps of herself rocking a full-length, white gown at her private birthday bash. She was joined by her sister Kylie and her pal Hailey Bieber for her special day and as the night went on, Hailey shared a clip of Kendall blowing out the candles on her birthday cake. In another clip the duo posed for the camera, with Hailey writing, 'Happy Birthday to my beautiful scorpio baby.' Kendall's other family members were quick to wish her a Happy Birthday as well, with mom Kris sharing a sweet social media tribute. Kendall's sister Kim Kardashian, 43, shared some footage of herself hitting the slopes earlier in the day The trip comes after Kendall's family were all quick to wish her a Happy Birthday , with her mother Kris being the first to share a sweet social media tribute She took to Instagram with several flashback photos of the Vogue covergirl and left a gushing note. It read: 'Happy birthday to my beautiful, kind, generous, giving, smart, talented, creative, amazing, and thoughtful daughter Kenny!!' Kris then posted a birthday cake and present emoji with a kissing face. Chrissy Teigen looked chic as ever at the premiere of her new show, Chrissy & Dave Dine Out, at the Sundance Film Festival on Saturday. To celebrate the upcoming release of her unscripted series, the 38-year-old model put on a stylish display in a black, satin blazer with a plunging neckline and revealing cutouts at her sides. Teamed with the chic wrap top, she donned a pair of cream, wide-leg trousers, which also matched her dangling feather earrings. The television personality who recently revealed her son Miles, five, has never eaten a vegetable sported a pair of black, pointed-toe pumps to complete her look. She also posed for photos with her co-host David Chang as well as Joel Kim Booster at the event located at the Riverhorse on Main Street restaurant. Chrissy Teigen looked chic as ever at the premiere of her new show, Chrissy & Dave Dine Out, at the Sundance Film Festival on Saturday To celebrate the upcoming release of her unscripted series, the 38-year-old model put on a stylish display in a black blazer with a plunging neckline and revealing cutouts at her sides Later, she also joined Booster alongside their cast and crew for a cheery group photo on the red carpet. She took the stage at the premiere hosted by Sunrise Collective the first official AAPI house created by Daniel Dae Kim's production company 3AD, Gold House and The Asian American Foundation (TAAF). Teigen also posed for snaps with the Hawaii Five-0 star and Norman Chen, the CEO of TAAF. Chang, 46, looked effortlessly stylish in an oatmeal-colored button-down jacket worn over a gray T-shirt. The restauranteur and writer, who is also the founder of the Momofuku restaurant group, completed his look with dark jeans and sneakers. Booster, 35, donned a bubblegum pink rugby shirt with pastel yellow stripes. The actor and comedian also sported colorful pants with the imagery of clouds and rainbows. He paired his vibrant look with pale blue sneakers. Kim, 55, looked sharp in a cream turtleneck sweater teamed with black skinny jeans and shiny dress shoes. The star happily showed off her stylish look and flashed peace signs at the camera The television personality who recently revealed her son Miles, five, has never eaten a vegetable sported a pair of black, pointed-toe pumps to complete her look She accessorized with statement earrings She also posed for photos with her co-host David Chang as well as Joel Kim Booster at the event located at the Riverhorse on Main Street restaurant The premiere was hosted by Sunrise Collective the first official AAPI house created by Daniel Dae Kim's production company 3AD, Gold House and The Asian American Foundation (TAAF). Teigen also posed for snaps with the Hawaii Five-0 star and Norman Chen, the CEO of TAAF Later, she also joined Booster alongside their cast and crew for a cheery group photo on the red carpet During the event, she took the stage to chat about the series and the first episode Television news journalist Juju Chang, 58, also joined Booster, Teigen and Chang onstage to talk about their show At one point, she was also seen sitting in the crowd as she watched the screening with an amused smile on her face Chen looked dapper in a navy blue button-down teamed with olive green pants and sneakers. During the event, she took the stage to chat about the series and the first episode. Television news journalist Juju Chang, 58, also joined Booster, Teigen and Chang onstage to talk about their show. At one point, she was also seen sitting in the crowd as she watched the screening with an amused smile on her face. The debut episode of Chrissy & Dave Dine Out will premiere on Freeform on January 24 and be available to stream the next day on Hulu. Isla Fisher has shared a heartbreaking tribute to her late father Brian to mark the one-year anniversary of his death. The former Home and Away star, 47, posted a gallery of photos to Instagram on Sunday capturing some precious moments she shared with her father. One sweet photo shows Isla and Brian pose up a storm together against a scenic meadow and another shows him having fun with some friends. Isla captioned the pictures with some precious words. 'It's been a year since we lost you. I love you and I miss you every single day,' she wrote. Isla Fisher has shared a heartbreaking tribute to her late father Brian to mark the one-year anniversary of his death. Both pictured The former Home and Away star, 47, posted a gallery of photos to Instagram on Sunday capturing some precious moments she shared with her father Many of Isla's celebrity friends were quick to offer her their well wishes amid this difficult time. 'Sending you all my love dear friend,' wrote Kate Ritchie and Kate Beckinsale added: 'All my love to you'. 'Our fathers in Heaven. So missed,' Helena Christensen added. Fisher announced the death of her beloved father on social media in January last year. 'How do you live without someone that you can't live without?' she began. 'How lucky am I to have had you as my dad. You were hilarious, positive and my best friend. No matter what was going on in my life, you always asked me if I was having fun. 'I know this pain is going to get worse as the days between when I last saw you increase and that is very scary. Thank you for being the greatest father,' she added. Isla is said to be very close with her family and has described her upbringing in Perth, Australia as 'great'. The stunner was born in Oman but grew up in Perth, before moving back to Australia with her family. She and her husband Sacha Baron Cohen met at a party in Sydney in 2002 and married eight years later. Isla captioned the pictures with some precious words: 'It's been a year since we lost you. I love you and I miss you every single day.' Pictured together in 2011 Kristen Stewart made a statement as she sported two edgy ensembles while attending events during the Sundance Film Festival on Saturday in Park City, Utah. The Twilight alum, 33 - who promoted her latest film Love Me amid the star-studded festivities - also attended the premiere of her other recent project titled, Love Lies Bleeding. Earlier in the day, the star also made an appearance at the Variety Sundance Cover Party with other celebrity guests. The actress flaunted her own sense of style at the screening while wearing a white, sleeveless cropped top as well as a pair of red pants that contained white, striped details on the side. She additionally slipped into a pair of white and black-colored Adidas sneakers that were secured with laces. Kristen Stewart, 33, made a statement as she sported two edgy ensembles while attending events during the Sundance Film Festival on Saturday in Park City, Utah Kristen opted for minimal accessories to allow her outfit to be the main focal point for the screening, and added a silver-chained necklace. Her dark locks were partially pulled back away from her face into a messy up do, allowing loose strands to easily fall down her neck. Stewart's makeup was classically done for the special premiere, and comprised of a layer of mascara to her lashes as well as a light, red shadow around her eyes. A warm blush was added to better accentuate her cheekbones, while a nude-colored tint was worn on her lips for a finishing touch. The Spencer actress was seen pausing for a brief photo session upon arriving to the Eccles Center Theatre ahead of the premiere. Love Lies Bleeding - which was directed by Rose Glass - not only stars Kristen, but also Katy O'Brian and Ed Harris. The premise of the romantic thriller follows, 'A romance fueled by ego, desire and the American Dream,' per an official IMDB synopsis. Other stars were also spotted at the screening of the film on Saturday, including O'Brian, who was stylishly casual in a pair of dark green, cargo pants. Kristen opted for minimal accessories to allow her outfit to be the main focal point for the screening, and added a silver-chained necklace The actress flaunted her own sense of style while wearing a white, sleeveless cropped top as well as a pair of red pants that contained white, striped details on the side Her dark locks were partially pulled back away from her face into a messy up do, allowing loose strands to easily fall down her neck Stewart's makeup was classically done for the special premiere, and comprised of a layer of mascara to her lashes as well as a light, red shadow around her eyes Once inside the crowded theater, Kristen was seen with her fiancee, Dylan Meyer, and the pair also took a few memorable snaps together The fellow actress donned a black miniskirt as well as a yellow, graphic T-shirt. She layered the outfit with a black cardigan that had white stripes on the sleeves She also wore a long-sleeved, white shirt as well as a vest that contained colorful, floral details embroidered on the material. Katy slipped into a pair of fashionable sneakers and added a pair of earrings to complete her ensemble. Jena Malone was effortlessly chic wearing a fitted, black sequin dress that contained a scooped neckline at the front and was held up with straps that wrapped around her shoulders. She layered the outfit with a gray, pin-striped blazer which she chose to leave unbuttoned at the front. The beauty - who also took on a role in the movie - slipped into a pair of black, heeled boots and added a thick, black choker around her neck. Malone easily carried a small, black purse in her hand to hold a few items she needed during the outing. For a final touch, Jena's hair was parted in the middle, and styled into a sleek up do. Anna Baryshnikov - who tackled the role of Daisy in the project - turned heads wearing a black miniskirt that had silver-studded details on the fabric. The actress also wore a matching, caped piece on top as well as a plain, black shirt underneath. Other stars were also spotted at the screening of the film on Saturday, including O'Brian, who was stylishly casual in a pair of dark green, cargo pants Jena Malone was effortlessly chic wearing a fitted, black sequin dress that contained a scooped neckline at the front and was held up with straps that wrapped around her shoulders Anna Baryshnikov - who tackled the role of Daisy in the project - turned heads wearing a black miniskirt that had silver-studded details on the fabric Ed Harris kept it casual in a pair of dark, denim pants as well as a dark gray sweater. He added a black coat on top as well as a scarf to keep him warm in the chilly weather The director of Love Lies Bleeding, Rose Glass, sported a long-sleeved black dress that contained a green trim on the him and also around the sleeves and was joined by producers Andrea Cornwell and also Oliver Kassman She also slipped into a pair of black, sheer tights as well as knee-high, heeled boots to complete her monochromatic outfit. Her long locks were parted in the middle, and effortlessly cascaded down straight past her shoulders, revealing a pair of mini, gold-hooped earrings. Ed Harris kept it casual in a pair of dark, denim pants as well as a dark gray sweater. He added a black coat on top as well as a scarf to keep him warm in the chilly weather. The Truman Show actor also opted for a pair of black sneakers and placed a black beanie on top of his head. Dave Franco - who also starred in the film - was dressed to impress wearing a pair of sleek, black trousers as well as a matching blazer. He sported a light gray shirt underneath and slipped into a pair of stylish, black shoes. Similar to Harris, the star also wore a black beanie to complete his look. The director of Love Lies Bleeding, Rose Glass, sported a long-sleeved black dress that contained a green trim on the him and also around the sleeves. She was joined by producers Andrea Cornwell and also Oliver Kassman as the trio paused for a quick picture together at the premiere. Not long before the premiere, Stewart sported an entirely different outfit while attending a party to celebrate her Variety cover story The star donned a pair of teal-colored trousers that were cuffed at the bottom and also a matching jacket that was left unzipped at the front Stewart additionally slipped into white crew socks as well as black sneakers that were secured with laces At the festivities, Kristen was seen holding a picture of her cover and pointed her finger towards the image The Twilight star was also seen pausing for another image while standing next to an oversized photo of the cover Once the bash kicked off, Stewart took a moment to address the guests that were also in attendance and was spotted talking into a microphone Once inside the crowded theater, Kristen was seen with her fiancee, Dylan Meyer, and the pair also took a few memorable snaps together. The fellow actress donned a black miniskirt as well as a yellow, graphic T-shirt. She layered the outfit with a black cardigan that had white stripes on the sleeves. The two - who became engaged back in 2021 - took a couple photos before sitting down ahead of the screening. Not long before the premiere, Stewart sported an entirely different outfit while attending a party to celebrate her Variety cover story. The star donned a pair of teal-colored trousers that were cuffed at the bottom and also a matching jacket that was left unzipped at the front. She sported the same white cropped top and eye-catching, silver necklace she had also opted to wear at the screening. Stewart additionally slipped into white crew socks as well as black sneakers that were secured with laces. To complete the look, the actress also opted for a pair of gray, fingerless gloves. At the festivities, Kristen was seen holding a picture of her cover and pointed her finger towards the image. The Twilight star was also seen pausing for another snap while standing next to an oversized photo of the cover. Other celebrities were in attendance to support the actress, including her Love Lies Bleeding co-star Anna Baryshnikov. She donned an all-black ensemble that comprised of a sheer black shirt which was tucked into a high-waisted miniskirt. Other celebrities were in attendance to support the actress, including her Love Lies Bleeding co-star Anna Baryshnikov Ella Anderson was fashionable in a brown turtleneck and also a black and brown-colored, leather miniskirt Alok Vaid-Menon was also spotted in a pair of loose-fitting, black and white-striped trousers as well as a colorful, floral shirt with purple, feathery details on the arm cuffs Sam Zuchero and Anthony Zuchero both opted for casual comfort to stay warm in the cool temperatures, and flashed smiles as they paused for a snap together at the Variety Sundance Cover Party The beauty added a black jacket on top and slipped into a pair of sleek, black loafers to complete the overall look. Ella Anderson was fashionable in a brown turtleneck and also a black and brown-colored, leather miniskirt. The star added a matching jacket on top and wore a pair of knee-high, heeled boots. Her hair was parted in the middle, and fell down past her shoulders in light waves. Alok Vaid-Menon was also spotted in a pair of loose-fitting, black and white-striped trousers as well as a colorful, floral shirt with purple, feathery details on the arm cuffs. The writer additionally wore a pair of white boots that had black soles on the bottom and also added a pair of dangly earrings for a final touch. Sam Zuchero and Anthony Zuchero both opted for casual comfort to stay warm in the cool temperatures, and flashed smiles as they paused for a snap together at the Variety Sundance Cover Party. Deborra-Lee Furness is back in Australia as she settles into her new life as a single woman. The Aussie actress, who announced her split from husband Hugh Jackman late last year, shared a very telling message on her T-shirt as she stepped out in Sydney's Bondi on Sunday. The 68-year-old proudly donned a white shirt with 'S**T HAPPENS' written in bold lettering across the front. Deborra-Lee looked relaxed and fit as she headed out to breakfast at the trendy bills cafe in the beachside suburb. She added a pair of white jeans to the ensemble, with the hems rolled up, as well as matching stacked sneakers. Deborra-Lee Furness (pictured) is back in Australia as she settles into life as a single woman The Aussie actress, who announced her split from husband Hugh Jackman late last year, shared a very telling message on her T-shirt as she stepped out in Sydney's Bondi on Sunday The 68-year-old proudly donned a white shirt with 'S**T HAPPENS' written in bold lettering across the front The Hyde & Seek star opted for a clean, peachy makeup look with a pink lipstick and wore her blonde locks swept loosely off her face. Deborra-Lee completed her look with a black, crossbody bumbag and a pair of round, reflective sunglasses. It comes after the Correlli actress ended her marriage with her husband, Hugh Jackman. The Australian actor, 55, and his wife announced their shock split in September after 27 years of marriage, telling fans they separated 'to pursue our individual growth'. 'We have been blessed to share almost three decades together in a wonderful, loving marriage,' the couple said in a statement obtained by PEOPLE. Deborra-Lee looked relaxed and fit as she headed out to breakfast at the trendy bills cafe in the beachside suburb The Hyde & Seek star opted for a clean, peachy makeup look with a pink lipstick She added an evil eye protection ring and silver bracelets Deb tucked her reading glasses into the neckline of her cheeky shirt She added a pair of white jeans to the ensemble, with the hems rolled up, as well as matching stacked sneakers The blonde wore her locks swept loosely off her face 'Our journey now is shifting and we have decided to separate to pursue our individual growth. 'Our family has been and always will be our highest priority. We undertake this next chapter with gratitude, love, and kindness. We greatly appreciate your understanding in respecting our privacy as our family navigates this transition.' The former couple signed the statement as 'Deb and Hugh Jackman,' adding: 'This is the sole statement either of us will make.' The pair had tied the knot in 1996 after crossing paths on set of Correlli in 1995. During the course of their marriage, they adopted two children: son Oscar, 23, and daughter Ava, 18. Fitness guru Sam Wood has revealed the heartbreaking reason he packed on the kilograms in 2022, shortly after his daughter Harper was born. The Bachelor star, 43, told Body and Soul that his youngest child contracted an infection shortly after her birth in May 2022, which took a severe toll on his mental state. 'We were pretty stressed and overwhelmed with it all and exercise was the furthest thing from my mind,' he began. 'That was the first time properly in my life that I really felt like that. I gained six or seven kilos. I was in terrible shape.' Fortunately, his newborn soon recovered and Sam was then able to call on the support of his fitness community to get back in shape. Fitness guru Sam Wood (pictured) has revealed the heartbreaking reason he packed on the kilograms in 2022, shortly after his daughter Harper was born The Bachelor star, 43, told Body and Soul that his youngest child contracted an infection shortly after her birth in May 2022, which took a severe toll on his mental state. Pictured: Sam and Snezana Wood with their daughter Harper in 2022 'I ended up telling my team I was in a rut. It was at the start of one of our eight-week challenges,' he said. 'I made myself accountable and got an enormous amount of support. That was enough momentum to get me going.' Sam has developed a reputation as one of the leading voices in the fitness community since appearing on The Bachelor in 2015. In 2022, the entrepreneur sold his fitness program 28 by Sam Wood for $71million to myDNA, a company that provides customers with personalised fitness and health plans based on an analysis of their DNA results. Under the deal, Wood has become an investor in myDNA, holding a five per cent stake. Since its launch in 2016, 28 by Sam Wood has attracted more than 400,000 individual users and partnered with the likes of Woolworths and Blackmores vitamins. Sam and his wife Snezana Markoski share daughters Willow, six, Charlie, four, and one-year-old Harper. He is also stepfather to 17-year-old Eve. The couple have been together since meeting on The Bachelor Australia in 2015 and tied the knot in Byron Bay, NSW, in 2018. 'We were pretty stressed and overwhelmed with it all and exercise was the furthest thing from my mind,' he began. 'That was the first time properly in my life that I really felt like that. I gained six or seven kilos. I was in terrible shape' Amanda Holden looked to be having the time of her life on Saturday night, as she showed off her dance moves at daughter Lexi's 18th birthday party. The radio presenter, 52, pulled out all the stops to celebrate her eldest child's milestone birthday. She donned a sparkly white pair of trousers covered in sequins and a coordinating backless top to show off some extra skin. Amanda stood behind the DJ decks with a microphone and took the opportunity to play Sophie Ellis-Bextor's hit Murder On The Dancefloor. As the familiar tune began, she began dancing seductively against the wall, while Lexi's friends all cheered. Amanda Holden looked to be having the time of her life on Saturday night, as she showed off her dance moves at daughter Lexi's 18th birthday party The radio presenter, 52, pulled out all the stops to celebrate her eldest child's milestone birthday She donned a sparkly white pair of trousers covered in sequins and a coordinating backless top to show off some extra skin The birthday girl could be seen singing along in the crowd in a showstopping beaded minidress. Amanda then made her way through the crowd to find her lookalike daughter and hand her the microphone. The Britain's Got Talent star carried on moving through the teenagers and encouraging them to dance along. She shared a video of the fun-filled moment to her Instagram, writing: 'The latest trend' in reference to the resurgence of Murder On The Dancefloor thanks to Saltburn. Amanda shares lookalike daughter Lexi with her husband Chris Hughes, as well as their 11-year-old Hollie. Lexi has already begun to follow in her mother's showbusiness footsteps, signing with the Storm modelling agency in 2022. At the time, Amanda said: 'Lexi was approached last year and obviously we were waiting until she was 16 to sign anything. 'It's something she actually wants to do, so I'm taking the lead from her. She's a very quiet girl but she knows her own mind. She's very bright and wants to continue her studies. Amanda stood behind the DJ decks with a microphone and took the opportunity to play Sophie Ellis-Bextor 's hit Murder On The Dancefloor The birthday girl could be seen singing along in the crowd in a showstopping beaded minidress Amanda then made her way through the crowd to find her lookalike daughter and hand her the microphone The Britain's Got Talent star carried on moving through the teenagers and encouraging them to dance along 'There's no pressure and we'll just see what happens. But finishing her education is very much her plan, she'll have our support whatever she decides to do.' Discussing Lexi's next steps last year, Amanda exclusively told MailOnline: 'She's been taken on by Storm. 'She's 17 but I think when she's 18 we'll start looking for her to be in that field. At the minute they are working on her Lookbook.' However, she has banned Lexi from ever appearing on hit reality series Love Island, despite the teenager being 'obsessed' with the show. Speaking on her Heart FM Breakfast Show with Jamie Theakston and Ashley Roberts, the trio discussed whether they would allow their kids on the show. Ashley asked: 'Would you ever let your kids go on Love Island?' causing Amanda and Jamie to quickly shut down the idea: 'No! Absolutely not.' Amanda continued: 'No way, my daughters 18 next year. It's just another way of being famous, isn't it really? It's not really about love. It's just about looking hot and just getting involved. 'It's just amazing telly, but it's not really for love so I don't want my daughter anywhere near it'. Jamie replied: 'You don't go on that show to find love. Do you know what I mean? It's just manipulative'. Lexi has already begun to follow in her mother's showbusiness footsteps, signing with the Storm modelling agency in 2022 Gemma Atkinson is reportedly 'struggling' with fiance Gorka Marquez's hefty work commitments as the couple work through an alleged 'rough patch' in their relationship. Last year, the actress, 39, was said to be 'frustrated' when the professional dancer, 33, was unable to get home during the final six weeks of Strictly Come Dancing, despite being voted out in week three with partner Nikita Kanda. Gorka has now signed up as a judge on the Spanish version of Strictly, Bailando con las Estrellas, which will see him spend a lot of time in Madrid for filming. As the Spanish dancer jets across Europe for his new role, Gemma has been caring for their daughter Mia, four, and son Thiago, six months, with a source telling The Mirror she has 'effectively raising two kids by herself.' The insider added: Gemma knows how important Gorka's work is to him and goes above and beyond to be supportive but she found it challenging when he wasn't able to travel back to Manchester to spend time with her and the kids, even when he'd been voted off last year's series.' Gemma Atkinson is reportedly 'struggling' with fiance Gorka Marquez's hefty work commitments as the couple work through an alleged 'rough patch' in their relationship On his new role on Spanish Strictly, they added: 'Gemma knows he's just wanting to support his family, but it's disappointing for her. It's a really rough patch for them. 'Gemma was focusing on the end of the series as the end point but the judging role was too good an opportunity to miss. As with any couple, the longer they're apart, the more tension there is between them.' MailOnline has contacted Gemma and Gorka's representatives for comment. Gorka confirmed his new job on Instagram last week, sharing: 'I finally can share the news that I will be one of the judges in the Spanish version of Strictly, Bailando con las Estrellas @bailandoest. 'So excited to [be] back in Spain and doing the show that changed my whole life and excited to be sat on the other side of the floor this time even if I am not sure I will be able to hold myself and not dance. 'First show is this Saturday (13.01.24) and I can't wait.' Gemma was quick to show her support in the comments section, writing: 'Woohoo! So proud and so excited to watch (if I can figure out the Spanish tele).' Last month, Gemma shared her reaction after Gorka returned home from Strictly. She wrote: 'After 3 and a half weeks hes home! I've well and truly handed them over. Bye hun. Mum's off for sit down. @gorka_marquez!' Last year, the actress, 39, was said to be 'frustrated' when the professional dancer, 33, was unable to get home during the final six weeks of Strictly Come Dancing Gorka confirmed his new job as a judge on the Spanish version of Strictly on Instagram last week and Gemma was quick to show her support in the comments section, writing: 'Woohoo!' Gorka had been away preparing for the Strictly final after his appearance on the show was cut short due to his exit in week two. It came after Gemma spoke about how Gorka needs to be 'passionate' with his Strictly partners in order to score highly - as she rubbished the show's curse. Gemma, who welcomed her second child in July, spoke about the importance of a connection between the dancers and how they needed 'chemistry.' A former contestant herself back in 2017, she told The Metro: 'I remember when I had to dance the rumba with Aljaz. 'Everyone said, 'You have to look into his eyes and get close,' and I was like, 'Oh my God, this is awful! But the dance looked rubbish because I didn't do it. 'So then I remember saying to Helen [Skelton], 'You've got to be passionate with Gorka, that's part of the dance.' I'm always rooting for them to have chemistry!' When asked if she has any 'anxiety' when Gorka, 33, is away, she defiantly said no and joked that she only cared where he was based so he could help her with the school run after rehearsals. She added: 'I think if we were together all day, every day, 24/7, we'd probably hate it. It's been like that for our whole relationship, so I guess it probably works because of that, we don't know any different, really.' Last month, Gemma shared her reaction after Gorka returned home from Strictly, joking of their children Mia, four, and Thiago, six months, 'well and truly handed them over' (About the story: Time: Fall, 1989 Place: West Berlin, Germany Person: Mr. Lehmann, a barkeeper; About the book, sold more than a million copies; About the film, Berlin Blues (German: Herr Lehmann) is a 2003 German film) -------------------------------------------------------- Mr. Lehmann [1] (extract) Sven Regener [2] Translated by xia23 In a trip to East Berlin he has lost his girlfriend, after that Mr. Lehmann goes back to his familiar Kreusberger quarter, to recover from his adventure. Then he went to a pungent tasty Turkish restaurant nearby, which has Koran inscriptions on the wall and has no alcohol etc., he had only discovered this restaurant several weeks ago and it was actually more of snack bar, but this snack bar had a few tables, where one could sit down, and that food was the best Turkish food in the city, Mr. Lehman was convinced of that. He was then, after he had discovered this Restaurant, went there immediately with Katrin, and she also liked this place, this small strange Restaurant, it was indeed actually more of a snack bar, and it had, at least in Mr. Lehmanns opinion, also made a good impression even from romantic point of view. That is the good thing about her, Mr. Lehmann thought, as he entered this small shop, which was located downstairs in the new Kreuzberger center, that she lets herself, at least as far as food is concerned, not be blinded by frills like candlelight and arrogant waiters with aprons, he thought, that the only thing she focuses, above all, is the food. Even with romance, Mr. Lehmann thought, it is totally different from external frills, whether it is romantic or not, he thought, while he studied the offer in the display case, depends on the first place, with whom you eat and what you eat, that has nothing to do with the dim light and folded napkins. And here there was no dim light, totally just opposite. It was also not particularly full, in fact, Mr. Lehmann was the only customer. This store needs time, he thought, but he was optimist, to survive, this store was not around long, so it doesnt matter, if there is no one came at first. In the long run there will be enough people, Mr. Lehmann thought, they know how to appreciate such a good food as kehabs. And he ordered kehabs, just as the two previous times too, rice and a lot of that salad with parsley and stuff, just as he named, when he spoke to the people behind the counter, they hardly understood a German word, but the kehabs made it, as Mr. Lehmann thought, that brought water in your eyes. Besides he also thought, as he sat with a glass of tea at a table at the back of the wall and waited for his food, everything is well lit in the Mediterranean countries, it is a cheerfully man-made thing, he thought, they always light up their food bar and restaurant well, the Turks love the light and not the cave, but the more they assimilate, he thought, while stirring the two pieces of sugar in the narrow tea glass, the more cave-like the local restaurants become. But that is absolutely not the case, on the contrary, here everything was blindingly brightly lit and the window panes took the whole wall up to the outside, and Mr. Lehman felt like in a vocation, as he sipped his tea. [1]. Herr Lehmann, Sven Regener, p. 31. Stationen, Ein Kursbuch fur die Mittelstufe, 3rd Edition, Prisca Augustyn & Nikolaus Euba, Cengage Learning, USA, 2015 From wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herr_Lehmann https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berlin_Blues_(film) [2]. Sven Regener, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sven_Regener Elle Macpherson was showing off the statuesque figure that made her famous on Sunday. The 59-year-old model stepped out of Channel Ten Studios in Sydney after her interview on The Sunday Project in a chic pinstripe suit. The three piece, navy number was paired with flat designer sandals in a soft brown tone. The model kept her makeup natural with a light pink lipstick and pulled her blonde hair off her face. Elle carried a cream straw purse and finished her look with sunglasses and a smattering of silver accessories. Elle Macpherson (pictured) was showing off the statuesque figure that made her famous on Sunday The beauty looked radiant and youthful as she appeared on The Sunday Project this weekend to discuss her thoughts on ageing. 'I feel like we've really come to understand that youth and beauty, which is what we always thought was inextricably linked, we're now understanding is wellness and beauty,' she said. 'When you're well, you feel beautiful. You feel empowered. You feel a sense of vitality. And people are moving towards understanding how they feel is incredibly important. It reflects the way they look,' Elle added. The statuesque beauty went on to say that she is finding more strength than ever in her wellness journey. The 59-year-old model stepped out of Channel Ten Studios in Sydney after her interview on The Sunday Project in a chic pinstripe suit 'The 40s were about understanding what it meant to be well. And for me it was about emotional, physical, spiritual and mental wellbeing, and seeing that as being integrated. I used to compartmentalise them,' she said. 'The 50s were about integrating that into my life, experiencing it, making it real, making it tangible and my 60s will be about sharing that journey with other people, helping to empower them in their wellness journey. So it's a service year.' She is in Australia for the first time in four years to celebrate her health brand WelleCo's 10th anniversary and to show boyfriend Doyle Bramhall her hometown. The three piece, navy number was paired with flat designer sandals in a soft brown tone Strictly Come Dancing professional Carlo Gu has admitted he might not return for the next series of the hit BBC show. The dancer, 31, joined the show in 2022 and in his first series he made the final with EastEnders actress Molly Rainford. Carlos and Molly wowed viewers but missed out on lifting the Glitterball trophy to Hamza Yassin and partner Jowita Przystal. During the most recent series, Carlos was paired with TV presenter Angela Scanlon but they were voted out in week 10. The duo were devastated as they exited but have recently reunited for the Strictly Come Dancing tour. Strictly Come Dancing professional Carlo Gu has admitted he might not return for the next series of the hit BBC show The dancer, 31, joined the show in 2022 and in his first series he made the final with EastEnders actress Molly Rainford Speaking to The Mirror, Carlos revealed if he will be returning to the BBC show, which will air later this year. He said: 'Fingers cross you know. I hope I will'. In November last year, Angela broke down in tears as she addressed her shock Strictly exit on It Takes Two. The One Show host, 39, and her professional partner Carlos were voted off after a tense dance off with Layton Williams and Nikita Kuzmin. An emotional Angela had to be comforted by Carlos as she addressed her departure after watching a reel of her highlights. The presenter told host Fleur East it 'stung' to leave the competition just one week after wowing the judges with her Argentine Tango in Blackpool. 'There's been a few standout moments. I feel really grateful for them. In life, in this glorious madness you can have a steady road, either middle of the road and have quite a smooth journey', Angela said. 'I've always felt like those ups and downs are better for you to feel things deeply, whether that's right down there or right up there. Carlos and Molly wowed viewers but missed out on lifting the Glitterball trophy to Hamza Yassin and partner Jowita Przystal During the most recent series, Carlos was paired with TV presenter Angela Scanlon but they were voted out in week 10 The duo were devastated as they exited but have recently reunited for the Strictly Come Dancing tour and Carlos revealed he 'hopes' he is asked to return to the BBC show 'Charleston, week three and top of the leaderboard - this kind of took us totally by surprise and it was so joyful and glorious. 'The Argentine Tango in Blackpool, for me, which is possibly why this stings so much to come a week later.' The pair showed their strong bond as they held each other's hand, with Carlos wiping away tears as they watched their best moments on the show. During the shows dance off, Angela narrowly missed out on a place in the quarters after failing to win over the judges with her cha-cha-cha to Gloria Gaynor's I Will Survive. Angela faced Layton and his professional partner Nikita Kuzmin, who performed an American Smooth to Magic Moments by Perry Como, originally scoring 34 points. After watching both routines, the judges delivered the verdicts, with only Shirley Ballas revealing she would pick Angela over Layton. January 2021: The beginning of the end Gruffudd filed for divorce in March 2021, shortly after Evans claimed on social media that her husband of 14 years was walking out on her and their two daughters. October 2021: Ioan goes public with his new love After Evans' explosive announcement about her split all seemed to quieten down until October 2021 when she took to Twitter to claim to her 29,000 followers that her estranged husband had been cheating on her for three years with a much younger woman. Evans implied that her ex had gaslighted her for years, betraying her and their two daughters (but did not offer any evidence to support her accusation). February 2022: Ioan files for a restraining order against Alice After months of pointed tweets and social media posts made by Evans, Gruffudd responded by filing for a restraining order, submitting 113 pages of unhinged texts and emails that had not previously been made public. In his court filing, Gruffudd claimed he told Evans that he wanted out of the marriage in August 2020 and that since then, she had harassed him with hundreds of unanswered text messages, abusive emails and social media posts - many of which he included in the filing. He claimed she verbally threatened to tell the media he had abused her 'do what Amber Heard did to Johnny Depp'. Inside the most bitter divorce in Hollywood: A look back at Alice Evans and Ioan Gruffudd's shock slanging match (pictured in 2004) June 2022: Alice begs fans for money to pay for a divorce lawyer As their divorce proceedings entered its 15th month, Evans claimed to be 'completely out of money for food and bills.' She claimed she would receive no financial support from Gruffudd and that she was struggling to pay her legal fees and would be unable to 'feed or clothe' their daughters with her dwindling funds. July 2022: Ioan asks for joint custody of daughters After Evans filed for sole custody of their daughters, Gruffudd filed for custody and visitation rights to see his children, claiming in the filing that Evans had been purposely trying to cut communication between himself and the children. He also petitioned that the girls attend in-person therapy and reunification therapy via zoom with him pending court-ordered mediation about custody. In the filing, Gruffudd reiterated allegations that Evans had been verbally abusing during their 14-year marriage, and 'undermin[ing him] in front of the girls throughout their lives.' August 2022: Ioan gets a three-year restraining order against Alice Having previously been awarded a temporary restraining order against his estranged wife, Gruffudd successfully obtained a three-year restraining order against Evans in August 2022. Harsher restrictions were put in place by a US judge, including a ruling preventing Alice from leaking private text messages from their children. In the court documents, Gruffudd claimed Evans continued to cause him issues and wanted additional provisions added to the existing restraining order. He also requested Evans not post his text messages or any other communications to the parties children, or the childrens text messages or any other communications to Ioan, on any social media account. Gruffudd also asked for the judge to order Evans not to contact his employer or make disparaging statements about him to his employers. October 2021: Ioan went public with his new love Bianca Wallace, posting a picture with the Australian actress who is 21 years younger than Alice September 2022: Ioan and Alice's child custody battle hits a wall Two months after Gruffudd filed for joint custody of his two daughters and asked for custody and visitation rights, the exes failed to settle their differences in family court, despite the help of a mediator. Court documents showed the exes meeting was set for 31 August and that mediation had taken place but that 'no agreement' had been reached. The document went on to confirm that that both Gruffudd and Evans had completed the mandatory Our Children First program. The Superior Court of Los Angeles states of the program that: 'Parents are required by law to attend a mediation orientation/parent education program and a mediation session prior to appearing at an Order to Show Cause or Trial regarding the custody and/or visitation of their children.' November 2022: Alice is reported to police over claims of 'child abuse' and drug use Amid her ongoing custody battle, Evans claimed that someone called social services and the police on her with concerns over child abuse and drug and drink use. The actress took to Twitter to allege that someone had sent authorities to her property who then found 'absolutely no signs of abuse' and 'no drugs or drink'. July 2022: Ioan asked for joint custody of their daughters Ella, 13 and Elsie, nine, claiming Alice had been trying to cut communication between himself and the children (pictured in 2018 February 2023: Child custody agreement is stalled again after Alice is charged with 'violating restraining order' Evans appeared in court in February 2023 to answer two charges of violating a restraining order that was put in place by her estranged husband. The warring former couple were scheduled to appear later that month at a custody hearing but Evans asked for a postponement. Her attorney, Marie LaMolinara, argued that testimony Alice gives at the custody hearing could be used against her in her later criminal trial, which would violate her right, under the 5th Amendment, not to incriminate herself. March 2023: Charges against Alice are dropped Prosecutors in Los Angeles dropped charges against Evans who had been accused of defying a restraining order the Welsh actor has against her. Evans had pleaded not guilty to two counts of violating the order and at a hearing at LA's Airport Courthouse, Commissioner James Cooper dismissed the charges after prosecutors told the court they were 'unable to proceed.' At a follow-up hearing, Evans' attorney, public defender, Daniel Stefanic, filed a motion asking for a ruling that would declare her 'factually innocent' of the charges. August 2022: Ioan successfully obtained a three-year restraining order against Alice that banned her from mentioning him or his girlfriend on social media (Ioan and Bianca pictured May 2022) May 2023: Alice moves out of $2million family home as ex Ioan is 'too poor' to pay for it Evans and her children moved out of her family home and into a rented abode with their two daughters after Gruffudd pleaded with a court to allow the home to be sold, saying he didn't have the money to keep up with mortgage payments for his family following their split in 2021. The Fantastic Four star told a court in a document filed last year that neither he nor Evans could afford the $6,750 a month in mortgage payments, insurance and property tax. He said he'd had just one paid job in the past year and was so poor he was relying on handouts from his young girlfriend. May 2023: Ella, 13, applies for a restraining order against dad Ioan and his girlfriend Bianca The teenage daughter of Evans and Gruffudd asked for a restraining order against her famous father and his girlfriend in documents filed on May 31 at the Los Angeles Superior Court. In the documents, Ella stated that she is 'afraid' of her father and accuses him of 'threatening to call the police on her anytime she misbehaves' during their visitations. Ella filed for a domestic violence restraining order against her father following what she said was an ugly incident at their home, during which she claims Bianca 'slammed a door on her head'. In her filing against her father, Ella requested that he be made to keep at least 100 yards away from her and not contact her for five years and asks that Gruffudd be ordered to undergo a '52-week batterer intervention program'. The program, which involves weekly classes, is intended - the document states - to 'stop abuse, teach accountability, abuse effects, and gender roles'. Ella requested that the restraining order also cover her nine-year-old sister Elsie, noting that she 'lives with her sister and is afraid that [Ioan] will abuse and/or continue to allow abuse to happen to my sister too'. She also asked that her father be made to pay 'for some or all of her lawyer's fees and costs' and requests that her phone account and that of her sister Elsie's be transferred to their mother, alleging that Gruffudd has 'threatened to cancel my sister's phone account and my phone account'. Along with her domestic restraining order filing, Ella included a declaration as evidence to support her case, in which she shared her recollection of a bitter spat that she claims took place while she and her nine-year-old sister Elsie were visiting their father's home on May 26. Ella admitted that she was 'so mad' at her father to find that Wallace was at his apartment when she arrived that she began throwing food on his bed, on the floor, and on him, before she attempted to flee the apartment - which, she says, is when the actress 'slammed a door on her head', leaving her with 'a small bump' and a 'bruise on her arm'. May 2023: The teenage daughter of Alice and Ioan asked for a restraining order against her famous father and his girlfriend in documents filed on May 31 (Alice and Ella pictured) June 2023: Ioan accuses Alice of abusing him via fake Twitter accounts In court documents seen by MailOnline, Gruffudd claimed his estranged wife screamed at him outside his Los Angeles home and called him a 'f***ing abuser' and 'abusive c***' in front of their 13-year-old daughter. Gruffudd also claimed Evans repeatedly broken a three-year restraining order he took out against her which has resulted in criminal charges - and flashed him while wearing no underwear when their children were being dropped off. The bombshell papers also contained claims from Gruffudd that: Evans has made 'thousands of false, threatening and harassing posts' about him; Evans claims to be home-schooling Ella, but has 'provided no information'; Evans has interfered with the girls' therapy and they are missing appointments; and Ella poured rolled oats from a bag over his head, which left him 'in shock'. July 2023: Ioan and Alice are declared legally divorced In a court order handed down in LA Superior Court, Judge Josh Freeman Stinn finally granted Gruffudd's request for divorce amid the couple's ongoing custody battle. The Welsh actor had filed for bifurcation and termination of marital status in May which would allow him and Evans to be declared legally divorced even as they continue settlement negotiations in their split. A minute order obtained by DailyMail.com show the judge approved the request on July 3, ruling: 'The Court finds irreconcilable differences have arisen in the marriage and grants judgment for the dissolution of marriage as to status only, effective today.' July 2023: Ioan's daughter loses bid for domestic violence restraining order against him Two months after Ella filed documents a judge at the Los Angeles Superior Court dismissed an application by Ella for a domestic violence restraining order. Gruffudd was present in court, along with Ms Evans for the hearing, as well as the lawyer appointed as the minor's counsel last month. The judge ruled: 'The minor's request for a domestic violence restraining order against the petitioner is hereby dismissed without prejudice.' The decision came three weeks after the teenager's bid to get a civil protection order against Gruffudd's actress girlfriend Bianca Wallace, who suffers from multiple sclerosis, was also denied. Ioan said: Friends of the Liar star said he was 'very relieved' at the outcome. They also claimed that the situation is a 'nightmare' but they are 'happy to see some progress'. August 2023: Ioan accuses Alice of 'child abuse' and keeping their daughters from him A Los Angeles judge attempted to shield Gruffudd and Evans from the fallout of their parents' ugly battles by banning the press from a custody hearing, keeping the proceedings secret. But that didn't stop the warring former couple who are both seeking custody of the girls from taking vitriolic shots at each other in written court filings that are public and not sealed. The Welsh star called his ex a 'child abuser' while Evans claimed Gruffudd hadn't seen or called his children for almost three months, according to court documents obtained by DailyMail.com. Ioan said: 'Alice has continued to inflict serious emotional harm on Ella and Elsie by her statements and by interfering in my relationship with them. 'Alice has verbally abused and undermined me in front of the girls throughout their lives. 'Since January 2021, Alice has also encouraged and instructed them not to see me or communicate with me and she has made thousands of threatening and abusive communications to me and about me.' Alice said: 'I have read and disagree with the declaration of petitioner (Gruffudd) as to allegations that I am inflicting or causing our children ''serious emotional harm". 'No one has ever contacted me or reported me for such conduct. No professional, nor teacher, nor school administrator, nor counsel, nor therapist. 'Petitioner has not seen, complied with, nor called the children for 11 weeks. I don't understand how having no recent information, "petitioner believes" there is an urgency such that a child custody evaluation must be commenced.' Jacob Elordi and Olivia Jade Giannulli were pictured as they made their way out of a Saturday Night Live afterparty in New York City. The 26-year-old actor and the 24-year-old internet personality remained separate as they departed the celebratory affair, which took place after Jacob hosted the long-running sketch program. The Saltburn star who joked about one of the movie's most infamous scenes during his time on the show layered up with a black double-breasted coat worn on top of a graphic-printed white T-shirt. Elordi also donned a pair of loose-fitting beige cargo pants, which were paired with dark brown leather boots. The Euphoria star completed his look for the evening with a multicolored cap and an olive green KN95-style mask. Jacob Elordi and Olivia Jade Giannulli were pictured as they made their way out of the Saturday Night Live afterparty in New York City The 26-year-old actor and the 24-year-old internet personality remained separate as they departed the celebratory affair, which took place after the former hosted the long-running sketch program The Saltburn star layered up with a black double-breasted coat worn on top of a graphic-printed white T-shirt Giannulli looked glammed-up while wearing a bright white fur coat on top of black leggings and matching high-heeled shoes. The YouTube personality accessorized with a leather clutch, as well as several pieces of jewelry. The daughter of Lori Loughlin and Mossimo Giannulli let her gorgeous brunette hair cascade onto her shoulders. Elordi and Giannulli were first connected in December of 2021, when they were spotted in each other's company during a coffee run in Los Angeles. The actor was previously linked to various individuals, including Kaia Gerber and his Kissing Booth costar Joey King. He eventually moved on with Olivia Jade, and they officially began dating in May of 2022. The pair went on to separate that August, although they appeared to reconcile the following month. A source spoke to People last July and officially confirmed that Elordi and Giannulli had officially resumed their relationship. Giannulli looked glammed-up while wearing a bright white fur coat on top of black leggings and matching high-heeled shoes. The YouTube personality accessorized with a leather clutch, as well as several pieces of jewelry The daughter of Lori Loughlin and Mossimo Giannulli let her gorgeous brunette hair cascade onto her shoulders Elordi and Giannulli were first connected in December of 2021, when they were spotted in each other's company during a coffee run in Los Angeles The actor was previously linked to various individuals, including Kaia Gerber and his Kissing Booth costar Joey King He eventually moved on with the social media personality, and they officially began dating in May of 2022 The insider told the media outlet that, despite their past split, the actor and the influencer were '100 percent going strong' Several sources reported that Elordi and Giannulli had gone their separate ways earlier this month But People confirmed that the actor and the social media figure were still together this past Thursday The insider told the outlet that, despite their past split, the actor and the influencer were '100 percent going strong.' The pair also accompanied each other during the YouTube personality's family vacation at Lake Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, that same month. Several sources reported that Elordi and Giannulli had gone their separate ways earlier this month. However, People confirmed that the actor and the social media figure were still together this past Thursday. Kerry Katona has vowed to help Katie Price 'turn her life around' following her split from fiance Carl Woods. Reality star Kerry, 43, and former glamour model Katie, 45, have been friends for years after appearing on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! together in 2004. The pair met spent New Year's Eve together and it's now emerged Kerry is determined to help Katie get over any heartache following her split from Carl. A source told Closer magazine: 'In the past, when she's been single, Katie has been known to go a bit wild as a bit of a coping mechanism, so pals are hoping she won't be heading into trouble again. 'Kerry has really been encouraging Katie to slow down a bit and look after herself.' Kerry Katona (right) has vowed to help Katie Price (left) 'turn her life around' following her split from fiance Carl Woods The insider added: 'Katie leans quite heavily on Kerry for support and guidance, and Kerry wants to help Katie continue to turn her life around this year. 'Katie had some low moments in 2023 and it's heartbreaking that she doesn't seem able to move on.' It is claimed Kerry will be 'blunt, honest and candid' with Katie if she feels she needs to be to keep her on the right track, with the source insisting: 'Kerry doesn't take any rubbish.' MailOnline has contacted representatives for Katie and Kerry for comment. Katie and Kerry rang in the New Year together putting their former feud to bed. Television personality Katie took to Instagram to share a video of the pair partying together, teasing in the clip that she was 'spending new year with her longest bestie ever' before turning the camera on Kerry. Katie made the surprise announcement that she was single in the video. She was last spotted with Carl on December 21 last year as they stepped out arm in arm together after her pantomime performance of Sleeping Beauty in Liverpool. Reality star Kerry (right) and former glamour model Katie (left) have been friends for years after appearing on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! together in 2004 (seen on the show) Katie and Carl previously split towards the end of November and unfollowed each other on Instagram but appeared to have reconciled for the Liverpool outing before going their separate ways once again. Days later, Carl took a swipe at his ex-fiancee Katie Price as he posed while embracing a mystery woman's legs, adorned with a tattoo reading 'Game Over'. The car dealer, 34, had been enjoying a Thailand getaway with his friends, during which he crouched down to the ground holding the woman's legs as she stood from behind. He showed off the bold tattoos on his companion's legs, displaying the words 'Game Over' on the back of her thighs as she wore mini denim shorts. Smouldering into the lens, Carl repeated the words in his caption, in an apparent nod to his relationship status with the star. In July last year, Katie and Carl were said to be planning a secret wedding, with Katie snapped trying on a gorgeous white gown a few months later in November. The pair have been in a turbulent relationship since July 2020, getting engaged the following April. But things were said to be going full steam ahead with wedding plans, with Katie said to be keen to run off and 'elope' with Carl as a source claimed she 'loves the thrill of getting married'. It comes after Carl took a swipe at his ex Katie as he posed while embracing a mystery woman's legs, adorned with a tattoo reading 'Game Over' However, the TV personality's wedding plans do not include her mother Amy, with it said that she won't tell her when she gets married due to her disapproval of Carl. A source told OK! magazine: 'Katie is planning on having a secret wedding with Carl, then a big party afterwards. It will be soon. She loves the thrill of getting married and wants to do it again.' Sharing further details on their plans, they went on: 'Katie's keen to run off and wed Carl at a registry office. The kids will be there, but she won't tell her mum until it's done. 'Katie knows Amy would be fuming and tell her not to do it. She keeps suggesting to Carl they elope to Gretna Green.' Katie has been married three times. She was married to Peter Andre for four years, and then tied the knot with Alex Reid in 2010. They split after 11 months of marriage and Katie went on to marry Kieran Hayler in 2013, but they broke up in 2018. Now, the former Celebrity Big Brother winner has revealed why she's reluctant to get married again, and claims the men she has dated just 'want to be famous'. On The Katie Price Show podcast, Katie's sister Sophie asked: 'Would you get married again?' Katie replied: 'The trouble is, it costs ME money to get married and it costs ME money to get divorced. Car dealer Carl and Katie split last year, with Katie announcing the news on social media on New Year's Eve (pictured together in November 2023) 'So I haven't really been in a good situation, so for me to get married again, they have to tick the right boxes, or they have to have more to lose than me because I'm just sick of these cling-ons that turn into Mr Price's and then want to be famous and all of this. I'm just sick of it, I just want to meet someone who wants me for me... 'But yeah I would get married, shall we organise it, of course I would bloody get married again, I want a fairytale. Yes, I would get married again and I want the full shebang. 'I just want it to be right, I never wanted to get divorced and marry again and again. 'To have that one person, no drama, there's nothing worse than when your family don't get on with them. I like to be settled, when I'm settled then everything else goes good.' Beverly Hills 90210 actor David Gail has died. He was 58. The handsome actor played the one-time fiance of Shannen Doherty's Brenda Walsh on the hit 1990s show. Gail's death was confirmed by his longtime friend, Peter Ferriero, who hosts the Beverly Hills, 91210 rewatch podcast. The cause of his death has not yet been released. In tribute, Ferriero shared some clips from when the actor was on his podcast. Actor David Gail has died. He was 58 (Pictured in Los Angele in November 2010) 'In memory of David Gail. Here are a few stories he shared when he joined the podcast,' he wrote next to the clip which was posted Saturday. The discussion was focused on Gail's character Stuart and his whirlwind romance with Brenda during a quick trip to Las Vegas. Gail is also known for playing Dr. Joe Scanlon in the General Hospital spin-off Port Charles from 19992000. The journeyman actor was last seen on screen in 2008's Belly of the Beast, but he added his talents to portray several characters in the 2019 video game Blacksad: Under the Skin. He made appearances in shows such as ER and Robin's Hoods during his long career. He was a main cast member on the WB primetime soap opera Savannah, on which he played Dean Collins beginning in 1996 for two seasons. 'David was a kind human,' Ferriero wrote. ' Someone I wish I spoke to more.' 'He was filled of life and incredible stories. I am grateful I got to know. I am so saddened for your loss, and the worlds loss. He was a gift to us all.' Ferriero directed fans who want to know more about Gail to his sister Katie Colmenares who left a heartfelt tribute to her brother. 'Theres barely been even a day in my life when you were not with me by my side always my wingman always my best friend ready to face anything and anyone w me,' she wrote mournfully. The handsome actor played the one-time fiance of Shannen Doherty's Brenda Walsh on the hit 1990s show Beverly Hills, 90210 Gail had a string of television credits in the 1990s and 2000s, including on the primetime soap opera Savannah, which aired from 199697 (pictured on the left) He's also known for playing Dr. Joe Scanlon in the General Hospital spin-off Port Charles from 19992000, seen here with Jay Pickett, Pat Crowley and Sarah Aldrich Peter Ferriero, who hosts the Beverly Hills, 91210 rewatch podcast shared some clips from when the actor was on his podcast in tribute Gail's sister, Katie Colmenares, left a heartfelt tribute to her brother. 'Theres barely been even a day in my life when you were not with me by my side always my wingman always my best friend ready to face anything and anyone w me' she penned Condolences poured in with memories of the actor. 'We loved David so much,' wrote Sheri Sussman of Spiral Gate Productions. 'He was one of the good guys in life' 'The bears will never be the same but I will hold you so tight every day in my heart you gorgeous loving amazing fierce human being missing you every second of every day forever there will never be another.' Condolences poured in with memories of the actor. 'We loved David so much,' wrote Sheri Sussman of Spiral Gate Productions. 'He was one of the good guys in life.' 'Sending love to you and your family and am heartbroken he was the most loyal, supportive friend. I miss him already.' 'So sad tragic news loved him as Stuart,' wrote a fan. 'So sad forever Stuart Carson rip,' said another. Naomi Campbell attempted to keep a low profile as she stepped out amid Paris Fashion Week on Sunday. The supermodel, 53, cut a stylish display in a chic velour overcoat, embroidered with gold buckled buttons. She elevated her frame with a pair of leather heeled boots and shielded her eyes with black-rimmed sunglasses. Naomi complemented her outfit with a stylish black handbag and accessorised her attire with designer bracelets. The model looked happy and relaxed as she departed her hotel solo ahead of watching the catwalks. Naomi Campbell, 53, attempted to keep a low profile as she stepped out amid Paris Fashion Week on Sunday The supermodel cut a stylish display in a chic velour overcoat, embroidered with gold buckled buttons She recently ensured all eyes were on her as she strutted her stuff on the catwalk at the Balmain Menswear show on Saturday. She donned a quirky gold headpiece that ran vertically down her face as well as false gold arms connected to a belt which held a metallic bouquet. Naomi looked sensational in the outlandish ensemble which also featured a daringly plunging blouse and high-waisted trousers. The look was completed with a oversized camel coat which was worn effortlessly over the model's shoulders. Noami oozed confidence on the catwalk as the only female model and later held hands with the luxury brand's creative Olivier Rousteing for the show's finale. It comes after Naomi gushed over longtime friend Kate Moss on Instagram as she led the celebrities paying tribute to the supermodel on her 50th birthday on Tuesday. Sharing a montage of snaps to Instagram, Naomi recalled a number of 'unforgettable' memories the pair have shared together throughout their careers. The supermodel revealed that Kate is 'chosen family' and she gushed that she will forever 'treasure their decades of sisterhood'. The model looked happy and relaxed as she departed her hotel solo ahead of watching the catwalks She elevated her frame with a pair of leather heeled boots and shielded her eyes with black-rimmed sunglasses Naomi complemented her outfit with a stylish black handbag and accessorised her attire with designer bracelets Naomi elevated her frame with a pair of leather heeled boots to complement her stylish outfit She ensured all eyes were on her as she strutted her stuff on the catwalk at the Balmain Menswear show on Saturday The supermodel donned a quirky gold headpiece that ran vertically down her face as well as false arms connected to her belt which held a metallic bouquet The look was completed with a oversized camel coat which was worn effortlessly over the model's shoulders The plunging to flashed a glimpse of the stunner's side boob She was later spotted in a fur hat as she arrived at Costes restaurant in the city following the show She penned: 'Happy birthday, little Wagon! Im proud to welcome you to the fabulous fifties! 'Youre my chosen family and I treasure our decades of sisterhood. 'Weve had more unforgettable moments than I care to remember, LOl!. Whether it was a photoshoot in Paris, Havana Cuba or our trip to South Africa to visit Nelson Mandela, or riding in the open-top bus as part of the late Queens Platinum Jubilee, we continue to reign, representing South London to the world! 'Enjoy your special day! And may God bestow tons of blessings on you'. The two South London girls first met on a photo shoot in Los Angeles in 1992 and their friendship is still going strong over 30 years later. Naomi and Kate were both known as part of the six models of their generation declared supermodels in the 90's alongside Cindy Crawford, Christy Turlington and Linda Evangelista. It was previously suggested that they called each other wagon[s] because they were permanently falling off them in reference to their struggles with alcohol. But Naomi told The Sunday TImes in 2016: ' No! Its because were wagons. Because were naughty, we enjoy our life, we laugh, just girls having fun. It comes after Naomi gushed over longtime friend Kate Moss on Instagram as she led the celebrities paying tribute to the supermodel on her 50th birthday on Tuesday (pictured 1993) The two South London girls, who are part of the six 90's iconic supermodels, first met on a photo shoot in Los Angeles in 1992 and their friendship is still going strong over 30 years later Actress Sadie, 58, shared some unseen photos of the 'spiritual warrior' while Rita, 33, thanked Kate for her 'guidance.' The supermodel jetted off to Mustique, a small private island in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, to celebrate her milestone birthday. Joining her in the Caribbean, Sadie gave an insight into their wholesome holiday as she shared a snap of Kate wearing a flower crown. She captioned the post: ''All grown up darling Kate happy 50th birthday it was so so special celebrating your pre birthday with some of our beautiful friends.' Sadie continued: 'There was so much fun and laughter amongst our celebratory circle #spiritualwarrior. Plus so many memories I will never forget. 'Thank you @rosemaryferguson_ @jessmorris_lamorray @florastarkey @jesshallettcast @katy_england @lilamoss and kate for a lovely time p.s was so nice to get some recent photos of us all.' Sadie and Kate were the talk of the town as members of the Primrose Hill set, a group of stars with a reputation for 'drink, drugs and bed-hopping'. The Primrose Hill Set, a name given to the all-star group of edgy residents of the leafy neighbourhood, were known in their heyday for their wild ways with stories of their antics becoming the stuff of legend. Kyle Sandilands has delivered a harsh message to Australians who refuse to celebrate Australia Day on January 26. The KIIS FM breakfast presenter, 52, who is known for his centre-right political views, weighed in on the upcoming national holiday during a fiery rant on Monday morning's show. Sandilands lost his cool early in the broadcast after he received a memo from KIIS' content director about sensitivity when it comes to the national holiday. He began by taking a stab at the 'woke industry of the media' for discouraging employees from celebrating the public holiday, before pointing out what he believes is a double standard. 'I can't believe I have to thank everyone for letting us use the land, but we're not allowed to celebrate it on a national holiday,' Sandilands raged. Kyle Sandilands, 52, (pictured) delivered a harsh message to Australians who refuse to celebrate Australia Day on January 26 during Monday's KIIS FM breakfast show Sandilands then issued a message to critics of the holiday, saying: 'Let me tell you, those who aren't happy with Australia Day, don't have a holiday! Go to work.' Later in the broadcast, Sandilands explained that he doesn't believe Australia Day should be a time for dwelling upon 'the deeds that others did' before the nation was established. Instead, Sandilands said he wants Aussies to simply be 'nice to each other'. 'I can't believe I have to thank everyone for letting us use the land, but we're not allowed to celebrate it on a national holiday,' Sandilands raged. (Pictured: Woman holding a 'Change The Date' sign at an Invasion Day protest on January 26, 2023) 'Doesn't matter what colour you are, what religion you are. Let's celebrate together as a nation together on Friday,' he said. It came days after Sandilands slammed Australia Day 'whingers' during a radio interview with opposition leader Peter Dutton. 'Australia Day is exactly one week from today, January 26, and I know some folks don't like that date, but that's the date. It's there, it's been there for as long as I can recall. It's one week away, all the anti-Australia Day types have been out,' Sandilands said. Sandilands then issued a message to critics of the holiday, saying: 'Let me tell you, those who aren't happy with Australia Day , don't have a holiday! Go to work' 'People want us to feel guilty. I don't feel guilty. I don't feel guilty at all about the day.' Elsewhere in that interview, the shock jock claimed that even if Australia changed the date, 'people will still have a problem because there's some people out there that always whinge about everything'. Australia Day, observed each year on January 26, marks the landing of the First Fleet in 1788 when the first governor of the British colony of New South Wales, Arthur Philip, hoisted the Union Jack at Sydney Cove. But for many First Nations people, it is regarded as 'Invasion Day' or the 'Day of Mourning', with many campaigning for the holiday to be abolished completely or the date changed. Australia Day, observed each year on January 26, marks the landing of the First Fleet in 1788 when the first governor of the British colony of New South Wales , Arthur Philip, hoisted the Union Jack at Sydney Cove. (Pictured: Reveller celebrating Australia Day) While Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hasn't explicitly mentioned any plans to change the date, a rising number of councils and state governments are choosing to cancel traditional Australia Day activities, including citizenship ceremonies. In recent years Invasion Day protests have overshadowed any festivities with thousands attending rallies in major cities demanding the date be changed. Large protests are expected this year after the referendum to enshrine an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in the constitution was voted down in October. Demi Moore was joined by her daughters Rumer, Scout and Tallulah at the latter's jewelry pop-up in Los Angeles on Saturday afternoon. The 61-year-old actress was joined by her Chihuahua Pilaf as she braved the rain in order to show her support for her youngest child. The St. Elmo's Fire star, who recently spoke about her experience as a new grandmother, stayed warm in a black overcoat as she arrived at the pop-up. Moore also kept a chic leather purse slung over her left wrist while making her way into the facility. The performer's gorgeous dark brunette hair fell onto her shoulders and chest and paired well with the tone of her outerwear. Demi Moore was joined by her daughters Rumer, Scout and Tallulah at the latter's jewelry pop-up in Los Angeles on Saturday afternoon The 61-year-old actress was joined by her chihuahua Pilaf as she braved the rain in order to show her support for her youngest child; Scout (L) and Tallulah (R) pictured The actress' eldest daughter Rumer appeared to be enjoying her time at her younger sibling's event. She brought her adorable daughter Louetta along Rumer, 35, wore a nearly all-white outfit that included a patterned blouse worn underneath a cardigan sweater. The winner of Dancing With The Stars' 20th season also donned a pair of wide-legged pants and patterned shoes. Her bright blonde fell onto her shoulders, and she kept her baby daughter Louetta, who arrived last April, in a chest carrier during her visit to the pop-up. Scout, 32, donned a black overcoat on top of a light green crewneck sweater while she spent time with her siblings. The social media personality also wore a pair of light blue jeans that were contrasted with black shoes. She completed her look with a red beanie that featured a pair of devil horns, and her voluminous brunette hair cascaded onto her back. Tallulah, 29, opted for a bright red cardigan sweater that was contrasted with a bright white t-shirt. The actress' youngest daughter also wore a pair of wide-legged beige jeans, as well as leather boots. The St. Elmo's Fire star, who recently opened up about being a grandmother, stayed warm in a black overcoat as she arrived at the pop-up Moore also kept a chic leather purse slung over her left wrist while making her way into the facility The performer's gorgeous dark brunette hair fell onto her shoulders and chest and paired well with the tone of her outerwear Rumer, 35, wore a nearly all-white outfit that included a patterned blouse worn underneath a cardigan sweater The winner of Dancing With The Stars' 20th season also donned a pair of wide-legged pants and patterned shoes Her bright blonde fell onto her shoulders, and she kept her baby daughter Louetta, who arrived last April, in a chest carrier during her visit to the pop-up Rumer affectionately kissed her daughter as she made her way to the pop-up Scout, 32, donned a black overcoat on top of a light green crewneck sweater while she spent time with her siblings The social media personality also wore a pair of light blue jeans that were contrasted with black shoes Tallulah, 29, opted for a bright red cardigan sweater that was contrasted with a bright white t-shirt She accessorized with a lengthy pearl necklace and chic sunglasses, and her brightly dyed red hair paired well with the color of her outerwear. Tallulah was also joined by her boyfriend, Justin Acee, who accompanied Scout on a short stroll outside of the pop-up. Moore shares her three daughters with her former husband Bruce Willis, whom she met and married in 1987. The couple started their family with Rumer's birth, which took place in August of 1988. The pair went on to add Scout and Tallulah to their family in 1991 and 1994, respectively. Moore and Willis, 68, eventually separated in 1998, and their divorce was finalized two years later. However, the performers have remained on friendly terms ever since the formal dissolution of their marriage. The Die Hard star was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia last year, and his ex-wife and daughters have since rallied around him to support him as he lives with the disease. The actress' youngest daughter also wore a pair of wide-legged beige jeans, as well as leather boots She accessorized with a lengthy pearl necklace and chic sunglasses, and her brightly dyed red hair paired well with the color of her outerwear Tallulah was also joined by her boyfriend, Justin Acee, at the event The boyfriend of Moore's youngest daughter accompanied Scout on a short stroll outside of the pop-up Moore shares her three daughters with her former husband Bruce Willis, whom she met and married in 1987 The couple started their family with Rumer's birth, which took place in August of 1988, and they went on to went on to add Scout and Tallulah to their family in 1991 and 1994 The Die Hard star was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia last year, and his ex-wife and daughters have since rallied around him to support him as he lives with the disease A source spoke to Us Weekly and expressed that Moore and her children were making the most of their time with Willis A source spoke to Us Weekly and expressed that Moore and her children were making the most of their time with Willis. 'This experience has brought the whole family even closer together. No one knows how much time Bruce has left, so they're soaking up every moment they get with him,' they said. A second source also told the media outlet that the actress and her daughters were doing their best to let the retired actor know that he was cared for and valued. 'Once Bruce was diagnosed, everyone came together to keep his memory of the family intact and to be there as a constant reminder [that they] love him. [Everything] revolves around him,' they said. Love Island All Stars viewers were stunned by Joshua Ritchie's moves during Sunday's episode of the show as he kissed Georgia Harrison before flirting with Molly Smith just hours later. Joshua, 29, who originally appeared on the first series of Love Island in 2015, chose to couple-up with series three star Georgia, 29, after he entered the villa in South Africa during Thursday's show. The pair have known each other for almost 10 years, with Georgia confessing they kissed the first time they met and then briefly dated in 2023, but things turned sour when they had a huge argument in Ibiza. During Sunday's episode, Georgia appeared to have put any bad blood between them behind her, sharing a passionate kiss with Joshua. But, despite choosing to be in a couple with Georgia, it seems Joshua's heart may not be completely in the pairing as the next morning he was seen flirting with Molly Smith, telling his fellow Islanders he wanted to lock lips with her. Love Island All Stars viewers were stunned by Joshua Ritchie's moves during Sunday's episode of the show as he kissed Georgia Harrison before flirting with Molly Smith just hours later During Sunday's episode, Georgia appeared to have put any bad blood between them behind her, sharing a passionate kiss with Joshua The moment viewers, with some taking to social media to express their opinions. One person wrote on Twitter: 'Josh just joshinggggg, lipsing Georgia H and moving to Molly the next morning.' While someone else shared: 'I think Josh & Molly are better suited than Josh & Georgia H 100%.' Another show fan posted: 'Molly, "I've been cracking on since day one". Joshua, "Just not with me". Bro you have legs go walk to her and start a convo if you want one.' Someone else wrote: 'Josh wanting to kiss Molly howling.' While another viewer shared: 'Im all for Molly & Josh.' Joshua took three female Islanders - Georgia Harrison, Hannah Elizabeth and Georgia Steele - on dates before arriving in the Love Island All Stars villa earlier this week. And he decided to couple-up with Georgia H upon entering the villa, despite the fact she had previously blocked him. The pair have known each other for almost 10 years, with Georgia confessing they kissed the first time they met and then briefly dated in 2023 But, despite choosing to be in a couple with Georgia, it seems Joshua's heart may not be completely in the pairing The next morning he was seen flirting with Molly Smith, telling his fellow Islanders he wanted to lock lips with her The moment viewers, with some taking to social media to express their opinions As Joshua began to pop the champagne on his date with Georgia H, he said: 'Thought I would save the best until last,' before admitting: 'I was upset when I got blocked.' Putting their past aside, Georgia explained: 'Look you got cancelled for a bit but if you want to bring it up you really deserved it. But I found it in my heart to forgive you because I am spiritual.' Recalling the last time the pair met up, Georgia wasn't afraid to speak her mind as she continued: 'I'm gonna paint my picture. So, I saw you at a party. We were having a nice day. I said "I'm going to an amazing club later" and I had the table sorted. 'You bumped me off my own table. You went in you didn't so much as look back. I didn't get so much as a text, not even till the next day, "are you alright G".' Despite laughing, Joshua apologised as he confessed: 'I should have actually reached out. I hold my hands up, I am sorry.' Georgia continued: 'I don't think we ever really fell out, and I think we both know that. But for my ego I just had to cancel you for a little bit after that. 'I'm glad you're here now.' 'I'm glad that I'm here, I'm glad that you're here and you look unbelievable', gushed Joshua. While it seemed as though the pair had got their grievances out the way, Georgia went in for one last dig as she explained her situation in the villa and admitted that Anton Danyluk liked her. 'Anton really seems to like me and he seems like a right gentleman and I am trying to pick guys that aren't just leave me on the doorsteps of a club,' she laughed. Love Island's Georgia revealed the real reason she blocked ex Joshua as the pair reunited for a date during Thursday's episode Putting their past aside, Georgia explained: 'Look you got cancelled for a bit but if you want to bring it up you really deserved it. But I found it in my heart to forgive you because I am spiritual' The pair have known each other for almost 10 years and have quite a lot of history together with Georgia confessing they kissed the first time they met and then briefly dated in 2023 (pictured March 2022) After appearing on Love Island series one the star dated Geordie Shore star Charlotte Crosby, 33, for two years between 2017 and 2019 'Yeah yeah,' replied Joshua as he asked: 'What if the guy who leaves you on the doorstep of the club tries? 'Anton's in deep trouble here', he joked before Georgia agreed: 'He might be in trouble.' After appearing on Love Island series one the star dated Geordie Shore star Charlotte Crosby, 33, for two years between 2017 and 2019. Love Island All Stars continues on Monday at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX. Four years later, such a wave has not materialized, though populism has hardly disappeared. Andrzej Duda recently won reelection in Poland, while Viktor Orbans Fidesz party has held on to its supermajority in parliament, and populist parties represent significant voting blocs in legislatures around the world. After a three-year interlude, the United Kingdom has moved forward with Brexit under the premiership of Boris Johnson. Today, as another U.S. presidential election approaches, it is worth taking stock of the transformations that haveand have notoccurred within American conservatism during the last four years. If Trump goes down to defeat this November, some will suggest that any attempted reconfiguration of the American Right provoked by his 2016 election was a misbegotten effort, and that, after a four-year hiatus, global liberalism can now safely resume. But a closer examination of right-wing populisms trajectory, both within and outside the United States, suggests that such a return to Bush-era conservatism is unlikely. Regardless of what happens in the November election, the gaps between conservative ideology and practical realities will continue to push right-wing parties in postliberal directions and will continue to favor political, if not necessarily partisan, realignment. The Regime of Separations A more compelling framework for understanding contemporary political trends on both sides of the Atlantic emerges from considering the character of modern democracy. In his 2006 book A World beyond Politics?, Pierre Manent distinguishes several broad categories of separation that characterize modern democracy: separation of professions, or, division of labor; separation of powers; separation of church and state; separation of civil society and the state; separation between represented and representative; separation of facts and values, or science and life.1 These separations have been the engine on which liberal democracy runs, economically, politically, and socially. By its own admission, liberalism sought to separate matters that had historically been combined. The division of labor would allow for the maximization of profit. The separation of powers would allow modern states to retain power while not succumbing to tyranny. The separation of church and state would free churches to preach the Gospel while allowing the state to focus on civil goals. Civil society would flourish without the states interference. Representative government would secure the benefits of democracy without the need for direct democracy. And finally, a science free to pursue knowledge as it understands it would be wholly beneficial to mankind. Yet what currently characterizes Western democracies is not this movement of separations but rather reactions against the system of separations. These reactions take various forms, and no reaction is comprehensively against the whole. Indeed, one could hardly imagine what a complete reaction against the system of separations would be: the division of labor, after all, is hardly on the verge of disappearance. But a protest against excessive separation has emerged across Western democracies. Many economic enterprises have become unmoored from their countries of origin, and have become global behemoths beholden to no one. The separation of professions has led beyond the optimization provided by the division of labor to phenomena like those noted in small print on the back of the iPhone: Designed by Apple in California. Assembled in China. The vulnerability of pharmaceutical supply chains under globalization has now been made painfully clear in the reaction to the coronavirus outbreak. In the United States, the separation of powers often seems to have led to administrative inefficiencies and political deadlock. The separation of church and state has steadily pushed churches out of public life, to a degree that would have surprised Americans of the nineteenth through even the mid-twentieth century. Meanwhile, the marvels produced by science and engineering in the twentieth century seem destined to be overshadowed by the monstrosities of a new biopolitical tyranny coming, like eugenics the last time, in the guise of humanitarianism. Finally, the separation of represented and representative seems to have grown, as representatives become captured by financial interests and corporate pressure.2 Trump and the American Conservative Response Michael Lind has described the situation as a new class war. A transatlantic class war has broken out simultaneously in many Western countries, he writes, between elites based in the corporate, financial, government, media, and educational sectors and disproportionately native working-class populists. The old spectrum of left and right has given way to a new dichotomy in politics among insiders and outsiders.3 Lee Drutmans much-discussed analysis of the 2016 electorate in the United States indicates how this reconfiguration has begun to unfold. Comparing the social and economic views of voters for Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton in 2016, Drutman found, not surprisingly, that traditionally conservative voters favored Trump and traditionally liberal voters favored Clinton. What propelled Trump to victory was his three-to-one win over Clinton among populist votersthose liberal (i.e., Left) on economic issues and conservative on social questions and matters of identity. Most strikingly, populists made up 28.9 percent of the American electorate in 2016, whereas libertarian votersthose conservative on economics and Left or liberal on social questionswere only 3.8 percent of the electorate.4 It was Trumps performance among the large number of populist voters and Trumps disregard of libertarians that shocked the American Right in particular. Ever since Frank Meyer and William F. Buckley patched together fusionist conservatism in the 1950s and 60s, the American Right has combined social and cultural traditionalism with a broadly libertarian economic outlook. The terminology has long been confusing, as American conservatives have typically held views called liberal or neoliberal in the European context: they argue for a small state with minimal intervention in the private sector; they favor (at least in theory) the privatization or elimination of many government services; and they are suspicious of public benefits as well as public services, but they make an exception for a strong military. This alliance was driven by the turn of the Democrats toward the Left, although the Democratic Party had previously been home to socially conservative Catholic immigrants who favored the corporatist agenda of Franklin D. Roosevelt in the 1930s. The American Right incorporated economic neoliberalism on socially conservative terms, by appealing to the American tradition of self-reliance and independencewhat Alexis de Tocqueville called the doctrine of self-interest well understood. First, in the mid-1950s, conservatives sought to fashion a classical liberal tradition, supposedly betrayed by the statist liberalism of FDR. Then, beginning in the late 1960s and continuing through the 1970s, the Republican Party, traditionally the party of socially liberal northeastern industrialists, sought the votes of disaffected, socially conservative Southern Democrats. By the presidency of Ronald Reagan, that movement was consolidated, and the Republican Party had become the socially conservative, economically neoliberal party. One additional factor is needed before explaining how the Republican Party and American conservatives responded to Trumps victory. Tocqueville was correct when he observed that America was a society full of associations, with citizens constantly forming new groups to push for political and social changes of every variety. Over the second half of the twentieth century, however, many of these associations changed from organic expressions of citizen concern to large foundations which advanced the agendas of their donors. On the right, this change meant that conservative think tanks, activist groups, and the like adopted an almost universally libertarian viewpointas the donors endowing these foundations held libertarian views on economicsalbeit under the banner of fusionism. Consequently, at typical conservative conferences for university students, socially conservative students are imbued with libertarian free market doctrines (though rarely any serious empirical study of modern markets and firms). As American conservatives drew on nineteenth-century formulations of English liberalism, they became ever more hostile to and skeptical of the state. In a stereotypical rendering of history according to this viewpoint, the United States was a libertarian paradise till the presidency of Franklin D. Roosevelt (or perhaps Woodrow Wilson), whose dramatic expansion of the federal government destroyed traditional American liberties and accordingly set back American economic progress. The reality is rather different, as the United States adopted a model of state-led industrialization very early in the nineteenth century, in keeping with the ideas of Alexander Hamilton. Yet as the importance of military-industrial competition with the Soviet Union faded, conservative think tanks commitment to libertarian economics only grew stronger. The end of the Cold War and the success of Bill Clintons neoliberal presidencyduring which he incorporated welfare reform, free trade, and stricter criminal justice policies into the Democratic platformconvinced libertarians and neoliberals on the right and left that their moment was at hand. The Republican Party came to power in the U.S. Congress in the 1994 elections on a mission to slash government spending and welfare benefits. The era of big government, said Clinton in his 1996 State of the Union, is over. While the GOP did not achieve all its dreams (it had also hoped to eliminate numerous federal agencies like the Department of Education), free trade agreements such as nafta and Chinese accession to the WTO were signed with bipartisan support. During this period, the United States conceived of a future economy that would combine the monetization of internet technology and a transition from heavy manufacturing employment to a service-sector economy (hospitality, etc.). With a few exceptions, American conservatives had little or nothing to say about this change, even as the manufacturing core of the American economy was hollowed out. Fusionist conservatives had outsourced the economic portion of their thinking to libertarians, and they mostly professed their desire to allow market forces to work. In the absence of an economic policy that would help middle- and working-class Americans, however, conservatives insistence on conserving traditional family structures became hollow and moralistic. Many otherwise socially conservative black and Hispanic voters have avoided the Republican Party for precisely this reason. But socially conservative white voters, even those whom Republican economic policies do not help, have stayed with the party in the hopes that Republican presidents would appoint socially conservative judges to the U.S. Supreme Court and other federal courts. A tipping point during the 2016 campaign was Trumps decision in May of that year to release a list of possible Supreme Court picks in order to reassure pro-life voters of his sympathy with socially conservative causes. Yet Trumps appointees have largely disappointed social conservatives with their recent rulings. It seems increasingly clear that, over a period of four decades, the conservative legal movements primary success has been to keep Republican voters engaged in a Sisyphean task. Americas underlying liberalism, as Adrian Vermeule put it recently, has meant that in critical cases, involving central commitments of the unwritten constitution, it is highly likely that one or more of the middling conservative justices will defect.5 Conservatives have pinned their hope on institutions designed to fail them in critical moments. Periodic efforts have been made to reform the Republican Party along less libertarian lines: compassionate conservatism during George W. Bushs presidential campaign, and reform conservatism toward the end of the Bush administration in 2008. Reform conservatism advanced modest economic policy proposals that would be more beneficial to socially conservative working-class voters in the Republican Party. But those proposals were generally small and indirect, such as expanding the child tax credit in order to make raising families more affordable. Reform conservatism offered no vision of political economyof what the American economy as a whole should look like, and of what role the state had in making such an economy possible. The situation that Trump entered in 2015 and 2016, then, was one in which the Republican Party was largely stuck on the playbook it had fashioned in the 1970s and 1980sa narrative of entrepreneurial risk and triumph that bore little resemblance to the highly financialized capitalism of the twenty-first century, now driven by the relentless minimizing of domestic labor costs and the substitution of an internet-based, financial, and service-sector economy for the old manufacturing economy. A Typology of American Conservatives Following the shock of 2016, American conservatives have divided into three main categories: (1) those who opposed Trump, still oppose him, and hope to regain control of the Republican Party on the standard pro-business, laissez-faire platform of recent decades; (2) those who were initially skeptical about Trump but have rallied around the cause of nationalism; and (3) those who have used the occasion of the Trump presidency to push for a new Right. Let us take a brief look at these three groups. Commonly called the Never Trumpers, the first group has grown even more embittered in the years since 2016. Initially organized around Bill Kristols now-defunct Weekly Standard magazine, the Never Trumpers were the self-described neoconservatives of the George W. Bush erathose who advocated for the Iraq War abroad and Wall Street capitalism at home. (They in turn had inherited the mantle of the earlier generation of neoconservative converts.) Trump crossed them on both these commitments and brought on their wrath. Largely pushed out of conservative publications, they have founded new donor-driven websites like the Bulwark and the Dispatch (led by Jonah Goldberg), whose content is often indistinguishable from the Trump-related hysteria at CNN or msnbc. Their leading political figure is Utah senator Mitt Romney, the failed 2012 presidential candidate, and most have endorsed Joe Biden for the 2020 election. They organized a small conference on Principled Conservatism in Washington in February, and have also used the slogan conservatism conserved. As the slogans suggest, the Never Trumpers interpret the 1980s fusionist conservative orientation as a tablet of eternal commandments. While attacking Trump for putting his personal interests ahead of the country, they are more than willing to adhere to conservative principles (on free trade, for example), even though the country has suffered from an ideological application of those principles. Their attitude toward the suffering parts of the United States borders on blithe disregard. Considering that Trumps support among Republicans hovers around 90 percent, the Never Trumpers have become a rump of donor-supported pseudo-intellectuals with almost no base in the Republican Party as a whole. Their vision of the Republican Party as an alliance between social conservatives and economic libertarianswith the party run by the latteris in tatters. The great hope of the Never Trumpers seems to be that a Trump loss in November, especially a decisive one, will revive their fortunes within the Republican Party. But their political prospects seem limited even in this scenario. Despite advertising themselves as responsible centrists, they have shown essentially zero interest in serious policymaking, focusing almost entirely on Trumps character, personal scandals, their preferred vision of American values, and so on. Meanwhile, the few areas of potential bipartisan collaboration have shifted, for the foreseeable future, mainly to issues of industrial policy and technological competition with Chinaissues the Never Trumpers have totally ignored, both during the last few years and throughout their entire careers. It was Republicans like Tom Cotton, Marco Rubio, and Josh Hawley who recently cosponsored the American Foundries Act with Chuck Schumer, for example. And now that Democratic nominee Joe Biden has made issues like industrial policy and Buy American key aspects of his campaign, any Republican cooperation with a Biden administration will likely be led by the economic populists. The Never Trumpers are simply irrelevant on these issues, and their actual records when in government remain glaring liabilities for anyone associated with them. Donors and media outlets might have some use for them, as they apparently do today, but neither the Biden administration nor the post-Trump Republican leadership are likely to have much interest in these figures. Unlike the Never Trumpers, the second group of conservatives have embraced Trumps nationalist rhetoric, but they have otherwise left traditional (anti-statist) American conservatism intact. Among voters, these were Americans who gravitated to Trumps slogan, Make America Great Again, along with immigration restrictions and a rejection of globalism in economic and foreign policy. Some conservative intellectuals embraced the nationalist framework from the beginning, such as Michael Anton, whose article The Flight 93 Election starkly contrasted the options of Trump and Hillary Clinton. Writing in 2016 at the ironically titled blog Journal of American Greatness under the pseudonym Publius Decius Mus (a blog to which I contributed as well), Anton excoriated checklist conservatives for having stuck with free market ideology and neoconservative foreign policy even in the face of repeated failures. This group of nationalist conservatives have congregated around the Claremont Institute and its Claremont Review of Books and affiliated publications. Aside from becoming generally more nationalist on foreign and immigration policy, however, this group has had little to say about the implications of broader political realignment. In summer 2019, the Israeli intellectual Yoram Hazony launched a conference in Washington under the name National Conservatism, aiming to gather intellectuals and politicos who reject the Never Trump framework. Hazonys own defense of nationalism, published in the 2018 book The Virtue of Nationalism, is itself sui generis. In Hazonys account, nations are the permanent opposition to empires, against which they always find themselves locked in struggle, though it is difficult to fit into this framework nations that became or acquired empires (what would anti-imperial nationalism say about Algeria, for example?). Hazonys view of nations is based heavily on the Old Testament and the experience of Israel and England, as well as a peculiarly English view of conservatism as subrational and traditionalist. National Conservatism is also markedly Protestant in an old-fashioned way, as Hazony has promoted the view that Henry VIIIs actions constituted the first Brexit in resistance to ecclesiastical imperialism. While openly aligning itself with European populists and nationalists, however, National Conservatism has had little to say about the sources of continental right-wing thought, from Roman law to the Catholic Church, or about the conservative use of the state. National Conservatism has been important for two reasons, however. First, it has offered a label under which pro-Trump (or anti-anti-Trump) neoconservatives can nest themselves. The second reason for National Conservatisms importance is that it has extended its reach beyond the United States through the organization of a February 2020 conference in Rome, aimed at gathering national conservatives from a variety of European nations, including Viktor Orban, Marion Marechal, Giorgia Meloni, Ryszard Legutko, and others. The National Conservatism conference in Rome was significant in that it was perhaps the first prominent expression of interest in various European right-wing political movements on behalf of mainstream American conservatives. In addition, the conference largely avoided the typical flaw of American political efforts in Europe, which often amount to attempts to export American political ideologiessuch as laissez-faire ideology in the years just after the fall of Communism (a project which continues to this day!). And last, the National Conservatism conference allowed organic expressions of conservatism from each participating European countryFrance, Spain, Italy, Hungary, and several others. Efforts such as these have been sorely lacking on the American right. The difficulty facing National Conservatism, however, is that it is primarily oriented toward rethinking conservatism itself rather than thinking primarily about the challenges of contemporary politics. National Conservatism and (anti-Trump) Principled Conservatism are both arguments over the content of conservatism. In the Anglo-American context, National Conservatism, as Hazony frames it, highlights historical empiricism (or traditionalism), nationalism (i.e., against imperialism), religion, and limited executive power. While the nationalism element of National Conservatism is transferable to other countries, historical empiricism and limited executive power are not the most pressing political concepts, particularly in times of economic crisis and emergency. A related statement emerged from First Things in March 2019, called Against the Dead Consensus. That letter, signed by fifteen conservative intellectuals, argued that the old conservatism too often tracked the same lodestar liberalism didnamely, individual autonomy, and had surrendered to the pornographization of daily life, to the culture of death, to the cult of competitiveness. National Conservatism provides an important alternative to neoconservatism and fusionism for conservatives seeking to take advantage of the new nationalist moment. But it remains to be seen whether it can offer either a public policy agenda or a conception of present political circumstances that captures American (or Latin American, European, and Asian) situations. As an illustration of the problem, consider that National Conservatism offers little or no role for the state, a political concept frequently neglected in the Anglo-American context. The same problem has faced First Things as it has moved toward a broadly postliberal and nationalist outlook. Finally, many standard conservative activists have rebranded as being pro-Trump. The largest activist conferences, leaders, and media figureslike the Conservative Political Action Conference, Turning Point USA (and its leader Charlie Kirk), media figures like Ben Shapiro and countless othershave all rebranded as MAGA conservatives. For the most part, however, these movements have not substantially updated their policy stances since before Trump. The conservative activists in this vein generally have no intellectual background or interest in policy, but are rather media figures seeking to monetize the political moment. Many of them operating today grew out of the Tea Party phenomenon, which formed at the beginning of the Obama administration to protest the governments bailout of banks during the subprime mortgage crisis, and to protest the fiscal stimulus bills President Obama used to fight the consequent recession. The Tea Party tapped into a strongly anti-government view that had become associated with conservatism through the presidential candidacy of Barry Goldwater in 1964. Many of the student and young adult conservative activist groups like Young Americans for Freedom (founded in 1960) date from that generation and have the same laissez-faire ideology today. Thus most of the conservative activists wearing MAGA hats at Trump rallies or conservative political conventions are simply anti-immigration libertarians. Talk to them about the need for the state to support domestic manufacturing, or the need to boost family formation through a Hungarian-style benefit program, and they will probably call you a socialist. In general, aside from opposition to immigration and support for the American military, they have no vision of how the government is to be used at all. In different circumstances, they would revert to an anti-government stance along with opposition to increases in federal spending. Ironically, then, many MAGA conservative activists do not reflect the constituencies that propelled Trump to victory in 2016. Their visibility on the presidents behalf will merely harm his reelection campaign. While the world of conservative political activism may seem impressive, since the 1970s and 1980s it has become heavily laden down by financial motivations and salesmanship. Going forward, more lean and nimble organizations, particularly of a postliberal variety, will be needed to enable political actors on the right to formulate what to do next. The Postliberal Right The third group of conservatives are those who take Trumps election, Brexit, and the rise of populist political movements in Europe to demonstrate that the configuration of political ideologies immediately prior to 2016 had fallen out of step with conditions on the ground. As it is to this group that I myself belong, I transition here from describing the circumstances of American conservatism to outlining, however briefly, an argument for this vision of the Right. American conservatism has been anti-statist since it coalesced in opposition to Franklin D. Roosevelts expansionary New Deal during the Great Depression, and particularly in its formulation after World War II. Even among conservatives who are not anti-statist per se, hostility to and skepticism of the federal government runs deep. The state is considerably less visible in daily life in America than elsewhere: health care is privately administered, public universities are not free, taxes are not suffocating, and labor is more lightly regulated. Yet most American conservative intellectuals, activists, journalists, think tank staff, and the like still act as though the primary enemy is the federal government, or use alarming rhetoric about taxation that has not been changed since the days of much higher tax rates before Reagans tax cuts in 1981 and 1986. From the standpoint of the postliberal Right, the liberal view of the state as a keeper of the peace and preserver of individual libertiesthe view of most American conservatives before Trumpis not an adequate answer to the present situation. A correction in the direction of the state is needed. On this point the American Right has much to learn from the European Right. And as discussed above, the constituencies that delivered the Republicans to power in 2016 would likely agree. According to a major March 2019 survey of U.S. adults, pluralities of respondents favor increased federal spending in almost every category: education, veterans benefits, rebuilding highways and bridges, Medicare, environmental protection, health care, scientific research, Social Security, assistance to the needy, domestic anti-terrorism, military defense, and assistance to the needy in the world. Only in the category of assistance to the unemployed did respondents favor keeping spending the same (43 percent) rather than increasing it (31 percent).6 Trumps victory additionally suggests that there is a majority of Americans who favor increased state intervention to align economic production with the national interest, and who favor an end to the increasingly punitive and destabilizing form of cultural progressivism dominant at present, and a correction in favor of the family. The way to view this movement is that a maintenance or increase of state power in the United States is going to continue. The question is simply whether the Right is willing to use power when it has access to it, and use it for the sake of the common good. Twentieth-century conservatives devotion to unregulated markets and libertarianism has now contributed to a series of financial crises, the loss of U.S. manufacturing, and a completely demoralized society. Yet many conservatives continue to speak as though libertarianism is the solution. What the postliberal perspective suggests is that a real political realignment is possible, but that doing so requires the Right to focus on the issues facing the economy and American families rather than on disputes over the content of conservative ideology. For years, the Right has had no guiding ideology, while the Left had Marxism and the center has had liberal capitalism. When the Right thinks of itself only within the existing frameworks of conservatism, it merely defends the neoliberal economic system whose distortions are now being exposed. When conservatives think of themselves as conserving liberalism, they are unnecessarily distorting their view of what the pressing political and economic problems are. To be sure, one can argue that a true liberalism is politically responsible, preserves liberties rather than consuming them in ideology, and is based in a defined political community. But this is a theoretical approach, not a practical one. The burden on liberalism is rather to provide an accurate diagnosis of the current political problem as well as an answer to it. Since the things that have brought our political system to its present crisis have been done in the name of liberalismfrom the erosion of traditional morals to the liberalization of trade to the global orgy of liberal capitalism as a wholeit is my view that there is no major political constituency for the conservative defense of liberalism. Policy for the New Right If we consider the policy areas that can and should drive political change in the United States, two areas stand out for the new American Right: family policy and industrial policy. On the first, merely speaking about the cultural pressures that families face, as American conservatives have typically done, is not enough. Too many families cannot afford children, and all the factors hindering the choice to raise children are only becoming exacerbated in the post-Covid-19 world. The United States has the fiscal resources for a family policy, like that pioneered in Hungary and elsewhere, that would meaningfully support the formation of familiesand the creation, for conservatives, of a stable electoral base. In the fall 2019 American Affairs, I outlined what a FamilyPay proposal should look like in the United States, centered on an annual $6,500 benefit for married couples with one child, $11,500 for two, and so on. As the response to coronavirus shows, rapid political change is possible under extreme circumstances, and the Right must be ready to go with spending plans that buoy American families during a time of severe economic distress. Related to the goal of supporting the family, consider the question of decency laws that could restrict the distribution of pornography. Only in the last forty years, and especially since the advent of the internet, have American anti-obscenity laws not been enforced. Unfortunately, libertarian tendencies on the American right have contributed to this situation. Conservatives have done little to stem the overwhelming tide of pornography unleashed by the internet in the last twenty-five years, and many nationalist conservatives would hesitate to pursue any policies that might be called censorship. Although the pro-life movement is large in the United States, anti-pornography campaigns are small. There have, however, been growing demands for the U.S. government to investigate the human trafficking on which the pornographic industry depends. American conservatives should look to anti-pornography movements elsewhere, like Frances Stop au Porno, for inspiration. Glancing at anti-pornography laws in other major industrialized countries, it is obvious that the United States is an outlier. The second area of advance in conservative thinking concerns industrial policy. In the United States, industrial policy largely disappeared from public discourse after the end of the Cold War and the worldwide trend toward liberalization. During that time, though, the United States arguably implemented a different kind of industrial policyof moving labor offshore and transitioning to a digital and service-sector economy. Since 1990, China in particular has rapidly increased its share of value-added in high-tech manufacturing, while U.S. manufacturing productivity growth has stalled. American companies have become less innovative, not more; they do less investment, not more; and many spend a significant portion of their profits boosting their own stock prices. The result is that the number of low-wage, low-productivity service sector jobs has increased, while many critical manufacturing sectors have slumped. Politicians like Senators Marco Rubio, Josh Hawley, and Tom Cotton, in particular, are putting industrial policy back on the map, arguing that national security requires us to maintain industrial capacity, not only through Trump-style trade actions but through directing American investment toward strategic sectors. Government reports from Rubios office have emphasized the need to counteract Chinas plan to dominate world manufacturing by 2025, a view which has since become something of a bipartisan consensus. While industrial policy has often been thought to be more appropriate for developing economies, the frightening reality is that Western economies are or soon will be merely developing compared to Chinese advances in 5G communications, artificial intelligence, and many other fields. The coronavirus crisis has also highlighted American dependence on Chinese-manufactured pharmaceuticals and medical equipment; the pressing need for an American industrial policy can no longer be ignored. Moreover, the postliberal priorities of industrial policy and family policy are complementary. A comprehensive family policy will give statesmen on the right the stability from which to implement an ambitious industrial policy (and pursue concomitant goals of stronger labor policy and workforce skills development). As part of this reconfiguration, Catholic social, political, and juridical teaching is coming back into vogue and in new ways. In the United States, Catholic social teaching has typically been interpreted by the (Catholic) Left as a form of social justice and wealth redistribution; on the right, as simply antiabortion. During the Cold War, Catholics on the right tended to keep their distance from the social doctrine of the Church, since it also advocated an antinuclear stance in foreign policy. Accordingly, conservative Catholics in the late Cold War era adopted the view that the American political system (understood as laissez-faire economics and moral conservatism) was the best regime, provided that it was supplemented with Catholic moral teaching. Conservative Catholics thus tended to downplay any contribution of the Church to economic teaching. In the reductio ad absurdum of this approach, George Weigel, famous as a biographer of Pope St. John Paul II, theorized that the sections of Pope Benedict XVIs 2009 encyclical Caritas in veritate calling for a global economic oversight body could not be attributed to the pope but to his ghostwriters. Today, however, Catholic social teaching is returning on the right, as conservatives begin to think about how to make the economy serve man rather than vice versa. The Churchs tradition, wrote Senator Rubio in First Things, cuts across identitarian labels, insisting upon the inviolable right to private property and the dangers of Marxism, but also the essential role of labor unions. Responding to contemporary economic dislocation will also require a renewal of the Churchs corporatist tradition of directing business in the name of the common good (as in Pope Pius XIs Quadragesimo anno). Thinkers such as Adrian Vermeule have likewise sought to invigorate a tradition of common good constitutionalism within American law. The State and the Common Good What the Right has not yet found is an ideology through which to integrate these elements of a new politics that takes advantage of the state for the sake of the common good. Indeed, the Right has implausibly convinced itself that modern conservatism is not an ideology at all. As the reaction against liberal democracys system of separations implies, however, majority or potentially majority constituencies across the West want their nations to be integral wholes: to have control over their borders, an economy put in the service of the common good, the ability to raise successful families, and the capacity to maintain their strategic advantage in the face of rising adversaries. The discovery in 2016 of voters with morally right-wing and economically statist views has been mirrored elsewhere. In the United Kingdom, this group turned out in force, both in the 2016 Brexit referendum and in the December 2019 elections that were in effect a second referendum on Brexit. The same voter group has kept Victor Orban in power in Hungary, and has established and expanded a right-wing majority in Polandmost recently sending Andrzej Duda to a second presidential term, even in the face of a concerted international campaign to delegitimize his election in advance. Countries previously thought to be immune to populism, like Spain, show growing movements in this direction. Italy has grown even cooler toward the European Union since the EU effectively hung it out to dry during the Covid-19 crisis earlier this year. And while the French Right is politically divided, a union of right-wing forces there would be politically formidable. While the circumstances are different, each of these changes follows a similar path. At some point along the way, an enterprising right-wing party realizes that liberalism has become an exhausted ideologyexhausted because it is incapable of clearly articulating what the common good is, and incapable of inspiring the loyalty and shared sacrifice that nation-states require to function. Everywhere that the Right is successful, it is shifting toward a postliberal political stance to reintegrate society, economy, and the state. To do so, it must begin with a base of socially conservative voters, since voters split more strongly on social issues than on economic ones. Instead of trying to turn these voters into economic liberals, the Right should give them what they want: an economy oriented toward the nation by employing the means of state, and a society that is supportive of family life. Internally, this move will require the Right to change itself markedly. However important the traditions of Anglo?American conservatism may be for some strains of conservatism, the moment is one in which politics and the state must reassert themselves against the attempt to dissolve them into markets and a borderless globalism. That will require the Right to become more corporatist in its approach to directing business activity in the national interests, and more integralist in its view of the link between government and the common good. The word integralism has come back into vogue in English, not to posit some immediate union of church and state, but to argue that the liberal separation of politics and the common good is unsustainable and must be reintegrated. Whatever word we use to label it, the policies of the next Right are already in evidence: it will use the power of the state to coordinate business and industrial enterprises toward the common goods of peace and strength, while pursuing macroeconomic policies that shore up the cultural base required for any functioning polity. In doing so, moreover, the Rights focus will inevitably shift from internal debates over the content of conservatism to external coalition building and effecting a larger political realignment. This spring, the response to the coronavirus outbreak forced the Right, in a painful and urgent situation, to acknowledge the need for state coordination of industry. But the Republican Party only seems to take the reins of power under duress and never internalizes the rationale for acting. Under the GOPs watch the United States passed a fiscal stimulus of an amount not seen since the Obama administration in 2009when Obamas stimulus caused a wave of conservative outrage. Republicans have been cool to the possibility of a second stimulus or further government intervention in the economy, though as of this writing additional economic support looks likely. It is already obvious that the November election will go to whichever candidate makes a compelling case that he can navigate the American economy through the choppy waters to come. But in 2020, paeans to the free market will simply get us trendier mask designs, and little of the medical equipment or pharmaceutical prowess needed to deal with myriad health care challenges in the years to come. The characteristics of the next politically successful Right are already knownin the United States as well as every major European country. Time will tell whether the Right is willing to bring them to market. This article originally appeared in American Affairs Volume IV, Number 3 (Fall 2020): 17490. Notes As election pledges of freebies escalate, Modi Government issues a warning to States at the third National Conference of Chief Secretaries In the third National Conference of Chief Secretaries held in Delhi on 28th and 29th December 2023 under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the central government cautioned the states against giving freebies, and goaded them to increase capital expenditure by rationalizing welfare schemes with emphasis on eliminating inefficient subsidies. The Centres concern over freebies - an acronym for something given free of charge - has heightened because of a volley of these promised by almost all political parties in five state elections held in November 2023. It apprehends that the freebies would drain state coffers, lead to similar competing moves in other states and set undesirable and unsustainable precedents. How does one ensure that freebies are not handed out in the garb of welfare schemes? If, the state makes bare essentials such as education, health, food, fuel, water, housing, electricity etc available for free or at subsidized rates, will that be counted as a freebie? This question cant be answered without specifying as to for whom this is meant. If, it is for persons who are poor say 24 million families covered under the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY), it can qualify as a welfare measure. In case however, the government decides to provide any of these essential items free to all and sundry, then it might be difficult to justify this as a genuine welfare scheme. For instance, Modis promise of free food to about 164 million families - corresponding to 820 million persons and taking 5 persons per family - for five years (the announcement was made in November 2023) is more likely to be interpreted as a freebie. Similarly, the decision of the AAP government in Delhi led by Arvind Kejriwal to give electricity subsidy on consumption of up to 400 units per month to any household who asks for it is a blatant case of freebie driven solely by electoral politics. Likewise, a full waiver of electricity bills on consumption up to 300 units a month to all such households promised by the AAP government in Punjab is a freebie. At another level, the Centres assistance to poor families (as per the socio-economic census 2011) for building 40 million houses under the PM Awas Yojna (PMAY) deserves to be classified as a welfare scheme. Likewise, providing free gas connection to 100 million beneficiaries (albeit poor) under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojna or PMUY plus a subsidy of Rs 400 per cylinder for up to 12 refills per year may qualify for a similar treatment. However, the Centres decision announced last year to give a subsidy of Rs 200 per cylinder to all 330 million household consumers of LPG was aimed at alluring voters; hence it wont pass muster as a welfare scheme. The same can be said of parties promising additional subsidies from state coffers to deliver LPG at Rs 500/450 to all consumers. The parties have also come up with schemes that promise cash assistance to certain target groups. For instance, you have Gruha Lakshmi in Karnataka where every woman head of a household gets Rs 2000 per month; or Ladli Behna Yojana in Madhya Pradesh (MP) under which the State gives Rs 1,250 per month, the amount to be gradually hiked to Rs 3,000 per month, or Yuva Nidhi in Karnataka where unemployed graduates get Rs 3,000 every month. In the absence of specifying whether the beneficiaries are from economically weaker groups or otherwise, such schemes would naturally get the colour of a freebie. Then, you have things like free bus tickets for all women to travel in Karnataka, Delhi and Punjab; free pilgrimages for elderly persons in Delhi, MP etc; 10 grams of gold plus Rs 100,000/- cash to women getting married in Telangana and so on. Such schemes are designed to benefit all including the rich or even super rich. Spending taxpayers money in this manner is preposterous. There are production subsidies as well. For instance, you have a supply of electricity at subsidized rates to farmers and a subsidy on fertilizers to keep their prices low. In addition, there is PM-KISAN under which the Central government provides income support of Rs 6,000 a year to farmers with a valid enrolment (now, some states are giving an additional Rs 6000). This support is meant to enable farmers to buy fertilizers and other inputs. It is ironic that on one hand, farmers are prevented from realizing a good price for their agriproduce courtesy, obstructionist state laws viz. APMC Act under which they can sell only at designated APMC mandi on the other, the Centre and states spend huge sums to subsidize the supply of agri inputs. In a way, these welfare schemes end up bolstering the profit margins of traders and commission agents. What is the way forward? For a Scheme to be welfare-oriented, it must address the needs of a person who is desperately in need of a product or service. Here, an overarching criterion has to be her income. If she is poor or very poor having income below a certain threshold, the governments assistance should only go to her. A person who is well off has a high income and hence capable of buying all items needed for a good living must not be allowed to benefit from it. On this fundamental consideration alone, most of the schemes that are being accessed by all and sundry should be disbanded or reconfigured to give help only to the poor. While focusing on the poor, a distinction should be made between a product or service that helps in imparting skills and augments the productive capabilities of a person besides keeping his health in good shape. Accordingly, housing, education and health should receive top priority. As for food subsidies, a consumption-oriented welfare scheme, in principle, should be given only to the poor. This logic also holds for subsidies on fuel and electricity. The government should shun existing support systems for farmers viz. MSP and subsidy on fertilizers and other agri-inputs etc, instead it should work on facilitating a good price to them through market reforms. Subsidies like pilgrimages of elderly persons, free bus travel, cash help for marriages, gold etc even if these are meant for the poor should go. If the State starts taking care of almost everything under the roof, the potential beneficiary will stop working and simply wait for help from the former to come. This will be disastrous for the state coffers, the economy and the society. Ideally, the government should shun the existing practice of subsidizing dozens of products and services; instead, give lump sum income support to the poor only and let the beneficiary prioritize its use depending on where the shoe pinches the most. The list of beneficiaries should be periodically reviewed to delete those who have come out of poverty. Meanwhile, the government should augment and strengthen the social infrastructure such as schools, hospitals etc where facilities for all people are available at affordable rates. Moreover, policy reforms in key sectors such as food, fertilizers, fuel etc should be brought about to enable efficient and competitive markets so that each of the 1.4 billion Indians gets access to these products at low prices. However, for all this to happen, electoral politics has to give some space for decisions based on economic merit. (The writer is a policy analyst, views are personal) Education is all about creating possibilities for a learner to invent and discover Art is a cornerstone of education and self-portraits play a pivotal role in fostering creativity and self-expression. In a world thats ever-changing, creativity is no longer a luxury but a necessity. In the words of Sir Ken Robinson Creativity is the process of having original ideas which have value. In the vibrant world, imagination does not become great until human beings, given the courage and strength, use it to create. Its not just about acquiring knowledge rather its about cultivating the courage to create, innovate and dream beyond limits. For ages, humans have been wired to be curious, but the rigid structure, mandatory curriculum and standardized testing have often extinguished their natural creativity thereby making the learner reluctant to push past the status quo. Every child is a creator and inculcating a creative curriculum encourages young minds to think out of the box, and spark their imagination and innovation. When children are encouraged to think creatively, they learn to approach challenges in a unique and effective way. It helps them to express themselves more richly. Through art, music and storytelling, they learn to communicate their thoughts and feelings in diverse and profound ways. Creativity builds confidence, as children learn to trust their ideas and abilities. It is often believed that creativity is hereditary and is enhanced by a persons environment. A person who exists in a place where music is a way of life, there is a higher chance that they will grow up with the inherent desire to learn which will mold them to do extremely well in it. In fact, the art of creativity should be brought forth at an early age for doing so, will give the learner a longer time to hone it so as to choose their career and industry fruitfully. Creative skills are just as important as creative attitude. Today creativity as well as innovation have been legitimised by DfES and other primary schools to develop creative ideas and actions. It is believed that a school with creativity at the heart of the learning process will benefit by increasing the motivation of staff and its learners. More and more schools along with other educational institutions need to offer children a larger variety of creative experiences due to the fact that the world, we live in is constantly developing new ideas, technology and concepts that form a vital element for the future and also a solution to the creative crisis. Remember, the goal of education is not to increase the amount of knowledge but to create the possibilities for a learner to invent and discover, to create men who are capable of doing new things under any circumstances. In a world where new ideas, technology, and concepts constantly emerge, fostering creativity is not just a means of preparing for the future; it is a solution to the creative crisis. Education's ultimate goal is not just knowledge acquisition but the creation of possibilities for learners to invent and discover, enabling them to tackle new challenges under any circumstances. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, it is imperative that we prioritize creativity in education, acknowledging its transformative power in shaping individuals who can contribute meaningfully to a dynamic and ever-evolving world. (The writer is an educator, views are personal) Today marks the historic emergence of a modern Hindu Rajya as India stands more confident and poised for progress than ever before, embracing its cultural heritage As the sun rises on Monday, January 22, 2024, India becomes a modern Hindu rajya. The north of Bharat slipped out of Hindu rule; the cause ironically, was the Hindu ideal; kshama veerasya bhushanam (forgiveness is the ornament of the brave). In 1191 at Tarain in present-day Haryana, Prithviraj Chauhan of Delhi routed the Turkic invader Mohammad Shabuddin Ghori but soon afterwards, obtaining an apology from the vanquished enemy, pardoned him, and allowed him to return to his native Afghanistan. Ghori did so, only to return to the following year to the same battlefield. Chance had it that this time around, it was Prithviraj who lost and was taken prisoner. The cowardly victor had his prisoner blinded and killed. Thus ended Hindu rule in Delhi. Qutbuddin Aibaks Sultanate was established and the Hindus could not get back to the throne of Delhi. Hindu diyas (earthen lamps) fortunately continued to flicker in many parts south of the Vindhyas as well as Assam. The rest of India more or less trudged along under the heels of Islamic rulers. To this day, both Pakistan as well as Bangladesh continue to brandish their official Islamic constitutions. For the sake of the show, India became a secular country and proclaimed its commitment to the ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the entire world is a family). Jawaharlal Nehru, the patron father of the Nehru dynasty, called himself rather proudly a Muslim by culture, Englishman by upbringing and a Hindu only by accident (of birth). The Nehru dynasty still hopes to return to power, but there are other aspirants for the throne. The people of India though, prefer a true Hindu ruler. They have every right to aspire for Hindu rule in a Hindu Rajya and not a nondescript mixture of non-Hindu rulers under whatever label. To ensure the fructification of this desire, a change in the Constitution is necessary. In any case, an overall amendment is long overdue. The current one had to be put together in somewhat of a hurry on the morrow of independence. The ready model before the countrys legal luminaries was the Government of India Act 1935, passed by Britains parliament to govern its biggest colony better. It certainly had not been written with the intent of developing or governing a new country that had been divided on religious lines only yesterday. The divided smaller part went to the extent of assigning its sovereignty to Allah the merciful, and no one on earth. The 1935 Act, if at all, would assign sovereignty to the British Crown. It introduced clauses such as Articles 25 to 30, which even today appear to have been written to induce the Muslim League not to insist on the partition of the country. That it was written in a hurry shows up in the fact that it has had to be amended a hundred and forty times. Some foundational Hindu aspirations have found a place in the Directive Principles of State Policy, but arent enforceable fundamental rights, like a ban on cow slaughter, the implementation of a uniform civil code and others. Equality is being over-emphasised. When the constitution permits a man to have up to four wives, but not a woman to have more than one husband, the principle goes begging. Every Constitution has provisions for amendments. If any change is so great as to need a rewriting of the entire document, it can and should be done. Germany and France are now in their fifth polity; why cannot India therefore, enter its second rajya? In the Indian situation, the need for revision of the entire document and not merely amendment of Articles, as compared to Western constitutions certainly does exist. For example, the Christian ethos can demand equality, because of its belief that God made man equal, whereas in the Hindu work view, the jivatma (individual being) is a meteor that has come down and will, one day return to the Paramatma. Fate will depend on ones karma, and the karmas of no two individuals will be identical. Constitutions are institutions innovated by the Christian world; other cultures have only adapted themselves to it. In Europe, the Church owned much land and wielded considerable power. Frances constitution allotted one house of the National Assembly to abbots and bishops, enabling the clergy to wield considerable power within the state. A stage therefore came when the State and Church had to be separated. This was the justification for secularism. Prophet Moses Ten Commandments prohibit the worship of idols, or any attempt by a worshipper to have a glimpse of the divine. In the Hindu ethos, there is no greater joy for a devotee than to have a glimpse of the divine. There is no place for secularism in the Hindu ethos. In any case, secularism as practiced in India has come to mean preferentialism. Money from Hindu temples flows to the government, which does not touch churches or mosques in the country. On the contrary, governments in some states go out of their way to pay the salaries of the clergy of Allah. Whether we call our second constitution the Second Republic or not, we certainly need a revision of our constitutional structure, to provide the scope for our people to realize their genius to the fullest. (The writer is a well-known columnist, an author and a former member of the Rajya Sabha. The views expressed are personal) In the sacred embrace of Ayodhya, a celestial symphony unfolds as the city awaits the historic Pran Pratistha ceremony of Ram Lalla. The echoes of Jai Shri Ram reverberate through the hallowed precincts, infusing the very soul of this temple city with divine anticipation. In every chant of Jai Shri Ram, Ayodhya glimpses the dawn of a new era, where devotion and progress dance in divine harmony, Sudharshan Aiyyar said as he walks on the Ram Path. Thousands of devoted Rambhakts, converging from diverse corners of the country and across the globe, embark on a sacred pilgrimage to partake in this divine odyssey. Temples resonate with the harmonious cadence of kirtans, bhajans, and the soul-stirring recitations of Ramayana and Ramcharitmanas, creating an ethereal ambiance that transcends the earthly realm. As Bhandaras, reminiscent of communal feasts, come to life, the streets pulsate with the rhythmic chanting of Shri Ram, creating an atmosphere of spiritual communion. Amid this sacred tapestry, Ram Chandra Desai, a pilgrim from Vadodara, reflects on the profound historical journey: Our ancestors bore witness to the demolition of the temple and the subsequent construction of a mosque atop the Ram Temple almost five centuries ago. My father witnessed the demolition of the mosque, and now, I consider myself fortunate to witness the construction of the Ram Temple. Desai, aged 28, undertook a remarkable pilgrimage, traversing over 2000 km on his bicycle in seven days to be a part of this momentous occasion. As he waves at reporters at Lata Mangeshkar Chowk, he exclaims, Jo Ram ka nahi, wo kisi kaam ka nahi, and departs shouting Jai Sri Ram. In the midst of this spiritual tapestry, the participation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the consecration ceremony from 12:20 PM to 12:40 PM on Monday elevates the significance of the moment. The event is set to unfold before over 7,500 esteemed guests, including distinguished personalities from India and abroad. Delegates from different nations are also poised to grace this historic occasion, underscoring its global resonance. As the spiritual heart of Ayodhya undergoes a monumental transformation through the construction and consecration of the Ram Temple, a palpable ripple effect is felt across the economic landscape. Local vendors, shopkeepers, and businesses brim with anticipation, foreseeing a surge in prosperity. Ramesh, a hawker specializing in religious artifacts, shares his expectations: For us, the Ram Temple is not merely a religious symbol; it is a transformative force for our economy. Devotees will seek mementos, and we are prepared for a substantial uptick in sales. This is not just a spiritual milestone; it is an economic opportunity. Wandering through the vibrant streets of Ayodhya, a profound sense of pride and identity emanates from its residents. Shyam, a local resident, articulates, The Ram Temple is not just a religious edifice; it symbolizes our identity. The consecration will thrust Ayodhya onto the global stage, a source of immense pride. Its more than just a temple; its a testament to our heritage. Ritu, a student, perceives the temple as a fount of inspiration: The temple signifies that dreams, no matter how grand, can come true. I believe this event will not only bring prosperity to businesses but to the entire community. As Ayodhya stands on the cusp of a historical and technological transformation, the collective voice of its residents resonates with optimism. The consecration of the Ram Temple, coupled with the unfolding smart city initiatives, represents a holistic approach to development-one that harmoniously amalgamates tradition and modernity. Ayodhya event golden moment for Jains: Seers Ayodhya : Ayodhya is the original land of Jainism and the community is looking forward to the development of the holy city with the consecration of the Ram temple, Jain seers said. The entire Jain society is happy over the construction of the Ram Temple in said, Ravindra Kirti Swami, Peethadheesh Digambar Jain Teerth. AIIMS reverses decision to shut till 2:30 pm New Delhi: The All India Institute of Medical Sciences here will remain open on Monday, reversing its earlier decision to shut OPD services till 2:30 pm on the occasion of the consecration ceremony at the Ayodhya Ram temple. Cracks wide open in Opp bloc in Bengal Kolkata: The fissures in INDIA alliance degenerated into a wide crevice with Bengal Congress president Adhir Chowdhury reacting sharply to reported direction given by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to the Trinamool Congress cadre to start preparing for Congress defeat. Begum Nuzrath Jahan from Kozhikode in Kerala has always ploughed a different furrow from her peers or other members of her aristocratic and orthodox Muslim family. She has been a voracious reader, especially of Indian and Western classics. On Monday, she will be one of the chosen few (elected by the merciful Allah, in her own words) to witness the consecration of the Ram Lalla statue at Ayodhya. Lord Ram is my God too, and I adore Prabhu and Maa Sita, said Nuzrath Jahan over the phone from Ayodhya, where she arrived on Saturday evening. She met many famous saints and monks before reaching Ram Nagari. This is the rarest of rare occasions in my life. Allah has not forbidden anybody from worshiping Lord Rama, she said Nuzrath Jahan is a familiar face in Keralas intellectual circles, advocating for equal rights for women in all spheres of life. She is credited as the chief organiser of a series of seminars held across the State, demanding the introduction of a Uniform Civil Code and equal rights for women in property inheritance. I do not seek any special consideration for Muslim women. Instead, they should have equal opportunities and status as men. The Muslim laws followed in India are discriminatory against women and need to be abolished, said Nuzrath Jahan, a former aviation expert. She is an ardent supporter of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The abolition of the Triple Talaq system and the abrogation of Article 370 are landmark events that define the Modi regime. The Prime Minister is on a mission to establish a society where all Indians have equal rights and status. He is a unique leader, and I consider him the best Prime Minister India has ever had, she explained. When asked whether her support for the Prime Minister goes against the stance of her community, she retorted: I dont know if Muslims have a standalone view towards the Prime Minister. But everything he has done since becoming the Prime Minister has been aimed at elevating the status of Muslim women. Those who want Muslim women to be eternal slaves may not like him, but that is their fate, said Nuzrath Jahan. A spiritual aura enveloped the air as the resonant chants from the holy scriptures echoed through the sacred corridors of the Ram Mandir in Shimla. The divine incantations marked the commencement of a 24-hour akhand path a continuous reading of the Ramayana, at the revered temple. The spiritual event, graced by the Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, was a prelude to the upcoming consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22 (Monday). Paying obeisance at the temple, Chief Minister Sukhu offered his prayers for the prosperity of the state and its residents. Illuminating the atmosphere, he lit diyas and expressed his deep reverence for Lord Rama. Lord Rama does not belong to one party; he is our ideal, said Sukhu while interacting with the media on the sidelines of the event, while declaring a public holiday on January 22 in the state of Himachal Pradesh on the occasion of consecration ceremony, known as pran pratishtha, scheduled to take place at the newly-constructed Ram Temple in Ayodhya. He added, His virtues, values, and the timeless lessons from the Ramayana transcend political affiliations. Lord Rama is a guiding light for the entire nation and its rich culture. The consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple is being organized in Ayodhya on Monday, and on this occasion, I will light a lamp in my house and encourage others to do the same, said Sukhu, urging the citizens to participate in the cultural celebration by illuminating their homes. The akhand path, involving five pandits, is set to conclude on Monday at 10 am, signifying the auspicious beginning leading up to the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya. The continuous recitation of the Ramayana holds profound significance, symbolizing devotion, unity, and the embodiment of righteous living. In a display of cross-party unity, the Chief Minister reiterated that Lord Rama's teachings transcend political boundaries. His call for the public holiday on the day of the pran pratishtha echoes the collective sentiment of embracing the cultural and spiritual significance of the momentous occasion. Responding to a media query, Sukhu said that he would definitely visit Ayodhya in near future. Lord Rama is considered incomplete without Shri Hanuman Ji and therefore a statue of Lord Rama would be erected along with the statue of Shri Hanuman Ji in Jakhu as proposed by Sood Sabha, he added. Vikramaditya Singh Reaches Ayodhya Meanwhile, amidst the spiritual fervour in Shimla, PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh, son of the late six-term Himachal Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh, embarked on a journey to Ayodhya to attend the ceremony to which he has been invited. I am invited because of my fathers role. He wanted the Ram Temple to be built in Ayodhya and had also contributed some money during his last days, expressed Singh, reflecting on his father's vision and commitment to the construction of the Ram temple. While Singh had initially planned a vocal presence in Ayodhya, he maintained a dignified silence after prominent Congress leaders decided not to attend the event. Despite the shift in dynamics, Singh's acknowledgment of his father's contribution to the cause adds a familial touch to the historical event. Markets in Delhi and other parts of the country will remain open on Monday (January 22) as Ram Mandir celebrations will take place in these markets. A day ahead of the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple, the streets and the skyline of Delhi and NCR have turned saffron with flags flying atop buildings, small and big, across the national capital region. It is estimated over 2000 events are planned in Delhi and around 25 lakh diya will be lit in 1000 small and big markets here. According to Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI), a huge Ram Jhanda Yatra will be taken out on January 22 at Kashmiri Gate, saffron flags have been installed in Kamla Nagar, Khan Market, Sunderkand will take place in Karol Bagh, Laxmi Nagar. There will be lighting in Dariba Kalan like Diwali, jewelers will give discounts, there will also be a Ram concert here, there will be bhandaras for everyone. Boxes of laddus will be distributed in Bhagirath Palace, gates will be decorated. Beautiful lighting arrangements are being made in Naya Bazaar, Around 21000 lamps will be lit in Sarojini Nagar Market. Saffron balloons and flags will be installed in Lajpat Nagar market. Sundar Kand will be recited, Special arrangements are being made in Rohini, shopkeepers of Nehru Place will also celebrate Diwali on the day of Pran Pratistha. Special decorations will be done in Chandni Chowk and Sadar Bazaar on 22nd January and a Shobha Yatra will be taken out, Sunder Kand will be recited. "The fervour has led to a surge in demand for Ram Mandir-related goods, with a four-fold increase in requests for flags, models, costumes, badges, and photos, CTI chairman Brijesh Goyal and president Subhash Khandelwal said in a joint statement. Besides, many companies are joining the bandwagon of Ram Temple consecration, from declaring a contribution in lighting at the complex to planning to screen the event live on multiplexes. Some companies are donating a portion of their profit from sales in the region during the inauguration period to distribute special foods across the city of Ayodhya. Several companies operating in consumer space have activated on-ground marketing campaigns by putting up large numbers of hoardings, gate branding, shopboards, and kiosks offering products to devotees, arriving in the holy city for the Ayodhya Ram Temple. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal said there will be more than 2,000 events of various scales in Delhi alone, while across the country, over 30,000 Shri Ram programs are scheduled. This will mark the largest day in this century when such a multitude of events will happen simultaneously. There was a significant increase in the demand for flowers to decorate homes, markets, temples, and other places. There was also a surge in the purchase of clay lamps. Sweet shops witnessed substantial crowds, with people buying sweets on a large scale for tomorrow's Prasad. There is a shortage of Shri Ram flags and banners in the markets, he said. CAIT has initiated a nationwide campaign called Har Shahar Ayodhya-Ghar Ghar Ayodhya The extensive programs and the sale of items related to Lord Ram have resulted in a business turnover surpassing one lakh crore, he said. He further stated that January 22's extensive celebrations are a testament to the overwhelming enthusiasm and anticipation related to the dedication of Ram Mandir. People from all walks of life are coming together to make this day truly historic He mentioned that due to the consecration of Ram Mandir, the country has experienced tremendous enthusiasm and excitement. The extensive programs and the sale of items related to Lord Ram have resulted in a business turnover surpassing one lakh crore. The NDMC has adorned key locations in Lutyens' Delhi with captivating flower boards to celebrate the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. According to NDMC, prominent locations, including Khan Market, BKS Marg, Connaught Place, Mandi House roundabout, PM House roundabout, Malcha Marg Market, Yashwant Place Market, Dilli Haat, Birla Mandir and 11 Murti, have been decorated. New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) main building is also illuminated with radiance" in view of the auspicious occasion. In a testament to the enduring cultural richness of the Ramayan, residents of the capital are organising vibrant celebrations in their areas to mark the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. People in Delhi are going to celebrate the auspicious day in line with festivities of Diwali by lighting diyas (clay lamps) and candles, and lighting the entire neighbourhood with colourful electric lights. Furthermore, many social groups have decided to organise and attend several religious events like Sundarkand Paath, Ramlila, hosting langars in their locality. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has announced to take out procession on the occasion of Ram Temple consecration on Monday all over Delhi. All big leaders will take part in the procession and bhandaras will also be organised all over Delhi. The programme coincides with the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday attended the three-days special Ramlila programme being organised by the party in the national capital. Kejriwal said the AAP government in Delhi is inspired by the concept of "Ram Rajya" and draws motivation from it in providing various facilities to the people of the national capital. Kejriwal made the remarks at the three-day Ramlila event being organised by the Delhi government's Art, Culture and Languages department. The conclusion of the event, which began on Saturday, will coincide with the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. Kejriwal said, "Tomorrow (Monday), there is the 'pran prathistha (consecration)' ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. Many people will not be able to attend it despite wanting to. I am happy that the Delhi government has organised this event." Kejriwal said one should seek inspiration from Lord Ram and follow what their parents say and speak the truth. "Lord Ram's administration is considered 'Ram Rajya'. We are inspired by 'Ram Rajya' and try to run the government taking inspiration from it," he added. Earlier, AAP MLA Dilip Pandey addressed a press conference and said on the day of consecration of Ram Mandir on Monday, a myriad of auspicious events, including 'Sundarkand' recitations, majestic 'Shobha Yatras' (processions), 'aarti,' and prasad distribution, will unfold across all 70 assembly constituencies. Pandey said that while the entire country is enthusiastically lined up to welcome Lord Shri Ram, Delhi is not lagging behind. On one hand, Ramleela is being staged in Delhi, and on January 22, all party ministers, MLAs, councillors, leaders, and workers will participate in Bhandaras, prasad distribution, and Shobha yatra programs organised in celebration of Lord Ram's welcome. Bhagwan Shri Rama is the ideal of humanity, inspiring the entire nation. The arrival of Prabhu Shri Ram, born in the Raghukul dynasty, has filled the entire country with a sense of devotion. The entire nation is warmly welcoming Bhagwan Shri Ram, with folded hands in reverence. In this auspicious process, Delhi is not lagging, he added. The AAP MLA stated that Delhi is fully prepared to welcome Bhagwan Shri Ram. On the one hand, in all constituencies of Delhi, last Tuesday, the recitation of Sundarkand was conducted for the worship of Sankat Mochan Bajrang Bali Ji. On the other hand, on the auspicious occasion of Pran Pratishtha' (consecration) of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya on Tuesday, various events are being organised in all 70 constituencies of Delhi. On this joyous and fortunate occasion, Bhandaras (feasts) are being arranged in many locations across 44 constituencies in Delhi. Shobha Yatras' are taking place in seven locations to commemorate the arrival of Prabhu Shri Ram. Additionally, the recitation of Sundarkand is being performed in 3 constituencies. Moreover, in 16-17 constituencies after the aarti (worship), a program for distributing fruit prasad has been scheduled. In other words, there are programs for aarti, Sundarkand recitation, Shobha yatras, and fruit prasad distribution in various locations across all 70 constituencies of Delhi, the AAP MLA shared. Delhi BJP on Sunday said that senior central & Delhi BJP leaders will join community viewing of the Pran Pratistha at different temples in Delhi. The party office stands illuminated and decorated as the country prepares to witness the Pran Prathistha of Bhagwan Ram's new idol at Ayodhya. Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva said that Delhi BJP Workers have made arrangements to organise community viewing of Pran Prathistha Samaroh by putting up screens & TV at over 2000 locations across the city in temples at booth level. Many Delhi BJP Office bearers, MPs, MLAs & Councilors have made announcements to organise community viewing of Samaroh in their offices and of distributing ladoos. Special screen is being set up at Pradesh Office where all employees & their families will sit and watch the Samaroh. Making a scathing attack on Aam Aadmi Party over the celebrations, the Delhi BJP President has said that not only the people of Delhi are shocked to see the changing political colors and statements of the AAP and its leaders regarding the construction of Shri Ram Temple in Ayodhya Dham even the chameleons are feeling shy to see AAP leaders changing their political statements on Ram Mandir. Sachdeva has said that be it AAP leader Saurabh Bhardwaj's announcement of celebrating Shri Ram Mandir Utsav tomorrow without any preparation or the announcement of Ramlila depiction made yesterday, all this is a part of the growing political restlessness of the AAP. The Price of Democracy: How Money Shapes Politics and What to Do about It 2020 3 31 Julia Cage : Patrick Camiller The Price of Democracy: How Money Shapes Politics and What to Do about It March 31 2020 by Julia Cage (Author), Patrick Camiller (Translator) Why and how systems of political financing and representation in Europe and North America give outsized influence to the wealthy and undermine democracy, and what we can do about it. One person, one vote. In theory, everyone in a democracy has equal power to decide elections. But its hardly news that, in reality, political outcomes are heavily determined by the logic of one dollar, one vote. We take the political power of money for granted. But does it have to be this way? In The Price of Democracy, Julia Cage combines economic and historical analysis with political theory to show how profoundly our systems in North America and Europe, from think tanks and the media to election campaigns, are shaped by money. She proposes fundamental reforms to bring democracy back into line with its egalitarian promise. Cage shows how different countries have tried to develop legislation to curb the power of private money and to develop public systems to fund campaigns and parties. But these attempts have been incoherent and unsystematic. She demonstrates that it is possible to learn from these experiments in the United States, Europe, and elsewhere to design a better system that would increase political participation and trust. This would involve setting a strict cap on private donations and creating a public voucher system to give each voter an equal amount to spend in support of political parties. More radically, Cage argues that a significant fraction of seats in parliamentary assemblies should be set aside for representatives from disadvantaged socioeconomic groups. At a time of widespread political disenchantment, The Price of Democracy is a bracing reminder of the problems we face and an inspirational guide to the potential for reform. Review Julia Cage's The Price of Democracy Cash Rules, How we pay for democracy. By Jan-Werner Muller, the teaches at Princeton. His new book, from Farrar, Straus and Giroux, is Democracy Rules. August 11, 2021 The title of Julia Cage's The Price of Democracy will prompt Americans to think of the obscene cost of their elections. The amount spent on the 2020 federal races is said to have been a staggering $14 billion (more than twice the price tag for 2016). State elections consumed close to $2 billion. Almost 90 percent of the House candidates who spent the most money ended up winning. The Price of Democracy: How Money Shapes Politics and What to Do About It BY JULIA CAGE; PATRIC CAMILLER, TRANS. Cage, a French economist affiliated with the elite university Sciences Po in Paris, has plenty of critical things to say about campaign finance in the United States, but her main point goes further. Democracy, she writes, is never freenot in the United States, and not in the rest of the world. But we have yet to figure out who should pay for what in a system founded on the notion of political equality. In The Price of Democracy, Cage offers us a deeply researched account of how states regulate campaign finance. Comparing countries as varied as India and Belgium, she finds that even the seemingly more egalitarian democracies have failed to do so successfully. In response, she proposes an attractive alternative that puts the financial responsibility for democracy squarely in the hands of citizens: a publicly funded voucher scheme that allows individuals to support their preferred candidates and parties, combined with severe restrictions on all private donations. Democracy, of course, has never been free. The ancient Athenians constructed complicated sortition machines through which officeholders were chosen by lot; they also built an amphitheater for an assembly in which thousands of citizens could participate. They even thought that ordinary people who took part in politics should be paid, much to the outrage of the anti-democratic philosophers, who deemed democracy the most expensive political system aroundeven if the annual expenditure for the assembly was roughly the same as the amount needed to feed the horses of the 1,000-strong Athenian cavalry. Today, the costs of democracy range from those of the actual machinery of voting to the transportation of mail-in ballots to the maintenance of party organizations and political campaigns. In most democracies, taxes ultimately pay these costs, which was also the case in ancient Athens. In the contemporary US, by contrast, election laws and a number of fateful Supreme Court decisions since the 1970s allow corporations to play a large part in financing politics and the ultra-wealthy to dominate campaigns through dark money. But the glaring inequality of the US system is hardly unique. As Cage reminds her readers, radiant Dorian Europe (the reference is to the Oscar Wilde character) should not feel reassured by the very existence of Gray America. For, in Western Europe, donations are also highly concentrated among the wealthiest: In France and the UK, 10 percent of megadonors account for more than two-thirds of the total given. And in countries where corporate donations are allowed, companies play an obviously unsavory role. In Germany, for instance, the auto industry and the cigarette maker Philip Morris spend lavishly on the largest center-left and center-right parties; the tobacco giant also sponsors party conventions and summer parties in Berlin, expenditures that largely go unnoticed. True, many democracies offer public funding to political parties, but at the same time they set very weak limits on private contributions. Less obviously, in countries that seemingly put the financing of politics directly into the hands of the peopleoffering tax deductions for citizens who spend generously on their system of self-rule, so to speakthe effect is highly skewed: Since the wealthier pay much more in taxes, they disproportionately benefit from such schemes. Cage emphasizes the injustice of a situation in which the poor end up subsidizing the political preferences of the rich, who tend to be much more conservative when it comes to economic policies. Though money will not reliably buy every election (a fact that Democrats were reminded of in South Carolina, Maine, and other states last year), the system overall will skew toward the interests of those who contribute the most. Cage illustrates these glaring inequalities with the example of her home country. There, the average donation of the poorest 10 percent of citizens is 23 euros; meanwhile, the wealthiest 10 percent receive 29 million euros in tax relief. For his 2017 presidential bid, Emmanuel Macron raised 16 million euros, half of which came from just 800 donors; a million originated in Pariss grand bourgeois 16th Arrondissement, another in the Seventh, and another million was given by French citizens living in the UK. (Only 370,000 euros were transferred from the US.) As Cage points out, it is as if the North Atlantic democracies had reinstituted property qualifications for political participation: You get one vote, but some get to vote again (and again) with their wallets, a situation reminiscent of the 1820 French election law in which the richest could literally vote twice. Cage observes that neither the traditional social democratic parties nor the self-declared left-populist upstarts have ever really addressed these inequalitiesand sometimes, she argues, they have made things worse. Under Tony Blair, who cuddled up to British finance in the hope that its riches would help pay for an expanded welfare state, the Labour Party became more reliant on large private donations than on membership fees. (This tendency was reversed under Jeremy Corbyn but is once again on the rise under a new leadership that is desperate to distance itself from the socialist Corbyn project.) Italys left-leaning Five Star Movement railed against the corruption of what its founder, the comedian turned peoples tribune Beppe Grillo, referred to as la casta of professional politicians. It successfully campaigned for the abolition of public funding for parties, but the result has been to push more private dark money into politics. (The party, claiming that it is really a movement, has refused to follow legal transparency requirements and does not publish the names of those who donate more than 5,000 euros.) Five Star also made a big show of having its deputies contribute their salaries to worthy causes, but the money was likely still pocketed by Grillos self-declared virtuous amateurs. In France, Jean-Luc Melenchons France Insoumise, another left-wing antiestablishment party, could hardly be less transparent about its own finances. Its only answer to the question of whether its deputies hand over a portion of their official salary to the party is Ask Jean-Luc! (Communists used to hand over all of it and got a compensatory payment from the party in return.) And in the United States, lest we forget, many Democratic candidates who declare their opposition to a politics dominated by Wall Street have opted out of public financing to rake in private donations (albeit many small ones). This includes everyone from Barack Obama to Bernie Sanders, and who can blame them? Had Sanders, for example, stuck with public funding in 2016, he wouldve had $10 million for the primaries; instead he raised $228 million and spent all but $5 million of it. What is the alternative to a situation in which private funding is winning the battle of ideas and, almost always, the battle at the polls? Cage, like a number of US constitutional lawyers, has a concrete proposal: Citizens should receive individual vouchers, which they may distribute incrementally or all at once to the parties and candidates of their choice, with the possibility of contributing cash up to a strict limit in addition (a commonly cited figure is $250). All larger donations, and thus the opportunity for corporations to buy themselves a political voice, would be prohibited. New parties would also face an initial hurdle to qualify for receiving such vouchers: They would need to raise funds from a sufficient number of citizens or prove they have nontrivial support in the polls. Unused vouchers would be distributed according to the last election outcome (which is how funding in many countries is already decided today). There are several advantages to this scheme. It would be a significant, if still imperfect, check on the political uses of concentrated wealthwhat even mainstream social scientists in the US no longer hesitate to call oligarchic tendencies. Less obviously, it would strengthen the open and dynamic character of at least some existing democracies. Newcomers could get real support, even in the middle of an election cycle. Loserslets say, traditional partieswould lose less if their supporters wanted to punish them in an election but not see them wiped from the political map: Think of left-leaning French citizens who wanted to sanction the Socialist Party for Francois Hollandes less than glorious presidency but still maintain an effective alternative to Macron. While the amounts involved might seem tiny, being able to contribute something could also provide individual citizens with a feeling of efficacy in a democracy. This sense of increased participation would be even stronger, of course, if such a scheme forced politicians to engage with a wider range of voters than they are able to in the US, where Congress members are said to spend four or more hours every day soliciting donations from the affluent, making them seem more like telemarketers for a particular segment of the population than representatives of all their constituents. During his first term, Obama hosted 321 fundraising events, up from 80 for Ronald Reagan and 173 for George W. Bush. What numbers do we talk about when we talk about vouchers? Cages suggestion is a seven-euro Democratic Equality Voucher for every voter. This hardly adds up to an outrageous sum; it is roughly what the German state contributes annually just to the foundations associated with political parties, which among other things are supposed to develop policy and further civic education. (Whether they really do that, or simply reinforce the power of traditional parties, is a legitimate question.) In the US, people like Yale Law School professor Bruce Ackerman and Congressman Ro Khanna have suggested democracy coupons worth $100, provided in $20 increments, or democracy dollars in $50 amounts, stored in a special credit card account. There is a serious question about whether the political spending decisions of individual citizens should be made public. Businesses might not respond well when their workers are on record giving funds to an anticapitalist party; alternatively, they might pressure their employees to donate to a particular candidate. But on the matter of how to distribute the funds, Cage puts forward an elegant solution: Governments should use tax returns to deploy each persons democracy vouchers, possibly giving special credits to the millions who earn so little that they do not pay income tax at all (which means, concretely, at least half the eligible voters in many countries). This would also prevent anyone from buying up vouchers at a premium or even at face value, in the way that privatization vouchers were amassed by savvy investors in Central Europe in the 1990s. Also, there would have to be a way to erase the information after a short period, so as not to transform such a voucher scheme into a system of open voting. Is the voucher scheme a political fantasy? One such reform was actually implemented for local elections in Seattle. Citizens received vouchers in the mail; alas, many of them thought the envelopes contained junk and tossed them away; others left them lying around and forgot to contribute their democracy dollars. Pessimists about the political capacities of ordinary people will feel vindicated by the fact that only 3.3 percent of Seattle residents who received vouchers used them. Like other ideas from what one might be tempted to call the democracy innovation industry, vouchers are no panacea. Scholars of campaign finance speak of the hydraulic power of money: Block one channel and it will find another. An admirable reform in Brazil significantly reduced corporate donations, yet corporations still found ways to use WhatsApp to spread disinformation, which helped Jair Bolsonaro win his election. In the US, when money for candidates was limited by law, it went to parties instead; when it could no longer go to parties, it went to super PACs; and so on. Critics of the private financing of politics often conflate different issues. One concern is corruption, which even a conservative Supreme Court recognizes as grounds for restrictions (although Chief Justice John Roberts and his colleagues understand corruption in the narrowest possible sense of a quid pro quo, not as the more general dependency on a donor class that can set, and limit, the political agenda). Another issue is equality of opportunity to influence politics, which is distinct from corruption: A self-financed billionaireas Donald Trump kept emphasizing during his first campaignarguably cannot be corrupted; but if only oligarchs have a shot at office, political equality is violated. Cages proposal is likely to reduce dependence on the donor class, and it can certainly be justified as a step in the direction of equality of political opportunity. But those with more time, and especially those with more power due to their position in corporations (or trade unions, for that matter), would still exert more influence than poor, stressed, and generally underinformed citizens. The Kochs of this world would still fund libertarian think tanks, and the Murdochs would still do, well, what the Murdochs do. As scholars who study campaign finance have argued, a lot more would have to change structurally for equality of opportunity to become real; and the cost to democracyin particular, the cost of restricting the liberty of political expression for the well-offmay well be too high. Cage sees the difficulty and includes a further reform proposal, arguing that parliaments should reserve a certain proportion of their seats for manual workers or members of the precariat. She notes that the representation of the working class within the halls of government has declined precipitously since the end of World War II. In her scheme, a third of the French National Assembly would be filled with social representatives, addressing the problem that, currently, fewer than 3 percent of parliamentary deputies have working-class backgrounds. (The number is 2 percent in the US and 5 percent in the UK, where, earlier in the postwar period, it had been as high as 20 percent.) Cages idea for parliamentary quotas is somewhat in tension with her demand for what she terms, following the French historian Pierre Rosanvallon, a permanent democracy, which is to say a dynamic, open process in which citizens and representatives constantly interact. After all, who should decide exactly which categories of people are currently underrepresented and, when society changes, how representative assemblies should be divided anew? These are not knock-down objections, of course, but compared with her detailed proposal for Democratic Equality Vouchers, the scheme for representation based on occupation feels more tentative and lacks the proper backup in democratic theory. Still, Cages book is an important contribution that tackles one of the root problems of democracies in the West. She offers a truly comparative perspectivenot just across countries from Canada to India but also across time, with many fascinating details from 19th-century electioneering (which at times was even more expensive and obscene than what we witness today). Cage wears her learning and statistical acumen lightly; rather than evoking dry social science, her prose veers into the sarcastic and witty, especially when it comes to commenting on the antics of King Macron. This is often amusing; behind it, though, is a justified indignation in the face of a democratic world that too often proves to be not that democratic after all. Chhattisgarh Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal said that the state is continuously striving to achieve malaria eradication targets. The annual parasite index has dropped from 5.21 in 2015 to 0.98 in 2023. A roadmap has been prepared to eradicate malaria by 2030. He was addressing a three-day regional divisional workshop on the malaria eradication campaign in Raipur. The Joint Secretary of the Health and Family Welfare Department, Rajiv Manjhi, and Health Department officials from 10 Global Fund-supported states were present. Jaiswal reviewed the malaria situation of all 10 states. He instructed the officials to increase malaria screening and the quality of microscopic and rapid diagnostics tests. The Capital city of the State has turned saffron ahead of Ram temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya on Monday, January 22. Saffron flags with Lord Rams imprints have eclipsed the skyline in all major squares, roads, streets and localities of the city, while shobha yatras were also taken out in many areas of the Capital city celebrating the festival-like atmosphere on Sunday. Every nook and corner of the city has adorned saffron flags and banners with people in residential societies, colonies and individually also planning to make January 22, 2024 historic on the occasion of Lord Sri Rams temple consecration in Ayodhya. People will visit temples, light earthen lamps and watch the ceremony live on television in large numbers on the day. Bhajan Sandhya programmes have been organized in the main road of Ranchi. The government has also ordered all schools to be closed on Monday. The Chief Minister has directed the Chief Secretary to give half-day leave in all government offices. Government offices will open from 2.30 pm while government schools will remain closed for the whole day. It is noteworthy that the Central Government has also announced a half-day holiday in all government offices on January 22. There will also be a half-day holiday in the country's largest government hospital, AIIMS (Delhi). BJP MP Sanjay Seth had written a letter to Hemant Soren government demanding declaration of holiday in Jharkhand on January 22. Earlier, Leader of Opposition Amar Kumar Bauri had also written a letter to the government demanding declaration of holiday in schools and government establishments in Jharkhand. Meanwhile, strict security arrangements have been made by administration and police regarding Ramotsav in the entire State. Police forces have been deployed at various places. Also, police are keeping special vigil at sensitive places. A special police team has been formed to keep an eye on social media. Ranchi Police are fully alert to ensure that there is no disturbance in the festive atmosphere and tension does not spread in the society. Special surveillance is being maintained in those areas of the capital where cases of communal tension have been reported in the past. Special worship programs are scheduled in more than 50 temples of the capital. Big celebrations are being celebrated at many places. In such a situation, more than one and a half thousand forces have been deployed across the district in view of security. The force has been deployed from 21 to 23 January. Ranchi Senior SP Chandan Kumar Sinha said that apart from the district police, RAF, JAP and IRB personnel have also been deployed for the security arrangements of the capital. Maximum forces will be deployed especially in highly sensitive areas. Apart from the force, fire brigade, water cannon and Vajra vehicles have also been deployed in highly sensitive areas. They themselves are monitoring the security. The SSP said that apart from the DSP, all the inspectors and police station in-charges have been deployed separately for security. The police will deal strictly with those who spoil the atmosphere of the city. Police station officers across the city have been instructed to patrol their respective areas. If any person tries to disturb social harmony in any way, then take strict action against him. The SSP has also instructed the police station officers to continuously run anti-crime checking campaigns in their respective areas. It is noteworthy that just a week ago, all the CCTVs installed at the intersections of the capital city, have been repaired. Policemen have been deployed in the police control room to monitor the city through CCTV. Programs in Ranchi will be monitored through drone cameras. A team of Ranchi Police is also keeping a close watch on social media. The Cyber cell has also been instructed to keep an eye on social media. The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha has termed the deployment of Central Reserve Police Force outside the CM residence during the interrogation of Chief Minister Hemant Soren in the land scam case on Saturday, as a conspiracy to impose President's rule in Jharkhand. The party said that this was probably an attempt to depose the current government and impose Presidents rule here. JMM said that in view of the ED action, Ranchi district administration ensured the security of ED officials and gave adequate security to its office. More than 2,000 policemen and senior magistrates were appointed to maintain law and order, so what was the justification for deploying CRPF personnel there, it asked. JMM, through a press release, today said that the public and workers were protesting against the biased action by the investigating agencies of the central government. Regarding this, the district administration had imposed prohibitory order under Section 144. Meanwhile, more than 500 CRPF jawans reached there in buses and trucks without taking permission from the district administration and tried to enter the CM residence. JMM alleged that CRPF jawans also clashed with their workers. JMM called it a provocative and illegal step. The party also said that if the workers had not exercised restraint, a violent situation could have arisen. Jharkhand Mukti Morcha has also made serious allegations against CRPF IG, calling it a pre-planned conspiracy. The party alleged that the IG wanted there to be a fight between the soldiers and the protesting workers. The protesters should become furious and attack the soldiers and the role of imposing President's Rule can be prepared by accusing the state government of failure of the Constitutional system. JMM said that CRPF did not have the right to take such action without the permission of the district administration. This was done at the behest of the Central Government. JMM has called it a cowardly attack on the federal structure. JMM said that the misuse of CRPF soldiers who play an important role in the internal security of the country is a matter of serious concern. JMM has demanded that strict legal action be taken against CRPF IG, Commandant and other senior officials. There should be a thorough and impartial investigation into the matter. If this does not happen then JMM will be forced to protest. Meanwhile, responding to the allegations of JMM the BJP asked that by calling thousands of people yesterday with bows and arrows and weapons, was the Chief Minister trying to intimidate the country's judicial system, judges, central agencies or the Constitution of the country? State BJP spokesperson Pratul Shahdev said that it seemed that the Chief Minister, surrounded by corruption from all sides, was breaking all decorum to divert attention. Yesterday it seemed that the top leadership of JMM would force JMM workers to resort to violence. Pratul said that despite the imposition of Section 144, on the call of the Chief Minister, 10,000 workers of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha reached near the Chief Minister's house with weapons. Is the Chief Minister, through these workers, going to harm the judicial system of the country, the judges, the central agency or the Constitution of the country? This government was creating an atmosphere of fear, he said. Pratul said that when prohibitory order under Section 144 was in force near the Chief Minister's residence. So after that how did the administration allow thousands of workers of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha to leave with weapons? Pratul said that there was a gathering of MLAs and ministers in the Chief Minister's residence without any reason. He said that yesterday in all the TV channels, the call of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha leaders and workers to attack and kill the ED officials was continuously seen. When the ED officials were leaving, Jharkhand Mukti Morcha leaders and workers raised inflammatory slogans at them. Pratul said that by then the situation had become so tense that it seemed that any untoward incident could happen to the ED officials. Pratul said that the Chief Minister himself kept making fun of the law. He himself did not go to the ED office for questioning. The CM himself wanted the situation to worsen and lathicharge to take place. If CRPF had not arrived yesterday, any untoward incident with ED could not have been ruled out. Pratul said that the manner in which Jharkhand Mukti Morcha workers raised inflammatory slogans during interrogation violated Section 144. The fact that no case has been registered against them till now proves that this entire demonstration was sponsored by the state. A meeting of state officials and district presidents was called at Congress Bhawan, Ranchi on Sunday under the chairmanship of Jharkhand State Professionals Congress Committee President Aditya Vikram Jaiswal. In the meeting, mainly Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, upcoming Lok Sabha elections-2024 and Professionals Congress Membership were specifically discussed. In the meeting, for the first time, car stickers of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra and poster form with messages of Nyay Yatra were released by the Professionals Congress. Jaiswal, while addressing the present officials, explained the messages and objectives of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra and said that respected Rahul Gandhi ji's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra will reach Jharkhand in the first week of February. During this period, Rahul Gandhi ji will stay in Jharkhand for about eight days and during this journey he will cover a distance of about 804 kilometers. For the success of this yatra, 100% participation of professionals has to be ensured. Jaiswal said that the objective of Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra is to provide justice to the people, to save the social, economic, political, exploitation and to end the hatred spread among themselves. The people of the country are troubled by the dictatorial mentality of the BJP and every citizen of the country is troubled by the anti-people policies of the Modi government. The Prime Minister has nothing to do with the pain and suffering of the people. To protect the interests of the people of the country, Congress has started Satyagraha against the government by Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. He said that Professionals Congress is also running a membership campaign in which state professionals will work to connect people to the party through online membership. Also, the Professionals Congress will highlight the problems of professionals in the party manifesto for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections-2024. He said that Congress is fighting for employment of youth, rights of the deprived, fair rights of farmers and self-respect of women and daughters. He has appealed to the Congressmen as well as the common people to join Rahul Gandhi's Nyay Yatra and become justice warriors. In the meeting, State Secretary Meenakshi Singh, Lok Sabha Speaker Bhuvnesh Thakur, Vice President Janet Andrew, Metropolitan President Krishna Sahay, Rural President Sanjeev Mahato, State Co-ordinate Alan Andu, Anil Singh, Sarwar Paul, Jagarnath Sahu, Shubham Chheyavan, Ashutosh Nath Pathak, Prabhat Aggarwal Rohit Kumar Das, Rajeev Chaurasia, Suraj Jha, Vivek Dhan etc were included. In a watershed moment, Akal Takhts jathedar (head priest) Giani Raghbir Singh has delivered a verdict holding Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann guilty of religious misconduct in connection with the firing incident that unfolded at Gurudwara Akal Bunga in Kapurthala in November 2023. The clash between Punjab Police and a group of Nihangs resulted in the tragic death of a Punjab Police home guard and left several others injured. The secretariat of Akal Takht Sahib the Sikhs highest temporal seat on Sunday released an official statement announcing the verdict based on the report submitted by a Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) sub-committee. The report investigated the alleged breach of decorum during the police intervention at Gurudwara Akal Bunga Cantonment Nihang Singhan in Sultanpur Lodhi, Kapurthala. According to the Akal Takht Sahib Secretariat, the sub-committees findings indicate that the police conducted a massive and unwarranted attack on the gurdwara without provocation or justification. The actions of firing, entering the Gurdwara Sahib wearing shoes, and disrupting the ongoing Sri Akhand Path Sahib by releasing tear gas shells were deemed egregious violations that deeply hurt Sikh sentiments, disrupting decency and sanctity. Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh, in a statement, declared, According to the report of the sub-committee, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, as the head of the Ministry of Home Affairs, is responsible for the polices actions. The CM has been found directly guilty of religious misconduct for the breach of decorum and indiscriminate firing. The incident reportedly occurred when a police squad went to the gurdwara to settle a dispute between two Nihang factions. However, the situation escalated, leading to the regrettable clash. The Shri Akal Takht Sahib Secretariat emphasized that the firing incident, the disregard for the sanctity of the gurdwara, and the disruption of religious proceedings were severe transgressions that warranted strong action. The announcement of the guilt of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has stirred significant debate and reactions within political and religious circles. The Jathedar's pronouncement underscored the authority and sanctity of Akal Takht, the highest seat of authority in Sikhism. It plays a crucial role in adjudicating matters related to the Sikh community and maintaining the discipline and integrity of the faith. The statement further highlighted that the firing and the entry of police into the Gurdwara Sahib wearing shoes were actions that deeply hurt Sikh sentiments. Such acts were considered a breach of decorum and an affront to the sanctity of the religious site. The disruption of the Sri Akhand Path Sahib a continuous reading of the Guru Granth Sahib further compounded the gravity of the situation. Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh expressed, Firing, breaking the dignity by entering the Gurdwara Sahib with the police wearing shoes, and disrupting the Sri Akhand Path Sahib going on inside the Gurdwara Sahib by releasing tear gas shells was an act that deeply hurt Sikh sentiments by disrupting decency and sanctity. The investigation by the SGPC sub-committee, whose findings formed the basis of the Jathedar's decision, aimed to impartially assess the events surrounding the clash. The sub-committee comprised members with expertise in Sikh religious matters and community affairs. The incident had sparked public outrage and demands for a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to the clash. In the aftermath of the incident, Chief Minister had announced compensation for the family of the deceased home guard, Jaspal Singh, from Maniala in Kapurthala. The compensation amount was set at Rs two crore as a gesture of acknowledgment for the tragic loss. Visiting the Mixed Infection disease-affected Raike Kalan village in Bathinda district, Punjab Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development and Fisheries Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian, on Sunday directed Bathinda Deputy Commissioner Showkat Ahmad Parray to conduct a survey regarding death of animals. The Minister said that as many as ten teams each team comprises three members have been formed to tackle the disease. Out of 10 teams, five teams are for treatment, two teams for sampling, two teams for night duty and one team has been deputed at the Veterinary Hospital, Raike Kalan. Giving assurances of every possible support from the state government, Khudian said that the Punjab Government is standing by its livestock farmers in this difficult time and teams have been deputed to monitor the situation round the clock, and the state will bear all the cost incurred on treatment of the affected livestock. He informed that a control-room has been set up at Raike Kalan Dharamshala, besides, operationalizing a district level control-room at the office of Deputy Director Animal Husbandry, Bathinda, where two teams have been deputed under the supervision of senior officers of the Animal Husbandry Department. Animal Husbandry director Dr Gursharanjit Singh Bedi apprised the Minister that as many as 82 livestock have been successfully treated so far and all are doing well and 39 samples were collected. A team from Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, and Northern Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (NRDDL), Jalandhar, team also visited the village and took samples of affected livestock. Dr Bedi said that according to postmortem and testing reports of the lab, symptoms of the Pneumonia, Septicaemia, Theileriosis, Anaemia, Nitrate Poisoning and Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) have been found and treatment has been started according to these findings. Urging the livestock farmers to protect the cattle from the cold, the Animal Husbandry Minister said that a layer of straw should be laid down underneath them and bonfires should be avoided as it causes smoke as per the advisory issued by the Ministry. He also asked the farmers to restrain from giving fodder containing urea, besides spraying washing soda on the floor of animal shelters to contain the infection. As a part of the biosecurity measures, he also urged the farmers to restrict the movement of persons and animals. Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Boards (PNGRB) chairman Anil Kumar Jain held a crucial meeting with Punjab Governor and Administrator of UT-Chandigarh Banwarilal Purohit to discuss the advancements in oil and gas infrastructure, particularly in the Union Territory of Chandigarh. The meeting, which took place on Friday, aimed to apprise the Governor of PNGRB's endeavours aligned with the Prime Minister's vision to elevate the share of natural gas to 15 percent in India's energy matrix. In the briefing, Jain highlighted the progress made in the promotion of natural gas in Punjab, underlining the environmental benefits and practicality of using piped natural gas in cooking and compressed natural gas (CNG) in transportation. The discussions also delved into pivotal issues such as substituting polluting solid and liquid fuels with natural gas in industrial and commercial units, streamlining land restoration charges, and addressing value-added tax (VAT) on CNG. Jain emphasized that with the backing of the UT Administration, the City Gas Distribution (CGD) licensee aims to provide Har Ghar PNG (Piped Natural Gas in Every Home) by March 2025. This initiative aligns with Chandigarhs commitment to being a clean and green city. Governor Purohit commended these efforts and assured full support for the development of natural gas infrastructure in Chandigarh. On the sidelines of the meeting, PNGRB chairperson also engaged with the UT Home Secretary Nitin Kumar Yadav discussing strategies to promote natural gas and enhance its utilization in domestic, transport, industrial, and commercial sectors. The Home Secretary affirmed the UT Administration's full support towards advancing the use of natural gas in Chandigarh, expecting these discussions to significantly contribute to integrating this clean fuel into the city's energy mix. PNGRB has achieved considerable milestones, authorizing 300 geographical areas across the country, covering 98 percent of the population and 88 percent of the area for the development of the City Gas Distribution (CGD) Network. The Board has set ambitious targets until 2032, aiming to provide 12.5 crore domestic PNG connections, establish 17,751 CNG stations, and lay 5,42,224 inch-km pipelines. As of November 30, 2023, the country has seen the establishment of 1.2 crore domestic PNG connections and 6,159 CNG stations, marking significant progress in transitioning towards cleaner energy solutions. In a remarkable display of spiritual precision, the Pran Pratishtha ceremony for Ram Lallas idol in Ayodhya is set to unfold in a mere 84 seconds, marking the most auspicious time for this sacred endeavour. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust revealed a detailed schedule for the momentous occasion. Musical prelude: The ceremony kicks off at 10 am with the enchanting Mangal Dhvani, resonating through Shri Ram Janmabhoomi. Over 50 musical instruments from various states will fill the air with celestial melodies, creating an enchanting atmosphere for two hours. Guests are encouraged to enter by 10:30 am to partake in this harmonious prelude. Guests arrival and entry protocols: Esteemed guests for the consecration ceremony will begin arriving simultaneously, with entry into the Ram Janmabhoomi complex scheduled by 10:30 am. Strict entry regulations are in place, permitting access only through the Trust-issued admit cards. The entry process involves matching the QR code on the admit card, ensuring a secure and organised congregation. Timing and rituals of Pran Pratishtha: The pivotal moment of consecration, the Pran Pratishtha, commences at 12:20 pm on January 22. The main puja will unfold in the auspicious Abhijeet Muhurta, meticulously determined by Kashi scholar Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid. This sacred event aligns with a celestial configuration of Dwadashi date of the Paush month, Indra Yoga, Mrigashira Nakshatra, Aries lagna, and Scorpio Navamsha. Auspicious time window: The auspicious time window for the Pran Pratishtha spans a mere 84 seconds, symbolising the sanctity and precision of the consecration process from 12:29 minutes and 8 seconds to 12:30 minutes and 32 seconds. Participants and dignitaries: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, overseeing the puja rituals, will conduct the consecration of the idol of Ram Lalla. Orchestrated by 121 Vedic acharyas under the guidance of renowned Vedic Acharya Ganeshwar Dravid and Acharya Laxmikant Dixit, the ceremony will witness the presence of over 150 saints, religious leaders and representatives from more than 50 diverse traditions. Completion of programme: Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust general secretary Champat Rai assures the entire ceremony of Pran Pratishtha will conclude by 1 pm. Post-puja, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat will address the gathering. Mahant Nritya Gopal Das, president of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, will give his blessings, marking the culmination of this historic event. In a commendable display of swift action and humanitarian concern, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Sunday directed the State Government officers to arrange an emergency helicopter rescue for 69-year-old Kapuri Devi, who was grappling with a deteriorating health condition in the remote village of Bada Bhangal in Kangra district. Upon learning about Kapuri Devis critical state, the Chief Minister oversaw the entire airlift operation personally, ensuring a seamless transfer from Bada Bhangal to Tanda Medical College. The elderly patient, who was unable to eat, drink, or walk, received prompt attention due to the timely intervention facilitated by the Chief Minister. The helicopter successfully airlifted Kapuri Devi to Kangra Airport, from where she was promptly admitted to Tanda Medical College for comprehensive medical care. The healthcare professionals at the medical facility are now dedicated to providing the necessary treatment to expedite her recovery. Expressing gratitude for the timely assistance, Kapuri Devi's family extended their thanks to the Chief Minister and the government officials involved in the swift rescue operation. The Chief Minister, in turn, expressed hope for Kapuri Devis swift and complete recovery. Governor Mangubhai Patel said that the Vikasit Bharat Sankalp Yatra is delivering benefits to eligible beneficiaries of various schemes. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made schemes cover care of every section of the society. Governor Mangubhai Patel inaugurated the Vikasit Bharat Sankalp Yatra programme at Jamni Gurjar village in Khandwa district. This was followed by the national anthem and broadcast of Prime Minister Narendra Modis message. Governor Patel said that women today are becoming economically and socially empowered by joining self-help groups. They are attaining self-reliance in every sector. It is the priority of the government to ensure that every eligible beneficiary gets gets benefits Many programmes and schemes are also being implemented with an aim of making women self-reliant. Now women are working fearlessly in every field. Self-help Groups have changed the lives of women. Governor Mangubhai Patel said that for the first time a Sankalp Yatra has become the medium to provide benefits of government schemes to the people by reaching out in rural areas. The benefits of the schemes have been guaranteed by Prime Minister Modi. Governor Patel said that a target has been set to eliminate sickle cell anemia from India by the year 2047. He asked the concerning authorities to identify patients and carriers of a serious disease like sickle cell anemia through testing, so that genetic disease can be completely eradicated. Cooperation has been sought from Anganwadi centres, schools, colleges and social workers. Governor Mangubhai Patel provided benefits to eligible beneficiaries namely Deepika Bai, Savitri Bai and Pinky Bai under the Ujjwala Yojana. Anil, Omprakash and Vijay were given Kisan Credit Cards, Ayushman Card to Sunil, son of Radheshyam, certificate to Vikas under Swamitva Yojana and benefits under Soil Health Card to Deepak and Pavan. Governor Mangubhai Patel administered an oath to all those present in the programme to build a developed India. Tribal Affairs Department Minister Dr. Kunwar Vijay Shah presented a replica of the Ramlalla Temple built by the Bamboo Art Center of Khalwa development block to Governor Mangubhai Patel. Gangaur and Birsa Munda tribal dance performances were given by school girls. Governor Mangubhai Patel motivated the girl students. Tribal Affairs Department Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah said that the tribal dominated Jamni Gurjar village of Khandwa district is fortunate to have the Governor in their midst. He said that no poor person will remain deprived of access to government schemes through the Vikasit Bharat Sankalp Yatra. Sam Crane https://danielabell.com/2023/12/16/which-ideals-should-inform-chinas-political-reform-response-to-sam-cranes-review/ A (DANIEL A. BELL) 2023 12 16 1995 2015 2023 12 16 In 1995, Professor Crane and I co-organized a demonstration on the Williams campus to protest restrictions on academic freedom in Singapore. In my new book, the longest chapter is a defense of academic freedom and a critique of censorship. But for some reason Crane thinks I have evolved into a defender of authoritarianism over the years. I promised to myself that I would ignore his review but its easier said than done, if only because the review seems to be making the rounds on social media and friends say I should respond. So here goes. I did not write the Dean of Shandong for those who are convinced the Chinese political system is fundamentally evil and the earlier it collapses, the better. I wrote the book for those curious about the inner workings of Chinese academia and I draw implications for evaluating the Chinese political system. Nor did I write the book for those who lack a sense of humor. My book deals with serious subject matter bureaucracy, academic meritocracy, Confucianism, monarchy, Legalism, corruption, collective leadership, censorship but I wrote it with a light-hearted touch, heavy on the self-criticism, to show the humanity and humor that so often informs my interactions with Chinese friends and colleagues, in contrast to the negative stereotypes about China so pervasive in the West. Its part of the reason my book was selected as a book of the year by the Financial Times and even my harshest critics such as China uber-hawk Gordon Chang find the book entertaining. But Crane seems to have read the book as a deadly serious tract on Chinese politics. Regrettably, Crane says hardly anything about the arguments and the stories that inform my book. His review consists of empty virtue signaling that has nothing to do with my book. He criticizes a couple of sentences completely out of context (the comment about Xinjiang is part of a long paragraph about whats wrong with China the critical intent is obvious and the comment about the role of party secretary fails to note I discuss the role of the party secretary in academic institutions, not at higher levels of government where their work might involve dealing with political dissent and such). He devotes much effort to criticizing a book I wrote in 2015 and selects the harshest polemical reviews of that book (I wrote responses to the reviews which he doesnt mention; he mistakenly identifies Huang Yushun as a foreign China analyst when in fact he is Chinese scholar living and working in China). Crane learned nothing from my new book (and, I confess, I learned nothing from his review). So why did he bother writing the review? The reason is that he has a political axe to grind and thats what he did. My political sin, it seems, is that I do not favor overthrow of the Chinese political system. Let me plead guilty as charged. Does it follow that I seek to defend authoritarianism? I do not think its helpful to divide the political world into democracies and autocracies, as both President Biden and Professor Crane favor. We should compare ideals with ideals, and highly imperfect political realities with highly imperfect political realities. Ideals are meant to provide moral standards that allow for critical evaluation of the political reality and to suggest standards for improvement. In the United States, intellectuals and political reformers typically invoke democracy as an ideal. In China, however, intellectuals and political reformers do not defend authoritarianism which is highly pejorative in Chinese. So we need to think of which political ideals might inspire reform, and thats why I wrote (an earlier) book defending the ideal of political meritocracy at the top, experimentation in the middle, and democracy at the bottom. We may have gone two steps backward and one step forward since I wrote the book, but the ideal, let me suggest, is still valid and widely adhered to as an inspiration and source of criticism in the Chinese political context. So if we want to compare ideals with ideals in slogan form, with respect to the question of how political leaders should be selected, the relevant dichotomy should be something like electoral democracy in the U.S. case versus vertical political meritocracy in China. If we want to compare highly imperfect political realities, then its a different story. In the United States, the reality is closer to one dollar, one vote than one person, one vote. In China, the Legalist tradition is hugely influential (as I try to show in my book), in combination with Leninist legacies, especially at higher levels of government. So if we want to compare highly imperfect political realities in slogan form, it should be something like electoral dollarcracy in the United States versus Leninist Legalism in China. In any case, the relevant question is: given that both countries have highly imperfect realities, which political ideals should inspire political reform? For Crane, the same liberal democratic ideals that should inspire reform in the United States should serve to inspire reform in China. I think we should allow for the moral relevance of cultural particularity and that the Confucian and socialist traditions can inspire Chinas reform. There are some universal human rights negative rights against torture, slavery, genocide, and systematic racial discrimination as well as positive rights to life and basic material needs but beyond that different political communities can adhere to different standards regarding such issues as the best way to select and promote public officials and to organize economic life. One last thing. Crane criticizes me for having hope that China improves. Here too, I plead guilty as charged, though I do my best to give reasons for hope, its not blind hope. Daniel A. Bell (University of Hong Kong) Dec. 16, 2023 The AAP government in Delhi is inspired by the concept of "Ram Rajya" and draws motivation from it in providing various facilities to the people of the national capital, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Sunday. Kejriwal made the remarks at the three-day Ramlila event being organised by the Delhi government's Art, Culture and Languages department. The conclusion of the event, which began on Saturday, will coincide with Monday's consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya. Addressing the event, the Delhi chief minister said, "Many people will not be able to go there (Ayodhya) on Monday even if they want to. I am very happy that the city government has organised a grand Ramlila for the people of Delhi." "On this occasion, when we are worshipping Lord Shri Ram, we need to take inspiration from his life, thoughts and words. We must take inspiration from Lord Ram," he added. Kejriwal narrated how Lord Ram went into exile for 14 years on the orders of his father and said it was "no small matter". "If we worship Lord Ram, we will also have to imbibe in our life that we should follow the orders of our parents, speak the truth and adhere to decorum. Lord Ram was the ruler of Ayodhya, the rule he gave is considered an ideal rule," he said. "We are trying to run our government in Delhi by taking inspiration from the concept of 'Ram Rajya'," Kejriwal added. He said the Delhi government has decided that no one should sleep hungry in the city and that everyone should get proper ration. "If someone is poor, then he is given free ration. We have made night shelters for the homeless where they can stay. Food is also provided for free at these shelters," the chief minister said. "We have decided that every child should get a good education, whether he is poor or rich. We have decided that every person, be it poor or rich, should get quality treatment, free treatment. We have decided that electricity should be available to every person," he added. All the elderly people in Delhi wish to visit a place of pilgrimage at least once in their lifetimes. While many people are unable to go on pilgrimages due to various reasons, the Delhi government enables the elderly to go on a free pilgrimage, according to Kejriwal. Many steps have been taken to ensure the safety of the people, including women. The government tries to provide security to everyone, he added. The Delhi government believes in equality for all, irrespective of their caste, creed, religion or financial status, Kejriwal claimed. "Let everyone live with love. So, we are trying to follow the concept of 'Ram Rajya'. 'Ram Rajya' is a big thing, we are very small but, in a way, it is a source of inspiration for us," he added. Delhi Art, Culture and Languages Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj, Environment Minister Gopal Rai and party MLAs were present at the event at Pearey Lal Bhawan. Whats it like to be part of the living legends of aviation, or just a leg end? Ask Prince Harry, who is now wallowing in his new title despite flying only for 20 weeks in the RAF as a gunner in a piloted Apache helicopter. I was effectively being chauffeured around by this amazing pilot for my 20-week tour of Afghanistan, and all I had to do was pull a trigger if I saw any rag heads. I personally dont know the first thing about flying those bloody things, especially as the maths and stuff you have to learn is way over my simple brain. Well, I got the prize now living legends of aviation and the actual pilots in combat who deserved the prize did not get jack shit. You may ask yourself why? the errant prince boasted after the magnificent ceremony. Buzz Aldrin went to the fucking moon; Prince Harry was a gunner in Afghanistan for 20 weeks. Schlumberger is an international oilfield services company with facilities in many countries worldwide. Founded in 1926 in Paris, France, by brothers Conrad and Marcel Schlumberger, it is currently the world's largest offshore drilling company and the most significant offshore drilling contractor in revenue. Schlumberger Limited was incorporated in 1956 as a holding company and listed on the New York Stock Exchange in 1962. Schlumberger is a Fortune Global 500 company, listed in Forbes Global 2000, and has a 33-acre campus in Sugar Land, Texas. In 1981, Schlumberger became the first international company to link computers with email, and in 1983, the company opened its Cambridge Research Center in Cambridge, England. In 2005, Schlumberger purchased Waterloo Hydrogeologic and relocated its U.S. corporate office from New York to Houston. It has since made numerous acquisitions, including Smith International in 2010, a deal valued at $11.3 billion. In 2010, Schlumberger acquired Geoservices in a deal valued at $1.1 billion. In 2014, Schlumberger purchased the remaining shares of SES Holdings Limited (Saxon). Schlumberger agreed to acquire oilfield equipment manufacturer Cameron International in 2015 for $14.8 billion. As a global provider of technology, integrated project management and information solutions, Schlumberger supplies the petroleum industry with services such as formation evaluation, seismic data processing, well cementing and stimulation, well testing and directional drilling, artificial lift, low assurance and consulting, well completions and software and information management. Schlumberger is at the forefront of the industry with its carbon capture and storage industries and its continued investment in geothermal and hydrogen power. Schlumberger has had environmental and legal issues, including a radioactive canister recovered in the Western Australian outback in 2006. Schlumberger was also a contractor on the Deepwater Horizon oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico. Despite these issues, Newsweek ranked Schlumberger 118 out of 500 in 2009. In 2021, Schlumberger made news with the announcement of pilot project agreements between critical industry leaders and the French state. They also made news headlines due to a report of 21,000 layoffs, accounting for 15% of the company's workforce due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. As an established player in the oilfield services industry, Schlumberger looks poised to continue to expand its presence in the industry and further its mission of providing innovative solutions to the world's energy challenges. The following companies are subsidiares of General Dynamics: 42SIX LLC, ARMA Global Corporation, Advanced Technical Products, Aeromil (Australia) Pty Ltd, Aeromil Aircraft Engineering Pty Ltd, Aeromil Aviation Services Pty Ltd, Aeromil IT Services Pty Ltd, Aeromil Marine Pty Ltd, Aeromil Pacific Pty Ltd, American Overseas Marine Company LLC, Anteon International Corporation, Applied Physical Sciences, Applied Physical Sciences Corp., Ascend Intelligence, Australian Avionics Pty Ltd, Autonomic Resources LLC, Avion Logistics Limited, Avjet Corporation, AxleTech International, Axsys, BATH IRON WORKS CORPORATION, BP-HP Pte Limited, Bath Iron Works, Bath Iron Works Australia Corporation, Bath Iron Works Canada LLC, Bluefin Robotics Corporation, Blueprint Technologies Inc., Braintree I Maritime Corp., Braintree II Maritime Corp., Braintree III Maritime Corp., Braintree IV Maritime Corp., Braintree V Maritime Corp., Buccaneer Computer Systems & Service Inc., CSC Computer Sciences Venezuela S.A., CSRA, CSRA (Costa Rica) S.A., CSRA (Guyana) Inc., CSRA (Middle East) LLC, CSRA Argentina S.R.L., CSRA BH d.o.o., CSRA Bahamas Limited, CSRA Bahrain S.P.C., CSRA Belgium SPRL, CSRA Bolivia S.R.L., CSRA Brazil Servicos de Tecnologia Ltda., CSRA Canada Inc., CSRA Caribbean Inc., CSRA Chile SpA, CSRA Colombia SAS, CSRA Commerce 2010 LLC, CSRA Consular Services Holding Company LLC, CSRA Consular Services Inc., CSRA France SARL, CSRA Guatemala Solutions Sociedad Anonima, CSRA Honduras Sociedad Anonima, CSRA Inc., CSRA Information Systems LLC, CSRA Information Technology Spain SL, CSRA Ireland Limited, CSRA Italy S.R.L, CSRA Kosovo L.L.C., CSRA LATAM LLC, CSRA LLC, CSRA Mexico S. de R.L. de C.V., CSRA Netherlands B.V., CSRA Nicaragua Sociedad Anonima, CSRA Panama Inc., CSRA Peru S.R.L., CSRA Senegal SARL, CSRA South Africa (Pty) Ltd, CSRA State and Local Solutions LLC, CSRA Systems & Solutions LLC, CSRA Trinidad & Tobago Limited, CSRA Turkey Bilisim Teknolojileri Limited Sirketi, CSRA Uruguay S.R.L, CSRA Visa Services Israel Ltd., CSRAIT - Information Services Portugal Unipessoal LDA, Centauri Solutions LLC, Command System, Computing Devices International, Concord I Maritime Corporation, Concord II Maritime Corporation, Concord III Maritime Corporation, Concord IV Maritime Corporation, Concord V Maritime Corporation, Convair Aircraft Corporation, Convair Corporation, Creative Technology, Customer Services Ecuador CSRA S.A., Devcor, Diamond Fortress Technologies, DynPort Vaccine Company LLC, EB Groton Engineering Inc., EBV Explosives Environmental, ELCS-CZ s.r.o., Eagle Enterprise Inc., Earl Industries - Ship Repair and Coatings Division, Ebv Explosives Environmental Company, Electric Boat - Australia LLC, Electric Boat - UK LLC, Electric Boat Canada LLC, Electric Boat Corporation, Electric Boat France LLC, Electrocom Inc., Engineering Technology, Expro Finance Inc., FBD Fahrzeug und Bremsendienst GmbH, FC Business Systems, Fidelis Cybersecurity, Force Protection, Force Protection Europe Limited, Force Protection Inc., ForeSight Technology Services LLC, Freeman United Coal Mining Company LLC, GD Brazil Holdings LLC, GD European Land Systems - Steyr GmbH, GD European Land Systems Holding GmbH, GDOTS Services Corporation, GM GDLS Defense Group L.L.C., GPS Source Inc., GTE Government Systems, GWA-Datatrac FAST LLC, Galaxy Aerospace Company, Gayston Corporation - Defense Operations, General Dynamics - OTS (Global) Inc., General Dynamics AIS Australia Pty Ltd, General Dynamics Canadian Finance Inc., General Dynamics Canadian Holdings Inc., General Dynamics Commercial Cyber Services LLC, General Dynamics European Finance Limited, General Dynamics European Land Systems - Austria GmbH, General Dynamics European Land Systems - Bridge Systems GmbH, General Dynamics European Land Systems - Czech s.r.o., General Dynamics European Land Systems - Denmark ApS, General Dynamics European Land Systems - Deutschland GmbH, General Dynamics European Land Systems - FWW GmbH, General Dynamics European Land Systems - Mowag GmbH, General Dynamics European Land Systems Romania S.R.L., General Dynamics European Land Systems S.L., General Dynamics Global Force LLC, General Dynamics Global Holdings Limited, General Dynamics Global Imaging Technologies Inc., General Dynamics Government Satellite Services LLC, General Dynamics Government Systems Corporation, General Dynamics Government Systems Overseas Corporation, General Dynamics Information Technology Canada Limited, General Dynamics Information Technology Inc., General Dynamics Information Technology Limited, General Dynamics Installation Services LLC, General Dynamics International Corporation, General Dynamics Itronix LLC, General Dynamics Land Systems - Australia Pty. Ltd., General Dynamics Land Systems - Canada Corporation, General Dynamics Land Systems - Canada Services Inc., General Dynamics Land Systems - Canadian Services Limited, General Dynamics Land Systems - Force Protection Inc., General Dynamics Land Systems Customer Service & Support Company, General Dynamics Land Systems Inc., General Dynamics Limited, General Dynamics Marine Systems Inc., General Dynamics Mission Systems Inc., General Dynamics Mission Systems International Limited, General Dynamics Mission Systems Overseas Company LLC, General Dynamics Motion Control LLC, General Dynamics OTS (Aerospace) Inc., General Dynamics OTS (California) Inc., General Dynamics OTS (DRI) Inc., General Dynamics OTS (Niceville) Inc., General Dynamics OTS (Pennsylvania) Inc., General Dynamics One Source LLC, General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems - Canada Inc., General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems - Canada Valleyfield Inc., General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems - Simunition Operations Inc., General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems Inc., General Dynamics Overseas Systems and Services Corporation, General Dynamics Properties Inc., General Dynamics Robotic Systems Inc., General Dynamics SATCOM Technologies Inc., General Dynamics Satcom Technologies Asia Private Limited, General Dynamics Satellite Communication Services LLC, General Dynamics Saudi Holdings S.L., General Dynamics Shared Resources LLC, General Dynamics Support Services Company, General Dynamics Swiss Financial Management Limited, General Dynamics United Kingdom Limited, General Dynamics Worldwide Holdings Inc., General Dynamics-OTS Inc., General Motors Defense, Gulfstream 100 Holdings LLC, Gulfstream Aerospace, Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation (CA), Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation (DE), Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation (GA), Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation (OK), Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation of Texas, Gulfstream Aerospace Hong Kong Limited, Gulfstream Aerospace LLC, Gulfstream Aerospace LP, Gulfstream Aerospace Ltd., Gulfstream Aerospace Services Corporation, Gulfstream Aerospace Sociedad de Responssabilidad Limitada de CapitalVariable (S. de R.L. de C.V.), Gulfstream Do Brasil Servicos De Suporte E Manutencao A Aeronaves Ltda., Gulfstream International Corporation, Gulfstream Leasing LLC, Gulfstream Product Support Corporation, Gulfstream Services Corporation, Gulfstream Tennessee Corporation, Gulfstream-California Inc., Hawker Pacific (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Hawker Pacific Aircraft Management Pte Ltd, Hawker Pacific Airservices Limited, Hawker Pacific Airservices Pvt Ltd, Hawker Pacific Asia Holdings Pte Ltd, Hawker Pacific Asia Pte Ltd, Hawker Pacific Australia Pty Ltd, Hawker Pacific Aviation Services Pty Ltd, Hawker Pacific NZ Limited, Hawker Pacific Pty Ltd, IPWireless, IPWireless PTE. Limited, Information Services Consulting Limited, Interiores Aereos S.A. de C.V., International Manufacturing Technologies Inc., Itronix, Janteq Australia PTY Limited, Janteq Corp., Jet Aviation, Jet Aviation (Asia Pacific) Pte. Ltd., Jet Aviation (Bermuda) Ltd., Jet Aviation (Hong Kong) Ltd., Jet Aviation (Malaysia) SDN BHD, Jet Aviation 125 Services LLC, Jet Aviation AG, Jet Aviation Brazil Holdings Inc., Jet Aviation Business Jets (Hong Kong) Limited, Jet Aviation Business Jets AG, Jet Aviation Business Jets FZCO, Jet Aviation California LLC, Jet Aviation Dulles LLC, Jet Aviation Flight Services Inc., Jet Aviation France SAS, Jet Aviation Holding GmbH, Jet Aviation Holdings USA Inc., Jet Aviation Houston Inc., Jet Aviation International Inc., Jet Aviation Malaga SA, Jet Aviation Management AG, Jet Aviation Netherlands B.V., Jet Aviation Savannah Holding LLC, Jet Aviation Services GmbH, Jet Aviation St. Louis Inc., Jet Aviation Teterboro LP, Jet Aviation Texas Inc., Jet Aviation of America Inc., Jet Aviation/Palm Beach Inc., Jet Professionals LLC, Kylmar, Longreach Energy LLC, MAYA Viz, Maricom Systems Incorporated, Material Service Resources Company LLC, Matthews Land Company, Mediaware International, Mediaware International Pty Ltd, Metro Machine, Metro Machine co, Midwest Properties Sales LLC, NASSCO, NASSCO Holdings Incorporated, NES Associates LLC, National Steel and Shipbuilding Company, Network Connectivity Solutions Corp., Newberry Holdings LLC, OOO Jet Aviation Vnukovo, Open Kernel Labs, Page Europa Srl, Patriot I Shipping Corp., Patriot II Shipping Corp., Patriot IV Shipping Corp., Plane 79 LLC, Praxis Engineering Technologies LLC, PrimeX Technologies, Prodelin India Private Limited, Proyectos Prohumane Mexico S.A. de C.V., Quincy Maritime Corporation III, Raven Acquisitions LLC, SENTECH INC., SRA International Inc., Saco Defense, Santa Barbara Sistemas S.A., Savannah Air Center LLC, Signal Solutions LLC, Southern Illinois Recovery Inc., Spectrum Astro, St. Marks Powder Inc., Stabilo Pty Ltd, Steyr-Daimler-Puch Spezialfahrzeug AG & Co KG, Sydney Jet Charter Pty Ltd, Tadpole Computer, Tecnologias Internacionales de Manufactura S.A. de C.V., Tenacity Solutions Incorporated, The Depth of Ideas for General Trading LLC, TriPoint Global Communications, Vangent, Vangent Servicios de Mexico S.A. de C.V., Veridian, Vertex Antennentechnik GmbH, ViPS, Vulnerability Research Labs LLC, and Weco LLC. Read More Ad InvestorPlace They said crypto was dead. It went up 100X. Bitcoins haters are out again. Despite the price doubling in the last six months alone That hasnt stopped the experts from piling on. Warren Buffetts right-hand man Charlie Munger called crypto investors idiots in one of his last interviews. JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon, recently called Bitcoin a pet rock and a hyped-up fraud. But when it comes to cryptos, these are exactly the people you shouldnt listen to. Theyve predicted cryptos demise for years. There are five coins you must take a look at right away. The owner of the Lockport Cave boat tour that capsized last summer, killing one rider, intends to sue the city for making derogatory and inflammatory public statements about the business. Hydraulic Race, the entity behind the attraction, filed a notice of claim with the city last year. The Buffalo News obtained the document late last week through a Freedom of Information Law request. The City of Lockport misrepresented Hydraulic and its officers to the public and the media, making deceptive and/or misleading statements and documentation, acting in bad faith to deprive and/or frustrate claimants rights, the notice reads in part. The notice does not cite specific examples and Thomas Callahan, co-owner of the attraction, did not respond to a message seeking further comment. Eighteen people who were on the boat when it capsized June 12 have notified the city of their plans to sue over the incident that left one dead and 11 other riders injured. The estate of the man who drowned also has lodged a notice against the city. Those filings claim the city and other entities failed to regulate the Lockport Cave business and should have known it was unsafe. Several lawyers for the riders also have said they intend to sue Hydraulic Race over its responsibility for the incident and one attorney found the tone of the companys legal filing concerning. Theyre more concerned about themselves and their own public image and well-being and business, rather than reaching out to any of the victims, said Francis M. Letro, a lawyer who represents two people who were on the boat that day. A group of 29, nearly all connected to the Niagara County tourism industry, were riding the tour boat in the Lockport Cave about 11:30 a.m. June 12 when it capsized, tossing the passengers into the water. Emergency responders worked carefully amid the chaotic scene to get the riders to safety, but Niagara Falls hotel owner Harshad Shah, 65, was pinned under the flat-bottomed wooden boat and drowned before he could be saved. His wife, Kaminiben, was also on board. City officials in the hours after the capsizing said this was the first serious incident of its kind since the Lockport Cave and Underground Boat Ride began operations in the mid-1970s. However, The Buffalo News reported days later that the boat had overturned during a 2015 tour, though no one was injured in this earlier incident. Lockport, Niagara County and state officials acknowledged after the fatal capsizing that they had not inspected the operation but struggled to say whose responsibility it was. City police in November announced that, after consulting with the Niagara County District Attorneys Office, they would not bring criminal charges in the incident. In December, The News wrote about a report from the states Marine Services Bureau also obtained through a public records request that determined the tour boat was top heavy, unstable and carrying a load that pushed the limits of its capacity at the time the vessel overturned. The boat ride has remained closed since the day of the capsizing but the company did announce that it had reopened seasonally for walking tours. This statement remains on the attractions website. The reopening is troubling to Letros clients, he said in an interview. The victims that Ive talked to are very distressed by that, saying that they had a near-death experience in there and somebody actually did die in there and its not being taken seriously by the city, or the police, or the owners of it, or the public, Letro said. And theyre still profiting off of that and acting like that was then, this is now. Letro has filed a notice of claim against the city on behalf of one rider, Patricia Shanley, and he represents another rider who has not yet done so. In the claims, and in interviews with police following the incident, riders described a harrowing scene in the dimly lit tunnel after the custom-made wooden boat flipped over, sending them tumbling into the chilly waters. This has really been a life-altering and career-altering experience, Letro said of the riders. In the months since the capsizing, Callahan, the Lockport Cave co-owner, has issued just a single statement expressing condolences to Shahs family and a pledge to cooperate with investigators. Hydraulic Races notice of claim, dated Sept. 13, cites damages to the business caused by the citys Police and Fire departments, among other agencies, during and after the incident. The claim doesnt describe in detail those damages but emergency responders did, for example, cut a hole in the side of the tunnel wall to more quickly reach the riders who had fallen into the water. A good portion of this section in the notice was redacted by Jesse Hoelscher, outside counsel for the city, because its disclosure would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy. Its also not clear what inaccurate statements, according to the notice, city employees and officials made following the incident. The fire chief, police chief and then-Mayor Michelle Roman revealed details about the capsizing and the emergency response at a news conference late on the afternoon of June 12. In the weeks afterward, few city officials spoke to the media as the police investigation was active. Current Mayor John Lombardi and the citys corporation counsel, David Blackley, did not respond to messages seeking comment late last week. Correction: An earlier version of this article incorrectly listed the previous occupant of the office as the city's corporation counsel, based on outdated information on the city's website. Dell Technologies Inc., founded in 1984, is a multinational computer technology company headquartered in Round Rock, Texas. The company designs, develops, sells, and supports personal computers, servers, data storage devices, network switches, software, and other related technologies. Consumers, small businesses, and large enterprises worldwide use Dell Technologies Inc.'s products and services. Dell Technologies Inc. has achieved many key highlights and achievements throughout its history. In 2016, the company completed the most significant tech merger in history by acquiring EMC Corporation for $67 billion. Additionally, Dell has been recognized for its sustainability efforts, including being named to the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for several consecutive years. Michael Dell is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Dell Technologies Inc. He has been with the company since its inception in 1984, leading it through many changes and challenges. Jeff Clarke is the Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer, responsible for global operations, customer support, and supply chain management. Dell Technologies Inc. has reported healthy financial results in recent years. With average revenue in the billions of dollars and a 1 - 3% increase yearly for several years. The company's average gross profit margin stays between 25 to 35%. Depending on the year, Dell Technologies Inc. maintains debt levels either slightly below or above its current assets. Dell Technologies Inc.'s price-to-earnings ratio and price-to-book ratios are slightly below the industry average, indicating that Dell Technologies Inc.'s stock is undervalued compared to its peers. Dell Technologies Inc.'s stock performance has been strong recently but became volatile in Q1 of 2022 amid investor fears of a recession. Despite these issues, Dell Technologies Inc.'s stock price is still positive, over 80% in a five-year timeframe. Dell Technologies Inc.'s stock has also outperformed the broader market, with the S&P 500 increasing by approximately 60% over the same period. Dell Technologies Inc. operates in the highly competitive computer technology industry. The industry is characterized by rapid technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and intense competition. Dell Technologies Inc.'s main competitors include HP Inc., Lenovo Group Limited, and Apple Inc. One trend that is impacting the industry is the shift toward mobile computing. Consumers are increasingly using smartphones and tablets instead of traditional personal computers. This trend has led to declining sales of personal computers and increased competition in the mobile computing space. Another trend impacting the industry is the increasing importance of data privacy and security. Consumers are becoming more aware of the risks associated with data breaches and are demanding more secure devices and services. This trend has led to increased investment in cybersecurity by companies in the industry. Dell Technologies Inc. has several potential growth opportunities. One area of focus is the Internet of Things (IoT). Dell Technologies Inc. has developed a suite of IoT solutions and services that help customers manage and analyze the data generated by connected devices. This market is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years. Another growth opportunity for Dell Technologies Inc. is the expanding market for cloud computing. The company has invested heavily in cloud infrastructure and services and has partnered with major cloud providers such as Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services. As more businesses move their computing infrastructure to the cloud, Dell Technologies Inc. is well-positioned to benefit from this trend. Despite its many strengths, Dell Technologies Inc. faces several potential risks and challenges. One key challenge for the company is the ongoing decline in the personal computer market. As consumers shift towards mobile devices, sales of personal computers are likely to continue to decline. Dell Technologies Inc. will need to adapt to this changing market to remain competitive. Another risk for Dell Technologies Inc. is the intense competition in the computer technology industry. The company faces competition from established players like HP and Lenovo and newer entrants like Google and Apple. To remain competitive, Dell Technologies Inc. must continue to invest in research and development and develop new products and services. Dell Technologies Inc. faces potential risks from changing regulatory and political environments. The company operates in many countries worldwide, and changes in regulations or political instability in key markets could impact its operations. Dell Technologies Inc. may also face increased regulatory scrutiny regarding data privacy and cybersecurity issues. Ad Monument Traders Alliance Make This $3 Trade the Instant the Opening Bell Rings Since the birth of Wall Street, one simple rule has remained the same.... Buy stocks that are cheap....When theyre on sale. 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And that's why they received a $50 million investment from an AI powerhouse. Get the stock ticker here >>> Ad Paradigm Press 8,788% Return Predicted For THIS Crypto (already up 40% in 6 months) THIS cryptocurrency has gained 40% in 6 months. A crypto millionaire who has researched the space for a decade says it will go up 8,788% in 5 years. The name of this cryptocurrency is revealed right here: Click to get the name of the cryptocurrency Ad Banyan Hill Publishing AI Cracks Open Largest Untapped Energy Reserve on Earth This orb represents the largest untapped energy source in the world And although this energy resource is unknown by 99% of the public It makes gas, coal, oil, wind, hydropower, solar, fusion ]click here to watch a free presentation where I reveal all the details of this lucrative opportunit Add the Carmelite nuns to the list of Buffalo transplants in Florida. The 14 nuns who had lived a sequestered life in North Buffalo packed up their meager belongings last week and boarded a bus heading south to Jacksonville. The move marked the first time in more than a century that the Discalced Carmelite Nuns of Buffalo were not in the area offering contemplative prayers on behalf of the local Catholic faithful. The group of cloistered nuns had lived since the 1920s inside a large monastery on Carmel Road. They announced in October in a letter on their website that they were relocating to the Diocese of St. Augustine in northern Florida. The letter noted that what was once a quiet area on the outskirts of the city no longer offered the silence and solitude which are requisite for a cloistered Community. The members of cloistered orders commit to living within whats known as a papal enclosure, set off from the rest of the world and praying in almost complete privacy. The Carmelite nuns were to take up residence in an 8,400-square-foot home on a 14-acre lot in a gated community in Jacksonville. They wrote in November that they hoped to sell the Carmel Road property to a buyer that will preserve the chapel as a place where people can come to pray and to be reminded of the Carmelites ongoing prayers for everyone here. An effort is underway by the Friends of the Carmelite Nuns of the Diocese of St. Augustine, a 5013 nonprofit organization, to raise $5 million to acquire a well-protected home in a rural-like environment and provide ongoing support for the sisters, according to a post at the Queen of Angels Catholic Store website in Jacksonville. The nonprofit was founded last June by Catherine and William Hensley, who live in Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. The Hensleys did not respond to voicemail messages. The two-story monastery measures an estimated 50,000 square feet and has an assessed value of $1.2 million, according to city property tax records. The property has not yet been listed for sale, said Louise OBrien, licensed associate real estate broker with Gurney Becker & Bourne. The mother superior is interested in finding a religious organization to buy the monastery complex and preserve the chapel, which may take us a little longer, said OBrien. Theres just not that many groups out there, she said. The Carmelites are the last group of cloistered orders of nuns to live in Buffalo. The 14 remaining members of the Dominican Nuns of the Perpetual Rosary, who lived in a convent on 9 acres on Doat Street, relocated in 2020 to Newark, Ohio. The Dominican nuns first arrived in Buffalo in 1905. Sperrin Metal recently celebrated the 60th anniversary of its opening as a coop. Since then it has become a family owned business, seeing huge success and becoming a Draperstown institution. Peter Gormley, Sperrin Metal Managing Director, explained the company has sought to help the community since its inception. It was formed by a local priest, Father Collins, as a co-op for the local community to create employment in '63, he said. Then my father ended up taking control in '86 and it has been part of the fabric of Ballinascreen for quite some time. ABOVE: Sperrin Metal secured a Middle East dealership in the 1980's and won an export award. Father Collins was instrumental in the founding of both St Colm's school and the Sperrin Metal, recognising the need for education and work in a rural area. Sperrin Metal is now one of the leading storage manufacturers in Ireland and the UK. The community ethos of the former co-op is still very much part of the company, which takes pride in providing employment for the rural area. The company has seen a lot of changes in the county since it opened and even had a part to play in some of Derry's proudest moments. The company sponsored Derry GAA throughout the 90's (below), a period of great success for the team. There was just that unbelievable buzz in the community but also within the workforce. It was huge. There was this feeling that there was something coming down the tracks from winning the National League in '92 you felt there would be progression and then they won the Sam. We were the first ones to have the name on the jerseys when sponsorship was allowed and it was huge publicity, it really helped to sell the company in the 32 counties. I remember the rush for tickets and the amount of different people from nuns contacting you looking for lockers as well as an All Ireland ticket. The company's GAA affiliation was not limited to County Derry. The company has been active in the Middle East since the 1980s and when it had an office there it sponsored the region's GAA league and team in the GAA World Games. They did the world games twice [while we were sponsors], one out in the Middle East in Abu Dhabi, which was the first of the current world games. The second one was taken back to Dublin, which was in conjunction with the 100 years of the GAA. In 2005 the company faced the toughest challenge in its 60 year history when a fire wiped out the majority of its main factory. It would have been easier to close it at that stage than to reopen but we fought back from it. Around 60% of the factory was lost. The only reason we were able to keep on working was because we had other factories and we were able to get a plant in Ballymoney who would lease it to us on a Friday at three o'clock until Monday morning 7 o'clock so we were actually able to redeploy the guys down there. So we actually were able to keep everybody employed. Sperrin Metals now has three plants in Draperstown and one in Tobermore. The company exports regularly throughout Europe and the Middle East and continues to provide long term employment for many in the community. Thousands of homes were left without power and airport activity was disrupted on Sunday as Storm Isha swept destructive winds across the island of Ireland. People were urged to heed wind warnings and told not to make unnecessary journeys as the most severe wind warnings kicked in on Sunday evening. The Met Office said a tornado could hit western parts of the UK after the research organisation Torro said Ireland, Northern Ireland, parts of Scotland and northern England were tornado watch zones. Status red wind warnings were issued for counties Donegal, Galway and Mayo, while status orange/amber warnings came into effect for all other counties on the island on Sunday evening. Met Eireann said extremely strong winds and destructive gusts are expected in the red warning areas, particularly along coastal and exposed areas. Paul Rock, who chaired a meeting of the National Emergency Co-ordination on Sunday morning, said it is a particularly nasty storm in an unusual storm season. We dont want anyone dying as a result of this storm, he told RTE Radio. Mr Rock asked people to avoid coastal areas during the Met Eireann warnings and for all road users to be aware of hazardous conditions, including debris, and urged people not to touch fallen electricity wires. Delays are expected at ports, airports and possibly some public transport systems, he said, advising people to check online to see if services are disrupted. Mr Rock expects schools to open as normal on Monday as the warnings expire overnight. The red warnings for Galway and Mayo are valid from 5pm-9pm on Sunday, while in Donegal it is to remain in place from 9pm on Sunday until 1am on Monday. Forecasters warned of dangerous coastal conditions, treacherous travelling conditions and of significant and widespread power outages in these counties. Status Red Wind warning for Galway, Mayo, Donegal Dangerous coastal conditions with high waves Treacherous travelling conditions Risk of significant and widespread power outages More details herehttps://t.co/Xg3aMJlyuS pic.twitter.com/HS92EYcUs0 Met Eireann (@MetEireann) January 21, 2024 Bus Eireann suspended its town, city and intercity services in Mayo and Galway from 4pm on Sunday. As the status red warning came into effect at 5pm, the metal clocktower on top of the Thirteen on the Green bar at Eyres Square in Galway city fell on to the path below. For other counties, a status orange wind warning is in place from 4pm or 5pm on Sunday until 2am or 3am on Monday, bringing with it the threat of large coastal waves, very difficult travelling conditions, fallen trees and damage to power lines. This warning is to reduce to a status yellow warning until 4am on Monday, when all Met Eireann warnings are lifted. With status red marine warnings also in place, bringing rough sea conditions, the coastguard advised people to be aware of large breaking waves. The ESB said that as of 8.35pm, more than 170,000 homes, farms and businesses were without power, with the expectation of further power outages overnight. The counties worst impacted by outages include Mayo, Galway, Roscommon and Kerry. Dublin Airport said the storm was posing a significant challenge to flights operations, and as of 7pm airlines had cancelled 114 flights 58 incoming and 56 departing with 36 flights diverted to other airports. The Road Safety Authority advised all road users to be aware of the dangers once the storm has passed as there may be hazardous conditions such as flooded roads and downed pylons, lines, trees and other debris on roads. #StormIsha A scene has been made safe after a shed was lifted 20 feet into the air over a wall by high winds. Firefighters from Tara Street fire station were called to the incident off Kevin Street. pic.twitter.com/Pq6I8O22Gc Dublin Fire Brigade (@DubFireBrigade) January 21, 2024 In Northern Ireland, an amber weather warning was issued for all counties from 6pm on Sunday until 6am on Monday, bringing very strong winds. This will be downgraded to a status yellow wind warning that will be in place until noon on Monday. The PSNI said someone was struck by falling debris after scaffolding became dislodged in Belfast. They were treated at the scene by emergency services. Officers closed the Castle Lane junction with Royal Avenue and advised pedestrians to avoid the area. It also said it had received numerous reports of fallen trees and urged people to only travel if the journey is necessary. The Department for Infrastructure said that despite contingency measures, public workers strike action may disrupt any responses to incidents such as debris on roads and floods. It said all parts of Northern Ireland are expected to be affected but the strongest winds will be in the early hours of Monday around the coast and in exposed locations. Toyota was the best-selling brand in Ireland last year. They sold more cars than they did in 2022 but market share dropped by nearly 2% and just goes to show that numbers can be used to prove any side of an argument. The market share dropped as there was a lot more cars sold last year overall but I know which figure Id be happier with cars sold as thats money in the bank. Market share is the ego side of things. Not that Toyota ever comes across with an ego. They are the one manufacturer that just seems to get on with the business of making cars. Good cars. In fact, incredibly good cars. They always had, and never lost, the name for being one of the most reliable brands you can buy and pioneered the hybrid model years before anyone else. They also came up with some real gems and the latest Prius is a perfect example. If you turned the clock back 10 years and stuck a Lamborghini badge on it no one would blink. It really is a super stylish car, and I cant wait to test it. And have you seen the new CH-R? Thats a futuristic looking concept car that you can buy now. The point of all of that is that Toyota know what to make to secure buyers. For sure reliability will be a major factor but an appealing model line-up is also vital. You just have to be sure what appealing is. In the SUV/Crossover space Toyota have 5 models to choose from. From the Yaris Cross to the Highlander there is a fit for everyone and bang smack in the middle is the Corolla Cross. It is outsold by the Yaris, RAV4 and the CH-R but I reckon in 2024 they may move up the ladder. It has the optimum proportions to tempt CH-R and RAV-4 buyers or preferably new ones. There are two versions a 2.0l Hybrid and here a 1.8L Hybrid. The difference is better fuel economy and a lower price which is always good for motorists. Youll still need a sizeable chunk of change with prices starting at 38,330 for the 1.8l Luna model. You must go to the Sport trim to be able to get the 2.0l Hybrid engine and that costs 42,890. The Corolla name is not to be meddled with as it is such a talismanic car for Toyota. The Cross version better be right. I thought the arrival of the Yaris Cross would see sales of the Yaris plummet, but they didnt, and the Yaris Cross found new buyers. Thats the aim here for the Corolla. Id say the designers have come up with a look that maintains the DNA of a Corolla, but they have been very measured. The best way to describe it is it looks how a Cross version should look without any major standout design feature. You can see a lot of other Toyota model designs here but nothing unique and specific to the Corolla. Id say they met the brief perfectly and the Cross delivers that raised and rugged look buyers of these type of cars demand. You get an imposing grille too but at the side and rear it is pared back angular design with nothing that really stands out which is not a bad thing. The inside passes the spacious test and it feels a lot brighter and airier than the CH-R. Thats owing to the less than sleek lines on the outside. Rear headroom is much better and the cabin layout wont seat you too close to fellow passengers thus avoiding elbow bumping and wrestling. The instrument and controls layout is very Toyota familiar and what I call elegantly unfussy. The infotainment screen is prominent and below it there are knobs and buttons for the most frequently used items which is always a good thing. The touchscreen is glitch free and performs niggle-free. The seats were comfortable and for a weekend dash to Clare and back my supersensitive back and posterior muscles didnt register any complaint. That drive gave me an excellent opportunity to see how the Corolla Cross performed on a wide array of roads. It is certainly sure footed and on the rural roads I found myself forgetting everything and just enjoyed the left and right steering to pilot the car without any notchy steering wheel jerks. With the radio off this is quite a world detaching thing to do as you concentrate on driving smoothly. The motorway experience is just that and I cant report a major gripe. I kept to the speed limit and my only note was louder than expected engine noise with very little wind or road noise which is not what I would have expected to record nor was it any way close to being a showstopper. Fuel economy was 5.7l/100km which I thought as excellent for a car of its proportions. And not far off the 5.0l/100km combined cycle figure Toyota claim. The Hybrid technology is deployed to use less fuel, and this is particularly noticeable in an urban stop/start trip. If you are always doing this type of driving, then the 1.8l 140hp Hybrid engine will make good on that characteristic. It has a 0-100km/h figure of 9.9s compared to 7.6s in the 2.0l hybrid version that has 57hp extra from that additional 200cc. To go with that extra passenger space is a boot with a capacity of 436 litres up from 313litres you get in a normal Corolla. If your car has a repair kit and not a spare wheel the boot capacity figure rises to 473litres but given the choice Id have a spare wheel every time. I doubt many people who are in the market for a car of the Corolla Crosss ability and price point will have any concerns. Safety on the Corolla Cross isnt lacking with Toyotas Safety Sense 3 (TSS3). That gives you 8 airbags, pre-collision detection at intersections and pedestrian and cyclist/motorbike detection as well as emergency braking and steering technology. This is top notch stuff. I just wish Toyota they hadnt played it as safe with the design and expressed themselves like they did on the Prius and the CH-R. Maybe next time. Rest assured buyers, be they loyal Toyota buyers or new to the brand, wont be disappointed by the new Corolla Cross and expect to see Toyota at the top of the Irish charts again next year. The 17th Brigid of Faughart Festival celebrates Brigid as Pre-Christian Goddess, Christian Saint and wise woman of the 21st Century. 2024 is a special year marking 1500 years since the death of Saint Brigid. The festival also celebrates the ancient festival of Imbolc, announcing the beginning of Spring. The Brigid of Faughart Festival is organised by a group of people, who came together in 2008, with the vision of recovering and offering the wisdom of Brigid and the values that she embodied, in ways relevant to our contemporary society. The theme for this years festival is: Shining Brigids light and wisdom in these challenging times. This unique modern festival offers a range of exciting and creative events through which four different, yet interrelated aspects of Brigid, Earth Woman, Healer, Poet/Artist and Spiritual Teacher, are explored. This years speakers include: Manchan Magan (author and broadcaster), Dolores Whelan, spiritual teacher and author, Mael Brigde (visiting Canadian poet and spiritual teacher) and Rita O Loughlin (Brat Bhride workshop) There will be a specially commissioned poem-mural, by Siobhan Mac Mahon in Dundalk town. The festival creates opportunities to learn from the wisdom of Brigid, who is an expression of the divine feminine, within the Irish spiritual and mythological narrative. The Brigid of Faughart Festival explores ancient spiritual traditions through myth, landscape, folklore, spiritual customs, visual arts, poetry, music and dance. The emphasis of this festival is to revisit and reclaim the richness of the traditions associated with Brigid of Faughart, in ways which are relevant to our lives in the 21st century. A deeper underlying aim of the festival is to act as a catalyst for the recovery of the presence of the feminine energy and the Divine feminine within our daily lives. The festival has many exciting events including the annual Pilgrimage Walk from Dundalk to Faughart, talks and workshops in the County Museum and An Tain Arts Centre, and Closing Ritual in Ravensdale Community Centre. These events may awaken your interest in the ancient yet relevant spirituality available to support us humans at this time of intense change and transformation. The festival will take place in Faughart, Dundalk and Ravensdale, Co. Louth between Wednesday 31st Jan Monday 5th Feb. The organisers wish to acknowledge the support of Louth County Council, An Tain Arts Centre, the County Museum and Dundalk Tourist Office. For the full programme of events and bookings, please see www.brigidoffaughart.ie Bookings for An Tain events through An Tain Arts Centre www.antain.ie and for County Museum events through https://www.eventbrite.ie/o/brigid-of-faughart-festival For information contact - Roisin 087 1363224 or Dolores 086 8434117 Following on from its very successful King Edward De Bruce event, Faughart Community Group says it is delighted to announce details of its upcoming Brigid1500 celebration on Bank Holiday Sunday 4th February at 6.30pm. Faughart Community Group says that this will be an ancient style candlelit procession which will be led by robed figures carrying a representation of Brigid, followed by a lone drummer who will lead everyone from St. Brigids Shrine to Faughart graveyard. There will be a limited number of procession candles and lanterns handed out free of charge. This event is for people of all religions and none. Faughart Community Group says that the walk from the shrine to the graveyard will be an opportunity to remember those that have gone before us, or maybe a time to reflect on our busy lives, or on the life of Brigid, or maybe just a time to have a bit of craic with your companions: Its up to you! Local school children will follow the drummer up to the Hill of Faughart where they will be greeted by fire on the motte and candlelit ruins in the ancient graveyard with Gregorian chant floating in the air. Brigids Holy Well and birthplace is on the site of Faughart graveyard and the idea of this procession is to go back to where her light began to shine first before it radiated throughout the world. Faughart Community Group says it is also to celebrate this extraordinary local woman who has become Irelands Matron Saint, this Celtic Goddess, this iconic figure who should be an inspiration to all women; this woman was born and reared here and we should all be immensely proud of her. Poet, Siobhain Mac Mahon has been commissioned by Louth County Council to compose a poem dedicated to St. Brigid and Faughart Community Group says she will read it on the night in the candlelit ruins of the Medieval abbey. Faughart Community Group says it would like to thank Louth County Council for their generous financial support of this unique event and they are hoping this will become an annual tradition where friends and neighbours come to celebrate an incredible local woman. They encourage all locals to take part and advise to come prepared for all weather conditions. It is approximately a 1km walk. A Niagara Falls man fatally stabbed a little more than three years ago called police for advice twice the day he was killed. In one of the calls, Kenneth E. Walaszek Jr. said, I dont care about spilling the beans because Im ready to kill them. I am, he told the call-taker, talking about the occupants of a Packard Court apartment where hours later he would die on the lawn after being stabbed in the chest. I went there and threatened them and I probably shouldnt but thats OK. Three people were charged in the slaying, including two who were 17 at the time. One of the teens was sentenced to 15 years to life in prison as an accomplice in Walaszeks killing. But that teens attorney said Niagara County prosecutors withheld evidence in the case, and that information wasnt shared with the defense until almost a year after the teen pleaded guilty. The evidence recordings of Walaszeks calls to police would have made a difference in the case, according to the teens defense attorney. Under state law, recordings of the calls should have been turned over to defense attorneys as part of standard pretrial disclosure of information, a legal process known as discovery. An attorney for the teenager believes the content of the calls provides additional context to existing evidence that shows the teen did not lure Walaszek to his death. These calls are evidence that at multiple times he expressed a desire to go over there, and, in fact, made threats of violence against anyone who would stop him, defense attorney James Quinn Auricchio said. Niagara County District Attorney Brian Seaman said he believes the contents of the calls make no difference to the outcome of the case, since he said he believes the information included in them was already known to the defendants and defense counsel. This is the latest in a series of cases in which Niagara County prosecutors have been accused of withholding evidence from defense attorneys. Last year, a judge ordered a new trial for a man who spent a decade behind bars for a robbery and attempted robbery after finding the man was denied a fair trial. That case included evidence withheld from his defense attorneys before and after trial. In another case, defense attorneys said prosecutors withheld that an alleged witness to a Niagara Falls homicide was on the phone with a longtime member of Niagara County law enforcement at the time of the slaying. Prosecutors call it glitch Walaszek, 52, was killed Nov. 16, 2020, at the Packard Court apartments on Pine Avenue in Niagara Falls. The trio charged in the case pleaded guilty. The teen Auricchio represents pleaded guilty to second-degree murder and second-degree conspiracy in July 2021. She is serving a prison sentence of 15 years to life. The other teenage defendant, who is male, was sentenced in Niagara County Family Court. The Buffalo News is withholding the teens names due to their ages at the time of the crime. Auricchios client pleaded guilty because she felt moral guilt for the mans death, he said. The case is being appealed. Tramaine S. Sanchez, who was 24 at the time of the homicide, admitted to the knife attack. She took her own life while being held in the Niagara County Jail in December 2022 before she was scheduled to be sentenced. She was 26. Sanchezs estate is suing the county, saying she was sexually assaulted by a jail deputy days before she died by suicide. The female teen was a domestic violence victim at the time of Walaszeks killing, said Auricchio, the fourth attorney to represent her. County prosecutors were using an antiquated understanding of domestic violence and how victims of it may behave when evaluating the teens actions, he said. Prosecutors said Walaszek had been concerned for the teens welfare. She had been occasionally staying at Sanchezs apartment. There were allegations of different criminal enterprises going on at Sanchezs apartment, Seaman said. Prosecutors should have known early in the case about the existence of the phone calls Walaszek made to police, Auricchio said, because they were referenced in a police detectives December 2020 testimony before a Niagara County grand jury. But they never made it into the hands of the teens attorney until 11 months after she pleaded guilty. Under state law, both sides in criminal cases are obligated to share discoverable materials with opposing counsel. Auricchio, who came onto the case after his client pleaded guilty, used the failure to disclose the evidence as part of his effort to get his clients plea withdrawn. He also used the information in an effort to get her sentence reduced. Niagara County Youth Court Judge Diane Vitello denied both of those requests. County Judge John Ottaviano also denied a motion in Sanchezs case based on the disclosure issue with Walaszeks phone calls, Seaman said. The recordings of the calls to police were not identified as missing or requested by any of the teens prior defense attorneys, Seaman said. Seaman said Walaszeks two calls to the Niagara Falls Police Departments non-emergency line on the day he was killed would not have been automatically linked to the case file of his killing, like other types of evidence were, including police-worn body-camera footage from the scene. When agencies compile evidence packages in cases, they arent always aware of every possibly related document or recording, Seaman said. This was just simply a glitch in the system that is completely understandable, he said. Auricchio emailed Assistant District Attorney Doreen Hoffman in May 2022 requesting the call recordings, along with other materials. In a court hearing a couple of weeks later, Auricchio brought up the request before the judge. Hoffman told the judge she would request the material from police, according to the transcript. Prosecutors received the recordings a month later and turned them over to the defense, according to the District Attorneys Office. Auricchio disputed Seamans assertion that the calls included information known by the teens prior attorneys. One of the teens former attorneys swore to that in an affidavit. The story that Sanchez and Auricchios client initially gave to police was that they were defending themselves and Walaszek was killed in self-defense, but authorities concluded that was a cover story. The detectives testimony In his grand jury testimony, Niagara Falls Police Detective Troy Earp briefly described Walaszeks calls to the departments non-emergency line on the day he was stabbed. Walaszek expressed concern about the teen and was referred to the departments Narcotics Unit, Earp told the jurors, according to a partial transcript of the testimony included in court documents. The detective testified he wasnt sure if Walaszek ever made contact with anyone there. The second call was the same request for help and he was transferred again, with the outcome unknown to Earp. Earps testimony did not include anything about Walaszek saying he had previously gone to the apartment or admitting he threatened people at the apartment. Auricchio said that wasnt a complete picture of what was said and that prosecutors had a duty to correct the record before the grand jury. Seaman said Earps testimony was not deceptive in any way. Outside a Niagara Falls apartment Walaszek was fatally stabbed at 11:41 p.m. The only phone call that night between the female teen and Walaszek happened three minutes earlier, Auricchio said, citing phone records and surveillance video. But Walaszek had already been to the apartment that night before the call. The teen couldnt have lured him there since she hadnt spoken with him then, Auricchio said. The Packard Court apartment had surveillance cameras, and the suspects thought they turned all of them off before the killing, though some were still recording, Seaman said. Separate security video shows Walaszek had been at a Buffalo Avenue bar before he went to the apartment that night, Auricchio said. His blood-alcohol level at the time of his death was 0.16%, according to autopsy results cited in court documents. Walaszeks Buick LeSabre first drives past the apartment at 10:35 p.m. About four minutes later, surveillance footage shows him kicking the front door of the apartment and then pulling a Christmas decoration down, according to court documents. He leaves at 10:42 p.m., which is when Sanchez called police reporting someone just tried breaking in. Police did not respond to the apartment until the stabbing. Because the suspect in the reported burglary had left the scene, the call did not receive an immediate response, Seaman said. After calling 911, Sanchez sent a text message to the teen demanding she return a cellphone the teen was using. By about 10:49 p.m., the teen returned to the apartment with the phone, which was placed on a counter until Sanchez picked it up at 11:33 p.m. Witnesses told police Walaszek was in the parking lot outside the apartment in the hour before the killing and had followed the teen when she got into another vehicle and left the area. Witnesses also told police Walaszek deliberately rammed that car during that pursuit, damaging the vehicle and causing it to crash. Surveillance footage also shows Walaszek outside Sanchezs apartment 10 times between 10:22 and 11:39 p.m. that night, according to Auricchios court documents. The phone records show something else seven completed calls between the phones of Sanchez and Walaszek that night, according to court documents. Security video shows Sanchez waving a knife around while speaking to Walaszek on the phone, according to Auricchio. The only chance for a possible call between the teen and Walaszek is, according to court papers submitted by Auricchio, within a minute of Sanchez picking up a knife at 11:38 p.m., after Walaszek had already been to the apartment. Auricchio believes Sanchez created a threatening environment at the apartment that night and may have forced the teen to call Walaszek. A witness who was in the apartment told the grand jury Sanchez was threatening the teen and Walaszek. Another witness in the apartment testified Sanchez told the teen to call Walaszek or Im going to beat you, according to court papers. It would be her or him, Sanchez allegedly said. For Auricchio, the withheld evidence pokes a big hole in the prosecutions theory his client lured Walaszek to the apartment that night. I dont know that Ive ever had a case where I thought I was being, for lack of a better term, professionally gas lit, Auricchio said. I just felt this was being minimized and the discrepancies in this case were being minimized to a degree that Ive never experienced. Above: Jane McGee, Moya ONeill and Jane McGee from St Vincent's Secondary School Louth with their project 'Testing which kind of chocolate has the most detrimental effect on your singing voice' at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2024 in the RDS Dublin (Photos: Fennell Photography) Students from Louth were among the award winners at the 60th BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition which was held at the RDS Dublin from Thursday 11 January to Saturday 13 January. Over 1,100 students from across the country took part in the exhibition with judging carried out by 85 expert judges. Louth students picked up awards in both the Special Awards category and in the Display Awards category, with one student picking up two awards in this year's competition. From Dundalk Grammar School, Solomon Doyle was awarded 1st Senior Individual in the Technology category for his project "DermAI: Novel Approach to the Mitigation of Algorithmic Bias within CNN Based Skin Lesion Classification". Solomon also took home The AMD Award, in the Special Awards category for his project. In the Display Awards category, two Louth projects took home awards. Cillian OKelly from St Marys Diocesan School won an award in the Biological & Ecological category for his project, The Effect of Microgravity on Plants. In the Health & Wellbeing category, Moya O'Neill, Mia Gogarty and Jane McGee from St Vincents Secondary School in Dundalk, won an award for their project, "Testing which kind of chocolate has the most detrimental effect on your singing voice". Among the Louth students at this year's competition, were Ryan McLoughlin Smith, Fionnuala Johnston and Luke Matthews from Colaiste Ris in Dundalk, pictured below, with their project "To Investigate Noise Pollution and Cheaper Ways to Integrate Sound Proofing Methods into already Existing Buildings" Also at this year's competition, Lorcan Garvin, pictured below, from Colaiste Chu Chulainn in Dundalk, took part with his project "Which beach sand in Co. Louth has the most microplastics?". The winner of the 60th BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) top prize was Sean OSullivan, a 5th year student from Colaiste Chiarain in Limerick, for his project, "VerifyMe: A new approach to authorship attribution in the post-ChatGPT era". The BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition is designed to raise schools engagement in the critical subjects of science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM). The Exhibition calls upon students aged 12-19 years from all over the island of Ireland to showcase innovative science and technology projects. It is supported by valued partners including the Department of Education, Analog Devices, Amgen, Stripe, and RTE. Learn more at www.btyoungscientist.com. In advance of International Epilepsy Day on the 12th of February, Epilepsy Ireland, the national patient organisation supporting people living with the condition, have appealed to local people across Louth to learn about Seizure First Aid. The organisation is highlighting the importance of knowing the three key words of TIME, SAFE, STAY. Commenting on the campaign, Paddy McGeoghegan, Advocacy & Communications Manager at Epilepsy Ireland said, Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions in Ireland, affecting over 45,000 people across the country. "It is much closer to home than you might think, and it is crucially important the public know how to respond to a seizure. This is one of the most common themes we hear from people with epilepsy and their families. "You never know when you might need to respond to a seizure so please do take 5 minutes to learn more about epilepsy and TIME, SAFE, STAY for International Epilepsy Day. What is meant by TIME, SAFE, STAY? TIME - The first thing you should do is TIME the seizure. This is because if a seizure goes over 5 minutes, an ambulance should be called. SAFE - Keep the person SAFE during the seizure. If a person is having a convulsive seizure, cushion their head with something soft if possible and remove any harmful objects, e.g. furniture from their vicinity. NEVER put anything in a person's mouth or restrain them during a seizure. Be aware that there are also types of seizures where the person does not experience convulsions. Instead, they may zone out or stare blankly, become confused or agitated, display behaviours like chewing, smacking their lips, fiddling with their clothes, or wandering aimlessly. In this type of seizure, the persons awareness of their surroundings is affected, and it is important to gently guide the person away from any danger. As with convulsive seizures, NEVER restrict the persons movements. STAY - During the seizure and after it passes, STAY with the person. Often after a seizure, a person with epilepsy will be confused and in many cases, exhausted. Make sure to stay with them until recovery is complete, explain what has happened and gently reassure them. The person may have experienced an injury if they have fallen, and if this is the case, ensure normal first aid steps are taken. TIME, SAFE, STAY! Other than when the seizure goes over 5 minutes, there are other instances where an ambulance should be called: Call an ambulance if a person having a seizure briefly comes out of it and goes into another one. Call an ambulance if you know its a persons first seizure or if youre not sure whether the person has epilepsy or not (often a person with epilepsy will have a bracelet or card in their wallet/purse indicating they have epilepsy.) Call an ambulance if the person is physically injured e.g. if they have taken a heavy fall during their seizure. Call an ambulance if the person is pregnant. Call an ambulance if youre in any doubt this is the most important point of all. Noone is going to be annoyed at you for calling an ambulance out of real concern; not the person whos having the seizure and not the ambulance crew. To learn more about epilepsy and seizure first aid, or to contact your local Epilepsy Ireland Community Resource Officer, visit www.epilepsy.ie. More than 50 breweries in the Buffalo Niagara region are among those welcome to spend the next few weeks preparing beers to enter in the eighth annual New York State Craft Beer Competition, the largest state contest of its kind in the United States. The New York State Brewers Association, which leads the competition, will have entries in 31 categories from the 500-plus breweries statewide. If past is prologue, roughly 200 of them will pay the entry fee for more than 1,200 beers. Two new craft beer categories, Cream Ale and Dark Lagers, will be part of the mix. Hutch Kugeman head brewer at the Brewery at the Culinary Institute of America and vice president with the Brewers Association described cream ale as a style with deep roots in New York States brewing history. The association will sponsor the state gold medal winner into the Great American Beer Festival tasting competition, a Denver-based event that takes place in the fall and is considered the premier such event in the nation. Cream ales took root in the 1840s as corn became a growing staple in New York. Craft breweries have put varying twists on the style that exploded during the 20th century in Western New York because of Genesee Brewing Co. in Rochester. Earlier this year, for instance, Buffalo Brewing Co. used a Mason jar filled with clean snow from the Blizzard of 22 in its recipe for Golden Snowbeer. Last year, 189 breweries submitted 1,350 entries in the competition. A total of 90 medals were awarded in 29 categories after two days of judging in late February at the RIT Inn and Conference Center in Rochester. Winners will be announced in April during the associations annual conference in Albany. Genesee Brewing won the Governors Cup for best beer of the year a Helles traditional lager, not its cream ale. Wayward Lane Brewing in Schoharie was brewery of the year. . The top style categories entered were Amber and Dark Lagers (96), Coffee, Chocolate, Spice & Other Adjunct Beer, Non-Sour (90), Hazy IPA (89), Fruit and Vegetable Beer, Sour (80) and Barrel Aged, Non-Sour (77). Buffalo region breweries fared well in several categories, winning gold medals in four: Pearl Street Grill and Brewery with its double India Pale Ale (IPA), Saber's Edge Big Ditch Brewing with its Barrel Aged Non-Sour, Double Barrel Aqueduct. Community Beer Works with its Belgian Farmhouse, Thirst Aid Kit. Steelbound Brewery with its Fruit & Vegetable non-sour entry, The Berries Blueberry Wheat. The New York Beer Project took bronze in the latter category with its The One V-43: Island Addition, as well as bronze in the Wild and Sour Ales category with its Yellowstone Wild Ale. Community Beer Works grabbed a silver for The Whale, its popular brown ale. The now-closed West Shore Brewing in Clarence won bronze in the Non-Belgian Strong Ale category for its Winter Warmer. During the competition, entries are whittled down during three rounds of tasting that lead to the medal round, where a smaller cadre of the most experienced judges make the final decisions. Each beer is numbered when it arrives at the judging tables, making for a blind tasting designed to strain out favoritism. The room where the beer is poured into 5-ounce tasting glasses is out of sight of the judges, to prevent them from seeing can, bottle and crowler labels. The dozens of judges and four rounds involved, along with the number of entries and styles, also assures fairness. This is pretty typical on how a beer competition is run, Brewers Association Executive Director Paul Leone said. The event is produced in partnership with Raise a Glass Foundation, a nonprofit organization with experience coordinating beverage competitions. It enlists volunteers to help with the competitions and donates proceeds to charities, including InterVol, a nonprofit that repurposes used medical supplies that helps improve care in more than 80 countries. Brewers Association members pay $55 to enter each beer; nonmembers $75. Association members get one free beer entry with their membership. There is no limit to the number of beers a brewery can submit. Learn more and enter online by Feb. 16 at nyscbc.com/competition. A PETITION is being circulated in East Cork demanding an immediate start to temporary flood relief measures. The document, which is available in most shops and businesses, includes a warning that people could have lost their lives in the October flood, had it occurred at night. According to the petition, which has been initiated by the Midleton and East Cork Flood Protection Group, the community in Midleton and surrounding villages of Dungourney, Castlemartyr, Carrigtwohill, Killeagh, Mogeely, Ladysbridge, and Whitegate in East Cork could not wait any longer for action to put in place interim flood relief measures. Friends and families have been displaced, fallen ill and suffered unspeakable trauma; businesses severely harmed, some lost altogether, and others facing extreme threat from a repeat event, the petition reads. Chairperson of the group, Mona Stromsoe, said the threat to life during the October 18 flood was real and that there had been some near-fatalities. If this flood happened at night it is almost certain there would have been loss of life. There are several stories of people being rescued from homes and rushing water on the street, she said. This constitutes a national emergency, underscoring the imperative for immediate interim measures to safeguard lives in our community. Ms Stromsoe said that some of those impacted by the flooding were still displaced while families were split up and others were living in homes with poor conditions. The cost of repairs to peoples properties has been enormous, with estimates of 130k and upwards on some houses. This is the damage water and sewerage does to a property. This is not just a bricks and mortar issue, the mental health implications have also been huge. We need urgent measures to prevent this happening again. Mona Stromsoe said that the threat to life during the October 18 flood was real and that there had been some near fatalities. She said that members of the group and the wider community of Midleton and surrounding villages were discouraged and disappointed when it emerged that it would be a further eight years until a permanent flood relief scheme for Midleton would be completed, 23 years after it was first discussed in 2010. When the floods hit in 2015, we were told it was a once in a hundred years event, and yet we were hit just eight years later by a flood which was worse than that. The flood that hit us in October came so fast that it was upon us in minutes with flood water rising in some cases up to six feet within minutes of that. She said that heavy rain, high water levels in the river, and soaked ground were factors in the flooding in October, but said some of it was down to a lack of maintenance in Midleton and issues such as blocked drains. She also pointed out that the river levels had risen throughout November and December, a time when there was very heavy rain, giving rise to further fears of repeated flooding. We had an awful lot of rain through November and December and the river levels were rising dramatically and on New Years Day there was a real concern around Midleton and Castlemartyr, that the river was going to flood again. The reason for the petition is put simply by Ms Stromsoe: The people of East Cork feel theyre being let down by Government and council no one is helping them, no one cares. Thats not being dramatic, thats the way it is, were trying to make some noise and make them listen. COUNCIL RESPONSE CORK County Council has responded to the assertion that the people of East Cork feel theyre being let down and said in a statement that it has been actively expediting interim measures to mitigate flood risk in Midleton. Progress in recent weeks has included significant landowner and stakeholder engagement, including meetings with elected representatives, business group representatives, residents associations and landowners, it said in a statement. The council pointed out that it had published a report on the impact of Storm Babet in December. Among the other indicators of progress the council detailed was the appointment of a site investigation contractor to inform the planning and detailed design of the scheme as well as some of the interim works. The site investigation works are imminent, the council spokesperson said. A topographical surveying contractor was also appointed and those works are substantially complete. Tree stumps were removed from the channel at Moores Bridge on December 19 to improve the capacity of the river, a river level gauge was installed at Tir Cluan bridge in December and additional gauges are to be installed at the Lidl Bridge and the pedestrian bridge in the Peoples Park this month. A drone survey has been completed to identify blockages in the river channel and the council is seeking a derogation to clear debris and gravel from the channel. The council said it was engaging actively with landowners in relation to the removal of privately owned bridges and had also arranged for the removal of vegetation to further improve the rivers capacity, work which is due to take place this month. Cork County Council will be engaging shortly with residents in areas liable to frequent flooding to discuss flood mitigation options where appropriate, the council spokesperson said. Cork County Council is obliged to assess whether individual interim measures will require statutory consent / will be subject to statutory approval processes in advance of implementation, and to undertake engineering analysis. Such assessments must be considered on a case-by-case basis to ensure regulatory compliance, satisfy funding requirements and help ensure it does not exacerbate flooding elsewhere. The delivery of proposed interim measures will be subject to resources and funding availability, about which the council continues to engage with the OPW and Government departments. Storm Babet had countywide impacts and Cork County Council continues to work to restore roads/bridges throughout the county while assessing and initiating flood defences where appropriate and practicable to do so. CRAWFORD Art Gallery has announce that it will mark the second year of the new St Brigids public holiday with a whole weekend of free public events, themed to celebrate Brigid, mythology and the spring festival. Special tours, musical performances and family-friendly Brigid-themed art workshops will be held throughout the weekend, from St Brigids day on February 1 right the way through to the new bank holiday Monday on February 5. On Thursday February 1, at 6:30pm, a special tour of the collection will be arranged to honour St. Brigid, highlighting the themes of women and mythology in the collection, and provide a unique way to celebrate St. Brigid's Day. Saturday February 3 will see a unique tour of the Crawford in Irish take place at 2pm, a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the artwork while engaging with the Irish language, whether you're a fluent Irish speaker or simply interested in experiencing the language. On Sunday February 4 at 12pm, MTU Cork School of Music present Music at Midday featuring three string quartets, and taking place in the wonderful surrounds of the gallery's Long Room, where Harry Clarkes Bad Romance exhibition is currently on display. The St. Bridgets Day tour will be held again on Sunday, at 2pm, alongside a family friendly art workshop led by Queenie OSullivan, which will run from 2-3.30pm and allow participants to delve deeper into the themes that connect us to St. Brigid. The St Bridgets tour will be held again at 2pm on Monday 5 February, as will the art workshop. All tours, workshops and performances are free events, with no booking required, and will operate on a first come first served basis. Exhibitions during St Brigids weekend at Crawford Art Gallery include: Harry Clarke: Bad Romance, Following Threads, All Eyes on Us, Venus Patel: Eggshells, and Recasting Canova. The Green Room Cafe at Crawford Art Gallery will be open on Thursday 1 February from 10am for Coffee & Scones and lunch from 12 noon to 3pm, and remain closed on Sunday 4 February and Monday 5 February. IAN Bailey, the 66-year-old chief suspect for the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier, has collapsed and died in Bantry, Co Cork. Mr Bailey was renting accommodation in the west Cork town. It is understood that he suffered a heart attack. Paramedics worked on the Englishman for twenty minutes before he was pronounced dead. He had fallen to the ground on Barrack Street in the town this afternoon. He has suffered from ill health in recent months and had been hospitalised for heart attacks. His solicitor Frank Buttimer, who has known Mr Bailey since March 1997, said he was very upset to hear of his death. I knew Ian was very unwell, we were in communication in the past five days, but I didnt know he was terminally unwell, he told the PA news agency. He had a very severe heart condition, a very bad heart condition, and had cardiac events prior to Christmas. He was a candidate for surgical intervention but wasnt well enough, so he was trying to become well enough. Ian Bailey has died. Picture Dan Linehan Mr Bailey was on two occasions detained by Gardai for questioning in relation to the 1996 murder of the 39-year-old French national Sophie Toscan du Plantier. He has always denied any wrongdoing in relation to the murder of the film producer who had a holiday home in West Cork. Sophie enjoyed spending time in her solitary rural retreat. Mr Bailey, who is a poet and former journalist, was convicted in absentia after a trial in France four years ago. He was sentenced to 25 years in prison. However, officials in France have been unable to extradite the Britsh man to Paris to serve the sentence handed down by the courts. The body of Ms Du Plantier was discovered outside her remote holiday home in Toormore on the outskirts of Schull in West Cork on December 23rd 1996. Mr Bailey, who is law graduate, said he had been effectively "bonfired" through being associated with the heinous crime. Mr Bailey insisted that he had sympathy for the family of the late mother of one. "I know I cannot do anything about their belief that I am responsible. They have always had my full sympathies. I have expressed that. People are entitled to believe what they want to believe. We can't change what people are going to believe." A man, a woman and a dog have been killed in a collision with a BMW X5 in a village in Kent in the UK. The two pedestrians both in their 60s, were walking the dog in Thurnham Lane, Bearsted, when the black SUV collided with them at about 1.40pm on Saturday. According to reports in local media, the couple were Irish and originally from Cork but had lived in the Kent area for several years. Kent Police officers attended the scene along with South East Coast Ambulance Service, but all three were pronounced dead. The force said the man driving the BMW stayed at the scene and has spoken to officers. No arrests have been made. Steven Edwards, who rents a commercial yard off Thurnham Lane, said some drivers use the road as a rat run, adding that recent icy conditions turned parts of it into a skidpan. He said: Some people race up there but as a rule the locals do go quite slow. Its 30mph through the built-up area and then it goes into a national speed limit, which is ridiculous because you should never be doing that up there. Kent Police is appealing for witnesses to come forward. THE UNCLE of Sophie Toscan du Plantier has said "we may never know the truth" following the passing of the chief suspect in her murder. Following the death of Ian Bailey yesterday Jean-Pierre Gazeau said: May he rest in peace. For Sophie's family, friends, and the French justice system, he was regarded as guilty in connection with Sophies murder. However, the Irish Justice did not share the same perspective. This situation is profoundly frustrating for all of us, as it seems we may never learn the truth from Ian Bailey himself. Urgently, we appeal for the Irish police to persist in their investigations, with a particular focus on DNA evidence and potential collaborations, aiming to rectify the shortcomings of the Irish judicial authorities in solving the case within Ireland. Jean Pierre Gazeau the uncle of Sophie pictured in 2008. Picture Dan Linehan Mr Bailey's solicitor Frank Buttimer said he was "shocked and saddened" by his death on Sunday. On Sunday afternoon, Mr Bailey collapsed in Bantry where he lived. He had fallen to the ground on Barrack Street in the town while out walking. He was treated at at the scene but later pronounced dead. The former journalist, originally from Manchester, is suspected to have had a heart attack. In September 2023, Mr Bailey suffered two heart attacks in the space of two days which resulted in his hospitalisation and left him fighting for his life. SHOCK Speaking following his death on Sunday, solicitor Frank Buttimer, who represented Mr Bailey for over two decades, said he was very shocked to hear about his untimely death but that he was aware that Mr Bailey was unwell. "I knew Ian was very unwell, we were in communication in the past five days, but I didn't know he was terminally unwell," he told the PA news agency. "He had a very severe heart condition, a very bad heart condition, and had cardiac events prior to Christmas. "He was a candidate for surgical intervention but wasn't well enough, so he was trying to become well enough." Ian Bailey pictured in Schull in 2022. Picture Dan Linehan The body of Ms Du Plantier was discovered outside her remote holiday home in Toormore on the outskirts of Schull in West Cork on December 23, 1996. Mr Buttimer said that his client had been relentlessly pursued following the tragic passing of of Ms Du Plantier. Whilst I have enormous sympathy with the family, as did Ian, for their loss they were relentless in their wrongful pursuit of him. "Whatever one's feeling is about their tragic loss that feeling is tempered by the consequences that Ian has suffered by his wrongful association with the unlawful killing of Madame Toscan du Plantier. Mr Buttimer said that the English born former journalist was due to turn 67 later this month. He stated that the legal situation that his client faced having been tried in his absence in France went from extremely worrying to infuriating. He stressed that the Irish State facilitated the pursuit of Mr Bailey by the French by granting access to the garda file on the case. This was a decision made by the then Minister for Justice in 2008 where the Minister for Justice had a discretion not to release the material to the French but chose to make that decision. That then brought about the consequence of their pursuit of Ian. And then their endless attempts to remove him from the Irish jurisdiction to face 25 years in jail. He was worn down from it. An Garda SIochana confirmed in June 2022 that the Garda Serious Crime Review Team (SCRT) was to conduct a full review of the case. Mr Bailey has always denied any involvement in Ms du Plantier's death. He is survived by a sister Kay who lives in the UK. His funeral will take place in West Cork. DECISION making is an integral part of our lives. At different times we make important decisions about our finances, property, employment, accommodation, healthcare and social support. Overall, there are five different decision support arrangements for people who have challenges with their capacity and who may need support to make certain decisions. These arrangements are based on the different levels of support that a person requires to make a specific decision at a specific time. The three types of support arrangements for people who currently, or may shortly, face challenges when making certain decisions are outlines as follows: 1. Decision-making assistance agreements allow you to choose which decisions you need help with. It also gives your chosen person the legal recognition to help you to make those decisions for yourself. Your decision-making assistant does not make decisions for you. Instead, they help you to make your own decisions. The decision-making assistant can only help with decisions that are included in your decision-making assistance agreement. This means they will be able to access relevant information and records for you if you have included this task in your agreement. Your decision-making assistant does not make a decision with or for you. They support you to make your own decisions. 2. Co-decision-making agreements allows you to choose someone you know and trust as a co-decision-maker to make certain decisions jointly with you. These decisions could be about your personal care, property, or money matters. After you register your co-decision-making agreement, your co-decision-maker can: Support you in coming to a decision together. For example, the co-decision-maker will try to explain complex information to you in clear and simple terms Help you to access relevant information and records, for example, contacting your bank or doctor Make certain decisions together with you, for example, decisions on your finances Make reasonable efforts to ensure a decision is implemented Your co-decision-maker can only support you with decisions listed in your agreement. They cannot make a decision on your behalf without you - you must always be involved. 3. Decision-making representation orders are made by the Circuit Court in situations where you are not able to make a decision for yourself, even with support from another person. An application by you or someone who has a genuine interest in your welfare for an order must be made to the Court. If the court agrees you are not able to make certain decisions for yourself, it can appoint one or more decision-making representatives to make those decisions for you. A decision-making representation order can be time-limited. It will also limit the powers of the decision-making representative as is appropriate. The court will list all of the decisions that the decision-making representative can make. This may include decisions about property and money matters, as well as decisions about personal welfare. When making a decision for you, your decision-making representative must: Make every effort to find out your past and present wishes about this specific decision, for example, getting the views of your friends, family and trusted advisors Help you to be involved in the decision-making as much as possible There are two types of arrangements for people who wish to plan ahead for a time in the future when they might lose capacity: 1. An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) is a legal device that can be set up by a person (the donor) to allow another person (an attorney) to look after their financial or personal affairs, in the event that they no longer have the capacity to do so themselves. An enduring power of attorney is just one of the legal arrangements you can make in the event you become incapacitated or unable to deal with your affairs. The attorneys role is to act on your behalf to make certain decisions if you are unable to in the future. An attorney does not need to be a lawyer. EPAs do not cover decisions about medical treatment. You can make an Advance Healthcare Directive if you want to make decisions about the medical treatment you get in the event that you lose your capacity. 2. An Advance Healthcare Directive (AHD) is a written statement about the type of medical or surgical treatment you want or do not want, if in the future, you are unable to make these decisions. An AHD is only used if you lose capacity and you can no longer communicate your wishes yourself. It lets your family, carers and healthcare professionals know your wishes about your medical and surgical treatment if you are unable to make or communicate those decisions yourself. You can appoint someone you know and trust as your designated healthcare representative to ensure your advance healthcare directive is followed. All decision support arrangements are registered with & regulated by the Decision Support Service. This is a service that promotes the rights and interests of people who may need support with decision-making. Further information is available at www.decisionsupporservice.ie or telephone (01) 2119750 South Munster Citizens Information phone lines in Cork City are monitored from 10am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. In addition, the Cork City Centre CIC in Cornmarket Street is open to the public on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, from 9.45am to 1pm and Wednesdays from 2pm to 4.30pm. The Blackpool CIC is open to the public each morning from 10am to 4pm, Tuesday and Thursday. Full details for all Citizens Information Centres are available on our website. WHEN all you have to remember your dad is a single photograph, that one item becomes so precious. The happy family picture here shows Tomas OCathain, his wife Eibhlin, and their new baby girl, Neilli. It was taken on Tuesday, August 10, 1976, by Cork photographer Liam Mulcahy, who was on an assignment to record people on the Great Blasket Island in Kerry with Evening Echo journalist Walter McGrath. Just three days later, Tomas, 38, was lost at sea in a presumed fishing accident. Sadly, Neilli, who was three months old, never got to know her father. Neilli and her mother Eibhlin, who is originally from Cork, have treasured that sole photo of their family outside their home on the Great Blasket Island ever since. I got 100 copies of that photograph printed up for Tomass memorial card - thats how important that picture was, recalls Eibhlin. It was also published in the Echo as the search for Tomas got underway, but his body was never recovered. At the time, the OCathains were living on the mainland of Dun Chaoin, but would reside for the entire summer season in the Great Blasket Island cottage. When Neilli was born, she was the only baby on the island. Tomas had written his name on a wall in the cottage, which he used as a staging post for his fishing expeditions. The day we brought Neilli in, she was two months old and I wrote her name Nellie Beag under his and the date 1/7/76 in Mary Quant lipstick, which is all I had with me, recalls Eibhlin. Neilli Ni Cathain - the baby in the main photo - with her mother, Eibhlin, and her husband and children outside their cottage on the Great Blasket Island - the 1976 photo is in the window. Just over a month later, Tomas was gone. I stopped wearing lipstick then, said Eibhlin, while showing me the writing on the wall for an RTE Nationwide programme in 2014. Originally of Botanic Road, Ballyphehane, she is the daughter of the late Frank Gleeson, who was a compositor on the Echo and Examiner. As for Neilli, she has grown up thankful that the Echo had a reporter and photographer on the Blaskets that day to capture the happy picture. The photograph was just there when Neilli was young, but now she loves it and really appreciates having it. Photographer Liam also took a snap that day of Neilli with journalist Walter - who went on to be the editor of the Holly Bough for more than 20 years. Walter had been leading a Cork Historical and Archaeological Society tour on the island and Liam had been assigned to take pictures of their field trip. It was a pure fluke that Liam and the group ended up chatting to Tomas and Eibhlin that day, and took the photos. Tomas disappeared on a rubber dinghy crossing the treacherous Blasket Sound on Friday, August 13, 1976, at 10.45pm. He and a friend, Michael Sheeran, from Meath, had spent the day on the mainland, and used the dinghy when their currach broke down. Its engine stalled 100 yards from the Great Blasket and began to drift seaward. Mr Sheeran swam to shore to raise the alarm, but Tomas stayed in the dinghy and was not seen again. The dinghy was found empty 30 miles away the next day, and there was speculation Tomas may have fallen off when he tried to restart the engine. Local people launched a fund for the young widow and her baby. Tomas had an old naomhog at Dun Chaoin, but it rotted away over the years so, in 2006, Neilli commissioned a new one in his memory. It was built by Eddie Hutchinson and Christi MacGearailt and a group of young people learning the skills of boat building. Neillis grandfather - Tomass father - had a naomhog which had been stored on the first staitse, or stand, at the harbour, which was a position of pride in those days. Today the naomhog built in memory of Tomas is the only one down at Dun Chaoin. At the launch, there was a party and there were musicians at Tigh Mheini, it was a great occasion and I could imagine being there when all the old people were living there, Neilli says. On a glorious day in 2014, Eibhlin and Neilli brought us over to the Great Blasket for Nationwide, on which I am a reporter. Visitors wandered around the old houses while Neilli and her Indian-born husband Pankaj looked after their two small children. Sophia is now 14 and Sean is 11. They havent yet got to the age where they appreciate the significance of the house, says Neilli. You have this amazing thing here and you can sit and look at it and (the history) goes back for years, but no, they wanted to go to the beach! Former Echo journalist and Holly Bough editor Water McGrath holding Neilli in 1976 Pankaj is delighted to have become acquainted with the heritage of the island life - he himself is from the city of Karnal, about three hours drive from New Delhi. And Neilli herself loves that her children have two very rich and distinct histories from which to draw as they get older. The Great Blasket was abandoned in 1953 when the last 22 islanders left for good. At its height, 176 people lived there in 1916, but one by one the families left for America, sending back money for more family to join them, mostly in Springfield, Massachusetts . Eibhlin uses the house on the Great Blasket as a summer retreat. It was built in 1934 by Eoghain Dunleavy, stepson of the islands famous nurse Meini Dunleavy. She was Tomas grand aunt and her story was told in the book Meini by Leslie Matson in 1995. It has just been reprinted by Mercier Press. With the bad summer just gone, Eibhlin didnt get out to the island much this year, but in 2022 she painted Tigh Eoghain and spent time in the company of the seals down on the shore. I find great peace there says Eibhlin. Braithim aga baile. Sasta agus uaigneach ag an am ceanna. Braithim uaim Tomas mar is ann a bhiomar lena cheile don uair dheireannach sara a tharla an ospairt tragoideach. Sasta mar thuigeann leanai ar n-inine Sophia agus Sean an tabhacht a bhaineann lena n-oidhreacht agus an saibhreas a bhaineann lena sinsear. Uaigneach chomh maith go bhfuil an t-Oilean treigthe ach sasta go bhfuil meas ag daoine ar an Oilean agus na daoine stuama a mhair ann. (I feel at home there. Happy and sad at the same time. I miss Tomas when I am there because it was the last place we were together before his tragic accident. Happy that our daughters children, Sophia and Sean, understand the importance of their rich heritage of their ancestors. Sad now that the island is abandoned but happy that people nowadays are interested in the island and the history of its proud people.) Keane (O Cathain) house on the Blasket Islands As we left the island in 2014, I asked Eibhlin what her hopes were for her family connection with Great Blasket house. Id like the family to continue to look after it, come and fish here, she said, and preserve the language and all the heritage of their grandfather and the people before them. A roundup of some of the most popular but completely untrue stories and visuals of the week. None of these are legit, even though they were shared widely on social media. The Associated Press checked them out. A panel of healthcare experts discussed Disease X at Davos. But its only a hypothetical illness CLAIM: A deadly contagion known as Disease X is emerging and under discussion at the World Economic Forums 2024 annual meeting in Davos, Switzerland. THE FACTS: Disease X is not real. It is the name given to a hypothetical pathogen that is being used to help plan for future health crises. Global healthcare experts this week spoke on a WEF panel called Preparing for Disease X. The name was coined by the World Health Organization in 2018. In the days leading up to Wednesdays panel on the topic, social media users began sharing a range of posts misrepresenting Disease X as real, and portraying it as an imminent threat to society. Disease X is the mystery contagion that the World Economic Forum is having a meeting about TODAY! reads one Instagram post that had received more than 2,000 likes as of Thursday before it was deleted. Apparently it could have 20 times more fatalities than COVID. Remember they always tell us whats coming. But Disease X is not an actual illness. The WHO introduced the concept as part of its 2018 list of diseases that pose the greatest public health risk. The information helps guide global research and development in areas such as vaccines, tests and treatments. Disease X represents a hypothetical pathogen that could one day cause an epidemic or pandemic, according to a 2022 announcement about the WHOs intent to update its list. An initial version of the list, which did not include Disease X, was published in 2017 and another update is planned for the first half of 2024. Actual diseases on the current list include COVID-19, Zika, Ebola and SARS, among others. Targeting priority pathogens and virus families for research and development of countermeasures is essential for a fast and effective epidemic and pandemic response, Dr. Michael Ryan, executive director of the WHOs Health Emergencies Programme, said in the 2022 press release. Asked for comment on false claims about Disease X, the WHO sent The Associated Press an updated copy of the release, which was nearly identical to the one from 2022. The Davos panel discussing Disease X on Wednesday featured global healthcare leaders, including WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus; Nisia Trindade, Brazils minister of health; and Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association. Migrants in NYC were temporarily housed in a local school during a storm. The school has not shut down CLAIM: A New York City high school was shut down to house migrants who entered the U.S. illegally. THE FACTS: News that migrants living in a temporary shelter at Floyd Bennett Field, a former airport, would wait out out a storm at James Madison High School led to false claims on social media that the move would be long term. Nearly 2,000 migrants housed in tents at the Brooklyn shelter were moved temporarily to the high school in the boroughs Midwood neighborhood on the evening of Jan. 9. All of the migrants had left the school by early the next morning. Classes were held remotely on Jan. 10 and resumed in person the next day. (Heart)BREAKING: New York has shut down a high school so that it can become a shelter for illegal aliens, reads one post on X, formerly Twitter. But the move was temporary, the migrants were at James Madison High School for less than 12 hours. To be clear, this relocation is a proactive measure being taken out of an abundance of caution to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals working and living at the center, Kayla Mamelak, a spokesperson for New York City Mayor Eric Adams, said in a statement on Jan. 9, referencing the Floyd Bennett Field shelter. The relocation will continue until any weather conditions that may arise have stabilized and the facility is once again fit for living. Aries Dela Cruz, a spokesperson for the New York City Office of Emergency Management, told The Associated Press that migrants began loading onto buses at Floyd Bennett Field at about 4:50 p.m. on Jan. 9 and arrived at the school starting about 5:30 p.m. The last buses arrived about 8 p.m. Some families arrived on their own after hearing about the relocation. The agency wrote on X that the migrants had all returned to Floyd Bennett Field by 4:27 a.m. on Wednesday, after winds had subsided. Fabien Levy, another Adams spokesperson, wrote on X Wednesday that as the rain died down early this AM, we were able to move all the migrants out of James Madison High School by 4:15 this morning, and all headed back to Floyd Bennett Field. James Madison High School wrote in a Facebook post late Tuesday that all classes would be remote the next day. Regular in-person instruction resumed the next day. The decision to house migrants at James Madison High School led to widespread anger, including a protest outside the school and a bomb threat directed at the institution. But Adams stressed at a press conference on Jan. 10 that using schools in emergency situations was nothing new. Starbucks watermelon mug was part of its UK summer collection, not a show of support for Palestinians CLAIM: Starbucks has begun selling a watermelon mug to signal its support for Palestinians amid the Israel-Hamas war and appease those boycotting the chain. THE FACTS: The mug was part of Starbucks U.K. summer collection, which launched in May 2023, months before the conflict broke out, a company spokesperson told The Associated Press. Starbucks, as well as many customers, featured the mug in social media posts around that time. While fighting continues in the third month of the Israel-Hamas war, some on social media are falsely claiming that Starbucks is selling the watermelon mug to mitigate damage caused by a boycott of the company over the conflict. Posts spreading online include photos and videos of the mug, which features a watermelon design on each side green on the bottom with a white stripe through the middle and red with black seeds near the rim. its giving were so sorry pls come, reads one post on X, formerly Twitter, that had received approximately 58,000 likes and more than 18,600 shares as of Friday. yall aint fooling us. we still boycotting. But the mug has nothing to do with the Israel-Hamas war and was launched months before the fighting began, according to Jaci Anderson, a Starbucks spokesperson. Any stores still selling the product would simply have leftover stock from its May 2023 release, Anderson said. The mug can be seen in social media posts from around the time it became available for purchase. A June 22 post on Starbucks U.K. Facebook page, for example, shows the mug as part of a beach picnic. Multiple TikTok users posted videos, starting in May, that showed the watermelon mug among the companys other summer merchandise. Colors found in a slice of watermelon, the green and white rind, red pulp and black seeds, also appear in the Palestinian flag. For years watermelon has been used as a sign of defiance against Israeli actions. Watermelon imagery has more recently become a symbol of solidarity in protests against the Israel-Hamas war, particularly where displaying the flag has been banned. In October, Starbucks sued Workers United the union organizing its employees over a pro-Palestinian message on social media that used Starbucks name and a circular green logo resembling that of the coffee chain, saying that customers might be confused about its origin. The lawsuit was refiled in November, adding language about workers rights to express political views and emphasizing a desire to protect worker safety and Starbucks reputation. Starbucks has not taken an official stance on the conflict, but those boycotting the chain have said they see this as a failure to offer more support to the people of Gaza. The company says of its position on the war: Starbucks stands for humanity. We condemn violence, the loss of innocent life and weaponized speech. Despite false statements spread through social media, we have no political agenda. Find AP Fact Checks here: https://apnews.com/APFactCheck Not real news: Stories about transgender athlete Lia Thomas, Volodymyr Zelenskyy and a Virginia house explosion have been circulating The NCAA is not transferring medals won by Lia Thomas to Riley Gaines. And Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy did not buy two yachts through proxies. We debunk the claims. Not real news: Debunking revived 'pizzagate' claims and other false stories circulating on social media Social media users shared a range of false claims this week. Here are the facts in stories involving 'pizzagate,' the 2020 election and Doctors Without Borders. Saturday, January 20, 2024 Nicholas Forte is the corporate pastry chef for Tao Group - west coast. What drew me to Nick's story is that straight out of pastry school he went to the only 3-Michelin-star restaurant in the state of Nevada, and said, "I want to work here." He got the job at Joel Robuchon. You can see examples of Nick's work on his Instagram account. https://www.instagram.com/fortenj/ You can reach me at lifeisagamblepod@gmail.com, or find me on Twitter @RWM21. If you like the show please tell a friend you think might like it, or if you are really ambitious leave a review wherever you listen. Police are urging the public to come forward with more information after fourteen lambs were killed by a car which drove onto a field. Surrey Police are investigating the incident, which took place overnight on 17-18 January, causing the death of several lambs at a farm in Bramley. The force said it believed a vehicle had entered the private farmland and then mowed over the lambs. A 15-year-old boy from Redhill has been arrested on suspicion of two counts of criminal damage, but the investigation is ongoing. Sergeant Phil Bayman said the incident was 'extremely unusual': "We appreciate that it will have caused considerable distress to the owner of the farm and within the wider community. "We would like to reassure you that we are taking this seriously and doing everything we can to bring those responsible to justice." The farmer, Nick Hutley, told BBC Radio Surrey that the perpetrator took the gates to the field off their hinges and "pushed through" another gate to get to the sheep. He warned that rural crime was an "ongoing battle", adding that it was "getting potentially dangerous if people feel that they can joyride like that and kill livestock". The latest figures by NFU Mutual show that in 2022, the cost of rural crime rose sharply by 22%, reaching a total estimate of 49.5m. The cost of livestock theft in the UK surged 8.7% in 2022, totalling an estimated 2.7 million. Sergeant Bayman said that officers were also looking for any dashcam or CCTV footage which may help the investigation. We are asking anyone with any information, including anyone who witnessed the incident... to come forward as soon as possible." Anyone with information have been told to report it to Surrey Police by quoting PR/0185 of 18/1 via the force's website or 101. Nobody comes to Niagara Falls to see a highway. But from the mid-1960s until less than five years ago, the former Robert Moses Parkway now Niagara Scenic Parkway separated city of Niagara Falls residents and visitors from the spectacular upper rapids of the Niagara River. It blocked views of the Niagara Gorge. It still slices between DeVeaux Woods State Park and Whirlpool Gorge State Park and acts as a barrier to both Niagara Falls and Lewiston residents as it uselessly impedes access to the lower Niagara River. That final frustration is on track to be alleviated. The highway has already been removed or drastically downgraded in the upper Niagara River rapids area and part of the Niagara gorge in a two-phase project that took place from 2016 to 2021. Now, a third phase will look to ameliorate the damage of the highway from Findley Drive in Niagara Falls to Center Street in Lewiston. A scoping process is underway, with New York State Parks as the lead agency, and the City of Niagara Falls, the Town and Village of Lewiston, the New York State Department of Transportation, USA Niagara and the New York Power Authority as partners. This is nothing less than a triumph. For decades, both the name and the presence of this highway represented one of Western New Yorks most misguided infrastructure blunders. Its removal and transformation serves as a powerful example of how such mistakes can be corrected. As Buffalo struggles with healing the damage wrought by the Kensington and Scajaquada Expressways, here is inspiration that should spur leaders to make wise choices. Its highly questionable that there was ever a need for a highway skirting Niagara Falls, placing a concrete barrier in front of some of the most spectacular waterfront in the world. Public works developer and "master builder" Robert Moses built the highway and the Niagara Power Project at the same time. In constructing both, private property along Whirlpool Drive was taken by eminent domain. The Tuscarora Nation lost 500 acres so that the power projects reservoir could be created, in the process compromising the courses of Gill Creek and Fish Creek, thus adding environmental insult to injury. Gill Creek is still partially buried. Its doubtful that traffic needs ever justified the parkway; it would certainly never have been built without the power project. In any case, as Niagara Falls lost population, the parkways traffic use also declined to fewer than 3,000 cars per day. For 25 years before its partial removal, several lanes were abandoned, blocked off from traffic and occasionally employed by bikers or pedestrians. As for the current name of Niagara Scenic Parkway, this came about through the activism of Mamie Simonson, whose house on Whirlpool Drive was taken, along with dozens of others, by the parkway project in 1959. However, she and her husband did successfully sue New York State to get a better price for their home. They moved to Lewiston and went on with their lives, but, much later, in 2016, Simonson got the idea that the Robert Moses name was unhelpful in placemaking the area for visitors. She and others drew up a proposal, a bill was passed by the State Legislature and the name was changed. Simonson died a few months after the success of her renaming project. Unnecessary, unjust and ugly, even with the name change, this is not a highway anybody is going to miss. With much of it now transformed into trails, normal roadways, landscaping and most of all unimpeded waterfront access, the third and most extensive phase of its transformation is exciting news for all of Western New York. It's also vindication for those who hold that car culture should not be prioritized over human needs and the natural landscape. Niagara Falls is the midst of an important revitalization. Its parks and public areas are finally receiving the attention they deserve. This project is adding to that in a way Robert Moses probably never intended. And thats a good thing. 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. Emily Ratajkowski has given up trying to control when she is snapped by paparazzi. Emily Ratajkowski has given up trying to control when she is snapped by paparazzi The model, actress and author, 32, has been photographed since she split from her husband Sebastian Bear-McClard, 36, kissing a string of famous faces including Harry Styles, but says she has refused to act like other celebrities who use backdoor entrances to escape the lenses of photographers. She told Glamour UK magazine: I could do the very crazy, high-profile thing of going through the back door, blah, blah, blah. And I havent done that. And theres been a few moments over the past year, even in the last six months, where Ive been like OK, well, I cant keep having this experience, so I want to hide and Ive done that successfully, but then its like the one time Im out on the street, its a photo. So, I think Ive just given up on trying to control it, for better or for worse. So, basically I have sort of accepted that theres only so much I can do to keep my private life private. And I want to enjoy my life, and if that means that everyone has an opinion on what Im doing, then so be it. Since she filed for divorce from her two-year-old son Sylvesters dad her husband of four years, film producer Sebastian, who is rumoured to have cheated on her and is also currently facing allegations of sexual misconduct by multiple women, in September 2022 Emily has been in the spotlight for dating a series of stars. She has dated comic Pete Davidson, 30, been pictured by paparazzi kissing Harry Styles, 29, in a car park in Tokyo and most recently, snogging French actor and comedian Stephane Bak, 27, in Paris. The mum-of-one also told Glamour how she is convinced life is steeped in women-hating behaviour. She added: I think that unfortunately, misogyny permeates every interaction all women have, even within yourself, and particularly women whove built their careers and their successes off of their image or the way they look; they face a particular kind of aggression. Hopefully, people will have seen the Barbie movie and know what Im speaking about, but I think that is something Ive definitely had. Kieran Culkin is keen to focus on fatherhood following the end of 'Succession'. Kieran Culkin is keen to focus on his family The 41-year-old actor enjoyed huge success playing Roman Roy in the hit HBO drama series, but Kieran is now keen to focus on his family life. Kieran - who has Wilder Wolf, two, and Kinsey Sioux, four, with his wife Jazz Charton - told The Hollywood Reporter: "Im really looking forward to it when I get home because the last couple weeks I havent really been much of a parent." Kieran plans to shut himself off from the outside world for one week while he focuses on his family. He said: "Im going to turn the world off for about a week and just be a dad. Did you read the email? No, I did not. [Im doing] nothing at all, except just diapers and bath time and stuff for like a week." Kieran also revealed that he actually enjoyed himself during the writers' strike in 2023, because it allowed him to spend more time at home. The actor shared: "It had been really probably shouldnt say, I dont care lovely for me. Id been hiding behind it. Im like, No work? Fantastic.'" Kieran won the award for Best Actor in a Television Series - Drama at the Golden Globes for 'Succession' . The Hollywood star recently revealed that his gong was sitting between his kids' Sesame Street stuffed animals. He told Variety: "My kids have these two little stuffies of Bert and Ernie, so the Globe is currently between Bert and Ernie." Kieran later explained why a Big Bird animal hasn't joined the collection. He joked: "The problem with the Big Bird stuffie is he's the same size as all the others. Grover, Elmo, you got all of them. They're all the same size and I wanted to get a Big Bird, but it's not big." Pench Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra has been designated the first Dark Sky Park in India and the fifth in Asia The title of the first Dark Sky Park in India has gone to Pench Tiger Reserve in Maharashtra; it is the fifth such park in Asia. Instituted to protect the night sky and prevent light pollution, the designated area is ideal for astronomy enthusiasts. One of the premier tiger reserves in India, Pench Tiger Reserve or Pench National Park is spread across two states Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. This sanctuary is where The Jungle Book and The Second Jungle Book, Rudyard Kiplings fictional works, are based. There is an increasing emphasis from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) on the intrinsic value of the night sky as a natural, cultural and historical resource. There is a growing need to preserve natural darkness to ensure nature conservation, the ecological integrity in protected areas, and the wellbeing of communities in healthy cities, especially in the face of the rising threat of light pollution. National and local governments have been called upon to establish dark sky oases by the Dark and Quiet Skies for Science and Society Working Group, led by the International Astronomical Union. Certification demands an appropriate lighting policy, retrofits that are dark sky-friendly, education and outreach, and the monitoring of the night sky. Pench Tiger Reserve now boasts a night observatory, and the area near Bagholi has been earmarked for stargazing. How Did Pench Tiger Reserve Get Its Dark Sky Park Label? Over a hundred street and community lights in Wagholi, Pipariya, Sillari and Khapa villages of the Paoni UC Range buffer area have been repositioned to face the ground, effectively reducing light pollution and enhancing the pristine quality of the night sky. Images: Shutterstock Also Read: Get A Birds Eye View of Tigers At Pench Exports of readymade garments (RMG) from Bangladesh to the European Union (EU) dropped by 1.24 per cent year on year (YoY) to $11.36 billion in the first half of fiscal 2023-24 (FY24). The reason is a fall in overall imports by the EU, especially Germany, as the purchasing power of customers in the bloc has waned for various reasons, said Faruque Hassan, president of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA). Bangladesh's garment exports to the EU fell by 1.24 per cent YoY to $11.36 billion in the first half of FY24. However, its apparel exports to Spain, France, the Netherlands and Poland during the period rose by 6.56 per cent, 2.15 per cent, 9.11 per cent and 19.14 per cent respectively. Germany imported the highest ($2.86 billion), 17 per cent less YoY. After importing a decent amount of apparel in 2022, inventories still remain in the EU stock, and that is one reason why the EU is importing less from Bangladesh and other apparel exporters, including China and Vietnam, Hassan said. The countrys apparel exports to Spain, France, the Netherlands and Poland during the first half rose by 6.56 per cent, 2.15 per cent, 9.11 per cent and 19.14 per cent respectively, data from the Export Promotion Bureau show. But exports to Italy fell by nearly 3.9 per cent during the period. Germany imported the highestapparel worth $2.86 billion, 17 per cent less YoY, domestic media outlets in Bangladesh reported. The countrys RMG exports to Canada also dropped by 4.16 per cent to around $742 million in the July-December period. Exports to the United States, however, rose by 5.7 per cent to over $4 billion. The United Kingdom imported garments from Bangladesh worth $2.71 billiona 13.24 per cent YoY growth. The countrys exports to non-traditional markets in the July-December period grew by around 12.3 per cent to $4.53 billion, with a nearly 10 per cent YoY rise to Japan, 24.7 per cent YoY increase to Australia and over 19 per cent YoY rise to South Korea. Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS) To read the full story, become a PRIME member today. PRIME Unlimited Access to Insightful Industry Information All Corporate Members and TexPro Subscribers are eligible to access F2F PRIME CONTENT using the same login credentials. Road Town, British Virgin Islands--(Newsfile Corp. - January 21, 2024) - LBank Labs has established a dedicated Incubation Fund for Inscription Projects, and AMBBi, an innovative dual-asset project on the Bitcoin blockchain, is the first to be inducted into this groundbreaking initiative. This investment not only highlights LBank Labs' vision but also marks a new chapter in the evolution of the Bitcoin ecosystem. LBank Labs Announces Incubation Fund Investment in AMBBi To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8831/195063_295af14744131836_001full.jpg AMBBi: A Trailblazer in the Bitcoin Ecosystem AMBBi, standing for "Art Meets Blockchain & Beyond innovation," is a first-of-its-kind project in the Bitcoin ecosystem, featuring the BRC20 inscriptions AMB and BRC69 trendy play NFT AMBBi. With an active community of over 3600 address holders, AMBBi is a testament to the growing interest and belief in the potential of Bitcoin-based assets. Technological Innovation and Cultural Integration The project is renowned for its unique recursive inscription technology, capable of generating over four trillion unique combinations, with a select 10,000 pieces ensuring the artistry, uniqueness, and rarity of each asset. AMBBi's NFT designs, deeply ingrained in Asian culture, have gained international acclaim, signifying a harmonious blend of art, culture, and blockchain technology. LBank Labs' Inscription Track Incubation Fund The establishment of an Inscription Track Incubation Fund by LBank Labs demonstrates their commitment to nurturing projects that are at the forefront of blockchain innovation. AMBBi, being the first project to be incubated under this fund, will benefit from LBank Labs' extensive resources and expertise in the blockchain sector. Focused Support and Resource Advantages As part of its incubation, AMBBi will receive focused support from LBank Labs in various domains, including market expansion and strategic development. A significant aspect of this support is the opening up of new markets, with a special emphasis on penetrating the South Korean and other overseas markets. This strategic move is aimed at amplifying AMBBi's presence on a global scale and establishing it as a leader in the Bitcoin-based NFT space. Market Growth and Trading Activity Since its inception, AMBBi has demonstrated impressive market growth. The project saw its entire minting of 21 billion AMB inscriptions completed within a week of launch. Additionally, AMB's trading volume on major platforms like OKX Web3 Wallet Ordinals Marketplace has been remarkably high, reflecting the project's liquidity and active market presence. AMBBi's Future with LBank Labs' Support With the backing of LBank Labs' Incubation Fund, AMBBi is poised for significant growth and innovation. This collaboration aligns with LBank Labs' commitment to supporting pioneering projects that reshape the blockchain industry. About LBank Labs LBank Labs, a prominent player in the web3 space, manages a versatile $100 Million fund that extends beyond specific protocols and exchanges. With a team of experienced web3 veterans from prestigious entities, they have built an extensive network of expertise and connections. Their investment strategy includes fund-of-fund investments, direct investments in early-stage projects, and liquid projects, enabling them to explore diverse opportunities. LBank Labs actively promotes their investment thesis, "The Other Angle," through engaging discussions and focuses on the PSE principles to foster sustainable growth and innovation in the web3 landscape. With a Fund of Fund network comprising 12 funds and over $1 billion in AUM, and offices in seven global regions, LBank Labs is well-positioned to expand their network and drive innovation in the web3 ecosystem, together with their partners and collaborators. Press contact: press@lbank.com Business Contact: LBK Blockchain Co. Limited LBank Exchange marketing@lbank.com business@lbank.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/195063 SOURCE: LBank Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 21, 2024) - Commander Resources Ltd. (TSXV: CMD) would like to cordially invite you to visit us at Booth #302 at the Vancouver Resource Investment Conference (VRIC) to be held at the Vancouver Convention Centre West (1055 Canada Place, Vancouver) on Sunday January 21 - Monday January 22, 2024. Notable keynote speakers include former Premier of BC Christy Clark and former Premier of Saskatchewan, Brad Wall. Other keynote speakers will include dozens of globally respected economists, legendary money managers, and investors. "We are entering a new era of de-globalization. The trust that allowed for global trade over the last 30 years has shifted irreversibly and countries are now scrambling to secure supplies of natural resources as a matter of national security. As a result, demand for key resources, will skyrocket. We have gathered over 300 companies that are exploring for and producing these natural resources so investors can position themselves accordingly," said Jay Martin, Host of the Vancouver Resource Investment Conference. For more information and/or to register for the conference please visit: https://cambridgehouse.com/vancouver-resource-investment-conference. We look forward to seeing you there. About the Vancouver Resource Investment Conference: The Vancouver Resource Investment Conference has been the epicentre of junior mining investment in Canada for 25 years and attracts over 5000 mining investors annually. Previous years have been attended by former Prime Minister Stephan Harper and former President of Mexico Felipe Calderon. The VRIC will include a marketplace of over 300 investment opportunities in the mining industry, spanning early-stage exploration to advanced producing mines. For further information: Rob Cameron President 778-989-1501 info@commanderresources.com www.commandderresources.com SOURCE: Cambridge House International BANGALORE, India, Jan. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Antibody Based Therapeutics Market is Segmented by Type ( Monoclonal Antibodies , Bi-Specific Antibodies Therapy , Antibody-drug Conjugates ), by Application (Immune Diseases, Cancer): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2023-2029. It is Published in Valuates Reports Under the Category of Pharmaceuticals & Biotech . Antibody Based Therapeutics Market is projected to reach USD 364180 Million in 2029, increasing from USD 175410 Million in 2022, with a CAGR of 11.0% during the period of 2023 to 2029. Claim Your Free Sample Now: https://reports.valuates.com/request/sample/QYRE-Auto-6L16385/Global_Antibody_Based_Therapeutics_Market Major Factors Driving the Growth of Antibody Based Therapeutics Market A number of reasons, including developments in biotechnology, notably in the area of monoclonal antibody technology, which has improved the specificity and effectiveness of antibody-based treatments, are driving the expansion of the antibody therapeutics market. The need for precise and focused therapies has increased due to the rising frequency of chronic diseases worldwide. Antibodies play a critical role in treating situations including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious diseases. Additionally, the use of antibodies has increased due to the emergence of targeted treatments and personalized medicine, which provide a customized approach to meet the needs of each patient. The medical community's rising acceptance of antibody therapies is partly due to their expanding applicability, particularly in cancer and autoimmune illnesses. Unlock Insights: View Full Report Now! https://reports.valuates.com/market-reports/QYRE-Auto-6L16385/global-antibody-based-therapeutics TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF ANTIBODY THERAPEUTICS MARKET The market for antibody therapies is expanding due to the rising incidence of chronic illnesses worldwide. Treatments for illnesses including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and infectious infections are increasingly dependent on antibody-based medicines, which are created to target certain disease pathways. The market for antibody therapies is growing as a result of the increased need for accurate and efficient treatment interventions brought on by the growing prevalence of certain diseases. The market for antibody treatments has grown dramatically as a result of technological breakthroughs, notably in the field of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). Antibody-based therapies are becoming more widely used in a variety of medical domains because of advancements in the creation, engineering, and manufacturing of monoclonal antibodies, which have improved their specificity, decreased immunogenicity, and raised therapeutic effectiveness. The development of antibody therapies has been accelerated by the era of personalized medicine. Antibodies provide a focused and selective means of treating illnesses, particularly as personalized medicines become more and more in demand. They are an important tool in the development of personalized therapy methods because of their capacity to target specific antigens or receptors linked to certain illnesses. Particularly in the field of cancer, immunotherapy-a class of therapies that use the body's immune system to fight diseases has become widely accepted. As an essential part of immunotherapy, antibody therapeutics are being included in cancer treatment plans more and more, which is fueling the market's expansion because they work well and have fewer side effects than conventional therapies. The market has grown tremendously due to the growing use of antibody therapies in autoimmune illnesses. Antibodies possess the ability to regulate immune responses and selectively target pathways implicated in autoimmune illnesses. This allows for more effective and customized therapy choices for ailments including multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis. The aging population and accompanying demographic shifts have fueled the market expansion for antibody therapies. Due to the increased risk of chronic illnesses among the elderly population, there is a growing need for efficient and focused therapies. Antibody-based treatments are ideal for meeting the healthcare demands of an aging population due to their specificity and decreased adverse effects. The usage of antibody therapeutics has increased due to the move towards combination treatments, which combine many medications for maximum effectiveness. The research and application of combination treatments across a range of illness indications are encouraged by the synergistic effects and enhanced treatment results that may be achieved by combining antibodies with other therapeutic agents. Own It Today - Buy Now! https://reports.valuates.com/api/directpaytoken?rcode=QYRE-Auto-6L16385&lic=single-user ANTIBODY THERAPEUTICS MARKET SHARE ANALYSIS The Market for Antibody Therapeutics is dominated by North America because of the region's strong healthcare system, intensive R&D, and high rate of chronic illness. Because there are so many pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms in the US working on creating and promoting antibody-based treatments, the US market is growing at a significant rate. Purchase Regional Report: https://reports.valuates.com/request/regional/QYRE-Auto-6L16385/Global_Antibody_Based_Therapeutics_Market Key Players: AbbVie Johnson & Johnson Novartis Gilead Sciences Roche Bristol-Myers Squibb Amgen Inc Astrazeneca plc Merck Takeda Merck KGaA Seagen Eli Lilly Ono Pharmaceutical Pfizer Inc Regeneron Innovent Hengrui Medicine Purchase Chapters: https://reports.valuates.com/request/chaptercost/QYRE-Auto-6L16385/Global_Antibody_Based_Therapeutics_Market SUBSCRIPTION We have introduced a tailor-made subscription for our customers. Please leave a note in the Comment Section to know about our subscription plans. 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Valuates Reports sales@valuates.com For U.S. Toll-Free Call 1-(315)-215-3225 WhatsApp: +91-9945648335 Website: https://reports.valuates.com Blog: https://valuatestrends.blogspot.com/ Pinterest: https://in.pinterest.com/valuatesreports/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/valuatesreports Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valuatesreports/ https://www.facebook.com/valuateskorean https://www.facebook.com/valuatesspanish https://www.facebook.com/valuatesjapanese View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/antibody-therapeutics-market-size-to-grow-usd-364180-million-by-2029-at-a-cagr-of-11--valuates-reports-302040047.html In an Instagram post on Friday, the 32-year-old actor said she suffered from a critical septic shock, a severe form of sepsis in which the body overreacts to an infection Hollywood actor Ashley Park, best known for starring in Emily in Paris and Beef, is recovering after experiencing a serious medical scare earlier this month. In an Instagram post on Friday, the 32-year-old actor said she suffered from a critical septic shock, a severe form of sepsis in which the body overreacts to an infection. Advertisement Park was on vacation in the Maldives when the case of tonsillitis cascaded into a serious health crisis. She wrote- As I sit here processing and recovering from the first few weeks of 2024, the only word I can think of is grateful. While on holiday in December into New Years, what started as tonsillitis spiraled into critical septic shock, which infected and affected several of my organs. I am grateful that my health has improved despite what we had initially been told. Advertisement The actress added, Grateful most of all to @peforman for being unconditionally by my side through all this. You calmed my fears and held me through ambulances, three foreign hospitals, a week in the ICU, scary ERs, countless scans and tests and injections, excruciating pain, and so much confusion all while we were alone on the other side of the world far from those we know. I love you Paul. More than I can ever say. Advertisement She concluded the note by saying- Thanks for reading this. Im sorry for being so absent recently to so much and to people in my life. I love you all. Im healing and I promise Im gonna be okay. With added inputs from agencies Pakistani actress Hania Aamir took to her Instagram and wrote, So sad and unfortunate to know that there are artists out there in this day and age who are aware of the power that the cinema holds and still go ahead and feed the riff between the two countries. The trailer of Hrithik Roshan-Deepika Padukones film Fighter has garnered positive responses so far from fans that are awaiting the release on January 25. However, a couple of Pakistani actors have expressed their displeasure over the same and alleged the narrative spreads hate. Pakistani actress Hania Aamir took to her Instagram and wrote, So sad and unfortunate to know that there are artists out there in this day and age who are aware of the power that the cinema holds and still go ahead and feed the riff between the two countries. I feel sorry for the artists who try to bridge the gap by trusting their art as a medium. Distasteful; let art breathe. Advertisement Responding to the same, a user replied to her story on X and wrote- didnt she literally work in a movie which was anti india lol if indians celebs have no issue with the anti india stuff pak celebs do in movies and in reality why do pak celebs care so much. Seeing this, the director of the film Siddharth Anand commented with a thinking emoji: Siddharth Anand (@justSidAnand) January 17, 2024 Advertisement His second reaction was Oh! on another post about the 2018 Pakistani film Parwaaz Hai Junoon. Oh !! Siddharth Anand (@justSidAnand) January 17, 2024 Advertisement Fighter trailer has arrived and started to take over. The trailer has collected 102 million views and counting across all the platforms. The trailer is the most-watched YouTube video in the last 24 hours. It is also trending at No. 1 on YouTube in last 24 hours. Well, its indeed just the beginning as the Fighter will surely win many more milestones ahead. It has indeed justified that Indias biggest aerial action spectacle is on its way for its release on the eve of Indias 75th Republic Day, 25th January 2024. Advertisement Fighter brings together two smoldering humans Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone for the first time. Anand knows how to use his leads, make them play characters assigned to them but also allow them to be what their fans want them to be. So it doesnt matter if Hrithik and Deepika are Air Force officers, they have to flaunt their enviable bodies to gratify our appetites. In slow motion, period. Several images and video clips of the actor picking up the broom to cleaning the temple floor went viral on social media Responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modis call to clean temples across the country ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya, actor Kangana Ranaut swept the floor of Ayodhyas Hanuman Garhi Temple on Sunday. Kangana arrived in Ayodhya earlier to attend the Pran Pratishtha on Monday. Advertisement Speaking to ANI, the actor said, I wish to motivate people to pick up the broom by participating in this cleanliness drive. The city has been beautified and has a festive look about it going into the inauguration day. Several images and video clips of the actor picking up the broom to cleaning the temple floor went viral on social media. Kangana wore a red saree, tied her hair in a bun as she participated in the cleanliness drive. She accessorised her look with heavy gold jewellery and a pair of black shades. The actor also offered prayers at the temple. She shared a post and spoke about welcoming the King of Ayodhya; have a look: Advertisement Advertisement Kangana visited Ram Mandir in Ayodhya last year in October for the Darshan of Ram Janmabhoomi. The actress sought the blessing of the Lord Ram for the release of Tejas . Moreover, Kanganas visit to Ram Mandir held great significance as the famous divine temple plays a very important role in the film. Advertisement Kangana took to her social. Media and shared a caption Best news of the day, will be visiting Shri Ram Mandir tomorrow morning, Ram janmbhoomi is an important part of our movie #tejas Eager to do Darshan of janmbhumi and seek blessings there. With added inputs from agencies In a post on X, Afghanistans television network Tolo News claimed that an Indian passenger plane crashed in the mountains of Topkhana alongside the districts of Kuran-Munjan and Zibak of Badakhshan province The Civil Aviation Ministry on Sunday said Indian aircraft was not involved in a plane crash in Afghanistan amid reports that an aircraft from India met with an accident. The unfortunate plane crash that has just occurred in Afghanistan is neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non-Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft. It is a Moroccan-registered small aircraft. More details are awaited, the ministry said in a post on X. Advertisement The unfortunate plane crash that has just occurred in Afghanistan is neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft. It is a Moroccan registered small aircraft. More details are awaited. MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) January 21, 2024 A senior official said that a Moroccan-registered DF 10 aircraft was involved in the crash in Afghanistan. In a post on X, Afghanistans television network Tolo News claimed that an Indian passenger plane crashed in the mountains of Topkhana alongside the districts of Kuran-Munjan and Zibak of Badakhshan province. Advertisement An Indian passenger plane crashed in the mountains of Topkhana alongside the districts of Kuran-Munjan and Zibak of Badakhshan province, said head of the department of Information and Culture of Badakhshan, Zabihullah Amiri. He said that a team has been sent to the area to pic.twitter.com/Ny5wj8VIiU TOLOnews (@TOLOnews) January 21, 2024 Advertisement Quoting the head of the department of Information and Culture of Badakhshan, Zabihullah Amiri, Tolo News also said that a team has been sent to the area to investigate the incident. The withdrawal of NATO forces from Afghanistan in 2021 was the end of yet another conflict in this historically war-torn nation. Geographically, the country is located at one of the geopolitical hotspots where Russia, China, West and Central Asia, and South Asia meet. The US, too, has been a central player in the last few decades due to its war against terror. Afghanistan has seen years of civil war in the last two centuries, had there been the Anglo-Afghan Wars, incursions by the Russian Empire, the Soviet-Afghan War, or finally the US invasion of Afghanistan. Advertisement Since 2021, the Taliban have ruled the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. The individual countries have seriously conflicting interests, and many of them are playing out bilateral or multilateral rivalries or tensions on Afghan territory. The Hindu Kush mountains are central to the region. For a long time, these mountains have been dominated by warlords. The Hindu Kush range has also been the passageway for invasions of the Indian subcontinent and continues to be important to contemporary warfare in Afghanistan. The Geography The Hindu Kush is an 800-kilometre-long and 240-kilometer-wide mountain range with the Iranian Plateau on its west and South Asia to the south and east, and it finally joins the Great Himalayas. Essentially, they stretch from central and eastern Afghanistan into north-western Pakistan and south-eastern Tajikistan. The Hindu Kush buttresses the Pamir Mountains near the point where the borders of China, Pakistan, and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Afghanistan meet. The north-eastern end of the Hindu Kush merges with the Karakoram Range. The southern end connects with the White Mountains near the Kabul River. It has the valley of the Amu Darya to the north and the Indus River valley to the south. Advertisement The Hindu Kush is one of the great watersheds of Central Asia. The range has many high snow-capped peaks, with the highest point being Tirich Mir at 7,708 metres in the Chitral District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Interestingly, the Hindu Raj (Hindu rule) is a mountain range in northern Pakistan, between the Hindu Kush and the Karakoram ranges. The Hindu Kush and the Pamirs constitute the most seismically active intermediate-depth earthquake zone in the world. Advertisement Mountains occupy 22 per cent of the worlds land surface area and are home to about 13 per cent of the worlds population. While about 915 million people live in the mountainous region, less than 150 million people live above 2,500 m above sea level (AMSL), and only 2030 million people live above 3,000 AMSL. Advertisement The Name The Persian name Hindu Kush appeared first in maps of around 1000 CE. Hindu Kush is generally translated as Killer of Hindu or Hindu-Killer by most writers. According to the 14th century travelling scholar Ibn Battuta, Hindu Kush means Hindu Killer as slaves from the Indian subcontinent died in the harsh climatic conditions of the mountains while being taken from India to Turkestan. Advertisement Another alternate meaning is sparkling snows of India and mountains of India. In Vedic Sanskrit, the range was known as Uparisyena, as beyond the reach of eagles. The Hindu Kush range region was a historically significant centre of Buddhism, with sites such as the Bamiyan Buddhas. While the vast majority of the region has been majority-Muslim for several centuries now, certain portions of the Hindu Kush only became Islamised relatively recently. Advertisement Inhabitants Hindu Kush are mostly inhabited by the Ismaili Muslims who adhere to a 1,400 year tradition of Shia values embracing pluralism. Others like Tajik (who are Sunni Muslims), Uzbek, and some Hazara (Persian-speaking peoples of Central Asian origin) live in the valleys. Kyrgyz nomads who once occupied the high Pamir migrated to eastern Turkey in the 1980s during the Afghan War. Pashtun are found in the major towns, like in Kabul, and in many districts south of the Hindu Kush. Advertisement Some Indic Gujar nomadic herders seasonally visit the valleys of the southern slopes. Kalasha of Chitral and the Nurestanis of Nurestan, were once the larger ethnic group. Since the 11th century they were called Kafir, a term disapproving derived from the Arabic word for infidel. Nurestanis were forcibly converted to Islam in 1896. Advertisement These mountainous areas are mostly barren and sparsely sprinkled with trees and small bushes. Gem-grade emeralds are found in the valley of the Panjshir River in the north of Kabul. The centre of this region is occupied by powerful tribes. They were totally independent and paid neither tax nor owed any allegiance to anyone. Only in the late 1980s did they change loyalty to the Taliban and Al Qaeda combine that had transformed the region from Hindu Kush to Waziristan region of West Pakistan into a loosely integrated jihadist state. Advertisement Opium cultivation and easy money The people of the Hindu Kush region, like some other areas of Afghanistan, have been growing a lot of opium for thousands of years. It is ostensibly required for some medicines but has a huge market for illicit drugs. The opium is cultivated and transformed into rough morphine and heroin for export to the world market. Locals have a long tradition of ingesting stimulants, intoxicants, and depressants. Advertisement Men have traditionally smoked opium, whereas women eat it. The Americans tried to impede opium cultivation after 2001, especially in areas where Taliban Pashtuns reside, but actually the production soared. Afghanistan produces 72 per cent of the worlds opium supply. The cost of cocaine in the US averages $120 per gram, though costs vary depending on location, purity, and local law enforcement. While the Taliban claims that their eradication programme has diminished production, in actual fact, there was a glut of opium on the market, and the Talibans programme was a smokescreen in an effort to raise the market price. The unrecorded opiate economy was still around 10 per cent of Afghanistans GDP. Advertisement Nearly 53 per cent of headmen in opium-cultivating villages were under the control of insurgents and other non-state actors, compared with just 26 per cent for non-poppy villages. Opium is the main source of income for the local warlords and is used to acquire arms. That is the reason there are many gun and ammunition manufacturing setups in small towns of Hindu Kush and adjoining plains, especially in north-west Pakistan. An International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) report, released in 2023, warns that glaciers in Hindu Kush Himalayas are melting at unprecedented rates. They could lose up to 75 per cent of their volume by the end of the century, leading to flooding and water shortages for the nearly 2 billion people who live downstream of the rivers. Complex boundary and invaders For centuries, the Hindu Kush acted as the great wall between Central Asia and India. Greek and Indian kings (Chandragupta Maurya and Kushans) ruled the region for long periods in the first millennium. Around 1500 BCE, invaders from Central Asia crossed the high passes of the Hindu Kush to come to India. These passes have been of significant military relevance and gave access to the northern plains of India. Mahmud Ghaznawi crossed these mountains and invaded India through Khyber Pass 17 times between 1001 and 1030; Muhammad Gauri came in 1175 and 1193. The Thalle Pass was used by Mongols like Timur (Timurlane) in 1398, and the Kipchak Pass by Genghis Khan in the early 13th century. The first Mughal emperor, Babur, came in 1505, and again in 1526, to establish the Mughal Empire. Nadir Shah came in 1739, and Ahmad Shah Abdali came in 1761. During the British Raj in India, the government was keenly concerned with the security of these passes and of the physical features to the south, especially of the Khyber Pass, now in Pakistans Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The Khyber Pass once was an important strategic gateway because it cut through the Spin Ghar instead of through the Hindu Kush, thus offering a comparatively easy route between the valley of Kabul and the plains of Punjab. The Hindu Kush range was less of a barrier but more of a buffer zone. The international boundaries running through the Hindu Kush are primarily those of Pakistan and Afghanistan. The Karambar Pass lies about 60 km west of the Afghan-Chinese border. By the end of the 19th century, the British had subdued the dissidents in the eastern Hindu Kush. Precise topographic measurements followed. The Durand Line, a rather erratic boundary because of a series of compromises reached between the British and the ruler of Afghanistan, took shape in 1893. It was later modified a little by the Anglo-Afghan Treaty of 1919. This is now the 2,670-kilometre international boundary between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The line divides the ethnic Pastuns, Balochis, and Gilgit-Baltistan. No Afghan government has recognised the Durand Line as its border since 1947. It has been described as having one of the most dangerous borders in the world. Terror breeding ground There is no militant group in the world that, at some point, did not operate in Hindu Kush. From Uzbeks and Chechens to Chinese and Turkish militants, everyone is in action, and some owe allegiance to no one. The Taliban and Al Qaeda had built their state within a state in the Hindu Kush and found a good demographic base to enrol those needed to pursue their political and ideological agenda. They propagated Shariah laws and maintained the Shoora legal system, where beheading was a common punishment. Madrassas are used to indoctrinate the young with their ultra-orthodox version of Islam and graduate brainwashed, motivated fundamentalists. Suicide bombers were their main weapons. Pashtun nomads and Gujars dominate the area. With the Taliban government controlling Afghanistan, the whole country is now following Shariah laws. Beyond superpowers Due to harsh peculiar terrain and stubborn self-pride of local people, the British could not exercise sufficient control. In spite of pumping in modern weapons, Soviets failed to exercise control and were forced to leave in the 1980s. Al Qaeda and Taliban had used this exit and made it their haven. After the 9/11 attacks, Al Qaeda became Americas number one enemy and the US led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) arrived in Afghanistan and began their campaign against Al Qaeda and Taliban making the area highly militarised. Islamic militant organisations gradually assembled the Mahsud, Wazir and other tribal groups into a loosely integrated confederation, which acknowledged Mullah Omar (the Taliban) and late Osama bin Laden (Al Qaeda) as their spiritual and political Emirs. Under American military pressure, Osama bin Laden moved to Pakistan and was finally killed in Abbottabad in a heliborne operation on 2 May 2011. The US exited Afghanistan in 2021, leaving the country for Taliban take-over. Anyone who dominates the strategic Hindu Kush region and controls its opium-dollars and illegal small arms industry will have significant influence over Islamic world and the terrorism that emanates from its fundamental groups. They would also control the strategic land routes connecting major Asian players China, India, Saudi Arabia, Iran and the rest of West Asia. Whenever militants find a stronghold and anchor in the region, it has serious ramifications for India which is considered a soft target for spread of ideology. Interestingly, the region has become a secure base for producing propaganda documentary films and cell phone videos for jihadists. Pakistans desire In 2006 President Pervez Musharraf ordered the Pak Armys XI Corps and elite Special Services Group into the FATA (Federally Administered Tribal Areas) to root out the Taliban and Al Qaeda once and for all from Pakistani soil adjoining the Hindu Kush area. The effort was a dismal failure, and cost the army over 600 lives. The Pakistan Army has been unleashing a massive assault in North Waziristan and FATA areas to regain control from militants albeit at the cost of more lives of their own. Pakistan Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) had invested heavily in the Afghan local warlords and Taliban. They saw a friendly Afghanistan as a defence in depth against India. This desperate desire for depth has been questioned by some Pakistani strategists because it is resulting in playing into the hands of terrorists and has consequential internal terror effects in Pakistan. Taliban and Al Qaeda have de-facto set up home, with virtual impunity, in what many call chaotic Pakistan. Pakistan now has another front to contend with on its north-west. Strategic play China is extending road and rail links and oil pipelines to the region for strategic reasons through its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China also has interests in exploiting rare earth and other critical minerals. China was also concerned about the Islamic influence and terror support to Muslim Uyghur population in Xinjiang. Uyghur groups and Islamic State (IS) have been active in Hindu Kush. The costly American presence in the region was suiting China, because any power vacuum in Afghanistan gives free-run to terror groups. Chinese influence in the region would help them prevent the spread of Islamic militancy into Xinjiang. Stability of the region is in Chinas interest. The US was initially wooing Iran and even going soft on its nuclear ambitions in view of altered dynamics in the region, but that did not work and once again there are antagonistic relations between the two. For Tehran, the American withdrawal from the Hindu Kush has been mixed. Iran has a conflict with the US, and American bases in western Afghanistan were of bother. While Iran wants to see the US fail in all conflicts, any instability in Afghanistan creates refugee issues for Iran, and in that context American presence was good for them. China wants to have closer military ties with Iran, and has been offering defence equipment. Iran has been concerned about Pakistan and has often attacked their military outposts to prevent terrorist infiltration. Russia has maintained relations with a number of players in Afghanistan, including the Taliban. Moscow wants its southern flank secure. They do not want the resurgence of Islamic movements. Independent Indias contact with the famous dry fruit and shawl seller Kabuliwala was lost by the mid 1960s. India thereafter followed developmental diplomacy in Afghanistan, and Tajikistan to strengthen presence, and to reduce Pakistani leverage. It helps to win over public support of masses that had ancient links with India. Afghanistan is also important to Indias Central Asia connection. A possible oil pipeline from Turkmenistan, via Afghanistan and Pakistan to India (TAPI) may become a reality someday. The Taliban has reiterated their support for the pipeline and promised to guarantee its security. It is the only realistic large-scale economic project that they have got. India also invested in Chabahar port and road infrastructure to Central Asia. Pakistan has been busy playing a double game. Though funded by the US it kept supporting the Taliban in Afghanistan against America. Washington learnt about Pakistani duplicity the hard way. Though the US has moved out, it is monitoring developments closely. While the US keeps its linkages with Pakistan, Washington is already wooing New Delhi as a partner in its greater Indo-Pacific strategy. Terror outfits in Hindu Kush have for long been playing games in Jammu & Kashmir. It is time the world realises that Hindu Kush has been the epicentre of world terror and other illicit activities and it cant be left to fundamentalists in Pakistan to rekindle the terror fire. Narco based agriculture economy and illicit fund transfers from supportive regimes have to stop. While Pakistan is fast becoming a failed state due to bad strategic planning, and it fights to retain its sovereignty, India has to use its renewed friendship with the West and emerging power status and equations to arm-twist the world to clear the Hindu Kush region as the terror factory of the world. The writer is Director General, Centre for Air Power Studies. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost_s views._ Read all the Latest News , Trending News , Cricket News , Bollywood News , India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram . Bangladesh and India stand on the threshold of togetherness of time. The commonalities are clear as are future objectives Although it came as no surprise that Sheikh Hasina would win hands down in the last Bangladesh national elections, the fourth time historic win for her Awami League has come as a matter of great merriment for the secular constituency not only in Bangladesh but India as well. The victory has moreover defeated the nefarious designs of anti-secular, anti-India forces, including Pakistan and China, which had sought hard to dethrone not only Bengali linguistic nationalism and the manner in which Bangladesh was liberated from the clutches of Pakistan, but growing Indian prowess in the Indian subcontinent. Advertisement Bangladesh had been enduring a stormy past during the last couple of years. The radicalised, barrack-based opposition that were hell-bent on putting Hasina on the back foot had to ultimately eat humble pie. Severed from its Western wingwith able Indian aidJanuary 2024s decisive victory is also being seen not only as victory of Bengali linguistic and cultural nationalism over Islam, but the strengthening of age-old bond between India and Bangladesh. Indeed, 1971 was an important waypoint in history. It proved that religion cannotin the ultimate manifestationoverride culture. But it must also be remembered that much had changed in Bangladesh since 1971. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh, was assassinated five years after the liberation and for one reason or the other the erstwhile East Pakistan was once again on the fast track to becoming a barrack politics backed Islamist country. Advertisement While it is true that the fortunes of Bangladesh have waxed and waned over time, vacillating between bouts of Islamism, military rule and secular democracy, there was apprehension that the just concluded elections slated for January 2023 could well be a test case. It was important that the secular forces remained in power and not pave way to the barrack politics backed by radical Islam. Such a prognosis entailed sense when the geopolitics of the region was taken into account, especially as there was great browbeating from a United States whose global policing role feltincorrectly sothat it knew no bounds. The return of the anti-liberationist forces of 1971 would have sounded the death knell to Bengali nationalism that had characterised the triumph of culture over religion. Advertisement But better sense prevailed among the people of Bangladesh and not only was the secular shroud that gave birth to a great nation enforced, but the umbilical cord that had bound India with Bangladesh was strengthened. Certain observers would state that the elections of January 2024 were not exactly free and fair. Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leader Khaleda Zia is under house arrest on corruption charges and the partys acting leader and Khaledas son, Tarique Rahman, is in exile in the United Kingdom. The elections were moreover held amid BNP boycott. It also witnessed a fall in voter turnout: from almost 80 per cent in 2018 to 40 per cent now. Advertisement Whatever be the atmospherics, the fact of the matter is that Sheikh Hasina has won her fourth consecutive term. This augurs well for the region. It must also be emphatically stated that the path to victory has not been rosy for Sheikh Hasina. Indeed, she has endured a great deal during her lifetime. Her entire family (save for her sister Sheikh Rehana) including her young brother, Sheikh Russel (who was just ten years old), was assassinated on 15 August 1975. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh and Hasinas father was cruelly gunned down along with the family. Advertisement Hasina fought the barrack and radical politics and guided Bangladesh back to its democratic innards. She was also the victim of a powerful grenade attack on one of her rallies in 2004. Observers state that renegade groups such as United Liberation Front of Asom (that had been given shelter by the BNP) were also involved in the attack. The grenade attack killed 20 of her senior Awami League members. The people who died included Ivy Rahman. Advertisement During Hasinas second term (2009), her term witnessed established democratic governance. She cracked down on Global Salafists and began a campaign to hold accountable those responsible for the genocides of 1971 that were committed alongside the Pakistani army. Hasina has her job cut out for her post her historic win. A few pointers are being proffered in this column: Advertisement She has to rein in the closet Chinese and Pakistanis inside the Awami League. It had been reported that some of her close advisers were close to Beijing. There was also a call from certain vested interests in Bangladesh as well as India to purge and replace some of them. But independent investigation has shown that they have not only been loyal to Sheikh Hasina, but have been instrumental in her well honing her administration as well her win. The fact that they have been retained in the new ministry (namely Mashiur Rahman, Gowher Rizvi, Tawfiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury, Salman F Rahman, and Tarique Ahmed Siddique) showcased this important aspect. One Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury has been inducted into the list of advisors to the prime minister after the unveiling of the cabinet. Prof Gowher Rizvi, the International Affairs Adviser to Sheikh Hasina, is particularly close to this author and is an Oxford Don. Sheikh Hasina must stave off Chinese and Pakistani overtures to short-circuit her moves to reinforce secular and pro-India values among her polity. The Hasina administration must ensure that there is correct and real-time cooperation between India and Bangladesh in the fields of Islamist terror, human and cattle trafficking as well improve people to people cooperation by instituting socio-cultural events in Dhaka, Kolkata, Guwahati, Delhi and Bangalore. A joint committee comprising senior and informed people from India and Bangladesh must be formed to look at the sharing of the Teesta waters. The number of senior Bangladeshi armed forces officers for training in institutions such as the Defence Services Staff College, Army War College, and National Defence College. This author recalls that there were only a handful of Bangladeshi officers in such institutions when he had visited the above premier institutions to deliver lectures and presentations. Bangladesh and India stand on the threshold of togetherness of time. The commonalities are clear as are future objectives. Indeed, bonhomie of the highest kind must characterise the relationship of the future. India must also stop being overbearing towards its smaller neighbour. Some years ago Bangladesh minister (then foreign minister), Dipu Moni had, speaking about the marked similarities of India and Bangladesh, said, Amader Swapna Ek, Amader Swartha Ek (Our Dreams and Our Interests are One). As a new Bangladesh that awakened in January 2024 to greet the India that awaits post May 2024, the above sage pronouncement makes even superior sense. Advertisement Jaideep Saikia is a conflict analyst and bestselling author. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. Read all the Latest News , Trending News , Cricket News , Bollywood News , India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram . The country seeks to not only grow itself but change the inequities and maladjustments elsewhere As Indias economic performance grows, its soft power grows in proportion. Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the charismatic leader of this 75-year-old republic and ancient civilisational culture, is thought to have answers to the dilemmas of the currently divided and troubled world. From a country that used to deliver unwanted lectures to the world, it is now much sought after. Advertisement Modis one world family messaging during the recent G20 year hosted by India, ended by including the 55 nation African Union into its fold. India made the effort, achieved unanimity for the move, and successfully included the most exploited and savaged continent on earth onto the leading global platform where its ills can be addressed. Domestically, the inclusive tone is set by Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Prayas, Sabka Viswas, despite the inevitable mockery and accusations of Hindu triumphalism. Together, these ideas resonate in an old-fashioned way in a world with two ongoing wars, one in Europe and the other in West Asia and the tendency to form opposing axes. A polarisation not seen since WWII is developing in a very worrisome way. Advertisement Meanwhile, the fact that India has drawn closer to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Israel than ever before, in practical, material, ways, gives the lie to the criticism of Hindu communalism. In addition, America has become a firm strategic partner with military and technological benefits for both. France is now a firm friend and defence manufacturing partner too, along with Russia. Other relationships have also undergone massive positive transformations, such as the one with Japan. Advertisement Modi, a grey eminence with unbounded energy, in his 73rd year now, is widely regarded as one of the most respected and influential voices in the pantheon of global leaders. That this global prominence has grown steadily over the last ten years is not surprising. Not only have the prime minister and external affairs minister been indefatigable in their diplomatic efforts, but India has also come from 10th to 5th position in its economy. This fact has given India great credibility. Advertisement With a gross domestic product growth of around 7 per cent per annum going forward, India is expected to occupy the 3rd position in the world by 2027. It will be behind only the US and China, with a GDP of $10 trillion, up from its current $4 trillion. It is the worlds most successful economy now. Advertisement By 2047, Indias 100th year since Independence, it is expected to have become a highly developed country. It will also have multiples of its present per capita income for its vast population, expected to touch 1.70 billion by then. It is expected to have an economy of over $30 trillion by then. Advertisement That Indias soft power is growing alongside all this is not surprising, nor is it unprecedented. Ancient India was fabled for its wealth, the greatest in the ancient world. That it set off a series of marauding conquests and occupations was the other side of the coin not likely to be repeated in the 21st century. Advertisement Its cultural, civilisational and dharmic influence spread all over the Far East including China and Japan. Without any aggression, attempt at domination or conquest. West Asia was also heavily influenced by Indian learning and innovation. And not a few so called inventions and discoveries claimed by the West were shamelessly lifted from India without acknowledgement. Advertisement Davos, used to hosting worlds leaders, its finest minds and economic thinkers, for over half a century now, witnessed a major presence from India this year, building on the interest generated last year. This in the presence of leaders from 300 countries. The rate of foreign direct investment into India has trebled, and is slated to grow exponentially into high technology areas such as chip-making, defence manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and other relocations of manufacturing from China. Advertisement For its latest soft power projection, India deployed the thoroughly confident and articulate Union Minister for Minority Affairs, Smriti Irani. She led the charge for global gender equality and equity. This is the first time a woman minister has been sent to represent Indias government, and over 1 .4 billion people at Davos. This gender initiative is supported by the Bill and Melinda Foundation, the Davos Summit founder, and over 10,000 global corporate houses. Advertisement The gender alliance is intended to bring together global good practices, knowledge sharing, and most importantly, investment in womens health, education, and support for women-led enterprise. Smriti Irani has also recently returned from a path-breaking trip to Mecca and Medina. She had gone there to improve the Indian and Saudi government supported facilities for Indian pilgrims on the Umra or Haj, required of devout Muslims at least once in their lifetime. She was received warmly by the Saudi clerics and authorities, despite being sent out to do what was seen as a mans job. Advertisement But the whole question of gender equity and equality has had a chequered career in India so far. The government recognises the problems associated with it, and has attacked it at various levels including banning gender determination using sonograms at the pre-birth stage, and the crime of infant matricide/ patricide of female children. Later in the trajectory, people are exhorted to educate girl children. The process is working, as gender ratios and school statistics bear out, but there is a long way to go towards equal participation in the workforce. Meanwhile, India boasts of female fighter pilots trained to fly the supersonic Rafale, female commercial pilots, policewomen, soldiers, lawyers, doctors, teachers, judges in the higher judiciary. And yet, only 27 per cent of women have joined the workforce so far, with many dropping out after a spell to take the remainder to depressing single digits. The old patriarchal attitudes persist, making it very hard for them and thereby wasting a massive human resource. However, by using a global platform at Davos and the support the initiative has garnered, it is clear that this lack of gender equity and equality is a global phenomenon. Women are simply not considered for many jobs. Many avenues of learning are closed to them. They do not get equal pay or terms of contract. And this in advanced Western countries. The plight of women in Islamic countries is much worse, with Afghanistan under the Taliban or Iran under the Ayatollahs providing the most extreme cases. The important thing is that India seeks to not only grow itself but change the inequities and maladjustments elsewhere. This gender initiative is another step in this direction. With a dozen Indian lounges at the 54th Global Summit at Davos, it featured prominently at the five-day jamboree. Many of the Indian states such as Maharashtra, Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka competed for attention with Indian AI and technology giants such as Wipro, Infosys, TCS and HCL Tech. There were three Union ministers present, as many chief ministers, and a contingent of Indian CEOs. India has moved on from showcasing its exotica as Incredible India, to projecting a lucrative and viable Credible India a preferable investment destination. The author is a Delhi-based writer. Views expressed are person__al. Read all the Latest News , Trending News , Cricket News , Bollywood News , India News and Entertainment News here. Follow us on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram The Israeli air force fired the missiles while flying over Syrias Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, according to the Syrian army, which also stated that the structure was completely destroyed. Mazzeh is a heavily guarded neighbourhood in western Damascus At least five Iranians were killed when an Israeli assault on the Syrian capital on Saturday damaged a facility used by the Iranian paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, according to reports from Iranian and Syrian official media. The Israeli air force fired the missiles while flying over Syrias Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, according to the Syrian army, which also stated that the structure was completely destroyed. Mazzeh is a heavily guarded neighbourhood in western Damascus. The Israeli army remained silent. Advertisement A few hours later, two individualsincluding a member of Hezbollahwho were in the car and two more who were in a nearby orchard were murdered by an Israeli drone hit on a car in the southern Lebanese port city of Tyre, according to a group official and Lebanons official news agency. Ali Hudruj, a local Hezbollah leader, was among those slain, the official added, speaking under the condition of anonymity in compliance with norms and withholding more information. Two of the deceased in Damascus were named by Nour News, an outlet said to be closely affiliated with Irans intelligence services, as Gen. Sadegh Omidzadeh, the deputy for intelligence of the guards expeditionary Quds Force in Syria, and his subordinate, also known as Hajj Gholam. The five deceased were identified as Hojjatollah Omidvar, Ali Aghazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi, Saeed Karimi, and Mohammad Amin Samadi by testimonies later released by the guard. It provided them with no rankings. There was a delay in reconciling the disparity in information. Advertisement An opposition war monitor, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said at least six people five Iranians and a Syrian were killed in the missile attack that struck while officials from Iran-backed groups were holding a meeting. The Observatorys chief, Rami Abdurrahman, said three of the Iranians were commanders, adding that four other people are still missing under the rubble. Advertisement The Telegram channel for Iranian state TV reported that Irans President Ebrahim Raisi condemned the Israeli attack on Damascus, adding that the Islamic Republic will not leave the crimes of the Zionist regime unanswered. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani condemned the Israeli strike in a statement saying that without any doubt, the blood of these high-ranking martyrs will not be wasted. Advertisement Iran also tried again to link Israel to the Islamic State group, something its leaders have been trying to do since a suicide bombing by the extremists in early January in Iran killed more than 90 people. Security forces deployed around the destroyed four-story building as ambulances and fire engines were seen in the area. A search for people trapped under the rubble was underway. Windows were also shattered in nearby buildings. Advertisement A grocer near the scene of the strike said he heard five consecutive explosions at about 10:15 a.m., adding that he later witnessed the bodies of a man and a woman being taken away as well as three wounded people. The shop shook. I stayed inside for a few seconds then went out and saw the smoke billowing from behind the mosque, the man, who asked that his name not be used for security reasons, told The Associated Press. Advertisement What happened was terrifying. I collapsed, said Khaled Mawed, who lives nearby. The strike came amid widening tensions in the region as Israel pushes ahead with its offensive in Gaza. Israels assault there, one of the deadliest and most destructive military campaigns in recent history, has killed nearly 25,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities, caused widespread destruction and uprooted over 80% of the territorys 2.3 million people from their homes. Advertisement Israel launched the offensive after an unprecedented cross-border attack into Israel by Hamas on Oct. 7 that killed 1,200 people and took some 250 others hostage. Roughly 130 hostages are believed by Israel to remain in Hamas captivity. The war has stoked tensions across the region, threatening to ignite other conflicts. Advertisement Last month, an Israeli airstrike on a suburb of Damascus killed Iranian general Seyed Razi Mousavi, a longtime adviser of the Iranian paramilitary Revolutionary Guard in Syria. Israel has also targeted Palestinian and Lebanese operatives in Syria over the past years. Iranian and Syrian officials have long acknowledged Iran has advisers and military experts in Syria, but denied there were any ground troops. Thousands of fighters from Iran-backed groups took part in Syrias conflict that started in March 2011, helping tip the balance of power in favor of President Bashar Assad. Advertisement Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes on targets inside government-controlled parts of war-torn Syria in recent years. Israel rarely acknowledges its actions in Syria, but it has said that it targets bases of Iran-allied militant groups, such as Lebanons Hezbollah, which has sent thousands of fighters to support Syrian President Bashar Assads forces. Advertisement Earlier this month, a strike said to be carried out by Israel killed top Hamas commander Saleh Arouri in Beirut. Over the past weeks, rockets have been fired from Syria into northern Israel and the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, adding to tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border and attacks on ships in the Red Sea by Yemens Iran-backed Houthi rebels. Museveni, who hosted the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) in Kampala from January 15-20, spoke about the mistakes committed by former military ruler Idi Amin who forced Asians, a majority of them Indians, settled in Uganda to leave the country. Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has hailed the contributions of the Indian diaspora to the economic development of his country. At the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Kampala, Museveni commended the noteworthy accomplishments of Indian returnees. I was asking people how many factories have been built by our Indian returnees. They told me about the 900 factories that they had built since they came back, he said. Advertisement Museveni, who hosted the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) in Kampala from January 15-20, spoke about the mistakes committed by former military ruler Idi Amin who forced Asians, a majority of them Indians, settled in Uganda to leave the country. Reflecting on Ugandas historical events, particularly the expulsion of Asians, primarily Indian Ugandans, during Idi Amins regime, President Museveni openly acknowledged the mistakes made by the government. He said, NAM countries also sometimes make mistakes like here in Uganda. He recounted the adverse consequences of Amins actions, including the economic impact on his country. India during Amins time had cut ties with his regime due to his actions. President Museveni noted the adverse impact of Amins decisions on the countrys economy, saying, You had a leader of a NAM country undermining his own economy. The expelled individuals were actively involved in various sectors, including sugar, hotels, and steel production. Advertisement Expressing remorse, the president lamented the lost opportunities for growth and development during that tumultuous period. President Museveni reflected on the measures undertaken by the Ugandan government to address and rectify past injustices. So therefore it is very crucial that we study very carefully the issue of the investment climate in our respective countries. When we kicked out all these people and we came into government, we brought back, we gave back the properties of our Asian citizens and non-citizens that Idi Amin had taken. We gave them back. We had a hot debate in parliament, some people saying this. We said, no, they must get back their properties. And they got their properties, he added. Advertisement At the outset of his address, he also recognised Indias pivotal role in the establishment of the NAM group and the nations participation in the inaugural NAM summit in Belgrade in 1961. This group of countries, accounts for 4.46 billions of people of the World. It was started by our far-sighted elders in the persons of Sukarno of Indonesia, Pt Jawaharlal Nehru of India, Nasser of Egypt and Chou En Lai of China, he said. Advertisement The first summit of NAM took place in Belgrade, Yugoslavia, in 1961 and was attended by: Afghanistan, Algeria, Burma, Cambodia, Ceylon, Congo, Cuba, Cyprus, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Lebanon, Mali, Morocco, Nepal, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Tunisia, United Arab Republic, Yemen and Yugoslavia, the President of Uganda said. (ANI) Advertisement With inputs from agencies. The participants in the joint meeting decided to seek cooperation from human rights activists and lawyers and create deterrence over the safety of journalists and shrinking space for free speech in the media, Dawn reported. In a bid to jointly resist media restrictions through pressure tactics and trolling on social media and to ensure freedom of expression, representatives of various press clubs, unions and associations of journalists and media workers formed an alliance called Coalition for Free Media on Sunday. According to media reports. almost all groups and factions of media organisations, including Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), Council of Pakistan Newspapers Editors (CPNE), All Pakistan Newspapers Employees Confederation (Apnec), press clubs of four provincial capitals and the National Press Club, participated in the meeting. Advertisement During the meeting, the initiative by the Association of Electronic Media Editors & News Directors (AMEND) to form the Coalition for Free Media was supported by the participants. The participants in the joint meeting also decided to form a steering committee of the coalition to resist the continuous degradation of the freedom of information in Pakistan. The participants in the joint meeting decided to seek cooperation from human rights activists and lawyers and create deterrence over the safety of journalists and shrinking space for free speech in the media, Dawn reported. President Azhar Abbas, who moderated the meeting, announced that freedom of speech did not mean unregulated and unethical media practices. Advertisement The participants stressed that character assassination of journalists on social and mainstream media had become a norm in recent years.PFUJ (Barna) President Afzal Butt said many countries had imposed restrictions on media. However, it appeared too obvious and blatant in Pakistan. He stated that regressive policies were being followed, even by political parties, against media freedom. Advertisement According to a statement issued by the coalition, successive governments, political parties and some state institutions have adopted the policy to defame independent journalists and damage their image through a sustained campaign. It said that some media and journalists have also started taking part in this campaign. The statement said some TV channels and newspapers allegedly attempted to justify such defamatory campaigns, accusing the media organisations and professional journalists of committing treason and even blasphemy, according to Dawn report. Advertisement It was agreed that media organisations and journalists could have different editorial policies and report the same stories differently. However, there could be fair and justified criticism of these stories and opinions. The coalition said, But if media organisations start to run campaigns against journalists, they themselves are likely to become a threat to media freedom in this county, Dawn reported. Advertisement The coalition has called for several demands including ensuring free speech and freedom of media as no society can progress without free media. Freedom of speech generates dialogue and debate which is important in every democratic society, recalling that media organisations have been campaigning for this constitutional right. Members of the coalition held discussions on the issue of safety and protection of journalists. It noted scores of journalists have been killed and several abducted or incarcerated by state and non-state actors, during the past many years. Advertisement The coalition decided to jointly resist any attack on media organisations from state or non-state actors. The participants agreed that there was undue pressure and demand to not publish columns and articles of certain writers or sack journalists and it had become the order of the day. The participants said that those resisting such undue pressures from the government and state institutions had been subjected to different types of persecution, including stoppage of government advertisements and blocking of TV channel transmission. Advertisement With inputs from ANI. Senators are working to finalise the terms of a border measures deal that might open the door for Republican approval of aid to Ukraine, and they intend to make the announcement as early as next week As congressional negotiators attempt to establish a bipartisan agreement on immigration and the border, a politically dangerous dynamic is emerging, with strong opposition from the far right and former President Donald Trump posing a threat to the painstakingly worked out compromise. Senators are working to finalise the terms of a border measures deal that might open the door for Republican approval of aid to Ukraine, and they intend to make the announcement as early as next week. However, since House Speaker Mike Johnson is under tremendous pressure from Trump and his House allies to demand even more broad concessions from Democrats and the White House, the arrangement is already beginning to falter. Advertisement I do not think we should do a Border Deal, at all, unless we get EVERYTHING needed to shut down the INVASION of Millions & Millions of people, Trump posted on social media this week. This is a well-known political dynamic that has frequently sabotaged attempts to change US immigration law. Examples of such attempts include the House Republicans attempt to blame illegal immigration on a Democratic president in 2013 and Trumps role in undermining a bipartisan effort in 2018. This time around, the route for legislation is further complicated by the fact that it is an election year and Trump has once again made decrying illegal immigration the centrepiece of his campaign. Conservative scepticism is running high, despite the fact that the terms of the policy negotiations have shifted significantly in favour of the Republicans. This puts us in a precarious situation where the outcome could affect not only the future of Ukraine as it fights Russia but also the shape of US immigration and border laws for years to come. Advertisement Legislators are being urged to agree by President Joe Biden. In an attempt to highlight the urgency with which Ukraine needs funds, the president said that he was prepared for a big deal on the border at a meeting this week at the White House with congressional leaders. The president has good cause to desire a settlement. The historic number of migrants who have come to the US border with Mexico during Bidens term is seen as one of the largest political vulnerabilities in his re-election campaign. Advertisement During Iowas Republican caucuses last week, which Trump won, immigration was a top issue. An AP VoteCast survey found about 9 in 10 caucusgoers backed building a wall along the US-Mexico border, with about 7 in 10 expressing strong support for the idea. As asylum seekers have made their way across the country, often by the busloads to Democratic-leaning cities as part of Texas Gov. Greg Abbotts program, they have strained the resources and political tolerance of areas that will be vital to Bidens re-election chances. Advertisement Its gotten to the point where, in a way, everybodys back is against the wall, said Sen. Michael Bennet, a Colorado Democrat. Im not talking about politically, I mean, substantively, these are challenges that the country cant ignore. Bennet was joined at the Capitol on Thursday by Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, a Democrat who told reporters that the recent influx of migrants has caused a humanitarian crisis and a fiscal crisis unlike anything weve seen in the last 25 years. Advertisement Democrats in Congress are split on the merits of the Senate package. Progressive and Hispanic lawmakers decry changes that would toughen the process for claiming asylum in the United States. Still, many Democrats say that Johnsons resistance to bipartisan compromise shows that Republicans arent serious about solving the problems at the border. Advertisement They basically want to make sure that the situation is as chaotic as possible so that they can win elections in November, said Rep. Joaquin Castro, a Texas Democrat. That is their strategy. Its not a sincere attempt to do something about whats going on at the border. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, meanwhile, has been strongly making the case for the deal. Hes told fellow Republicans that the border package, which he insisted be paired with Bidens $110 billion request for war aid for Ukraine, Israel and other national security priorities, is a rare opportunity to get stronger policies through Congress. Advertisement The proposal crafted by the Senate would toughen the asylum process with a goal of cutting the number of migrants who come to the southern border to make an asylum claim. Negotiators have worked on some policies intended to aid immigrants. The plan could include a pathway to citizenship for Afghans who came during the US withdrawal from their country, along with work permits for migrants who enter the asylum system, according to two people familiar with the talks who were granted anonymity to discuss the private negotiations. Advertisement But the package will mostly leave out broad immigration changes, like protections for immigrants who entered the US illegally as children, that have been foundational in previous Senate bills. It will be by far the most conservative border security bill in four decades, said Oklahoma Sen. James Lankford, the lead GOP negotiator. Advertisement Lankford and other Senate Republicans have urged their House colleagues to remain open-minded. They argue that the changes would actually pave the way for Trump to implement his border agenda if he wins the election. Lankford has also said that the legislation would not dramatically reduce the number of migrants at the border for months a tacit signal that border security could remain a top issue through the election. Advertisement Still, Johnson has argued that a hardline House bill, H.R. 2 which passed the chamber in May without a single Democratic vote, is the solution to Americas border woes. It would create a sweeping system intended to bottle up illegal immigration. Johnson has also made clear that he has been speaking regularly with Trump. Advertisement Were not playing politics with this, were demanding real, transformative policy change, Johnson said this week. Even beyond Trump, Johnson is dealing with far-right House members who are furious over his willingness to work with Democrats to pass legislation. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a close Trump ally, has threatened to trigger a motion to oust Johnson if he brings a border bill with Ukraine aid to the House floor. Greene this week said Trump is backing the House conservatives plan because it brings back all of his strong border policies. In December, she said that passing bipartisan border legislation would only give Biden an opportunity to tout the legislation on the campaign trail. Ive been telling everyone that President Trump is the leader of the Republican Party, Greene said. That decisive victory in Iowa should be the shot across the bow to every single Republican thats elected. Despite the pressure, Johnson signaled some support for the legislative push after a meeting this week at the White House, calling the talks productive. But what he does next remains to be seen. Rep. Jim Himes, D-Conn, left the White House meeting worried that a direct plan of action had not been discussed. Weve got to figure out how to put the leaders in a position to walk over some broken glass, because whatever deal is passed is going to make a lot of people unhappy, Himes said. The release of the remaining hostages and the implementation of a ceasefire as quickly as possible were the major topics of conversation, according to one of the sources. On October 7, Hamas terrorists started unprecedented attacks in Israel, seizing nearly 250 hostages Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of Hamas, who is located in Qatar, met with the foreign minister of Turkey on Sunday, according to diplomatic sources. This is the first time the two have had formal communication in over three months. According to the sources, Haniyeh and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met on Saturday in Turkey. Advertisement The release of the remaining hostages and the implementation of a ceasefire as quickly as possible were the major topics of conversation, according to one of the sources. On October 7, Hamas terrorists started unprecedented attacks in Israel, seizing nearly 250 hostages. The source said that during the meeting, the two sides also discussed increasing humanitarian aid and a two-state solution for a permanent peace. The last time Fidan and Haniyeh spoke on the phone was on October 16. In reaction to the Islamist organizations October bombings that claimed the lives of around 1,140 people, the majority of whom were civilians, Israel has promised to destroy Hamas, according to an AFP count based on official Israeli data. Advertisement The health ministry in Gaza, which is managed by Hamas, reports that at least 24,927 Palestinians have died as a result of its ceaseless shelling and ground onslaught, the majority of them were women and children. 132 captives are said to be in Gaza, according to Israel; at least 27 are thought to have died, according to an AFP count based on Israeli data. Advertisement Istanbul served as a base for Hamas political leaders before the October 7 attacks. Turkey asked the Hamas chiefs to leave after some were captured on video celebrating the deadliest attack in Israels history. But Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has since turned into one of the Muslim worlds harshest critics of the scale of death and destruction happening in Gaza. Advertisement Erdogan has compared Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to Adolf Hitler and accused the United States of sponsoring the genocide of Palestinians. Netanyahu has said Israel must fight until it achieves complete victory and Hamas no longer poses a threat but has not outlined how this will be accomplished Claiming that this is contrary to a Palestinian state, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared on Saturday that he will not compromise on full Israeli control over Gaza, dismissing US President Joe Bidens idea that innovative solutions could reconcile the leaders diametrically opposed positions on Palestinian statehood. Thousands of Israelis gathered in Tel Aviv asking for fresh elections, while others joined the relatives of the over 100 hostages still being held by Hamas and other extremists to demonstrate outside the prime ministers residence, indicating the domestic challenges Netanyahus administration is under. They worry that captives lives are being put in jeopardy by Israels military actions. Advertisement Claiming that this is contrary to a Palestinian state, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared on Saturday that he will not compromise on full Israeli control over Gaza, dismissing US President Joe Bidens idea that innovative solutions could reconcile the leaders diametrically opposed positions on Palestinian statehood. Thousands of Israelis gathered in Tel Aviv asking for fresh elections, while others joined the relatives of the over 100 hostages still being held by Hamas and other extremists to demonstrate outside the prime ministers residence, indicating the domestic challenges Netanyahus administration is under. They worry that captives lives are being put in jeopardy by Israels military actions. After Netanyahus statement, a spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called for the United States to go further. It is time for the United States to recognize the state of Palestine, not just talk about a two-state solution, Nabil Abu Rudeineh said in a statement. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the refusal to accept the two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians, and the denial of the right to statehood for the Palestinian people, are unacceptable. Speaking in Uganda, he said the refusal would indefinitely prolong the conflict. Advertisement Netanyahu has said Israel must fight until it achieves complete victory and Hamas no longer poses a threat but has not outlined how this will be accomplished. But a member of Israels War Cabinet, former Israeli army chief Gadi Eisenkot, has called a cease-fire the only way to secure the hostages release, a comment that implied criticism of Israels current strategy. Advertisement Critics have accused Netanyahu of preventing a Cabinet-level debate about a post-war scenario for Gaza. They say he is stalling to prevent conflict within his coalition. Netanyahus office called the claim that he was unnecessarily prolonging the war utter nonsense. Israel launched its war against Hamas after the militant groups unprecedented Oct. 7 attack that killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, in Israel and saw about 250 others taken hostage. Health authorities in Hamas-ruled Gaza say Israels offensive has killed nearly 25,000 Palestinians, most of them women and children. Advertisement The offensive, one of the most destructive military campaigns in recent history, has pulverized much of the territory and displaced more than 80% of its population of 2.3 million people. An Israeli blockade that allows only a trickle of aid into Gaza has led to widespread hunger and outbreaks of disease, United Nations officials have said. Advertisement Netanyahu has insisted that the only way to secure the hostages return is by crushing Hamas through military means. More than 100 hostages, mostly women and children, were released during a brief November cease-fire in exchange for the release of Palestinian women and minors imprisoned by Israel. Israel has said that more than 130 hostages remain in Gaza, but only about 100 are believed to be alive. Advertisement The protest outside Netanyahus home in the coastal town of Caesarea grew, with police pushing a few attendees away, sparking arguments. We cant take it anymore. Weve been told to sit quiet, let the government do its job. Well, its not bringing us any result for the last two months, said Yuval Bar On, whose father-in-law, Keith Siegel, is among the hostages. Advertisement The protest began Friday when the father of a 28-year-old held by Hamas began what he called a hunger strike. Eli Shtivi pledged to eat only a quarter of a pita a day the amount some hostages reportedly receive some days until the prime minister agrees to meet with him. Advertisement At the Tel Aviv protest, former hostage Chen Goldstein-Almog told the crowd that if we, as a society, as a state, dont do everything, I mean everything, to return the abductees, the living and the dead, we have no right to exist, as a state and as a society. The Israeli military spokesman, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, said the military was not carrying out attacks in areas where it knows or assumes there are hostages and the army works in all possible ways to bring them home. Advertisement Dozens of anti-war protesters also gathered in the Israeli city of Haifa, carrying signs reading Stop genocide and scuffling with police who tried to confiscate the placards. Police made one arrest. As part of its search for the hostages, Israels military dropped leaflets on Gazas southernmost town of Rafah. The leaflets, with photos of dozens of hostages, carried a message suggesting benefits for anyone who spoke up. Advertisement You want to return home? Please report if you identified one of them, the message read. Hours later, Al-Majd al-Amni, a media outlet linked to the Hamas internal security force, warned Palestinians against supplying any information about Israeli soldiers held hostage in Gaza. The war has rippled across the Middle East, with Iranian-backed groups attacking US and Israeli targets. Fighting between Israel and Hezbollah militants in Lebanon threatens to erupt into all-out war, and Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen are targeting international shipping in the Red Sea despite US-led airstrikes. Advertisement On Saturday, an Israeli strike on Syrias capital destroyed a building used by the Iranian paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, killing at least five Iranians, Syrian and Iranian state media reported. Also Saturday, an Israeli drone strike on a car near the Lebanese port city of Tyre killed two people, the state-run National News Agency reported. It was not immediately clear who the target was. In Gaza, residents reached by phone after a seven-day communications blackout reported heavy bombardment and fighting between militants and Israeli troops in and around the southern city of Khan Younis and the urban refugee camp of Jabaliya in the north. The fighting has forced many families to leave their homes, many of which were reduced to rubble, said Halima Abdel-Rahman, a woman displaced from northern Gaza who now shelters in Bani Suheila on the outskirts of Khan Younis. A car was apparently struck by a drone in Rafah, killing four, according to an Associated Press cameraman at a local morgue. Israels military didnt immediately comment. In the Israeli-occupied West Bank, meanwhile, mourners gathered for the funeral of Tawfiq Ajaq, a 17-year-old American Palestinian shot and killed a day earlier near Ramallah. The circumstances of the shooting remained unclear, and police said the incident was under investigation. Libyas state-owned oil company resumed production at the countrys largest oilfield Sunday, ending a more than two-week hiatus after protesters blocked the facility over fuel shortages. After a hiatus of more than two weeks due to protesters blocking the facility over fuel shortages, Libyas state-owned oil company has resumed production at the countrys largest oilfield on Sunday. The National Oil Corp. said in a terse statement that it lifted the force majeure at the Sharara oil field in the countrys south and resumed full production. It didnt provide further details. Force majeure is a legal manoeuvre that releases a company from its contractual obligations because of extraordinary circumstances. Advertisement The company had activated the manoeuvre on Jan. 7 after protesters from the desert town of Ubari, about 950 kilometres (590 miles) south of the capital, Tripoli, shut down the field to protest fuel shortages. Over the past two weeks, the companys chief, Farhat Bengdara, and military officials from eastern Libya have been negotiating with the protest leaders, Fezzan Group. Barzingi al-Zarrouk, the protesters spokesman, announced that they had suspended their protest after they reached an agreement with the company. He said the agreement was brokered by the self-styled Libyan National Army, which is commanded by powerful military general Khalifa Hifter. Hifters forces control Libyas east and much of the south. The protesters have reportedly called for rehabilitating infrastructure and repairing roads in the southwestern region of Fezzan, one of the historic three provinces of Libya. They previously closed the field for two days in July. Advertisement Libyas light crude has long featured in the countrys yearslong civil conflict, with rival militias and foreign powers jostling for control of Africas largest oil reserves. Libya has been in turmoil since a NATO-backed uprising toppled and killed longtime dictator Moammar Gadhafi in 2011. The North African nation has for most of the past decade been split between rival administrations in the East and the West, each backed by militias and foreign governments. Advertisement With inputs from AP. Russia was not specifically mentioned by NATO in its statement. However, its most important strategic document names Russia as the most direct danger to the security of NATO countries In comments released on Sunday, Russias deputy foreign minister Alexander Grushko told the state news agency that the scope of NATOs Steadfast Defender 2024 drills represents a irrevocable return of the alliance to Cold War plans. In preparation for a potential battle with a near-peer foe, NATO said on Thursday that it was beginning its largest exercise since the Cold War, involving over 90,000 troops. The exercise is intended to practise how US forces may support European allies in nations bordering Russia and on the alliances eastern flank. Advertisement These exercises are another element of the hybrid war unleashed by the West against Russia, Grushko told RIA. An exercise of this scale marks the final and irrevocable return of NATO to the Cold War schemes, when the military planning process, resources and infrastructure are being prepared for confrontation with Russia. Russia was not specifically mentioned by NATO in its statement. However, its most important strategic document names Russia as the most direct danger to the security of NATO countries. In February 2022, Russia began a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which Kiev and its Western allies have described as an unjustified attempt at an imperialist territorial grab. Advertisement Since then, Moscow and its top diplomat, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, have frequently charged that the collective West is supporting Ukraine militarily and financially in an effort to wage a hybrid war against Russia. Russia and North Korea, longtime allies, have lately improved relations; in September of last year, Kim Jong Un, the leader of Pyongyang, made an unusual travel outside to meet with Putin in Russias Far East In the most recent indication of the strengthening relations between the two totalitarian governments, North Koreas top diplomat stated that her nation is ready to greet Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to official media on Sunday. Russia and North Korea, longtime allies, have lately improved relations; in September of last year, Kim Jong Un, the leader of Pyongyang, made an unusual travel outside to meet with Putin in Russias Far East. Advertisement The West has accused Pyongyang and Moscow of collaborating to back Russias invasion of Ukraine; North Korea is said to have supplied its partner with hundreds of thousands of artillery rounds and weaponry. Choe Son Hui, the foreign minister of North Korea, met with Russian colleague Sergei Lavrov and Putin last week while in Moscow. The North Korean government warmly welcomes President Putin to visit Pyongyang and is ready to greet the Korean peoples closest friend with the greatest sincerity, Choe told Putin, according to a statement from the foreign ministers assistant office, carried by the Korean Central News Agency. Putin expressed his willingness to visit the DPRK at an early date, the statement said, referring to the Norths official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. Advertisement The statement added that Russia had expressed deep thanks for extending full support and solidarity to the stand of the Russian government and people on the special military operation in Ukraine. Increasing military and economic cooperation between Russia and North Korea has triggered concerns in Washington and Seoul. Top Russian officials, including Moscows defence and foreign ministers, visited North Korea last year, fanning concern among Kyivs allies over a potential arms deal. Advertisement This month, the White House accused Pyongyang of sending ballistic missiles and launchers to Russia in what it called a significant and concerning escalation of support for Moscows war effort. South Korea has accused Pyongyang of having provided more than one million artillery rounds to Moscow in exchange for advice on military satellite technology. Advertisement North Korea succeeded in putting a spy satellite into orbit last year, with Seoul saying it received Russian help. Following Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Western supporters of Kyiv banded together to provide Zelenskyy extraordinary military and other support in order to assist him save his nation On Saturday, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that he anticipated signings of many new Western defence deals for Ukraine this and next month. We are preparing new agreements with partners - strong bilateral agreements, Zelenskyy said in his nightly video address. January and February should bring corresponding results. There are already specific dates when new and strong documents can be expected. Advertisement Following Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Western supporters of Kyiv banded together to provide Zelenskyy extraordinary military and other support in order to assist him save his nation. However, supplies and weapons have been trickling in recently due to the wars nearing third year, no progress made in the front lines in the previous 12 months, and mounting resistance to more help in the US. Zelenskyy did not specify which nations he planned to reach accords with. The president of Ukraine has been on a weeks-long worldwide diplomatic frenzy in an attempt to obtain further military and political backing. He has often repeated that Russias increased winter air strikes and Moscows slow but gruelling offensive in Ukraines east have underlined the need for more reinforcement of Kyivs air and ground defences. Advertisement Earlier this month, Britain, one of Kyivs staunchest supporters, said it will increase its support for Ukraine in the next financial year to 2.5 billion pounds ($3.19 billion). French President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday he would head to Ukraine in February to finalise a bilateral security guarantee deal under which Paris would deliver more sophisticated weaponry, including long-range cruise missiles. Over the last few weeks, attacks on ships in and around the Red Sea by the Houthi militia, which is affiliated with Iran, have impeded trade between Asia and Europe and concerned key nations, leading to an escalation of the Gaza War Saudi Arabias foreign minister expressed concern that tensions in the Red Sea, fueled by attacks by Yemens Houthis and US operations on Houthi targets, might spiral out of control and worsen the regional conflict. I mean, of course, we are very worried. I mean, you know, we are in a very difficult and dangerous time in the region, and thats why we are calling for de-escalation, Prince Faisal bin Farhan told CNN Fareed Zakaria GPS in an interview that will be aired on Sunday. Advertisement Over the last few weeks, attacks on ships in and around the Red Sea by the Houthi militia, which is affiliated with Iran, have impeded trade between Asia and Europe and concerned key nations, leading to an escalation of the Gaza War. The foreign minister of Saudi Arabia stated that the country supported freedom of navigation and desired a reduction in regional tensions. We of course, believe very much in the freedom of navigation. And thats something that needs to be protected. But we also need to protect the security and stability of the region. So we are very focused on de-escalating the situation as much as possible, he told CNN. The Houthis, who control most of Yemen, say their attacks are in solidarity with Palestinians under attack from Israel in Gaza. Advertisement Since last week, the United States has been launching strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen, and this week returned the militia to a list of terrorist groups. President Joe Biden said on Thursday that air strikes would continue even as he acknowledged they may not be halting the Houthi attacks. The confrontation risks an expansion of the conflict beyond Hamas-governed Gaza, where the local health ministry says over 24,000 people - or more than 1% of Gazas 2.3 million population - have been killed in Israels assault. Advertisement Israel launched its offensive following Oct. 7 attacks on Israel by the Palestinian Islamist group, which Israeli officials say killed 1,200 people. Alongside Sonko, other candidates were former prime ministers and competitors Idrissa Seck and Mahammed Boun Abdallah Dionne, the former mayor of Dakar Khalifa Sall, and Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye The final list of 20 candidates for the February 25 presidential election was released by Senegals Constitutional Council on Saturday. Notably, Karim Wade, the son of former president Abdoulaye Wade, and Ousmane Sonko, the head of the opposition, are not included. Among those named is Prime Minister Amadou Ba, who was selected by President Macky Sall to succeed him following Salls announcement in July that he would not be running for a third term. Advertisement Alongside Sonko, other candidates were former prime ministers and competitors Idrissa Seck and Mahammed Boun Abdallah Dionne, the former mayor of Dakar Khalifa Sall, and Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye. Another person in custody but not yet tried is 43-year-old Faye, a member of Sonkos disbanded party. He has been in prison since April 2023 for contempt of court and defamation against a corporate body over a Facebook post. Sonko, who came third in the 2019 presidential election, has been at the centre of a bitter stand-off with the state that has lasted more than two years and sparked often deadly unrest. The 49-year-old opposition figure has generated a passionate following among Senegals disaffected youth, striking a chord with his pan-Africanist rhetoric and tough stance on former colonial power France. Advertisement The Constitutional Council rejected Sonkos candidacy due to his six-month suspended sentence for defamation, which was upheld by the Supreme Court on January 4. He had also been handed a hefty fine for defamation and insults against Tourism Minister Mame Mbaye Niang. Crowded field In other legal cases, Sonko was sentenced in June to two years for morally corrupting a young person and has been jailed since the end of July on other charges, including calling for insurrection, conspiracy with terrorist groups, and endangering state security. Advertisement He has denied the charges, saying they are intended to prevent him from running in Februarys election, which the government rejects. The published list of candidates also includes two women, gynaecologist Rose Wardini and entrepreneur Anta Babacar Ngom. It is the first time Senegal has organised a presidential election with so many candidates, constitutional lawyer Babacar Gueye told AFP. Five candidates stood at the last contest in 2019. Advertisement Karim Wade, who served as a minister when his father was in power, was ruled inadmissible because of his dual French and Senegalese nationality, according to the Constitutional Council. He denounced the move Sunday on X, formerly Twitter, calling the decision scandalous and a blatant attack on democracy. According to the constitution, presidential candidates must be exclusively of Senegalese nationality and aged between 35 and 75 on election day. Advertisement Wade, who was born in France to a Senegalese father and a mother of French origin, had presented documents showing he had renounced his French nationality. But the council rejected them, saying the decree confirming his loss of French nationality was not retroactive and his sworn declaration was inexact at the time of its filing. Advertisement With just a month to go, there is total uncertainly as to the outcome of the two-round election, Senegals first without the participation of the outgoing president. Sall, elected president in 2012 for seven years and re-elected in 2019, declared in July that he would not stand again. Haley, who formerly served as Trumps ambassador to the United Nations, is running out of time to dethrone the Republican presidential leader, whose victory in the Iowa caucuses highlighted his primary race supremacy Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley and former President Donald Trump will make their final pitches for the Republican presidential nomination in New Hampshire on Sunday, the last day of campaigning before voters vote on Tuesday. Haley, who formerly served as Trumps ambassador to the United Nations, is running out of time to dethrone the Republican presidential leader, whose victory in the Iowa caucuses highlighted his primary race supremacy. Advertisement If Haley fails to achieve an upset in New Hampshire on Tuesday, her already tight route to the nomination may be cut short. Trump, who is leading Haley and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis here, spoke to a stadium packed of roaring fans in Manchester on Saturday night, pushing people to vote on Tuesday, when the primary takes place. He did, however, appear to turn part of his emphasis to the next big nominating battle, which will be held in South Carolina in late February. Several high-ranking state and federal leaders from that state, including South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, spoke in support of Trump at the event. They understand that I am the only candidate in this race who is going to save America and were gonna get rid of this Biden disaster right away, Trump said. Advertisement So you know what Im doing? Im kissing ass. Haley has stepped up her attacks on Trump in recent days with a late-in-the-game move to draw contrasts with a businessman and politician whose time in the White House was characterized by chaos and who faces four criminal cases, including for his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election that he lost to now President Joe Biden. Advertisement Despite her shift, some Republican and independent voters say Haley should go further with her criticisms and that she has not hit her main rival hard enough throughout her campaign. I think Trump needs to be put in his place, said Chris Jay, 57, a Republican who said he was leaning toward Haley but wanted her to lob more head-on attacks at the former president. Advertisement Haley on Saturday knocked Trump, 77, for his age after he seemingly confused her with former Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi. Haley also criticized Trump for his affinity for strongmen such as Russias Vladimir Putin and North Koreas Kim Jong Un. Trump, she said at a campaign event in Keene, New Hampshire on Saturday, needs to stop praising dictators. She said as his UN ambassador, she tried to break up his bromance with Putin. Advertisement Trump has upped his already fierce attacks on Haley as well, targeting her given first name on his social media platform and amplifying false posts questioning her birthright U.S. citizenship. The daughter of two immigrants from India, Haley was born Nimarata Nikki Randhawa but has long used her middle name Nikki and later took her husbands surname. Advertisement At the Saturday night rally in Manchester, Trump attacked Haley for her support among some wealthy donors who have also supported Democrats and called her a threat to social security. Above the stage where Trump spoke, a large screen showed messages critcizing Haley, alongside unflattering pictures of her. Nikki Haley is loved by Democrats, Wall Street and globalists, one of the images on the screen read. Hezbollah has been trading fire across Lebanons southern border with Israeli forces in support of the militia groups Palestinian ally Hamas in the Gaza Strip. At least two Hezbollah fighters were killed on Sunday in a suspected Israeli drone strike in southern Lebanon, security sources said. It was the latest strike in an area where Israel has targeted dozens of Hezbollah fighters. Israels military said it does not comment on foreign reports. Earlier, residents and security officials said a drone had killed two people and injured at least four others near the village of Kafra 8km from the border. Advertisement Their ranks were not revealed but a source close to the Iranian-backed group said they were not senior figures. Hezbollah has been trading fire across Lebanons southern border with Israeli forces in support of the militia groups Palestinian ally Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Hamas militants rampaged across the Gaza border into Israel on Oct. 7, prompting an Israeli invasion of the enclave backed by heavy air strikes that has killed thousands and laid much of the heavily populated area to waste. Hezbollah has said its campaign has aided Palestinians by stretching Israeli forces and driving tens of thousands of Israelis from their homes. It has come at a cost, with around 140 Hezbollah fighters and at least 25 Lebanese civilians killed, as well as at least nine Israeli soldiers and a civilian. The intensity has been growing in recent weeks. Advertisement With inputs from agencies. On Friday, Mexican Foreign Secretary Alicia Barcena and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met at the US Department of State in Washington. High ranking officials from additional government departments that coordinate immigration matters were also there A State Department spokeswoman on Saturday praised the progress made after a crackdown on illegal immigration during a high-level US State Department meeting with Mexican authorities on Friday. A State Department spokesperson, Matthew Miller, stated in a statement that the departments assault on migrant smuggling networks, rail routes, and bus routes had yielded results. Advertisement Our coordinated efforts with Mexico are demonstrating positive results at our shared border, the statement said. On Friday, Mexican Foreign Secretary Alicia Barcena and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken met at the US Department of State in Washington. High ranking officials from additional government departments that coordinate immigration matters were also there. Additionally, the US pledged to assist Guatemala, the country from where some migrants originate. The United States stands ready to support the people of Guatemala and their new government on a wide range of issues including economic development and hemispheric migration management, the statement said. Republicans in the US Congress have blocked emergency funding for Ukraine in an effort to push new security policies along the US-Mexico border. They blame Bidens policies for an influx of immigrants into the United States. Advertisement US President Joe Biden signaled on Friday that he is hopeful a deal over the US-Mexico border could be worked out next week - at least in the Senate. 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. Saturday Night Partly cloudy skies early followed by increasing clouds with showers developing later at night. Low 43F. Winds S at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 40%. Two banh mi sandwiches on plate - Rudisill/Getty Images The banh mi is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine simple to make but easily customizable. The sandwich features meat of your choice and veggies like pickled daikon, cucumber, carrots, and cilantro on French baguette bread. The sandwich is topped with mayonnaise for a creamy finish. While you can make banh mi with fresh fish, canned sardines add a salty flair to the sandwich. Plus, they're convenient if you want to make a quick and easy but fulfilling sandwich. Canned sardines stand out among the various proteins you can choose for the sandwich such as chicken, meatballs, or even pork. There's a historical element with Vietnamese people having a long history with canned sardines, which we will get to in a minute. For Vietnamese immigrants, the sandwich is a reminder of home, and for others, it's a tasty snack. The saltiness of the canned fish pairs well with the sourness of pickled veggies like the aforementioned daikon. The heartiness of the fish contrasts well with vegetables, so much so that people often throw canned sardines in a salad. The fish adds an additional flavor and depth to the meal, without sticking out or seeming out of place with the other elements of the sandwich. The preferred type of sardines for this sandwich are the kind soaked in tomato sauce because you get that sweet hint of tomatoes to further bring things together. Read more: 12 Underrated Types Of Fish You Should Try At Least Once Fresh Sardines Vs Canned Sardines canned sardines in gold tin - Jeffrey Coolidge/Getty Images You may tempted to use fresh sardines in your banh mi sandwich because fresh is always better, right? While it's true that fresh ingredients, including sardines, typically have a higher quality, the dish has historically been made using canned sardines. So if you want a more authentic sandwich, then it's better to grab a couple cans of sardines for your banh mi. Generally, if you're using fresh sardines then your sandwich will have a different taste. Fresh sardines have a less potent fish taste and are generally sweeter than the canned variety. While that may make for a more pleasant dining experience if you were eating the fish straight up, there's a risk of fresh sardines not standing out among the other ingredients of your sandwich. In comparison, canned sardines have a stronger salty taste. Story continues Additionally, canned sardines are more convenient if you're trying to make a banh mi or perhaps a fish taco in a pinch. You don't have to worry about the hassle of cooking them before you prepare your sandwich. Fresh sardines can be difficult to find unless you have a fish market in your town. Likewise, they typically don't last long unless frozen. Comparatively, canned sardines can last a lot longer in your pantry. History Of Canned Sardines In Vietnam open canned sardines on board - Gmvozd/Getty Images As mentioned above, the Vietnamese have a somewhat conflicted history when it comes to canned sardines. The French originally introduced the canned fish to the country in the early 1900s. With the process for canning becoming available in the 1800s, canned sardines became a staple for the lower classes in France. At the time, Vietnam was a French colony called Indochina, which it remained until 1954. The meal proved to be popular among colonists, often eaten in tomato sauce. The meal also became a hit among the Vietnamese middle and upper class in the country. When France pulled out of Vietnam so did most of its import of canned sardines, but Vietnam started its own sardine canning company, Ha Long Canfoco. For immigrants who left Vietnam during the height of the Vietnam War, canned sardines took on a strong association with their homeland but also difficult times. Vietnamese immigrants ended up in refugee camps waiting for passage into another country, and canned sardines were a common meal for these refugees. Still, many of these immigrants enjoyed the taste of canned sardines in the years afterward. They took the recipe for the canned sardine banh mi sandwich with them, passing it down to their families. Read the original article on Daily Meal. Funeral homes often submit obituaries as a service to the families they are assisting. However, we will be happy to accept obituaries from family members pending proper verification of the death. Submit China urges to avoid adding fuel to Red Sea tension Global Times By Global Times Published: Jan 20, 2024 01:19 PM Updated: Jan 20, 2024 07:05 PM China has been making active efforts to ease the tension in the Red Sea from the very beginning, calling for an end to the attacks on civilian ships and urging relevant parties to avoid adding fuel to the tension in the Red Sea, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in an interview with the media after concluding his trip to Africa. Wang also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, had recently concluded his visits to Egypt, Tunisia, Togo and Cote d'Ivoire from January 13 to 18. During his visit to Africa, Wang said he communicated and coordinated with the Arab side on dealing with the spillover effects of the Gaza conflict, especially in maintaining the security of the Red Sea shipping route. "We should jointly uphold the security on the sea lanes of the Red Sea in accordance with the law and also respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the countries along the Red Sea coast, including Yemen," Wang said during the interview with Chinese media on Friday. Additionally, Wang held in-depth communication with Egypt, Tunisia, and the League of Arab States Secretary-General on the Palestinian question. Wang said the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been going on for over a hundred days, resulting in large-scale casualties among innocent civilians and a severe humanitarian crisis. China has actively advocated and strongly condemned all acts that harm civilians, opposed any practices that violate international law, and supported all efforts aimed at preventing the escalation of the conflict and promoting the restoration of peace. Arab and Islamic countries highly appreciate China's position. The ordinary people we encountered on the streets also praised China's just stance and hoped that China would continue to promote a ceasefire and alleviate the humanitarian crisis, Wang noted. The Chinese foreign minister underscored that the Palestinian question has always been at the core of the Middle East issue, which is related to the peace and stability of the Middle East and challenges human moral conscience. China firmly supports the just cause of the Palestinian people in restoring their legitimate national rights and firmly supports the long-cherished wish of the Palestinians to achieve independent statehood. Justice may be delayed, but it should not be absent forever, he said. China also calls for the convening of a more extensive, larger-scale, and more effective international conference as soon as possible. Regardless of how the regional and international situation changes, China will continue to firmly stand on the side of peace and justice and make unremitting efforts to promote security and stability in the Middle East, Wang said. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press Briefing by IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, January 20th, 2024 IDF Press Release January 20, 2024 20.01.24 IDF Good week. During the fighting in Khan Yunis, we located a tunnel where hostages were held. IDF soldiers identified the entrance of the tunnel based on precise intelligence in the house of a Hamas terrorist in Khan Yunis. The soldiers entered the tunnel where they encountered terrorists, engaging in a battle that ended with the elimination of the terrorists. The tunnel was rigged with explosives and blast doors designed to protect the terrorists and prevent the advancement in finding of our hostages. Of course, when we reached inside this tunnel, there were no hostages, but hostages were held there in the past. After walking about a kilometer in the tunnel, at a depth of about 20 meters underground, the soldiers found a central chamber where, according to testimonies of hostages who returned from Gaza, we understand that they spent most of their time. In this chamber, we found evidence that the hostages were held there, including drawings made by 5-year-old Amelia Aloni, along with other hostages. Further down the tunnel, we located five narrow prison cells, each with a toilet and mattress, and closed with bars. According to the testimonies we have, about 20 hostages were held in this tunnel at different times under harsh conditions without daylight, in dense air with little oxygen, and terrible humidity that makes breathing difficult. Some of them were released about fifty days ago, and some are still held in Gaza and may be under even harsher conditions, including very elderly people who need medication and help. Yesterday, before we destroyed the tunnel, we documented the place and brought in journalists to show the world evidence that must not be forgotten - Hamas committed and continues to commit crimes against humanity, holding innocent people, children, women, men, some sick, very elderly people, in harsh and inhumane conditions. The return of the hostages is a supreme effort, and we are working in every way to bring them home. Our operational activity combines technology, special units, special means, and intelligence, intelligence that we are constantly searching for and refining. We do not strike places where we know or even assume that hostages are held. Parallel to the underground fighting, IDF soldiers continue to fight above ground. In the Khan Yunis area, we continue to dismantle Hamas' military framework. There are still terrorists there. IDF soldiers are fighting them and advancing in the strike. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israeli regime helpless in dealing with Resistance: Raisi IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi has said that a fatal attack by the Israeli regime on Iranian military advisors in Syria shows how desperate and helpless the regime has become in dealing with the regional Axis of Resistance. In a message issued on Saturday, Raisi said that Iran will definitely respond to Israel's "cowardly terror act" that killed five members of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) earlier in the day in the Syrian capital Damascus. The Iranian president said the attack was a sign of defeat and lack of success for "the illegitimate Zionist regime" in its struggle to reach evil objectives, adding that hegemonic countries led by the United States are enablers of such crimes because they continue to offer support to the Israeli regime. Raisi also said the attack would be another stain on the record of all governments who claim to be the advocates of human rights because it violated Syria's airspace and trampled on human and international laws. The IRGC said on Saturday that five of its officers, who had been serving in Syria in an advisory capacity, had been killed in the Israeli attack on a residential building in Damascus. Iranian authorities said the attack was an attempt by the Israeli regime to divert attention from its continued military campaign in Gaza where it has killed nearly 25,000 Palestinians since it launched the aggression in early October. 4261 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Ain Al-Asad base in Iraq targeted with dozens of rockets IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- The Islamic Resistance of Iraq has announced that it had targeted the US Ain al-Asad base in western Iraq by a large number of rockets. According to the Iraqi sources on Saturday, the Iraqi Islamic Resistance claimed responsibility for the attack on the illegal US Ain al-Asad base in western Iraq. Resistance groups based in Iraq have repeatedly hit US bases on Iraqi and Syrian territories with missiles and drones over the past weeks in retaliation for the Israeli regime's crimes against Palestinians in Gaza. The groups are also outraged at the US military presence in the region, which they see as a source of instability, as well as Washington's support for the Israeli regime in its ongoing war on Gaza. Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq Secretary General Qais al-Khazali said on X, formerly Twitter, that in clear violation of Iraq's sovereignty, the American enemy targets the facilities, headquarters of the military, security forces, and Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) in different parts of the country, resulting in a large number of Iraqi citizens killed and wounded. Due to such crimes, the existence of American forces in Iraq and throughout the region is a threat to the countries' sovereignty and dignity, he said, adding that it should be used all tools to expel American enemies. 3266**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Al-Aqsa Storm Operation revives Palestinian cause: Hezbollah chief IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Hezbollah Secretary General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah says that the Al-Aqsa Storm Operation revived the Palestinian cause and made it hit the headlines. In a message to the "12th Conference of Gaza; Symbol of Resistance" which was held in Tehran on Saturday, Nasrallah said that the Operation made the world aware of the significance of the Palestinian cause which the foes had tried for years to consign into oblivion. Al-Aqsa Storm Operation turned the threats into opportunities, he further noted. He reiterated the importance of resistance, noting, "Those who suppose that the Ummah has an option other than resistance are completely wrong." Resistance is a key to victory when it comes to war in Gaza, he underscored. The drops of blood shed in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and Iran on the path of resistance have been in line with the sacrifices of fighters in the Gaza war, he pointed out. This is called the unity of blood, weaponry, battlefields, and causes, he underlined. Resorting to global organizations and the so-called international community has repeatedly proven futile, resulting only in regret, loss, failure, and bitterness. Elsewhere in his message, he said that the normalization of relations with the Zionist regime has endangered the cause of Palestinians. The families of the martyrs, military officials, and participants from the resistance front took part in the international event. After more than three months of genocide in Gaza by the Zionist regime and the death of over 24,000 Palestinians, the European Parliament has finally issued a non-binding resolution in support of a "permanent ceasefire" in the besieged enclave. 7129**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 'US, UK actions in Red Sea pose threat to international shipping' IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- The actions of the United States and the United Kingdom in the Red Sea pose a threat to international shipping, according to a Yemeni official. Yemen's response will lead to the defeat of the US and the UK, Lebanon's al-Mayadeen news network quoted the unnamed source as saying. The source maintained that the two countries' attacks on Yemen's al-Hudaydah city show their shared desire to intensify the conflict and expand its scope. The continuation of US and UK attacks against Yemen and the militarization of the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandab Strait is a dangerous threat to international shipping, the Yemeni official added. The US and the UK have carried out several rounds of attacks on Yemen after the Yemeni armed forces began to block the passage of Israel-linked ships in the Red Sea in retaliation for the occupying regime's genocide of the Palestinian people in Gaza. The Zionist regime launched the deadly war on the Gaza Strip on October 7, after the Gaza-based Palestinian resistance groups carried out a military operation into the occupied territories for the regime's incessant aggression against Palestinians. Regional resistance movements, including those of Yemen, Iraq and Lebanon, have confronted the Zionist regime since it launched the Gaza war. 4354**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US spy drone crashes near Balad air base in Iraq IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- After two days, an American official confirmed that a US MQ-9 Reaper drone crashed near Balad Air Base in the north of the Iraqi capital Baghdad. According to the Iraqi Alsumaria TV network, the US defense official said on condition of anonymity that the drone crashed on Thursday afternoon local time. Pointing to the issue that the drone was recovered by Iraqi security forces, the American official said that it is unclear if the damaged drone has been returned to US custody yet and if the drone crashed or if it was shot down, so authorities continue to investigate the reason behind the incident. Earlier, some armed Iraqi groups announced that they had shot down a US MQ-9 drone, which was used for spying and bombing purposes, over Iraqi airspace. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq also published a breaking news on its Telegram channel on Saturday and announced the downing of another unidentified UAV in Iraq. The umbrella group of Iraqi anti-terror fighters has not published any information about the details of the incident yet. On Friday night, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq also issued a statement and took responsibility for shooting down an American drone in eastern Iraq. The downed UVA was flying from Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait towards Diyala Governorate in eastern Iraq. Following the onset of the Israeli regime's aggression against the Gaza Strip on October 7, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq conducted numerous attacks on the US military bases in Iraq and Syria in retaliation for Washington's all-out support for the Israeli crimes in the war. 4208**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Clashes continue between Palestinian fighters and Israel occupiers in Quds and West Bank IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Palestinian sources have reported attacks by Zionist regime forces on Palestinians in northern Holy Quds and in various areas in the occupied West Bank. According to a Saturday report by the Al Mayadeen, the Zionist soldiers attacked the northern occupied Quds earlier in the day as part of their continued aggression on Palestine. The Zionists targeted Shu'fat Camp in the northern occupied Quds with gas bombs, said the report. Simultaneously, the Zionist soldiers attacked different areas in the occupied West Bank. In response, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades of the Gaza-based Hamas movement targeted Zionist occupiers in Tiasir checkpoint. The Zionist soldiers also attacked the Balata camp in the east of Nablus. The Israeli regime launched its war on Gaza following a surprise operation called "Al-Aqsa Storm" against the positions of the Israeli regime on October 7, 2023. 9376**4261 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia urges Hamas to release captives: Report IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Russia has called on Palestinian resistance movement Hamas to speed up releasing civilians seized during the attacks on October 7, 2023, media outlets have reported. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation issued a statement on Friday, informing that Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia Mikhail Bogdanov had held talks with a member of the Hamas Political Bureau Mousa Abu Marzook. During the meeting, both sides focused the ongoing Palestinian-Israeli conflict that has propelled the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip to catastrophic proportions. The Russian official stressed the need for expediting the release of civilians seized during the attacks on October 7, 2023, including three Russian citizens. Moscow is making efforts to contact the warring parties to reach a ceasefire, he further noted. Meanwhile, Hamas's delegation said that the atrocities committed by the Zionist regime against the Palestinian people and the region pose a serious threat to global peace and security. The delegation also called for the right of the Palestinians to achieve freedom and return to their homeland and the right to resist the Zionist occupiers with all available methods and tools. After more than three months of genocide in Gaza by the Zionist regime and the death of over 24,000 Palestinians, the European Parliament has finally issued a non-binding resolution in support of a "permanent ceasefire" in the besieged enclave. 7129**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hezbollah vows strong response if Israel wages large-scale war on Lebanon IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Deputy Secretary General of Lebanon's Hezbollah Resistance Movement Sheikh Naim Qassem has warned Israel against waging a large-scale war on his country, saying that the regime would receive a heavy slap in the face and a strong response if such a war happened. "If the Zionist regime decides to expand the war, it will receive a strong slap and an unforgettable lesson, because the enemy knows that the confrontation and [Hezbollah's] response will be very extensive," Sheikh Qassem said, according to an Saturday report by the IRNA, citing Elnashra website. The senior Hezbollah official made the comments after the chief of staff of the Israeli armed forces, Herzi Halevi, said on Wednesday that the likelihood of a war with Lebanon in the coming months is much higher than it was in the past. Sheikh Qassem said that threats against Hezbollah are useless and do not change anything, stressing that the resistance movement is fully prepared if the regime extends the war. The Hezbollah official also reiterated the movement's support for the Palestinians in Gaza where the Israeli regime has been pressing ahead with its military campaign since early October. He said that the Israeli regime is the enemy of Palestine, Lebanon, the Arab world and Muslims, adding that Hezbollah continues to back the Palestinian resistance in their fight against the regime. Sheikh Qassem meanwhile criticized the United States for supporting the Israeli regime in its war on Gaza, saying that the war is going ahead with the greenlight of the US, which is helping Tel Aviv achieve its goals. 4194**4261 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US stance on Gaza aggression not change fundamentally: Hamas ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency Sat / 20 January 2024 / 09:30 Senior Hamas official Basem Naim affirmed that the Palestinian movement has not received any official communication from Arab countries regarding the proposed solution for the ongoing war in the Gaza Strip. Tehran (ISNA) - Speaking to Al Mayadeen, Naim pointed out that Hamas still believes that the US administration's stance on the Israeli aggression in Gaza "has not changed fundamentally," emphasizing that the changes are "only superficial". He mentioned that Washington calls for not expanding the conflict in the region while deploying fleets and assaulting Yemen. The Palestinian official revealed that discussions during the meetings between the Hamas delegation and Russian officials in Moscow focused on the situation on the ground in the Gaza Strip and enhancing international efforts to stop the ongoing Israeli aggression. Earlier, a Hamas delegation met with the Special Envoy of the Russian President to the Middle East and Africa, and the Deputy Foreign Minister, Mikhail Bogdanov, at the Russian Foreign Ministry in Moscow. The Palestinian delegation engaged in political consultations with the Russian Foreign Ministry to discuss ways to achieve a ceasefire that would end the Israeli aggression against the Palestinian people and clarify the movement's stance and policies regarding the file of the captives held by the Palestinian Resistance in Gaza since October 7. In a related context, US National Security Council Spokesperson John Kirby maintained the US position against a ceasefire in Gaza, as he explicitly said, "The US still opposes a general ceasefire in Gaza," despite a death toll nearing 25,000, in addition to 62,108 injured. End Item NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Resistance engages in fierce confrontations in southern, central Gaza ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency Sat / 20 January 2024 / 09:29 The Palestinian Resistance is engaged in fierce confrontations against Israeli occupation forces on the 106th day of the conflict, according to the reports. Tehran (ISNA) - Al Mayadeen's correspondent in Gaza indicated that the confrontations are concentrated in Khan Younis, south of Gaza, as well as in the center of the Strip, especially northeast of the Al-Bureij camp. Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of the Hamas movement, announced that its Resistance fighters targeted an Israeli Merkava tank in Al-Bureij camp using a locally made Al-Yassin 105 shell and shelled the Israeli occupation forces in the camp with mortar shells. Al-Qassam snipers also targeted an Israeli soldier in Al-Bureij using a homemade al-Ghoul rifle and targeted two other soldiers in Khan Younis. East of Khan Younis, the Brigades targeted three Israeli Merkava tanks with a homegrown Explosively Formed Penetrator, Shawaz, killing two raiding soldiers, prompting an Israeli helicopter to land to evacuate the killed and wounded soldiers. Al-Qassam Brigades released footage showing its fighters targeting Israeli forces advancing near the border of Gaza City with mortar shells and 107mm rocket artillery. In addition, the Palestinian Resistance fighters blew up a tunnel with a number of Israeli soldiers inside, causing casualties among them after managing to lure them to Al-Tuffah neighborhood, east of Gaza City. The Brigades also confirmed targeting a fortified building housing Israeli special forces with four RPG shells and engaged with Israeli soldiers using automatic weapons, in addition to targeting an Israeli soldier in the Sheikh Ajleen neighborhood, west of Gaza City, with snipers. In Al-Zaytun neighborhood, southeast of Gaza City, Al-Qassam fighters targeted an Israeli tank with an Al-Yassin 105 shell, as well as an Israeli military vehicle with an RPG shell. The Brigades also detonated an anti-personnel explosive device against an Israeli force and later engaged in direct confrontations with the force's soldiers in Jabalia, north of the Gaza Strip. However, Israeli warplanes deliberately targeted Yahalomi again a few days ago with the intention of killing him, and despite their efforts to save his life, he was killed, the Resistance group's statement added. End Item NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Indonesia files lawsuit against Israel at International Court of Justice Iran Press TV Saturday, 20 January 2024 5:39 PM Indonesia has filed a lawsuit against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) over the regime's violations of international law in the occupied Palestinian territories. Israeli regime's Hebrew language newspaper Maariv reported Friday that Jakarta filed the action against the regime at the ICJ in The Hague, as the regime's brutal bombardment of the besieged enclave continues. Reports said earlier that Jakarta has asked a team of experts to help draft a case at the ICJ to hold Israel accountable for its "policies and practices" in the occupied Palestinian territories. Indonesia's Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said that expert advice is necessary to create a detailed legal opinion to show the world Israel's violations of international law. Indonesia and Slovenia announced last week that they had decided to "actively participate" in the motion for an advisory opinion due to Israel's genocidal war on the Gaza Strip. The ICJ is scheduled to conduct public hearings on February 19, when Marsudi and other parties will present their perspectives on the legal consequences of Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories. "Indonesia supports the efforts of the UN General Assembly to obtain an advisory opinion from the International Court of Justice," Marsudi has said. In December 2022, the UN General Assembly voted to request that the ICJ issue an advisory opinion as to whether Israeli policy in the territories violated international law. Indonesian law expert Hikmahanto Juwana said the court's decision in the case is only advisory. Jakarta's move to take Israel to the UN court comes after the ICJ held its first hearing in the case against Israel's ongoing genocidal war against the Gaza Strip earlier this month. The case was lodged by South Africa with the tribunal in late December. Indonesia has not joined South Africa's case since it is not a party to the Genocide Convention. Foreign Minister Marsudi said Jakarta supports South Africa's efforts to report Israel's violations of the Genocide Convention to the UN court. The court's decision on South Africa's request for provisional measures "could be expected in February, if not before," Turkish news agency Anadodu reported, citing Italian lawyer Tiersisto Mariniello. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Rocket barrage targets Ain al-Asad base housing US forces in western Iraq Iran Press TV Saturday, 20 January 2024 4:01 PM A massive barrage of rockets has targeted Ain al-Asad air base in Iraq's western province of Anbar, where US military forces are stationed on alleged training and advisory missions. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of anti-terror fighters, in a statement published on its Telegram channel claimed responsibility for the attack on the Ain al-Asad air base, located about 160 kilometers (100 miles) west of the capital Baghdad, on Saturday evening. It said the base was targeted by a large number of rockets and the projectiles "directly hit their targets." The group said the large-scale rocket attack was carried out in retaliation for US support of Israel's bloody military campaign in the Gaza Strip. There were no immediate reports about the extent of damage at the military facility, and possible casualties. Sabereen News, a Telegram news channel associated with Iraqi anti-terror Popular Mobilization Units, later released video footage showing rockets flying in the sky toward the US-occupied base. The development comes a day after the Islamic Resistance in Iraq claimed responsibility for intercepting and shooting down an MQ-9 Reaper drone operated by the US military. It said in a statement that the unmanned aerial vehicle was brought down as it was hovering in the skies over Iraq's eastern province of Diyala. The aircraft had taken off from Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, situated 37 kilometers (approximately 23 miles) from the Iraqi border. Iraqi resistance forces have conducted dozens of strikes on the US-run military installations in both Iraq and Syria amid growing anti-US sentiments in the region over Washington's support for the Israeli genocidal campaign in Gaza. Israel launched hostilities in Gaza following a historic operation by the Gaza-based Hamas resistance group against the occupying entity in retaliation for its intensified atrocities against the Palestinian people. More than 100 days into the campaign, the regime has achieved no objectives despite killing more than 24,900 people, mostly women and children. The United States has supplied Israel with weapons and intelligence support, and blocked UN resolutions calling for a humanitarian ceasefire in the Palestinian territory. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ethnic mass killings in one Sudan city last year left up to 15,000 dead: UN report Iran Press TV Saturday, 20 January 2024 3:57 PM Ethnic mass killings in one city alone in the West Darfur region of Sudan have left up to 15,000 dead, according to a UN report. The UN report seen by Reuters on Friday said between 10,000 and 15,000 people were killed last year in West Darfur State's El Geneina City. In the UN report, ethnic violence carried out by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), and allied Arab militia fighting Sudan's Army led by the country's de-facto ruler, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, was cited as the reason for the killings. The RSF, however, has previously denied such reports, claiming that if any of its soldiers were found to be involved in ethnic violence, the perpetrators would be prosecuted and face justice. Independent UN sanctions monitors attributed the death toll in El Geneina to "credible" intelligence sources. Monitors wrote in the report, which was handed to the UN Security Council, that between April and June 2023, El Geneina experienced "intense violence," blaming the RSF and allies for targeting the ethnic African Masalit tribe in attacks that "may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity." "The attacks were planned, coordinated, and executed by RSF and their allied Arab militias," the sanctions monitors wrote in their annual report. "When reaching RSF checkpoints women and men were separated, harassed, searched, robbed, and physically assaulted." The monitors reported, "The RSF and allied militias indiscriminately shot hundreds of people in the legs to prevent them from fleeing." "Young men were particularly targeted and interrogated about their ethnicity. If identified as Masalit, many were summarily executed with a shot to the head. Women were physically and sexually assaulted. Indiscriminate shootings also injured and killed women and children," the report added. All the eyewitnesses interviewed by the monitors cited, "many dead bodies along the road, including those of women, children, and young men." The Masalit tribe had been the majority in El Geneina until the RSF-led attacks forced their mass exodus, according to the report. The monitors said the RSF takeover of most of Darfur relied on three lines of support, including Arab allied communities, dynamic and complex financial networks, and new military supply lines running through Chad, Libya, and South Sudan. "Complex financial networks established by RSF before and during the war enabled it to acquire weapons, pay salaries, fund media campaigns, lobby, and buy the support of other political and armed groups," wrote the monitors, adding that the RSF used proceeds from its pre-war gold business to create a network of as many as 50 companies in several industries. The monitors said after the power struggle between Burhan and his former deputy and RSF chief Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo started in April, "most of the gold which was previously exported to UAE, was now smuggled to Egypt." In its place, the new increased firepower acquired by the RSF "had a massive impact on the balance of forces, both in Darfur and other regions of Sudan," the report pointed out. "The whole world witnessed these rebel forces (RSF) committing war crimes and crimes against humanity in West Darfur and the rest of Sudan," Burhan told troops gathered in Port Sudan in a video released by his office on Friday. He called Dagalo a "clown," "traitor," and "coward." He also firmly declined to accept the ceasefire agreement that Dagalo had signed in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, this week. Burhan, during visits this week, criticized African nations such as South Africa, Ethiopia, and Kenya for considering Dagalo as a statesman. "He is humiliating the Sudanese people, he is killing them, insulting them, and some people are clapping for him and laughing with him." Meanwhile, the United States claims that both the Army and the RSF have been committing war crimes. International meditation attempts by Saudi Arabia and the US have been to no avail till now. An attempt last month by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, an African trade bloc, which persuaded Burhan and Dagalo to agree to an in-person meeting, also failed. Since the conflict started on April 15, more than 7.5 million individuals have been displaced, fleeing across the country and to neighboring states, while huge areas of Sudan have been ravaged. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address UK flew 50 spy missions over Gaza since December, report reveals Iran Press TV Saturday, 20 January 2024 2:23 PM The UK military has carried out some 50 spy missions over the Gaza Strip for the Israeli regime since last month, a new investigation has revealed. In its latest report, Declassified UK, a news website focused on British foreign policy, said the flights have taken off from the UK's controversial Akrotiri air base on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus. It said the military dispatched Shadow R1 surveillance aircraft to gather intelligence for Israel. The news website also said in a report in November that the UK military transport aircraft flew daily from Akrotiri to Tel Aviv between October 13 and 26. The base, located in southern Cyprus, is about 40 minutes flying time from Tel Aviv. In early December, Britain's Ministry of Defense released some information on the flights between Akrotiri and the occupied territories but has refused to specify what is being transported. It claimed at the time that the flights would only attempt to gather information on British hostages held by the Hamas resistance movement in Gaza. "But the extraordinary number of flights, and the fact that they started nearly two months after the hostages were taken, raises suspicions that the UK is not collecting intelligence solely for this purpose," Declassified UK said. Monitors and media reports also revealed recently that Britain is supplying Israel's military forces for the regime's onslaught on Gaza from the military bases in Cyprus. Head of the Cyprus Peace Council Charis Pashias said last week that locals have seen a "daily" increase in the number of flights from Akrotiri since Israel launched its bombardment of the Palestinian territory on Oct 7, 2023. He said people have also "become aware of the illegal presence of thousands of American soldiers now stationed in Akrotiri." The UK military also refused to disclose details of US activity from Cyprus. British lawmaker Kenny MacAskill, who has raised questions in parliament about the role of Akrotiri airbase in Israel's war on Gaza, said it was "disgraceful" that "both UK citizens and a sovereign state are denied information as to what is being done." "The use of RAF Akrotiri does seem to allow the UK to deny information and complicity by saying it's the USA. Equally, the USA avoids disclosure by saying it's UK territory," he added. Both the UK and the US have come under fire for supporting Israel in its genocidal war, whose main victims have so far been women and children, according to UN Women, the United Nations agency promoting gender equality. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Visitors to the Acropolis in Greece will pay a new climate crisis resilience fee in 2024 - Jamie Lorriman Overtourism is something of a buzzword already this year. We were beckoned back to seaside resorts and old favourites in the aftermath of the pandemic, before being assailed with stories of crowded restaurants and attractions. In Amsterdam, a new directive asked hedonistic Britons to stay away. In places like Athens, anti-tourist graffiti campaigns are being waged by locals, with the aim of letting visitors know they are unwelcome. For other countries, tourist taxes are being implemented in response. Typically only small amounts of money, the fees are usually added onto hotel bills or payable at the airport. Here are the countries introducing a tourist tax in 2024. Greece Greece has introduced a new climate crisis resilience fee for tourists this year, replacing the previous hotel tax. According to the Greek government, charges will range from 1.50 (1.30) to 10 (8.60), depending on accommodation, quality and the time of year. In the low season, the fee is capped at 4 (3.45). It comes after a year of record rainfall and heatwaves, which destroyed over 1,500 square kilometres of land and led to 37 deaths. Venice, Italy A tourist tax has long been proposed as a solution to Venices overcrowding problem. This year, its entry fee system is finally being implemented. A trial will launch between April and mid-July, where on certain days mostly weekends visitors will have to pay 5 (4.30) to access the city. This only applies from 8:30am to 4pm, meaning that those visiting the city in the evening will be exempt. Those staying overnight will also bypass the charge. Few expect visitor numbers to go down. Instead, proceeds from the fee will be earmarked for maintenance projects in the city, plus the quality of the tourist offer (services, events, museums etc.). Venice is trialling an entry fee system to tackle overcrowding - Oleg Znamenskiy / Alamy Barcelona, Spain Visitors to Barcelona have had to pay both a city-wide and regional tax since 2012. Last year, the municipal fee increased to 2.75 (2.37); from April 1 this year, this will rise to 3.25 (2.80). Story continues Tourists pay the fee as part of their accommodation bill. Again, the proceeds are used to fund city infrastructure like bus routes and roadworks. Valencia, Spain Another Spanish tourist tax, this time in Valencia. Again, it will apply to visitors staying in official accommodation, including campsites, hotels and self-catering properties. The style of accommodation will impact the amount paid, which varies from 50 cents (43 pence) to 2 (1.72). It isnt clear when the tax, known as the Valencian Tax on Tourist Stays (IVET), will come fully into force officials have been trailing its implementation since late 2022. Once it is introduced, however, the proceeds will be used to provide more affordable housing for locals living in tourist areas. Bali, Indonesia The Indonesian province has been popular with backpackers for decades, and now the region is introducing a fee to protect culture and nature. Bali is introducing a fee to 'protect culture and nature' From Feb 14 2024, visitors will have to pay a fee of around IDR 150,000, or just over 7.50. It wont make a radical difference to the overall cost of a holiday, but it is one of the steeper tourist taxes. The tax is payable at the airport or via the Love Bali app, a process that will apparently take less than a minute. Paris, France Tourists have long been charged a taxe de sejour in France, with the price varying between cities. In anticipation of the Paris Olympics, however, fees will be increasing by around 200 per cent in the French capital. Visitor fees are increasing by around 200 per cent ahead of the Paris Olympics - AFP PHOTO / ALAIN JOCARDALAIN JOCARD/AFP/Getty Depending on the type of accommodation, visitors staying in hotel rooms in Paris can expect to pay a fee ranging from 75 cents (65 pence) to 15 (12.90) per night. This is in addition to reported increases in the price of metro fares, museum tickets and hotel room rates. Amsterdam, The Netherlands The Netherlands has a well-established tourist tax policy, and Amsterdam has a well-established problem with certain types of tourist. This year, the citys toeristenbelasting, or tourist tax, will increase from 7 per cent of the cost of a hotel room to 12.5 per cent applying to cruise passengers and overnight visitors alike. This makes it the highest of its kind in Europe. Olhao, Portugal Olhao, a Portuguese fishing town, has started charging a tourist tax of 2 (1.72) a night between April and October. This is halved in the off-season and does not apply to children under the age of 16. The charge is also capped at five nights, meaning a visitor can only be charged an additional 10 (8.60) per trip. Iceland During the pandemic, Iceland suspended its tourism taxes. They returned on Jan 1 2024, with hotels and guesthouses charging ISK 600 (3.46), campsites ISK 300 (1.73) and cruise ships stopping in Icelands ports ISK 1,000 (5.76). Iceland has brought back its tourism taxes following a spike in visitors - Thorsten Henn/Getty It comes after a remarkable year of inbound tourism in the country. There were nearly 800,000 international visitors last summer up around a quarter from the same period in 2022, according to the Iceland Review. The European Travel Commission reports that both the number of nights stayed, and the number of arrivals, were higher last year than in 2019. Places that already have tourism taxes Austria The tourism levy in Austria depends on the province a traveller is visiting. In Vienna, for example, it typically amounts to just over 3 per cent of an accommodation bill. Belgium Tourist taxes vary between cities in Belgium, but they typically cost between 3 (2.58) and 6 (5.16). Bhutan Bhutan has been charging a significant sum of money to tourists since its opening in 1974. This fee currently sits at $200 (157) per person, per day in the high season, with reductions in the low season. Officials say the fees are used in part to maintain the countrys heritage and offset the carbon emissions of visitors. Bhutan charges 157 per person, per day in the high season - fees used to maintain its heritage and offset carbon emissions - MONEY SHARMA/AFP via Getty Bulgaria Those staying in Bulgarian holiday resorts should expect a small additional fee, typically 2 (1.72) per person. Budapest, Hungary People staying in the Hungarian capital are charged an additional 4 per cent fee, per night, to their hotel bill. Caribbean islands Taxes vary across Caribbean islands, with some charging upon departure, as an addition to the hotel bill, or both. Typically, tourist taxes average between 8 per cent (Grenada, St Lucia) and 15 per cent (Jamaica). Arrival and departure taxes also differ across the region, with the Bahamas charging $15 (11.78), Jamaica charging $35 (27.50) and Bermuda $50 (39). Croatia Visitors can expect to pay an additional 10 kuna (1.10) per person per night. Germany Germanys tourist taxes vary between cities. In Berlin, the amount equates to around 5 per cent of the total accommodation bill. Italy Taxes are set by individual municipalities in Italy. Generally, the amount varies from 2 (1.72) to 5 (3.90) per day, per person. Children, disabled travellers and their carers and patients admitted to health facilities are usually exempt. Japan Tourists visiting Japan pay a 1,000 yen (5.40) departure tax to support the countrys infrastructure. As government officials worry about overcrowding in some of Japans largest cities, some prefectures have instigated additional taxes of their own (amounting to around 50 pence per visit). Malaysia In Malaysia, tourists are charged RM10 (or 1.70) per room, per night. In some regions, children and those travelling for medical reasons are exempt. New Zealand Most international visitors (excluding those from Australia) must pay a $35 (17) levy to enter New Zealand. It aims to address current challenges in the tourism and conservation systems. Prague, Czech Republic In Prague, the tourist tax typically costs around 50 Czech Koruna per night, or 1.74. Slovenia Like many tourist taxes, Slovenias varies between regions. Expect a higher rate around 3 (2.60) in popular destinations like Ljubljana and Bled. Switzerland Depending on the region and accommodation quality, Switzerlands tourist taxes are usually between CHF 2 (1.84) to CHF 7 (6.43) per person, per night. UAE In Abu Dhabi, hotels typically impose a tourism fee of 6 per cent on guests hotel bills, in addition to a fixed fee of AED 15 (3.20) per room, per night. In Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, the price varies on the quality of accommodation: fees range from AED 7 (1.50) to AED 20 (4.30) per night. Hotels in Abu Dhabi typically impose a tourism fee of 6 per cent on guests bills - Angelo Cavalli / robertharding/Getty USA Tourist taxes are not federally legislated in the US; states and regions have the ability to charge varying fees. In San Francisco, for example, the hotel tax rate is 16.25 per cent, which includes a 14 per cent transient occupancy tax and a 2.25 per cent tourism improvement fee. 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. Lebanese media: Israeli drone kills 2 Hamas members in southern Lebanon Iran Press TV Saturday, 20 January 2024 1:37 PM Lebanon's media outlets say 2 members of the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas have been killed in an Israeli drone strike targeting a car in the south of the country. The media outlets, citing local sources, reported that the strike was carried out on Saturday afternoon as the vehicle was traveling along a road linking the Bazourieh area to Burj el-Shemali region in the southern district of Tyre. The Israeli drone attack came amid strikes by fighters from Lebanon's resistance movement Hezbollah against Israeli military positions in response to the ongoing Israeli genocidal campaign in the besieged Gaza Strip. It has been a string of assassinations by the regime in the recent past. On January 2, senior Hamas official Saleh al-Arouri was assassinated in a "treacherous Zionist strike" on Beirut's southern suburb of Dahiyeh, the Gaza-based resistance movement announced on its official channel. Hamas politburo member Izzat al-Rishq called it a "cowardly assassination." Arouri was known to be deeply involved in Hamas' military affairs. He had previously headed the group in the occupied West Bank. Also on Saturday, an Israeli military aircraft targeted a house in Marwahin town on the border with the 1948-occupied territories. Lebanon's official National News Agency reported that the building has been repeatedly bombed as cross-border fighting has escalated since the start of Israel's hostilities in Gaza early October. Israeli fighter jets, meanwhile, carried out a wave of airstrikes against Odaisseh village in southern Lebanon. The Israeli military alleged in a statement that the attacks targeted an observation post, a rocket launch position and other infrastructure belonging to Hezbollah. Israeli artillery shelling also targeted the outskirts of Alma al-Shaab and al-Dhayra villages as well as the Marjeyoun plain and the Hamames hill. Hezbollah strikes Israeli outposts in solidarity with Gaza For its part, Hezbollah announced an attack on Israeli forces stationed at an outpost in the town of Zar'it, close to the border with Lebanon. Lebanese resistance fighters also targeted gatherings of Israeli troops at the Hounine and Dhayra areas. The Israeli regime launched its devastating hostilities in the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023, after the Hamas-led Palestinian resistance groups carried out surprise Operation Al-Aqsa Storm against the occupying entity. The Israeli military has also been carrying out attacks against the Lebanese territory since then, prompting retaliatory strikes from Hezbollah. The movement has vowed to keep up retaliatory operations as long as the regime continues its onslaught on Gaza. The regime has killed more than 24,700 people, most of them women and children, in Gaza since. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Maduro: Opposition, CIA plan 'terrorist attacks' to destabilize Venezuela Iran Press TV Saturday, 20 January 2024 10:37 AM Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has accused the US-backed opposition and the CIA of planning "terrorist attacks" in order to destabilize the country ahead of the presidential election this year. Maduro and leaders from the US-backed opposition signed an agreement last month, pledging to hold a competitive presidential election. The deal was signed in Barbados in an event facilitated by the Norwegian government and attended by US representatives. "Venezuela is entering a period of presidential elections, but the mercenary extreme right and the parasitic opposition will not brook the election process. They will trigger a war to harm the people; they will wage a war and terrorist attacks. they are getting ready," Maduro said. "The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) of the United States, as well as the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), from its headquarters in Colombia, are preparing violent, coup-like and anti-constitutional actions against Venezuela," he added. "The CIA and the DEA, agencies that operate independently, are criminal entities." On Thursday, Maduro ordered civilians, the army and the police across the country to activate the Furia Bolivariana or Bolivarian Fury Plan, under which everyone has the duty to fight against "any terrorist attempt" and "defend the right to peace". "The order is given: maximum vigilance, unity and preparation for any internal and external aggression against the decorum, cohesion and absolute loyalty of the FANB (National Bolivarian Armed Forces of Venezuela)," stated Maduro's instruction to Minister of Defense Vladimir Padrino Lopez. "The enemies of Peace and the Homeland do not rest, they want to stop the recovery and economic tranquility. They wont be able!" it added. Maduro also stressed during a telephone speech at an event for workers in the state of Bolivar Amazon that the opposition was preparing "coup attempts" and "violent protests" as well as a "war" against electricity and public services. "We should be ready like a boxer with both hands, so that if they go the wrong way, we will defeat them." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hezbollah warns Israel of 'strong slap in the face' if it wages all-out war on Lebanon Iran Press TV Saturday, 20 January 2024 10:23 AM A senior official of the Lebanese Hezbollah resistance movement has warned Israel against waging an all-out war on Lebanon, emphasizing that the occupying regime should expect a "strong slap in the face" if it underestimates his group's defensive capabilities and commits an act of adventurism. Hezbollah Deputy Secretary General Sheikh Naim Qassem described Israeli threats against his movement as hollow, saying, "If the Zionist regime decides to expand the Gaza war, it will receive a strong slap and learn an unforgettable lesson. The enemy knows that the response will be very decisive." He added that Hezbollah will continue its strikes against areas in the northern part of the 1948 Israeli-occupied territories as long as the Gaza war continues. "The enemy must know that we are at the apex of preparedness. We are the men of struggle and martyrdom," Sheikh Qassem said. The top Hezbollah official described the Israeli regime as the enemy of Palestine, Lebanon, the Arab world and Muslims. "We stand shoulder to shoulder with Palestinian resistance factions against this great oppression. This amounts to supporting Palestine, Lebanon as well as the Axis of Resistance and destroying Israel," he said. Sheikh Qassem also denounced the United States' unconditional support for the Israeli onslaught on the Gaza Strip, stating that the ground and air strikes are ongoing with the green light of Washington. "The differences between the United States and the Zionist regime are merely tactical. Americans are seeking to advance the agendas of the Zionist regime. Assertions that Washington cannot stop the Gaza war and that Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu is opposed to its cessation are simply crude attempts to escape responsibility in this conflict," the high-ranking Hezbollah official said. He stressed the need for the immediate stoppage of Israeli attacks on Gaza, noting that stability in Lebanon and the West Asia region will be restored once the Tel Aviv regime's brutalities in the Palestinian coastal region end. The Israeli regime launched its devastating hostilities in the Gaza Strip on October 7 after the territory's Hamas-led Palestinian resistance groups carried out a surprise retaliatory attack, dubbed Operation Al-Aqsa Storm, against the occupying entity. The Israeli military has also been carrying out attacks against the Lebanese territory since then, prompting retaliatory strikes from Lebanon's resistance movement Hezbollah in support of the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip. The movement has vowed to keep up its retaliatory operations as long as the Tel Aviv regime continues its onslaught on Gaza. The Israeli campaign in Gaza has killed at least 24,762 people, most of them women and children. Another 62,108 individuals have also been wounded. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel bombs hospital in southern Gaza: Palestinian Red Crescent Iran Press TV Saturday, 20 January 2024 3:35 AM The Palestinian Red Crescent has said Israel bombed a hospital in Khan Younis, and the regime's army in the city reportedly threatened the few healthcare facilities still open in the besieged Gaza Strip. The Red Crescent said on Friday that displaced people were injured "due to intense gunfire from the Israeli drones targeting citizens at Al-Amal Hospital" as well as the rescue agency's base, Reuters reported. Israeli army tanks also approached Gaza's biggest remaining functioning hospital, Nasser, where people reported hearing shellfire from the west. The Gaza health ministry said at least 142 Palestinians had been killed and 278 injured in Gaza in the past 24 hours in Khan Younis, taking the death toll from more than three months of war there to 24,762. The World Health Organization said most of the enclave's 36 hospitals have been damaged by Israeli bombing. Only 15 are partially functioning and those are operating at up to three times their capacity, without adequate fuel or medical supplies, it says. On Thursday, the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas announced the destruction of more than 390 schools, universities, and educational institutions in over 100 days of brutal bombardment of the besieged strip by the Israeli regime. The resistance movement said, "More than 390 schools, universities, and educational institutions have been destroyed in 100 days, the most recent of which was the bombing of Al-Isra University and the re-bombing of the Islamic University today." Hamas said that the destruction of school and university buildings in the Gaza Strip "is a war crime and criminal behavior aimed at destroying all components of human life." The resistance group stated that Israel is deliberately targeting the education system to erode the national identity of Palestinians. Gaza's Ministry of Education announced on Tuesday that 4,368 students have been killed while almost 8000 have been injured since the start of Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip on October 7. The number of teachers killed is 231 teachers with 756 injured. Israel's relentless bombardment has also targeted 65 schools affiliated with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Refugees (UNRWA). NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Islamic Jihad: New EU Council sanctions politically-motivated in support of Israel Iran Press TV Saturday, 20 January 2024 6:10 AM The Palestinian Islamic Jihad resistance movement has roundly condemned the latest EU Council sanctions against a number of individuals connected to the Gaza-based group and fellow Hamas movement, terming the measure as "politically-motivated" and in support of Israel. The Islamic Jihad, in a statement released on Friday night, said the "expected and worthless" decision is strongly indicative of the complete and unqualified support that the European Union offers to the Zionist regime. "This European decision is a politically-motivated cover-up for the massacre they have launched against our nation. This measure is far beyond the military and intelligence support that Europeans have been providing to Zionists in their attacks against the Gaza Strip, and disregards calls by all world nations for the immediate stoppage of this war," it added. The statement noted that Palestinian resistance groups defend the rights of a nation, whose lands have been expropriated and has been struggling against all forms of mass killing and genocide for the past 76 years. "These groups will continue their duty to defend Palestinians until final victory and [full] liberation of Palestine," the Islamic Jihad pointed out. Earlier on Friday, the EU Council targeted a number of individuals connected to Hamas and the Islamic Jihad, subjecting those listed to asset freezes and barring them from traveling to the European Union. The first list of sanctioned people includes Sudan-based financier Abdelbasit Hamza Elhassan Mohamed Khair, Nabil Chouman, the former's son Khaled Chouman, senior Hamas financier Rida Ali Khamis, senior Hamas operative Musa Dudin and Algeria-based financier Aiman Ahmad Al Duwaik, according to a statement from the council. "The new sanctions framework shall apply until January 19, 2025. It shall be kept under constant review and renewed or amended as appropriate," the statement added. A senior EU official earlier said the first batch of sanctioned individuals was linked to providing funds to the group. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Kyrgyzstan's Vibrant Media Space In Peril After Journalists Raided, Jailed By Chris Rickleton January 20, 2024 Nearly two years ago, police in Kyrgyzstan raided the offices of a media group famed for its investigations into political corruption, slapping narcotics charges on its leader. As images of Temirov Live founder Bolot Temirov being manhandled by officers in SWAT gear were shared online on January 22, 2022, many predicted the start of an extended crackdown on independent media by the administration of President Sadyr Japarov. That crackdown reached an alarming crescendo this week as nearly a dozen current and former staff of Temirov Live were arrested on suspicion of trying to foment unrest in the country, while one of the country's most popular news websites, 24.kg, was targeted in a separate raid. For so long Central Asia's standout country for independent journalism, intrepid reporting, and media innovation, Kyrgyzstan fell fully 50 places in global media monitor Reporter Without Borders's most recent global ranking, sitting at 122nd place -- only 12 spots above its longtime authoritarian neighbor, Kazakhstan. That plunge was in large part due to the authorities' decision to put severe restrictions on RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service -- including freezing its bank accounts -- in October 2022. Local access to the website of Azattyk, as the service is known in Kyrgyzstan, was restored earlier this year, only for another well-respected outlet, Kloop, to come face-to-face with a similar block and potential liquidation. And now, looming on the horizon, is the threat posed by a new law that experts say could spell the end of independent media in its current format. But first to the darkest week for the profession in more than three decades of Kyrgyz independence. 'Misleading Society' While Temirov was born in Kyrgyzstan and had spent most of his working life there, he no longer lives in the country. His arrest came right after Temirov Live released an investigation into alleged corruption in the fuel business, which featured a relative of State National Security Committee (UKMK) Chairman Kamchybek Tashiev. The narcotics charges pressed by authorities in 2022 caused a public outcry, and he was subsequently acquitted by a court. But in November of that year, another Bishkek court found him guilty of forging his Kyrgyz passport, and Temirov was bizarrely deported to Russia, where he also held citizenship. He is since understood to have left Russia but remains unable to return to his homeland. Yet even after his deportation, the outlet has continued its investigations and political discussions, earning millions of views across three YouTube channels that broadcast in Russian and Kyrgyz. Kyrgyz authorities rarely come across positively in that content. One investigation released in December targeted Interior Minister Ulan Niyazbekov, highlighting properties owned by the minister and his relatives and Niyazbekov's apparent ties to organized crime. It also featured detailed testimony from a businessman who said Niyazbekov had extorted him. Two months before that investigation, the group indicated that a charity led by Japarov's wife received funding from foreign sources, even as authorities promote a Russian-style draft law that would allow them to register organizations receiving financing from abroad or foreign nationals as "foreign representatives." In an interview with RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service on December 14, Temirov said that police were watching his team "day and night" since the investigation's release. The subject for the charges on which 11 current and former Temirov Live staff have been arrested is a video published on YouTube last year by Ait, Ait Dese (Come On, Say It), a Temirov Live spinoff project. According to the Interior Ministry, linguistic experts found evidence of calls for mass unrest in the broadcast. The ministry has yet to provide a more detailed explanation. A court ruled on January 17 to keep the detainees locked up for two months pending investigation of the charges. Among them is Temirov's wife, Makhabat Tajibek-kyzy, presenter Aike Beishekeeva, and three former Temirov Live journalists now working for other media outlets. Speaking about the arrests for the first time this week in comments published by the state information agency Kabar on January 19, Japarov claimed his government supported freedom of speech and welcomed "good quality" media investigations. "But in most cases, bloggers are busy distorting facts, making mountains out of molehills, or resorting to manipulation and misleading society," Japarov said. Japarov also listed several media organizations that had received grants from organizations such as the U.S.-based National Endowment for Democracy, which he said sometimes amounted to hundreds of thousands of dollars. "We understand these grants are allocated as part of projects on freedom of speech, support for the media community, development of independent journalism, and so on. But in reality it turns out that the funds are not used for their intended purpose. A policy is being pursued to discredit the authorities, denigrate public policy, agitate society, [make] anticonstitutional statements, and disseminate fake information that poses a threat to national security," the president claimed. Angry Reactions Temirov has said that the real reason for the arrests of his colleagues is their investigations of top officials. There are likewise suspicions that the criminal case being built against 24.kg is merely a pretext to force it to tone down its reporting. The agency's general director, Asel Otorbaeva, and editors in chief Anton Lymar and Mahinur Niyazova were all taken away for interrogation after their office was raided on January 15, the day before the raids on former and current Temirov Live staff. The three 24.kg journalists were released that evening. The website is formally being investigated by the UKMK for "war propaganda" in relation to an unnamed article covering the Russia-Ukraine conflict. 24.kg's leadership has called the accusation baseless. The website has been blocked by Russia's Roskomnadzor media regulator since September of last year. 24.kg does not do investigations of the Temirov Live type. But it is known for its sometimes spiky headlines such as: Everybody Is Equal Under The Law. But The President's Relatives Are More Equal. And for casting doubt on the statements of officials and lawmakers. Niyazova's sarcastic and government-critical posts on X, formerly Twitter, have turned her into something of a hate figure for pro-government trolls, meanwhile. In a January 16 statement, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) raised alarm that Kyrgyz authorities were "renewing their assault on key independent media" through the raids and arrests. The watchdog's Eurasia chief, Gulnoza Said, called the authorities' confiscation of equipment from the offices of 24.kg and Temirov Live "deeply concerning," noting that confidential sources could be at risk. Diplomatic "statements of concern" followed from the embassies of the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union's delegation in the country. Unfortunately, it appears that there will be plenty of fodder for such statements in the coming period. At present, there are few critical media outlets without problems. Kloop, which has investigated illegal enrichment schemes involving some of Kyrgyzstan's powerful people in the past, currently faces a legal battle to prevent the liquidation of its parent organization, Kloop Media. Two other independent outlets, Kaktus and Politklinika, were as of last year tied up in civil cases initiated by pro-government and government-owned media. But the biggest blow of all might be struck by the country's parliament, the pro-regime Jogorku Kenesh, where only a handful of lawmakers spoke out against the authorities' actions against Temirov Live and 24.kg. That is because the legislature is due to consider a media law that sector experts have warned could do untold damage to Kyrgyz journalism. In yet another condemnation of the crackdown, seven international human rights groups -- among them Human Rights Watch and the Norwegian Helsinki Committee -- called the draft law "repressive" and urged the parliament not to pass it in its current form. "The draft law would significantly expand government control over the media and grant the authorities wide powers to deny media outlets registration, obstruct their work, and close them down," the rights groups said on January 16. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/kyrgyzstan-media-journalists- raided-jailed/32784684.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address US Airbase in Iraq Hit by Massive Missile Attack Sputnik News 20240120 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - US airbase Ain al-Asad in Iraq's western Anbar Province has been targeted by at least 15 missiles, Iraqi news agency Shafaq reported on Saturday, citing a security source. The missiles were launched from the Iraqi city of Albaghdadi, the source said, without giving further information. Yahya Rasool, a spokesman for the commander-in-chief of the Iraqi armed forces, told the Iraq News Agency that the bombing injured an Iraqi soldier and caused material damage. "A number of missiles fell near the headquarters of the 29th Brigade, 7th Division, affiliated with the Al-Jazeera Operations Command, within the Iraqi Ain Al-Assad base, wounding a soldier and causing damage to the headquarters," he said. A number of US soldiers are being examined for traumatic brain injuries after "Iranian-backed militants" carried out a missile attack on US airbase Al-Assad in western Iraq's Anbar Province, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Sunday, adding that the US is also assessing the damage caused to the base. "At approximately 6:30 p.m. (Baghdad time) time Jan. 20, multiple ballistic missiles and rockets were launched by Iranian-backed militants in Western Iraq targeting al-Assad Airbase. Most of the missiles were intercepted by the base's air defense systems while others impacted on the base. Damage assessments are ongoing. A number of U.S. personnel are undergoing evaluation for traumatic brain injuries. At least one Iraqi service member was wounded," the CENTCOM said on X. Since the beginning of the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the bases of the US-led international coalition in Iraq, as well as US troops in Syria, have come under regular attacks, with armed Shiite groups claiming responsibility in Iraq. However, this attack is reported to be one of the most massive since the the start of the recent turmoil in Gaza. On October 7, 2023, Palestinian movement Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack against Israel from the Gaza Strip, while its fighters breached the border, opening fire on the military and civilians. As a result, over 1,200 people in Israel were killed and some 240 others abducted. Israel launched retaliatory strikes, ordered a complete blockade of Gaza and launched a ground incursion into the Palestinian enclave with the declared goal of eliminating Hamas fighters and rescuing the hostages. Over 24,900 people have been killed so far in Gaza as a result of Israeli strikes, local authorities said. 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 ceasefire was extended several times and expired on December 1. Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Discussions with Mexican Officials on Migration at the Department of State US Department of State Readout Office of the Spokesperson January 20, 2024 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Matthew Miller: Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken hosted Mexican Foreign Secretary Alicia Barcena yesterday at the Department of State to follow up on migration commitments made on December 27 in response to the invitation of President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, White House Homeland Security Advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall, Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco, and USAID Deputy Administrator Isobel Coleman joined Secretary Blinken for the meeting. Foreign Secretary Barcena was joined by Defense Secretary Luis Crescencio Sandoval Gonzalez; Secretary of the Navy Admiral Rafael Ojeda Duran; Secretary of Public Security Rosa Icela Rodriguez Velazquez; Mexican Ambassador to the United States Esteban Moctezuma Barragan; Felix Arturo Medina, Undersecretary of Human Rights, Population and Migration, SEGOB; Roberto Velasco, Head of the Unit for North America, SRE; Commissioner for the National Migration Institute Francisco Garduno Yaez; and Alejandro Celorio, Legal Counselor, SRE. During the meeting, Secretary Blinken and the U.S. delegation noted that our coordinated efforts with Mexico are demonstrating positive results at our shared border. They discussed the positive impact of efforts to increase migration controls on bus and train routes, crack down on criminal smuggling networks, and scale up repatriations for those who do not have a legal basis to remain in our countries. Secretary Blinken highlighted the peaceful transfer of power in Guatemala as one of the most significant developments in the region since the last meeting. In close collaboration with the Government of Mexico, the United States stands ready to support the people of Guatemala and their new government on a wide range of issues including economic development and hemispheric migration management. U.S. and Mexican officials also discussed their bilateral efforts to counter human smuggling and arms trafficking. In addition, they reaffirmed the importance of further expanding lawful pathways and work opportunities, including between our two countries. Migration is a hemispheric challenge. The United States is committed to work hand in hand with Mexico and countries across the region to address the root causes of migration and advance economic opportunities in the spirit of Los Angeles Declaration for Migration and Protection. The two governments committed to continue their strong cooperation on migration, including in senior leader discussions on the margins of the Trilateral Fentanyl Committee meeting in Mexico City in early February. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Netanyahu Says No Compromise on Full Israeli Control in Gaza By VOA News January 20, 2024 Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Saturday that he "will not compromise on full Israeli control" over Gaza and stated that "this is contrary to a Palestinian state," rebuffing U.S. President Joe Biden's comment that creative solutions could bridge wide gaps between the leaders' views on Palestinian statehood. Discussing his administration's position Friday, Biden said, "There are a number of types of two-state solutions" when he was asked if a two-state solution was impossible with Netanyahu in office, Biden replied, "No, it's not." Biden said Friday he spoke with Netanyahu, the first call the White House had in nearly a month with the Israeli leader, about possible solutions for creation of an independent Palestinian state, suggesting one path could involve a nonmilitarized government. "In his conversation with President Biden, Prime Minister Netanyahu reiterated his policy that after Hamas is destroyed Israel must retain security control over Gaza to ensure that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel, a requirement that contradicts the demand for Palestinian sovereignty," a statement from the Israeli prime minister's office said. The Israeli prime minister is facing increasing conflicting pressures at home. Relatives of hostages held by Hamas militants in Gaza protested outside his home Saturday, demanding his government take decisive steps to secure the release of their loved ones. They say they fear that escalating military activity further endangers the captives' lives. Meanwhile, a divide over the direction of the war, now in its fourth month, is growing inside the Israeli cabinet. Former Israeli army chief Gadi Eisenkot, a member of Israel's War Cabinet, has said a cease-fire is the only way to secure the hostages' release, a comment that implied criticism of Israel's current strategy not to let up on Israel's war on Hamas militants until their destruction. Netanyahu also is under heat by members of his right-wing governing coalition who want an all-out war against Hamas, while the U.S., Israel's main ally, is calling for restraint in Gaza. The Israeli leader has said he will push for "complete victory" against Hamas but has not outlined how he would achieve it. Critics have accused him of preventing a Cabinet-level debate about a post-war scenario for Gaza. They say Netanyahu is stalling to prevent conflict within his coalition. A strike on a residential building in Damascus, Syria, Saturday killed five members of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Iran said, blaming Israel. Hours later, the IRGC issued statements identifying the five dead as Hojjatollah Omidvar, Ali Aghazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi, Saeed Karimi and Mohammad Amin Samadi. Iran has vowed to carry out revenge attacks against Israel. Syrian state television said the building, which was destroyed in the midmorning strike, was in a neighborhood of the Syrian capital where several embassies are located. There was no immediate comment from Israel, which rarely acknowledges its actions in Syria. The strike came as Israel hit targets across Gaza Saturday. Israel said it targeted militants in northern Gaza who it said were trying to plant explosives and fire missiles at Israeli tanks. In Khan Younis, in southern Gaza, witnesses reported intense shelling overnight near Nasser Hospital. Israel said its troops raided a militant compound where it found explosives and destroyed rocket launchers. Israel vowed to destroy Hamas, which governs Gaza, after the militant group sent fighters rampaging into Israel on October 7, killing about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to Israel. Hamas, which has been designated a terrorist organization by the U.S. and others, also took about 240 people as hostages. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry reported one of the largest single-day death tolls, including 165 Palestinians killed and 280 more wounded in the last 24 hours. The ministry does not distinguish between combatants and civilians, but most of the nearly 25,000 Palestinians killed since the war began are civilians, health officials say. The unrelenting humanitarian crisis in Gaza "remains dire," the Red Crescent said Saturday on X, formerly Twitter, "with 800,000 Palestinians grappling with a severe scarcity of essential supplies." Women hit hard during war Women have been particularly hard-hit in the Gaza crisis. Seventy percent of the nearly 25,000 people killed in Gaza have been women and children, a figure that includes two mothers per hour, according to a report issued Friday by U.N. Women, the U.N. agency for gender equality and empowerment for women and girls. "We have seen evidenced once more that women and children are the first victims of conflict and that our duty to seek peace is a duty to them," Sima Bahous, executive director of U.N. Women, said Friday in a statement accompanying the report. In the West Bank Israel arrested 22 Palestinians overnight in the occupied West Bank, including a woman and children, according to Al Jazeera. The arrests were conducted in Hebron, Nablus, Tubas, Bethlehem, Jenin and Jerusalem, it said. The Palestinian Prisoners Club told Al Jazeera the arrests "were accompanied by widespread raids and abuse, in addition to widespread sabotage and destruction of citizens' homes, the destruction of infrastructure, and the confiscation of money and vehicles." Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Operation Iron Swords - Day 106 - 20 January 2024 U.S. President Joe Biden spoke to PM Netanyahu on the phone for the first time in a month on 19 January 2023. Biden told reporters they discussed possible paths for an independent Palestinian state, suggesting one path could involve a non-militarized government. Biden said Netanyahu was not opposed to all two-state solutions, noting that some UN members do not have armies. A source familiar with the phone call told CNN that Netanyahu told Biden that when he made a statement seemingly rejecting any Palestinian state was not meant to prevent such a possibility from ever occurring. Netanyahu publicly responded to Biden claiming that he actually told the president that "Palestinian independence clashes with Israel's security need for control of the Gaza Strip." Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he would not give up full Israeli security control over all the lands west of Jordan. Netanyahu had said that Israel would maintain its security control over the Gaza Strip, after eliminating the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), stressing that security control is to ensure that Gaza does not pose any future security threat to Israel. The Israeli Prime Minister's Office denied what CNN reported about Netanyahu's commitment to the Palestinian state, during his call with US President Joe Biden, stressing that Netanyahu repeated to Biden his firm position regarding the Palestinian state. Biden had confirmed that Netanyahu did not oppose the issue, pointing out that the two-state solution was not impossible with Netanyahu in power. The US President's statements came after his first call with the Israeli Prime Minister in about a month, during which they discussed the issue of the two-state solution. The Associated Press quoted American officials as saying that Biden's frustration with Netanyahu during their recent call had become more apparent. In this context, the Palestinian presidency called on the United States to recognize the State of Palestine and not just talk about a two-state solution, stressing that the Palestinian people will not give up their legitimate rights, Jerusalem and its sanctities, and the establishment of their independent Palestinian state, no matter how long it takes. The statement published by the Palestinian News Agency (Wafa) said that the occupation government still refuses to acknowledge the fact that peace will not be achieved without the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. On the 106th day of the Israeli war in the Gaza Strip , Israeli bombing and fierce clashes continued between the Palestinian resistance and the occupation forces in various areas of the Gaza Strip. In the West Bank, the IDF raided several areas there, and settlers continued their attacks on Palestinian citizens for the second day in a row. In the axes supporting the Palestinian resistance in Gaza, the Ain al-Assad base, which houses American forces in Iraq, was bombed with dozens of missiles, while the Lebanese Hezbollah announced that it had targeted many Israeli sites. As for Yemen, an American bombing targeted a Houthi anti-ship missile in the Gulf of Aden. In several European countries, massive demonstrations took place in solidarity with Gaza, calling for an end to the Israeli aggression against the Strip, which has continued since the seventh of last October. A member of the South African advisory group before the International Court of Justice said that the team expects a ruling on the case against Israel within a week. Operational Update The Israeli military questions the authenticity of The New York Times report, which cites Israeli commanders who have complained about the IDF's failures in the Gaza Strip. The New York Times reported that doubts have been raised by the Israeli military's high command regarding the feasibility of their objectives in Gaza, particularly in light of the limited progress in their proclaimed objective of "uprooting" Hamas from the Gaza Strip. According to the report, Israel was unable to meet its goals of occupying large areas of the Gaza Strip and has had to settle for less than it had originally planned, which raised concerns among some commanders regarding the effectiveness of the Israeli war cabinet's strategy. The slow pace of the operation has led to private expressions of frustration among some Israeli commanders, according to NYT. The report suggests that some commanders are contemplating prioritizing the retrieval of Israeli captives held by the Palestinian Resistance, at the cost of backing away from the political command's goal of "dismantling" the Palestinian Resistance. The Resistance's expansive tunnel network has proven to be an intricate maze, filled with booby traps that have cost Israeli special forces heavy losses since the ground invasion into the Gaza Strip was initiated. In fact, the Resistance's tunnels have been the main focus of the occupation's military, as they are regarded to be essential strategic infrastructure to the Palestinian Resistance's work. Despite the goal of destroying the tunnel network, the Israeli military has not succeeded. Brigade after brigade attempted to crack the puzzle but failed. This includes multiple Combat Engineering Brigades and the Yahalom Special Comabt Engineering Unit, whose ranks have been substantially reduced. NYT also points to a reality that has contradicted the occupation's timeframe. Essentially, the IDF had expected to take "full control" of major cities in the Gaza Strip, such as Gaza City, Khan Younis, and Rafah by late December. According to the report, "Israel" is yet to even launch a ground invasion into Rafah, while it faces mounting difficulties in Khan Younis. Moreover, the IDF has also failed to "eliminate" many of the Resistance leaders that it had vowed to kill, including Yahya al-Sinwar, Mohammad Deif, Marwan Issa, and others. The Israeli military command responded to the testimonies of several commanders given to NYT by saying that the sources were "not known" to the military and "do not reflect" its position. Military expert Major General Fayez Al-Duwairi said that the Israeli occupation army began a broader ground operation north of Gaza in implementation of the warnings of Prime Minister Herzi Halevy a few days ago, in which he spoke about the possibility of the Islamic Resistance Movement ( Hamas ) rebuilding its combat strength. Halevy had confirmed a few days ago that Hamas is capable of rebuilding its combat capabilities in the north, indicating that this matter may require implementing a broader operation than the previous one. According to Al-Duwairi, Israel began this broader operation that the Chief of Staff spoke about, as the occupation forces attacked the Al-Daraj and Al-Tuffah neighborhoods during the past 48 hours with a force consisting of an armor battalion supported by the Nahal battalion, an artillery company, and an engineering effort, a force approaching an entire brigade. Currently, fighting is raging in the northern sector, extending from Street 10 to the fence area, as Israeli forces are trying to penetrate the Tawam and Intelligence Towers areas, but they are taking place to a lesser extent than at the beginning of the ground operations, according to Al-Duwairi. Israel also pushed a similar force into the Jabalia area, but Al-Duwairi said that it is difficult to know whether this is a new force or whether the force that tried to penetrate into the north during the past two days failed to achieve any goal and was directed to another area. Regarding the resistances handling of this new attack, Al-Duwairi said that it will continue to rely on the idea of lone wolves that surprise the forces in a specific place and time according to the available information. In the northern axis of the Gaza Strip, the Al-Qassam Brigades said that they repelled incursion attempts by the occupation forces and targeted their vehicles in the Al-Jaabari camp. Jabalia also witnessed Israeli bombardment focused on the Tal al-Zaatar area and the Tal al-Salatin area in Beit Lahia, where martyrs and wounded were recorded. In Gaza City, confrontations took place during which the Al-Quds Brigades were able to snipe soldiers. The Brigades also announced that a number of military vehicles had been trapped in what it called a carefully engineered ambush with high-explosive devices east of Gaza, which resulted in soldiers being killed and wounded. Al-Aqsa satellite channel said that violent clashes have been taking place for hours between the Palestinian resistance and the Israeli occupation forces in the Karama and Intelligence Towers areas west of Gaza City. The IDF artillery fired heavy flares into the airspace of Gaza City in conjunction with the clashes, while the occupation aircraft continued to launch air strikes on residential neighborhoods. In the central region, fierce confrontations took place, whether in the Nuseirat camp, where the Al-Quds Brigades destroyed a Merkava tank, or the Bureij camp, where the Al-Qassam Brigades said they bombed Israeli army positions with heavy-caliber shells. A scene was also repeated in Al-Maghazi camp, which witnessed intense clashes. To the south, Khan Yunis was subjected to Israeli bombing, resulting in martyrs. The city of Rafah was also subjected to a raid that targeted a car, resulting in 4 martyrs. Khan Yunis is also the center of gravity in the southern region, where strong confrontations took place, as the Al-Qassam Brigades and the Al-Quds Brigades announced the bombing of sites where Israeli forces were stationed. Israeli warplanes dropped leaflets on the city of Khan Yunis, south of the Gaza Strip, bearing pictures of Israelis detained in the Gaza Strip, and called on the Palestinians to inform the Israeli army if they recognized any of them. On the other hand, the Israeli army announced that 16 soldiers were wounded in the Gaza battles. It also announced that it had discovered and destroyed a number of rocket launchers equipped with long-range missiles in the northern Gaza Strip, in addition to destroying a missile manufacturing facility belonging to the Islamic Jihad movement. The Israeli army also announced that its soldiers found dozens of war machines and explosive materials used in manufacturing missiles and that they were destroyed. The Palestinian Red Crescent Society reported on its page on the X website that 800,000 Palestinians in Gaza are suffering from a scarcity of basic materials, as Israel continues its siege of the Strip and prevents the arrival of aid. The Israeli military expert, Alon Ben David, expressed the astonishment of the Israeli occupation army and the Shin Bet at the enormous size of military industries in the Gaza Strip. This astonishment was even doubled with the discovery of the unimaginable scope of Hamas capabilities to produce weapons and underground infrastructure. The expert pointed out to the Hebrew newspaper Maariv, Hamas's endless capabilities in strengthening its ranks with new people. The Israeli military expert added that the coming days will witness the end of the intense phase of fighting in Gaza, and the beginning of a new phase characterized by the same amount of challenge. Alon Ben David explained that the 98th Division of the Israeli occupation army will end its operations in Khan Yunis, south of Gaza, while the army hopes that its forces will be able to achieve an achievement from this operation, represented by reaching the leadership of the Hamas movement or releasing the Zionist detainees, but achieving these goals Unsecured. The expert believes that after controlling Khan Yunis, the occupation army will have operational control over about 80% of the territory of the Gaza Strip, with the exception of the Rafah area, the Nuseirat camp, and the city of Deir al-Balah. Most of the forces will leave, but some of them will remain, and will continue to divide the sector between north and south. He pointed out that 90% of Hamas's military capabilities are produced inside Gaza, in addition to the local production of advanced RPG launchers and drones. Alon Ben David claimed that a very small portion of weapons reaches the Gaza Strip by smuggling through Egypt, and therefore the current challenge for the occupying army in the coming years is to destroy the huge quantities of Hamas weapons and dismantle its ability to manufacture military industries, warning of the movements ability. It continues to support its ranks with new people. In the occupied West Bank, settlers attacked Palestinian farmers near the village of Ramoun, wounding some of them. They also continued their attacks on Palestinian shepherds and farmers in Masafer Yatta, threatening them with displacement. Israeli forces stormed - at dawn on Saturday - Balata camp, east of Nablus in the West Bank. The Palestinian News Agency "Wafa" reported the outbreak of "violent confrontations with the occupation forces, who stormed several neighborhoods in the camp, led by a military bulldozer that carried out acts of sabotage on the internal roads. The occupation soldiers also raided several homes and tampered with their contents." Later, Israeli forces sent military reinforcements to the camp, amid continuing violent clashes. The Israeli occupation forces also stormed the Al-Dhahr area in the town of Beit Ummar, north of Hebron in the West Bank. The occupation forces set up military barriers. They began searching citizens' vehicles and phones, and assaulted a young man before stopping him. Israeli forces stormed the city of Hebron, south of the occupied West Bank . This was accompanied by an increase in settler attacks on Palestinian villages since the Battle of Al-Aqsa Flood and the ongoing Israeli aggression against the besieged Gaza Strip, which led to the displacement of hundreds of Palestinians. Human rights reports also revealed an increase in the number of detainees in the West Bank, and an increase in their abuse in the occupation prisons. Al Jazeera's correspondent reported that the Israeli occupation forces stormed the "Traffic Circle" area in Ras Al-Joura in the city of Hebron in the West Bank, and closed all entrances to the area. Earlier, the reporter reported that the occupation forces stormed the city of Yatta, south of Hebron, assaulted citizens and confiscated a number of vehicles. In a related context, a citizen was injured after dozens of settlers attacked Palestinian farmers in the village of Ramoun, east of the city of Ramallah in the West Bank. Local sources said that a group of armed settlers stormed the entrances to the village and - protected by members of the occupation army - attacked Palestinian farmers while they were on their lands located between the villages of Deir Dibwan and Ramon. They attempted to steal sheep and destroy buildings that had been erected by Palestinians about 20 years ago. Settlers also attacked - for the second day in a row - Palestinian citizens in Susya in Masafer Yatta, south of Hebron. Settlers prevent sheep herders from reaching their pastures and threaten them with weapons and forcible displacement from their homes. Susiya and other population centers in Masafer Yatta are subjected to continuous attacks by the occupation forces and settlers, but the frequency of attacks has increased significantly since the seventh of last October. In the same context, the National Office for Land Defense and Settlement Resistance revealed that settlers view the Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip as a golden opportunity for displacement and ethnic cleansing against the Palestinians in the West Bank. The weekly settlement report explained that settlers are using violence, with the help of the occupation army, to displace Palestinian communities from areas classified as (C). It pointed out that the "settlers' terrorist practices" worsened after October 7, 2023, and prompted more than 1,500 Palestinian citizens from at least 25 communities to flee their homes and areas, raising the percentage of those displaced during the past year to three times that of 2022. According to the report, the settlers have turned into military and paramilitary formations in times of war, armed and directed by Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir , financed by Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich , and receiving clear sponsorship from the state, army and occupation police. Israeli human rights organizations reveal that the current settler violence aimed at displacement is unprecedented in terms of frequency and intensity, especially in the south of Hebron Governorate. The report explained that, in the context of the aggression against the Gaza Strip , terrorist settler groups began to become active in the West Bank, announcing their goals with complete clarity. These are groups of price tag sisters who carry out their activities without restrictions on social media networks and call on Palestinians to immigrate to Jordan. One of these groups is an organization that calls itself Migrate Now and on its Facebook page calls on Palestinians in the West Bank to immigrate to Jordan before it is too late. This page publishes a picture of a map that includes Palestine and part of Jordan, showing parts of Jordanian territory within the new Israeli map, which Smotrich presented in Paris last year, and in the middle of it is the logo of the "Aragon" organization known for its criminal history in Palestine. In light of Israel's policy of persecution and its attempt to prevent operations against it in the West Bank, the occupation authorities arrested at least 22 Palestinians from Friday evening until Saturday morning, including children and a woman from Jerusalem. A joint statement by the Prisoners and Ex-Prisoners Affairs Authority and the Palestinian Prisoners Club stated that the total number of arrests since October 7 has risen to about 6,115, including those who were arrested from homes and at military checkpoints, those who were forced to surrender themselves under pressure, and those who were held hostage. The arrest campaigns were accompanied by widespread raids and harassment, in addition to widespread sabotage and destruction of citizens homes, the destruction of infrastructure, and the confiscation of money and vehicles. The report indicated that the total number of Palestinians detained in Israeli prisons until the end of December 2023 amounted to about 8,800 citizens, including more than 80 female prisoners. Within the framework of the occupations policy of abusing detainees, which has increased in frequency since the Al-Aqsa Flood, the Palestinian Prisoners Club stated in a statement that Megiddo Prison was one of the most prominent prisons in which detainees witnessed the most severe torture and abuse, in addition to what happened in Negev Prison. The statement explained that the detainees were subjected to brutal, systematic and collective torture and abuse. In addition to the brutal and horrific attacks in prison, the prison administration continues its policy of starvation, which has affected their health conditions, in addition to the extreme cold, which has greatly exacerbated their suffering, and the accompanying deprivation of prisoners of sufficient clothing and blankets, in addition to the severe overcrowding that Departments witness it. The report stated that the majority of detainees sleep on the floor, and that no group was exempt from beatings and abuse, including children, in addition to the insults and profanity that the detainee receives during his assault. In light of the attack on the Palestinians by the occupation army and its settlers, the Permanent Representative of Palestine to the United Nations , Riyad Mansour, sent three identical letters to the Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres , the President of the Security Council , and the President of the United Nations General Assembly, regarding the continuation of Israel, the occupying power, in Deliberately targeting Palestinian children. The letter stated, "Children in the Gaza Strip are exposed to killing, wounding, mutilation, starvation, orphanage, displacement, and disease and cold, while children in the West Bank are exposed to persecution and terror by soldiers and colonizers, in addition to being shot, beaten, arrested, and tortured." Mansour appealed to the international community, including the Security Council, including its Group on Children in Armed Conflict, the General Assembly, the Human Rights Council, the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, to take immediate and very rapid action in accordance with international law. At least 5 Iranian Revolutionary Guard advisers were killed in an air strike on the Mezzeh suburb of the Syrian capital, Damascus. The five advisors were killed as a result of what the official Syrian news agency described as an Israeli air aggression targeting a residential building in the Mezzeh neighborhood in Damascus. Iranian media revealed that the Syrian Quds Force intelligence commander and his deputy were killed during the attack. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard announced the killing of 4 of its military advisors in the Mezzeh area in Damascus, and later confirmed the death of a fifth advisor who succumbed to his wounds. The Revolutionary Guard published the names of the four advisors who were killed immediately: Hojatollah Amidwar, Ali Aqazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi, and Saeed Karimi, noting that two Syrian soldiers were killed in the air strike. Iranian media reported that among the dead were a Syria front intelligence official in the Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force and his deputy. Sources told Al Jazeera in Damascus that the targeted building located near the Political Security Division had completely collapsed. Regarding the circumstances of the assassination, the Syrian News Agency said that at 10:20 a.m. local time, Israel carried out an air attack on a residential building in the Mezzeh neighborhood, resulting in the martyrdom of a number of people. The agency added that Syrian air defenses responded to the attack and shot down a number of Israeli missiles. In reactions, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad movement condemned what it called the Israeli aggression that targeted leaders of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard in Damascus. The movement said - in a statement - that "this step expresses the occupation's attempt to export its military failure by expanding the scope of the war," as it put it. In Iranian reactions, President Ibrahim Raisi said that Tehran will not leave the Israeli crime unanswered, adding that the Zionist entitys crime violated international decisions and was carried out with the support of the arrogant powers, including Washington. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian said that "the activity of Iranian military advisors in combating terrorism and ensuring the security of the region will continue strongly." In a statement published by its spokesman, Nasser Kanaani, hours after the air strike, the Iranian Foreign Ministry strongly condemned what it called the criminal act carried out by the Zionist entity, and said that the repeated Israeli violations of Syrian sovereignty are a desperate attempt to spread instability and insecurity in the region. The statement also said, In addition to the political, legal and international prosecution of these aggressive and criminal acts, the Islamic Republic of Iran reserves the right to respond to the organized terrorism of the false Zionist entity at the appropriate time and place. Iraqi media reported that 40 missiles were fired at the Ain al-Asad base, which houses American forces in the Iraqi Anbar Governorate. A security source in the tribal mobilization in Anbar Governorate, west of Baghdad, confirmed that the Ain al-Assad base was targeted with missiles launched from the Al-Baghdadi area, close to the Ain al-Assad base. The source added that the international coalition forces responded by bombing the area from which the missiles were launched with about 18 missiles, without knowing the extent of the losses between the two sides. Naim Qassem, Deputy Secretary-General of the Lebanese Hezbollah, said that if the party waits for Israel to finish what it wants in Gaza, the next turn will be for the party in Lebanon. Naeem Qassem added that the partys work in southern Lebanon is a defensive action to support Gaza and Lebanon. On the ground, Lebanese Hezbollah announced that it targeted a gathering of occupation soldiers in the vicinity of the Al-Dhahira site and caused injuries. They also attacked two other gatherings of soldiers in the vicinity of Hunin Castle and Zarit Barracks. For his part, Al Jazeera's correspondent reported that the outskirts of the town of Al-Adisa in southern Lebanon were subjected to two Israeli raids. He said that Israeli artillery also bombed the surroundings of the towns of Yaroun, Aitaroun, and the Marjayoun Plain. The Civil Defense in southern Lebanon said that two people were martyred in an Israeli raid that targeted a car in the town of Al-Bazouriya in the Tire region in southern Lebanon. Al Jazeera's correspondent indicated that a drone bombed a car as it passed through the town of Al-Bazouriyah, which led to the car being completely burned. Ambulance teams transported the victims to the hospital. US airbase Ain al-Asad in Iraq's western Anbar Province has been targeted by at least 15 missiles, Iraqi news agency Shafaq reported on Saturday, citing a security source. The missiles were launched from the Iraqi city of Albaghdadi, the source said, without giving further information. Yahya Rasool, a spokesman for the commander-in-chief of the Iraqi armed forces, told the Iraq News Agency that the bombing injured an Iraqi soldier and caused material damage. "A number of missiles fell near the headquarters of the 29th Brigade, 7th Division, affiliated with the Al-Jazeera Operations Command, within the Iraqi Ain Al-Assad base, wounding a soldier and causing damage to the headquarters," he said. A number of US soldiers are being examined for traumatic brain injuries after "Iranian-backed militants" carried out a missile attack on US airbase Al-Assad in western Iraq's Anbar Province, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Sunday, adding that the US is also assessing the damage caused to the base. "At approximately 6:30 p.m. (Baghdad time) time Jan. 20, multiple ballistic missiles and rockets were launched by Iranian-backed militants in Western Iraq targeting al-Assad Airbase. Most of the missiles were intercepted by the bases air defense systems while others impacted on the base. Damage assessments are ongoing. A number of U.S. personnel are undergoing evaluation for traumatic brain injuries. At least one Iraqi service member was wounded," the CENTCOM said on X. Since the beginning of the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the bases of the US-led international coalition in Iraq, as well as US troops in Syria, have come under regular attacks, with armed Shiite groups claiming responsibility in Iraq. However, this attack is reported to be one of the most massive since the the start of the recent turmoil in Gaza. In Yemen, the US Central Command said that it launched - at dawn on Saturday - an air strike on a Houthi anti-ship missile that was prepared for launch and targeting the Gulf of Aden, adding that the missile represented a threat to commercial ships and US Navy ships in the region, and that it destroyed it in self-defense. "As part of ongoing efforts to protect freedom of navigation and prevent attacks on maritime vessels, on Jan. 20 at approximately 4 a.m. (Sanaa time), U.S. Central Command forces conducted airstrikes against a Houthi anti-ship missile that was aimed into the Gulf of Aden and was prepared to launch. U.S. forces determined the missile presented a threat to merchant vessels and U.S. Navy ships in the region, and subsequently struck and destroyed the missile in self-defense. This action will make international waters safer and more secure for U.S. Navy and merchant vessels." In a related context, Reuters reported from regional and Iranian sources that commanders from the Iranian Revolutionary Guard and Hezbollah are in Yemen to help direct and supervise Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea. The sources said that Iran intensified its arms supplies to the Houthis in the wake of the war in Gaza, and that it provided them with advanced drones, anti-ship cruise missiles, precision ballistic missiles, and medium-range missiles. Maps All maps are lies. Not only is it easy to lie with maps, it is essential, wrote cartographer Mark Monmoneir in his book How to Lie with Maps. He showed that condensing complex, three-dimensional spaces onto a two-dimensional sheet of paper is bound to be reductive. But it is impossible to comprehend the war in Gaza without reference to maps, otherwise the entire conflict is reduced to an endless series of meaningless acts of random violence and the suffering of civilians. The first characteristic of guerrilla warfare is the loss of a front line. Evidently, different mappers have different ideas of how to depict the war in Gaza, notably those that seek to depict Israeli progress in the ground campaign. Part of the problem is latency. The news that forms the basis of the maps takes time to filter out to mappers, and the cartographers take time in crafting their maps, and it takes time to curate them. These processes are uneven among mappers, so their maps may differ in detail. Probably there is some ideological bias, or at least thematic apperception, which is understandable in wartime. It may come as no surprise that al-Jazeera maps depict rather less Israeli territorial progress than other sources. Finally, there remains the epistemological question of just exactly what are the colored in areas depicting. Naively, this might be understood as areas of Israeli control, that are no longer contested by the HAMAS. Or possibly these are areas of Israeli presence, in many of which the possibility of an RPG-wielding HAMAS militant popping out of a tunnel unexpectedly remains a live possibility. With the "zero-range" combat characterized by small unit tactics on both sides, maps may be prey to a fallacy of misplaced concreteness. Bystanders Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper revealed that Egypt is taking steps to reach a new agreement, which includes concluding a long truce, through which a number of prisoners from both the Palestinian and Israeli sides will be exchanged. The newspaper quoted informed Egyptian sources as saying that the proposal being consulted on takes into account the interests of various parties, and takes into account the current difficulties and declared positions. The sources indicated that the new proposal will not be a substitute for the comprehensive Egyptian proposal to stop the war and arrangements for the next stage, but rather it will be part of the efforts to create the atmosphere to stop the fighting, alleviate the humanitarian suffering of the residents of the Gaza Strip, and then move to the next stage. It added that Egypt received positive indicators despite the difficulty of the current situation, but the final crystallization of the agreement is still in the maturation stage, according to the sources. Several European countries witnessed massive demonstrations in solidarity with the Gaza Strip and calling for an end to the Israeli aggression against the Strip that has been ongoing since the seventh of last October, which claimed the lives of more than 24,000 martyrs and more than 62,000 wounded, most of whom were children and women. The Palestinian journalist residing in Berlin, Majid Al-Zeer, said that the demonstrations that took place today in the German capital, Berlin, have been continuing for 105 consecutive days in victory for the Palestinian right, and 19 other demonstrations were also launched throughout Germany , as well as in most European countries, in denunciation of the European policy towards the aggression against the Gaza Strip. Gaza. During the Non-Aligned Movement summit in Uganda , United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed the necessity of recognizing the right of the Palestinians to build their state, in light of a stream of statements by Israeli officials and ministers who expressed their categorical rejection of the establishment of a Palestinian state. Guterres said in his speech at the summit that "refusing to accept a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians, and denying the right of the Palestinian people to establish a state, is unacceptable." Axis of Resistance The Secretary-General of Hezbollah, Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, said: The Al-Aqsa Flood has engraved itself deeply in the conscience of the Zionists, a defeat that cannot be erased. The myth has been shattered, the model has been shattered, the prestige has vanished, the project has collapsed, and the issue that they worked so long to stifle has returned to the top of all the worlds merits. In a letter addressed by Sayyed Nasrallah to the Twelfth International Forum, Gaza: Symbol of Resistance , which was read by Mr. Abdullah Safi al-Din , representative of Hezbollah Lebanon in Tehran : Titled your conference with the slogan Gaza: Symbol of Resistance, and timing it at a crucial historical stage that is going through In which the Palestinian resistance is a major confrontation to the Zionist war of annihilation, it only demonstrates the sense of responsibility of those involved in managing the conference and their blessed call to stand by the Palestinian people, their cause, and their resistance, which requires all of us to have grave responsibilities and constant alert to mobilize the nations capabilities in support of the Palestinian people and in support of their valiant resistance that is being written today. Truly, through its sacrifices, its heroism, the blood of its men, and the steadfastness and steadfastness of its people, it creates the future of the nation, preserves its dignity, and consolidates its strength. He added that what Israel has lost to date in Gaza in terms of officers and soldiers at the hands of Palestinian resistance groups is many times greater than what it lost in the 1967 War. The Israeli army, which occupied more than 69,000 km2 in the Six-Day War, is being defeated today over part of the Gaza area. It is unable to achieve a goal, declare an occupation, or come close to victory. Rather, it retreats and retreats under the title of moving to a new stage. Therefore, it is natural and correct for the conferences slogan to be Gaza is a symbol of resistance. Gaza today is the symbol because in Gaza there is an honorable, brave and proud resistance. He explained: Gaza is the symbol because it expresses, through its resistance, the pride, pride, pride, ambitions and hopes of our peoples who are thirsty for pride and victory. If Gaza had not resisted, it would not have been a symbol and symbol of pride. Resistance is what honors its people and the bearers of its banner. Resistance is the secret of pride, the secret of dignity, and the key to victory. Gaza is geographically small, but it is gigantic in its magnificence and heroism. Today, Gaza is more generous, more powerful, and prouder than the entire world. He said: Since the occupation of Palestine, the enemy and its masters have worked on two paths. The first is the path of legitimizing the occupation internationally and polishing its image and demonstrating it as a model civilized entity that can be emulated as a role model for the region. In the first track, they recorded outstanding successes due to the capabilities they possess and their dominance over major international institutions and the Wests regimes and its effective and influential forces. As for the other path, its conclusion was to weaken and stifle the resistance of the Palestinian people and liquidate its cause, leading to its removal from the arena of global circulation by relying on force to eliminate the resistance forces and relying on the option of normalization, which guaranteed them the removal of influential regimes from the arena of confrontation. He continued, saying: The option of normalization was and remains a project to subjugate the will of the nation... a project to waste its central cause, and a project to shatter the unity of its options until the issue of Palestine, which is the issue of the nation, almost turned into an exclusive Palestinian issue, an orphan, a stranger, a stranger among its people, its people, and its brothers. The choice of normalization with the enemy has placed the Palestinian cause and the right of the Palestinian people to their land in the circle of targeting, or even in the circle of imminent danger, and on a downward path that warns of every danger due to the connivance and betrayal of the Palestinian people that normalization with the enemy entails, and the abandonment of their right, their cause, their resistance, and their future. He said: At this fatal moment, the flood of Al-Aqsa resistance came to shuffle all the cards, change all calculations, and turn the threat into an advanced existential opportunity and a turning point in the paths that the enemies had worked on for a long time. The flood has engraved deeply in the conscience of the Zionists, a defeat that cannot be erased. The myth has been shattered, the model has been shattered, the prestige has vanished, the project has been shattered, and the issue that they had worked so long to stifle has returned to the forefront of all the worlds merits, to awaken the world once again, to restore momentum and a resounding presence, and to reveal itself as a global issue. Extensive and present in all geography of the world and its corridors. He added: The resisting flood of Al-Aqsa dealt a harsh blow to all attempts to write off the Palestine issue and confirmed that the issue that was conspired against by many of the West and many of the East, many of the far away and many of the closest ones, would not have survived without its resistance, its rifle and its sacrifices. No one has a presence in this brutal, brutal world except to the extent of his resistance, and if the truth is armed with strength, faith, and the will to resist and persevere, it cannot be defeated, no matter how oppressive and powerful the enemy is. He said that the Israeli enemy, which today continues with massacres and crimes, killing tens of thousands of children and women, waging a comprehensive war of annihilation against humans, stones and life, and committing atrocities that are the greatest in modern history, is doing all of this to cover up defeats with massacres and to take away, with images of massacres and destruction, the humiliated image of Israel on the Day of Judgment. October 7, and to take revenge for destabilizing his project, to which he and his masters have made every effort for more than 50 years. He added: In its attack on our region, the West, led by the United States of America and Britain, has exhausted the body and thought of the nation, length and breadth, with projects of fragmentation, misinformation, deception, and fragmentation, aided by brute tools, sinful pens, hired voices, and hired minds. It has torn apart, with sectarianism, racism, and sectarianism, a unified whole, and deepened the fragmentation of every fragmented one, so the nations commonalities were absent. The great ones are in favor of their small differences at a stage in which the nations identity, capabilities, role and existence are exposed to profound and stormy dangers... They have worked to tear our peoples apart and preoccupy them with issues of fragmentation, but Palestine alone remains a valve of unity, a path of convergence, a base for revival, and a crossing path to the future that our peoples yearn for, a future. Strength, pride, freedom, sovereignty, stability and well-being. He stated: After decades of focused efforts, with full American and Western support, to dismember, fragment, and dissolve the Palestinian issue, victory for Gaza came from the arenas of Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran, and Yemen, broader than the enemys expectations, and the resistance factions succeeded in besieging the usurping entity with fire for more than 100 days. This is unprecedented. He stressed that the blood of the martyrs of supporting Gaza in Lebanon, the blood of the martyrs of defending Gaza in Syria, the blood of martyrs of supporting Gaza in Iraq, the blood of the martyrs of supporting Gaza in Yemen, and the blood of the martyrs of supporting Gaza in Iran, the last of which was the blood of Major General Sayyed Radhi al-Moussawi, all these bloods unite, coalesce and integrate. With the blood of the martyrs of Gaza and the West Bank. It is the unity of blood, rifle, arena and target, which is what worries our enemies, and which is what we must continue and work to increase, deepen and extend. Whoever believes that this nation has an option other than resistance is wrong and very, very delusional. He said: Israel did not occupy Palestine with diplomacy, but with weapons and force, and it did not occupy Beirut in 1982 with diplomacy, but with weapons and force. It does not threaten the nation today with diplomacy, but with weapons and force. Israel was not defeated from Lebanon in 1982 by diplomacy, but rather by resistance, just as it will not be defeated from Gaza and Palestine by diplomacy, but by resistance. We, as a nation, have no choice but to resist. We have nothing but resistance. There is nothing we can bet on but resistance. He added that the confrontation with the enemy is not a confrontation for one or two days, but rather it is an ongoing, continuous and cumulative confrontation, and we must remain present in this confrontation. The gathering of the fleets of arrogant countries in support of Israel only confirms its weakness and instability, which must harden our will to adhere to the option of resistance. If the conditions for liberating Palestine are not available today, then we must prepare and prepare for tomorrow and the day after. He stressed: Betting on international institutions and the so-called international community, as you have witnessed and we have witnessed repeatedly, is a failed and disappointing bet that has produced nothing but heartbreak, loss, disappointment and bitterness, adding that these international institutions are out of the bet because they are dependent on the will of the American administration, and the last farce and complicity of these institutions was the decision. Which condemned Yemen for its targeting of Israeli ships in defense of Gaza and legitimized the American-British targeting of the Ansar Allah brothers and ignored with all insolence and malice two million Palestinian citizens who were martyred, wounded, detained, hungry, thirsty, and displaced in the open, as a result of Israeli massacres and attacks. He said: From your blessed conference, I extend my thanks to the brothers in the Islamic Republic of Iran, the leadership and people, for their pioneering and supportive stances, and for the authentic and wise stances of His Eminence the Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (may his soul rest in peace), and I thank your conference, your stance, and your support for the resistance. He stressed: The pledge of the Islamic resistance in Lebanon is to remain in the position of supporting Gaza until the victory of Gaza. We pledged to our great Imam Khomeini (may God sanctify his secret) that we would keep his commandments, abide by his path, and continue on his path, the outcome of which would be nothing but victory, pride, and dignity. It is noteworthy that the twelfth international forum, Gaza: Symbol of Resistance, continues its work with the participation of a group of families of resistance martyrs, martyrs of defenders of the holy shrines, nuclear martyrs, elite officials and military leaders, guests from the Global Resistance Front, and activists in the field of the Palestinian cause. Allied for Democracy Israelis gathered in downtown Tel Aviv to protest the policy of Benjamin Netanyahu's government in managing the war on Gaza. The protesters raised banners demanding the dismissal of the Israeli government, immediate elections, and the formation of a new government seeking what they described as unifying the Israeli ranks. This comes as the families of the prisoners continue to demonstrate in front of Netanyahus house in Caesarea as an attempt to pressure him to conclude a deal to release their detained children in the Gaza Strip. Chief of Staff of the Israeli army, Herzi Halevy, said that some reserve forces are being demobilized due to what he called the tension of the battlefield and the demands of life. Recently, Israeli media reports reported the demobilization of reserve units to reintegrate them into the economic cycle in view of the damage caused to the Israeli economy as a result of the war on Gaza, while official statements reported the withdrawal of some forces from the Gaza Strip, including a unit in the Golani Brigade . The Israeli Walla website revealed that Defense Minister Yoav Gallant tried to storm Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office , and the situation almost deteriorated into a fist fight. Gallant threatened Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer to bring in the Golani Brigade to control the situation in the war council. Dermer, who renounced his American citizenship to serve as economic envoy in Washington before becoming ambassador there, is considered one of Netanyahu's closest associates. According to the Walla website, Netanyahu's crew monitored Gallant's crew while recording the course of the security meetings on an audio tape. Israeli media reported that Gallant left the war cabinet meeting last Saturday because his office director was prevented from attending, amid increasing tension within the council. At the time, Israeli Channel 12 quoted a source as saying that the ministers withdrawal came after he arrived at the meeting headquarters and his assistant was prevented from entering with him, but when he entered the room he found 5 of Netanyahus aides. The source added, "Netanyahu told Gallant that as long as my assistant did not attend, your assistant should not attend, despite the presence of 5 of his employees in the place," and this is what prompted the Defense Minister to withdraw. According to the channel, Netanyahu believes that the army is leaking some information related to the bilateral talks or discussions. As the Walla website reported, Gallant sometimes refrains from answering calls from Netanyahus office for entire days. The Israeli Channel 13 revealed that Gallant asked Netanyahu not to "disrupt" his work within the government. In a related context, the British newspaper The Times reported, quoting an unnamed Israeli security official, that the Israeli war government is on the verge of collapse and Netanyahu is hesitating and wasting time. During recent months, the Israeli media has repeatedly touched on ongoing disagreements between Gallant and Netanyahu, related to how to manage the war on the Gaza Strip, and the aftermath of the war, in addition to Netanyahus repeated attempts to hold the army responsible for the war on the Gaza Strip. Many Israeli analysts point out that each member of the War Council only thinks about his political future and not Israel's interests. Ofer Shelah, a researcher at the National Security Research Institute, believes that the members of the War Council have been preparing themselves for the aftermath of the war since the first day of the war, and this is because the ghost of October 7th is haunting them, and each one of them is running ugly media campaigns on satellite channels saying that he is doing well but the others are wrong. The intensity of the differences within the Israeli government and war council widened, after more than 100 days of war on the Gaza Strip, while voices calling on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to step down grew louder. Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper quoted Gadi Eisenkot, former chief of staff of the Israeli army and minister in the Israeli War Council, as saying that the behavior of the Israeli government before and after October 7, 2023 is characterized by a major failure. It added that Netanyahu and everyone who was in a military and political position on the seventh of last October and 10 years before that bears a clear responsibility, and that the Israeli leadership is not telling the truth to the people. For its part, the New York Times quoted Eisenkot as saying that Israel did not overthrow the Islamic Resistance Movement ( Hamas ), and that the goals of the war have not yet been achieved, indicating that reaching an agreement with Hamas is the only way to release the detainees. He stressed that every effort should have been made to maintain the temporary ceasefire last November. Eisenkot promised that his presence in the emergency government prevented the outbreak of a comprehensive war with the Lebanese Hezbollah , which would not have represented a grave strategic mistake, as he put it. Earlier, Eisenkot said that Tel Aviv must stop lying to itself, and conclude a deal that returns those detained by the Palestinian factions, instead of continuing the war on the Gaza Strip. For his part, the head of the Yisrael Beytenu party , Avigdor Lieberman , said that the current Israeli government is no longer capable of leading the people, indicating the necessity of forming a new government. The Israeli newspaper Haaretz quoted a source in the security mini-ministerial council as saying that there is no future for the war on the Gaza Strip. He added that Netanyahu is clearly stalling to buy time, and is evading responsibility, as he put it. For his part, opposition leader Yair Lapid told Israeli Radio that Netanyahu does not care about the State of Israel, and that all he cares about are his personal political interests, and he must be changed quickly. A few days ago, the participation of Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz in a massive demonstration in Tel Aviv opposing the government and attacking its handling of the issue of Israeli prisoners in Gaza raised many questions about the cohesion of the Israeli government after more than 100 days of war. Recently, the Israeli media has repeatedly touched on ongoing disagreements between Netanyahu and his Defense Minister Yoav Galant , related to how to manage the war on the Gaza Strip, and the aftermath of the war, in addition to Netanyahus repeated attempts to hold the army responsible for the war on the Gaza Strip. These tensions in the government coincide with the demonstrations taking place in various areas in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa, demanding that the Israeli government conclude a deal to release detainees held by the resistance in Gaza. The families of Israeli detainees in the Gaza Strip said that they had lost confidence in Netanyahu's government, and that they would make their own moves, without indicating what they were, according to what was reported by the Israeli Broadcasting Authority. According to political analysts, there is a widespread belief that Netanyahu is running this war for personal political motives, and his opponents do not just accuse him of failing to achieve any of its goals; But also by falling hostage to the far-right ministers whose presence he buys at any cost, so that the government, whose popularity polls indicate a decline in popularity, does not collapse. The Israeli newspaper "Israel Today" said that the administration of US President Joe Biden is currently working on formulating a major regional deal to stop the war in the Gaza Strip and reduce tension in the region. The newspaper quoted an unnamed Israeli source as saying that the deal includes a ceasefire, the establishment of a new regime in the Gaza Strip, the normalization of relations between Israel and the Arab world, and the release of prisoners. The newspaper said that the aforementioned Israeli source confirmed that the deal includes several principles aimed at achieving long-term stability as part of the post-war reality. It pointed out that the deal is part of what US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken spoke about at the Davos Forum this week when he said that Israel needs to make difficult decisions. The newspaper pointed out that the deal is still in its initial stages, and it is not yet clear how much of it has been formulated, or whether it will lead to an agreement that will end the war and launch a political process to resolve the conflict. So far, no official comment has been issued by the concerned parties regarding what was revealed in the Israeli newspaper report. Talk about this deal comes after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had announced yesterday that he informed the United States of his opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state within the framework of any scenario for the post-war period in Gaza, and his insistence on continuing the war in the Gaza Strip until victory over the Hamas movement, which is a position that contradicts the American desire. The United States called on Israel to reduce its attack on Gaza, and said that the establishment of a Palestinian state must be part of the post-war phase, which Netanyahu announced his explicit rejection of, demanding full Israeli control over the Strip. The American network "NBC News" reported that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is rapidly losing the support of American lawmakers from both the Democratic and Republican parties. According to the network, supporters of Israel in both the Democratic and Republican parties are sounding the alarm about their loss of confidence in Netanyahu and his handling of the war against the Hamas movement in the Gaza Strip. The network indicated that one of the Republicans in the House of Representatives, whose name was not revealed, said, It has become difficult to defend Netanyahu or justify his political strategy, and that there is a real lack of confidence in his leadership, not to mention questions about his ability to lead. The same source added, "He believes on a personal level that Netanyahu's political interest is to remain involved in the conflict, whether it is with Hezbollah or in Gaza, since any ceasefire, peace agreement, efforts to rebuild, or going out of the way will harm him." "Politically." She pointed out that progressive lawmakers in the US Congress constantly criticize Netanyahu and the Israeli attack on the Gaza Strip, but now these criticisms are coming from pro-Israel lawmakers who work on the main national security committees, and they are now expressing their frustration about Netanyahus leadership, albeit quietly. The network touched on the statements of 3 American lawmakers who wonder whether the 74-year-old Netanyahu has a strategy to end the bloody war in Gaza, and they indicated that the unpopular Netanyahu may be deliberately trying to prolong it in order to remain in power. Earlier, NBC reported that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken's proposal for normalization between Israel and Saudi Arabia, in exchange for the establishment of a Palestinian state. Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper revealed that the United States warned the Israeli Prime Minister that Israel's long-term security will only be guaranteed through the establishment of a Palestinian state . The newspaper said, quoting Reuters, that US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said that there is no way to solve Israels security problems in the long term, as well as organize the Gaza reconstruction process at the end of the war, without establishing a Palestinian state. The Israeli Prime Minister's Office said in a statement that Israel should have security control over Gaza after the war, in the context of conflicting statements between Washington and Tel Aviv regarding plans after the end of the fighting. The Bureau denied the content of a CNN report that stated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed US President Joe Biden - in a phone call yesterday, Friday - that he did not rule out the possibility of establishing a Palestinian state. The Israeli statement said, "During his conversation with President Biden, Prime Minister Netanyahu reiterated his policy that after the destruction of Hamas, Israel must maintain security control over Gaza to ensure that it will no longer pose a threat to Israel, which is inconsistent with the demand for Palestinian sovereignty." This is a rare statement from the Prime Ministers Office, which usually avoids making a statement on the holy Sabbath holiday for religious Jews, and it came hours after a call made by Biden and Netanyahu on Friday, their first in nearly a month. Biden said after the call that the Israeli Prime Minister does not oppose all solutions based on two states, considering that the matter is not impossible with Netanyahu in power. The US President indicated that there are "a number of possible patterns" for this solution, and that some UN member states do not have armed forces, in reference to the possibility of establishing a demilitarized Palestinian state. White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said that Netanyahu had been trying to arrange the phone call for some time, denying that it was a reaction to statements made by the Israeli Prime Minister - the day before yesterday, Thursday - in which he expressed his opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state. Netanyahu stated that he informed Washington of his opposition to any Palestinian state that does not guarantee the security of Israel, as he put it. He said, "Israel must have security control over the entire territory west of the Jordan River. This is a necessary condition." On the other hand, Hamas rejected the US President's statements regarding "possible patterns" for establishing a Palestinian state. A member of the movement's political bureau, Izzat Al-Rishq said in a statement that "selling the illusion that Biden is trying to talk about a Palestinian state (...) does not deceive our people." Al-Rishq added, "Biden is a full partner in the war of genocide, and our people do not expect anything good from him." He said, "These people think of themselves as the guardians of the Palestinian people. They want to choose for them the type of state that suits them." For its part, the Palestinian Foreign Ministry confirmed its refusal to comment on the Israeli Prime Ministers Office on press reports regarding Biden and Netanyahus call. The Ministry stressed in a statement that repeating these statements and demanding Israeli security control over the West Bank and Gaza Strip is a blatant challenge to the declared positions of the American administration and its efforts to resolve the conflict and achieve security and stability in the region. Israel continues its war on Gaza for the 106th day with broad political and military support from the United States, which supplies it with thousands of tons of weapons and ammunition via an air bridge. But there are discrepancies between Biden and Netanyahu regarding the management of the war and plans for the so-called next day after the end of the fighting, especially in light of the failure to achieve the main declared goals of the war, which are the elimination of Hamas and the recovery of Israeli prisoners. Netanyahu is also facing escalating internal disputes, as the official Israeli radio quoted senior security and military leaders as agreeing with the ministers, Benny Gantz, Gadi Eisenkot, and Yoav Galant, that the absence of a political vision for the day after the war on Gaza will prevent Israels victory over Hamas. The British Financial Times newspaper explained that US President Joe Biden's strong support for Israel risks harming his re-election prospects for a new presidential term, explaining that his apparent indifference to the Palestinians may be costly. Writer Edward Luce mentioned in his article that thousands of children were killed in the war on Gaza , according to Save the Children. However, Bidens recent statement calling on the Islamic Resistance Movement ( Hamas ) to release the hostages did not refer to what the Palestinians are suffering. He added that acknowledging the plight of the Palestinians seems to cast doubt on Biden's "sincere sympathy for the Israeli victims in the attack launched by Hamas on October 7," so Washington avoids it, knowing that this upsets many young Americans who will need Biden badly. To their enthusiasm next November, it will also disturb the Arab Americans, who constitute a major voting bloc in many swing states. The writer explained that progressive Democrats are not the only ones who feel dissatisfied with Biden's silence regarding what Israel is doing, as many of his most trusted allies in the US Senate are also upset. In a meeting in Davos this week, the US Senator from Delaware, Senator Chris Coons, and Biden's closest friend in politics, said that the United States should consider setting conditions on military aid to Israel. In a letter to Biden before Christmas, a group of Democrats - some of them former CIA employees - urged the use of influence for an immediate and significant shift in military strategy and tactics in Gaza. The writer stated that White House officials insist that Biden is secretly doing what he can to rein in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but there is little evidence to prove this. Israel has received more than 100 bunker-busting bombs from the United States since October 7, noting that these bombs are intended for destruction and not for precise targeting of terrorists in urban areas. The writer believes that the answer is summed up in Bidens deep feelings towards Israel. Since his first days in politics, he was one of its strongest allies in the Capitol , and he has always admired the approach of both Israeli Prime Ministers Golda Meir and Yitzhak Rabin, but now he faces a contradictory model represented by Benjamin Netanyahu, and despite this, he continues. In support. Edward Luce said that Biden was a strong critic of the efforts of US President George H.W. Bush for the peace process in 1992 between Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organization . He also attacked Bush Sr.'s threat to withdraw American loan guarantees if Israel went ahead with building settlements in the occupied territories. The pressure exerted by Bush helped overthrow the Likud government in Israel at the time and bring Rabin to power, and this led to the Oslo Peace Accords, explains Edward Luce. According to the article, Biden - while serving as vice president - had undermined President Barack Obama's attempt in 2010 to apply similar pressure on Netanyahu's government, and partly because of Biden's own reassurances, the Israeli prime minister mocked Obama. The writer emphasized that Biden could oust Netanyahu by imposing strict conditions on American aid if he wanted to, and in doing so he would gain the respect of the Israelis, the Arab world, and the majority of Jewish Americans. This would also make him regain some of the ground that Washington lost in the global South because of its double standards. A large part of the world believes that America cares more about European victims such as the Ukrainians than it does about civilians in the Middle East or anywhere else. The writer emphasized that the longer Netanyahu clings to power, the worse it will be for Biden. However, it appears that Biden's actions were designed to ensure this. The American website The Intercept confirmed in a report that the American Israel Public Affairs Committee ( AIPAC ) donated about $95,000 to Republican Representative Mike Johnson last November, according to the websites analysis of Federal Election Commission records. The Intercept added in a report by journalist Catherine Caruso that the pro-Israel lobby is considered the largest donor to Johnson in 2023 after he led the passage of a large aid package for Israel. The Intercept said that most of the payments received by the US representative came after the beginning of the war on Gaza. According to the website, Johnson - who refused to speak to The Intercept - received small donations in late October, which quickly increased significantly during the month of November. The Intercept confirmed that this increase came after Johnson led the passage of significant support for Israel, estimated at $14 billion, when he presided over the House of Representatives, where he struggled to accelerate the passage of that support by separating it from the bill to provide aid allocated to Ukraine, and resorting to using IRS funds to finance it. Once the bill passed the House, Johnson urged the Senate to approve it as quickly as possible. The website confirmed that Johnson has always expressed his direct public support for Israel, and he previously confirmed on a trip to Israel in 2020 that it is not true that the Palestinians suffer from injustice in the region, and he continued, "We never see any of that." The website confirmed that AIPAC is considered an influential intermediary in the Capitol , as it provides money to legislators from the Republican and Democratic parties in order to continue maintaining pro-Israel policies, and in the recent period the organization has focused on members of the Democratic Party who are critical of Tel Avivs policies. The Intercept quoted the head of the Arab American Institute, James Zogby, as saying that AIPAC's contributions to election campaigns have two purposes, the first of which is to reward candidates who support Israel's interests, and the second is to use them as a stick to keep politicians aligned in one row. On foreign policy, this is probably the single issue where money has the biggest negative impact, said Stephen Walt, a professor of international relations at Harvard Kennedy School. Even as a growing number of Democrats are willing to buck the pro-Israel consensus in Washington and reject AIPAC's influence, they still suffer from a significant lack of resources, according to the American website. The problem, Walt told The Intercept, is that there are no similar groups on the other side, as no pro-Palestinian or pro-Arab-American PAC has the same resources. Butcher's Bill / Oasis of Martyrs Palestinian armed group Hamas launched thousands of missiles at Israel and deployed its militants to infiltrate Jewish settlements near the countrys border with Gaza on 07 October 2023. The 1,200 Israelis killed on the first day would be the equivalent of 36,000 Americans killed in an attack, as a proportion to Israels population of 9.3 million people (compared to 332 million in the USA). Israeli President Isaac Herzog stated: Not since the Holocaust have so many Jews been killed in one day". PM Netanyahu stated "On October 7th, Hamas murdered 1,400 Israelis. Maybe more. This is in a country of fewer than 10 million people. This would be equivalent to over 50,000 Americans murdered in a single day. Thats twenty 9/11s. That is why October 7th is another day that will live in infamy." It is the second largest loss inflicted on the Israeli forces after the 1973 war, as the Palestinian resistance killed more than 1,200, wounded more than 5,132 others, and captured more than 250, most of them military personnel, some of whom were high-ranking officers in the army. The HAMAS Ministry of Health in the besieged sector announced that the number of victims of the Israeli operation its beginning had risen to 24,927 martyrs, and the killing of nearly 10,000 Palestinian children and 6,600 women killed. The ministry does not distinguish between civilians and combatants. The number wounded was 62,388. The Palestinian Government Media Office in Gaza had said much earlier that the number of missing people had risen to more than 8,000, including including 4,700 children and women, amid expectations that the toll will be double thi figures. The IDF intensified its military operations in the West Bank, and increased the pace of incursions and raids into cities, towns, and camps, resulting in the martyrdom of 342 Palestinians, the injury of about 3,950, and the arrest of 5,780, according to official HAMAS sources. As of 17 January 2023, the Israeli escalation in the West Bank led to the death of 360 Palestinians, the injury of nearly 2,200, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, and the arrest of about 6,000, according to the Palestinian Prisoners Club. More than 130 Hezbollah fighters were killed in Lebanon during exchanges of bombing operations with Israel. Israel revised down the death toll from the October Hamas attacks in southern Israel from 1,400 to 1,200. IDF had said previously it was holding 1,500 bodies of terrorists, a total that now would increas to about 1,700. The officially announced number of deaths among the Israeli army since the start of the ground incursion on October 27th to 195, and 529 deaths since the Al-Aqsa Flood operation on the 7th of the same month. Among them are 56 with the rank of platoon commander, 43 with the rank of company commander, 9 with the rank of battalion commander, and 5 with the rank of brigade commander. These officers constitute 23% of the total deaths of the Israeli army in the war on Gaza. Israeli media reported that 27% of the Israeli military casualties in the war were officers. In detail, the media highlighted that three brigade commanders, four battalion commanders, and other senior officers have been killed in the war so far. The Israeli Broadcasting Corporation reported that 29 of the army's deaths were caused by "friendly fire" and operational incidents since the start of the ground war in Gaza, late last October. The Israeli authority explained that "18 army soldiers were killed by friendly fire, two were killed as a result of gunfire (without explanation), and 9 Israeli soldiers were killed in ammunition, weapons, or run-over accidents." The Jerusalem Post newspaper revealed that 15 soldiers were killed in the Strip without their bodies being found. According to some reports statistics indicate that 20% of the Israeli losses were due to friendly fire. Because the nature of the battle has become completely different from what was expected, and it lacks a front line. According to the latest data published by the army, the number of wounded soldiers and officers has risen to 1,152 since the start of its ground attack on Gaza on October 27, including 228 seriously wounded, while the total number has reached 2,602 wounded since the outbreak of the war on the 7th of October. The Israeli army reported that 2,438 soldiers - including 355 seriously injured - have been injured since the beginning of the war on Gaza, including earlier reports of 576 moderate, and 1,161 minor. The number of wounded since the start of the ground operation in the Gaza Strip on October 27 had risen to 1,042. At least 13,340 Israelis were injured, according to i24 TV. Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper had reported that 5,000 soldiers had been wounded since the beginning of the war on October 7, and that the Ministry of Defense had recognized 2,000 soldiers as disabled so far. An estimate by the Israeli Ministry of Defense expected that the number of soldiers with disabilities in the war taking place in the Gaza Strip since October 7 of last year would reach 12,500 soldiers. The Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth said that the Soldiers' Rehabilitation Department of the Ministry of Defense has dealt with 3,400 soldiers who were classified as disabled in the army since last October 7. The Israeli army revealed that about 9,000 of its soldiers have received psychological assistance since the beginning of the war on the Gaza Strip on October 7, and about a quarter of them have not returned to combat. This came according to a new statement revealed by the Army Medical Corps, according to Channel 12 and the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth. According to the statement, nearly 9,000 soldiers have applied for psychological assistance since the beginning of the war, and approximately a quarter of them have not returned to combat. The statement continued, "In total, about 13,000 regular and reserve soldiers required accompaniment or medical treatment at some level during the fighting, and thousands of them were injured in the battles." Al Jazeera military and strategic expert Major General Fayez Al-Duwairi expressed his conviction that the numbers of dead and wounded announced by Israel cannot represent the truth, due to a discrepancy between the Israeli armys data and the Walla website, which is close to the army itself. In an interview with RT, Military strategist retired Tunisian Brigadier General Tawfiq Didi said that the number of Israeli army deaths in the Gaza battles is much greater than what Israel announces. Didi explained in an interview with the Best Saying program on RT channel, The number of people killed in battles can be easily known, as the equation in wars is that for every 3 wounded there is a dead person, and the numbers now in Israel hover around 12,500 wounded and disabled people, and when we divide by Three, we find that the death toll exceeds 4,000, especially after eliminating more than a thousand tanks and armored vehicles, and I know what happens when Kornet missiles hit a tank. Its ammunition explodes and no one is left alive. He added, "The Israelis announce their dead only of those of Jewish origin and of the first race, meaning all Arabs, Falash, and those who are among them. They are not counted because they are of the second category. So I am sure that the number exceeds 4 thousand dead, and this is a very easy military calculation." He pointed out, "The Palestinian resistance documented everything it did, unlike the Israelis. The resistance documented shooting at tanks and armored vehicles and destroying the houses in which the Israeli soldiers were holed up, and we saw them being killed... We saw the Kornet hitting the tanks, we saw Al-Yassin 105, so the difference is clear." Hostages The New York Times quoted Israeli military commanders as saying that retrieving the hostages is possible through diplomatic, not military, means. Israeli military leaders added to the newspaper that recovering the hostages and destroying Hamas have now become incompatible goals, and that the long battle aimed at destroying Hamas will likely cost the lives of the hostages. Israeli leaders stressed that the diplomatic path to recovering the hostages would be the fastest method. They said the strategic impasse exacerbated the military's frustration about the indecision of the political leadership. The Israeli military expressed to the newspaper their fear that the length of the military campaign, without a post-war plan, would lead to the erosion of allied support. On the other hand, the New York Times said that it had seen documents indicating that Israel had imposed its control in Gaza on a smaller portion than it had envisioned in the battle plans since the beginning of the war. The documents indicated that Israeli plans included controlling the cities of Gaza, Khan Yunis, and Rafah by late December. Israel had previously estimated there were 116 living hostages in Palestinian custody. Israel declared 20 out of 136 people in Gaza captivity dead in absentia, after announcing its forces had recovered the bodies of two hostages. By another count, 132 of them are still being held in Gaza, and 25 of them have been confirmed dead. Israel considers those still held by Hamas to be hostages regardless of whether they are dead or alive. Israeli government spokesperson Eylon Levy earlier had told reporters that Hamas still held 137 captives. The resistance released 10 Israeli detainees, 4 Thais and 2 Russian women, who were released outside the agreement. Over the course of 6 days, Israel has received 102 detainees, women and children, including 78 Israelis, in exchange for the release of 234 Palestinian prisoners, women and children. Eylon Levy, the Israeli government spokesperson, told reporters 01 December 2023: Hamas still held 137 hostages from the October attacks, in addition to four others who went missing before the war The hostages include two children aged four and 10 months, who, Hamas now claims, are dead 117 male hostages are still kept in Gaza, including the two children, as well as 20 females 126 hostages are Israelis, and 11 others are foreign nationals Foreign nationals are eight Thais, one Nepalese, one Tanzanian and one French Mexican citizen Ten of the remaining hostages are 75 and older. There are seven missing people since the October 7 attack Hamas had released 110 hostages so far 86 Israelis and 24 foreign nationals. Some of the rest are soldiers, seized when Hamas raided military bases in Israel. They may end up being held the longest. The Israeli military had not specified how many soldiers were captured, nor their ranks. According to some estimates, Hamas was initially holding nearly 210 of the 240 hostages, while Palestinian Islamic Jihad was holding the remaining 30. About 40 Israelis remained missing. More than 40 hostages taken from Israel into Gaza on October 7th are not currently in the custody of Hamas, the group responsible for the attack, according to a CNN report based on a diplomatic source briefed on the negotiations, CNN's prior reports had indicated that an estimated 40 to 50 hostages were held by Palestinian Islamic Jihad or other unidentified groups or individuals. Abu Ubaida, the spokesperson for the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, said on Hamas telegram account that 23 bodies of the 60 missing Israel hostages were trapped under the rubble. It seems that we will never be able to reach them due to the continued brutal aggression of the occupation against Gaza, he said. The Palestinian Prisoners' Club revealed that about 11,000 arrests were carried out by the Israeli army during the year 2023 in the West Bank, including occupied Jerusalem, in addition to arrests from the Gaza Strip before the seventh of last October. The number of people arrested by the occupation in the West Bank since that date has exceeded 6,000. The total number of prisoners in Israeli prisons is 8,800, as documented by the club until the end of December 2023. The Prisoners' Club stated that cases of arrest among women amounted to (300), and this toll includes women from the occupied interior detained after October 7, while the number of cases of children reached 1,085. The arrest campaigns affected all groups, including women and children, as the number of women who were arrested reached about 200, while the number of arrests among children until the end of last December exceeded 355 children. The number of administrative detainees in Israeli prisons reached more than 3,290, which is the highest percentage since the years of the 1987 Intifada. Israel said on 14 January 2024 that, since the beginning of the war, approximately 2,650 wanted persons have been arrested throughout the Judea and Samaria Division and the Bekaa and Valleys Division, approximately 1,300 of whom are affiliated with Hamas. On 08 January 2024 it was reported that more than 1,350 wanted persons had been arrested throughout the Judea and Samaria Division and the Bekaa and Valleys Division, more than 870 of whom are associated with the terrorist organization Hamas. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Roland Walter Kluver February 5, 1931 - December 22, 2023 CHILMARK, MARTHA'S VINEYARD, MA - Roland Kluver left this earth peacefully on December 22, 2023. He was 92. Roland was an architect, builder, musician, teller of jokes, and beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. Roland grew up on a farm in Platte Center, Nebraska. As a teenager, Roland was influenced by a co-op student from Antioch College who was working on a Rural Electrification Program. Roland decided to head to Yellow Springs, Ohio to study engineering at Antioch. In his senior year at Antioch, Roland met Susan Edelstein. They fell in love and later married at the Friends Meeting House in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where Roland was studying architecture at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. After graduating from Harvard in 1959, Roland joined The Architects Collaborative (TAC), a firm founded in 1945 by Walter Gropius and a small group of young architects. His first job at TAC was to work on buildings at the University of Baghdad in Iraq. He became a director in 1978, and worked at TAC for 38 years. Among the many scientific, health and governmental buildings that Roland managed he was particularly glad to contribute to the Boston architectural scene with projects at Childrens' Hospital and the JFK Federal Office Building. In 1976, Roland opened a new TAC office in Kuwait where he participated in the design and construction of scientific buildings throughout the Middle East. In 1987, Roland left TAC to become President of Tobishima Associates, in New York. Upon his return from New York in 1992, he oversaw the construction of the Moakley Federal Courthouse in Boston. In his own words, Roland was first an engineer and builder, and second a designer. He was a modernist, valuing function over form. Never a fan of "tour de force" architecture, he instead gravitated to the challenge of designing highly functional buildings that met the needs of complex users, such as hospitals and universities. In 1973, Roland was able to connect with his farming boyhood, when he and Susan bought an old farm property in Chilmark, Massachusetts. Restoring that 1830's farmhouse and barn became a passion that filled his days for decades. Chilmark eventually became their true home, where they made great friends and joined the island community they loved. In Chilmark, Roland worked as an owner's representative, managing construction on several island homes. He also served on the Chilmark Affordable Housing Committee. Roland leaves his wife, Susan; sisters: Bea and Mary; daughters: Sarah and Jean; grandchildren: Dario and Sianni; great-grandson, Zuli, and many beloved in-laws and nephews and nieces and cousins. We will remember him in his overalls, blue eyes shining and white hair blowing, riding his vintage John Deere tractor over the meadow on Middle Road. Russo-Ukraine War - 20 January 2024 - Day 695 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 Ukraine maintains a presence on the left bank of the Dnipro River and has continued to repel Russian attacks despite logistical concerns. On 16 January 2024, a spokesperson for Ukraine's Southern Defence Forces remarked that logistical supply on the left bank of the Dnipro had faced difficulties. Russia's Dnipr Grouping of Forces has been unsuccessful in all its attempts to dislodge the Ukrainian defenders, despite almost certainly having a significant advantage in the balance of forces on this axis. It is highly likely that the poor training and coordination of Russian forces in the area is limiting their offensive capabilities. Forcing Ukraine to withdraw its forces from the left bank of the Dnipro remains a priority operational objective for Russia. It is highly likely Russia will persist with attacks in the Krynky area in the coming weeks despite growing personnel losses. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that during the day of January 20, there were 72x combat engagements. Russian forces launched a total of 3x missile (with S-300 anti-aircraft guided missiles at the civilian infrastructure of Novohradivka, Donetsk oblast) and 4x air strikes, carried out 25x MLRS attacks at the positions of Ukrainian troops and various settlements. Unfortunately, the Russian attacks have resulted in civilian casualties and injuries. Over 35x private residential buildings and other civilian infrastructure were destroyed and damaged. Volyn and Polissya axes: no significant changes. No signs of formation of an offensive group. Certain units of the armed forces of Belarus continue their missions in the areas bordering Ukraine. Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna axes: Russia maintains its military presence in the areas of russia bordering Ukraine. Russia continues 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. Russian forces launched an air strike near Chernats'ke (Sumy oblast). Around 40x settlements came under Russian artillery and mortar fire, including Hrem'yach (Chernihiv oblast), Seredyna-Buda, Pavlivka, Volodymyrivka, Basivka (Sumy oblast), Udy, Okhrimivka, Zemlyanky, Khatnje (Kharkiv oblast). Kup'yans'k axis: the Ukrainian defenders repelled 21x assaults in the vicinities of Syn'kivka, Petropavlivka (Kharkiv oblast) and Stel'makhivka (Luhansk oblast). In that area Russian forces made attempts to breach Ukrainian defense. The Russian invaders fired artillery and mortars at more than 15x settlements, including Dvorichna, Masyutivka, Syn'kivka, Petropavlivka, Berestove (Kharkiv oblast). Lyman axis: the Ukrainian defenders repelled 6x assaults near Terny, Yampolivka (Donetsk oblast), and 7x attacks in the areas of Serebryans'ke forestry, Bilohorivka (Luhansk oblast). Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at more than 10x settlements, including Karmazynivka, Nevs'ke, Dibrova (Luhansk oblast), Ivanivka, Verkhn'okam'yans'ke, Spirne (Donetsk oblast). Bakhmut axis: the Ukrainian Defense Forces repelled 8x attacks in the vicinities of Bohdanivka, Andriivka and Klishchiivka (Donetsk oblast), where the Russian occupiers made unsuccessful attempts to improve their tactical situation. Around 10x settlements came under artillery and mortar fire, including Bohdanivka, Ivanivske, Klishchiivka, Andriivka, Kurdyumivka, New York (Donetsk oblast). Avdiivka axis: the Ukrainian defenders repelled 6x Russian attacks near Avdiivka, and 11x more attacks south of Sjeverne, Vodyane, Pervomais'ke and Nevel's'ke (Donetsk oblast). In that area, the Russian occupiers made unsuccessful attempts to breach Ukrainian defense. Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at more than 15x settlements, including Novobakhmutivka, Avdiivka, Tonen'ke, Pervomais'ke, Netailove, Nevel's'ke (Donetsk oblast). Mar'inka axis: the Ukrainian Defense Forces continue to hold back Russian forces in the vicinities of Mar'inka and Novomykhailivka (Donetsk oblast). In that area, the Russian adversary made 4x failed attempts to improve its tactical situation. The settlements of Krasnohorivka, Mar'inka, Heorhiivka, Pobjeda, Novomykhailivka, Paraskoviivka were under artillery and mortar fire of the Russian occupiers. Shakhtars'ke axis: Russian forces conducted no offensives. Russian forces fired artillery and mortars at more than 10x settlements, including Vodyane, Vuhledar, Prechystivka, Zolota Nyva, Urozhaine (Donetsk oblast). Zaporizhzhia axis: the Ukrainian defenders repelled 1x assaults west of Verbove (Zaporizhzhia oblast), where Russian forces made attempts to regain lost ground. More than 15x settlements, including Poltavka, Hulyaipole, Novoandriivka, Shcherbaky, Kam'yans'ke (Zaporizhzhia oblast), came under Russian artillery and mortar fire. Odesa operational-strategic group, Kherson axis: Russian forces fired artillery at the city of Kherson, as well as the settlements of Dmytrivka, Ochakiv (Mykolaiv oblast). The Russian occupiers do not abandon their intention to drive Ukrainian units out of their footholds on the left bank of the Dnipro. Thus, during the day, Russian forces made 6x unsuccessful assaults on positions of Ukrainian troops. During the day of January 20, the Ukrainian Air Force launched air strikes on 6x concentrations of Russian troops, weapons and military equipment, 1x air defense system, 1x ammunition depot, 1x signal post. The Ukrainian missile troops hit 3x concentrations of troops, weapons and military equipment, 1x command post, 1x electronic warfare station of the Russian invaders. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that in Kupyansk direction, as a result of active actions by artillery and units of the Zapad Group of Forces, ten attacks by assault groups of 30th, 32nd, and 60th mechanised, 57th motorised infantry brigades and the 103rd Territorial Defence Brigade of the AFU have been repelled close to Sinkovka, Krakhmalnoye (Kharkov region) and Terny (Donetsk People's Republic). The enemy losses were up to 150 Ukrainian servicemen and two motor vehicles. In Krasny Liman direction, units of the Tsentr Group of Forces, supported by artillery, have repelled four attacks by assault groups of the 63rd Mechanised Brigade, the 12th Special Forces Brigade, and the 5th Brigade of the Ukrainian National Guard near Grigorovka (Donetsk People's Republic) and Chervonaya Dibrova (Lugansk People's Republic). The enemy losses were up to 280 soldiers, two armoured fighting vehicles, seven motor vehicles, and one Gvozdika self-propelled artillery crew. In Donetsk direction, units of the Yug Group of Forces, supported by artillery, have repelled four attacks by assault groups of 24th mechanised and 81st airmobile brigades of the AFU near Shumy and Belogorovka (Donetsk People's Republic). Artillery have defeated manpower and hardware of 22nd, 28th, and 93rd mechanised brigades of the AFU close to Kleshcheevka, Kurdyumovka, and Chasov Yar (Donetsk People's Republic). The enemy losses were up to 320 servicemen killed and wounded, six pickup trucks, one Msta-B howitzer, as well as one D-20 cannon. In South Donetsk direction, units of the Vostok Group of Forces, in cooperation with artillery and heavy flamethrower systems, have repelled two attacks by assault groups of the 127th Air Defence Brigade near Rovnopol (Donetsk People's Republic), and also have inflicted fire damage on manpower of the 79th Air Assault Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine close to Konstantinovka (Donetsk People's Republic). The enemy losses were up to 95 troops, three motor vehicles, as well as two Akatsiya self-propelled artillery systems. In Zaporozhye direction, units of the Russian Group of Forces, supported by aviation and artillery, have defeated manpower and hardware of 65th, 117th mechanised, 82nd air assault brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine near Nesteryanka, Rabotino, and Verbovoye (Zaporozhye region). The enemy losses were up to 30 servicemen killed and wounded, two armoured fighting vehicles, as well as one D-30 cannon. In Kherson direction, as a result of coordinated actions by Russian troops and artillery, the enemy losses were up to 35 servicemen, two motor vehicles, as well as one U.S.-manufactured M109 Paladin self-propelled artillery system. Operational-Tactical Aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation have neutralised one German-manufactured IRIS-T radar station, as well as have engaged manpower and hardware in 118 areas. Air defence facilities have shot down 20 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as one HIMARS projectile close to Lisichansk (Lugansk People's Republic), Bogdanovka, Belogorovka (Donetsk People's Republic), Kazachyi Lagerya, Golaya Pristan (Kherson region). In total, 567 airplanes and 265 helicopters, 10,914 unmanned aerial vehicles, 450 air defence missile systems, 14,705 tanks and other armoured combat vehicles, 1,202 combat vehicles equipped with MRLS, 7,795 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 17,641 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran Successfully Launches Sorayya Satellite Into Orbit Sputnik News 20240120 The Iranian Space Agency has successfully launched the Sorayya satellite into orbit at an altitude of 750 kilometers, the Iranian government announced on social media. The Sorayya satellite was launched using a three-stage Qaem 100 rocket as part of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' space program. "The Sorayya satellite, owned by the Iranian Space Agency, was successfully launched using a three-stage solid-fuel carrier rocket Qaem 100 of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and put into orbit at an altitude of 750 kilometers," the government announced. Eisa Zarepour, the Islamic Republic's Minister of Information and Communication Technologies, said in late November that Iran plans to launch five new satellites into space before the end of the Iranian calendar year [March 20, 2024]. Earlier, Hassan Salarieh, the head of Iran's space agency, said specialists from one of Iran's research centers had prepared a biocapsule for space launch. Zarepour announced in October that the country would conduct the first tests of a biocapsule designed to send astronauts in a month or two. He added that Iran is working to send a man into space in the next five years. Earlier, the IRGC Space Force successfully launched the third military satellite Nur-3 into orbit, and Iran announced plans to launch two more satellites into orbit by the end of March 2024. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Spokesperson for DPRK FM Releases Press Statement Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, January 20 (KCNA) -- A spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on Saturday released the following press statement: The UN Security Council, at the brigandish demand of the U.S. and its vassal states, convened a closed-door negotiation to discuss the hypersonic missile test-fire which was conducted as a part of the DPRK's regular efforts for bolstering up its defence capability. As already clarified, the test-fire conducted by the DPRK was a part of the regular development research work in the field of national defence science and gave no harmful affect to the security of neighboring countries and it had nothing to do with the present regional situation. Nevertheless, the U.S. brought up it into discussion of the UNSC, taking issue with the regular and legitimate activities of sovereign state. Moreover, it, again, dispatched the nuclear carrier task force into the waters around the Korean peninsula and staged provocative and threatening joint military drills together with its vassal forces. This is a wanton violation of the sovereignty of the DPRK, an unpardonable provocation and an irresponsible act of deliberately escalating the critical situation on the Korean peninsula. We deeply regret that the UNSC has brought the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's sovereign right to the discussion without any expression of concern, far from detention and restraining of the grave military threat of the U.S. and its vassal states that breaks peace and stability on the Korean peninsula, and strongly denounce it. The first issue to pay the closet attention to and be dealt with by the UNSC at the present time is the situation in the Middle East where unprecedented humanitarian disaster is taking place due to the illegal infringement upon the sovereignty, interference in internal affairs and armed attack of aggression by the U.S. and its followers. If the UNSC truly feels responsibility for international peace and stability, it should take issue with the intentional and premeditated military provocations of the U.S. and the Republic of Korea that are driving the security environment in the Korean peninsula and the surrounding area to the brink of a crash and put it in question. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea will never tolerate the abnormal repeated practice of the UNSC which illegally brands the efforts for bolstering up its own capabilities to be certainly necessary for defending itself as an illegal one but will firmly safeguard its sovereign right and legitimate interests through stronger and more obvious action choice. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Airfields are disappearing, suggesting a shift to drones Satellite imagery shows 9 airfields have vanished or been converted into farms or horseback-riding fields. By Cheon Soram and Han Dukin for RFA Korean 2024.01.20 -- Satellite imagery reveals that North Korea has demolished or repurposed nine runways or airfields, a move that experts say could signal a shift away from manned aircraft in favor of missiles and drones. Four of the airfields were found to have been converted into parks for horseback-riding - a hobby of supreme leader Kim Jong Un - or property with other buildings, images show. Other airfields were transformed into greenhouse farms for vegetables. Uiju airfield in North Pyongan province, meanwhile, is being used as a coronavirus quarantine center, and Kumgang Airport in Kangwon province has been neglected to the point where no trace of the runway can be found. Without clear indications about what is behind the changes, experts are seeking to discern the motives and strategies at work. "I think North Korea first decided to reduce the importance of its military aircraft because of their vulnerability, and initially transitioned heavily to ballistic missiles," Bruce Bennett, a senior fellow at the U.S.-based RAND Corporation told RFA Korean. "Now the North has been adding cruise missiles and drones." While Pyongyang has not abandoned its pursuits in aviation, "it has certainly downgraded them, especially commercial aviation and the dispersal airfields for its combat aircraft," Bennett said. North Korea could be reducing its reliance on its outdated aircraft, said Bruce Songhak Chung, a researcher at the South Korea-based Korean Institute for Security and Strategy, told Radio Free Asia. North Korea may be intending to concentrate its dispersed air power, said Yang Uk, a research Fellow at the Asan Institute for Policy Studies in South Korea. "Airfields and runways are disappearing in North Korea, but General Secretary Kim Jong Un knows how important air power is, so this could be a process of modernization," he said. "It is quite possible that they are now seriously preparing to dispose of outdated aircraft, strengthening existing power, or introducing a new strategy." Yang also said that the possibility of introducing additional aircraft with Russia's help cannot be ruled out as North Korea strengthens military cooperation with Russia. Changes to specific aircraft seem to point to this, said Cho Han Bum, a senior researcher at the South Korea-based Korea Institute for National Unification. "We have detected evidence at Pyongyang International Airport that the IL-76 [Ilyushin-76] aircraft are being converted into early warning aircraft, but this is impossible without Russia's help," said Cho. " There is a possibility that the relationship between Russia and North Korea will accelerate significantly in 2024." Drone power North Korea may be trying to strengthen its asymmetric power, such as nuclear weapons and missiles, and replace its aging jets with drones or other unmanned aerial vehicles. "The Kim Jong Un regime is trying to diversify its threats to attract more international attention," said Bennett. "It is a big possibility that North Korea, having seen Russia use drones in the war in Ukraine, will develop them and use them for provocations against South Korea." Kim showed great interest in attack drones during his visit to the military exhibition hall in Vladivostok, during the North Korea-Russia summit in September. He received five suicide drones - attack aircraft not designed to return to base - and one surveillance drone as gifts from the governor of Primorsky Krai. In addition, the North Korean military unveiled the Saetbyol-4 strategic unmanned surveillance aircraft and the Saetbyol-9 attack drone last year. The military was also seen training with new drones in frontline areas. Unmanned aerial vehicles are advantageous in that they can take off and land on narrow and shorter runways than regular fighter planes. "It depends on the type [of drone]," Yang said. "The quadcopter does not need a separate space for loading and unloading. For fixed wing drones, you may need a runway, but it varies depending on the size." He said the Saetbyol-4 and Saetbyol-9 can take off and land on normal or slightly shorter-sized runways, but the drones smaller than these can be launched from the ground or on trucks. Drones have been actively used in Russia's war in Ukraine and in the conflict between Israel and Hamas. North Korea has also experimented with drones. In December 2022, five North Korean drones crossed the Military Demarcation Line into South Korean territory. In that incident, the drones crossed into areas to the north and northwest of Seoul, including over the cities of Gimpo and Paju, and also over Ganghwa Island, in the Yellow Sea. It was later revealed that some drones even flew into the airspace around the presidential office in Seoul's Yongsan district. The three airfields that appear to be converted into horseback riding parks are Wonsan in Gangwon Province, Mount Myohyang in Jagang province, and Sinchon Airfield in South Hwanghae province, experts say. Three airfields that now seem to be greenhouse farms include Yeonpo in South Hamgyong province, Kyongsong in North Hamgyong province, and Kangdong in Pyongyang. Limited capabilities Evaluations of North Korea's drone technology have drawn mixed results. The North Korean drones that infiltrated South Korea in 2022 were Chinese-made commercial drones, Yang said, making it difficult to view them as indicative of North Korea's technological capabilities. The level of strategic threat is low because real-time control is not possible," he said. "Even if they were converted to attack, there is a limited number of bombs that could be loaded on them. On the other hand, Kim Tae Woo, the president at the Korea Institute for National Unification, noted that if North Korean drones can infiltrate South Korean airspace, they can also be used for attacks at any time and pose a potential threat. "For example, even if a small can of anthrax, a biochemical weapon, is carried and detonated over Seoul, it would be a huge catastrophe," said Kim. "As drones become larger and develop increased capacity, small nuclear warheads can be attached to them." He said that even a simple surveillance mission is threatening to South Korea. "But if a drone is made to self-destruct and it is loaded with biochemical substances or nuclear warheads, it poses a huge threat to South Korea," said Kim. However, replacing the combat power of an air force with unmanned aerial vehicles is impossible, Yang said. "The question is to what extent North Korea can expand its unmanned aerial vehicles," he said. "In the end, I think North Korea will find its own optimal solution by looking at the cases used in the recent war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas war." Translated by Claire S. Lee. Edited by Eugene Whong and Malcolm Foster. Copyright 1998-2016, RFA. Used with the permission of Radio Free Asia, 2025 M St. NW, Suite 300, Washington DC 20036. For any commercial use of RFA content please send an email to: mahajanr@rfa.org. RFA content January not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press Release on DPRK Foreign Minister's Visit to Russian Federation Korean Central News Agency of DPRK Pyongyang, January 21 (KCNA) -- The DPRK Foreign Minister's assistant office on Jan. 20 made public the following press release as regards the results of her visit to the Russian Federation: The government delegation of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea headed by Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui paid an official visit to the Russian Federation from January 15 to 17, 2024 at the invitation of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov at a time when the friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries have definitely entered the course of a new comprehensive development. During the visit, Choe Son Hui paid a courtesy call on Russian President Vladimir Putin, had a talk with her counterpart Sergei Lavrov and met with Alexandr Nobak, deputy prime minister of the Russian Federation. Choe Son Hui courteously conveyed warm greetings of Kim Jong Un , president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, to Vladimir Putin, president of the Russian Federation, and President Putin asked her to convey his New Year greetings to President of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea Kim Jong Un . President Putin expressed deep thanks once again for the invitation of President of the State Affairs Kim Jong Un to visit Pyongyang at a convenient time and expressed his willingness to visit the DPRK at an early date. During the visit both sides discussed the issues of continuously taking practical action measures for comprehensively and thoroughly implementing the agreements reached at the historic DPRK-Russia summit held in September 2023 and of ushering in a new efflorescence of the DPRK-Russia friendship by vitalizing bilateral exchange and cooperation in all fields this year marking the 75th anniversary of the conclusion of the agreement on the DPRK-Russia economic and cultural cooperation. Both sides also had deep strategic communication on various regional and international issues including the Korean peninsula and Northeast Asia and reached a consensus of views on them. They expressed their strong will to further strengthen strategic and tactical cooperation in defending the core interests of the two countries and establishing a new multi-polarized international order based on independence and justice. Both sides recognized that the friendly and cooperative relations between the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and the Russian Federation, independent sovereign states, serve as a powerful strategic fortress and a traction engine in defending international peace and security and promoting the building of a multi-polarized world. They also reached a consensus and satisfactory agreement in the discussion of practical issues of putting the bilateral relations on a new legal basis in the direction of strategic development and expanding and developing them in an all-round way. The DPRK side highly appreciated the important mission and role of the powerful Russian Federation in maintaining the strategic stability and balance of the world and expressed expectation that the Russian Federation would continue to adhere to independent policies and lines in all fields in the future, too, and thus make a great contribution to international peace and security and the establishment of an equal and fair international order. The Russian Federation side expressed deep thanks to the DPRK for extending full support and solidarity to the stand of the Russian government and people on the special military operation in Ukraine. Both sides expressed serious concern over the negative influence of the U.S. and its allied forces' irresponsible and unjust provocative acts, which seriously threaten the security environment of the Korean peninsula and the sovereign right and security interests of the DPRK in particular, on the peace and security of the region and the rest of the world, and agreed to deal with the regional situation through close cooperation and concerted action of foreign policy bodies of the two countries based on the spirit of the UN Charter and other international laws. The DPRK foreign minister's successful visit to the Russian Federation, which was held as part of the practical implementation of the agreement reached at the historic DPRK-Russia summit in September 2023, serves as an important step for promoting the reliable development of the strategic and future-oriented DPRK-Russia relations. The DPRK government warmly welcomes President Putin to visit Pyongyang and is ready to greet the Korean people's closest friend with the greatest sincerity. The traditional relations of friendship and cooperation between the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and the Russian Federation, which have been consolidated in all trials and storms of history, will steadily develop into the invincible comradely relations and the eternal strategic relations under the deep friendship and special care of Kim Jong Un , president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, and Vladimir Putin, president of the Russian Federation. -0- NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Sudan says ready to resume diplomatic ties with Iran IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Sudan's Acting Foreign Minister Ali Sadeq Ali says severing diplomatic ties with Iran in 2015 was not his county's intention, expressing readiness to resume relations with Tehran. He made the remarks in a meeting with Iran's First Vice-President Mohammad Mokhber which took place on the sidelines of a Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Uganda on Saturday. The Iranian vice president, for his part, stressed the common stances of Iran and Sudan with regard to the Zionist atrocities going on in Gaza Strip and their support for the oppressed people of Palestine. Mokhber also expressed regret about the recent unrest and conflict in Sudan which he said is a result of foreign intervention, including by the Zionist occupying regime and underscored Iran's support for the Sudanese people and the country's legal government. The Sudanese top diplomat, in the meantime, said that the main reason for the Zionist regime's support for the unrests in Sudan is that the Sudanese government has not accepted to normalize relations with this regime. Noting that supporting the cause of Palestine is one of the main stances of Sudan, he reiterated his country's efforts to put an end to the crisis in Gaza. 9341**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran's oil export at $34bn in 9 months to September: IEA IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Figures by the International Energy Agency (IEA) show that Iran earned about $34 billion in oil export revenues in the nine months to September 2023. In its report, the IEA has estimated Iran's total oil revenue in the first nine months of 2023 at $33.9 billion. Iran's oil revenues in January-September 2023 were about 12% of the total income of OPEC in this period. The IEA has also announced the production of over 3 million barrels of oil in Iran for the eighth consecutive month in 2023. According to this report, in May 2023, Iran's oil production reached more than 3 million bpd for the first time since the withdrawal of the United States from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and in the following months, it has remained above 3 million bpd. 6125**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran deploys new combat flotilla to high seas on "heavy mission" ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency Sat / 20 January 2024 / 09:29 Iran's Navy has launched a new combat and training flotilla to the high seas with a multifaceted purpose. Tehran (ISNA) - The fleet, which included the Bushehr and Tunb battleships, left the southern port city of Bandar Abbas on Friday during a ceremony attended by Rear Admiral Shahram Irani. During the event, the Navy Commander stated that the flotilla was deployed on a "heavy and multidimensional mission." He divulged that the Navy troops on board the fleet would be trained in the mission to prepare them to take on delicate tasks in the future, detailing that Iranian forces maintained a presence on the high seas and oceans despite the plans of their enemies. On January 1, an advanced destroyer belonging to the Iranian Navy fleet entered the Red Sea through the Bab Al-Mandab Strait. Irani cited the Navy's two important operations in recent months, including the capture of a US oil ship in the Sea of Oman, and stated that the Iranian Armed Forces and Navy remain unwavering in their protection of national interests. Iran's navy has confiscated an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman waters following "a court order" authorizing the move, state media reported on Thursday. The Admiral stated that four Iranian combat flotillas were also on international seas at the same time that the new fleet was being deployed. In recent years, Iran's Navy has become self-sufficient in the production of surface and subsurface boats. It has also strengthened its presence in international waterways to safeguard naval channels and protect commerce ships and tankers. End Item NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran keen to promote political ties with Sudan: Vice president Iran Press TV Saturday, 20 January 2024 3:00 PM Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber says the country is interested in the promotion of political ties with Sudan following the restoration of relations after seven years. Mokhber made the comment in a Saturday meeting with Sudanese acting Foreign Minister Ali al-Sadiq in Uganda's capital Kampala on the sidelines of the 19th summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). Tehran and Khartoum decided to restore relations to serve the two countries' interests after Iran and Saudi Arabia signed a China-brokered agreement in March 2023 to resume ties following a seven-year hiatus. Mokhber said Iran and Sudan have a common stance on the need to support the oppressed Palestinian people and called on Muslim countries to make more efforts to stop Israel's crimes in the Gaza Strip. He said the Palestinian resistance groups have succeeded in crushing the hegemony of Israel and the United States as the regime's great benefactor in the region. The Iranian official called for mounting international pressure to lift Gaza's blockade and provide immediate relief to its oppressed people. Elsewhere in his remarks, the Iranian vice president warned against plots by outsiders such as the Israeli regime to stoke unrest in Sudan. He said support for the Muslim people of Sudan and its legal government with the purpose of establishing peace and stability in the country is a principled stance taken by Iran. Sadiq, for his part, said Sudan was not interested in severing ties with Iran but it is now making efforts to boost mutual relations. He held Israel and some of its regional allies responsible for the recent developments in Sudan and said his country has been victimized by foreign intervention. The Israeli regime supported conflicts in Sudan because Khartoum refused to normalize ties with Tel Aviv, he said. The top Sudanese diplomat said his country supported the Palestinian cause as a centerpiece of its political agenda and that Khartoum would continue its efforts to put an end to the ongoing crisis in Gaza and help its people. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iraq rejects entry of further additional foreign forces IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Major General Yahya Rasoul, the spokesman for the Commander-in-Chief of the Iraqi Armed soldiers, has said that the reports that spoke about the entry of additional foreign forces into Iraq are not true. Work on the joint committee between Iraq and the international coalition to schedule the coalition's withdrawal from Iraq and reconsider the nature of the relationship in general is about to be activated imminently, Rasoul said on Saturday, local media reported. He stressed that no foreign soldiers are required on the Iraqi soil. The foreign presence in Iraq is gradually coming to an end, the official added. Iraqi officials argue that the role of the international coalition is limited to training and consulting. 9341**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Reids Super Save Market is in trouble. Since last fall, the locally owned and operated grocery store on Preston Avenue in Charlottesville has struggled to fill its shelves. Last year, the stores dried goods and dairy sections were empty for weeks. Its owners have had to fight to find the fresh meat and produce they say has been their calling card for decades. In mid-October, a sign went up on the front door clarifying that, despite the lack of actual groceries, the grocery store was not going out of business. With low profit margins in the grocery business, it makes it extremely hard for independent grocery stores like us to operate and make ends meet, reads the sign, still up today. We hope to have the issue resolved soon. Please hang in there with us! In the meantime, attrition has eaten away at its staff. Since last year, the number of Reids employees has fallen from 25 to 15. There simply isnt the money to hire more. All of our expenses have increased a lot post-COVID, Reids co-owner Sue Clements told The Daily Progress. Theres been an increase in product costs, theres even been a 25% increase in trash pickup. Its difficult to compete with big-box stores. In addition to the rough economic conditions, the stores traffic has been on the decline due to the age of the typical Reids customer, she said. Despite being blocks from the University of Virginia and just down the road from new apartments at 10th & Dairy, Reids doesnt necessarily cater to the citys growing pool of younger shoppers. Honestly, a lot of our longtime customers have died, Clements said. The neighborhood is changing, and its a different demographic in the surrounding area. Clements admits the store could have seen this coming, could have acted more expediently. The COVID pandemic wreaked havoc on the American retail industry. It brought brands big and small, luxury and pedestrian to the ground; the likes of Lord & Taylor, GNC and Dean & Deluca all filed for bankruptcy protection. Its no surprise a small, independent grocery store in Charlottesville with an older customer base is struggling. Theres probably some things we couldve done sooner, Clements said. We got ourselves into a hole that now were trying to dig out of. But Clements and her family, who have owned the store since 1982, arent the only ones doing that digging. In recent weeks, the community has rallied around Reids. A GoFundMe created on Jan. 14 titled Keep Reids Super-Save Market in the Community had raised more than $13,000 with 160-plus donations as of Saturday. Its creator, Charlottesville native Megan Salgado, said she grew up buying groceries at Reids but had started shopping elsewhere as an adult. When she heard the store was in trouble, she started shopping there again. What she saw inside worried her. I didnt realize how empty the shelves actually were, Salgado told The Daily Progress. I was pretty shocked at how dire it was when I went in there. Salgado said she struck up a conversation with one of the Reids managers, who offhandedly told her that another customer had recently approached the owners about setting up a GoFundMe. The owners had not encouraged the other customer, Salgado said, they didnt want to come across as self-seeking. At home, Salgado said she looked for a GoFundMe for Reids but found nothing. She waited weeks, but her searches were in vain. So, she took matters into her own hands and created a GoFundMe herself. She made the Reids owners the beneficiary of the donations and set an arbitrary goal of $10,000. The money poured in. Bodos Bagels, Charlottesvilles iconic bagel shop with a location just across Preston from Reids, donated $1,000, still the top donation. A couple of anonymous givers contributed $500 each. Most donations are in the double digits: $25 here, $50 there. I dont think that any of us, including the store, anticipated that there would be a pretty big rallying support around it, Salgado said. Obviously, the community is still showing up to support the store. Thats not to say there hasnt been pushback. Raising money to keep a business afloat has raised some eyebrows, especially after a year in which local charity organizations, including the Salvation Army, the Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA and The Daily Progress own Santa Fund failed to reach fundraising goals. Users on Reddit and X, formerly Twitter, expressed shock when the GoFundMe was shared: Raising $10,000 as a gift to a company is wild, Having a charity for a business is insane. One user said the notion of a charity for a for-profit enterprise put a bad taste in their mouth, and another said that Reids would be better off raising its prices and playing by the rules of simple economics. Salgado doesnt see it that way. Were raising money for a local, family-owned and -operated business providing essential resources in the community, said Salgado. Its not ridiculous. Clements, meanwhile, said she can see it both ways. She knows no matter how much Salgados fundraising pulls in, it wont be enough to keep the store afloat forever. Clements applied for a business loan last week. If the loan doesnt work out although I feel confident it will we will continue to look for other solutions to get capital into the business, she said. Clements said she is determined to keep Reids in her family, even though it didnt begin that way. Reids got its start in 1961, when Malcolm Reid purchased the downtown building that was then Stop n Shop. He changed the store name, and Reids became a mainstay in downtown Charlottesville until 1982. That year, a fire downtown destroyed several buildings, including Reids, and Reid sold the store to his longtime store manager Kenny Brooks. The store moved to its present location on Preston, and Brooks brought in his daughters Clements and Kim Miller to help run the business. Clements and Miller took over Reids after their fathers death in 2016. This is my mom and dads business, Clements said. I want to keep it going in an effort to not disappoint them. Wed like to be able to pass this on to our own kids one day. Italy Halts Arms Supplies to Israel After War in Gaza Began Sputnik News 20240120 ROME (Sputnik) - Italy has halted supplying arms to Israel after the conflict between the Jewish state and Palestinian movement Hamas escalated, Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said. Tajani commented on remarks by Italy's opposition Democratic Party leader Elly Schlein, who earlier called on the government to stop arms supplies to the Middle East, "especially to Israel," so as not to fuel the ongoing conflicts there. "Italy has stopped sending any kind of weapons to Israel since the beginning of the Gaza war. It's all blocked. The period when the most weapons were sent to Israel was during the premiership of [former Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe] Conte. But with the outbreak of hostilities, we suspended all deliveries of weapons systems and military equipment of any kind," Tajani said in an interview with Italian newspaper Quotidiano Nazionale, published on Friday. On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack against Israel from the Gaza Strip, while its fighters breached the border, opening fire on the military and civilians. As a result, over 1,200 people in Israel were killed. Israel launched retaliatory strikes, ordered a complete blockade of Gaza and launched a ground incursion into the Palestinian enclave with the declared goal of eliminating Hamas fighters and rescuing the hostages. Over 24,900 people have been killed so far in Gaza as a result of Israeli strikes, local authorities said. 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 ceasefire was extended several times and expired on December 1. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address The Myanmar military's air superiority is slipping away amid sanctions and opposition attacks Like everything else in the nearly three years since the coup, the junta's air superiority is fading. A commentary by Zachary Abuza 2024.01.20 -- One of the most important setbacks for Myanmar's military since an opposition alliance launched Operation 1027 last October has been the loss of three different aircraft: two jet trainers and an Mi-17 heavy-lift helicopter. An Mi-35 attack helicopter was also lost in 2023. The Myanmar military should have total air superiority. For the first two years of the conflict, the opposition National Unity Government's (NUG) best air defense was doxing Air Force pilots - publishing their addresses, as part of an assassination campaign. Gradually, the NUG's People's Defense Force militias began to erode the junta's air superiority by effectively deploying armed drones. Significantly, we're now seeing Ethnic Resistance Organizations (EROs) begin to deploy air defenses, at a time when the junta has become even more dependent on air attacks. That increased tempo of operations requires more maintenance on overworked airframes. These military junta losses matter for three reasons. First, while not small by regional standards, the Myanmar Air Force (MAF) certainly does not have excess capacity. At the top end, it has some 31 SU-29s and four recently delivered SU-30s from Russia. The recently delivered seven JF-17s multi-role fighters, jointly produced by China and Pakistan, are reportedly already grounded due to cracks in their airframes and other maintenance issues. Airworthiness questions On paper, Myanmar has approximately 40 other jet fighters, but these are old, Chinese-produced knock-off Russian jets from the 1990s. They are well beyond their service life. The MAF is thought to have 20 Nanchang Q-5s, the Chinese version of the MiG-19, down from the 36 it imported from 1994-2001. It also has some 21 Chengdu J-7s, a Chinese produced MiG-21. That's down from some 60 that it had purchased from 1990-1999. It's unclear how many of these fighters are still airworthy. Myanmar's military has relied on its 18 Russian-built Yak-130 trainers for much of its combat operations. Since the February 2021 coup, Myanmar has taken delivery of some six Guizhou JL-9 jet trainers, referred to as FTC-2000G, which have a spotty performance and safety record. The MAF also flies an unknown number of Chinese K-8 trainers that can be used for ground support. Second, we should also assume that given sanctions on the Singapore-based companies that have been the key importers of spare parts, the overall lack of foreign exchange available to the junta, and other supply chain issues, including those caused by Russia's war in Ukraine, that around 20% of the aircraft are probably not operational. In December 2023, the sanctioned director of Sky Aviator and two others were caught trying to smuggle 508,925 Singapore dollars (US $382,380) in cash out of that city-state. Sky Aviator, which has an office in Singapore, had a large contract to purchase spare parts for the air force. Another sanctioned firm, Sky Royal Hero Company Limited, has the contract for the maintenance and spare parts for servicing the Russian jet fighters. For nearly three years, the MAF has been flying at increased tempos without the scheduled maintenance they require. Airstrikes ramping up The military's promised counter offensive has not materialized. Over 4,000 troops have surrendered since Operation 1027 began, and well-documented recruitment issues mean the military does not have a sufficient number of troops to launch ground offensives across the multiple battle zones, which has forced them to rely on long range artillery and air strikes. An independent research firm documented 336 airstrikes in December 2023, alone, with nearly half against the Three Brotherhood Alliance, the group of ethnic armies behind Operation 1027.. The loss of one of their 12 already over-taxed heavy lift helicopters is another important setback for the military's counter-offensive. One of their tactical advantages has been air mobility and resupply, especially given their loss of key roads. Although the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) claims to have shot down the Guizhou JL-9/FTC-2000G on Jan. 17, there is little evidence to support this, Video footage that shows the plane falling from the sky, without smoke or any other sign of hostile fire, indicates likely engine failure. That leads to the third implication: The MAF is losing aircraft to hostile fire. While the military claims that it was a technical malfunction that brought down a K-8 trainer, Karenni forces claim to have shot it down. The KIA claims to have shot down an Mi-17 transport helicopter, killing all six crew members on Jan. 3. Both helicopters and the trainers, especially when they are being used for ground attacks, are vulnerable to small arms fire. Eyes on Beijing But these developments also beg the question: What weapons are being used to down the aircraft? The only ethnic armed group that is known to have shoulder-launched surface-to-air missiles (known as MANPADs) is the United Wa State Army (UWSA). Until very recently, the UWSA has sat out the conflict, neither supporting the junta nor joining the NUG. It recently declared its neutrality in the Three Brotherhood Alliance's Operation 1027, though it did receive two townships from them. Though the UWSA has quietly sold weapons to other ethnic armies and the NUG, it has, to date, refrained from selling MANPADs. Has that changed? And if so, why now? It was long believed that they would not sell the weapons for fear of angering China. So did China approve the transfer, or are the groups now willing to incur Beijing's wrath? The KIA claims that they shot down the Mi-17 helicopter with a Chinese made FN-6 MANPAD. The transfer of these weapons to the KIA has never been acknowledged, and may indicate a substantial shift in Chinese policy. Even if the Jan. 17 crash was caused by a mechanical failure, the KIA is smart to claim credit for downing the aircraft - if for no other reason than to sow fear amongst the pilots. But what is clear, is that at the same time Myanmar's military has become even more dependent on air strikes, it's confronted by international sanctions and cash shortages that have hurt the servicing of their planes. At the same time, opposition forces are now fielding a limited number of surface-to-air missiles. Like everything else in the nearly three years since the coup, the junta's air superiority is slipping away. Zachary Abuza is a professor at the National War College in Washington and an adjunct at Georgetown University. The views expressed here are his own and do not reflect the position of the U.S. Department of Defense, the National War College, Georgetown University or Radio Free Asia. Copyright 1998-2024, 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 January not be used in a manner which would give the appearance of any endorsement of any product or support of any issue or political position. Please read the full text of our Terms of Use. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Myanmar Conflict Unveils Complex Dynamics of China's Interests By Ingyin Naing January 20, 2024 The rapid breakdown of a Beijing-mediated cease-fire in northern Myanmar has exposed the limits of Chinese influence in the region, even as it seeks to turn recent military gains by a rebel alliance to its advantage. The "Haigeng agreement," announced January 12, was less than a day old when witnesses reported widespread gunfire in northern Shan state, bordering China. The rebel Three Brotherhood Alliance a comprising the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army or MNDAA, the Arakan Army and the Ta'ang National Liberation Army a released a statement the day after the talks, accusing the military of launching attacks at multiple locations. The largest took place near Kyaukme, a small but bustling town along the Mandalay-Lashio Road in a mountainous area near China's southwestern border. The area has long been a trade route between the two countries and has seen significant infrastructure investment by China in recent years. A humanitarian assistance worker in Kyaukme, speaking anonymously for security reasons, told VOA this week that he could hear the hourslong gunbattle the morning after the cease-fire. "It was a shootout in Kyaukme," he said. "Civilians started fleeing for safety as the attacks were coming from both sides of town." An updated statement from the alliance nearly a week later described continuing attacks by the Myanmar military, including 16 airstrikes on villages in northern Shan state. Witnesses on the ground have confirmed the use of airstrikes to VOA by phone. The alliance statement blamed the military for the failure of the cease-fire, which grew out of the third attempt at dialogue since December, largely with China as mediator. "From the day the 'Haigeng agreement' was reached until today, our side has been in compliance," the statement read. "We have been patient and showed restraint by not engaging in battle. Otherwise, we would have already implemented operational targets and city-occupation battles that had been planned before the cease-fire." The reports of cease-fire violations belied remarks made earlier by junta spokesperson Major General Zaw Min Tun. "We have plans to further discuss and strengthen the cease-fire agreement," he said immediately after last week's announcement. "We will engage in further discussions between Myanmar and China to reopen border trade zones." VOA has been unable to reach the junta spokesperson's office for a response to the alliance statement. As of Friday, there had been no official statement from the junta regarding the latest developments. China's interest in trade routes According to Than Soe Naing, a China-Myanmar expert and former member of the Communist Party of Burma, Beijing's primary interest in peace talks lies in its desire to reopen trade routes between Myanmar and China's Yunnan state. "The Chinese perspective suggests that dealing with cities on the trade route between China and inland cities like Mandalay, such as the town of Lashio, with a similar approach as the one taken with the Laukkai matter, could potentially open up the trade route," Naing said. However, he added, "whether the military junta will accept such intervention is doubtful. If Lashio is filled with military forces, there will certainly be fierce battles." Laukkai, a border town that is infamous for gambling, prostitution and cybercrime, was captured by the Three Brotherhood Alliance on January 5 as part of a successful offensive begun in October and known as the "1027" operation. The alliance established a special regional self-government in the town this week. "China would also encourage this kind of development in Lashio," Naing suggested. Lashio is the largest town in northern Shan state and lies at what was once the end of the "Burma road," a historically significant thoroughfare connecting Lashio to southeast China's Yunnan state. It is also the site of a large military base, which is thought to be one of the alliance's next targets. "The main reason [the Three Brotherhood Alliance] agreed to the cease-fire was their hope to come to some sort of compromise on Lashio's capture," Naing said. "A forceful occupation of Lashio would lead to extensive fighting and turmoil in the region; a military withdrawal would avoid that." Jason Tower, the country director for the Myanmar program at the U.S. Institute of Peace, told VOA he believed China was looking for a compromise in which the junta would concede some territory in the north while the alliance would roll back some of its war aims. "I think what [China] ultimately hopes for is that the military will pull back from some of these territories, and to make the case as to why the brotherhood should stop its movement to eradicate military dictatorship and instead focus on working with the military to stabilize the situation, especially for Chinese projects," Tower said this week. "I think where things are interesting is that the military does not want to give up control and give up a strong presence in the north of Shan state and wants to try to retain some of the positions that it still has." China has invested in several infrastructure projects in the area, such as the Upper Yeywa hydroelectric dam on the Shweli River, which has remained uncompleted since before an earlier military government ceded power to a civilian government in 2015. The current junta restarted the project. China playing both sides "The Chinese side is both helping the brotherhood to make some advances toward more narrow political objectives, but also helping the military by putting pressure on the brotherhood at the same time," Tower said. "China presently is, at least in the northern part of the country, favoring the brotherhood to take over control of territories in the immediate border area," he continued. "However, it's also putting a lot of pressure on the brotherhood to do business with the military ... and to limit its involvement in broader revolutionary activity, pushing the brotherhood to limit its dealings" with a shadow government comprising members of Aung San Suu Kyi's ousted democratic administration and associated military forces. The Chinese are still doing business with the military, Tower said, citing as an example a deep-water port project in Rakhine state known as the Kyaukphyu project. These are "things that a more responsible Myanmar government would not sign on to," he said. "The Myanmar military is useful to China for doing those sorts of things." Hla Kyaw Zaw, a Burma-China scholar based in China, told VOA that Beijing's policy generally "is to be open to all sides." "In the case of Sudan, for example, the Chinese government has good relations with both sides of the conflict. They were able to convince both sides to cease fighting so it could evacuate its embassy staff. "They deal with various groups in every country. In the case of Myanmar, China is mainly dealing with the military junta that is currently in power, just as it is also dealing with the ethnic armed groups to serve its own purposes." From cybercrime crackdown to energy security China also hopes that by stabilizing the border region it can more effectively pursue its fight against cybercrime, which is prevalent in the Kokang region and mostly targets Chinese citizens. With the success of the "1027" operation in the region, Beijing sees an opportunity to work with the Three Brotherhood Alliance to go after the scam artists. "I think the Chinese side is satisfied enough" with control of the region by the alliance, China-Myanmar expert Than Soe Naing said in an interview. "China aims to reopen trading posts and has expressed contentment with the North Shan region being in the hands of the MNDAA," one of the three alliance members. Naing added that China "recognizes the fact that cybercriminal gangs have been protected by the Burmese military, making it harder for China to stop these gangs from targeting victims in China." The Myanmar military claims to have been working with the Chinese government "to eradicate online fraud," according to its spokesperson, Major General Zaw Min Tun. Tower said that China's interest in the region "is certainly much bigger than just cracking down on criminal activity." "The bigger interest here is China's energy security, because you have the single source of piped natural gas to China, in the form of the Chinese-Myanmar pipeline project, which is now supplying gas to four Chinese provinces in the southwest and contributes significantly to Yunnan's gross domestic product," he said. "This is another reason why China is pushing the brotherhood alliance to disengage with broader revolutionary activity and to deal with the Myanmar military." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pakistan announces full restoration of relations with Iran after tensions ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency Sat / 20 January 2024 / 09:32 Pakistan has announced a complete restoration of diplomatic relations with Iran following an unprecedented escalation of cross-border tensions over counterterrorism operations. Tehran-ISNA- The announcement was made on Friday after caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar of Pakistan held an emergency security meeting with the military and intelligence chiefs to discuss the recent turbulences. Pakistan's media reports said Islamabad agreed to resume its full level of diplomatic relations with Iran and that the ambassadors of Iran and Pakistan will soon be sent to their missions. Kakar on Friday said that it was in the interest of both Iran and Pakistan to take steps to restore their relationship to the levels before the recent tensions. The prime minister said that it was "in the interest of both countries to take steps to restore the relationship to what it was prior to Jan. 16." Kakar added that Pakistan would "welcome and reciprocate all positive measures from the Iranian side" in the above regard. He said Pakistan and Iran were "two brotherly countries that have historically enjoyed fraternal and cooperative relations marked by respect and affection." Kakar added that Pakistan was a "law-abiding and peace-loving country" that sought friendly and cooperative relations with all countries, particularly its neighbors. Earlier in the day, Pakistani Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani and his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir-Abdollahian held a phone conversation, calling for closer cooperation in various fields, including fighting terrorism and boosting border security. "Jilani expressed Pakistan's readiness to work with Iran on all issues based on [a] spirit of mutual trust and cooperation," said a statement by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry. "He underscored the need for closer cooperation on security issues." The Iranian foreign minister also said in a statement that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan is of "great concern to us and it is imperative that the two countries work together to neutralize and destroy terrorist camps in Pakistan." Pointing to the recent Iranian operation against the Jaish ul-Adl terrorist group in Pakistan, Amir-Abdollahian said the operation was carried out to neutralize an imminent terrorist threat. On January 16, the Islamic Republic launched simultaneous drone and missile attacks on two bases of Jaish ul-Adl, a terror outfit that was formed in 2012 and has conducted several attacks on Iranian soil in recent years. The group claimed responsibility for an attack in December 2023 on a police station in the southeastern city of Rask that killed at least 11 Iranian police officers. On January 10, another attack by the group on a police station in the city killed one officer. Pakistan carried out strikes on Thursday against what it called bases of the separatist Baloch Liberation Front and Baloch Liberation Army in regions close to Iran's border, with Tehran condemning the attack as unacceptable and unbalanced. End Item NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Doctor, Five Others Killed In Pakistan's Restive Northwest By RFE/RL's Radio Mashaal January 20, 2024 Six people were killed in two separate incidents in Pakistan's restive northwest late on January 19, police and officials said. In the first incident, a doctor involved in polio vaccination efforts in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province was shot dead late on January 19, police said. Abdul Rahman was the coordinator of the polio inoculation campaign in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Bajaur district bordering Afghanistan. He was traveling in his car on Friday evening when he came under attack from unidentified armed men. Rahman was gravely wounded and died later in a hospital in Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, officials said. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. Earlier this month, seven policemen who were protecting polio teams were killed in a roadside bomb attack claimed by the banned Pakistani Taliban, known as Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Islamist extremists frequently target polio inoculation teams and the security forces assigned to protect them, falsely asserting that immunization campaigns are Western plots to sterilize Muslim children. Pakistan and Afghanistan are the only countries in the world where polio has not been completely eradicated. In the second incident, in the North Waziristan District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa bordering Afghanistan unidentified assailants killed five men late on January 19 before fleeing the scene, police officials and locals told RFERL's Radio Mashaal on January 20. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. North Waziristan police chief Rokhan Zeb said an investigation had been launched into the incident. Police said the victims were non-local men who appeared to be truck drivers. North Waziristan has long been a hotbed of militants operating on both sides of the border. After the Afghan Taliban returned to power following the withdrawal of the U.S.-led forces from the war-wracked country, many TTP members have reportedly found sanctuaries in Afghanistan, using the country to launch more frequent attacks on Pakistani troops and civilians. Pakistani military officials claim their mop-up operations in North Waziristan have cleared the area of the Taliban fighters and other militant groups. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/polio-doctor-shot- dead-in-pakistan-s-tribal-district/32784554.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Greetings on the opening of the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement Vladimir Putin sent greetings to participants and guests of the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement. January 20, 2024 10:00 The message reads, in part: "The Non-Aligned Movement rightfully enjoys great authority on the world stage. This representative group, which unites more than half of the countries on the planet, plays a crucial role in building a more just, democratic and multipolar system of international relations. Russia consistently supports the participants in the Movement in their efforts to protect the principles of unconditional equality of all states, respect for their sovereignty and legitimate interests in strict accordance with the spirit and letter of the UN Charter. Together, we advocate for a constructive dialogue between members of the global community, based on generally recognised and binding for all norms of international law. We are fully united in our rejection of neo-colonialist ambitions, double standards, power politics, dictate and blackmail as a means of achieving foreign policy and foreign economic goals. The further expansion of the partnership between our country and the Non-Aligned Movement will help resolve many pressing issues on the regional and global agenda and strengthen security and stability in the world." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia Overtakes Saudi Arabia To Become Largest Supplier Of Oil To China By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service January 20, 2024 Russia last year overtook Saudi Arabia to become the largest supplier of oil to China, Reuters reported, citing Chinese import data. Russia supplied 107 million tons of oil to China in 2023, the equivalent of 2.1 million barrels a day, the agency said. Saudi Arabia, China's top supplier for many years, delivered 86 million tons, a 2 percent drop compared with the previous year. China is the world's largest net importer of oil, having overtaken the United States in 2017. Western sanctions imposed on Russia for its February 2022 invasion of Ukraine has upended global trade, including the shipment of fossil fuels. Europe, the biggest buyer of Russian oil prior to the war, banned imports of the fossil fuel, and, along with the United States, imposed a $60 price cap on Russian oil shipped using EU and U.S. services, such as transportation insurance. The price cap was designed to keep Russian oil flowing to global markets to prevent a price spike while also limiting Russian budget revenue. Oil exports account for more than 30 percent of Russian federal budget revenues. The Western oil ban forced Russia to pivot east to sell its oil. China and India willingly snapped up Russian crude sold at a discount to global prices. Russia also became the biggest supplier of oil to India last year, accounting for nearly a third of its import demand. Meanwhile, to offset lower sales to China, Saudi Arabia began shipping more of its oil to Western markets. Russia and Saudi Arabia are the second- and third-largest oil producers in the world, trailing the United States. Increasing U.S. oil production has offset attempts by Russia and Saudi Arabia to prop up the price of the fossil fuel via output cuts. The European crude benchmark Brent is down nearly 8 percent over the past year to $77.75 a barrel. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-overtakes-saudi- arabia-to-become-largest-supplier-of-oil-to-china/32784852.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Parliament To Consider Seizing Property Of Citizens Who Criticize War By RFE/RL January 20, 2024 The head of Russia's parliament said he plans to submit legislation next week that would allow the state to seize the property of "scoundrels" who criticize the war in Ukraine. Vyacheslav Volodin, speaker of the Duma, an institution controlled by the Kremlin, said he planned to submit the bill on January 22. "Anyone who tries to destroy Russia, betray it, must be accordingly punished and compensate the state with their property for the damage caused," he said in a Telegram post on January 20. The bill, if passed, would be the latest in a series of harsh measures aimed at stifling any dissent inside Russia as it struggles on the battlefield in Ukraine. The bill comes less than two months before Russia holds presidential elections that incumbent Vladimir Putin is expected to easily win. Public frustration with the war, which has killed at least 42,000 Russian soldiers and seriously injured tens of thousands of more, has been growing as Russia makes little progress. Wives and mothers of Russian soldiers fighting in Ukraine have staged small-scale protests in recent months demanding their loved ones be demobilized. In the weeks following the February 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Putin signed into law bills criminalizing any criticism of the Russian armed forces and the war in Ukraine. Those convicted of such "crimes," which can be anything that does not adhere to the official state narrative about the war, face up to 15 years in prison. Russia has opened more than 350 cases into alleged "discreditation" of the army or spreading "false" information. Putin last year increased the maximum punishment for "treason" to life in prison. Russia last year opened a record number of treason cases since the fall of the Soviet Union, including one against a high-school student. In his Telegram statement denouncing "scoundrels," Volodin singled out Russian cultural figures in particular. The law also includes a provision to strip Russian citizens of any state awards, a likely direct attack on prominent cultural figures. Some of Russia's leading musicians and artists, including Soviet-era pop star Alla Pugacheva, have publicly come out against the invasion of Ukraine. Such cultural critics have largely relocated abroad amid fear of prosecution. Russia will hold presidential elections on March 15-17. The vote is largely for show as the result is predetermined, experts say. The Kremlin has jailed the most prominent opposition figures and banned others from running against Putin, who is seeking his fifth term as president. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russian-parliament-seizing- property-war-critics/32784817.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address IRGC: Number of martyrs from Israel terror attack in Syria rises to 5 IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has announced that the number of its military advisors martyred in a terrorist attack by the Israeli regime in Syria has risen to five. The IRGC made the announcement on Saturday evening, saying that the fifth military advisor, Mohammad Amin Samadi, died of his wounds sustained in the attack. The four other martyrs include Hojjatollah Omidvar, Ali Aqazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi and Saeed Karimi. The IRGC announced their martyrdom earlier on Saturday. The Iranian military advisors and several Syrian forces lost their lives after the Israeli regime conducted an airstrike on a residential building in a neighborhood of the capital Damascus earlier in the day. The strike came days after the IRGC fired ballistic missiles at Syrian bases of terrorists involved in recent terror attacks in Iran, as well as an Israeli espionage center in Iraq's northern Kurdistan region. The IRGC had said in a statement that the center of the Zionist regime's Mossad spy agency was totally destroyed in the strike in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan region. 4194 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran condemns Zionist assassination of Iranian advisors in Syria IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kanaani has strongly condemned a Zionist attack at a residential area in Damascus where four Iranian military advisors were martyred. Kanaani said on Saturday that the governments and the international and regional organizations, including the UN Security Council, are expected to take strong measures in response to such acts of crime and terrorism. He noted that the Iranian advisors are present in Syria upon invitations by the Syrian government and have played a key role in helping the country's government, army and nation in the fight against terrorism and helping to the establishment of peace, stability, and sustainable security in the country. The Iranian foreign ministry spokesman added that the Zionist assassination of Iranian military advisors is indicative of a deep and organized connection between "this terrorist regime" and the different terrorist and Daesh groups in the region. Noting that Iran will pursue the issue in the international organizations, he also stressed Iran's right to retaliate. 9341**2050 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address A man who unleashed a torrent of gunfire in Charlottesville last February that put a bullet into a man, riddled a car and narrowly missed a bystander will learn his sentence on Tuesday. Having already pleaded guilty to unlawful bodily injury and possessing a firearm as a felon, 41-year-old Demetrius Brown of Palmyra will likely receive some time behind bars for last winters shooting outside Wicked Hits smoke and game room in the citys Rose Hill neighborhood. A penitentiary sentence is inevitable, legal analyst David Heilberg told The Daily Progress. Local judges are very concerned about gun violence. The incident at the Harris Street business, specializing in tobacco products and now-illegal skill games, began 24 minutes after midnight the morning of Feb. 8 with a fight, initially a one-sided battle that reportedly led Wicked Hits employee Bessie Allen to press the stores panic alarm even before shots rang out. The lead investigator, Charlottesville police detective R.W. Cundiff, showed up to Room 511 in the University of Virginia Medical Center emergency department in an attempt to interview Devin Lamar Perry, the shooting victim. Perry allegedly told Cundiff that he had been in and out of Wicked Hits all day and confirmed that hed been struck by gunfire on the right side of his back near his belt line. But that was all he would tell, according to the investigators report. Perry would not divulge any additional information and requested I leave, Cundiff wrote. Video footage seemed to fill some of the gaps in the narrative. Wicked Hits surveillance footage shared with police reportedly shows an exchange of words between Perry and a man in a green jacket, later identified as Brown. The video, Cundiff asserts, shows Brown leaving the building momentarily and then coming back inside. When he returns, he approaches Perry and they exchange words again, Cundiff wrote in his report. Suddenly, theres physical contact. Perry lunges forward and strikes the male in the green jacket with his fist, Cundiff wrote. This knocks the male in the green jacket to the ground. Either stunned or briefly rendered unconscious, Brown suddenly gained the ability to shield his face from a flurry of blows by Perry, according to Cundiff. Someone appears to try to stop Perry, Cundiff wrote. Eventually Perry stops, and the male in the green jacket gets to his feet. But Perry was apparently not finished, even as Brown stumbled toward the door, fell into a wet floor sign and attempted to exit the building. Perry approaches him, grabs him by the back-collar of his jacket, and forcefully pulls him backwards into the store, Cundiff wrote. Perry throws the male in the green jacket back down to the ground. Outside, Brown would take action of his own. According to Cundiffs account, Brown could be seen going to a vehicle and then turning around as he chambered a bullet with the slide of a pistol and an aim in Perrys direction. He points the pistol, Cundiff wrote, and begins to shoot at him, firing what appear to be six rounds. Three of the bullets hit a parked car where a man named Ben, who allegedly declined to give his last name to Cundiff and is the husband of a store employee, was sleeping in the drivers seat. The sleeping bystander was not hit. Brown was originally charged with five crimes including shooting into an occupied vehicle and malicious wounding, the latter of which calls for a sentence from five to 20 years, but his pleas two charges are lesser, both Class 6 felonies, the lowest category, with the penalty for each ranging from one to five years. Heilberg, the legal analyst, said that video evidence depicting the beating that Brown took may serve as a mitigating factor but wont absolve him for the shooting. He took the law into his own hands, said Heilberg. Youre supposed to call the police when youre the victim. When you come back and shoot, youre the defendant. In 2009, Brown was convicted in federal court of conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine and illegally acquire firearms, and he appears to have served his 96-month federal sentence. His middle name variously appears as Andre, Andrew and Anthony in court records. He has been held in Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail since his most recent arrest last year. As for Perry, he is also no stranger to the legal system with several criminal convictions, his most recent in 2022 in Charlottesville Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court for assault and battery of a family member. However, local court files show no record of any criminal charges levied against Perry for the salvo of punches that he allegedly threw at Brown prior to the Wicked Hits shooting. Five killed in suspected Israeli regime attack on Syria: Report IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- Five people have been killed in a suspected Israeli regime's attack against Syria, media outlets have reported. The five were reportedly killed on Saturday in an explosion that hit a residential building in the Western Villas area at Al Mazzeh of Damascus on Saturday, reports said. The cause of the explosion is unclear; however, initial reports suggest an Israeli airstrike was the cause of the blast, added the sources. According to media reports, several more people have been injured in the explosion. Meanwhile, Ismail Al-Sindawi, the representative of the Islamic Jihad movement in Syria, said that none of the members and offices of the movement have been targeted in the explosion in Damascus. 7129**4261 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address IRGC confirms 4 advisors killed in Israeli regime's attack in Syria IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Jan 20, 2024 Tehran, IRNA -- The public relations office of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has announced that during the air raid by the fighters of the aggressor and usurper Zionist regime, several Syrian forces and four military advisers of the Islamic Republic of Iran were martyred. IRNA published the IRGC statement on Saturday. The martyred military advisers include Hojjatollah Omidvar, Ali Aqazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi and Saeed Karimi. Syrian media had already said that an Israeli strike had targeted a building in the neighborhood of Damascus. They also reported sounds of explosions across the Syrian capital. The strike came days after the IRGC fired ballistic missiles at Syrian bases of terrorists involved in recent terrorist attacks in Iran, as well as an Israeli espionage center in Iraq's Kurdistan region. The IRGC said in a statement afterward that the center of the Zionist regime's Mossad spy agency was totally destroyed in the strike. 4354**9417 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israel's assassination of IRGC advisors will not go unanswered: Raeisi Iran Press TV Saturday, 20 January 2024 6:00 PM Iranian President Ebrahim Raeisi has strongly condemned the assassination of five Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) advisors in an Israeli missile strike in Syria, saying such "cowardly" acts will not go unanswered. "Certainly, the continuation of such terrorist and criminal acts, which are indicative of the increasing failure and defeats of the illegitimate Zionist regime in achieving its malicious goals and the depth of its frustration with the fighters of the resistance front, will not go unanswered by the Islamic Republic of Iran," Raeisi said in a statement on Saturday. The IRGC said earlier in the day that four of its members serving on a military advisory mission in Syria were assassinated in an Israeli strike on a residential building in Damascus. It said later than a fifth advisor had succumbed to his injuries. The IRGC named its martyred advisors as Hojjatollah Omidvar, Ali Aqazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi, Saeed Karimi and Mohammad Amin Samadi. "The recent crimes of the usurping Zionist regime, which.... are committed under the shadow of the support of hegemonic countries, chief among them the United States, and the silence of international organizations, will undoubtedly be another stain on the black record of all self-proclaimed human rights advocates," Iran's president said. Raeisi also offered his condolences to the families of the martyrs, the Iranian leadership, and the entire nation. Iran maintains an advisory mission in Syria at the request of Damascus to help the war-torn Arab country fight off the foreign-backed militants who have been fighting the democratically-elected Syrian government since 2011. The Israeli regime has ramped up its airstrikes on Syria since early October, when it launched the ongoing genocidal war against the Gaza Strip. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Hamas, Islamic Jihad condemn attacks on Iranian advisors in Syria Iran Press TV Saturday, 20 January 2024 4:59 PM The Palestinian resistance movements Hamas and Islamic Jihad have strongly condemned an Israeli attack on a residential building in the Syrian capital, Damascus, which killed five Iranian military advisors. In a statement issued on Saturday, Hamas said the attack earlier in the day on the Mazzeh neighborhood was a violation of the Syrian sovereignty. It said the attack once again laid bare the threat posed by the "Nazi" Zionist regime to the security and stability of the region. The Islamic Jihad issued a statement, saying the attack was an attempt by the Israeli regime to divert attention from its failure in the campaign in Gaza and to expand the scope of aggression to other parts of the region. It said the attack cannot dent the resolve of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) in its mission to fight Israel, adding that nor can it shake Syria's position as a major supporter of the Palestinian cause. Both Hamas and Islamic Jihad offered condolences to the Iranian nation, the government and the IRGC for the loss. The IRGC on Saturday confirmed the death of four of its officers in what it said was an Israeli attack on Damascus. A fifth officer was confirmed dead later in the day after he succumbed to injuries suffered in the attack. IRGC forces have been serving in Syria in an advisory capacity and as part of a decade-long agreement with the Syrian government and armed forces. The Israeli attacks on Syria come amid the regime's relentless genocidal campaign in Gaza where it has killed nearly 25,000 people since early October. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran says reserves right to avenge Israel's assassination of IRGC advisors Iran Press TV Saturday, 20 January 2024 2:56 PM Iran has condemned in the strongest terms the assassination of five of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) military advisors in an Israeli strike in Syria, saying it reserves the right to respond to the "organized terrorism" by the fake regime of Israel. "In addition to political, legal and international pursuit of these aggressive and criminal measures, the Islamic Republic of Iran reserves its right to respond to the organized terrorism of the fake Zionist regime at an appropriate time and place," Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kan'ani said in a statement on Saturday. Five military advisors serving for the IRGC mission in Syria were martyred along with a number of Syrian forces in an Israeli attack on a three-story residential building in the Mezza neighborhood of Damascus, which houses several diplomatic missions. The IRGC named its martyred advisors as Hojjatollah Omidvar, Ali Aqazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi, Saeed Karimi and Mohammad Amin Samadi. Iran maintains an advisory mission in Syria at the request of Damascus with the aim of helping the war-torn Arab country vanquish the foreign-backed militants who have been fighting the democratically-elected Syrian government since 2011. Kan'ani slammed repeated violations of Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity and the escalation of aggressive and provocative attacks on various targets in the Arab country by the regime. He said Israel's criminal acts indicate its desperation in the fight against the resistance forces in the besieged Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank in more than the past 100 days and a "desperate" attempt to spread instability and insecurity in the region. The Iranian official urged the international community and organizations, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to "show an explicit reaction and categorically condemn" the aggressive measures by the terrorist regime of Israel. He said the Iranian advisors have always played a leading role in helping Syria fight terrorism and establish sustainable peace in the Arab country. "The assassination of Iranian military advisors [in Syria] by the Zionist regime clearly shows a deep and organized bond between this terrorist regime and various terrorist groups, including Daesh, in the region," Kan'ani stated. Israel frequently targets military positions inside Syria, especially those of resistance fighters who have played a key role in helping the Syrian army in its fight against the foreign-backed terrorists. The regime has over the past months carried out airstrikes on various locations in Syria and Lebanon as the illegal entity attempts to expand its aggression against the Palestinians in Gaza to other fronts across the region. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Five IRGC advisors assassinated in Israeli aggression on Syria Iran Press TV Saturday, 20 January 2024 10:45 AM Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps says five of its military advisors have been assassinated in an Israeli strike in the Syrian capital. The IRGC said in a statement on Saturday that the advisors were "martyred" along with a number of Syrian forces in the attack in Damascus. The attack targeted a three-story residential building in the city's Mezza neighborhood which houses several diplomatic missions. "Once again, the barbaric and criminal Zionist regime launched an aggression on the city of Damascus, the capital of Syria, and a number of Syrian forces and four military advisers of the Islamic Republic of Iran were martyred during the air raid by the usurper regime's fighter jets," the statement said. The IRGC had initially announced that four of its military advisors were assassinated in the Israeli strikes, but later said in a statement that a fifth succumbed to his injuries. The IRGC named its martyred advisors as Hojjatollah Omidvar, Ali Aqazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi, Saeed Karimi and Mohammad Amin Samadi. Israel frequently targets military positions inside Syria, especially those of resistance fighters, who have played a key role in helping the Syrian army in its fight against the foreign-backed terrorists. The Tel Aviv regime has over the past months carried out airstrikes on various locations in Syria and Lebanon as the illegal entity attempts to expand its aggression against Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip to other fronts across the region. Iran maintains an advisory mission in Syria at the request of Damascus with the aim of helping the war-torn Arab country vanquish the foreign-backed militants who have been fighting the democratically-elected Syrian government since 2011. Last month, an Israeli air attack on a suburb of Damascus killed Iranian general Sayyed Razi Mousavi, a longtime IRGC adviser in Syria. Earlier in December, Israel also killed two IRGC military advisors a Mohammad Ali Ataee Shoorcheh and Panah Taqizadeh a in an attack in Syria. The IRGC announced in a statement that the two officers were martyred against the backdrop of the relentless savagery of the "fake and child-killing" Israeli regime in Gaza. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address High-Ranking Iranian Security Officials Killed In Reported Israeli Air Strike In Syria By RFE/RL's Radio Farda January 20, 2024 An Israeli air strike on January 20 that targeted a building in Syria's capital, Damascus, used by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) killed four Iranians, including two senior officials, Iranian media and the IRGC said. In an official statement, the IRGC named its four members who were killed in the attack as Hojatullah Omidhar, Ali Aghazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi, and Saeed Karimi. However, Nour News, which is thought to have close ties to the country's intelligence services, identified two of the dead as General Sadegh Omidzadeh, the intelligence deputy of the IRGC's expeditionary Quds Force in Syria, and his deputy, Hajj Gholam. Separately, Sky News Arabic channel reported that one of those killed in the strike was Akram al-Ajuri, a senior member of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad Organization. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a London-based opposition war monitor with a network of sources inside Syria, said at least six people -- five Iranians and a Syrian -- were killed in the strike that occurred during a meeting of from Iran-backed groups. The monitor said four other people were still missing under the rubble. There was no immediate explanation for the media reports' discrepancy in the numbers, names, and nationalities of those killed in the attack on the Damascus neighborhood known as a high-security zone home to lRGC leaders and pro-Iran Palestinian factions. Israeli media reported the attack quoting Reuters news agency, but there was no immediate official confirmation that Israel was behind the strike. The attack occurred four weeks after Razi Musavi, a high-ranking official in IRGC's elite Quds Force, was killed in a similar attack in the Zainabiyah neighborhood of Damascus. Musavi was responsible for military coordination between Iran and Syria, according to Reuters, while Tasnim news agency, which is close to the IRGC, reported that he had been one of the oldest advisers of the force in Syria and "an associate" of Qasem Soleimani, a former Quds commander who was killed in January 2020 in an air strike by U.S. forces near Baghdad. With reporting by AP and Reuters Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/israel-strike-syria- iran-aligned-leaders/32784579.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Israeli Strike on Syria Kills Iranian Guards Officials - Reports Sputnik News 20240120 CAIRO/DAMASCUS (Sputnik) - One person was killed and three injured in an Israeli strike on a residential building in the Syrian capital Damascus, the director of Al Mouwasat Hospital in Damascus, Imam Amin, said on Saturday. "One dead and three injured, including a woman, were admitted [to the hospital] as a result of an Israeli strike on a residential house," Amin was quoted by Syrian newspaper Al Watan as saying. Two person killed by airstrike were information officers of Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, according to information, obtained by AlMayadeen. The building hit by the strike consisted of four floors and was completely destroyed by the strike, Syrian media reported. According to Syrian media, the most-likely Israeli strike targeted a building in the Mazzeh neighborhood of Damascus, while another outlet reported explosions heard throughout the city. Iranian advisers to the legitimate Syrian government of Bashar al-Assad were reportedly using the building, which was "entirely flattened". Lately, Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps confirmed the death of four military advisers. Israel has a long record of attacking Iranian-linked targets in Syria, and its attacks have become even more ruthless after the recent escalation of the conflict with Palestine. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Lithuania sends 1st European delegation to visit Taiwan following Lai's victory ROC Central News Agency 01/21/2024 11:13 AM Taipei, Jan. 21 (CNA) A Lithuanian parliamentarian group led by Matas Maldeikis, head of a Lithuanian-Taiwan friendship group, has arrived in the country for a six-day visit, making them the first European delegate to visit the country following the election of Vice President Lai Ching-te () on Jan. 13. The 11-member cross-parties Lithuanian parliament, or Seimas delegation, features three deputy speakers, namely, Vytautas Mitalas, Radvile Morkunaite-Mikuleniene and Julius Sabatauskas, who were welcomed by Eric Huang (), head of Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) European Affairs, at Taoyuan International Airport early Sunday, MOFA said in a press release. Huang previously served as Taiwan's first representative to Lithuania from November 2021- Jan. 2024. The group will meet with President Tsai Ing-wen (), Lai as well as Legislative speaker You Si-kun () and Foreign Minister Joseph Wu () to congratulate Lai's election victory and Taiwan's successful holding of another round of democratic elections to show solidarity between two democracies, MOFA said. During the group's stay until Jan. 26, they will also pay a visit to Taiwan's National Security Council, Ministry of Economic Affairs, National Development Council and Hsinchu Science Park to exchange views on issues of mutual concerns, MOFA added. Lai of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) won Taiwan's presidential election on Jan. 13, giving the DPP an unprecedented third consecutive presidential term. Tsai could not run for reelection because Taiwan's presidents are limited to two four-year terms. (By Joseph Yeh) Enditem/cs NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Two UK warships at risk of sinking after collision in Persian Gulf Iran Press TV Saturday, 20 January 2024 11:25 AM A multi-million-dollar British Royal Navy warship has crashed into another hi-tech combat vessel anchored at a port in Bahrain, facing risks of sinking. In a video posted on the internet, the older Royal Navy ship HMS Chiddingfold, a hunt-class mine countermeasures vessel, was filmed smashing into the Royal Navy's minehunter HMS Bangor on Thursday, at an undisclosed location in the Persian Gulf island state. Triggered by a mechanical fault, the collision resulted in a gigantic hole in the hull of HMS Bangor, which was constructed of glass reinforced plastic, destroying nearly the galley and bedrooms. "The understanding at the moment is when she was attempting to go astern, there was a malfunction," an source told Daily Mail. "The crew couldn't alter her course so they were forced to look on helplessly as she careered into HMS Bangor's rear quarter bow first," it added. "Her interior was ripped apart too. The ship won't be in action for a while." After the collision, the sailors got into efforts to stop the vessel from sinking, as it is teetered while being on the edge of sinking. A British military spokesperson confirmed the embarrassing mishap and reported no causalities. "We are aware of an incident concerning two Minehunters alongside in Bahrain. There are no casualties as a result of this incident and it would be inappropriate to comment further whilst investigations are ongoing," the spokesperson told the Daily Mirror. Navy sources suggested there was no timeline yet for when the vessel can return to frontline duties, after the repair work is done. The Bangor's standard crew of 39 includes mine warfare specialists and mine clearance divers. According to the Ministry of Defense, Bangor is equipped with SeaFox unmanned underwater vehicles that trawl the ocean floor searching for mines. Usually it is based at the Clyde naval base in Faslane, Scotland, but she has been on long-term deployment to the Persian Gulf, probably because of the rising tensions in the Red Sea. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address RICHMOND Khaleesi Hope Cuthriells mom thought her sister might take care of the 3-year-old while she went to jail in 2020, but the Augusta County Social Services Department said no. So the childs mom, Amanda Arey, said a friend, who it turned out she had met during an earlier incarceration, could step in. But four months later, no one could find the toddler. Instead, as sheriffs officers and police investigated, they found a horrific trove of torture videos and photos of an emaciated child covered in bruises, with most of her hair torn out. They never found Khaleesis body. Now, legislation to make sure that in moments of family crisis theres a better way to make sure that kids are safe is on a fast track through the state Senate and House of Delegates. The bills are meant to make it easier for relatives to step in, and to provide the same kind of social services support and funding that foster parents receive. They would also set, for the first time, some clear guidelines for that moment of crisis, like the one Arey faced with a looming jail term, when parents and social services departments have to work fast to keep a child safe. Imagine being a 6-year-old in a traumatic situation and being told you have to go to some strangers home; now imagine being that 6-year-old and going to a favorite aunts, said Janet Kelly, who has been just that kind of kinship care relative for the past 12 years. Kelly had been Gov. Glenn Youngkins point person sorting out a 2022 crisis of dozens of foster care kids who had been rejected by their foster families and who had no place to go except for hotels or offices of social services departments. The bills, Senate Bill 39 and House Bill 27, focus on the moment of crisis when a child is in danger at home and parents and social workers have to figure out what to do next. Sometimes, the child goes straight into the foster care system, a path that often starts with several confusing and frightening hours before social workers deliver the child to a strangers home. Sometimes, though, theres the option one it is official policy to consider of an alternative, a stay with a family member or an adult who, supposedly, knows the child well and can take care of him or her. Thats what Arey thought she had found with Candi Jo Royer, who she had met during an earlier jail term. Social workers said OK, without apparently checking Royers criminal record, or anything about her partner, Travis Brown. Royer and Brown were convicted of the childs murder. With the bills, parents have the option of voluntarily agreeing to an alternative to foster care but an alternative with a difference. Social workers would have to check the caregivers criminal record and whether that person had had any record with social services of child neglect or abuse. There would have to be a written agreement about what the parent or parents would need to do before the child could return home, as well as a written safety plan for the time the child was with the caregiver. Visitation rights and authority to sign school and medical paperwork would be set down. The placement would last for no more than 90 days, but it could be extended, with everyones consent, for another 90. At that point, after a conference involving everyone concerned about the child, the question of what to do would go to a juvenile court judge, where theres an elaborate process set down in law charging the judge, as well as a lawyer appointed to advocate for the childs best interests, to consider when or if the child could return home. Key to the reform: There would be money and other supports for the relatives stepping in for this alternative living arrangement. If, at the end of the 90 or 180 days, and the juvenile court case focused on the child, the judge decides it is in the childs best interest to stay with the relatives in the alternative arrangement, the child could stay with those relatives and the money and supports would continue. We know children who stay with relatives do better ... this a major change to the system, said state Sen. Barbara Favola, D-Arlington, who joined state Sen. Ryan McDougle, R-Hanover, and state Sen. Mark Obenshain, R-Rockingham, to sponsor the measure. Del. Katrina Callsen, D-Albemarle, sponsored the House version. McDougle said the money and supports are particularly important, since often relatives who would otherwise be willing to step in simply do not have the financial resources to do so. Fallon Speaker, of the Legal Aid Justice Center, said she opposed the bill because it codified what she called a hidden foster care system and because parents would not be able to afford legal advice before agreeing to an alternative placement. Youngkin said in his State of the Commonwealth speech and in his comments on his proposed budget that doing more to help relatives step in during such crises is a top priority. His proposed budget includes funds for such alternative living approaches. The House bill made it through the key gatekeeper, the House Social Services subcommittee, on a 8-0 vote. The Senate Rehabilitation and Social Services Committee approved the measure 15-0. EU increases ammunition production amid Ukraine pleas Iran Press TV Saturday, 20 January 2024 8:34 AM The European Union has announced that it will drastically increase its ammunition production this year amid Ukraine's growing request for Western support in the war with Russia. The decision was revealed on Friday as the ongoing war with Russia nears its second year. According to EU internal market Commissioner Thierry Breton, the bloc will be able to churn out at least 1.3 million rounds of ammunition by the end of this year. "We will continue to enhance our production capacity, probably around 1.3 to 1.4 million... at the end of this year and continue to increase significantly next year," Thierry said. "We are at a crucial moment for our collective security in Europe" he said, adding "Europe must and will continue to support Ukraine with all its means". The decision came after Ukraine said on Thursday that it was facing a "pressing" need for ammunition. Russia has time and again criticized Western support for Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron announced this week that Paris was sending dozens of long-range missiles to Ukraine. "We must amplify the transformation we have begun" to respond more quickly to Ukraine's needs, Macron said in a New Year's address to the French armed forces. On Friday, Russia summoned France's ambassador in Moscow and issued a formal complaint over his country's "growing involvement" in the conflict in Ukraine. The move came just days after Moscow said it had killed a group of French mercenaries in a strike on the northeastern town of Kharkiv. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine's Yermak Rejects Idea Of Pivoting To Defense Strategy By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service January 20, 2024 The head of Ukraine's presidential office dismissed the idea of pivoting to a defensive posture, saying it would only lead to a persistent stalemate. "The transition to a defensive position often leads to the freezing of the conflict. We have seen this since 2014. We will never accept a frozen conflict with Putin," Andriy Yermak said in an interview with Le Figaro. Some experts in the West have called on Ukraine to focus on a defensive posture after its much-anticipated 2023 summer offensive made little headway in driving Russian forces from their territory. Russia still controls about 20 percent of Ukraine's territory. Those experts argue that Ukraine should focus on protecting the territory it still controls, claiming it lacks the resources to take back more land. Yermak admitted constrained manpower and armaments shortages are hindering progress. "At the front, troops complain about the lack of people and resources and say that they are no longer able to advance. This is definitely a problem, and there is no point in hiding it," he said. Ukraine's parliament is debating a new mobilization bill as its armed forces have struggled in recent months to recruit new soldiers. Meanwhile, the United States, Ukraine's biggest supplier of military equipment, has yet to approve a new aid bill, forcing Kyiv to conserve weapons use. Congress has been debating a new $61 billion aid package for months. The bill, if passed, would ensure Ukraine receives military aid to get it through 2024. Russia is readying to launch a new offensive in the summer, Ukrainian officials told the Financial Times, intensifying Kyiv's need for more men and weapons now. Despite large-scale offensives by both sides last year, neither made much progress. Experts have said it is unlikely that either side will make a breakthrough this year. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-yermak-war-defense- strategy/32784839.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address More Than 42,000 Russian Troops Killed In Ukraine Since Launch Of Full-Scale Invasion By Current Time January 20, 2024 At least 42,284 Russian military personnel have been killed since the start of Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, according to research by journalists from Mediazona and the BBC Russian Service who have established the deceased soldiers' identities. The number includes 5,089 mobilized soldiers and 7,810 inmates recruited from Russian prisons, the two media organizations said. The journalists from Mediazona and BBC Russian Service also established that out of the total, at least 3,053 were officers and 349 of them had ranks of lieutenant colonel or higher. The journalists based their research on data from open sources such as obituaries in the media and messages on social networks by relatives of the victims. A breakdown by Russian regions showed that most of the identified troops killed in action were from the Krasnodar region, 1,640, followed by the Sverdlovsk region with 1,449, Bashkortostan with 1,353, and Chelyabinsk, 1,191. Russia's capital, Moscow, lost at least 482 identified military personnel, while 480 deceased soldiers were from St. Petersburg, Russia's second-largest city. The Russian Defense Ministry does not disclose data on personnel losses and does not comment on figures reported by journalists. Earlier this month, Russian media website Important Stories found out that starting from 2022, the Pension Fund of the Russian Federation prohibited employees of its regional branches from publishing information about those involved in the war in Ukraine who receive social benefits, since such data could be used to calculate the losses of the Russian Army. In April, Important Stories wrote that the Russian Defense Ministry has stopped publishing information about military pensions for disability and for war widows and orphans for similar reasons. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-russian-troops- death-toll/32784518.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Pressure On Ukrainian Media Threatens Zelenskiy's Messaging To The West By Todd Prince, RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service January 20, 2024 On January 16, a little-known news outlet called The People's Truth posted recordings of private phone calls between several Ukrainians discussing the purchase of drugs such as marijuana, MDMA, and methamphetamine along with surveillance video that showed them using the narcotics at a vacation lodge. The people depicted all worked as camera operators for Bihus.Info, a Kyiv-based independent investigative news outlet that has produced some of the hardest-hitting reporting on corruption among the Ukrainian elite over the past decade. Uploaded to The People's Truth YouTube page with the misleading title The Other Side of Bihus.Info: They Snorted Meth, Swallowed MDMA, Smoked Dope And Then Drove To Investigate, the video was clearly meant to discredit the news outlet, Ukrainian journalists and media watchdogs said. Two days earlier, unidentified men tried to force their way into the home of Yuriy Nikolov, chief editor of Nashi Hroshi, or Our Money, an online news site known for its deep dives into government spending. They demanded Nikolov enlist in the military to fight against the Russian invasion. The incidents are the latest in a series of pressure campaigns targeting Ukrainian journalists, raising concerns about a systemic problem. The onslaughts originate mainly in anonymous accounts on social media sites such as Telegram, making it difficult for victims to identify the perpetrator. Media outlets and watchdog groups suspect government involvement, including from Presidential Volodymyr Zelenskiy's administration. Daria Zarivna, senior adviser to Zelenskiy's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, rejected any notion of a connection to the anonymous Telegram channels. The two incidents come at a critical moment for Zelenskiy, who is trying to convince the United States and Europe to keep military and financial aid flowing as Ukraine seeks to hold back the invading Russian forces and drive them out of the country. Zelenskiy has repeatedly argued in Washington, Brussels, and other Western capitals that his nation is on the front line in the global battle between democracy and authoritarianism. A spending package that includes some $61 billion in mostly military aid for Ukraine has been stymied in the U.S. Congress for three months. While domestic issues in Ukraine are not the main stumbling block, some Republican lawmakers in the House of Representatives have highlighted what they say are concerns about corruption and the state of Ukrainian democracy. "We as a state are defending democracy, defending values. We are like a democratic David fighting against the evil Russian totalitarian Goliath. And yet we have such things happening here that contradict the values we uphold," Oksana Romanyuk, director of the Kyiv-based Institute for Mass Information, told RFE/RL. Denys Bihus, the founder of Bihus.Info, said a review of the videos and phone calls posted by The People's Truth indicates that his employees had been under surveillance by as many as 30 individuals for several months, if not longer. He said someone installed the surveillance camera in the room a day before his employees arrived at the vacation lodge for a company party. He said he suspects Ukraine's intelligence services were behind the surveillance. Law enforcement authorities have opened an investigation into the incident. Nikolov also accused the state of being behind the intimidating visit to his apartment, calling it "the government's response to [my] criticism of the president." Nikolov broke one of the biggest stories of 2023 in Ukraine when he reported that the Defense Ministry had been buying eggs for troops at inflated prices. The corruption scandal raised fresh questions about how Western aid was being spent and prompted Zelenskiy to fire several top officials. 'Illegal Actions' Yaroslav Yurchyshyn, a deputy from the opposition party Holos and chairman of the free speech committee in Ukraine's parliament, the Verkhovna Rada, told RFE/RL that the wiretapping and surveillance of Bihus employees were "definitely illegal actions" and called for an investigation. Mediarukh, or Mediamovement, an organization comprising journalists and media experts, called the events a "clear violation of the right of journalists to privacy" and said they undermine Ukraine's democratic credentials. During his nightly commentary on January 17, Zelenskiy said that pressure on journalists was "unacceptable." Hours earlier, Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) said it opened an investigation into the actions that targeted Bihus.Info. But some journalists and media analysts and advocates are demanding more action. Romanyuk called on Zelenskiy to personally oversee the investigation into the incidents. For decades, government critics have said Ukraine's justice system doesn't work when it comes to investigating and prosecuting alleged crimes by powerful people. In its October 17 statement, Mediarukh noted that other outlets, including Ukrayinska Pravda, NV, Tsenzor, Vavilon, and Liga.net had also recently faced pressure. Some of those cases involved personal attacks on journalists via anonymous Telegram channels that Ukrainian media experts charged are linked to the presidential administration. The People's Truth, which published the compromising information about Bihus.Info, appears to be a fake outlet, according to experts, and the biographies of its editorial staff appear to be made up. Until a few months ago, it hadn't published anything on its YouTube page in five years. Romanyuk told RFE/RL the media attacks appear to be systemic. She said the situation smacked of the days of Moscow-friendly President Viktor Yanukovych, when many reporters were pressured during the 2013-14 Euromaidan protests that led to his ouster. Mykyta Poturayev, chairman of the parliamentary committee for humanitarian and information policy and a member of Zelenskiy's Servant of the People party, agreed with that assessment. "This has not happened in the country for a long time. This has not happened since the time of Yanukovych," he told RFE/RL. Free Media Concerns Long before the current spate of pressure campaigns against journalists, there had been concern about the state of media freedom under Zelenskiy, a comic actor who co-owned a successful television production company. Since he announced his presidential bid on national TV on December 31, 2018, Zelenskiy has often kept his distance from prominent Ukrainian media outlets, preferring to get his message to the public via social media. He rarely holds press conferences with local reporters. He comes off as combative when asked tough questions at such events. Days after journalist Yuriy Butusov got into a heated argument with Zelenskiy at his 2021 press conference, law enforcement opened an investigation into one of Butusov's social media posts. Butusov called it retaliation, something the authorities denied. Zelenskiy has also clashed with tycoons whose television stations were critical of his leadership. In 2021, as his ratings declined, Zelenskiy shut down three television stations believed to be owned by Viktor Medvedchuk, a friend and associate of Russian President Vladimir Putin's who was later detained on suspicion of treason and sent to Russia in a prisoner exchange. The stations, which bashed Zelenskiy, were accused of being Russian mouthpieces. Months later, Zelenskiy pushed through parliament a controversial bill that could force the handful of billionaires who largely controlled the nation's media to sell those assets if they wanted to participate in political life. While the tycoons' dominance of the nation's media has been widely bemoaned, many experts voiced concern that the law could be selectively applied. Following Russia's full-scale invasion in February 2022, the presidential administration used martial law to gain influence over key media assets. Four leading stations owned by tycoons began cooperating with two state-owned channels to produce round-the-clock content -- partially state-funded and created with government input -- that they all shared. While the unified programming helped citizens in the early days of Russia's invasion, some experts fear it is turning into a public relations tool for Zelenskiy, who could seek another term once the war ends and elections are resumed. Bihus.Info reported last year that some of the government funding for the unified TV programming was being subcontracted to a company owned by Kyrylo Tymoshenko, a former member of Zelenskiy's presidential administration and production company. Nonetheless, Ukraine rose to an improved position in the 2023 annual ranking of nations by press freedoms as determined by Reporters Without Borders, jumping from 106th place to 79th. With national TV channels mainly engaged in sharing war-related programming, the field of investigative journalism in Ukraine has been largely left to shoe-string outlets like Bihus and Our Money, making their survival critical for the nation's progress on talking corruption and strengthening democracy. Written by Todd Prince based on reporting by RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-media-pressure- zelenskiy-message-west/32784793.html Copyright (c) 2024. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia Wipes out Ukrainian Air Defense Positions in Odessa With Soviet P-35B Missiles - Source Sputnik News 20240120 MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The Russian military wreaked havoc on the positions of Ukrainian air defense systems in Odessa with several Soviet P-35B missiles, a source told Sputnik. "Several Soviet-made P-35B missiles of the Utes and Redut systems were used to strike the positions of Ukrainian anti-aircraft missile systems near Odessa. Missiles with an original analogue control system and a television and radio command system were used, which, however, showed good effectiveness of hitting Ukrainian military targets," the source said. P-35 is a Soviet supersonic anti-ship cruise missile weighing more than 4 tonnes with a maximum firing range of up to 400 kilometers. The first test launch of a prototype of such a missile took place in 1959; the missile system was put into service in 1964 on surface ships. Later, the latest modification of the missile, the P-35B, were also adopted into service as part of the Utes and Redut coastal stationary and mobile missile systems. A Sputnik NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Through the entire architecture of security commitments, we are effectively reviving the system of international law - address by the President of Ukraine President of Ukraine 20 January 2024 - 17:30 I wish you good health, dear Ukrainians! I have a few things to report about this day. I'm already holding meetings regarding the upcoming week - our international events that we are planning. It concerns relations with partners in Europe, in the European Union. We will add more activity. It also relates to security commitments for Ukraine. We are preparing new agreements with partners - strong bilateral agreements. January and February are expected to bring appropriate results. We already see specific dates when new strong documents can be expected. I am grateful to our entire team involved in negotiations, to all the leaders, and to those countries ready for truly ambitious decisions. Through the entire architecture of security commitments - a new architecture - we are effectively bringing to life, reviving the system of international law. And when justice is restored for Ukraine, when our security is reinstated, it will work for others in the world as well. We are preparing further work with our key partners, including specific defense support right now, in these weeks and months. There will be new defense packages. I am grateful to all friends of Ukraine worldwide who understand that the battlefield cannot simply wait and that the saving of lives cannot be delayed. To all those who are trying to expedite the necessary decisions - they are needed right now. Only in the past day, there were over a hundred intense combat clashes on the front lines. The most severe were in Avdiivka, Maryinka direction - Krasnohorivka, Lyman direction, Siversk direction, Kupyansk direction, and near Kherson- in Krynyky. Our resilience now, the destruction of the enemy now, is vital. There should be no illusions in Russia that they will succeed in anything. And I thank every one of our soldiers, everyone in Ukraine who fights now, works now and helps so that our people, our state can win this year. I especially want to single out our soldiers today who are fighting in the South. In particular, Senior Soldier Serhiy Filonenko, from the 123rd Separate Territorial Defense Brigade. Thank you for your bravery! Chief Sergeant of the Logistics Company of the 124th Territorial Defense Brigade, Andriy Suchok. Thank you for significant combat achievements in Kherson region! Soldier Oleksandr Plakhotniuk, from the 38th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment. Thank you for precision during the repulsion of attacks by Russian terrorists on our ports in Odesa region. Glory to all whose courage and effectiveness become Ukraine's strength - the collective strength of our people! Let eternal and bright memory be for all those who fought for our state and gave their lives so that Ukraine could live. Today, Ukraine remembers the defenders of Donetsk airport - one of those battles that determined our modern history. Ukrainians are stronger than any circumstances. We all must be aware of this strength. And we must win in this war. For our people, for our state, for the Russian evil to forever remember that it will never gain anything more. Glory to Ukraine! NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Zelenskyy Says He Is Fearful of Second Trump Presidency By VOA News January 20, 2024 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed concern over the prospect of Donald Trump returning to the White House and said he considers the former U.S. president's claims that he could stop Ukraine's war with Russia in 24 hours "very dangerous." In an interview with the U.K.'s Channel 4 News that aired Friday, Zelenskyy invited the former president and front runner for the Republican presidential nomination to visit Kyiv, provided Trump delivers on his promise in a way that can satisfy Ukraine. "Donald Trump, I invite you to Ukraine, to Kyiv," said Zelenskyy. "If you can stop the war during 24 hours, I think it will be enough to come." The Ukrainian leader expressed concern over a potential Trump presidency where Trump's idea of a negotiated peace in Ukraine might involve Ukraine making major concessions to Russia. "[Trump] is going to make decisions on his own, without ... I'm not even talking about Russia, but without both sides, without us," Zelenskyy said. "If he says this publicly, that's a little scary. I've seen a lot, a lot of victims, but that's really making me a bit stressed." Trump has repeatedly stated that he is well-positioned to negotiate an end to the war that has raged for almost two years, saying he has a good relationship with both Russian and Ukrainian leaders. Throughout his political career, Trump has praised Russian President Vladimir Putin, including after Moscow's February 2022 invasion of Ukraine. During a campaign rally in Georgia just days after Russian tanks moved into Ukraine, Trump described Putin as a "smart" political player and expressed admiration for Russia's swift takeover of a vast, "great piece of land" at the cost of what he suggested were relatively minor sanctions. Agency warns of mines International Atomic Energy Agency chief Rafael Grossi warned Saturday that mines had been re-planted around the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, Europe's largest, just months after a team of international inspectors had reported the area had been cleared from mines. In a statement on the agency's website, Grossi cautioned that mines in the plant's buffer zone, between its internal and external fences, go against the agency's safety standards. The head of Ukraine's state nuclear company, Petro Kotin of Energoatom, called the alleged planting of mines as "another crime" by Russian forces that have occupied the Zaporizhzhia plant since the early weeks of the war. In a Telegram update Saturday, Kotin said the situation at the plant "will remain fragile and dangerous as long as the Russians remain there." The IAEA has repeatedly expressed concern the war could cause a potential radiation leak from the facility, which is one of world's 10 biggest nuclear power stations. The plant's six reactors have been shut down for months, but it still needs power and qualified staff to operate crucial cooling systems and other safety features. Russia has been in control of the site since 2022 and is refusing to allow IAEA experts access to some areas of the plant. "Such access is needed to monitor nuclear safety and security," the IAEA statement said. Lawmakers propose bill confiscating property Russian lawmakers have prepared a bill allowing for the confiscation of money and property from people who spread "deliberately false information" about the country's armed forces, a senior member of parliament said Saturday. Vyacheslav Volodin, speaker of the State Duma, said the measure would also apply to those found guilty of what he described as other forms of betrayal such as "discrediting" the armed forces, calling for sanctions against Russia, or inciting extremist activity. "Everyone who tries to destroy Russia, who betrays it, must face deserved punishment and compensate for the damage inflicted on the country, at the cost of their own property," Volodin wrote on Telegram. Wife calls for husband's return Meanwhile, at the election headquarters of President Vladimir Putin, the wife of a Russian soldier delivered an emotional appeal Saturday for her husband's return from the front, a defiant gesture in a country where open criticism of the war is banned. "Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin has issued a decree that my husband has to be there [in Ukraine.] I'm interested to know when he will issue a decree that my husband has to be home," Maria Andreyeva said as campaign workers looked on. Andreyeva became involved in a heated exchange with a woman who told her that Russian soldiers in Ukraine were defending the motherland, and she should pray for them. "So, what's next? The Ministry of Defense has spent its money, now we need to squeeze everything out of our guys, get the last life out of them? So that they come back to us just as stumps?" Andreyeva questioned. "Will they give me the stump? What will I get back? A man without legs, without arms, a sick man? Don't you know what's happening there?" she asked. Some material for this report was provided by The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address EU Steps Up to Supply Ukraine with Ammunition By VOA News January 20, 2024 The European Union said Friday it will ramp up its production of ammunition in response to Ukrainian calls for support as its war against Russia closes in on the two-year mark. By the end of the year, EU Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton said, the EU will be able to produce at least 1.3 million rounds of ammunition. "We are at a crucial moment for our collective security in Europe, and in the war of aggression run by Russia in Ukraine, Europe must and will continue to support Ukraine with all its means," Breton told reporters during a visit to Estonia. The announcement comes as NATO prepares for military exercises that begin next week, amid concerns that the war in Ukraine could tumble over into other European countries. "We hear threats from the Kremlin almost every day a most recently again against our friends in the Baltic states," German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said Friday in the Tagesspiegel newspaper. Next week NATO will mount its largest series of military exercises since the end of the Cold War. The Steadfast Defender 2024 will involve about 90,000 troops from all 31 NATO members and Sweden in the war games rehearsal that runs through May. "We have to realize it's not a given that we are in peace," said Dutch Admiral Rob Bauer, the NATO military committee chief, earlier this week in Brussels during a meeting of military chiefs. "Expect the unexpected." Elsewhere Friday, the International Atomic Energy Agency said that Russia has surrounded the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant with landmines. The agency said in a statement that the mines that had been removed in November "are now back in place," a development it said is "inconsistent with the IAEA safety standards." Russia, which has been in control of the site since 2022, is also refusing to allow IAEA experts access to some areas of the plant. "Such access is needed to monitor nuclear safety and security," the statement said. Some material for this report came from The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NEW YORK, Jan. 20, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities of Fisker Inc. (NYSE: FSR) between August 4, 2023 and November 20, 2023, both dates inclusive (the Class Period), of the important January 26, 2024 lead plaintiff deadline. SO WHAT: If you purchased Fisker 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 Fisker class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=20654 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com 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 26, 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 and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Fisker had a material weakness in its internal control over financial reporting; (2) Fisker had incorrectly accounted for certain costs; (3) as a result Fisker was likely to delay filing its quarterly report; (4) Fiskers infrastructure was limiting its ability to deliver its production; and (5) that, as a result of the foregoing, defendants positive statements about Fisker'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 Fisker class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=20654 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email pkim@rosenlegal.com or cases@rosenlegal.com 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 lrosen@rosenlegal.com pkim@rosenlegal.com cases@rosenlegal.com www.rosenlegal.com Coast360 Federal Credit Unions new Upper Tumon Member Center will hold its soft opening at 9 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 22. The grand opening event will be announced at a later date. Situated at the corner of the Harmon Industrial Park intersection, the state-of-the-art building is conveniently located for members in the central part of Guam and its surrounding areas, replacing its Tamuning location, which closed its doors permanently in December 2023. The two-story, 16,800 sq. ft. member center is designed with convenience, comfort and the community in mind. As a credit union, were more than just a financial institution. Were people helping people, Gener Deliquina, CEO of Coast360, said in a news release. Our new member center provides more space and amenities, and allows us to better serve our multi-generational group of members with varying financial goals and banking preferences. Deliquina said the continued support of members and community helped Coast360 achieve this new milestone, which further strengthens our dedication to providing exceptional service and giving back. Its a full circle moment just as our name Coast360 implies, Deliquina said. The Upper Tumon Member Centers hours of operation are: Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Business360 suite The Business360 suite is located on the 2nd floor a one-stop shop for all business members banking needs. The Business360 team is comprised of seasoned professionals with expertise in retail and credit solutions ready to assist business members in their financial journey. For more information, email business360@coast360fcu.com. Community room Originally situated at Coast360s Maite Member Center, the Community Room has been relocated to the Upper Tumon Member Center. The room is open for use by all civic, bona fide nonprofit and other community organizations in search of a comfortable space for meetings and presentations at no charge. The Community Room is equipped with standard multimedia tools, tables and chairs. Advance reservation is required to secure the space. For inquiries, email business360@coast360fcu.com. Since 2010, our Community Room has helped numerous organizations save money which in turn they can use towards other organizational and community efforts. Providing and maintaining this space is one of many ways we give back to the community, said Deliquina. 24-hour services Convenient 24-hour services include two walk-up ATMs that allow cash and check deposits, withdrawals, balance inquiries and transfers; and an Express Drop box for payments and deposits. A coin kiosk for members is also available in the space during operating hours to ensure the availability of assistance by a team member as needed. Drive-up services The new center is designed with four lanes: 24-hour drive-up ATM and night drop; two transaction lanes intended to serve up to four vehicles at a time; and a by-pass lane that enables vehicles to maneuver into and out of open stations. Lanes are also equipped with a light indicator that signals members to proceed to the next available station when green. Members must enter from the Marine Corps Drive to access the drive-up services entrance and queue. Directional signs are posted along the lanes to easily guide members through the traffic flow. Visit coast360fcu.com or Coast360s Facebook page facebook.com/Coast360FCU for future updates. For inquiries on Coast360 products and services, visit coast360fcu.com/contact-us. Guam Fire Department units have been battling a grass fire that has an estimated burn area of 50 acres at the Santa Rita-Sumai-Yona area, since late morning Sunday. This comes as Guam continues to experience gusty winds and dry conditions that could lead to rapid fire spread. GFD said at 11:20 a.m. Sunday, GFD units responded to the area along Route 17 across Tarzan Falls for a reported grass fire. This is an active fire, units are currently on scene, GFD said as of past 1 p,m. Sunday afternoon. GFD is asking motorists to drive cautiously because it has units and personnel within the area. Red flag warning Additionally, GFD wants to remind the community that theres a red flag warning that was issued by the National Weather Service. A red flag warning remains in effect for Guam until 6 p.m. Monday for low humidity and high wind. Gusty winds and dry conditions could lead to rapid fire spread. Humidity as low as 50% in the afternoons are expected. The highest threat is for southern parts of Guam, especially higher terrain and windward slopes, facing north or east, during daytime hours. Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended, NWS said. Guam Department of Education Superintendent Kenneth Erik Swanson said the March deadline to address Head Start issues will be met. Last month, Guam Head Start Program acting Director Angelina Lape told senators during an oversight hearing that the local program is at risk of losing its funding if it doesnt address issues found by federal Head Start officials by March 5, 2024. Among the issues that need to be addressed are active supervision, background checks, safety measures and the presence of lead at schools, Lape said. The Guam Head Start Program is under the local education agency. Swanson said the installation of fencing around the Head Start classrooms are out to bid and they are on an accelerated timeframe because they need the fencing done by March. He said a condition of the bid process is that contractors know the fences in those areas need to be installed by first part of March. What you have to do is set the fencing up so that when the kids pass from the classroom out to the play area, they cant get off the track. You channel them so that they dont accidentally walk out into an area where theyre not safe, he said. The fencing is important because it will serve as a redundant safety measure. Lape told senators that the exit and entrance doors will be fenced in and if a student for some reason is able to get out the door, they cant go anywhere because of the fencing. Lape also said the playgrounds or areas that Head Start uses for the children to play will also need to be fenced in. Some of the playgrounds will also need to be replaced, but federal Head Start officials told the local program that as long as the kids have a safe outdoor area to play, they will pass, she said. She said Head Start staff are being trained on procedures and skills to ensure children are being supervised at all times. There were issues with some children leaving the classroom and staff not knowing they left, she said. One instance involved a student who was able to go outside the classroom after the door wasnt closed well, she said. Another involved a student running outside of the classroom without Head Start staff knowing, but school staff found them and stopped them. Lape said the program takes these events seriously and no student should be unsupervised. She told senators that if the deficiencies arent addressed, the program will lose its funding and GDOE will not be able to reapply for funding for a certain period. But thats a scenario Lape said she hasnt explored because everyone is focused on making sure it doesnt happen. The Head Start program provides services mostly to students who need the most support, including foster children, those who are homeless, and those who are under public assistance, Lape said. We know that our program is needed, she added. Chief Justice Robert Torres said Compact of Free Association migrants represent 20% of the Superior Court of Guam's total case population. This percentage is significant, and the court continues to see rising costs associated with adjudicating cases involving COFA migrants, he said. From 2004 to 2023, the Judiciary saw an increase of more than $7 million in annual costs as a result of the influx of migrants to Guam, information shared by Torres shows. The chief justice sent a letter to Rep. Harriet Hageman, chair of the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs, in support of Guam Del. James Moylans H.R. 6273, which would extend certain grants to the government of Guam to help with the costs associated with hosting regional migrants. H.R. 6273, or the Guam Host Community Compensation Act, proposes to reinstate the annual reimbursements to Guam as a COFA host community, involve federal authorities when a COFA migrant is convicted of a felony, and require evidence of work or education prior to a COFA migrant relocating to Guam. The subcommittee held a hearing on the bill Friday, Guam time. Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero and Mayors Council of Guam President and Piti Mayor Jesse Alig traveled to Washington, D.C. to testify before federal lawmakers. The U.S. Compacts of Free Association permit citizens from Freely Associated States unrestricted immigration into the United States and its territories. Although annual reimbursements for compact migration costs ceased in 2023, migration to U.S. areas is anticipated to grow, as reported by the U.S. Government Accountability Office. Citizens from the Federated States of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands and Palau are able to live on Guam and other parts of the U.S. as part of the compact agreements. Interior cannot support HR 6273 Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Interior Keone Nakoa, in his testimony before the House subcommittee, said the Interior acknowledges the unitended but significant costs to Guam and other jurisdictions related to the COFAs but he said the agency "cannot" support H.R. 6273. That's because the bill, he said, would impose additional requirements for non-immigrant residency in Guam, "which would place at risk our close relationships with the FAS, a cornerstone of U.S. national interests in the Pacific." He's referring to the bill's intent of mandating evidence of work or education requirements for COFA migrants to relocate to Guam. "Further, the intended effect of the proposed legislation on the Compacts and the INA is somewhat unclear, given that under the Compacts, eligible FAS citizens do not require visas to travel to the United States, including Guam," Nakoa told the subcommittee. Not adequate For the Guam Judiciary, a continuing federal appropriation is vital for maintaining essential services and preserving the principles of justice for a community grappling with this expanding population, Torres said. While the Compact Impact Fairness Act would alleviate some challenges for host jurisdictions, existing federal initiatives may not adequately mitigate the extensive financial burden associated with Compact-related expenditures, particularly in the sectors of public safety and legal services, he added. Torres said the third branch of the government of Guam, the Judiciary of Guam, is charged with interpreting the laws of the territory. The branch is composed of both the trial court, Superior Court of Guam, and the appellate court, Supreme Court of Guam, which provides for the settlement of disputes between parties and protects the rights of individuals as mandated by the Organic Act of Guam and the Constitution of the United States of America, he said. Local expenditures on cases involving citizens of the Freely Associated States have steadily increased over the past two decades. In fiscal 2004, the Judiciary spent $891,279 on cases involving FAS citizens. By fiscal 2023, expenditures increased to $8,699,588. Over the past 20 years, the cumulative cost to the Judiciary of Guam for cases involving FAS citizens is $76,953,151, Torres wrote. Indigent defense fund A significant number of FAS citizens appearing before the Judiciary of Guam also face financial challenges, impacting the state of the courts indigent defense fund, he added. The growing demand for indigent defense services over the years raises concerns about a potential crisis within our legal system, he said. While strengthening these services remains a priority for the branchsustained financial support will be critical to meet the constitutional mandate for adequate representation of indigent individuals in Guam. He said without the continuation of annual reimbursements as outlined in Moylans bill, Guam risks jeopardizing the quality, accessibility, and fairness of its legal services. Inadequate funding would strain the Judiciarys ability to handle an increasing caseload, potentially resulting in delays, reduced access to legal representation, and a compromised justice system for the people of Guam, Torres said. The Judiciary urges support of the continuation of annual reimbursements to not only ensure the equitable allocation of funds but also sustain the essential services our community provides, he added. Historic moment Moylan said the hearing was overdue and thanked Leon Guerrero and Alig for the united, bipartisan effort that will help move Guam further. It is a historic moment because, for the first time in many years, the voices of Guam were heard on a federal agreement which directly impacts Guams limited resources, Moylan said in a statement. He said Guam needs additional support to manage legal migration authorized by the federal government. While the Compact Impact Fairness Act will provide certain federal benefits for COFA migrants, it does nothing to assist Guams general fund expenditures associated with public safety, education, and several other services, he added. Another key message that was raised is that Guam is indeed a hospitable island, and we continue to support our brothers and sisters from the blue continent with the prospect of providing greater opportunities for their families," he said. "But we are also an island with limited resources, and without the additional support of the federal government, these COFA agreements will further shortchange the potential services we can provide island residents already residing in Guam. The delegate said his team will continue to work with the committee to fine tune HR 6723, inclusive of identifying a funding source to offset this new expense. He thanked Natural Resources Chairman Rep. Bruce Westerman, Subcommittee Chair Harriet Hageman, and Subcommittee Ranking Member Teresa Leger Fernandez for ensuring Guams voices were heard. "These members have joined me on a trip to Guam," Moylan said. "They have spoken to individuals within our community, and because they understand, they will support any reasonable effort to help improve our beautiful island." 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Crime now dictates the daily lives of Haitians," declared Jean-Martin Bauer, Director of the World Food Program (WFP in Haiti), Acting Humanitarian Coordinator The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) summarizes the situation "The escalation of violence in Cap-Haitien, Gonaives, Ouanaminthe, Les Cayes and certain areas of Port-au-Prince continues to disrupt daily activities and hinder humanitarian operations. In recent days, several businesses remained closed and transport did not operate. Some schools remain closed, affecting more than 130,000 students, who do not benefit from the school feeding program, sometimes the only meal children receive for the day. The ongoing violence also hampers humanitarian work. In Mariani, south of Port-au-Prince, gang violence has made access to southern Haiti almost impossible." Jean-Martin Bauer recalls that despite access constraints linked to insecurity and limited financial resources, "the humanitarian community mobilized in a remarkable way in 2023 to provide a response to nearly 2.6 million Haitians who have received at least one form of humanitarian aid." "In 2023, the humanitarian community mobilized in a remarkable way to provide a response on the scale of the needs [...]" he explains "My priority will be to maintain this trajectory in 2024 so that we come to the aid of 3, 6 million people, a target increasing by 12% compared to the previous year. I will pay particular attention to protection, with an emphasis on prevention and the availability of services, including for women and girls who are victims of or exposed to gender-based violence. This includes access to social services, strengthening the reception and assistance of deported or forcibly displaced people and improving living conditions in displaced sites. In a context marked by a cholera epidemic, access to health and water, hygiene and sanitation services will be of particular importance. The response to the food and nutrition crisis and the prevention of famine are also among the priorities. Finally, displaced out-of-school children from the most vulnerable host communities will have equitable access to safe and protective education. Beyond emergency response, we will implement resilience-building activities, including through actions that promote sustainable solutions and emergency preparedness." The 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan for Haiti has just been posted online. He is seeking $674 million to help 3.6 million people in Haiti. Download the 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan for Haiti (PDF in French 59 pages) : https://www.haitilibre.com/docs/Haiti_HNRP_2024_FR_version-finale.pdf HL/ HaitiLibre In a significant show of support for the Finnish government's planned employment measures, a recent survey conducted by the Chambers of Commerce (Kauppakamarit) reveals that a vast majority of businesses are in favor of these reforms. Nationally, 74% of businesses agree with the government's implementation plans, while in the Riihimaen-Hyvinkaan region, this number rises to a striking 89%. The government's measures, which include reforms to unemployment insurance, increased local bargaining, and limiting political strikes, have been well-received within the business community. Juho Romakkaniemi, CEO of Keskuskauppakamari, highlighted that these reforms are expected to significantly enhance productivity, employment, and overall Finnish welfare. Similarly, Marja Heinimaki of the Riihimaen-Hyvinkaan kauppakamari emphasized the need for these measures, particularly in light of the economic setbacks Finland faces compared to its competitor nations. However, the survey also shed light on the potential impact of the labor union's planned strikes in February. Approximately 45% of businesses nationwide and 48% in the Riihimaen-Hyvinkaan area reported that such strikes would adversely affect their operations. The strikes, aimed against government actions, inadvertently harm Finnish companies and, by extension, the national economy. Heinimaki condemned these political strikes, noting their detrimental effects on businesses and the potential risks they pose to Finnish jobs. In summary, the survey reflects a strong consensus among Finnish businesses on the necessity and positive impact of the government's employment measures. With a large portion of the business community backing these reforms, the government's plans stand on a solid foundation of private sector support. HT This industrial action follows previous strikes, such as the one on October 5, 2023, which caused notable disruptions at Helsinki Airport. In a decisive move , Finland's air traffic is set to come to a near standstill as the Trade Union for the Public and Welfare Sectors JHL, along with other unions, has declared a two-day strike. The strike, beginning on February 1, will significantly impact air travel across the nation. The upcoming strike is scheduled to commence at 12:01 am on Thursday, February 1, 2024, and will continue until 11:59 pm on Friday, February 2, 2024. It will include JHL members employed by Finavia or Airpro. The strike will affect almost all major Finnish airports, excluding Halli and Utti. However, it is specified that essential work tasks related to the protection of life, health, or property are exempt from the strike. JHL's Interim President, Hakan Ekstrom, emphasized that this strike is a form of political industrial action, not aimed at employers, but rather as a response to the Government's policies perceived as detrimental to employee rights. Despite understanding the inconvenience caused to passengers, Ekstrom stressed the necessity of the action in light of the Government's reluctance to negotiate on crucial labor issues. The strike forms part of the Serious Grounds campaign led by the central organization SAK, which opposes various Government policies, including social security cuts and proposed legislative changes that could weaken employee rights. Ekstrom highlighted the union's concerns about the Government's intentions to diminish employee security, reduce the efficacy of collective agreements, and limit the right to strike. JHL has been actively involved in several political strikes since the autumn of 2023 and stands ready to escalate their actions if the Government remains unresponsive to negotiations. The union's firm stance aims to defend fair employment terms and conditions for its members. Affected airports include Helsinki-Vantaa, Turku, Kittila, Ivalo, Kemi-Tornio, Oulu, Kuusamo, Kajaani, Vaasa, Kokkola-Pietarsaari, Pori, Joensuu, Savonlinna, and Maarianhamina. Additionally, limitations are imposed at Rovaniemi, Pirkkala, Jyvaskyla, and Kuopio Airports by request of the Finnish Defence Forces. HT In an interview with Helsinki Times, Li Andersson , the former Minister of Education and current Left Alliance party chief, offered a fresh perspective on crucial issues shaping the upcoming presidential elections in Finland. Andersson's unwavering advocacy for human rights and climate change sets her apart from her peers, particularly in the realms of defence, global conflicts, international relations, and domestic affairs. Standing out prominently in the recent presidential elections debates, Andersson distinguished herself with a vocal stance on Israel's ongoing aggression in Gaza and has called for sanctions against Israel while every other candidate hesitated to do so. Her commitment to principled foreign policy was reiterated in her conversation with the Helsinki Times, where she emphasized her clear standpoints on human rights and international law. Another major focus of her presidential campaign is the crucial need to address climate change, as Andersson see the climate crisis as an integral part of Finland's foreign policy. I have been advocating very clearly for value based foreign policy, which means that I do have more clear standpoints when it comes to respect for human rights and international law. I also think Finland hasnt done enough in terms of the war in Gaza, or took a clear stand for the protection of civilians in Gaza. Expressing puzzlement at the cautious approach of Finnish politicians and the current foreign policy leadership, Li Andersson hoped that it is not due to Finlands NATO membership. We have a lot of examples of NATO member countries such as Norway, France, who have taken much more clear stances, in the UN system. So, there is every possibility for Finland to do more than what we have done so far. Finland could support the South African case in the International Court of Justice and advocate for sanctions against Israel. There are a lot of options for Finland, if there is a political willingness to do more to end this war and to protect the civilians who need humanitarian assistance in the Gaza Strip, Andersson commented. Andersson highlighted what she perceives as Western hypocrisy in handling the Gaza conflict, emphasizing that Finland is not immune to this criticism. This also goes for Finland. There are a lot of risks of regional escalation and a larger war in the Middle East connected to the war in Gaza. I feel that we will see an even bigger divide between the so-called Western countries and the global South, who have very rightly shown that the West is not consequent, when it comes to breaches of international law, and protecting civilians and human rights, she added. Nuclear weapons concerns over U.S. defence agreement Li Andersson offered her distinctive outlook on Finland's defence agreement with the U.S., specifically addressing concerns related to the speculated transport of nuclear weapons within the country. Andersson stressed the critical need for more information in the parliament on certain aspects of the agreement, particularly highlighting their unequivocal stance against the presence of nuclear weapons on Finnish soil. We do not want nuclear weapons here. It is important for us to align with the standards set by other Nordic countries. We need to get a parliamentary consensus on this, Andersson said. She asserted that Finland should take inspiration from the Nordic policy approach within the NATO alliance, pointing to Norway as a notable example. Notably, Norway, a NATO member since 1949, has opted against hosting permanent NATO bases or nuclear weapons on its territory. Furthermore, Andersson expressed additional apprehensions about the handling of potential crimes outlined in the agreement.According to the agreement, Finland would waive its primary right to exercise criminal jurisdiction to the U.S. when it comes to crimes committed to Finnish soil, including the ones where U.S soldiers are involved. We advocate for the flexibility to reclaim this authority, especially in cases involving victims, such as sexual abuse, rape, or other forms of violence. We strive to ensure no Finnish victim is compelled to face trial in a U.S. military court, she added. Migrants crisis at the eastern border On asked whether she views the migrant crisis at Finland's eastern border with the same lens of human rights, Andersson acknowledged the necessity of taking action in response to clear indications of Russian authorities directing migrants to the Finnish border. However, she also voiced reservations about the long-term viability of a completely closed border. I have been a bit critical of the government agenda. I understand the need to take action, because we have very clear indications and proof that the Russian authorities are creating this situation, but I dont think it is a good long-term strategy to have the border completely closed, Andersson pointed out. She elaborated, When it is possible, I think we should open at least one border crossing point because there are people living in Finland who have family relations at the Russian side, and a real need to be able to cross the border for family reasons. We also need to ensure that Finland adheres to the standards laid out in the UN Refugee Convention. We cannot disregard asylum rights either because some of the migrants might genuinely have a case for international protection. So, we need to be ready to address their possible applications for assistance. Ukraine conflict and relations with Russia Amid Russia's persistent aggression in Ukraine, Li Andersson foresees no immediate improvement in Finland's relations with Russia.That depends on when and how there will be peace in Ukraine. As long as the war in Ukraine continues, no European country will be able to re-establish bilateral connections with Russia. So that needs to happen first. And after that, how good of a relation we can have with Russia, will also be dependent on Russias leadership and policies. Expanding on the significance of Russia's policies, Andersson remarked, If it would be a continuation of what has been going on in Russia under Putin, which meant human rights abuses within Russia, no freedom of speech, no real democracy or possibilities for people to voice their opinions, I dont think that Finland can have good relations with Russia. I believe that Finland should be a consequent defender of human rights with regards to Russia. As such, Li Andersson believes that Finland's support to Ukraine as wells as its alignment with other EU countries is justified, considering Finland's geographical proximity to Russia. This is a big issue for Finland, given were also a neighbouring country to Russia. Prior to NATO membership, we maintained military non-alignment, and we have our historical experiences of wars with the Soviet Union. Its crucial for smaller nations to stand in solidarity with Ukraine, asserting that powerful nations cannot simply use force to seize what they desire. However, Andersson is hopeful that, if a chance arises, Finland can play a strong role in peace talks for Ukraine, maintaining its legacy in mediation and peacebuilding. Finlands NATO membership Andersson acknowledged that Finland's NATO membership represents a significant change in its security policy. However, she emphasized the autonomy of member countries in determining their foreign policies, stressing that NATO itself doesn't dictate these policies. Its important to stress that NATO does not decide on the foreign policy of its member countries. So, Finland still has all the possibilities to have the foreign policy we desire and a foreign policy based on important values which I think should be especially respect for human rights, international law, and peace building. So of course, there is a risk that some politicians want to change the foreign policy agenda of Finland, and say that we need to do this because of NATO, but I think that is an incorrect argument. Relations with China and eastern bloc On improving relations with eastern countries, Andersson believes that Finland should not limit the discussions within inflexible blocs, and instead focusing on building strong partnerships across the Global South, avoiding a narrow Western-centric approach. Steering away from rigid bloc-oriented discussions, Finlands focus should be on establishing robust partnerships across the Global South, rather than confining ourselves just to a Western-centric approach. We need larger coalition globally to work together on significant challenges such as the climate crisis and involve all countries like China, India and U.S. She suggested that most presidential candidates share the view that a nuanced strategy is essential when dealing with a country like China. This strategy, according to Andersson, should involve multiple dimensions rather than relying on a singular approach. At the same time as we ensure that we do not have critical dependencies from authoritarian countries. Enhancing defence amid hybrid warfare On defence, Andersson pointed out Finlands longstanding tradition of adopting a comprehensive security approach, and envisions similar measures, beyond the military to encompass various societal actors, including civilian entities and authorities. Take cyber-attacks, for instancea domain where collaboration with companies, diverse authorities, and the military is important for readiness across different scenarios. Equally important is enhancing media literacy among Finnish citizens, ensuring they possess the skills to critically analyze information found online. This approach aims to uphold a high level of trust in news outlets and traditional media. So, it is vital to have a whole-of-society strategy that involves collaboration with a diverse range of societal actors, she added. Economic challenges Andersson identifies two major concerns affecting the Finnish economy. She delved into the tremendous decrease in tax revenues and problems arising due to demographics of Finland. One of the major issues concerning the Finnish economy is at taxation level and the heavy decline in tax revenue during this government period. To have a balanced finance, we need to talk about income and our taxation policies. While this decrease is partly attributed to the success of environmental taxes in promoting electrification and reducing pollution, it requires a re-evaluation of income and taxation policies to maintain fiscal balance, Andersson highlighted. Highlighting the pressing requirement to position Finland as an appealing destination for foreign workers and address the workforce imbalance, she explained: The other big issue is demographics - something that the current government is not that willing to discuss. We have a high number of aging populations who need more social and health care services, which also requires more financing and less young people working, which creates a lasting imbalance in the economy. We need better migration policies and we need to ensure that these people get proper employment and education. However, she criticized the current government for maintaining a restrictive immigration policy, hindering discussions on essential topics like demographic challenges and structural discrimination. Andersson also laid out her core strategy of promoting substantial investment in research and development for companies, to enhance Finland's global appeal, This has always been the strength of the Finnish economy, leveraging our a highly educated and innovative citizens. However, theres room for improvement in productivity development within this framework. Given the dynamic shifts in our labour market, driven by green transition, automation and digitalization, it is crucial to establish robust mechanisms for adult education, ensuring individuals have the opportunities to reskill and upskill to adapt to evolving demands. Climate policy & state welfare Li Andersson has expressed disagreement with the current government on two major fronts: climate policy and immigration policy. She asserts that the government's efforts in addressing these crucial challenges have been insufficient. Unfortunately, the current government is not doing enough. Especially if you look at the traffic sector, the emissions are likely to rise. Finland also lags in preserving our carbon sinks, which are diminishing faster than emissions are declining. To meet climate targets, decisive political decisions are essential, with a heightened focus on reducing emissions within the traffic sector, and safeguarding and expanding our carbon sinks at the same time. We need a more comprehensive approach, ensuring effective climate action. Elaborating on her plans to tackle these issues while highlighting her role as opposition, Andersson said, Our plan is to get back into government after the next parliamentary elections, which would be the best way to affect this. Meanwhile, in our opposition role, were challenging the current government on multiple fronts. They are implementing substantial cuts in social security, making significant alterations to labour laws that could detrimentally impact Finnish workers, and scaling back climate policy ambitions. We are exerting pressure to steer the government in a different direction. Rise of right-wing in EU & Finlands reputation In light of the surge in right-wing governments across the EU, including Finland, Andersson drew attention to a series of scandals that hit the new government in July 2023, involving earlier racist remarks made by certain party members. It definitely affects the international reputation of Finland. It's a matter we as opposition, are committed to challenging, striving to prevent the implementation of certain aspects outlined in the government program, particularly concerning migration policy. These measures, if enacted, could prove detrimental to the immigrant community in Finland and discourage potential future residents, Andersson pointed out. Andersson also stated her disapproval of recent plans to reduce Finnish embassies abroad, citing budget cuts as the sole motivation. She sees it as a potential challenge for individuals abroad, particularly in family reunification processes or visa applications. Andersson emphasizes the importance of maintaining close cooperation with other Nordic countries and regions to ensure continued global service provision. This is one of the decisions they are doing purely because of cuts in the budget, which is not a good argument in my opinion. Presidents role While Andersson understands the limited powers that comes to the President of Finland as compared to the Prime Minister, she underscored President's crucial role in public discourse. Every president needs to act according to the Constitution, which designates responsibility for foreign and security policy, but it has to do with in collaboration with the government. This requires cooperation from the President, irrespective of the governments composition, to seek common ground on critical matters related to foreign policy. Moreover, the president, as a prominent and influential political figure in Finland, plays a crucial role in public discourse. While lacking formal powers in certain decision-making process, the president wields an influence through commentary on diverse issues and by shaping public debates. Thats why I think the candidates should state their views on the future of Finnish society, on issues such as racism, immigration policy, and the future of the Finnish welfare state, because these are the domains where the president has indirect but an important role. Campaign cost and Funding Sources Andersson disclosed the overall budget for her presidential campaign as 186,000, which includes 100,000 from the Left Alliance Party. It also comprises donation of 40,000 from private individuals, in addition to contributions from local organizations. -Sonali Telang - HT At Diaconia University of Applied Sciences (Diak), there were 1,981 applicants for their English-language Bachelor's programs in social and healthcare. Finnish higher education institutions are witnessing a significant interest in their English-language programs, particularly in the social and healthcare sectors, as well as in business management and engineering. The recent first joint application round for the spring of 2024, which concluded on January 17, highlights this trend. The applicants predominantly hailed from Finland, Nigeria, and Nepal. Diak offered 80 slots for these programs at their Helsinki campus, with the courses set to commence in the fall of 2024. Specifically, the Bachelor of Health Care, Nursing program received 996 applicants, and the Bachelor of Social Services attracted 1,057 applicants. A notable feature of Diak's application process is the utilization of a common online entrance exam for social services, making it accessible for international applicants without the need to travel to Finland. The exam for the nursing program, however, includes an on-site phase in Helsinki, followed by an online phase, and requires Finnish language proficiency at least at level B1. Meanwhile, Vaasa University of Applied Sciences (VAMK) reported an improvement in the quality of applicants for its international degree programs. Despite an increase in tuition fees, there was an average of 45.66 applicants per available slot across their programs. VAMK received 7,305 applications for a total of 160 slots in two Bachelor's and four Master's degree programs. Particularly, the Master's in International Business Management and Project Management were highly sought after, with 68.90 and 66.20 applicants per seat, respectively. VAMKs marketing efforts in 2023, particularly in Asian countries and the Middle East, have contributed to this influx of high-quality applications. The university has engaged in various international education fairs and collaborations to strengthen its brand and attract tuition-paying students. Selection for VAMK's Bachelor's programs is based on entrance exams scheduled for March 21, 2024, while Master's programs utilize interview videos for student selection. The results for these programs will be announced by April 10 and May 31, 2024, respectively. Both Diak and VAMK reflect the growing appeal of Finnish higher education in the global arena, attracting a diverse range of students and demonstrating Finland's commitment to offering quality education in various fields. As the spring's second joint application period approaches, Finnish universities continue to enhance their international presence and educational offerings. HT AN open day was held at the new Dogs Trust centre in Lewknor. The facility, which replaced the old Blue Cross shelter last year, houses dogs available for rehoming. Visitors were given a tour of the grounds and kennels as a way of raising the shelters profile in the local community. Centre manager Karla Haines said: Were quite new here so want people to know were here and part of the community. We held an open evening for local businesses, animal-related businesses and parish councillors, which was quite popular, so we decided to open it up to the public too. We take in five kennels worth of dogs every four weeks from Northern Ireland. As an organisation, we have a commitment to help with the strays problem in Northern Ireland and the number of dogs that are abandoned there. Dogs come here from the streets, families, anywhere. We take them from people who, for whatever reason, such as financial or change of circumstances, cant care for their dogs anymore. We also take in dogs from local authorities, which can be strays, surrenders or seized. The average stay for a dog in Dogs Trust homes is 43 days. Ms Haines, who has a degree in animal behaviour and welfare, said the Lewknor centre benefited from nearby land, streams and paths to walk the dogs in nature. She said: We have also taken on a lot more long-term dogs, which have more requirements than a straightforward dog, because of how quiet it is here. Sometimes they can be a bit reactive to things but with the off-site walks, we have the benefit of reintroducing them to the real world. In some of our centres, it is a really controlled environment which is great but it means you dont know how a dog is going to react to a horse or something like that. A lot of handovers for us are from very loving homes. People have just found themselves in unfortunate circumstances. The highlight for us is watching dogs walk out of the door. We sit in the office, watching the dog get in the car and be driven away and its a great feeling to know theyve gone home. Clients come to the shelter from as far as Cornwall and Scotland for a dog. Ms Haines said: They want the right dog to fit in with their family and their lifestyle. We have had people who travelled 22 hours to come and see us and do that multiple times to get to know their dogs. There are some amazing people out there that adopt our dogs. The adoption fee is 250, which includes neutering and vaccinations. Ms Haines said: They can tell us what they want from a dog but they dont necessarily apply for a specific dog. We do the matching. We assess all our dogs and we go through everything with them. The people get everything. We can then make an informed decision as to whether its the right home for the dog. Well then do a virtual home visit so we get to see around where the dogs going to live some of our dogs cant cope with open plan or cant have low fencing or whatever. We will let the family speak to our training team who will talk them through all the management, the rehab that weve done, the ongoing training and any behavioural needs and, if theyre happy with all of that, then we will arrange the meets. Depending on the dog, there could be five meets while some might be happy with two before theyre able to go home. Weve had so many dogs that have done amazing since theyve gone out. We had two very nervous labradoodles, Viola and Primrose, and we told the prospective owners: Theyre probably not going to approach, just let them come to you. And it must have just been meant to be because they walked to the compound and these dogs approached to lick them and investigate. The shelter has set up a food bank initiative to help people struggling with the cost of keeping a dog. Ms Haines said: We know that the cost of living has been absolutely horrendous for people and we have had an increase in people needing to hand over their dogs because they cant afford it. If all it takes to keep a dog in a home is a few bags of food, wed love to help with that and stop people having to hand over their dogs. People can email the shelter and arrange a time to pick up the food, which comes from donations and redistributions across all the charitys centres. The former Blue Cross site closed during the coronavirus pandemic and was empty for two years until the Dogs Trust took over. A cattery remains at the back which is unused but the kennels have been revamped with a veterinary facility, staff rooms and training rooms. Ms Haines said: We can bring the dogs in the office while were working to give them some downtime from the kennel so they can curl up on the sofa. The guys will move their laptop to their laps and sit on the sofa with the dogs or we can remove all the laptops and leave the dogs in there just to give them a bit of respite from the kennels, which is really nice. On Christmas Day, the dogs all received Christmas dinner and a present, most of which had been donated. Ms Haines said: Its nice to see the dogs that come in really nervous or anxious become vibrant again. Lulu who, when she first got here, would sit in her house and hide from you. Now she uses me as a springboard. Its really nice to see. WINTER Recitals Wallingford, a series of four concerts organised by Henley pianist Anita DAttellis, is back for a sixth season. Anita will be reunited with Huw Wiggin, an internationally acclaimed saxophonist with whom she first played at St Mary-le-more Church in 2019. The two musicians will perform together at the first recital, which is entitled Rhapsody and will feature pieces by Debussy, Liszt, Coates and Gershwin, among others. Anita says: Its always a bit trial and error each year trying to get certain dates and getting the combinations right but luckily it has all fallen into place. Huw will be known to quite a few of the Henley audiences because he has got a local connection. It was such fun working together, so Im delighted hes coming back. Huw is professor of saxophone at the Royal Academy of Music. Born in Henley, he now lives in North London but returns regularly to visit his parents in Shiplake. He says: Its lovely to come back as I grew up here and I went to Gillotts School. Its also lovely to perform with Anita again. Shes an amazing pianist. I perform all over the world, on tours and cruises and all sorts, but its nice to return to my local area. Huw released an album, Rhapsody, on Orchid Classics last spring. He says: Weve also called the recital Rhapsody because its the theme of rhapsodic works for saxophone. Weve started the programme with Debussys Rhapsody, which was the inspiration for the album. Well also be playing Paganini Patterns by Iain Farrington, which was a commission. He has done loads of commissions for the Proms and he composed a piece for the Kings coronation. Hes also a good friend of mine. The pair will also play Paganinis Caprice No 24, best known as the theme for The South Bank Show. Huw says: I wanted to make the most of that so its a jazzed-up version. Then theres the Lizst Hungarian Rhapsody. The second recital is called Mozart and Beyond. Anita says: That came up because theres a one-off piece by Mozart which is for an unusual combination of piano, oboe, clarinet, French horn and bassoon. I was really keen to do that. Its a really gorgeous piece. She will accompany Helen Turnbull (oboe/cor anglais), Caro Owen (clarinet), Simon de Souza (French horn) and Sarah Whibley (bassoon). These four players are doing solos and then we all get together at the end, says Anita. A couple of the ladies I met through the West Forest Sinfonia, which is a very good local orchestra. Cellist Leandro Silvera will return for the third recital, called Piano Quartets, performing with Jamie Hutchinson (violin), Jordan Sian (viola) and Anita. Leandro played last year and went down a storm, so I wanted to invite him back, says Anita. He came up with the idea of bringing two more people who are also teaching colleagues of mine at Eton. Theres some really gorgeous music in that one, Mozart, Mahler and Faure. Im really looking forward to it and Ive had to practise very hard over the Christmas holiday as its not easy. The final recital is called Bring On the Youth, where talented youngsters take the limelight. The performers are saxophonist Hannah Bates and musicians from Queen Annes School in Caversham, with accompaniment by Anita. She says: I met Hannah earlier this year when she was performing in a Rising Stars programme, organised by the Maidenhead Music Society, and she was excellent, a really good performer. I was really impressed. She will be the main soloist and then Ive got some really nice chamber music from my pupils at Queen Annes, so thats going to be a lovely programme too. Since Anita began the recital series in 2018, she has raised more than 16,500 for charity. She says: When I started I didnt really know how it was going to go. It was a new venture for me. Ive had so much support and encouragement, whether its people in the church who love holding the concerts or members of the audience. I really want to continue doing it. Last year I didnt have so many players, so this one is bigger and there are more people involved. This year, the proceeds will be split equally between St Marys and the Sue Ryder South Oxfordshire palliative care hub. A new season ticket has been introduced, offering a discount for anyone who wants to attend all four recitals. Anita, whose husband John Downing died in 2020 after being cared for at home by Sue Ryder nurses, says: For the 2023 series, the church took 1,600 but the donation to Sue Ryder was 2,700, which is really good and I was really delighted about that. It was the churchs decision they didnt take half the cut but gave more to the charity. The church may not be quite so generous this year, though. Apparently, theyve got a leaking roof, says Anita. The 2024 series of Winter Recitals Wallingford take place at the Church of St Mary-le-more in Wallingford on Saturdays, January 20, February 3 and 17 and March 2. All the recitals start at 7.30pm (doors open at 7pm). Tickets cost 16, under-19s 5 and season tickets for all four recitals cost 45. Tickets may be available at the door until sold out. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.anitapiano.com/wrw24 or www.ticketsource.co.uk/wrw24 Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has called for a review of labor export companies following issues raised by overseas Vietnamese in Romania. The PM visited staff of the Vietnamese Embassy and representatives of the Vietnamese community in Bucharest on Jan. 20. According to representatives from several Vietnamese associations and communities, labor export is a high-potential field in Romania, but it comes with many problems. Many workers are illegally employed or flee to third countries while labor export companies fail to fulfill their responsibilities, abandoning their workers, they told the PM. In response to their reports, PM Chinh said: "I have spoken to Deputy Minister of Public Security Luong Tam Quang, and now we must review the situation. Ghost companies and those engaging in negative practices, sending Vietnamese abroad without responsibility, making our compatriots suffer, must be dealt with decisively." He added that any company found violating the law will have its license revoked and possibly face legal prosecution. According to the prime minister, the labor export market currently offers many opportunities for laborers thanks to the high market demand and supportive policies. Vietnam also has a tradition in this field. However, good exploitation requires preparation, he said. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh speaks during a meeting with a Vietnamese community in Romania, Jan. 20, 2024. Photo by VnExpress/Minh Son First is training, especially language training. The PM suggests that workers should undergo language training for at least three-six months or a year. "At the very least, they should know the language of the host country so they can live independently and solve problems themselves," he said. Second is educating workers about necessary laws and regulations, and the third aspect is essential skills for self-advocacy and problem-solving. For this, the PM requested the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs to advise on solutions. Deputy Minister Le Van Thanh said that currently, about 700,000 Vietnamese workers are working abroad. Thanh said his ministry would review and sign a cooperation document during the ongoing visit of PM Chinh to Romania to facilitate bringing more Vietnamese workers to Romania. This ensures the legitimate rights and interests of workers while raising their awareness of law compliance, he said. PM and his spouse arrived in Bucharest on Jan. 20, beginning an official visit to Romania at the invitation of PM Ion-Marcel Ciolacu. Milind Deora's exit from the Congress marks the end of the Deora family's 55-year long ties with the grand old party a significant chapter in Maharashtras politics and the partys own history. The 47-year-old, who has stood for elections from the Mumbai south constituency four times (and won twice) was disappointed that the Lok Sabha seat didnt come to the Congress in its seat-sharing pact with allies Shiv Sena (UBT) and Sharad Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). The constituency has been in the Deora family for a while: His father, the late Murli Deora, represented it for four terms (in 1984, 1989, 1991, 1998); Deora represented it in 2004 and 2009, and lost it to Shiv Sena's Arvind Sawant (now with Uddhav Thackerays faction of the Shiv Sena) in the 2014 and 2019 general elections. Arguing that the Shiv Sena could win it because of the Modi wave in 2014 and the support of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2019, the Deora camp staked claim on the seat that covers six assembly segments and much of the business districts of south Mumbai, including Nariman Point, as well as the tony residences of Malabar Hill, Cumbala Hill and Altmount Road. However, the party had to concede it to the Thackeray faction of the Sena due to a pact between the allies that parties will retain the seats if they have sitting MPs there. The Deora camp felt that the party leadership did not even make an attempt to get the constituency for itself, given then changed political equations in Maharashtra a depleted Sena, and the BJPs support of chief minister Eknath Shinde, and the Shiv Sena now led by him. Thus, on January 14, Deora quit the Congress and joined the Shinde-led Sena. Interestingly, speculations were rife that Deora would join the BJP. According to BJP insiders, there were several reasons Deora chose Shinde instead of the BJP. For one, it was said that two local leaders in south Mumbai minister of skills and employment Mangal Prabhat Lodha and assembly speaker Rahul Narwekar were strongly opposed to his entry. Further, party leaders were wary of inducting him when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was slamming the opposition parties over dynasties. Furthermore, Shindes MP son Shrikant who has a good personal equation with Deora, played a key role in getting him into the party. If party leaders are to be believed, Shinde has promised Deora a Rajya Sabha seat if the BJP fields its candidate in south Mumbai constituency. Whatever the reasons, Milind Deora is no longer associated with the Congress. Deora's pain point The Congress is not the same that it used to be in 1968 when my father joined or in 2004 when I joined it. The party which ushered economic reforms 30 years ago under the leadership of Manmohan Singh, today abuses businessmen and industrialists. I believe in the politics of GAIN growth, aspiration, inclusiveness and nationalist (GAIN) and I am not in favour of the politics of PAIN personal attacks, injustice and negativity, he said as he announced his decision to quit the party last week. Deora joined the Shiv Sena with 10 former corporators, 20 office bearers of the party from South Mumbai and representatives of key business organisations in South Mumbai. His close aide, Congress MLA Amin Patel, has chosen to stay back in Congress. Deoras quitting shows that the party has not managed to stop its downward slide in Mumbai. The party leadership failed to address the problems that the Mumbai Congress faces intense factionalism, failure to recover lost ground and dearth of leadership that can take all factions together and mobilise the cadre. The party bosses are not paying serious attention to find out what is ailing the Congress in Mumbai and to resolve the problems. We had a meeting when the All India Congress Committee in charge of Maharashtra Ramesh Chennithala was here. We spoke with Deora. He said he wanted to talk with the Central leadership. It seems he was not given an appointment, said a Congress leader from south Mumbai, seeking anonymity. There is no crisis management mechanism in the party. Earlier leaders like Ahmed Patel knew how to reach out to such people and prevent them from quitting the party or would resolve the crisis, he added. What's the impact? This shift will affect the Congress and the INDIA alliances prospects in the upcoming Lok Sabha and assembly elections this year. Though the Congress has not won a single Lok Sabha seat in Mumbai in the past two election cycles, and only managed a few in the assembly elections (four in 2019), it has a significant presence across the city and a sizable number of votes in each assembly segment. Both father and son had a good connect with traditional Congress voters in several parts of the city, especially in south and south central Mumbai. The Deora name carries heft Murli Deora was president of Mumbai Congress for over two decades. He had excellent organising skills and strengthened the party across the city, from the affluent areas of Malabar Hill and Colaba to the slums in the suburbs. He was also known to nurture young leaders. Realising Bal Thackeray-led Shiv Sena's strength, he along with other leaders smartly built the Congresss base among non-Marathi voters, minorities and Dalits to ensure that the party remained a strong political force in the metropolis. The party did not lose its base even as it split in the state, first in 1985 when Pawar founded Congress (S) and again, in 1999, when Pawar formed the NCP. Murli Deora led the party to victory in the Mumbai civic polls in 1992. Congress showed a strong presence in Mumbai in the Lok Sabha and assembly elections in 1999, 2004 and 2009. The veteran politician died in 2014, aged 77. The past decade and a half though, the party saw a decline in its performance this coincided with the deaths of Deora and another strong Mumbai Congress leader, Gurudas Kamat. The Congress in Mumbai did not get a president of the stature of Deora or Kamat. With the emergence of Modi, the resurgent BJP took away the Congresss Gujarati-Marwari voter base, as well as its north Indian voters. In the past few years, the party's north Indian leaders such as Kripashankar Singh and Rajhans Singh also left the party to join the BJP. The Congress has since then failed to regain lost ground. Its presence in the city is largely dependent on Muslim and Dalit voters and a few pockets where local leaders are holding on to their support base. Deora got the parliamentary seat because of his father's legacy, but maintained his own identity. On occasion, he even criticised his own party's government, such as the time after the 26/11 terror attack and over the 2010 Adarsh Housing Society scam. Significantly, he was not isolated by the party. Things seem to have changed for him now. Political analyst Abhay Deshpande said Congress top brass tried various permutations and combinations but nothing worked in Mumbai. Things have become more complicated since the formation of the MVA. With a traditional rival like the Shiv Sena becoming an ally, there is a clash of interest between the two parties, and various Congress leaders are unhappy because of the adjustment the party has to do, he said. Deoras exit is the outcome of all of this put together. Maha News is a weekly column by Shailesh Gaikwad, political editor of HT Mumbai, which analyses the impact of the most important political news in the state. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday termed the high-level committee to review internal reservation for Scheduled Castes as a ploy to mislead the Dalit community. CM Siddaramaiah asks Central govt to amend Constitution for internal reservation He charged that the BJP has no genuine concern behind the move. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. "The Central Government has formed a high-level committee under the chairmanship of the Cabinet Secretary to review the internal reservation for Scheduled Castes," Siddaramaiah said in a statement and alleged that this seemed to be nothing more than a ploy to mislead the Dalit community as it is clear that the BJP has no genuine concern behind it. Also Read - 60% Kannada rule: BBMP issues notices to more than 34,000 shops in Bengaluru "If the Central Government truly intends to fulfill the demands for internal reservation for Scheduled Castes, it should present a bill to amend Section 341 of the Constitution in Parliament, get it approved and implement the reservation quickly," the Chief Minister said. Siddaramaiah underlined that the Justice Usha Mehra Commission, also constituted by the Central Government for the same purpose, had concluded that sub-categorisation of Scheduled Castes and providing internal reservation is the only solution through a constitutional amendment. "The National Commission for Scheduled Castes, which had studied the sub-categorisation of Scheduled Castes in Andhra Pradesh, had expressed the same opinion. Then, what is the need for another high-level committee? This appears to be merely a tactic to waste time," he alleged. The Chief Minister said no matter how many high-level committees are formed, they cannot make recommendations beyond the Constitutional provisions. "According to Sections 341(1) and (2) of the Constitution, any addition or removal of castes from the Scheduled Castes list requires a constitutional amendment, a simple truth known to those with basic knowledge of the Constitution," he pointed out. Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment A Narayanaswamy on July 26, 2023, informed the Rajya Sabha that the National Commission for Sub-Categorisation of Scheduled Castes in Andhra Pradesh had recommended the amendment of the Constitution to implement sub categorisation, the Chief Minister pointed out. Narayanaswamy's statement was in response to a question by BJP member G V L Narasimha Rao, Siddaramaiah said, adding now the same minister stating that there is no need for a constitutional amendment for internal reservation contradicts himself. He charged that the BJP leaders in the state are speaking with double standards as usual. "After the responsibility of fulfilling the demands for internal reservation for Scheduled Castes has fallen on their shoulders, the BJP leaders, confused and anxious, are giving random statements, exposing their ignorance," Siddaramaiah alleged. He said the BJP leaders in the state are making false accusations against the Congress with political malice, wasting time instead of pressuring Prime Minister Narendra Modi to amend Section 341 of the Constitution and fulfil the decades-old demand for internal reservation for Scheduled Castes. The Chief Minister's accusation comes close on the heels of the Karnataka Cabinet deciding on Thursday to recommend to the Centre to insert Article 341 (3) to the Constitution. The Congress government said this Constitutional amendment will enable states to provide internal reservation among Scheduled Castes. Ahead of the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple in Ayodhya, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday directed police department to be on the alert and slammed BJP state president's B Y Vijayendra's remark that the Congress government in Karnataka will be responsible for untoward incidents contains "threat and provocation". Siddaramaiah terms BJP's remark of untoward incidents on Jan 22 as threat Also Read - BJP MP Tejaswi Surya demands public holiday in Karnataka on January 22 for Ram temple opening Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. "In the backdrop of the Ram temple event, I have instructed the police to take preventive measures to ensure that no untoward incidents occur in the state and to maintain peace and order," Siddaramaiah said in a statement. He said it has come to his attention that some miscreants are spreading false news and provoking innocent people. Upon hearing such news, one should not panic or get agitated but should immediately inform the nearest police station. Under no circumstances should anyone take the law into their own hands, Siddaramaiah appealed to people. "BJP state president B.Y. Vijayendra has stated that if any unfortunate incident occurs in the state, the Congress government will be held responsible. His statement seems to contain more of a threat and provocation than an intention to maintain peace," the chief minister said. While demanding government holiday on January 22, Vijayendra on Saturday said security should be beefed up as there are possibilities of untoward incidents that can disturb peace in the society. A few days ago Congress leader B K Hariprasad too had expressed his apprehension that a "Godhra like situation" can be created in Karnataka too and urged the state government to tighten security. Siddaramaiah stressed that the government was aware of its duties. If something goes wrong, the law will take its course, he added. "The state government has noticed that some BJP legislators and MPs are already making provocative statements. If BJP state president takes strict action against such individuals, it would ease the government's task of maintaining law and order," the Chief Minister noted. God, religion, worship, and devotion are all personal matters, Siddaramaiah said adding that if these are kept personal, it will bring respect to God and religion, and welfare to the society. This applies to all followers of all religions, he noted. Chandigarh: The investigation into the alleged human trafficking of Punjabi passengers, who were sent back to India by France from a Nicaragua-bound flight in December, has made little headway as a private airline has dithered from sharing details of tickets bought by them, officials said. A passenger from Nicaragua-bound flight that was grounded in France on suspicion of human trafficking, on December 26. Punjab police on December 30 set up a special investigation team. The probe has been stymied as one of the major airline firms, which most of these passengers used to reach Dubai from India, has not given details of the transactions, one of the investigators said, declining to be named. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The probe has found that passengers travelled in smaller groups after handing over the entire expenses to particular travel agents, the member of the investigating team said. While two of the airlines have given details, the third one is yet to reply to our reminders despite repeated requests made to their managers. Some of the 200-plus passengers from Punjab went to Dubai from Mumbai, while others took a flight from Delhi. The SIT headed by police superintendent, investigation, Randhir Kumar, comprises Jasroop Kaur Baath, assistant commissioner of police, Civil Lines, Ludhiana; Balkar Singh Sandhu, deputy superintendent, investigation, Ferozepur; and Dalbir Singh Sidhu, deputy superintendent, Patiala headquarters. The investigators are also facing difficulties in proceeding further in the case because the victims are not coming forward to register their complaints. We have contacted more than 150 passengers to come forward to give us details about their journey, but not many are interested, another SIT member said, seeking anonymity. Some fear that they may lose reimbursement of their money, whereas many claim they had genuine documents to travel to Nicaragua for tourist purposes. Police have appointed nodal officers in all districts to contact the victims, Kumar said. We are making our best efforts to reveal the racketeers behind the case. Till now, only two complaints have been made. Amritsar Rural Police district have registered first information reports based on the two complaints. In both of the cases, the accused agent has been accused of duping two people of ensuring their entry into the US using a so-called donkey route via Dubai and Nicaragua. In both cases, registered under sections 420 (cheating), 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code and section 13 of Punjab Travel Professionals Regulation Act, the prime suspect in the Nicaragua flight case, travel agent Tarsem Singh, is absconding. In one complaint, the victim Damanpreet has alleged that Singh took 42 lakh and was promised entry into the US. Out of the 12 people from the district who were part of the fight, only two came forward to register complaints, said Satinder Singh, senior superintendent of police, Amritsar Rural. The agent used to operate his network to send people abroad using illegal methods despite being a proclaimed offender in a similar case four years back in Jalandhar. The two-day district open youth festival at the CT University concluded on Sunday. The youth fest aimed at promoting cultural activities among the youth. (HT) The fair organised by the youth services department Ludhiana, saw an overwhelming participation from the youngsters. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The youth fest aimed at promoting cultural activities among the youth. In the competitions held on day one, Ramgarhia Senior Secondary School won first place in Bhangra, SCD College Ludhiana secured the first position in the speech competition, Guru Nanak Khalsa College bagged the first prize in the kavishri competition, Ramgarhia Girls College won the first prize in folk instrument competition, and Guru Nanak Khalsa College Gujarkhan Campus secured the first prize in poster making. Among other contests, first place in mehndi application was secured by the Guru Nanak Khalsa College for Women, first position in clay modelling was bagged by BCM College of Education and Ramgarhia Girls College got first place in rangoli making. In the competitions held on the second day of the fair, first place in gidha was won by folk artist group Sath, first position in traditional folk song (with long hooks) was scored by Guru Nanak Khalsa College for Women, first place in Gatka went to Nightingale School, first place in traditional dress went to Guru Nanak Khalsa College for Women, first place in chikku making went to Arya Girls College, and first place in bhand competitions went to Ramgarhia Girls College for Women. At least 2,000 children from slum areas in the city are becoming self-reliant, hoping to pursue higher studies and realising their dreams, thanks to the piggy bank project that encouraged them to save small amounts of money which now has accumulated into a big sum. Children with their piggy banks at a makeshift school in Ludhiana. (HT) The project was initiated by the Nobel Foundation, which runs schools for slum children, in 2015. Earlier, during the lockdown due to the coronavirus outbreak in the region, many of the families had survived on the money saved by children under the project. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. At least 2,000 students, mostly slum children, are covered under the project. The children have their independent bank accounts, in which they deposit money which they saved from their pocket money. Rajinder Sharma, head of Nobel Foundation, the NGO that runs makeshift Maa Sharda Vidyapeeth schools in the city from Class 1-5, said that they had initiated the project in 2015 to encourage the students to save money with very few takers. In 2020 after a lockdown was imposed in the region due to a coronavirus outbreak when the labourers were out of job, they had survived on the money saved by their children. After the families realised its importance, families encouraged their children to save money, Sharma said. The parents used to give 5 or 10 to their children as pocket money as they know the children would put the money in their piggy banks instead of spending on chips or candies. If a relative or elder gives money to the children, parents give it to the piggy bank, he added. Sharma said that students have been able to save as much as 12,000 per year. He said that they started opening bank accounts of children after the lockdown. Meenakshi Sharma, co-ordinator at Daulat Colony School in Basti Jodhewal, said that they bought earthen piggy banks for children. The piggy banks remain in the custody of the teachers with the name slips of students on it. The children put money in it according to their convenience. We break open the piggy banks twice in a year in February and October and deposit the money in bank accounts of children. The children also get 5 extra marks in exams for saving money. Moreover, we honour the children with maximum savings with gifts, she added. Vandana, 12, a Class 5 student, said that she aims to be a doctor and would spend her savings to pursue her studies. Rakhi, 13, who is also a student of class 5, said that she wants to be a police officer. She said if her parents would need the money, she would give it to them. Otherwise, she would spend money on her studies. A gurdwara priest, who helped a 19-year-old boy to marry his 21-year-old social media friend in 2020, and was declared a proclaimed offender has been arrested by Sarabh Nagar police. A gurdwara priest, who helped a 19-year-old boy to marry his 21-year-old social media friend in 2020. (HT) Another case under section 174A of the IPC has been lodged against the accused, Inderjit Singh, who was apprehended on Saturday. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. ASI Rajpal Singh, who is investigating the case, said that a case under sections 10 and 11 of Prohibition of Child Marriage Act was earlier lodged against Inderjit and two witness of the wedding, including Bittu Kumar of Gopal Nagar, Haibowal and Rajinder Kumar of Mahavir Colony, Haibowal. The ASI added that the 19-year-old boy of Indra Colony had met a 21-year-old girl of Batala through social networking site Facebook, in 2020. The duo decided to marry and eloped on July 23, 2020. The couple had solemnised marriage the same day in a gurdwara against the will of their parents. The ASI added the girl had then approached Punjab and Haryana High Court for protection. The court found that the boy is 19 years of age whereas the legal age for marriage for a male is 21 years. The court then ordered an FIR against those who helped them to solemnise the marriage. The ASI said that Inderjit was on the run since a case was lodged against him. On the eve of the consecration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the city police on Sunday enhanced security outside religious places in the city. Police personnel outside Shri Durga Mata Mandir near Jagraon bridge in Ludhiana. (HT) With the aim to maintain law and order, police presence has noticeably increased around various religious establishments, particularly temples, as part of a comprehensive security arrangement. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Strategically positioned checkpoints have been set up at entry and exit points throughout the city to prevent any potential untoward incidents. Extensive security checks have also been conducted at key public spaces such as the railway station, Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT), malls, and markets. These measures aim to strengthen security and maintain peace during this significant event. Rupinder Singh, deputy commissioner of police (Headquarters), stressed the importance of these security measures, stating that they are essential to maintain law and order situation in the city. He further emphasised that the security arrangements extend beyond just religious centres and include the installation of checkpoints at prominent locations. As part of their surveillance strategy, the police will utilise CCTV cameras to monitor various areas and ensure a proactive response to any potential security threats. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his wife Le Thi Bich Tran arrive in Bucharest on Jan. 20, 2024. Photo by Nhat Bac Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his spouse arrived in Bucharest on Jan. 20 afternoon (local time), beginning an official visit to Romania at the invitation of Prime Minister Ion-Marcel Ciolacu. The visit is the first delegation exchange at the prime ministerial level between the two countries in five years, taking place in the context of good development of the over-70-year-old Vietnam - Romania traditional ties and cooperation. During his stay in Romania, PM Chinh will hold talks and have meetings with the Prime Minister, the President, the President of the Senate and the President of the Chamber of Deputies of Romania. He will visit some Romanian localities and universities, attend the Vietnam Romania business forum, receive representatives from the Romania Vietnam Friendship Association, and meet staff at the Vietnamese Embassy and the Vietnamese community in the country. The visit aims at deepening the traditional friendship and multifaceted cooperation between the two countries, creating new driving forces to bolster bilateral collaboration across the fields of Romanias strengths and in line with Vietnams development needs such as agriculture, processing and manufacturing, and healthcare. Besides, it is expected to strengthen business cooperation and lure investment in potential fields, contributing to creating favorable conditions for the Vietnam European Union ties. The City Jagraon Police booked a resident of Rampur village in Samrala for blackmailing an NRI woman by sharing her objectionable photos with her family members and friends. Samrala resident booked for blackmailing NRI woman. (HT) An FIR has been registered against the accused, identified as Tarun Kumar, after a probe conducted by DSP Child and Women Cell, Ludhiana Rural. The woman had filed a complaint with the police in October, 2023. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. A case under sections 354A, 354D, 294, 506 of IPC and 67 of the IT Act has been registered against the accused. In a similar case, the Khanna police booked a Jalandhar resident for uploading objectionable photos of a married woman on social media. The accused has been identified as Jagdeep Siingh of Kingra village in Jalandhar. The FIR has been registered on the basis of a probe conducted by DSP Cyber Cell Khanna following a complaint lodged by the woman on September 3 last year. The woman, who is a mother of two children, had filed a complaint with the police stating that she was in a relationship with the accused earlier. But for the past some days, he was blackmailing her and was demanding 2 lakh from her. When she refused to pay the amount, the accused uploaded her objectionable photos on social media. Inspector Hemant Malhotra, SHO City Khanna police station, said that a case under sections 66E of the IT Act has been registered against the accused. The accused is yet to be arrested. Senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) functionaries and MLAs will take out Shobha Yatras, hold community meals and organise reading of the Sundar Kand chapter from the Ramayana across Delhi on Monday to mark the consecration of Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the party said on Sunday. Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal attends Ramlila at Pyarelal Auditorium on Sunday. (Sanjeev Verma/HT photo) Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, while participating in the three-day Ramlila being organised near ITO by the Delhi government, on Sunday said that the AAP government is taking inspiration from the Ram Rajya while delivering on its welfare policies. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Kejriwal said that the concept of Ram Rajya is considered the ideal rule on earth. Taking inspiration from that, we are running the government in Delhi. Our endeavour is that no one should sleep hungry in Delhi, by ensuring that the poor get free ration. We run night shelters for the homeless. Every child is getting free and good education irrespective of the economic status of their family. Good and free health care is being made available to every city resident. Our government is also ensuring that every person should have access to electricity and drinking water. The government is also sending people on pilgrimage for free, he added. The chief minister said that everyone, irrespective of their religion or caste, should get respect and live peacefully with each other. We are trying to draw inspiration from Ram Rajya, he said. The Delhi government is holding Ramlila since Saturday, which will go on till Monday. The event is being held at the Pyarelal Auditorium near ITO, and features a live three-hour performance by the Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra from 4pm to 7pm. In a separate press conference, the AAP announced that it will hold different events, including Sundar Kand path, Shobha Yatra, aarti, prasad distribution in all 70 assembly constituencies on Monday. Party MLA Dilip Pandey said all the ministers, MLAs, councillors, local leaders and workers of the party will participate in the bhandaras (community meals), prasad distribution and processions. Pandey added that the chief minister has asked all ministers, MLAs, councillors, leaders and workers of the party to participate in the events in their areas. A day prior to the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya, resident bodies and market association have announced several events to mark the occasion. Several vendors were seen selling saffron flags on roads across the city and market associations decorating shops. Sanjiv Mehra, president, Khan Market Traders Association, said invitation has been extended to all members and customers for a lamp lighting event in which 1,200 diyas and 2,000 candles will be lit as part of the celebrations being organised by the traders. Mehra said that a 24-hour Sankirtan will start on Saturday, and continue till Monday after which a Shobha Yatra (procession) will be held along with a bhandara (community event). The pillars of the Connaught Place market also adorned saffron flags on Sunday. Atul Bhargava, who heads the New Delhi Traders Association said, An LED screen will be set up for a live telecast of the pran pathishtha (consecration) ceremony from Ayodhya, and 125,000 earthen lamps will be lit in the evening. The telecast will start in the morning. We will also undertake reading of the Sundar Kand and hold prayers in C-Block. Between 6 and 6.30pm, nearly 125,000 diyas will be lit across the market, he said. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva said that senior leaders of the central and Delhi units of the party will join local residents and party workers at public viewing of the live telecast of the event from Ayodhya on 2,000 screens put up by the party. Delhi BJP spokesperson Praveen Shankar Kapoor said that a nine-day Shri Ram Katha began on Sunday in north Delhis Sant Nagar to mark the opening of the grand Ram temple in Ayodhya. New Delhi [India], January 21 (ANI): President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday extended her greetings to the people on the statehood days of Meghalaya, Tripura and Manipur. HT Image In a post on X, the President noted these Northeast states are surging ahead on the path of progress, prosperity and peace. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. "Greetings to the people of Meghalaya, Tripura and Manipur on Statehood Day! These states are uniquely blessed with nature's bounty and are also bearers of rich cultural heritage. They are moving ahead on the path of progress, prosperity and peace. I convey my best wishes to residents of Meghalaya, Tripura and Manipur," President Murmu posted from her official X handle on Sunday. This year marks the 52nd foundation day of Tripura, Meghalaya and Manipur. The three Northeast states became full-fledged states in 1972, under the North-Eastern Region Re-Organisation Act, 1971. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took to X to extend his greetings to the three states on their founding days. "Heartfelt wishes on Statehood Day to the people of Tripura. May this day celebrate the unique history and rich heritage of the state. Wishing prosperity and harmony to the people of Tripura. Happy Statehood Day to the people of Meghalaya! Today is an occasion to celebrate the incredible culture of Meghalaya and the achievements of the people there. May Meghalaya scale new heights of progress in the times to come," PM Modi posted from his X handle. Wishing Manipur on its statehood day, PM Modi said the state has made a strong contribution to India's progress. "On Manipur's Statehood Day, my best wishes to the people of the state. Manipur has made a strong contribution to India's progress. We take pride in the culture and traditions of the state. I pray for the continued development of Manipur," PM Modi added. The state has been racked by ethnic strife over the past several months, following violence at a rally against a high court order asking the state government to consider including the majority Meitei community in the list of Scheduled Tribes. Even as several lives were lost in the clashes that erupted across the state, Opposition leaders railed against the BJP government in the state as well as the Centre, alleging a collapse of law and order. An entire session of Parliament saw a near-washout as both Houses saw multiple disruptions, with the Opposition members demanding a debate and discussion on the prevailing situation in Manipur as well as a statement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. (ANI) This has been done keeping in mind the fact that they frequently need to travel across the country for various sporting events, they added. HT Image The officials said that their cartridge quota has also been increased significantly from 20 to 10,000 annually with the one-time cartridge procurement increased from 10 at present to 1,000. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. "Following a decisive push by the LG to rationalise and ease the licensing processes, the Delhi Police has initiated a major reform in the grant of arms licenses, till now marred by complaints of favouritism, corruption and arbitrariness. The move apart from helping applicants at large will specifically benefit the countrys shooting sportspersons," an official said. Apart from speedy disposal of pending applications, it will also be ensured that fresh applications are disposed in a time-bound manner through an online portal, which will be modified specifically for this purpose, he added. The official said that the LG has also directed for rationalizing the renewal of arms licenses. In a departure from the present system where the online portal does not prescribe any timeline for the arms licensing procedures, Saxena has asked the Delhi Police to make all services -- fresh licenses, renewal, area validity, registration, sale of arms etc. time bound, he added. The official said that Saxena has asked the police to expedite the disposal of all nearly 6,000 pending applications by the end of this year. Similarly, all redundant documents required for fresh licenses as well as renewal are being reviewed and those found unnecessary will be removed subsequently, he added. Saxena has directed for making the modified arms licensing portal operational by March-end. The modified portal will provide the applicants the liberty to schedule the date and time of their interview online as per their convenience and preferably via video conference or video call. This is aimed at cutting possibilities of human interface that often lead to harassment and corruption, the official said. On the LGs directions, starting January 15, the Delhi Police has already started granting provisional renewal during the pendency of Local Police Report (LPR) after verifying the applicants criminal record (if any) from Inter-operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) and State Crime Record Bureau (SCRB), the official said. In such cases, the Delhi Police may revoke/cancel the renewal of license in case it receives a negative police report in the due course. Further, the LG has directed to allow the renewal of arms licenses on case to case basis in case the applicants are involved in minor cases that do not involve use of any weapon, bodily offence or moral turpitude. Similarly for registration of arms in Delhi that have been issued licences in other Indian states prior LPR and genuineness will not be required, the official said. Instead, the registration in such cases will be done in Delhi on the basis of the report from the National Database of Arms Licences Arms Licence Issuance System (NDAL - ALIS), he added. Arrested in the public distribution system scam, Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Shankar Adhya is directly or indirectly linked to 90 foreign currency exchange agencies and around 1,000 crore is suspected to have been siphoned out of India only through one of these, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) claimed before a Kolkata court on Saturday. Trinamool Congress leader Shankar Adhya. (File) ED officials suspect that the total scam involves around 20,000 crore. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. ED told the court on Saturday that its findings are based on evidence found after Adhya, a former chairman of the Bongaon municipality in North 24 Parganas district, was arrested on January 6, an official of the federal agency said on condition of anonymity. Arvind Singh, an accountant who worked for Adhya, provided some vital information when he was questioned, the court was told. The court was also told that Adhya is an accused in several old cases. The charges range from murder to smuggling of fake Indian currency notes (FICN). The court extended Adhyas judicial custody by 14 days, a lawyer who was present at the hearing said, requesting anonymity. ED earlier claimed that Adhya is a close associate of former food minister Jyotipriya Mallick who was arrested on October 27 last year. On January 17, the Calcutta high court ordered the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the West Bengal police to trace Sheikh Shahjahan, a TMC leader from North 24 Parganas districts Sandeshkhali who allegedly masterminded the January 5 attack on ED officials during a raid at his residence in connection with the PDS scam. Shahjahan could not be traced till Sunday evening. The alleged 20,000 crore scam, in which subsidised food grains meant for the PDS system were siphoned to the open market for sale, took place when Mallick was West Bengals food minister between 2011 (when the TMC came to power for the first time) and 2021. On December 12, ED filed its first chargesheet in the case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) naming Mallick, rice mill owner and hotelier Bakibur Rahaman and 10 shell companies. Rahaman, who was arrested on October 14, was a key player in the siphoning operation in which his warehouses were used, ED said in the chargesheet. ED also told the court that Mallick made his wife, Manidipa, and daughter, Priyadarshini, and some personal staff directors of three shell companies that were shut down in 2022 and 2023 to wipe out evidence. No TMC leader commented on the EDs claims regarding Adhya. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) however reacted saying an operation of such large scale could not have been pulled off only by leaders of Adhyas stature. A former municipality chairman or a minister cannot siphon thousands of crores of rupees out of the country unless they are helped by heavyweight leaders, said Bengal BJPs chief spokesperson Samik Bhattacharya. The entire worlds eyes will be on a rejuvenated Ayodhya when the living faith of millions keeps tryst with history to rejoice at the long-awaited Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lallas idol at the newly-built Ram Janmabhoomi temple in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and 8,000 special invitees here on Monday. A view of the Ram temple in Ayodhya on Sunday evening. (Deepak Gupta/HT ) Also Read | RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat arrives in Lucknow to attend Ram Temple ceremony Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Expressing confidence that the historic moment will enrich Indian heritage and culture, the Prime Minister said it will take the countrys development journey to new heights. He made the comment in a post on X on the eve of the ceremony after President Droupadi Murmu, in a two-page letter, complimented him and said the nationwide celebratory atmosphere around the inauguration of the grand Ram temple in Ayodhya is an uninhibited expression of Indias eternal soul and the start of a new cycle in the countrys resurgence. In her letter, Murmu also referred to the 11-day rigorous anushthan the Prime Minister has undertaken, and said that it is not only a sacred ritual but also a supreme spiritual act of sacrifice and submission to Lord Ram. .... as you prepare yourself to go for Pran Pratishtha of Prabhu Shri Rams murti (idol) at the new temple built at his birthplace in Ayodhya, I can only contemplate the unique civilisational journey that will be accomplished with each step taken by you in the hallowed precincts, she said. Tagging the Presidents letter, Modi said in his post, Honorable @rashtrapatibhvn ji, Thank you very much for your good wishes on the auspicious occasion of Ram Lallas consecration in Ayodhya Dham. Also Read | Ram Temple consecration: Land, air, waterall secured for the mega event The Prime Minister will participate in the consecration ceremony and will address a gathering present for the occasion, a statement issued by the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) said. When the much-anticipated occasion arrives at 12.20pm, the ancient temple town will erupt with joyous sounds of conch shells, flower showers and mangal-dhwanis (joyous tunes). The celebrations will echo across the country and in parts of the world too as it is at this precise moment that the consecration ceremony of five-year-old Ram Lalla (child Ram) will begin in the presence of the guests the countrys best and representatives of 50 nations. Modi who, along with Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath, is credited for giving the ancient city a stirring makeover as well as Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat will present manobhav (feelings) on the momentous occasion after the veil from 150-kilogram stone deitys eyes is lifted at the consecration event, a 40-minute affair, to symbolise the infusion of the life force in Ram Lallas idol at his grand abode, a magnificient stone marvel. The Prime Minister will also interact with shramjeevis (workers) associated with the construction of Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Mandir. He will also visit the Kuber Tila, where an ancient Shiv temple has been restored. He will also perform pooja and darshan at the restored temple, the PMO statement said. For his part, Vishwa Hindu Parishad working president Alok Kumar said to journalists: The Prime Minister and other yajman (hosts) will open the veil on the eyes of the Ram Lalla idol in the Abhijeet Muhurat (auspicious time) at 12.20pm on Monday as part of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. This day was being awaited for 500 years, he said. Hours before the ceremony, Acharya Satyendra Das, the head priest of Ram Lalla temple, moved the Ram Lalla Virajman (old idol) from the makeshift temple within the Ram Janmabhoomi complex to the sanctum sanctorum of the newly-built Ram Mandir after completing Vedic rituals on Sunday night. Setting the stage for the grandeur of the event, two helicopters of the Indian Air Force dropped flowers over the Ram Temple on Sunday in a rehearsal earlier in the day. They will again fly over the Ram temple on Monday to greet the deity and all VIPs with flower showers. Chief minister Yogi Adityanath and deputy chief minister Keshav Prasad Maurya visited Ayodhya on Sunday to take stock of the grand events preparations expected to shape national politics and be a major issue in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls due in April-May. Nearly 50 of Indias best instrumentalists will set the mood at the consecration event by playing soft music in the presence of captains of industry, media, sports, films, music as well as high priests of Hindu order, representing different mutts, differing in their religious practices, but united in their faith in Ram. Also Read | 200 artistes unite for Ayodhyas grand symphony Virtually the whole of Ayodhya is looking forward to the consecration ceremony to get the deity enshrined in his rightful abode in his birthplace. In 2019, a five-judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court unanimously ruled in favour of the temple side and in 2020 Modi performed the bhoomi pujan of the grand temple. Already, the temple town is in celebratory mode. Our hopes of a turnaround in our fortunes, be it in our business or other aspects of our life, rest on this temple which for years was locked in dispute, said Akash Dubey who sells construction material near Karsevakpuram. Many top film stars like Rajnikanth, Salman Khan, Kangana Ranaut arrived while chartered flights of many other VIPs kept landing at regular intervals at the newly inaugurated Maharishi Valmiki International Airport. Satyendra Das, the octogenarian head priest of Ram Janmabhoomi, said the set of rituals to be performed as per the directions of the high priests of Varanasi -- Ganeshwar Shastri Dravid (he decided the time of consecration) and Laxmikant Shastri -- would include bathing the idol sculpted by Mysuru-based Arun Yogiraj, lifting the veil from the eyes and applying kohl on them. Devotional tunes played out across Ayodhya on the eve of the grand event though the temple town was virtually cordoned off from the rest of the country, with only VIPs invited for the event, media persons carrying valid passes and officials being let in. On the eve of the celebratory event, the culture department put up 100 stalls at which 2500 folk artistes performed for an audience that was a motley mix of wide-eyed onlookers, security force personnel, guests, locals and media. The celebrations happened across the town but were most prominent along the 13-kilometre Ram Path one of the four major corridors that have come up along Ayodhya. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has readied Mahaprasad for the VIP guests who will attend the consecration event. Forty fish, which were found alive during the cleaning of tank in the sealed Wazukhana (ablution area) of Gyanvapi mosque here on Saturday, were released in the tank of another mosque in the temple town on Sunday, said Anjuman Intezamia Masajid Committee (AIMC) joint secretary SM Yasin. The cleaning of tank in the sealed Wazukhana of Gyanvapi mosque was carried out under tight security. (HT file) After the cleaning of the tank in Wazukhana area, the administration had handed over the alive fish to the AIMC which manages the Gyanvapi mosque. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Following the January 16 order of the Supreme Court, the cleaning of tank (hauz) in the sealed Wazukhana of Gyanvapi mosque here was carried out under the supervision of Varanasi district magistrate S Rajalingam on Saturday amid tight security. It was completed in over three hours in presence of representatives of the plaintiffs and defendant. Videography and photography of entire cleaning work was also carried out. The plaintiffs two counsel Subhash Nandan Chaturvedi and Sudhir Tripathi, and defendant office bearers of AIMC, including its joint secretary SM Yasin, were present during the cleaning work. The Wazukhan area of the Gyanvapi mosque was sealed at the order of a court in May 2022 after the Hindu side claimed that a Shivlinga was found in Wazukhana, whereas the Muslim side called the structure a fountain. The Supreme Court allowed the plea after Hindu plaintiffs said cleaning of the tank was needed because fish were dead and a foul smell was emitting from the tank. The AIMC also said most fish in the tank were dead and that cleaning was needed to save the fish which are alive. The Bombay High Court on Sunday dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by four law students opposing Maharashtra government's order of declaring January 22, 2024 as a holiday on account of Ram Mandir Pran Prathishta ceremony in Ayodhya, reported news agency ANI. The Bombay high court(File) A special bench of the high court of Justices GS Kulkarni and Neela Gokhale while rejecting the plea of four law students who had approached the court against the Maharashtra government order, said that the PIL was a publicity oriented petition and observed that such exercise of power by the State is not arbitrary but in consonance with the secular principles, as quoted by Bar and Bench. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. "It is difficult for us to believe that law students who are yet to enter this profession have made such allegations as mentioned in the petition. We have no doubt that this PIL has been filed for extraneous reasons. It is as rightly contended to us it appears to be absolutely frivolous and does not deserve the attention of court," the bench said. "The consistent view of courts is that such decision falls in the realm of executive decision," it added. The four students--Shivangi Agarwal, Satyajeet Siddharth Salve, Vedant Gaurav Agarwal and Khushi Sandeep Bangia -- from MNLU, Mumbai, GLC and NIRMA law school filed a PIL challenging order saying that declaring a public holiday to celebrate a religious event violated the principles of secularism enshrined in the Constitution. "An act of the Government in celebrating and openly participating in the consecration of a Hindu temple thereby associating with a particular religion is nothing but a direct attack on the principles of secularism," the petition said, as quoted by LiveLaw. Maharashtra is among the states that have declared a public holiday on the occasion of the pran-pratishtha ceremony of Lord Ram Lalla in the newly built Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya on January 22. Several other states including Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh have declared half-holiday, closure of schools. Goa, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh government have announced a public holiday on the occasion. Central government offices will also have a half working day on January 22. A 45-year-old headmaster of a private school in Odishas Kendrapara district has been arrested for allegedly raping two minor girls in the school premises, police said on Saturday. The incident came to light when the girls refused to go to school the day after the incident, prompting their parents to inquire about the reason for their decision. (Representative Image) The headmaster allegedly raped two girl students of Class 6 and 7 on January 16. The incident came to light when the girls refused to go to school the day after the incident, prompting their parents to inquire about the reason for their decision. After being pressured by their parents, both girls confided in them about the sequence of sexual assault inflicted upon them by the accused teacher. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The school functions between 6.30am and 11am. Some of the students stay behind for studying in private tuition. Police said the accused headmaster raped the two girls after the school hours. The accused has been booked under sections 376 (f) (Being a relative, guardian or teacher of, or a person in a position of trust or authority towards the woman, commits rape on such woman), 354 (Assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Peneal Code (IPC) and Section 4 of the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act 2012, said inspector of Rajnagar police station, Ajaya Kumar Jena. Meanwhile, the medical examination of the accused headmaster has been conducted and he is likely to be produced before the court soon. The Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) has released the admit cards of candidates appearing in the Intermediate or 12th Board Examination, 2024. The examination is scheduled to be held from February 1st to 12th. The admit card can be accessed by school authorities at secondary.biharboardonline.com. BSEB has released the admit cards of candidates appearing in the 12th Board Examination to be held from February 1 to 12. (File image) In an official notification, the BSEB informed that the admit cards will be available till January 31, and asked heads of educational institutions to download the admit card of their respective candidates appearing in the exams through the user ID and password provided by the committee and put their signature and seal. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Also read: JEE Mains 2024 admit card for January 24 out on jeemain.nta.ac.in, link here The BSEB has also instructed candidates to contact the management of the respective educational institution, get their admit card (signed and sealed by the head of the educational institution) and appear for the examination as per the scheduled date and shift at the centre as mentioned in the admit card. The admit card has been issued only for appearing in the examination of theory subjects, the BSEB informed. The BSEB said that there will be no corrections made to the admit card as they have been provided after corrections made on the dummy admit card issued by the educational institution after the filling of the applications. In case any correction is made on the admit card by the head or center superintendent of any educational institution, the candidates name will not be published, and disciplinary and legal action will be taken against the concerned person. Also read: CTET 2024 today; admit card link, reporting time, last-minute checklist As informed by the BSEB, the admit card will be valid only for the candidates who passed in the screening examination. Students who failed in the screening/ sent-up examination will not be issued the admit card under any circumstances. Non-compliance with the instruction would be taken seriously, the BSEB said. Furthermore, students who had been dismissed by the education department on October 21, 2023, for continuously missing classes, will not be eligible to appear in the Bihar Intermediate board exams 2024. For more information, visit the official website. Tan Son Nhat airport is crowded on Jan. 10, 2023 with people traveling back to their homes for last year's Tet. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran Congestion should be expected at the domestic terminal at HCMCs Tan Son Nhat airport during the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday, said the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam. The authority said Saturday that this year's Tet would see an increase in the number of trips and passengers at airports compared to the previous year, especially at Tan Son Nhat Airport. During this holiday, the airport is expected to operate 570 flights per day to serve 75,000 passengers on average. The peak day is projected to have 695 flights and 105,000 passengers. Hanois Noi Bai airport is expected to have 435 flights with 52,000 passengers per day. On peak day, it could have 520 flights with 70,000 passengers. Other airports that will also experience a significant increase in passengers include Vinh in central Nghe An Province, Tho Xuan in central Thanh Hoa, Cat Bi in northern Hai Phong, Dong Hoi in central Quang Binh, Phu Bai in central Thua Thien Hue, Chu Lai in central Quang Nam, and Phu Quoc. Passengers are advised not to arrive at the airport too early before their departure time to limit the number of people at the airport. They should also tell their family members not to gather in a crowd to pick them up at the airport. Passengers should complete check-in procedures 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. Tan Son Nhat Airport was designed to accommodate 28 million passengers per year. In 2019, the airport handled more than 41.2 million passengers. In 2022, the number of passengers reached 34 million, causing overload in the terminal, runway, and apron areas. For the upcoming Tet, Vietnams biggest and most important festival, laborers will be granted seven days off. The consecration ceremony will take place at the Ram temple in Ayodhya on Monday. Celebrities as well as the common people, are eagerly awaiting the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. Several Bollywood celebrities, including Akshay Kumar, Kangana Ranaut, Tiger Shroff, Jackie Shroff, Hariharan, Rajinikanth, Amitabh Bachchan, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Randeep Hooda, Anushka Sharma have also received the invitation. Many of them are expected to fly to Ayodhya to be part of the event. (Also Read | Alia Bhatt, Amitabh Bachchan, Rajinikanth: 10 celebs to spot at Ayodhya's Ram Temple Pran Pratistha ceremony) Akshay Kumar, Anupam Kher and Pawan Kalyan have all donated towards the Ram Temple. News agency PTI cited the treasurer of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, Govind Dev Giri, as saying that more than 1,100 crore has so far been spent in constructing the Ram Temple. He added that another 300 crore might be needed to complete the work. Many people have made donations towards the temple. Several celebrities from the film and television industries, including Akshay Kumar, Anupam Kher and Gurmeet Choudhary, have also contributed towards the construction of the temple. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. 1) Akshay Kumar In January 2021, the actor shared a video of himself. He talked about how the people could contribute, either big or small amounts, towards the construction of the temple. Posting the video, he wrote, "It is a matter of great joy that the construction of our grand temple of Shri Ram has started in Ayodhya...Now it is our turn to contribute. I have started, hope you will also join us. Jai Siyaram." 2) Anupam Kher On October 2, 2023, Anupam Kher posted a video on Instagram when he visited Ayodhya. The actor had shared the clip which he recorded at the construction site of the Ram Temple. Sharing it, he wrote in Hindi, "Friends! I am showing you a glimpse of the historical #RamTemple being made in Ayodhya. It was a pleasant feeling to see this huge temple being constructed. Every devotee is engaged in his devotion in the construction of Ram Lalla's temple. Jai Sri Ram echoes all over Ayodhya atmosphere! I am lucky to have a brick gift to this temple at my urge! I am blessed!" 3) Mukesh Khanna In February 2021, the actor shared a tweet as he handed over a cheque of 1.1 lakh to the authorities towards the construction of the temple. Posting a photo, he wrote in Hindi, "Today, Shri Mukesh Khanna ji, the Pitamah of the elderly and the Shaktiman of the children, handed over his cheque of 111111 to the MLA of his area, Atul Bhatkhalkar ji, in the Ram Mandir construction fund collection campaign. Vijay Jha ji and Sainath Kulkarni ji were present along with him." 4) Pawan Kalyan As quoted by Indian Express, Pawan Kalyan donated 30 lakh for the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. His statement read, Lord Sri Ramachandra is the replica for dharma and tolerance, sacrifice and bravery shown by him is an inspiration to all. India has withstood many attacks because of the path created by lord Sri Rama. Hence, it is everyones responsibility to extend solidarity for the construction of the temple in Ayodhya, the replica of such dharma. I am donating rupees 30 Lakh as my part for the construction of Rama temple. On hearing about my donation, my personal staff members, including not only Hindus but also Muslim and Christians, have raised rupees 11,000 for the same purpose. 5) Hema Malini The actor has donated an undisclosed amount for the construction of the temple, as per Indiatimes.com. She also recently performed in Ayodhya. Hema Malini had said, I have come to Ayodhya for the first time. I am going to perform in the Ramayana as Sita. This programme has been organised by Swami Rambhadracharya. He has organised a 10-day programme. I am fortunate to be here during this time. The whole of Bollywood is 'Ramamay'... The artists are singing Ram songs. I also sang a Ram Bhajan last year. Everybody is preparing everything for Lord Ram. 6) Manoj Joshi In 2021, VHP had posted a video of the actor speaking about Lord Ram and the Ram Temple on Facebook. As per the report, he also contributed towards the temple 7) Gurmeet Choudhary In January 2021, Gurmeet Choudhary posted a video on X (formerly Twitter) and shared a story. He wrote in Hindi, As you know, the work of collecting funds for the construction of Ram temple is going on with great enthusiasm in the entire country. For this auspicious work, we also want to offer some of our support at the feet of Lord Ram. Jai Shri Ram. 8) Pranitha Subhash Taking to X, she posted a video on Jan 12, 2021. She wrote, "Im making a humble initial pledge of 1 lakh for the Ayodhya Ram Mandir nidhi samarpana abhiyaana. Requesting all of you to come join hands and be a part of this historic movement #RamMandirNidhiSamarpan." On January 22, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will perform rituals to mark the Pran Pratishtha. About 8,000 people are on the long list of invitees for the consecration ceremony. The select list features 506 A-listers, including prominent politicians, leading industrialists, top film stars, sportspersons, diplomats, judges and high priests. Entertainment! Entertainment! Entertainment! Click to follow our Whatsapp Channel Your daily dose of gossip, films, shows, celebrities updates all in one place After Kho Gaye Hum Kahan, Ananya Panday is gearing up for her next, a cyber thriller tentaively titled Control, directed by Vikramaditya Motwane. In an interview with Galatta Plus, the actor revealed that she was in shock when the filmmaker first approached her for the film. (Also Read: Ananya Panday's parents wanted her to finish college before Student of the Year: 'They said, don't blame us later') Vikramaditya Motwane and Ananya Panday will soon come up with a cyber thriller What Ananya said With Vikram sir, it was actually a dream to work with him because I've watched Udaan countless times. It's my mum's favourite movie. I think I was in shock when he wanted to meet me. To begin with, when my team said Vikram sir wants to meet you, I said, For what? He wants to work with me? And when I met him, I asked him, Are you sure youre directing this film?' He said, Ya, Im sure.' So it took me some time to register that I'm working with Vikram sir, Ananya said in the interview. The self-belief is very low in me. I'm a validation-seeking sort of person. So even when I'm on set, I need my directors to confirm like 10 times that the shot was okay. I'm always like, Was it okay? Should I do one more? Even when someone praises my work or compliments me, my first reaction is, Really? Are you sure? Me? So I have that, which I'm trying to get better at. I don't know where it comes from. I think it's always been in my personality, Ananya added. About Ananya and Vikramaditya Vikramaditya Motwane made his directorial debut with the 2010 seminal coming-of-age film Udaan. He went on to make Lootera, Trapped, Bhavesh Joshi Superhero, Sacred Games, Ak vs Ak, and most recently, Jubilee. He's also directed the upcoming documentary, Indi(r)a's Emergency. Ananya made her debut with Punit Malhotra's 2019 campus caper Student of the Year 2. Besides Control, she will also be seen in Call My Bae and Akshay Kumar's Shankara. Entertainment! Entertainment! Entertainment! Click to follow our Whatsapp Channel Your daily dose of gossip, films, shows, celebrities updates all in one place. The actor, who became a household name after essaying the role of Lord Ram in Ramanand Sagar's "Ramayan", has been invited for the grand event along with his co-star Dipika Chikhlia, who portrayed Goddess Sita in the 1987 TV serial. HT Image "Lord Ram is our pride, culture, country's identity, and self-respect. The courage of Lord Ram, the seriousness, the thought process, the respect given to elders, and all these elements that are in our culture... Everything is Ram," Govil told PTI in an interview. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The 66-year-old actor said he was not the first choice to play Lord Ram in the classic show. "I had told Ramanand Sagar ji in the beginning itself that I only wanted to play the character of Lord Ram... When I was rejected, the role was offered to somebody else. But, I was brought back for the role," he recalled. While "Ramayan" brought Govil love and adulation, roles also dried up for him as it was difficult for filmmakers to imagine him in any different avatar. The actor, however, said no other character would have earned him this level of respect. His latest film "695", based on the Ram temple movement, released in theatres on Friday. "There were many pluses and minuses of this ('Ramayan') in professional life. At that time, I was doing good work in films, but after this, I was not able to work in films. At that point of time, I felt that it had become a minus for me. "Even if I had done 500 films, the love and respect, which I get today, would be missing. Today, the respect that I get for immortalising the role of Lord Ram on screen is unparalleled. People still say 'Humare Ram toh aap hee hain' (You are our Lord Ram)" Govil added. Prem Sagar, who provided special effects for his father Ramanand Sagar's "Ramayan", termed the consecration ceremony "historic". While he has not been invited for the event, Prem Sagar said he will visit the temple later. "If I don't go there, will there be any drop of Ram bhakti in me?" he added. The making of "Ramayan" was accomplished by "divine intervention", recounted Prem Sagar. "Had there been no divine intervention, 'Ramayan' would not have been made. On January 16, 1987, 'Ramayan' was greenlit, and on January 25, 1987, it was scheduled to be aired. Studios had to be arranged, the actors were selected, but nothing was ready. However, 'Ramayan' aired every week without any problem," he said. Ramanand Sagar was a film director known for movies such as "Ankhen", "Baghavat" and "Prem Bandhan". Prem Sagar said his father decided to foray into the small screen after he was introduced to colour TV while shooting for the 1976 film "Charas", starring Dharmendra and Hema Malini, in Switzerland. "One evening, after the shooting got over, we were having tea in the French Alps. That's when a Frenchman came in with a big box. As soon as he pushed a button, a film started playing. We were left speechless. Subsequently, we came to know that it was a colour TV. Papaji saw that and resolved to make 'Ramayan' for the small screen," he said. Hundreds of celebrities, film personalities, sportspersons, politicos and others have been invited to the Ram Mandir consecration in Ayodhya on January 22. On Sunday, before the D-day, some celebrities have been spotted at airports, flying out from Mumbai or Chennai to Lucknow and Ayodhya for the ceremony. (Also Read: Akshay Kumar, Anupam Kher, Pawan Kalyan: 8 celebs who donated towards Ayodhya's Ram Temple construction) Some celebrities have been spotted arriving in Ayodhya for the Ram Mandir consecration (ANI) Randeep-Lin arrive in Ayodhya Randeep Hooda and Lin Laishram were clicked in both Mumbai and Ayodhya on Sunday afternoon. Randeep was dressed in a white t-shirt and blue denims while Lin opted for something a little more colourful for their trip. The couple also waved and posed for the paparazzi when they were spotted. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Anupam Kher flies with devotees Ahead of leaving to Ayodhya, Anupam spoke to the press and said, We have waited for this day for many years, its finally here. He later posted a video on his Instagram, showing an airplane filled with devotees also heading to Ayodhya. He wrote, I have reached Ayodhya with all Ram devotees. The airplane had an amazing atmosphere of devotion. Shefali Shah calls it a cultural moment Shefali Shah spoke to the press at Lucknow airport and said, I am honoured to be here. This is one of the biggest cultural moments that our country and we, as Indians, can experience. The entire country is celebrating this moment. Its a collective moment of joy. Musicians get emotional Shankar Mahadevan and Anu Malik were also clicked at the Lucknow airport. I am so happy and excited. My wife and I feel blessed that we are a part of this. I pray for peace in the world, said Shankar, while Anu said, It is a wonderful feeling and I am very emotional. This is a huge occasion. Celebs expected to attend the consecration Rajinikanth and Dhanush were spotted at the Chennai airport, leaving for Ayodhya on Sunday, while Kangana Ranaut is already there. Amitabh Bachchan, Chiranjeevi, Jackie Shroff, Ram Charan, Anushka Sharma, Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, Virat Kohli and several other celebrities have also received invitations to the event. Entertainment! Entertainment! Entertainment! Click to follow our Whatsapp Channel Your daily dose of gossip, films, shows, celebrities updates all in one place Rohit Shetty is going to use all his experience of building the cop universe to tell possibly his career's most crucial story. In 2021, the filmmaker announced that he's making the biopic of Rakesh Maria, the celebrated former Commissioner of Mumbai Police. Now, in an interview on The Lallantop, Rohit has explained why it's becoming a problem to cast the biopic. (Also Read: Indian Police Force review: Rohit Shetty goes long, but not higher in debut web series with Sidharth Malhotra) Rakesh Maria and Rohit Shetty announced the former's biopic in 2021 What Rohit said When asked if the casting for the Rakesh Maria biopic has been done, Rohit said, Abhi tak nahi ki. Karni hai. Kyunki kahani unki 1985 se Taj attack tak hai. So ek young boy se leke 50 years ka aadmi, wahan tak ki life ki kahani hai. Toh uski casting mein thodi si problem aa rahi hai (We haven't locked the casting, we're yet to do it. Because his story goes from 1985 till the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. So his life story travels from a young boy to a 50-year-old man. So we're facing a slight problem in his casting," Rohit explained in the interview. He also added that he'll start shooting the biopic once he's finished his next cop universe movie, Singham Again, which is slated to release this Independence Day. About Rakesh Maria Rakesh Maria, an IPS officer from 1981 batch, cracked the 1993 Bombay serial blasts case as the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic). He later served as DCP (Crime), Joint Commissioner of Police (Crime) and was appointed the Commissioner of Mumbai Police in 2014. In 2015, he was promoted as the Director General of Home Guards. Rakesh retired in 2017. During his tenure, Rakesh also solved the 2003 Gateway of India and Zaveri Bazaar twin blasts case. He was also given the responsibility of investigating the 26/11 Mumbai attacks in 2008 and interrogated Ajmal Kasab, the only terrorist captured alive. The biopic is an adaptation of his 2020 autobiography Let Me Say It Now. Entertainment! Entertainment! Entertainment! Click to follow our Whatsapp Channel Your daily dose of gossip, films, shows, celebrities updates all in one place. Salman Khan was honoured at Saudi Arabia's Joy Awards on Saturday. He was another Indian celebrity who was honoured at the event along with Alia Bhatt. This was his second time at the Joy Awards in Riyadh where he was invited by the dignitaries to be a special guest. Pictures of him posing with Hannibal actor Anthony Hopkins on the red carpet and presenting an award on stage have been shared online. Also read: Alia Bhatt stuns in saree at Saudi Arabia awards event, talks about how she's obsessed with movies Anthony Hopkins and Salman Khan at Joy Awards in Riyadh. Salman Khan in Riyadh Salman wore a lavender shirt with a violet-grey suit and sported a moustache and beard. He presented an award to a senior Egyptian actor on stage. Salman had earlier received the Personality of the Year award at the event in 2022. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Salman Khan's films and shows Salman's last release was Tiger 3 on Diwali, which did a business of gross 466.63 crore worldwide. The film was recently released online on Prime Video. Talking on the occasion with ANI, Salman said, "The Tiger franchise has got unanimous love right from the first film be it theatrically, on satellite or on streaming! So, it feels amazing to see how the third instalment of Tiger 3 was first a hit in theatres and now on streaming! I'm in close contact with my audience through my social media and I can see the outpouring of love now that Tiger 3 has dropped on OTT. As an actor, my biggest and only job is to entertain people thoroughly and I'm happy that Tiger 3 is being enjoyed by people across the world." Helmed by Maneesh Sharma, Tiger 3 also stars Katrina Kaif and Emraan Hashmi and has Shah Rukh Khan in a cameo and Hrithik Roshan in a post-credits scene. Salman is currently hosting the reality show Bigg Boss 17 on weekends. Fans will see him in a film titled The Bull. The film will be backed by Karan's Dharma Productions, and directed by Vishnu Vardhan of Shershaah-fame. Salman will play Brigadier Farukh Bulsara, who led Operation Cactus in 1988 in the Maldives. Entertainment! Entertainment! Entertainment! Click to follow our Whatsapp Channel Your daily dose of gossip, films, shows, celebrities updates all in one place Ed ONeill, the iconic Al Bundy from Married With Children, spilled the beans on the bitter fallout with his co-star Amanda Bearse. Here's the lowdown on what caused the rift, straight from the actor's own words on Jesse Tyler Fergusons Dinners On Me podcast. Ed ONeill reveals regrettable incident with co-star Amanda Bearse on 'Married ... With Children'(X) Regret over TV Guide snub ONeill, 77, opened up about a regrettable incident involving Bearse. He confessed, "I did a thing on the show that involved Amanda Bearse that I regretted." The root of the issue? A TV Guide cover shoot. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. A missing TV Guide moment The actor revealed that their feud sparked when Bearse and David Garrison were left out of the TV Guide cover featuring the cast. The reason? "Because they had a rule: only so many could be on the cover, ONeill explained. Exceptional exceptions ONeill pointed out that TV Guide made exceptions for other shows like 'MASH' and 'Dallas.' However, "That was an exception, they werent doing it for us," he noted, adding a layer of frustration to the situation. The quiet standoff Bearse wanted ONeill to stand up for her and the excluded co-stars. However, ONeill admitted he remained silent out of fear of losing the cover altogether. "We were lucky to get it," he emphasized. The unfulfilled expectation Recalling the moment when Bearse confronted him, ONeill shared, We expect you to go to [co-creator] Ron Leavitt and tell him this doesnt work. Were all on the cover.' Unfortunately, ONeill didn't fulfill that expectation. Expressing regret, ONeill admitted that he would change how he handled the situation if he could go back in time. A missed opportunity to support his co-stars on a monumental TV Guide cover. 8. The TV Guide Cover in 1989 Despite the rift, ONeill eventually posed for the TV Guide cover in 1989 with his co-stars Katey Sagal, Christina Applegate, and David Faustino. The show, Married With Children, went on to run for an impressive 11 seasons from 1987 to 1997. Taylor Swift's ex, Joe Alwyn, and Selena Gomez's rumoured ex, Zayn Malik, made a rare joint appearance at Paris Fashion Week. Here's the lowdown on their unexpected rendezvous: Taylor Swift and Joe Alwyn. Joe Alwyn and Zayn Malik duo graces Paris Fashion Week Joe Alwyn, star of "Conversations With Friends," and former One Direction member Zayn Malik attended Loewes Mens Fall/Winter 2024 show at Paris Fashion Week. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Alwyn showcased his style in blue jeans, a brown jacket paired with a matching T-shirt, and stylish grey boots, while Malik rocked a handsome look with a brown plaid blazer, blue button-up shirt, brown pants, and black boots. A celebrity gathering in the city of love The stars were spotted seated near each other, sparking interest and raising eyebrows, considering their connections to Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez. No confirmation if the exes of two of the most prominent pop stars interacted, but Alwyn was seen chatting with Andrew Garfield and Nicholas Hoult. Joe Alwyn's post-Taylor life Alwyn, 32, and Taylor Swift ended their six-year relationship in April 2023. Since then, the actor has maintained a low profile. Rumours circulated about a secret wedding between Alwyn and Swift, but her publicist dismissed the claims, stating, "There was NEVER a marriage or ceremony of ANY kind." Swift's love journey post-Alwyn Swift briefly dated 1975 frontman Matty Healy before finding love with Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce. Swift and Kelce, 34, have been together since September, and rumours suggest they are planning to get engaged this summer. Selena Gomez and Zayn Malik: Brief rumours and confirmed romance Gomez and Malik sparked dating rumours last March after sharing a kiss during a dinner outing. However, Gomez confirmed her six-month-long relationship with record producer Benny Blanco in mid-December. Nayanthara seems to be enjoying the peace after the storm. The Jawan actor shared pictures with her sons Uyir and Ulgham on her Instagram handle. This comes days after the controversy about her film Annapoorni, which Netflix India pulled down. (Also Read: Annapoorani controversy: Nayanthara reacts after film is removed from Netflix for hurting sentiments) Nayanthara shares a picture with her son on Instagram Nayanthara's pictures with her sons On Sunday, Nayanthara took to her Instagram handle and shared a picture of her carrying her son. She's wearing a black polka-dot top, and her face is only partially visible. Her son leans his head comfortably on his mother's shoulder. Nayanthara captioned the post, All of gods grace in one tiny face (red heart emoji). Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. In an Instagram Story, Nayanthara shared another picture with both her sons in her arms as they look into the greenery from a balcony. She set it to Jasleen Royal and Prateek Kuhad's popular song Kho Gaye Hum Kahan from Nitya Mehra's 2016 romantic sci-fi film Baar Baar Dekho. Nayanthara's recent controversy Nayanthara offered a sincere apology over her latest Tamil film, Annapoorani, a week after the makers were accused of hurting religious sentiments and the movie was pulled down from Netflix. "Jai Shri Ram. I am writing this note with a heavy heart and a genuine desire to address the recent events concerning our film, 'Annapoorani'. Crafting 'Annapoorani' was not just a cinematic endeavour but a heartfelt pursuit of inspiring resilience and instilling the spirit of never giving up. It aimed to mirror life's journey, where we learn that obstacles can be overcome with sheer willpower... In our sincere attempt to share a positive message, we may have inadvertently caused hurt," Nayanthara wrote. The complaints against Annapoorni alleged that the film makes controversial remarks about Lord Ram and also promotes 'love jihad'. After the complaints, the police in Maharashtras Thane district registered a case against eight persons, including Nayanthara, last week. Nayanthara will be next seen in Test and Mannangatti Since 1960. Entertainment! Entertainment! Entertainment! Click to follow our Whatsapp Channel Your daily dose of gossip, films, shows, celebrities updates all in one place. Tonight's episode of Bigg Boss 17's Weekend Ka Vaar will see a special guest. Host Salman Khan will welcome his No Entry co-star Anil Kapoor on the sets of the popular reality show. They'll be seen singing, dancing, and interacting with the contestants. (Also Read: Salman Khan gets brutal as he calls out Vicky Jain's mother's comments to media: No one knew your family before this') Anil Kapoor will appear on tonight's episode of Bigg Boss 17 Weekend Ka Vaar Anil Kapoor on Bigg Boss Anil Kapoor is seen promoting his upcoming movie Fighter on the episode. He said the film, directed by Siddharth Anand, is a tribute to all the soldiers who fight for the country. The aerial action entertainer on Indian Air Force members also stars Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone among others. However, both of Anil's co-stars gave Bigg Boss a miss. Fighter is slated to release in cinemas on the eve of Republic Day on January 25. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Anil then also sings and dedicates a song to Salman. As the host watches on, smiling, Anil croons SP Balasubrahmanyam's popular love ballad Dil Deewana from Salman Khan's 1989 blockbuster romantic drama Maine Pyar Kiya. Then Salman and Anil shake a leg together on Anil's memorable disco song Yaar Bina Chain Kahan Re from the 1985 film Saaheb. As Salman and Anil interact with the contestants thereafter, stand-up comedian Munawar Faruqui dedicates a shayari to Anil, which included titles of the actor's popular movies like Welcome and Ram Lakhan. Anil graciously thanked Munawar for the shayari. Salman danced with Shahid, Kriti Anil appears on the Weekend Ka Vaar just a day after Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon also graced the show on Saturday. They were also seen grooving to the track Laal Peeli Ankhiyan from their upcoming film Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya with Salman. The film is written and directed by Amit Joshi and Aradhana Sah. Dinesh Vijan, Jyoti Deshpande, and Laxman Utekar have produced it. In the film, Shahid Kapoor marries Kriti's character, Sifra, a highly intelligent female robot. The film will be out in theatres on February 9 and it also features legendary actor Dharmendra and Dimple Kapadia among others. Entertainment! Entertainment! Entertainment! Click to follow our Whatsapp Channel Your daily dose of gossip, films, shows, celebrities updates all in one place. Following the two elections in the Taiwan region in 2024, many countries have reaffirmed their adherence to the one-China principle and expressed opposition to the so-called "Taiwan independence." These countries said that they firmly support China in safeguarding its national sovereignty and territorial integrity, oppose external interference in China's internal affairs, and firmly support all efforts by China to achieve national reunification. Pakistan's policy on Taiwan is consistent and clear -- Taiwan is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China, a spokesperson for the Pakistani Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The Maldives opposes any word and deed that would undermine China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, opposes all "Taiwan independence" separatist activities, and will not develop any form of official relations with Taiwan, said the Maldivian Foreign Ministry. The Maldives opposes external interference in China's internal affairs under any pretext, and supports all efforts by China to achieve national reunification. The Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said in a statement that the country reiterates its resolute adherence to the one-China policy, recognizing the government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate authority representing the entirety of China. The Lao Foreign Ministry said the Taiwan question is China's internal affair and Taiwan is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China. Sri Lanka firmly upholds the one-China principle and anticipates the peaceful reunification of China, said Ali Sabry, foreign minister of Sri Lanka. The Syrian Foreign Ministry said that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China, and any election or action carried out in Taiwan should not affect this fact. Reaffirming its commitment to the one-China principle, the Palestinian Presidency voiced support for China in safeguarding sovereignty and territorial integrity, rejections to any interference in China's internal affairs, and support for China's complete reunification and the peaceful development of cross-Straits relations. A spokesman of the Iranian Foreign Ministry said that Iran has always been clear about its support for the one-China policy and the right of the People's Republic of China to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The African National Congress(ANC), South Africa's ruling party, firmly supports the one-China principle, has written it into the party's top resolution, and asked governments at various levels to strictly implement it, said Nomvula Mokonyane, first deputy secretary general of the ANC. The ANC firmly opposes secessionist moves seeking "Taiwan independence," supports China's just cause for an early reunification, and resolutely opposes "Taiwan independence" in any form. Sylvie Baipo-Temon, foreign minister of the Central African Republic (CAR), reaffirmed the consistent adherence of the CAR government to the one-China principle, and its unwavering support for China's stance on the Taiwan question and for the Chinese people's efforts to realize national reunification. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Francophone Affairs of Equatorial Guinea reiterated that its government will, as always, firmly adhere to the one-China principle, and support the complete reunification of China and the peaceful development of cross-Straits relations. How China realize reunification should be decided by the Chinese people without the interference of external forces, said Christopher Mutsvangwa, Zimbabwe's ruling ZANU PF party Politburo member. Russia acknowledges that there is only one China, that the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. The Russian side opposes any form of "Taiwan's independence," said Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova. The Taiwan question is purely an internal matter for China. Attempts by certain countries to use the elections in Taiwan to pressure Beijing and destabilise the situation in the strait and across the region are "counterproductive and must be condemned by the international community," Zakharova said. "We call on all outside forces to refrain from provocative actions undermining regional stability and international security." "The Republic of Belarus firmly supports the one-China principle, which is the guarantee of stability and sustainable development for the entire region," said the Belarusian Foreign Ministry in a statement. The Embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic in China said that the Kyrgyz side reiterates its commitment to the one-China principle and believes that the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. The Kyrgyz side opposes any attempt to use the Taiwan question to interfere in China's internal affairs. The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry also voiced support for the one-China principle in a statement on its website, and opposition to any interference in China's internal affairs. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Serbia supports the one-China principle, and considers the People's Republic of China to be the only legitimate government representing the whole of China. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla said that Cuba adheres to the one-China principle and sees Taiwan as an inalienable part of China. "The Taiwan question is China's internal affair. We support the Chinese government's national reunification efforts," he said. The Nicaraguan government reiterated its firm adherence to the one-China principle and its opposition to secessionist moves seeking "Taiwan independence." The governments of Dominica, Bolivia, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, among others, also reaffirmed their support for China on the Taiwan question, saying they will abide by the one-China principle, oppose any attempt for "Taiwan independence" and support China's cause for national reunification. Bigg Boss 17: Salman Khan was his honest best as he defended Ankita Lokhande against her mother-in-law's mean comments about her. After appearing on the show, Vicky Jain's mother, Rajani, gave a bunch of interviews to the media, speaking in not the nicest manner about her actor daughter-in-law. She even mentioned that the family was against the couple's union from the beginning and that Vicky has been taking care of Ankita financially. Salman refused to let it slide on the latest Weekend Ka Vaar. (Also read: Bigg Boss 17: Salman Khan interrogates Abhishek Kumar's mom, Ankita Lokhande's sister-in-law. Watch) Salman Khan came all guns blazing on the latest episode of Bigg Boss 17 Weekend Ka War to call out Rajani Jain. The Bigg Boss team invited members from the finalists' families to answer for their crimes on the show. Representing Vicky, was his sister-in-law Reshu Jain. Host Salman asked Reshu why Rajani Jain wasn't here this time, Reshu said that she was unwell and had been keeping a fast. Salman brought the fast bit again and again, joking how being hungry was the reason behind her outburst last week. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Salman grills Vicky's sis-in-law Getting more serious, Salman asked Reshu about Rajani's comment about being against Ankita and Vicky's marriage. Reshu said that it was untrue and the whole family was in support of their union from the beginning. Ankita's mother, who was also sitting next to Reshu, chimed in, saying how they went to their home for a roka with the whole family. Ankita's mother said she, too, was shocked at Rajani's words but mentioned again and again how Ankita is the happiest when she goes to Vicky's home in Bilaspur. Cut them out like gangrene Reshu said that many people and relatives were calling up Vicky's parents to talk about the couple's fights on the show. Salman spoke strongly against them, saying that such people should be cut out of one's life like gangrene. They are jealous, they are poking your mother-in-law and she is getting poked. If they say how Ankita entered such a 'big family', does she belong to a smaller family? Aapke parivaar ko koi nhi jaanta tha, Bilaspur mein koi nhi janta tha. Isko Hindustan mein bachcha bachcha janta hai (No one knew your family, even in Bilaspur. Now, every kid in India knows him (Vicky). Salman even compared such relative to the teen titliyan from his film Hum Saath Saath Hai who incited the innocent Mamta to throw her stepson out of the house. "Tell her to eradicate them from her life; otherwise, she will be a very miserable woman." Sasu-ma's tantrums Salman even said that Ankita has been offered the show many times but she only wanted to appear on it with Vicky. Salman also credited Ankita for doing very well for herself. Nakhre toh mujhe is waqt Ankita se zaada saasu ma ke lagrae hain (I think the mother-in-law is throwing more tantrums than Ankita). Ankita and Vicky have been fighting since the day they entered the Bigg Boss house. They got married two years ago. On the show, Ankita has playfully kicked and thrown a slipper at Vicky, which upset his family. Meanwhile, Vicky was once caught on camera about to slap Ankita. Entertainment! Entertainment! Entertainment! Click to follow our Whatsapp Channel Your daily dose of gossip, films, shows, celebrities updates all in one place In the world of K-dramas, there's a special kind of flop: shows that send global audiences into a frenzy while leaving their domestic turf completely unimpressed. From the sizzling romance of Nevertheless to the historical spectacle of Hwarang, these dramas were met with lukewarm shrugs in Korea, only to explode in popularity on streaming platforms like Netflix drawing in a million crowd. Here are the top 8 K-dramas that were snubbed in their home country but became a major hit on the OTT platform. Netflix K-dramas flopped in Korea but became hits globally(Netflix) Netflix K-dramas flopped in Korea but became global hits Also read: Canceled: Netflix axes second seasons for popular K-dramas; Is your fav on the list? Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Hwarang: The Poet Warrior Youth Situated in the ancient Silla kingdom of Korea, Hwarang narrates the tale of a select group of young men training to serve as the king's guardians and trusted companions. Despite featuring a star-studded cast with Park Hyung Sik, Park Seo Joon, Go A Ra, Shinees Minho, and BTS V, these K-dramas initially faced domestic market failure. However, following the international success of BTS and the surge in popularity of K-dramas, global fans discovered this hidden gem and let fly Hwarang to become a Netflix hit. Nevertheless Starring Han So Hee and Song Kang in the leading roles Nevertheless follows the story of Na Bi, a college student who gets cheated on by her older boyfriend. She gets tangled with Jae, a charming bad boy who only wants to play. The duo despite discovering red flags in the relationship keeps getting drawn to each other. The show became a major hit on Netflix and Song Kangs charm exploded, however in the domestic market it was met with backlash owing to its excessive skinship. Tempted Titled Love Game: The Great Seduction in South Korea, the narrative unfolds as a tale of revenge transforming into a love story. The official synopsis of the show reads, Love is just a game for Chaebol heir who agrees to a petty bet with his friends to seduce a college student - until he starts to fall for her. Featuring Woo Do Hwan, Park Soo Young, Kim Min Jae, Joy, and Moon Ga Young, the series faced disappointment in South Korea. Yet, when Netflix rebranded it as Tempted, the show transformed into a major success. Also read: My Demon ending explained: Did Song Kang & Kim Yoo Jung cheat hell for a happy ending? Uncontrollably fond Boasting an exceptional ensemble including Kim Woo Bin and Lim Ju Hwan, the show was initially poised to be a major success. Uncontrollably Fond tells the story of two former lovers who reunite in the later stages of life, with the male lead being a successful actor and the female lead a documentary filmmaker. Despite the initial anticipation, the series faced a drop in ratings among Korean viewers. However, it went on to achieve substantial success in Asia, ultimately becoming the most-viewed K-Drama in the region. True beauty The K-drama featuring Chae Eun Woo and Moon Ga Young experienced an unexpected boost in ratings and viewership after its release on Netflix. Centered around the challenges of South Korea's beauty standards and the fight against racism, the series resonated with a global audience, leading to a surge in demand for Astro's Cha Eun Woo in the K-drama industry. However, despite its international success, the show faced disappointment in South Korea. It's Okay to Not Be Okay It's Okay to Not Be Okay is credited with paving the way for several previously unsuccessful K-dramas on Netflix, transforming them into hits. Featuring Kim Soo Hyun as Moon Gang Tae and Seo Yea Ji as Ko Moon-young, the series sought to bring attention to mental health issues and earned acclaim as a therapeutic K-drama. Despite its international success, the show encountered a substantial setback in South Korea, marked by notably low ratings. Many fans claimed that Kim So Hyuns acting seemed forced. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo Do you like Messi? Ask any K-drama fan and they will instantly name what K-drama we are talking about. As much as this Nam Joo Hyuk and Lee Sung Kungs K-drama resonated with global fans it failed to impress the domestic fans. The synopsis of the show reads, A coming-of-age story about a group of college athletes who are fighting for their dreams, experiencing and finding love in the process, and growing every step of the way. Many South Korean fans found the series unrealistic making it hit the lowest 4.9 rating. Welcome To Waikiki Welcome To Waikiki is a delightful and heartwarming comedy that follows the journey of three friends trying to manage a guest house. While international fans found solace and enjoyment in the series, providing a welcome escape from their daily routines, the reception was not as positive among domestic viewers. The show received a low rating of 1.7, marking it as one of the least favorably ranked K-dramas. Agartala: The Tripura police on Friday arrested three suspected drug peddlers from Dharmanagar. Police said the accused were arrested as they entered the state driving a luxury car, based on specific inputs. (Representative Photo) Upon checking, heroin concealed in a soapbox were found in their possession, said police. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Police intercepted the car as they entered the state and searched it to recover 12 grams of heroin, said Dharmanagar police station officer Mumtaz Hasina. The three traffickers, identified as Sihab Uddin (19), Suman Uddin (22) and Riyazul Uddin (25), are all residents of Patharkandi in Assam, said police. All three were arrested and a case under the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act was charged against them, Hasina said. The war of words between Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi saw a fresh escalation on Sunday. At a press conference in Guwahati on Sunday, Sarma said Gandhi was afraid of even his son. Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma(PTI) "Rahul Gandhi pehle toh mujhse darta tha, ab mere bacche se bhi darna shuru kar diya,"( Earlier, Rahul Gandhi was just afraid of me but now he is also afraid of my son) said Sarma. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Earlier, Gandhi had called Sarma "the most corrupt Chief Minister in the country" while addressing people at a rally during his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Assam's Lakhimpur. "...We say that Assam will not be run from Delhi, it will be run from here. Your (Assam) CM is the most corrupt CM in the country. He can teach other BJP Chief Ministers to do corruption...,'' Gandhi said as quoted by news agency ANI. ALSO READ| PM Modi visits Tamil Nadu's Dhanushkodi, performs 'pranayama', day before Ram temple ceremony in Ayodhya On Saturday, Sarma hit back with a post on social media X, describing Gandhi family as "the most corrupt. The Assam Chief Minister also alleged Gandhi family's role in a number of scams. "Anything abusive that comes from the so-called Gandhi family, I consider it as a blessing. Because this gives me the energy to fight against a family which considers itself to be the most powerful. But I want to ask only one thing , can any one be more corrupt than the Gandhis? - Bofors Scam, National Herald Scam, Bhopal Gas Tragedy, the escape of Anderson, 2G scam, Coal Scam, etc (the list is huge and it goes on & on )," posted Sarma. Talking to reporters on Thursday, the Assam Chief Minister had criticised the ongoing Nyay Yatra by Gandhi, claiming that it's meant for the appeasement of muslims. He even labelled it as "Miya Yatra". Meanwhile, the 6,700 km long yatra being led by Gandhi, which started from Thoubal in strife-torn Manipur will culminate in Mumbai on March 20 after passing through 15 states. Backtracking from its earlier order, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi on Sunday said that the outpatient department will remain open for patients with appointments on January 22. AIIMS Delhi had earlier issued a notice declaring that it would remain closed till 2.30pm on the occasion of the consecration ceremony at Ram temple, barring critical and emergency services. AIIMS Delhi It is notified for information of all the employees that the institute will remain half day closed till 2.30 pm on January 22. All Chiefs of Centres, Heads of the Departments, Units and Branch Officers are requested to bring this to the notice of all staff working under them, it said. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Similar notices were issued by other central government-run hospitals, including Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and Safdarjung Hospital, sparking a huge outcry. Opposition lawmakers hit out at the decision, alleging that Prime Minister Narendra Modis desperation for cameras & PR was being prioritised before people's lives. Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP Saket Gokhale claimed that there are literally people sleeping outside in the cold at AIIMS gates waiting for an appointment. The poor & dying can wait because priority is given to Modis desperation for cameras & PR, Gokhale said. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi in a social media post said, Hello humans. Please dont go into a medical emergency on 22nd , and if you do schedule it for post 2pm since AIIMS Delhi is taking time off to welcome Maryada Purushottam Ram. She added, wonder if Lord Ram would agree that health services are disrupted to welcome him. Hey Ram, Hey Ram! In a new office memorandum, AIIMS Delhi said, In continuation with circular dated January 20 of this office, the outpatient department shall remain open to attend to patients with appointment in order to prevent any inconvenience to them and to facilitate patient care. All critical clinical care services shall remain operational, it added. Reacting to the fresh notice, Chaturvedi said, Where are all those trolling me since yesterday? Glad sense has prevailed and the hospitals are reversing the decision taken yesterday. Tip to all those calling me bhagwan Shri Ram virodhi and Hindu virodhi : Go get some chullu bhar paani and learn what Bhagwan Shri Ram stood for, Cyber crimes are on the rise in the temple town of Ayodhya ahead of the pran-pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol, the police cautioned on Saturday. Ayodhya: A man talks on his phone after hoisting of religious flags on his house ahead of the consecration ceremony of Ram Mandir, in Ayodhya, Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024. (Representational Image/PTI) How thugs exploiting Ram Mandir 'pran pratishtha' ceremony Cybercriminals are exploiting the 'pran-pratishtha' ceremony in Ayodhya to commit fraud. Fake QR codes are being sent to collect donations in the name of the Ram temple, the police said. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Fraudulent activities include distributing fake prasad, offering VIP and entry passes to visit the Ram temple, and creating fake websites in the name of Ram Mandir, Ayodhya. The police advised citizens to avoid responding to requests or WhatsApp messages from unknown individuals without verification. Citizens are warned against making donations without proper verification to prevent falling victim to scams. Follow full coverage: Ayodhya Ram Mandir live Updates Crackdown on fake Ram Mandir prasad The Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) initiated action against e-commerce platform Amazon accusing it of deceptive trade practices related to the sale of sweets disguised as 'Shri Ram Mandir Ayodhya Prasad.' The identified products include Raghupati Ghee Ladoo, Khoya Khobi Ladoo, Ghee Bundi Ladoo, and Desi Cow Milk Peda. The action aligns with the Consumer Protection (e-commerce) Rules, 2020, addressing misleading representations of food products sold online. ALSO READ- How does Ram Mandir look from space? ISRO satellite captures image Devotees should book passes through official site Booking for 'aarti' passes at the Ram Janmabhoomi temple commenced in December ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony scheduled for January 22. Three daily aarti sessions (6:30 am, 12 pm, 7:30 pm) are conducted for Lord Ram Lalla, and passes are issued for devotees. The Pran Pratishtha of the new Ram Lalla idol, set to be performed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is also scheduled for January 22. A team of priests led by Lakshmi Kant Dixit will conduct the rituals. The idol sculpted by Arun Yogiraj was placed inside the temple's Sanctum Santorum. (With inputs from ANI) All 11 convicts in the Bilkis Bano case surrendered late Sunday night at Godhra sub jail in Gujarats Panchmahal district after the Supreme Court denied to extend the deadline. The Supreme Court had on January 8, overturned the release of 11 convicts in the Bilkis Bano case and ordered that they return to prison in two weeks from the date of the order. (Vipin Kumar /HT PHOTO) Also Read: SC dismisses Bilkis Bano case convicts' plea to extend time to surrender Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. All 11 convicts have surrendered before jail authorities late Sunday night, news agency PTI quoted local Crime Branch inspector NL Desai. The day was marked by uncertainty over the surrender of 11 men convicted for the rape of Bilkis Bano and the murder of 14 people during the riots that blanketed Gujarat in 2002 till late on Sunday night, even as the 14 day deadline set by the Supreme Court is set to end at midnight. Also Read: Police closely monitoring 11 Bilkis case convicts ahead of surrender The 11 men received life imprisonment from a Mumbai court in 2008 but were released in August 2022 by the Gujarat police on remission. The Supreme Court had on January 8, overturned their release and ordered that they return to prison in two weeks from the date of the order. Earlier this week, the convicts had also petitioned the apex court seeking more time to surrender, citing various reasons. But on January 19, a bench of justices BV Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan said that the court had already granted a two-week surrender period. Also Read: Why Bilkis Bano remission verdict makes crucial legal points We gave you enough time to arrange your affairs. The reasons cited by the applicants for postponement of surrender and report back to jail have no merit as these reasons do not prevent them from complying with our direction of January 8, it said. Earlier in the day, Godhra superintendent of police (SP) Himanshu Solanki confirmed the deployment of a police force outside the Godhra sub-jail to ensure the enforcement of law and order in anticipation of their surrender. We received information from jail authorities indicating that the convicted individuals were to surrender on Sunday. As a result, the police force has been arranged to maintain order during the surrender process. As of now, the convicts have not yet surrendered, Solanki said. Silchar: The Congress on Saturday claimed that the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, led by party leader Rahul Gandhi has been denied permission to pass through Guwahati as Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was creating difficulties for it. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra (PTI Photo) Sarma had asked the Congress to avoid entering Guwahati with the Yatra and warned of legal actions. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Addressing a press conference at Gobindapur in Lakhimpur district on Saturday, Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said that the police maintained that the request was under consideration. We applied for permissions with proper routes but the government authorities are asking irrelevant questions. Their aim is to stop us anyway, Ramesh said. We would like to request the Assam Government to allow us to travel through the same route used for BJP President JP Nadda during his recent visit to Guwahati, he added. After three days in Assam, the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra on Saturday entered Arunachal Pradesh. It will resume its Assam leg on Sunday and travel through the state till January 25. Also Read: Most corrupt CM, says Rahul Gandhi in Assam; Himanta Biswa Sarma hits back On Saturday, the Congress alleged that the vehicles taking part in the Yatra in Assam were attacked and banners were torn in North Lakhimpur. No other Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled states in the country created problems like the Assam government, the party said. The party claimed that on the day when the Yatra entered Assam on January 18, a first information report (FIR) was lodged in the Jorhat district against the Yatra and its chief organiser. Senior Congress leader from Assam and the leader of Opposition in Assam assembly, Debabrata Saikia, told HT on Saturday that they applied for the concerned permission on January 12 and January 19, respectively. I discussed with top cops in Assam and detailed our routes. Tomorrow I will meet them again and will tell them that we are not violating any rules, Saikia said. Ramesh said that last year Gandhi organised the Yatra from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and they travelled through four BJP-ruled states but the state governments did not create problems like Assam and added that the Yatra will enter Guwahati on January 23 and Gandhi will meet the youths and will interact with the local journalists there. Assam chief minister on January 18 said that there are government medical colleges and private hospitals in Guwahati. The state government will not allow anyone to create problems for the patients and if anyone violates the rules, they will take legal action. Also Read: Congress claims BJP vandalises Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra banners in Assam Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi on Saturday said the Assam government is threatening common people and not allowing them in Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. They are calling the women in the name of distribution of some cards and blocking them in rooms for hours, petrol pumps are not providing us fuel, local businessmen have told us that the BJP cadres have warned them not to join our Yatra, Gogoi said. The party shared a video on social media where some youths can be seen vandalising posters of their Yatra. Taking to X, Congres wrote, Last night, BJYM (BJP Yuva Morcha) orchestrated the vandalism of Youth Congress-affiliated vehicles. In response, Congress is planning to file a robust police complaint, urging swift action to apprehend the miscreants aligned with the BJP. The call for justice echoes loud and clear. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also condemned this alleged act and wrote, In the last 10 years, BJP has attempted to trample and demolish every right and justice guaranteed by the Constitution to the people of India. Congress Party will not be cowed down by this tactic of attack and intimidation employed by the BJP Government in Assam, which is responsible for this. Meanehile, Gandhis Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra on Saturday evening entered Arunachal Pradesh. Gandhi said that his late father, former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, gave Arunachal Pradesh its statehood in 1987 but the BJP is giving the people of the state unemployment, price rise and pressure of GST. Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday appealed to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who is in the northeastern state for his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, not to visit Batadrava Satra, the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva on the day of pran-pratishtha (consecration ceremony) of Lord Ram Lalla in Ayodhya. Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma(ANI) ''We will request Rahul Gandhi not to visit Batadrava on Monday during the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple as it will reflect Assam in the wrong light,'' news agency PTI quoted Sarma who was addressing a press conference in Guwahati. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Citing the reason that there can be no competition between Lord Ram and the medieval-age Vaishnav saint, the chief minister further said that the Congress leader could visit the shrine after the pran-pratishtha ceremony is over without creating unnecessary competition, which would be sad for Assam'. Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to visit and offer prayers at the Batadrava Satra on Monday when Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be presiding over the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony in Ayodhya. Srimanta Sankardeva, an Assamese saint-scholar, social-religious reformer, poet, playwright, is revered as an icon and a towering figure in the cultural and religious history of Assam. On the grand old party's yatra route and security, Sarma said that several commandos and security officials would be deployed along sensitive routes of minority-populous regions in the state. For Monday, the party has chosen a route through sensitive areas of Morigaon, Jagiroad and Nellie which could have been avoided, the chief minister said. ''These areas are sensitive and I cannot discount any law and order situation arising and as such commandos will be deployed along sensitive routes of minority-dominated areas to be taken by Rahul Gandhi's Yatra on January 22,'' he said. District Commissioners and Superintendents of Police of these areas have been directed to increase patrolling and maintain a strict vigil, Sarma added. Meanwhile, Sarma has declared a holiday on Monday for all educational institutions, including government schools, colleges, and universities, on the occasion of the pran-pratishtha ceremony. He also urged the private educational institutions to remain closed tomorrow. Additionally, he announced the dry day and closure of wine shops for the entire day and the closure of meat, fish shops, and markets till 4pm tomorrow. Meanwhile, the temple town is fully prepared for tomorrow's pran-pratishtha ceremony. Several events and rituals have been lined up for the consecration ceremony including a musical event titled Mangal Dhwani. PM Modi will attend the inauguration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. He will perform the rituals in the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram Temple at around 12.30 pm. The seven-day rituals that started on January 16 will be completed tomorrow with the consecration of Lord Ram Lalla in the temple. Chief priest of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra said the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram will be completed by 12:30 pm and the devotees can be able to have a 'darshan' from January 23. Standing on 2.7 acres of land in the temple town, the Ram Mandir is constructed in the traditional Nagara style as a three-storied shrine, measuring 380 feet in length (east-west direction), 250 feet in width, and 161 feet in height. It has a total of 392 pillars and 44 doors. It features five Mandaps (halls) -- Nritya Mandap, Rang Mandap, Sabha Mandap, Prarthna and Kirtan Mandap. (With inputs from agencies) The management of Assam's Batadrava Than, the shrine where Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is slated to visit tomorrow, has said that the MP will be allowed to enter after Ayodhya Ram Temple's consecration ceremony, ANI reported. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during his ongoing 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra'.. (X/Congress) The management committee said that it is expecting many devotees to come to the shrine because of the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Tomorrow is the Pranpratishtha of Ram Temple and many devotees will come to the Than, the management committee said. "Apart from this, many programmes have been organised outside the Than premises where thousands of devotees will gather. For that reason, Rahul Gandhi's visit programme will be after 3 pm and it has been decided in the meeting." Jogendra Narayan Dev Mahanta, the President of Batadrava Than management committee around 10,000 people are expected to gather at the shrine tomorrow. At that time we do not want Rahul Gandhi to come here, because there may be some difficulties in the process of welcoming him, he said. "He can come tomorrow after 3 pm and we will be able to give him a grand welcome. We have already informed the local MLA, District Commissioner and SP." Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to visit and offer prayers at the Batadrava Satra, the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva, on Monday when Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be presiding over the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony in Ayodhya. Srimanta Sankardeva, an Assamese saint-scholar, social-religious reformer, poet, playwright, is revered as an icon and a towering figure in the cultural and religious history of Assam. Earlier today, Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma urged Gandhi, who is in the northeastern state for his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, not to visit Batadrava Than. ''We will request Rahul Gandhi not to visit Batadrava on Monday during the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple as it will reflect Assam in the wrong light,'' Sarma said. Citing the reason that there can be no competition between Lord Ram and the medieval-age Vaishnav saint, the chief minister further said that the Congress leader could visit the shrine after the consecration ceremony is over, without creating unnecessary competition, which would be sad for Assam'. Meanwhile, the Congress has asserted that Gandhi's visit will proceed as scheduled. All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary Jairam Ramesh maintained that Gandhi will visit the Than in Assam's Nagaon district as planned and urged that no politics should be done over it, according to ANI. He said Gandhi will visit the Than on Monday morning and then commence the day's Yatra, during which he will travel through Morigaon district before entering neighbouring Meghalaya. On Saturday, the Congress alleged that the vehicles taking part in the Yatra in Assam were attacked and banners were torn in North Lakhimpur. The party blamed Assam CM for creating difficulties in their Yatra. Vietnamese Ambassador to Romania Do Duc Thanh (Photo: VNA) The visit at the beginning of a new year, made at an invitation of PM Ion-Marcel Ciolacu, will create a new driving force to promote cooperation between the two countries in many fields, the ambassador told the Vietnam News Agency. During his trip, Chinh will discuss with his counterpart and other leaders of Romania measures to boost bilateral cooperation, especially in fields deemed to have potential for collaboration, and step up the exchange of all-level delegations, effectively implement agreements reached at the 17th meeting of the inter-governmental committee on economic cooperation in Hanoi last November, and promote trade and investment partnership in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, production of medical equipment, and energy. PM Chinh will attend the Vietnam-Romania Business Forum with his Romanian counterpart, meet the business community, witness the signing of cooperation documents, visit several economic establishments, schools and research institutes, and meet some Romanian friends and the Vietnamese community there. The ambassador said that over the past 74 years, political and diplomatic relations between the two countries have been continuously enhanced through high-level visits of the two countries leaders, as well as recent high-level meetings between Romanian President Klaus Werner Iohannis and PM Chinh on the occasion of attending the High-Level Meeting of the UN General Assembly in September 2023, and the EU-ASEAN Commemorative Summit in December 2022. Trade cooperation has developed remarkably in recent years, with two-way trade turnover increasing from 261 million USD in 2019 to 425 million USD in 2022. Romania is a traditional partner of Vietnam in Southeast Europe and a gateway for Vietnam to penetrate the markets of EU countries and the Western Balkans. Romania is also one of the first countries to ratify both the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA), Thanh said. He advised businesses from both countries to be well prepared to take advantage of opportunities brought about by tariff reductions according to the roadmap set out by EVFTA./. Jan 21, 2024 8:21 PM IST Ram Mandir LIVE: Ayodhya-based homoeopathy doctor Dr Indroneel Banerjee told PTI, It is such a moment for the people of Ayodhya which can never be forgotten. The people here have waited for this day for the past few generations. Ayodhya has the potential to become the spiritual capital of the country. After being sidelined for years together, I think Ayodhya's time has come. Having been overlooked by successive governments, the people of Ayodhya have seen difficult days. Now, it is our time under the Sun right now. Another resident, Prajjwal Singh, said, "We are standing on the threshold of history. We are eager to be an integral part of the 'Pran Pratishtha' celebrations of Ram Lalla. It is certainly a historic moment for us and for our generation, as we have seen our ancestors facing hardships. The tears, sweat, toil and the sacrifices they have made are being reaped by us today." The grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya is a well-thought-out, scientifically executed and marvellous projection of Indian traditional heritage. It was designed by celebrated architect Chandrakant B Sompura, with the help of his son Ashish, and incorporated his vision, which he outlined 30 years back. Ram temple in Ayodhya has been decked up for Pran Pratishtha ceremony on Jan 22. (Sourced) Standing on 2.7 acres of land in the temple town, the temple is 161 feet tall, 235 feet wide, and has a total length of 360 feet. It has been constructed in one of the two distinguishing temple-building styles from ancient India Nagara following all the Vedic rituals with an amalgamation of modern technology. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Features of the temple The built-up area of the temple is nearly 57,000 square feet and is a three-floor structure. It stands on a raised plinth, with the most sacred part of the temple called garbha griha or the sanctum sanctorum, towered over by the tallest shikhara or the mountain peak on the third floor. A total of five such shikharas are constructed over five mandapas. It also has 300 pillars across the mandapas, and 44 teak doors have been installed. Nearly two lakh bricks inscribed with Lord Ram's name in different languages and collected over 30 years are being integrated into the temple. The insides of the sanctum sanctorum were decorated using Makrana marble, the same stone used to build the Taj Mahal. No steel or iron was used During the Gupta Period, from where the Nagara style emerged, the use of iron or steel was not prevalent in the construction of temples. The durability of iron is roughly 80-90 years. The temple is built using granite, sandstone, and marble with a lock and key mechanism, which ensures a lifespan of up to 1,000 years. Notably, no cement or mortar has also been utilised in its construction. The area was first excavated to a depth of 15 metres, and 47 layers of engineered soil were laid to make a solid base. A 1.5-metre thick M-35 grade concrete raft was laid, and a 6.3-metre thick plinth of solid granite stone was placed on top to make it sturdy. Science juxtaposing tradition Few top Indian scientists have contributed to making the iconic Ram Temple. ISRO technologies have also been used in the construction. Pradeep Kumar Ramancharla, the director of the Central Building Research Institute (CBRI), has been actively associated with the project. A special Surya Tilak mirror, a lens-based apparatus, was designed by a team of scientists from CBRI and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA). It will be used for a ceremonial anointment of Lord Ram on every Ram Navami day at noon with the sunlight on the idol's forehead. National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Sunday lauded former Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru over the creation of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). National Conference president Farooq Abdullah.(File) Abuddlah said that if Chandrayaan India's mission to the moon has made a soft landing on the lunar surface it is due to Nehru. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. ...Today Chandrayaan is there (on the moon) because of Jawaharlal Nehru, who created the (ISRO) organization, Abdullah said. Chandrayaan 3, Indias third lunar mission, blasted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on July 14 last year. After about a month, the Vikram lander with the Pragyan Rover successfully landed on the moon on August 23. This made India the first country in the world to land near the lunar South Pole and the fourth country to have a controlled lunar landing. In his Sunday speech, Abdullah also remembered Nehru's relations with his father Sheikh Abdullah, saying: "Jawaharlal Nehru put my father in jail for 13 years but I did not say that he did anything wrong. I say that his perspective would be different. I never said that Jawaharlal Nehru did not do anything...We used to beg, don't forget that..." Also Read | Farooq Abdullah furious over Ram temple pran-pratishtha ceremony invitation The former chief minister also said that the Opposition's INDIA bloc should come together to save the country. ""...The INDIA alliance will bring change if people try to understand us. As leaders, we should come together to save India. We need to have big hearts," Abdullah said. Give seats to those who can win in their respective areas. India cannot be run alone; we have to run it together...We need to win the hearts of the people... He also spoke on the consecration ceremony at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and criticised the BJP of politicising it. Is Ram the god of only Hindus, RSS, and BJP? Is Ram present only in Ayodhya? And to go there, do you need an invitation? he asked. Lord Ram belongs to everyone. There are Ram temples everywhere including in Jammu and Kashmir. He further said: "Lord Ram resides in our heart, in every particle, but we are not able to recognize him. If we had recognized, there would have been no hatred. Mahatma Gandhi said 'Ram Raj', which meant equality. There are 70% Hindus in our country, are they in danger? But it was made to believe that they were in danger..." Sarma said that commandos will be deployed along sensitive routes of minority-dominated areas to be taken by Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra on January 22, the day of the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. HT Image ''We will request Rahul Gandhi not to visit Batadrava on Monday during the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple as it will reflect Assam in the wrong light,'' the chief minister said at a press conference here. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. He can go after the consecration ceremony without creating unnecessary competition which will be sad for Assam'', he said. Srimanta Sankardeva is an Assamese saint-scholar, social-religious reformer, poet, playwright and a towering figure in the cultural and religious history of Assam from the 15th-16th century. For Monday, the Congress has chosen a route through sensitive areas of Morigaon, Jagiroad and Nellie which could have been avoided, the chief minister said. ''These areas are sensitive and I cannot discount any law and order situation arising and as such commandos will be deployed along sensitive routes of minority-dominated areas to be taken by Rahul Gandhi's Yatra on January 22,'' he said. District Commissioners and Superintendents of Police of these areas have been directed to increase patrolling and maintain a strict vigil, Sarma added. New Delhi: Dense to very dense fog and cold to severe cold day conditions are likely to continue to prevail over north India for the next four to five days, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said on Sunday. On Sunday, the Delhi-NCR region experienced a slight improvement in weather conditions as dense fog dissipated (Representative Photo) Cold wave conditions are likely to prevail over Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh and north Rajasthan for the next three to four days, it warned. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. On Sunday, the Delhi-NCR region experienced a slight improvement in weather conditions as dense fog dissipated. There was marginal relief with longer hours of sunshine. But strong jet stream winds at the upper levels are continuing to cause subsidence of cold air over the region, IMD said on Sunday. Jet stream winds of the order of 250 to 300 kmph at 12.6 km above mean sea level are prevailing over the plains of North India, it said. Officials at IMD said that a strong western disturbance (WD) is expected to impact the Western Himalayan region on January 26 but it is too early to say whether it will be intense enough to disrupt the fog and severe cold spell over the northern plains. For the past few days, there is some sunshine but that is for a very limited period. Dense fog is continuing to impact northwest India during the morning hours at least till 9.30-10am. These conditions will continue for a few days. Only a marginal relief is expected, said M Mohapatra, director general, IMD. Also Read: Cold spell lifts slightly, 11 trains delayed by fog A western disturbance is approaching and is likely to impact the Western Himalayan region from January 26. But the impact may be limited to higher elevations and may not penetrate the plains, added Mohapatra. Minimum temperatures are in the range of 3-7 degrees Celsius over most parts of Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi, West Uttar Pradesh and some parts of Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. These are below normal by 2-4 degrees Celsius, IMD informed. The minimum temperature in many parts of East Uttar Pradesh and Bihar was 8-10 degrees Celsius. On Sunday, the lowest minimum temperature of 2.8 degrees Celsius was reported at Hissar (Haryana). Cold wave to severe cold wave conditions prevailed in isolated pockets of Rajasthan. Cold wave conditions prevailed in isolated pockets of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, and Haryana. Moreover, parts of Punjab, Haryana-Chandigarh-Delhi, including isolated pockets of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan & Madhya Pradesh, parts of Uttarakhand, a few pockets of Jammu division, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Odisha, Assam and Tripura observed dense to very dense fog. On Saturday, cold to severe cold day conditions prevailed in many parts of East Uttar Pradesh, in some parts of Punjab, West Uttar Pradesh & East Madhya Pradesh, in isolated pockets of Uttarakhand and Haryana, in isolated pockets of Rajasthan, West Madhya Pradesh and Bihar. The IMD has issued a red category warning for the entire Indo-Gangetic Plain states, including Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Punjab. It has issued an orange category warning over Rajasthan, parts of Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh for fog and cold. Red category warning implies that agencies need to act to prevent extreme weather-related disasters while orange category warning implies agencies need to be prepared for extreme weather. Cold wave conditions are very likely in isolated pockets of Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh from January 21 to 25, and over north Rajasthan from January 21 to 23, the IMD said. Ground frost conditions are very likely at isolated places over Uttarakhand on January 21 and 22. Also Read: Experts blame lack of strong western disturbances for fog This severe weather over north India primarily owes to the lack of any western disturbances over northwest India during December and January. Generally, 5-7 WDs impact northwest India from December to January. But this winter, no such WD has been impacted, IMD officials said, adding that there was about 80% rainfall deficiency in December and no rain or snow was recorded in January. The lack of active WDs can also be attributed to El Nino conditions over the equatorial Pacific, the IMD said, Strong jet stream winds with speed of about 250 to 320 kmph at about 12 km above sea level have been causing subsidence of cold air and enhancing both the chill both at night and during the day. Such cold conditions are likely to continue for five more days due to strong jet stream winds, the IMD added. HT had reported on January 17 that dense fog and low clouds over the Himalayan foothills and the entire Gangetic plains till the Bay of Bengal have persisted because of high moisture content in the upper atmosphere and lack of strong western disturbances, compounded by heavy particulate pollution and cold day temperatures. A cold wave is declared when the minimum temperature is less than 10 degrees Celcius over plains and 4.5-6.4 degrees Celcius below normal. A severe cold wave is declared when the minimum temperature is over 6.5 degrees Celcius below normal or the actual minimum temperature is less than two degrees Celcius. A cold day is declared when the maximum temperature is less than 10 degrees Celcius over plains and is 4.5-6.4 degrees Celcius below normal and a severe cold day is declared when the maximum temperature is 6.5 degrees Celcius below normal. The Congress on Sunday claimed that its vehicles were attacked and media persons accompanying the party's 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' were "manhandled" by a BJP crowd in Assam's Sonitpur districts. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said that his vehicle was attacked at Jumugurihat in Sunitpur.(X) Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said that his vehicle was attacked at Jumugurihat in Sunitpur by an unruly BJP crowd who also tore off the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra stickers from the windshield. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. My vehicle was attacked a few minutes ago at Jumugurihat, Sunitpur by an unruly BJP crowd who also tore off the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra stickers from the windshield. They threw water and shouted anti-BJNY slogans, Ramesh wrote on X. But we kept our composure, waved to the hooligans and sped away. Jairam also accused Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma of being behind the attack. This is undoubtedly the Assam CM Himanta Biswa's doing. We are not intimidated and will soldier on, he added. Congress leader Supriya Shrinate alleged that the crowd attacked a party's cameraman and other members of the social media team, including 2 women, in Jumgurihat. These goons also tore the sticker of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra from the car of General Secretary Jairam Ramesh and threw water on it, she wrote on X. She also accused the Assam CM of being behind the attack. Himanta, stop these fox-like maneuvers and let Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra continue - you and your goons cannot stop it, she added. All India Congress Committee (AICC) communications coordinator Mahima Singh told PTI that they informed the police and the additional superintendent of police is at the location now. "The camera, badge and other apparatus of a vlogger who has been covering the Yatra were snatched. Members of the social media team of the party were also manhandled", she said. Further, Singh added that a BJP event was apparently happening in the area and some of the media persons had got off their vehicles to get some visuals. "They created a very intimidating situation for us. They have refused to return the camera of the vlogger, claiming that it was not snatched," she added, according to PTI. A first information report (FIR) has been registered against three people in Telangana's Rachakonda for organising the screening of the documentary Ram Ke Naam in a restaurant, ANI reported on Sunday. Security personnel walk past a poster of Lord Ram, ahead of the consecration ceremony of Ram Mandir, in Ayodhya, on January 20.(PTI) The FIR has been registered at Neredmet Police Station. The three persons are booked under Section 290 (punishment for public nuisance), 295-A (deliberate and malicious acts intended to outrage religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs), and 34 (common intention) of the Indian Penal Code. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. According to ANI, the FIR was filed based on a complainant, who alleged that the screening of the documentary was held to create communal tensions ahead of the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22. "...they intentionally organized this event to create communal issues before the Ram Mandhir event," the complainant said, according to the agency. Also Read | Man claiming to be close aide of Dawood Ibrahim threatens to blow Ram Temple, arrested Meanwhile, All-India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) Asaduddin Owaisi alleged that the screening of the documentary was stopped midway and three people were arrested. How is screening an award-winning documentary a crime? If it is, then the Government of India & Filmfare should also be jailed for awarding the movie, Owaisi wrote in on X, previously known as Twitter. He further added: Please let us know if we need a pre-screening certificate from police before watching a movie. Ram Ke Naam, or In the Name of God, is a 1992 documentary about the campaign for a temple at the site of the Babri Masjid in Ayodhya, and the communal violence the dispute triggered. Ram Temple consecration ceremony The consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya is scheduled to be held on January 22. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat will also share the dais with several other dignitaries. Follow full coverage of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir opening ceremony Devotees during the performance of daily puja, 'havan' and 'parayana' in the pavilion ahead of the consecration ceremony of Ram Temple, in Ayodhya.(PTI) Mangal Dhwani, 14 couples' hosting: Events for Jan 22 Ram temple opening Several events and rituals have been lined up for the consecration ceremony. As many as 8,000 guests are going to participate in the ceremony....read more More than 7,000 people have been invited to the ceremony by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust. Also Read | What will happen to old Ram Lalla? All you need to know about 4 idols in Ram Temple Lakshmi Kant Dixit, a priest from Varanasi, will perform the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at 12.20 pm. The ceremony is expected to conclude by 1 pm. The idol of Ram Lalla, sculpted by Mysore-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj, has been selected for installation. The seven-day rituals of the consecration ceremony began on Tuesday. The rituals include various forms of puja. The deity of Ram Lalla will get a divine bath with 125 urns on January 21. After the January 22 event, the Ram temple will be opened to devotees. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists from across India are expected to visit the temple every day. Leaders of opposition parties have questioned the Centre after all four central government-run hospitals, including AIIMS, Safdarjung and Ram Manohar Lohia hospitals, in New Delhi decided to remain closed till 2.30pm on January 22, on the occasion of the 'pran-pratishtha' or consecration ceremony at Ram temple in Ayodhya, barring critical and emergency services which will be functional. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi. According to an official notice by the All Indian Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi, the central government has declared January 22 as a half-day holiday till 2.30pm. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. It is notified for information of all the employees that the institute will remain half day closed till 2.30 pm on January 22. All Chiefs of Centres, Heads of the Departments, Units and Branch Officers are requested to bring this to the notice of all staff working under them, it said. Follow Ayodhya Ram Mandir LIVE Updates "...all critical clinical services shall remain functional," it said. Reacting to the notification, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi, on social media X (formally Twitter), said, Hello humans. Please dont go into a medical emergency on 22nd , and if you do schedule it for post 2pm since AIIMS Delhi is taking time off to welcome Maryada Purushottam Ram. She added, wonder if Lord Ram would agree that health services are disrupted to welcome him. Hey Ram, Hey Ram! Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital also said its OPD, lab services and routine services will remain closed till 2.30pm on the day of the consecration ceremony at Ram temple in Ayodhya. These hospitals have, however, clarified that critical care and emergency services will be available. Chaturvedi, in another post, said, RML joins the list. All those who say whats the big deal, I request youll to visit the OPDs and emergency services offered by these hospitals& how people from far flung towns queue up for days, not merely a few hours for getting their advise/treatment. An AIIMS official reportedly said all appointments are being rescheduled and critical clinical services will remain functional. If any patients come, we will try to accommodate them. Evening OPDs will be functioning, news agency PTI quoted the official as saying. Trinamool Congress Rajya Sabha MP Saket Gokhale claimed that there is literally people sleeping outside in the cold at AIIMS gates waiting for an appointment. The poor & dying can wait because priority is given to Modis desperation for cameras & PR, Gokhale said. Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed also reacted sharply to the decision. It is beyond belief that the lives of patients are being put in danger, just because @narendramodi wants uninterrupted coverage of his political event, she wrote in a post on X. According to a circular by Safdarjung Hospital, the registration timing of OPD services on January 22 will be between 8am and 10am. All registered patients should be attended to. Lab Services / Radiological Services will be available till 11:30 am. Pharmacy services will be running till noon, Safdarjung Hospital said. The circular added that all elective operation theatres will remain closed. "Department of Personnel & Training, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievance and Pensions on January 18 has declared a half-day closing (till 2.30 pm) on account of the Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha in Ayodhya for all Central Government Offices, it said. Meanwhile, a circular by the Lady Hardinge Hospital said, "The Outpatient Department of the Hospitals shall function on Monday with patient registration from 8-10 am and all registered patients should be attended to." Guwahati: The ongoing bitter verbal exchange between Himanta Biswa Sarma and Rahul Gandhi intensified on Sunday, with the latter calling the Assam chief minister's entire family corrupt. The attack came hours after Sarma said the Congress stalwart was even scared of his son. Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.(ANI file photo ) "The entire country and Assam know that your chief minister (CM Himanta Biswa Sarma) and his entire family are the most corrupt people," Gandhi said, while addressing a gathering in Assam. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Rahul Gandhi's Nyay Yatra returned to Assam on Sunday after spending a day in Arunachal Pradesh. Addressing a press conference in Guwahati on Sunday morning, Sarma taunted Gandhi. "Rahul Gandhi pehle toh mujhse darta tha, ab mere bacche se bhi darna shuru kar diya,"( Earlier, Rahul Gandhi was just afraid of me but now he is also afraid of my child as well)," he said. Last week, during a rally in Assam's Lakhimpur, Gandhi had called Sarma the most corrupt chief minister of the country. Also read: On Ram Temple, Himanta Biswa Sarma's 'unnecessary competition' advice to Rahul Gandhi "...We say that Assam will not be run from Delhi, it will be run from here. Your (Assam) CM is the most corrupt CM in the country. He can teach other BJP Chief Ministers to do corruption...,'' Gandhi said as quoted by news agency ANI. Returning the barb, Sarma had said described the Gandhi family "the most corrupt". On Thursday, Sarma said the Congress party's political procession was aimed at appeasing Muslims. Today, Himanta Biswa Sarma advised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to avoid visiting the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva at Batadrava on January 22 as it would create unnecessary competition. Sarma was a Congress stalwart in the northeast. However, in 2015, he switched over to the BJP. He is credited with making the BJP a force to reckon with in the northeastern state. With inputs from ANI Two Kundan Lals, one of the Capitals most famous restaurants and a luscious tomato gravy --- a lawsuit filed in Delhi high court has all the ingredients of a juicy legal battle that could settle a crucial culinary question: Who invented butter chicken? The owners of Moti Mahal have sued rival Indian cuisine restaurant Daryaganj for claiming it was their ancestor that invented the butter chicken and dal makhani. (Shutterstock) The owners of Moti Mahal have sued rival Indian cuisine restaurant Daryaganj for claiming it was their ancestor that invented the butter chicken and dal makhani, prompting the Delhi high court to seek the latters response in a notice issued on January 16. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Moti Mahal is run by the descendants of Kundan Lal Gujral and Daryaganj by that of Kundan Lal Jaggi. The two Kundan Lals, along with a third friend of theirs from Peshawar, together ran the Moti Mahal restaurant in Daryaganj in the Capitals Old Delhi area after moving from Peshawar, where the restaurant first was set up. The restaurant is considered the birthplace of butter chicken and its vegetarian cousin dal makhani. In the lawsuit filed through senior advocate Sandeep Sethi, Rupa Gujral, the daughter of Kundan Lal Gujral, and her son Monish Gujral, have sought the owners of Daryaganj to be ordered to stop claiming they invented the two dishes, and be restrained from making the claim that Gujral was merely the face of the restaurant responsible for front end management while Jaggi was the chef who came up with the recipes. The plaintiffs predecessor, late Mr Kundan Gujral is popularly known as the inventor of tandoori chicken, butter chicken and dal makhani. In addition to this, late chef Kundan Lal Gujral, also invented dal makhani. The invention of dal makhani is closely linked with the invention of butter chicken. He applied the same recipe with black lentils and gave birth to dal makhani around the same time, read the suit. The Gujrals in the suit sought 2 crore as damages from Daryaganj while stating that the restaurant is attempting to mislead people into believing there is a relation between both by making claims on their website and other promotional material. The alleged misuse, the lawsuit has claimed, not only has the likelihood of diluting the brands distinctive character but also erodes its reputation and goodwill. By adopting the impugned name DARYAGANJ for the restaurants in question and applying for registration of the impugned marks as mentioned above, the defendant are attempting to create an association/ connection/ nexus with the plaintiffs predecessor late Mr Kundan Lal Gujrals first Moti Mahal restaurant in Daryaganj. The said defendants are attempting to mislead the consuming public into believing that their restaurants under the impugned name are in some manner connected with the plaintiffs predecessors first Moti Mahal restaurant in Daryaganj, when in fact no such connection or association exists, read the suit. Rupa Gujrals case has also sought that videos of interviews given by the owners of Daryaganj in the media, including in the show Shark Tank where the latter made investment pitches, be removed for claiming that Jaggi was the inventor. While Daryaganj is yet to file its response, the restaurant, appearing through senior advocate Amit Sibal, submitted that the first Moti Mahal was established jointly by predecessors of both parties (Gujral of Moti Mahal and Jaggi of Daryaganj) in Peshawar. The counsel also submitted that they have not engaged in any false representation and the allegations are baseless and lack a cause of action. To demonstrate what he said was goodwill and to foster a spirit of cooperation between the parties, Daryaganjs counsel undertook to remove the photo of Moti Mahals restaurant in Peshawar from its website. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh speaks about Vietnam's policy at the National Public Service University in Budapest on January 19 (Photo: VNA) The PM expressed his impressions about the heroic traditions of Hungary in national defence and construction as well as the countrys important contributions to the world in terms of knowledge, science and the art. Assessing the current world situation, he stressed that many big problems have arisen, such as aging population, climate change and diseases, which have global significance that calls for a global approach which takes people as the centre, the subject and the target. Chinh also expressed his view that resources originate in thinking, motivation has its origin in reform and strength has its root in the people. He highlighted the overall goals, major orientations, cornerstone viewpoints and precious experiences of Vietnam in its cause of national construction and the great achievements after nearly 40 years implementing Doi Moi (renewal) of the country, particularly those in external relations and international integration. The Government leader said Vietnam is building a law-governed socialist state, a socialist democracy and a socialist-oriented market economy. It pursues the goal of an independent, self-reliant economy that actively and proactively engages in international integration, while building an advanced culture imbued with national characteristics. Vietnam follows a consistent external policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation and development, diversification and multilateralisation of relations, active and proactive integration, and being a friend, a reliable partner and an active and responsible member of the international community, he said. Chinh also stressed that Vietnam is persistent in a defence policy of four nos, noting that Vietnam treasures and advocates peace but is always prepared for the possibility of war. At the same time, the PM said as developing country with a modest-size but open economy, Vietnam is still facing numerous difficulties and challenges. Vietnam will continue to persistently follow Marxism-Leninism and Ho Chi Minh Thought and apply those ideologies in a creative manner based on the conditions in the country and the world, he said. He shared the five valuable experiences of Vietnam in the process of struggling for national independence and safeguarding and developing the country, with staying firmly with the path of national independence and socialism as one of them. Besides, it is the people who make history and the revolutionary cause is the cause of the people, by the people and for the people. Furthermore, solidarity brings power, and the national power should be combined with the power of the era, internal strength should be combined with external strength. Meanwhile, the sound leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam is the decisive factor behind all successes of the Vietnamese revolution. According to the PM, one of the key reasons behind Vietnams achievements is the support from international friends, including Hungary, which is a traditional friend and the first comprehensive partner of Vietnam in the Central Eastern Europe region (in 2018). Looking back at the relationship between the country, PM Chinh underlined that Hungary has always been beside Vietnam in difficult times. Most recently, Hungary was among the first countries to help Vietnam with vaccines and medical supplies during the COVID-19 outbreaks. He went on to note that Hungary also actively supported Vietnam during the negotiations for the signing of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and was the first EU member to ratify the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA). Hungary grants the largest number of scholarships for Vietnamese students and the largest amount of ODA for Vietnam in the Central and Eastern Europe region, Chinh said. He suggested that ministries and agencies of Vietnam and Hungary continue to facilitate and promote connectivity between young generations of the two countries and exchanges between the two peoples, thus further strengthening the friendship and comprehensive partnership of the two countries. On the occasion, PM Chinh witnessed the exchange of nine cooperative documents in the education-training field./. The Bihar Police have arrested a 21-year-old man from Araria district for calling up the police and threatening to blow up the Ram temple in Ayodhya on January 22, PTI reported on Sunday. A view of the main entrance of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 21.(Deepak Gupta/ Hindustan Times) Superintendent of Police of Araria Ashok Kumar Singh said the caller has been identified as Intekhab Alam. He was arrested from his home at Balua Kaliyaganj in the Palasi police station area late on Saturday. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. "The man had on January 19 dialed 112, the number on which citizens can seek emergency help. He claimed his name was Chhota Shakeel and that he was a close aide of Dawood Ibrahim, Singh told PTI. "Alam said over phone that he would blow up the Ram temple in Ayodhya on January 22... he does not have a criminal record, but seems to be mentally unstable, the SP added. The senior police officer further added that in view of the "sensitivity of the issue, a case has been registered at the Palasi police station. His mobile phone has also been seized by police. As soon as the call was received, details were shared with the cyber cell. The mobile number from which he had made the call was found to be registered in the name of his father, Singh added. Ram Temple consecration ceremony The consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya is scheduled to be held on January 22. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla. Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat will also share the dais with several other dignitaries. More than 7,000 people have been invited to the ceremony by the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra trust. Also Read | What will happen to old Ram Lalla? All you need to know about 4 idols in Ram Temple Lakshmi Kant Dixit, a priest from Varanasi, will perform the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at 12.20 pm. The ceremony is expected to conclude by 1 pm. The idol of Ram Lalla, sculpted by Mysore-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj, has been selected for installation. The seven-day rituals of the consecration ceremony began on Tuesday. The rituals include various forms of puja. The deity of Ram Lalla will get a divine bath with 125 urns on January 21. After the January 22 event, the Ram temple will be opened to devotees. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists from across India are expected to visit the temple every day. Ayodhya is fully prepared for the upcoming 'Pran Prathishtha' ceremony. The flyover and streetlights have been decked up with beautiful artwork depicting Lord Ram, which includes cutouts of his iconic bow and arrow. The ornamental lamp posts have also been designed with traditional 'Ramanandi tilak' motifs. Devotees during the performance of daily puja, 'havan' and 'parayana' in the pavilion ahead of the consecration ceremony of Ram Temple, in Ayodhya.(PTI) Several events and rituals have been lined up for the consecration ceremony, which will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and will inaugurate the grand Ram Temple. As many as 8,000 guests are going to participate in the ceremony. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Pran Pratishtha to complete by 12:30 pm The seven-day rituals that started on January 16 will be completed tomorrow with the consecration of Lord Ram in the temple. Chief priest of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra said the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram will be completed by 12:30 pm and the devotees can be able to have a 'darshan' after that. 14 couples as mukhya yajmans for consecration 14 couples have been invited from the north, east, west, south and northeast parts of India to participate as mukhya yajmans during the January 22 Ram Temple consecration ceremony. The list contains names of Ramchandra Kharadi from Udaipur; Ram Kui Jemi from Assam; Gurucharan Singh Gill from Jaipur; Krishna Mohan from Hardoi; Ramesh Jain from Multani; Adalarasan from Tamil Nadu and Vitthal Rao Kamnle from Maharashtra; Mahadev Rao Gaikwad from Ghumantu Samaj Trust in Maharashtra's Latur; Lingaraj Basavraj from Karnataka; Dilip Valmiki from Lucknow; Anil Chaudhary from the family of Dom Raja; Kailash Yadav from Kashi; Arun Chowdhury from Palwal in Haryana and Kavindra Pratap Singh from Kashi who will join with their spouses to participate in the event. Consecration to be marked by Mangal Dhwani The Pran Pratishtha ceremony on Monday will be marked by a dazzling musical event titled Mangal Dhwani, which will start at 10 am. The event will feature some of the biggest names in the world of music. Immersed in devotion, the Prana Pratishtha ceremony at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya will be graced by the majestic 'Mangal Dhwani' at 10 AM. Witness over 50 exquisite instruments from different states come together for this auspicious occasion, resonating for nearly two hours. Orchestrated by Ayodhya's own Yatindra Mishra, this grand musical rendition is supported by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, New Delhi. This magnificent musical program represents a momentous occasion for every Indian, bringing together diverse traditions in celebration and honour of Prabhu Shri Ram, the temple's trust wrote on X. India's largest floating screen at Saryu Ghat There are several places in India and across the globe where the Pran Pratishtha will be telecast live. However, for the devotees in Ayodhya, a Gujarat-based company made a 69-feet floating LED screen, which has been installed at Saryu Ghat, to broadcast the ceremony. "The length of this entire screen is 69 feet and the height is 16 feet, which makes the entire floating LED screen approximately 1100 square feet," Akshay Anand, the MD of the Gujarat-based company, said. Fighter pilot Lieutenant Ananya Sharma, daughter of Fighter pilot Air Commodore Sanjay Sharma, would be part of the Indian Air Force (IAF) tableau at the Republic Day parade this year, according to news agency ANI. Flight Lieutenant Ananya Sharma(ANI) Currently posted to a Su-30MKI fighter aircraft squadron, Sharma was commissioned as a fighter pilot in December 2021. Her father, Sanjay Sharma was commissioned in the fighter stream of the IAF in 1989. He commanded a Mig-21 Sqn and a frontline fighter station. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Ananya, who has done her B Tech in Electronics and Communication, dreamt of becoming a fighter pilot like her father. She realised that her lifelong dream became a reality after the first women fighter pilots of the IAF entered service in 2016. She was selected for training for the flying branch of the IAF and was commissioned as a fighter pilot in December 2021. In February 2022, the Centre announced to induct women as fighter pilots. Around 20 women have been commissioned as fighter pilots after the experimental scheme for their induction into the fighter stream was implemented in 2016. Air Commodore Sharma and Ananya may have scripted bigger history as we havent heard of a father and daughter flying together in any global air force, Air Marshal Anil Chopra (retd), director general Centre for Air Power Studies had said. The father-daughter duo cemented their place in the countrys military aviation history by becoming the first father-daughter pair to fly in the same formation of Hawk-132 aircraft in Bidar in the year 2022. There have been several instances of fathers and sons flying fighter jets together in IAF, but never a father and a daughter. Since their induction, the women pilots have been operating several fighter jets including Rafales, the MiG-21s, Sukhoi-30s and MiG-29 fighters. Flight Lieutenant Shivangi Singh, the countrys first Rafale pilot, was part of the IAF tableau that featured in the Republic Day parade in 2022. While women have been inducted to fly fighter planes and serve on warships; tanks and combat positions in the infantry are still no-go zones. They were permitted to join the armed forces outside the medical stream for the first time in the year 1992. Chennai: Union minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday accused the MK Stalin-led Tamil Nadu government of banning the live telecast of the Ram Temple programmes scheduled tomorrow. She also said the state police were stopping private temples from organising events commemorating the consecration ceremony of the temple in Ayodhya. Hitting back at the politician, the Tamil Nadu government said the BJP is propagating erroneous information to divert people's attention from the DMK Youth Conference in Salem. Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman (Bloomberg) "TN govt has banned watching live telecast of #AyodhaRamMandir programmes of 22 Jan 24. In TN there are over 200 temples for Shri Ram. In HR&CE managed temples no puja/bhajan/prasadam/annadanam in the name of Shri Ram is allowed. Police are stopping privately held temples also from organising events. They are threatening organisers that they will rip off pandals. Strongly condemn this anti-Hindu, hateful action," Sitharaman wrote on X. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. "TN govt is unofficially claiming law and order issues to justify the live telecast ban. False and fake narrative! There were no L&O issues on the day of #Ayodhya verdict. Not even the day when PM Narendra Modi laid the foundation, in any part of the country. The groundswell and the voluntary participation of people to celebrate #ShriRam in TN has rattled the anti-Hindu #DMK," she added. PK Sekar Babu, the minister of Hindu religious and charitable endowments, Tamil Nadu, condemned the remarks. Also read: '...After demolishing mosque': Udhayanidhi Stalin 'not in agreement' with Ram Temple in Ayodhya "Strongly condemn the spreading of false information in an attempt to divert people's attention from the DMK Youth Conference in Salem. The Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments department hasn't imposed any limitations on devotees' freedom to offer food, conduct poojas in the name of Shri Ram, or provide prasad in Tamil Nadu temples. It is unfortunate that people in office, like Union Finance Minister Mrs. Nirmala Sitharaman and others, are purposefully propagating this erroneous information," he said. Last week, MK Stalin's son and DMK leader, Udhayanidhi Stalin had said that his party wasn't in agreement with a temple that was constructed after demolishing a mosque. "We don't have a problem with a temple coming up there. We are not in agreement with the construction of a temple after demolishing a mosque," the DMK Youth Wing chief had said. Hundreds of politicians, actors and other celebrities will attend the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Most of the major Opposition parties had turned down the invitation to the event saying the BJP was trying to exact political gains from a religious ceremony. Guwahati: Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge launched a savage attack against Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday, saying the party's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra came under attack in the state because the latter is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'chela' (disciple). Referring to Sarma's long association with the Congress before he joined the BJP, Kharge said "our own cat is now meowing at us". Nagaon: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge with party leader Rahul Gandhi during a public meeting amid the 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra'.(PTI) The bitter comments came after Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh claimed stones were thrown at his convoy in Assam. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Addressing a rally in Assam's Nagaon, Kharge said Himanta Biswa Sarma was trying to win the next elections by scaring people. "Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra will cross 15 states...The Yatra before this was undertaken from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. At that time, no stone pelting occurred anywhere. No attempts were made to scare off...Why is this happening in Assam? Because he (Assam CM) is the 'chela' of PM Modi. He listens to what Shah says. He scares the Dalits, minorities and backward class of the country. By scaring people, he is working on the next election," he said. He said the attack on the convoy stems from the BJP's nervousness. "Rahul Gandhi's Yatra is going on so well. Seeing this, the BJP people are nervous. So, they attacked our PCC president. But he is not someone who would get scared. He is a soldier of the Congress. Congress is not going to be scared of anyone...This is like meri billi mujhse hi myaoon. The cat that we once had with us is now meowing at us. We have seen several such people...We will never be scared, this is Congress' promise," he said. Also read: 'Himanta Biswa Sarma's entire family...': Rahul Gandhi's retort to Assam CM Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said that his vehicle was attacked at Jumugurihat in Sunitpur by an unruly BJP crowd. Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Sunday alleged the Assam government has warned the masses against joining the party's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. "They (government) think they can threaten the people and suppress them. But, they are not realising this is not Rahul Gandhi's yatra. It is a yatra for the voice of the people," he said. Gandhi also said that Sarma and his family are the most corrupt in the country. "Everyone knows that the CM and his entire family are the most corrupt. The Assam government is run for the benefit of one family... the Congress MP alleged. Earlier today, Sarma said Gandhi was scared of him as well as his son. Sarma switched over to the BJP from the Congress in 2015. He is credited with establishing the BJP in the northeast as a major political force. With inputs from ANI India will scrap the free movement regime it shares with Myanmar and build a fence on the border with the neighbouring country, Union home minister Amit Shah said on Saturday as he also stressed that the country will be rid of Maoist extremism within three years. Union Home Minister Amit Shah with Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in Sonitpur district of Assam on Saturday. (ANI) The government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has decided to fence the entire India-Myanmar border like it has been done along the border with Bangladesh, Shah said at the graduation parade of 2,551 commandos of Assam Police at Guwahati, one of the five events in which he participated on Saturday. He was on a three-day tour of Meghalaya and Assam, and attended the plenary session of North Eastern Council in Shillong on Friday. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. India and Myanmar share a 1,643km border in four states of the northeast Mizoram, Nagaland, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh. The free movement regime allows people living in border areas to travel up to 16km inside the other country without a visa. Our government is re-examining the free movement regime provision that exists with Myanmar and now this facility, which allows free movement, will be stopped, said Shah. Also Read: Govt may end free movement along India-Myanmar border Reacting to the home ministers comments, Mizoram chief minister Lalduhoma said that his government was opposed to the Centres plan but lacked authority to stop it. If the Centre goes ahead with the plan to fence the Indo-Myanmar border and scrap the free movement regime (FMR), we dont have any authority to stop it, he said, adding that the border between Mizoram and Myanmar was decided by the British, and Mizos on both sides dont accept it. Also Read | Mizoram will continue to provide assistance to refugees from Myanmar: CM Lalduhoma Mizos share ethnic, social and cultural ties with Chins from across Myanmar. Since the military coup in Myanmar in February, 2021, thousands of refugees from Myanmar have entered Mizoram and are staying in the northeastern state. The Mizoram government has refused Centres directives to send them back or take their bio-metrics and have provided them shelter and other basic needs. At present there are around 30,000 Myanmar refugees in Mizoram. In his address on Saturday, Shah said that there has been a lot of change in Indias internal security scenario in the past 10 years since the government at Centre led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to office. Theres been a 73% decrease in incidents of violence in northeast, Jammu & Kashmir and Naxal-affected areas in the past 10 years. Its a matter of happiness for all of us. In the past five years, theres big change in Assams law and order situation, said Shah. Almost all armed terror groups have signed peace agreements, youth have joined the mainstream and the area covered under provisions of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act has also been reduced significantly, the home minister said. Shah lauded the state government and Assam Police for action against drug trafficking. He also praised the government led by Himanta Biswa Sarma for creating 100,000 jobs as promised in the Bharatiya Janata Partys manifesto in the 2021 assembly polls. Injustices were done by previous Congress governments in Assam. Families who lost thousands of youth due to insurgency are demanding justice and opposing Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, Shah said. While launching the book on Lachit Barphukan, Shah stated that Assam would have become part of Bangladesh if the Ahom army led by Lachit Barphukan had not defeated the Mughals at the Battle of Saraighat in 1671. If someone asks me what would have happened if in that battle Lachits army had lost against the Mughals? I can say without any doubt that Assam would have become a part of Bangladesh and not India, he said. Earlier in the day, Shah took part in the 60th raising day of Sashastra Seema Bal at Tezpur and the 13th triennial conference of the All Bathou Mahasabha at Dekhiajuli. In the evening, he launched a book titled Assams Braveheart Lachit Barphukan and inaugurated the riverfront beautification project along the Brahmaputra in Guwahati. Salem: DMK MP A Raja on Sunday said Tamil Nadu needs Dravidian nationalism and Tamil nationalism, not Hindu nationalism. His remark came on the eve of the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. DMK MP A Raja.(ANI) Speaking at a gathering in Salem, A Raja said religion can never become nationality but language can. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. We are separated in the name of caste and you try to make us be one in the name of religion...We want to be united in the name of religion as per law but we don't want to be Hindus as you say and we don't want that Hindu nationalism. We need Dravidian nationalism and Tamil nationalism, he was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. He took a veiled jibe at the BJP, claiming the latter wants a Hindu nation. "Today they speak about Hindu nation. There was no nation in the name of religion earlier. Pakistan separated from India because Savarkar said it was a Hindu nation so Jinnah said that they were an Islamic nation and separated (from India)," he said. Also read: MK Stalin government 'banned' Ayodhya Temple live telecast in Tamil Nadu: Nirmala Sitharaman "Religion never can become nationality but language can become nationality," he said. Last week, party chief MK Stalin's son Udhayanidhi Stalin had said the DMK wasn't in agreement with a temple built after demolishing a mosque. "We don't have a problem with a temple coming up there. We are not in agreement with the construction of a temple after demolishing a mosque," the DMK Youth Wing chief said, referring to the demolition of the Babri Masjid in 1992, PTI reported. On Sunday, union minister Nirmala Sitharaman said the MK Stalin government in Telangana had banned the live telecast of the Ayodhya event. The government said the BJP was trying to take the public's attention away from DMK's youth event. New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has apprehended a juvenile for allegedly harbouring terrorists involved in the killing of five civilians in Dhangri village of district Rajouri of Jammu and Kashmir in January last year, the agency said on Sunday. National Investigation Agency (Representative Photo) According to a statement issued by the NIA, the child in conflict with the law was incidentally lodged at the Observation Home in R S Pura, Jammu, in another case registered at the Gursai police station area in Mendhar, Poonch. He was taken into custody by the NIA on Saturday and produced before the Juvenile Justice Board, Rajouri, for remand. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The Dhangri terror attack took place on January 1, 2023, in which five people belonging to the Hindu community, were killed and several others seriously injured. The federal agency had taken over the probe 12 days later after the incident. Also Read: Arms recovery case: Challan produced against 2 in NIA court Investigations by the NIA had revealed that the apprehended juvenile, along with two other earlier arrested persons, namely Nisar Ahmed alias Haji Nisar and Mushtaq Hussain alias Chacha, was involved in harbouring the terrorists who had carried out the horrendous attack, NIA statement said. Nisar Ahmed and Mushtaq Hussain were arrested by the NIA on August 31, 2023, and are presently lodged at Central Jail, Kot Bhalwal, Jammu. The duo had provided logistic support to the terrorists for more than two months and had sheltered them in a hideout which they had constructed on the directions of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) handlers, namely Saifullah alias Sajid Jutt, Abu Qatal alias Qatal Sindhi and Mohammad Qasim, the NIA said. A team of NIA officials had regularly camped in the hilly terrain of Rajouri, Poonch and Reasi districts of Jammu and Kashmir in search of actual perpetrators of the offence during the course of investigations. The team examined a large number of suspicious entities and later zeroed in on the above-mentioned accused persons who had provided logistic support to the terrorists, the agency said. Terrorist attacks in the Jammu region have become a cause of concern for security agencies in the past couple of years, as Pakistan-based outfits have changed their tactics by targeting security forces and civilians in this part of the Union Territory instead of the Kashmir Valley. After the Dhangri attack, the Centre even revived the village defence guards or VDGs in Jammu and Kashmir to counter any terror attack in their areas. The VDGs comprise local village volunteers. They were first active in the 1990s in several districts and played a significant role in self-defence, assisting forces in counter-terrorism operations and maintaining vigil in respective border villages. They remained inactive for several years thereafter. A day before the 'pran prathishtha' of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the city turned into a fortress with police and security agencies pulling no punches. The bylanes of the Hanumangarhi area dotted by devotees were being patrolled by the cops on Sunday evening. Plain-clothed police spread across the venue are keeping an eye on the movement of the people. 10,000 CCTV cameras and drones equipped with artificial intelligence are the hi-tech help that has been roped in to ensure overall security. Ram Temple inauguration: To ensure better security arrangements at the programme venue in Ayodhya, technology is being used on a large scale. Along with the state police department, central forces like the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are actively involved in the security preparations. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Speaking to ANI, Special DG Prashant Kumar said, "This is a significant undertaking for the UP Police. It poses both a challenge and an opportunity. Extensive security arrangements have been put in place, including traffic diversions from surrounding districts. Only authorised vehicles are permitted to enter Ayodhya starting tomorrow." Heavy security in Ayodhya ahead of pran prathishtha Two NSG sniper teams have been deployed in the city. The UP government has asked for 25 VR cars, 10 vehicle-mounted jammers, and six vehicle-mounted X Ray baggage scanners from the Centre. -Over 10,000 CCTV cameras have been installed throughout the Ayodhya district. Some of these cameras incorporate AI-based technology to ensure strict surveillance of commuters. Anti-mine drones are simultaneously inspecting the ground for mines or explosives. -The entire district is equipped with approximately 10,000 CCTV cameras, and coordination has been established with central and state agencies, as highlighted by the special DG. -Ahead of the January 22 ceremony, Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel were deployed at Lata Mangeshkar Chowk. -At Ayodhya's Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, an anti-bomb squad and dog squad teams have been deployed. Thorough vehicle checks are being conducted for devotees and dignitaries entering and leaving the airport, allowing entry only to those with valid passes. -AI-supported drones are conducting aerial surveillance across Ayodhya. -Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) personnel conducted patrolling in Ayodhya on Saturday. Officers in civil uniforms were strategically deployed to emphasise the discreet yet comprehensive security measures in place. -To respond to contingencies, if any, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has established a camp near the shrine in Ayodhya, according to officials. -Nearly 100 SSF commandos, trained by the National Security Guard (NSG) in highly specialised anti-terror tactics, have been deployed at key vantage positions in and around the temple complex, the Times of India reported, citing sources. -Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) troops will be deployed in the main temple to cordon off the sanctum sanctorum, where the idol of Lord Ram was placed. Guwahati: Amid a raging war of words, Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday advised Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to avoid visiting the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva at Batadrava on January 22. He said his visit to the Vaishnav saint's birthplace amid the Ram Temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya, will create "unnecessary" competition. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra (PTI Photo) Gandhi's Nyay yatra entered Assam from Arunachal Pradesh on Sunday. Sarma said his government has deployed commandos along sensitive routes for the political procession on January 22. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Himanta Biswa Sarma said Gandhi's visit will put Assam in the wrong light. "We will request Rahul Gandhi not to visit Batadrava on Monday during the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple as it will reflect Assam in the wrong light,'' the chief minister said at a press conference. He said Gandhi can visit the place after the consecration ceremony without creating unnecessary competition which will be sad for Assam'', he said. Srimanta Sankardeva is a revered figure in Assam. Sarma said the Congress's yatra will pass through sensitive areas. ''These areas are sensitive and I cannot discount any law and order situation arising and as such commandos will be deployed along sensitive routes of minority-dominated areas to be taken by Rahul Gandhi's Yatra on January 22,'' he said. Also read: Most corrupt CM, says Rahul Gandhi in Assam; Himanta Biswa Sarma hits back Rahul Gandhi and Himanta Biswa Sarma have been sniping at each other over the Yatra. On Sunday, both the leaders accused each other of being scared. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi said: "He(Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma) is scared. The chief minister is corrupt..." Sarma said Gandhi was even scared of his child. "Rahul Gandhi pehle toh mujhse darta tha, ab mere bacche se bhi darna shuru kar diya," he said. The consecration ceremony of the Ayodhya Ram Temple will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, NDA politicians, actors, businessman and sports stars. Several Opposition parties have turned down the invitation to the event claiming the BJP has been trying to score political brownie points. With inputs from PTI, ANI Vietnamese organisations and individuals in the Kansai region have donated 600,000 JPY (over 4,000 USD) to help residents in earthquake-hit Suzu and Wajima cities. (Photo: VNA) At a ceremony on January 19 to present the relief at the office of Ishikawa prefecture in Osaka, Vietnamese General Consul in Osaka Ngo Trinh Ha extended his sympathy to the earthquake victims, and expressed his hope that the authority of the prefecture will continue to help Vietnamese nationals in the quake-hit localities to overcome difficulties. Chief representative of Ishikawa prefecture in Osaka Yukinori Yamashita thanked the timely support from the Vietnamese community in Kansai, seeing this a source of encouragement for the prefecture to get through this tough time. Ishikawa was one of the Japanese localities hit by the massive earthquake on January 1. All Vietnamese living near the quake's epicenter were safely relocated to shelters where they were provided with necessary supplies. According to statistics, about 5,000 Vietnamese people are living in Ishikawa, of them about 600 were affected by the earthquake./. A plane crashed in northern Afghanistan's Badakshan province on Saturday night, Reuters reported, citing local police officials. The incident occurred in a remote mountainous region. The Union ministry of civil aviation has clarified that the plane that crashed in Afghanistan's mountains was not an Indian-scheduled aircraft nor a non-scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft. (File) The Union ministry of civil aviation has clarified that the plane that crashed in Afghanistan's mountains was not an Indian-scheduled aircraft nor a non-scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The plane was a Moroccan-registered DF-10 aircraft which crashed in the mountains of Topkhana alongside the districts of Kuran-Munjan and Zibak of Badakhshan province, according to a senior Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) official, cited by ANI. The local authority has yet to officially confirm the type of plane and the number of casualties. Meanwhile, the Russian aviation authorities said they lost contact with a Russian-registered plane carrying six passengers over Afghanistan on Saturday evening. The plane was a French-made Dassault Falcon 10 jet. Reuters reported that the plane was a charter flight from India via Uzbekistan to Moscow. The Union ministry further clarified that the aircraft was an air ambulance flying from Thailand to Moscow. However, the plane landed at Gaya Airport for refuelling purposes, the ministry added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday flagged the issue of couples opting for destination weddings abroad and said people should be encouraged to "Wed in India" so that wealth remains within the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi.(ANI ) Virtually addressing the foundation laying ceremony of the Khodaldham Trust Cancer Hospital to come up in Gujarat's Amreli city, the PM also appealed to the people to help promote domestic tourism. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Modi said his government has taken steps to ensure that people do not face difficulties in the treatment of cancer by setting up around 30 new hospitals for providing medical care for the disease and ensuring the availability of medicines at affordable prices. More than 1.5 lakh 'Ayushman Arogya Mandirs' (health centres) have also been built at the village level to help in the early diagnosis of the disease, he said. Addressing the gathering of members of the Leuva Patidar community which manages the Shri Khodaldham Trust-Kagavad, Modi said, "Is it appropriate to hold marriage abroad? Can't the marriage be held in our country? How much of India's wealth goes out." Also Read | Tourism ministry launches campaign to showcase India as premier wedding destination "You should create an environment that this disease of getting married abroad does not enter your community. Why shouldn't the marriage take place at the feet of Ma Khodal (Goddess revered by the community). I would say 'Wed In India', like Made in India, Marry in India," he said. He also appealed to the people to help promote tourism within the country. "As much as possible, tour your country first. If you want to travel, then travel within your country. Travel around your country, promote tourism in your country," Modi said. The prime minister said the treatment of a serious disease like cancer is a big challenge for any person or family. The government has tried to ensure people do not face difficulties in the treatment. "With this idea, around 30 new cancer hospitals have been set up, and work on 10 more cancer hospitals is underway," he said. With early diagnosis being vital for the treatment of cancer, the central government has built more than 1.5 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandirs at the village level with stress on using these health centres to help in the early diagnosis of cancer, he said. The government's effort have also helped women with the early detection of cervical and breast cancers at these Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, he added. The prime minister said the Ayushman Bharat Yojana launched by his government has helped more than six crore beneficiaries, a large number of whom are cancer patients. The government also opened 10,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras, which provide medicines at a discount of up to 80 per cent, he said. The number of PM Jan Aushadhi Kendras will be increased to 25,000, he said. The availability of medicines at low costs has helped patients save 30,000 crore, Modi said. The government has also regulated the prices of cancer medicines which has helped lakhs of patients, he said. Modi also praised Gujarat and said the state has presented a model of big reforms in the health sector. "In the last 20 years, Gujarat has made unprecedented progress in the field of health," he said. The state has witnessed an increase in the number of medical colleges to 40 from 11 in 20 years, the PM said. The number of MBBS seats rose five times, and PG seats three times. An AIIMS was set up in Rajkot, and the number of pharmacy colleges in the state rose to 100 from 13 in 2002, he said. The number of diploma pharmacy colleges in the state has also increased from six to 30 during these 20 years, Modi said. "Gujarat has presented a model of huge reforms in the field of health. Community health centres have been opened at the village level and health services have been taken to the tribal and poor regions. People's trust in the 108 ambulance service has only become stronger," he said. Modi also congratulated the Leuva Patidar community over the Khodaldham Trust set to complete 14 years of its existence in the next few weeks, and said it has worked to change the lives of lakhs of people through its service in the areas of education, agriculture and health. He appealed to the community members to work on nine requests -- save water, encourage digital transaction, cleanliness, promote made in India products, promote tourism within the country, natural farming, use of millets, take care of fitness, and stay away from drugs and other addictions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday visited the Arichal Munai, near Dhanushkodi in Tamil Nadu, as part of his Ramayana-connect tour in the state, and paid floral tributes at the seashore. The visit comes a day before the pran-pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla idol in Ayodhya where Modi will be the chief guest. Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Arichal Munai, the point from where the Ram Setu was built, near Dhanushkodi in Tamil Nadu on Sunday morning. It is widely believed that Dhanushkodi is the point where Lord Ram took the vow to defeat Ravana. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Modi also performed puja at Sri Kothandarama Swamy temple. The name Kothandarama means Rama with the bow. It is located in Dhanushkodi. It is said that this is where Ravana's brother Vibhishana first met Lord Ram and asked him for refuge. Some legends also say that this is the place where Lord Ram conducted the coronation of Vibhishana. Later, taking to social media X (formally Twitter), Modi said, Had the opportunity to be at Arichal Munai, which holds a special significance in Prabhu Shri Rams life. It is the starting point of the Ram Setu. Pran-pratistha ceremony of Ram Mandir These visits have great significance as Modi is set to visit Ayodhya on Monday for the pran-pratishtha of Ram Mandir. Earlier on Saturday, the prime minister visited Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tiruchirappalli and Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram in the southern state. In view of the the grand event in Ayodhya, that would be attended by nearly 8,000 VIP guests, the Uttar Pradesh Police force beefed up security in the temple town. Additional director general (ADG) Lucknow Zone Piyush Mordia said patrolling on the Saryu River is being done through boats and drones are flying high for aerial surveillance. The idol of Lord Ram Lalla has been placed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple in Ayodhya. The idol of 'Ram Lalla' is carved by Mysuru-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj. The idol is 51 inches tall and weighs 1.5 tonnes. The idol portrays Lord Ram as a five-year-old child standing on a lotus also crafted from the same stone. A '56 bhog prasad' that would be offered to Ram Lalla 'first' after the pran-pratishtha ceremony has also reached the city from Lucknow. (With inputs from agencies) Srinagar: The State Investigation Agency (SIA) of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday filed a comprehensive charge sheet against 12 accused in connection with the killing of a Kashmiri Pandit, Sanjay Sharma, in Pulwama district last year. Sharma (45), who worked as a bank security guard, was killed outside his house at Achhan in Pulwama on February 26, 2023. (HT Archive) Sharma (45), who worked as a bank security guard, was killed outside his house at Achhan in Pulwama on February 26, 2023, and the subsequent investigation revealed a broader conspiracy originating from across the border, the agency said on a statement. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The aim was to disrupt the revival of peace and communal harmony in the valley, using the murder of an innocent person from the minority community to fuel communal disharmony and sustain terrorism, the statement said. The case registered at the Litter police station in Pulwama was later transferred to SIA, which was created in November 2021 on the lines of the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for specialised probe into terror cases in the Union territory. During the course of investigation, SIA conducted five rounds of extensive searches at 32 locations across the valley, during which evidence in the shape [of] mobile devices, incriminating documents such as bank documents and one pistol magazine and live cartridges were seized, it said. The evidence exposed the accused persons involvement in the crime, including providing logistical support, harbouring the accused, and concealing evidence. The charge sheet was filed before a special designated court under the NIA Act at Pulwama against 12 terror accused. They were identified as Jazim Farooq Wani, Shameem Ahmad Bhat, Danish Ahmad Thokar, and Ubaid Ahmad Paddar, all residents of Shopian; Zaffar Hussain Bhat, Aamir Hussain Wani, Towseef Ahmad Pandith, Sahil Bashir Dar, Nassir Farooq Shah, and Sajjad Ahmad Bhat, all residents of Anantnag; Sarjeel Ahmad Bhat of Kulgam; and Khalid Kamran of Pakistan. Eight out of the 12 accused, including three juveniles, are currently under judicial custody. Notably, Jazim Farooq Wani, Danish Hamid Thokar, and Ubaid Ahmad Paddar have been killed in encounters with security forces, the SIA statement said, adding Zaffar Hussain Bhat and Khalid Kamran are absconding. The investigation unveiled that the accused individuals were acting on instructions from terror handlers across the border, maintaining communication via encrypted online messaging platforms. Jazim, who pulled the trigger, received weapon handling training from Nassir Farooq Shah on the directives of Pakistani handler alias Khalid Kamran, it added. Silchar: The Assam government on Sunday announced a ban on the sale of all kinds of non-vegetarian food items on January 22 ahead of the inauguration of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Ram Mandir being decorated with flowers ahead of its consecration ceremony in Ayodhya (PTI Photo) Chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that they have issued an official notification to ban the sale of all kinds of non-vegetarian food items across the state till 4pm on Monday, the day the inauguration of the Ram temple will take place. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Sarma also appealed to restaurants across the state to not offer non-vegetarian food items during Ram Temple Pran Pratishtha on Monday. This is a moment which came to us after 500 years, and we do not know if such a moment will come to our lives again. It is our duty to make this memorable, he said. Sarma said that this is not a political or religious event, rather it is a moment of victory for India over the foreign invaders. He also appealed to the Islamic and Christian communities to offer Namaz and prayers for Ram Lalla. I appeal to the Islamic and Christian communities to conduct special Namaz and prayer for Ram Lalla on Monday. This is our victory over invaders like Babar, he said. Also Read: Ram Temple consecration: UP government bans sale of meat, fish on January 22 Sarma said that they have deployed adequate police and paramilitary forces like the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in sensitive areas across the state as he appealed for the people to stay at home and avoid any kind of clashes. Many states, including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh and Haryana, have imposed a ban on the sale of meat and fish and also liquor to observe the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha. About two weeks ago, the Assam chief minister also announced a dry day along with a half-holiday for the government institutions on Monday. On Saturday, Sarma announced the closure of all educational institutes, including schools, colleges, and universities across the state. We have appealed to the private education institutes to follow the same and asked the businessmen to keep their shops shut till 2pm. Their employees must get the chance to witness the Pran Pratishtha moment, Sarma said. He also appealed to the people of Assam to keep fast till 2pm on Monday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is doing an 11-day long fast, and we will also do it on Monday. We are not forcing anyone, but it is a request for everyone to avoid eating anything till 2pm on Monday, Sarma added. Meanehile, the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Silchar, said they will organise Yagna and light 20,000 diyas as part of the celebration. Students at NIT Silchar said that both teachers and students are organising the programme. Our professors, including the NIT director, have donated money for this, and we are going to lit 20,000 diyas on Monday evening, students said. The consecration ceremony of Ram Temple will be held in Ayodhya on Monday. Hindu communities across the world are gearing up for celebrations on the occasion. Here's a look at the celebration of Hindu communities across the world ahead of the pran pratishtha event on Monday. Workers decorate the entrance gate on the eve of Ram Temple's 'pran pratishtha' ceremony in Ayodhya. Mauritius to light diyas, recite ramayan path High Commissioner of Mauritius Haymandoyal Dillum said he has exciting plans for the Mauritian community. Dillum said that the diya or earthern lamp would be lit in all temples of Mauritius on the day of the pran pratishtha' and that Ramayan Path will also be recited. "In all the temples, one 'diya' will be lit, and 'Ramayan Path' will be recited during that day," High Commissioner Dillum told news agency ANI. The Mauritian government has also granted a two-hour break for Hindu officers working with the government of Mauritius on Monday. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. France to hold grand rath yatra France will host the Ram rath yatra and puja after the consecration ceremony concludes in Ayodhya on Monday. The 'rath yatra' scheduled to commence from Place De La Chapelle at 12 pm will culminate at the iconic Eiffel Tower in Place De Trocadero by 3 pm. The procession will pass through significant landmarks such as Arc de Triomphe, the Musee de Louver, Place De La Republique, and will finally conclude at Place De Trocadero. Billboard spree in US The US chapter of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad has installed more than 40 billboards across 10 states, including Texas, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, and Georgia in the run-up to the consecration event in Ayodhya. The iconic Times Square in New York City will also livestream the consecration ceremony on Monday. The devotees of Lord Ram in the US also organised a car rally in New Jersey ahead of the pran pratishtha ceremony. The Tesla musical show in Maryland also drew significant interest. More than 100 Tesla-owning devotees gathered at the Bhaktha Anjaneya Temple in Maryland, turning the parking lot into a sacred stage. Canadian towns declare Jan 22 as Ram Mandir Day Three Canadian municipalities have declared Jan 22 as Ayodhya Ram Mandir Day. Arunesh Giri, founder and president of the Hindu Canadian Foundation (HCF) said that HCF along with the Vishwa Jain Sanghathan Canada (VJSC), has successfully obtained proclamations from three cities - Brampton, Oakville, and Brantford - declaring January 22, 2024, as Ayodhya Ram Mandir Day. The proclamation issued by Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown said that the celebration of the day will serve as an opportunity for community to honour and recognise the cultural and spiritual significance of this momentous occasion. (With inputs from ANI) New Delhi: RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday said the consecration ceremony of Ayodhya's Ram Temple will mark the beginning of the campaign for reconstruction of Bharatvarsh. In an article posted on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's (RSS) website, Bhagwat wrote that "conflict and bitterness" over the dispute must end. Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat reaches Lucknow to attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Temple in Ayodhya on Jan 22, on Sunday.(ANI file photo) After decades of litigation, the Supreme Court of India in its 2019 verdict allowed the construction of the Ram Temple on the disputed land in Ayodhya. It also asked the authorities to provide a separate parcel of land for the construction of the mosque. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, other politicians, actors, celebrities and saints will take part in the temple festivities in Ayodhya tomorrow. Bhagwat said Lord Ram is accepted as an ideal of conduct by the entire society. "Hence, now the conflict that has arisen as for and against the dispute should be ended. The bitterness that has arisen in the meantime should also end. The enlightened people of the society must see that the dispute ends completely," he wrote. He said the construction of the temple in Ayodhya marks the "reawakening of national pride". Read full coverage of Ayodhya Ram Temple event "The entry of Shri Ram Lalla in Ram Janmabhoomi and his Pran Pratishtha is the beginning of the campaign for reconstruction of Bharatvarsh which is for the well-being of all, accepting all without enmity and showing the path of harmony, unity, progress and peace," he added. Mohan Bhagwat said India's history is replete with invasions. He said the attacks from the West in the name of Islam brought complete destruction of the society. "To demoralise the nation, society, it was necessary to destroy their religious places. Hence, foreign invaders also destroyed temples in India. They did this multiple times," he said. He said the Ram Temple in Ayodhya was destroyed to demoralise Indian society. However, the society continued its resistance. "The society did not bow down, their struggle of resistance continued. Therefore, repeated attempts were made to take control of the birthplace (of Lord Ram) and build a temple there (in Ayodhya). There were many wars, struggles and sacrifices for him. And the issue of Ram Janmabhoomi ingrained in the minds of Hindus," he added. With inputs from PTI Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand of Uttarakhand's Jyotish Peeth who raised concern over the Ram Temple consecration event and called the temple incomplete on Sunday reiterated that he is one of the admirers of PM Modi because it is for PM Modi Hindus have become aware of their self-respect. "The truth is PM Modi has made Hindus self-aware which is not a small thing. We have said several times in public that we are not anti-Modi but his admirers. Name another prime minister of India who strengthened Hindus like Modi before. We have had many prime ministers and they all have been good -- we are not criticising anyone," the Shankaracharya said. Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand said no other prime minister could awaken the Hindus like PM Modi did. Ayodhya Ram Mandir opening ceremony: Full coverage Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. When Article 370 was scrapped, didn't we welcome it? When the Citizenship Amendment act came, didn't we praise it? Did we obstruct PM Modi's Swachchta Abhiyaan? We also praised how there was no disruption in the law and order situation after the Supreme Court ruled that Ram Temple will be built at the land, Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand said. We are happy whenever Hindus are strengthened and Narendra Modi is doing that work, the Shankaracharya said. Sri Sri Ravishankar on Shankaracharya row: 'Lord Ram did prana pratishta without temple' A major controversy erupted after the four shankaracharyas -- the custodians of Hinduism -- said they won't be attending the event. Swami Avimukteshwaranand said the temple -- considered the body of God -- is incomplete and hence it is not right to do the pran-pratistha of the new idol there. In the wake of the row which was weaponised by the opposition in questioning the timing of the opening ceremony, some shankaracharyas issued statements that they had no objection to the programme. Jyotish Peeth Shankaracharya on January 18 wrote a letter to Nritya Gopal Das, chief of the Ram Janmabhoomy Teerth Kshetra, asking what will happen to the existing idol as a new idol was going to be placed at the sanctum sanctoram. The question is, if this new idol will be placed, what happens to Ram Lalla virajman? So far, Ram bhakts thought that the new temple was being built for Lalla virajman. But now, the news of a new idol in the under-construction sanctorum in the temple precincts has raised doubts whether Ram Lalla viraj will be sidelined/ignored," the letter written in Hindi said. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust released breath-taking images of the newly built Ram mandir Ayodhya on Saturday, two days before the pran-pratishtha ceremony of the grand temple. The temple trust shared the inside pictures of the Ayodhya mandir on X (formally Twitter). The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra shared the inside pictures of the Ayodhya mandir on X. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra was set up for the construction and management of Ram mandir in Ayodhya by the government in February 2020. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The first photo of the new Ram Lalla idol placed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple with eyes covered with a cloth had surfaced on social media late Thursday night. A day later, images of the idol without the cover circulated on social media platforms. Members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and the temple trust rejected releasing any photographs. Also Read | Pran Pratishtha Day 6: Ram Lalla idol to undergo ceremonial bath with medicated water The Ram Lalla's idol was placed in the 'Garbha Griha' of the Ram temple on Friday amid chants of Jai Shri Ram. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be the chief guest at the pran pratishtha or consecration ceremony of the Ram temple, while a team of priests, led by Lakshmikant Dixit, will lead the main rituals. After the consecration ceremony, Ayodhya would be adorned with the radiant glow of 10 lakh diyas, transforming its landscape into a mesmerising spectacle. On the call of Modi and chief minister Yogi Adityanath, Ram Jyoti will be lit at houses, shops, religious places, and historic sites, creating an enchanting ambiance that symbolises the divine presence of Lord Ram in Ayodhya, a press release stated on Saturday. Drawing parallels to the historic celebration of Diwali upon Lord Rams return from exile, Ayodhya is set to relive the joy with the illumination of Ram Jyoti post the consecration ceremony. The Uttar Pradesh government, known for its annual Deepotsav festivities over the past seven years, will once again showcase Ayodhyas splendour, captivating global attention with this divine spectacle on January 22. Since 2017, the Yogi government has evolved Deepotsav into a grand tradition. From adorning Ayodhya with 1.71 lakh diyas in 2017 to setting a new record of 22.23 lakh diyas in the 2023 Deepotsav, the scale and magnificence of the event have grown exponentially, said Girishpati Tripathi, mayor of Ayodhya. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was rescued and moved inside the 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' bus by his security personnel and party workers after a large crowd, including those carrying BJP flags, flocked the yatra in Assam's Sonitpur district on Sunday. Rahul Gandhi being moved inside the 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' bus by his security personnel (ANI) Congress claimed their workers and leaders were attacked by the BJP workers. Their vehicles were attacked and media persons accompanying the party's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra were "manhandled" by BJP crowd, Congress leaders alleged. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. As per the visuals shared by the news agency ANI, Rahul Gandhi can be seen moving out of a bus towards the crowd, after which his security personnel and party workers took him back into the vehicle after the unruly crowd, including people carrying the BJP flags, ran in the yatra. The Wayanad MP claimed that over 20 workers with sticks came in front of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra bus and they ran away as soon as he came out. 20-25 BJP workers carrying sticks came in front of our bus, and when I came out from the bus, they ran away...they think that Congress is scared of BJP and RSS, they're dreaming. They can tear as many posters and placards as they want, we don't care. we are not scared of anybody, we are neither scared of PM Narendra Modi nor Assam CM, ANI quoted Rahul Gandhi as saying. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said that his vehicle was attacked at Jumugurihat by BJP workers who also tore off the Yatra stickers from the windshield. My vehicle was attacked a few minutes ago at Jumugurihat, Sunitpur by an unruly BJP crowd who also tore off the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra stickers from the windshield. They threw water and shouted anti-BJNY slogans, Ramesh wrote on X. But we kept our composure, waved to the hooligans and sped away, he added. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge lambasted Assam chief minister Himata Biswa Sarma, saying that the latter is a "chela" of PM Modi. "Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra will cross 15 states...The Yatra before this was undertaken from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. At that time, no stone pelting occurred anywhere. No attempts were made to scare off...Why is this happening in Assam? Because he (Assam CM) is the 'chela' of PM Modi. He listens to what Shah says. He scares the Dalits, minorities & backward class of the country. By scaring people, he is working on the next election," he said. All India Congress Committee (AICC) communications coordinator Mahima Singh told PTI that they informed the police and the additional superintendent of police has reached the spot. (With inputs from ANI) I wrote before about Nikki Haley and her gaffe in December about the causes of the Civil War. But the subject still strikes a chord with me. Haleys apparent sensitivity around offending GOP voters who dont want to be thought of as racists, combined with the continuing debate around Jan. 6 and what it meant, has me wondering how much weve really put the Civil War behind us. She stepped into the hot mess last month while campaigning in New Hampshire when she was asked what caused the Civil War. It didnt sound like a trick question, but Haley tripped over it anyway. As former governor of South Carolina, where that wars first shots were fired, she surely knew the answer that just about everyone who was not a dyed-in-the-wool Southern apologist would have given. But, no, she failed to mention slavery. Her omission echoed a podcast appearance nearly five years ago with conservative host Glenn Beck in which she said the Confederate flag symbolized service, sacrifice and heritage for some people in her state until Dylann S. Roof hijacked it. Roof was the avowed white supremacist who killed nine Black parishioners when he opened fire in the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in June 2015. Before his attack, he posed with the flag in several photos. Among other heated responses to her interview was this one from Michael Steele, former chairman of the Republican National Committee and the first African American to hold that position. Really, Nikki?! Steele posted on Twitter, adding that Roof inherited the meaning of the Confederate flag. Critics accused Haley of political posturing, which, lets face it, is far from an unknown sin in politics. And she sensibly posted a transcript of her remarks when she called for the removal of the Confederate flag from the position it long held on the grounds of the South Carolina State House. In her 2015 remarks, Haley said, for many people in our state, the flag stands for traditions that are noble. Traditions of history, of heritage, and of ancestry, she said, even though for many others in South Carolina, the flag is a deeply offensive symbol of a brutally oppressive past. As a state we can survive, as we have done, while still being home to both of those viewpoints, Haley said. I admired her position at the time and still do. Its not easy in the tradition-bound South to stand against customs and traditions like this one, especially if youre running for statewide office. Besides, Haleys failure to tiptoe easily around the less popular parts of her states history is small potatoes compared with the utterances of her rival Republican candidate, former President Donald Trump. If anything, polling shows his popularity among Republican primary voters only improves as long as he insults the right people. Meaning, just about everyone outside his MAGA universe. Haleys struggles to discuss issues of racism and her states past have dogged her in one way or another for the past decade. To succeed politically in the South without the willingness, like Trump, to speak illiberally is tricky, to say the least. For much of Trumps political ascendancy, observers have wondered how much of his appeal is tied to lingering racism and how much is due to economic inequality and related issues. University of Chicago political scientist Robert Pape studied the issues that motivated the 380 or so people arrested in connection with the attack against the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in the months following the attack. He expected to find that the rioters were driven to violence by the lingering effects of the 2008 Great Recession, which had been the conventional wisdom. Instead, he found most of the people who took part in the assault came from places awash in fears that the rights of minorities and immigrants were crowding out the rights of white people in American politics and culture. That would suggest that the Capitol attack had historical echoes reaching back to before the Civil War, he told The Washington Post. Which brings us to today, as we continue to debate the meaning of Jan. 6. Indeed, the Supreme Court next month will take up whether Trump even is eligible to become president again based on the 14th Amendments prohibition against allowing insurrectionists to hold public office. Insurrection. Thats what the Civil War was. And, as Nikki Haley was reminded, that conflict was about slavery. Which, of course, was about race and racism. If, as Pape concluded, Jan. 6 was in no small part about race, weve really come full circle. The presidential race, of course, is about many more things than the Civil War and its aftermath. Still, in too many peoples minds, that conflict has never really ended. cpage@chicagotribune.com Twitter @cptime Ambassador Shri Harsh Kumar Jain handed over the 15th consignment of humanitarian aid from the Government and people of India, comprising ten 30 KVA generators, to Ms. Nataliya Lipska, Director of the Kryla Nadiyi Charitable Fund, in the presence of H.E. Mr. Maksym Kozytskyy, Head of the Lviv Regional State Administration, at the Lviv State Lyceum, on 19 January 2024. The aid was provided at the request of Lviv Regional State Administration. Mr. Kozytskyy thanked the Government and people of India, on behalf of the people of the region, for responding to his request. He informed that the generators will be provided to eight educational institutions in the region to support their educational process. Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador stated that India accords high priority to providing humanitarian assistance to the people of Ukraine, during this difficult time, keeping in line with the human centric approach of the Government of India, a central tenet of India's national beliefs and values, which perceive the whole world as one family. He reiterated Government of India's commitment to continue to provide humanitarian support to the people of Ukraine as conveyed by India's Prime Minister H.E. Shri Narendra Modi to President of Ukraine H.E. Mr. Volodymyr Zelenskyy during their meeting in Hiroshima in May 2023. Government of India has previously provided 14 consignments of humanitarian aid to Ukraine and its neighboring countries as well as financial assistance to Kyiv Gymnasium of Oriental Language No. 1 for its project of reconstruction, remodeling and refurbishment of some of the rooms and Ukraine-India Association for its program aimed at restoration of psychological health of youth and children. Incarcerated controversial head of Sirsa-based sect, Dera Sacha Sauda, Gurmeet Ram Rahim Singh who is serving a 20-year sentence for rape received yet another temporary release of 50 days last week, the ninth time since 2017. His frequent parole has come in for criticism from families of victims with the Haryana government often getting blamed for showing generosity towards him. The religious leader is serving a 20-year jail term at Rohtaks Sunaria jail after he was convicted in 2017 of raping of two disciples. He was subsequently convicted in two murder cases and will serve life sentences of those crimes after this jail term. Ram Rahim Singh and three others were convicted in January 2019 for the murder of a journalist more than 16 years ago. In October 2021, he and four others were convicted for hatching a conspiracy to kill Ranjit Singh, a manager at the dera. Since his conviction, the dera chief has spent 184 days outside the jail and by the end of these 50 days, it will take the count to 234 days. Is this legal? The short answer is yes. But thereby hangs the tale. In 2022, the Haryana government came out with the Haryana Good Conduct Prisoners (Temporary Release) Act, which entitled a prisoner to 10 weeks of parole in a calendar year (January to December) cumulatively which could be availed in two parts. The new law also permitted temporary release of three weeks on furlough which could not be availed in parts. The Haryana government, after seeking legal opinion from Advocate General (AG) BR Mahajan in 2022 concluded that Ram Rahim Singh did not fall in the category of hardcore prisoners defined as those who, among several other crimes, are convicted for serial killing, that is murder under section 302 of the IPC in two or more cases in different first information reports. The category of hardcore prisoners was introduced in 2012 as an amendment to the earlier act. Such convicts face severe restrictions only 48 to 96 hours of temporary release under an armed police escort and only to attend a marriage or in the event of death of close family members. The earlier act was formulated in 1988 and also laid down stringent conditions on parole or furlough. One of them was that a prisoner may be considered for temporary release if a member of the prisoners family had died or was seriously ill, or the prisoner themselves were seriously ill, or for their own weddings, as well as those of close blood relations, or for agricultural activity. The 2022 law does not stipulate such conditions but has different categories of parole regular, emergency and custodial. Ram Rahim Singh has availed of regular parole consistently since 2022. In 2023, he was granted temporary release thrice a 40-day parole on January 17, a 30-day parole on July 17 and a 21-day furlough on November 17. In 2022, he was out on a three-week furlough on February 7, following which, he was granted permission for a 30-day parole on June 17 and again, a 40-day parole on October 15. However, in 2020 and 2021, he was granted two brief temporary releases for a day and 12 hours, respectively. Since 2017, he has been out on temporary release on nine occasions. Distinction between parole and furlough When a prisoner is on parole, his or her period of release does not count towards the total period of sentence. But when he or she is on furlough, he or she is eligible to have the period of release counted towards the total period of his sentence undergone by him. Thus, the period of sentence spent on furlough by the prisoners need not be undergone by him as is done in the case of parole. As per the new law, once Ram Rahim Singh has completed three-fourths of the total sentence in a term (in this case, the rape conviction), and 10 years of the life sentence (for murder), he can avail of four weeks of furlough, but not in parts. Anshul Chhatrapati, son of slain journalist Ram Chander Chhatrapati, for whose murder Ram Rahim Singh is serving a life sentence questions the law that gives convicts a relaxation in terms of temporary release. There were certain conditions that a convict had to fulfil in the older law for being considered for grant of temporary release. The new law has a lacuna as it does not consider the Dera head as a hardcore convict despite his sentencing in three different cases including rape and murder, Anshul said. He has been convicted for criminal conspiracy under section 120-B read with section 302 of the IPC in both the murder cases. Section 302 in his convictions determines the quantum of punishment only, the AG said, explaining why Ram Rahim Singh did not fall within the category of hardcore prisoner. Governments helping the Dera Anshul said that the Deras revival is being steered with the active connivance of the state government. There is a tacit understanding between the Dera and the state government. The government wants crowds to return to him as his followers can influence the 2024 elections. It cuts both ways, he said. Last January, BJP leaders Rajya Sabha MP Krishan Lal Panwar and former minister Krishen Bedi attended a virtual satsang addressed by the Dera head and held an interaction with him during his 40-day parole. Though the two denied any political motive, the opposition Congress criticised their action as a vote-catching ploy. In 2022, Haryana BJP leaders, including Karnal mayor Renu Gupta, attended an online congregation addressed by the Dera head (who was out on temporary release), triggering criticism. Prof Ashutosh Kumar, a political scientist from Panjab University, Chandigarh, said the Dera head is relevant in election season, because of the following his sect commands. State officials, however, denied the claims. Every convict has the right for being considered for temporary release, they argued. The parole and furlough are according to the law and rules. No preferential treatment is being given to Dera head, an official said, on the condition of anonymity. Officials quote high court directives where the divisional commissioners orders denying parole to a convict without justification have been quashed. Citing a 2023 order of the Punjab and Haryana high court, the official said that divisional commissioners have been asked by the court to ensure that whenever they pass orders, the rejection is on the grounds that the security of the state or nation is under threat, and whether the petitioner has availed parole and returned on time. In a dazzling universe where high-art, fashion and celebrity collide, Jonathan Andersons latest collection for Loewe explored modern masculinity, set against the backdrop of our social media-saturated world. The show space, transformed by artist Richard Hawkins vibrant pop art, was a visual assault on the senses, setting the stage for a collection as rich in narrative as in aesthetic. Amidst the audience, actor Jamie Dornan was spotted, amusedly gazing at fleeting images of himself woven into pulp fiction video collages that spanned from paparazzi shots to art history and social media. Paris Fashion Week: Loewe, Hermes, Balmain, and Valentino redefine men's style(File photo) LOEWES SOCIAL MEDIA COLLAGE Central to this digital-age collection was the theme of divergence. Anderson skillfully eschewed the idea of one single aesthetic, presenting a full, fabulous collage of social media characters, each uniquely styled and seemingly caught off-guard, as they might be by the lens of TMZ or Us Weekly. Be warned these imagined figures were not typical celebrities. They were Anderson's vision, so the off-kilter and unexpected abounded. (Also read: Paris Fashion Week: Dior's fall-winter men's collection blends traditional tailoring with theatrical glamour ) Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. A denim bow collar draped dramatically to the shin, while a pink top appeared to have accidentally slipped down, revealing a bare torso in an unintended fashion. A single-sided big buckle belt added an element of spontaneity, as if its VIP wearer had been caught without even enough time to fasten it. Elsewhere, one oversized camel coat was nonchalantly draped over bare skin, paired with a blue sneaker sans sock, evoking the image of a celebrity hastily stepping out for breakfast, unwittingly becoming the subject of a paparazzis lens. There were ridiculously long cardigans, leather pants and tracksuits spanning the gamut of modern human existence. The collection reached its apex with Hawkins-inspired pieces, particularly the multicolored pants that married contemporary flair with a nod to the traditional harlequin attire, showcasing Andersons talent for fusing historical references with modern design. This season, Anderson ventured onto more provocative terrain, grappling with the complexities of the digital age. His latest display shows how the ever-evolving dynamics of social media and celebrity are reshaping modern masculinity. HERMES' NICHANIAN REIMAGINES HISTORIC CHIC FOR MODERN MEN Veronique Nichanians latest mens show for Hermes was an interplay of history and modernity, reimagining 19th-century elegance with a contemporary twist. The show, a sartorial journey through time, blending her signature luxurious simplicity with an audacious foray into historical fashion. The collars this season were a nod to the past, evoking the ruffled cowls and buttoned neck fastenings of coats reminiscent of the 19th century. A standout piece was an urban hood, crafted to resemble a leather panel at the neck, pairing seamlessly with the collections theme of thick, multi-layered clothing. This layering was not just about warmth but also about creating a rich, textural narrative sweaters upon shirts, coats layered on coats, all accentuated by large lapels and dramatic, upturned collars. Adding to the dramatic flair were the large black platform boots, grounding each outfit with a bold historic feel. Models present creations for Hermes Menswear Ready-to-wear Fall-Winter 2024/2025 collection show as part of the Paris Fashion Week, at the Palais d'Iena in Paris on January 20, 2024. (Photo by ALAIN JOCARD / AFP) The traditional met the modern when Prince of Wales check suits arrived on the runway, diffused with a modern twist a flash of yellow in a soft knit sweater, for instance. This mixing of the traditional with bursts of color is a significant trend this season. Nichanian, who has been the artistic director of Hermes mens universe since 1988, has continually evolved the brands aesthetic, moving from the formal styles of the late eighties to a more relaxed, modern approach that values simplicity and quality materials. Her designs mix intelligent, modern luxury with a touch of playfulness. VALENTINO'S MEN IN BLACK Amid the gilded backdrop of the Monnaie de Paris, designer Pierpaolo Piccioli presented a vision of Valentino that subtly balanced artistic expression with practicality. The collection opened with a clear nod to classic professionalism: suits in black paired with black ties and oversized jackets from the '80s era, signaling a readiness for the business world. This initial presentation of the Men in Black aesthetic was both a homage to traditional menswear and a hint at its evolution. The oversized white jacket added a touch of debonair flair, suggesting a new, more relaxed approach to formal wear and a bid to appeal to a certain client. A model presents a creation by designer Pierpaolo Piccioli as part of his Menswear ready-to-wear Fall/Winter 2024-2025 collection show for fashion house Valentino during Men's Fashion Week in Paris, France, January 20, 2024. REUTERS/Sarah Meyssonnier(REUTERS/Sarah Meyssonnier) Utilitarian workman outfits and denim pieces amid such formality suggested a blending of different worlds. Piccioli's strategic flashes of Valentinos signature vermillion also added a layer of depth. This use of color seemed to symbolize individuality within the constraints of business in what was a welcome touch. The craftsmanship in the collection was evident but always subtle. A coat with long, weighty lengths felt fashion forward, representing Valentinos heritage of luxury tailoring and eye to the future. However, the collection as a whole maintained a more subdued tone, focusing on the saleable, wearable and practical. BALMAIN HAS EYES ON YOU With the energy of the '80s' New Romantics, Balmains Saturday night show was a feast for the senses. Eyes and lips took center stage in Olivier Rousteings latest fashion spectacle. Against a backdrop of black, vibrant colors burst forth in a display that was both a nod to the houses heritage and a step towards pure, unadulterated fun. The show opened with a stunning statement piece: a bejeweled double-breasted coat adorned with giant eyes on its sleeves, black lapels framing the striking visuals. This set the tone for a collection that was as much about making a statement as it was about the clothes themselves. A white shirt paired with a tie featuring a giant pair of rouged lips continued the theme of bold, graphic imagery. Balmain's fashion designer Olivier Rousteing (3rdR) akcnowledges the audience with British model Naomi Campbell (C) at the end of his ready-to-wear Fall-Winter 2024/2025 collection show as part of the Paris Fashion Week, at the Grande halle de la Villette in Paris on January 20, 2024. (Photo by ALAIN JOCARD / AFP) Polka dots danced across loose coats, punctuated with eye-popping colors like violet and bright canary, a nod to Rousteings blending of the traditional with the unexpected. The show was a riot of color blocking and vibrant prints, including an entire suit ensemble featuring a trompe loeil print of a man by the water. The display also featured models from different every background in testament to Rousteings commitment to diversity. Balmain, under the creative leadership of Olivier Rousteing, has evolved into a brand that not only reveres its rich heritage but also boldly embraces the future. From its early adoption of the swallow motif in the 1950s to Rousteings modern interpretation of this legacy, Balmain has pushed the boundaries of fashion. And had lots of fun doing so. They power tiny phones and two-tonne electric cars. They form the guts of a growing number of grid-storage systems that smooth the flow of electricity from wind and solar power stations. Without them, the electrification needed to avoid the worst effects of global warming would be unimaginable. And in 2019 they earned three of their pioneers a Nobel prize. But lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries have downsides. Lithium is scarce, for one. And the best Li-ion batteries, those with layered-oxide cathodes, also require cobalt and nickel. These metals are scarce, tooand cobalt is also problematic because a lot of it is mined in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where working conditions leave much to be desired. A second sort of Li-ion battery, a so-called polyanionic design that uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP), does not need nickel or cobalt. But such batteries cannot store as much energy per kilogram as layered-oxide ones. A clutch of companies, though, think they have an alternative: making batteries with sodium instead. Unlike lithium, sodium is abundant: it makes up most of the salt in the oceans. And chemists have found that layered-oxide cathodes which use sodium rather than lithium can get by without cobalt or nickel to jazz them up. The idea of making sodium-ion (or Na-ion) batteries at scale is therefore gaining traction. Engineers are tweaking designs. Factories, particularly in China, are springing up. For the first time since the Li-ion revolution began, lithiums place on the electrochemical pedestal is being challenged. Salts of the Earth Lithium and sodium, members of a group called the alkali metals, sit just below hydrogen in the first column of the Periodic Table. Alkali metals are famously reactive. (Dropping some in water will give you a lot of fizzing. Others will produce explosions.) This is because the outermost shell of electrons surrounding the nucleus of an alkali-metal atom has but a single occupant. These valence electrons are easily shed, creating positive ions (cations) that can link up with negative counterparts (anions), such as hydroxyl ions derived from water. The results are compounds like lithium hydroxide and sodium chloride, better known as table salt. If, however, the lost electrons are routed to their destinations via a wire, rather than hopping directly to a neighbouring atom or group of atoms, while the cations make the journey separately, through a medium called an electrolyte, the result is an electrochemical cell. Energy can be drawn from this as the electrons journey through the wire (see diagram). Conversely, if the whole process is put into reverse by applying a current, the cell can be recharged. All this applies as much to sodium as to lithium. Given sodiums cost advantages, non-chemists may wonder why it was not preferred to lithium in the first place. The answer is that sodium atoms, which have 11 protons, 12 neutrons and an extra electron shell, are bigger and heavier than lithium ones (three protons and three neutrons). A sodium battery will be bigger and heavier than a lithium one of the same capacity. Small size and a low weight are crucial for phones, and at least desirable in cars. But they do not matter everywhere. Sodium batteries could work for grid-scale storage, home storage and heavy forms of transport, such as lorries and ships. Chinas interest stems partly from the governments current five-year economic plan, which began in 2021, and which aims, among other things, to explore a variety of battery chemistries. Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, a firm in London, lists 36 Chinese companies that are either making or investigating sodium batteries. These firms mostly play their cards close to their chestsin four cases Benchmarks researchers cannot even determine exactly which battery chemistry is involved. The leader of the pack is, nevertheless, generally agreed to be CATL, based in Fujian. CATL is already the worlds largest maker of Li-ion vehicle batteries. In 2021 it announced the worlds first sodium battery for electric vehicles. Chery, a Chinese carmaker, will use Catls sodium batteries, alongside some lithium ones, in its iCAR brand, to be launched shortly. BYD, CATLs chief rival and a carmaker in its own right, is similarly active. Its Seagull hatchback, which was unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show in April, will also soon sport Na-ion batteries. Farasis Energy, another established battery-maker, has teamed up with Jiangling Motors; HiNa Battery Technology, a firm created specifically to develop Na-ion batteries, is collaborating with JAC group, yet another carmaker; and Svolt, a subsidiary of Great Wall Motor, has a ready-made automotive partner in its parent company. According to Benchmark, these five firms, together with 22 of the others, are using layered-oxide cathodes (besides the four unknowns, the remainder are working either on polyanionic designs or a third approach involving an iron-containing substance called Prussian blue). And this is where the cobalt and nickel come in. Experience has shown that oxide layers involving cobalt and nickel ions (together with those of manganese, which is cheap and uncontroversial to mine) result in the best lithium battery cathodes. Cobalt and nickel (and also manganese and iron) are so-called transition metals, with more than one valence electron. Whereas lithium and sodium ions always have a single positive charge, cobalt, for example, can form ions with charges of +2 or +3. When an electron arrives at a layered-oxide batterys cathode, it reacts with a transition-metal ion, reducing its positive charge by one and creating a net negative charge. An alkali-metal ion (which is positively charged) moves into the crystal structure to balance out the charges. In sodium batteries, layered-oxide cathodes can be made with just manganese and iron (though they may be spiced with metals such as copper and titanium to improve performance). Why is not entirely clear. Dominic Bresser of the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, in Germany, reckons it is because sodium atoms larger sizes and somewhat different electronic properties allow them to fit into a wider range of crystals. Whatever the answer, the practical upshot is a big reduction in the cost of materials. This flexibility also allows the engineering into Na-ion batteries of properties, such as higher power output, that are harder to achieve with Li-ions. Starting grid Between them, according to Rory McNulty, a research analyst at Benchmark, Chinese firms have 34 Na-ion-battery factories built, being built or announced inside the country, and one planned in Malaysia. Established battery-makers in other places, by contrast, are not yet showing much interest. Even without a five-year plan to guide them, though, some non-Chinese startups are seeking to steal a march by developing alternatives to layered oxides, in the hope of improving the technology, reducing its cost, or both. One of the most intriguing of these neophytes is Natron Energy, of Santa Clara, California. It is taking the Prussian blue approach. Prussian blue, which is a common dyestuff, is cheap. But Natron hopes it can prolong a batterys service life. At least at the moment, Na-ion layered-oxide cathodes are less durable than their Li-ion counterparts. Natron claims that its cells can endure 50,000 cycles of charging and dischargingbetween ten and 100 times more than commercial Li-ion batteries can manage. The firm has built a factory in Michigan, which it says will begin production later this year. Other non-Chinese firms are less far advanced but full of hope. Altris, in Sweden, which is also building a factory, employs a material called Prussian white that substitutes some of the iron in Prussian blue with sodium. Tiamat, in France, uses a polyanionic design involving vanadium. And Faradion, in Britain (now owned by Reliance, an Indian firm), intends to stick with a layered-metal-oxide system. How things will all play out remains to be seen. Dr McNulty urges caution, at least in the short term. Battery technologies take time to mature (the first research into lithium batteries dates back to the 1960s). Benchmark predicts that sodium battery manufacturing capacity in 2030 will be about 140 gigawatt-hours of storage a year. However, the firm thinks that only just over half of this capacity will actually be churning out cells. This amounts to 2% of its projection for lithium-cell production in that year. Sodium batteries do, nevertheless, look attractive. For grid storage, they seem like serious competitors with LFPsthough they will also have to compete with other novel approaches, such as vanadium flow-batteries. Their chief rivals in the lorry and shipping markets are probably hydrogen fuel cells, but these are an untested technology that rely on an as-yet-unbuilt infrastructure to supply the hydrogen. For weight-sensitive, high-value applications such as electric cars or even aircraft, their future is less certain. The crucial factor will be materials prices. If prospecting for lithium, cobalt and nickel creates enough new mines to keep these down, the incentive to pay scientists and engineers to drive up the amount of energy per kilogram which sodium batteries can store may evaporate. But if the costs of those metals remain high, then for sodium the sunny uplands could beckon. For more coverage of climate change, sign up for the Climate Issue, our fortnightly subscriber-only newsletter, or visit our climate-change hub. 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com A passenger in China demanded three first-class seats despite booking two aboard a flight from Beijing to Chengdu. This caused a delay of three hours and forced 300 passengers to rebook their flights. China: The passenger, who demanded a seat in first-class for his child, was escorted off the plane by the police. (Representational Image/Unsplash) According to the South China Morning Post, the man started arguing with the cabin crew and passengers at 11 am after his two-year-old son started crying. The child had originally been sitting in economy class, but the man demanded the crew upgrade his childs seat to first-class. The incident took place on December 30. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. After being refused an upgrade by the cabin crew, the passenger was adamant that he should be provided with an upgrade. He said that since he had bought two first-class tickets, he should be granted one for free for his child. When a male passenger intervened and tried explaining the airline policy, the man became angry. One of the security personnel tried to intervene but was unable to subdue him. The passenger was escorted off the plane by the police at 2 pm. Earlier, a couple from New Zealand got into a dispute with Qantas Airways after they had to sit in someone elses urine during their 10-hour flight from Bangkok to Sydney. Initially, the airline refused to give the couple a full refund, but later, they apologised and refunded the total amount. Editors note (November 20th 2023): This article was updated to include the latest details of Mr Trumps trial in Fulton County, Georgia. Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during his caucus night watch party in Des Moines, Iowa, U.S., January 15. (Reuters) RUNNING FOR the American presidency is a full-time job. There was essentially no day or night from the first presidential debate in September 1976 to election day, griped James Fallows, now a journalist, who worked on Jimmy Carters campaign. Donald Trump, if he wins the Republican Partys nomination, as seems likely, will have to combine that gruelling endeavour with his role as a defendant in four criminal trials. In all he faces 91 felony charges, from falsifying business records to conspiring to defraud the country. His trials will all probably be scheduled well before election day. So far, Mr Trump, who denies all the charges, has reconciled the roles of defendant and candidate by making his campaign largely about the cases against him. He rallies Republican support with his claims that he is the victim of a political witch-hunt. Whether most American voters will agree should Mr Trump face off against President Joe Biden, the presumptive Democratic nominee, is uncertain. The revelations that emerge in court may well shape the race. These are the prosecutions that await the former president. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Election interference in Georgia Jurisdiction: StateFulton County, Georgia Trial date: TBD; the prosecutor filed a motion on November 17th seeking an August 5th 2024 start In the telling of Fani Willis, the prosecutor, Mr Trump was the boss of a criminal enterprise with one job: to change the result of the 2020 presidential election in Georgia, a state he lost. On August 14th this year Ms Willis indicted Mr Trump on charges including racketeering. She used a statute designed to target the mafia to tie the 19 co-defendants together. Their alleged offences vary: some defendants, known as the fake electors, are said to have submitted false paperwork to Congress claiming that Mr Trump had won Georgia. Others allegedly appealed to the states officials, urging them to overturn Mr Bidens victory. Yet others reputedly harassed election workers and stole voting data. Ms Willis claims that Mr Trump unified and motivated their illegal acts. Central to the case will be a phone call from January 2021: in it, the then-president urged Georgias secretary of state, Brad Raffensperger, to find 11,780 votesthe exact number that he needed to win the state. Four defendants have so far taken plea deals and agreed to co-operate with the prosecution. Election interference Jurisdiction: Federal (Washington, DC) Trial date: March 4th 2024 Jack Smiths indictment, alleging that Mr Trump tried to steal the 2020 presidential election, is the gravest case against the former president. Mr Smith, though appointed by Merrick Garland, Americas attorney-general, is an independent special prosecutor. That status is supposed to ensure that he has no political agenda, though of course Mr Trumps supporters dont accept that. On August 1st this year Mr Smith charged Mr Trump with conspiring to defraud the United States, obstructing an official proceeding (Congresss certification of the electoral-college vote in favour of Mr Biden) and conspiring to deprive Americans of their right to have their votes counted. The indictment accuses Mr Trump of pulling the strings of fake electors in Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, New Mexico, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin; leaning on the Department of Justice and the vice-president, Mike Pence, to carry out his criminal scheme; and exploiting the violence at the Capitol on January 6th 2021 to encourage lawmakers to delay certifying the vote. In challenging the allegations, Mr Trumps lawyers will probably cite his First Amendment right to free speech. The indictment opens by acknowledging that right, and Mr Trumps right to formally contest the results of an election. But his lies, it goes on to allege, created a foundation of mistrust upon which his criminal conspiracies were built. Falsifying business records Jurisdiction: LocalNew York City, New York Trial date: March 25th 2024 In March 2023 Alvin Bragg, Manhattans top prosecutor, brought the first-ever criminal indictment against a former president. He charged Mr Trump with 34 felony counts of falsifying business records to cover up a $130,000 payment to a porn star, Stormy Daniels. On the eve of the presidential election in 2016 she threatened to go public about sleeping with Mr Trump. His lawyer, Michael Cohen, paid her offand later pleaded guilty to campaign-finance violations in connection with the payment. Mr Trump is accused of covering up his reimbursements to Mr Cohen by describing them as payments for legal services. Falsifying business records is not a felony unless it furthers another crime. Mr Bragg did not specify the additional crime in his indictment, perhaps because the clearest contendera federal election-law violationis not obviously within his power as a local district attorney to prosecute. So far Mr Trumps lawyers have failed in their efforts to move the case to a federal court. Mishandling classified documents Jurisdiction: Federal (Florida) Trial date: May 20th 2024 On June 13th this year, in a separate case brought by Mr Smith, Mr Trump was arraigned in a court in Florida on 37 charges in connection with his alleged mishandling of classified documents after leaving the White House. The prosecutor brought most of the charges under the Espionage Act of 1917, which makes it a crime to hold secret government documents without authorisation. The former president is said to have retained records about Americas nuclear-weapons programme and other countries military capabilities. Mr Trump is also accused of obstructing investigators. On July 27th the prosecutors brought new charges, accusing him of attempting to destroy evidence. They allege that the former president was aware that retaining and leaking secret papers was a serious crime; that he stashed them in insecure places and refused an order to hand them over; and that he bragged about their contents. The indictment claims that the documents were boxed up in various locations at Mar-a-Lago, the private club in Florida where Mr Trump lives. These include a ballroom, a shower and a storage room that the public could get to from the clubs pool patio. Even more trials There are civil trials, too. New York state has accused Mr Trump of inflating his net worth to secure better loans. The judge found Mr Trump liable for fraud before proceedings even kicked off; Mr Trump denies the fraud and will appeal against the ruling. Other alleged offences, which he also denies, will be heard in a trial that started on October 2nd. In May a jury in Manhattan found Mr Trump liable for sexually abusing E. Jean Carroll, an author, in the 1990s, and of later defaming her. On September 6th a judge ruled that Mr Trump was liable in a second defamation trial, based in part on odious comments he made about Ms Carroll in a town hall on CNN in May. A jury is set to decide damages on January 16th 2024. The first civil trial did little to sway voters who favour Mr Trump. The full effects of the criminal ones remain to be seen. Thus far they have bolstered his popularity among Republicans. 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com THERE ARE two ways of looking at the security pact that Antony Blinken, Americas secretary of state, signed with the prime minister of Papua New Guinea (PNG), James Marape, on May 22nd. The obvious one is as further evidence of the great-power contest between America and China that is playing out in ever-expanding ripples across the Pacific Ocean. In that contest, America had, by its own reckoning, previously neglected the role of Pacific island states, of which PNG, a diverse land with 10m people, is by far the biggest. America is now making amends. It opened an embassy in the Solomon Islands and Tonga, and has plans to do so in Kiribati and Vanuatu. While in Port Moresby, PNGs capital, Mr Blinken also signed renewed compacts of free association with Micronesia and Palau, island states between PNG and Americas dependency of Guam. A renewed compact with the Marshall Islands will follow. These states hand over their defence exclusively to America in return for aid guarantees and other benefits. Yet the pact with PNG, the most striking evidence of renewed American engagement with the region, also represents a significant new opportunity for its island states. President Joe Biden had been due to travel to PNG to sign the pact. Americas fraught internal debt-ceiling negotiations nixed that. Even so, Mr Blinken is surely now the most influential American official to have visited png since General Douglas MacArthur. The strategic thinking is this: if America is to deter China from invading Taiwan (or if it is to defend Taiwan if China invades), Guam will be a crucial American military base. It is outside the range of many Chinese missiles. But Guams resilience rests on safe seas and skies around it. Hence the importance of these other island states. In addition, were China to control the waters around PNG, Australia, an important American ally, could be bottled up. Some of the bitterest fighting of the second world war took place in PNG, where MacArthur was supreme allied commander, precisely because of its strategic importance. Americas view of a titanic, superpower contest is officially deplored by Chinabut shared by it. Its envoy to the Pacific, Qian Bo, accuses America of possessing a cold-war mentality, of trying to sabotage Chinas relationships, and of being blinded by ideological prejudice. Perhaps. But China has a cold-war mentality, too. It vies unbendingly with Taiwan for influence with the Pacifics smaller states. In 2019 its financial inducements, some of them underhand, persuaded the Solomon Islands and Kiribati to switch diplomatic allegiance. A security pact that China signed with the Solomons last year led a panicked America to realise how much ground in the region it had lost. Untrammelled competition between the two big powers is met by some islanders with foreboding (Port Moresby saw protests against the new pact). The Pacific islands history as hapless victims is seared into the collective memory; they were objects of colonial exploitation, then bloody battlefields and finally post-war sites for nuclear tests. But for those minded to see the upside for the Pacific states, as well as the risks, in their renewed geopolitical relevance, there are many opportunities to point to. The island states are no longer victims. It has been years, says John Blaxland of the Australian National University in Canberra, since they enjoyed such favours from outside powers, in terms of high-level visits, offers of investment and other commitments (the $45m Mr Blinken promised impoverished PNG will help it fight transnational crime and climate change). Great-power competition can mean growing options. The PNG deal underscores a level of comfort among Pacific states with outsiders that have English, Christianity and history in common with them. Last year they flatly rejected Chinas attempts to create a new geopolitical bloc. Yet they are happy to take Chinese investment. Mr Marape says PNG will not stop working with China; indeed it is negotiating a free-trade deal with it. PNG, says Mihai Sora of the Lowy Institute, a Sydney think-tank, is very deft at compartmentalising relationshipssecurity and development with America, trade and investment with China. Other Pacific states are, too. Seen from a local perspective, the island countries are increasingly binding America and China into a web of Pacific obligations. It could make the region strongerand, by restraining the adventurism of both powers, perhaps even safer. Read more from Banyan, our columnist on Asia: Myanmars conflict is dividing South-East Asia (May 18th) A winner has emerged in the old rivalry between Singapore and Hong Kong (May 11th) Americas closest Indo-Pacific allies are cosying up (May 4th) Also: How the Banyan column got its name 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com Chinese Premier Li Qiang highlighted huge potential in relations with Dublin as the Asian nation announced it would allow citizens from Ireland to enter without a visa. Chinese Premier Li Qiang, right, is greeted by Ireland's Prime Minister Leo Varadkar at Farmleigh House, during a visit to Dublin, Ireland, Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024. (AP) Li, on the first visit by a high-ranking Chinese official to Ireland since 2015, met with Irish Prime Minister, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and President Michael D Higgins for talks on global issues including trade. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. During his visit, Li praised the close ties between the two countries. He said that China and Ireland should work together to uphold a free and open international trading system and maintain the smooth flow of global industrial and supply chains. After the talks, China announced that it will apply unilateral visa-free policy to Ireland to facilitate exchanges between the two countries, the official Xinhua New Agency reported. In recent months, China made similar visa announcements in relation to citizens from Switzerland, France, Germany and Italy as part of Chinas steps toward opening up and facilitating more cross-border exchanges. Ireland was the only other stop on Lis European trip to attend the World Economic Forum in Davos. China has recently been making efforts to increase international diplomacy as it attempts to reshape the US-led world order. Varadkar cited growing economic relations between the two countries, saying that Li agreed that China would reopen its market to Irish beef exports. Last year China stopped imports of Irish beef after a case of atypical BSE, or mad cow disease, had been discovered in a cow in Ireland. China is Irelands biggest trading partner in the Asia-Pacific region, Varakdar said. We want a very strong and constructive relationship with China, Varadkar said after the meeting with Li. One based on trust and respect and one informed by our values and the multilateral system in which we are both stakeholders. Of course we wont find agreement on everything but I hope we will also speak frankly and respectfully to each other and candidly as we did today, Varadkar added. President Higgins raised human rights issues with Li, his office confirmed in a press release. It said Higgins referenced meetings of the Universal Periodic Review, designed to review human rights records of states and taking place in Geneva, and the points that are likely to arise during that process. New Delhi [India], January 21 (ANI): As a pristine and gilded Ayodhya awaited Lord Ram to return to his birthplace and take his throne on Monday, several sitting ministers in New Zealand sent out congratulatory messages to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, saying it was his leadership that made the construction of the Ram Temple possible after a prolonged wait of 500 years. HT Image Speaking to ANI, New Zealand's Minister for Regulation, David Seymour, said, "Jai Shri Ram...I wish to congratulate everyone in India, including PM Modi, as it was his leadership that made this construction (Ram Temple) possible after 500 years. The temple is majestic and built to last another 1000 years." Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Saying he would be 'delighted' to pay a visit to the Ram Temple, Seymour said, "I wish PM Modi courage and wisdom as he helps over a billion people in India navigate the challenges of the world today." "I hope that he will have strength and faith," the minister added. Echoing the refrain, New Zealand's Minister for Ethnic Communities, Melissa Lee, said the Ram Mandir is the result of PM Modi's leadership and work. Speaking to ANI ahead of the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony on Monday, the minister said, "I wish the Indian diaspora around the world for the celebration of the inauguration of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Congratulations to PM Modi and the people of Bharat on the inauguration of Ram Mandir after 500 years." "Ram Mandir is the result of PM Modi's work and his championing of resurrecting this Mandir. He has been elected so many times as the Prime Minister. It (the public support and mandates in favour of PM Modi) shows his desire to take India forward and take the economy to new heights. PM Modi is respected around the world and he is putting in some very good work for the people of India," she said. As the grand 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya draws near, celebrations among the Indian diaspora beyond Indian shores have been unbridled. In the latest demonstration of the festive fervour among natives across the world, members of the Indian diaspora in Sydney celebrated the lead-up to the Ram Temple inauguration by holding a car rally on Saturday. In the event, more than 100 cars participated, attracting hundreds of 'Ram Bhakts' and passersby in the neighbourhood. In visuals captured by ANI, cars were seen lined up on roads, with members of the diaspora dancing and holding flags embossed with images of Lord Ram. There were similar celebratory events featuring fireworks display and the waving of saffron flags with images of Lord Ram. Amid the growing excitement and anticipation back home around the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony in Ayodhya, more celebrations have been planned across hundreds of temples in Australia over the next couple of days. Earlier, in the US, hundreds of Indians organised a car rally in Edison, New Jersey. More than 350 cars participated in the rally. Visuals accessed by ANI showed people from the Hindu community holding flags inscribed with images of Lord Ram and cars lining up on the streets. Earlier, the president of the Mauritius Sanatan Dharm Temples Federation, Bhojraj Ghoorbin, said all temples in the island country will organise the chanting of verses from the epic 'Ramayan' on January 22, as a mark of celebration of the 'Pran Pratishtha' of Lord Ram in Ayodhya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the ceremonial enthronement of the idol of Shri Ram Lalla inside the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple on January 22. A host of leaders and dignitaries from all walks of life have been invited to the grand temple opening in Ayodhya. Vedic rituals for the Pran-Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya began on January 16, a week before the main ceremony. (ANI) A fire broke out at a Baltic Sea terminal belonging to Novatek, Russia's largest liquefied natural gas producer, regional officials said on Sunday, amid reports of explosions and Ukrainian drone sightings in the area. This handout photograph published on the official Telegram account of the governor of the Leningrad region Aleksandr Drozdenko on January 21, 2024, shows rescuers working to extinguish a fire at a natural gas terminal in the Russian Baltic Sea port of Ust-Luga. (AFP) The Ust-Luga complex, located on the Gulf of Finland about 170 km (110 miles) west of St. Petersburg, processes stable gas condensate into light and heavy naphtha, jet fuel, fuel oil and gasoil, according to Novatek's website. The port is used to ship processed products to international markets. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. "There were no casualties as a result of the fire at the Novatek terminal in the port of Ust-Luga. The personnel were evacuated," Alexander Drozdenko, the Leningrad region's governor, said on the Telegram messaging app. Russian news agencies reported that two storage tanks and a pumping station had been damaged, but that the fire had now been brought under control. Drozdenko did not say what caused the blaze, but Russian news outlet Shot reported that local residents had heard a drone operating nearby followed by several explosions. St. Petersburg-based news outlet Fontanka said at least two drones were spotted in the sky flying towards St. Petersburg before the terminal caught fire. Russia and Ukraine have targeted each other's energy infrastructure in strikes designed to disrupt supply lines and logistics, each side seeking to demoralise the other in a nearly two-year-old war that shows no sign of ending. On Friday, a drone attack hit an oil depot in Russia's western region of Bryansk, bordering Ukraine, for which Moscow blamed Kyiv. That came a day after an attack on a Russian Baltic Sea oil terminal that Russian officials said was unsuccessful. There was no immediate comment on Sunday from Ukraine on the Novatek incident. Novatek did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Baza, a Russian news outlet known for its security services contacts, posted footage on Telegram of large flames shooting into the sky over what appeared to be an industrial complex. Three international tanker ships were anchored near the fire, though there were no reports of damage to them, the Fontanka outlet said. Drozdenko said a "high alert regime" had been introduced and that officials had gathered for an emergency meeting. Novatek processed 3.4 million tons of stable gas condensate at the complex in the first half of 2023, according to the most recent data available, up 0.6% from the same period a year earlier. (Reporting by Lidia Kelly and Maxim Rodionov; Writing by Lidia Kelly in Melbourne and Andrew Osborn in London; Editing by William Mallard and Hugh Lawson) Russia has strongly reacted to NATO's Steadfast Defender 2024 exercises involving about 90,000 troops. Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko sharply criticised the military exercises in an interaction with the state RIA news agency in remarks published on Sunday. Soldiers of the NATO enhanced forward presence battalion (Representational picture)(AP) The Russian Deputy Foreign Minister called out the exercises, terming it as "irrevocable return of NATO to the Cold War schemes". Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. "These exercises are another element of the hybrid war unleashed by the West against Russia," Grushko told RIA as quoted by news agency Reuters. "An exercise of this scale ... marks the final and irrevocable return of NATO to the Cold War schemes, when the military planning process, resources and infrastructure are being prepared for confrontation with Russia," added Grushko. NATO said on Thursday it was launching its largest exercise since the Cold War involving some 90,000 troops. The exercise is aimed at rehearsing how US troops could aid European allies in countries bordering Russia and on the alliance's eastern flank in a situation of a conflict. However, the alliance didn't mention Russia by name in its announcement. Notably, Russia is involved in a war against Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been trying to secure NATO membership for his country. Amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, NATO and the US have been providing financial and military aid to Ukraine. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war started with Russian invasion in February 2022. Both sides have lost thousands of soldiers in the devastating hostility. Russia claims to have occupied several regions of Ukrainian territory and it has announced plans to hold elections as part of the 2024 Russian presidential election. With inputs from news agencies BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 21. The Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA) has been attacking Israeli Ambassador to Azerbaijan George Deek on social media for honoring the memory of the victims of the January 20 tragedy at Alley of Martyrs, Trend reports. ANCA members, claiming that the Israeli ambassador allegedly has "Armenian origin", blame him for his loyalty to Israel's "anti-Armenian decisions", a rather absurd claim. George Deek, as well as a number of other foreign ambassadors and diplomats, visited the Alley of Martyrs. Including the US Ambassador to Azerbaijan Mark Libby. However, the Armenian lobby in the US preferred to ignore the fact. George Deek made a post on his X page regarding the January 20 tragedy. "On Jan 20th, Azerbaijan commemorates the tragic loss of 147 innocent lives due to the violence of aggressors bent on crushing Azerbaijans national aspirations. Despite the sorrow, the resilient Azerbaijani people persisted in their fight for freedom and self-determination. The people of Israel stand on this day, and on every day, with the people of Azerbaijan," said the ambassador. "We know how that feels. On October 7th Hamas invaded Israel, murdered, raped, tortured, and kidnapped Israelis in their homes. Hamas wished to destroy us and our national aspirations. They failed. We are united, strong, and determined. Our victory will be the victory of life, of freedom and human dignity," Deek added. Amid its ongoing offensive to dismantle the Hamas terror network and ensure the release of all hostages in Gaza, the Israel Defense Forces has discovered a tunnel with cramped cells where, the military said, about 20 hostages were held captive. However, no hostages were found when the tunnel was discovered. Israel-Hamas war: Israel Defense Forces have discovered a tunnel with cramped cells where the military said Hamas kept about 20 hostages.(X(formerly Twitter)/@Israel) Military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said inside the tunnel, the Israeli forces found a holding area, five narrow rooms behind metal bars, toilets, mattresses, and even drawings by a child hostage who was freed during a November truce. He claimed that the entrance of the tunnel was in the house of a Hamas member in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis. He said the tunnel was rigged with blast doors and explosives. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. "The soldiers entered the tunnel where they encountered terrorists, engaging in a battle that ended with the elimination of the terrorists," said Hagari as quoted by news agency Reuters. "According to the testimonies we have, about 20 hostages were held in this tunnel at different times under harsh conditions without daylight, in dense air with little oxygen, and terrible humidity that makes breathing difficult," he said. ALSO READ| Shes not of that calibre': Trump says Nikki Haley won't be his VP pick As per Israeli claims, more than 100 hostages are still held under Hamas captivity in Gaza. All these hostages were captured during the October 7 attack by Hamas on southern Israel, last year. In the attack, Hamas killed hundreds of Israelis, raped women and beheaded babies following which Israel declared war. Meanwhile, the Israel-Hamas war has been on for more than 100 days now. Thousands of Hamas militants have been killed. Israel's bombardment of Gaza has resulted in the death of thousands of Palestinian civilians and the displacement of hundreds of thousands, resulting in a humanitarian crisis. The international community's efforts to convince Israel to implement a cease-fire, have been unsuccessful. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that the ongoing war would take months until his country's complete victory over Hamas. A sick 14-year-old Maldivian boy died on Saturday after President Mohammed Muizzu reportedly refused approval to use India's Dornier aircraft to airlift the teenager. The report comes amid a diplomatic row between India and Maldives. Maldives president Mohammed Muizzu ( AFP) The boy's family had requested the services of an air ambulance to quickly transport him from his home in Gaaf Alif Villingili to Male, as his condition turned critical. The teenager, who suffered from a brain tumour, died of a stroke, the Maldives media reported. The deceased's family has blamed Maldivian authorities for failing to arrange medical evacuation in time. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. "We called Island Aviation to get him to Male immediately after the stroke but they did not answer our calls. They answered the phone at 8:30 am on Thursday. The solution is to have an air ambulance for such cases," the boy's father told Maldivian media Adhadhu. ALSO READ| Israeli forces uncover Gaza tunnel where Hamas kept about 20 hostages The boy's death has brought a sharp reaction from Maldives MP Meekail Naseem who called out the country's president. Naseem said, People shouldnt have to pay with their lives to satisfy the Presidents animosity towards India." Notably, diplomatic ties between the Maldives and India got seriously strained after some Maldivian leaders posted derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and hurled racist comments against Indians after his visit to Lakshadweep. The objectionable social media posts caused a furore in India, with Indian netizens calling out the Maldivians. Later, ministry of external affairs also took cognizance of the matter and summoned the Maldivian envoy. The controversy drew strong reactions from India's celebrities as well. As Maldivians demeaned India's tourism industry, Indians launched a boycott campaign against Maldives and its tourist spots. Recently, the Maldives asked withdrawal of Indian troops flying two ALH helicopters, one Dornier and sailing an offshore patrol vessel (OPV) in the islands. Muizzu government has demanded that the personnel be withdrawn by March 15, two days before the Maldivian parliamentary elections on March 17. MANCHESTER, New Hampshire (AP) Donald Trump is surrounding himself with leaders from Nikki Haley 's home state in a show of strength ahead of Tuesday's New Hampshire primary. HT Image Trump, according to his campaign, will be joined at a rally at the NHU Arena in Manchester Saturday night by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, the state's lieutenant governor and a slew of other senior officials, including the state's attorney general, treasurer and House speaker. Also planning to appear are U.S. Reps. Joe Wilson, William Timmons and Russell Fry. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. The appearances are yet another blow from South Carolina against Haley, who is hoping her appeal among independent and unaffiliated voters will propel her to a strong enough finish in New Hampshire to turn the race into a two-person contest against Trump. It comes a day after Trump received the endorsement of South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, who joined him at a rally in Concord. Scott dropped his own bid for the Republican nomination in November. A dozen years ago, Haley, then serving as governor of their state, elevated Scott from the House by appointing him as senator, making him one of the nations most prominent Black Republicans. McMaster and other top officials had already endorsed Trump. Haley has a famously fractious relationship with many of her states Republican power brokers even as she was twice elected governor defeating McMaster in the GOP primary the first time. Her response on Saturday made clear she hadn't forgotten that rivalry. Im sorry, is that the person I ran against for governor and beat? she said. "Just checking. Haley campaign manager Betsy Ankney also brushed off the appearances at an event hosted by Bloomberg News, insisting endorsements had never been Nikkis game. Haley, meanwhile, highlighted a gaffe from Trump at his rally Friday night after Scott gave him a rousing endorsement. Trump repeatedly suggested Haley had been in charge of keeping the Capitol secure on Jan. 6, 2021, when a mob of Trump supporters stormed the building to try to stop his election loss from being certified. Haley was not at the Capitol that day. And Trump has consistently downplayed his administration's failure to keep the Capitol safe or his delay in trying to call off the rioters. Theyre saying he got confused. That he was talking about something else, that he was talking about Nancy Pelosi," Haley said. When youre dealing with the pressures of a presidency, we cant have someone else where we question whether theyre mentally fit to do this. Even with their states top elected Republicans and much of the congressional delegation in New Hampshire to advocate for Trump this week, some South Carolina voters were undeterred about backing other candidates. Im a strong Republican, and I just vote Republican because I think they have a lot in common with supporting the United States and the regular citizens of the United States, said Sandra Chase, following an event for GOP presidential candidate Ron DeSantis in Lexington, South Carolina, on Saturday afternoon. DeSantis, coming off a second-place finish in leadoff Iowa, has shifted some of his focus away from New Hampshire, where the state's independent voters are seen to provide more of an opening for Haley. He's instead been campaigning this weekend in South Carolina, where the state's primary next month is considered a pivotal early contest. Chase said she had previously backed Trump but wanted to go in a different direction this year. I just want to pick the best candidate, and I think the best candidate is Ron DeSantis, she said. But I mean, everybody is allowed to support whoever they want to support. ___ AP National Politics Writer Steve Peoples in Keene, New Hampshire, reporter Meg Kinnard in Lexington, South Carolina, and Associated Press video journalist Joe Frederick in Peterborough, New Hampshire, contributed to this report. Ritesh Tandon, the Democratic candidate who is running for election to theUS House to represent California's 17th Congressional District, has taken to X to call out Aisha Wahab, a member of theCalifornia State Senate, for refusing to take action after several Indian temples were vandalised. He went on to say that considering Wahabs actions, it is time to consider a recall. Ritesh Tandon has taken to X to call out Aisha Wahab for refusing to take action after several Indian temples were vandalised (Ritesh Tandon for Congress/Facebook, @SenAishaWahab/X) In the last two weeks, six Indian temples have been vandalized, five of which are in Wahab District. There has been no response from Senator Aisha Wahab @SenAishaWahab, @aishabbwahab. Today, we held a protest rally in front of Senator Wahab's office, seeking a meeting with her or her staff, Tandon wrote on X. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. Unfortunately, despite it being within office hours on a working day, the office was closed. This situation highlights the use of your tax dollars and suggests it might be time to consider a recall, he said, adding a link to a website recallwahab.com to his post. However, in a January 19 post on X, Wahab shared an official statement regarding vandalism of Hindu temples, saying there is no room for such hatred in our communities. She said she hoped the law enforcement was investigating the matter diligently and that she was convening a meeting with police chiefs to discuss the matter. The link takes us to a website specifically demanding that Wahab be recalled, named Recall Wahab Campaign. The website says that Senator Wahabs pervasive, persistent and prevalent failures have prompted this RECALL. It also alleges that the Senator has violated the publics trust, abused power and unperformed while in office, failed to meet even the basic expectations of those who were counting on the Senator and thereby has not honored the constituents votes. Elected in 2022, Wahab represents the cities of Hayward, Union City, Newark, Fremont, Milpitas, Sunnyvale, San Jose and Santa Clara. The website also notes that the crime rate in Alameda County is 70% higher than in other counties throughout the US, and holds Wahab responsible for it. How can bills introduced by an elected legislature promote human trafficking, prevent rightful employment, gaslight and criminalize certain sections of the population without any proof of wrongdoing? It also lists several critical issues she has failed to address, including the tragic shooting death of two young children. Former president Donald Trump kicked out a protester during his rally in Manchester on Saturday night, January 20, and blasted questions being raised about his mental health. It was about an hour into his campaign event at the SNHU Arena in Manchester when a man in the crowd shouted, He's a dictator. Donald Trump takes the stage during a campaign rally at the SNHU Arena on January 20, 2024 in Manchester, New Hampshire (Photo by CHIP SOMODEVILLA / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)(Getty Images via AFP) Get him out, Trump said, and security immediately surrounded the man, according to the Daily Mail. He was then removed from the arena. Now we know that politics is getting serious, Trump said. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. A second man, dressed in a white KKK outfit, was also booted from the site before he could enter the crowd. Trump slammed Nikki Haley for earlier questioning whether he was mentally fit enough to be president. I feel my mind is stronger now than it was 25 years ago. Is that possible? he said. This came shortly after the former president confused Haley with Nancy Pelosi during a speech. It has been reported that several ticket holders, waiting for several hours in below freezing temperatures, were denied entry to the rally. Some later tried to rush into the building after 6 pm. "Everyone wants to get in there and see the man," Connecticut resident James Beaudion said, according to CBS News. "I just drove three hours from CT all I got was this Trump scarf." "I don't think he cares one bit about the citizens of New Hampshire. He will open with a lie, lie every sentence out of his mouth until the end of the evening," New Hampshire resident Catherine Johnson said. "I could honestly understand why they voted for him in 2016 right, he had no proven track record, you know he was a celebrity, we're a culture that loves that. In 2020 he had proven himself unfit to be President, but I respect the right to have an opinion," Johnson told WBZ. "I would not vote for that man literally if my life depended on it," Johnson added. "I don't know that I really want to be here, but I love the first in the nation primary and I've been to about 80 events." A grieving man attacked the killer of his stepdaughter during his sentencinghearing in California earlier this week. 33-year-old Euren Balbuena was sentenced to 33 years behind bars for murdering his girlfriend, 31-year-old Zaira Patino-Trejo, in 2020. A photo shared by the DAs office shows Euren Balbuena, handcuffed and shocked, being held back by a court official right after the attack (Ventura County District Attorney's Office) Patino-Trejo had been stabbed to death in front of her mother, Ariadna Avetisyan. Avetisyan was delivering a victim impact statement when her husband attacked Balbuena. County spokesperson Joey Buttitta told New York Post that the man landed a punch or two before bailiffs managed to separate them. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. A photo shared by the DAs office shows Balbuena, handcuffed and shocked, being held back by a court official right after the attack. The stepfather was eventually removed from the courtroom. Back in November, Balbuena was convicted of the first-degree murder of Patino-Trejo, battery causing great bodily injury, and assault with a deadly weapon against her mother. On February 27, 2020, Balbuena and Ms. Patino-Trejo were in the middle of an argument inside of their Simi Valley apartment. Aware of the ongoing argument and a history of domestic violence in the relationship, the victims mother arrived at the apartment when she could not get in contact with Ms. Patino-Trejo. Seeing signs of more abuse on her daughters face, the victims mother tried to leave with her. Balbuena would not let Ms. Patino-Trejo out of the apartment and instead grabbed a kitchen knife swinging it at the victims mother. He slashed her twice in the head before turning and stabbing Ms. Patino-Trejo. Balbuena stabbed her more than 30 times with several knives, killing her, Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko announced in a statement. The victims mother ran bleeding from the apartment and contacted a bystander who called 911. Simi Valley Police Officers arrived at the scene and arrested Balbuena who remained inside the apartment, the statement added. The case was prosecuted by Supervising Senior Deputy District Attorney Melissa Suttner and Deputy District Attorney Emily Reber. Zaira Patino-Trejo was such a vibrant young woman with a bright future, Suttner said. We cannot replace her unimaginable loss, but we pursued justice for Zaira and her family. We hope that this sentence brings some small relief to her family, knowing that Euren Balbuena was held accountable for her brutal murder. In a recent episode of Uncensored on the Tucker Carlson Network, Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy didnt hold back, calling out Nikki Haley and labelling her a Trojan horse for the Democrats. Lets break down what this means and why its causing a stir. Republican presidential candidate businessman Vivek Ramaswamy speaks at a campaign event, Friday, Jan. 12, 2024 in Des Moines, Iowa. (AP) Ramaswamy's accusation: A puppet in disguise Ramaswamy accuses Haley of being a puppet for nonpartisan entities who aim to manipulate the political landscape, emphasizing their interest in prolonging foreign wars and controlling the U.S. administrative state. Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now. He suggests that Haley is strategically positioned as an alternative to Donald Trump, who remains popular among Republican voters. Ramaswamy sees her candidacy as a move to divert attention and control the narrative. Haleys growing influence and criticisms Despite Ramaswamy's claims, Haley is gaining momentum in the polls, surpassing Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Her campaign is backed by notable endorsements and successful fundraising. Ramaswamy points out alleged inconsistencies in Haleys political stances and a curious incident from her autobiography where she changed her then-boyfriends name for political convenience. Reactions and additional insights Reactions to Ramaswamys accusations vary, with some, including Elon Musk, highlighting Haleys tendency to flip-flop on issues. Also Read: Readers are encouraged to explore conservative news sources for further insights, indicating a growing interest in understanding the dynamics of the Republican primary. Behind the scenes: Donors and influential figures Ramaswamy points fingers at influential figures like Larry Fink and Reid Hoffman, suggesting they are propping up Haley to eliminate Trump and maintain certain political agendas. Hoffman, a Democratic donor, has supported Haley through significant donations, contributing to the narrative of cross-party alliances. Ramaswamy's campaign struggles Ramaswamys attacks on Haley have intensified as her popularity rises, highlighting the tension between them during Republican primary debates. While Haley receives positive responses, Ramaswamy faces challenges, falling behind in the polls. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 21. Investigation is underway on the fact of mine explosion in the territory of Azerbaijans' Aghdam district, General Prosecutor's Office of Azerbaijan said, Trend reports. The district prosecutor's office is conducting an investigation in connection with the injury of Faig Sayyad (born in 1980) of Aghdam district liberated from Armenian occupation. The citizen was evacuated to the hospital by police officers. The district prosecutor's office examined the scene of the incident and carried out all necessary investigative actions. ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, January 21. Turkmenistan implements the 'Electronic Government' system, Director of the Agency for Transport and Communications of the country's Mammetkhan Chakiyev, reported at the government meeting, Trend reports. According to an official source, the development of the digital economy and national electronic communication systems were discussed at the meeting of the Government of Turkmenistan. Chakiyev said that advanced IT technologies are being actively introduced in the country, and the list of digital services is expanding, signifying a concerted effort to embrace technological innovation and enhance the range of digital offerings available to the public. In particular, the 'Duralga' mobile application has been launched, as well as the new 'Belet Video' hosting service. Furthermore, he noted that special attention is paid in the country to the implementation of an information exchange system in the 'X-Road' architecture format, which is successfully used in world practice, while currently the supplier is selected jointly with the UN Development Program (UNDP). Meanwhile, Turkmenistan is actively focusing its efforts on the development of the information technology sector, striving for a modern digital society. Public investments in the infrastructure of high-tech projects, expanding access to broadband Internet, and initiatives to develop digital skills among the population contribute to the growth of the IT industry in the country. Stay up to date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel Governor Names Executive Director of Domestic Violence Council BOSTON Gov. Maura Healey and Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll announced Vilma Uribe of Dorchester as executive director of the Governor's Council to Address Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking. Uribe has been a council member since 2015, and in this new role, she will be responsible for overseeing the work done by the Council to advise the administration on strategies to prevent and protect people from these crimes and support victims and survivors. The council is chaired by Driscoll and puts forth recommendations to advise the governor on how to help individuals, children, and families of Massachusetts live a life free of sexual assault, domestic violence and human trafficking. The council's goals are to improve prevention for all, enhance support for those impacted by sexual assault, domestic violence and human trafficking, and hold perpetrators accountable. The council is comprised of experts from across the state and has identified priorities with accompanied subcommittees Assessment and Response; Early Interventions for Children and Youth; Economic Mobility; Housing Stability; Human Trafficking; and Veterans, Military, and Families. The subcommittees review existing laws and programs and provide recommendations for improvement. Earlier this year, the Healey-Driscoll administration expanded the scope of the council, previously known as the Governor's Council to Address Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence, to include Human Trafficking as a subcommittee given the severity and prevalence of the crime in Massachusetts. "Here in Massachusetts, we are committed to supporting and protecting survivors and taking early steps to prevent crimes in the first place," said Healey. "Vilma Uribe's extensive experience in this field and her dedication to supporting survivors makes her a clear choice to direct this council. I want to thank the council members for their work and the lieutenant governor for chairing this important group." As a council member, Uribe developed policy recommendations for the governor and lieutenant governor related to the state's funding, programs and best practices for the response, prevention and treatment of domestic violence and sexual assault. She also co-led the Economic Mobility Subcommittee, and developed resource mobilization strategies and policy recommendations for expanding social and economic opportunities. Prior to this role, Uribe was the director of policy and systems change advocacy for REACH Beyond Domestic Violence, where she led advocacy strategies to support survivors while working with various stakeholders. She has held severa research positions that support her work and supervised a full-time bilingual child and adolescent therapist, bilingual outreach and engagement manager. "I've dedicated my career to direct service in support of survivors, and I am thrilled to take on this new role as executive director of the Governor's Council to Address Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking," said Uribe. "I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to thrive, not just survive. In this position, I'm excited about the chance to support individuals, children, and families throughout the state who have been affected by violence. But beyond that, I'm determined to take crucial steps to prevent violence from occurring in the first place." Veteran Spotlight: Army Lt. John Shoemaker Lt. John Shoemaker in Vietnam. NATICK, Mass. An absolute honor to interview John Shoemaker for this week's Veteran Spotlight. Born in Fitchburg, he attended the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and graduated with a bachelor in business studies in management before enlisting in the Army in 1968. He would go onto serve his country for four years as a combat platoon leader and company commander in the 196th Light Infantry Brigade of the "Americal" Division in Chu Lai. He completed his basic training at Fort Dix, N.J., Advanced Infantry Training at Fort Polk, La., and Airborne and Officer Candidate School Training at Fort Benning, Ga., before going to advanced jungle training in the Panama Canal Zone. Lt. Shoemaker left for Vietnam with his first-born son only three months old. He arrived in Vietnam and immediately went through two weeks of in-country training and was assigned to a firebase on Hawk Hill then to Hill 251 just west of Chu Lai. His first day on patrol, provided him with a memorable experience. "My commanding office told me 'you're just an observing officer' ... we were marching through a rice paddy, I was fifth in line, the radio guy was in front of me. I was mesmerized as I waded through this dark brown, putrid, god-awful-smelling water filled with water buffalo and human excrement and leeches. I thought, I'm not watching Walter Cronkite anymore. "Then, it seemed like the whole world blew up! A huge explosion the guy in front of the radio man stepped on a booby trap. It blew off his feet and almost split the lieutenant in front of him in two. I was now in charge, all our guys had zero combat experience. One of the soldiers came up to me and said, 'OK lieutenant, what do we do now?' I was on patrol for just two hours and thought 'how am I gonna' last a year?'" Shoemaker said his only thought was he had to keep his soldiers alive and kill as many North Vietnamese soldiers he could before they killed him. "I thought there's no way in hell I'm getting out of here alive," he said. "I was scared every day and I said [expletive] it, I'm taking the battle to the enemy. I was in the jungle three-four weeks at a time. I was always afraid of losing a limb or being captured. I resigned myself that the latter was never going to happen." I asked Shoemaker about the holidays and how it might have affected him. "There were no holidays for me. I did have a chance to see Bob Hope. It was a life experience and I got to meet him years later," he remembered. "I took a bunch of my guys from Hawk Hill, we had to drive a long ways and all I could think about on the way is 'to hell with Hope,' what happens if we got ambushed? We couldn't carry guns, only the MPs escorting us could. It would have been the perfect time." I asked Lt. Shoemaker how it felt to lose a soldier under your command. He replied with this: "It's simply devastating. You constantly think 'what could I have done, what should I have done'? It eats at you. I lost five guys two gunshot and three from booby traps. I wanted to kill 10 NVA for every one I lost. I was just so pissed. When a soldier is lost, it stays with the family forever. The pain never goes away nobody knows how they suffer." He continued, "I had a soldier that had two parents that were doctors. This kid was in med-school studying to be a doctor, great kid. He enlisted to go to Vietnam because his parents told him he should do something for his country that would have purpose. He took a bullet to one of his major organs in a firefight. He died in shock in the helicopter. An asset of humanity that was tragically lost." Shoemaker offered this when I asked him his thoughts on the protesters of the Vietnam War. "I rejected it at the time, because it showed our country in a bad light and divided," he said. "It destroyed our country's morale, unity and patriotism." Thoughts on service? "I thought I needed to serve. My dad was in the Navy in WWII," Shoemaker said. "I was inspired by my dad. Being a combat platoon leader in Vietnam proved to be who I am, it changed who I was and it created who I would be I would do everything over the exact same way." He was awarded three Bronze Stars, two for valor; the Air Medal; two Army Commendation Medals, one for valor, and the Purple Heart. Formerly of Natick, he now resides in the state of Florida. Lt. John Shoemaker, thank you for your service to our great country. Mass Humanities Announces 2024 Funding Opportunities NORTHAMPTON, Mass. Humanities, the Commonwealth's leading funder of humanities programs, announced upcoming opportunities for its 2024 grant season. Application materials for Expand Massachusetts Stories (EMS) grants are available now on the website, with the application window opening on February 5. EMS grants support projects that collect, interpret, and share stories about the Commonwealth. Special consideration is given to humanities programming, events, and creative works that emphasize the voices and experiences of residents that too often go unrecognized, or have been excluded from public conversation and public history. This year, Mass Humanities is offering a new grant track for projects that explore different aspects of climate change. Applicants are eligible to receive up to $20,000 for projects that illuminate community knowledge, experiences, and values in response to the climate crisis. Organizations interested in applying for a grant can now choose between the Climate Change Track, Advancing Equity Track, and Open Track. "We believe that the humanities are crucial to confronting the complex challenges facing every human and every community," said Brian Boyles, executive director of Mass Humanities. "At this pivotal time in our nation, Mass Humanities supports storytellers and changemakers who bring people together to listen, share and imagine a better future. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary in 2024, we look forward to hearing their ideas and celebrating their work." Mass Humanities launched the EMS initiative in 2021 with the support of Mass Cultural Council and the Barr Foundation. Since then, Mass Humanities has distributed more than $1.8 million to projects across the state that included audio tours, documentary films, oral histories, public events, and archival research. "Every creative community has a compelling story to tell," said Michael J. Bobbitt, executive director of the Mass Cultural Council. "Today's EMS grant recipients are about to inspire us all through these conversations. I cannot wait to experience, learn and engage with them. Mass Cultural Council is proud to partner with and support Mass Humanities in this effort, which ensures these types of important dialogue happen in Massachusetts." In 2023, Mass Humanities awarded $751,357 in EMS grants to 42 cultural nonprofit organizations from Cape Cod to the Berkshires. The majority of funds went to organizations receiving their first Mass Humanities grant, while people of color lead 67 percent of the supported projects, and 65 percent of the organizations had annual operating budgets of less than $300,000. Eligibility requirements and grant guidelines can be viewed on the Mass Humanities grants website. Resources are available in both English and Spanish. Williamstown Diversity Panel Talks About Raising Profile of MLK Holiday in Town WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass. One day after their regular meeting was postponed by Martin Luther King Jr. Day, members of the Diversity, Inclusion and Racial Equity Committee talked about how that day could have greater recognition in the town. "I come from a different part of the country, and there's more diversity there," Noah Smalls told his colleagues at their Jan. 16 session. "I was taken aback at how little was done to recognize, celebrate, honor Dr. King's birthday as a federal holiday. "I know different people are able to engage with this dialogue from different places. People have different levels of interest in it as well." Smalls asked whether the town acknowledged King's legacy in any official way on the holiday, including, perhaps, a statement on the town's website or "references to books or pictures or invitations to community groups that might have programming going on." Andrew Art said that when he lived in Virginia, his community held a day of service on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, presumably something like the annual Berkshire County events in North Adams and Pittsfield The DIRE Committee members discussed whether their panel could foster a similar service-oriented event in Williamstown, specifically one that could connect would-be volunteers to non-profit groups in need of help. "One thought I had was maybe we could create a volunteer fair," Art said. "It wouldn't be a day of volunteering but an opportunity to invite organizations that need volunteers to come and have a little station or hand out their materials. It would be a time for people who may be interested in volunteering to look at what opportunities are out there in the community." Smalls said he experienced a "matching" event similar to what Art described in an academic setting in Pennsylvania. Art said the Williamstown event could be held indoors on the third Monday in January (the date of the federal holiday) in recognition of the cold weather. And holding the event at the beginning of the year would connect volunteers to organizations at a time when "people are thinking about how they're going to spend their time during the year." "I think we have a strong community that does a lot of volunteer work," Art said. "It may be useful for people to understand what are the needs in the community where they're looking for people to get involved." The discussion dovetailed with the DIRE Committee's long-discussed desire to encourage and/or sponsor community-building events, sometimes coinciding with holidays. "I would also like to invite the public audience to propose ways to honor this holiday and other holidays that other people feel are not elevated to where they could be," Salls said. To that end, the committee is working to have a line item in the town's budget, similar to the Agricultural Commission and Historical Commission each budgeted for $1,000 in the current fiscal year. "DIRE Programs" was listed in the FY24 budget under the discretionary budget of the Select Board, which created the advisory committee in 2020, with a funding level of $1,500. Chair Shana Dixon Tuesday told her fellow committee members that she is coordinating with Select Board Chair Jeffrey Johnson about bringing the issue to the attention of the Finance Committee, which begins its review of the fiscal year 2025 budget on Feb. 21. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 21. From March 1, 2024, Kazakhstan will switch to a single time zone, Trend reports. Now Kazakhstan will have a 5th time zone (UTC+5). As Interfax clarifies, taking into account the decision made on the night of February 29 to March 1 in the cities of Astana, Almaty, Shymkent, as well as in Akmola, Almaty, Zhambyl, Karaganda, Kostanay, Pavlodar, North Kazakhstan, Turkestan, East -In Kazakhstan regions, citizens will have to set the time back one hour (currently these areas live in the 6th time zone). Currently, there are two time zones in Kazakhstan - UTC+5 and UTC+6. Previously, Kazakh experts noted that the sixth time zone does not correspond to natural solar time and has a negative impact on the health of citizens. In addition, the establishment of a uniform time will improve the coordination of transport and other communications and will have a positive impact on business. As the Parliamentary Gazette wrote, in September 2023, the State Duma rejected in the first reading the bill on Russia's transition to summer time. The document proposed returning the annual clock change on the last Sunday of March at two hours an hour forward and on the last Sunday in October at three hours an hour back. The bill received negative feedback from the Government. ASHGABAT, Turkmenistan, January 21. The Ministry of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan, together with ministries and sectoral departments, municipalities of the regions, the cities of Ashgabat and Arkadag, has prepared a draft 'Program of socio-economic development of the country for 2024', Trend reports. This was announced by Deputy Chairman of the Government of Turkmenistan Hojamyrat Geldimyradov at a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers. According to him, this document was developed in accordance with the 'Program of the President of Turkmenistan for socio-economic development of the country for 2022-2028' and the state budget for 2024. He noted that in accordance with the draft Program, during the year it is planned to implement measures aimed at ensuring macroeconomic stability and strengthening the economic power of Turkmenistan, sustainable GDP growth, development of industries and regions. The Deputy Chairman also added that it is planned to bring industrial enterprises to full production capacity and create new jobs in the regions. Among the priorities are to increase export destinations by increasing the competitiveness of the national economy, the development of importsubstituting industries, and the growth of production of environmentally friendly, high-quality agricultural products and foodstuffs. Along with this, work will continue to provide state support to agricultural producers, ensure food abundance, high-quality transport, housing and communal services, social and other types of public services, as well as the dynamic development of small and medium-sized businesses, create a favorable business environment, and improve public-private partnerships. Meanwhile, Turkmenistan has consistently witnessed economic expansion through concerted endeavors in the energy, transportation, and infrastructure domains. The nation is proactively enacting initiatives to draw in foreign investments, with a particular emphasis on diversifying the economy and enhancing the overall business environment. Stay up to date with more news at Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Russian president Vladimir Putin could visit North Korea at an early date, Pyongyang said, as the countries have ramped up efforts to strengthen ties amid international concerns. North Korea and Russia have pledged to establish a new multi-polarised international order and are undertaking deep strategic communication on various regional and international issues, the North Korean foreign ministry said on Sunday, according to state media KCNA. It comes as Mr Putin and foreign minister Sergey Lavrov met visiting North Korean foreign minister Choe Son Hui, in the first North Korean high-profile visit after leader Kim Jong-un travelled to the far-eastern Russian port of Vladivostok in September last year. Mr Kim had invited the Russian leader to Pyongyang who accepted the invitation to visit at an unconfirmed date. President Putin expressed deep thanks once again for the invitation of President of the State Affairs Kim Jong Un to visit Pyongyang at a convenient time and expressed his willingness to visit the DPRK at an early date, KCNA reported referring to North Korea with its official name. The prospect of a Russia-North Korea alliance in arms and military cooperation has raised concerns among Western countries and their allies in the Korean peninsula. This is particularly worrisome as Moscow enters its second year of the war in Ukraine and expresses a keen interest in fostering relations with adversaries of the United States. The White House has raised concerns that North Korea could be providing Russia with munitions to help prolong its fighting in Ukraine, possibly in exchange for badly needed economic aid and military assistance to help upgrade Mr Kims forces. Both Pyongyang and Russia have denied accusations by Washington and Seoul about North Korean arms transfers to Russia amid their deepening ties. Analysts say the rekindling of the partnership that has roots going back to the Soviet era may tip the scales, altering the dynamics in two volatile regions, both in Ukraine and the Korean Peninsula. Russia expressed deep thanks to North Korea for its full support to its war in Ukraine, the foreign ministry of North Korea said. It said Ms Choe and the Russian officials expressed "serious concern" over the United States expanding military cooperation with its Asian allies that they blamed for worsening tensions in the region and threatening North Koreas sovereignty and security interests. Tensions in the Korean peninsula have reached tipping points after North Korea said it will no longer pursue reconciliation with South Korea and is moving to formally describe it as a primary foe in its constitution. Pyongyang states that this action is in retaliation to US interference in the region, with the armies of Washington, South Korea, and Japan intensifying their joint military exercises exercises that Mr Kim portrays as invasion rehearsals. South Korea on Thursday urged the UN Security Council "to break the silence" over North Koreas escalating missile tests and threats. It was after North Korea on Friday said it conducted a test of a purported nuclear-capable underwater attack drone in response to a combined naval exercise by the US, South Korea and Japan last week. North Korea described Mr Putin as the closest friend and said their friendly relations have entered the course of a new comprehensive development. The scaffolding on the vast Hindu temple being built in the northern Indian town of Ayodhya can be seen from a distance. With prime minister Narendra Modi due to lead the consecration of the Ram Temple on Monday, workers were still climbing up the main dome last week to apply the finishing touches ahead of the grand state event. The frenzied last-minute preparations, and a large police presence, do nothing to dampen the spirits of a stream of exuberant devotees making their way to the disputed site, which is believed by many to be the birthplace of the most revered Hindu deity, Lord Ram. The inauguration ceremony on Monday will fulfil a decades-long Hindu nationalist pledge just months before Modi and his right-wing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are set to seek a third term in power in a national election. With the prime minister due in the city alongside thousands of religious leaders and powerful figures from Indias elite, streets that were earlier congested and worn down are witnessing an elaborate makeover. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Philippines president Ferdinand Marcos Jr received backlash on social media for using a presidential chopper to attend the Coldplay concert to beat the capitals horrendous traffic. Mr Marcos arrived at the British rock band Coldplays concert on Friday and videos of him attending the show went viral on social media. Most Filipinos criticised the president and his family for using a helicopter with taxpayers money while remaining oblivious to the traffic conditions around metropolitan Manila, a metropolis of 16 overcrowded cities of about 13 million people. Manila has earned the dubious distinction of being the worst in the world for traffic among 387 cities in 55 countries, according to navigation and mapping firm TomTom. But that did not prevent Mr Marcos from making it to the show and reaching the concert venue, that is approximately 30km north of the capital, Manila. It would have taken concertgoers at least three hours to travel by road. Addressing the controversy, the Presidential Security Group said in a statement the Philippine Arena, the worlds largest indoor arena, saw an influx of 40,000 concert-goers resulting in unforeseen traffic complications along the route. The traffic situation posed a security threat to Mr Marcos who attended the Friday night concert with his wife, prompting the use of the presidential chopper, it added. However, residents expressed frustration about the traffic situation in the city and the use of taxpayer funds by Mr Marcos, the son and namesake of the late strongman president, whose rule concluded almost four decades ago through a historic people power revolution. "Using official resources, like the presidential chopper, for personal and non-official activities is generally considered an abuse of power or misuse of government resources," Facebook user James Patrick Aristorenas said in a post on Saturday. We paid for the use of the chopper, fuel and security, who knows even for the tickets for everyone, Facebook user Arvine Concepcion said. Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Independent Climate email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Ancient zombie viruses frozen in melting Arctic permafrost could fuel a new pandemic if unleashed by climate change, scientists have warned. Global heating is enabling increased human activity in the Earths northernmost reaches, as melting sea ice opens up shipping and industrial possibilities, including mining deep into the permafrost which covers a fifth of the northern hemisphere, mainly in Canada, Siberia and Alaska. But scientists have reportedly started to plan an Arctic monitoring network to watch out for any early cases of a disease sparked by ancient viruses, also known as Methuselah microbes. A cemetery sits on melting permafrost tundra at the Yupik Eskimo village of Quinhagak in Alaska (Mark Ralston/AFP via Getty) Ancient viruses have already been found in Siberian permafrost, including one sample which was 48,500 years old. A team led by geneticist Jean-Michel Claverie has revived several such viruses, capable of infecting only single-cell organisms. But the scientists fear viruses capable of infecting humans likely also lurk in the permafrost. We see the traces of many, many, many other viruses, Professor Claverie told CNN in March, adding: If the amoeba viruses are still alive, there is no reason why the other viruses will not be still alive, and capable of infecting their own hosts. As a result, Prof Claverie is among scientists working with the University of the Arctic network on plans to establish quarantine facilities and provide medical expertise that could pinpoint and attempt to treat any early cases without them leaving the region, according to The Observer. At the moment, analyses of pandemic threats focus on diseases that might emerge in southern regions and then spread north, Prof Claverie, of Aix-Marseille University in France, told the paper. By contrast, little attention has been given to an outbreak that might emerge in the far north and then travel south and that is an oversight, I believe. There are viruses up there that have the potential to infect humans and start a new disease outbreak. Among the genomic traces of human pathogens identified already by the team in Siberian permafrost are pox viruses and herpes viruses, he said. According to scientists, Alaska has been warming twice as fast as the global average (Mark Ralston/AFP via Getty) Virologist Marion Koopmans agreed, telling the paper: We dont know what viruses are lying out there in the permafrost but I think there is a real risk that there might be one capable of triggering a disease outbreak say of an ancient form of polio. We have to assume that something like this could happen. With forecasts suggesting the Arctic Sea will be ice-free as early as 2040 due to climate breakdown, it is the prospect of increased human activity in the Arctic, as opposed to melting permafrost, which most concerns Prof Claverie. Huge mining operations are being planned, and are going to drive vast holes into the deep permafrost to extract oil and ores, he said. Those operations will release vast amounts of pathogens that still thrive there. Miners will walk in and breathe the viruses. The effects could be calamitous. Our immune systems may have never been in contact with some of those microbes, and that is another worry, said Prof Claverie. The scenario of an unknown virus once infecting a Neanderthal coming back at us, although unlikely, has become a real possibility. Prof Koopmans added: If you look at the history of epidemic outbreaks, one of the key drivers has been change in land use. Nipah virus was spread by fruit bats who were driven from their habitats by humans. Similarly, monkeypox has been linked to the spread of urbanisation in Africa. And that is what we are about to witness in the Arctic: a complete change in land use, and that could be dangerous, as we have seen elsewhere. Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Stay ahead of the trend in fashion and beyond with our free weekly Lifestyle Edit newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Lifestyle Edit email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} During the last few years, many people have taken to the internet to complain about tipping culture. The latest is a woman named Minna, who took to TikTok to vow that she will never be pressured into tipping on every little thing. Tipping culture in 2024 - i will always pay well and tip well for service but im not getting peer pressured by a tablet anymore in situations that dont call for it, her videos caption read. Before you start thinking Im stingy or something, for service, I will definitely pay 20 to 25 percent on all of it, she said in her clip after making her vow to avoid unnecessary tipping. Restaurants, coffee, beauty services, like haircuts and things like that. But the tablet tipping culture has gotten so out of control to the point where I now walk into a retail store and get a greeting card, like pick one out myself, go up to the register and check out and there is a 20 percent suggestion waiting for me, she continued. She explained that shes also heard of tablets asking for tips even at serve-yourself yoghurt stores, but still didnt think it made sense when there was no one physically helping to earn the tip. Minna noted that she understands that the stores employees are regularly given unfair wages which is why they rely on the benefits that the extra tips provide them with. However, she said that the system placed an unfair burden on the consumer. The video ended with the TikToker saying she would no longer tip at retail stores where no one is really helping you, like any retail, not just clothing and stuff. We will be strong in 2024, Minna said. After posting, her video went on to receive over 400,000 views with many people turning to the comments agreeing with her point and talking about their own experiences with tipping. I booked a hotel room ONLINE and it asked for a tip. Like who am I tipping?? A website?? Its insane, one commenter wrote. I ended up tipping $6 at a merch stand to a guy who handed me a tee shirt because I was so confused at what was happening, another story in the comments read. My dermatologist has a tip screen. Im beyond baffled as to who thats for, a third person wrote. This isnt the first time someone has questioned tipping culture. A woman named Kaidi Dey took to TikTok last month to explain that she is originally from Estonia but is currently living in the US. She shared that she understood the general tipping culture in the US, but wasnt sure how much to tip during the holidays. In her video, Dey said that her local sanitation workers had left her a Christmas card back in November, which her father-in-law informed her meant that the workers expected a tip for the holidays. Happy holidays, the best wishes for you and your family, from your sanitation crew, the letter read. Despite the holiday card, she wasnt sure if she should tip them and if she did, how much to give them. I realise that everybody in America tips for everything, she said. I do tip for a lot of things, like my hair stylist for example, or if I get a massage or something like that. But I find it rather odd that you have to also tip for sanitation workers. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A man, a woman and a dog died after a collision in Bearsted, Maidstone, on Saturday afternoon, Kent Police said. Kent Police said the man and woman, both in their 60s, were walking a dog in Thurnham Lane, Bearsted, when the fatal crash happened at about 1.40pm on Saturday. At around 1.40pm on Saturday January 20 2024, the driver of a black BMW X5 was involved in a collision with two pedestrians who were walking a dog in Thurnham Lane, a police statement said. Officers attended the scene along with South East Coast Ambulance Service where both pedestrians, a man and a woman in their 60s, along with the dog, were pronounced deceased at the scene. Bearsted is a village and civil parish with a railway station in mid-Kent, England, two miles east of Maidstone town centre. UK News in Pictures reported yesterday that Thurnham Lane had been closed in both directions and that officers from Kent Police Serious Road Collision Investigation Unit were conducting forensic collision investigations at the scene. (Google Maps) It comes just one day after another fatal collision in Kent involving a pedestrian. On Friday a man in his 80s died following a collision near Canterbury. Kent Police were called to a collision involving a white Scania Tipper lorry and a pedestrian at the junction of Sturry Hill and Island Road, Sturry at around 12.20pm on Friday 19 January 2024. Emergency services attended and the pedestrian was taken to a London hospital, where he later died. Police are appealing for witnesses. Anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has any other information or dashcam footage prior to, or at the time of the collision, is urged to call Kent Polices Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01622 798538 or email sciu.td@kent.pnn.police.uk, quoting reference RY/HG/008/24. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Regional mayors have hatched a cross-party plan to bring HS2s axed northern leg back to life with help from the private sector. Tory mayor of Birmingham Andy Street and Labour mayor of Manchester Andy Burnham are now set to hold talks with transport secretary Mark Harper to discuss whether the project could be revived. Mr Street told the Daily Express that a new high-speed scheme, or major upgrades to the existing rail connection in the North, could mostly be paid for by the private sector. The mayors of the two regions are leading this but, to be clear, with government support, said the Tory mayor. By inviting the private sector in to play the maximum possible role, it can be significantly less costly for the public exchequer. A plan to revive parts of the northern stretch of HS2 are back on track, according to government officials (PA Wire) The Independent first revealed the radical move by Rishi Sunak to ditch the Birmingham to Manchester section of the high-speed rail project. The prime minister was met with howls of outrage from business chiefs and senior Tories after he used his party conference speech in October to confirm our exclusive that he was scrapping the link. The northern section replacement project is being overseen by Sir David Higgins, the former chair of HS2 who is now chair of Gatwick Airport. Train operating companies would reportedly meet the initial costs of a new line but some input from the taxpayer would still be required. Leading engineering giants Arup and Mace Engineering are at the forefront of discussions aimed at getting private finance to rescue the Birmingham to Manchester link. Mr Street said: We have to be realistic about this. If I say it wont cost the Exchequer anything, thats probably not the case. But we are definitely looking for it to cost substantially less. The Tory mayor added: We have got around the table organisations that do the private-sector funding of rail in other parts of the world, and people who either own or are linked to operators. The rail link could connect the end of the HS2 line in Handsacre in Staffordshire, just north of Birmingham, with Stockport, which is set to be the final stop on a high-speed network. However, with the government ending safeguarding of land on the axed HS2 route, there is a race to make progress with the project. The idea of reviving the northern leg could prove controversial among some Tory MPs who fought against the impact on their constituencies. Manchester mayor Andy Burnham wants to revive HS2s northern leg (PA) Sir Keir Starmer has spoken to Mr Burnham about ways to boost rail connectivity in the North but he has warned it would not be possible to bring back the original taxpayer-fund northern leg. The Labour leader told the BBC earlier this month he cant stand here and commit to reversing the governments decision, adding: Contracts are going to be cancelled. Mr Sunak announced in October that the government would reinvest 36bn from the HS2 project in a series of road and rail schemes across the country. Andrew McNaughton, HS2s former technical director, said Mr Sunak had created a growth reduction scheme by axing the route. He said the whole strategy for connecting the North and South of England was HS2. Any other plans were all predicated on HS2 creating the new capacity either directly or indirectly for the next 100 years, he said. He added: If there is nothing to replace it, you would need to ration. Whats the rationing on the railway? You have to price people off. Thats how its always been done as the only way of managing demand. A Department for Transport spokesperson said: The government is supportive of work to improve rail connectivity between Birmingham and Manchester. King Charles III smiled as he got into a car and left hospital on Monday, 29 January, after undergoing a procedure for an enlarged prostate. His Majesty spent three nights at The London Clinic, where he took time to visit his daughter-in-law, the Princess of Wales, who is now recovering at home following abdominal surgery according to a statement from Kensington Palace. The King was diagnosed with the benign condition on 17 January while staying at Birkhall, Aberdeenshire, after going for a check-up because he was experiencing symptoms. Charles, 75, is understood to have wanted to share the news to encourage other men to get themselves checked. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Tesco customers face nightmare as barrages of orders cancelled at the last minute for no reason. Angry customers took to social media on Sunday morning to plead for help from the grocers after many saw their online orders cancelled suddenly. One customer wrote: They cancelled my food shop delivery just minutes before it was due today, and the app is completely down so cant even rebook. Seems to be a nationwide issue. (Getty Images) Others gave up on their food shopping arriving completely, with one writing on X, formerly known as Twitter: Hi @Tesco Im waiting for a delivery between 9-10 but no money has been taken do I assume my shopping is not coming ? Which is frustrating as I am stuck home ill. Tesco said the issue has now been fixed after their technical team worked around the clock to fix it. A Tesco spokesperson said: Were really sorry that due to a technical issue, we had to cancel some online orders today. Our technical team have worked around the clock and have now fixed it. Customers who were impacted have been contacted directly. We apologise again for the inconvenience. The influx of complaints is reminiscent of last March, when thousands of Tesco shoppers saw their orders cancelled due to a technical glitch. At the time, a Tesco Spokesperson said: We have resolved an intermittent technical issue that resulted in some cancelled orders yesterday. Were sorry to customers who were affected. Customers were offered an alternative slot instead however many shoppers complained they were unable to get a new delivery slot within 24 hours of their original time while others who chose to get a refund were told it could take up to five working days. It has been confirmed that Sundays cancellations were sparked by a similar IT issue. One social media user claiming to work for the company as a delivery driver shed some light on the situation He wrote on X: Delivery driver here. Spent all morning cleaning vans because the system is down globally so no drivers are going anywhere atm [at the moment]. Just two weeks ago, Tesco shoppers were left perplexed and receiving depleted grocery shops after the supermarket appeared to suffer a major outage online. Around 4,000 shoppers reported the outage issues on Downdetector all over the country but the majority in London as people tried to amend their orders before the deadline at around 9pm on Thursday January 4. One shopper complained on X he only received four items for his weekly shop. Another posted: A delivery of only apples and kitchen roll not helpful when having people over for supper is it? Customers trying to log in to shop online were met with a message that read: Theres a problem at our end, but were trying to fix it right now. Sorry for any inconvenience. Please come back later and try again. Subscription to paid content Gain access to all that Trend has to offer, as well as to premium, licensed content via subscription or direct purchase through a credit card. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} In every election in her life, Laura Arowolo has cast a vote for the Labour Party. But this could all change at the next general election with the former party member still undecided about who to vote for. The 32-year-old is one of millions of women estimated to be unsure about which party to support in this years general election. Research by the Womens Budget Group and YouGov discovered a quarter remain undecided a figure considerably higher than the 11 per cent of men who are uncertain about their voting intention. I dont want my vote to be a wasted vote, so Im just trying to figure it out, Ms Arowolo tells The Independent. Ive been looking at the Green Party. I dont know if they would be the right people. Ive just definitely been thinking about what my options are. Ms Arowolo, who is a DJ, says she no longer feels comfortable voting for Labour in good conscience, adding that many of her friends are also feeling uncertain. Everyones feeling a bit politically homeless, she adds. There are people who are on various ends of the spectrum who feel apathetic and arent planning to vote, or who are actively seeking out other options. They are like: Im going to vote Green, because that is the best option that we have. Researchers, who polled 2,000 adults, discovered that women with caring responsibilities are more than twice as likely to refer to childcare or social care as being one of their leading three priorities than the average member of the electorate. Rishi Sunak and his chancellor Jeremy Hunt have targeted women with their plan for expanded free childcare (Getty) The research may point to one of the main reasons why Jeremy Hunt pledged last year to expand free childcare for British families, with eligible working parents of two-year-olds being told they can claim 15 hours a week from 1 April. But the rollout of the scheme has been chaotic, with many nurseries unable to fill the vacancies for the extra staff required to provide the care, and parents fearing they will miss out on the scheme. Another expert said that women are more likely to be persuaded by health policies than are men, as they use the NHS more widely and are also more likely to be employed by the health service. The Conservatives have already been warned that it could be the partys achilles heel at the next election, amid a failure to deliver on most of their 2019 pledges to improve the NHS. Women represent over half of eligible voters, said Dr Zubaida Haque of the Womens Budget Group. The fact that a quarter of women are currently undecided about which way to vote should make parties sit up and notice. She added that the significant number of women who are undecided could be swayed if political parties listen and respond to their policy priorities and concerns. The fact that a quarter of women are currently undecided about which way to vote should make parties sit up and notice Dr Zubaida Haque, Womens Budget Group While the polling data indicates the continuation of a generational trend of women voters moving away from Conservatives and towards Labour, our polling shows that womens votes are in no way guaranteed, and should not be taken for granted by any political party. In the latest research, pollsters found that Labour had a more substantial lead among women than among men 14 points in comparison to 11 points. Women were found to be as likely to say they would vote Labour as male voters, but marginally less likely to say they would vote Conservative. Some 17 per cent of women said they would vote for the Tories in comparison to 20 per cent of men. Professor Sir John Curtice, a polling veteran, explained that women are always more uncertain than men when polled about politics. Given women constitute 52 per cent of the electorate, it is obviously true to say women will have a significant say in the election, Prof Curtice told The Independent. Keir Starmer cannot take womens votes for granted (PA) But Chris Hopkins, a political research director at Savanta, a leading polling research firm, has doubts about how crucial undecided female voters will be in the next general election, which Rishi Sunak has said will probably be held in the second half of the year. He also said it is a misrepresentation to believe that women vote as a bloc. Ultimately, women are 52 per cent of the population, so to think that they will vote homogeneously is not the case, he said. He added that he would expect the proportion of undecided voters to reduce quite drastically during the election campaign. Dr Rosalind Shorrocks, who specialises in gender, political behaviour and voting, argued that, even though women are almost always more likely to be undecided on which party to vote for, this bears no relation to the likelihood that they will turn up to vote. The academic, who is based at Manchester University, added that women are consistently more likely to say that issues such as healthcare are a priority, while men are more likely to prioritise immigration or the economy. Dr Shorrocks said this is due to women using health services more often than men, being more likely to care for children or older people, and also being more likely to be employed by the health service. Anneliese Dodds, Labours shadow women and equalities secretary, claimed that women are currently financially worse off, concerned about their safety, and too often stuck on seemingly endless NHS waiting lists, which she described as an abject failure from start to finish. Christine Jardine, the Lib Dem spokesperson for women and equalities, said: It shouldnt take opinion polls to make male politicians realise what women in parliament have been telling them that we dont see our concerns being sufficiently addressed and acted on. A spokesperson for the Conservative Party declined to comment on the story, stating that they do not respond to questions about polling. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} The defence secretary has condemned comments by Israels prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejecting the idea of Palestinian statehood. Grant Shapps said the government remains wedded to the idea of a two-state solution, arguing that there is no other option. The British government has largely resisted criticising Israel since Mr Netanyahu instructed his military to launch strikes on Gaza, which are reported to have killed more than 25,000 people so far, in the wake of the 7 October Hamas attack. But Mr Shapps has issued a strong rebuke to Mr Netanyahus rejection of Palestinian sovereignty and his insistence that his country needs to be given full security control over the occupied territories. I think its disappointing to hear Benjamin Netanyahu saying he doesnt believe in a two-state solution, he told Sky Newss Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips. Mr Shapps added: In fairness, hes said that [for] all of his political career, as far as I can tell. I dont think we get to a solution unless we have a two-state solution. Addressing Mr Netanyahus remarks later on the BBCs Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, Mr Shapps said: Palestinians deserve a sovereign state. Israel deserves to have the full ability to defend itself, its own security. Grant Shapps visits Israel in December to offer support in the wake of the Hamas terror attack (PA) He added: Now, youll get a lot of different views within the Israeli government, of course; it is a rainbow coalition. So we very much distinguish between the views of individuals and our overall support for Israel as a country. Mr Netanyahu raised the stakes between Israel and the US, the UK and other allies by doubling down on his rejection of a two-state solution via a statement on X last week. I will not compromise on full Israeli security control over the entire area west of Jordan and this is contrary to a Palestinian state, the Israeli leader said. It came in defiance of Joe Biden, who hours earlier, following a call with the Israeli leader, had voiced hope that a two-state solution might still be possible even while Mr Netanyahu remains in office. The US president had claimed that Mr Netanyahu was not opposed to all two-state solutions. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu insists his country must take control of Gaza (Reuters) But in a new statement, the Israeli prime ministers office said Mr Netanyahu had told Mr Biden that after Hamas is destroyed, Israel must retain security control over Gaza to ensure that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel, a requirement that contradicts the demand for Palestinian sovereignty. Sir Keir Starmers Labour Party has also denounced Mr Netanyahus position. Shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper on Sunday echoed the Labour leader and the shadow foreign secretary David Lammy, saying: Those words from Netanyahu were completely unacceptable. She told Sky News: Statehood of a people is not in the gift of its neighbour; it is the right of a people, and it is the right of the Palestinian people. Mr Lammy said on Saturday that Mr Netanyahus stance would mean that the occupation and siege continues in Gaza, where the Palestinian death toll is now above 25,000 the majority being women and children according to local health authorities in the Hamas-run territory. David Lammy dashes off stage as speech interrupted by pro-Palestinian protesters Mr Netanyahu has vowed to press ahead with the offensive in Gaza in the months to come, despite mounting pressure on Israel to rein in its military action as the scale of death and destruction intensifies. The White House announced last week that it was the right time for Israel to lower the intensity of its military action in Gaza. Israel launched the offensive after an unprecedented cross-border attack by Hamas on 7 October, in which 1,200 people were killed and some 240 others taken hostage. Roughly 130 hostages are believed by Israel to remain in Hamas captivity. Israels assault on Gaza has been one of the deadliest and most destructive military campaigns in recent history. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Defence secretary Grant Shapps has denied that a collision between two Royal Navy ships in the Middle East shows incompetence but admitted something clearly went wrong. The Royal Navy is investigating after on warships was filmed reversing and crashing into the other at a harbour in Bahrain. Mr Shapps told Sky News on Sunday that accidents do happen as he sought to defend the military over the incident. Just as in aviation or many other walks of life sometimes accidents and incidents happen, he said, when asked if it showed incompetence. The minister added: We dont say its incompetence when we see an aircraft come down its right to leave the investigators some time to work out exactly whats gone wrong. Something clearly did and we need to see what it is. The Royal Navy said there had been no casualties after HMS Chiddingfold was filmed reversing into fellow minehunter HMS Bangor. The Chiddingfold is said to remain operational having sustained only minor damage. However, it is unclear for how long Bangor will be out of action. Grant Shapps defended UK military spending at time of global crises (AP) Meanwhile, Mr Shapps also played down growing concerns about the capabilities of the British military as he appeared to be at odds with his cabinet colleague Penny Mordaunt. Ms Mordaunt, the Tory Commons leader, warned that the Royal Navy and its partners must keep pace with other nations or Britains interests cannot be secured. Asked about her warnings, Mr Shapps said: There are a lot of people with opinions and a lot of people whove been in the military and armed forces will often express them. The defence secretary also insisted that the size of the British Army will not dip below 73,000, rejecting recent projections in the press that it could eventually sink to 50,000. Its not projected to go down to 50,000. Its actually, specifically, to 73,000 plus the reserves, said Mr Shapps. The defence secretary accepted that the UKs defence spending was currently below the target of 2.5 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP). We are committed to spending more when conditions allow. Mr Shapps also said chancellor Jeremy Hunts focus on tax cuts rather than upping defence spending at a time of huge international tension saying his colleague had been incredibly generous with a nearly 10 per cent pay rise for the armed forces. He also called for EU countries to step up and spend more in providing greater funding for Ukraine as it continues to fight the Russian invasion. Not just America, but Europe needs to step up and do their part to make sure that Ukraine can continue to defend herself, he told the BBCs Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg, saying Britain had led the way. Commons leader Penny Mordaunt warned Navy risks falling behind (PA Archive) Mr Shapps grilling on defence spending came as a report in the Sunday Times raised concerned that the Royal Navy was falling behind other nations. Ms Mordaunt, the cabinet minister who was a Royal Naval Reserve, told the newspaper: We must not just ask ourselves by how much Russia and China are increasing their fleets, but why. The senior Tory, who represents Portsmouth North seat with naval links, later tweeted: The Royal Navy and its partners must keep pace with the growing capabilities of other nations. If not Britains interests cannot be secured. Meanwhile, Labours shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper would not commit to a Labour government spending 3 per cent of GDP a year on defence if elected. On Sky News, she said: Decisions for future spending if Labour wins the election would be for a Labour chancellor... But we have been clear about the importance of our national security. National security is the bedrock on which everything else in the country and everybodys wellbeing is built. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Former immigration minister Robert Jenrick has refused to rule out a bid for the leadership of the Tory party. The leading right-wing rebel who quit Rishi Sunaks government over the PMs weak Rwanda deportation bill has become an increasingly influence figure among hardliners. There has been growing speculation at Westminster that Mr Jenrick is keen to position himself as the flagbearer of the right in the likely event of a general election defeat. He was asked on Sunday if he was talks with the New Conservatives group 2017 and 2019 MPs who have led the rebellion over the bill about lining himself up to be a future leader. What I am trying to do is to make an argument and part of that is around illegal migration. I think that for too long, too few politicians have gone and argued that we need to take the most robust action, he told GB News. Pressed again if he would stand in the future as leader, Mr Jenrick said: Well, look, Im not ruling it out. But thats not my intention here. What I really want to do is make and hopefully win this central argument for the Conservative partys future. Robert Jenrick was leading figure pushing for changes to Sunaks Rwanda bill (PA Archive) Mr Jenrick attacked the government following a report claiming that 16,000 asylum seekers including some who had arrived in the UK on small boats have been allowed to work here. I think thats wrong it just creates a pull factor to the UK, said Mr Jenrick, who has adopted increasingly harsh anti-immigration rhetoric since quitting in early December. Almost everyone who comes here is either an economic migrant or a sort of asylum shopper, because theyre coming from safe countries like France and choosing to come to the UK because they think life is better here or a softer touch. A close ally of ex-home secretary Suella Braverman herself thought to be keen on the leadership has told people that business secretary Kemi Badenoch should be installed as leader if there is a push against Mr Sunak, according to the Sunday Times. The Conservatives election strategy Isaac Levido has appealed for unity as the party continues to squabble over the totemic Rwanda policy. While only 11 MPs voted against the Rwanda bill during a crunch vote earlier this week, including Mr Jenrick, some rebels have warned they could try to change the bill again when it comes back from the Lords. It comes as senior Tory peer Nicky Morgan warned Mr Sunak to curb his will of the people rhetoric, as the government shapes up for a major battle with the House of Lords. The prime minister has urged peers to crack on with approving the Rwanda bill and not frustrate the will of the people saying he wanted to get the deportation flights up and running as soon as possible. Baroness Morgan warned Mr Sunak not to put the Lords under too much pressure as he pushes to get it through parliament in time for a push to get flights under way in spring. I would just say to No 10 the last time a prime minister who used the will of the people language, it wasnt a happy precedent, she told BBCs Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, comparing him to Boris Johnson Brexit battles. The thing to do is give it time, she said. Its a scrutinising chamber, theres lots of people lawyers, diplomats other, who will say, Are you sure about this? That is what a scrutinising chamber is about. The influential peer Lord Goldsmith has laid a motion in the Lords which is aimed at halting the ratification of the Rwanda treaty. It should not be ratified it should be delayed, he said. The motion by the Labour peer, who was Tony Blairs attorney general during the Iraq conflict, is set to be debated on Monday. It demands that the government demonstrates Rwanda is safe for asylum seekers. The Liberal Democrats are expected to table a fatal motion aimed at killing the bill, but it is unlikely to succeed. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} At a New Hampshire campaign rally, Donald Trump claimed to have aced a recent cognitive test and struggled to pronounce the word climate, footage from the event shows. I dont know if you saw, but a few months ago, I took a cognitive test my doctor gave me, Mr Trump told supporters at the Saturday event. His comments came just after former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley questioned whether the former president was mentally capable of taking office again after he appeared to repeatedly confuse her with former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in a campaign speech on Friday. I said, give me a cognitive test, just so we can you know, because you know what the standards were, and I aced it, Mr Trump continued. Dr Jonathan Reiner, a medical analyst for CNN and professor of medicine and surgery at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, called into question why Mr Trump would need multiple cognitive tests, considering he also took a cognitive test while serving as president. Why has Trump had multiple cognitive exams? According to the Cleveland Clinic cognitive tests are usually done if theres a suspicion of mental decline or impairment, Dr Reiner posted on X. Last night we saw the former president mistake Haley for Pelosi. Has he experienced other symptoms? In their post on cognitive testing, the Cleveland Clinic also states, a good score doesnt necessarily mean theres no brain impairment. There still could be brain functioning issues, their website reads. At the same event, the former President inexplicably referred to the climate as clime, appearing to struggle to pronounce the word correctly. They dont go far, Mr Trump said, referring to electric vehicles. But its certainly not great for your clime. Your clime. They call it climate. His reference to the clime was not his first verbal slip-up in recent weeks. On Thursday, Mr Trump appeared to yet again mix up President Joe Biden and former president Barack Obama. In his latest speech, however, Mr Trump claimed the apparent mix-up was sarcastic. Last month, Mr Trump also appeared to confuse Hamas with hummus. Slip-ups like these could continue to undercut the 77-year-old former Presidents argument that Mr Biden just four years his senior is cognitively unfit for office. The Independent has contacted the Office of Donald Trump for comment. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Nikki Haley is going all in on what she sees as the safest line of attack against Donald Trump questions about his mental fitness and temperament in a year where the incumbent Democratic president is facing similar concerns. The former South Carolina governor and UN ambassador sat down with NBCs Craig Melvin for an interview with the Today show on Tuesday as she prepares for a showdown with Mr Trump in her home state that is a litte more than a week away. The primary election in South Carolina could be a jolt in the arm of her campaign as she continues to steeply trail the frontrunner or, it could be the death knell of her presidential bid. It could also be neither of those things, as she plods along towards Super Tuesday in March. Ms Haley made some of her most forceful criticism of Mr Trumps mental state yet during the interview. The problem now is, he is not the same person he was in 2016. He is unhinged; he is more diminished than he was, just like Joe Bidens more diminished than what he was, Ms Haley told NBC. We have to see this for what it is, she went on. This is a fact: he is now saying things that don't make sense. She contrasted Mr Trumps mood and temperament now with what she experienced during his administration, when the former UN diplomat said that Mr Trump was responsive when his deputy came to him with concerns. Two of those concerns she named directly: his response to a white nationalist riot in Charlottesville, Virginia, as well as his pattern of rhetoric about women. If something was wrong ... I had a conversation with him about Charlottesville, I had a conversation about something that he would say about women, I had a conversation with him about multiple things, said Ms Haley. Ms Haley has made her opponents age an issue the same way Trump-aligned Republicans have sought to cast doubts about Mr Bidens focus and mental clarity. Some of the ex-presidents more rabid supporters have even taken things a step further and openly suggested that the incumbent president has dementia. Concerns about Mr Bidens memory were energised by the release last week of a report authored by Justice Department Special Counsel Robert Hur regarding the investiation into the presidents handling of classified documents. During interviews, Mr Hur described the president as severely forgetful and unable to recall details about major events from his life, including the death of his son Beau. Mr Biden would go on to angrily rebut that criticism at a press conference. "You've got Joe Biden, where the special counsel said he was diminished, and he's not the Joe Biden he was two years ago," Ms Haley told NBC on Tuesday. "You've got a Donald Trump who's unhinged, and he's more unhinged than he ever was. [W]hy are we settling for that when the country is in disarray and the world is on fire?" she aked. We don't want these two old men running. We want someone who's going to go and fight for us and work for us, with no drama, no vendettas." The no vendettas line was a clear reference to Mr Trump frequent vows of revenge against his political enemies; he has told supporters that he will direct the Justice Department to prosecute Joe Bidens family if he is elected for a second term, and a group of conservative organisations is purportedly working on plans to seriously diminish the independence of the Justice Department to allow him to do so. Ms Haley continues to trail Mr Trump according to all available polling, both in South Carolina and nationwide. Her campaign has begun looking ahead to primary states voting in March even as she hopes for a shock performance in her home state similar to the stronger-than-expected showing she had in New Hampshire. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley has responded to former president Donald Trumps remarks after he appeared to confuse her with Nancy Pelosi, citing concerns about whether he is mentally fit for the job. At a campaign event on Friday, Mr Trump, 77, was speaking about the January 6 riot and Ms Haleys supposed lack of security response as demonstrators stormed the US Capitol. Ms Haley has never been a member of Congress and it appeared as though the former president was referencing Nancy Pelosi, former speaker of the house. Nikki Haley is in charge of security, Mr Trump said at the rally. We offered her 10,000 people, soldiers, National Guard, whatever they want. They turned it down. Even if Ms Haley was serving as the speaker of the house, it wouldnt have been her responsibility to assess the security response to the incident. That responsibility lies with the Capitol Police Board, which has the ability to accept help from the National Guard. Responding to the remarks at a campaign event on Saturday, Ms Haley said. Last night, Trump is at a rally and hes going on and on mentioning me multiple times as to why I didnt take security during the Capitol riots, she said. Why I didnt handle January 6 better. I wasnt even in DC on January 6, the candidate continued. Theyre saying he got confused. That he was talking about something else. He was talking about Nancy Pelosi. Still, she added, He mentioned me multiple times in that scenario. The presidential candidate continued her speech by emphasising her concerns about Mr Trumps ability to handle the pressures that come with the office hes seeking. Im not saying anything derogatory but when youre dealing with the pressures of a presidency, we cant have someone else that we question whether theyre mentally fit to do this. We cant. Its not the first time Mr Trump has confused his political opponents. On Friday, he confused President Joe Biden and former president Barack Obama. Mr Trump has frequently made it a point to discuss Mr Bidens age. The current president is 81. He cant put two sentences together, Mr Trump said on Friday. He needs a teleprompter. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Former president Donald Trump called for a man to be ejected from his rally on Saturday night in New Hampshire. The Trump supporter was seen being shoved by other members of the crowd and Mr Trump called for his removal from the podium in Manchester. You can get him out of here. Get out of here. Go ahead, the former president can be heard saying in footage of the event. You can throw him out. The man is then seen being escorted from the venue by four security guards as hes assaulted by other attendees. Hes just a disturbed person, Mr Trump continued from the stage. Well now we know that politics is getting serious. Now we know were getting serious. Mr Trump has been campaigning in the state ahead of its primary election next week. He previously won the Iowa caucus earlier this month with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis coming in second. Though the campaigning has not gone without its slip-ups: on Friday, Mr Trump confused former United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley with Nancy Pelosi, the former Democratic Speaker of the House of Representatives, telling a crowd that she was to blame for the lack of security response during the January 6 riot. A day before that, the former president appeared to mix up former president Barack Obama and President Joe Biden. Ms Haley didnt miss the opportunity to question Mr Trumps mental ability ahead of the election. Im not saying anything derogatory, the presidential candidate said at a campaign event over the weekend. But when youre dealing with the pressures of a presidency, we cant have someone else that we question whether theyre mentally fit to do this. We cant. Mr Trump has been known to throw out attendees of his rallies. While campaigning for the presidency in 2016, he told a Las Vegas crowd that hed like to punch a protester in the face. The person was smiling as he was thrown out of the venue, the former president said. He continued his comments by saying the protester was nasty as hell and that in the old days hed be carried out on a stretcher. Were not allowed to push back anymore, the former president said. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 21. Israel rejects demands from the Palestinian Hamas movement for an end to military operations in the Gaza Strip in exchange for the release of all Israeli hostages held in the enclave, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, Trend reports. Netanyahu said that Hamas, in exchange for the release of Israeli hostages, demands an end to the war, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, and immunity for Hamas. The Prime Minister noted that agreeing to these conditions would lead to the loss of the military and the inability to ensure the safety of citizens. I cannot agree to such a critical blow to the detriment of Israels security, so we will not agree to this, 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. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Not long after the 1924 death of the founder of the Soviet Union, a popular poet soothed and thrilled the grieving country with these words: Lenin lived, Lenin lives, Lenin will live. A century later, the once-omnipresent image of Vladimir Lenin is largely an afterthought in modern Russia, despite those famous lines by revolutionary writer Vladimir Mayakovsky. The Red Square mausoleum where his embalmed corpse lies in an open sarcophagus is no longer a near-mandatory pilgrimage but a site of macabre kitsch, open only 15 hours a week. It draws far fewer visitors than the Moscow Zoo. The goateed face with its intense glare that once seemed unavoidable still stares out from statues, but many of those have been the targets of pranksters and vandals. The one at St. Petersburg's Finland Station commemorating his return from exile was hit by a bomb that left a huge hole in his posterior. Many streets and localities that bore his name have been rechristened. The ideology that Lenin championed and spread over a vast territory is something of a sideshow in modern Russia. The Communist Party, although the largest opposition grouping in parliament, holds only 16% of the seats, overwhelmed by President Vladimir Putin's political power-base, United Russia. Lenin "turned out to be completely superfluous and unnecessary in modern Russia," historian Konstantin Morozov of the Russian Academy of Sciences told the AP. Communist Party leader Gennady Zyuganov talks as if Lenin still was in charge: 100 years since the day when his big and kind heart stopped, the second century of Lenin's immortality begins, he said. Putin himself appears inclined to keep Lenin at arm's length, even aiming some darts at him. In a speech three days before the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Putin dismissed its sovereign status as an illegitimate holdover from Lenin's era, when it was a separate republic within the Soviet Union. As a result of Bolshevik policy, Soviet Ukraine arose, which even today can with good reason be called Vladimir Ilyich Lenins Ukraine.' He is the author and the architect, Putin said. In a speech a year earlier, Putin said that allowing Ukraine and other republics the nominal right to secede had planted the most dangerous time bomb. Whatever objections to those policies, Putin also is clearly aware of the emotional hold that Lenin retains for many Russians, and he does not support initiatives that arise periodically to remove the body from the mausoleum. I believe it should be left as it is, at least for as long as there are those, and there are quite a few people, who link their lives, their fates as well as certain achievements ... of the Soviet era with that, he said in 2019. Such links may persist for decades. A 2022 opinion survey by state-run polling agency VTsIOM found that 29% of Russians believed Lenin's influence would fade so much that in 50 years he would be remembered only by historians. But that response was only 10 percentage points lower than one to the same question a decade earlier, suggesting Lenin remains important. Lenin's hold on Russia's heart is still strong enough that three years ago, the Union of Russian Architects succumbed to a public outcry and canceled a competition soliciting suggestions for how the Red Square mausoleum could be repurposed. That competition did not even specifically call for the removal of Lenin's body. Lenin died on Jan. 21, 1924, at age 53, severely weakened by three strokes. His widow, Nadezhda Krupskaya, wanted him to be buried in a conventional grave. Lenin's close associates had feared his death for months. Artist Yuri Annenkov, summoned to do his portrait at the dacha where he was convalescing, said he had the helpless, twisted, infantile smile of a man who had fallen into childhood. Amid those concerns, Josef Stalin told a Politburo meeting of a proposal by some comrades to preserve Lenin's body for centuries, according to a history by Russian news agency Tass. The idea offended Leon Trotsky, Lenin's closest lieutenant, who likened it to the holy relics displayed by the Russian Orthodox Church a staunch opponent of the Bolsheviks that had nothing in common with the science of Marxism. But Stalin, once a divinity school student, understood the value of the secular analogue to a saint. The weather may have tipped the scales. Temperatures were reportedly as low as minus 30 C (minus 22 F) when Lenin's body was displayed during a wake in Moscow, stalling decomposition and inspiring authorities to hastily build a small wooden mausoleum in Red Square and make further efforts to preserve the body. A later version, a more modernist take on ancient stepped pyramids clad in somber deep red stone, opened in 1930. By that time, Trotsky had been forced into exile and Stalin was in full control, bolstered by a determination to portray himself as absolutely loyal to Lenin's ideals. In the end, the cult of Lenin After Lenin may have worked against the Soviet Union rather than strengthening it by enforcing a rigid mindset, in the view of some historians. In many ways the tragedy of the USSR lay in the fact that all subsequent generations of leaders tried to rely on certain testaments of Lenin, Vladimir Rudakov, editor of the journal Istorik, wrote in this month's issue. The Mayakovsky poem that proclaimed Lenin's immortality was a parting word, or a spell, or a curse, Rudakov said. About 450,000 people file past Lenin's corpse per year, according to Tass, about a third of the number of Moscow Zoo visitors and a sharp contrast from the Soviet era when seemingly endless lines shuffled across Red Square. The honor guards whose goose-stepping rotations fascinated visitors were removed from outside the mausoleum three decades ago. At the annual military parade through Red Square, the structure is blocked from view by a tribune where dignitaries watch the festivities. Lenin is still there just harder to see. ___ Jim Heintz, now based in Estonia, has covered Russia for The Associated Press since 1999. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A fire has engulfed a St Peterburg facility belonging to Russias largest liquefied natural gas producer, according to local officials, amid reports of a Ukrainian drone attack in the area. Drone attacks targeted the Novatek terminal in the port of Ust-Luga early Sunday, damaging a large gas storage facility, as reported by the regional newspaper operating out of St Petersburg, Fontanka. Leningrads governor, Alexander Drozdenko confirmed the outbreak of fire at the facility of the largest liquefied natural gas producer Novatek on the Baltic Sea. But did not confirm the cause of the fire. If confirmed to be a Ukrainian drone strike, it will be the third one on Russian energy this week. The governor said people were evacuated and a high alert regime has been introduced in the Kingisepp district. Ust-Luga, located about 130km southwest of St Petersburg, is one of the countrys two main Baltic Sea ports used for energy export by the worlds largest energy exporters. The plant processes gas to the capacity of seven million tons per year for the international market. It came as a latest blow to the Russian energy sector after Ukrainian drone attacks hit on Friday caused a massive fire at an oil depot in Russias western region of Bryansk bordering Ukraine. On Thursday, a drone attack targeted an oil-loading terminal in St Petersburg. This video grab taken from a handout footage published on the official Telegram account of the governor of the Leningrad region Aleksandr Drozdenko (Telegram / @drozdenko_au_lo/AFP) In both drone strikes, Russia claimed that the fire was caused after the drone was brought down, and the wreckage fell over the facilities. On Sunday, at least two drones were spotted in the sky flying towards St Petersburg before the reports of the fire at the terminal, reported Fontanka. Baza, a Russian news outlet known for its security services contacts, posted on Telegram footage of huge flames shooting into the sky over what seemed like an industrial complex. The cross-border attacks in Russian territory were part of a new phase of strikes. Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky had previously pledged to target more locations inside Russia this year, aiming to disrupt daily life and increase pressure on Vladimir Putin, according to a Ukrainian military source. Thursdays attack on two fuel tankers of an oil facility at St Petersburg, Vladimir Putins hometown which is 500 miles from the border, was the first known attack in the Leningrad region since the war began. Russian authorities also reported a missile attack on the city of Belgorod, forcing the regional emergencies ministry to cancel the citys traditional Orthodox Epiphany festivities, according to state news agency Tass, which were set to take place on Friday. The annual celebrations are widespread in Russia. Close Moment Russian plane carrying Ukrainian prisoners of war appears to crash For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} At least seven people, including three children, have been killed overnight after a Russian drone hit a petrol station in the north-eastern city of Kharkiv. The strike caused a massive fire that burned down 15 private houses, while 50 people were evacuated as emergency workers tackled the blaze. It comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sacked army chief Valeriy Zaluzhny and replaced him with Oleksandr Syrsky. It follows days of speculation that Zelensky was considering dismissing Zaluzhny, who is seen by many Ukrainians as a national hero for overseeing the war effort since February 2022. We discussed what renewal the Armed Forces of Ukraine need. We also discussed who could be in the renewed leadership of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The time for this renewal is now, Zelenskys statement said on Telegram. In other developments, Ukrainian troops have shot down a Russian attack helicopter in eastern Ukraine near the city of Avdiivka as soldiers step up street fighting, Kyiv claimed. Meanwhile, Russian forces launched the second largest combined drone and missile strike on Ukraine this year with around 64 munitions hitting the country, according to a US think tank. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} More than 25,000 people have been killed in the Gaza Strip during Israels offensive there, as tensions continue to escalate across the region in the wake of an airstrike that killed an Iranian spy chief in Syria. The Health Ministry in Gaza reported the figure as the Israel-Hamas war entered its 106th day, with there being no clear sign that the conflict will end soon. And the fighting is threatening to overspill into a wider war involving Iran-backed groups in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Yemen that support the Palestinians. In recent weeks relations between Israel and Iran have worsened further with senior Iranian and allied figures supposedly targeted by Israeli airstrikes in Syria and Lebanon including on Saturday, when the intelligence deputy of the Iranian paramilitary Revolutionary Guards Quds Force was killed in Damascus. Irans president Ibrahim Raisi has vowed revenge for the attack, which was followed by missiles fired at US forces based in Iraq by Iran-backed militants in the country, according to the US Central Command. A makeshift camp for displaced Palestinians near the border with Egypt (AFP) It comes as Hezbollah forces are involved in near-daily clashes with Israeli troops along the Lebanese border. An Israeli airstrike on Sunday hit a car near a Lebanese army checkpoint in the southern town of Kafra, killing at least one person and injuring several others, Lebanese state media reported. The identities of those killed and injured were not immediately clear. The United States, which has provided essential diplomatic and military support for Israels offensive, has had limited success in persuading Israel to put civilians at less risk and to facilitate the delivery of more humanitarian aid. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected US and international calls for post-war plans that would include a path to Palestinian statehood. UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres called the refusal to accept a two-state solution totally unacceptable. Speaking on Sunday, he added: The Middle East is a tinderbox. We must do all we can to prevent conflict igniting across the region. That starts with an immediate humanitarian ceasefire to relieve the suffering in Gaza. The war began with Hamass surprise attack into Israel on 7 October, in which Palestinian militants killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took around 250 hostages. Israel responded with a three-week air campaign and then a ground invasion into northern Gaza that flattened entire neighbourhoods. Fighting continued between Hamas militants and the Israeli Defense Forces in northern Gaza on Sunday (Reuters) Gazas Health Ministry on Sunday said 25,105 Palestinians have been killed in the territory since 7 October, and another 62,681 have been injured. The ministry does not differentiate between civilians and combatants in its death toll but says around two-thirds of those killed were women and children. The toll included the 178 bodies brought to Gazas hospitals since Saturday, ministry spokesperson Ashraf al-Qidra said. Another 300 people were injured in the past day, he added. Israeli ground operations are now focused on the southern city of Khan Younis and built-up refugee camps in central Gaza dating back to the 1948 war surrounding Israels creation. The plumes of smoke from tanks, artillery and the planes of the air force will continue to cover the sky over the Gaza Strip until we will achieve our goals, defence minister Yoav Gallant said. Israel continues to carry out airstrikes throughout the besieged territory, including areas in the south where it told civilians to seek refuge. Many Palestinians have ignored evacuation orders, saying nowhere feels safe. UN officials say a quarter of Gazas population of 2.3 million is starving as only a trickle of humanitarian aid enters because of the fighting and Israeli restrictions. Mr Netanyahu has vowed to keep up the offensive until Israel achieves complete victory over Hamas and returns all remaining hostages. Hamas is believed to be holding the captives in tunnels and using them as shields for its top leaders. Israel has managed to rescue just one hostage, and Hamas says several have been killed in Israeli airstrikes or during failed rescue operations. A member of Israels war cabinet, former army chief Gadi Eisenkot, said last week the only way to free the hostages is through a ceasefire. In an implicit criticism of Mr Netanyahu, he said claims to the contrary amount to illusions. But Mr Netanyahus far-right coalition partners push him to step up the offensive, with some calling for the voluntary emigration of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from Gaza and the re-establishment of Jewish settlements there. Hamas has said it will not free more hostages until Israel ends its offensive. The group is expected to make any further releases conditional on securing freedom for thousands of Palestinians imprisoned in Israel, including high-profile militants involved in attacks that killed Israelis. Israels government has ruled that out for now, but it faces growing pressure from families of the hostages, who are pushing for an exchange like the one that took place during a week-long ceasefire in November. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} US and UK strikes on Houthi fighters in Yemen will not deter the Iranian-backed group from attacking ships in the Red Sea, experts have warned, as tensions spike across the Middle East. While the US has launched at least seven rounds of strikes against Houthi positions in Yemen with the UK also involved in the first strikes last week experts have told The Independent that the strikes amount merely to a short-term solution to a problem that requires a long-term answer. There is nothing in the Houthis narrative to suggest they have any intention to stop, whatever the cost, says Alessio Patalano, a professor specialising in maritime strategy and doctrine at the department of war studies at Kings College London. US president Joe Biden said on Thursday that airstrikes would continue, even as he acknowledged that they may not halt the Houthi attacks. Are they stopping the Houthis? No. Are they gonna continue? Yes, he said. The Houthis began their attacks along the key maritime trade route in November, with the Hamas-allied group claiming they are aimed at bringing a halt to the war in Gaza. Hamas killed 1,200 Israelis, and took 240 more hostage around half of whom are still captive in Gaza during an attack on 7 October. In response, Israel vowed to eradicate Hamas, and has launched airstrikes and ground operations inside Gaza, backed up by a blockade. Health officials in the Hamas-controlled territory say more than 25,000 people have been killed. While claiming to target vessels bound for Israel, the Houthis have fired at more than 30 commercial ships since 19 November. Sailors on HMS Diamond fire Sea Viper missiles at Houthi drones earlier this month (UK MOD Crown copyright 2024) Utilising positions in northwestern Yemen that surround the Bab al-Mandab Strait, through which around 12 per cent of global maritime traffic travels, the Houthis have threatened to destabilise supply chains between Asia and Europe. Their attacks have forced hundreds of commercial vessels to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope, a lengthy detour beneath Africa, and more than doubled the insurance premiums on shipping companies looking to operate in the area. In late December, the US established a naval coalition in the Red Sea Operation Prosperity Guardian supported by the UK, to counter this threat. Professor Patalano says the initial strikes on Houthi positions have clearly had an effect. We went from upwards of 20 missiles and drones per [Houthi] attack to just single shots, he notes, citing this as evidence of the degradation of the groups offensive capabilities. But he describes the wider intention, to prevent Houthi attacks altogether, as naive. Baraa Shiban, an expert on Yemen at the Royal United Services Institute, a security think tank based in London, suggests that the US ability to destroy Houthi capabilities longer-term is the issue. This is something [the Houthis] are used to, he says. They are very mobile. They have adapted their military capabilities around how to sustain an aerial campaign against [targeted strikes]. Houthi supporters attend a protest in Sanaa, Yemen, against the US-led airstrikes (AP) According to Offshore Energy, a trade publication that specialises in maritime energy, oil supplies have not been endangered as companies such as BP and Shell have redirected their vessels away from the Red Sea. War insurance premiums, a tariff that must be paid by shipping companies to sail in dangerous waters, may have doubled to 0.7 per cent, but the industry can swallow larger rises, Prof Patalano says, citing the roughly 10 per cent premiums that applied during the tanker war between Iran and Iraq in the 1980s. But, as Mr Biden said, the Houthis still pose a threat, and the economic impact will grow if strikes continue for months. Going forwards, Prof Patalano says he believes the US will look to evolve its strategy with this new reality in mind. He says destroying the Houthis offensive capability, or convincing them to stop, appears impossible now, although the US will probably continue to try. It needs to be a combination of different strategies that minimise risks in different settings, he says. The US must also reduce the number of convoys going through the Red Sea, and look at extended escorting of commercial vessels in the area. That should be enough to keep the war insurance premiums at bay for a little longer. Joe Biden has admitted that strikes on Houthi positions have failed to deter further rebel action (EPA) There has been some acknowledgement from officials that there is a need for longer-term planning. The Royal Navy missiles that have been used to shoot down Houthi drones in the Red Sea will be upgraded, the UK government has said. The Sea Viper air defence system will get more effective missiles featuring a new warhead, and a software update that will enable it to defeat ballistic missile threats. It will help to protect the navys Carrier Strike group, and allow tracking, targeting and destruction of a variety of air threats more than 70 miles away. The 405m upgrade will be completed by 2032. It is hoped that the upgrade will help navy ships to better deal with more complex threats in the future. The defence secretary, Grant Shapps, said: As the situation in the Middle East worsens, it is vital that we adapt to keep the UK, our allies and partners safe. Sea Viper has been at the forefront of this, being the navys weapon of choice in the first shooting down of an aerial threat in more than 30 years. Our strong and enduring relationship with British industry has ensured we can deploy the latest technological capabilities wherever they are required, while supporting hundreds of jobs across the country and bolstering UK prosperity. In the meantime, however, the US runs the risk of the Houthis improving their reputation in the region, says Shiban, who spent years in the Yemeni government negotiating with the Houthis. Many Arab countries have been celebrating what the Houthis are doing as the only group that is trying to push back against Israel, he says. Maybe they are doing it for other reasons, to try to deflect from internal issues, but that is not what [many] Arab people see. For Shiban, this is something the US has not considered, and it risks serious adverse consequences. US hopes that attacks will cease if the war in Gaza ends are also misplaced, he believes. The Houthis want to have long-term leverage on the international community, and now they have demonstrated that, they have got that leverage, he says. The Houthis are here to stay. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has doubled down on steadfast resistance to the idea of Palestinian statehood, widening the apparent rift with his closet international allyJoe Biden. Mr Netanyahu is also facing anger at home with thousands of Israelis holding protests against the leader in Tel Aviv and demanding a new election over alleged mishandling of the nations security. Defying pressure from the US government and allies around the world over the future of Palestinian statehood, Mr Netanyahu sparred with Mr Biden publicly following their phone call over the weekend as the two leaders gave differing views of their interaction. In his conversation with President Biden, prime minister Netanyahu reiterated his policy that, after Hamas is destroyed, Israel must retain security control over Gaza to ensure that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel, a requirement that contradicts the demand for Palestinian sovereignty, a statement from the Israeli prime ministers office said. It was just hours after Mr Biden said of the same conversation that he was confident of the possibility of independent Palestine under Mr Netanyahus leadership. Discussing his administrations position Friday, Mr Biden said "there are a number of types of two-state solutions" and, asked if a two-state solution was impossible with Mr Netanyahu in office, Mr Biden replied, "No, its not." In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Mr Netanyahu reiterated that Israel must retain "security control over the entire area west of Jordan", a part which also includes the Israeli-occupied West Bank territory. The comments following Mr Biden and Mr Netanyahus first conversation in nearly a month appear to show evident cracks with the allies in the US and UK, who have called for restraint as Israeli forces bombed Gaza, killing a number of Palestinians, in their action against Hamas. A British government spokesperson also called Mr Netanyahus comments disappointing and reaffirmed support for the two-state solution. The UKs position is very clear. A two-state solution, with a viable and sovereign Palestinian state living alongside a safe and secure Israel, is the best route to lasting peace. The US president who since the beginning of Israels ground operation in Gaza has offered the most unconditional support while calling for restraint and repeated that establishment of an independent Palestinian state should be the solution for rebuilding Gaza. It comes as his government is facing pressure at home as thousands of Israelis gathered in a central Tel Aviv square on Saturday to demand new elections with many banging drums and yelling in anger. "The government that abandoned us on 7 October continues to abandon us every day since - those evacuated from the northern and southern (borders), the families of the victims, the reservists, the hostages," Noam Alon, whose brother, a soldier, was killed trying to clear an Israeli town from Hamas gunmen told Reuters. "The power is in our hands to change and repair," she said from the stage. "This government needs to go home. Now!" Many others demonstrated outside the prime ministers house to join the families of the more than 100 remaining hostages held by Hamas and other militants. They raised fears that Israels military violence in Gaza further endangers hostages lives. Dozens of anti-war protesters converged in the Israeli city of Haifa, raising signs reading "Stop genocide" and clashed with police who tried to confiscate the placards. Divisions have also become evident in his wartime unity cabinet. Critics have said Mr Netanyahu is trying to appease members of his right-wing ruling coalition by escalating the conflict against Hamas and preventing a Cabinet-level debate about a post-war scenario for Gaza. After nearly four months of the war, the Israeli bombardment of Gaza has killed nearly 25,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children and displaced nearly two million people. The city has been reduced to ruins with now hunger and disease creeping into the crowded camps. The war has escalated into a full-scale crisis in the Middle East with Iranian-backed groups attacking US and Israeli targets. Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah militants in Lebanon pose a looming risk of escalating into a full-scale war, while Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen are actively targeting international shipping in the Red Sea despite ongoing US-led airstrikes. Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Simon Calders Travel email {{ #verifyErrors }} {{ message }} {{ /verifyErrors }} {{ ^verifyErrors }} Something went wrong. Please try again later {{ /verifyErrors }} A British Airways flight from London to Prague has been forced to return to Heathrow due to a technical issue, with unverified reports of fumes being observed in the cockpit. Flight BA854 took off from Heathrow Airport just before 7:40am on Sunday, and had been due to land in the Czech capital at 10:05am. But the Airbus A320 plane was turned around over the Channel and forced to return to Heathrow, where it touched down again less than an hour after taking off, flight tracking websites showed. Going places? British Airways Airbus A320 aircraft at London Heathrow (British Airways) The aircraft returned to Heathrow due to a technical issue and landed safely after the pilots chose to return in order to prioritise passengers safety, The Independent understands. British Airways said in a statement: Were sorry for the delay in our customers' journey after the aircraft returned to Heathrow as a precaution. Our teams looked after them whilst they waited to board a replacement aircraft to continue their journey. Reports of fumes being observed in the cockpit could not be verified. Footage captured by livestreaming services showed that several fire engines rushed to help the plane when it landed at Heathrow, the Mail Online reported. It comes as the airline cancelled more than three dozen flights from Heathrow on Sunday, as forecasters warn that Storm Isha will bring winds of up to 90mph. The Met Office has issued seven weather alerts for wind and rain on Sunday alone, with warnings set to remain in force across much of the UK until midday on Wednesday. Millions of people travelling by air, rail and sea are set to face disruption, as forecasters warn powerful winds will bring a danger to life and could damage properties, tearing roofs from homes and downing power lines. Grant Shapps suggested accidents sometimes happen as he responded to two Royal Navy ships colliding in Bahrain. Video widely shared on social media appeared to show HMS Chiddingfold reverse into HMS Bangor in the Middle Eastern port. The defence secretary was asked how on earth the incident happened during an interview with Laura Kuenssberg on Sunday 21 January. I immediately spoke to the first sea lord in charge of the navy and he has confirmed that an investigation is under way, Mr Shapps said. We look forward to finding out what the causes were. Rishi Sunak has no interest in ending the long-running UK train strikes, Simon Calder has suggested. The Independents Travel Correspondent also described Mr Sunak as the most anti-rail prime minister we have ever seen during an appearance on BBC Politics London on Sunday 21 January. Hes got no interest in settling the incredibly long-running - we are now in the third calendar year of strikes by Aslef train drivers - and its now increasingly seen as an election wedge issue, Mr Calder said. The government doesnt really care. Donald Trump called for security to throw a heckler out of his rally in New Hampshire on Saturday night (20 January). The former US president was disrupted in the middle of a speech criticising Joe Biden. Get him out of here, Mr Trump told police officers who removed the man from the rally hall as the large crowd of his supporters booed. Go ahead, you can throw him out. Mr Trump is in New Hampshire for evening rallies throughout the weekend ahead of the primary on Tuesday. BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 21. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will leave for New York on January 23 to participate in the UN Security Council meeting on Palestine, Trend reports, referring to the Turkish Foreign Ministry. Hakan Fidan is also scheduled to hold bilateral meetings during the visit. Firefighters continued to battle flames at a Russian chemical transport terminal on Sunday 21 January following two explosions, regional officials reported. Local media reported that the Ust-Luga port had been attacked by drones, causing a gas tank to explode. The blaze was at a site run by Russias second-largest natural gas producer, Novatek, around 100 miles southwest of St Petersburg. In a press statement to Russian media outlet RBC, the company said that the fire was the result of an external influence. Ukraine has not claimed responsibility for the drone attack, which caused a paused in operations at the port. News outlet Fontanka wrote that two drones had been detected flying towards St Petersburg on Sunday morning. Brown Thomas and Arnotts operator warns of jobs risk from radical plan to make Dublin city centre car free Department store giant is urging a rethink of tightest ever restrictions on traffic in the city centre, warning the whole economy could be affected Brown Thomas Arnotts said the plan could affect its ability to continue to invest and grow employment in its city centre stores John Burns Sun 21 Jan 2024 at 03:30 The operator of Brown Thomas and Arnotts, Dublins largest department stores, has warned of a risk to jobs and investment if Dublin City Council (DCC) does not reconsider its radical new transport plan. The Teeling-owned Great Northern Distillery (right) gave its backing for the decision to allow BAK Bulk Services more space A major expansion of a large whiskey storage facility in Co Louth has been given the green light by council planners as the company looks to help the continued expansion of the industry by providing more maturation capacity. According to a recent planning decision notice, BAK Bulk Services has been granted permission to develop five large bonded whiskey maturation units at its site in Dunleer, Co Louth. The company, which originally specialised in the storage of coal and grain, is hoping to be able to hold 196,560 casks of whiskey in the new warehouses, bringing the total it can hold across its entire maturation facility to almost 380,000 casks. According to planning documents submitted by BAK, the company is aiming to address the primary challenge facing the continued expansion of the Irish whiskey industry and in particular maturation capacity. The documents said the companys existing maturation facility was at around 80pc capacity at the time of writing and was expected to be full by early 2024. BAK Bulk Services wishes to have additional maturation capacity to meet the current and future demand from their distillery and whiskey brand owners, the planning document said. The proposed maturation facility will be attractive to new and planned distilleries and independent brand owners in Louth and the wider northeast. The proposed development will back up the growing traditional Irish whiskey industry in Co Louth and the northeast. The likes of Boann Distillery, Slane Distillery, Great Northern Distillery and Cooley Distillers have established strong indigenous roots in supporting the Irish whiskey sector. The application came with letters of supports from various distilleries in the area. John Teeling-owned Great Northern Distillery provided its support, stating it had an immediate requirement for additional storage space. Jack Daniels bourbon whiskey producer Brown Forman, which owns Slane Irish Whiskey, also provided support. Teeling Whiskey also wrote a letter of support for the project, sharing its ongoing requirement for warehousing space for the maturation of whiskey. The proposed new facility by BAK would sustain around 10 workers. In 2021, BAK secured investment of 5m to upgrade and expand its whiskey maturation facilities in Co Louth. It got 3.4m from the Goodbody 2019 EIIS Fund and a further 1.6m from the Goodbody 2020 EIIS Fund. The Goodbody EIIS Fund is a joint venture between Goodbody Stockbrokers and Baker Tilly. According to documents filed on the Companies Registration Office, BAK raised over 2.24m in EIIS funding in late December 2023. BAK recorded a turnover of 4.5m for 2022 and a profit before tax of over 253,100. Investment in whiskey maturation facilities has been on the rise in Ireland recently. In April 2021, Stafford Bonded, a family business involved in the bond storage of alcohol, received planning permission to develop a whiskey maturation facility in Waterford, which was set to have a value of 57m when built. Last September, Stafford Bonded got planning permission to further enhance the whiskey facility in Waterford in an investment understood to be worth around 9m. Grainne Griffin, director of communications at the CCPC, answers readers questions Question: I had a landline and broadband service with Eir for many years, but because I was charged 78 a month, I switched to Vodafone in November to get the same deal for 45. Heres something to smile about: The new employment rights that will boost your finances in 2024 The year will bring in more pay for sick leave, better parents leave and access to pension contributions Things are looking up for some employees in 2024 Gabrielle Monaghan Sun 21 Jan 2024 at 03:30 Restaurants, cafes and gastropubs have been closing at a rate of one a day, says the Restaurants Association of Ireland, with shuttering businesses including Cork eaterie Nash 19 blaming soaring business costs. Enterprise Ireland-backed companies are making a big impact Down Under It is now well understood by businesses and policy makers that a move to a circular economy is essential to building a sustainable, low-carbon, resource-efficient and competitive society. The idea of a circular economy is based on three principles: redesigning products and processes to reduce waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use for longer, and shifting from an extraction to regeneration approach to natural systems. This shift requires a mindset change in how we manufacture, deliver and dispose of products. Crucial to this is closing the loop of product lifecycles via changes in design and increased waste prevention, re-use and recycling. In an effort to accelerate this shift, Australia has set a target to achieve an 80pc recovery rate from all waste streams by 2030. This is in addition to setting a goal to reduce by 10pc the waste generated per person and banning the export of waste plastic, paper, glass and tyres altogether. These are not easy goals. Australia is vast and a large part of its supply chain operates from overseas. The circular economy continues to gain momentum throughout Australia The Australians believe smart solutions using the latest technology can assist them in achieving sustainability targets and transition businesses to a smarter way of managing waste. This trend offers opportunities for Irish enterprise. We are home to an innovative cohort of EI-backed firms with solutions to help the circular economy. A number of Enterprise Ireland-backed companies are already making an impact supporting Australian business achieve their goals. Co Meath-based Turmec is a world leader in the waste processing and recycling solutions space. It specialises in the design and build of complex waste separation and processing systems. In Australia, Turmec partnered with Rino Recycling to build a construction recycling facility. The project was one of the largest waste recovery sites in Australia, and is designed to achieve market-leading landfill diversion and recovery rates of up to 97pc. AMCS is a leading global supplier of software to waste management and recycling businesses in the global circular economy. Its extensive digital offering helps businesses make impressive cost and time savings, and reduce emissions and vehicles used. Superfy is an industry leader in providing cities with a full suite of smart waste hardware and software solutions to manage their entire waste network from bin to truck to depot. Its innovative solutions are helping companies like Ecobatt enhance its battery recycling, allowing it to process over 1,000 tonnes of batteries across Australia. A key pillar of the circular economy movement is keeping products in use for longer. Corporate e-waste continues to be a strain on these goals as businesses send working hardware to the landfill over what are sometimes artificial software concerns. The Right to Repair movement centres around moving away from unnecessary upgrading of software and often needless redundancy of hardware. Irish companies like Origina have been working with Australian businesses to support them to utilise their hardware more effectively by extending the life and value of the associated software, keeping equipment in use for longer. As the circular and green economy continues to gain momentum throughout Australia, Irish companies have proven themselves to be indispensable innovation partners. Niall Casey is senior advisor, industrial & sustainability, with Enterprise Ireland Australia/NZ College paid out to investigate and settle claims, but sources say it needs to update its policies to address the problems The university said there was no discernible pattern of bullying at Maynooth. Photo: PA Maynooth University has spent more than 300,000 dealing with bullying and harassment complaints from staff over the past five years. This includes more than 121,000 spent settling cases. The university said the spending related to eight formal complaints made between 2019 and 2022. Figures obtained under Freedom of Information law also show the college spent 160,000 investigating the cases. The university incurred legal costs of more than 25,000 managing the claims. A spokesman for Maynooth University said the cases were not localised to any particular section of the college. Fees for investigations were accrued due to our robust internal procedures, he said. Allegations of bullying are taken very seriously and are investigated by an independent external group. The spokesman said there were no complaints last year and said most of the eight formal complaints related to the period before 2022. More than 1,500 people work at the university. Sources, speaking anonymously to protect their roles, said they were aware of examples of autocratic and damaging behaviour in sections of the Co Kildare university. They said many staff had an awareness of some bullying claims over the last five years. One source highlighted an incident prior to 2022 when a worker was undermined and faced humiliating put-downs in front of colleagues. They said similar incidents had been noted by other staff members, but had not led to formal complaints. Three sources have questioned the universitys process for dealing with bullying or harassment complaints, saying it was in need of revision. They spoke of staff being unwilling to work with certain personnel, seeking new roles or trying to change jobs to escape unwanted behaviour. Sources said the pandemic may have been a factor in relationships, behaviours and communication between colleagues changing. Colleges were shut for a large part of the pandemic with much work and teaching done remotely. The universitys current policy and procedures for the protection of staff against workplace bullying and harassment dates from 2008. Mediation is used where possible to resolve issues, but formal processes, involving an investigation by an internal committee or an external investigator, are used when necessary. The 2008 policy outlines how any student or staff member may discuss alleged bullying or harassment in an informal manner with a head of department or a handful of nominated points of contact appointed by the university. Staff members said this group could be enlarged to account for the number of personal and professional relationships workers at the college might have. Some sources said the bullying and harassment policy was about 15 years old and was in need of a refresh. Maynooth Universitys spokesman said the policy was being updated, but the college was confident the document was relevant and appropriate. Our updated policy will include an emphasis on training, education and early steps to mitigate bullying along with a focus on cyber bullying and a recognition of the new blended working environment, he said. He said the university could not comment on individual employees changing roles or their career paths, but said there was no discernible pattern of bullying across the college before, during and after the pandemic. The universitys Athena Swan bronze award, recognising Maynooths commitment to advancing gender equality, was renewed last year, but staff surveys conducted as part this process can be of value to highlight other areas where improvement may be made, the spokesman said. Maynooth University is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment in which bullying and or harassment are known to be unacceptable and are not tolerated. A high-intensity security plan was in place for the two-day visit of Chinese premier Li Qiang last week, which cost the Irish taxpayer more than 500,000. Half-a-dozen plain-clothes members of the armed Emergency Resp-onse Unit (ERU) provided the security detail for Mr Li and drove him around in an armoured vehicle on Tuesday and Wednesday. His visit was mostly concentrated around Phoenix Park in Dublin. It is understood there had been tentative plans for Mr Li to travel to Clare and Tipperary, but these were deemed logistically impossible within the time frame of his visit. Mr Li was met by Transport Minister Eamon Ryan and Irelands ambassador in Beijing, Ann Derwin, after arriving at Dublin Airport. He was greeted at Farmleigh House by a Lieutenants Guard of Honour from the 12th Infantry Battalion out of Limerick. He met President Michael D Higgins on Wednesday morning before joining Taoiseach Leo Varadkar for a working lunch at Farmleigh House. Garda snipers were on standby over the course of the visit, and public order units were also deployed. Garda officers on the rooftop of Farmleigh House in Dublin, where Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Chinese premier Li Qiang held a meeting. Photo: Niall Carson/PA Phoenix Park was closed to the public for 24 hours from 7pm on Tuesday, and drain covers were welded shut to ensure bombs could not be planted underground. Garda divers were deployed to ensure bodies of water within the park were searched for explosives, and Dublin Zoo was also searched before being allowed to operate. Over the past several weeks, the Garda Special Detective Unit (SDU) examined any potential threats criminal elements could pose to Mr Li while in Dublin. A source said a lot goes on behind the scenes in terms of protection for VIPs when they visit Ireland, and a garda security template that can be adapted is put in place. Mr Li is the second-most senior figure in the Chinese government after President Xi Jinping. His visit focused on trade between both countries. Among agreements reached during a meeting of senior government figures, Irish beef exports to China are to resume immediately. These were suspended last November following the discovery of an atypical case of BSE. Chinese premier Li Qiang during his meeting with President Michael D Higgins at Aras an Uachtarain. Photo: Maxwells/PA Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said there was a clear desire to deepen relations between the two countries, and it was also agreed that Irish citizens could visit and stay in China for up to 15 days without a visa. Issues discussed by the Taoiseach and Mr Li included climate change and the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. Mr Li said Chinese-Irish relations were a good example of mutually beneficial co-operation between two countries, while Mr Varadkar said Ireland was seeking a strong and constructive relationship with China built on trust and respect. Human rights groups as well as government and opposition politicians had called for Mr Li to answer questions on the treatment of Muslim minorities in his country. Thousands of people have signed the Bin the Bill petition to combat proposed legislation A barrister has warned that the Governments controversial hate speech bill could leave religious groups open to accusations of hate speech, and may also cause problems for people who hold certain views on transgenderism and abortion. Grace Sullivan also warned that people may not be aware of how detrimental the Governments new bill could be to their freedom of speech, until after the law has passed. The new bill has been approved by the Government and is currently making its way through the Seanad. Speaking to the Sunday Independent, Ms Sullivan, who is reviewing the proposed bill, said Irish people currently enjoy freedom of speech without too much thought or appreciation. But she said when deprived, the fundamental freedom becomes comparative to oxygen or water. Grace Sullivan Ms Sullivan made the comments as she highlighted what she described as the hugely problematic nature of the proposed bill due to its vague wording. Calling the bill restrictive and undemocratic, she said: One of the fundamental rights protected under the Irish Constitution is the right of the citizens to express freely their convictions and opinions. It is one of the foundations of a democratic society and it is in everyones interests that it be preserved. She warned that, under the proposed bill, it will be an offence to incite hatred against an individual or a group on account of certain protected characteristics but there is no clear definition of what inciting hatred means. Under the new proposal there is also no requirement that comments are seen to be likely to cause physical harm to another person. Outlining where the bill could cause problems, Ms Sullivan said certain views on transgenderism could leave people open to accusations of hate speech. One of the protected characteristics in the bill is gender and is defined in the legislation as the gender of a person or the gender which a person expresses as the persons preferred gender or with which the person identifies and includes transgender and a gender other than those of male and female. One could conceive of disagreements with this very definition of gender, she said. Certainly a diverse number of religious groups would disagree with this definition. The Bin the Bill petition launched by a group which calls itself Free Speech Ireland has been signed by over 7,000 people, including MMA fighter Conor McGregor. Sarah OReilly of Free Speech Ireland warned that social media users are likely to be among the first people prosecuted if the bill is passed. The bill doesnt define hatred, despite it being in the name of the bill, says Ms OReilly. Hate is a highly subjective term, and leaving such a broad concept undefined is irresponsible law-making. Laws that result in criminal sentences need to be understood simply by the public but this bill is anything but clear. Meanwhile, X owner Elon Musk has also stated that he wants to take legal action over the bill, which is gearing up to become the most hotly debated proposed legislation in many years. The proposed bill will be Irelands first dedicated piece of legislation to combat hate speech. Ireland does not have specific hate crime offences set out in law, making the country an outlier in the western world. The bill will allow for higher sentences if someone is convicted of assaulting a person on the basis of hatred for protected characteristics. These include race, colour, nationality, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation and disability. The Department of Justice had said the real purpose of the bill is protecting those who are most vulnerable to hate crime and hate speech. The Manchester-born poet was a suspect in the Garda investigation into the murder of French mother-of-one Sophie Toscan du Plantier - and was convicted in absentia by a French court in May 2019 of the killing Ian Bailey (66) has died after suffering a suspected heart attack and collapsing on a street in west Cork on Sunday afternoon. Mr Bailey fell ill and collapsed while walking on Barrack Street in Bantry at lunchtime today. Last year, he told the Irish Independent he had been hoping his cardiac health would improve sufficiently to allow him to undergo bypass surgery which he required following a series of heart attacks. Last September, he revealed his medical condition was improving in a Cork hospital after a double heart attack and spoke of how his "hope and prayer" was to live long enough to see the person responsible for the brutal killing of French mother-of-one Sophie Toscan du Plantier (39) finally brought to justice. Mr Bailey admitted he feared that the stress of being wrongly associated with the crime for 26 years had finally taken its toll on his health. He was treated on the street by a number of pedestrians on Sunday, one of whom performed cardiac-pulmonary resuscitation on him until an ambulance arrived. Paramedics then took over his care and he was rushed to Bantry General Hospital for assessment. The Irish Independent has now confirmed that Ian Bailey has died. Mr Bailey suffered a number of heart attacks last year and was treated in both Bantry General Hospital and Cork University Hospital. The Manchester-born poet was a suspect in the Garda investigation - and was convicted in absentia by a French court in May 2019 of the killing. On three occasions the Irish courts refused to extradite him to France and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) ruled over 20 years ago that he did not have a case to answer here. Mr Bailey had vehemently protested his innocence and said he hoped to live long enough to see him exonerated with the true culprit brought to justice. The poet described the Paris trial as "a farce" and "a show trial." He revealed he was awaiting an operation to insert stents in his heart - and would also likely require bypass surgery. "I am hoping that somebody will acknowledge (in the ongoing Garda cold case review) that it wasn't me that murdered this poor French lady. "I would like to think it (a full exoneration) would happen. Whether it will or not, only time will tell." Mr Bailey had written to Garda Commissioner Drew Harris pleading for a cold case review. While such a review was ordered in 2022, he confirmed to this publication he had not been interviewed by the detectives involved despite offering whatever assistance he can provide. "I am not the only victim of this - my ex-partner Jules (Thomas), she has suffered greatly. The specific community of west Cork (has suffered). It is still a very dark stain on the otherwise good name of An Garda Siochana. "I am very, very sympathetic to them (Sophie's family). The thing about the (French) family is that they were assured, very early on in the investigation, that the Irish police knew who had murdered her and that person was me. "So they bought a false narrative - I can understand their point of view. "My hope and prayer is that before I am dead and gone the truth will come out - and the truth is that I had nothing to do with this terrible crime. "It would go a long way towards putting a smile on my face, I can tell you. "What I did with (my podcast)...I went through a few scenarios (of who was responsible). "There is an independent cold case review that is being conducted by an Irish TV company, they employed forensic experts from the US and UK to go through every piece of evidence - there is an indication that it could be a person still alive who was responsible. "I do not want to say too much more. "But there is a strong suggestion of who that person may be. That person is in Ireland, they are Irish and they are still alive." He had said the onset of his cardiac condition was very sudden - and he blamed his health deterioration on the stress he has endured through being associated with the Schull murder. Heart attack Mr Bailey had claimed last year he was "bonfired" through being wrongly associated with the crime. "On Sunday (September 3) I had a very strange pain across my chest. It was quite intense. It was a heart attack and I had one on Sunday and another on Monday. "Fortunately, I got through to my doctor, explained what was happening and they got me into Bantry General Hospital." Ian Bailey pictured in Co Cork in 2019. Photo: Mark Condren "They moved me to Cork University Hospital (CUH) for one day for tests but then brought me back down (to Bantry). The medical team is fathoming out a routine of treatment." Mr Bailey had said he had never had heart problems before which, he said, was amazing given the intense stress he had been under for years from being wrongly connected with the death of Sophie Toscan du Plantier at Toormore in west Cork on December 23 1996. "I have been subjected to various challenges and people have always asked me how I handled it - I don't know myself how I handled it (the stress and pressure). I guess things have taken their toll. "My life has been a torture over recent years - I honestly don't know how I endured it. It felt at times like I was being bonfired," he said. "I suppose all of this has to catch up on my health." He had said last year that he was "overwhelmed" with the care he had received in Bantry General Hospital - and he had been hopeful of making a full recovery once he is able to undergo treatment. "But I feel like I am running on 25pc power at the moment. "I am very ill and fear I am running out of time. The doctors have not been able to operate because of existing health issues I have. "I have some kind of heart issue but at the moment they cant put stents in. I just want people to know that if I dont pull through , I am an innocent man and did not kill Sophie. Mr Bailey had said he had not felt well for some time. He had completed a podcast biography over the spring and summer as well as doing a virtual poetry performance for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival Mr Bailey - who was also a law graduate - had successfully fought extradition to France three times since 2010 over the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier (39). He had consistently protested his innocence in relation to the December 23 1996 killing of the French mother of one at her west Cork holiday home. Mr Bailey was twice arrested by Gardai in relation to the investigation in 1997 and 1998 but was released without charge on both occasions. The Director of Public Prosecutions ruled in 2000/2001 that he did not have a case to answer. But he was convicted in absentia by a French court of the killing in 2019 - despite repeatedly claiming that attempts were made to frame him for the crime. The French court imposed a 25 year prison term. The poet, formerly of Liscaha, Schull, Co Cork but living in Bantry until his death on Sunday, had described the Paris proceedings as "a farce" and "a show trial." BAKU, Azerbaijan, January 22. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has arrived on a visit to the United States,Turkish Foreign Ministry says, Trend reports. It is reported that Hakan Fidan will take part in a meeting of the UN Security Council, which will be held in New York on January 23. The meeting will discuss the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It is expected that during the visit, the Turkish Foreign Minister will hold bilateral meetings. Ireland has the fewest dentists out of 24 European countries, according to a new study. Ireland was bottom of a table measuring the proportion of general dentists to population, with Austria logging the second lowest per capita while Romania had the highest. The chief executive of the Irish Dental Association, Fintan Hourihan, said he wasnt surprised. In rough terms, the number of eligible patients has increased by 25pc and the number of dentists has fallen by 25pc in the last decade. What it means ultimately is patients will end up presenting in pain looking for emergency pain relief and facing the prospect of losing teeth rather than saving teeth. And the people who suffer the most are the ones who need it the most and the ones who probably have the greatest difficulty in affording it. He said there is an estimated shortfall of up to 500 dentists in Ireland. We are appalled and shocked by stories of patients presenting with such bad dental health that youre talking about what they call a full clearance, where basically all of your teeth are removed. Youre looking at applying dentures and that can be for teenage children. The study found the ratios of general dentists to population varied from a low of one to every 712 people in Romania to a high of one to 1,770 citizens in Ireland. The study stressed the importance of training future dental health professionals. While the annual number of students admitted to dental schools is controlled in Ireland and other countries such as Germany, Italy, France, Greece, Poland, Sweden and the UK, it is less so in Romania, Portugal, and Spain. Consequently, there is a surplus of dentists in Romania, Portugal and Spain, said the authors of the study in the International Dental Journal. Mr Hourihan said there are only around 90 dental graduates every year from Irelands two dental schools in Trinity College and UCC. Approximately 50pc in both schools are graduates who originate from the Far East, from Canada. The reason why there are so many is because if youre from outside the EU you pay in excess of 50,000 per annum. The dental schools would say we have no choice but to do this because were not being properly funded by the State. The IDA says there are currently two-year-long waiting lists on the HSE public dental service for treatments requiring general anaesthetic. It is estimated the HSE needs 76 dentists to get back to where they were a decade ago. Mr Hourihan welcomed the decision to fund a new school through the College of Surgeons but says it will be nearly a decade by the time the first students graduate. He also called for immediate changes to the work-permit rules to allow dentists to come in from outside the European Economic Area. In a statement, the HSE said Health Minister Stephen Donnelly planned to substantially expand college places in the health sector, including in dentistry. This means, with investment, that an additional 63 dentists could potentially be trained annually. There is support for retaining the existing shopping centre, even though it is architectural kitsch A year ago this month, Davy Real Estate investment fund DTDL Ltd sought planning permission from Dublin City Council (DCC) for what was billed as a rejuvenation of St Stephens Green Shopping Centre a familiar landmark since it was opened in 1988, chiefly because of its Mississippi riverboat facade, multifaceted dome and sky-lit atrium. The shopping centre was said to be under-performing, particularly its top floor. But there was something very odd about what Davy had in mind to address this because its scheme actually proposed to reduce the amount of retail space by 17pc, as well as cutting back the space occupied by cafes, bars and restaurants by more than 50pc. What on Earth was going on? The main agenda, it turned out, was to capture real-estate air rights by installing several floors of offices in place of what a canny chartered surveyor would see as wasted space on upper levels of the existing building. Indeed, nearly half of the proposed developments gross floor area consisted of 35,000sqm of offices. There is a glut of vacant office space and speculative office development has come to a standstill The expansive atrium, admittedly now cluttered by ground-floor kiosks, was to be replaced by a squat shopping mall no more than 10 metres wide and nine metres high. It would be lined on one side by larger shop units, and on the other side by cafes, bars and restaurants that would open out onto the pedestrianised South King Street offering the only real planning gain. The initial design by Dublin-based BKD Architects was widely criticised as bland, generic and uninspiring in observations on the planning application by individual citizens, including me. This prompted the councils planners to seek further information from DTDL last March, in what amounted to a call for the scheme to be redesigned from top to bottom. Existing view of St Stephen's Green Shopping Centre Given its highly prominent location at the top of Grafton Street, a designated architectural conservation area, and right opposite St Stephens Green park, which is a national monument, the planners sought a building of exceptional design and outstanding architectural quality that would relate to and complement its sensitive surroundings. BKD spent nearly six months redesigning the scheme and submitted the revised version in September. It now featured a three-storey box of layered glass above double-height retail units at ground level, with a stone-clad facade on South King Street, topped by two or three floors of offices set back behind the parapets but still visible from many locations. Instead of the respectful curved corner facing Grafton Street, there would be a harshly angular, squared-off overhang above a deeply recessed entrance that the architects say in a great leap of imagination relates to the geometry of the Fusiliers Arch opposite. In fact, the enormous void would be as tall as the entire structure of the Boer War memorial. This architectural equivalent of Jaws would be particularly jarring and ill-proportioned in views from Grafton Street and from the north side of St Stephens Green, I noted in my appeal to An Bord Pleanala, lodged on Tuesday last. Current view of the corner from inside St Stephen's Green park, left, and, right, the view with the proposed new building Even though DCCs planners expressed concerns about it, the architects havent changed the gargantuan scale of the main entrance. A sophisticated double-skin glazing system proposed for the box over the entrance and above the retail units flanking it would be embedded with a proprietary mesh interlayer in a white colour of varying tones with an array of LEDs that would be fully programmable to allow for the possibility of more dynamic animated lighting effects. A light show, in short. Such razzle-dazzle is hardly appropriate for the setting, especially if it was to include commercial advertisements. And though the office floors above have been pulled back from the parapet to minimise their visual impact, the shoulder height of the glazed box is significantly taller than the existing shopping centre, as well as buildings on Grafton Street. Environmental sustainability claims were made by BKD that the rejuvenation of the shopping centre could be achieved by altering and extending the building, rather than demolishing and building an all-new structure thereby saving an estimated 11,898 tonnes of embodied carbon. This was accepted at face value by Dublin City Council planners. The devil is in the detail, however. Punch Consulting Engineers stated that this carbon calculation was based on retaining the existing concrete frame to first-floor over the mall area [emphasis added] and retaining the existing concrete frame which houses Dunnes Stores and the car park structure above. The rest of the building would be demolished. The Dunnes anchor store on three levels would have had to be retained anyway, as it is owned by the retailer rather than by DTDL. Its very kitschness makes it a distinctive and characterful landmark building, though it is only 36 years old Thus, the true carbon savings would amount to a mere 3,270 tonnes. Concrete is by far the largest category of demolition waste, at 2,700 tonnes, followed by steel (400 tonnes), glass (50 tonnes), bricks, timber and mixed waste. There has been an outpouring of posts on social media describing the proposed new building as atrocious, awful, bland, disgraceful, disgusting, dreadful, dull, dystopian, grim, hideous, horrible, shocking, terrible, ugly, unacceptable, woeful and worse. There is strong support for retaining the existing St Stephens Green shopping centre, even though its a piece of architectural kitsch. Perhaps thats one of its more appealing attributes and what makes it such a distinctive and characterful landmark building, much-photographed by tourists and featured on postcards as an emblem of Dublin even though it is only 36 years old. Numerous post-1960 buildings in the city have already been demolished. Few would regret the loss of Hawkins House, but the toll has also included buildings of architectural merit such as Robin Walkers Bord Failte HQ at Baggot Street bridge, Stephenson & Gibneys ESB offices in Fitzwilliam Street and Andy Devanes AIB Bankcentre in Ballsbridge. The proposed new building at St Stephen's Green Shopping Centre with the Fusiliers' Arch Its also quite incredible that Davy is so intent on building yet more offices when there is a growing glut of vacant office space in the city. There were 240,000sqm of new offices completed in 2022 and about 220,000sqm added last year. Indeed, speculative office development in Dublin has come to a standstill, with no major projects in the pipeline. Residential use of the upper floors of a rejuvenated St Stephens Green Shopping Centre was barely considered before being dismissed as impractical. Any improvements in the mix of uses including a two-screen basement cinema, three tight full-height atriums and a fourth-floor restaurant overlooking the Green had to be wrung from DTDL under duress. An Taisce, the National Trust for Ireland, lodged an appeal on Thursday and there may also be others. Anyone wishing to make an observation on the appeals whether for or against has four weeks to do so, on payment of a fee of 50 to An Bord Pleanala. This may be done online via pleanala.ie and the deadline is February 15. People walking away after taking photos of high waves at Salthill, Galway, during Storm Isha (Niall Carson/PA) A man has died after the car he was driving hit flood waters and skidded off the road during Storm Isha in Claremorris, Co Mayo on Sunday evening. The man, ages in his 40s, died instantly when his car left the road and hit a concrete post fence. The man who is believed to be from Galway was the only occupant of the car which veered off the N17 between Claremorris and Ballindine at around 6.30 pm. Local Councillor Richard Finn offered his condolences to the man's family. It is a terrible tragedy and I offer my deepest condolences to the deceased's family and friends, he said. More to follow After his defeat at the Battle of Kinsale, the young chieftain sailed for Spain to enlist help in the Irish cause The statue of Red Hugh O'Donnell at the pier in Donegal town. Photo: Getty Analysis of the will of Red Hugh ODonnell or Aodh Rua shows the 16th-century Irish leader had warned against news of his own death reaching Ireland before letters and money arrived from Philip III, king of Spain. New research into documentation associated with the death in Spain of the chieftain who had led the Irish clans in the Nine Years War against the English also questions the theory that ODonnell was poisoned by a double agent from Galway named James Blake. ODonnell died from either poisoning or tapeworm infection in Simancas Castle in 1602 while on his way to meet the Spanish king at Valladolid. The 29-year old Gaelic chieftain had dictated his will in Irish on his deathbed, and it was translated into Spanish for official purposes. In it, he emphasised that if the Irish chieftains heard of his demise before Spanish reinforcements arrived, they would seek a peace deal with England and the cause would be lost. As all their hopes depended on the relief I was about to bring them, a letter, together with support from the [Spanish] king, would give them courage and spirit before they received the news of my death, he said. That wish was never realised, as the Nine Years War pursued by ODonnell and the Irish clans ended with his premature death and the subsequent Treaty of Mellifont in 1603. A research group including former Irish Language Commissioner and author Sean O Cuirreain recently analysed documents, including the will, which has been translated back to Irish for the first time by Dr Eithne Ni Ghallchobhair. Her translation and the groups new findings have been published in the monthly Irish-language current affairs magazine, Comhar. The new analysis of the will suggests the young chieftain and military leader was not by any means seeking the Spanish kings help for Irish freedom, as depicted in the swashbuckling 1966 Disney film, The Fighting Prince of Donegal. ODonnell made it clear he was happy to be a vassal of the Spanish king if the Gaelic chieftains could hold on to their power. Ireland would then have effectively become a Spanish colony. ODonnell arrived in La Coruna, Spain, in January 1602, weeks after defeat at the Battle of Kinsale. He had received promises from the Spanish king, but grew increasingly impatient and frustrated when he heard nothing more. Although James Blake had told the English governor of Munster, George Carew, that he intended to poison ODonnell, he travelled to Spain with an ulterior motive to enlist Philip IIIs help for his own plan to invade Galway. When ODonnell lay for 16 days on his deathbed from August 26, 1602, he was constantly attended by two doctors, and there is no record of visitors, says O Cuirreain. Blake was caught, 17km away in Valladolid, with his plans to capture Galway. As O Cuirreain explains, ODonnells six-page will, which is held in the archives of Simancas Castle, was discovered in the early 1980s by a Donegal priest who translated it to English, but provided no analysis. So there was no discussion of Aodh Ruas turmoil on his deathbed about the future of Gaelic Ireland, or the fact that the will was dictated in Irish, but translated to Spanish, O Cuirreain says. Much of the official document is a long list of requests and demands from the Spanish king, he says, but ODonnell also asked the king to ensure he was buried in the monastery of Saint Francis in Valladolid. The king honoured that request, but the monastery was demolished and a bank now stands on the site. There have been continuing archaeological efforts to find ODonnells body, spearheaded by the local Hispanic-Irish Association. Although 20 bodies were found in 2022, DNA tests showed they were from an earlier period and ODonnell was not among them. O Cuirreain points out that his remains would be easy to identify, even without resorting to DNA, as ODonnell lost two toes to frostbite in the Wicklow Mountains after escaping from prison in Dublin Castle in December 1591. The level of menace about migration, from a small minority, is not confined to politicians inboxes Late last November, a Bangladeshi family claiming asylum in Ireland arrived by taxi from Dublin to their assigned accommodation in the small village of Coole in Co Westmeath. But when the family, which included children, arrived on the cold, dark winters night at the renovated Coole Court accommodation complex, there was no one from the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) there to meet them and, whats more, the building itself was locked. Indeed, the only people there were a small group of protesters opposed to the use of a renovated section of a former orthopaedic hospital to house asylum seekers. While accounts vary exactly as to what happened next, one official said the protesters demanded to see the familys Department of Justice documentation and then proceeded to take photographs of it. These photos, with names redacted, were later posted widely on social media, including by Independent senator Sharon Keogan. When another family arrived a short time later, also by taxi, they, too, were met only by protesters with no IPAS officials in sight. Eventually one protester, fearing events may get out of hand, reached out to local Fine Gael TD Peter Burke. The junior minister immediately contacted Integration Minister Roderic OGormans office. Eventually, IPAS officials were sent to the area within a few hours, along with local gardai, to facilitate the families entry to the accommodation. IPAS later apologised to the families still living in the facility for what has been described as a clerical error that meant the owner of the premises was not told they would be coming on the night in question. Burke relayed this story, the details of which have been verified by the Sunday Independent, at the Fine Gael parliamentary party meeting on Tuesday as evidence of the at-times chaotic nature of the States handling of an unprecedented migration crisis. People being dumped like that in the middle of nowhere, he lamented to colleagues. According to one senior minister, last week was when a switch flipped in government on the issue. There is a need to move on from the constant emergency response and the political paralysis brought about wondering what village will be next, they said. Many might wonder why it has taken a spate of arson attacks and the high-profile protest outside the only hotel in Roscrea to prompt this renewed impetus from the Coalition. But in truth, this can often be the nature of how governments of all hues function; reacting only when a situation reaches crisis point, having failed to appropriately heed alarm bells that have been growing louder in this case, by the week since early last year. That there are genuine fears, articulated by Taoiseach again last week, that one of these arson attacks might lead to a death or deaths, underlines the level of concern. In the coming days, OGorman is expected to update a cabinet committee on long-mooted plans to move from a situation of his department leasing privately provided accommodation to acquiring its own state-run facilities. This is expected to involve the Government acquiring up to six accommodation centres across the country, each on a scale similar to that which is operating out of the Citywest Hotel, Dublin. The intention will be for each centre to have a capacity to take between 450 and 600 people. Work on the procurement process will begin once the memo is agreed by the full Cabinet either later this month or in early February, with some centres operational this year and by summer where possible. Potential sites are being discussed, but there is a sensitivity around identifying exact locations given the recent arson attacks. There will likely be one in Dublin with the others spread across the regions. One of the possible sites, the name of which has been in the public domain since last year, is Thornton Hall in north Dublin which was once to be a 525m so-called super prison to replace Mountjoy Prison. On top of this as the Irish Independent reported last week extra nurses in GP practices, more reserve gardai and additional English-language teachers for schools are among some of the measures on the table as part of a new package of state support for areas which have taken the most migrants. Justice Minister Helen McEntee is likely to provide a detailed briefing for the Cabinet and the Dail setting out recent changes in how the International Protection Office (IPO) has been processing applications. One significant change highlighted by insiders is that IPO officials now consider the three grounds under which a person can remain in the State refugee status, subsidiary protection (SP) or permission to remain (PTR) at the same time. Previously, a person refused refugee status would then apply for SP and, if then refused that, they apply PTR. It was a protracted process that could drag on for years. The time saved has been swallowed up by the soaring numbers of arrivals, but the system, insiders say, is working more efficiently. McEntee is also likely to revise the list of safe countries of origin, which her officials have been reviewing since the middle of last year. At present eight countries Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Georgia, Kosovo, Montenegro, Serbia, and South Africa are deemed safe; making it much harder for arrivals from those countries to obtain refugee status. The addition and removal of some countries is likely and will, according to a senior source, mean fewer people can claim asylum. All this will form part of what appears to be a Coalition reset on immigration policy that does not in itself amount to a major policy change. But expect it to be pointed out that there are no easy fixes. Brexit has not resolved Britains political obsession with immigration. It has cost more than 400m and the only people who have gone to Rwanda [where the UK government plans to send migrants that arrive there illegally] are ministers, an Irish minister said. A lot of people dont understand what rights an asylum seeker has. If someone comes here from Afghanistan and we deem them ineligible to remain, how do we get them back? We cant just ring up the Taliban and say, Will you take them back? We need to get into the weeds and say to people that a slogan wont solve migration. It will not be an easy task, nor will it likely assuage the growing sense of dread among some politicians as they grapple an increasing level of menace from a small minority that is not just confined to their inboxes. Another minister this weekend recalled being confronted last summer by one individual who roared obscenities at them on the middle of a shop floor while they were with their young child. No one came to their assistance. This will be the year of the dead TD; this is getting out of control. The abuse now is chronic. Something stupid is going to happen this year. I am convinced there is going to be Jo Cox. Thats my real fear, the minister said, referring to the British Labour MP who was murdered by a white supremacist in June 2016. Tanaiste Micheal Martin said arson attacks on buildings across the country earmarked for use by asylum seekers is a very fundamental undermining of our democratic order. The Fianna Fail leader said there is a disciplinary process under way in relation to two Fianna Fail councillors in Co Galway who strongly criticised Government policy on migration. This was after a suspected arson attack on a disused hotel in Rosscahill, where 70 asylum seekers were due to be housed, in December. That process is under way, he said on RTEs This Week programme. Particularly in the world we live in today with strong litigation and so on, people are entitled to come forward, make their case, and theres a very set procedure and processes involving a national executive. Mr Martin said this is different to a motion passed unanimously by Mayo County Council, including by Fianna Fail councillors, which also criticised Government policy on migration. I think the fundamental difference here is the comments made from my perspective in Galway were ones to suggest that the government was responsible for the arson or the fact that people felt the need to go and burn a beautiful building. And thats unacceptable. And that there should be full co-operation at all times with An Garda Siochana in respect of the pursuit of any case. In terms of councillors exercising whether you agree or disagree, for whatever reasons their voting rights, thats not a matter for discipline. Asked about Fianna Fail councillors, he said: To pick out two councillors and say, Thats the Fianna Fail way is wrong. There are many councillors around the country who understand the pressures, the concerns of people, but whove also been involved in helping refugees settle into the country and helping those who are seeking asylum also. Meanwhile, Archbishop Dermot Farrell of Dublin has appealed to Irish society to lend solidarity to refugees and asylum seekers while giving practical support to the communities hosting them. Archbishop of Dublin Dermot Farrell In his homily delivered in St Patricks Church in Corduff, Blanchardstown, in West Dublin, Dr Farrell said that in the last two years, Ireland has welcomed vast numbers of people fleeing the cynical war in Ukraine and other conflicts in many troubled regions of the world. Our world is changing, and we find ourselves in a new era of migration. It challenges us in all the dimensions of our life together as a community. History will judge how we respond, he warned. The Church leader acknowledged that responding to those who have come to seek sanctuary or build a new life here is a challenge but said it is a challenge which arises in the context of long-standing shortcomings in the provision of housing and other services for a growing population. Appealing to people to recognise their common humanity with the refugees and asylum seekers who have come to Ireland, he underlined that they are entitled to make their case for asylum within the framework that regulates admission to the country. While doing so, they are not to be targeted or penalised, abused or frightened, he said. Christians, he said, are called to speak up for refugees and asylum seekers rights and dignity. We are called to speak up when individuals are targeted, victimised or stigmatised, or used as pawns in disputes which are really about politics and resources. We are called to speak up for the truth about migration and population change, not to deny that it is a serious challenge, but to rebut the misinformation that is spread to stir up suspicion and hatred, he said. The Archbishop said they were also called to lend solidarity with those who are asked to accept into their community those who need shelter. It is right that the practical consequences for communities be recognised and addressed. While parish communities had played their part, Dr Farrell said it is a matter for the public authorities. Society as a whole must give practical support to host communities in proportion to the scale of the responsibility they are asked to assume. Reported spare capacity in centres as a review of existing stock planned The Government is to acquire up to six new accommodation centres with beds for up to 3,600 people and audit existing buildings being used for refugees and asylum seekers, as part of efforts to deal with the immigration crisis. It comes after it emerged that there may be significant spare capacity lying idle, the Sunday Independent can reveal. The countrys more than 200 current accommodation centres, housing 26,000 people nationwide, have been contracted on a capacity basis rather than for individual occupancy. Yesterday Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said there was an issue around whether existing centres were being fully used. The disclosure gives rise to the prospect that there may be hundreds, possibly thousands of spare beds in the system which were being unused, at a time when the State is contracting new accommodation centres around the country. A six-bed family unit may house a five-person family. That doesnt mean a spare bed Integration Minister Roderic OGorman is also finalising plans for the Government to acquire up to six accommodation centres across the country, each on a scale similar to that which is operating out of the Citywest Hotel in Dublin. Each centre would have the capacity to take between 450 and 600 people. Work on the procurement process for these centres will begin once a memo is agreed by Cabinet either later this month or in early February, with some centres operationalised later this year, possibly as soon as summer. Potential sites are being discussed but there is a sensitivity around identifying exact locations following a spate of arson attacks on smaller buildings that had been proposed to accommodate international protection applicants in recent months, including three buildings so far this year. We make sure spare capacity is filled quickly, thus reducing the need to open new centres Writing in the Sunday Independent today, Independent TD for Clare Michael McNamara says the Department of Integration seems to have little oversight of the numbers of people actually staying in the centres for which it is paying. Mr McNamara says that, when requested, the Integration Department was unable to provide numbers staying in individual centres on a given night. He claims: Providers are making a fortune from being paid to accommodate and feed people that have long since left their centre, perhaps even the State. Integration Minister Roderic O'Gorman. Photo: Steve Humphreys The minister and his department close down the only functioning hotel in an area, or a currently-used student accommodation centre, to replace it with another cash cow, with apparently little overview of the occupancy levels in facilities already being paid for. Mr Varadkar told the Sunday Independent: We are aware of this issue. Therell always be a certain level of vacancy with people coming and going but some providers have been on to TDs and ministers to say they have capacity that is being unused. So we are examining it, to make sure any spare capacity is filled quickly thus reducing the need to open new centres. Yesterday., a spokesman for Mr OGorman said: We monitor centre registers that are submitted by providers on a weekly basis and reconcile movements, move-ons and transfers within that. Department staff check these registers and liaise with providers to maximise capacity and configuration. Added to this, centre visits and inspections ensure further compliance measures exist to ensure space is best utilised. He was unable to say how many such inspections have taken place, and whether those inspections that have taken place related specifically to occupancy levels. Every centre is inspected prior to use and periodically thereafter. Id also note that there is sometimes ghost capacity in the system. A six-bed family offering may have a five-person family in it but that would not mean a spare bed. Meanwhile, Justice Minister Helen McEntee is set to revise the list of safe countries of origin from which arrivals to Ireland find it much harder to obtain refugee status and to have migrants applications processed within three months. The addition and removal of some countries is likely to mean fewer people can claim asylum, a source said. A truck driver pulled over to speak with the small group of protesters outside Racket Hall Hotel in Roscrea on Thursday morning. He handed them 50 towards their cause before leaving to the sound of loud beeps from other drivers who want to show their support. Around 20 people, mostly women, were sitting around two braziers to keep warm at the hotels entrance, where they had also put up a tent. They were protesting against the States purchase of the Tipperary towns only hotel to house people seeking asylum, which happened without warning just over a week ago. The small group have significant support in the local community a steady stream of people dropped off food and water as well as wood to keep the braziers blazing. Young children were among the 17 asylum-seekers who were driven to the hotel amid a heavy garda presence at 12pm last Monday. Roads in the vicinity were closed and a garda public order unit moved in shortly before the families arrived. The violent clashes that followed resulted in one local man being arrested while terrified children and adults were shepherded inside to safety. Protesters acknowledged the asylum-seekers felt unwelcome and possibly under threat, but it need not have been that way, said local Independent councillor Shane Lee. If the gardai had told us that the people were arriving, it could have been very different. There was no desire to make them feel unwelcome, he said outside Racket Hall on Thursday morning. This situation is not their fault this is the Governments fault. But instead of talking to the people and informing us of their arrival, a public order unit not local gardai came in heavy-handed and caused a confrontation. Of course, no one wanted children coming in to be upset, but we didnt know it was happening. It was handled very badly. The Government has let us down. There are not enough services in this town for the community as it is. Its not as if were not a welcoming town. We already have asylum-seekers as well as Ukrainian people in three different locations in Roscrea, which is far more than any other town in Tipperary. This is also about resources for the people who have arrived here. They deserve more. And this community doesnt deserve to have its only functioning hotel taken away overnight. This is about people power. The people here have had enough. Independent Councillor Shane Lee at the protest outside Racket Hall in Roscrea. Photo: Gerry Mooney The number of protesters outside the hotel varied over the week. The small group on Thursday morning said they were maintaining a presence in shifts, depending on their work and family commitments. Initially wary of the media, the women soon began to explain their stance. Were not racist. Were here in support of the staff as much as to stand up for our community, said one woman, who has been a mainstay outside the hotel all week, including overnight. The staff here cant work and have now had to apply for garda vetting before they can return to work. That takes six weeks. They cant claim social welfare in that time because theyre still technically employed. How is that fair? How do they provide for their own families in that time? A number of the women said they were also angry about how gardai treated them on Monday when the families arrived. There was no need for any confrontation. We had our children with us here too. We are trying to teach our kids to stand up for whats right, another woman said. Our children were scared too, by how gardai treated us. No one wanted what happened to happen. Some prominent members of the far right from various parts of the country arrived at Racket Hall Hotel last week to offer support to the local community, but they were not welcome. Some well-known far-right people arrived here and they tried to get involved with us. Probably around 10 of them. We asked them to leave. Well, we insisted really, the woman added. They were not welcome. We are not associated with them and we didnt want them here, explained a woman, before she left to go to work. This protest is about our local people. We do not want to be associated with them. Racket Hall was a popular venue for wedding, communions and confirmation celebrations. One woman from Nenagh, who was due to get married in eight weeks time at the hotel, came and chatted with the protesters a few days ago after having her plans cancelled at the last minute. Protest signs outside Racket Hall in Roscrea. Photo: Gerry Mooney A local mother said: There was just no consideration for anyone. This town has very little. It was a popular spot for lunch and dinner for local people as well as people visiting from out of town. Now weve no hotel, with no prior warning. They just closed the place overnight. Marie Warren, who runs the nearby Sli Dala B&B with her husband, said she was shocked and saddened by the sudden closure of Racket Hall. She said she was approached by the State two months ago, offering her 120 per person per night if she could accommodate up to 10 asylum-seekers. She declined. They phoned me with a business proposal, but I turned them down. Im working in this industry for 50 years, since I was 14 years old, she said. We have a huge amount of repeat customers who come to us regularly, and I just couldnt do it. I couldnt let them down I couldnt abandon the people who stay with us regularly. I have nothing against migrants whatsoever, but I am now the last remaining B&B in this town. I had a great working relationship with Racket Hall, the staff were wonderful, and now its gone. Its closure is going to do huge damage to the town. Why didnt the Government do their research and think about the impact closing Roscreas last remaining hotel would have? The Government agreed in principle last week to buy the 24-bedroom former Grants Hotel in Roscrea town centre, which has been out of business since 2013. The plan has met with derision from local people, including Mr Lee, who said: Im not sure if Ive ever heard of a more ridiculous plan. Replace one hotel that was open and functioning, with another hotel that hasnt been operational in years. The protesters also want to know why the State did not earmark and open Grants for international protection applicants in the first instance, rather than take over ownership of Racket Hall. How long is their protest going to continue? We will stay here until the Government gives this community what it needs to thrive, said one of the women heating her hands by the brazier. Until we get enough doctors, dentists, special-needs teachers for the schools, well be here. We need a lot more gardai as well. This is a deprived town. We dont have resources to give these refugees what they need and deserve. Its just not fair on anyone. What about the 17 people, including children, who have yet to venture outside Racket Hall since arriving there amid violent scenes last Monday? Its not their fault. We feel bad for them, its not personal against them, the woman said, pointing out that some protesters had left toys with the hotel for the families. This is all the Governments fault. A first-time river cruiser enjoys history, sightseeing, touring breweries and on-board crooning My schooldays were replete with river stories. From Ratty and Moles waterway adventures to Huck Finn and Jims free and easy time on the mighty Mississippi, rivers loomed large as vehicles for tall tales, metaphors for freedom, and impromptu wildlife lessons. Mid-life waters have admittedly been more lowbrow, but equally entertaining, with Captains Sandy or Sparrow taking the helm. Rivers and ships spell escape, adventure both of which this landlubber was craving as I flew to Frankfurt to enjoy simply messing about in boats the Travelmarvel Vega, to be specific as she cruised the romantic Rhine. 'My prayer has always been for the truth to be revealed' - Jules Thomas on Ian Bailey and sueing Netflix Jules Thomas stood by Ian Bailey decades of accusations, court cases and stress. But upon hearing of his death today, she said: I feel nothing. Ive had no emotional connection with him for quite a long time. Though sorry to hear of his death, as I would with anyone I know, the Welsh-born artist added: I am not even thinking about him, hes gone and he isnt in my thoughts, thats it. Mr Bailey always protested his innocence in the Sophie Toscan du Plantier (39) murder investigation. The mother-of-one was killed on December 23, 1996 in Schull, West Cork. Ms Thomas said: It isnt about believing he did it or not; I know he was innocent. I knew he couldnt have done it. The endless attention and speculation is bound to have had an influence on his declining health, but thats all I can say. She was speaking by telephone as storms up to 120km per hour battered her remote West Cork cottage, a few kilometres from where the 39-year-old French filmmaker was bludgeoned to death outside her holiday home. Ms Thomas (73) said that the ever-present suspicion and interest in Ian Bailey as the prime suspect in the murder must have undoubtedly affected his health in recent years. Its bound to have had an influence, I have had no contact whatsoever with him after we parted and he cleared out, but it must have done. Ms Thomas and Ian Bailey were together for 30 years after she came to West Cork in her early thirties. She fell in love with Bailey who was working in a fish processing plant in Schull. Later she was assaulted, and hospitalised for injuries he inflicted on her. In March 2021 she split with Bailey but it took several months before he finally left her home, seeking accommodation locally that took him to several addresses in Bantry, Asked if she was sad to hear of his death, she added: I felt it was the end of the chapter when I left him really that was the end of it. Once a woman makes up here mind thats it; youve had enough and Id had enough of Ian before we ever parted. Miss Thomas is pursuing a High Court action against Netflix for violating her space and person during the filming of a recent documentary series. She alleges that unauthorised filming took place at her home near Schull west Cork and stills of her were also illegally used without her permission. Ians death has nothing whatsoever to do with any of this or my determination to carry on with this legal case; its chugging along slowly but I will see it through, she said. Every day, 19-year-old Hope Miller prays for an end to abortion. The young woman from north suburban Hawthorn Woods was elated in June 2022 when the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, the landmark Jan. 22, 1973, ruling that had guaranteed the right to terminate a pregnancy nationwide for nearly a half-century. Yet as the anniversary of the now-defunct decision approaches, Miller is thinking bigger. We want abortion gone completely, said the College of Lake County student. We want it illegal across the nation. Miller is a third-generation anti-abortion activist, the granddaughter of the late Joseph Scheidler, who founded the Chicago-based Pro-Life Action League and was widely known across the country as the godfather of pro-life activism. The teen is now carrying on his legacy through her own work opposing abortion in Illinois, a longtime stronghold for reproductive rights in the Midwest. Just over the state line in northwest Indiana, another family is fighting a diametrically opposite battle to restore reproductive freedoms in a part of the country where theyve recently been stripped. For years, Julie Storbeck and a small group of protesters have gathered every Tuesday at the Porter County Courthouse to rally in support of abortion rights. She is president of the Indiana National Organization for Women, a pro-reproductive rights group that has condemned the states near-total abortion ban, which went into effect in August. Her daughter Hannah Trueblood, 29, has also taken up the cause of reproductive justice, often demonstrating against abortion restrictions alongside her mother. In November, Trueblood also ran for mayor of Valparaiso on a platform that promoted reproductive rights. Julie Storbeck, left, president of Northwest Indiana NOW, at the Valparaiso home of her daughter Hannah Trueblood on Jan. 18, 2024. Trueblood recently ran an unsuccessful campaign for mayor of Valparaiso on a platform that included reproductive rights. The Democrat made history as the first woman on the ballot in a general election mayoral race in the city of about 34,000, which is about an hour southeast of downtown Chicago, though she lost to Republican Jon Costas. I was actually urged to tone down on the abortion stuff by some people, saying that was a topic that was too polarizing, Trueblood recalled. But the reality is, when I actually doubled down on those issues was where I found really great strengths in my campaign and we earned votes and we got volunteers. We shifted that conversation. As the anniversary of Roe approaches, the two families of intergenerational activists both face formidable challenges in their adjacent states, where laws and politics are largely hostile to their respective missions. Nationwide, much of the reproductive rights landscape remains in flux in the wake of Roes demise. While large sections of the Midwest and South severely restrict or nearly outlaw terminating a pregnancy, a recent reproductive rights victory in Ohio might signify change: Voters in November approved a ballot measure that protects abortion rights in the state constitution, spurring reproductive rights advocates to attempt to pass similar measures in other states, including one thats brewing in neighboring Missouri. Across the Chicago area and nation, reproductive rights advocates and those opposed to abortion have been commemorating Roe at events throughout the week, culminating Monday on the anniversary of the landmark ruling. The Archdiocese of Chicago held an overnight vigil for life from Thursday evening to Friday morning at St. John Paul II Newman Center Chapel at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Participants were asked to pray on-site or virtually as part of an annual national event with the hope of changing hearts and minds to build a culture of life, according to an event description. The Chicago-based Pro-Life Action League hosted a booth Thursday at the National March for Life expo in Washington D.C. Miller attended the annual event, which included a rally and march Friday. The March for Life website acknowledged the wonderful blessing of Roe v. Wade being overturned, but added that the necessary work to build a culture of life in the United States of America is not finished. People participating in the March for Life walk past the U.S. Supreme Court, Jan. 19, 2024, in Washington. Various Womens March protests and demonstrations in support of reproductive rights were planned around the country this weekend, including the Bigger than Roe rally on Saturday in northwest suburban Crystal Lake, which was co-sponsored by McHenry County Citizens for Choice and McHenry County NOW. Contrary to pundit predictions, the fall of Roe v. Wade did not dampen our momentum, said the national Womens March website states. Instead, it galvanized it, proving that our fight extends beyond any court decision. Indiana NOW planned a Battle for Our Bodies campaign on Saturday, a series of rallies and actions across the state aimed at ending reproductive injustice in Indiana. The local northwest Indiana chapter of NOW which Storbeck also leads planned to kick off a menstrual product donation drive Saturday as well. Reproductive rights also looms as a divisive issue in the 2024 presidential election. The Biden administration has pledged to be out in full force to mark the anniversary of Roe, saying that democracy and abortion access are inextricably linked. Republican front-runner and former President Donald Trump boasted about his role in having terminated Roe, referring to the end of federal abortion protections as a miracle while campaigning in Iowa this month; at the same time, he argued that Republicans shouldnt lock themselves into staunch election positions on issues that arent popular with most of the public, instead encouraging them to find consensus in order to win elections, according to The Associated Press. Reproductive freedom is one of the biggest issues in this election, Vice President Kamala Harris posted Friday on the social media site X, formerly known as Twitter. Everyone has a role to play. Pivotal time and place At the age of 12, Miller held a roughly 5-foot sign with a graphic image of an aborted fetus in northwest suburban Palatine during a Face the Truth Tour hosted by the Pro-Life Action League, one of the many anti-abortion events she attended with her grandfather. She recalled that some of her friends, also from conservative Christian families, were not allowed to attend because the pictures were too explicit. Yet the experience was inspirational for Miller. I kind of just sat there, looking at this baby. It was just this baby who had been ripped apart and reassembled into the shape of a body with two arms and the torso, she said. It was graphic, but it didnt scare me. It made me very sad. While anti-abortion activism had permeated much of her childhood and family life, it was during her adolescence that Miller said she began to form her own views and pursue more independent advocacy for the cause. Hope Miller outside an abortion clinic on North Western Avenue in Chicago, Jan. 17, 2024, where she was passing out leaflets. During high school, the devout Catholic was president of Crusaders for Life in north suburban Volo. She later founded her own nonprofit Simply Pro-Life, with the goal of ending abortion one baby step at a time, according to her website. The organization encourages smaller actions against abortion, such as leaving pamphlets about anti-abortion pregnancy centers at public restrooms or placing what Miller calls notes of hope, messages with anti-abortion resources, in the aisle where pregnancy tests are stocked at supermarkets and drugstores. In October, she began volunteering as a sidewalk counselor with the Texas-based group Sidewalk Advocates for Life. This involves approaching patients outside Chicago-area abortion clinics to try and discourage them from terminating; she also encourages them to go to anti-abortion pregnancy centers instead. That kind of work has recently come under fire in Illinois, where a 2023 law sought to bar crisis pregnancy centers from using deceptive, fraudulent, and misleading information and practices to dissuade patients who are considering abortion. But a federal judge last year blocked the measure, calling it both stupid and very likely unconstitutional, and the state agreed to drop enforcement in December. Miller said the law, which was supported by many abortion providers and reproductive rights advocates, wasnt surprising. The abortion industry is going to do anything they can to shut us down because they lose business when were out there, she said. Which is kind of our goal. We want them to go out of business. Miller recalled a weekday when she said she spoke with several abortion patients at a Chicago clinic. She believes one woman she talked to there decided not to terminate and instead sought help at an anti-abortion pregnancy center. Its rewarding. Youre not going to have people turn away every time. Thats just not the case, she said. But its rewarding because you know youre doing something for somebody beside yourself. I say that Im pro-life and I have evidence to back it up. Im out there, not just advocating for these unborn children. Im advocating for the women. When Roe came down 51 years ago, Joseph Scheidlers wife was pregnant with Millers mother, Catherine. Thoughts of his own daughter in the womb made the ruling even more painful and inconceivable, recounted his son Eric Scheidler, executive director of the Pro-Life Action League. The United States Supreme Court just threw her out of the human family, added Eric Scheidler, Millers uncle. During the 1980s, Joseph Scheidlers work included late-night missions with a group of fellow activists to salvage thousands of fetal remains from the dumpsters and loading docks of abortion clinics. The remains were later buried at cemeteries across the country and memorialized at annual prayer services organized by anti-abortion advocates. Miller recalled a moment at her grandfathers home a few years ago, when he was sitting in his favorite chair and she was next to him on the sofa. Im so sorry you were born at this time in Illinois, she recalled him saying. Her grandfather added that life was better in earlier decades long before Roe when he had grown up in Hartford City, Indiana. But she told him there was a reason she was here during this pivotal time in Illinois, a state long considered a haven for abortion care, with some of the most liberal reproductive rights laws in the nation. Joseph Scheidler, right, with anti-abortion supporters outside the Planned Parenthood on the 1200 block of North La Salle Street, Aug. 23, 2016, in Chicago. The year Roe fell, more than 56,000 abortions were performed in Illinois and nearly 17,000 patients traveled here from out of state, a 49% increase from the previous year, according to Illinois Department of Public Health data released earlier this month. Joseph Scheidler, 93, died Jan. 18, 2021, a little over a year before the end of Roe. But he was very excited that I was continuing on his legacy and would be doing activism myself and helping to continue the pro-life movement, Miller recalled. Tipping point The fall of Roe was devastating for Hannah Trueblood, who immediately feared for the rights and bodily autonomy of her now 10-year-old daughter. Shes why I do a lot of what I do, especially when it comes to reproductive freedom, Trueblood said. She is being raised in a world where she has less rights than I had when I was her age. And that is so backward to me. As a society were supposed to improve and grow and learn from our mistakes. But it seems, from a gender equality and reproductive standpoint, were backsliding big time. Julie Storbeck recalled walking with Truebloods daughter years ago past the Porter County Courthouse, where anti-abortion protesters would gather for weekly demonstrations, chanting and holding gruesome signs of aborted fetuses images she didnt want her toddler granddaughter to see. The experience prompted Storbeck to organize weekly counter-protests nearby, where reproductive rights supporters held signs with messages like Keep Abortion Legal and Abortion is Health Care. Sometimes passersby would avert their eyes or drivers would shout nasty messages at them. But Storbeck found the community reaction shifted over the years: Some women began giving the demonstrators hugs or share their own abortion stories. Strangers would buy the counterprotesters coffee or come by with cases of water, she recalled. Its just grown since then, she said. Its just amazing to see the sea change. Sixty-year-old Storbeck grew up in Illinois, in south suburban South Holland, and her reproductive rights activism began as a young adult volunteering for Planned Parenthood. She recalled that during the 1980s and early 1990s, anti-abortion protesters would chain themselves to clinic doors or blockade the entrance, to prohibit patients from accessing care. Much of her work focused on the passage of the 1994 federal Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act, which bars violence, threats or attempts to obstruct entry at reproductive health service agencies. Everybody should be able to access health care, she said. Hannah Trueblood at home in Valparaiso, Indiana, on Jan. 18, 2024. Trueblood and her daughter often join Storbeck at the weekly courthouse protests, three generations rallying together for reproductive rights and gender equality. In August 2022, Indiana became the first state to pass a near-total abortion ban after Roe was overturned, though the measure was temporarily blocked from enforcement by the courts a week after it went into effect in September 2022. The law went back into effect in August 2023. The year that Roe fell, more than 9,500 abortions were performed in Indiana, and just over 7,700 of the patients were in-state residents, according to the Indiana Department of Health. Reproductive rights was a major issue for Trueblood when she recently ran for mayor of Valparaiso, the county seat of conservative-leaning Porter County, where 52% of voters supported Trump in the 2020 election. During her campaign, she said she wanted to work with the City Council to ban anti-abortion crisis pregnancy centers from Valparaiso, arguing that they disseminate misinformation. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has warned that crisis pregnancy centers threaten public health and recommended lawmakers hold them accountable for deceptive practices by, for example, enforcing and strengthening consumer protection laws against false and misleading advertising, as well as other measures, according to an organization statement. Trueblood believes that one day, abortion rights will be restored in Indiana as well as nationwide. Shes certain there will be a tipping point where the majority of Americans will fight against laws that all but outlaw or severely restrict ending a pregnancy, measures she believes most of the public rejects. A May Gallup poll found 34% of Americans think abortion should be legal in any circumstances and 51% believe it should be legal under certain circumstances, while only 13% of respondents said terminating a pregnancy should be illegal in all circumstances. My generation is passing the torch to her generation, Storbeck said, referring to her daughter. Theyre fighting for the right to say that if I want to have a child, I will have a child. If I want to be pregnant, I will be pregnant. But if I dont want to, thats fine too. And I have the right as a sovereign individual in my own body to determine for myself how my body is used. eleventis@chicagotribune.com On January 16, Kate Middleton was hospitalized for abdominal surgery. Representatives of the British royal family announced that the 42-year-old Princess of Wales would remain in the hospital for another week before being transferred to Adelaide Cottage in Windsor to recover from the surgery. Subsequently, she will gradually resume work, but remotely. ADVERTISIMENT As a result, the public engagements of the wife of the primary heir to the British throne, Prince William, have been entirely suspended, presumably until Easter. Nevertheless, Catherine will commence other work "from bed" immediately after her discharge, as she remains "unwaveringly committed to duty," as reported by the Daily Mail. According to sources, Kate Middleton is currently feeling well but has canceled all scheduled events. During his wife's treatment and recovery, Prince William has also adjusted his activities, significantly reducing them. Specifically, he canceled all his upcoming overseas trips. In addition to wanting to spend more time with his beloved, the prince also had to care for the children. ADVERTISIMENT As known, George, Charlotte, and Louis do not have a nanny, so when Catherine is away from home, their father takes care of them, including taking them to and from school. Despite Kate Middleton's hope to return to work promptly, royal insiders reveal that she prioritizes her family. Therefore, after her discharge from the hospital, she plans to dedicate time to her children and husband before attending to her individual duties. It's worth noting that after news broke about Kate Middleton's hospitalization and surgery, numerous rumors, including suspicions of the princess having cancer, circulated online. This speculation has already been debunked. All the details can be found in the article. ADVERTISIMENT As reported earlier by OBOZ.UA, King Charles III of Great Britain is also hospitalized. According to Buckingham Palace, this is related to the treatment of an enlarged prostate gland. The 75-year-old monarch will undergo a "corrective procedure" in the hospital. Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! The thought of Donald Trumps return to power is a nightmare many Europeans can only hope will be prevented and not only because of his cosy relationship with Vladimir Putin. On a Thursday night a few weeks ago, I was sitting in Studio B in BBC Broadcasting House in Belfast. As a guest on The View, the focus was unionism and Irish unity, until at the end of the programme the discussion moved to the rise of the far right in the Republic. And what was said next helps to explain what is now unfolding in Irish society. Shane Ross: The door has been firmly slammed at our honeymoon haven for refugees A national tour by party leaders and weeding out rogue politicians in the ranks are key steps People resisted the arrival of foreign women and children at a hotel in Roscrea. Photo: Gerry Mooney Shane Ross Sun 21 Jan 2024 at 03:30 There is an ominous stench in Irelands political sewer. Remember the days only months ago when our smug politicians boasted of how we were a tolerant, humane nation. Unlike the Brits, we were the least racist country in Europe. We welcomed Ukrainians to our shores. We would give them food, shelter and jobs. We could hold our heads high among the nations of the world. Jim Redmond pictured with his daughter Geraldine Redmond at the presentating of a scooter to the Congo veteran from the UNVA Post 3 during their weekly meeting in the Masonic Lodge Gorey on Friday morning. Pic: Jim Campbell Jim Gilbert, Chairman of the IUNVA Post 3 presented a mobility scooter to Congo veteran Jim Redmond at their weekly meeting in the Masonic Lodge Gorey on Friday morning. Pictured at the presenation were Bill Wall, Jim Gilbert (Chairman), Bernard Manning, Mick Keegan, Willie Gilbert, Paddy Brady, Pat Cody, John O,Connell and Jim Redmond (sitting on the scooter). Pic: Jim Campbell A Gorey man is zipping around the town now thanks to the present of a new mobility scooter. Jim Gilbert, Chairman of the United Nations Veterans Association (UN Vets) presented member Jim Redmond with the state of the art scooter recently to help him move around Gorey with ease. Jim Redmond served in the Congo as a member of the UN peacekeepers during the Niemba ambush in 1960 and since then he has suffered with issues with his legs. The mobility scooter was originally set to be given to a man in Kilkenny but he sadly passed away. Jim Gilbert applied for the mobility scooter for Jim Redmond through the UN Vets Association and was lucky enough to acquire it. Jims absolutely thrilled with it. He tried it out for the first time this morning and he was flying around on it, said Jim Gilbert. Mr Redmond is 87 years old now and has taken a few falls in recent times. The mobility scooter will allow him to travel around his local area in the Rock and visit neighbours easily. Many members of the UN Vets Association such as Bill Wall, Jim Gilbert (Chairman), Bernard Manning, Mick Keegan, Willie Gilbert, Paddy Brady, Pat Cody, John OConnell were present for the presentation of the mobility scooter. Jim Gilbert has now submitted an application for wheelchair warning signs to be implemented in the Rock area so that the roads are safer for Mr Redmond while he travels. The UN Vets Association hold their weekly meeting every Friday morning at the Masonic Lodge in Gorey. We help everyone involved with the UN Vets whether it is financially or with something like this, thats what were here for, said Jim Gilbert. The arrival of an UFO on Gorey's Main Street on New Year's Day. Pic: Jim Campbell Pictured with the Aliens after the arrival of an UFO on Gorey's Main Street on New Year's Day were Ali Kemal, Garda Willie Murphy and Garda Sgt Evelyn Reddan. Pic: Jim Campbell Aliens have landed! In the still of the morning on New Years Day a strange sight was spied on the Main Street of Gorey when a 8ft UFO complete with dancing aliens and two gardai touched down. Of course this is the second time that a UFO has chosen Gorey as its destination with the town hitting the headlines in 2016 for a similar landing. Fear not though as this UFO comes not from Mars or Venus but from the hard graft of talented artist Ali Kemal Ali. After his initial display of a larger UFO in 2016 garnered so much attention Ali decided to showcase this 8ft masterpiece to mark the start of a New Year. The arrival of an UFO on Gorey's Main Street on New Year's Day. Pic: Jim Campbell It was literally for a bit of fun, he said. I thought, if aliens are going to come to earth then why not come to Gorey on New Years day 2024, said Ali. Alis original 10ft UFO became a viral sensation when he posted a video on Facebook of himself driving it down Gorey Main Street with a garda escort. That clip was soon watched all over the world and accrued more than 20 millions views online. I was getting calls from my family in the UK. TV3 had my clip on their show. It was crazy, said Ali. This is Wexford Newsletter Enter your email address below and click 'Sign Up' to receive the This is Wexford newsletter direct to your inbox. Please check your inbox to verify your details Due to the impeccable standard of Ali's work, after watching the video some people claimed they believed aliens had landed in Gorey. Alis creation was for his final year art project at the Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT). This project took him more than 16 weeks to create and was one of the colleges biggest final year projects to date. The original UFO had a seat at its centre, while Alis legs fit into the fuselage. The tinted windows provided for 360 degree vision. Electric motors were used to drive it and it was controlled by handlebars and a throttle. It also included a subwoofer for the engine noise, a laser, a smoke machine and low lighting. Ali had an unconventional path into art and only discovered his artistic talent when he started painting in the early 2000s. I did a Picasso, a Van Gogh and a Turner and they came out pretty good. So I thought if I go to art college I can learn how to paint and earn a living painting, said Ali. He met artist Michael Warner while attending Gorey School of Art and he soon learned that sculpting may be his true calling. I fell in love with the man, next minute Im making sculptures and hes inviting me to his house and hes showing me his set up so then I started thinking that I want to make sculptures, said Ali. His teachers at Gorey School of Art advised him to apply for a degree in Art in IADT. He got into IADT and they allowed him to enter straight into third year of the course. I thought, a two year degree, happy days! said Ali. He graduated with a BA Honours in Art and soon after that a position came up and he started working as a technician at IADT. I was in the right place at the right time. Im still there and I still love it, said Ali. More recently, he also graduated with a BA Honours in Stage and Screen. Pictured with the Aliens after the arrival of an UFO on Gorey's Main Street on New Year's Day were Ali Kemal, Garda Willie Murphy and Garda Sgt Evelyn Reddan. Pic: Jim Campbell Alis originally from London and moved to Dublin with his wife and children in 1996. They moved to Gorey in 2001 and sadly his wife passed away from cancer a year later. Ali spent the subsequent years looking after his children. Hes always been creative and had built sets for the BBC and ITV in the 1970s. I was always good with my hands and very creative but I never put two and two together, said Ali. Alis artistic endeavours have only escalated since the video went viral online and he has designed and created three more UFOs since then. His UFOs vary in size, one of them is a model UFO that he made for a Guinness advert which has never been aired. The one that landed on Gorey Main Street recently is the smallest one at only 8feet wide and its the easiest one to transport from place to place. Although the aliens seen dancing on Gorey Main Street alongside the UFO seemed very real, Layla Furlong, Allie Furlong and Zoe Kennedy were inside the masks and costumes which were handmade by Sarah Byrne and Elise McEvoy, two students from IADT. Theyre absolutely amazing masks and theyre made from silicone, said Ali. Festival revellers may have come across Alis largest UFO while raving in the woods in Stradbally as it is a permanent fixture at Electric Picnic (EP). At 35ft, its hard to miss. After placing his original 10ft UFO in the woods in EP, Ali was given the opportunity to design and create his own stage at EP. The stage is called Transmission which he works on alongside a team of 50 people consisting of artists, students from IADT and 10 DJs from Gorey. What we did that first year was such an amazing event that they had to block the road off because it was just so packed. They told me I could expand on it so I designed the mother ship and its just grown from there, said Ali. The mother ship took three years to develop. Theyve also made a stargate out of a trampoline, souvenir t-shirts and a 5ft fibreglass moon. At the most recent EP, seven students dressed as aliens and roamed the festivals crowd. Each alien had a chaperone with them, all 14 were students from IADT. "Im a glutton for punishment I cant sit still, Im already planning for next years Electric Picnic, said Ali. Hes currently working on developing a 15ft sphere for EP which will be the aliens planet and will include projections, LEDs, sound effects and visuals. Ali has always been fascinated by UFOs and aliens and like many people, cannot believe that there isnt life on another planet in the solar system. Ive never seen a UFO or an alien and Ive never been abducted but Ive always been fascinated by science fiction because I just cant believe that were here on our own. There has to be other life out there, said Ali. Regardless of whether aliens and UFOs are real theyve certainly changed the trajectory of Alis career. A Wexford man has been left fighting for his life in hospital following a serious single-vehicle road crash in Castlebridge, just outside Wexford town, on Saturday night. Aged in his 30s and reportedly local to the area, the man was the sole occupant of a car which left the road and collided with a wall on the R741 at the main junction in Castlebridge village at around 7 p.m. This is Wexford Newsletter Enter your email address below and click 'Sign Up' to receive the This is Wexford newsletter direct to your inbox. Please check your inbox to verify your details Emergency services rushed to the scene and paramedics from the National Ambulance Service fought to save the mans life while the fire service used specialised cutting equipment to free him from the wreckage of the car. He was trapped for a period of nearly two hours. When he was eventually extricated, the man was rushed to Wexford General Hospital for emergency treatment. He was later transferred to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin with serious injuries and his condition has been described as critical. The road through the village was subsequently closed to allow gardai to carry out a full forensic examination of the scene. Any witnesses or anyone with any details in relation to the incident are asked to contact Wexford Garda Station. The darling of both Hollywood and the fashion world, Barry Keoghans red carpet looks typify a movement towards male celebs becoming more sartorially adventurous If you have thought about Bafta-winning actor Barry Keoghan and clothes at all up to this point, its quite probably been because of jumpers. Last year saw Keoghans big break out in his career, thanks to his role as Dominic in Martin McDonaghs The Banshees of Inisherin. While the film went on to earn Keoghan his first Oscar nomination, for Best Supporting Actor, it also placed him at the centre of a geansai revolution. The Duke of Sussex was inducted into the Living Legends of Aviation for his work as a British Army veteran and pilot (Jordan Pettitt/PA) The Duke of Sussex Prince Harry told John Travolta it would be fitting for them to fly together after recalling how the actor famously danced with his mother, Diana, Princess of Wales, more than three decades ago. But he also accused the Grease star of dining out on the story of dancing with his late mother. Harry made the comments in his speech at the Living Legends of Aviation ceremony in Los Angeles hosted by aviation ambassador Travolta, 69, hours after the duke withdrew his High Court libel claim against the publisher of the Mail on Sunday. During the event, where he was recognised for his work as a British Army veteran and pilot, Harry told Travolta: I was just a one-year-old when you danced with my mum at the White House as youve told everybody here and continue to dine out on that probably every single night. And now look at us! Its great. The only thing left to do is not dance together but fly together. Diana, who died following a car crash in 1997, took to the dance floor with Grease star Travolta during a dinner at the White House in 1985. Harry began his speech by expressing his gratitude and said: I am proud to be recognised among such a dynamic and inspiring group of individuals. For me, flying has been a transcendent experience, a close encounter with magic, an invitation to both protect freedom and to feel free and, funny enough, an opportunity to ground oneself, without actually being grounded. I found my flight training which was over the course of three years to be one of lifes greatest lessons. In this lesson, it triggered a vast array of feelings. I remember the anticipation before my first solo flight in a Firefly. The disbelief that my instructor would dare to have the confidence in sending me up by myself. I remember feeling surprised and relieved when I returned to terra firma in one piece. To the average person it wouldve looked like the most mundane flight in the history of aviation. But to me, it was one of the most wonderful moments of my life. Next was the Squirrel helicopter. In the take-off I felt excitement as the rotor blades beat the frothy clouds and pulled us up into Gods playground. I felt immense frustration in perfecting the hover, then immense satisfaction in doing so. I felt pride in receiving my flight wings at the end of our course, and then nervousness about flying the Apache. I experienced collective bemusement about our windowless classroom. And then collective happiness to have finally finished ground school, after three months, in that same windowless classroom. I struggled to comprehend how long it took to start up the aircraft in the first weeks. I had respect for the Apache in a hover. And was in awe of it flying at night. So many moments as a pilot where you feel like youre walking on air. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex (Jordan Pettitt/PA) And throughout each flight during my military career, the one constant was always trust. Trust in the aircraft, trust in my fellow comrades, trust in my many mentors, and above all else: trust in myself. He ended the speech: Thank you again for this incredible honour. The dukes speech came after he dropped a libel claim against Associated Newspapers Limited over a February 2022 Mail on Sunday article about his challenge against the Home Office, following a decision to change his publicly funded security arrangements when visiting the UK. His lawyers filed a notice of discontinuance at the High Court in London on Friday, while a spokesperson said the dukes focus remains on the safety of his family and on his legal action against the Home Office. Hours after the announcement, Harry appeared at the 21st annual Living Legends of Aviation ceremony, honouring those who make significant contributions to aviation and aerospace. The Duchess of Sussex, who had been expected to attend the event, was not present as one of their children became unwell, the PA news agency understands. The duke completed two tours of Afghanistan as a forward air controller and an Apache helicopter pilot, having flown countless training missions in the UK, US and Australia. He served for 10 years in the military, rising to the rank of Captain, and later founded the Invictus Games a sporting event for wounded military personnel and veterans. Additional reporting: James Desborough Tehran vows to take revenge on Israel after missile strike on Damascus kills five Iranians Middle East violence threatens to draw regional powers into war of attrition Smoke rises over Damascus after an Israeli missile strike. Photo: Sham FM Phil Stewart Sun 21 Jan 2024 at 03:30 Tehran yesterday vowed to carry out revenge attacks against Israel after a missile strike flattened a building used as a base by the elite Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in Damascus, killing five Iranians and an unspecified number of Syrian troops. The legendary Terminator actor Arnold Schwarzenegger managed to sell his precious Audemars Pigue watch, which caused him to be detained at Munich airport. During a climate charity auction and dinner at the Stanglwirt Hotel in Kitzbuhel, Austria, the actor earned 270 thousand euros for the jewelry, which is more than 10 times more expensive than the initial price he declared at customs. ADVERTISIMENT Thestarting price was 50 thousand euros, puls24 reports. During the detention, the actor estimated the watch at only 20 thousand euros (800 thousand hryvnias), but it seems that this scandalous event raised the value of the jewelry. The watch was Schwarzenegger's private property, especially since it was specially made to order for the actor. It is special because the back depicts Schwarzenegger in the iconic pose with a naked torso and the inscription "Arnold Classic," writes Bild. The proceeds will be used for the Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative, which is organized annually by the Austrian World Summit in May in Vienna, Austria, to support various global climate projects. ADVERTISIMENT The watch was also accompanied by a portrait of Arnold Schwarzenegger by artist Christoph Palaschke. In total, the auction raised 1.31 million. The proceeds will be spent on climate change projects. Earlier OBOZ.UA wrote: Arnold Schwarzenegger was detained at the airport in Munich, Germany, when he was heading to Kitzbuhel, Austria, to attend a climate auction to sell an Audemars Pigue watch from a private collection. The actor estimated his jewelry at 20 thousand euros. It turned out that the reason for the detention was non-payment of tax on imported goods. The customs officer insisted that the watch be confiscated. But the star was only fined 35 thousand euros. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on the OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Photo courtesy: Union Bank of India Mumbai: The state-run Union Bank of India Saturday declared a 60 percent increase in its standalone net profit, reaching Rs 3,589.91 crore for the third fiscal quarter. On a sequential basis, the bank's net profit experienced a modest 2.24 percent growth, with a reported net profit of Rs 3,511.42 crore in the July-September quarter. The growth came on the back of improved asset quality and a rise in net interest income. The bank said its gross non-performing asset (NPA) stood at 4.83 percent, down from 6.38 percent in the September quarter and 7.93 percent in the same period last year. The bank's net NPAs also saw a decline to 1.08 percent, compared to 1.30 percent in the previous quarter and 2.14 percent in the third quarter of the fiscal year 2022-23. In terms of absolute figures, the bank's gross NPA for the October-December quarter was Rs 43,261.88 crore, a decrease from Rs 54,012.76 crore in the preceding quarter and Rs 63,770.16 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. The net NPA reduced to Rs 9,351.23 crore in the current reporting quarter, down from Rs 10,471.01 crore in the previous quarter and Rs 16,195.11 crore in the same quarter last year. In the reported quarter, the net interest income (NII) of the bank saw a modest 6.26 percent year-on-year increase, reaching Rs 9,168 crore. This was a slight uptick from the NII of Rs 9,126 crore in the July-September quarter. The non-interest income of the bank recorded a notable 15.29 percent year-on-year growth, amounting to Rs 3,774 crore. On a sequential basis, the net non-interest income also saw a 2.14 percent increase. For the October-December quarter, the net interest margins (NIM) of the bank stood at 3.08 percent, 13 basis points (Bps) decline on a yearly basis and a 10 bps decrease on a quarterly basis. One basis point is equivalent to one-hundredth of a percentage point. The bank's total advances registered an 11.44 percent year-on-year increase, reaching Rs 8.96 lakh crore, while deposits showed a notable 10.09 percent jump to Rs 11.72 lakh crore during Q3FY24. The Retail, Agri, and MSME (RAM) segments of the bank collectively grew by 13.85 percent year-on-year, with a 12.60 percent growth in Retail, 17.88 percent growth in Agriculture, and 10.51 percent growth in MSME advances achieved annually. RAM advances, as a percentage of Domestic Advances, accounted for 56.28 percent. In the reporting quarter, Union Bank of India reduced its investment in non-SLR securities, commercial papers, certificates of deposits, mutual funds, bonds, and debentures. However, there was an increase in SLR securities, shares, and other investments in the third quarter of the current financial year. Non-SLR investments decreased to Rs 75,439 crore in December 2023, compared to Rs 88,150 crore in December 2022. Similarly, investments in bonds and debentures reduced to Rs 59,947 crore in December 2023, down from Rs 69,122 crore in December 2022. The U.S. Consulate General Kolkata hosted Voices of Diversity Action for Inclusion conclave under the Rainbow Dialogues All in this Together project in partnership with U.S. based non-profit StoryCenter at the American Center in Kolkata recently. The project was implemented in collaboration with local non-profits Prodigal's Home and BRIDGE. The event marked the culmination of a five-day immersive storytelling workshop at the American Center Kolkata, that brought together ten LGBTQIA+ activists-participants from Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Assam, Jharkhand, and West Bengal to share their personal stories and express their voices through short videos. Addressing the gathering American Center Director Elizabeth Lee said, Building support for and protecting universal human rights is at the very heart of our diplomacy, and we remain committed to advancing human rights for all, with a special focus on LGBTQI+ individuals. Since 2018,our Rainbow Dialogues project has provided a safe space for LGBTQI+ community members to discuss issues related to inclusive society, generating employment, and helping build a strong alliance across South Asia for LGBTQIA+ peoples. Dovetailing on a strong U.S. support, this conclave seeks to empower LGBTQI+ individuals who are advocates for inclusive educational and training opportunities as well as safe public spaces. She added, It is really heartening today that our gathering brought together both LGBTQI+ representatives and allies. Being an ally is a choice. It is about choosing to stand up for the basic human rights visibly and vocally, call out bias and unacceptable behavior, and use your voice to effect change. The conclave- initiated conversations towards social acceptance, inclusion, and employment opportunities for LGBTIQA+ individuals through evidence-based dialogues, storytelling and network-building. It is the first state-level advocacy conclave under the Rainbow Dialogues: All in this Together project, which is being implemented in seven East and Northeast Indian states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Jharkhand, Manipur, Nagaland, Odhisa, and West Bengal. The conclave will share findings and insights from the perception survey of 1000+ respondents from the LGBTQ+ community and 200+ from employers, educators, and service providers, across the seven states. The conclave was an advocacy event which was a culmination of a week-long (January 10-15, 2024) immersive storytelling workshop, jointly facilitated by Amy Hill, Silence Speaks Director, StoryCenter, U.S.A., and Raymond Caldwell, Producing Artistic Director, Theater Alliance, U.S.A., that witnessed participation from LGBTQ+ identified individuals from all the seven states. During the event today, Amy Hill introduced the project objectives. Some participants presented their personal powerful stories through videos, and digital stories, and it was followed by an interactive panel on "What are we doing for inclusion in our own spaces". The panel was designed based on the survey findings that showed that these four areas - home, education space, workspace, and public/popular media, are the most important spaces that the LGBTQ+ individuals felt as key spaces where advocacy for inclusion are needed, and crucial for a life of dignity and safety. There was also a presentation on 'Evidence from seven project states' by Prithviraj Nath, Director, BRIDGE India. Amy Hill said, "At a time when trans rights in the U.S. are under fire, StoryCenter and Theater Alliance are proud to be standing in solidarity with queer and trans communities in India, supporting them in building community and sharing stories for advocacy." Image Credit: Mohamed Muizzu X page New Delhi/IBNS: A 14-year-old Maldivian boy died on Saturday amid allegations that President Mohamed Muizzu denied permission to his family for the use of an Indian Dornier aircraft that could have potentially saved his life if airlifted on time, local media reported. A Dornier aircraft, produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and provided by India, has been used extensively in the island nation for humanitarian purposes. The family of the teen, who is battling a combination of a brain tumour and a stroke, desperately sought an air ambulance to airlift him from the remote island of Wilmington in Gaaf Alif Villingili to Maldives capital Male, where he could have got advanced medical care, the report said. The incident happened on Wednesday night when the child suffered a stroke, prompting his family to request an aerial transfer to the capital. However, their distress calls went unanswered until Thursday morning, when the country's aviation authorities finally responded. The delay, reportedly lasting 16 crucial hours, sparked protests near the hospital in Gaaf Alif Villingili. "We called Island Aviation to get him to Male immediately after the stroke but they did not answer our calls. They answered the phone at 8:30 am on Thursday. The solution is to have an air ambulance for such cases," the father told local media outlet Adhahu. He was finally transferred to Male but by then the child's health was rapidly deteriorating. Upon arrival, the boy was immediately admitted to an Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Aasandha Company Limited, the company responsible for medical evacuations, issued a statement indicating that they had initiated the evacuation process promptly upon receiving the request. However, they cited a last-minute "technical glitch", leading to a delay. "It is with deep regret that we acknowledge the unfortunate passing of the patient involved in the emergency medical evacuation incident from GA Vilingili on January 18, 2024. The entire management and staff of Aasandha Company extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. Our thoughts and prayers go out to them, seeking solace in Allah (SWT) for the departed's eternal rest in Jannatul Firdaus," the company said in a statement. Media Statement: Regarding the Emergency Medical Evacuation Incident from GA Vilingili on January 18, 2024 pic.twitter.com/4weAjLEPPA Aasandha Company Ltd (@AasandhaLtd) January 20, 2024 Local Maldivian media reported protests outside the hospital where the child died. "People shouldn't have to pay with their lives to satisfy the President's animosity towards India," Maldives MP Meekail Naseem posted on X. The incident comes against the backdrop of strained diplomatic relations between India and Maldives. The diplomatic ties between both countries hit a new low recently after Maldivian Minister Mariyam Shiunas disparaging comments on Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "clown" and "puppet" in posts on X, which have since been deleted. The tweets were removed following criticism and backlash on the micro-blogging site. The row erupted also under the shadow of strained India-Maldives ties after President Mohamed Muizzu, who is seen as a pro-China politician, came to power. Representative image of Goa/ courtesy: Pixabay Goa/IBNS: A manager of a luxury hotel in Goa has been arrested for allegedly murdering his wife after she accused him of having an extramarital affair, reports said. The accused, 29-year-old Gaurav Katiyar, tried to cover the murder as an accident as he claimed that his wife drowned in the sea when he was away. Gaurav Katiyar works as a manager at a luxury hotel operated by Marriott International in South Goa's Colva. Hailing originally from Lucknow, Katiyar married Diksha Gangwar about a year ago, but their relationship remained strained, reports said. According to reports, Gaurav took his wife to the South Goa breach for a stroll on Friday afternoon where he drowned her. When some tourists saw him coming back to the beach alone, they informed the police on suspicion. They told police that they saw Gaurav and Diksha venturing into the waters, but then the man returned alone and the woman was nowhere in sight. Katiyar tried to pass it off as an accident, but a video shot by a tourist exposed his claims. The video showed him walking back alone to the beach and then returning to the sea apparently to ensure whether his wife was dead. "The woman's body had injury marks, suggesting signs of struggle," officials told the media. Police said the man has been arrested and an investigation is on. Photo Courtesy: PIB Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday alleged that Tamil Nadu banned the live telecast of Ayodhya Ram Mandir programmes on Monday and called the decision an "anti-Hindu hateful action." The finance minister also alleged that the state police were stopping private temples from organising events commemorating the consecration ceremony of the temple in Ayodhya. "TamilNadu government has banned watching live telecasts of #AyodhaRamMandir programmes on January 22. In Tamil Nadu, there are over 200 Shri Ram temples. In HR&CE-managed temples, no puja/bhajan/prasadam/annadanam in the name of Shri Ram is allowed. Police are stopping privately held temples from organising events," she said on a social media post on X. She further added, "They are threatening organisers that they will rip off pandals. Strongly condemn this anti-Hindu, hateful action". "TN govt is unofficially claiming law and order issues to justify the live telecast ban. False and fake narrative! There were no L&O issues on the day of the #Ayodhya verdict. Not even the day when PM @narendramodi laid the foundation, in any part of the country." "The groundswell and the voluntary participation of people to celebrate #ShriRam in TN has rattled the anti-Hindu #DMK " she further added. Hitting back at the politician, the Tamil Nadu government said the BJP is propagating erroneous information to divert people's attention from the DMK Youth Conference in Salem. HR & CE Minister P K Sekarbabu said it was unfortunate that a person like Nirmala Sitharaman, who holds high position was indulging in spreading news that is blatantly false and fake. (With UNI inputs) Photo Courtesy: S Jaishanakr X page Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met newly appointed Bangladesh Foreign Minister Mohammed Hasan Mahmud and said the relationship between the two neighbouring nations are growing from strength to strength. The two leaders met on the sidelines of the NAM summit in Kampala. Following the meeting, Jaishankar wrote on X: "So glad to meet with my new Bangladesh counterpart FM Dr. Mohammed Hasan Mahmud in Kampala today. Congratulated him on his appointment and wished him all success." "India-Bangladesh relations are growing from strength to strength. Look forward to receiving him in Delhi soon," he said. Bangladesh, this month, voted to elect Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her Awami League to power for yet another term. Jaishankar also met Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe and wrote on X: "Pleased to call on Sri Lankan President @RW_UNP on the sidelines of the NAM Summit in Kampala. Appreciate his continued guidance for the advancement of our bilateral initiatives. Indias commitment is reflected in our Neighbourhood First and SAGAR policy." During his visit to Kampala, Jaishankar met several other top leaders at the sideline of the NAM summit. India goes on a devotional mode for the grand consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh on Jan 22 by PM Modi. Photo courtesy: Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lead the celebration as India awaits the grand opening of a temple dedicated to Lord Ram in the north Indian town of Ayodhya, considered by millions as the birthplace of the deity, who is seen as an embodiment of virtue and chivalry by the Hindus who fought an over seven-decade-long legal battle over the site where a mosque stood till 1992. The inauguration of the temple- read pran pratishtha or consecration of the idol of Lord Ram- is taking place months before Narendra Modi and his government, emboldened by the recent assembly elections success, seek a third term in the national polls. If elected to power, Modi, under whose leadership the Bharatiya Janata Party seized power at the Centre in Delhi after thrashing the Congress-led UPA government in 2014 general polls, will create a hattrick of victory. Ayodhya is all decked up. Photo: UNI Pran pratishtha or consecration of the idol is a Hindu tradition when the murti (idol) is infused with life as a deity in a Hindu temple. Chanting of hymns invites the deity to be a resident guest, and the murti's eye is opened for the first time. From celebrities to politicians and seers, Ayodhya is currently overwhelmed by people from far and wide places who hope to witness a watershed religious event that will mark the course of the nation in the coming months. Many of them arrived in private jets for the ceremony. Ayodhya will host PM Modi to lead the inauguration of the Ram Temple. Photo: UNI The temple site remained an issue of bitter contest between Hindus and Muslims with both the religious factions laying claim to it for nearly seven decades. It also witnessed violence in 1992 when a mob destroyed a 16th-century mosque which stood at the site, which was built over a Hindu temple according to the court's final verdict. Ayodhya ahead of the grand ceremony. Photo: UNI A majortion of Hindus claimed that the site was the birthplace of Lord Ram before Muslim Mughals razed a temple at the spot to build the Babri Masjid. The Making of the temple in record time. Photo courtesy: Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra In a landmark verdict in 2019, the Supreme Court handed over the land to the Hindu community and ordered to allot a separate plot to Muslims. The making of the temple in record time. Photo courtesy: Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra Security tightened in Ayodhya Ayodhya has been turned into a fortress as tight security arrangements have been made ahead of the consecration ceremony. Official sources told Indian news agency UNI that in order to maintain foolproof security in Ayodhya, 17 Superintendent of Police (SP) along with 44 Additional SPs and 140 Circle Officer (COs), have been deployed. Along with these 208 Inspectors, 1,196 SI, 4,300 constable and 2,100 trainee SIs have been pressed into service. Sources said that along with 590 female constables, 26 companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and 7 companies of the CAPF have also been deployed. "Besides NSG, RAF, ATS, and STF will be on security duty," they said. Sources said that the borders of Ayodhya have already been sealed ahead of the consecration ceremony. Central declares half-day The central government declared a half-day of closing of offices on January 22 on the occasion of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha (consecration ceremony). Many BJP-ruled states have also followed suit. Congress declines to attend ceremony Country's key opposition Congress has dubbed the temple opening ceremony as a BJP-RSS event, with its senior leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Sonia Gandhi declining to attend the event. Many other opposition leaders have also decided to give the ceremony a miss stating they will visit the Ram temple after January 22 or once the temple construction is complete. The full schedule of PM Modi in Ayodhya on Jan 22 10:25 AM: Prime Minister arrives at Ayodhya airport. 10:45 AM: Prime Minister arrives at Ayodhya helipad. 10:55 AM: The PM reaches Ram Janmabhoomi site. 11 AM-12 PM: Reserved 12:05-12:55 PM: Pran Pratishtha rituals begin. 12:55 PM: PM Modi leaves the consecration ceremony venue. 1 PM: PM Modi arrives at the public ceremony. 1 PM- 2 PM: PM Modi attends the public event in Ayodhya. 2:10 PM: PM Modi visits Kuber Teela. Representative image/ credit: Unsplash Baghdad/IBNS/UNI: US airbase Ain al-Asad in Iraq's western Anbar Province has been targeted by a missile strike with five rockets falling near the base, news agency Shafaq reported on Saturday, citing a security source. The missiles were launched from the Iraqi city of Albaghdadi, the source said, without giving further information. Yahya Rasool, a spokesman for the commander-in-chief of the Iraqi armed forces, told the Iraq News Agency that the bombing injured an Iraqi soldier and caused material damage. "A number of missiles fell near the headquarters of the 29th Brigade, 7th Division, affiliated with the Al-Jazeera Operations Command, within the Iraqi Ain Al-Assad base, wounding a soldier and causing damage to the headquarters," he said. Since the beginning of the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the bases of the US-led international coalition in Iraq, as well as US troops in Syria, have come under regular attack, with armed Shiite groups operating in Iraq claiming responsibility. On Oct 7, 2023, Palestinian movement Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack against Israel from the Gaza Strip, while its fighters breached the border, opening fire on the military and civilians. As a result, over 1,200 people in Israel were killed and some 240 others abducted. Israel launched retaliatory strikes, ordered a complete blockade of Gaza and launched a ground incursion into the Palestinian enclave with the declared goal of eliminating Hamas fighters and rescuing the hostages. Over 24,900 people have been killed so far in Gaza as a result of Israeli strikes, local authorities said. On Nov 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 ceasefire was extended several times and expired on Dec 1. In image Nasser Kanaani/UNI Tehran/IBNS/UNI: Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani condemned Israels missile strike on the Syrian capital of Damascus, which reportedly killed five advisers of Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), including Quds Force intelligence chief, the Iranian Foreign Ministry said on Saturday. On Saturday, Iranian media reported that Israels air strike on Damascus killed five military advisers of IRGC, including the commander of the intelligence service of the Quds Force. The Syrian Defense Ministry added that several civilians were killed and injured as a result of the attack. "Kanaani has strongly condemned the murderous and aggressive attack on Saturday morning by the Zionist regime on the residential district of Mazzeh in Damascus Kanaani said that the repeated violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria and the escalation of aggressive and provocative attacks on various targets in the country by the criminal and child-killing Zionist regime shows the helplessness of Tel Aviv on the battlefield against resistance forces in Gaza and the West Bank," the ministry said in a statement. He added that Iran's military advisers were in Syria at the official invitation of Damascus and they played an important role in helping the Syrian government fight terrorism and contribute to the establishment of peace and stability in the country. The Year of the Green Dragon is about to come into its own. According to the Chinese calendar, it will begin on February 10. The Year of the Dragon is a highly revered and majestic symbol in Chinese culture, representing strength, luck, and success. However, it is not equally favorable to everyone. ADVERTISIMENT Oriental astrologers claim that the mythical animal will bring the most luck to representatives of the five signs of the Chinese zodiac. Find out if you are on the list of lucky ones. Pig The luckiest sign of the Chinese zodiac in 2024 is definitely the Pig. The dragon will give those born under this sign many opportunities, which can only be used by an innate innovative and enterprising spirit. You will reap the rewards of your hard work and sincerity in dealing with people. If you feel somewhat demotivated at the beginning of the Chinese year, take it as a signal that you need to rest. In the spring, your creativity will begin to develop and you may get your dream job. This year, lonely Pigs can meet love that is amazing in its power. A whirlwind romance will give your life a whole new meaning, so stay open to making new connections. ADVERTISIMENT Monkey Since Dragon and Monkey are the most compatible zodiac signs, the latter benefits from the strong influence of the patron saint of the year. Your charisma will literally shine, and you will effortlessly charm people. The blessing will be felt in both personal and professional spheres. Everything you wish for will come true. But get ready for the changes it will bring and don't be afraid of the obstacles you will have to overcome. Plan ahead as much as you can. Use your flexibility to solve problems. When it comes to love and relationships, communicate openly and maintain emotional balance. Patience and insight will be the key to love. Rat Successes and trials will fall to you in equal measure this year. However, thanks to your wit and ingenuity, you will be able to turn the situation in your favor every time. This is a good year to strengthen your financial position as a Rat - look for opportunities to invest and save. But manage your finances carefully. Use every chance to travel. Any travel - business, personal, or leisure - will benefit you. Your intuition will be very accurate all year long. But in relationships, expect unpleasant but valuable lessons. Get to know the person next to you better and build strong trust. But don't be too bossy or jealous - this can push even a person who is very much in love away from you. ADVERTISIMENT Goat Those born under this sign should prepare for a period of difficult but favorable changes and transformations, as you follow the path of personal growth and self-discovery. Goats will be able to establish mutually beneficial relationships that will bring pleasure to their lives, as well as turn their hobby into a profession. You will be full of motivation to realize your aspirations and creative desires. Remember to rely on your intelligence and skills to overcome obstacles. Don't let small setbacks distract you from your bigger life goals. The decisions you make in 2024, whether in your career or in your relationships, will free you from burdens and mark the beginning of a wonderful phase. Rooster Despite sudden challenges and changes, strong and resilient Roosters will continue on their path to personal and professional growth in 2024. You can expect to meet influential people and start profitable partnerships. Networking and collaboration will play an important role in your success. So, keep your adaptability high and don't be afraid to take on increased responsibilities. In return, you'll get a chance to fully enjoy the harmony of family life. 2024 will bring exciting opportunities for love and romance, but not without some challenges. All you need is to remain patient in matters of the heart. In finances, do not rush to make serious decisions without the advice of a professional consultant and avoid risks. ADVERTISIMENT Subscribe to OBOZ.UA channels in Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events. Shelling in Russian-held city of Donetsk leaves 25 people dead. Photo Courtesy: ShareAlike 4.0 International/Wikimedia Commons At least 25 people have died in a shelling incident in the Russian-held city of Donetsk, media reports said. The shelling reportedly left 20 people injured. At least 25 civilians have been killed and 20 more wounded as a result of a Ukrainian shelling of Donetsk on Sunday, the head of the Donetsk People's Republic Denis Pushilin told Sputnik. He has described the attack as "atrocious", stressing that the market was shelled on the day when it was especially crowded. Ukraine did not comment on the shelling so far. Increase in civilian casualties in Ukraine in recent weeks Recent weeks have seen a steep increase in civilian casualties in Ukraine following an intensification of Russian attacks, the UN Human Rights Monitoring Mission in the country, HRMMU, said in a new report issued on Tuesday (January 9, 2024). Hundreds of people across the country were killed or wounded in drone and missile strikes in the 10-day period between 29 December and 8 January alone. Civilian casualties had been steadily decreasing in 2023 but the wave of attacks in late December and early January violently interrupted that trend, said Danielle Bell, head of the monitoring mission. Next month marks two years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which has left 40 per cent of the population, 14.6 million people, in need of humanitarian assistance. More than four million people are internally displaced and 6.3 million have sought refuge elsewhere, mainly in neighbouring countries. The United Nations Secretary General, Antonio Guterres addresses the 19th Non-Aligned Movement Summit in Kampala, Uganda. Photo Courtesy: ONU UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres repeated his call for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza and the unconditional release of all hostages, in an address to the latest summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), which concluded in Kampala, Uganda, on Saturday. Leaders from the 120-member bloc met amid deep division globally, including rising geopolitical tensions, climate catastrophe, widespread poverty and raging conflict in Sudan, Ukraine and Gaza. Danger and constraints Following the abhorrent Hamas attacks on 7 October, the wholesale destruction of Gaza and the number of civilian casualties in such a short period are totally unprecedented during my mandate, the Secretary-General said, noting that the UN has also been affected as 152 staff have been killed. Although humanitarians are doing their best to deliver aid, they face constant bombardments and daily dangers, amid enormous constraints posed by damaged roads, communication blackouts and access denials. Meanwhile, disease and hunger are deepening, he said. He said people are dying not only from bombs and bullets, but from lack of food and clean water, hospitals without power and medicine, and gruelling journeys to ever-smaller slivers of land to escape the fighting. Prevent conflict spillover This must stop. I will not relent in my call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, Mr. Guterres said. And we must do all we can to prevent spillover of this conflict across the region in the West Bank, across the Blue Line between Israel and Lebanon, and in Syria, Iraq and the Red Sea. He added that refusal to accept the two-State solution for Israelis and Palestinians, and the denial of the right to statehood for the Palestinian people, are unacceptable. This would indefinitely prolong a conflict that has become a major threat to global peace and security; exacerbate polarization; and embolden extremists everywhere, he said. NAM leadership The NAM was established in the midst of the Cold War, when leaders of newly independent countries sought a neutral stance and avoided joining either of the two major power blocs, headed by the United States and the Soviet Union. Mr. Guterres said the swirl of uncertainty and instability in the world today offers new opportunities for countries and the organization to lead the way towards deeper cooperation and shared global affluence the theme of the summit. As global affluence depends on peace which requires institutions that reflect todays world, he pointed to the need to reform bodies such as the UN Security Council which is paralyzed by geopolitical divisions that block effective solutions. Recalling that the NAM has long highlighted the issue, he said the UN Summit of the Future in September offers a unique opportunity to consider reforms and promote ideas to rebuild trust and strengthen multilateral collaboration. Sustainable development Meanwhile, countries are moving backwards in achieving sustainable development, another requirement for peace. People are going hungry and communities lack access to basics such as healthcare, clean water, proper sanitation and education. Guterres repeated his call for reforming the outdated, unjust and unfair global financial system so that all countries benefit, and urged governments to invest in education, health, nutrition and social protection systems. Last September, world leaders meeting at the UN demonstrated support for both a $500 billion annual stimulus package to boost sustainable development and his call to reform the global financial system. At the COP28 conference two months later, countries operationalized the long-awaited Loss and Damage Fund to support nations that are most vulnerable to climate change. However, contributions so far have been limited, and developed countries have not fulfilled many of their longstanding commitments on climate finance, he said. The Secretary-General urged the NAM to hold leaders to keep these promises this year. Human rights activist Amjad Ayub Mirza has said political exiles living abroad will have no other option but to form a national government of PoK in exile if the demands of the people of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Gilgit-Baltistan are not met by February 5. The humanitarian activist said it is not enough to reduce the taxes on electricity bills in POK or reduce the prices of wheat in Gilgit-Baltistan. He asked the Pakistani government to withdraw its troops from PoK and PoGB. The Tehreek-e Itefaq-e-Rai chairman was quoted as saying by ANI, For eight months, the people of Pakistani-occupied Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan have been protesting, taking out protest rallies, and observing protest sit-ins against the increase in the tariff of electricity in POK and against the cuts and increase in the prices of wheat. However, up till now, several sets of negotiations have taken place, but to no avail. The government of Pakistan and the puppet governments in Gilgit Baltistan and POK are not confirming that they are going to reverse the electricity tariff or the increase in the prices of wheat, he added. And now for the first time in the history of POK, Joint Awami Action Committee has announced that on February 5, they will observe a peoples rights day. p till now, every year for the past 33 years, Pakistan has been observing Kashmir Solidarity Day on the February 5 which in actuality has been used to muster and gear up hatred towards India, Mirza said. As the Ram Mandir consecration event draws nearer, excitement among Indians and devotees across the world is palpable. But amidst the excitement, police have identified a surge in cyber fraud, from false messages claiming to collect donations for Ram Janmabhoomi to providing free prasad and VIP passes ahead of the Ram temple event, officials said on Sunday. Home delivery of Pran Pratishtha prasad: Fraud amounting to over 10 crore UP Police recently arrested an Indian-American citizen involved in cheating people by allegedly offering home delivery of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Pran Pratistha 'prasad'. Credit: Canva The man was charding Rs 51 from citizens of Indian origin and USD 11 from citizens of other countries through websites and social media. Circle Officer, Ayodhya, Shailendra Singh said that the accused was also selling T-shirts, silver coins and other merchandise themed on 'Shri Ram'. The man was charged with deceiving over 16 lakh people and his fraudulent transactions amounted to Rs 10.5 crore. Misleading calls and messages People have also fallen prey to misleading calls or messages regarding the Ram temple. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, the trust in charge of construction and management of the Ram temple, has appealed to devotees to not respond to requests or WhatsApp messages from unknown people without verification and avoid making donations without proper authentication. Unsplash Singh has also requested that people receiving misleading calls or messages should promptly contact the National Cyber Helpline at 1930 to report the incident. What is the UP police doing to help abate the cyber frauds? Police in Ayodhya specifically and in the entire state in general have been asked to maintain heightened vigilance. The UP government is taking proactive measures to address and counteract these malicious activities. Ayodhya police has also launched an awareness campaign to educate the public about such matters. Ram Mandir Consecration: When and where to watch 11 am is the time set for Ram Mandir consecration. The entire religious ceremony will be telecasted live between 11 AM and 1 PM. You can watch the live here on the IndiaTimes channel: For more on news and current affairs from around the world please visit Indiatimes News. With the Ram temple consecration at Ayodhya set for January 22, various state governments have declared a public holiday on the day. In Maharashtra, four students had filed a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging the state government's declaration of the holiday on January 22. The Maharashtra government had issued an order on Friday, January 19, declaring a public holiday in the state. The Bombay High Court, in a hearing conducted on Sunday - January 21 - rejected the PIL. What did the Court state while rejecting the PIL? The Bombay High Court stated that in a country of diverse religions, the decision of the state declaring a holiday on the day fosters secularism. ANI Even the Supreme Court had observed that declaration of public holidays is within the realm of executive policy, the HC noted. "Consistent view that has been taken by court's that declaration of holidays which as a matter or policy based on religious requirements cannot be an arbitrary decision... but it is in consonance with the secular principles." Why had the students filed the PIL challenging the state holiday on Jan 22? The four students who had filed the petition are Shivangi Agarwal, Satyajeet Siddharth Salve, Vedant Gaurav Agarwal and Khushi Sandeep Bangia, from MNLU, Mumbai, GLC and NIRMA law school. The law students argued that declaring a public holiday to celebrate a religious event would be in violation of the principles of secularism enshrined in the Constitution, according to which the state cannot associate with or promote any religion. Representative image/ IT The petition stated, "Any policy regarding declaration of public holidays cannot be at the whims and fancies of the political party in power. Holiday can be declared perhaps to commemorate a patriotic personally or historic figure but not to celebrate consecration of Ram Lalla to appease a particular section of the society or religious community." Other states that have declared a holiday on Jan 22 Other than Maharashtra, the states that have public holiday on January 22, 2024 are Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Haryana, Chattisgarh and Uttarakhand. A number of states have declared a dry day on January 22, which includes Uttarakhand and Assam, among other states. You can view the full list of states declaring public holidays and dry days here. For more on news and current affairs from around the world please visit Indiatimes News. With only a few hours left for the Ram Lalla Pran Praitshtha ceremony in Ayodhya, devotees wait with bated breath for the big day. As per reports, India's largest light-emitting diode (LED) floating screen was constructed at Saryu Ghat in the temple town to broadcast the 'Pran Pratistha' event live. What are the dimensions of the LED being installed in Ayodhya? AI imagines the LED screen being installed at Ayodhya | Image: Generated on DALL.E The whole length of this floating LED screen is 69 feet, and its height is 16 feet. A Gujarat-based company created the screen for the live broadcast of the Pran Pratistha ceremony on January 22. Who created this screen? A Gujarat-based company has created India's largest floating LED screen for the historic occasion | Image: Unsplash (For representational purpose only ) Akshay Anand, MD of floating LED screens, stated that a Gujarat-based company has created India's largest floating LED screen for the historic occasion on January 22. "The length of this entire screen is 69 feet and the height is 16 feet, which makes the entire floating LED screen approximately 1100 square feet," he said. Pran Pratishtha's program will be presented live from Saryu Ghat. How are the preparations going on for the big day? Security was enhanced in the temple town on Saturday for Ram Lalla's Pran Praitshtha event | Image: X Meanwhile, security was enhanced in the temple town on Saturday for Ram Lalla's Pran Praitshtha event, which was expected to be attended by approximately 8,000 VIP guests. The Uttar Pradesh police force, which was slated to visit Ayodhya, has arrived and has been positioned in the temple city, with patrols conducted from all three areas--land, river, and air. "Our police force has arrived in Ayodhya for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. Our Police force, which was to come to Ayodhya, has arrived and has also been deployed. The entire police force was briefed together again today," the senior police officer said. Piyush Mordia, Additional Director General (ADG) Lucknow Zone, stated that boats are monitoring the Saryu River while drones are flying high for overhead observation. What do you think about this? Tell us in the comments. For more trending stories, follow us on Telegram. On January 13, passengers on an AirAsia Thailand trip from Bangkok to Phuket received an unexpected and slithery surprise. What was found on the flight? A live snake was discovered in the overhead luggage bin | Image: X A live snake was discovered in the overhead luggage bin of Flight FD3015 after it took off from Bangkok's Don Mueang International Airport. The finding sparked concern among the passengers as the little reptile was seen crawling along the cabin lights above the compartments. Who tried to capture it? A flight attendant attempted to safely capture the snake | Image: Generated on DALL.E A video of the unusual episode went viral on social media, depicting the snake's appearance in the cabin and a flight attendant's attempts to safely capture it. Initially utilizing a water bottle, the crew member eventually switched to a waste bag to hold the snake. The footage elicited reactions from users, with one user noting the striking resemblance to sequences from the video Snakes on a Plane. How did the airline react? AirAsia Thailand confirmed the event, stating that their crew was warned before the jet landed in Phuket. Phol Poompuang, the airline's chief of corporate safety, told CNN that such instances are exceedingly unusual and that flight attendants are properly prepared to handle them. "Before resuming operations, the aircraft was thoroughly cleaned and fumigated, as is routine protocol for such incidents. The safety and well-being of our guests and workers is always our top priority, and their safety was never jeopardised," Poompuang stated. Watch the video here. Passengers on an Air Asia plane flying from #Bangkok to Phuket found a #snake in the cabin crawling along the overhead bin. pic.twitter.com/YrfhDHyuhu Arthur Morgan (@ArthurM40330824) January 18, 2024 What do you think about this? Tell us in the comments. For more trending stories, follow us on Telegram. Kidnappers are demanding N30 million ransom for the individuals abducted from Nigeria Army post Housing Estate, Kurudu in Abuja. One Barrister Cyril Adikwus wife and two inlaws were abducted after the kidnappers invaded the estate on Thursday night at about 10:00 pm. However, the kidnappers have reached out Barrister Cyril Adikwu, asking him to pay a ransom of N30 million to secure the freedom of his family. Cyril had escaped when the kidnappers stormed his residence in the estate and whisked away his family members. Narrating the incident, he disclosed that he raised alarm while the abduction was going on but the kidnappers shot at him and he had to scamper for safety. It all happens on Thursday night at about 10:00pm when a vehicle containing those who were kidnapped drove into my compound then all of a sudden the kidnappers followed the vehicle into my compound. I was upstairs and heard strange sounds so I peeped through the burglary door upstairs and saw one of them who was kidnapped on the floor and I asked what is going on there and she said I dont know these men are asking me to go down then it occurred to me they were kidnappers then I started screaming Kidnappers help at the top of my voice, at this point they started shooting at me upstairs then I was able to escape and then they started shooting guns in the air while they took the tree of them away. READ ALSO: Gunmen Invade Army Estate In Abuja, Abduct Two Residents They were about 8 of them and they walked through the bush part over the hill to the otherside, not up to 40 minutes they left I was called to provide a ransom, I dont want to mention the amount because already false information is everywhere in the media about the whole incident but I can assure you its more than 30million. I am traumatized right now after the whole incident and the kidnappers have been calling me and have given a time frame, he told Vanguard. An anonymous narrator, one of the estate management official, said the estate management in collaboration with security agencies are working to rescue the kidnapped victims. The incident that happened on Thursday night in the estate was really unfortunate immediately we were alerted but before security personnel got there the kidnappers had left with the victims, we assure you that we are working with security agencies to see that they are rescued unhurt, the official said. A frontline aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC), for the September 21, 2024 governorship election in Edo State, Osagie Ize-Iyamu, on Saturday, said nobody will stop him from contesting the primary elections of the Party. Ize-Iyamu was among the 23 aspirants purportedly screened out of contesting the partys primary elections by a Professor Julius Ihonvbere-led committee in Abuja. Speaking at Benin Airport while addressing supporters and chieftains from the three senatorial districts in the State that came to welcome him, he alleged that his exclusion from contesting the partys primaries was orchestrated by those afraid of his person and popularity. According widespread reports, the Julius Ihonvbere-led screening committee had cleared six aspirants and dropped 23 others as not eligible to contest the Partys primaries. His words: The purported report of my exclusion and other aspirants from contesting the partys primaries election by the Professor Julius Ihonvbere-led screening panel is mere rumour. The action is orchestrated by those who are afraid of my popularity. I want to assure you that I am in the race and by next week, by the grace of God, I will collect the form. Any Edo person is worthy of the ticket and I am not a stranger. I want to assure you that your support will not be in vain and there is nothing to worry about. READ ALSO: Any Meeting Held Without My Presence Is Null And Void Shaibu As Edo PDP Leaders Endorse Ighodalo He added that: When you are contesting for an election, there are bound to be intrigues and all kinds of rumours and stories. The highest organ of our party issued a statement through the publicity secretary, particularly on the Edo Governorship election and specifically said that all those who have aspirations to run for governorship should go and collect the form. While assuring the supporters and chieftains that only the partys National Working Committee, NWC, has the power to screen out any aspirant, he disclosed that by next week he will purchase the partys expression of interest and nomination forms. Disclosing that some of his supporters have promised to buy the forms for him, he allayed the fears, that alleged the NWC has dismissed the committee reports by directing that all aspirants for the governorship race are free to purchase nomination forms. Ize-Iyamu said his relationship with the former National Chairman of the party, Adams Oshiomhole, is cordial and advised people to refrain from blaming the ex-Edo Governor . My relationship with him is cordial. He is my senior brother and I respect his age. We have worked together for many years. He is the leader of our party and a distinguished senator. Nobody should blame him for wrongdoing. If, at all, he had done anything wrong, it is not good of us to castigate him in public. As one family, we have a way of resolving any issue. We should all respect him as our leader and father, he added. Bandits in Kaduna State have killed a school principal, Idris Abu Sufyan, kidnapped his wife and her baby. According to sources said the bandits invaded Sufyans house in Kuriga community along the Kaduna-Birnin Gwari highway, where they shot him and whisked away his wife and son. Sabiu Goyam, a friend of the victim, who confirmed the incident via Facebook at the weekend wrote: Innalillahi wa Inna ilaihi rajiun. I feel sad to inform you that our noble colleague; the principal of GSS KURIGA (SNR).MAL IDRIS ABU SUFYAN, has been killed by bandits and also kidnapped his wife with a baby boy. May the Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and also grant him Aljannatul firdausi. Amen. READ ALSO: Bandits Dressed In Hijab Attack Police Post In Katsina Another resident, anonymously described the death of the principal as disturbing. There has been no official reaction yet from the state Police Command Public Relations Officer, ASP Mansir Hassan, on the issue. Despite the fact that people are born more or less evenly throughout the year, astrologers have noticed that representatives of some signs are born somewhat less often than others. They have their own seductive and mysterious charm and can tell us a lot about complex aspects of human behavior and character traits. ADVERTISIMENT Astrology experts have named these five signs. They also told us what makes them so special. Find out whether your sign is on the list. Aquarius The Sun enters Aquarius at the end of January and stays there for about a month, and February is the shortest month of the year, with a fairly low birth rate. The astrological sign of Aquarius is considered to be intelligent, distinguished by original thoughts, impartiality and creativity. Gemini and Libra are the zodiac signs that get along best with Aquarius in terms of compatibility. This is because of their ability to express their emotions well. Pisces Pisces, whose sign is depicted as two fish swimming in opposite directions, is characterized by a tendency to dream and a keen sense of intuition. Creativity, spiritual search and care characterize those born under this water sign. Thanks to their innate ability to empathize, Pisces are exceptional companions and friends, and their rich imagination makes them excellent artists. The downside of this emotional attitude is that they may have trouble sensing the line between reality and fantasy. ADVERTISIMENT Capricorn This earth sign is pragmatic and ambitious. Capricorns are known for their unwavering determination, discipline, and strong work ethic, which help them on their way to success. They have an innate ability to overcome life's obstacles with resilience and practicality. Their goals are often stability and financial success. They thrive in management positions due to their strong leadership skills and meticulous attention to detail. Capricorns prioritize their career but they also value close relationships and are known for their loyalty and reliability. Sometimes they become overly cautious because of their steadfast nature, which prevents them from taking risks and trying new things. Sagittarius The element of Sagittarius is fire, so they are characterized by a tendency to be independent and have insatiable curiosity for discovery. Traveling and exploring are among Sagittarians' favorite pastimes, and they have a great desire to learn from diverse experiences. People born under this sign have a philosophical outlook and an optimistic attitude towards life. They have the ability to motivate and inspire others. However, sometimes Sagittarians behave impulsively and take on several things at once, which makes it difficult for them to achieve their goals. ADVERTISIMENT Scorpio Being a water sign, Scorpio is nevertheless famous for its strong passion, unwavering loyalty and charm, and is often considered the most mysterious of the zodiac signs. These people have a deep desire for emotional attachment and demonstrate a high level of intuition. They have a mercurial and thoughtful nature that allows them to face various obstacles with enthusiasm and elegance. They are devoted to protecting their loved ones and are able to see the deepest secrets of people. Persistent Scorpios are lucky but their strong emotions can sometimes lead to a tendency to be possessive and jealous. Subscribe to OBOZ.UA on Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events. Femi Adesina, former Special Adviser to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari on Media and Publicity, revealed that Buhari extended favour to Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), by extraditing him to Nigeria. Adesina shared this perspective in his book, Reflections of a Special Adviser, Media and Publicity (2015-2023), launched in Abuja last week. He shared this insight, highlighting a meeting where Buhari discussed sparing Kanus life with a delegation of Igbo elders who sought his release after his detention by the Department of State Services (DSS) in Abuja. Quoting Buharis response to the delegation under the name Highly-Respected Igbo Greats, Adesina emphasized the governments decision to subject Kanu to the judicial system instead of taking drastic actions. READ ALSO: Buharis Jet Almost Tumbled During Landing In 2015 Femi Adesina In the past six years, I have developed a system where I dont interfere with the judiciary. That was why, in the case of Kanu, I said the best was to subject him to the system. Let him make his case in court instead of giving a terrible impression of the country from outside. I feel it is a favour to give him (Kanu) that opportunity. Government could have mobilised to eliminate him where he was, but we did not do that, Adesina quoted his principal as saying. According to Adesina, Buhari, in his response to the delegation, acknowledged the gravity of their request, stating, The demand you have made is heavy, but I will consider it. Chief Mbazulike Amaechi, a First Republic Minister of Aviation, led the delegation, urging the unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu. At the time, he expressed the painful and pathetic situation in the East, seeking Buharis intervention for a solution. He vowed that if Kanu were released to him, he will no longer say the things he used to say. Christiana Marie Ruiz-Penaloza and her husband, Mario Penaloza, are photographed at their fire damaged kitchen inside Manny Vibez, their restaurant in Norwood. Read more The smell of smoke was overwhelming when Christiana Marie Ruiz-Penaloza unlocked the door of her Norwood restaurant on a cold morning this month. Ruiz-Penaloza rushed through the front dining room, fighting against thick fumes as she passed a framed photograph of her late brother, Manny Ruiz, flashing a grin at her wedding. In 2022, Ruiz died before he and Ruiz-Penaloza could realize their shared dream of opening a family restaurant. Now she was horrified to discover that the heart of the dream that she had realized on her own in August the kitchen was engulfed in flames. Ruiz-Penaloza tried to grab a fire extinguisher before retreating amid the flames. The 33-year-old had faced all the challenges that come with starting a business since Manny Vibez opened, but nothing like this. Advertisement While the Jan. 9 blaze at Manny Vibez spared the restaurants dining room, Ruiz-Penaloza is struggling to understand how an inferno tore through her empty kitchen overnight. Ruiz-Penaloza and her family dispute the fire departments finding that the fire likely originated from a trash can or bag of rags next to the freezer. Above all, Ruiz-Penaloza is worried that gone with her cooking equipment is her brothers dream. We were doing good, Ruiz-Penaloza said several days after the fire, sitting in a booth near her charred kitchen, the smell of smoke still heavy in the air. With the power cut, Manny Vibez once bright and bristling with fake vines lining the ceiling was cast in darkness. Over the past six months, customers in the Delaware County borough had taken to the eclectic menu partially inspired by Ruiz-Penaloza and Ruizs time working at Jose Garces Buena Onda thats full of vibrant Latin American and Italian fare, the latter by way of her familys native South Philadelphia. We found a new home in a community that loved everything we were giving, Ruiz-Penaloza said. Then I just walked in to everything taken away. A part of the restaurant dream No matter how she tells them, most of Ruiz-Penalozas stories about her late brother trace back to food. For two years, she and Ruiz worked at Garces Fairmount taqueria, navigating life in the orbit of a James Beard award-winner together. There Ruiz-Penaloza learned the art of management and operations, while Ruiz held down the front of house. Throughout it all, Ruiz insisted that his sister one day open her own eatery. He was always trying to talk her into it, said Lorraine Vargas, the pairs mother. Like the morning of the fire, Ruiz-Penaloza recounts Aug. 2, 2022, with sober clarity. Thats when she learned Ruiz, after a late night at a casino, had passed out in his vehicle with the windows up and died from a lack of oxygen during a record heat wave. Work was hardly on her mind after Ruiz-Penaloza left the restaurant industry during the pandemic to take care of her children; then, dropping her boys off at day-care in May, she noticed the building next door was up for rent. Manny Vibez opened in a whirlwind four months, launching for friends and family on Aug. 2 to commemorate Ruizs passing. There was barely any marketing, Ruiz-Penaloza said, apart from social media profiles showcasing the food. Crispy, golden empanadas crowd together on a plate in one Instagram post, while camarones al ajillo shrimp fried with garlic and herbs sizzle in another. Around Christmas Day what would have been Ruizs 36th birthday family photos of the siblings took center stage. The menu contains secret messages that allude to her brothers tastes, Ruiz-Penaloza said. He would have loved the Crab Cakes Benny the most, she said; he delighted in sending his sister pictures of the crustaceous benedicts. I couldnt believe that we hadnt betted on ourselves sooner, Ruiz-Penaloza said. Looking for answers Shining a flashlight over charred stainless-steel countertops, Mario Penaloza pointed to where chefs once cooked up huevos rancheros and bandeja paisa, Mom Moms cutlet sandwich, and Italian sausage soup. Now much of the kitchens equipment is burned, from stacks of takeout trays and dishes to a fridge, lighting fixtures, and support beams. Penaloza, 32, quit another job two months after Manny Vibez opened to work alongside his wife and her sister, Monica. There was even room for Ruiz in the kitchen, where another photo watched over the staff. After the blaze, Penaloza and his wife scoured security footage. But the grayscale video, clouded in smoke, offers no clear angle of the blazes origin. The couple suspects that the fire came from the aging buildings electrical system, citing a faulty outlet, blown fuses, and bulbs that burned out quickly during the restaurants initial months. The Norwood fire marshal declined to comment on the fires origin. He said there was no suspicion of foul play, and that the investigation was still open. I paid for all the inspections I just opened in August, said Ruiz-Penaloza, feeling shes been denied a satisfactory explanation. I did all my due diligence to make sure we were operating in a safe environment. Its not happening overnight With the kitchen closed indefinitely, customers have begun to show Manny Vibez support in different ways. After the fire, one customer stopped by to offer Ruiz-Penaloza a $100 bill, she said, while another played an uplifting song before making a contribution. It wasnt long until local nonprofit Be the Joy Foundation reached out; so far, a digital fundraiser has collected over $6,000 for the restaurants rehabilitation, as Ruiz-Penaloza fears that insurance wont cover its belongings. I just want to open tomorrow, Ruiz-Penaloza said. Its not happening overnight, her mother responded. So for now, Ruiz-Penaloza subsides off the hopeful words of customers, those who hope that one day theyll enjoy another plate of her empanadas. At least now Im not fearful to open, Ruiz-Penaloza said. Im ready to do it again. One of the "Schuylkill Notes" found by Lebanon County native Zachary Zimmerman in a Pennsylvania state park last month. Read more Neatly folded notes crammed with just about every conspiracy theory and internet buzzword imaginable keep popping up in rural Pennsylvania, some illegally tucked inside cereal boxes and others pinned to pine trees in state and local parks. Unfolded, the notes are mostly indecipherable, containing a coded run-on sentence of secret societies, sci-fi movie mentions, and name drops like Musk, Bill Gates, and Oprah. Its tied to Saturn, Lord o/t Rings/time, one line reads. The FBI, Food & Drug Administration, and elected officials in Pennsylvania are all aware of the notes, but no ones been caught in the act of actually planting them. Advertisement Philly had its own strange note phenomenon with its Toynbee Tiles, which were found embedded into city streets and, eventually in other states, with messages about Stanley Kubrick and Jupiter, mostly in the 1990s and 2000s. While the Toynbee Tiles had an art house vibe, the Schuylkill Notes feel a bit darker. Some notes mention international conflicts and hate groups, and are often riddled with intentional misspellings and out-of-place apostrophes, making them all the more confusing. Secret society (SS) ties to terrorm, shootgs, staged confrontns & other crises arent reportd but JFK/Lincoln warnd of SS, another reads. Amateur web sleuths have taken up the case, mostly on Reddit, and theyve dubbed the bizarre messages the Schuylkill Notes because so many, initially, were found in Schuylkill and surrounding counties. The content of the notes themselves, its clear theyre warnings, not threats, one early member of the Reddit group r/schuylkillnotes said. The notes, which often differ slightly in content, have also been found in Huntingdon and Lycoming Counties. One Reddit user mapped out dozens of specific locations where notes have been found, including Walmarts, Goodwills, and various locations on the Appalachian and other trails. The bulk of the discoveries appears to be situated between Allentown and State College. Zachary Zimmerman, 23, was hiking in Lebanon Countys Swatara State Park while squirrel hunting last month when he discovered a handful of the notes attached to trees and wrapped around stones. I picked it up and read it and it really doesnt make any sense to me, Zimmerman, a Lebanon County native who lives in the Adirondacks, said. Zimmerman said he thought about calling the Pennsylvania Game Commission or Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, but didnt. He kept a few notes and left others in the woods. Its just a bunch of crazy stuff, he said. Its unclear exactly when the notes began appearing in Pennsylvania. Some posts say 2015 and at least one recalled something similar happening in the 1980s, in the Poconos. In December, a Luzerne County man named Joe Miller found a note in a sealed box of Lucky Charms. Its the note that really bothers me, Miller told WBRE/WYOU out of Scranton. These notes are found inside food like kids food. While elected officials have notified the FBI, Carrie Adamowski, a spokesperson with the agency in Philadelphia, said she could neither confirm nor deny the existence of an investigation. Wendy Wilson, a spokesperson for Rep. Matt Cartwright in northeastern Pennsylvanias 8th Congressional District, said an officer received an anonymous call reporting that 20 notes had been found on state game lands in Mainville, Columbia County. So far, there have been no reports of people getting sick from these notes, but we dont want to take any chances and we want to find out who is doing this, Wilson said. The FDA, according to a spokesperson, is aware of the situation, and said the agency evaluates product defects and other complaints that it receives. Tampering with food products, the spokesperson said, is a federal crime. On Reddit, at least one discussion asked whether the notes original creator or copycats could be in the group. Zimmerman said it seemed like a lot of work for one person and he wondered whether people were copying them and putting them out for attention. Anyone who finds a note, particularly in a food item, is asked to call Pennsylvanias FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator at (877) 689-8073. Notes found in state parks can be reported to DCNR here. There is an even bigger threat to Americas global security in 2024 than the potential reelection of Donald Trump. Our democratic allies in Europe and Asia watch with grim fascination and our Russian and Chinese adversaries with satisfaction as uber-partisan U.S. politics paralyze the American government. Even more than fear of Trump, European leaders are openly voicing their worries about a superpower whose foreign policies are doomed to remain dysfunctional no matter who wins in 2024. Washington constantly seems on a deadline to prevent a GOP-led government shutdown including last week over federal funding bills in Congress. Confirmations of administration picks for top military posts or key ambassadorships are blocked interminably by MAGA members maneuvers. Advertisement Most disturbing, the GOP has tied aid for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan three arenas of huge American concern where war is ongoing or threatens to erupt to resolving the southern border crisis, one of the nations most divisive issues. MAGA House radicals appear ready to reject a likely bipartisan Senate compromise on border reform, preferring to block any coherent foreign policy. Who can trust a U.S. government that behaves this irresponsibly? READ MORE: GOPs blocking of Ukraine aid would be a national security debacle | Trudy Rubin Like Gulliver, the United States and its government have been hog-tied by small-sized, small-minded Lilliputians indifferent to anything but 2024 campaign ambitions and cues from the divider-in-chief. It was instructive to watch as global leaders at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, wrestled last week with how to cope with a global superpower that is self-destructing. While pundits often deride the annual Davos meeting of heads of state, cabinet ministers, and CEOs as the playground of global elites, it provides an excellent barometer of international trends, as I found in the 13 years I attended. Conservative Polish President Andrzej Duda, whom former President Trump praised when he visited Warsaw in 2019, refused to be drawn out when asked at a panel discussion whether he worried about another Trump victory. He stressed that Poland would work with any U.S. leader chosen in a normal democratic election. But then Duda got down to what worried him most, openly expressing concern over unrest after the last U.S. presidential election. That was a situation where potential stability in the United States could be upset, he said. This is something we could consider dangerous. He added that Poland would like to see calm U.S. elections. Imagine if Joe Biden wins a close 2024 election and Trump again refuses the results or ignites violence during the balloting. Or if Biden takes office, but MAGA representatives in a divided Congress continue to paralyze the government. Or if Trump wins, but as promised becomes a dictator on Day One and focuses his presidency on retribution and political purges. Any of these scenarios would provide the coup de grace to Americas historic place as the worlds most stable democracy. Any of them would destroy the U.S. capacity to adequately protect its citizens from the security challenges that loom as a powerful China and a revengeful (if wounded) Russia pursue larger global roles at the expense of a flailing United States. Even Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, waiting with the rest of the world to see if Congress will betray Kyiv by refusing to approve additional military aid, expressed more worry about U.S. dysfunction than who is chosen in 2024. Whatever choice Americans make, he said at the same Davos panel, we will work with that reality. But frankly, I am more concerned with what happens on Day One. It really matters that the U.S. system remains focused, that America will not drown into domestic fights and spend political resources on fixing entirely interparty issues because America is important for global stability, and America will have to remain focused on global issues, of which Ukraine is one. Of course, Trump and his America First acolytes have made clear they dont want to focus on global issues. The sad truth is that U.S. governmental dysfunction and internecine domestic warfare are key to Trumps operating mode. When Polands Duda spoke at Davos of wanting more U.S. in a united Europe and more transatlantic cooperation in security, economic as well as military, he must have known that Trump wants the opposite. On Jan. 9, a top European Union official revealed that Trump had told European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at a meeting in 2020 that NATO is dead and if Europe is under attack, we will never come to help you and to support you. The official, Thierry Breton, was present at the meeting. Trump remains falsely convinced that NATO somehow owes America hundreds of millions of dollars. He is also furious that some members fail to meet NATOs goal of spending at least 2% of their GDP yearly on defense. If strengthening NATO were Trumps goal, he could continue to press individual members to increase their defense budgets, as many are now doing. Never has NATO been more essential to push back against the club of dictatorships Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran that are testing the West in Ukraine and in Asia. However, Trump has no such intention. His former national security adviser, John Bolton, told the New York Times that there is no doubt in my mind that Trump would withdraw the United States from NATO in a second term. Dictators are making coalitions, warned the exiled Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya at Davos, pleading against the appeasement of despots and urging more U.S. aid for Kyiv. She knows whereof she speaks: Vladimir Putin has essentially annexed her country, as he wishes to do with neighboring Ukraine. But Trump has no interest in an alliance with European democracies or in helping Ukraine win. He has made clear he prefers to deal directly with dictators such as Putin. Never mind that the Russian leader, along with Chinas Xi Jinping, North Koreas Kim Jong Un, and Irans Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, ran rings around Trump when he held power. Even as European leaders fretted over U.S. dysfunction at Davos, a huge Chinese delegation spread out to present global south nations with an alternative governmental model to dysfunctional democracy. Despite all the economic and military prowess of the United States, the Trump-led MAGA acolytes seem determined to prove the Chinese right. These are brutal times for hospitality and even the finest pastry chef in the land would be hard-pressed to sugarcoat that bitter reality. Currently, it is hard to tell whether much of the sector is taking refuge in the safe harbour of a brunch menu or is it simply responding to a voracious dining public seeking comfort in more familiar fare, a public also mindful of a lower price point than nocturnal dining which inevitably includes a lot more pricey alcohol than the occasional glass of bubbles in evidence in todays absolutely hopping room Leas is just one of three new serious brunch openings in the city in recent times, along with Paperboys and Probys Kitchen. Leas have been pulling in massive numbers since partners Joe Dowling, Cyprien Jouve, and Colm Liston opened with a brunch formula already patented in their successful Joes & Bros venue nearby on College Road. It is set in the basement of UCCs magnificent Glucksman gallery, an elongated modernist rectangular box, primal brutalism of concrete leavened by the bucolic charm of the colleges renowned Quarry. Viewed through floor-to-ceiling windows running the length of the room, it is especially compelling on a bleak, clear winters morn as a game sun draws an ethereal fog barely above the ground and the south channel of the River Lee that flows alongside. If there is a dish that semaphores brunch, it is avocado on toast, or smashed avo on sourdough, the often controversial creation of recently deceased Australian chef-restaurateur Bill Granger, and it is regularly held responsible for, amongst other things: the collapse of sustainable indigenous agriculture in Mexico; the plague of pesky millennials; the overall destruction of humanity as we know it; and whatever else irks cranky old boomers. All, of course, guacamole off La Daughters taco who is still, thankfully, blissfully ensconced in youthful innocence/ignorance. A young lady of singular tastes, she simply likes avocado. She also likes Pana sourdough toast. She especially likes the former smeared all over the latter. She loves tomatoes but is suspicious of the need to roast cherry tomatoes, which she only eats as fresh fruit; chilli crunch oil and sriracha, leaving her merely bemused, are left untouched. I evaluate the dish in its entirety; the wheel has received no further invention but it is perfectly palatable and pleasant. The menu (breakfast, brunch, and lunch) offers a decent selection. Along with the smashed avo, it ranges from traditional (ham hock Benedict; shrooms on toast) to whatever is currently most Grammable wherever brunch is served (eg, north African egg dish, shakshuka). LD also orders Maple French toast, pillowy Pana brioche with crispy bacon and fine, authentic, smokey syrup. Veganuarys flexitarianism takes a carnivorous turn, a Rosscarbery breakfast bap: toasted sesame brioche bun sandwiches excellent Rosscarbery black pudding, streaky bacon, sausage, fried egg all daubed with goujujang BBQ glaze. We devour it rapidly, eyes glazing over, drugged by the sweet opiate of comfort food at its finest. The lunch menu offers chimichurri steak, smash burger and Korean fried chicken, all on trend, but Ive had sufficient meat and Ive always found worthy but boring Buddha bowls akin to a self-assembly edible stations of the cross, so opt for the other vegetarian dish, The Fritter Smuggler, hankering for something fried and crispy. However, fritter is actually closer to more pliable frittata, grated spiced veg mixed with egg and pan-fried. Thin half moons of fried sweet potato appear limp and unappealing, but carmelised sugars mean they are even more flavoursome than the tasty fritters. It is served with beetroot borani, house pickles, hummus, grated carrot and leaves, more atonement for my sins of Yuletide excess a portion of fine skinny fries softens the blow, further hardens the arteries. After very good coffee, we gaze out the window as I just manage to prevent myself from launching into a reminiscence to LD of how I first learned to smoke cigarettes in the same Quarry as a pre-teen schoolboy different times. Leas is not only a terrific addition to one of the most fabulous buildings in the country but also to the city at large and while Dowling and partners currently hug safer shores of brunch-style dining while storms rage elsewhere, it is born out of a canniness that knows any hospitality craft that puts to sea in these turbulent times needs to have the fundamentals totally shipshape. There are future and enticing plans for more adventurous nocturnal outings but in the meantime, whenever I need to do brunch or even tease out an afternoon coffee, Leas is very much my idea of going back to college. Leas at The Glucksman The Glucksman Gallery, University College Cork Tel: 021 4901844 leasattheglucksman.com Opening Hours: 7 days a week, serving hot food 10am-3pm; drinks, cakes, etc, until 4pm. The Verdict Food: 7.5 Service: 7 Value: 8 Atmosphere: 8.5 Tab: 62pp (incl tip, including freshly squeezed orange juices, coffees) The European Medicines Agency has said men who use prescribed medicine containing valproate should discuss contraception with their doctors as it could pose a risk to babies. The EMA said the drug could pose a potential increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children born to men treated with valproate during the three months before conception. Commonly sold in Ireland as Epilim, valproate is used to treat epilepsy, bipolar disorder and migraine. The EMA is now recommending valproate treatment for men be started and supervised by a specialist in epilepsy, bipolar disorder or migraine. Doctors should inform male patients who are taking valproate about the possible risk and discuss the need to consider effective contraception, for both the patient and their female partner, they advised. Valproate treatment of male patients should be reviewed regularly to consider whether it remains the most suitable treatment, particularly when the patient is planning to conceive a child. The decision is based on various data including a study in Denmark, Norway and Sweden. This looked at outcomes for men taking valproate compared to men taking other medicines used to treat conditions similar to those valproate treats. around 5 out of 100 children had a neurodevelopmental disorder when born to fathers treated with valproate compared with around 3 out of 100 when born to fathers treated with lamotrigine or levetiracetam, the EMA said. The study did not investigate the risk in children born to men who stopped using valproate more than three months before conception. Doctors in the EU were previously advised not to prescribe valproate for pregnant women, women who can become pregnant or girls unless other treatments are ineffective or not tolerated. Warning The HSE advises taking Epilim when pregnant can seriously harm your unborn child. Risks include, it says, one in 10 babies having bodily malformation at birth, three or four in 10 having serious developmental disorders. The risk of childhood autism is five times more likely than in the general population and children are more likely to develop ADHD. The EMA lists 20 other brand-names, in an alert on their website. Karen Keely, founder of advocacy group OACS Ireland (Organisation Anticonvulsant Syndromes Ireland) welcomed the move. We know that this latest information may be worrying for men with epilepsy and other conditions who are planning to start a family and have already had a family while on Epilim, sodium valproate, she said. But please do not stop taking your medication without first discussing this with your medical team. The EMA has not published the full study, but she understands this is expected in the coming months. In Ireland the Health Products Regulatory Authority monitors medication. It said of the EMA recommendation: It is anticipated that these regulatory steps will be completed over the next several months. If you are a man being treated with valproate (Epilim), do not stop taking your medicine without talking to your doctor, as your epilepsy or bipolar disorder could become worse. Sudden discontinuation of any treatment for epilepsy should be avoided as this may lead to seizures. Contact OACS Ireland: https://oacsireland.com/ The murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier made Ian Bailey a household name and for the subsequent almost three decades, he was rarely far from the headlines. Throughout numerous legal processes both here and in France, he always denied having any involvement in the killing. In 1990, Mr Bailey moved to Ireland from the UK for a different life after becoming enchanted by West Cork, where met his Welsh partner Jules Thomas while working as a fish farmer in 1991. Throughout those early years, he also worked as a freelance journalist for local papers in West Cork. The body of Ms Toscan du Plantier, a French filmmaker, was found near her holiday home in Goleen on the morning of December 23, 1996. Mr Bailey had been living close to the holiday home with Ms Thomas since 1991. The holiday house near Toormore, Schull, where the body of Sophie Toscan du Plantier was found on December 23, 1996. Picture: Dan Linehan Shortly after the shocking murder, a 14-year-old boy in Schull told gardai that Mr Bailey had confessed to the murder while giving him a lift home. Meanwhile, a woman told gardai that she saw Mr Bailey near the scene, at Kealfadda Bridge, on the night of the murder. The woman, Marie Farrell, later withdrew her statement, alleging that she was coerced into making it by gardai, sparking a Garda review into the investigation. The British former journalist and poet was arrested in February 1997 in connection with the murder. Ms Thomas was also arrested for questioning but both were later released without charge. Mr Bailey was arrested once more in connection with the murder just under a year later but was once again released without charge. Although files were sent to the DPP, no charges were brought against him and in 2003, he began a libel action against eight newspapers, losing six and winning two. Mr Bailey described the impact of being connected with the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier as 'awful' and said he had been 'tortured' by it. Mr Bailey who was born in Manchester was the only person arrested in connection with the murder of Ms Toscan du Plantier. In later years, Mr Bailey described the impact of being connected with the murder as awful adding that he had always been tortured by it. In a High Court action taken against the State in 2014, Ms Thomas described how Mr Bailey had been violent towards her in their relationship but that she believed he was innocent of Ms Toscan du Plantier's murder. In 2019, Mr Bailey was convicted in absentia by a court in Paris of the murder. He did not attend the French court and had no legal representation in the proceedings, which he described as a farce. He was subsequently arrested at the Criminal Courts of Justice Building in December 2019, on foot of a European Arrest Warrant (EAW) issued by French authorities. Ian Bailey with his former partner Jules Thomas after he succeeded in his Supreme Court appeal against his extradition to France. Picture: Collins Courts However, several attempts to have him extradited failed after the High Court refused to order his surrender. The story of the murder, along with Ian Baileys arrests in connection with it, have been the subject of multiple documentaries and podcasts while Mr Bailey himself built up a social media following in recent years. In 2022, he was attacked and assaulted in Bantry by several young men, one of whom he said pretended to be one of his online fans. Ian Bailey in Bantry market in 2021, selling books of his poetry. Picture: Andy Gibson More recently, Mr Bailey suffered issues with his health, notably having two heart attacks in the space of one week in September. After recovering, he said it was the first time he had any issues with his heart, a fact he said was "quite amazing" given his "far from ordinary" life, adding: "I guess things are going to take their toll. Mr Bailey had described the murder and the subsequent aftermath and impacts as a tragedy after separating from his long-time partner Ms Thomas in 2021. He said the focus on him as a suspect after the murder had cost him 25 years of his life. My hope and prayer is that, before I'm dead and gone, the truth will come out. "And the truth is that I had nothing to do with this terrible crime," he said. The death of Ian Bailey in Bantry brought an end to what he described as a David v Goliath battle to clear his name. The English-born journalist and poet was due to turn 67 years old next Saturday, having protested his innocence in the murder of Frenchwoman Sophie Toscan du Plantier in Toormore, near Schull, in December 1996. In wishing his Facebook followers a happy Christmas on December 21, he wrote: It is 27 years since a terrible crime which I was falsely accused of 27 years on I continue the David v Goliath battle." As a result of the murder, the life of Ian Bailey has intrigued the public and has had many twists and turns since December 1996. January 1997: One of the most important developments in the early days of the case was when shopkeeper Marie Farrell contacted gardai to say she had seen a man acting suspiciously at Kealfadda Bridge, near Sophies home, in the early hours of December 23. She identified the man as Ian Bailey, who had been writing about the case in his capacity as a freelance reporter. February 1997: Ian Bailey was arrested and questioned but released without charge. January 1998: Ian Bailey was re-arrested and again released without charge. December 2003/January 2004: Ian Bailey took a civil case against seven newspapers for coverage of the murder investigation which linked him to the killing. He lost five of the actions. However, he won 4,000 each from the Irish Sun and the Irish Daily Mirror, who had claimed he had assaulted his former partner. October 2005: The woman once considered the key witness, Marie Farrell, withdrew her statements that she had seen Ian Bailey at Kealfadda Bridge. In doing so, she claimed she was pressurised into making them by gardai investigating the high-profile murder. The then garda commissioner Noel Conroy appointed a team to examine the circumstances of her decision. July 2008: After a new investigation was set up in France, Sophie Toscan du Plantiers body was exhumed for a fresh autopsy. The investigation was headed up by Judge Patrick Gachon. Back in Ireland, the DPP recommended that no prosecution follow from the Garda probe into the withdrawal of Marie Farrells statements. March 2011: As the French investigation continued, a High Court ruling in Ireland cleared the way for Ian Baileys extradition to France. However, Mr Baileys legal team sought leave to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court. October 2011: French investigators arrived in Cork to interview up to 30 people as part of their fresh probe. November 2011: The Supreme Court heard an application by Ian Bailey for a fresh High Court hearing of his bid to prevent his extradition. The basis for the application was information provided to his lawyers by the State that the DPP review of 2001 had not been sent to his solicitors. March 2012: The Supreme Court unanimously granted his appeal, on the ground that the French authorities were not planning at that stage to send him for trial in relation to the murder. August 2013: After a successful civil case was brought in France by Sophie Toscan du Plantiers family, they were awarded damages of 150,000. Under French law, victims of crime can sue the state for damages. March 2015: Ian Bailey was unsuccessful when he took a civil action against the State and gardai. January 2016: A new judge, Nathalie Turquey, was appointed to oversee the French investigation, after the promotion of Judge Gachon. July 2016: A fresh arrest warrant was issued for Ian Bailey as part of the French probe. April 2018: An unsuccessful challenge was made by Ian Baileys legal team in the French Supreme Court against French efforts to put him on trial for the murder. August 2018: The Garda Siochana Ombudsman Commission found that there was no clear evidence of high-level corruption by gardai investigating the murder. However, Gsocs report on the matter said that there was evidence of a lack of administration and management of aspects of the investigation. May 2019: A French trial in the absence of Ian Bailey got underway in Pariss Cour dAssizes, presided over by Judge Frederique Aline. It found Mr Bailey guilty in his absence and imposed a 25-year sentence. October 2020: The High Court ruled that Mr Bailey would not be surrendered to France following the issuing of a European Arrest Warrant for him. April 2021: Mr Bailey and his long-term partner, Jules Thomas, split up after almost three decades together. June 2022: Gardai announced a cold case review into the murder in Ireland. December 2022: Gardai held a press conference in Schull where they called for further witnesses to come forward to help their investigation. Officers said they wished to speak to any person who met, spoke with, or had any interaction with Ms du Plantier from when she arrived in Ireland on December 20, 1996, to when her body was discovered on the morning of December 23. Astronomers have discovered a paradoxically dark galaxy that is filled with gas but has no visible stars. This rare and probably never-before-seen discovery could give scientists new insights into how stars and entire galaxies form. ADVERTISIMENT The researchers made the discovery during a presentation at the annual meeting of the American Astronomical Society. The Big Think publication provided details. The hollow object was named J0613+52. It is located at a distance of about 270 million light years from Earth. Astronomers noted that the object at least looks like a low-surface-brightness (LSB) galaxy. LSBs are much less bright than other twinkling objects in the night sky. The reason for this darkness is that the gases containing such galaxies are so scattered that few stars form there. However, at least a few stars should form there. Instead, the J0613+52 object looks as if there are no stars at all, making it rare and elusive. Scientists believe they have found a dark, primordial galaxy. Karen O'Neil, a senior researcher at the Green Bank Observatory, said that this could be the first discovery of a "galaxy composed of primordial gas." ADVERTISIMENT Interestingly, the scientists discovered such an unexpected finding due to a mistake made when studying the LSB. They realized that there was a discrepancy in the data between the two telescopes they were using and decided to double-check what they were looking at. It turned out that "the telescope was accidentally pointed at the wrong coordinates, and this is how the object was found." In addition to the apparent lack of stars, further investigation revealed that the galaxy is rich in gas, which is necessary for star formation. However, not only for that. The researchers believe that this galaxy contains between one and two billion solar masses of hydrogen and is extremely isolated. O'Neil said that J0613+52 is too far away from other galaxies to contribute to star formation in it. According to her, this galaxy seems to be "both undisturbed and underdeveloped". ADVERTISIMENT In effect, this means that over the billions of years of its existence, this dark galaxy has remained unprecedentedly stable, avoiding significant gravitational interactions that could lead to gas condensation and star formation, and without neighboring galaxies to disturb its perfect balance. The scientists noted that this galaxy is an amazingly preserved relic of the early years of the cosmos and is so perfect that it almost defies understanding. In the future, they intend to try to find heavy metals in this galaxy, which would indicate the presence of stars there. If none of them are found, this will be a strong evidence in favor of the fact that J0613+52 is a truly legendary dark galaxy that has not been previously discovered. Subscribe to OBOZ.UA on Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events. The delay in transferring ophthalmology services from one Cork hospital to another has been condemned as a waste of public money. Two new theatres for ophthalmology and a new outpatients clinic have been developed at the South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital. However, it is understood an agreement has not yet been reached with Cork University Hospital about the transfer of services from there to the SIVUH. Last weekend, 24 people travelled on a bus to Belfast from Cork to undergo surgery for cataracts. On February 3, another bus will travel to Belfast carrying patients from Cork, Tipperary and Galway, according to organiser and independent TD Michael Collins. Fine Gael Cork North Central TD Colm Burke met with the Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly this week to push for action on the transfer between the two hospitals in and says that the new SIVUH facilities are not being used to their full potential. He is also waiting on a response to a parliamentary question he has lodged in relation to it. Mr Burke, who sits on the SIVUH board, told the Irish Examiner: We have spent public money and we are busing people to Northern Ireland. It is now being held up without any explanation. This was planned over four years ago. It is a huge waste of public money a huge kick in the teeth to the people who work very hard to try to improve the service. Now that we have the capacity to provide a better service, we are finding that there are obstacles in the way and it has to be resolved. Construction of the Ophthalmology Outpatients Department at South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, Cork in 2021. Picture: Larry Cummins Long wait A regional department of ophthalmology in the SIVUH had been expected to open in 2021, with the transfer of services from other hospitals. However, the full transfer has not yet taken place. The development of a regional department of ophthalmology was included as a recommendation in the 2017 national clinical programme for ophthalmology, and in the reconfiguration of acute hospital services plan for Cork and Kerry. Mr Collins said that those travelling on the so-called Belfast or Blind buses for cataract treatment have no other choice because of a lack of facilities in Cork. The bus which travelled last weekend was the 144th to undertake the trip since December 2017. He said: A lot of people hold out in the hope that they can be treated locally but a lot of people leave it too late. Treatment was initially reimbursed via the Cross Border Directive (CBD) on Healthcare, but it has been replaced by another reimbursement scheme the Northern Ireland Planned Healthcare Scheme. A spokesman for the South/Southwest Hospital Group said: The transfer of outpatient services from Cork University Hospital to the South Infirmary-Victoria University Hospital was delayed due to a number of clinical issues being raised by Cork University Hospital. These issues have now been addressed and the plan is to move the service in February 2024. "The transfer of elective Ophthalmic surgery from Cork University Hospital to the South Infirmary-Victoria University Hospital is now complete. Joseph OConnor left two notes, one specifically for his parents, the other explaining in detail what had occurred. Im so sorry that I have to write this letter for you, he wrote to his parents, Breda and Ned. I never wanted to hurt you or make you ashamed of me. You dont deserve to have a son show up in the news like I did. I had planned on doing this before it all came out so you wouldnt have to suffer my shame. I didnt know it would be public until on the day. He left other messages on his laptop, his version of a story the bare bones of which had been writ large across the media though court reports. That morning, he contacted his solicitor by email. He was due in court to appeal a nine-month prison sentence for a crime that is known as revenge porn. He was hoping for an adjournment as a psychologist whom he had been seeing was not available. His solicitor advised him that it was best to bring a bag. He may be going to prison. Sometime before 9.30am, he completed the missives and messages to be read after his death and went upstairs to his bedroom in the home he shared in Galway. I cherished everyday with ye over the years. I always want ye to know how much ye mean to me, mam, dad, laura, ed.... If you can pass on the message to Adam and Mary. I tried to treat every time I saw ye as the last. "I hope I treated you all well while I was with you and Im sorry for when I wasnt. I love you all very much. I hope I see you again some day. Joe. His housemate Kate Farrissey arrived back at the house soon before 5pm. About 15 minutes later she heard the alarm going in Joes room. She thought he might have gone for a nap. She entered the room and found his body. He set the alarm clock for that time, she says. He knew I would be home by then. There had been a few changes in the house, friends of ours have moved out, some left Galway. At that stage I was the only one there who knew his situation. He confided in me. Once Kate had informed the authorities, she texted Jade Baldrick, who was in New York. Jade had been a housemate of Joe and Kates before leaving on a J1 a few months previously. I was going to work and Kate sent me a text, asking me to call her. I texted back to ask what was it and she just came back again and said call me. I rang and I said, its Joe, isnt it? I was working in a bar. I fell to the floor and was screaming. The thought wouldnt leave me that I could have done more. At 10.30pm that evening two local gardai called to the OConnor family home just outside Newtownshandrum in north Cork to relay the news. Joseph OConor was 27 when he died on July 20, 2022. There was no reporting of Joseph OConnors death. The previous month, following his sentencing hearing, his name had been all over the media. One newspaper referred to him as a pervert. Another quoted a woman whose daughter had taken her own life after online harassment welcoming the prison sentence. OConnors photograph was all over the media, as he furtively walked away from court, his face as embarrassed as anyones would be under the circumstances. Joe OConnors family and friends believe that he was treated in a terrible manner that was at odds with the severity of his crime. They all acknowledge that what he did was wrong and that his victims hurt was deep and real. But they say various details of the case in terms of history and even motivation were not tested in court as he had pleaded guilty. They dont say it but there is a belief that he may have escaped prison if his appeal was heard. Whether such an outcome would have saved him from the decision he ultimately took will never be known. What he did was wrong but he didnt deserve all of that, his father Eddie says. Theres more than one side to a story. Once it came out in public he didnt come home, he was afraid to go out, afraid to meet anyone. "It never dawned on us that anything like suicide would occur. We got a message from his friend a while before it happened saying that he was chilling out and feeling better about himself. Mistakes made Kate Farrissey says he knew he made a mistake but the person who was portrayed in court reports and the headlines was not the person she knew. That wasnt Joe, she says. I know that things can happen in a relationship but I couldnt recognize what was said about him. I lived with him for two years. He was just a goofy kind of guy, very kind-hearted to me and others. "The stuff that was being said about him in court was completely alien. When it did come out in the paper his first thoughts were for us who shared the house with him, he was worried about our address being in the media. Even with all he was going through, he was still thinking of others. Joe OConnor was the middle child of three, Laura his older sister, Edmond his younger brother. He went to school locally in Newtownshandrum and then Hazelwood College in Drumcollogher. In 2013, he entered NUIG in Galway to study for a BA in history and philosophy. He then went on to do a Masters in philosophy, completing it in 2017. The graduation picture of Joe O'Connor. In his second year in college, he met a woman who was a fresher. They were both staying in the student accommodation facility and a relationship began. There survives various messages and communications between the pair which suggests it was an intense relationship, particularly sexually. At one point the woman posted a naked photograph of Joe in a closed Facebook group. There were at least 15 people, most of them known to the couple, in the group. The posting was done without Joes permission and he was angry and upset about it. After a year, the relationship ended, Joe being the one to finish it. Sometime after that he posted photographs of the woman on a pornographic website. Her face was not visible but there was a link to her social media account. When in 2019, he was contacted by the gardai on foot of a complaint from the woman, he owned up immediately. The garda asked why he did it. It was an accumulation of things, he said. I felt aggrieved with her from the break up. I felt that there was rumours going around about me after the break up and prior to the break up. These involved me allegedly jumping or attacking one of her friends. "Being cheated on by her was another reason. There was a photo she posted of me on a group chat which I was naked in. A day or two after the breakup she got off with a fella in front of me. I felt she was flaunting this in front of me. After that then an accumulation of rumours and gossip about me which she would avoid talking about when I confronted her. He did make a complaint to the accommodation centre about the rumours which had an impact on his mental health. His sister Laura claims he went to the gardai about the matter but was told nothing could be done unless he could show something concrete. The woman concerned denied that she ever spread rumours or anything of that nature. I was just being an asshole, he told the guards. I was drunk at home after being on a night out and went on the laptop when I got home. The photos were on the laptop. I deleted a file when I got the phone call from yourselves today. I panicked. I have no excuse. The woman told the guards that she had sent Joe OConnor the photos when they were going out. She said he put her under pressure to do so. She said that he was a controlling figure in the relationship and demanding in terms of sex. Things I did with him sexually were things that I would have been uncomfortable with and things that I did sexually with him are not me. Things that would have happened were things that I wouldnt have sought or things that I wouldnt have thought about. He knew that I hated fighting and I would do a lot to avoid confrontation. The whole thing came to her attention when she was contacted by another woman and then she began receiving communications from anonymous men who had seen the image. Among the files left by Joe OConnor were series of messages between the couple dating from their relationship. These messages have been seen by the Irish Examiner. They do, in places, portray an intense sexual relationship, but not one in which just one partner was the dominant figure. None of that in any way excuses his action in uploading her image on a pornographic website. His friends became aware of what was going on around November 2021 when a guard showed up at the house. Joe went down to talk to him and we were upstairs and he came back up and said he didnt want to talk about it Kate Farrissey says. He was keeping it in, trying to deal with it himself. We forced it out of him, me and Jade, and he did tell us in the end. Guilty plea In April 2022, Joe OConnor pleaded guilty at Galway district court to harassing the woman on a date unknown between August 1 2015 and July 10 2019, contrary to section 10 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act. Since 2021, a new law, the Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Act covers distributing or threatening to distribute images without permission. As OConnors offence predated the law he was prosecuted under the old act. The judge imposed reporting restrictions on the name of the parties. The following month, Jade Baldrick left for Manhattan on her J1. We went on a hike in Mayo before I left, a kind of going away thing. I said Ill see you in September, and he gave me a big hug and texted me with a message when I left Galway. I didnt think much of it at the time, but he said, I know Ill see you again and youre one of the greatest I met and I want to thank you for everything you did for me. Joseph O'Connor outside Galway Court. Picture: Hany Marzouk On June 13, 2022, he appeared before judge Mary Fahy for sentencing. The court was told that the victim wanted OConnor identified but for her to remain anonymous. The details of the case were outlined for the judge by Garda Padraig Moran, following which the judge synopsized as follows: Someone he really knew well and after a year together they break up as these things do so, to get his own back he did this. Is that fair to say?. Garda Moran testified to the reasons the defendant had given for his actions. Judge Fahy said there was no comparison between the victim sending a photo to a group chat and the uploading of her images by OConnor. Reading the womans victim impact statement, Judge Fahy noted that a subsequent relationship she had entered into with another man ended when he found out about the online photos. She was told that while the victim was outwardly doing ok the impact of what had occurred would always remain with her. The garda also confirmed that it was nearly four years since the incident occurred and there had been no contact between the parties since then. A number of references on behalf of Joe OConnor were also handed into the court. The prosecuting sergeant said that while the photos may have been taken down, some people had already taken screen grabs of them and they could still be uploaded to websites. The judge remarked that it must be one of the worst nightmares for any young girl to have to deal with the consequences of such material being shared publicly and without consent. A message had to go out that this is just not acceptable. She imposed a sentence of nine months imprisonment. The severity of sentences for particular crimes are frequently a topic for public discourse. The sentence handed out was almost the maximum that could have been imposed, at 12 months. Joe OConnor had never been before the courts before, admitted his guilt immediately on being questioned and there were mitigating circumstances, not least the previous incident on Facebook. Joe s solicitor immediately lodged an appeal. The case was the first of its kind in Galway and one of the first in the State. The day before the sentencing hearing, Joe rang his brother Ed and asked him to say nothing at home but that he was due in court and the solicitor suggested he have somebody there to support him. Ed travelled up from Cork to attend the court. It was the first that any of his family knew about what was going on. Joes mother Breda got a call from a friend the morning after the hearing. It was all over the media. She asked me to come down to her house where she showed it to me on her phone. I read it and said, thats not my son. She said she knew that. The whole thing was such a shock. The reporting of the case varied, as it always does, across the media. Some reported it straight. Revenge porn: man jailed for posting images of ex-girlfriend online was the typical sober headline. One tabloid ran with Revenge porn pervert jailed for nine months. The fare on social media was, as is often the case, polarized and base. Some posters suggested that he should have got a longer sentence. In the days after the hearing, Breda and Eddie travelled twice to Galway to talk to their son. On both occasions, he shut the door in their faces. The shame of it all was isolating him. His friends in the house tried to get through to him. He never told his side of the story so nobody knew the full details, Kate Farrissey says. He knew he did wrong, he was very aware of it and he was very remorseful. We did know he felt so bad, he told us he had been suicidal about this. "We tried to get him to go for counselling and he did eventually reach out, but it was only online counselling. We were keeping an eye on him too. I might stay at home with him and wed watch a movie and do stuff. "For us, me and Jade, this was a completely new situation and I dont think I dealt with it great either. His appeal to the Circuit Court was scheduled for July 20. On the morning of the appeal hearing, he emailed his solicitor at 8.43am. Could you please advise me if there might be any reason to think the adjourning might not be accepted for my own peace of mind and to be ready for the worst case? The solicitor replied half an hour later. Dr Bogues report wont be ready until October. That is why we are looking for an adjournment. U should however just in case have a bag with you if court insists on case going ahead. There was no further communication from Joe OConnor after that. Within an hour of receiving that mail he went up to his bedroom. At 2.37pm that afternoon, his solicitor mailed him. Hi Joe, are you around the courthouse? At 3.43pm, he mailed again. Joe, you might please confirm your whereabouts? Joes mother and sister retrieved all the communications from his laptop. Grieving a suicide is complicated and usually freighted with regrets. In this instance, the deceased left not just a note for his loved ones but a whole file setting out his version of the history of what had occurred. His mother spent the best part of a year familiarizing herself with the material as Joe had not let them in on all that he had been going through over the previous few years. Above all his family and friends believe the fleeting public profile of Joe OConnor in the wake of his sentencing is a complete distortion. There are aspects to the processing of his victims complaint with which they take issue. His sister Laura feels strongly that sufficient weight was not given in the court to the incident in which his image had been uploaded on the Facebook group. The uploading of images is shocking but theres often two sides to a story. Why was it that his name was the one thrown around? Why, even in the adverts on TV that we see now, is it always men who are the ones doing it? Joe O'Connor, who died in July 2022. Breda OConnor feels that some of the comments in the court were unsuited. Why was it necessary to make an example of him? He did wrong but he had his whole life in front of him. There are far worse people out there who would have made a perfect example if that was what was being looked for. His victim is experiencing her own trauma. The spectre of revenge porn of any description is a frightening and degrading one. While, as is often the case, the sentence handed down in this instance could be debated, the characterization of the crime by Judge Fahy as the worst nightmare of any young woman couldnt be argued with. But Joe OConnor was not a pervert. He was a young man existing in a prevailing culture where access to worldwide communication at the push of a button, particularly at a time of high or mood-altered emotion, can have devastating consequences for a whole range of people, principally the victim. Speaking on behalf of her family, Laura OConnor says they dont want anybody to go though what all who were touched by this incident suffered. For any male or female who is experiencing hurt, abuse or suffering, please know that there is always a way out. If you know someone you fear is having suicidal tendencies, talk about it. What weve learned is that if they dont talk, they probably never will. Force conversations. Please do not feel shame or fear in speaking. You have a right to be heard and every right in the world to live. - If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please click here for a list of support services. Ian Bailey has died after collapsing in Bantry in West Cork at the age of 66. Here is an interview he gave to Mick Clifford in July of 2021. THE sun beats down on Schull. Shiny happy people wear bright colours to celebrate the holliers. There is street dining and ice cream cones and oversized cars easing through the village like bank statements. Down in the harbour, the blue sea sparkles, as if shards of diamonds have been sprinkled from on high. Its a good day to be alive in West Cork. He shuffles up the main street, stooped, head crowned with a fedora, a leather bag slung over his shoulder. A shy smile plays at the corner of his mouth as if he knows damn well that some people are staring and wondering is it him. It is. Ian Bailey claims he pays no attention to his local celebrity status some would describe it as notoriety but his denials lack all credibility. Kenneth Williams, the Carry-On actor, when he was asked about whether celebrity bothered him he said, infamy, infamy, infamy, they all have it in for me. Thats the way I look on it, Bailey says. He loves to play with words but as somebody with a masters degree in law he knows the importance of evidence, and there is a body of it to suggest the fella is in his element when hes standing where the light shines brightest. The evidence that really matters with Bailey, however, is that which associates him in any way with the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier. Two recent documentaries have revisited a crime that convulsed the locale and sent ripples all the way to the highest echelons of government in two countries. Most of all, the brutal killing of a woman who had considered the area to be her own private refuge left her bereaved family devastated. The documentaries have thrown open the case to a whole new generation 25 years after the Frenchwomans body was found in a bloodied state near her holiday home in Toormore, a few kilometres out the road from Schull. Front and centre in both has been the person of Ian Bailey. He was arrested but never charged. In 2019 he was convicted of murder in a Paris court and sentenced to 25 years in prison, but the High Court in this country refused to extradite him. For some, he is the man who got away with murder. Ian Bailey speaking with Irish Examiner special correspondent Michael Clifford at they walk down the main street in Schull, West Cork. Picture: Dan Linehan Others consider him a victim of Garda malfeasance, the suspect they fingered early on and around whom they tried to build a case that was in reality flimsy and manufactured. What really matters in that respect is the opinion of the prosecutorial authority, the DPP, and that office has repeatedly ruled that he has no case to answer. So what did he think of the documentaries? I only saw two episodes of what I call the Jim Doc (the Sky crime series produced by Jim Sheridan). It made me deeply, deeply sad for a number of reasons. I was sad for the victim, Madame Du Plantier, sad for Jules (his ex-partner Jules Thomas) seeing her there as a much younger person and myself as a much younger person. I didnt actively cry but it watered my eyes. The Netflix doc I knew was going to be a piece of self-serving demonising propaganda to paint me in a very dark light and try to say I was the murderer. A number of sequences were brought to my attention and Im getting together some clips. He goes on to say that he has a major dispute with how some of the gardai interviewed for the series presented aspects of the case. The bereaved family withdrew permission for interviews conducted with them to be included in Sheridans documentary because they claimed it portrayed Bailey as a victim. Equally, Bailey attempted to have passages filming him withdrawn from the Netflix doc but he was told to take a hike. The respective positioning of the two series would appear to reflect the opposing barstool opinions on his guilt or innocence as outlined above. What is common to both is the newsreel footage from 25 years ago in the days, weeks and months after the murder. Notwithstanding natural aging, Bailey looks like a different person. He was filmed striding from Bandon Garda Station, an erect, well togged out, good looking man, his head held high. Today, at 64, he could pass for a decade older. He moves slowly and mentions a bad knee and a bad back. While the chain of years can be random in their kindness, you get the impression that external forces have hurried his physical passage through life. In a French creperie in the village he engages with the waitress in Irish. He has taken up the language of late and explains how a word a day goes a long way and before you know it you get a grasp. He riffs on social media, to which he is a newcomer. On Twitter, I got over a thousand followers the last time I looked and its mainly good comments. I only got one nasty response, a what do you call it, troll. He mentions that now he signs his name IKBO, an acronym for Ian Keep Buggering On. Did you know that during the war that was how Churchill signed his name, with KBO after it? He was the last great Briton as far as Im concerned. On that subject, he cant return to the land of his birth even for a visit. I have no desire to go back to that decomposing nation that I left in 1991 but I have a sister in Cornwall who has been over here. If I went to visit her I would be arrested at the point of entry and have to fight extradition to France. I am slightly worried about the French. I know there have been cases in France where they have kidnapped people and taken them to France to stand trial, but Im not overly worried by it. His worry is not based solely on paranoid ramblings. In 2011, a German man wanted for killing a French woman in Germany was kidnapped and his bound body left outside a courthouse in France. He was subsequently convicted of homicide. There is no suggestion that anybody associated with Ms Du Plantiers family would ever consider such action, but the case has been a cause celebre in France among the monied and there is always a chance that a person with no direct connection might take a notion to attempt such a thing. The basis for his conviction is Paris is highly contentious. The French convicted him at a trial including a secondhand, half thrown together version of the evidence that the Irish DPP decided was simply nowhere near the threshold for a charge, not to mind conviction. In that respect, central to any case against Ian Bailey is the testimony of Maria Farrell. Without that, the body of evidence is threadbare. Farrell, who owned a shop in Schull, initially told the gardai she saw a man answering to Baileys description at a location known as Kealfadda bridge in the early hours of December 23, 1996, in the hours after the estimated time for the murder. It was the only strand of evidence putting Bailey anywhere near the crime scene anytime that night. The bridge is not on the direct route between Ms du Plantiers cottage and the home Bailey shared with Thomas. But Farrell made a statement to that effect, and identified the individual as Bailey, based on another sighting of him in Schull some days later. Her evidence was highly contentious. In an analysis of the case done in the DPPs office in 2001 which was excoriating of Garda conduct there was a heading entitled Unreliability of Maria Farrell. The author, solicitor Robert Sheehan, went through in detail the inconsistencies, omissions and changing content of her statements and concluded she simply was not reliable. Despite that, she was the star witness for eight newspapers in a libel action in 2003 in which Bailey was suing for defamation. Her detailed description of seeing Bailey on the bridge and what she alleged were intimidating actions by him towards her afterwards was highly convincing. Yet, two years later she contacted Baileys solicitor and said it was all lies and she had been forced by the gardai to tell it like that. BY 2015, she was the key witness for Bailey in a civil action he brought against the State for wrongful arrest. At one point she walked out of the witness box, refusing to reveal who had been with her in her car on the night in question. This time she painted a picture of gardai harassing and threatening her to make statements against Bailey. The general consensus among those observing the trial was that she was unconvincing. So the only evidence she has tendered written or verbal that was considered of major value at the time was at the libel trial and she now says that was a pack of lies. If Farrells value as a witness was unreliable in 2001, then it was worthless by 2019 when the murder trial took place in Paris. She did not give evidence at that trial, yet the judges accepted her initial statements about sighting Bailey but not her volte face which they attributed to fear of the Englishman. Thus the crucial evidence to convict Bailey of murder was based on what many would consider a strange and highly dubious basis. I wrote to the Taoiseach, the Attorney General and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris asking for an investigation, said Ian Bailey. Picture: Dan Linehan He says he holds no animosity towards Farrell. Bless her, shes another victim. There is Madame du Plantier, me and Jules and her and the greater community of West Cork which has been tainted by this murder. She was a victim of garda harassment. (The gardai have always denied any harassment of Ms Farrell.) He met her for the first time since the civil action last year when the Sheridan documentary was filming a reconstruction in the premises where her shop had previously operated. A lady came around the corner there on day and said, Hi, you dont recognise me. I said I didnt and she said she was Maria Farrell. She looked a lot different and a lot better. On the sunny day in Schull this week, the Irish Examiners photographer was shooting Bailey down on the pier when he was approached by a man from Dublin who gave his name as Phil Hickey. He recognised Bailey from the documentary and was thrilled to meet him. Bailey was chuffed and suggested that the holidaymaker buy one of his books of poetry, which Mr Hickey did. Then there was the obligatory selfie with the local celebrity. Despite such interludes, Ian Bailey cuts a lonely figure. The recent break-up of his near 30-year relationship with Thomas has been a major event. She owns the home they shared and he is looking for somewhere to live but it isnt easy. On the Sheridan documentary, Jules at one point says, Ive told him before, its me or the alcohol. Despite that, he denies that the booze had any impact on her decision to go her own way. Maybe at the early stages, we both drank then. But not latterly, he says. She stuck by me for a long time. Jules is a private person, an artist, and all of this took a toll. It was never easy for her. THE man cave at the rear of the house they shared, which featured prominently on Sheridans documentary, is locked up. He has already boxed most of his books and collections of various pieces of art. The break-up came just months after it appeared that maybe they would be allowed move on from the various legal entanglements in which he was caught over the last two decades and more. In October 2020, the High Court ruled for the third time that he would not be extradited to France. Now he senses that Jules had even then decided that they were coming to the end of their shared journey. When the judgment was read out that day I didnt know for an hour which way it would go and then he (the judge) went in my favour. I thought I would have a sense of relief, that having gone through all the battles I would have felt better. But strangely, I didnt and Im wondering with the benefit of hindsight that maybe Jules had made up her mind that she was going to stand by me through the process and once it was concluded shed had enough and wanted the relationship to end and move on. HE DENIES any suggestion that in some ways he has been his own worst enemy through a craving of the spotlight. Dont forget, it was the guards that let my identity out from that moment, 10 February 1997 (the day of his first arrest), he says. My life was completely changed. I lost my career as a journalist, I loved writing for newspapers. I lost 25 years of legitimate expectations and at the end of this I lost my long-term partner whom I love and now Im losing my home. Ive lost everything and all over a dirty rotten lie to subvert the course of justice. Ms Du Plantiers bereaved family, and particularly her son Pierre Louis who was just 15 when his mother was taken, have a different perspective. Bailey says he can understand why they still believe the story that they were presented with by the gardai all those years ago. He welcomes recent reports that there is expected to be a cold case review of the murder following the screening of the two documentaries. I wrote to the Taoiseach, the Attorney General and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris asking for an investigation, he says. And what of the future? Is he fearful of what life has now thrown at him? No, I dont think so. I hope to live and die in West Cork. Whatever happens to me, I hope my name will be cleared so I dont have to come devil hunting from the afterworld. North Koreas Foreign Ministry said it has agreed to further strategic and tactical co-operation with Russia to establish a new multi-polarised international order. In describing foreign minister Choe Son Huis meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and foreign minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow last week, the Norths Foreign Ministry said Mr Putin reaffirmed his willingness to visit Pyongyang and said that could come at an early date. North Korea has been actively strengthening its ties with Russia, highlighted by leader Kim Jong Uns September visit to Russia for a summit with Mr Putin. In a separate statement on Sunday, the Norths Foreign Ministry condemned the UN Security Council for calling an emergency meeting over the countrys latest ballistic test, which state media described as a new intermediate-range solid-fuel missile tipped with a hypersonic warhead. The ministry said the test firing on January 14 was among the countrys regular activities to improve its defence capabilities and that it did not pose a threat to its neighbours. South Korea urged the Security Council on Thursday to break the silence over North Koreas escalating missile tests and threats. Russia and China, both permanent members of the council, have blocked US-led efforts to increase sanctions on North Korea over its recent weapons tests, underscoring a divide deepened over Russias war on Ukraine. The alignment between Pyongyang and Moscow has raised international concerns about alleged arms co-operation, in which the North provides Russia with munitions to help prolong its fighting in Ukraine, possibly in exchange for badly needed economic aid and military assistance to help upgrade Mr Kims forces. Both Pyongyang and Russia have denied accusations by Washington and Seoul about North Korean arms transfers to Russia. North Koreas Foreign Ministry, in comments published by state media, said Ms Choe and the Russian officials in their meetings expressed a strong will to further strengthen strategic and tactical cooperation in defending the core interests of the two countries and establishing a new multi-polarized international order. Russia expressed deep thanks to North Korea for its full support over its war on Ukraine, the North Korean ministry said. North Korea has said Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his willingness to visit the country at an unspecified early date, as the two nations continue to align in the face of their separate, intensifying confrontations with the United States. The North Korean Foreign Ministry highlighted Mr Putins intent for a visit following foreign minister Choe Son Huis meetings with the Russian president and his foreign minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow last week. The ministry said in a statement published by state media on Sunday that the two countries agreed to further strategic and tactical co-operation to establish a new multi-polarised international order a reference to their efforts to build a united front against Washington. Russia expressed deep thanks to North Korea for its full support over its war on Ukraine, the North Korean ministry added. Mr Putin had already confirmed his willingness to visit the capital, Pyongyang, at a convenient time during his meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Russias Far East in September. North Korean foreign minister Choe Son Hui met Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow last week (Artyom Geodakyan/Sputnik, Kremlin pool/AP) One of the few world leaders openly supporting Mr Putins war on Ukraine, Mr Kim has been actively boosting the visibility of his ties with Russia in an attempt to break out of diplomatic isolation and strengthen his footing, as he navigates a deepening nuclear stand-off with Washington, Seoul and Tokyo. In a separate statement on Sunday, the Norths Foreign Ministry condemned the UN Security Council for calling an emergency meeting over the countrys latest ballistic test, which state media described as a new intermediate-range solid-fuel missile tipped with a hypersonic warhead. The ministry said the test firing on January 14 was among the countrys regular activities to improve its defence capabilities and that it did not pose a threat to its neighbours. South Korea urged the Security Council on Thursday to break the silence over North Koreas escalating missile tests and threats. Russia and China, both permanent members of the council, have blocked US-led efforts to increase sanctions on North Korea over its recent weapons tests, underscoring a divide deepened over Russias war on Ukraine. The alignment between Pyongyang and Moscow has raised international concerns about alleged arms co-operation, in which the North provides Russia with munitions to help prolong its fighting in Ukraine, possibly in exchange for badly needed economic aid and military assistance to help upgrade Mr Kims forces. Both Pyongyang and Russia have denied accusations by Washington and Seoul about North Korean arms transfers to Russia. Denmarks royal family has participated in a special celebratory church service at Aarhus Cathedral as the new King Frederik X, accompanied by wife Queen Mary and mother Queen Margrethe, waved to crowds gathered outside the 12th-century building. The royal family drove 3.5 kilometres (2.2 miles) through Aarhus, Denmarks second-largest city, from royal residence Marselisborg Castle to Aarhus Cathedral, which is the tallest church in the country. The church service came exactly a week after Frederik, 55, was proclaimed king after his 83-year-old mother Margrethe signed her abdication during a meeting with the government. Denmarks Queen Margrethe at Aarhus Cathedral (Bo Amstrup/Ritzau Scanpix via AP) Aarhus resident Christina Elmstroem said she expects Frederik and Queen Mary to change the Danish monarchy in their way. She brought her children to experience the big, major event. So, it was an opportunity to go and see the new king and my kids are very excited about it, she said. Henrik Wigh-Poulsen, bishop of the Diocese of Aarhus, told The Associated Press they had just a few weeks to plan the service, and Frederik had a hand in planning it. Denmarks King Frederik X greets the crowd after a service at Aarhus Cathedral (Mikkel Berg Pederson/Ritzau Scanpix via AP) Normally, you would spend three months planning this, but we (had) two-and-a-half weeks, something like that. So we have been very busy, I tell you, he said. I chose some of the hymns were going to sing, and the king said, I would like to sing these hymns. The hour-long service marked Frederiks first official visit as king outside the Danish capital Copenhagen. Police expected around 70,000 people to line the royal route. Frederik was proclaimed king after his mother Margrethe signed her abdication (Mikkel Berg Pedersen/Ritzau Scanpix via AP) I think hes going to be a king of the people, said Aarhus resident Charlotte Houman. I think hes gonna embrace the people hes going to be different in his way of ruling. I think hes going to be not too much top down, but hes gonna be embracing the people, different kinds of people. And also being there not on this high pedestal somewhere. Two major Republican candidates are left competing for their partys 2024 US presidential nomination. Florida governor Ron DeSantis suspended his campaign on Sunday just before Tuesdays New Hampshire primary. Poor finishes last week in Iowas lead-off caucuses ended the White House bids of biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy and former Arkansas governor Asa Hutchinson. Former New Jersey governor Chris Christie dropped his campaign earlier in the month. Here is a look at the major candidates competing for the Republican and Democratic nominations, as well as the third-party contenders: Republican primary field DONALD TRUMP Republican presidential candidate and former president Donald Trump (Matt Rourke/AP) The former president announced his third campaign for the White House on November 15 2022 at his Mar-a-Lago resort, forcing the party to decide whether to embrace a candidate whose refusal to accept defeat in 2020 sparked the US Capitol attack and still dominates his speeches. The Republican Party front-runner remains hugely popular in the party, despite making history as the first president to be impeached twice and inciting the Capitol insurrection on January 6 2021. Referring to himself as Americas most pro-life president, Mr Trump nominated three conservative judges to the Supreme Court, paving the way for the reversal of Roe v Wade, which had legalised abortion nationwide for nearly 50 years. Sweeping criminal justice reforms he signed into law in 2019 eased mandatory minimum sentences and gave judges more discretion in sentencing. In March, Mr Trump became the first former US president to be criminally charged, facing 34 felony counts of falsifying business records as part of a hush-money scheme. Since then, he has been charged with 57 more felonies in three other criminal cases, accused of mishandling and unlawfully retaining classified documents and trying to illegally overturn the results of the 2020 election. His overwhelming win in the lead-off Iowa caucuses signalled his dominant position in the race for the Republican Party nomination. NIKKI HALEY Republican presidential candidate and former UN ambassador Nikki Haley (Robert F Bukaty/AP) The former United Nations ambassador and South Carolina governor became the first major Republican Party challenger to Mr Trump when she kicked off her campaign on February 15 in Charleston. She is the only woman in the Republican Party field. The former Trump Cabinet official once said she would not challenge her former boss for the White House in 2024. But she changed her mind, citing the countrys economic troubles and the need for generational change, a nod to 77-year-old Mr Trumps age. Ms Haley was third in the Iowa caucuses, finishing just behind Mr DeSantis. Democratic primary field JOE BIDEN President Joe Biden (Ben McKeown/AP) President Joe Biden formally announced his re-election campaign on April 25 in a video, asking voters for time to finish this job. Mr Biden, the oldest president in American history, would be 86 at the end of a second term, and his age has prompted some of his critics to question whether he can serve effectively. A notable number of Democratic voters indicated they would prefer he not run, though he is expected to easily win the Democratic nomination. Mr Biden, who has vowed to restore the soul of America, plans to run on his record. He spent his first two years as president combating the coronavirus pandemic and pushing through major Bills such as the bipartisan infrastructure package and legislation to promote high-tech manufacturing and climate measures. MARIANNA WILLIAMSON Self-help author Marianne Williamson entered the Democratic primary on March 4 in Washington, calling for a vision of justice and love that is so powerful that it will override the forces of hatred and injustice and fear. During her unsuccessful 2020 presidential campaign, she proposed the creation of a Department of Peace and argued the federal government should pay large financial reparations to black Americans as atonement for centuries of slavery and discrimination. DEAN PHILLIPS The Minnesota congressman is the first elected Democrat to challenge Mr Biden for the nomination. After months of calling for a primary challenger, Mr Phillips entered the race himself on October 27 with a speech outside New Hampshires statehouse. While Mr Phillips has been effusive in his praise for Mr Biden, the 54-year-old also says Democrats need younger voices to avoid a nightmare scenario where Mr Trump wins another election in the autumn. Mr Phillips is one of the wealthiest members of Congress and heir to his stepfathers Phillips Distilling Company empire, which holds major vodka and schnapps brands. He once served as that companys president but also ran the gelato maker Talenti. His grandmother was the late Pauline Phillips, better known as the advice columnist Dear Abby. Independent bids ROBERT F KENNEDY JR The bestselling author and environmental lawyer announced on October 9 that he was ending his Democratic presidential bid and instead launching an independent run. A nephew of President John F Kennedy and son of attorney general Robert F Kennedy, he initially launched a long-shot bid to challenge Mr Biden for the Democratic nomination on April 19 in Boston. He said in announcing his party switch that he intended to be a spoiler candidate for both Mr Biden and Mr Trump. Mr Kennedy has emerged as one of the leading voices of the anti-vaccine movement, with public health experts and even members of his own family describing his work as misleading and dangerous. He has also been linked to far-right figures in recent years. JILL STEIN The environmental activist, whose 2016 third-party presidential bid was blamed by Democrats for helping Mr Trump win the White House, says she is making another run for the nations highest office. Ms Stein announced on November 9 that she will again run under the Green Party banner. Im running for president to offer that choice for the people outside of the failed two-party system, she said. She ran against Mr Trump and Democrat Hillary Clinton in 2016 as a Green Party candidate and received about 1% of the vote. Some Democrats said her candidacy siphoned votes away from Mrs Clinton, particularly in swing states such as Wisconsin. CORNEL WEST The progressive activist and scholar announced on October 5 that he was ending his bid for the presidency under the Green Party banner and was instead running as an independent. Mr West wrote on X that he was running as an independent to end the iron grip of the ruling class and ensure true democracy! He added: We need to break the grip of the duopoly and give power to the people. He initially announced in June that he would be running as a member of The Peoples Party before soon switching to the Green Party. Who has dropped out Republicans: Florida governor Ron DeSantis, former vice president Mike Pence, Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, former New Jersey governor Chris Christie, biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy, former Arkansas governor Asa Hutchinson, North Dakota governor Doug Burgum, radio show host Larry Elder, businessman Perry Johnson, former US Representative Will Hurd of Texas and Miami mayor Francis Suarez. Ukrainian military intelligence is in no hurry to draw conclusions about the death of the leader of the Russian Wagner private military company Yevgeny Prigozhin. He allegedly died in a plane crash near Tver in August 2023, but there is no evidence of this. ADVERTISIMENT This was stated by the head of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov. He was asked about this during an interview with Financial Time journalists. He noted that Wagner definitely exists today. As for Prigozhin's death, the DIU chief advises not to jump to conclusions. "I am not saying that he is dead or alive. I'm saying that there is no evidence that he is dead," Budanov replied. The publication noted that the West is considering a version of Prigozhin's contract killing, in which Russian dictator Vladimir Putin himself was involved. At the same time, foreign journalists recalled that the Kremlin denied this involvement. They claimed that DNA confirmed Prigozhin's death. However, his body was never shown in public. ADVERTISIMENT Earlier, The Wall Street Journal published an article in which it wrote that the elimination of the Wagner leader was organized by the director of the Federal Security Service (FSB) and the head of the Russian Security Council Nikolai Patrushev. According to the newspaper's sources in Western intelligence agencies, Putin was shown the plan to kill Prigozhin. Only verified information on our Telegram OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! In the war against Ukraine, Russia is spending more weapons and ammunition than it is capable of producing, so Moscow has been forced to look for additional sources of replenishment. The largest supplier of weapons to Russia is currently the DPRK. ADVERTISIMENT This was stated by Kyrylo Budanov, Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, in an interview with the Financial Times. He noted that North Korea's assistance allowed Russia to "exhale a little." According to Budanov, the Russian defense industry is not able to replenish the stocks of weapons and ammunition Russia needs for the war against Ukraine: the occupiers use more than Russia is able to produce at the front. At the same time, Russia has problems with quality control "This explains why Russia is looking for weapons in other countries," he emphasized. North Korea is currently providing the most weapons and ammunition to the aggressor state. In fact, Pyongyang has helped Moscow avoid a catastrophe, Budanov believes. "They did transfer a significant amount of artillery ammunition. This allowed Russia to exhale a little bit. Without the DPRK's help, the situation would have been catastrophic," the Ukrainian intelligence chief said. ADVERTISIMENT At the same time, Budanov emphasized, Russia would not want to depend on outside help, because, according to him, "it has always been considered a humiliation." In addition to the lack of weapons, the DIU chief added, Russia is also facing a shortage of manpower: the Russian army is losing more soldiers at the front than Russia is able to recruit. On January 4, White House National Security Council Coordinator John Kirby said during a briefing that Russia had received ballistic missiles from North Korea in violation of international sanctions. Moreover, he said that it is already using them in the war with Ukraine. According to the United States, these are "launchers and several dozen missiles." Later, the White House announced all cases of North Korean ballistic missiles being used by the occupiers against Ukraine. During the attack on December 30, it is known for certain that one missile was launched from the DPRK. On January 2, the occupiers fired about 10 missiles at Zaporizhzhia, Kyiv, Kharkiv, and other cities. The invaders also launched missiles from North Korea on January 6, but the White House did not specify how many of them were used. ADVERTISIMENT On January 11, the Office of the Prosecutor General confirmed that Russian troops had fired missiles from the DPRK atUkraine. Prosecutor General Andrii Kostin announced the first evidence of this fact. The next day, the DIU specified what kind of weapons Russia supplies to the DPRK. These are artillery shells, ammunition, shells for multiple launch rocket systems, and mines. ( Middle East Monitor There is an urgent need to counter the Israeli propaganda that is repeated endlessly in the media, enforced by the military, accepted without question by the worlds governments. Israeli historian Professor Ilan Pappes 2017 book Ten Myths About Israel (Verso) does the job admirably. The late John Pilger described Pappe as Israels bravest, most principled, most incisive historian. How right he was. A free ebook of Ilan Pappes Ten Myths About Israel can be obtained from the publisher. Click here. The author looks at the facts of the Palestine-Israel issue; the myths on which Israel was founded; the strategies followed by the Zionists in managing it; and the reasons for the blatant Western bias in supporting Israeli aggression. Most of the worlds understanding of Palestines history is distorted, largely because of the Israeli narrative. Historical disinformation, says Pappe, even of the most recent past, can do tremendous harm. What he calls wilful misunderstanding of history can and does promote oppression and protect a regime of colonisation and occupation. It is not surprising, therefore, that policies of disinformation continue to the present and play an important part in perpetuating the conflict. Myth #1: Palestine was an empty land Thats what the Zionists said. A land without a people, for a people without a land, was the claim. And yet Palestine has been inhabited by the Palestinians for centuries. Palestine was a Roman province, and during the Ottoman period from 1517 to 1917 it was a largely Sunni Muslim, rural society. Historian Yonatan Mendel notes that Jews made up between two and five per cent of the population before Zionism reader its ugly head. However, according to Pappe, anyone reading official Israeli sources will come away with the idea that, Sixteenth-century Palestine, it appears, was mainly Jewish (there were hardly any Jews there then), and the commercial lifeblood of the region was concentrated in the Jewish communities in these towns. And that by 1800, Palestine had become a desert Every passing year the land became more barren, deforestation increased and farmland turned to desert. When promoted through an official state website, adds the author, this fabricated picture is unprecedented. Rather than being a desert, Palestine was a thriving Arab society about to enter the twentieth century as a modern society Many Israeli scholars have challenged this false narrative, including David Grossman, Amnon Cohen and Yehoushua Ben-Arieh. Their research shows that, over the centuries, rather than being a desert, Palestine was a thriving Arab society about to enter the twentieth century as a modern society. The Zionist movements colonisation turned its modernisation process into a disaster for the majority of the indigenous people living there. Myth #2: The Jews were a people without a land According to Shlomo Sand in his book The Invention of the Jewish People, the Christian world adopted the idea of the Jews as a nation that must one day return to the Holy Land to fulfil Biblical prophecies about the Second Coming of Jesus and the end of time. Christian Zionism predated political Zionism, which turned it into a Jewish project. The Christian idea was to colonise Palestine and transform it into a Christian entity. This combination of Jewish and Christian motives fed into the issue of the 1917 Balfour Declaration by the British government. To this day, millions of Evangelical Christians in the US in particular are among the most vociferous supporters of the state of Israel. The need to facilitate the return of the exiles in the Holy Land is an essential part of Christian belief. Myth #3: Zionism is Judaism Since its inception in the mid-to-late 19th century, Zionism has been only one inessential expression of Jewish cultural life. According to Pappe, It was born out of two impulses among Jewish communities in Central and Eastern Europe. The first was a search for safety within a society that refused to integrate Jews as equals and that occasionally persecuted them, either through legislation or through riots organised or encouraged by the powers that be as a diversion from economic crises or political upheavals. The second impulse was a wish to emulate other new national movements mushrooming in Europe at the time, during what historians called the European Spring of Nations. Hence, those Jews sought to transform Judaism from a religion into a political ideology and they proposed two things: the redefinition of Judaism as a national movement, and the preference to colonise Palestine. The first phase of Zionism culminated in the actions and works of Theodor Herzl, an atheist journalist who had no connection to Jewish religious life, but who concluded that widespread anti-Semitism made assimilation impossible in Europe, and that a Jewish state was the best solution to the Jewish problem. Palestine wasnt his first choice as the location of this state. Prominent rabbis and figures in European Jewish communities rejected the new approach. Religious leaders saw Zionism as a form of secularisation and modernisation, while secular Jews feared that the new ideas would raise questions about Jews loyalty to their nation-states and thus increase anti-Semitism. Reform Judaism also rejected the idea of redefining Judaism as nationalism and the creation of a Jewish state in Palestine. Myth #4: Zionism is not colonialism Western settler-colonialism, which colonised the Americas, Southern Africa, Australia and New Zealand, was motivated by the desire to seize territory, marketed by religious right, and carried out by wiping out the indigenous population. Zionism is also a settler-colonial movement, and the Palestinian national movement is anti-colonial. By 1945, Zionism had attracted more than half a million settlers to a country that already had a population of about two million. The only way for settlers to expand their hold on the land and ensure an exclusive demographic majority was to remove the indigenous people from their homeland. Palestine was never entirely Jewish demographically, and although Israel controls all of it politically by various means today, the Zionist state continues to colonise the land and build new settlements in the Galilee, the Negev and the West Bank. Myth #5: The Palestinians left their homeland voluntarily in 1948 The idea that the Palestinians left their homeland voluntarily is another myth that Pappe challenges. The Zionist leadership and ideologues could not envision a successful implementation of their project without getting rid of the native population, either through agreement or by force. More recently, after years of denial, Zionist historians such as Anita Shapira have accepted that their heroes, the leaders of the Zionist movement, seriously contemplated transferring the Palestinians. Population transfer is an essential principle of Zionist colonisation. In 1937, David Ben-Gurion told the Zionist assembly: In many parts of the country it will not be possible to settle without transferring the Arab fellahin. With compulsory transfer we would have a vast area for settlement I support compulsory transfer. I dont see anything immoral in it. The Israeli government, though, insists that Palestinians left their land as refugees because their leaders, and the leaders of the Arab world, told them to leave Palestine before the Arab armies invaded and kicked out the Jews, after which they could return. However, notes Pappe, This is a myth invented by the Israeli foreign ministry. Moreover, The ethnic cleansing of the Palestinians can in no way be justified as a punishment for their rejecting a UN peace plan that was devised without any consultation with the Palestinians themselves. He goes on to point out that, From our present vantage point, there is no escape from defining the Israeli actions in the Palestinian countryside as a war crime. Indeed, as a crime against humanity. Myth #6: The June 1967 War was a war of No Choice The narrative accepted by Israel is that the 1967 war forced Israel to occupy the West Bank and the Gaza Strip and keep it in custody until the Arab world, or the Palestinians, were willing to make peace with the self-styled Jewish state. Many believe that the 1967 war was one in which Israel resisted attack and occupied the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza in self-defence. (Yes, the self-defence narrative has been around a long time.) In reality, it was Israel that launched the first strike against Egypt in 1967. Prime Minister Menachem Begin said later: In June 1967, we again had a choice. The Egyptian Army concentrations in the Sinai approaches do not prove that Nasser was really about to attack us. We must be honest with ourselves. We decided to attack him. The seizure of the West Bank in particular was a Zionist goal before 1948, and fits into the Zionist project. The intention has always been to seize the most Palestinians land as possible with the fewest Palestinians it as possible. After the occupation, the new ruler confined the Palestinians of the West Bank and Gaza Strip in an impossible limbo: they were neither refugees nor citizensthey were, and still are, citizenless inhabitants, writes Pappe. They were inmates, and in many respects still are, of a huge prison in which they have no civil and human rights and no impact on their future. The world tolerates this situation because Israel claimsand the claim was never challenged until recentlythat the situation is temporary and will continue only until there is a proper Palestinian partner for peace. Not surprisingly, such a partner has not been found. At the time of writing, Israel is still incarcerating a third generation of Palestinians by various means and methods, and depicting these mega-prisons as temporary realities that will change once peace comes to Israel and Palestine. Myth #7: Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East Until 1967, the Palestinians who were able to hold on to their homes and land in 1948 and became Israeli citizens represented 20 per cent of the population but were subjected to military rule based on draconian British Mandatory emergency regulations that denied the Palestinians any basic human or civil rights. Local military governors were the absolute rulers of the lives of these citizens: they could devise special laws for them, destroy their houses and livelihoods, and send them to jail whenever they felt like it. Pappe notes further: This state of military terror is exemplified by the Kafr Qasim massacre of October 1956, when, on the eve of the Sinai operation, forty-nine Palestinian citizens were killed by the Israeli army. The authorities alleged that they were late returning home from work in the fields when a curfew had been imposed on the village. This was not the real reason, however. Later proofs show that Israel had seriously considered the expulsion of Palestinians from the whole area called the Wadi Ara and the Triangle in which the village sat. The Basic Law of return grants automatic Israeli citizenship to every Jew in the world, wherever they were born. This law in particular is a flagrantly undemocratic one, explains Pappe, for it was accompanied by a total rejection of the Palestinian right of return recognised internationally by the UN General Assembly Resolution 194 of 1948. This rejection refuses to allow the Palestinian citizens of Israel to unite with their immediate families or with those who were expelled in 1948. Denying people the right of return to their homeland, and at the same time offering this right to others who have no connection to the land, is a model of undemocratic practice. In its 2015 report, Amnesty International accused Israeli forces in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, of unlawful killings of Palestinian civilians, including children. They detained thousands of Palestinians who protested against or otherwise opposed Israels continuing military occupation, holding hundreds in administrative detention [with neither charge nor trial]. Torture and other ill-treatment remained rife and were committed with impunity. The authorities continued to promote illegal settlements in the West Bank, and severely restricted Palestinians freedom of movement, further tightening restrictions amid an escalation of violence from October, which included attacks on Israeli civilians by Palestinians and apparent extrajudicial executions by Israeli forces. Israeli settlers in the West Bank attacked Palestinians and their property with virtual impunity. The Gaza Strip remained under an Israeli military blockade that imposed collective punishment on its inhabitants. The authorities continued to demolish Palestinian homes in the West Bank and inside Israel, particularly in Bedouin villages in the Negev/Naqab region, forcibly evicting their residents. These are not the actions of a democracy. And yet the so-called democratic world not only allows Israel to act with impunity, but also supports it unquestioningly. Myth #8: The Oslo mythologies On September 13, 1993, Israel and the Palestine Liberation Organisation signed a declaration of principles, known as the Oslo Accords. We should acknowledge that the Oslo process was not a fair and equal pursuit of peace, but a compromise agreed to by a defeated, colonised people, notes Pappe. As a result, the Palestinians were forced to seek solutions that went against their interests and endangered their very existence. The same argument can be made about the debates concerning the two-states solution that was offered in Oslo. This offer should be seen for what it is: partition under a different wording. Even in this scenario, although the terms of the debate appear different, Israel would not only decide how much territory it was going to concede but also what would happen in the territory it left behind. In the original agreements, there was an Israeli promise that major issues the fate of Jerusalem, refugees, and settlements would be negotiated when the five-year transitional period ended. They became the infamous final status issues. However, when Benjamin Netanyahu became Israeli prime minister for the first time in 1996, he opposed the Oslo Accords, and the process was stopped. Myth #9: Gaza mythologies The Gaza Strip embodies the issue of Palestine in general, as there are now more than 2.3 million Palestinians living there in the most miserable conditions, and one of the most densely populated areas in the world. They have been subjected by Israel to repeated bombings and military incursions since 2006. There are three myths that mislead public opinion about the causes of the ongoing violence in Gaza: Hamas is a terrorist movement: In fact, the Islamic Resistance Movement known by its Arabic acronym Hamas is a legitimate liberation movement, and it is one of the main actors on the ground. From its foundation in 1987 until now, it has been engaged in an existential struggle against the West, Israel and the Palestinian Authority controlled by its main, secular rival, Fatah. It announced its acceptance of a complete Israeli withdrawal from all occupied territories with a ten-year truce before any future solution could be discussed. Although it won a majority in the Legislative Council election in 2006 and formed the Palestinian government, it faced strong resistance from Israel and Fatah, and was expelled from the West Bank and confined to the Gaza Strip. Hamas rejects the Oslo Accords and recognition of Israel and declares its commitment to armed struggle, which is legitimate under international law. The unilateral Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in 2005 was a gesture of peace that was met with hostility and violence. In fact, this disengagement was part of the strategy aimed at tightening Israels grip on the West Bank and turning the Gaza Strip into a huge prison that can be monitored and guarded from the outside. It was also a strategic deployment that enabled Israel to respond harshly to Hamas, with disastrous consequences for the residents of Gaza. The third myth is Israels claim that its actions since 2006 have all been part of a war of self-defence (theres that claim again) against terrorism. In fact, this war is part of the slow genocide of the Palestinians in Gaza which has been happening for decades, and has only recently become both very obvious and murderous in every way possible. Myth #10: The two-state solution is the only way forward In the 2000 Camp David talks, Israel proposed the establishment of a small Palestinian state with Abu Dis as its capital, but without significant dismantling of its own illegal settlements and no right of return for the refugees. Not surprisingly, the negotiations collapsed. Hence, the Oslo Accords have become a destructive factor for Palestinian society, instead of bringing peace. The agreement has become irrelevant to the reality on the ground. More settlements have been built, and more collective punishments have been and are imposed on the Palestinians in the Israeli-occupied territories. Even if you believe in the two-state solution, a tour of the West Bank or Gaza Strip would have you convinced of the words of Israeli researcher, Meron Benvenisti, who wrote that Israel had created irreversible facts on the ground: the two-state solution was thus killed by Israel. Looking to the future, the claim that the two-state solution is the only way forward is another myth. Any criticism of this myth is described as anti-Semitism. However, the opposite is true. The two-state solution is based on the idea that the Jewish state is the best solution to the Jewish problem, that the Jews must live in Palestine and not anywhere else, and that Israel and Judaism are the same thing and that any criticism directed at it is criticism of Jews and Judaism. This argument implies that Jews are incapable of being citizens of any other country; or will always be seen as not quite one of us by citizens of the countries in which they are born, which is both an anti-Semitic trope and very dangerous. Paradoxically, many of the main supporters of Israel are those in the West who are on the right and far-right politically. In some cases, they are on the extreme right; the political heirs of the Nazis who murdered six million Jews in the Holocaust. The irony is lost on the increasingly far-right extremists who are now ministers in the most extreme Israel government ever. As things stand, therefore, it seems that nothing will prevent the Zionist state from completing its colonisation of the West Bank and continue its siege and genocide in Gaza. Conclusion: Israel is a settler colony Israel is a settler-colonial state, and is not only colonising Palestinian land, but also driving out and killing the indigenous population. The Palestinians are dehumanised by Israeli officials and deprived of their most basic rights. The Zionist state of Israel is adjudged to have passed the legal threshold to be classed as an apartheid entity by many, including BTselem, Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International. The Zionist quest for Greater Israel is built upon the need for more land with as few Palestinians on it as possible. It is this that fuels the conflict, not legitimate Palestinian resistance to the occupation of their land. The exceptionalism enjoyed by Israel, and before that by the Zionist movement, makes a mockery of any Western critique of human rights abuses in the Arab world, says Pappe. Years have been wasted talking about the two-state solution. However, Israeli Jews and the world at large need to be persuaded that, When you found a state even one with a thriving culture, a successful high-tech industry, and a powerful military on the basis of dispossessing another people, your moral legitimacy will always be questioned. Confining the question of legitimacy only to the territories Israel occupied in 1967 will never resolve the issue at the heart of the problem, even if Israel ends the occupation of the West Bank, East Jerusalem and Gaza Strip tomorrow. It will simply turn into a conflict of a different kind. It is important for the world, especially Jews who are inclined towards Israel (and not all Jews are Zionists, just as not all Zionists are Jews), to understand what happened in Palestine after World War Two. Zionism was allowed to fulfil its colonial project because the creation of a Jewish state offered Europe, including what was then West Germany, an easy way out of the worst excess of anti-Semitism ever seen. Israel was the first to announce its recognition of the new Germany in exchange for receiving a lot of money and was given carte blanche to transform all of Palestine into Israel. Just as Theodor Herzl had argued to the anti-Semites ruling Europe in the late 19th, early 20th century, Zionism presented itself as a solution to anti-Semitism, and this allowed it to develop and continue to colonise Palestine. A just solution to the Palestine issue will not be achieved unless myths stop being treated as facts. Palestine was not empty, nor was it a homeland for the Jews. It was colonised and its people were dispossessed in 1948 and forced to leave their land and their homeland. Colonised nations, even under the UN Charter, have the right to struggle for liberation by any means, including armed struggle. The successful end to this conflict lies in the establishment of an inclusive, democratic state wherein all of its citizens have equal rights. Abandoning the myths and facing reality is an important first step forward. Or, as Prof. Ilan Pappe has said often, we need to de-Zionise the state of Israel. A free copy of Ilan Pappes Ten Myths About Israel can be obtained from the publisher here. Click. The views expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Middle East Monitor or Informed Comment. Ann Arbor (Informed Comment) Countries of the global South are most often denied a voice in Europe and North America. Our cable news brings on often corrupt former generals to explain countries such as Iraq and Yemen, but no Iraqi-American or Yemeni-American professors or journalists who actually know what they are talking about. This imbalance in who is visible on television, in the press, and even often in academia is one of the things that makes the South African genocide case against Israel at the UNs International Court of Justice so riveting. Narratives of European history are consumed by the two world wars, the Holocaust, the Soviet menace, and are remarkably inward-looking. From Europe Israel appears as the nation that can do no wrong because it was formed and populated by Holocaust survivors, and it would be churlish for countries like Germany, which committed the Holocaust, and France, Italy and Poland, which were implicated in it, to criticize the state into which they chased those of Europes Jews whom they did not simply murder. Germany thus ranged itself against South Africa, declaring a position in support of Israel and denying that Tel Aviv is committing genocide, despite the daily video available to anyone who wants to see it of the mind-boggling daily Israeli atrocities in Gaza. Germany might seem distant from South Africa, but in fact it was once a neighbor, as I will explain. And its lack of sympathy with the mass murder of non-Europeans is embarrassing it because of its brutal colonial past. The small southwest African country of Namibia (population 2.3 million) responded sharply to this German claim. You see, the Germans had genocided Namibians, so they are sore about this issue, and seeing Berlin whitewashing the killing of tens of thousands of brown people a little over a century later. Windhoeks Allgemeine Zeitung wrote in German last week, The Namibian president, Hage Geingob, was extremely angry at the weekend about Germany, which had sided with Israel at the International Court of Justice in The Hague. South Africas complaint aimed at stopping Israels ongoing warfare in the Gaza Strip and also at broaching the question of whether President Netanyahu and the rest of Israels leadership should be held responsible for a genocide. Numerous politicians in Namibia reacted angrily and the otherwise reserved First Lady, Monica Geingos, wrote on X: The build up to the Herero-Nama genocide in Namibia, perpetrated by Germany started on 12 January 1904. The absurdity of Germany, on 12 January 2024, rejecting genocide charges against Israel and warning about the political instrumentalisation of the charge is not lost on us. Geingob had warned in his New Years message: No peace-loving person can ignore the massacre of the Palestinians in Gaza. The Windhoek Observer reported, Leader of the official opposition party Popular Democratic Movement, McHenry Venaani, echoed the Presidents sentiments. Venaani emphasized the inconsistency in Germanys moral stance, criticising the nation for expressing commitment to the United Nations Genocide Convention while simultaneously supporting what he called the equivalent of a holocaust and genocide in Gaza. . . . We agree with the presidents statement and Germany is misbehaving. They want to turn a blind eye. Israel cannot do a global punishment because they have lost a thousand people, yes we agree and are not disputing that but what they are is against the law. So what Germany is doing is psychological guilt, said Venaani. Ironically, Belgium, which committed an earlier genocide in the Congo, has taken the side of South Africa in this dispute. Aljazeera English Video: Why is Namibia furious at Germanys ICJ intervention supporting Israel? | Inside Story By 1800, Europe had conquered 35% of the world. Despite the fairy tales they told themselves about their benevolence and their spreading of progress, these conquests were brutal. Philip Hoffman has argued that they depended heavily on advancements in gunpowder technology, which tells you everything you need to know about the character of European advances. By 1914 the Europeans ruled 80% of the world. Gunpowder did not become less important, i.e. the pile of dead bodies only got bigger. Of course colonialism was a complicated system that also required getting buy-ins of various sorts from the colonized, but ultimately it involved keeping guns aimed at the locals and being willing to use them. The Dutch war on Aceh in what is now Indonesia, 18731904, involved killing 60,000 locals by military force or exposure and disease. The US in the Philippines killed at least 20,000 directly and some 200,000 400,000 died from exposure and disease. The historians of the colonial powers have written the history, so that the colonial era is often depicted as a civilizational triumph. It is British railways in India or French road building in Senegal that is celebrated. The pile of dead bodies is mentioned in passing, surrounded by embarrassed silence, when it isnt suppressed entirely. The history of enslavement and forced labor has often been downplayed. In the second half of the twentieth century, sometimes historians of the metropoles have dropped the colonial dimension entirely from the national narrative, obscuring it. Francois Furet at one point wrote that he would omit mention of Bonapartes conquest of Egypt since the episode occurred beyond French soil. (I fixed that.) Edward Said pointed out in Culture and Imperialism that a lot of Victorian literature is incomprehensible today unless we remember that Britain was an empire at the time and not a small nation-state. Since people in the North Atlantic world dont much read historians based in the global South, these histories have become invisible. In 1904, the Herero people rebelled against German colonialism in southwest Africa, and the German government responded in 1904-1908 by committing the twentieth centurys first genocide against them. So writes Hamilton Wende. Germany was awarded Namibia at the 1884 Berlin conference as part of what historians have characterized as the scramble for Africa. Since the Africans were just going about their lives, the scramble was by predatory Europeans. Some 5,000 Germans flooded into Namibia and lorded it over a quarter million local Bantus. To this day, whites, including persons of German descent, own 70% of the land there. After a Herero attack on colonists that killed over 100 in early 1904, the German Schutztruppe or colonial military replied with Maxim machine guns and artillery (Professor Hoffman might note the prominence of gunpowder). Military commander Lothar von Trotha called for the extermination of the Herero and Nama peoples. As many as 60,000 Herero and 10,000 Nama were mowed down just at the beginning of the punitive German campaign. Germany grudgingly recognized the genocide in 2021, with the foreign minister saying If you want to call it a genocide, you can. Germanys position is that it took place before the 1948 Genocide Convention, however, and so cannot be the basis for any lawsuit or formal reparations. Berlin did pledge $1.4 billion in aid for Namibia, to be paid over 30 years, but without admitting legal liability. At the same time, German officials have often reprimanded Namibians, saying that they cannot compare their experience to the Holocaust, as though extermination of Europeans is forever more significant than the extermination of Africans, millions of whom were killed by Europeans in the 19th century. Namibians have complained that the sum offered in aid is not enough to compensate for the damage done or for the ancestral lands lost, which people want restored to them. President Geingob says that Namibia is not done with Berlin, and plans a further lawsuit. So, for a traumatized Namibian population, to have Germany now engage in genocide denial when it comes to Palestinians just brings back the nightmare all over again. And at the International Court of Justice, Namibia has a voice, even though it still wont have access to CNNs air waves or receive much attention in the North Atlantic newspapers of record. Waging Nonviolence is an independent, non-profit media platform dedicated to providing original reporting and expert analysis of social movements around the world. They believe that when ordinary people organize they have incredible power and are the drivers of social change not politicians, billionaires or corporations. Since their founding in 2009, they have published reporting from contributors in more than 80 countries with a special focus on overlooked movements in the Global South, as well as issues that traditional media tend to ignore. Sunday, January 21, 2024 - A notorious thug identified as Freddy has been shot by an undercover cop, days after he was captured on CCTV unleashing terror on innocent Kenyans at night. Freddy was cornered after the undercover cop used the CCTV footage that captured him engaging in criminal activities to hunt him down. The rest of his gang members escaped the police trap by a whisker. They had gone to buy Miraa when Freddy was shot dead. The no-nonsense undercover cop warned the slain thugs accomplices to surrender themselves to the police. Check out his post. The Kenyan DAILY POST. 223,000 people have already returned to the Donetsk region after the evacuation that began with the full-scale invasion of Russia. Local authorities have noticed a trend of the increased number of returns compared to the number of evacuees. ADVERTISIMENT This was reported by the Donetsk Regional Military Administration. According to their data, two thousand more residents have returned than evacuated in the last two months alone. In total, since February 2022, the authorities have evacuated about 1 million 357 thousand people (including 164 thousand children and 43 thousand people with disabilities) from the region. Currently, about 524 thousand people remain in the region, and the evacuation continues. Locals are sent by an evacuation train from Pokrovsk to the Lviv direction every day. People are also evacuated to Berdychiv in the Zhytomyr region every eight days. They receive a one-time cash allowance and a monthly living allowance. Evacuees are accommodated in cities of compact residence if they do not have a place to stay. The Donetsk Regional Military Administration has asked the population that remains in the Donetsk region to evacuate to safer regions. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Saturday, January 20, 2024 A Pennsylvania man has been stabbed to death by his neighbour for snoring loudly. The incident came to light last Sunday evening in Upper Moreland Township, where police responded to the home of Christopher Casey after receiving a 911 call from him reporting a stabbing. Cops discovered Casey's neighbor, Robert Wallace, about 50 feet from the house with two knife wounds in his body. Casey was stabbed in the right thigh and police found blood inside and outside the residence. Both men were rushed to a local hospital, where Wallace died. Casey was treated for his non-life-threatening injuries. Investigators were able to piece together that Wallace went over to Casey's home that night and stepped onto his porch to detach a screen from one of the windows. The duo had gotten into a heated argument, during which Casey produced a military-style knife, plunging the blade into Wallace twice. It was not clear how Casey suffered his wound. Police recovered the knife at the crime scene. It was further learnt that the neighbors had been involved in an ongoing beef over Casey's loud snoring, which could be heard through a wall shared by their connected homes. Montgomery County District Attorney Kevin Steele said Casey was arrested on Thursday, January 20, and charged with Third-Degree Murder, Voluntary Manslaughter and Possessing an Instrument of Crime. Casey is currently in custody, while being held on $1 million cash bail. Saturday, January 20, 2024 Namibian President Hage Geingob will be undergoing treatment for cancer after routine medical checkups led to the detection of cancerous cells. Namibian Presidency said on Friday, January 19, that as part of regular annual medical examinations the 82-year-old leader had a colonoscopy and a gastroscopy on January 8, followed by a biopsy. On the advice of the medical team, President Geingob will undertake appropriate medical treatment to deal with the cancerous cells, it added. Geingobs office gave no more details on his diagnosis but said he would continue working. Geingob, who has been president of the southern African nation since 2015, is due to finish his second and final term in office this year. In 2013 Geingob underwent brain surgery. A year later, he told the public that he had survived prostate cancer. In 2023, the tall, deep-voiced leader, underwent an aortic operation in neighbouring South Africa. Namibia will hold elections to choose a new leader in November. Geingob will not be standing for re-election. Last year, the governing party, the South West Africa Peoples Organisation (SWAPO), named Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah as its candidate for the election. She is the partys vice-president and Namibias current deputy prime minister. Saturday, January 20, 2024 The Metropolitan Police has launched an investigation into bomb threats against a primary school accused of Islamophobia for banning pupils from wearing pro-Palestine badges. Barclay Primary School in Leyton, East London told parents last week that it may have to revert to online learning after it received bomb threats following a decision to ban students from wearing pro-Palestine badges. The Met's area commander Simon Crick says the force is treating those threats as credible, and has stepped up foot patrols in the area in a bid to reassure residents. Barclay Primary was picketed by protesters in December after a viral TikTok video claimed an eight-year-old pupil at the school was bullied by a teacher 'for being Palestinian' a claim furiously rebuffed by education bosses. The video claimed that the youngster, whose mother is from Gaza, was reprimanded for wearing a Palestine badge on his coat and that he was 'denied playtime and lunchtime privileges'. The school has categorically denied the claims of bullying; investigations, both internal and external, found them to be 'false', it said in a letter to parents earlier this month. The row first erupted when some pupils used a Children in Need mufti day to show their support for Palestine with flags, badges, and stickers. The school later confirmed that a letter was then sent to eight families - out of a school of 1,325 students - warning that 'inappropriate comments made at school including extremist or divisive comments' would result in formal meetings with senior figures. The note also said it could potentially lead to referrals to the Government's counter-terrorism programme, Prevent, or Waltham Forest's Hate Crime Team. TikToker Zaki then posted a video, in which he told followers: 'Barclay Primary School is basically saying that if you support Palestine, you're going to become a terrorist - or you already are one.' The father of the boy allegedly told not to wear a Palestine badge later claimed to BBC News that the youngster had been 'traumatised' after the school asked pupils not to wear political symbols. Earlier this month, Barclay Primary heads said they had received arson threats over accusations that the school was being Islamophobic, while other teachers speaking on condition of anonymity told the Telegraph bomb threats had been made against the institution. In a letter to parents dated January 10, the Lion Academy Trust, which runs the school, said: 'Over the Christmas period, a serious threat was received in writing. 'This was immediately shared with police and was a key initial reason for the escalation in response. 'Yesterday, an anonymous caller made a series of racial slurs and a further threat to commit criminal damage (arson) against the school and to individual staff. 'The presumably unintended consequence of spreading factually incorrect material online and in-person is that the school is now facing threats which surely no reasonable person would condone.' The trust said staff had reported being videoed by passing drivers, and faced 'aggressive and confrontational' interactions with members of the public. As a result, the school has recruited private security, closed its reception area to the public and to parents, and says it will no longer respond to queries from parents about the allegations concerning the Palestinian child. If the situation does not improve, the trust says it will be forced to close the school, adding: 'This the option of last resort - but please be aware that should staff continue to be threatened - then we will have no option. 'Additionally, if any parent or individual is proven to be involved in instigating this campaign against the school, via their actions online in-person, we will act to ban those individuals from attending the site(s).' The Met now says it is investigating the warnings and taking them seriously. Chief superintendent Simon Crick, policing commander for north-east London, said:'We are taking these threats incredibly seriously and would like to reassure pupils, teachers and parents that we are doing everything in our power to keep you safe while our investigation continues. 'Hate crime will not be tolerated in London and we will take action against those who commit offences and pose a threat to communities.' Sunday, January 21, 2024 President William Ruto has settled a Ksh72 billion Chinese loan after the Asian country threatened him. This was revealed by Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo. Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina had raised fears that Kenya was likely to default on its international obligations after receiving a Ksh72 billion demand note from China. This was in relation to loans advanced to Kenya towards the construction of the Standard Guage Railway (SGR) and other infrastructure projects undertaken by the previous administration. We already settled this debt as we shall do for many others as and when they fall due, Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo stated on Saturday, January 20. The PS further assured Kenyans that under the leadership of President William Ruto, the country would not default on any of its foreign loans. Meanwhile, we need to up the conversation on balancing revenue enhancement measures, debt management, and expenditure rationalization, he added. PS Kiptoo did not divulge if the demand note alleged by Senator Ledama had pushed the government to act. Ksh72 billion Chinese loan for the SGR and Northern and Southern Bypass must be paid tomorrow. The Chinese have sent a demand note, Ledamas statement that prompted Treasury reply read in part. China is the largest lender to Kenya having financed multibillion projects including the SGR which was constructed at a cost of Ksh508 billion (USD3.2 billion) On the other hand, the Southern Bypass in Nairobi cost Ksh15 billion while the Northern Bypass was to cost Ksh8.5 billion. The Chinese government funded 85 per cent of the Northern Bypass project. With China financing most of Kenyas infrastructure projects, Kenya is expected to continue borrowing from the Asian country. The Kenyan DAILY POST. Sunday, January 21, 2024 Outspoken Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) cleric, Reverend Sammy Wainaina, has continued with his criticism of the government by coining a new poem for President William Ruto. Wainaina, who currently serves as an Adviser on Anglican Communion Affairs in London, United Kingdom, accused the government of overtaxing employees on payslips. Through his social media pages, Wainaina lamented that the employees are singing taxation as a new chorus after Ruto, who once identified himself as a hustler (common mwananchi), turned his face away from the cries of Kenyans struggling to make ends meet. "The new chorus employees are singing after a former peasant became a dynasty," the Reverend stated and penned his satirical poem. Take my payslip and let it be Always thine to tax at will Take my wallet and make it be At the mercy of high price Reverend Wainaina claimed that the taxpayers had no other option but to surrender to Ruto's hiked taxation which is part of his fiscal policies outlined to revive the economy. Last year, the cleric who has served as a Vicar, Archdeacon, and Assistant Provost before, criticized the government for holding prayer services rather than delivering on its election promises. His recent satirical poem comes on the backdrop of Ruto stating that he was unbothered by criticism on taxes. While inspecting Masinde Muliro Market in Kitale on Wednesday, the head of state insisted that he would ensure his promise to create employment through the Affordable Housing Scheme is achieved. Employees and employers each pay 1.5% of the gross pay of the employee towards the scheme. The Kenyan DAILY POST Saturday, January 20, 2024 The U.K. Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has declared a national incident over a surge in measles cases across the country. In a statement, its chief executive Jenny Harries said that immediate action is needed to boost the uptake of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine in areas where the numbers of people getting the vaccine is low. We need a long-term concerted effort to protect individuals and to prevent large measles outbreaks, she said. Measles is a highly contagious disease. In mild cases, symptoms include a rash, high fever and ear infections. But it can also be "a very unpleasant illness," the UKHSA said, leading to hospitalization and death in rare cases. Babies, young children, pregnant women, and those with a weakened immune system are most at risk. As of 18 January, there have been 216 confirmed cases and 103 probable cases in the West Midlands since 1 October 2023. Around 80% of cases have been seen in Birmingham, with about 10% in Coventry, the majority being in children aged under 10 years. With vaccine uptake in some communities so low, there is now a very real risk of seeing the virus spread in other towns and cities, Harries said. Latest figures from the UKHSA show that the uptake of the MMR vaccine is at its lowest level in more than a decade, with 84.5 percent of children having had two doses by the time they were five years old in 2022-23. 84 Shares Share In 2013, I graduated with a BSN, drawn to nursing by a love for science and a passion for helping others. The promise of good pay, job security, and growth opportunities was a marketing pitch so convincing I never thought to question it. Before my first clinical experience, I vividly recall having to attend a self-defense class. At the time, it struck me as both odd and somewhat amusing that we were being trained for an eventuality that seemed so remote. It felt as unnecessary as flight safety demonstrationsmore of a formality than a practical necessity. Although I was undoubtedly naive, it wasnt completely irrational to be unaware of the epidemic of violence within health care, an epidemic that occurs behind closed doors, far from the scrutiny and awareness of the outside world. I couldnt have known, for example, that I was about to enter a field that experiences more incidents of non-fatal violence than any other profession. Or that up to 80 percent of my future colleagues had been assaulted at some point in their careers. Expectations vs. reality Before I graduated from nursing school, I was working as a nursing assistant when I was assigned to be a sitter for a young man who was recovering from a stroke (a sitter stays exclusively with one patient due to the risk of them harming themselves or others, often due to confusion, agitation, or physical limitations). As I began my shift, I learned he was confused and violent and had injured the previous assistant. I was counting on the nurses support, but after a brief greeting, she shut the door behind her, leaving me alone in the room with him all night. I didnt have a work phoneI didnt even know the nurses name. I just remember his constant rage, erratically jumping out of bed, screaming, and throwing items around the room. Every minute of the 12 hours crawled by, with me trying not to breathe too loudly for fear of provoking another outburst. Although he never physically hurt me, the fear from that experience stayed with me. The threat of violence was not a distant, improbable notion as I had previously thought; it was a very real, palpable danger lurking just a hairs breadth away. I convinced myself that things would improve as I transitioned to an ICU nurse, yet, to my dismay, I quickly discovered that the level of danger and vulnerability I faced remained unchanged. I recall another patient I cared for who, in the throes of alcohol withdrawal, had broken out of restraints and punched a nurse in the face. His room was in such a remote corner of the unit that I remember doubting if anyone would be able to hear me if I screamed. Again, I left that shift physically unscathed but psychologically rattled. I wasnt always as lucky, having sustained multiple kicks and hits over the years. But frankly, I considered myself fortunate, especially compared to the horrifying stories of nurses being taken hostage, permanently maimed, or even killed. I easily understood how these situations could happen since, in many hospitals, security measures are disturbingly inadequate. Security guards are often stationed in distant emergency rooms, leaving staff defenseless as they wait for help to arrive. Hospitals respond to the surge in violence against health care workers by distributing bags of lavender, offering yoga classes, or installing massage chairs in break rooms. These measures fall drastically short of safeguarding health care providers and do little to address the trauma of facing persistent violence and intimidation. After almost a decade as an ICU nurse, the pre-shift anxiety became increasingly unmanageable. I found myself having to arrive at work 20 minutes early so I would have time to be sick in the bathroom before starting my shift. At the time, the abnormality of this behavior barely registered, but in hindsight, I find myself questioning whether these were manifestations of PTSD. Writing a new future While workplace violence, or the looming threat of it, wasnt the sole reason for my departure from nursing, it undeniably played a large role in my decision to step away. The relentless undercurrent of fear and apprehension was a stark contrast to the ideals that once drew me to the profession and ultimately became a decisive factor in re-evaluating my career path. Instead, I began working as a freelance writer, using my health care experience to write about topics I was passionate about. In one of my first roles, I was making less than $10,000 a yearyet, instead of being discouraged, I was overjoyed. It wasnt lost on me that I had a decade of experience in one of the most in-demand fields in the world, and I was working a job that put me firmly below the poverty line. But the fact that I didnt care says everything that needs to be said about the state of nursing in this country. With time, I successfully carved out a new path for myself, building a business and establishing a fulfilling career in writing. Yet, many of my friends and colleagues remain in health care, grappling with the very challenges that once plagued me. When they share their struggles, I often find myself at a loss for wordsadvice seems futile in the face of administrative indifference and a lack of substantive legislation to protect and retain health care workers. My story is not unique. The epidemic of violence against health care professionals has persisted for decades and is only getting worse. It both infuriates and saddens me to witness how a workforce brimming with highly educated, compassionate, and self-sacrificing individuals is treated as disposable and replaceable, not deemed worthy of basic protections against harm. Now, more than ever, there is a need for systemic change to value and safeguard our health care frontline workers before more are hurt, traumatized, or compelled to abandon their professions entirely. Kate Morin is a medical writer and nurse. 52 Shares Share Have you ever found yourself trapped in a job that seemed to suffocate your spirit? The kind of place where stepping through the doors invoked an overwhelming sense of dread, and encountering management left you feeling like your kindness and loyalty were taken for granted? Perhaps youve experienced a workplace where basic concessions seemed like an impossible ask, and your plea for them fell on deaf ears. In such an environment, you might have observed a culture of indifference, where mediocrity and toxic behaviors became the accepted norm. When you dared to uphold your standards, you were seen as an outlier, expected to compromise your values in exchange for participating in a depressing, toxic system of employment. If this sounds all too familiar, youre not alone; unfortunately, such work environments are far too common. The prevalence of soul-crushing workplaces is particularly pronounced in health care, where the expectation is to lead and exemplify health practices. Shocking statistics reveal the extent of abusive and toxic behaviors within the medical profession, including physicians, practices, and hospital leadership. Recent data underscores that toxic workplace culture is not exclusive to the medical field. A substantial three out of five (64 percent) of all U.S. workers, irrespective of their profession, admit to having experienced a toxic work culture. Moreover, one out of five workers acknowledges that this toxicity has had significant ramifications on their mental health. Experts emphasize that certain elements commonly found in health care work environments, such as stress, extended work hours, and well-established hierarchies, can exacerbate the impact of a challenging work environment. For instance, statistics reveal that a staggering 65 percent of physician assistants (PAs) report experiencing burnout and/or depression. Within this group, 43 percent identify a lack of respect from colleagues and staff as a leading contributor to their distress. Additionally, too many bureaucratic tasks, cited by 57 percent, emerge as the most prevalent reason contributing to the challenging work environment. These statistics highlight the urgent need to address toxic workplace cultures across various professions, particularly in health care. Failing to address the toxicity in health care will only lead to its continued deterioration, causing doctors and other health care professionals to leave their roles. In extreme cases, some may even resort to the tragic decision of taking their own lives, underscoring the urgency of addressing toxic workplace cultures. The unsettling truth is that instances of suicide among health care professionals due to toxic workplace environments are not isolated incidents. Numerous stories highlight the profound impact of relentless stress, mistreatment, and a toxic culture that has pushed dedicated professionals to the darkest corners of despair. These stories serve as stark reminders of the urgent need for comprehensive intervention and reform within the health care industry. In recent years, the field of medicine has witnessed an alarming rise in the number of professionals who, unable to bear the weight of toxic work environments, have chosen to end their lives. While these stories are deeply distressing, they provide a critical insight into the magnitude of the problem and the urgent need for systemic change. Behind each tragedy lies a narrative of unaddressed stressors, overwhelming expectations, and an environment that failed to prioritize the well-being of its caregivers. Health care is undeniably a noble calling, driven by a passion to serve and care for patients. However, Ive come to realize the importance of establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries. I am committed to thriving in workplaces that prioritize health, participating in health care systems that promote positive behaviors, collaboration, empathy, and active listening. If a workplace fails to align with these values, my choice is clearI will resign and move on to preserve the peace that I hold in such high regard. Quitting a job is not a sign of weakness but rather a courageous act of self-care. Its an acknowledgment that ones well-being should not be sacrificed for the sake of a toxic workplace culture. In the face of an unhealthy work environment, choosing to resign is a bold statement that says, I refuse to accept the status quo, and I prioritize my mental and emotional health over toxic norms. As professionals in the health care field, we must collectively take a stand against toxic behaviors and demand change. Our commitment to our patients and the integrity of the health care system compels us to be vocal advocates for healthier work environments. Only through transparency, open dialogue, and a collective effort can we hope to transform the landscape of health care and ensure that professionals no longer feel compelled to sacrifice their well-being for the sake of their careers. Tomi Mitchell, a family physician and founder of Dr. Tomi Mitchell Holistic Wellness Strategies, is not only a distinguished international keynote speaker but also a passionate advocate for mental health and physicians well-being, hosting her podcast, The Mental Health & Wellness Show. With over a decade of experience in presenting, public speaking, and training, she excels in creating meaningful connections with her audience. Connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn and book a discovery call. When you are sued for medical malpractice, your malpractice carrier establishes your duties to it, and your lawyer establishes your duties to him or her. Let me be clear when you are sued for medical malpractice, you have no greater duty than to yourself. A duty is a commitment or an expectation on you to perform properly in accordance with certain circumstances. A duty may arise from a system of ethics, especially in an honor culture, like the medical profession. There are duties that arise when we seek legal advice, as when your lawyer tells you not to talk to anyone about a lawsuit against you. Other duties are created by contract, sometimes including a codified punishment for non-performance, such as the cooperation clause, to which your malpractice carrier obligates you. However, there is also the moral duty of due diligence. It is the right to mitigate risks and to contribute to effective decision-making by providing a detailed understanding of the matter at hand. The duty to protect yourself is an inherent human right. No lawyer and no malpractice carrier can take that away from you; yet, this is the very first thing they expect you to voluntarily relinquish. Unbeknownst to you, there are conflicts of interest. Even before you are served, you are already in the middle of a conflict of interest between the plaintiff, the plaintiffs attorney, and their medical expert. The plaintiffs attorney takes the most risk and is the instigating party in this conflict. Once you report this lawsuit to the malpractice carrier, you are in the middle of another conflict of interest between the carrier, your attorney, and your medical expert. The malpractice carrier takes the most risk and is the instigating party. In a short time, because of these conflicts of interest, this entire lawsuit takes on the characteristics of a FUBAR (fouled up beyond all recognition), and what emerges are the following three rules used both to prosecute and defend your case. You are outside of the loop. 1. Opinions are formed by inductive reasoning. Inductive reasoning compares your disputed treatment to the standard of care. The disputed treatment is the observation. Any observed complication must be a medical error. The standard of care is the premise. It is the treatment expected from any competent practitioner and is free of a medical error. 2. The burden of proof for this comparison is preponderance of evidence. It is 50% probability plus a scintilla. Scintilla is intuitive and can have any value. Preponderance of evidence is the standard upon which a hypothesis is decided. The hypothesis is if the disputed treatment looks like the standard of care, behaves like the standard of care, and has the same results as the standard of care, more likely than not, the disputed treatment is the standard of care. However, there is no test for this proof. 3. Finders-of-fact are the ultimate test. For them, if the scintilla is only 1%, their decision has a 51% probability of being correct and a 49% chance of being wrong. In the final analysis, this is how doctors, you included, are measured. Speculation determines if the complication is an error of nature or a medical error. Inductive reasoning has as much a chance to work in your favor during discovery or at trial as it has to work against you. These rules arise from consensus between parties in a conflict of interest. There is heavy reliance on intuition. Both consensus and intuition are the absence of science. Inductive reasoning is easy to impeach once you know how. I know how. I adapt the scientific method to a lawsuit; The scientific method has greater credence than the conventional rules that result from consensus between all those involved in conflicts of interest. 1. Opinions are formed by the scientific method. In the scientific method, deductive reasoning compares the standard of care to the disputed treatment. The premise and the observation are the same with one exception. The comparison is not of generalities but focuses on ten specific duties in each. Any difference between satisfying a duty in the standard of care and satisfying the corresponding duty in the disputed treatment represents a measurable risk of harm for a medical error; otherwise, a complication is an error of nature. The null hypothesis states that, if all duties are satisfied, the standard of care and the disputed treatment are virtually the same. Once all ten specific duties are examined, the null hypothesis is vigorously tested. 2. The burden of proof for the test is preponderance of evidence. However, scintilla is 45%, which gives the burden of proof 95% confidence a scientific standard. 3. Finders of facts are the ultimate decision-makers. However, they know the hypothesis has already been tested. When 95% confidence has a 5% chance of being wrong, this method stands in stark contrast to inductive reasoning. The scientific method is difficult to impeach, and any attempt to do so by the other side only emphasizes deficiencies in inductive reasoning. This is what I mean by due diligence. There is no better reason for due diligence than this impending FUBAR. Your due diligence reminds your attorney that he or she is your advocate. It reminds the malpractice carrier that you are the insured. The scientific method reminds both experts that they are scientists. It reminds the plaintiff and plaintiffs attorney that lawsuits must have merit. What results remain to be seen; however, it works for me. Howard Smith is an obstetrics-gynecology physician. On the night of January 21, explosions occurred in Tula, Russia. A UAV was used to attack the Shcheglovsky Val plant, which manufactures Pantsir-S air defense systems. ADVERTISIMENT The attack on the plant was carried out by the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine. Sources in the intelligence service confirmed the plant's damage to OBOZ.UA. According to the source, the explosions at the military plant in Tula, as well as the attacks on the Orel and Smolensk regions, are part of the "planned work of the Main Intelligence Directorate." The affected plant is one of the largest enterprises of the Russian defense industry. It specializes in the development of guided weapons for the ground forces, produces air defense systems, rapid-firing guns and small arms. Another area of the company's activity is the modernization of obsolete weapons. ADVERTISIMENT In particular, it is the Shcheglovsky Val plant that produces the Pantsir-S and Pantsir-S1 air defense systems: the invaders use them to cover civilian and military targets. Earlier, Russian media and Telegram channels reported a powerful explosion in Tula, after which a fire broke out in the city's Proletarsky district. According to locals, the fire was seen on the territory of the Russian military plant Shcheglovsky Val. The Russian Defense Ministry stated that all UAVs over Tula were allegedly shot down. ADVERTISIMENT A Dublin cafe owner has spoken about the challenges of high electricity bills, an increased VAT rate and rising staff costs adding that the Dublin riots in November were the final nail in the coffin. Will Monaghan, owner of the One Society cafe on the corner of Parnell Street/Gardiner Street, said that the last 11 weeks were the worst weeks weve had in two years since setting up five years ago. Restaurant owners have warned of a crisis point in their sector after a stilted two years during the pandemic, followed by huge energy bills, a VAT rate increase from 9% to 13.5%, and as customers have less disposable income due to the cost-of-living crisis. A warehouse tax deadline of May 1 has also been highlighted as putting an extra strain on cafes and restaurants, though Tanaiste Micheal Martin suggested on Sunday that the deadline would be extended. We want to keep viable business going. And if that warehouse tax is an issue, then we are determined to improve that, to give people flexibility in the repayment of that and to allow them room to breathe, Mr Martin said. Mr Monaghans One Society offers brunch during the day and operates as an Italian tapas and wine bar at night. When the Covid-19 pandemic hit things got tough, but the State subsidies from government were really strong and kept a lot of businesses afloat, including us, he told the PA news agency. Then it got really tough from the start of the Ukraine war, because like everyone and every other business, costs started to spiral and there was no predicting where anything was going next, Mr Monaghan said. Those costs have, albeit, come down a little bit but they havent gone back to where they were and they never will, in my opinion. In the financial year to February 2023, we had a record year of sales, we had a 15% increase in sales on the previous year, but we made a 50,000 euro loss. And that only really hit in the last quarter of the calendar year, October onwards. So we entered 2023 with a massive problem we either close our night time business or we try and reinvent ourselves which we did, so we reinvented into an Italian tapas and wine bar at night, and straight away it started performing. After nine months up to November just gone, we were looking quite strong and we looked like wed turned around that 50,000 euro loss into a profit-making situation, which was incredible. And then the Dublin riots erupted on November 23, just before Christmas, and a stones throw from Mr Monaghans business, and he said the area has undoubtedly been quieter since. If you stood in the middle of the crossroads (where the business is located) the night of the riots, you would have seen the Garda car on fire, he said. Unfortunately the riots meant we were a no-go area. We had a few Christmas bookings cancelled, which was understandable. We werent able to recover and find business elsewhere because nobody wanted to come here. We were getting phone calls from people down the country asking if its safe, and we said Yes its safe, theres an eerie feeling about it, but the streets are the way they were. But the perception unfortunately is the reality. If the perception of the area is dodgy to dangerous in the evening, thats why were suffering so bad and that is not going to improve with the tourist season. He added: When I opened five years ago, people said Youre mad. And I said no, you havent been there, its up and coming, theres a lot of positivity, its not a dangerous place, and it wasnt and I actually stand over that. Businesses trusted what the government said about regeneration, building up Mountjoy Square, and we put a lot of money on betting on the area that it would come good and it has come good, but its now just been completely shot in the foot. He is quick to say that he does not like giving out as there is a lot to be positive about his business. I hate having to be negative because were in business five years, it should be a positive thing. Weve great staff, weve great customers, he said. Asked what can be done to help improve things, he said more gardai, a separate, reduced VAT rate for cafes and restaurants, and a bit of investment on OConnell Street. Boots on the ground, more garda visibility. Since the riots, Id be in the restaurant eight hours-plus a day, and Ive probably only seen 10 garda jackets going by since then The public need to see it to feel comfortable. Asked whether a regeneration of OConnell Street would also help, he said absolutely: If you go to any major city in the world, youre drawn to the main street because its something you want to see, eg, the Champs Elysees in Paris, Las Ramblas in Barcelona. Where you go to OConnell Street and you just want to get through it and get out of there as quick as you can. Youre supposed to marvel at the spectacle of a main street rather than scurry down, on edge, trying to get away from it. Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. SIX FLIGHTS destined for Cork and Dublin airports have been diverted to Shannon Airport due to Storm Isha. A spokesperson for The Shannon Airport Group has confirmed that six commercial flight diversions have been facilitated at Shannon Airport on Sunday, January 21, due to adverse weather conditions. Commenting, a spokesperson for The Shannon Airport Group said: Six flights, five of which were originally due to land at Dublin Airport and one flight due to land at Cork Airport, were diverted to Shannon Airport." Flights from Portugal, Luxembourg, Poland and the UK, originally due to land in Dublin and Cork diverted to Shannon, all landing safely. "They were FR7031 from Faro originally due to land in Dublin which diverted to Shannon landing at 11.26am; FR1949 from Luxembourg to Dublin landed at Shannon at 12 noon; FR1893 from Bydgoszcz due to land in Dublin, landed at Shannon at 13:23," the spokesperson said. "Flight KLM1085 from Amsterdam, originally due to land in Cork diverted to Shannon, landing at 13:42. This was followed by FR157 from Leeds Bradford due to land in Dublin which landed safely in Shannon at 14:02, and by FR241 from Amsterdam due to land at Dublin which landed at Shannon at 15:13. The spokesperson confirmed that all Shannon Airport services have been operating to a normal schedule today. florida Governor Ron DeSantis has pulled out prior to New Hampshire and has endorsed the inevitable nominee Donald trump. this makes the 2024 election a contest between a dementing octogenarian and a dementing septuagenarian. How depressing. Haley will come close in New Hampshire and even possibly win it. But then Trump beats her in her home state of South Carolina, and it is all over. In my latest monthly Patreon post on which governments are on track for re-election, I look at the polling for Trump vs Biden and it isn't good for Biden. Share this: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Reddit WhatsApp More Pinterest Print Tumblr Major Viktor Klimov, who was on board the Russian IL-22 that was shot down over the Sea of Azov on January 14, was killed. The Russian Federation confirmed this information, saying that he "died heroically in the line of duty." ADVERTISIMENT The network writes that the commander died of shrapnel wounds while the plane was still in the air. As a result, the co-pilot, who was also wounded, had to land the damaged IL-22. Klimov was a senior test pilot in military unit 27237. His father Ivan Klimov was a navigator in the 1st Squadron in Tikhoretsk. "We are burying our children... his father Vanya Klimov is from our graduation," Russian test pilot Alexander Garnayev said. Klimov Jr. was last seen online on the day of his death, January 14, 2024. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on our Telegram OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. South Korea's presidential office said Sunday it is weighing the possibility that North Korea's latest purported test of an underwater nuclear weapons system is an "exaggerated and fabricated" claim. North Korea said Friday it has conducted an important test of an underwater nuclear attack drone, named the Haeil-5-23, in the East Sea in response to the latest joint naval drills involving South Korea, the United States and Japan. "Taking into account comprehensive analysis so far, we are weighing the possibility that North Korea's claim is exaggerated and fabricated," the presidential office said in a press release. "If tested, it is presumed to be a kind of torpedo, but there is a very slim possibility that it is a nuclear-powered system. There is no case of the development of a small reactor that can be fitted in a torpedo with a diameter of less than 1 meter," it said. (Yonhap) By Park Han-sol The octogenarian sculptor Kim Yun-shin, one of Korea's few postwar female artists, will be jointly represented by two leading galleries, Lehmann Maupin and Kukje Gallery. This marks Kims first time collaborating with a mega-commercial dealer in her six-decade career, which has resulted in more fame abroad than at home. The announcement comes on the heels of the 88-year-olds inaugural retrospective in Korea, hosted at the Nam-Seoul Museum of Art last year. Titled Towards Oneness, the survey highlighted the artists decades-long journey in creating an organic visual language through the labor-intensive shaping of hardwood and stone. The Seoul event brought belated attention to the creative who had been missing from Koreas art scene since relocating to Argentina in 1984 in search of the ideal material. The decision to work in Argentina for the past 40 years was driven by my own determination. And my visit to Korea in 2022 was (originally) planned as the final visit to my homeland, considering I will turn 90 in the near future, she said in a statement, adding that 2023 became an unexpected yet significant turning point in her career. With my remaining strength, I will return everyones support by devoting my time to creating work that I hope will inspire many. With steadfast dedication and a bold spirit of experimentation for new materials, Kim cultivated her practice in Argentina throughout an era when it was nearly impossible for a woman to work as a full-time sculptor, noted Lee Hyun-sook, chairperson of Kukje Gallery. Amid the current surge in art employing media, digital technology and the virtual world, Kim's longstanding commitment to the traditional sculptural process, grounded in a profound understanding of materiality, is all the more special. Born during Japanese colonial rule in 1935 in Wonsan, Gangwon Province, in present-day North Korea, the sculptor crossed the border to the South following the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950. She received her BFA from Hongik University, becoming one of the first women to formally train as a sculptor in the country. She then went on to further study sculpture and lithography at the Ecole nationale superieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris in 1964. Upon her return five years later, Kim co-founded the Korea Sculptress Association. A decade later, the artist traveled to Argentina and became instantly mesmerized by the wilderness and the robust wood of the region, eventually finding her second home in Buenos Aires. In 2008, she opened the Museo Kim Yun Shin in the city the first and only museum established by a Korean Argentine. Since the late 1970s, Kim has characterized her body of sculptures under the title, Add Two Add One, Divide Two Divide One. The terms add and divide originate from the Eastern philosophical concepts of yin (division and fragmentation) and yang (addition and integration), Lehmann Maupin said in a statement. (As) she adds her soul to the wood and divides the space between bark and inner wood to create a complete whole, the artist transforms the solid, rough masses of wood into soft, organic shapes. In recent years, Kim has expanded her practice to two-dimensional mediums such as painting and printmaking. In March, the artist will have her first solo exhibitions with the two galleries at Kukje Gallerys Seoul outpost and Lehmann Maupins In Focus presentation in New York. While I remember many things from my time as mayor, one moment that will always stand out is the day in early April 2020 when I learned of data on the number of deaths caused by COVID-19. Black Chicagoans were dramatically hardest hit, and those residents were dying at six times the rate of any other demographic. That news was like a gut punch, and I knew that we needed to act quickly and that as a government, we needed to work together with health systems and community-based organizations (CBOs) in new ways. We recruited leaders from each of these groups and formed the Racial Equity Rapid Response Team. The response team designed an equity-based strategy to respond to communities needs amid the emergency with services and resources provided through trusted service providers. And it worked. Throughout the pandemic and recovery, CBOs stayed on the front lines, offering education, testing and later vaccines. These same CBOs provided safe spaces for young people, delivered meals, offered shelter, mental health support and so much more. As a city, we would not have gotten through the pandemic as well as we did without these invaluable partners. Now, we are in a new phase of our recovery journey, and CBOs again have to be centered. Federal COVID-19 recovery funding ends soon, and many CBOs are at a crossroads. COVID-19 exposed deep-seated challenges in the nonprofit sector, including a burnt-out and underpaid workforce, systemic underinvestment in CBOs led by people of color and an almost-exclusive focus on minimizing overhead costs at the expense of crucial back-office functions. CBOs based in Chicagos historically disinvested communities face an even larger uphill battle. For example, in a West Side neighborhood with one of the highest rates of gun violence, I got to know an organization that provides after-school activities and safe spaces for young people. This organization is one of the best at what it does. It has a small but mighty team that makes life-or-death differences every day. But the organization struggles to sustain itself. Its small team puts services for young people first, and it lacks the bandwidth to navigate the red tape of funding applications and grant agreements. This story is not unique, and I know from my own hands-on experience governing amid cascading crises that many other CBOs face the same challenges. To reverse this trend, we must empower and support the local organizations that embody a communitys resilience. Now is the time to take a transformative step forward by investing in capacity building to strengthen these organizations critical back-office functions such as budgeting, finance, data analytics, human resources, succession planning, diversifying revenue streams and much more. Technical assistance in these areas will help these CBOs become more sustainable. Some Chicago philanthropic leaders have already taken steps to provide support, and I commend them. However, more support is needed. Corporate, government and philanthropic actors need to fund capacity building and training. In my teams research, we heard over and over that CBOs are looking for an approach that leverages their inherent expertise. This is not charity. It is a long-term commitment to dismantling systemic barriers that hinder organizational sustainability. Chicago Vibrant Neighborhoods Collective (CVNC), a new organization founded by some of my former City Hall colleagues and me, aims to do just that: provide small and medium homegrown CBOs with the resources needed for sustainable growth. CVNC also aims to facilitate collaboration among CBOs, as well as with the private sector. This is not about imposing solutions from the top down; its about further empowering organizations that have already demonstrated creativity, commitment and grit. We know this approach works. We saw it with the rapid response team, and organizations such as West Side United and Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council continue to carry it forward. By promoting sustainability through capacity building and collaboration, we aim to create a ripple effect that extends beyond individual organizations. Empowered collectives at the neighborhood level have the ability to more strategically engage larger public, philanthropic and private partners. This approach ensures that the power to drive change remains firmly rooted in the communities themselves. Chicago has the opportunity to lead the way in creating a more equitable and sustainable nonprofit ecosystem. Those who live and work in these communities understand the value of homegrown CBOs. It is time for the larger ecosystem to invest in their capacity and build a future in which every community can thrive. I hope Chicagoans of goodwill will visit chivnc.org and get involved. Lori E. Lightfoot was the 56th mayor of Chicago from 2019 until 2023. Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com. The Russian occupation army has significantly increased the intensity of its offensive along the entire front. As a result, enemy losses in manpower have increased. ADVERTISIMENT In just 5 days, the loss of military equipment by Russia increased by 88%. This was reported by the UK military intelligence on social network X. The British agency noted that on January 19, there was a 27% increase in the number of attacks by Russian occupiers along the entire front. In particular, Putin's terrorists carried out 81 air strikes and fired 45 missiles over the day. British intelligence has stated that the loss of Russian military equipment has increased by 88% in recent days. In particular, the invaders began to lose almost twice as many tanks. The data indicate a steady increase in the intensity of the Russian offensive campaign along the entire front over the past two weeks. At the same time, British intelligence noted that the key factor contributing to the increase in the number of attacks is likely to be the freezing conditions of the ground. This ensures the movement of armored vehicles over rough terrain. ADVERTISIMENT As a reminder, the terrorist army of the Russian Federation continues to send a huge number of personnel into the battle in the Avdiivka sector. The enemy is not achieving any significant territorial success, but is suffering huge losses. During the four months of offensive operations near Avdiivka, Russian losses are already comparable to those of the USSR in the war in Afghanistan. Earlier it was reported that the Ukrainian Defense Forces have already eliminated 376,030 Russian army personnel since the beginning of the Russian invasion 697 days ago. Only during the fighting on January 20, the defenders eliminated 760 occupants. As reported by OBOZ.UA, soldiers of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine destroyed an expensive Russian anti-aircraft missile system. With a precise strike, the defenders turned the Thor air defense system into scrap metal. It is worth noting that the occupiers tried to shoot down a Ukrainian drone with a missile from the Tor, but missed. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! New Delhi, Jan 21 (PTI) Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Sunday said India's youths have not only contributed to the development of their own country but also towards other nations by excelling in all fields. Addressing a students' parliament event organised by Delhi University's Hindu College as part of its 125th anniversary celebrations, he said the exceptional talent of India's youths was being acknowledged around the world. Also Read | Andhra Pradesh: YS Sharmila Hits Out at Brother and CM Jagan Mohan Reddy After Taking Over As State Congress Chief. "Today, when many economies in the world are declining, India is moving upwards because of its youths. There is no field in which Indian youths have not excelled, especially technology," Birla said. He said that in the 75th year of India's Independence, there is a need to set new goals to channelise the power of the youths to take the country to newer heights. Also Read | Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha: Vodafone Idea Enhances Network Capacity in Ayodhya Ahead of Ram Temple Consecration. "We are all proud that India is the largest democracy in the world," the Lok Sabha speaker said, adding that in the 75 years of India's democratic journey, the country has moved ahead with dialogue, discussions, agreements and disagreements. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi, January 21: Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and former party chief Rahul Gandhi on Sunday greeted people of three northeast states -- Manipur, Tripura and Meghalaya -- on their statehood day. In a post on X, Kharge said, "We extend our warm wishes to the people of Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura on their Foundation Day." In the last 52 years, since the statehood, the people of these states bestowed with stunning natural beauty, diversity, and ingenuity have contributed tremendously to nation building, Kharge said. "We wish you peace, prosperity and all around progress," he said. Manipur Statehood Day 2024: Traditional Dishes From the Manipuri Cuisine That Are Finger-Licking Good!. Mallikarjun Kharge Greets People We extend our warm wishes to the people of Manipur, Meghalaya and Tripura on their Foundation Day. In the last 52 years, since the statehood, the people of these states bestowed with stunning natural beauty, diversity, and ingenuity have contributed tremendously to nation pic.twitter.com/4KOwwLRWDy Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) January 21, 2024 In a post on X, Gandhi said, "Heartfelt greetings to the wonderful people of Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura on their Statehood Day, today." Tripura Statehood Day 2024: From Wahan Mosdeng to Mui-Er Oong Wahan, 5 Mouth-Watering Traditional Food To Enjoy the Day. Rahul Gandhi Greets People Heartfelt greetings to the wonderful people of Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura on their Statehood Day, today. Your unique identities, rich cultures, and proud traditions are integral threads in India's diverse and harmonious tapestry, which must be preserved and protected. Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) January 21, 2024 "Your unique identities, rich cultures, and proud traditions are integral threads in India's diverse and harmonious tapestry, which must be preserved and protected," the former Congress president said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Samastipur (Bihar), Jan 21 (PTI) Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar inaugurated the 500-bed Sriram Janki Medical College and Hospital (SJMCH) at Sarairanjan in Samastipur district on Sunday. The land for the institute, which also has 100 MBBS seats, was donated by the Sriram Janki Trust. It was built at an estimated cost of Rs 591 crore, officials said. Also Read | Ram Temple Satellites Image: ISRO Releases Satellite Images of Newly Built Ram Mandir in Ayodhya (See Pics). Soon after the inauguration, the CM chaired a meeting of senior officials of state health department and staff members of the hospital. He hoped the new hospital will go a long way in meeting the healthcare requirements of the region. "With the inauguration of this hospital, people of this area will not have to go to other cities for better treatment. All medical facilities with advanced technologies are available here", the CM said. Also Read | Bomb Threat to Ram Mandir: 21-Year-Old Man Held in Bihar for Threatening To Blow Up Ram Temple in Ayodhya. "The capacity of this hospital will soon be increased to 1,000 beds. The Centre also played an important role in setting up of this medical college", the CM said. Others present on the occasion included Union Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Prasad Yadav, several Bihar ministers and local MLAs of the area. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Almost since the beginning of the year, Russia has not used Kalibr cruise missiles to strike Ukraine. The last time they were used was on January 3. ADVERTISIMENT This was stated by Natalia Humeniuk, head of the Joint Coordination Press Center of the Southern Defense Forces, according to the We Are Ukraine TV channel. This is due to a number of difficulties faced by the aggressor state. According to Humeniuk, the Russians are forced to save Kalibrs because they are experiencing difficulties with logistics, supply and maintenance of the missile launchers. "The danger is that each surface missile carrier, when it goes to sea, carries eight Kalibrs and is ready to use them. While at the base, they also pose a danger because they can be used directly from the Novorossiysk raid," emphasized Humeniuk. Earlier, NATO warned that Iran would send missiles to Russia to strike Ukraine. The Kremlin has repeatedly asked Tehran to do so. However, so far, the use of Iranian missiles by Russian troops has not been recorded. ADVERTISIMENT Meanwhile, the head of the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine, Kyrylo Budanov, told how the DPRK is helping the Kremlin with ammunition. According to him, North Korea is now the largest supplier of weapons to the aggressor state. New Delhi, Jan 21 (PTI) On the eve of consecration of Lord Ram's idol in Ayodhya, the BJP on Sunday targeted a host of opposition leaders for their alleged insult of 'Sanatan Dharma' and demeaning references to the Ram temple. The BJP posted various past comments of leaders like Rahul Gandhi of the Congress, Akhilesh Yadav of the Samajwadi Party, Mamata Banerjee of the TMC, Udhayanidhi Stalin of the DMK and Arvind Kejriwal of the Aam Aadmi Party and asked people to identify these 'adharmi' (irreligious) people. Also Read | Telangana CM Revanth Reddy Meets Top Global City Planners in Dubai on Musi Riverfront Development in Hyderabad. The Congress leaders had questioned the existence of Lord Ram, it said and also accused RJD chief Lalu Prasad and his son and Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav of defaming Ram temple for vote bank. Before the Ram temple construction, leaders like Banerjee, Akhilesh Yadav and Kejriwal made statements questioning and mocking it. They are now resorting to deception, the BJP claimed in a series of posts on X. Also Read | Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha Day 6: Ram Lalla Idol Undergoes Ceremonial Bath With Medicated Water. They "hate" Ram, have opposed the Ram temple and insulted Sanatan dharma, the ruling party alleged. The BJP has long painted its rivals as anti-Hindu, while opposition leaders have accused the ruling party of using religion for political purposes and stoking communal divide. Though key opposition leaders have been invited to the consecration ceremony, most of them have decided to skip it, a development cited by the BJP as yet another example of their disrespect for Hindus' feelings. The Congress has accused the ruling dispensation of turning the consecration ceremony into a BJP-RSS event. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], January 21 (ANI): Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) Chairperson Dr Anil Kumar Jain met the Administrator of the Union Territory of Chandigarh and the Punjab Governor Banwarilal Purohit on Saturday in Chandigarh and briefed the Governor about the progress of oil and gas Infrastructure. According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, the chairperson briefed the Governor about the progress of Oil and Gas Infrastructure mainly in the UT of Chandigarh and tasks being undertaken by PNGRB towards realising the Prime Minister's vision to increase the share of Natural Gas to 15 per cent in India's energy basket. Also Read | Bengali Baba Arrested in Delhi: Tantrik Baba Arrested by Police for Love Marriage Scam. He also briefed the Governor on the progress in the promotion of natural gas in Punjab. The inherent environmental benefits and convenience of the use of piped natural gas in cooking and CNG in transport were emphasised. "Important issues like the substitution of polluting solid and liquid fuels by Natural Gas in Industrial and Commercial units, rationalisation in land Restoration charges, VAT on CNG, etc. were discussed during the meeting," the Ministry stated. Also Read | Ram Mandir in Ayodhya Can Set a Template for Indias Tourism Boost, Says Report. Dr Anil Jain emphasised that with the support of UT Administration the CGD licensee will be ready to provide "HarGhar PNG" by Mar 2025. It will be in the interest of the city's status as a clean and green city. The Governor appreciated the same and assured all possible assistance for the development of natural gas infrastructure in the UT of Chandigarh. On the sidelines of the meeting, the PNGRB Chairperson also met Nitin Kumar Yadav, IAS, Home Secretary, Adviser to Administrator, and Commissioner, MC, Chandigarh. During the meeting, issues for the promotion of Natural Gas and its increased usage in Domestic, Transport, Industrial and commercial units were discussed. The Home Secretary also assured the full support of the UT Administration towards this shared goal. The above discussions are expected to give a major boost to this clean fuel in the energy mix of Chandigarh. PNGRB till date has authorized 300 Geographical Areas across the country, covering 98 per cent of the population and 88 per cent of the area for development of CGD Network. Upto 2032 PNGRB has set the target to provide 12.5 Crore domestic PNG connections, establish 17,751 CNG stations and lay 5,42,224 inch-km pipeline. As of November 30, 2023, 1.2 crore domestic PNG connections and 6,159 CNG Stations have been established across the country. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], January 21 (ANI): Ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ayodhya, Leader of Opposition of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, R Ashoka said that he will write a letter to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah asking for a declaration of holiday on Monday so that all "Kannadigas" can celebrate the auspicious event. "Today, I will write a letter to the CM demanding leave for seven crore Kannadigas to celebrate Rama," said Ashoka while speaking to ANI on Sunday. Also Read | Hyderabad Road Accident: Joyride Turns Tragic As Three Killed in Car Crash Near Adani Aerospace Park. "Seven crore Kannadigas are demanding leave. All Kannada organisations are demanding leave," he emphasised. Noting that the Aam Aadmi Party government has declared a public holiday on Monday, Ashoka said, "Even AAP has announced a leave in Delhi, so why has Siddaramaiah not announced leave yet?" Also Read | Madhya Pradesh: Student Thrashed for Chanting 'Jai Shree Ram' in Shahdol, School Teacher and Director Arrested. On the arrest of a Karsevak from Karnataka's Hubballi district, the LoP said, "Everywhere in Karnataka, the police are threatening the 'karsevaks', the Ram Bhakts." Offices of the Delhi government will remain closed for half a day on Monday due to Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha at Ayodhya. The Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena on Saturday approved the half-day closing of all Delhi Government offices, urban local bodies, autonomous bodies, undertakings and boards on January 22 on account of Ram Lala Pran Pratishtha at Ayodhya, the LG office said. The Gujarat government has announced a half-day in the state, the Maharashtra government has announced a public holiday on Monday. The All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) in Bhubaneshwar, Delhi and the Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in New Delhi are some of the premier medical institutions in the country that have announced a half-day closure of their offices and institutions on Monday. Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha at Ayodhya will be celebrated across the country on Monday. The central government has announced half-day closing till 2:30 pm on Monday of its offices, central institutions and central industrial establishments. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) New Delhi [India], January 21 (ANI): The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has attached the assets of a former Punjab and Sind Bank employee who allegedly broke customer FDs worth over Rs 52 crore and used the money to play online games, the agency said on Sunday. ED initiated an investigation on the basis of an FIR registered by the CBI against Bedanshu Shekhar Mishra and others relating to bank fraud and misappropriation of funds. Also Read | Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha: Vodafone Idea Enhances Network Capacity in Ayodhya Ahead of Ram Temple Consecration. The action of the federal agency came after a case was filed under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) against the bank official. ED said that they attached immovable property and fixed deposits worth Rs 2.56 crore to the accused bank employee. ED investigation revealed that the main accused, Bedanshu Shekhar Mishra, while being posted as officer during 2021 and 2022, in the branch office of Punjab and Sind Bank of Khalsa College, North Campus, Delhi University, has reportedly misused his official position and carried out fraudulent transactions by using system ID's of himself and other staff members unauthorizedly to break the FDs of several customers, including SGTB Khalsa College of Delhi University, without their knowledge, and committed fraud and forgery with the bank as well as with those account holders of the bank, and misappropriated and siphoned public money to the tune of Rs 52,99,53,698. Also Read | Ram Temple Satellites Image: ISRO Releases Satellite Images of Newly Built Ram Mandir in Ayodhya (See Pics). After detection of the fraud, the accused, Bedanshu Shekhar Mishra, was suspended by the bank on November 16 last year. The ED investigation also revealed that Bedanshu Shekhar Mishra has used the proceeds of crime for playing online games such as monopoly, poker, teen patti etc on different online gaming websites such as Goa247.live, Indibet.com and Betway. The proceeds of crime (POC) generated out of the aforesaid crime were mainly transferred by him to the online gaming companies by routing through various current accounts of different business entities. "It is also gathered that these accounts, in which POC was transferred by Bedanshu Shekhar Mishra, were borrowed by the owners of the gaming website and companies on commission basis," the agency said. Further investigation is under progress. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Jaipur (Rajasthan) [India], January 21 (ANI): With just a day left for the Pran Prartishtha ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22, a grand 'Kalash Yatra' was conducted in Rajasthan's Jaipur. The procession started at Moti Dungri Ganesh Temple and ended at Raja Park Shri Ram Temple in Jaipur. Thousands of women became a part of this grand kalash yatra. Also Read | Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha Day 6: Ram Lalla Idol Undergoes Ceremonial Bath With Medicated Water. Former minister and present MLA Kalicharan Saraf said, "The entire country is waiting for the grand Ram Mandir conseceration ceremony on January 22. Jaipur has become Rammaya. Many women have gathered to carry out this kalash yatra in the city today." Rajasthan MLA Kalicharan Saraf lashed out at the Congress party over boycotting the Ram Temple inauguration ceremony. Also Read | Maharashtra Arogya Vibhag Result 2024 Declared at arogya.maharashtra.gov.in, Know Steps To Download Scorecard. "It is not the fault of the Congress leaders who are making negative statements about the Ram Temple because their leaders do not believe in the Hindu religion. Their main leaders belong to the Christian religion. That is why the other Congress leaders are acting like that. The Congress is in dire straits because of such actions." Rajasthan MLA Kalicharan Saraf highlighted that people from the Malviya Nagar assembly constituency of Rajasthan will be a part of the grand ceremony on January 22. "Our wait of 500 years will be over and we will go to Ayodhya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the event and thousands of people from Malviya Nagar assembly constituency will also reach to witness the grand Ram Temple consecration ceremony." Earlier, the new idol, sculpted by Arun Yogiraj, was placed inside the sanctum santorum of the temple. The idol is 51 inches tall and weighs 1.5 tonnes. The idol portrays Lord Ram as a five-year-old child standing on a lotus also crafted from the same stone. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will perform rituals marking the 'Pran Pratishtha'. A team of priests led by Lakshmikant Dixit will lead the main rituals. Several celebrities and noted personalities have been invited to the ceremony. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Chengalpattu (Tamil Nadu) [India], January 21 (ANI): Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday participated in a cleanliness drive under the Swachh Teerth Campaign at Eri Katha Ramar Temple in Madhuranthakam, Tamil Nadu. "Nirmala Sitharaman participates in a cleanliness drive under the Swachh Teerth Campaign at Eri Katha Ramar Temple in Madhuranthakam, Tamil Nadu. Eri Katha Ramar Temple is dedicated to Lord Rama. It was built during the reign of the Pallava Kingdom and is one of the oldest temples of Lord Rama in South India," as per a post by the Nirmala Sitharaman Office on 'X'. Also Read | Plane Crash in Afghanistan: Indian Aircraft Not Involved in Afghanistan Crash; Did Refuelling at Gaya Airport, Says Government. "The temple has inscriptions from the Chola era which calls Rama with the name "Thiru Ayothi Peruman" signifying the link with Ayodhya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given a clarion call for conducting a nationwide drive to maintain the cleanliness of our temples from January 14 to January 21, 2024," they added. Several senior BJP leaders, including Union ministers and Chief ministers of various states, have so far picked up the broom and mop across the country to participate in the cleanliness drive. Also Read | Tamil Nadu: PM Narendra Modi Visits Ram Setu's Origin Point, Says 'Had the Opportunity To Be at Arichal Munai' (See Pics and Video). Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cleaned the premises of the Kalaram Temple in Maharashtra's Nashik as part of the Swachchata Abhiyan campaign. Visuals showed the Prime Minister with a mop and bucket mopping the floor of the temple. BJP National President JP Nadda also cleaned the premises of Delhi's Pashupati Nath Temple in the Vishwas Nagar area. The PM appealed to the people to carry out Swachhata activities (cleanliness drives) at temples across the country ahead of the consecration ceremony of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Delivering his inaugural address at the 27th National Youth Festival in Nashik, the Prime Minister reiterated his call for cleanliness campaigns, urging citizens to clean pilgrimage places and temples across the country on 'Pran Pratishtha' day of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya. The 'Pran Pratishtha' of Shri Ram Lalla at Ayodhya's temple will take place on Monday. The idol of Lord Ram has been placed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. The idol of 'Ram Lalla' is carved by Mysuru-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj. The idol is 51 inches tall and weighs 1.5 tonnes. The idol portrays Lord Ram as a five-year-old child standing on a lotus also crafted from the same stone. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will perform rituals to mark the 'Pran Pratishtha'; a team of priests led by Lakshmikant Dixit will lead the main rituals. Several celebrities and noted personalities have also been invited to the ceremony. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Salem (Tamil Nadu) [India], January 21 (ANI): The second state-level conference of DMK's youth wing commenced in the Attur area at Salem in Tamil Nadu on Sunday, with Chief Minister and party chief MK Stalin lighting the 'Flame of Ilajanarani' (flame of self-esteem). The ceremonial ribbon-cutting took place by CVMP Ezhilarasan MLA, Secretary of DMK Youth Wing inaugurating the event. Also Read | Afghanistan Plane Crash: Not Indian Scheduled Aircraft or Charter, Says Aviation Ministry. CM Stalin and party MP Kanimozhi unfurled the party flag following the inauguration. Speaking at the event, Tamil Nadu Minister and DMK youth wing secretary, Udhayanidhi Stalin said that resolutions to abolish the post of Governor permanently will be discussed. He added that the objective of the conference also included the fight to remove the BJP from the Centre in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Also Read | Afghanistan Plane Crash: Indian Plane Not Involved in Moroccan Aircraft Crash, Say Officials. The distinguished lineup attending the conference includes Tamil Nadu Ministers Duraimurugan, KN Nehru, EV Velu, Anbil Mahesh Poiyamozhi, along with all other ministers from the DMK party, DMK MPs, MLAs, and various senior leaders from the DMK party, adding significant political weight to the occasion. The inaugural ceremony witnessed the participation of a large number of party members. Anticipating a massive turnout, around five lakh DMK cadres are expected to partake in the two-day conference. The organizers have ensured adequate provisions for food and essential arrangements at the conference premises, according to the party sources. During the inaugural programme, CM Stalin paid a floral tribute to the statues of former Chief Ministers of Tamil Nadu and DMK stalwarts, Annadurai and Karunanidhi, symbolizing a homage to the party's rich legacy. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Mangaluru, Jan 21 (PTI) Ahead of the inauguration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya on Monday, comprehensive security arrangements have been made in Mangaluru city to ensure the smooth conduct of associated events and to prevent any untoward incidents. The Mangaluru city police commissionerate, in a communique said precautionary measures have been taken to uphold public interest and maintain law and order. Also Read | When Is National Voters Day 2024? Know Date, History and Significance of the Important Day That Celebrates Democracy in India. A total of 186 places have been identified within the commissionerate limits where poojas and religious functions have been planned. Adequate staff and officers are deployed round the clock at 131 sensitive places and picketing points within the city limits. A total of 57 vehicles (sector mobiles) have been employed to make continuous rounds within the city and immediately attend any event. Also Read | Netizens Celebrate Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha Ceremony Preparations in Ayodhya! Check Out Posts, Pics & Videos Online Capturing the Excitement Leading Up to the Event. Checkpoints have been set up at 14 points in the city to attend to exigencies. Special rounds have been planned during the early morning and late-night hours. Anti-sabotage checks will be carried out at important places within the city involving large gatherings of people. In keeping with practice elsewhere in the state, no permission has been given to hold any kind of procession or rally. Peace committee meetings have already been conducted at all police stations under the leadership of respective ACPs. Area domination exercises and route marches are being conducted at multiple places within the city to instil confidence in the minds of the people. A proposal has been sent to the Deputy Commissioner, Dakshina Kannada district, for the closure of bars and wine shops on January 21 and 22. A total of three DCPs, six ACPs, 11 inspectors, 37 PSIs and 781 police personnel of various ranks have been deployed as part of the measures, the communique said. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Tel Aviv [Israel], January 21 (ANI/TPS): The IDF (Israel Defence Forces) reported that forces of the Israel Navy continue to assist the IDF ground forces operating in the Gaza Strip in both observing and attacking targets of the different terrorist organisations there. Over the past day, the naval forces identified a building from which terrorists enacted ambushes against Israeli forces in the centre of the Gaza Strip. In cooperation with the forces of the 179th Reserve Armoured Brigade, they attacked the terrorists and removed the threat. Also Read | Afghanistan Plane Crash: Not Indian Scheduled Aircraft or Charter, Says Aviation Ministry. Also, the fighting in Khan Yunis continues as, in cooperation with the Air Force, soldiers from the "Oz" commando unit eliminated many terrorists. In addition, fighters of the Reserve 55th Paratrooper "Tip of the Spear" Brigade located many weapons in a Hamas military structure. Also Read | Afghanistan Plane Crash: Indian Plane Not Involved in Moroccan Aircraft Crash, Say Officials. In the area of Darj Tuffah in the north of the Gaza Strip, the fighters of the 401st Armoured Brigade's Combat Team conducted firefights and eliminated about 15 terrorists. They also raided a Hamas military structure and found many uniforms and weapons there. (ANI/TPS) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Kathmandu [Nepal], January 21 (ANI): Devotees offered prayers at Maa Janaki Mandir in Nepal's Janakpur ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ram temple in Ayodhya on Sunday. Meanwhile, devotees from Nepal have also reached Ayodhya to witness the historic Pran Pratishtha Ceremony of Shree Ram Lalla. The ceremony will take place on January 22. Also Read | Afghanistan Plane Crash: Not Indian Scheduled Aircraft or Charter, Says Aviation Ministry. On Shri Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha Ceremony, Manoj Kumar Sah, mayor of Nepal's Janakpurdham, told ANI, "I congratulate the people of India, as well as those in Ayodhya, on this auspicious occasion. As India and Nepal share civilizational ties, and as the time of Pran Pratishtha of Shri Ram Lalla is coming closer, people are very excited in Janakpur of Nepal where Lord Ram's in-laws house is... People are coming for worship..!" He said, "So, for the Pran Pratishtha which will take place on January 22, all of us here in Janakapurdham will light diyas as a part of Deepotsav to celebrate this special occasion with great fervour." Also Read | Afghanistan Plane Crash: Indian Plane Not Involved in Moroccan Aircraft Crash, Say Officials. "I congratulate the Indian government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion," the mayor said, as he extended his wishes to New Delhi. As the Ram temple Pran Pratishtha ceremony draws near, devotees from Nepal reached Ayodhya from Nepal to witness the historic occasion. On being able to attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya Ram temple tomorrow, the devotees from Nepal, who arrived in Ayodhya on January 19, said that they are very happy to be here. While speaking to ANI, one of the devotees said, "We are from Nepal. We are six people, and we came here the day before yesterday. We feel so good to be here. It was 30 years ago when I came here; it was very complicated back then. But now that the temple is constructed, we are very happy." "We are all bestowed with the blessings of Lord Ram. We are extremely happy," he added. As the countdown for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Mandir has begun, along with Ayodhya, the Janakpurdham in Nepal, the maternal home of Goddess Sita is also brimming with happiness and enthusiasm, waiting for the occasion with high fanfare and gaiety, organising a slew of events. Hymns of Lord Ram and Sita are echoing in the city around the clock. The Janaki Temple is decked up with lights, and enthusiasm can be seen on the faces of every Janakpurdham residents. The ceremony scheduled for January 22 will witness the installation of the idol of Ram Lalla at the grand temple. It is expected to be attended by hundreds of officials, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The trust has also invited 4,000 saints of all sects for the ceremony. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the event, thousands of other people including politicians, saints, and celebrities, have been invited to the ceremony. The ceremonial journey leading up to the Pran Pratishtha commenced on January 16, 2024, Tuesday. Earlier, on Thursday, January 19, the idol of Shri Ram Lalla, carved by renowned Mysuru sculptor Arun Yogiraj, was placed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. Covered with a veil, the first photo of the idol was revealed during the placement ceremony in the sanctum sanctorum on Thursday. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) President Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukrainians cannot afford fatigue from a full-scale war with Russia. The Head of State emphasized that it is important to defend the country not only at the front but also in the rear. ADVERTISIMENT According to the President, millions of Ukrainians continue to do important things to fight the aggressor. Zelensky said this in an interview with the British TV channel Channel 4 News. The President emphasized that people who continue to do business, work and pay taxes in the face of full-scale Russian aggression are also protecting the state. "We cannot afford war fatigue. Otherwise, it will turn out that someone is defending the state, and when I talk about defense, it is not only the frontline. These are people who work, people who have businesses, who pay taxes, and you can get tired of doing this under rockets. But people continue to do it, and this is all important," Zelensky said. At the same time, the president said that if Ukraine gets tired of the war, it risks losing everything. Therefore, every Ukrainian needs to work every day to ensure that our country continues to fight against Russian invaders. ADVERTISIMENT "We have no right to get tired of it. And if we get tired in this sense of the word, we will lose everything we have. In what sense do people get tired? Like every person after a day's work. But the next day you work because you do a good job. Wherever it is - journalist, military, electrician, doctor, teacher - it is all very important in Ukraine. That's why you can afford to be tired in the evening, but in the morning you have to defend the state and fight for it if we want to preserve it," the president said. As a reminder, Volodymyr Zelensky said that mobilization in Ukraine is primarily a matter of justice. He explained that the military, who have been on the front line since the first day of the invasion, need rest, and people who join the army should know that they can count on appropriate training and equipment. ADVERTISIMENT Earlier, Zelensky said that Ukraine has planned a number of international events with partners in Europe and the European Union to provide security guarantees for our country. January and February should bring relevant results. Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Islamabad [Pakistan], January 21 (ANI): Pakistan has witnessed an increase in out-of-school children as the figure rose to more than 26 million, Geo News reported citing Pakistan Education Statistics Report 2021-22. The Pakistan Institute of Education (PIE) released a comprehensive analysis report that has revealed details regarding the number of out-of-school children (OOSC). Also Read | UK: Absconding Prisoner Caught With Gun, Attempts To Sell Cocaine to Police in Liverpool, Arrested After 22 Months. It said that the latest findings were a preliminary teaser, showcasing the critical state of education accessibility in Pakistan, Geo News reported. As of 2021-22, there are 26.2 million out-of-school children in Pakistan, according to PIE. It said that 39 per cent of children in the school-going age group are presently out of school, showcasing a persistent challenge in ensuring universal education. Pakistan's Balochistan has the highest percentage of out-of-school children, with 65 per cent of children being out of school. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine War: Officials Report at Least 25 Dead in Shelling of a Market in Russian-Occupied Ukraine. In comparison to other major provinces, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has better statistics with 30 per cent out-of-school rate. Despite a decline in the percentage of out-of-school children from 44 per cent in 2016-17 to 39 per cent in 2021-22, the absolute number has witnessed a rise from 22.02 million to 26.21 million during the same period. This rise is mainly due to the population growth rate outpacing the decrease in out-of-school children. At the higher secondary level, 60 per cent of children are out of school in 2021-22, according to Geo News reported. The analysis revealed 44 per cent, 30 per cent, and 36 per cent out-of-school rates at high, middle, and primary levels respectively. A major portion of out-of-school children, totalling 10.77 million, is at the primary level, showcasing the urgent need for targeted interventions. Economic disparities play an important part in educational access, with children from poor families facing the highest disadvantage, evident across all education levels, according to Geo News report. The details regarding economic disparities and additional statistics will be revealed during a comprehensive release scheduled for Monday in PIE Islamabad. (ANI) (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Houston, Jan 21 (PTI) Over 1,100 enthusiastic riders, carrying saffron banners with the image of the Ram temple, participated in a massive car rally in the Bay Area, California, ahead of the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. The car rally, organised by six volunteer Hindus from the Bay Area, was taken from Sunnyvale to Warm Spring BART station, Golden Gate, followed by a spectacular Tesla car light show on Saturday evening. Also Read | Israel-Hamas Conflict: Palestinian Death Toll in Gaza Soars Past 25,000 With No End to War in Sight. Led by a giant Ram Rath, the rally covered almost 100 miles and was escorted by two police cars for security reasons. The event, held in celebration of the Ram temple, drew an overwhelming response, surpassing all expectations," Rohit Sharma, one of the six organisers, told PTI over the phone. Also Read | Google Software Engineer Charged With Wife's Murder in US, Found 'Covered in Blood'. Despite unexpected rain, prompting a change in the ending station to Warm Spring BART station, over 2,000 enthusiastic Ram bhakts, waving saffron flags, singing Ram Bhajans, beating drums, transformed the area into a mini-Ayodhya," said Deepti Mahajan, the lead organiser. It was a first-of-its-kind rally held by Hindus in America and participants were emotionally charged and overjoyed. Mainstream Americans were surprised with the amount of devotion amongst participants when they were told about the event being held thousands of miles away in Ayodhya for the inauguration of Ram temple after 500 years," Deepak Bajaj, one of the organisers, said. The Tesla light show, a special feature with 170 registered cars coordinated by Vamsi Rajanala, exceeded expectations with over 300 cars dazzling the crowd. The rally, complemented by a Tesla light show, rhythmic dhol beats, and a delectable food feast elevated the event to unprecedented heights," Bajaj said. Param Desai, also one of the organisers, said the grand celebration not only marked a significant cultural event, but also showcased the spirit of togetherness and the deep-rooted cultural ties within the community. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body) Bhopal, January 21: In a shocking incident, a teacher named Mohammad Abdul Wahid at Green Bells School in Budhar town, Shahdol district, Madhya Pradesh, was arrested for brutally assaulting a class 7 student. The assault occurred on Saturday, 20th January, after the student chanted Jai Shree Ram in the classroom. Hindustan reported that the incident came to light when the victim returned home crying and narrated the ordeal to his parents. Following this, local residents and members of Hindu organisations staged a protest demanding action against the teacher. Delhi Shocker: Class 12 Student Dies Eight Days After Being Beaten Up by Group While Returning Home From School. The police registered a case against Wahid and the schools director, Sameer Niyazi, under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Juvenile Justice Act. The sections include 153, 323, 34, and 500 of the IPC and section 82 of the Juvenile Justice Act. The duo were also arrested. Protesters also demanded the cancellation of the schools license. Uttar Pradesh Shocker: Student Stripped, Forced To Drink Liquor, Beaten in Jhansi; Case Registered After Disturbing Video Goes Viral. Sanjeev Jaiswal, the Police Station House Officer, confirmed the incident and stated that further investigations are underway. This comes after two minors allegedly thrashed an 11-year-old, stripped him and forced the boy to chant religious slogans at Indore in Madhya Pradesh, reports say. The suspects recorded the incident on video. The police have registered a case against the suspects for serious offences, including kidnapping. On the pretext of getting toys, the accused took the boy near Mahalaxmi Nagar and forced him to chant religious slogans. They also allegedly beat him and made him take off his clothes. The victim managed to escape and informed his family, who then filed a complaint with the Lasudia police. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 21, 2024 02:53 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Mumbai, January 21: Workers from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu constitute the majority of labour force from India in the construction industry in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, according to a report. Going by the data of Huntr, the UAE-based marketplace connecting migrant workers with enterprises, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu are the highest contributors to the migration of construction workers from India to the GCC countries. Workers with proficiency in construction skills such as masonry, carpentry, plumbing, electrical works, and welding and having prior experience in construction projects, are highly valued by the industries in the GCC countries, the report stated. Further, the report revealed that certifications from the National Skill Development Corporation India (NSDC) and good physical fitness are essential as well for workers who work in the GCC region. Uttar Pradesh and Bihar Replace Kerala as Top Supplier of Blue-collar Workforce From India to Gulf Cooperation Council Nations, Says Report Workers with basic communication skills in English and adaptability to different working conditions and cultures are also valued by the construction sector, the report added. The report is an analysis based on data on Huntr platform. Meanwhile, according to data by Huntr, these workers from India, who work in the construction industry in the Middle East, are from 20-40 years age group and mostly men. The report also found that most of these blue-collar workers in the construction domain are from diverse educational backgrounds. Individuals engaged in construction jobs can have minimal formal education, which increases the accessibility of such employment opportunities to a broad spectrum of people, it noted. However, workers with technical or vocational training in specific construction trades are valued more, which showcases the importance of specialised skills in this field as well, added the report. "In the dynamic landscape of global labour migration, apart from India workers from countries such as Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Uganda, Kenya, Ghana, and Sierra Leone are contributing significantly to the construction sector in the Middle East region," . Huntr CEO Samuel Joy said. Despite the stable salary scenario in recent years, the current surge in demand hints at potential increments, reflecting the evolving dynamics of the market, he said. UAE Economy Expected to Grow by 3.8% in 2025: World Bank "The Middle East's appetite for construction workers extends to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, and Oman, creating a broader canvas of opportunities for skilled labour from around the world," Joy added. An Indian passenger plane has reportedly crashed in the mountainous areas of Badakhshan in Afghanistan, according to local officials. The aircraft is said to have crashed into the high mountains in the Topkhana area of the Zebak district, as per a statement released by the provincial police. At this time, details regarding the type of aircraft, the number of passengers on board, and the cause of the crash remain unclear. Investigations are underway to ascertain these details. Telangana Jet Crash: Trainee Aircraft Crash Claims Lives of Pilots in Hyderabad, Investigation Underway (Watch Videos). Indian Plane Crash in Afghanistan BREAKING: 'Indian passenger plane' reportedly crashes in mountainous Badakhshan region of Afghanistan - Reports pic.twitter.com/0jOkedyiav RT_India (@RT_India_news) January 21, 2024 (SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter, Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user's social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.) San Francisco, January 21: A Google software engineer in California, US, has been charged with his wifes murder (who was also a Google engineer) after police found him covered in blood with her body nearby. Liren Chen (27) was accused of beating his wife to death, reports Fox News Digital. "Police found Chen spattered with blood, in his home, with his wifes body nearby," the Santa Clara district attorney's office said in a press release. "In the bedroom directly behind where Chen had been standing, officers located the victim deceased on the floor. She had severe blunt-force injuries to her head. Chens right hand was extremely swollen and purple. He had blood on his clothing, legs, arms, and hands and scratches on his arm," it added. Google Removes 17 Underutilised Features From Its Assistant App. While the district attorney's statements did not name Chen's wife, several reports cited property documents to identify her as Xuanyi Yu. Google confirmed to Fox News Digital that Chen and his wife were employees at the company at the time of the incident. The district attorney's office said that "Chen has been charged with murder and faces prison if convicted". On January 16, around 11 a.m., the officers responded to a welfare check to a home on Valley Way. When officers arrived, an acquaintance of the suspect expressed concern about Chen and his wife. Chen was refusing to answer his phone or his door, the press release mentioned. He noticed Chen inside the house, "motionless on his knees, had his hands in the air, and was staring blankly." The officers entered the home and arrested the suspect. Google To Discontinue Websites Made With Google Business Profiles in March 2024; Check Details Here. According to Chen's LinkedIn profile, he has three years of experience as a software engineer at Google, where he worked on the YouTube Shorts recommendation. Yu's LinkedIn profile states that she was a Google software engineer who had previously worked at Amazon. (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 21, 2024 03:16 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com). Guatemala finally has a new president after months of prosecutors and politicians trying to stop President Bernardo Arevalo from coming into office. So who is he, and why are so many politicians in the Central American country so eager to stop him from becoming president? Who Is New Guatemala President Bernardo Arevalo? At 65 years old, Bernardo Arevalo is the new president of Guatemala. However, a year ago, nobody would have ever seen this happening as he was not even one of the favorites to win the election last year. The son of Guatemala's first-ever democratically-elected president, Juan Jose Arevalo, Bernardo was considered a political outsider despite serving as a diplomat for Guatemala and being an elected congressman. When he announced his candidacy, people barely knew, and there was little fanfare as many considered him just another name in the race. However, when opposition leaders who were the favorites to win started finding themselves disqualified, frustrated Guatemalans voted for him in the primary elections. He shocked many by winning second place, thus qualifying for the run-off election against establishment candidate Sandra Torres. He won that via a landslide, showing that Guatemalans were frustrated with the status quo. READ MORE: Latin America Politics 2023: Election, Conflicts, Other Major Issues in the Region Arevalo was actually born in Uruguay after his father was exiled. He returned to Guatemala as a teenager but left again to study overseas, studying sociology and anthropology abroad in Israel and the Netherlands respectively, according to NBC News. Given his history abroad, Arevalo served Guatemala as a diplomat, eventually becoming the country's ambassador to Spain. He eventually returned to Spain and founded the Seem Movement party and became a legislator. As a lawmaker, Arevalo made waves as he went after corrupt officials. However, like many in Guatemala, he grew frustrated as corruption continued to ravage the country, particularly during the rule of his predecessor, Alejandro Giammattei. As the new president, he faces an uphill battle as his anti-corruption stance and outsider status are considered one of the biggest threats to the deep-rooted interests in Guatemala, according to the Associated Press. This is evident in the various investigations being launched against him and his party. Why Is Guatemala AG Consuelo Porras Going After President Bernardo Arevalo? One of his biggest roadblocks remains to be Guatemala Attorney General Consuelo Porras, who has launched investigations into the Seed Movement, and her prosecutors even tried lifting his immunity and stopping him coming to power. Arevalo has already stated that he plans to meet with Consuelo Porras this week and ask for her to resign as presidents do not have the power to fire the Attorney General. The 70-year-old top prosecutor is widely viewed as a protector of Guatemala's political and business elite, according to the Associated Press. The AG, meanwhile, shut down efforts to investigate and prosecute corruption. Her actions have led to her being sanctioned twice by the United States government, with her being accused of undermining democracy and torpedoing the anti-corruption fight. She has also been criticized by international organizations like the OAS and the EU, as well as Brazil. READ MORE: Guatemala Elections: Observers Say Political Parties and Justice System Interfered This article is owned by Latin Post. Written by: Rick Martin WATCH: Guatemala's choice: A conversation with presidential candidate Bernardo Arevalo - Atlantic Council A man who was on suspended prison sentence was found drunk and asleep on the footpath in Laois. Patrick McInerney, 42, of 1 The Springs, Kilminchy was arrested for being drunk and abusive at Main Street, Abbeyleix last Christmas eve, December 24, 2023. Garda Sergeant JJ Kirby said the accused was found asleep on a footpath on the Main Street in Abbeyleix at 12.25am. When he was aroused he became aggressive, Sgt Kirby explained. He said the defendant has 15 previous convictions and was serving a five year suspended sentence. Solicitor Josephine Fitzpatrick said her client had been out with his sister and hadnt had a drink for three years prior to that night. The last thing he should have been was drunk in a public path in Abbeyleix, she conceded. He is medicated for mental health issues and of course he shouldnt have been drinking, she said. Ms Fitzpartick said her client had penned a letter of apology. She said drinking would be out of character for him at this point in his life. His wife is with him and is very cross, she said. She said the man was pleading guilty at the earliest opportunity, had brought 200 to court and attended his local mens shed. Judge Nicola Andrews said she would accept what had happened was a blip as Ms Fitzpatrick had suggested. I am very concerned that the nature of this behaviour took place during a suspended sentence, she said. However, Judge Andrews ordered that that matter be struck out once a payment of 100 was made to the court poor box. I will not take the same course of action if there is another occasion, Judge Andrews warned the defendant. Met Eireann has upgraded Storm Isha to a Status Red status for some counties in Ireland with all other counties under the second highest Status Orange weather warning. The event, which was named by Met Eireann's storm forecasting partner the UK Met Office, has caused Met Eireann to issue status Red, Orange and Yellow alerts early in the weekend. These were upgraded as follows on Sunday with the impact of Storm Isha became clearer: A Status Red wind warning is in place for Galway, Mayo and Donegal: Met Eireann says Storm Isha will bring extremely strong and gusty southwest winds with severe and destructive gusts, particularly in coastal and exposed areas. The forecaster warns of the following impacts: Dangerous coastal conditions with high waves Treacherous travelling conditions Risk of significant and widespread power outages The Galway Mayo alert is valid from 5 pm to 9 pm Sunday while the Donegal alert is operable from 9 pm Sunday to 1 am on Monday. All three counties are also under a Status Orange wind warning that is valid from 4 pm on Sunday to 3 am on Monday Met Eireann also has a much broader Status Orange wind warning for Leinster, Cavan, Monaghan, Munster, Leitrim, Roscommon, Sligo which it says will have the following impacts: Large coastal waves with wave overtopping Very difficult travelling conditions Fallen trees Damage to power lines That is valid from 5 pm Sunday to 2 am Monday. A national Status Yellow wind warning advises of strong and gusty southwest winds with heavy rain at times from 11 am Sunday to 4 am Monday Met Eireann says the potential impacts are: Large coastal waves with wave overtopping Difficult travelling conditions Debris, loose objects displaced Storm Isha has issued other Status Orange and Yellow marine area warnings for sea areas on all coasts around Ireland. More below audi forecast. Detailed Met Eireann weather forecast for Storm Isha and beyond from Met Eireann below link The national forecast issued at 9.31 am on Sunday, January 21 Sunday: Very windy or stormy as Storm Isha tracks to the northwest of Ireland. Very strong and gusty southwesterly winds will develop countrywide, with strong gales and high waves along coasts. Destructive gusts will develop in the west and northwest later in the day. It will be a wet day too, heavy or thundery rain with localised flooding possible in the south and west. Highest temperatures of 10 to 13 degrees. It will be a wet and very windy early night with very strong and gusty southwest to west winds and strong gales near coasts. Winds will become westerly and decrease in most areas overnight, but will remain extremely strong for a time in the northwest. Rain will clear eastwards early on followed by clear spells and scattered showers. Lowest temperatures of 3 to 7 degrees. Monday: Breezy and blustery, especially in the west and northwest during the morning. There will be sunny spells and scattered showers, some heavy with a chance of hail. The showers will become more isolated through the evening. Highest temperatures of 6 to 9 degrees with a fresh to strong and gusty westerly wind. Mostly dry night to start with just a few showers in the north and northwest. Rain and drizzle will develop in the southwest and west and will spread to most areas overnight. Lowest temperatures of 3 to 7 degrees with a moderate southerly wind developing. More below tweet. After #StormIsha tomorrow there's more wet and windy weather on the way on Tuesday, with a yellow warning for wind already in place pic.twitter.com/2dCoOUOTy3 Met Office (@metoffice) January 20, 2024 Tuesday: Wet and windy with heavy rain at times, along with fresh to strong southwesterly winds. The rain will clear to scattered showers later in the day, most of these occurring in the northwest. Mild with highest temperatures of 10 to 14 degrees. Windy early in the night with fresh to strong and gusty southwest to west winds, decreasing moderate to fresh overnight. Clear spells and scattered showers, mainly in the north and west. Lowest temperatures of 5 to 8 degrees. Wednesday: Most areas will be dry with sunny spells on Wednesday, apart from a few showers in the west and north. Winds will become lighter and temperatures will range between 7 and 10 degrees. Dry to start Wednesday night before outbreaks of rain move in from the southwest. Lowest temperatures of 2 to 5 degrees, becoming milder as the rain moves in. Light southerly winds will increase moderate through the night. Thursday: Cloudy with patchy outbreaks of rain to start Thursday, before a band of more persistent rain moves in from the Atlantic, followed by scattered showers. Highest temperatures of 10 to 13 degrees with moderate to fresh southwesterly winds. Further outlook: Current indications suggest it will remain unsettled with further rain or showers expected for the rest of the week President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky said that he sees no need to mobilize another 500 thousand citizens. According to him, he did not receive enough information about the planned actions and operations that would require such a large-scale replenishment of the army. ADVERTISIMENT In addition, the President emphasized, such mobilization requires significant financial support. He said this in an interview with the British TV channel Channel 4. "I personally do not see the need to mobilize half a million people today... Not because I now want to respond somehow, to please someone. It's just life, and life is number one," Zelensky said. He also emphasized that there are currently no large-scale operations at the front that would require such a significant replenishment of the army. "The second story is that there are appropriate actions and appropriate operations. That is why today I have not seen enough clear details to say that half a million should be mobilized," the President said. And the issue of financial support in the current situation, according to Zelensky, is quite acute. And money for mobilization will have to be allocated from the state budget. ADVERTISIMENT "It's also money. And no matter what anyone thinks, all these finances definitely do not come from our partners. It's the Ukrainian budget that provides money for mobilization and salaries for our military. So when we say "half a million," we need to think. There is a request, we need to calculate everything correctly," the Head of State noted. Zelensky said that the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine had asked him to mobilize another 450-500 thousand people liable for military service during a press conference on December 12. At that time, he also mentioned the money needed to conduct such a large-scale conscription. ADVERTISIMENT Earlier, Zelensky spoke about mobilization and demobilization in Ukraine. He called it a "matter of justice." The Head of State emphasized that the military, who have been on the front line since the first day of the invasion, need rest, and people who join the army should know that they can count on appropriate training and equipment. Therefore, the new law on mobilization should be "reasonable and fair." Tanaiste Micheal Martin said arson attacks on buildings across the country earmarked for use by asylum seekers is a very fundamental undermining of our democratic order. The Foreign Affairs minister said he has confidence in the gardais ability to investigate such arson attacks. He also said that despite significant pressures, it is not a one-sided story of how Ireland has responded to an increase in asylum seekers and refugees. He said Ireland has welcomed more than 100,000 Ukrainians since Russias full-scale invasion of its neighbour in February 2022. There has been a series of suspected arson attacks at properties earmarked or rumoured to be earmarked for housing asylum seekers or refugees. No arrests have been made by gardai in relation to the incidents. Mr Martin said: I do have confidence in the gardai but I think we all know that in matters of this kind, when you pursue criminality and crime, you have to investigate thoroughly, properly, not with the prospect of having to do it speedily in order to get a result. I think that would be the worst possible scenario. I think what has to happen here is that detailed investigations have to take place, people do have to be brought to justice, cases have to be stood up, obviously. He continued: This is a very fundamental undermining, I think, of our democratic order, such arson and such destruction of buildings across the country and cannot be in any way countenanced. And thats why the gardai are going all out to endeavour to find out who who did these crimes and to bring them to justice. The Fianna Fail leader said there is a disciplinary process under way in relation to two Fianna Fail councillors in Co Galway who had strongly criticised Government policy on migration. There had been a suspected arson attack on a disused hotel in Rosscahill in Dember, where 70 asylum seekers were due to be housed. Speaking on RTEs This Week programme, Mr Martin said that process is under way. Particularly in the world we live in today with strong litigation and so on, people are entitled to come forward, make their case, and theres a very set procedure and processes involving a national executive. Mr Martin said this is different to a motion passed unanimously by Mayo County Council, including by Fianna Fail councillors, which also criticised Government policy on migration. I think the fundamental difference here is the comments made, from my perspective, in Galway were ones to suggest that the government was responsible for the arson or the fact that people felt the need to go and burn a beautiful building. And thats unacceptable. And that there should be full co-operation at all times with An Garda Siochana in respect of the pursuit of any case. In terms of councillors exercising whether you agree or disagree, for whatever reasons their voting rights, thats not a matter for discipline. Asked about Fianna Fail councillors, he said: To pick out two councillors and say, Thats the Fianna Fail way is wrong. There are many councillors around the country who understand the pressures, the concerns of people, but whove also been involved in helping refugees settle into the country and helping those who are seeking asylum also. The Iranian president, Ebrahim Raisi, at the funeral of the victims of the January 3 explosions. Kerman (Iran), January 5, 2024. PRESIDENCE IRANIENNE VIA AFP An aggressive state sometimes betrays its anxiety. In less than 24 hours, Iran broke away from the cautious strategy it had followed since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, and the war in the Gaza Strip. On January 15 and 16, the regime launched a series of strikes in Syria, Iraq and Pakistan. The ballistic missiles it fired, in retaliation for attacks on its soil and against its allies in the Middle East, were intended as a show of force. They also represented a risky gamble, or "a miscalculation" in the eyes of experts, provoking a diplomatic crisis with Islamabad and a systematic retaliation on its territory on January 18, as well as strong protests from Baghdad. Since October 7, Tehran has let its allies in the "axis of resistance" open coordinated fronts in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Yemen, in support of Palestinian Hamas, while Iran itself has been busy in the diplomatic arena. Its emissaries pleaded for an end to the war in Gaza and regional de-escalation. Ali Vaez, an expert with the International Crisis Group (ICG), said Iran's primary objective after October 7 was to avoid falling into what it saw as an Israeli trap a direct confrontation with them and the United States while at the same time dissuading Israel from expanding the field of war. The strategy that Iran adopted from that point on was the result of trial and error rather than long-developed calculations. Iran was taken by surprise on October 7, which knocked out its prior strategic calculations, said Vaez. Tehran had opted for a strategy of regional appeasement since the signing, in March 2023, of a detente agreement with its great Sunni rival, Saudi Arabia. Indirect negotiations were underway with the US to obtain a partial lifting of US sanctions. The two countries were planning to return to the nuclear negotiating table in mid-October," said Vaez. Crisis of legitimacy "At a strategic level, Iran was trying to achieve a new level of deterrence with Israel by setting up the possibility of a multi-front attack from the Golan Heights, Gaza, Lebanon and the West Bank. But a test in April 2023 showed that two of the fronts [the West Bank and the Golan Heights] were not ready," said Vaez. Hamas's bloody attack on Israeli territory on October 7, which left some 1,140 people dead and 240 taken hostage, turned this plan on its head. The voluntarism of the "unity on all fronts" slogan came up against the reality of power relations and risk calculations. In the name of measured and systematic retaliation, fronts were set up in Lebanon, Iraq and Yemen, while those in Syria and the West Bank remained dormant. You have 64.63% of this article left to read. The rest is for subscribers only. Senegal's Constitutional Council on Saturday, January 20, published a final list of 20 candidates for the February 25 presidential election that excludes jailed opposition leader Ousmane Sonko and Karim Wade, the son of former president Abdoulaye Wade. Those listed include Prime Minister Amadou Ba, chosen by President Macky Sall as his successor after Sall announced in July that he would not seek a third term. Also named were former prime ministers and rivals Idrissa Seck and Mahammed Boun Abdallah Dionne, the ex-mayor of Dakar Khalifa Sall and Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye, presented as a substitute candidate for Sonko. Faye, 43, a member of Sonko's dissolved party, is also detained but has not yet been tried. The published list of candidates also includes two women, gynecologist Rose Wardini and entrepreneur Anta Babacar Ngom. Sonko, who came third in the 2019 presidential election, has been at the center of a bitter stand-off with the state that has lasted more than two years and sparked often deadly unrest. The 49-year-old opposition figure has generated a passionate following among Senegal's disaffected youth, striking a chord with his pan-Africanist rhetoric and tough stance on former colonial power France. Sonko was sentenced in June to two years' imprisonment for morally corrupting a young person. He has been jailed since the end of July on other charges, including calling for insurrection, conspiracy with terrorist groups and endangering state security. He has denied the charges, saying they are intended to prevent him from running in February's election. Karim Wade, who served as a minister when his father was in power, was excluded as his candidacy was deemed "inadmissible" because of his dual French and Senegalese nationality, according to the Constitutional Council. According to the constitution, presidential candidates "must be exclusively of Senegalese nationality" and aged between 35 and 75 on election day. With just a month to go, there is uncertainty as to the outcome of the two-round election, Senegal's first without the participation of the outgoing president. Sall, elected as president in 2012 for seven years and re-elected in 2019, declared in July that he would not stand again. Former British journalist Ian Bailey leaves from the High Court in Dublin on October 12, 2020, following the Court's decision to reject the French authorities' request for a European arrest warrant. PAUL FAITH / AFP A British journalist convicted in his absence by a Paris court over the 1996 murder of a French woman died on Sunday, January 21, his lawyer told Irish press. Sentenced to 25 years in prison in 2019 for the death of Sophie Toscan du Plantier, Ian Bailey consistently maintained his innocence and lived in Ireland, which refused to extradite him. Bailey, 66, died on Sunday afternoon in Bantry, County Cork, following an illness, his lawyer Frank Buttimer told Irish broadcaster RTE. Bailey suffered two heart attacks last year, according the Irish Times. The body of 39-year-old Toscan du Plantier, wife of film producer Daniel Toscan du Plantier, was discovered by a neighbor on December 23, 1996, outside her holiday home in southwestern Ireland. She had been beaten on the head with a concrete block and was wearing night clothes. Irish police soon suspected Bailey, who was arrested in 1997 and again in 1998, but was never prosecuted in Ireland due to a lack of evidence. A Paris trial, however, ruled that there was "sufficient evidence" linking Bailey to the crime. Multiple French extradition bids for Bailey were struck down by Irish courts. "We will never get the truth from him now," du Plantier's uncle Jean Pierre Gazeau told the Irish Examiner. "We know he is a killer because the judge in France ruled it so, but it is not the same judgement in Ireland. "The Irish State still has not solved the case." "It was a case that really shook me," Marie Dose, the Toscan du Plantier family lawyer told AFP. "I think a lot about Sophie's family they were hoping for an extradition, which I considered legally impossible." A documentary released in 2021 on streaming platform Netflix had once again brought the case to the fore. THE SHORTLIST for the annual Kate O'Brien Award has been announced. The award highlights a debut novel from an Irish female author and will be presented as part of the 40th annual Limerick Literary Festival. This year, the books that have been shortlisted are Slant by Katherine O'Donnell, The Red Bird Sings by Aoife Fitzpatrick and The Last Days of Joy by Anne Tiernan. In memory of Kate OBrien, the festival takes place from February 23 to 25. It is one of Ireland's most vibrant and successful festivals which has been running since 1984. Limerick Literary Festival showcases a diverse and eclectic programme featuring the best in Irish and international contemporary literature. The event continues to honour the life and works of Limerick author, Kate O'Brien, while attracting prominent participants from all over the world. Building on this significant history, the Limerick Literary Festival seeks to promote Limerick nationally as a place of literary excellence and to provide a platform where readers can meet their favourite authors and other readers. Shortlist judge Vivienne McKechnie commented on the high standard of all the submissions received for this year's award. This year, once again, it was wonderful to read the debut books by Irish female writers and we are delighted with our shortlist which is made up of three well written, interesting and very engaging novels, she said. Ms McKechnie added: We look forward to a lively discussion with the shortlisted authors at the festival in a special event on Sunday, February 25. This is an opportunity to meet these writers at the beginning of their careers and to listen to their stories. The judges for this year's award are Marie Hackett, Niall MacMonagle, Vivienne McKechnie, Grainne O'Brien and Donal Ryan. The award comes with a 2000 cash prize sponsored by Bill and Denise Whelan. Last year, the festival crowned Emilie Pine, author of Ruth & Pen, as the winner of the prestigious award. The festival programme for 2024 includes talks, interviews, as well as panel discussions. A COURSING club member in County Limerick has lifted the lid on illegal hunters using infrared cameras to locate hares, boasting about their dogs kills on social media, betting large sums of money and intimidating farmers. The Leader has reported on farmers being assaulted and threatened for years by people trespassing on their land but now it is getting even worse, he says. The coursing club member, who didnt wish to be named, said its on the increase because the perpetrators seem to have a lot more money. He stressed the difference between strictly regulated coursing and illegal hunters killing hares. These hunters are using scopes with infrared cameras, costing between 2,000 and 4,000, to detect body heat. They are not walking fields now, they just point it into a field to find a hare hiding. They will go right up to the hare, get it out of cover, drop the dog straight away and record it for social media. If they have the dog on camera killing a hare quickly, then lurchers can sell for between 2,000 and 3,000 here or in the UK. They are also betting large sums of cash on which dog will kill the hare or which kills the most hares in a day. Its been going on for years but money, technology and social media have changed it completely and its on the increase. They are then posting videos and photos on social media of the hares they have killed. They throw the hares into a field and ditch before heading off, said the coursing club member who has a deep insight into the situation on the ground in County Limerick. Photos and videos he sent to the Leader show men holding up dead hares and displaying them in a row. Limerick IFA secretary Lousie Crowley spoke out before Christmas on how she no longer feels safe after trespassers threatened to damage her property, break her neck and became aggressive when asked to leave her Croom farm. The men had dogs with them. Limerick ICMSA chairman John Bateman has also spoken of landowners being threatened with one farmer being told to select a site on his own farm where hed like to be buried. The coursing club member said it puts farmers between a rock and a hard place on whether to engage with trespassers. We all know farmers are being intimidated on a daily basis as the trespassers act like they own the place. It's downright thuggery. They have no regard for law or order and will record the farmers on their phones. They come onto farms between first light and the middle of the night - there is no pattern, he said. He is aware of hunters targeting areas after coursing clubs have released hares back into the wild. The anti-coursing people are entitled to their opinion but there isnt enough being said about the illegal hunters. We are strictly regulated and the hares are released back to where they were caught after being fed, inoculated and vaccinated - 99% are put back. If you don't have coursing clubs you will not have hares in this country. As a coursing man its not about hunting or killing, it is about who has the fastest hound. These other individuals are into killing hares. Hares are a protected species and they are not getting the protection they deserve. More needs to be done by the relevant authorities to target these illegal hunters, he concluded. SIX commercial flight diversions have been facilitated at Shannon Airport this Sunday due to adverse weather conditions caused by Storm Isha. A spokesperson for the Shannon Airport Group said six flights, five of which were originally due to land at Dublin Airport and one flight due to land at Cork Airport, were diverted to Shannon Airport today. Flights from Portugal, Luxembourg, Poland and the UK, originally due to land in Dublin and Cork today diverted to Shannon, all landing safely. "They were FR7031 from Faro originally due to land in Dublin which diverted to Shannon landing at 11.26am; FR1949 from Luxembourg to Dublin landed at Shannon at noon; FR1893 from Bydgoszcz due to land in Dublin, landed at Shannon at 13:23. Flight KLM1085 from Amsterdam, originally due to land in Cork diverted to Shannon, landing at 13:42. "This was followed by FR157 from Leeds Bradford due to land in Dublin which landed safely in Shannon at 14:02, and by FR241 from Amsterdam due to land at Dublin which landed at Shannon at 15:13," they said. The spokesperson confirmed that all Shannon Airport services have been operating to a normal schedule this Sunday. MOTORISTS are advised that a fallen tree has blocked the road near the gates to Salesian Secondary College in Pallaskenry this Sunday. The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is asking road users to exercise caution while using the roads during Storm Isha. Limerick City and County Council reports that Storm Isha has brought down a number of trees. They say the Old Mill Road, Newcastle West will remain closed until it is safe for council crews to clear a fallen tree on Monday morning. It is pictured below courtesy of Cllr Michael Collins. The council urges people to log issues at customerservices@limerick.ie #StormIsha has brought down a number of trees in #Limerick. Old Mill Road, NCW will remain closed until it is safe for LCCC crews to clear a fallen tree tomorrow morning. A tree is blocking the road near the gates at Copsewood College in Pallaskenry. Log issues at pic.twitter.com/OwjpipggWr Limerick Council - Comhairle Luimnigh (@LimerickCouncil) January 21, 2024 The Status Orange wind warning for Limerick came into effect at 5pm and is valid until 2am on Monday morning. Thousands of ESB customers in the county are without power thus far. If there are trees down in your area, roads blocked or damage to buildings from Storm Isha please email news@limerickleader.ie Only take photos if it is safe to do so. The Slovak Ministry of Culture has announced the resumption of cooperation with Russia and Belarus. The decision of the new head of the ministry, Martina Simkovicova, will come into force on Monday, January 22. ADVERTISIMENT This was reported by the Slovak media. They quote Simkovicova as saying that she had previously suggested that the Slovaks "try to reach an understanding." Back in March 2022, the Ministry of Culture of this country announced the termination of all communication and cooperation with Russia and Belarus. This was an order from Minister Natalia Milanova. The Slovak official condemned Russian aggression immediately after the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. However, with the re-election of Prime Minister Robert Fico, a new head of the Ministry of Culture was appointed. This is MP Simkovicova. She is infamous for her visit to the occupied Crimea in 2018 at a Russian invitation. "There are dozens of military conflicts in the world, and we believe that artists and culture should not pay for it," Simkovicova said about her first order to resume cooperation with aggressor countries. ADVERTISIMENT Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram and Viber. Do not fall for fakes! Tanaiste Micheal Martin has said that the TV licence fee model will be here for some time, and he has concerns about direct exchequer funding for RTE. He said that direct funding could be reduced by future governments and lead to a tug of war between media and the State. He said he believes the Revenue Commissioners should collect the 160-euro-a-household licence fee, a role currently held by An Post, but accepted there were different views in Cabinet and in the Oireachtas. Public Expenditure Minister Paschal Donohoe said that he believes the TV licence fee should be kept, but said he had some concerns about Revenue collecting the TV licence as it only collect taxes. Ministers have committed to making a decision on a future funding model for RTE during this government term, as TV licence fee revenues plummet following a financial and governance crisis at Irelands public service broadcaster. In the wake of the scandal, RTE director general Kevin Bakhurst committed to reducing its highest earners fees, invest in digital and technology, and cut spending this year by 10 million euro. The number of TV licences bought last year fell by 13% compared to 2022, according to figures from the Department of Media, resulting in a drop in revenue of 19 million euro. Asked about one proposal to raise revenue through a 10-15 euro monthly levy on broadband bills, as reported in The Business Post on Sunday, Mr Martin said that it had not been presented to government and would require very serious consideration. I think the licence fee will be here for some time yet, because an alternative will take time, he told RTE Radio. I have a problem with total Exchequer funding for media generally, because I think there is no demarcation line then between government and media, in terms of the independence of the media, and in a free society and in a democratic society, I have real reservations about media generally been funded by government in its entirety. And thats not just RTE, because as you know, whatever new funding arrangement emerges, has to fund more than RTE, it has to fund public service content and other stations or also in the print media. The licence fee, Id have to be stress this is, right now for the remainder of this year and perhaps even next year before we get new arrangements in place, key and essential, and we have to reaffirm peoples need to pay their licence fee to support public service broadcasting. Mr Martin was also asked about speculation that his name is among those being considered as the next president of the European Council after Charles Michel announced he was stepping down. He said: Thats a very interesting position for anybody I mean in terms of look, that doesnt arise in my case at all. Asked if he was ruling himself out, he said: Im going forward for the next general election, so Ill be running in the next general election. Asked if that meant he would not want to be considered if someone were to knock on his door, he said: Well, no-one has come knocking on my door, it is a very prestigious position, but I wont be going forward for that. Im leading the party into the next general election. Asked about his long career in politics and his future, he said: Im in a robust enough condition. I still have an appetite for politics, for decision-making for the people, really, to try and see can we improve situations. I still get angry and frustrated at things that are not being done and its very much part of my DNA to commit to public service and to be involved, so I dont have an end date in sight yet, no. ICICI Bank witnessed a contraction in its margins during the third quarter, aligning with analysts' expectations. This development adds to the indications of a slowdown in India's banking sector, contributing to a decline in shares of a competitor in recent days, Bloomberg reported. The shares of ICICI Bank closed 2.55% higher at 1,011 per piece on January 20, against previous close at 986.35 on January 19. The stock has gained nearly 1.45% in the last six months and 16.04% in the last one year. Net Interest Margins Decline The net interest margins, a key indicator of the earnings on each loan sold, contracted to 4.43 percent in the three months ending December 31, down from 4.53 percent in the previous quarter. Also Read | ICICI Bank management on Q3 earnings performance Indian banks are grappling with challenges to their profitability, stemming from difficulties in mobilizing low-cost deposits to meet the robust demand for credit. Despite the margin contraction, ICICI Bank reported a net income increase of around 24 percent, reaching 102.7 billion rupees ($1.2 billion). This exceeded the average estimate of 99 billion rupees in a Bloomberg survey. Also Read | ICICI Bank Q3 earnings: Consolidated net profit jumps 25.7% to 11,052.60 crore Concerns Over Economic Risks While Indian banks have experienced a surge in earnings due to heightened credit demand, the nation's regulator is cautioning against potential risks building up in the economy. With unsecured lending growing at almost double the rate of overall credit, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) urged banks in November to enhance buffers for certain consumer loans. In response to ICICI Bank's report, shares of HDFC Bank, the country's largest private-sector lender, recorded the most significant decline in over three years on January 17. The disappointing earnings, particularly in deposits and stagnant margins, disappointed investors. Also Read | Delisting discontent boils over at ICICI Securities meet ICICI Bank made a provision of 6.3 billion rupees for its exposure to alternative investment funds, following regulatory restrictions imposed late last year. This move reflects the bank's adherence to regulatory measures amid evolving market conditions. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Tech billionaire Elon Musk has dismissed reports on the $500 million worth of funding plans for his artificial intelligence start-up xAI through posts on social media site X (formerly known as Twitter). Replying separately to two users on the site, Musk told one user the information was "simply not accurate" and called the original Bloomberg report "fake news" in reply to another. Also Read | Elon Musk looking for 25% voting share at Tesla ahead of AI, robotics growth Contradictory Reports on Funding Bloomberg had earlier reported that xAI is in discussions for a valuation ranging between $15-20 billion and that the start-up has purportedly secured $500 million in commitments from investors, aiming for a total of $1 billion. This was rejected as fake news by Musk. It said discussions are underway, aiming for a tender offer valued between $500 million and $750 million, sources told the publication, adding that the potential share price could be approximately $95 each. Also Read | A $60 billion pay package? Musk gives Tesla board a nightmare task While xAI has not issued an official statement, Bloomberg quoted sources about the ongoing talks. The company did not respond to queries, Reuters said. Earlier in December too, Musk had denied fundraising for xAI, despite the start-up's filing with the United States securities regulator showing it plans to raise $1 billion via equity offering. Also Read | World may have its first trillionaire in the next decade if inequality worsens. Here's a list of probables The document also noted that xAI has already raised about $135, without disclosing the names of those investors. Musk launched xAI in July 2023, positioning it as a response to concerns about AI efforts by Big Tech. Musk has consistently criticised major tech companies for perceived excessive censorship and inadequate safety measures in their AI initiatives. His AI company aims to compete with top players in the industry, including Google, Microsoft, OpenAI and Anthropic. In November, Musk announced xAI's first language model, Grok, which is trained on data from X and has real-time access to the social media platform. (With inputs from Bloomberg, and Reuters) Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! The Centre's Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) scheme, coupled with various state government initiatives is set to play a role in developing the spiritual travel industry in India, as per an SBI Research report released on January 21. The impact on the Indian economy is expected to be significant. The report added that UP government initiatives along with the newly built Ram temple in Ayodhya could result in additional tax revenue of 25,000 per annum for the state in FY25 due to increased visitors. Track | LIVE Updates on Ayodhya Ram Mandir Pran Prathistha here Spiritual Tourism Poised to Boost the Economy The surge in spiritual tourism has significantly transformed the tourism landscape in UP, the report added. It has resulted in an improved physical and digital infrastructure, facilitating accessible connectivity, and spurred a substantial increase in travel, encouraging people to engage more meaningfully with the historical sites. UP, with its numerous holiest places and shrines, such as the Ganga River, Varanasi, the Taj Mahal and now the new Ram Temple in Ayodhya, has experienced a remarkable upswing in domestic tourism. Also Read | Ayodhya Ram Mandir Pran Prathistha: Images of newly built temple released ahead of consecration ceremony According to state government estimates, around 32 crore tourists visited the state in 2022, with an impressive footfall of 2.21 crore in Ayodhya alone. The total expenditure by these tourists exceeded 2 lakh crore. Foreign tourists, ranking UP as the fifth most visited state in India, contributed an additional 10,500 crore to the state's economy. The tourism boom positions UP to reap substantial economic benefits. India's ambitious goal of reaching a $5 trillion economy by FY28 necessitates a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.4 percent until 2027 in dollar terms. This translates to an achievable 11.0-11.5 percent nominal GDP growth per annum in Indian Rupees. As India strives to achieve this goal, UP is set to play a pivotal role in this growth trajectory. Also Read | Uttar Pradesh investor base surpasses Gujarat to rank second with 89.47 lakh stock market investors Uttar Pradesh emerges as one of the two states expected to surpass the $500 billion mark by 2027, marking a significant milestone as India ascends to the third position in the global economy. Projections indicate that UP, along with Maharashtra, will break the $500 billion threshold, collectively contributing 10 percent to India's GDP. Uttar Pradesh is poised to surpass the economic output of European countries such as Norway and Hungary by 2027, reflecting the significant strides in India's global economic standing. Uttar Pradesh's Economic Prospects The Indian economy is set to reach $5 trillion by FY28, defying headwinds with a growth rate exceeding 7 percent. Uttar Pradesh (UP) emerges as a key player, projected to hold the second-highest weightage in the Indian GDP by FY28, surpassing Norway in GDP, as per the SBI Research report. Also Read: Mint Explainer | Failed economic rebound, recession fears and increasingly pessimistic youth. How China fumbled the bag In FY23, UP contributed more than 10 percent to India's Gross Value Added (GVA), with services accounting for 11.7 percent; while its share in industry and agriculture exceeded 8 percent. This reflects growth opportunities amid infrastructural and investment initiatives for the state, as per the report. In terms of exports too, UP has displayed visible strides achieving a 7.1 percent Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) in FY2013-23, outpacing the national average of 4.1 percent. The state has doubled its export share nationally, securing the sixth position, it noted. Placed second in the country in the Ease of Doing Business report of 2019, UP continues to attract investments. It has also doubled its installed power generation capacity between FY2014-22. The state's multifaceted progress thus indicates a promising trajectory in India's economic landscape. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) will commission a new energy giga complex in Jamnagar, Gujarat in the second half of 2024, the company said in an earnings statement. The Dhirubhai Ambani Green Energy Giga Complex, spread over 5,000 acres, comprises of five giga factories for photovoltaic panels, fuel cell system, green hydrogen, energy storage and power electronics. On track to commence new energy facilities in phases this year," the company said. ALSO READ: Reliance Q3 Results Highlights: Jio, Retail shine; O2C revenue declines; 5 key highlights from RIL Q3 earnings Post third-quarter earnings announcement on Friday, RIL chairman and managing diRECtor Mukesh Ambani said that the New Energy Giga Complex is all set to be commissioned in the second half of CY24. I am confident that Reliance's New Energy business will play a pivotal role in the global movement for adoption of cleaner fuels." The company has signed an MoU with the Gujarat government to set up 100 gigawatt renewable power facility at 5 lakh crore capex. It has received in-principle nod for 74,750 hectares of land parcels in Kutch for green hydrogen project.. The giga complex will be among the largest integrated renewable energy manufacturing facilities in the world. ALSO READ: Reliance Q3 results: Net profit up 11% to 19,641 crore; EBITDA up 17% led by oil and gas, retail segments RIL has strategically invested in ten global technology innovators with strong expertise across the new energy value chain. Through REC Solar, RIL has signed a supply pact with China-based Suzhou Maxwell Technologies to buy a high efficiency production line for HJT cells (4.8GW capacity). In January 2023, it also signed a 5.2GW HJT module automation production pact with China-based SC Solar. Reliance Industries reported a 10.9 per cent rise in consolidated profit after tax (PAT) during the October-December 2023 quarter at 19,641 crore. Its quarterly consolidated EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) stood at 44,678 crore, up 16.7 per cent year-on-year. Its consolidated revenue rose 3.2 per cent at 248,160 crore supported by continued growth momentum in consumer businesses. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! New Delhi: Many Indian manufacturers often have to operate under tarpaulins, illegally. Indian industrial estates are littered with these makeshift arrangements around the main factory building. If government inspectors find out, the manufacturer can cheaply, and quickly, dismantle the tarpaulin structures. Why do they operate under tarpaulins? Our land use laws prevent a factory owner from using their own land efficiently. Researchers have pointed out that India has created an artificial scarcity of land through restrictive regulations. This scarcity is well documented in the case of urban housing. A similar affliction hurts our factories. Our building standards restrict factories from using the plot area efficiently or growing vertically. Industrial buildings are constrained by multiple building standards which lead to a loss of productive land. Of these standards, land loss is largely driven by four standardssetbacks (strips of land factories must leave on all sides of a building), parking, ground coverage (limit on the plot area that can be covered by a building), and floor area ratio, or FAR (the ratio between a buildings constructed floor area and the land area). These standards may provide some benefits. However, the benefits are not free. They come at the cost of economic growth, productivity, and jobs. The question is whether the benefits outweigh the costs. Research by Prosperiti, a public policy institution, shows that a factory in India can lose more than 50% of land to building standards. Our entrepreneurs are paying full price for half use. The requirements for these four standards vary from state to state. 10 states were ranked by Prosperiti based on factory land lost to building regulation restrictions. For each state, Prosperitis researchers computed the cost of these building restrictions, for micro, small, medium, large, and mega factories. The ranking is part of a report that shows the cost of these regulations in terms of land lost, money lost, and jobs lost. Overall, Haryana is the least restrictive among the states, but Tamil Nadu is friendlier to large and mega factories. Haryana is the only state where a factory of any size can use more than 50% of the plot. Odisha, Bihar, and Delhi are the most restrictive states for factories of all sizes. Regulations in these states are so extreme that in some cases a factory is left with no ground floor land. Overall, states set more punishing standards for smaller enterprises than larger ones. On average, small factories lose 85% of their plots to the four standards, while large factories lose 55%. Micro and small factories in Odisha, Bihar, and Delhi lose 100% of land on the ground floor after complying with the four standards. Setbacks Factory plots lose the most buildable footprint to setbacks. These setback regulations may have originally been made to prevent fires from spreading, allow ventilation, and sunlight in buildings. However, these requirements can be met by modern technology without the need to keep expensive land unproductive. In most Indian states, plot owners face aggressive setback requirements from building authorities. In Madhya Pradesh, for example, a person we know by the name of Hemalata constructed a building in accordance with the law and approved plans of Indore. The city regulations required buildings to leave more land, as setbacks, on the front of the building than on the sides. The building included doors on one of the sides in addition to the front. Due to this, the Indore authority argued that even that side of the building should be considered as the front and Hemalata should have left more land unused on that side. It took the Supreme Court of India (Indore Municipal Corporation vs. Dr. Hemalata, 2010) to decide that the side of the building does not become the front just because it has doors. India renders more land unproductive due to setbacks, compared to Singaporea country with high legal and safety standards and 32 times GDP per capita. Factories in Singapore do not have to leave setbacks on the side if the adjoining plots also house factories. As a result, a factory on a 10,000 square meter (sq. m) plot will only lose 500 sq. m of the plot to setbacks. In contrast, the same factory in Maharashtra will lose 2,256 sq. m of the plot (about five times more). Among the states studied, Haryana is the only state that is comparable to Singapore. Parking After setbacks, factories in India lose the most amount of land to parking requirements. This requirement is usually driven by the need to keep roads congestion-free. However, these requirements are irrespective of whether the factory actually needs the parking space. A small hosiery unit owner in Punjab we spoke to related his woes. Most of the workers in his plant come to the factory on shared transport. The unit owner was forced to create three times the parking spaces as the number of workers that actually need them. Per our calculations, the factory would have lost about 40% of the plot to parking. For context, one worker can make 400 pairs of socks in a day. This small business owner could have increased his daily output by 50% if parking minimums were rationalized. Parking requirements should be lower in Indian states than other countries because less than a third of Indian workers use modes of transport like cars, cycles, which require parking (Census, 2011). However, factories in Maharashtra require more parking than in Singapore. A 500-employee factory in Maharashtra needs estimated space for 67 cars, 304 two-wheelers, and six trucks. A similar factory in Singapore would only need estimated space for 16 cars (1/4th), 101 two-wheelers (1/3rd), and seven trucks. Compared to Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu has a more rational approach to factory parking regulation. In Tamil Nadu, two-wheeler parking spaces are proportionally linked to the workshop floor, and car parking spaces are proportionally linked to the office floor constructed for administrative purposes. Ground Coverage Apart from setbacks and parking, Indian factories lose land to ground coverage regulations that limit the usable ground floor space. These restrictions were instituted to encourage groundwater recharge and reduce the density of buildings in an area. However, both these reasons may not be valid today. Rainwater, for example, can be harvested much better through modern methods like pervious pavements. Some states have recognized that ground coverage regulations may be redundant. Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Telangana impose no limits on ground coverage for factories. In Telangana, factories are allowed to use as much plot area as possible once setback and parking requirements are met. Factories in Indian states lose more land to ground coverage as compared to Asian countries. In some states, this loss can go up to 60% of the plot size. In comparison, in Hong Kong, a country with nearly 20 times our per capita income, a factory will lose only 5%, and in the Philippines, a country with 1.5 times our per capita income, only 20% of land. This one standard, in fact, makes Haryana less progressive than it could be. A 1,000 sq. m plot in Haryana loses 200 sq. m to ground coverage (after deducting overlaps). This area could have been used to employ 29 additional workers. Floor Area Ratio The three regulations (ground coverage, parking, and setbacks) control the horizontal plane of the building. The vertical plane of buildings is regulated by the FAR/Floor Space Index. Traditionally, the height of factories has not been limited by regulation but by technology. Technology in modern factories has allowed them to advance far from the Dickensian image of factories. Most Indian states allow only a low FAR for single detached factories. On average, these factories are allowed to create floor space up to 1.3 times the plot area. In 2018, Chetan Patil, an entrepreneur from Maharashtra, tried to set up a steel fabrication plant in a two-acre industrial shed in Nashik. The states building regulations only allowed him to build on 55% of the plot. Worse still, by law, he could only purchase an additional 15% FAR to make up for ground floor land lost. Then, to add insult to injury, this additional FAR would cost him four times the circle rate. Patil waited for two years for his approvals and has now paused the project. Had he set the same plant up in Japan, he could have built a factory floor four times larger and been on his production journey by now. As they stand, FAR/FSI limits in India are also inimical to the proliferation of flatted factories. Flatted factories are tall stacked manufacturing facilities with high worker density. Even though states have recognized the importance of flatted factories for industrial growth, they continue to set restrictive limits. For instance, since 2020, Uttar Pradesh has actively encouraged growth of flatted factories. However, in two of the states manufacturing hubs (Meerut and Noida), such factories are only allowed a maximum FAR of 1.5, and inside industrial areas managed by UP State Industrial Development Authority, such factories are only allowed a maximum FAR of 0.7. These limits are even lower than what some states offer to single-detached manufacturing units. For example, single factories in Punjabs municipal areas are allowed an FAR of 3. Flatted factories are a feature of high-density environments such as Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, private flatted factories make up almost 70% of industrial buildings in terms of floor space. These multi-storeyed factories are allowed an FAR ranging between 3.5 and 9.5 in development areas, and can go as high as 12 for factories in industrial areas within metropolitan areas. Opportunity cost An industrial entrepreneur has to shell out large sums of money to keep part of their plot fallow forever. Based on Prosperitis estimates, factories in these 10 states stand to lose between 2.67 lakh in a micro-factory to 3.16 crore in a mega factory. These regulations may be driving an irrational location of factories. Factories should ideally go where land prices are lower. However, restrictive regulations in cheaper areas may drive factories to more expensive locations. For example, the land price in DLF Industrial Area, Faridabad, Haryana, is about 14,352 per sq. m, and in Ganesh Nagar, Ludhiana East, Punjab, is 13,200 per sq. m. But, Faridabad is less restrictive than Ludhiana. Therefore, a medium factory will lose 57.4 lakh in Faridabad and 1.07 crore in Ludhiana. As a result, Faridabad becomes a more attractive investment location than Ludhiana even as land prices are slightly higher in Faridabad. Money wasted is apparent, but the unseen cost is jobs not created. Even if the land loss on account of regulations was halved, states could generate between 30-74 jobs in a medium-sized factory. These losses at the factory level can compound to millions of job opportunities lost. For instance, large factories in Maharashtra could have space for 563,000 more industrial jobs had the state reduced the land lost by half. This is 38% of the factory workers currently employed in Maharashtra generating more than 500 crore per month in additional wages. Way ahead These land loss estimates are conservative as they are based on only four standards. Other standards like open space reserve, rainwater harvesting systems, means of access, height restrictions, etc., additionally restrict the growth of buildings. In addition, a factory has to dedicate large parts of the floor space to facilities under labour laws. Once all standards are complied with, a factory is able to utilise only a third of the plot for manufacturing goods. This is a non-trivial hindrance to the ease of doing business in the country. While some of these regulations may be necessary, they must be evaluated in light of Indias other goals. The question is whether the benefits from these regulations outweigh the costs of keeping land unproductive. For India, the trade-off is much more expensive than in many other countries that are already industrialized and rich. This is because in rich countries lost income means a marginal decrease from very wealthy to wealthy. In contrast, lost income and productivity in India means the difference between poverty and middle income. Building regulations for factories are a small subset of land use laws in India. Industrialization is critical to urbanization. The restrictions on factories lead to a cumulative loss of productive land in and around Indias cities. Planners need to figure out how to use land efficiently, and liberalizing industrial land could be a start. Methodology: Only 10 states were covered in the analysis. The selection comprised five states with high industrial performance, three with medium performance, and two with low performance. This is based on the share of industry in each states economy. Some states have a common state-wide building code, while others have separate codes for different jurisdictions. The researchers have selected laws governing development areas in each state for comparison. The full report is available here. The writers are researchers at Prosperiti, a public-purpose institution that builds state capacity to increase economic freedom in India. feedback@livemint.com Bollywood movie Fighter, starring Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone and Anil Kapoor, is all set to release on January 25 on the eve of Republic Day. The movie has been generating a lot of buzz since the announcement of its launch. The release date was postponed a couple of times. However, when the first look came out, it became the talk of the town. Then came the trailer of the movie, directed by Siddharth Anand known for War and Pathaan, and it became a sensation. The advance booking has started for the movie which apparently deals with the Pulwama attack and the the Balakot airstrike. It has already sold 58,410 tickets and collected 1.92 crore. The 2D version of the movie has sold 23,777 tickets for over 62 lakh. The 3D version has sold more tickets, 30,475, and collected over 1 crore. The IMAX 3D version has sold 3,359 tickets for 19.5 lakh while the 4DX 3D version has sold 799 tickets for around 5 lakh. The movie will be released on more than 6,000 screens across the country. In Maharashtra, the advance booking has fetched 34.24 lakh. With booked seats included, the number goes up to 56.59 lakh. Delhi comes second with 41.7 lakh tickets while the number is 43.8 lakh when booked seats are included. Siddharth Anands third movie with Hrithik Roshan Fighter is Siddharth Anands third movie with Hrithik Roshan. Their first film, Bang Bang!, was made with 160 crore and went on to make 340 crore worldwide. Their second collaboration, War, was made with 150 crore. The movie, which also stars Tiger Shroff, minted 471 crore. Disclosure: Numbers have been sourced from Sacnilk Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! American satellite internet company Starlink, owned by billionaire Elon Musk, has been allowed to offer satellite broadband services in India, two officials aware of the development said. The department of telecommunications (DoT) has approved the grant of a global mobile personal communication by satellite or GMPCS licence to the company. The licence has been approved. We got the go ahead from the commerce ministry on details they had asked for and they (Starlink) have provided," one of the officials cited above said, asking not to be named. After it gets past a couple more hurdles, Starlink will become the third satellite broadband service provider in the country, after Bharti group-backed OneWeb India, and Reliance-backed Jio Satellite Communications. Their services, though, will take a few more months to get activated, after the government makes changes to the Telecommuncations Act 2023. The people cited above said Starlink has given a declaration that it does not have investors from countries with which India shares land borders, clearing the hurdle it faced from the department of promotion of industry and internal trade (DPIIT), which had asked details of its shareholder, before giving approval. The company was learnt to have cited US regulations for not providing the details as required by the ministry. While a formal communication to the SpaceX-owned company has been issued, a letter of intent will be given out over the next couple of days, one of the officials said. Queries emailed to SpaceX and the DoT remained unanswered as of Sunday evening. Starlink will also need an approval from Indian space regulator Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), which functions as an autonomous agency in the department of space and signs off on commercial launches of satellite players. Plus, it will be able to begin services only after the government fixes the price of airwaves, which will be allocated on a non-auction basis. The airwaves will be needed by Starlink or any other carrier it partners with for getting access to the airwaves, to provide services in India. According to officials, the process of seeking pricing of the airwaves from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) is yet to begin since the rules under the Telecommuncations Act 2023 are yet to be formulated. Were yet to begin work on the rules and it is unlikely that they will be put in place before a few months. We expect at least six months before satellite broadband services can be started commercially," the second official cited above said, giving estimates that he said may not be time bound. Starlink had first applied for the licence in November 2022. Eutelsat OneWebs local subsidiary OneWeb India, backed by the Bharti Group, received authorisation from IN-SPACe in November 2023 to launch its commercial satellite broadband services in India. And Reliances Jio Satellite Communications, which is yet to get IN-SPACe authorisation, has a global JV with partner SES to access latest medium earth orbit (MEO) satellite technology, which can offer Gigabit, fibre-like services from space. Starlink may also face competition from Amazon, which is in the final steps of applying for an operating licence for satellite communications. Mint had reported last October that the Seattle-headquartered firm is in the process of applying for a satellite communications service operators licence for its Project Kuiper service, and will seek to officially file it with the DoT. For Reliance Industries Ltds (RIL) investors, elevated capital expenditure (capex) level has been a sore point for a while now. The good news is that there are signs that this issue is receding, primarily led by the completion of pan-India 5G roll-out. In the December quarter (Q3FY24), consolidated capex was 30,102 crore, down by 22% sequentially. The sharp drop in capex suggests that peak capex is likely behind. As such, analysts from Morgan Stanley expect this year to be eventful for RIL as the past two years of investments move into the monetization phase. We think investment cycles will be shorter than in the past two decades, with limited impact on balance sheet leverage," said the analysts in a report on 19 January. In Q3, net debt stood at 1.19 trillion, up 1.4% sequentially. The net debt to Ebitda ratio was 0.67x in Q3 and this is expected to be below 1x going ahead. Ebitda is earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization. To be sure, the pace of capex moderation needs monitoring ahead. For one, RILs new energy business is likely to commence by the end of 2024 and it may entail additional investments. Here, any hiccups in execution may play spoilsport. Whilst we think that RILs new energy plan is well thought through, we are reticent in ascribing any option value to this project as most of the announced projects would be used for captive energy consumption," said an Ambit Capital report on 20 January. Also, the companys flip-flops on incorporating a new energy subsidiary, merging it into standalone operations and now letting it remain independent convey its trepidation on the returns it can generate from new energy, added Ambit. Coming to RILs Q3 results, the weakness in the oil-to-chemicals segment was partly offset by the other verticals leading to a nearly 1% sequential drop in consolidated Ebitda to 40,656 crore. The oil-to-chemicals segment was hurt due to the planned maintenance, inspection shutdown and lower downstream chemical margins. Whats more, the segments outlook is not rosy. The domestic demand is likely to be solid in line with strong economic activities. But the global downstream chemical markets would remain well-supplied in the near term, thus weighing on margin. The growth in RILs retail business was healthy aided by the festive season. Core revenue per square feet saw a 4% growth year-on-year, after several quarters of decline," note Jefferies Indias analysts in a 19 January report. However, the core revenue per square foot at about 7,600 is still 30% lower than the FY20 peak and should see a continuing ramp up as new stores maturethis will be a key driver of future revenue growth as the pace of store additions are coming off, added the Jefferies report. In Q3, 124 stores were added versus 406 and 204 stores in Q1 and Q2, respectively. The oil-to-telecom conglomerates other consumer businessJio saw strong customer additions in Q3 at 11.2 million as it was accelerated by the 5G rollout. But despite that, Jios average revenue per user (Arpu) was flat sequentially at 181.70. For one, 5G subscribers enjoy unlimited data currently thus weighing on Arpu. Also, subscriber addition driven by the Jio Bharat phone would have impacted the mix given that it operates in the lower priced segment. Meanwhile, RILs shares have outperformed in the last three months. The stock is up by 18% while the Nifty 50 index rose by only about 10%. A further rally in the stock depends on factors such as tariff hikes, moderating capex and debt levels and successful monetization of the investments. Indian market witnessed a collective decrease in its valuation of five of the top 10 valued firms by 1,67,936.21 crore last week, with HDFC Bank experiencing the most significant decline. The 30-share BSE benchmark reported a fall of 1,144.8 points, or 1.57 per cent, during the week. Both the NSE and BSE conducted regular trading sessions on January 20. Among the top 10 firms, Reliance Industries, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), HDFC Bank, Hindustan Unilever, and State Bank of India saw a reduction in their valuation, while ICICI Bank, Infosys, Bharti Airtel, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), and ITC emerged as gainers. HDFC Bank's market valuation plummeted by 1,22,163.07 crore to 11,22,662.76 crore. The decline in HDFC Bank shares over three consecutive days, falling over 12 per cent, was attributed to investor disappointment with the company's December quarter earnings. However, HDFC Bank shares rebounded on Saturday, recording a 0.54 per cent increase. Reliance Industries witnessed a valuation drop of 18,199.35 crore to 18,35,665.82 crore. Hindustan Unilever's market valuation diminished by 17,845.15 crore to 5,80,184.57 crore, and TCS experienced a decline of 7,720.6 crore, reaching 14,12,613.37 crore. State Bank of India's market capitalisation dipped by 2,008.04 crore to 5,63,589.24 crore. In contrast, LIC's market capitalisation surged by 67,456.1 crore, reaching 5,92,019.78 crore. LIC surpassed State Bank of India (SBI) to become the country's most valued PSU firm by market valuation. Bharti Airtel added 26,380.94 crore to its market valuation, reaching 6,31,679.96 crore. Infosys experienced a rise of 15,170.75 crore, reaching 6,84,305.90 crore, while ICICI Bank's market capitalisation rallied by 3,163.72 crore, reaching 7,07,373.79 crore. ITC's valuation climbed by 2,058.48 crore to 5,84,170.38 crore. Reliance Industries retained its position at the top of the top-10 most valued firms ranking chart, followed by TCS, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Infosys, Bharti Airtel, LIC, ITC, Hindustan Unilever, and State Bank of India. (With Inputs from PTI) LIFE INSURANCE CORPORATION OF INDIA More Information Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Ram Mandir Inauguration: The upcoming Pran Prathishtha ceremony for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, scheduled for January 22, has prompted Himachal Pradesh to declare it a public holiday in honour of this significant Hindu event. Ayodhya Ram Mandir LIVE According to an official statement, It is hereby notified that the full day of 22nd January, 2024 (Monday) shall be observed as a Public Holiday in all Departments/Boards/Corporations/ Schools/Colleges/ Universities etc. of Himachal Pradesh Government to enable its employees on the occasion of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha at Ayodhya." Also Read: Ayodhya Ram Mandir Pran Pratistha: What remains open and shut on 22 January | 5 key points to know View Full Image The Himachal Pradesh Government declares a public holiday in the state on January 22. (Photo: ANI) It further read, The above holiday will be applicable to the daily wage employees and also be the holiday within the meaning of Section 25 of Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881." Earlier, the Department of Personnel and Training on Thursday announced that all central government offices will be closed for half a day on January 22 on the Pran Pratishta ceremony of Ram Lalla idol at Ayodhya Ram Temple. Also Read: Ram Mandir Inauguration: These states declared a holiday or half day on January 22. Check full list here "The Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha at Ayodhya will be celebrated on January 22, 2024 across India. To enable employees to participate in the celebrations, it has been decided that all central government offices, central institutions and central industrial establishments throughout India will be closed for half day till 1430 hours on January 22," the memo read. Moreover, Delhi's Lieutenant Governor approved half-day holiday for all Delhi government offices on January 22 on account of Ram Temple event in Ayodhya, a Raj Niwas official told ANI on Saturday. Earlier, the Jamia Millia Islamia University in Delhi will remain closed for half-day, till 2:30 pm, on January 22. Organizations and groups worldwide have organized various activities to align with the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to participate in the installation of the idol of Ram Lalla at the majestic temple on January 22. (With inputs from ANI) Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! In a special setting on Sunday, the Bombay High Court dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by four law students challenging the Maharashtra government's decision declaring a public holiday on January 22, on account of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ram Lalla Mandir in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, news agency ANI reported. The petitioners claimed that the holiday declared by the Maharashtra government was arbitrary and not in the power of the state govt to announce such a holiday. A bench of Justices Girish Kulkarni and Neela Gokhalewhich held the special hearing filed by four law students from Maharashtra and Gujarat observed that the petition was "politically motivated, frivolous and vexatious" and advised the students to "utilise their time in doing better things". We have no doubt that this is an abuse of the process of law. Such proceedings cannot be kept pending and are required to be dismissed with exemplary cost. However, we refrain ourselves from imposing cost with the hope the petitioner in future be more careful when they attend to appear in person in a PIL," the division bench observed. Also Read | Delhi AIIMS to be closed till 2.30 pm on January 22 Observing the PIL to be "politically motivated" the court said, "The petition has political overtones and it appears to be a petition that is politically motivated and a publicity interest litigation. A glare for publicity seems to be apparent from the tenor of the petition and the arguments made in the open court," the order read. There are serious statements in the petition and it is difficult to believe that law students would have the ability and our imagination more particularly before entering a noble profession they can make such statements," the order added. Also Read | Ayodhya Ram Mandir Inauguration LIVE Updates The Maharashtra government argued that declaring a holiday falls within the executive policy decision of the government and should not fall for judicial scrutiny. The law students, in their petition, have stated that a public holiday cannot be declared to celebrate the consecration of Ram Lalla to appease a particular section of society or a religious community. Any policy regarding declaration of public holidays cannot be at the whims and fancies of the political party in power. Holiday can be declared perhaps to commemorate a patriotic personality or historic figure but not to celebrate the consecration of Ram Lalla to appease a particular section of the society or religious community," the plea reads. The plea further claimed that the decision to declare a public holiday, keeping an eye over the upcoming parliamentary elections, was a "gross abuse of power for political purposes". The plea said there are several temples across India and if the government starts celebrating consecrations of various Gods and Goddesses in old or newly constructed temples, it would be necessary to declare a public holiday on each of such days. "There are only 365 days in the year and they may not be enough to celebrate such consecrations," the PIL said. The petition, filed by Shivangi Agarwal, Satyajeet Salve, Vedant Agarwal and Khushi Bangia, sought that the Bombay High Court quash the government order declaring a holiday on January 22. The court said the petitioners have also questioned the wisdom of the Supreme Court in an order passed in another matter and this has shaken "our judicial conscience". "We have no doubt that this PIL has been filed for extraneous reasons. It appears to be absolutely frivolous and vexatious and does not deserve the attention of the court," the bench said. There was no doubt that such petitions were a "blatant abuse of law" and cannot be kept pending, it added. The court also questioned the political remarks made in the plea and asked at whose instance or motivation the statements were included in the petition. Also Read | ISRO satellite provides stunning aerial images of Ayodhya Ram Temple from space "As pointed out by the respondent (Maharashtra government), there are some statements about political agenda in the plea that are political in nature...some are very reckless statements. On whose motivation or at whose instance have those statements been included in the plea?" the bench asked. The High Court also questioned the petitioners as to how the media came to know about the petition even before it was placed in the court. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! With NSG snippers, 10,000 CCTV cameras, AI-powered drones, UP police commandos and plain cloth police besides thousands of state police personnel to keep an eye on the movement of the people, the holy city of Ayodhya has turned into a fortress with security agencies deploying multi-layered security for the 'pran prathishtha' ceremony at Shri Ram Mandir. Along with the state police department, central forces like the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are actively involved in the security preparations. Also Read | Ayodhya Ram Mandir Live: Delhi declares closure of general shift in schools Director General (DG), Law and Order, Prashant Kumar told ANI "The 'pran pratishtha' ceremony, which will be held on Monday, is going to be a historic event. For this, the Uttar Pradesh Police has made elaborate security arrangements. Security has been ensured for every road along the entire red zone, yellow zone and Ayodhya district," he added. Kumar said to ensure better security arrangements for the 'pran prathishtha' ceremony, technology is being used on a large scale. "For this, 10,000 CCTV cameras have been installed in the entire Ayodhya district. In some of these CCTV cameras, we are using AI-based technology so that we can maintain a strict vigil on commuters," the DG said. "This is a significant undertaking for the UP Police. It poses both a challenge and an opportunity. Extensive security arrangements have been put in place, including traffic diversions from surrounding districts. Only authorised vehicles are permitted to enter Ayodhya," Kumar said adding that the state police coordinating with other agencies. Checking is going on at the international and inter-state borders. Police will use drones for crowd control and for diversion of excess crowd," he added. The authorities have deployed police personnel with multi-lingual skills in plain clothes at the programme venue. Also Read | Ayodhya Ram mandir pran pratishtha on January 22 How to watch live telecast Kumar said the security along the Saryu River has been increased with the help of NDRF and State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) teams. Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) personnel are also conducting patrols in the holy city. A senior ATS official said not only AI-equipped drones conducting aerial surveillance across Ayodhya but also anti-mine drones simultaneously inspect the ground for mines or explosives. "Ayodhya is now under the watchful eye of drones equipped with artificial intelligence, alongside the utilisation of anti-mine drones, as part of the concerted efforts to enhance security in the temple town," ANI quoted the ATS official as saying. Operating at a height of one metre above the ground, the anti-mine drones are equipped with advanced technology like spectrometer wavelength detection for detecting underground explosives, he added. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Former Congress president Rahul Gandhi Sunday claimed that if there had been a prime minister of the grand old party, the violence in Manipur would have been controlled by the fourth day, news agency PTI reported. The senior Congress leader was addressing a rally at Nagaon district of Assam as part of the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. Accusing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of not interested in dousing the fire of ethnic violence in Manipur, Gandhi claimed that even PM Narendra Modi could control the violence in the Northeastern state within three days with the help of the Indian Army. "Manipur has been burning for several months, but our prime minister hasn't gone there till date. Had it been a Congress PM, he would have gone there in three days and the fire there would have been doused on the fourth day," PTI quoted the former Congress president as saying. "If the prime minister gives an order to the Army, in three days they can stop it. But, the BJP doesn't want to douse the fire. That's why the PM doesn't go there and order the Army to stop the 'tamasha'," he added. The former Congress president claimed their workers and leaders were attacked by the BJP workers. Their vehicles were attacked and media persons accompanying the party's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra were "manhandled" by the BJP crowd. He further alleged that the BJP-ruled Assam government has been threatening people and trying to suppress their voice, but they have shown huge support to the Congress during the Nyay Yatra. "A handful of people are moving around with BJP flags, but the public is with us," he said. "Leaders come and go, but those with hearts filled with arrogance and hatred vanish soon," he added. Meanwhile, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, who is travelling with Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, accused the ruling party in the state of attacking his vehicle. My vehicle was attacked a few minutes ago at Jamugurihat, Sonitpur by an unruly BJP crowd who also tore off the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra stickers from the windshield," Ramesh said in a post on X. They threw water and shouted anti-BJNY (Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra) slogans. But we kept our composure, waved to the hooligans and sped away. This is undoubtedly the Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarmas doing. We are not intimidated and will soldier on," he added in the post. New Delhi: India has imported 40,000 doses of bull semen from Brazil for the first time to boost milk output via artificial insemination, a top official at the Brazilian embassy said. The National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), which has imported the doses, aims to increase the number of Indian native breeds, Gir and Kankrej, and raise their milk production. NDDB is a government-owned cooperative that owns and operates the Mother Dairy brand. The first imports of 40,000 semen doses just took place this month by Indias NDDB. Its been a project for a long time. For three to four years, they have been discussing it. Though it was a tough discussion, we managed to solve it and now import has taken place," said Angelo de Queiroz Mauricio, agricultural attache at Brazils embassy in New Delhi. It is unclear if India will import more doses in future. The development comes at a time when the government is targeting to produce 330 million tonnes (mt) of milk per annum by FY34. India produced 230.6 mt of milk in FY23, a 3.8% increase from a year ago and a 22.8% rise from FY19, according to an Indian government statement. India is the worlds largest milk producer, contributing 24% to global output, followed by the US and China. However, the countrys current milk production is on par with its consumption and, therefore, it needs to find ways to increase output as demand is expected to continue rising. NDDB is going to use the doses in an existing research project to get animals that have Brazilian genetics with a capacity of producing more than 80 litres of milk per animal," said Mauricio. The average here is eight litres. Some animals in Brazil can even produce up to 40 litres of milk. However, the average is 20-22 litres per animal." A senior official from the animal husbandry and dairying ministry confirmed that the import took place. NDDBs plan to import Brazilian bull semen faced strong resistance over the past four years from indigenous cow breeders over concerns about spoiling Indian breeds. In 2017, the government tried to import frozen semen from Brazil, but postponed the decision due to objections from cattle breeders. Gir or Gyr is one of the principal Zebu breeds that originated in India. (Zebu cattle originated in Southwest Asia and have evolved from three breeds of Indian cattle.) It was gifted by the Maharaja of Bhavnagar to Brazil in the 18th century, and Brazil has preserved the original breed of Gir cows. Over the years, Gir has become a high milk-producing breed and is quite popular in South American countries due to its ability to survive extreme weather. At the same time, India saw a constant decline in the number of indigenous varieties as farmers preferred breeds like Jersey, which are of British origin and yield more milk. Jersey cows give about 20 litres per animal a day on average. Jerseys cross-bred with Indian breeds can give 8-10 litres, and the Indian breed of Gir cows can give 6-10 litres, as per the Indian Agriculture Research Institute. We are also discussing embryo transfer. We are going to give it to living animals because there is a gradual increase in the success rate regarding genetic material," said Mauricio. When you import semen, you still need to find the animals. When you import embryos, you dont need it. So, the chances of success are higher." India and Brazil share a close and multifaceted relationship both at the bilateral level as well as in plurilateral fora such as Brics, BASIC, G-20, G-4, IBSA, International Solar Alliance, as well as in the larger multilateral bodies such as the UN, WTO, Unesco, and WIPO. The two countries have been strategic partners since 2006. The bilateral trade relationship has grown steadily with a target of increasing two-way trade to $50 billion by 2030, commerce secretary Sunil Barthwal had said last October. Trade was at $15.2 billion in FY22, data from the ministry of external affairs shows. There has been an MoU between both governments since 2008, among others. One of the main areas of this MoU is the development of animal husbandry, especially dairy. Under the umbrella agreement, there is a joint declaration between MAPA (Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Supply of Brazil) and DAHD (Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, India) to streamline these things. Below this, there is a commercial contract between the Indian buyer and the Brazilian seller. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday remarked on the significant advancements in the health sector in Gujarat, highlighting the state's current status as a prominent medical hub in India. Prime Minister Modi shared his remarks virtually at the foundation stone laying ceremony of Khodaldham Trust Cancer Hospital in Gujarat. He said, For public welfare, Shree Khodaldham Trust has taken a step forward. From today, the work for Cancer Hospital and Research Centre will begin in Amreli." He noted that Gujarat has made remarkable progress in the health sector. Today Gujarat is turning out to be a big medical hub in India. Till 2002, Gujarat had only 11 medical colleges however today, the number has risen to 40. In 20 years, the MBBS seats have gone up by five times," he further added. PM Modi stressed the government is making efforts to ensure hassle-free treatment for cancer patients. In the last nine years, almost 30 new cancer hospitals have been developed in the country. Work is underway at 10 new cancer hospitals," he added. Also Read: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Ramayana-Connect tour reaches Arichalmunai, where Ram Setu was said to be built Earlier in the day, PM Modi visited the Kothandaramaswamy Temple in Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, on Sunday and offered prayers. This visit precedes the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla scheduled for tomorrow in Ayodhya. Additionally, PM Modi participated in a puja at the Kothandaramaswamy Temple during his visit. Also Read: PM Modi extends wishes to Manipur on Statehood Day, hails culture and traditions of state The Prime Minister visited Arichal Munai in Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu, believed to be the location where the Ram Setu was constructed. During the visit, PM Modi was photographed offering a floral tribute at the Arichal Munai point. (With inputs from agencies) Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president Asaduddin Owaisi's remarks on Babri Masjid caught the attention of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) ahead of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir Inauguration ceremony. AIMIM's Owaisi had said that Babri Masjid in Ayodhya was "very systematically snatched from the Muslims. Owaisi had questioned three important incidents" that, he said, led to the situation the way it is today. Owaisi had remarked that if the mosque had not been demolished in 1992, Muslims wouldn't be facing the current situation. Replying to Owaisi's statements ahead of the Ram Mandir event in Ayodhya, the Viswa Hindu Parishad has said that Hyderabad MP will very soon chant "Raam Naam', according to India Today. VHPs National spokesperson Vinod Bansal questioned Owaisi , In the last 500 years, has anyone from your ancestors visited Ayodhya?" VHP's Vinod Bansal also told India Today also said Owaisi is a Barrister from the UK, why didn't he move the court to save the Mosque? He is just doing his politics. This Muslim Party (AIMIM) should understand that soon they will become Ram Bhakt, and will chant Ram Naam." Speaking to reporters in Karnataka's Kalaburagi ahead of the Ram Mandir consecration, Owaisi had on Saturday said, ""...the Muslims had offered namaz in that area (Babri Masjid) for 500 years. When Congress's GB Pant was the chief minister (of Uttar Pradesh), idols were placed inside the masjid at one night...but the idols were not removed from there... there was a collector named Nair. He shut down the Masjid and started doing puja there, and in 1950s, Nair became the Jan Sangh's first member of the Parliament". He added that late in 1986, locks were opened without listening to the Muslims. "On 6 December 1992, the Babri Masjid was demolished...sacrificed by the BJP and the Sang parivar," the AIMIM chief said. Owaisi said the Ram Mandir did not exist when Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) was formed. He also said Mahatma Gandhi never mentioned anything about Ram Mandir. " Very systematically, Babri Masjid has been taken away from Indian Muslims...," he said. Asaduddin Owaisi asked, "Had we seen things how they are today if GB Pant had removed those idols back then? or if the locks had not been opened in 1986 and if the Masjid had not been demolished on 6 December". He said, These are the questions were are asking and no one is responding to them." Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wished Manipur on their Statehood Day. The state which was struck by ethnic violence between Kuki and Meitei communities last year, is yet to be graced by the presence of the Prime Minister. Notably, sporadic incidences of violence and subsequent deaths are still reported from Manipur. The Statehood Day of Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura is celebrated on January 21. This year marks the 52nd foundation year for the three states which attained statehood under the North Eastern Areas (Reorganisation) Act of 1971. Manipur was a princely state, and so was Tripura. Both states were absorbed into India in October 1949, Meghalaya was part of Assam after Independence. The states came into being in 1972 after the North-Eastern Areas (Reorganisation) Act, of 1971, was enacted. It resulted in a significant change in the boundaries of India's Northeastern region, dividing it into states and Union Territories (UTs) after 24 years of Independence. On Manipurs Statehood Day, my best wishes to the people of the state. Manipur has made a strong contribution to Indias progress. We take pride in the culture and traditions of the state. I pray for the continued development of Manipur", PM Narendra Modi tweeted. President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday extended her greetings to the people on the statehood days of Meghalaya, Tripura and Manipur. In a post on X, the President noted these Northeast states are surging ahead on the path of progress, prosperity and peace. "Greetings to the people of Meghalaya, Tripura and Manipur on Statehood Day! These states are uniquely blessed with nature's bounty and are also bearers of rich cultural heritage. They are moving ahead on the path of progress, prosperity and peace. I convey my best wishes to residents of Meghalaya, Tripura and Manipur," President Murmu posted from her official X handle on Sunday. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said the government will end the free movement of people at the India-Myanmar border, and fence it completely so that it can be protected like the country's boundary with Bangladesh. The Free Movement Regime allows people living on both sides of the border to travel 16 km into each other's territory without a visa. Four Indian states -- Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram, share a 1,643-km-long border with Myanmar. Earlier, officials had said that the government was planning to fence a 300-km stretch of the border. More than 31,000 people from Myanmar, mostly from the Chin state, have taken refuge in Mizoram following the military coup in the neighbouring country in February 2021. Many also took shelter in Manipur. Dozens of Myanmar soldiers stationed near the international border with India also fled to Mizoram following intense gunfights with militia group People's Defence Force (PDF) last year. They were later sent back to their country. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Mumbai: Shriram Finance (SFL) could replace UPL on the Nifty 50 index while Canara Bank is likely to replace Bandhan Bank on the 12 constituent Bank Nifty index at the semi-annual review of Nifty indices , which will take effect on 31 March . The inclusions could attract net inflow of $245 million to the SFL counter and a net inflow of $36 million to Canara Bank from domestic institutions and insurance companies. UPL could also see outflows of $107 million and Bandhan Bank of $39 million, said Abhilash Pagaria, head of quantitative research at Nuvama Wealth, in a note. UPL and Bandhan after likely exclusions will remain on the broader market Nifty 500. The official announcement is expected by February end, but Pagaria expects signific-ant activity" at the stock counters in coming sessions . Nifty indices rejig is set for March, and at Nuvama Alternative, we anticipate it to be action-packed. Our high-conviction Nifty 50 entrant is Shriram Finance (with an inflow of $245 mn), while UPL (outflow of $107 mn) is expected to exit. Simultaneously, we foresee Canara Bank displacing Bandhan Bank in Nifty Bank," Pagaria told Mint. The rebalancing is part of a semi-annual review of the indices by NSE Indices Ltd, an NSE subsidiary. The cut off dates for the rebalancing are 31 January and 31 July each year. The most important criteria for the inclusion or exclusion are the impact cost, or the cost to execute a transaction on the exchange over a prior six-month period and the average market capitalisation. Impact cost is based on the liquidity or number of buyers and sellers in the market at given times. Higher the liquidity, lower the impact cost. The current market cap of SFL is 86,169 crore while that of UPL is 41,452 crore. That of Canara Bank is 86,733 crore while Bandhan Banks is at 36,978 crore. By share performance, SFL has vastly outperformed UPL, generating a six-month return of 25.52% to 2,299 apiece against a negative 12.95% return for UPL to 552.45. Canara Bank has generated a six-month return of 41% to 478 against just 5.3% return of Bandhan Bank to 229.65. SFLs wide-spread presence as one of the leading CV financers and its diversified bouquet of products (which came in from SCUF merger) started showing a strong growth momentum," noted JM Financial, which had a price target of 2,130 on the stock and a buy rating post its Q2 results. We expect the margins to sust-ain from here on while healthy PCR (provision coverage ratio) adds to asset quality comfort. We continue to maintain our FY24/FY25 gro-wth and earnings estimates expecting ROA/ROEs of 3.3%/15.5% for FY25E." Nirmal Bang, on the other hand, cut agro-chemical producer UPLs one year price aim by 15% to 620 while retaining a buy on the stock post its Q2 results, which saw it report a 102 crore consolidated adjus-ted loss because of tepid dem-and for its products, destocking and competition. The benchmark Nifty and the sectoral Bank Nifty are among the most important indices offered by NSE. Nuvama expects significant movement in Nifty Next 50, with Jio Fin ($77million inf-low) and public sector undertakings like IRFC ($26 million), and Power Finance ($54 million), likely to be included. NEW DELHI : A delegation from the United Kingdom will arrive in India on 22 January to discuss remaining aspects of the free-trade agreement negotiations between the two countries, said two people aware of the matter. The fourteenth and concluding round of negotiations for a free-trade agreement between India and the UK began on 10 January in New Delhi. A majority of the issues in the proposed FTA between India and the UK are either finalised or at an advanced stage of talks, said one of the two persons mentioned above. Both of them declined to be identified. Both sides are hoping to conclude the negotiations soon," this person said, adding that the negotiations with the UK were heading in the right direction. The UKs delegation of about a dozen members includes high-ranking government officials to resolve some sticky issues in the final deliberations, this person added. A commerce ministry spokesperson didnt immediately respond to emailed queries. The two sides concluded the thirteenth round of FTA talks between 18 September and 15 December. The fourteenth round of negotiations, which began earlier this month, includes matters related to goods, services, and investment. Some of the sticky issues have been discussions on business mobility, scotch whiskey, automobiles including electric vehicles, farm products, pharmaceuticals, rules of origin, and a separate agreement to enhance bilateral investments. However, the focus of the negotiators has been to resolve the remaining issues, said the second person mentioned above. With bilateral trade growing from $17.5 billion in FY2022 to $20.36 billion in FY2023, India and the UK are committed to developing a comprehensive and mutually beneficial trade relationship. However, the India-UK FTA negotiations have encountered multiple obstacles, resulting in the ambitious agreement being delayed by more than a year from its original deadline. Indias demand for visas for professionals is another sticky issue in the negotiations. While India would like its companies to be able to hire people (both locally in the UK and from India) after setting up shop there, the UK is concerned about migration, an emotive issue in the country that led to the 2016 referendum on Britains decision to exit the European Union. Ending the free movement of people and taking back control of its borders were key factors that resulted in Brexit. While it remains a key issue, the UK government has had some setbacks. For example, the UK government announced the Rwanda scheme in April 2022 to prevent migration, and loss of life in the process, especially from African countries. Under the five-year trial of the scheme, asylum seekers arriving in the UK could be sent to Rwanda for processing. But, in November, the UK Supreme Court ruled the plan unlawful due to risks to asylum seekers sent to Rwanda. Indias rapidly growing market and economy have made it a lucrative option for developed as well as developing countries for free-trade agreements, economic think tank Global Trade Research Initiative said in a report earlier this month. The main reason is Indias high import duties, which make it difficult for these countries to access Indias large and rapidly growing market," it added. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Two recent Netflix documentaries have ignited a firestorm among members of the scientific community who have challenged the credibility of the work. The popular shows are Unknown: Cave of Bones," which explores what could be the worlds oldest graveyard, and Ancient Apocalypse," about an advanced civilization hypothesized to have gone extinct around the last ice age. Each made the Netflix global top 10 list when they debuted in July 2023 and November 2022, respectively. But many archaeologists and anthropologistsin critiques published in scientific journals, academic and professional websites, YouTube videos, and a letter to Netflixargue the shows promote theories that dont represent a scientific consensusand shouldnt be labeled as documentaries. Netflix declined to comment. The conflict raises questions about the responsibility media companies have for the content they commission and distribute and about the influence that content has on the publics evolving understanding of science. Filmmakers and stars of the shows defend the productions, saying the established research community is too wedded to the peer-review framework as a means of communicating science. It wasnt about making a peer-reviewed journal of a film," said Mark Mannucci, director and producer of Cave of Bones." Theres a tone that I hope we were able to imbue this film with, where these scientists are really asking questions, as opposed to making statements that sound like theyve nailed it." British journalist and author Graham Hancock, who hosted Ancient Apocalypse," said the series tells a story he passionately believes in. At the end of the day, the public is the final arbiter," Hancock said. Fortunately, the public seems to have liked this series very much indeed." Viewers watched episodes of Ancient Apocalypse" for almost 36 million hours between January and June of last year, according to a Netflix engagement report released in December. Figures for Cave of Bones" havent yet been released. View Full Image A key thesis of the Ancient Apocalypse series is that an advanced civilization existed across the globe before going extinct around 12,000 years ago. (Neflix) Netflix has nearly 250 million paid memberships in more than 190 countries, according to Securities and Exchange Commission filings, and the documentary category is one of the streaming platforms fastest-growing genres, a 2022 study by researchers in Brussels found. The extent of that reach, scientists say, should compel the company to ensure the veracityof material it markets as documentaries. Organizations like Netflix have an editorial responsibility," said John Hoopes, a University of Kansas archaeologist. But the definition of documentary has become more flexible, said Marcia Rock, director of news and documentary at New York Universitys Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute. Nonfiction on television has the same challenges as fiction on television," she said. You need tension and a story arc." Rock, who wasnt involved with the show, said Ancient Apocalypse" makes it clear that Hancocks theories dont align with the established consensus. That is sufficient, she added. Ancient Apocalypse" explores whether an advanced civilization coexisted with hunter-gatherers across the globe before going mostly extinct around 12,000 years ago. This civilization, the show contends, was responsible for the knowledge that enabled the spread of agriculture and the construction of ancient architectural wonders, rather than the indigenous people archaeologists generally credit for the developments. In the show, Hancock suggests this lost civilization enabled the construction of pyramids in Mexico and Indonesia, stone temples in Micronesia and Malta, and raised mounds in the southern U.S., among other structures. He says an underground city in modern-day Turkey might have once housed this civilization. He also points to a submerged geological feature in the Bahamas known as the Bimini Road, or Bimini Wall, as potential evidence of its road-building. Typically, previous civilizations are documented by archaeologists who unearth tools, writings, carvings and monuments and then use techniques such as radiocarbon dating to gauge the age of the artifacts and structures. Established archaeological dates based on these techniques indicate structures Hancock links to an advanced civilization were built thousands of years after he says that civilization went extinct. Geologists say the Bimini Road is a naturally occurring rock formation. Hoopes, University of Maine archaeologist Daniel Sandweiss and many other researchers say there is no material evidence that a civilization like the one Hancock describes ever existed. We can find hunter-gatherer camps that are 12,000 years old," said Charles Ewen, a professor of anthropology at East Carolina University. Theyre hard to find, but weve got lots of them. And yet we cant find any direct evidence of this past civilization." Hancock said that many coastlines were submerged following the last ice age and that archaeologists havent fully explored all areas for evidence of this advanced civilizations existence. Sea levels rose by 400 feet following the end of the last ice age, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. Upon the shows release, Sandweiss, also the president of the Society for American Archaeology, wrote to Netflix on behalf of the groups more than 5,500 members and called for the streaming platform and the shows production company to describe Ancient Apocalypse" as science fiction. Hancock published a rebuttal to the letter on his personal website. Netflix and the production company, ITN Productions, didnt respond to the letter, according to Sandweiss. ITN Productions didnt respond to The Wall Street Journals requests for comment. View Full Image The Ancient Apocalypse' series explores whether Gunung Padang, an archaeological site in West Java, Indonesia, may be millennia older than current archaeological dating suggests. (Getty Images) In Cave of Bones," paleoanthropologist Lee Berger maintains that extinct human relatives named Homo nalediwith a brain the size of an apesburied their dead in shallow graves in a subterranean cave system in South Africa, where they also carved symbolic wall art by the light of ancient torches. Anthropologists typically ascribe such behaviors only to modern humans and our extinct Neanderthal cousins, which had brains about three times bigger than those of Homo naledi. Evidence of burials and meaningful art in smaller-brained relatives would upend longstanding views of what it means to be human. There is no doubt when you look at it from here," Berger, a National Geographic Explorer in Residence with an appointment at Wits University in Johannesburg, says in the film when examining what he says is a Homo naledi grave. Cardiff University archaeologist Flint Dibble, who published a critique of Cave of Bones" on YouTube, and other scientists told the Journal that Berger and his team havent presented enough evidence to support that the burials he discusses in the film were intentionally dug and not the result of natural processes, such as erosion. There are existing criteria that can help identify a burial, Dibble said, including asserting whether a hole is handmade or natural, whether that cavity is intentionally filled and whether a skeleton is articulated, meaning the bones remain together and arranged in the proper order. Berger said the bones from the only burial to have been removed from the cave system, named Rising Star, and examined using CT scanning belong to the same individual. But based on the findings that have been shared, the skeleton isnt fully articulated, according to Paul Pettitt, a professor of Paleolithic archaeology at Durham University in the U.K. Theres a bit of an articulated limb here and an articulated foot there and an articulated hand there," he said, suggesting these are body parts that are being washed around." Previous geological studies have shown the sediment inside Rising Star is subject to erosion, drainage, and what experts call slumping, or downhill movement. Pettitt, who published a commentary examining claims regarding Homo naledis funerary activities, said such processes could have moved the bodies around inside the systems many chambers, and buried them. Berger also says in the film that what appear to be engravings on one of the cave walls, including crisscross patterns and geometric shapes, meaningfully mark the entrance and exit of a passage. The act of engraving intentional designs with stone tools is widely considered by paleoanthropologists to be a major cognitive step in human evolution. The features on the wall, which resemble symbolic art made thousands of years later by Neanderthals and Homo sapiens, havent been dated by Berger and his colleagues and might not have been made by Homo naledi, according to Andy Herries, a professor of paleoanthropology at La Trobe University in Melbourne, Australia. Similarly, evidence put forth by Bergers team that Homo naledi used firesuch as hearths with charcoal and charred woodhasnt yet been dated. If you want to sit there and say you have a [Homo] naledi-made fire, well then in the first place, radiocarbon date your charcoal," said Herries, who co-wrote a recent paper in the Journal of Human Evolution critiquing Berger and his teams conclusions. Show us how old it is." Berger said efforts to date the hearths and other evidence for fire in the cave system are ongoing. View Full Image A reproduction of the skull from a Homo naledi child named Leti discovered inside the Rising Star cave system several years ago. (AFP/Getty Images) Questions about Bergers Homo naledi research arose before the release of Cave of Bones," when his group shared their findings about the species mortuary practices and art in a trio of preprint papers. Typically, scientific studies are subject to rigorous scrutiny by outside experts in the field before publication. The findings received significant media attention at the time of their initial publication in June, including in the Journal. The preprints were subsequently published in the peer-reviewed journal eLife, whose editors and reviewers in an assessment accompanying the work concluded that the evidence presented was incomplete at this stage." The stars of both Netflix shows chafe at the criticisms from the scientific community. What I see happening now is people are angry that were actually publishing hypotheses for almost the first time in the history of this field," Berger said, adding that his team believes they are putting forward the best hypotheses about Homo naledis behavior based on the evidence they have. Cave of Bones" executive producer Jon Bardin said he and Mannucci, the films director, sought to showcase the anthropologists experiences and the excitement of the discovery process. We cant say something on screen that is factually incorrect," Bardin said. Thats different than pushing everything through the scientific method." Bardin is head of documentary and nonfiction at Story Syndicate, the production company from which Netflix commissioned Cave of Bones." The Journal partnered with Story Syndicate in the production of a documentary about GameStop. The lesson for researchers who want to hold platforms like Netflix to a higher scientific standard, Pettitt said, is that they must start a serious conversation with the people who commission and produce these shows. Ewen, the East Carolina University anthropologist, agreed. How we win people over is by being better at telling our stories." DUBAIThe U.S., Egypt and Qatar are pushing Israel and Hamas to join a phased diplomatic process that would start with a release of hostages and, eventually, lead to a withdrawal of Israeli forces and an end to the war in Gaza, diplomats involved in mediating the talks said. Neither side in the conflict has agreed to the terms of the new proposalwhich includes steps at odds with the stated positions of Israel and Hamas. Taher Al-Nono, a media adviser to Hamas, said there was no real progress, and Israeli officials didnt respond to a request for comment. But people briefed on the talks said Israel and Hamas at least were again willing to engage in discussions after weeks of stalled talks following the end of the last cease-fire on Nov. 30. Negotiations were set to continue in Cairo in coming days, the people said. The two parties willingness to discuss the framework was a positive step. Mediators are now working to bridge the gap," one of the people briefed on the talks said. The new proposal, backed by Washington, Cairo and Doha, represents a new approach to defusing the conflictaiming to make the release of Israeli hostages kidnapped by Hamas part of a comprehensive deal that could lead to an end to hostilities. In November, a pause in fighting lasted a week and was accompanied by an exchange of 100 Israeli hostages in Gaza for more than 300 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. And Israeli negotiators have continued to push for a two-week halt to fighting to allow for hostage-prisoner exchanges and have been reluctant to discuss plans that envision a permanent cease-fire, Egyptian officials said. Hamas, on the other hand, is seeking to gain maximum advantage from the captives it holds, and only wants to trade them for thousands of Palestinian prisoners and a permanent cease-fire. Gaza leader Yahya Sinwar believes that the Israelis will prioritize hostages over the battlefield and that Hamas needs to hold out as long as possible to exhaust Israel and keep international pressure on it, the officials said. Sinwar is willing to release hostages but wants a longer cease-fire and better terms than last time, the officials said. Hamas took more than 200 hostages in a surprise attack on Israel on Oct. 7 that Israel says also left about 1,200 people dead. Some of those killed were tortured and raped. Israeli officials have said the attack profoundly changed Israeli society and have vowed to destroy Hamas and kill its leaders. The U.S., Egypt and Qatar see another hostage deal as the key to bringing a prolonged halt to the fighting. Egyptian officials say that while Israeli leaders publicly take an uncompromising stance, there are divisions within the Israeli cabinet, with some calling for prioritization of hostages. In a rare interview with Israeli television, Gadi Eisenkot, a former general who is now a nonvoting member of Israels war cabinet, said: We should say bravely that it is impossible to return the hostages alive in the near future without an agreement." Other senior Israeli leaders disagree, saying that only continued military pressure on Hamas will compel the group to return captives. On Tuesday in Cairo, Israeli negotiators offered another counterproposal on hostages that didnt include a path to ending the war, Egyptian officials said. They said Egypts top negotiator, its intelligence chief, Abbas Kamel, accused Israels team of not being serious about the talks. Meanwhile, Hamas has told Egyptian and Qatari officials that the previous, short-term hostage deal was unsatisfactory, with less aid than promised reaching Gaza and many of its freed prisoners getting arrested again later. A Qatari official said the Gulf state continues to communicate with all parties with the objective of mediating an immediate end to the bloodshed, protecting the lives of innocent civilians, securing the release of hostages, and facilitating the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza." The mediators have proposed a 90-day plan that would first pause fighting for an unspecified number of days for Hamas to first release all Israeli civilian hostages, while Israel would release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, withdraw forces from Gazas towns and cities, allow freedom of movement in the strip, end drone surveillance and double the amount of aid going into the enclave, according to the plan. In the second phase, Hamas would free female Israeli soldiers and turn over bodies while Israel would release more Palestinian prisoners. A third phase would involve the release of Israeli soldiers and fighting-age men Hamas considers soldiers, according to Egyptian officials, while Israel would redeploy some of its forces outside the current borders of the Gaza Strip. Israel says it has destroyed more than half of Hamass fighting battalions and largely cleared the strips largest city, Gaza City, and its surroundings of militants. But its forces are now fighting in Khan Younis, a densely packed city in the enclaves south, and looking ahead to clashes in the border town of Rafah, where more than 1.3 million civilians have sought refuge. Also on the table: the formation of an international fund for the reconstruction of Gaza, and safety guarantees for Hamas political leaders, Egyptian officials said. The plan then envisions talks for a permanent cease-fire, normalization of relations between Israel and Arab countries like Saudi Arabia and the relaunching a process to create a Palestinian state, Egyptian officials said. Gulf countries have ruled out funding a reconstruction of Gazaas the Israelis have called forwithout a clear and irreversible path to a Palestinian state. A particular hindrance in the talks, said Egyptian officials, has been Hamass internal rifts. On one side is Sinwar, an architect of the Oct. 7 attacks who is believed to be hiding deep in Gazas underground tunnel network with at least some of the hostages. Sinwar has told mediators that Hamas has essentially won the war, the officials said, despite heavy military losses, and at least 25,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israels offensive, mostly women and childrena Palestinian health ministry figure that doesnt distinguish between civilians and militants. The death and destruction has sparked criticism of Israels conduct of the war from Arab and other governments and protesters in the West. South Africas government filed a claim of genocide against Israel in the International Court of Justice. Israel has vehemently denied the allegation. On the other side is Hamass political leadership outside of Gaza. Based in Doha, these officials have led the talks with Qatar and Egypt, are vying to keep Hamas relevant after the war ends and have indicated a willingness to demilitarize in Gazasomething Sinwar vehemently opposes, the Egyptian officials said. Israel opposes a role for Hamas in any future Gaza government and has also expressed opposition to suggestions that the secular Palestinian Authority, which rules the West Bank, should run the strip, as the U.S. envisions. Sinwar and Hamass political leader in Doha, Ismail Haniyeh, havent communicated directly in almost a month, the officials said. That has made progress on a deal difficult, they said. After days being locked in a dangerous-looking military confrontation, Pakistan and Iran appear to have settled the immediate crisis. Iran launched the first missile strike, hitting a terror base in Pakistans Baluchistan. Just whats going on here? Mint explains. What exactly happened? Iran launched a missile attack at reported terror camps in Pakistans Baluchistan province last week. The target was Jaish al-Adl, which operates in Pakistan and Irans Sistan-Baluchistan province. Founded in 2012 it had claimed responsibility for an attack on an Iranian police station in December. Pakistan condemned the attack saying it had killed two minor girls. In response, it launched attacks on Irans Sistan-Baluchestan province against what it termed terrorist hideouts" which killed nine, and recalled its ambassador in Tehran. Now their foreign ministers have spoken and defused tensions. Why did these attacks take place? The Iranian attack followed similar strikes on Syria and Iraq. Experts say Iran launched the strikes in retaliation for two attacks over the last few weeks: one killed 94 people attending a memorial for a general and the other killed a commander. They say Tehran launched the strikes to send a message to its people and regional powers that Iran remains strong on national security. Once the strikes had taken place, Pakistans army had little option but to retaliate given reputational concerns. It too suffered serious setbacks with internal political instability and terror attacks that have killed scores of people. How did India respond to the crisis? ...We have an uncompromising position of zero tolerance towards terrorism. We understand actions that countries take in their self-defence," said the Indian spokesperson. Observers said the stance showed a tilt toward Iran. New Delhi and Tehran have long maintained a dialogue on terrorism and security, with a wary eye on Islamabads policies in the region. What did other global powers say? The US condemned Irans strikes in Iraq, Syria and Pakistan. I think it is a little rich, for on one hand, Iran to be the leading funder of terrorism in the region, the leading funder of instability in the region; and on the other hand, (to) claim that it needs to take these actions to counter terrorism," said the US spokesperson. China urged both sides to exercise restrain. The two should avoid actions that escalate the tension and jointly keep the region peaceful and stable," said the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson. Can this exacerbate the West Asian crisis? The strikes on Pakistan, coupled with those on Iraq and Syria, raised concerns that Irans actions would worsen the crisis caused by Israels war in Gaza and Houthi retaliation on ships in the Red Sea. Iran backs Houthis in Yemen, along with a number of other resistance" forces like Hezbollah and groups in Iraq and Syria. Others said the strikes on Pakistan represent a limited escalation of a local issue: a volatile border that has been a hotbed of terror. The quick resolution of the crisis may underscore that point. Maldives minister Meekail Naseem has blamed President Mohamed Muizzu for a teenager's death in GA Vilingili in Maldives. According to reports, a fourteen year old Maldivian boy was required to be airlifted from Gaaf Alif Villingili to Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital Maldives' capital city Male . Aasandha Company Limited, the company responsible for medical evacuations, issued an official statement and said that the Medical Section of the company had processed and approved the airlift ambulance within 12 minutes. The 14 year old Malivian boy from Gaaf Alif Villingili, had a brain tumour and suffered a stroke, according to India Today. The Maldivian media reports that the the family of the teenager alleges that the authorities failed to arrange medical evacuation promptly. "We called Island Aviation to get him to Male' immediately after the stroke but they did not answer our calls. They answered the phone at 8:30 am on Thursday. The solution is to have an air ambulance for such cases," Maldivian media Adhadhu quoted the boys father as saying. The Asandha Company statement is evidence that the teenager boy was brought to Male sixteen hours after the evacuation request was made. The Aasandha Company Limited that received the emergency evacuation request said that they initiated the process to evacuate immediately after the request, but unfortunately, due to a technical problem with the flight at the last moment, the diversion was not possible as planned". Indian American leader and Republican leader Nikki Haley attacked former US President Donald Trump while raising concerns over his 'mental fitness' after the former President confused her with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, The Hill reported. In a video message of X, Haley said, "Last night, Trump is at a rally...and he's going on and on, mentioning me multiple times as to why I didn't take security during the Capitol riots, why I didn't handle January 6 better. I wasn't even in DC on January 6. I wasn't in office then." Further adding, she said, They're saying he got confused, that he was talking about something else, he's talking about Nancy Pelosi, he mentioned me multiple times in that scenario." The former UN Ambassador said that someone at the position of the US President dealing with so much pressure has to be 'mentally fit' for the job. "The concern I have is, I'm not saying anything derogatory, but when you're dealing with the pressures of a presidency, we can't have someone else that we question whether they're mentally fit to do this," she further stated. This comes as The Hill reports that during a rally on Friday, Trump seemed to make a mistake regarding former South Carolina Governor Haley and former House Speaker Pelosi when discussing the rioting that occurred at the US Capitol on January 6. During a rally, Trump had said, By the way, they never report the crowd on Jan 6. You know Nikki Haley, Nikki Haley, Nikki Haley, you know, they -- do you know they destroyed all of the information, all of the evidence, everything, deleted and destroyed all of it. All of it." "Because of lots of things ... like Nikki Haley is in charge of security -- we offered her 10,000 people, soldiers, National Guards, whatever they want. They turned it down. They don't want to talk about that. These are very dishonest people," he added. Meanwhile, Trump and Haley will go head to head on January 23 in the New Hampshire primary, the next stop in the battle for the GOP presidential nomination. Recently, Trump registered a comprehensive victory at the Iowa caucuses winning 20 of the 40 delegates while Florida Governor Ron DeSantis came a distant second with eight delegates and Haley finished not much behind with seven delegates. According to a poll average from Decision Desk HQ and The Hill, Trump is currently 10.6 points ahead of Haley in the race in the Granite State. According to a RealClearPolitics average of state surveys, Trump leads Haley in New Hampshire, but by just 14.2 percentage points which is his smallest lead in any state with early voting, Bloomberg had reported. (With inputs from ANI) Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! United States soldiers being treated for traumatic brain injuries after multiple ballistic missiles and rockets were launched by Iran-backed militants in Western Iraq targeting Al-Assad Airbase on 20 January, Saturday, claims US Central Command. Taking to microblogging site X, US CENTCOM posted, Most of the missiles were intercepted by the bases air defense systems while others impacted on the base. Damage assessments are ongoing. A number of U.S. personnel are undergoing evaluation for traumatic brain injuries. At least one Iraqi service member was wounded.". On Saturday, the US had also conducted airstrikes against a Houthi anti-ship missile that was aimed into the Gulf of Aden and was prepared to launch, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) stated. Last week, US had also conducted airstrikes across Yemen claiming to have hit 14 Houthi targets, amid the ongoing Red Sea attacks by Houthis, disrupting the trade route. The Yemen-based Houthis have cited Israel's genocide in Gaza, killing at least 25,000 Palestinians as the reason for their attacks in Red Sea. In their attacks against the Houthis, the US has maintained the need for self defense as the rebel launched missiles were targeting merchant vessels and US Navy Ships in the Red Sea. Notably, the US had also said that Israel had the right to self defense when Benjamin Netanyahu's Israeli Defense Forces had started pounding Gaza in retaliation to the 7 October Hamas attack. However, from then Israel never stopped, and had now conducted an unrecognized genocide". The White House confirmed in a statement that this was the fourth preemptive action taken by the US military amid boiling tensions in the Red Sea. President Joe Biden-governed US redesignated the Yemen-based Houthi Group as a "terrorist" organization in response to its continuing attacks and threats to shipping and imposed sanctions on it. The designation does not go into effect for 30 days. The Houthis said the designation will not affect its operations to prevent Israeli ships or vessels heading to Israel from crossing the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. Houthis' strikes have slowed trade between Asia and Europe and alarmed major world powers, Al Jazeera reported. Meanwhile, Iran on Saturday accused Israel of a strike in Damascus that killed five Revolutionary Guards members, and vowed to avenge the latest attack on the Islamic republic's personnel abroad. President Ebrahim Raisi said Tehran would not let the "cowardly assassination" go unanswered. Israel has been accused of intensifying strikes targeting senior Iranian and allied figures in Syria and Lebanon -- backers of the Palestinian militant group Hamas -- raising fears that fighting in the Gaza Strip could spread further. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Vladimir Lenin has been gone for a century, but the evil he did lives on. The first leader of the Soviet Union died on Jan. 21, 1924, in Gorki, Russia (now called Nizhny Novgorod), after repeated strokes. His legacy is a world whose moral equilibrium he helped to destroy. The Soviet Union was based on Marxism, a secular religion, and Lenin was the architect of its system of antimorality. For Lenin, as he said in his speech to the Komsomol on Oct. 2, 1920, morality was entirely subordinated to the class struggle. An action was right not in light of extrahuman concepts" but only if it destroyed the old society and helped to build a new communist society. The effect of this theory is felt today in post-Soviet Russia, where the legacy of communisms blanket rejection of universal morality destroyed the hope for democratic reform. Lenins theory also inspired modern terrorism and contributes to the weakness that leads many in the West to condone ideological crimes. Lenin was born in 1870 in Simbirsk (now Ulyanovsk), the son of a senior school inspector. In 1893 he moved to St. Petersburg, where he joined the Marxist party and published a book, What Is to Be Done?" (1902), in which he described a plan for seizing power by a disciplined vanguard" party of professional revolutionaries. The unacknowledged model for this party was the Russian Peoples Will, which was founded in 1879 and in 1881 carried out the assassination of Alexander II, the Czar Liberator," who 20 years earlier had freed the Russian serfs. In February 1917, Lenins party, the Bolsheviks, had 24,000 members. It was able to triumph in a country of more than 100 million because it was a machine of concentrated power that accepted murder and glorified it as a moral obligation. Isaac Steinberg, the non-Bolshevik justice minister in the first revolutionary government, objected to summary executions. He sarcastically asked Lenin: Why bother with a Commissariat of Justice? Lets call it the Commissariat for Social Extermination." Lenins face lit up, and he said: Thats exactly what it should be, but we cant say that." The combination of dedication to Marxism and total contempt for ethical norms made it possible for the communists and their successors to establish totalitarian regimes in the 20th century that ruled more than one-third of the worlds population. Although most of these regimes no longer exist, the damage they did is likely to be felt for many years to come. Russia today is noncommunist but no less lawless than under the Soviets. Arbitrary rule, once codified in Marxist-Leninist ideology, is now justified by the prerogatives of the state, which take absolute priority over the lives of individuals. Russian officials interpret the purpose of Russian history as the strengthening of the state. In a 2008 speech, Vladimir Putin said that maintaining Russias place as a mighty nation" calls for enormous sacrifices and privations on the part of our people." In other words, his ambition is the same as Lenins: for Russians to suffer indefinitely for the state. Russia has suffered an estimated 360,000 casualties in Ukraine. That hasnt persuaded Russian leaders to stop the war. In a recent speech, Mr. Putin said the solution was for Russian women to give birth to more potential soldiers. Many of our grandmothers and great-grandmothers had seven, eight or even more children," he said. Let us preserve and revive these excellent traditions." When the Soviet Union fell, Russia dismantled the socialist economy but didnt restore the moral framework Lenin destroyed. The result was the rise of a criminal state no less dangerous than its predecessorone that has engaged in assassinations, shot down civilian airliners, and even bombed apartment buildings to bring Mr. Putin to power. Lenins influence is also evident in the terror perpetrated in the name of political Islam, like Marxism a system of total explanation. The savagery of Hamass Oct. 7 attack against Israel reproduced almost exactly the Bolsheviks tactics against suspected nonsympathizers and other civilians during the Red Terror (1918-22). One of Lenins last writings was a set of recommendations for deceiving deaf-mutes," his term for Western capitalists who were ready to ignore Soviet crimes in their pursuit of profit. His plan was to promote the fiction of a legitimate government in the Soviet Union separate from the Communist Party and establish relations with as many countries as possible to create a false impression of normality. Lenins plans were adopted by the Soviet regime and inherited by post-Soviet Russia with its fixed elections, controlled Parliament and outreach" through such institutions as the Valdai Discussion Club, which after its founding in 2004 played an important role in misleading Western officials and experts about Russias intentions. Lenins mausoleum is visited annually by an estimated 2.5 million people, but his popularity in Russia has declined compared with Stalin, who is credited with the victory in World War II. The figure of Lenin, however, stands as the symbol of historys first rejection of universal standards on behalf of a political movement that claimed a monopoly on truth. Lenin viewed the past with a degree of detachment in the last months of his life, but there is no indication that he regretted anything. For Lenin, the end always justified the means. This is why he stands as a warningnot only to the countries he directly affected but to all of mankind. Mr. Satter is author of Age of Delirium: the Decline and Fall of the Soviet Union." GENOCIDE IS A uniquely horrific crime . Not because it is the bloodiest: Stalin and Mao killed many more people in gulags and famines than the nearly 6m Jews murdered by the Nazis. But the Holocaust was seen as so monstrous that the UN adopted the Genocide Convention, promising never again to allow an attempt to wipe out a group of people, or part of one, simply because of their nationality, race, religion or ethnicity. That promise has been repeatedly brokenin Bosnia, Darfur and Rwanda, to name a few. Each new case brought before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague ought to give the world a chance to make good on its word and help strengthen the taboo against genocide by clarifying the obligations of countries to prevent and punish it. Alas, South Africas claim that Israel is committing genocide against the Palestinians, heard by the ICJ this week, cheapens the term. It risks weakening the taboo and body of law aimed at preventing it. It obscures the real worry that Israels destructive campaign is breaking the laws of war; and the fact that permanent occupation is wrong. With its case, South Africa is making a mockery of the court. Genocide requires that Israel is killing people in Gaza simply for being Palestinian. In fact it is targeting Hamas fighters in response to a deadly attack on its territory. Some far-right Israeli politicians have used hateful language, but they are not articulating government policy. South Africa has called on the ICJ to impose a unilateral ceasefire on Israel, which would leave it unable to defend itself against Hamas, a terrorist group whose founding charter calls for the killing of Jews. By trying to hold Israel solely responsible for the death of Palestinians, it is vindicating Hamass tactic of fighting from schools and hospitals in the knowledge that the death of civilians killed in the crossfire will inflame global public opinion. The ICJ is unlikely to offer a final ruling for years. South Africas case is so flimsy that it would be shocking if its final arguments convince the judges that Israel had committed genocide. But in the next few weeks they must rule on whether South Africa has a plausible" claim in order to decide whether to impose provisional measures". This is a lower bar and such a provisional ruling would be widely seen as a finding that Israel was indeed guilty of genocide, even if the court were later to rule it was not. Israel would claim it is being treated unfairly, and it would be right. Instead of restraining Israel in the war, such a provisional ruling might even embolden it to dismiss all international criticism; Israel would feel it is damned, no matter what it does. It would be even more absurd for the court to order Israelbut not Hamas, over which it has no jurisdictionto cease military operations in Gaza. Israel is still under attack. It would refuse to give up its right to self-defence, as enshrined in the UN Charter. Besides, the only way of enforcing such a ruling would be through the UN Security Council, which America would veto. South Africa is setting a terrible precedent. Its case is more of a political act than a legal one, long on theatre and short on principle. After all, earlier this month South Africa rolled out the red carpet for Sudanese genocidaires. One consequence is that the next time one country accuses another of genocide, the charges will be easier to brush off, regardless of their merits. Those appalled by the suffering in Gaza may argue that genocide was the only charge that could be brought, because the ICJ has no jurisdiction over other war crimes. Yet the focus on an implausible crime diverts attention from the possibility that Israel is breaching the laws of war. These require Israel to distinguish between civilians and combatants and to minimise civilian casualties by being proportionate in the use of force. The death toll of women and children raises grave doubts over whether Israel is meeting these obligations. It may also be failing to meet its duty under the Geneva Convention to provide medicine and food to civilians in the areas it occupies. As Gaza nears famine, its people do not need grandstanding, they need food. Israels leaders need to realise that if they block supplies, they will be held accountable by the court of public opinionthe only court available. As the world devolves from the unipolar world led by the US in the immediate aftermath of the end of the Cold War to an international order more in fluxnot yet multipolar and not quite bipolar eithersmall states are gaining outsize ability to shape their own destinies. Long used to being ignored, many small countries are increasingly capable of playing rival states against each other and expanding their diplomatic space. Maldives is a classic case in point. With newly elected Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu being seen as pro-China, the India-Maldives-China triangle appears simply to be continuing a cyclical phenomenon of successive presidents in recent years alternating between being pro-India or pro-China. Muizzus predecessor, Ibrahim Solih, was seen as pro-India. Solihs predecessor, Abdulla Yameen, was viewed as anti-India and pro-China, and his predecessor, Mohamed Nasheed, as leaning towards India. These characterisations of the leaders of a sovereign nation might be useful shorthand for those engaged in high geopolitics but they are also both crude and unsophisticated descriptors and inadequate to describe changing tides in global politics. Muizzu did not make his first official foreign visit to New Delhi as tradition demanded, but despite his pro-China tag, Beijing was not his first destination either. Instead, Muizzu went in a different direction altogether, travelling to Turkiye followed by a visit to the United Arab Emirates and only then to China. By doing so, Muizzu was also asserting Maldives identity as a Sunni Muslim state. He refused to be bound by his countrys identity as a small island state heavily dependent on its larger neighbour for security and nor did he think he had only a China card to play. While Muizzu has called for the exit of the tiny Indian military contingent in the Maldives, he has been smart enough to not let this turn into an India-versus-China tussle, and nor is he planning on leaving his country defenceless in the process. Male has signed an agreement for military drones with a Turkish company in order to patrol the countrys extensive exclusive economic zoneone of the tasks that Indias military presence is also engaged in. Given the nature of the issue and the sensitivities involved, this approach makes sense. Elsewhere, though, the Maldivians seem willing to play hardball. On an issue less sensitive to India like tourism, Maldivian ministers were willing to directly attack the Indian Prime Minister over a local political event. This they did because they assumed that post-Covid, more bang-for-the-buck tourists from China could easily fill any vacuum created by the absence of Indian tourists. Indeed, the growing closeness of Maldives-China ties cannot be denied. There are active efforts on both sides to raise the profile of the relationshipthe Chinese elevated the relationship to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership during Muizzu's visit, from the comprehensive friendly and cooperative partnership of Yameens time. This level is at least as high as, if not higher than, the category of India-China ties, which in 2005 was described as a strategic and cooperative partnership. The fact that 20 bilateral agreements were signed during the Maldivian presidents visit to Beijing holds significance as much in the number of agreements signed as in their content. In their joint statement, the Maldives also repeatedly acknowledged each of the new spinoffs of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)namely, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative. This was already a step forward from the visit to China a month earlier of new Maldives Vice-President Hussain Mohamed Latheef, when at the China-Indian Ocean Region Forum on Development Cooperation he left out any mention of BRI. He, nevertheless, did bat implicitly for active Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean Region. Meanwhile, New Delhi probably underestimates both the seriousness with which its neighbours view developments in Indian domestic politics and the possible concerns they might have with the religious or cultural nationalist turn in its foreign policy. In 2022, the unthinking celebration of International Yoga Day by the Indian High Commission in Male resulted in a near riot in the stadium where the event was being held. Protestors held that the event disrespected the Islamic faith of the countrys population, and it led to a revival of anti-India sentiments in the islands. As everywhere, politicians in the Maldives have used foreign affairs, including resentment against India, for electoral gain. The issue, however, is not so much the degree of truth in the accusations against India but the desire of a small country to be able to choose its own political path, economic model, and foreign policy without external pressure and interference. India will have to rejig its neighbourhood first policy to better acknowledge these realities even as it seeks to protect the space for democracy, adherence to international law, and regional peace and stability. India boasts of vast production capacity in one industry. The country is the worlds third largest exporter of its industrial products, which are essential for any economy to function. This is a distinction that no other sector in India can claim. One disturbing fact, however, is that it benefits very few Indians. Over 90% of the value generated in this sector accrues to capital owners. Thus, the positive wealth effect of these exports is limited. As it is one of the least labour-intensive industries, it employs only around 300,000 people. Almost all its raw material is imported, resulting in the highest foreign value-added content in Indian exports among all industries, and low employment generation via backward linkages. It appears unthinkable for this to have occurred. But it did. This is Indias refined petroleum industry, which contributes more than 20% to our merchandise exports in value terms. Contrast this with Indias leading services export: information technology (IT). Today, its exports in value terms are 1.5 times that of petroleum exports. Back in 2012-13, both were at nearly similar levels. The domestic value-added content of IT exports is among the highest. The labour share of value addition is only a bit less than 50%, compared to under 10% in refined petroleum. Close to 60% of employment in the sector is related to exports. Direct employment by IT services in India is estimated at 5.1 million, so about 3 million jobs are export-related. IT services have backward and forward linkages in sectors like transport, hospitality, security and housekeeping services, personal services, apart from the demand their employees generate for real estate, consumer durables, etc. While refined petroleum and IT are poles apart in their import content of exports, employment generation and the share of labour income, their evolution is a classic example of the two most important words in economics: incentives matter. Entrepreneurs in both sectors realized that by entering these, they can avoid dependence on Indias poor physical infrastructure, stringent labour laws and multiple licensing requirements with lengthy delays. In the early 2000s, the government relaxed its domestic price cap on refined petroleum products. But it continued providing subsidies to public sector oil companies so that they could retail fuel below market-driven prices. It refused subsidies to the private sector, so it became unviable for the top private player, Reliance Industries, to sell refined petroleum products domestically. It shut all local petrol pumps in March 2008. Later, it would open selective petrol pumps on days when crude oil import prices fell sufficiently for it to make profits by selling petrol locally. It was a textbook example of the principle that a business should stay open if and when it can cover its variable costs. Reliance focused on the export market instead. Its Jamnagar refinery complex in Gujarat can access shipping routes and is not over-dependent on road or rail infrastructure. Refined petroleum does not need much labour and its refineries are anyway in export processing zones where less stringent labour laws are applicable. Similarly, Indias services industry is outside the purview of the Factory Act. Also, IT workers usually have payroll jobs, not permanent jobs. Either side can exist the work contract based on a mutually agreed notice period. Therefore, firms in the IT sector have an incentive to expand their workforce; labour cost can be reduced if demand falters. IT exports are not dependent on physical infra beyond the transportation needs of workers. Unlike manufacturing, it takes less time and effort to get business and environmental licences. Indias IT employment will continue to flourish if it survives the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the industry. However, millions of Indians do not have the requisite skills for an IT job. In policy circles, a hunt is on for a manufacturing equivalent of the IT sector: with a low import requirement and balanced income share of capital and labour, but higher labour intensity with lower labour skills needed than IT. None of our manufacturing sectors currently fulfils these criteria. Also, factory processes have become more tech-oriented and automated. Further, domestic raw material is often difficult to obtain at globally competitive prices. Is there a service sector that can replicate the success of Indias IT sector but needs lower labour skills, has higher labour intensity and also forges worthy backward and forward linkages? There may be one that has remained neglected for a long time, except in a handful of Indian states: the tourism sector. India currently accounts for only just over 1% of global tourism. Indias rank on the Global Travel and Tourism Development Index in 2021 was 54th. Developing the tourism sector would need streamlining visas and entry requirements, improving transport infrastructure to enhance in-land connectivity, developing and maintaining high-quality accommodation facilities as well as efficient healthcare and safety services, boosting the food processing sector, and integrating sustainable practices, among other developments. It is always a good idea to diversify ones bets. So also in the case of Indian exports. The best that policymakers can do is not distort incentives too much in favour of specific industries, but create a level playing field by focusing on good physical infrastructure, human capital and lower import tariffs, and also easing the burden of excessive licensing requirements. The excellent book Making Social Spending Work by Peter Lindert suggests societies need safety nets to catch those in need because of unlucky opening balances, past mistakes or hard times. A policy success of the last decade has been re-imagining Indias subsidy spend for 100 million citizens via direct benefit transfers for better social security. However, Indias unimaginative trade union movementit believes job preservation is a form of job creation and chooses the old over the younghas hamstrung work-linked social security programmes with high costs, low competition and excessive deductions. Consequently, only 1 million of our 63 million enterprises and about 7.5% of our 550 million labour force make monthly social security contributions. We propose five design reforms for the Employee Provident Fund Organization (EPFO) around efficiency, choice, competition, effectiveness and sustainability that would shift an estimated 50 million people from informal to formal work. These reforms matter because Indias big labour-market problem is not jobs, but wages. Linderts research suggests that countries walk different paths in public education, healthcare and pensions and welfare based on their philosophy about inter-generational inequality, fiscal redistribution and returns to human capital. He suggests social security takes off only with fiscal capacity; universal education is often under-resourced, spending is hijacked by the powerful and elderly at the expense of the young and poor, and ageing is the biggest threat to safety nets, employer-based provisions are flawed, and universal provisions provide more equity. India doesnt have the ageing challenge; ours is regulatory cholesterol encouraging informality (a sense of humour about the rule of law). Lets examine five flick-of-the-pen reforms that could accelerate formalization: Efficiency: The EPFO is the worlds costliest government securities mutual fund; it charges employers ten times what an equivalent fund from State Bank of India does, with employers paying total expenses of almost 4% of contributions. Collecting these costs from employers amounts to taxation; globally, pension funds pay these costs. The EPFO should be a non-profit, flow-through entity with benchmarked costs, but it suffers the cost disease identified by Nobel Laureate Bill Baumol on account of a monopoly that holds employers hostage, not clients. Competition: The EPFO and Employees State Insurance (ESI) monopoly on work-linked social-security payments has toxic consequences for employees (disrespect and poor service), employers (high costs and corruption demands) and society (making informality more lucrative than formality). A budget speech by former finance minister Arun Jaitley had announced a push for competition. But the proposal was sabotaged by false arguments of private sector exploitation of employees, costs coming down with scale, and the effectiveness of enforcement, administration and fund management housed in the same organization. All three arguments have been disproved by our price and service revolution since 1991 in the sectors of petroleum, telecom, digital payments, airlines and steel. We can think about private sector provisions later, but should immediately allow employee choice (not employer choice) on paying their contributions to either the EPFO or public-sector National Pension Scheme (NPS). This election at the time of joining could be kept open to being changed annually, with easy interoperability between the two, replicating the relationship of our two equity depositories. Choice: Salaries belongs to employees who should choose what to do with the money. Our prescribed gap between haath waali (net) salary and chitthi waali (gross) salary in a cost-to-company world is unfair; mandatory deductions that are sometimes higher as a proportion of salary for those earning less (possibly to ensure greater savings) are weird. Especially since research suggests the savings rate for individuals with incomes of 25,000 per month (or less) is close to zero, implying they barely get past essential spending. Employees should get two choices: Whether to make any employee contribution at all (set at 12% right now), and if so, whether to opt out of the portion that goes to the defined-benefit Employee Pension Scheme (EPS) and contribute the sum fully to the core Employee Provident Fund (EFP) account. Effectiveness: Employment has shifted from being a lifetime contract to a taxicab relationship; most employees of this generation will have multiple employers, including themselves. The EPFO has a design birth defect that links records to employers rather than employees and their hundreds and thousands of orphaned accounts, with the last estimate putting unclaimed balances at over 25,000 crore. Making EPFO contributions to an Aadhaar number will create traceability, portability and access. This change will also enable EPFO products to be offered to self-employed and gig workers. Sustainability: The EPS diverts 8.33% of a subscribers salary to a defined-benefit plan. But the EPS has a birth defect; pension contributions or pension benefits can be fixed, but the EPS fixes both. This scheme has become even more unviable with the November 2022 court judgement that bankrupts the scheme, with the court upholding the entitlement of opting for a higher pension by contributing to the EPS on an uncapped salary. The EPS must be removed from the EPFO and merged with some universal and fiscally funded old-age security pension scheme like the Atal Pension Yojana. The EPFO, as a work-linked programme, must remain a defined-contribution plan to avoid the risks of ageing, inadequate investment income and cross-subsidization that it cant handle. Idealism and pragmatism: In 1947, Constituent Assembly member K.T. Shah wrote a letter to Rajendra Prasad suggesting that We need a time limit for Directive Principles to be justiciable, lest they become mere pious wishes." However, our distinction between fundamental rights enforceable in court and social objectives embedded in the Directive Principles was not a lack of ambition, but a matter of policy pragmatism. Indias first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had said, We cannot have a welfare state unless our national income goes up. India has no existing wealth for you to divide; there is only poverty to divide. Our economic policy must, therefore, aim at plenty." We must continue our pursuit of the plenty that will pay for fiscally financed safety nets. But lets also undertake five flick-of-the-pen reforms of employer social security programmes that would lead an estimated 50 million existing workers to make their transition from informality to formality. Amit Shah, Union Minister for Home Affairs, on Saturday announced that the free movement between residents of India and Myanmar will cease to exists as Delhi is mulling fencing the 1,643 kilometers border so that it can be protected like the country's boundary with Bangladesh". Only 10 kms of the 1,643 kms border between India and Myanmar remain fenced, allowing resident of either side to cross the border and travel up to 16 km inside the other country without a visa and stay up to two weeks. This was called the Free Movement Regime (FMR). The Indian Government has now planned to stop the FMR, and fence the complete border with Myanmar. The Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government plans to fence the border along Myanmar to stop the influx of illegal immigrants, drugs and gold smuggling". However, a British era boundary drawing nations threatens the trauma of partition, that India suffered in 1947. Will the fencing of the borderland inflict partition trauma, it did for generations in the colonial era partition of Bengal and Punjab? Manipur Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh had in September 2023 said that he had appealed to the Centre to scrap the Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the Indo-Myanmar border. The Manipur CM cited influx of illegal immigrants" and cross-border drug trafficking. The residents in the Meitei dominated regions of Manipur have also demanded the fencing along Myanmar border and a National Register of Citizens (NRC). Mizoram Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma has been vocal against fencing the border. Soon after it was reported that the Centre plans to scrap the FMR, he met PM Modi and Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar in Delhi, after which he told the media that the Mizos consider the Indo-Myanmar border an imposed boundary" and that fencing it is unacceptable" to the Mizo people. Nagaland The Nagaland government has refrained from commenting on the matter so far. However, Deputy CM Y Patton met Lalduhoma in Aizawl, following which the Mizoram government stated that Patton said fencing the border would be unacceptable for Nagas" given the significant Naga population in Myanmar. Politics of nation and boundaries To the people residing in the border areas between India and Myanmar, the boundary is considered imposed". Indigenous communities living on either side of the border share ethnic bonds from the fact that they belong to the same community. Locals have believed that the international boundary was drawn without the consent of the residents. They have further dissented that the border between India and Myanmar that cuts through mountains, divides people of the same ethnicity and culture into two different nations. PM Modi govt's stance on India-Myanmar border Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government had in 2018 agreed to Land Border Crossing Agreement between India and Myanmar vide the Act East Policy. The PM Modi-led government had vowed to safeguard the traditional rights of the largely tribal communities residing along the border, which are accustomed to free movement across the land border." However, this same government has now superseded the decision made six years ago. The Modi government along with the N Biren Singh's Manipur government has cited security concerns for the decision of fencing the borderland. Ethnic communities in India-Myanmar borderland Mizos and Chins of Myanmar have sustained the spotlight in the recent past. Further there is a sizeable Naga population in Myanmar, largely in the Naga Self-Administered Zone in Myanmars Sagaing region. One of the most well-known symbols of idiosyncrasy of the international border is the Longwa village in Nagalands Mon district, which is spread across both countries and is headed by an Angh or chief whose house straddles the border, reports Indian Express. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! Congress leaders said the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra was attacked by BJP workers as it passed through Assam on Sunday. The vehicle of senior party MP Jairam Jamesh was allegedly attacked while media officials covering the event were "manhandled" by miscreants in Assam's Sonitpur district. The incident took place as the Rahul Gandhi-led Yatra travelled from Biswanth district to Nagaon on its fourth day in the northeastern state. My vehicle was attacked a few minutes ago at Jumugurihat, Sunitpur by an unruly BJP crowd who also tore off the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra stickers from the windshield. They threw water and shouted anti-BJNY slogans. But we kept our composure, waved to the hooligans and sped away. This is undoubtedly the Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma's doing. We are not intimidated and will soldier on," asserted Jairam Ramesh. Visuals shared online showed Congress MP Rahul Gandhi being escorted into the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra bus by security personnel amid the ruckus. The Wayanad lawmaker had moved towards a large crowd of people which included people holding BJP flags. 20-25 BJP workers carrying sticks came in front of our bus, and when I came out from the bus, they ran away...they think that Congress is scared of BJP and RSS, they're dreaming. They can tear as many posters and placards as they want, we don't care. we are not scared of anybody, we are neither scared of PM Narendra Modi nor Assam CM," added Gandhi. The Congress MP had earlier accused the BJP-led Assam government of refusing permissions for programmes along the yatra route and threatening people against joining the event. All India Congress Committee (AICC) communications coordinator Mahima Singh told PTI that those covering the event had also been affected. The party official said that the media personnel had exited their vehicles to get visuals of a BJP program happening in the area. The camera, badge and other apparatus of a vlogger who has been covering the Yatra were snatched. Members of the social media team of the party were also manhandledThey created a very intimidating situation for us. They have refused to return the camera of the vlogger, claiming that it was not snatched," she added," she said. The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra is scheduled to travel through Assam till January 25, covering a total of 833 km across 17 districts. (With inputs from agencies) Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed it's all here, just a click away! Login Now! OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has been talking to a number of potential investors in a bid to raise billions of dollars to set up a chip-making company, according to a report by Bloomberg. The 38-year-old entrepreneur is said to be looking to set up a network of factories to manufacture semiconductors. Also Read | Sam Altman addresses nervousness around Artificial Intelligence: It's on us to' Notably, building a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility would require tens of billions of dollars in funding, and creating a network of such facilities will take years, Bloomberg reported. Among the top people Altman has spoken to about funding the new venture are the UAE's Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed al-Nahyan, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) and Softbank. Notably, Sheikh Tahnoon is the brother of UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan and also serves as national security advisor, according to the Financial Times. Tahoon also oversees some of the country's most powerful investment funds. The Financial Times report notes that it's not yet clear whether the new company will be a subsidiary of OpenAI or a separate entity. However, citing two people with knowledge of the matter, the report noted that OpenAI will be the first client of the new company. An earlier report by Reuters last year noted that OpenAI was exploring the option of manufacturing its own chipset and was even evaluating a potential acquisition target. The report stated that OpenAI had not yet finalised the move, but that the company was discussing various options to solve the AI chip shortage. OpenAI was also said to be focusing on diversifying its suppliers beyond Nvidia and working with other chip manufacturers. Why is there a need for AI chips? There has been a growing interest in artificial intelligence applications among consumers and companies since the release of OpenAI's ChatGPT over a year ago. This has led to a massive demand for the processors that are required to run these AI offerings. Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world Click here to know more. Unlock a world of Benefits! 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Edit Close Leaders from North Longford, Longford town and Ardagh Girl Guide Districts came together last Thursday for a start of year training and idea exchange. Ladybird, Brownie, Guide, and Sr Branches were all well represented and activities were prepared for all age groups. Ladybirds, ages 5-7, Brownies, 7-10 years, Guides 10-14, and Senior Branch ages 14 up, all have units in each District and there is something for everyone. A mixed group of ladies, Annaly Area Leaders range from PH Nurse, home-makers, member of An Garda Siochana, engineers, SNAs, teachers, college students, and all walks of life. "Going to a Brownie meeting is such a relief after a day's work, it's just an hour of fun, freedom and madness. The girls have such energy and enthusiasm, you cannot leave a meeting without feeling positive and rejuvenated." said Public Health Nurse, Clair Baxter, Brownie Leader in Ardagh for 6 years, Garda Clare Fahey, who has volunteered alongside Clair for the same length of time agreed, "I love seeing girls come out of their shells, engaging in new activities and meeting other like-minded girls. They can brighten up your day with their humour, fun, and antics." Stephanie McLaren, Youth Development Worker in Bridgeways FRC, is the newest recruit to the Ardagh District Leadership Team, she highlighted how much fun she was having with the Guides, "I am learning so much, including outdoor cooking and using Trangia! I was a Brownie and Guide when I was young and it's sparking so many memories, giving me the opportunity to share what I learned back then and learn new skills now!" "Love being part of the IGG organisation and watching the Ladybirds grow in confidence each week, learn new skills, make new friends and have fun!" enthused Montessori Manager and Ladybird Leader, Melissa Eager. Irish Girl Guides are a girl-only, non-competitive group, meeting weekly to work through our informal educational Journey programme. Using age-appropriate activities and games, girls are introduced to the outdoors, global themes, teamwork, leadership, and life skills. For more information please visit www.irishgirlguides.ie, or find us on Facebook. There are opportunities for all ages and for anyone wishing to volunteer or help out in one of our District Leadership teams and guide girls on their journey, please message Joanna 086 237 2616. Food, Wine, & Dining, Hot Spots & Night Life By Long Island Published: January 21 2024 Weve rounded up five must-try spots in Babylon serving up killer brunch menus, check them out The Brixton: 111 Deer Park Ave Did someone say bottomless mimosas? Every Sunday the Brixtons brunch offers endless mimosas ($18/2 hour limit) with any brunch item. With menu staples like their eggs benny of the day (served with sweet potato hash) to unique dishes like their duck scotch egg (soft boiled egg, duck sausage, grain mustard over arugula) you cant can wrong with their impressive selection. Other favorites are their breakfast poutine and banana bacon pancakes. Make sure to call ahead for reservations. Del Fuego: 117 Deer Park Ave When brunch cravings call for Tex-Mex, head to Del Fuego. A special taco brunch ($16) is offered every Sunday with a complimentary Bloody Mary, mimosa or Michelada Del Fuego. Diners can choose from any three tacos all served in a flour tortilla with a side of fresh fruit. We recommend trying their signature chorizo taco (scrambled eggs, spicy sausage, pickled red onion, pico de Gallo and guacamole) or their BLT taco (scrambled eggs, crispy smoked bacon, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes and crema). And for sipping? Cheers to the weekend with their Senor Palmer (pineapple infused tequila, house made lemonade and fresh brewed iced tea). The Argyle Grill & Tavern: 90 Deer Park Ave Argyle Grills ala carte Sunday brunch is offered from 12-4 p.m. with $5 sangria, mimosas and Bloody Marys. The a la carte menu has tons of breakfast favorites including fresh made omelets, tasty wraps, crispy home fries and breakfast sausage. Argyles casual setting is perfect for meeting with friends or bringing the whole family. Glens Dinette: 23 E Main St When it comes to brunch classics, Glens Dinette is cooking up all of the favorites. Served all day, 7-days a week, diners cant go wrong with their famous hash and eggs, banana pecan French toast or huveos rancheros. The space is warm, inviting and transports visitors back to the 1950s with retro burgundy booths and eclectic decor. Tres Palms: 16 East Ct Tres Palms serves up Fire Side on the Bay Brunch every Sunday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. With fresh made egg dishes like their signature Lobster Omelet (fresh Maine lobster, bacon, jack and cheddar cheese, roasted potatoes) to their breakfast burrito (scrambled eggs, bacon, jack and cheddar cheese, pico de Gallo, sour cream and potatoes). And for those who prefer something on the sweeter side, we recommend going for their pancake stack, your pick of fresh blueberries or chocolate chips. All brunch dishes are served with your choice of a complimentary mimosa or Bloody Mary. Iraqi militias backed by Iran launched a barrage of ballistic missiles and rockets targeting Ain al-Assad airbase in western Iraq on Saturday evening. The Iranian-backed Iraqi militias have targeted U.S. forces with ballistic missiles since they have escalated attacks on U.S. forces in Iraq. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that the bases air defense system intercepted most of the rockets, but some still managed to impact the area. As a result of the attack, an undisclosed number of U.S. personnel are being evaluated for traumatic brain injuries, and at least one Iraqi service member was injured. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a coalition of militias and front organizations supported by Iran claimed responsibility for the attack on Ain al-Assad. In a statement, they asserted that the Mujahideen of the Islamic Resistance in Iraq attacked the occupied Ain al-Asad base in western Iraq with a missile salvo. Reuters has reported that there have been over 140 attacks on American positions in Iraq and Syria since the beginning of the Hamas-Israel conflict on October 7. This recent strike on Ain al-Assad appears to be one of the most significant assaults on American troops since the escalation of hostilities. However, it is not the first time that Iraqi militias have fired a ballistic missile against American positions in the region. On Nov. 6, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq published a statement warning that a medium-range ballistic missile of the Aqsa-1 model had entered service and was used against American positions in Iraq and Syria. The Aqsa-1 missile, from the Islamic Resistance Later on Nov. 21, 2023, Iranian-backed Iraqi militias fired a ballistic missile at Ain al-Assad airbase. In response, the U.S. military launched attacks on two sites south of Baghdad, resulting in the deaths of eight Hezbollah Brigades fighters, according to the militias. Tehran is employing its extensive network of proxies and clients across the region to impose consequences on the United States due to its backing of Israel. The strategy used involves striking American positions in the region and attempting to impose a military blockade on the Red Sea via the Houthis based in Yemen. By pursuing this approach, Iran aims to exert pressure on the international community to compel Israel to accept a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, which is vital for the survival of Hamas, a crucial regional ally. Joe Truzman is a research analyst at FDD's Long War Journal focused primarily on Palestinian militant groups and Hezbollah. Bill Roggio is a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the Editor of FDD's Long War Journal. The U.S. military continues to target Houthi anti-ship missiles that are poised to strike shipping in the Red Sea and the Bab Al Mandeb Strait. The attacks against Houthi missiles are no longer being conducted under the aegis of an international coalition, but directly by the U.S. military. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that it destroyed 18 Houthi anti-ship missiles as they were deployed on launch rails between Jan. 17 20. The Houthis launched two anti-ship ballistic missiles and one drone, which struck a merchant vessel, during the same timeframe (see timeline below). The attacks on Houthi missiles are no longer being claimed by an international coalition, as the initial two strikes were. Both the U.S. and the United Kingdom launched the initial attack on Houthis military targets. A small number of other countries said they provided support for the initial strikes. All strikes since Jan. 13 have been claimed only by the U.S. military. The U.S. government has continually issued contradictory statements that it seeks to restore deterrence, that it does not wish to escalate the fighting, and it is not at war with the Houthis, even as the Houthis have directly attacked U.S. warships and U.S. owned ships passing through the Red Sea. Instead, U.S. officials have said the strikes against Houthi military targets are in self-defense. We are not at war with the Houthis, said Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh on Jan. 18. The Houthis are the ones that continue to launch cruise missiles, anti-ship missiles at innocent marinersWhat we are doing, with our partners, is self-defense. The Houthis, with the support of Iran, are doing their part to defeat the U.S. and Israel as the latter battles Hamas and its terrorist allies in Gaza. Iran has assembled its Axis of Resistance, which includes the Yemen-based Houthis, Lebanese Hezbollah, the constellation of Iraqi and Syrian militias, and Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and other Palestinian terror groups, to drive the U.S. from the Middle East and isolate and defeat Israel. Timeline of U.S. and Houthi activities since Jan. 17: Jan. 17: A Houthi drone (described by CENTCOM as a one-way attack UAS, or Unmanned Aircraft System, hit the Merchant Vessel Genco Picardy in the Gulf of Aden. No casualties were reported, however the ship was damaged. Jan. 18: U.S. Central Command struck 14 Iran-backed Houthi missiles that were loaded to be fired in Houthi controlled areas in Yemen. The Houthi missiles were on launch rails when they were hit. Jan. 18: The Houthis launched two anti-ship ballistic missiles at the Merchant Vessel Chem Ranger. The missiles missed the vessel. Jan. 19: U.S. Central Command attacked and destroyed three Houthi anti-ship missiles that were aimed into the Southern Red Sea and were prepared to launch. Jan. 20: U.S. Central Command attacked a Houthi anti-ship missile that was prepared to launch. Joe Truzman is a research analyst at FDD's Long War Journal focused primarily on Palestinian militant groups and Hezbollah. Bill Roggio is a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the Editor of FDD's Long War Journal. Electric cars remain unpopular among rental companies due to their high cost in case of maintenance or damages. Electric cars remain unpopular among rental companies due to their high cost in case of maintenance or damages. Photo credit: AFP Electric cars remain unpopular among rental companies due to their high cost in case of maintenance or damages. Photo credit: AFP Nearly one in four new car registrations during the third quarter of 2023 was an electric vehicle (EV), the Chamber of Commerce wrote in an analysis published on Thursday, but the emission-free cars are facing headwinds on the countrys rental market. At the end of October, just over 8% of Luxembourgs national fleet was electric or hybrid, as the enthusiasm for alternatives to combustion engines continues to grow. However, Luxembourg branches of major car rental firms continue to mainly offer petrol-powered cars to customers. When it comes to the rental business, [offering electric cars] doesnt make much sense, Jean-Paul Moes, director at Europcar Luxembourg, told the Luxembourg Times. Moes said his company had mixed experiences with EVs, and do not intend on adding more than the five they currently own to their 800-strong car fleet. Practicality and cost are priority for rentals While the firm would continue to keep a few EVs at hand, this type of vehicle remains impractical for renting purposes, said Moes. EVs come with many hurdles, like costly and complex maintenance and difficult access to loading ports outside of superchargers and plugs offered by the firm itself, Moes explained. Using superchargers frequently can also reduce a car batterys autonomy, he said. Also read: Carmakers step up EV discounts as demand slows Cold temperatures - like the current cold snap - also heavily impact an EVs battery life and could see clients getting stuck. EVs are good for small drives, but not in the winter, Moes said, adding that drivers need to have acquired sufficient knowledge about electric cars before being able to use them efficiently. Avis Group Luxembourg declined to comment and SIXT did not respond to questions from this newspaper. Customers looking for a variety of EV options are not spoilt for choice as their websites list only one EV model as opposed to several petrol car models. Hertz announced at the start of the year that it would be selling off 20,000 of the EVs in its US fleet due to higher costs in case of accidents or damage, and said it would reinvest in petrol cars instead. Also read: Changing Your Car in Luxembourg: A Practical Guide Challenges ahead of 2035 Rental firms in the EU could run into trouble if they do not invest more heavily in e-cars or other green alternatives, as the European Union from 2035 will ban the sale of new CO2-emitting vehicles. For Europcars Moes, the bloc is unlikely to push through with the regulation, even if it has already been adopted. Its a long way [to replace all cars with EVs]. How are they going to manage to do that in eleven years? he said, adding that, among car businesses, there was a strong belief that the regulation would be retracted before the 2035 deadline. The deadline will also be an issue for the Grand Duchy in general, despite its residents growing interest in EVs, the Chamber of Commerce said in its report. Though electric cars made up 24% of new registrations during Q3 of last year, they still only account for 8% of the countrys entire car fleet. In six years time, they should represent 49% of Luxembourgs fleet, according to a target set out by the government. The government intends to extend the deadline for subsidies, which will run until June and can go up to 8,000 for the most energy-efficient models, and e-cars are likely to become cheaper over time, according to the business lobby group. But their current popularity could slow down in the future. Though sales picked up sharply in 2023, the chamber said Luxembourg would need to invest in its charging network as access to charging is limited for those living in apartments. This would make it difficult for Luxembourg to reach its 2030 target, the report said. Anticipating the transition Though the government already provides subsidies to individuals and companies to encourage electric vehicle purchases, it will need to do more to meet its 2030 goal, said the chamber. Aside from the technical aspects of EVs that need to be improved, like battery autonomy and access to charging ports, the country will have to consider the impact of EVs on its electric infrastructure too and will need to invest accordingly, the Chamber of Commerce said. The Chamber of Commerce provided 18 recommendations for the government to adopt, ranging from implementing subsidies for the purchase of second-hand EVs, making EV leasing more profitable to implementing advantages like free parking on public spots for EV drivers during their first year. As the March referendum approaches on Mayor Brandon Johnsons real estate transfer tax proposal to address the homelessness crisis, its important that we move beyond the rhetoric of its supporters. Johnsons Bring Chicago Home plan is essentially a regressive tax increase in search of a program. Its conspicuously absent any affordable housing strategy beyond depositing revenue from the tax increase into a new fund. What the mayor is proposing would not address the homelessness crisis and would have an adverse impact on city businesses, homeowners and renters alike. Lets look at the facts: First, this would be a dramatic tax increase on the citys already overtaxed commercial property. While the tax is being sold in City Hall as a mansion tax, it would fall disproportionately on hard-pressed owners of commercial properties whose values are plummeting. A Crains Chicago Business analysis of property sales of more than $1 million from April 2021 to April 2022 showed more commercial property sales than residential property sales by a rate of 9 to 1, or $7.5 billion to $841.8 million. Notably, Chicagos commercial property taxes have increased over the past decade. With commercial property taxes and Chicagos 10.25% sales tax, the Loop is an absolute windfall for the city. Bring Chicago Home would pile on an already suffering sector. The marketing of the proposal as a mansion tax is simply spin-doctoring. The program would be more accurately called Bring Chicago Down. Second, the tax increase would not produce the revenue predicted. Commercial property sales are down as owners find it hard to dump vacant and overtaxed properties. Consider a Loop office tower sold in September. It the first sale of a large downtown office building in almost a year and at a 63% discount. The sale of the KBS REIT office building for less than half of what it was bought for in 2017. Bring Chicago Home would exacerbate this trend by increasing the real estate transfer tax on commercial property owners. The backers of this tax appear unconcerned about the downtown office tower owners who are grappling with a difficult market. A new similar tax increase enacted in Los Angeles has fallen far short of expectations in generating revenue. Third, the tax increase would cost the city jobs and investment. The business district has yet to adjust to the realities of the post-COVID-19 work world and is already burdened with high taxes and fees. Raising taxes on these assets simply doesnt make sense. This is just the latest attempt by Johnson and his supporters to advance their supposed progressive agenda by imposing even higher taxes and more unfunded mandates, such as the recently approved elimination of the subminimum tipped wage that will punish the restaurant and hospitality industry. Then theres the doubling of mandated paid time off that will hurt all employers. The tax increase and business mandates are not based on businesses ability to pay. This is the very definition of regressive government. Small businesses and businesses surviving at the margins will be affected the most. This will worsen the citys affordable housing plight as more businesses close or exit the city, costing Chicago jobs and income. Lastly, the real estate transaction tax increase would shift the property tax burden to homeowners and renters. The continuing decline in commercial property values will result in lower assessed valuations for property tax purposes. Taxing bodies such as the city, the schools and county government get the amount of money that they ask, the levy, regardless of whats happening to overall property values. This means any drop in commercial propertys share of property values shifts the tax burden to residential property, unless local governments reduce their levies, which never happens An analysis by the Mansueto Institute for Urban Innovation and the Center for Municipal Finance at the University of Chicago estimates that if there is a 40% decline in the tax value of downtown office buildings, the average residential tax bill will go up 10%. Voters, beware. The mayors Bring Home Chicago referendum is only a real estate transfer tax increase largely on commercial property with a promise that it will be spent on affordable housing. It will not generate the revenue predicted. Opponents must expose the tax for what it is. Paul Vallas is an adviser for the Illinois Policy Institute. He ran for Chicago mayor in 2023 and in 2019 and was previously budget director for the city and CEO of Chicago Public Schools. Submit a letter, of no more than 400 words, to the editor here or email letters@chicagotribune.com. WILBRAHAM -- A suspect who shot and injured a local police officer was taken into custody early Sunday morning after an hours-long standoff. The suspect was found conscious but suffering from gunshot wounds in the home where he barricaded himself. He was treated at the scene and then taken to the hospital by ambulance under police guard, said David Procopio, Massachusetts State Police spokesman. The Wilbraham officer, whose name has not been released, was taken to a local hospital with serious injuries, Wilbraham Police Chief Edward Lennon said the officer was in stable condition as of early Sunday morning. The officer was shot at about 8:40 p.m., Saturday after police exchanged gunfire with the suspect. The accused shooter then barricaded himself in a home on Old Carriage Drive, Procopio said in writing. During the standoff, troopers from the State Police Crisis Negotiation Unit were able to establish an open phone line to the house but communications failed to result in the suspect coming out of the home or otherwise surrendering, Procopio said. The State Police Special Tactical Operations Team took the man into custody shortly after midnight. They first used a battering ram on a Bearcat armored vehicle to break a large ground-level window of the home and troopers then flew a drone through the broken window that sent interior images to commanders, Procopio said. The video feed revealed the suspect inside a front breezeway with gunshot injuries, he said. The Tactical Team troopers then entered the home and were able to place the man in custody. They also confiscated a handgun and ammunition that was next to the suspect, Procopio said. Prior to the sequence of events that led to the arrest, (State Police Tactical) Team members rescued two occupants of the home who had escaped onto the roof of the houses adjoined garage, Procopio said. He did not say if the suspect, whose name has not been released, lived in the home where he barricaded himself. Police from multiple area departments including those from Ludlow, Chicopee and Hadley responded to assist Wilbraham police after the initial shooting. Massachusetts State Police also assisted with multiple units and troopers from the Springfield Barracks, he said. Police closed off the short cul-de-sac that has about 10 houses on it and spent about three hours trying to contact and talk to the suspect, Procopio said. Police did not release any more information about the suspects condition. The shooting and standoff is being investigated by Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni, Massachusetts State Police and Wilbraham Police, Lennon said. One driver involved in a fiery wrong-way crash in Swansea Thursday evening is facing a slew of charges including operating under the influence of alcohol causing serious bodily injury, according to police. Swansea resident Timothy Couturier, 53, was driving north in the southbound lanes of Swansea Mall Drive when he struck another vehicle head-on, Swansea police said in a press release. Police and firefighters responded to the crash shortly before 7:55 p.m. and rescued Couturier, who was trapped in his vehicle, police said. There was no one else in the vehicle, and he was taken to a hospital. The other driver, 20-year-old Swansea resident Tristan Tucker, was hospitalized after being pulled from his car, which had caught fire but wasnt carrying any passengers. He was still being treated at the hospital Friday night, and his condition is unknown. Couturier was arraigned Friday at a Providence hospital on the OUI, as well as on other charges including negligent operation, driving with a suspended license and driving the wrong way on a state highway, police said. He waived extradition to Massachusetts to face charges for the crash. A Wilbraham police officer was shot while responding to a home in Wilbraham on Saturday night, Massachusetts State Police confirmed. The officer was responding to a residence at 11 Old Carriage Dr. at 8:40 p.m. on Jan. 20, State Police said in an email Saturday night. Officers exchanged gunfire with a suspect at the house, police said. A suspect was believed to be barricaded inside a home on the cul-de-sac and his condition was unknown as of 11 p.m., State Police said. Police blocked roads leading to Old Carriage Drive, which is off of Tinkham Road. State Police said troopers were at the scene and the unidentified Wilbraham officer who was shot was brought to a nearby hospital; there was no word Saturday night on the severity of his or her injuries, police said. Earlier tonight a #Wilbraham Police Officer was shot during a call to a home on Old Carriage Rd. and has been transported to a hospital. The suspect may still be in the home. Numerous assets are on scene. Public is asked to avoid area. We will update when more info available. Mass State Police (@MassStatePolice) January 21, 2024 Authorities were trying to make contact with the suspect and resolve the situation, state police said at 11 p.m. Hampden County District Attorneys Office spokesperson Jim Leydon confirmed an officer had been injured while on-duty Saturday night. State Police troopers from the Springfield barracks were at the scene as of 11 p.m. with a K-9 team, crisis negotiators, a Special Tactical Operations (STOP) Team, a drone unit, State Police said. State Police Bomb Squad operations were also at the ready, if needed, police said. The Wilbraham Police Department declined to comment Saturday night. (*This story was updated at 3:15 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024, with additional reporting). ROCHESTER, N.H. Looking to duplicate his landslide win in Iowa, former President Donald Trump will make his closing arguments to Granite State voters in a pair of events on Sunday and Monday as the nations eyes turn north for the first primary of the 2024 cycle. Trump will hold a 7 p.m. rally at the Rochester Opera House, about 35 minutes east of the state capital of Concord, on Sunday night. It comes the day after some of Trumps supporters were turned away from capacity rally in Manchester. N.H. The doors for the Rochester rally open at 4 p.m., with programming expected to start about 6 p.m., according to an email from Trumps campaign. A 9 p.m. rally, at the Margate Resort in Laconia, N.H., is scheduled for 9 p.m. on Monday, according to the campaigns website. MassLive will have coverage of the former presidents Sunday rally, along with coverage of the other GOP presidential aspirants, in the run-up to Tuesdays election. While independent voters remain in play, and are expected to play a pivotal role on Tuesday, Trumps support among his core voters remains strong. He heads into the final 48 hours before the polls open with a 19% lead over former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley in the latest Suffolk University/NBC10 Boston/Boston Globe tracking poll. Read More: Granite State of Mind: 5 things to know about the New Hampshire primary Trump held a 55%-36% lead over Haley on Sunday in the poll of 500 likely Republican primary voters, NBC-10 in Boston reported. Thats a statistically insignificant 2-point jump over the lead that Trump, who remains popular among the GOP faithful despite two impeachments, four criminal indictments, and an array of civil actions, held during the last tracking poll on Saturday, the station reported. *Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who trailed at a distant 6% support in the poll, suspended his campaign on Sunday afternoon, according to published reports. BREAKING: Ron DeSantis suspends his presidential campaign and endorses former President Trump. https://t.co/IMCHfuHxLP pic.twitter.com/GIBUlngv0j NBC News (@NBCNews) January 21, 2024 Less than 1% of respondents chose someone else, 2% were undecided, and less than 1% refused to answer, the station reported. About 400,000 New Hampshire voters are expected to vote in Tuesdays election, WBZ-TV in Boston reported, citing the New Hampshire Secretary of States office. Trump took 35% support in the Granite States primary during his first White House campaign in 2016, the station reported. WESTFIELD It was more than fate at work when Police Chief Lawrence Valliere embarked on a 40-year career in law enforcement in 1983. It was his perhaps his destiny. It came easy to me, said Valliere, sitting last week in his nearly empty office while reflecting what led him to law enforcement. Le gouvernement a decide le 19 janvier 2024 de creer des Single Point Office pour les procedures pour les cremations/enterrement dans certaines localites. Cabinet has taken note of the setting up of a Single Point Office for cremation/incineration and burial procedures in designated localities around Mauritius, which would allow members of the bereaved family to complete all the cremation/incineration or burial procedures under one roof. The objective of setting up a Single Point Office is to provide a single location where all cremation/incineration or burial procedures could be completed quickly and efficiently so as to provide fast and efficient services to the concerned families. In a significant move for the African fintech ecosystem, Ukheshe International has acquired 100% of EFT Corporation Limited (EFTCorp) from parent Loita Transaction Services (LXS), a pan-African payment solutions and financial switching provider. This transaction follows on Ukheshes 2022 acquisition of Masterpass in South Africa and the closing of their funding partnership with Development Partners International (DPI) in 2023. This is a major milestone in both companies commitment to innovation and growth, underscoring a shared vision of transforming financial services across the continent. Ukheshe Technologies and EFTCorp will continue to operate as separate entities and maintain their respective brand identities for the foreseeable future. The transaction sees EFTcorps management and founding CEO Stephen Enderby remaining to drive the next phase of growth. EFTCorp, is a 23 year old pioneer of digital payments in 35 African markets supporting over 100 banks & processors. EFTCorp is renowned for its core switching skills and issuer processor technology. Ukheshes offerings encompass a comprehensive range of end-to-end digital services that assist in digitising banking partners. The deal allows the wider group to access new technologies and opportunities in a diverse market, enhancing exposure to different customers, projects, and business opportunities across Africa and the Middle East. Ukheshes expertise in digital onboarding, KYC, digital wallets, and various payment channels will open new opportunities to digitise EFTCorps traditional customers who rely on established electronic payment processing systems. The partnership ensures EFTCorps customers will continue to engage with a trusted brand while gaining access to an expanded suite of innovative digital services through Ukheshe. Commenting on the transaction, Ukheshes co-founder and CEO, Clayton Hayward, says, The market is ripe for consolidation and disruption, bringing together these like-minded executive teams & our great products positions us to dominate the African continent as the preferred banking solutions partner The acquisition bolsters the groups aim to scale and innovate while extending a footprint across markets in Africa and beyond, ultimately delivering increased value to customers, shareholders, and partners. EFTCorps CEO, Stephen Enderby, says, I have been looking for a partner to help support and grow EFTCorps digital strategy. Together with Ukheshe we combine great products and extensive executive depth to achieve our growth ambitions. As a group we continue to look for complementary acquisitions and investment opportunities across the continent and Middle East. James Griffiths, Partner at DPI added Were thrilled to have supported Ukheshe in this acquisition, which underscores our confidence in Ukheshes innovative vision, strong leadership and exciting growth potential. Were looking forward to the accelerated growth which this major milestone brings the business. The dying craft of coopering is set to be highlighted on next week's Ear to the Ground. A job as a cooper - a craftsperson who makes wooden barrels - was once one of the most sought after careers in Ireland, with over five hundred coopers working in Dublin alone at its peak. The skills needed to make and repair casks or barrels were at the very heart of Irelands drinks industry, and were often passed down in families. However, the craft has all but died out in the decades since, and now there are only a handful of active coopers left. However, a small cooperage in Foxford, Co Mayo is hoping to change all that; Dair Nua was established to once again meet the needs of an Irish whiskey revival. In the upcoming episode, co-presenter Ella visits one of the craftsmen, Eoin Mangan, who divides his day between working at the cooperage and helping to run his family's sheep farm. Meanwhile, co-presenter Maeve Dineen will travel to Dunderry in Co Meath to meet sheep farmer, John Keeley, who has halved his workload and increased his income with a breed of sheep that is new to Ireland. And a 47-year-old beef farmer from Millstreet, Co Cork who suffered a suspected stroke due to exhaustion will also appear on the show to discuss the sale of his dairy herd and his new hobby of breeding famed Japanese cattle. The episode airs on Thursday January 25 on RTE One at 7pm, and will be repeated on Sunday January 28 at 1.09pm. by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, January 19, 2024 OpenAI CEO Sam Altman wants to address the semiconductor chip shortage he expects to arrive at the end of the decade, and is looking to raise billions of dollars in capital for a chip venture. The plans -- which now reveal the focus and the scope of the project -- would begin with setting up a network of chip fabrication facilities similar to companies like Texas Instruments. There they would design and manufacture semiconductors to support artificial intelligence and the boom in server capacity that the industry expects. Abu Dhabi-based G42 is one of the firms in which Altman has held discussions with, reports Bloomberg. Some people named SoftBank Group, according to Bloomberg, citing people familiar with the conversation. The processing power will be required by advertising and marketing companies working with AI to do everything from design creatives to serve ads, and more. advertisement advertisement Building and maintaining a fabrication facility is far more ambitious a strategy than outsourcing the projects to a third-party company similar to Amazon, Google, and Microsoft. Google, for example, reportedly co-designs its AI chips with Broadcom, a semiconductor firm that also provides wireless chips for Google phones and chips for its cloud services. Meta Platforms also works with Broadcom and Nvidia on custom AI chips. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced Thursday on Instagram Reels that the companys two major AI research groups, FAIR and GenAI, are being combined to advance efforts and accelerate the work. Were building a massive amount of infrastructure, Zuckerberg wrote on Instagram. At the end of the year, Meta estimates having 350,000 Nvidia H100s, graphics processing unit (GPU) chips designed for AI and, overall, 600,000 H100 and H100 equivalent amounts of computing power when including GPUs. We expect investors to increasingly focus on the R in ROI of generative AI investment, and thus how META (and others) will generate revenue from these investments, wrote Dan Salmon, analyst at New Street Research in a note published Friday. We see several promising generative AI-related opportunities at META. Those opportunities include ad supported AI agents like the Sponsored Links in SNAPs My AI, which could turn into a more than a $6 billion advertising opportunity by 2025. Other opportunities include a potential enterprise of small and medium size paid targeting in a new subscription revenue stream leveraging, in part, WhatApps distribution and central role in global small-scale commerce. Generative AI tools that improve advertising performance, and enhanced creator content generation tools to improve the metaverse engagement capabilities, and wearable devices like the Ray-Bans. by Erik Oster , January 21, 2024 Vintage Wine Estates -- a leading U.S. producer whose brands include Ace Cider, Layer Cake, and Sonoma Coast Vineyards -- is laying off about 15% of its staff as it prepares to pare down its brand roster and sell off other non-core assets as part of a broad restructuring plan. Vintage Wine Estates is the 11th largest wine producer in the U.S., according to Wine Business Monthly, with an extensive roster of over 30 brands. The company claims the workforce reduction will save it around $7.1 million annually. In a release announcing the news Seth Kaufman, who joined the company from Moet Hennessy as the companys new CEO last summer, cited business complexity resulting in a disproportionately high-cost base, while alluding to the very different requirements across its portfolio. advertisement advertisement Getting from here to there starts by recognizing where our strengths lie and identifying the areas of the business in which we shouldnt operate, along with "building a select portfolio of nationally recognized brands, he explained. He cited some premium pricepoint and below wine brands as among the assets it is looking to sell, along with select luxury estates, some DTC platforms such as digitally native brands and certain production services. Kaufman named Layer Cake, Bar Dog, Cherry Pie and Ace Cider as among the companys priority lifestyle brands; and Girard, Kunde, BR Cohn, Laetitia, and Firesteed as among its priority Super Premium+ estate priority brands. The company announced this news this week as its new CMO steps into his role. Vintage Wine Estates announced earlier this month that Ryan Watson was joining the company from Boston Consulting Group (BGC), where he was a partner, effective Jan. 16. The shakeup comes as large wineries are struggling amid category changes and shifting consumer demands. According to a State of the US Wine Industry report from Silicon Valley Bank, U.S. consumer demand for the total wine category is in decline, with more consumers turning to alternatives such as RTDs, spirits, cannabis or choosing to abstain from drinking alcohol altogether leading to an oversupply of planted vineyards given current sales volumes. by Teresa Buyikian , January 21, 2024 Image above: Slices-N-Stix at Little Caesars Pizza Even as temperatures plummet across the country, things are definitely heating up in the QSR and fast-casual categories this week. Heres a quick rundown. Menu Additions Cracker Barrel Old Country Store announced early exclusive access this week to the chains new Golden Carolina BBQ Tenders for to-go and catering guests only, in addition to DashPass by DoorDash members, through Feb. 27. The new tenders are made with Golden Carolina BBQ sauce and served with a choice of two country sides plus buttermilk biscuits or corn muffins. Little CaesarsPizza is offering its Slices-N-Stix -- pepperoni pizza slices and cheese bread sticks in one pizza -- for $7.99, including two new options for Stix topping: bacon or jalapenos. advertisement advertisement Panera Bread has added to its sandwich menu with two new Sourdough Melts served on Country Rustic Sourdough. The Bacon Avocado Melt is made with applewood smoked bacon, avocado, smoked gouda, everything bagel seasoning blend and chipotle aioli. The Southwest Chicken Melt is made with smoked pulled chicken, smoked gouda, red onion, cilantro, and chipotle aioli. The chain is also offering a cup of soup for a limited time for $1. Locations Aussie Grill, the Tampa-based, fast-casual restaurant in the Bloomin' Brands Inc. portfolio, has opened a new location in Canton, Michigan. The free-standing location also includes a drive-thru. Beard Papa announced it will open a Cerritos, California store on Jan. 27. The new location of the international cream puff dessert chain brings the brand to more than 450 locations worldwide in 15 countries and territories. Chicken SaladChick has signed several new franchise agreements that will add 21 new locations in Texas over the next five years to its current 30 open locations across the state. Jersey Mike's Subs signed a development agreement with Redberry Restaurants, one of Canada's largest restaurant operators to open 300 Jersey Mike's restaurants across Canada by 2034. The Canadian expansion marks the first Jersey Mikes locations outside the U.S. Marcos Pizza opened its 1,200th store in Louisville, Kentucky with Hoogland Restaurant Group, Marco's largest franchisee. The Hoogland team boasts a 117-unit Marco's Pizza portfolio, with plans to grow its unit count by 20 this year. Taco Bell has opened the first drive-thru-only Taco Bell in Kansas City, Missouri. The location has no seating or lobby, and features a dual-lane drive-thru, a vestibule equipped with two ordering kiosks, and a late-night pickup window for mobile orders, according to a release. by Steve McClellan @mp_mcclellan, January 21, 2024 Unilever is conducting a media agency review in most of its markets around the world, the consumer goods giant has confirmed. The review follows the appointment of the companys new marketing chief, Esi Eggleston Bracey in October. She succeeded Conny Braams, who left the company last August. advertisement advertisement It was under Braams watch back in the 2021 that Unilever conducted its last major media agency review that was the first such assessment in six years. After a six-month process, the single biggest piece of business went to incumbent WPP, with Omnicom Media Group, Interpublic and Havas Media also winning multiple-market assignments. At the time it was estimated that the firm spent about $4 billion annually on measured media. An updated figure was not immediately available. In response to an email query, a company spokesperson issued a short statement confirming the review: Yes, we are undertaking media agency reviews in many of our markets. This is part of our standard process to periodically review, to ensure best in class media agency partnerships. AL-MAZRA'A ASH-SHARQIYA, West Bank (AP) The father of an American teen killed by Israeli fire in the occupied West Bank railed against Washington's military support for Israel, as hundreds of mourners buried the 17-year-old in the family's ancestral Palestinian village Saturday. The death of Tawfiq Ajaq on Friday drew an immediate expression of concern from the White House and a pledge from Israeli police to investigate. It was the latest fatal shooting in the West Bank, where nearly 370 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza more than three months ago. The Biden administration has repeatedly expressed concern about violence by Israeli settlers against Palestinians in recent months. During Saturday's funeral, the teen's father criticized the long-standing U.S. support for Israel. They are killer machines, he said of Israeli forces. They are using our tax dollars in the U.S. to support the weapons to kill our own children. Tawfiq Ajaq was born and raised in Gretna, Louisiana, near New Orleans, relatives said. His parents brought him and his four siblings to the village of Al-Mazraa Ash-Sharqiya last year so they could reconnect with Palestinian culture. On Saturday, crowds of Palestinians pulsed through village streets, following men who held aloft a stretcher with the teen's body, wrapped in a Palestinian flag. Hafez Ajaq implored Americans to see with their own eyes the ongoing violence in the West Bank. The American society does not know the true story, he said. Come here on the ground and see whats going on. ... How many fathers and mothers have to say goodbye to their children? How many more? The circumstances of the shooting remained unclear. Ajaq's relative, Joe Abdel Qaki, said that Ajaq and a friend were having a barbecue in a village field when he was shot by Israeli fire, once in the head and once in the chest. Abdel Qaki said he arrived at the field shortly after the shooting and helped transport Ajaq to an ambulance. He said Israeli forces briefly detained him and other Palestinians at the scene, asking for their IDs before the men could get to Ajaq. He said Ajaq died in the ambulance on the way to the hospital. Israeli police said they received a report Friday regarding a firearm discharge, ostensibly involving an off-duty law enforcement officer, a soldier and a civilian. Police did not identify who fired the shot, though it said the shooting targeted people purportedly engaged in rock-throwing activities along Highway 60," the main north-south thoroughfare in the West Bank. Al-Mazraa Ash-Sharqiya is located just east of the highway. Police said the incident would be investigated. Investigations of those involved in fatal shootings of Palestinians by Israel's police and military have rarely yielded speedy results, and indictments are uncommon. Asked about the shooting, U.S. national security spokesman John Kirby said that officials at the White House were seriously concerned about these reports. The information is scant at this time. We dont have perfect context about exactly what happened here, Kirby said. Were going to be in constant touch with counterparts in the region to to get more information. Since Oct. 7, when Hamas staged its deadly attack on southern Israel, killing about 1,200 people and taking about 250 hostage, Israeli forces have clamped down on suspected militants in the West Bank, carrying out near nightly arrest raids. The Palestinian Health Ministry says 369 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank since Oct. 7. Most of the Palestinians were killed during shootouts in the West Bank that the Israeli military says began during operations to arrest Palestinian gunmen. In several documented instances, Israeli forces and settlers have killed Palestinians who witnesses report were not engaged in violence. The U.S. has given military and diplomatic support to Israel's war on Hamas, but has urged Israel to scale back the intensity of its attacks. Nearly 25,000 Palestinians have been killed so far in Israel's offensive, Gaza health officials said. Israel captured the West Bank, along with east Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip, in the 1967 Mideast war. The Palestinians seek those territories for a future independent state. EAST LANSING, MI With the one-year anniversary of a deadly mass shooting on Michigan State Universitys campus approaching, university officials are planning a day of reflection and remembrance. Three MSU students were killed, and five others were wounded Feb. 13, 2023, when a gunman opened fire on the East Lansing campus. In a letter to the community, MSU Interim President Teresa Woodruff outlined the universitys plans for commemorative events as well as ongoing resources available. It is important for all of us myself included to remember that leading up to Feb. 13, 2024, community members will experience many different emotions, Woodruff wrote in the Jan. 19 letter. The lone gunman shot seven students in a Berkey Hall classroom, killing Arielle Anderson, 19, and Alexandria Verner, 20. He also fatally shot Brian Fraser, 20, at the MSU Union. RELATED: Michigan State settles with families of students killed in mass shooting The university will have the following events planned on Tuesday, Feb. 13, and resources available: Student organizations are sponsoring a day of service focused on the larger MSU/East Lansing communities. The initiative will provide opportunities for students, faculty and staff to take action in a positive manner in their community. An evening remembrance gathering will offer students and the community a place to come together in commemoration, support and recognition of Feb. 13, 2023. The gathering is scheduled to run from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. and will take place outdoors north of Spartan Stadium, near The Spartan statue. Reflective spaces will be set up across campus during the day on Feb. 13 for those who want to spend time reflecting safely. Counseling support will be available at each location. Counseling staff will be available to provide support to the community at the planned events. The university will be using outside counselors to ensure MSU staff can spend the day as they choose. The planning underway, led by committees including students, staff and faculty, strives to provide space and time for individualized reactions and experiences as we honor those we lost, those injured, and all affected by the tragedy that occurred on our campus, Woodruff stated. RELATED: Please, hurry up, 911 calls detail fear, chaos of MSU shooting The shooter, Anthony McRae, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, police said. Most courses will not be held on Tuesday, Feb. 13, though the university will remain open to support students and the community. In addition to the one-year remembrance event, university officials have established a group to build a memorial in honor of the victims of the shooting. RELATED: The timeline of the mass shooting at Michigan State University, according to police Read more about the Michigan State mass shooting here. FLINT, MI -- Attorneys for the city say a 2016 court case that once shut down its rental housing inspection program should remain closed despite a landlords effort to reopen it. In a U.S. District Court filing on Thursday, Jan. 18, the city urged Judge Linda V. Parker not to reopen the case to hear the grievances of landlord Karter Landon, arguing the court doesnt have jurisdiction to do so. You are already a Moneycontrol Pro user. OK Danish Khan is a London-based independent journalist and author of 'Escaped: True Stories of Indian fugitives in London'. He is researching Indian capitalism at University of Oxford. Nivedita Jayaram Pawar is a Mumbai-based freelance journalist, who writes on food, art, design, travel and lifestyle. Irfan Amin Malik is a freelance journalist based in J&K. He tweets @irfanaminmalik I must have been in my early teens sometime in the 1970s when my father took me to watch The Fiddler On The Roof. I remember enjoying it thoroughly, but over the years, most of the film faded from memory, except for a couple of songs. So when I noticed that it was available on a streaming service, I watched it again. And then it struck me. Fiddler is set in Ukraine in the last days of czarist Russia and tells the story of a Jewish family. Ukraine, Russia and Israel are involved in the two bloodiest wars going on right now. Suddenly, the film had an extra resonance. Fiddler is one of the most popular Broadway musicals in historyit was the first show ever to cross 3,000 performances. Over the last six decades, it has been staged all across the world, in dozens of languages, from Dutch to Chinese. Its universality can be gauged from the fact that 56 years after the Japanese version debuted in Tokyo, it remains a huge hit with audiences, who believe that it perfectly captures the Japanese way of life. On screen, it is a grand spectacle with beautiful cinematography and big dance numbers. But then most movie musicals are grand spectacles. They are supposed to be that. Yet, Fiddlers subject matter has no inherent grandeur in it at all. All the characters are ordinary people, most of them poverty-stricken. This is what makes Fiddler special. The story revolves around Tevye, a poor Jewish dairyman who lives in a small village with his wife and five daughters, three of them of marriageable age. He is honest and hard-working, believes strongly in Jewish tradition (the song Tradition!), wishes he had more money (If I were a rich man, all day long Id biddy biddy bum) and worries about getting his daughters married because he cannot afford a dowry. When in doubt, he talks to God as if that entity were his older brother. The close-knit Jewish community is watched over by a Russian police force. The winds of the Communist revolution of 1917 are getting stronger and Moscow is planning fresh Jewish pogroms. But in the village of Anatevka, the Jews are happy with their mundane lives. They are not concerned about the wider world. Only one man in Anatevka buys a newspaper regularly. The three daughters choices of husbands do not go according to Tevyes hopes. This is a time when anything other than a marriage arranged by the parents is unthinkable. But his eldest daughter, whom the wealthiest man in the village is keen on, insists on marrying a poor tailor whose dreams are limited to being able to save enough money to buy a second-hand sewing machine. The second daughter falls in love with a Communist who is arrested and exiled to Siberia. She follows him there. The third daughters sweetheart is Christian. In all three cases, Tevye objects vehemently. He finally accepts the choices of the two older ones, but cannot come to terms with a daughter marrying outside the Jewish faith. She elopes and gets married. (Photo courtesy Otterbein University Theatre & Dance from USA via Wikimedia Commons 2.0) Then one day, the government orders all the Jews of Anatevka to leave. The villagers become homeless refugees overnight. The films last sequence has Tevye and his family trudging away with their meagre moveable assets, hoping to reach America. It is a downbeat ending, yet strangely heart-warming. Like Harihar in Pather Panchali or Antonio in Bicycle Thieves, Tevye accepts his cruel fate but remains optimistic. It may seem odd that I was reminded of the endings of two films made on shoestring budgets to that of an expensive Hollywood production, but if you watch Fiddler, it will not be surprising. The fiddlera mysterious man who stands precariously on a narrow roof and plays the violin in the dead of nightis a metaphor for life itself. As Tevye puts it, it is about balancehow to play your tune without falling and breaking your neck. As he leaves his village forever, he motions to the fiddler to come along with him. This big-budget film about little people is fundamentally about family and tradition in changing times. Tevye cannot believe that his beloved daughters would defy him and choose their husbands on their own. The young Communist creates a watershed moment for the orthodox community when he gets men and women, who have always had separate seating spaces at weddings, to break down the barrierliterally a thick ropeand dance with one another in public. Tevye and his family move on to a new life in an unknown land thousands of miles away. Perhaps, as in the case of so many immigrants to America in the early 20th century, some of his grandchildren will be millionaires or renowned scientists. Jews, Russians, Ukrainiansall have tragic histories, of terrible warfare, mass murder, persecution and pogroms. That continues even now and no solution seems to be in sight. In both the current wars, all parties involved appear to have dug themselves into positions that are difficult to retreat from. And as it has been throughout history across the planet, it is the poor Tevyes who are the worst sufferers. The Fiddler On The Roof is far bigger than a story about what the Jews have undergone for millennia. It is about the voiceless but resilient underdog anywhere on earth anytime. I remember my father, a 1947 Partition refugee, being deeply moved by the film. That is why the play and the film keep touching the hearts of millions of people, irrespective of geography, language and faith. And have them humming: Sunrise sunset/ Sunrise sunset/ Swiftly fly the years/ One season following another/ Laden with happiness and tears/ Sunrise sunset/ Sunrise sunset. Sandipan Deb is former managing editor of Outlook, former editor of The Financial Express, and founding editor of Outlook Money, Open, and Swarajya magazines. He has authored books such as 'The IITians: The Story of an Extraordinary Indian Institution and How its Alumni Are Reshaping the World', 'Fallen Angel: The Making and Unmaking of Rajat Gupta', and 'The Last War'. The views expressed in his column are personal, and do not reflect those of Moneycontrol. You can follow Sandipan on Twitter @sandipanthedeb Deepali Singh is a Mumbai-based freelance journalist who writes on movies, shows, music, art, and food. Twitter: @DeepaliSingh05 The Argentine activist and artist of Bolivian heritage, Angela Camacho. @HeardinLondon (EL PAIS) Angela Camacho, 45, has lived a thousand lives in the two decades since she emigrated to London, or as she calls the city, the belly of the beast. But shes always kept one goal in mind: becoming a good ancestor. Activist and artist, she consults and lectures at some of Britains most influential cultural institutions such as the South Bank Centre, Barbican and Tate Modern. She defines herself as a witch, an Indigenous descendant, a creative, an ancestor in the making and community organizer. She is also a domestic worker and caregiver of two children, Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., an activity that she does not want to give up despite her increasingly frequent cultural projects because, she says, it gives her economic freedom. But nowhere does she accept losing her identity or millenniums-old knowledge: that of her Indigenous grandmothers, two Bolivian women from La Paz who, after migrating to Buenos Aires, continued to speak Quechua and Aymara, followed the agricultural calendar, and wore their traditional chola garments. Maintaining legacy is a lifes work, she explains in an interview with EL PAIS. There is no perfect way of being Indigenous, which is something that has taken me years to learn, she reflects. We are displaced, but we follow the practices of our ancestors I am an extension of my territory, and I will not allow them to fragment me. With these assertions, this warm-spirited woman is becoming a reference point for Londons Indigenous and Latin American migrant communities. I was told that I was the face of ecofeminism, and I had to Google it, she laughs. Part of her most recent artistic work was recently exhibited in the show Against Apartheid in the southern English town of Plymouth, an exhibition on how climate change is making life impossible for part of the worlds population. Camachos work is an archive made up of collages of Indigenous American women that she created with her mobile phone to raise awareness of their lives, and which has been published in the form of an online encyclopedia on her Instagram account, @thebonitachola, which has more than 30,000 followers. Her goal is to give visibility to the Indigenous population to break down the information barriers that surround them. We are less than 5% of the global population and we defend 80% of the worlds diversity, she says. She stakes her claim to belonging to this Indigenous population, albeit from the diasporas gray asphalt, where she has not always had it easy. She arrived as a student in the United Kingdom at the age of 23, and spent 10 years undocumented, largely because she could not afford the cost of a temporary visa, which must be renewed every two years, and in her case, amounted to the sum of $3,260. This is not uncommon. A single mother, she recalls selling cakes from a cart in the Elephant and Castle shopping center, painting faces, working as a cleaner, and, she says without shame, as a sex worker. It was precisely during this era when she constructed a network, got her visa, and came out ahead. The community saved me. Whores saved me, and I say that proudly. My work is born from the roots of the community, it grows in and is nurtured by that space. I always go back to that point, she says. Historically, we had five or six genders Now she seeks to leave no one behind. She does that via intergenerational embroidery workshops, designed so that the youngest members of the community many of them orphans without knowledge of their roots get to know their heritage. Also, with neighborhood networks in community centers, like the one in multicultural Brixton, where issues affecting the Latin American community are discussed, from labor exploitation to how to get funds for organizing cultural events. At the museums and cultural institutions with which she also collaborates, her audience is different. For a long time, I refused to participate in these spaces, which are not made for but are rather, about bodies like mine, she says. But now, she believes such sites are essential in the quest to break away from Eurocentrism and start uncomfortable conversations. For example, about feminism, a movement that she argues was not created for Black bodies, either. Or about the colonial heritage inherent in homophobia. Historically, we had five or six genders, two-spirits gender was conceived in a more spiritual way. When the colonists arrived, they brought homophobia with them, Camacho explains, alluding to research that found that some Indigenous peoples recognized more than two genders. For Camacho, the key to curing colonialisms harms lies in practicing long memory. On social media, she posts a reminder every October 31: My culture is not your costume. For those who are thinking about dressing up like Pocahontas, a Hawaiian person, a chief I will ask you to light a candle and reflect on those who have gone before, on those who are no longer here and on everything that they had to pass through before us. She ends with an invitation: Practice being a better ancestor in progress. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Khursheed Dinshaw is an independent travel writer. Views expressed are personal. Yemeni demonstrators shout slogans during a protest following U.S. and British strikes, in the Houthi-controlled capital Sana'a on January 12, 2024. This weeks airstrikes between Iran and Pakistan that killed at least 11 people mark a significant escalation in fraught relations between the neighbors. Long-running, low-level insurgencies on either side of the border have frustrated both countries, and the apparent targets of the strikes Irans on Tuesday and Pakistans response on Thursday were insurgent groups whose goal is an independent Baluchistan for ethnic Baluch areas in Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan. The question is why Iran and Pakistan would choose to strike insurgents in each others territories rather than their own, considering the risk of a wider conflagration. The background Iran and Pakistan share a 900-kilometre (560-mile), largely lawless border where smugglers and militants roam freely. Both countries have suspected each other of supporting, or at least behaving leniently toward some of the groups operating on the other side of the border. Jaish al-Adl, the Sunni separatist group that Iran targeted on Tuesday, is believed to operate out of Pakistan, launching attacks on Iranian security forces. The Baluch Liberation Army, which was formed in 2000 and has launched attacks against Pakistani security forces and Chinese infrastructure projects, is suspected of hiding out in Iran. Why did Pakistan retaliate? Pakistan said its strikes in Iran on Thursday were aimed at hideouts of the Baluchistan Liberation Army and the Baluchistan Liberation Front. It also wanted to send a message to Iran and other neighbors that it can fight back if provoked. The last time Pakistan retaliated against a neighboring country was in 2019, when it downed two Indian warplanes and captured a pilot in the disputed Kashmir region. It followed an Indian strike inside Pakistan against what New Delhi said was a terrorist training camp. Why now? Iran and Pakistan have long had a volatile relationship, but these strikes are likely prompted by internal dynamics. Tehran has been experiencing a growing pressure for some kind of action after a deadly Islamic State group attack earlier this month, Israels war on Irans ally, Hamas, and wider unrest against its theocracy. Pakistans attack on Thursday also served a domestic purpose, according to analysts. The government and military have been under immense pressure (since Tuesday), said Abdullah Khan from the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies think-tank in Islamabad. The public perception of a strong army is not as it used to be, so it had to respond. Could the situation escalate? Irans military on Thursday began a planned annual air defense drill stretching from its port of Chabahar near Pakistan in the east, all the way across the country to its border with Iraq in the west. The drill will include live fire from aircraft, drones and air defense systems. Fresh strikes by Iran and Pakistan cannot be ruled out, although this weeks attacks raise questions about the preparedness of their own militaries, particularly their radar and air defense systems. For Pakistan, such systems are crucial given its constant, low-level tensions with its nuclear-armed rival, India. Its equipment has long been deployed along that frontier, rather than its border with Iran. Separately, Iran relies on radar and air defense systems in the case of potential strikes by its main enemy, the United States. What do the airstrikes mean? Launching these strikes allows Tehran to point to it directly taking military action without risking a wider confrontation with either Israel or the U.S., particularly as tensions also remain high over Irans rapidly advancing nuclear program. Pakistans strike may relieve domestic political pressure, but could backfire later, as the Baluch Liberation Army said it will avenge the killings and wage war on the state. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Kenneth Eugene Smith, convicted for a murder-for-hire committed in 1988, and who is scheduled to be executed in the U.S. state of Alabama by asphyxiation using pure nitrogen, poses for an undated booking photo at Holman Prison in Atmore, Alabama, U.S. Opinion articles written in the style of their author." These texts are to be based on verified facts and must be respectful towards people, even though their actions may be criticized. shall feature, along with the author's name (regardless of their greater or lesser renown), a footer stating their office, academic title, political affiliation (if any) and main occupation, or the occupation related to the topic being assessed It was not with surprise, but with regret that I witnessed the recent wave of news about the violence taking place in Ecuadors cities. Just three weeks ago, I returned from the country, where I had started filming my next documentary. At a global level, Ecuador is seen as a nation on the edge of a social abyss, with consequences that are spreading throughout the country. These are especially impacting the most vulnerable sectors of the countryside and the cities: the impoverished and historically discriminated against; Indigenous, Black and mountain communities; the fishing and gathering communities of the mangroves and peasants of the sierra and the coast. The complex reality facing Ecuador today is a supposed state of internal armed conflict, officially declared as such by the government to justify an internal war against criminal organizations. This is the result of a large and painful tearing of Ecuadors social fabrics and a state dissolving into a morass of corruption. Most particularly, however, it is the result of an extractive and export model of development that has been in place for over more than fifty years and has greatly intensified over the past two decades and four governments. This model has corrupted Ecuadors institutions, which have been captureed by special interest groups linked to extraction and exportation. Ecuadors recent implosion and the intervention of armed forces to stop the escalation of violence seeks to employ warfare to stop the violence that is expanding like wildfire across the country. This military response is backed by the force of law, with all the social complications this entails. It may contain organized crime, eliminating criminals and gangs from the streets, which will produce a sense of relief among the population and boost the governments popularity. However, this will not solve the root problems leading to crime, because the criminal organizations and their roots are in fact deeply embedded in the Ecuadorian state itself. The countrys highest officials in the justice system, security forces, the National Assembly, and in the political parties, are truly Camorras that support criminal conduct as ethical. The Ecuadorian economy is, in fact, nourished by this systematic and semi-institutionalized corruption. Over the last few decades, three Ecuadorian presidents have been prosecuted for corruption, along with more than a dozen senior officials, vice-presidents, ministers, auditors, inspectors, generals, judges, directors, and bureaucrats have been prosecuted and sentenced for corruption (some in absentia). Despite bringing economic stability, dollarization also created favorable conditions for trafficking, money laundering and the drug trade. This has converted Ecuador into a suitable territory for drug trafficking, vulnerable to the corruption this trade brings with it. The infiltration of drug traffickers into the Ecuadorian state is evident, for example, in the so-called metastasis case, an investigation carried out by the Attorney General. This resulted in the arrest of senior officials such as the president of the Consejo de la Judicatura (Judiciary Council), the highest administrative authority of the countrys courts, which has presumably used its position to favor members of criminal groups linked to the drug economy. Faced with the depth of the prison crisis and the on-going conflict, the categorization of organized criminal groups as terrorists, the militarization of the country, and war have been the governments main proposals. These are being questioned by organizations and experts who warn that these initiatives will only strengthen the narcos, increasing conflicts and violence in the affected areas and especially in provinces like Esmeraldas and Guayas. Over the last quarter century, Ecuador has gone from being a country drugs passed through, to a country where drugs are stored, to a country where drugs are bought, sold, prepared and exported and money is laundered. In recent years, Ecuador has been the main drug exporting country for the European trade. The capital generated by drugs is washed through Ecuadors financial system, mainly through construction and through the governments main economic venture: mining. On the other hand, there is also criminal mining being carried out by groups that are linked to drug trafficking. This activity has filtered into Indigenous and peasant communities, becoming a focus of conflict that has reached into the Amazon, the southern mountains, and even the coast, reigniting numerous long simmering territorial disputes. The militarization proposed by the government to combat this problem will probably not solve it. Instead, it threatens to widen social gaps and will affect the most vulnerable groups, such as Indigenous and peasant communities. Criminal mining activities in Ecuador financed by criminal groups such as Los Choneros and Los Lobos are on the rise and represent a serious threat to the countrys security and its sensitive ecosystems. This has become one of the main financing sources for these criminal organizations, bankrolling their acquisition of high-quality heavy weapons. The militarization of the territories affected by criminal mining will intensify even more in the current internal war imposed by the Ecuadorian government. In Brazil, criminal factions from Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo have infiltrated the Brazilian Amazon, co-opting locals and Indigenous people. Drug trafficking seeks to control drug transport routes, affecting local communities. On the border with Peru, the Shaninka people face persistent threats. In addition to long-standing problems with Peruvian logging, drug trafficking persists and has intensified in the region, using Native communities as resupply points. State absence makes local Indigenous populations vulnerable to criminal violence. Indigenous leaders are resisting threats that have evolved through increasingly intimidating tactics. In the cities of the Amazon, urban violence has expanded into communities, which are seeing an increase in assaults and robberies. Meanwhile, drug trafficking has infiltrated various economic activities in the region to launder illicit money. The expansion of so-called illicit activities will always require legal cover, which provides certainty and continuity to economic activities. The State and its political, legal and security institutions, necessarily become targets for cooptation and control. Therefore, in the political space, certain parties have been co-opted by criminal mafias, or have been converted into safe areas from which organized crime can operate to influence politics. The assassination of an Ecuadorian presidential candidate five months ago is part of this struggle for control over the State: a warning that the government must be on the side of the criminal organizations and not working against them. Meanwhile, the Ecuadorian government has promoted a popular plebiscite, apparently intended (among other things) to regain control of the territories where illegal mining is taking place. This, however, generates questions about the real understanding of the conflicts surrounding criminal mining and the effectiveness and clarity of the governments strategy to solve the problem. This seems to be concentrated on favoring the business sectors involved in mining without settling the legitimate grievances of the local populations affected by these activities. This lack of coherence in government action increases uncertainty about the future of Ecuador, especially in relation to the management of violence and its impacts on Indigenous and peasant communities. In this context, the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of the Ecuadorian Amazon (CONFENIAE) and environmental and human rights organizations have called for the defense of territorial and cultural rights. Representing eleven nationalities and 25 towns, CONFENIAE has historically led the fight for the defense of the territory and the rights of Indigenous communities. In its recent statement, issued on January 5 on Facebook, the Confederation vehemently rejected the Plano Fenix proposed by President Daniel Noboa, his no-holds barred strategy to face the situation countrys current security crisis. The Plano Fenix seeks to establish a maximum security mega-prison in the Amazonian province of Pastaza. This has generated concern and opposition from CONFENIAE. The Confederations recent pronouncement highlights the violation of rights regarding prior, free, and informed consultation, and the consent of the nationalities that inhabit Pastaza. It also criticizes the historical exploitation of the Ecuadorian Amazon by past and current governments, which have extracted natural resources under the false promise of progress, causing profound environmental and health damage. CONFENIAE emphasizes that Indigenous territories should not become sacrifice zones amidst the Ecuadors security crisis. The construction of more prisons, as proposed in the Plano Fenix, does not address the structural causes of social injustice and inequality. The lack of transparency in President Noboas statements regarding the penitentiary project generates additional doubts and concerns. Indigenous communities cannot be pushed to the side in the governments attempts to address these challenges. Given that Ecuadors Indigenous and rural peoples are likely find themselves on the front line of Noboas war, they must have a seat at the decision-making table in designing solutions. Impacts on Indigenous and peasant communities The risks associated with illegal mining and militarization as a response are especially worrying for Indigenous communities, especially in the territories of the Shuar nation and in rural communities of southern Ecuador. Militarization weakens collective rights to self-determination and self-government, which also generates environmental concerns. Government plans could very well convert those territories of Indigenous communities afflicted with illegal mining into key points of conflict, confrontation, and struggle between the armed forces and criminal groups. This probable scenario implies social risks for these communities and has ecological consequences, as these territories are rich in biodiversity and sensitive ecosystems. The plebiscite has received well-founded criticism, generating serious concerns about the governments capacity to address the complexity of the current situation. The governments goal of regaining control of the security situation in different territories may clash with reality, especially if the popular consultation is not translated into effective actions. The lack of clarity in governmental strategies and inclinations is leading to a policy of confrontation and militarization that generates uncertainty and strong concerns about the future of Ecuador. The risks of a war against drug trafficking The governments current policy for a war against drug trafficking contains significant risks. Past experiences in countries such as Mexico and Colombia demonstrate that this strategy does not eradicate drug trafficking: instead, it strengthens criminal groups and economies. The governments very possible lack of capacity to effectively address the situation through violence and its insistence on going forward with this policy, regardless, threatens to plunge Ecuador into devastation and disintegration. The government intends to replicate, as much as possible, the supposed success of the Bukele model as a panacea for the Ecuadors situation. Meanwhile, experts have warned that this is neither recommended nor even possible. Measures such as the construction of mega-prisons do not address the structural issues Ecuador faces and, in fact, run the risk of deepening them. One of the latest government decisions has been to remit an emergency bill to the National Assembly of Ecuador that intends to raise the countrys VAT from 12% to 15%. This measure intends to increase sales taxes to raise money to finance the presidents war policy. The bill now rests in the hands of a legislative branch that has previously expressed its support for the President in his fight against drug trafficking. Congress is being put to the test with this bill, which has been criticized and rejected by social sectors such as the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador (CONAIE) and which is an unpopular measure. The government has decided to transfer the cost of its war to the population via sales taxes which unfairly impact upon the most impoverished populations. Meanwhile, however, the government has also decided to grant, on own initiative, forgiveness to large tax debtors, including companies belonging to the Presidents family, one of the richest in the country and region. A call to reflection and action Amid these challenges, we must reflect upon the impact of the Ecuadorian presidents new policies on minorities, especially Indigenous and peasant communities. The Ecuadorian elite and other privileged sectors can maintain their status and improve their security conditions, but the governments militaristic agenda will directly affect the countrys most vulnerable communities. How will this situation unfold and what measures will be taken to protect Ecuadors most precarious populations? The answer to this question is vital for the future of country. The path that Ecuador has chosen to follow will have significant consequences. Militarization, criminal mining, and confrontational politics pose substantial risks, but social resistance, solidarity, and the adoption of intelligent and pluralistic approaches can be the key to building a fairer and safer future for all communities in the country. In response to this threat, CONFENIAE has called for a peaceful march to reject the construction of the maximum security prison in Pastaza, inviting all social sectors to unite in the name of creating a good life. This call for peaceful resistance highlights the importance of solidarity between the different sectors of Ecuadorian society most affected by the countrys multiple challenges. The intersection of criminal mining, militarization, and Indigenous resistance presents a complex and critical panorama for Ecuador. The government is faced with the task of comprehensively addressing these problems in the face of the voices and concerns of Indigenous communities and other affected sectors. The path that the country chooses will have significant consequences for its future and the possibilities for the protection of its citizens. Changing Ecuadors direction requires confronting the threat of drug trafficking on the ground and transforming a state riddled with corruption. The lack of a comprehensive vision for the country and the prioritization of special group interests over those of the commonwealth have contributed to the current crisis. Ecuador faces an internal crisis, but is also a battling for institutional integrity and the construction of a vision for the country that is based upon its reality as a plurinational state. As a friend and director of Ecuadorian cinema mentioned to me a couple of weeks ago, fiction has not had as much room as documentaries in the Ecuadorian cinema. The countrys current realities are very far from fiction; they are the best and most authentic Latin American cinema verite. A migrant family talks to the members of U.S. National Guard after crossing the Rio Grande river in Eagle Pass, Texas, as seen from Piedras Negras, Mexico, January 18, 2024. Flowers and caution tape around a power pole are seen Monday, Jan. 8, 2024, at the site where tourist Hea Jun Hwang was shot and killed Jan. 4, 2024, in Tumon. BCs Tales of the Pacific A Chamorro fights in the Second World War Observers are keeping a close eye on a bill in the Indiana Senate that would prohibit free or reduced fare public transportation service on Election Day as its last chance to be heard in committee approaches. Senate Bill 187 a one-line measure stating a public transportation agency shall not implement free or reduced fares on a general, primary, or municipal election day put voting access advocates on high alert when it was introduced Jan. 9 and referred to the Senate Committee on Local Government. No hearing has yet been called for the bill authored by Sen. Gary Byrne, R-Byrneville. Thursday is the last chance for the bill to be heard in committee this short legislative session. The senator has been quoted in media reports that taxpayer dollars should not be used to subsidize transportation on Election Day for some unless it could be done for all. Poll worker Desire Jones, on left, sets up a voting machine for Cedar Lake resident Tim Brown during the first day of early voting at the Lake County Government Center in Crown Point on Wednesday, October 11, 2023. (Kyle Telechan for the Post-Tribune) The legislation seems to target transit companies including IndyGo and Gary Public Transit Corp., who partnered with the AARP last year to offer free rides for both the primary and general elections. The cost of the days fares were underwritten by the AARP. There was no cost to the public transportation entity, David Wright, spokesman for the GPTC, said. Since learning of the proposed legislation, the agency has been in contact with other public transit corporations throughout the state. They also have been in contact with the AARP. We didnt eliminate fares. AARP paid for it, Wright said, adding the nonprofit took over fare recovery those two days for all trips taken by riders. Wright said the agency always looks for ways to eliminate transportation barriers and get people to the polls. AARP is making a concerted effort to be an active transportation partner here in Gary and Northwest Indiana. This is one of several ways they are doing that, Wright said. He called seeing the program threatened by forces that did not appear to know the full details and minutia of the actual program upsetting. Weve been talking to other public transit entities and making sure the positive impact of the program is not just known between each other, but with the legislators in that area, he said. No additional costs were incurred by GPTC on those days. The buses were out on their normal routes. He said the bulk of the funding to purchase the buses comes from federal and local dollars. Mobility isnt based on who the rider is going to be voting for. Our service area is rather purple, Wright said. Jason Tomcsi, communications director for AARP Indiana, said the agency is monitoring the legislation and having conversations with legislators regarding the measure. Access to reliable transportation is crucial for older Hoosiers no matter where they live, because it allows them to stay in their homes and neighborhoods. Its an issue we are focused on, no matter what day it is and for communities of all sizes, Tomcsi wrote via email. The AARP has a long history of engaging voters and ensuring voters 50-plus across the state have access to trusted information such as important election deadlines and where they can vote, he said, adding AARP does not endorse candidates. Through various efforts and partnerships, we work to ensure every candidate, regardless of party, is aware of the issues that matter most to older Hoosiers and their families like adequate housing, transportation, and healthcare options, Tomcsi wrote. Vanessa Allen McCloud, president and CEO of the Urban League of Northwest Indiana, said many people have no other means of transportation. Precinct consolidation means for some voters, their precincts may or may not be within walking distance any longer, depending on their age and mobility. She said she supports AARPs efforts to provide the free service on Election Day. I think there should be an opportunity for transportation. We need to find ways to help instead of hinder access, she said. The Urban League is on the front line trying to provide opportunities for people in all areas, specifically the right to vote. We stand on the shoulders of our ancestors and continue to fight the fight to provide people with respect and also provide people with opportunities, she said. State Sen. Rick Niemeyer, R-Lowell; Sen. Rodney Pol, D-Chesterton; and Sen. Dan Dernulc, R-Highland, serve on the committee. Dernulc said that as the former Lake County GOP chairman he wants people to get to the polls and if an outside organization is willing to pay instead of taxpayers, that is great. It is incumbent on everybody to vote, Dernulc said. cnapoleon@chicagotribune.com (The journalist who filed this report from Managua cannot have their name printed, due to security concerns.) Nicaragua is a country dominated by fear. Effectively converted into a police state, even waving the blue-and-white flag can be seen as a crime, just like saying Mass in a rural church or celebrating the triumph of a beauty queen can land you in trouble. Forced exile, prison sentences, expropriations, harassment, threats and in hundreds of cases the loss of citizenship are common punishments under the regime of President Daniel Ortega and his wife, Vice President Rosario Murillo. The couple doesnt tolerate any hint of dissent. This is why as a journalist I write under the condition of anonymity. This article is a portrait of the catacombs inhabited by those who oppose the regime. The sources consulted are journalists, figures in the Catholic Church, former members of political parties, or active members of opposition movements that have emerged in recent years. They are citizens who ask to be quoted under pseudonyms, so as to protect themselves and their families. Their testimonies show an internal opposition that is disjointed, inactive and, above all, fearful even after having fled the country. God forbid I say that Im a journalist Lucy in her early-50s hasnt gone to the movies in five years, for fear of what might happen to her in a public place. Shes a journalist and a critic of the government a forbidden combination. Even something so simple and seemingly minor can be painful for her. Going to the movies was her favorite pastime before the 2018 protests, when she was involved in several opposition movements that led marches against the ruling Sandinista party. Later, she participated in the committees to assist the families of the murdered, the injured and the political prisoners. When I met her in mid-2019, she was delivering groceries to La Modelo prison, in Tipitapa, on the outskirts of Managua. She would wake up at dawn and pick up the mothers of political prisoners who lived far away, to give them a ride to the jail. Lucy had to withdraw from solidarity movements when the repression worsened. But her face had been seen in the jail, while she had participated in the call to hold demonstrations in her city. So, she decided to disappear. I live as locked up as possible, the opposition member admits. She moved houses two years ago. She now only leaves to attend family gatherings. I dont go out to public places, because I dont want to meet people I know who are related to the regime, she explains. In fact, many of her acquaintances believe that she left Nicaragua that she went into exile, or that she migrated to the United States, as more than 600,000 citizens have done since the crisis broke out. Her greatest fear is that Sandinista sympathizers will recognize her and report that shes in the country. The consequence would be immediate: arrest or exile. Of course, her decision to stay meant ceasing to practice her profession. God forbid I say that Im a journalist, she sighs, as if being one were a crime. Few journalists remain in Nicaragua. We take measures similar to those that she has taken: not posting anything critical of the Ortega government on social media or in WhatsApp groups, nor attending meetings with colleagues or opposition activists who are still in the country. The latest report from the Foundation for Freedom of Expression and Democracy published in October 2023 revealed that at least 222 Nicaraguan journalists have been forced into exile due to harassment and repression. Miss Nicaragua Sheynnis Palacios after being crowned Miss Universe, during the 72nd Miss Universe competition in San Salvador, El Salvador. JOSE CABEZAS (REUTERS) On May 3, just before 6 p.m., the police carried out a massive hunt for opponents of the regime. Dozens of officers were deployed across 13 of the 15 departments (regions) of Nicaragua in simultaneous raids. In a matter of hours, they detained 57 citizens, including informants, political activists and peasant leaders. They were immediately taken to Managua to be accused in secret sessions. The next morning, they were returned to their homes. During the 12 hours in which they were detained, they were interrogated. They were only released on the condition of reporting periodically to the police authorities. From time to time, they sign a document, stating that theyre in Nicaragua. During the raid, I also hid, as a precaution. I slept in a different home for several days. I was afraid that the police would look for me at my place of residence. Its not the first time Ive hidden to avoid being captured. In mid-2022, when the homes of a La Prensa journalistic team were persecuted and raided, I lived at another address for months. But I eventually went back to my house. The desire to see my family outweighed my fear of being arrested. One of those arrested in that raid was Juan, an opponent from a northern region, who was involved in the 2018 protests. I met Juan during those turbulent days, when he told me his version of the police attack against some protesters who had blocked access to a highway. Three young people were shot to death. At the time, I interviewed him in a safehouse, while soldiers were patrolling outside. When I called him for this report, Juan told me that he no longer got involved in such topics and quickly ended the conversation. EL PAIS tried to communicate with other people who were detained during the massive raid in May 2023, but none of them wanted to talk about it. Weve decided to be still and silent, rather than go into exile, Lucy says. The truth is that people are so afraid that they no longer even want to file a report when a family member has been arrested for political reasons. Capturing the municipalities The last time I spoke with Julio a 60-year-old farmer from the center of the country he was working on his farm with his family. His town was one of the most opposed to the Ortega government. When I arrived at his house at the beginning of 2021, he belonged to a liberal political party that, until then, had won every municipal election it had participated in. The Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN) had never governed in Julios town. Julio used to host colleagues in his house to talk about politics. He said, without fear, that his people should be an example, so that throughout Nicaragua, theres no longer any fear of tyrants. But everything changed with the results of the municipal elections in November 2022, when all the countrys 153 mayoralties were left in the hands of the Sandinistas, accelerating the implementation of a single-party regime. The elections were held without any real opposition, after several political parties were disqualified. When we lost the mayors office, Julio recalls, Sandinista militants began to harass me. The police would park outside my house and threaten me so that I wouldnt continue in politics. In February 2022, hooded men entered a plot of Julios land, where corn was being planted. Without saying a word, they threw Julio to the ground, held him down with his hands behind his back and took his cell phone to check it. They threatened to kill him if he continued in politics. Right then and there, I decided to leave the party, because I didnt want to be arrested or killed, he continues. Heavily-armed police surveil the streets in the Nicaraguan city of Jinotega. Cristobal Venegas (AP) In September of that year, he emigrated to the United States. Still, things havent been going well for him. He fell down while working, broke his pelvic bone and was bedridden for four months. Im hoping to return [to Nicaragua]... but I see that the situation is getting more and more difficult, Julio says by phone from Indianapolis. Hows the opposition doing in Nicaragua? I ask. Deactivated because these people [Ortega and Murillo] are satanic. They want to have [full control] over the political organizations. For us, theres nothing. Theres no way to have a space. As soon as they find out about anything, theyre looking for ways to neutralize you. Fearful priests Fear. This is what Catholic priests experienced in Nicaragua, when the police carried out a hunt in early October 2023. Six parish priests from the north of the country were detained. Then, there was another raid over the Christmas holidays. Last Sunday, 17 of the arrested priests and seminarians along with two bishops, Isidoro Mora and Rolando Alvarez, symbols of resistance who had been detained since August of 2022 were all exiled to Rome. A police source informed me that the October arrests occurred after Australian journalist Prue Lewarne released an interview with a Nicaraguan priest without showing his face or identifying him in which he spoke about the repression that the Catholic Church experiences in Nicaragua. According to the source, the arrests were made to identify who spoke to Lewarne. The Catholic Church has become a target of repression. After wiping out the opposition more than 1,300 members have been imprisoned in the last five years, while at least 300 have been exiled and eliminating political parties and more than 3,000 NGOs, the Ortega regime focused its attacks on critical bishops and priests. Human rights investigator Martha Patricia Molina keeps a detailed record of the attacks. By the end of 2023, she had registered 275 incidents, the highest number since this data began to be collected upon the outbreak of the 2018 political crisis. Priests have been the subject of permanent surveillance. Damage has been done to churches theyve been shot at, firebombed and looted. Masses have been suspended. There have been cuts to basic services, with exorbitant fines imposed on Church properties, while the bank accounts of several Catholic organizations have been frozen. More than 100 priests have been expelled from Nicaragua. President Daniel Ortega and his wife, Vice-President Rosario Murillo, attend a pro-regime rally in Managua, Nicaragua. Alfredo Zuniga (AP) Last December 7, I walked through my neighborhood while one of the most important and massive Catholic traditions in the country was being celebrated: La Griteria. Thousands of people take to the streets to sing to images of the Virgin Mary, which are placed on homemade altars. After the songs, the hosts give a toast. It was an atypical day for Nicaraguan Catholics, because several of the Holy Week processions were suspended by the police. La Griteria, however, is still tolerated. Control via WhatsApp Roberto is a political activist in his 20s, belonging to a movement that emerged in 2018. He was one of the organizers of the marches in the town where he lived. In the first months of the revolt, he was captured, along with other members of his family. He was sentenced to five years in prison, accused of attacking members of the National Police. He got out six months later, in June 2019, with an amnesty law that the National Assembly approved for those who were imprisoned during the protests. But that didnt mean that the harassment came to an end. I was left with the mark of being a political prisoner, Roberto laments. In fact, he was detained four more times, although he wasnt held overnight again. They captured me and released me quickly they just told me not to keep getting into any more trouble, he notes. Roberto continued meeting secretly with several young activists, while police patrols besieged his house. They always arrived on commemorative dates of the [2018] rebellion, because they didnt want to let me leave the house... but they never caught me at any political meeting, he explains. One day, a police inspector came to his house. The man threatened him: Dont get into any trouble, or youll go to prison. The police officer told him that, from that day onwards, Roberto would have to report monthly to him via WhatsApp. On a specific day of the month, Roberto sent a photograph and his location to the inspector. If you dont [message] me, the patrol will come to your house immediately, the officer warned him. Homemade signs of protest that read SOS Nicaragua. PETER MARSHALL / ZUMA PRESS / CONTACTOPHOTO Roberto reported to the inspector for four months until mid-September, when there was a raid that captured several members of his political movement. I thought they were coming for me, Roberto recalls. He fled the country the next day. Weeks later, he managed to cross irregularly into the United States. Hes now in Texas, where he works in construction. One afternoon, however, he received a message from the inspector. Roberto had forgotten to send a picture and his location. He explained everything to the officer, but he responded demanding a photo and the exact address of his residence in Texas. Scared, Roberto wrote him the last message to end the conversation: You can send the patrol to my house so that you can see that Im no longer in Nicaragua. Robertos fear like that of most emigrants and exiles didnt end when he crossed the U.S. border. Despite being thousands of miles away from home, he doesnt want to be identified. He still speaks softly on the phone, afraid of what reprisals his wife and his two young children who are still in Nicaragua may face. With the domestic opposition devastated, Ortega and Murillos new strategy to sow terror has turned against the relatives of critics who have already fled. In recent weeks, for example and coinciding with Christmas relatives of dissidents were prohibited from entering and leaving the country. This left entire families divided or in limbo. Some victims of this policy included Miss Universe Sheynnys Palacios and the owner of the Miss Nicaragua franchise, Karen Celebertti, along with her family. A feeling of helplessness afflicts parishioners in Nicaragua when their priest is arrested. Theres a feeling of emptiness that grips families when the police knock on the doors of a house, to take someone into custody for opposing the regime. Ortega and Murillo have turned Nicaragua into a country silenced by fear, a place where repression rules. Rolando Alvarez in the National Penitentiary System of Nicaragua. Ministerio de Gobernacion Nicaragua Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Illinois is adding tens of thousands of people to its population total, and California is getting misplaced sailors on an aircraft carrier put in the right location after successfully asking for a review of their 2020 census figures. New York City also appears to have gotten an additional 1,090 people added to its population total recently after asking the Census Bureau to double-check the citys numbers from the head count of every U.S. resident, city officials said. The once-a-decade census produces population figures that help determine political power and the annual distribution of $2.8 trillion in federal funding. The Census Bureau has two programs giving governments opportunities to have their population totals reviewed and adjusted if need be. Nearly 200 requests for reviews were filed by tribal, local and state governments for the 2020 census. Changes from the reviews will be applied only to future annual population estimates used for the rest of the decade in determining federal funding. They cant be used to change how many congressional seats each state was allotted during the apportionment process, nor for the data used for redrawing political districts. Heres a look at how two of the most populous U.S. states, and the nations largest city, had their reviews resolved recently. CALIFORNIA For the nations most populous state, with 38.9 million residents, it was more about putting things in the right place rather than adding people. The placement of the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, along with its more than 5,000 crew members, was corrected so that its in National City, rather than in neighboring San Diego. Although part of the ship is located in San Diego, what matters is where crew members get off and on the ship, and that part of Naval Base San Diego is in National City, state officials said. The 4,000 prisoners at the Mule Creek State Prison also were reallocated from Amador County to the city of Ione after California requested that change. The reviews for California were just an opportunity to suggest to the bureau that some things are in the wrong place, Walter Schwarm, the states chief demographer, said in an email. ILLINOIS Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker announced this month that the nations sixth most populous state was getting an additional 47,000 people to its population total after the state asked for a review of its census figures. Illinois officials believed that the 2020 census had overlooked more than 40,500 people living in care homes or senior living facilities and more than 5,800 college students living in dorms, the governors office said. These group quarters were among the most difficult places to count as campuses closed and prisons and nursing homes were locked down at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Census Bureau created a separate program to handle these challenges. This correction will bring in millions in additional federal funding for crucial programs and help to ensure future counts reflect the true number of Illinois residents, Pritzker said in a statement. Despite the gains from the review, they wont come close to making up for the loss of almost 264,000 residents since the 2020 census due to people moving from Illinois to other states, according to estimates released in December by the Census Bureau. Only California and New York have had greater population losses from 2020 to 2023. Illinois also was one of six states that were undercounted in the 2020 census. The Census Bureau estimated that a little less than 2% of Illinois 12.5 million residents were missed. NEW YORK CITY The Census Bureau appears to have added 1,090 people to New York City, the most populous city in the U.S. The exact figure is unknown since the bureau doesnt tell governments precisely how much the total was changed, only that all or part of their review was approved. City officials estimated the adjustment by comparing changes in numbers that are released annually with population estimates from the Census Bureau, said officials in the citys Department of City Planning. New York City officials believed hundreds of inmates and students at Hunter College, Pace University and Wagner College were missed in its 2020 count. The issue is moot at this point since apportionment is off the table when it comes to adjusting the numbers, but New York State wouldnt have lost a congressional seat if an additional 89 people had been counted during the 2020 census. Although the adjustment is comparatively small in a city of 8.3 million residents, New York City officials believe it could amount to an additional $6.5 million each year in federal funding that the city receives. Through grit, rigorous study, and careful tabulations, we were able to correct the census count and deliver more federal dollars for New York City, Dan Garodnick, director of the Department of City Planning, said in an email. ___ Follow Mike Schneider on X, formerly known as Twitter: @MikeSchneiderAP. By MIKE SCHNEIDER Associated Press SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. (AP) The family of a California college student who vanished nearly three decades ago sued the school on Thursday, alleging it caused Kristin Smarts murder through negligence. Smart, then 19, disappeared from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo on the states scenic Central Coast over Memorial Day weekend in 1996. Her remains have never been found, but she was declared legally dead in 2002. Paul Flores was arrested in 2021, convicted of first-degree murder in 2022 and sentenced last year to 25 years to life in state prison. Prosecutors say Flores killed Smart during an attempted rape on May 25, 1996, in his dorm room at the university, where they were both first-year students. He was the last person seen with Smart as he walked home with her from an off-campus party. On Thursday, Smarts parents, brother and sister sued the university for wrongful death and negligence, alleging that officials could have prevented her death if they had properly dealt with university police reports filed by four other female students. Those students said Flores had stalked and harassed them in the months leading up to Smarts disappearance. In one case, Flores allegedly tried to break into a students apartment, according to the lawsuit. The reports should have prompted the university to investigate, and suspend or expel Flores, removing him from on-campus housing and sending him back home miles away from Kristin and the dorm room where he murdered her, the lawsuit said. Had the university acted properly, conducted a thorough investigation into Flores past concerning behavior, and implemented appropriate disciplinary measures, Kristin would likely still be alive today. Instead, our family has been left to grieve her absence for 27 agonizing years, a family statement said. The suit also contends that the university failed to pursue a proper and timely investigation into Smarts disappearance, including failing to seal Flores dorm room and allowing it to be cleaned before it was finally searched 16 days after Smart vanished. In an email, Cal Poly spokesperson Matt Lazier said the university had no comment because this is a pending legal matter. However, last May, university President Jeffrey Armstrong publicly apologized to the family for how it handled the investigation into her disappearance. While it is a different administration now than was in place in 1996, we recognize that things should had been done differently and I personally wish that they had, he said. The family only realized Cal Polys alleged negligence after that apology because relatives didnt have any access to the universitys investigative file, according to the lawsuit. Even now, the Smart family still does not know what information, in the possession of Cal Polys president, and uniquely available to him and or Cal Poly, led him to make the apology, the suit said. Joshua Zirebwa, who was convicted of a series of robberies in Bulawayo and is currently serving his sentence at Khami Prison, has spent the past 18 years reflecting on his actions and undergoing transformative experiences through the rehabilitation programs provided by the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services. Zirebwas crimes included carjacking, armed robbery, and plain robbery, resulting in a lengthy sentence due to the multiple charges against him. As time passes, he becomes increasingly disheartened, seeing other inmates granted amnesty, even those on death row for murder. Unfortunately, his offence does not fall under the amnesty category, leaving him with the prospect of serving his entire 52-year sentence. Zirebwa believes the authorities should reconsider this situation. I committed these offences when I was 22 years-old. I did not kill anyone but due to the numerous counts that I had, I was sentenced to 52 years in prison. I have served 18 years, but what pains me is that when amnesty comes, our category is left out. Our prison officers know our behaviour for the past 18 years but they do not have the power to recommend me for amnesty. I have seen murderers coming to prison with death sentences, and after 10 years being put to life and five years on benefitting from amnesty. But as for me, I have to serve 52 years which means I will come out at the age of 74. If you come here after 10 years, you will find me here, but I have been rehabilitated for more than a decade. We plead with Government to consider that, expressed Zirebwa. Inmates at the Khami Prison Complex, located on the outskirts of Bulawayo, also implore lawmakers to create legislation that ensures their full reintegration into society without the stigma of being labelled as ex-convicts. Their plea gained momentum when they had the opportunity to meet a high-level delegation led by Deputy Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Advocate Nobert Mazungunye. The delegation, including Permanent Secretary Mrs Vimbai Nyemba, Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu, and other senior officials, visited the prison to assess the state of the countrys correctional facilities. The tour concluded at Khami Maximum Prison, where inmates had the chance to engage with the officials and express their concerns. The Khami Maximum Prison Imbube dance ensemble warmly welcomed the delegation and conveyed their plea through song and dance. We want to welcome you to Khami Maximum Prison, rehabilitation centre. We want to plead with our legislators who were voted into Parliament in order for them to advocate for peace and our well-being. To advocate for our rights as prisoners. Our Constitution, Section 56 (1) one says all persons are equal before the law and have the right to equal protection and benefit of the law. Women and men have the right to equal treatment, including the right to equal opportunities in political, economic, cultural and social spheres. Every person has the right not to be treated in an unfairly discriminatory manner on such grounds as their nationality, race, colour, tribe, place of birth, ethnic or social origin, language, class, religious belief, political affiliation, opinion, custom, culture, sex, gender, marital status, age, pregnancy, disability or economic or social status, or whether they were born in or out of wedlock, the group sang passionately. The plea of the inmates underscores the need for comprehensive prison reforms that address the issue of amnesty eligibility and the successful reintegration of former prisoners into society. Breaking News via Email North Korea said Sunday that Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his willingness to visit the North at an unspecified early date as the countries continue to align in the face of their separate, intensifying confrontations with the United States. The North Korean Foreign Ministry highlighted Putins intent for a visit following North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Huis meetings with Putin and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow last week. The ministry said in a statement published by state media that the two countries agreed to further strategic and tactical cooperation with Russia to establish a new multi-polarized international order, a reference to their efforts to build a united front against Washington. Putin had already confirmed his willingness to visit the capital, Pyongyang, at a convenient time during his meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Russias Far East in September. One of the few world leaders openly supporting Putins war on Ukraine, Kim has been actively boosting the visibility of his ties with Russia in an attempt to break out of diplomatic isolation and strengthen his footing, as he navigates a deepening nuclear standoff with Washington, Seoul and Tokyo. In a separate statement on Sunday, the Norths Foreign Ministry condemned the U.N. Security Council for calling an emergency meeting over the countrys latest ballistic test, which state media described as a new intermediate-range solid-fuel missile tipped with a hypersonic warhead. The ministry said the test-firing on Jan. 14 was among the countrys regular activities to improve its defense capabilities and that it didnt pose a threat to its neighbors. South Korea on Thursday urged the Security Council to break the silence over North Koreas escalating missile tests and threats. Russia and China, both permanent members of the council, have blocked U.S.-led efforts to increase sanctions on North Korea over its recent weapons tests, underscoring a divide deepened over Russias war on Ukraine. The alignment between Pyongyang and Moscow has raised international concerns about alleged arms cooperation, in which the North provides Russia with munitions to help prolong its fighting in Ukraine, possibly in exchange for badly needed economic aid and military assistance to help upgrade Kims forces. Both Pyongyang and Russia have denied accusations by Washington and Seoul about North Korean arms transfers to Russia. North Koreas Foreign Ministry, in comments published by state media, said Choe and the Russian officials in their meetings expressed a strong will to further strengthen strategic and tactical cooperation in defending the core interests of the two countries and establishing a new multi-polarized international order. Russia expressed deep thanks to North Korea for its full support over its war on Ukraine, the North Korean ministry said. It said Choe and the Russian officials expressed serious concern over the United States expanding military cooperation with its Asian allies that they blamed for worsening tensions in the region and threatening North Koreas sovereignty and security interests. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest point in years, after Kim in recent months used Russias invasion of Ukraine as a distraction to ramp up his weapons tests and military demonstrations. The United States, South Korea and Japan have responded by strengthening their combined military exercises, which Kim portrays as invasion rehearsals, and sharpening their deterrence plans built around nuclear-capable U.S. assets. In the latest tit-for-tat, North Korea on Friday said it conducted a test of a purported nuclear-capable underwater attack drone in response to a combined naval exercise by the United States, South Korea and Japan last week, as it continued to blame its rivals for tensions in the region. Choes visit to Moscow came as Kim continues to use domestic political events to issue provocative threats of nuclear conflict. At Pyongyangs rubber-stamp parliament last week, Kim declared that North Korea is abandoning its long-standing goal of a peaceful unification with war-divided rival South Korea and ordered the rewriting of the Norths constitution to cement the South as its most hostile foreign adversary. He accused South Korea of acting as top-class stooges of the Americans and repeated a threat that he would use his nukes to annihilate the South if provoked. Analysts say North Korea could be aiming to diminish South Koreas voice in the regional nuclear standoff and eventually force direct dealings with Washington as it looks to cement its status as a nuclear weapons state. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Zim dancehall star Freeman faces ancestral backlash, prominent sangoma claims A sangoma has come forward, asserting that Zimbabwean dancehall artist Freeman is not an armed robber, but rather his troubles stem from his angry ancestors due to his alleged abandonment of them. However, Freeman vehemently denies the sangomas claims, stating that he is a devout follower of God and does not believe in the practices of sangomas. In an interview with H-Metro, Freeman expressed his faith, saying, Matoita basa, handiite zvenanga ini, ndoita zvaMwari, handiite zvevadzimu, I dont do such things. Handiite shave rekuimba, mine is pure talent from God. While Freeman remains one of the countrys leading artists, he has recently been surrounded by negative publicity due to his questionable associations with slain armed robbers. Sekuru Achapola, the sangoma who gained recognition for treating a girl who was discharging worms from her privte prts, defended Freeman, stating that the artist is not involved in armed robbery. However, he emphasized the importance of Freeman respecting his ancestors. For a fact, Freeman is not an armed robber but he needs to respect his ancestors, he said. Achapola, originally from Malawi, revealed that Freeman faced other challenges that were leading him down a dangerous path, tarnishing his reputation. According to the sangoma, Freemans ancestral spirits possess him when he performs and imparts teachings to others. Achapola claimed that Freemans ancestors were now summoning him, and failure to respect them could result in serious consequences. Freeman gets possessed with his ancestral spirits when singing to the world as well as teaching people. I am being told that Freeman must respect his ancestors and clan because he is not an ordinary man since he is led by his ancestral spirits. Freeman is being invited by his ancestors now, we came across this while we were at our shrine and the issues are really serious. The sangoma suggested that Freeman should brew traditional beer and perform specific rituals to appease his ancestors, as failure to do so could potentially lead to false accusations and imprisonment. Additionally, he advised Freeman to take his guidance seriously, particularly in his choice of companions. Achapola expressed admiration for those who hold reverence for their ancestors, citing Alick Macheso and the Chimbetus as examples of artists who consistently honor their ancestral heritage during performances. Breaking News via Email By Mitchell Black and Noam N. Levey. Cross posted from KFF Health News. It took little more than an hour for Deborah Hackler to dispense with the tall stack of debt collection lawsuits that McAlester Regional Medical Center recently brought to small-claims court in this Oklahoma farm community. Hackler, a lawyer who sues patients on behalf of the hospital, buzzed through 51 cases, all but a handful uncontested, as is often the case. She bantered with the judge as she secured nearly $40,000 in judgments, plus 10% in fees for herself, according to court records. Its a payday the hospital and Hackler have shared frequently over the past three decades, records show. The records indicate McAlester Regional Medical Center and an affiliated clinic have filed close to 5,000 debt collection cases since the early 1990s, most often represented by the father-daughter law firm of Hackler & Hackler. Some of McAlesters 18,000 residents have been taken to court multiple times. A deputy at the county jail and her adult son were each sued recently, court records show. New mothers said they compare stories of their legal run-ins with the medical center. Theres a lot thats not right, Sherry McKee, a dorm monitor at a tribal boarding school outside McAlester, said on the courthouse steps after the hearing. The hospital has sued her three times, most recently over a $3,375 bill for what she said turned out to be vertigo. In recent years, major health systems in Virginia, North Carolina, and elsewhere have stopped suing patients following news reports about lawsuits. And several states, such as Maryland and New York, have restricted the legal actions hospitals can take against patients. But with some 100 million people in the U.S. burdened by health care debt, medical collection cases still clog courtrooms across the country, researchers have found. In places like McAlester, a hospitals debt collection machine can hum away quietly for years, helped along by powerful people in town. An effort to limit hospital lawsuits failed in the Oklahoma Legislature in 2021. In McAlester, the lawsuits have provided business for some, such as the Adjustment Bureau, a local collection agency run out of a squat concrete building down the street from the courthouse, and for Hackler, a former president of the McAlester Area Chamber of Commerce. But for many patients and their families, the lawsuits can take a devastating toll, sapping wages, emptying retirement accounts, and upending lives. McKee said she wasnt sure how long it would take to pay off the recent judgment. Her $3,375 debt exceeds her monthly salary, she said. This affects a large number of people in a small community, said Janet Roloff, an attorney who has spent years assisting low-income clients with legal issues such as evictions in and around McAlester. The impact is great. Settled more than a century ago by fortune seekers who secured land from the Choctaw Nation to mine coal in the nearby hills, McAlester was once a boom town. Vestiges of that era remain, including a mammoth, 140-foot-tall Masonic temple that looms over the city. Recent times have been tougher for McAlester, now home by one count to 12 marijuana dispensaries and the states death row. The downtown is pockmarked by empty storefronts, including the OKLA theater, which has been dark for decades. Nearly 1 in 5 residents in McAlester and the surrounding county live below the federal poverty line. The hospital, operated by a public trust under the citys authority, faces its own struggles. Paint is peeling off the front portico, and weeds poke up through the parking lots. The hospital has operated in the red for years, according to independent audit reports available on the state auditors website. Im trying to find ways to get the entire community better care and more care, said Shawn Howard, the hospitals chief executive. Howard grew up in McAlester and proudly noted he started his career as a receptionist in the hospitals physical therapy department. This is my hometown, he said. I am not trying to keep people out of getting care. The hospital operates a clinic for low-income patients, whose webpage notes it has limited appointments at no cost for patients who are approved for aid. But data from the audits shows the hospital offers very little financial assistance, despite its purported mission to serve the community. In the 2022 fiscal year, it provided just $114,000 in charity care, out of a total operating budget of more than $100 million, hospital records show. Charity care totaling $2 million or $3 million out of a $100 million budget would be more in line with other U.S. hospitals. While audits show few McAlester patients get financial aid, many get taken to court. Renee Montgomery, the city treasurer in an adjoining town and mother of a local police officer, said she dipped into savings shed reserved for her children and grandchildren after the hospital sued her last year for more than $5,500. Shed gone to the emergency room for chest pain. Dusty Powell, a truck driver, said he lost his pickup and motorcycle when his wages were garnished after the hospital sued him for almost $9,000. Hed gone to the emergency department for what turned out to be gastritis and didnt have insurance, he said. Everyone in this town probably has a story about McAlester Regional, said another former patient who spoke on the condition she not be named, fearful to publicly criticize the hospital in such a small city. Its not even a secret. The woman, who works at an Army munitions plant outside town, was sued twice over bills she incurred giving birth. Her sister-in-law has been sued as well. Its a good-old-boy system, said the woman, who lowered her voice when the mayor walked into the coffee shop where she was meeting with KFF Health News. Now, she said, she avoids the hospital if her children need care. Nationwide, most people sued in debt collection cases never challenge them, a response experts say reflects widespread misunderstanding of the legal process and anxiety about coming to court. At the center of the McAlester hospitals collection efforts for decades has been Hackler & Hackler. Donald Hackler was city attorney in McAlester for 13 years in the 70s and 80s and a longtime member of the local Lions Club and the Scottish Rite Freemasons. Daughter Deborah Hackler, who joined the family firm 30 years ago, has been a deacon at the First Presbyterian Church of McAlester and served on the board of the local Girl Scouts chapter, according to the McAlester News-Capital newspaper, which named her Woman of the Year in 2007. Since 2001, she also has been a municipal judge in McAlester, hearing traffic cases, including some involving people she has sued on behalf of the hospital, municipal and county court records show. For years, the Hacklers debt collection cases were often heard by Judge James Bland, who has retired from the bench and now sits on the hospital board. Bland didnt respond to an inquiry for interview. Hackler declined to speak with KFF Health News after her recent court appearance. Im not going to visit with you about a current client, she said before leaving the courthouse. Howard, the hospital CEO, said he couldnt discuss the lawsuits either. He said he didnt know the hospital took its patients to court. I had to call and ask if we sue people, he said. Howard also said he didnt know Deborah Hackler. I never heard her name before, he said. Despite repeated public records requests from KFF Health News since September, the hospital did not provide detailed information about its financial arrangement with Hackler. McAlester Mayor John Browne, who appoints the hospitals board of trustees, said he, too, didnt know about the lawsuits. I hadnt heard anything about them suing, he said. At the century-old courthouse in downtown McAlester, its not hard to find the lawsuits, though. Every month or two, another batch fills the docket in the small-claims court, now presided over by Judge Brian McLaughlin. After court recently, McLaughlin, who is not from McAlester, shook his head at the stream of cases and patients who almost never show up to defend themselves, leaving him to issue judgment after judgment in the hospitals favor. All I can do is follow the law, said McLaughlin. It doesnt mean I like it. Study finds bigfoot sightings correlate with black bear populations Ars Technica Why arent there giant animals anymore? New study explains evolutionary shrinkage ZME Science These Tiny Creatures Become Cannibals After Sex Turns Deadly Science Alert Astronomers Discover the Oldest Known Black Hole, Breaking a Record Set Last Year Smithsonian The Black Deaths Surprising Impact on Todays Oral Health SciTech Daily Climate/Environment #COVID-19 Old Blighty If you wanted Brexit to improve environmental laws you needed Brexit with Corbyn as PM. But he was an anti-semite, or so the @guardianopinion told us all. https://t.co/LkceuzhmWR Ian Welsh (@iwelsh) January 20, 2024 The Koreas Miracle in Reverse Phenomenal World China? Syraqistan As Houthis vow to fight on, U.S. prepares for sustained campaign Washington Post. Officials say they dont expect that the operation will stretch on for years like previous U.S. wars in Iraq, Afghanistan or Syria. At the same time they acknowledge they can identify no end date or provide an estimate for when the Yemenis military capability will be adequately diminished. As part of the effort, U.S. naval forces also are working to intercept weapons shipments from Iran. BREAKING: Reports from Yemen that the Houthis plan to close all three waterways in the Middle East. According to an exclusive Yemeni source, Ansarullah is considering implementing a plan they call the Al-Aqsa Triangle, by closing all three of the Middle Easts major pic.twitter.com/Nkk0iZ2mo0 Megatron (@Megatron_ron) January 20, 2024 European Disunion New Not-So-Cold War The Crooked Timber of Democratic Peace and the End of History, Part 1 of 2 Gordon Hahn, Russian & Eurasian Politics Downfall: The Conquest of Germany Big Serge Thought Imperial Collapse Watch O Canada Moose, Maple Syrup and Monopolies: Is Canada Finally Taking on Its Oligarchs? BIG by Matt Stoller Spook Country 2024 AI Healthcare? Groves of Academe Guillotine Watch Theres something extremely important here that is not being recognized, but those who can read between the lines are realizing it and its scaring the shit out of people: Elements of the Davos class **are preparing to defect to the Trump/populist movement.** A thread: https://t.co/OOJdeY91Ua Smug Doomposting Publishing House (@Smug_editing) January 20, 2024 The Bezzle Our Famously Free Press Class Warfare Antidote du jour (via): Bonus: The reindeer go around in a circle to protect the weakest located in the center. The well-known reindeer cyclone.pic.twitter.com/f4Xajelszj Curiosity (@MAstronomers) January 19, 2024 See yesterdays Links and Antidote du Jour here. Blinken says the U.S. is determined not to spread conflict in the Middle East, but US missile strikes against Houthis prove otherwise U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has reiterated that the U.S. is determined not to spread conflict in the Middle East . But U.S.-led strikes against the Houthi rebels in Yemen say otherwise. "We're determined that we not see escalation, [and] that we don't have the conflict spread. We've made that very clear," Blinken said on Jan. 10 while in Bahrain. "But of course if our personnel, if our forces are threatened or attacked, we'll take appropriate steps [and] we'll respond." The secretary of state also mentioned that the Houthi attacks have been "aided and abetted by Iran," and warned that "if these attacks continue, there will be consequences." "[The U.S. has] repeatedly tried to make clear to Iran, as other countries have as well, that the support they they're providing the Houthis including for these actions needs to stop. It's not in their interest to see the conflict escalated." Recently, however, American and British warships shot down one of the largest barrages of missiles and drones fired by the Houthis formally Ansar Allah (Supporters of God) into the crucial Red Sea shipping lane. Both the Houthis and Tehran have condemned the strikes, which they claim hit 73 sites in Yemen and killed at least five. They also vowed that the Western alliance will pay a huge price for the attacks. Despite the breadth of the attacks, some observers said that the strikes which were backed by other U.S. allies aimed at containing the conflict. (Related: U.S., U.K. continue airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen.) Blinken tours the Middle East On Jan. 7, Blinken posted on X that he met with Jordan's King Abdullah II in the capital Amman "to discuss efforts to protect civilians in Gaza and the West Bank." He also thanked the monarch "for his leadership in providing humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza," reiterating that "the conflict must not spread further in the region." The following day, Blinken posted that he met with Emirati President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates' capital. The two discussed "efforts to prevent the conflict in the region from widening and address humanitarian needs in Gaza," with Blinken underscoring the "continued commitment to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state." During his Jan. 10 stop in Bahrain, the secretary discussed with King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa efforts to sustain a lasting peace in Gaza. A U.S. spokesman added that they took time to reaffirm their commitment to freedom of navigation in the context of the Houthi attacks. Manama is a member of the Washington-led Red Sea coalition meant to safeguard traffic through the regions busiest shipping lanes. The coalition has warned that continued attacks by the Iran-backed rebels would come at a cost, and the U.S. military has prepared options to strike the group. The latest Houthi barrage, including 18 drones, two cruise missiles and one ballistic missile, caused no damage or injuries as per U.S. Central Command. Blinken also met with Mahmoud Abbas, president of the Palestinian National Authority (PNA), during his week-long trip that sought to calm tensions across the Middle East. The Biden administration is hoping that an overhaul of the authority which oversees the West Bank will soften Israeli resistance to allowing it a role in governing Gaza. The PNA once controlled the Gaza Strip, but was removed from power in 2007 after losing to Hamas in the Battle of Gaza that year. "We talked as well about the importance of reforming the [PNA and] Palestinian governance so that it can effectively take responsibility for Gaza, [and] so that Gaza and the West Bank can be reunited under a Palestinian leadership," said Blinken. The Wall Street Journal noted that "U.S. officials hoped a subsequent meeting in the Jordanian city of Aqaba between Abbas, Abdullah II and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi would convince the Palestinian leader to give up some powers or bring fresh faces into new roles at the [PNA]." Visit Chaos.news for more stories about the ongoing conflict at the Red Sea. Watch this report from the Hindustan Times about the Houthis mocking the second U.S. strike against them as ineffective. This video is from The Prisoner channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Houthi missile hits U.S.-owned cargo ship, says U.S. government. Houthi rebel attacks prompt British Petroleum to pause all fuel shipments in Red Sea. U.S. and U.K. warplanes bomb Houthi targets in Yemen in another significant escalation of Gaza war. Sources include: WSJ.com Brighteon.com BIO-RACE WARS: Defense report warns that future plagues will target specific genomes and races Engineered pathogens have long been a theoretical concern, but technological advancements have quickly thrust sophisticated biotechnological weapons from the realm of the abstract to a very real possibility and a new defense report points to a specific type of biological weapon that they believe will be the future of warfare. A report by the Rand Corporation that was funded by the National Research Defense Institute and the Office of the Secretary of Defense showed the potential for engineered pathogens to serve as weapons and underscored the importance of countries taking these technologies into account when strategizing and planning. The report identifies synthetically generated and genomically targeted plagues as one major area of interest. Technological improvements, including messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines, the use of CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) gene sequences as a genetic engineering tool, and advances in BCI (brain-computer interfaces), may shift strategic calculations, it states. In the past, biological weapons were not taken very seriously because there was such a big risk of the forces that deploy them sustaining collateral damage. Because pathogens move around so easily, the chances of them affecting those who release them were long considered too high to make this a viable method of warfare. However, one of the drawbacks of rapid advancements in biotechnology is the evolution of engineered pathogens that can target individuals who have specific genetic markers, which means that certain groups of people could be targeted without causing harm to those deploying these weapons. Moreover, with CRISPR and artificial intelligence technologies growing more cost-effective every day, these types of weapons are expected to be a major focus of weapons development moving forward. Another reason these weapons are being pursued is the fact that it can be very difficult to trace the source of such pathogens. As a result, these bioweapons would be very attractive to clandestine operations because it would be difficult to identify them and hold them accountable. The report points out: In comparison with nontransmissible pathogens, transmissible ones are inherently difficult to attribute to an actor or even to natural versus human causes[and] have much greater potential for mass casualties and societal disruption. The potential of this type of weapon means that security at biosafety labs has never been more crucial. Creating advanced biotechnological weapons requires high-level technology that can be very expensive, which means that many countries, paramilitary operations and terrorist groups will lack the resources to develop them. However, malicious actors could steal the technology from labs in more advanced countries that are working on this type of technology. A number of biosafety labs have been emerging around the world that are equipped to work with human and animal-borne pathogens. Labs that are capable of handling the world's most dangerous pathogens, BSL-4 labs, are being built in droves, with at least 30 new labs of this classification emerging in Europe since the turn of the century. Meanwhile, Asian countries such as India and the Philippines are building 18 new BSL-3 and BSL-4 labs, and although their research is intended to find solutions to natural pathogens, these institutions do provide a greater number of targets for those looking to steal pathogens. China warned about threat of genetic weapons Last fall, China's top spy agency cautioned about the threat of genetic weapons that are capable of targeting specific races. A post by the Ministry of State Security on a Chinese social networking app warned: "If used by individuals or organizations with ulterior motives, genetic weapons can even be developed to kill targets of a predetermined race, thereby selectively attacking targets with specific racial genes." They added that genetic weapons are a bigger threat than traditional chemical and biological weapons because they are easy to spread, hard to prevent and isolate, and highly concealable. Sources for this article include: TheDebrief.org Newsweek.com Globalist World Economic Forum now parroting Disease X narrative to instill FEAR in the public The globalist World Economic Forum (WEF) appears to be parroting the so-called "Disease X" narrative in a bid to instill fear in the population and make the world submit to medical tyranny. Michael Snyder of End of the American Dream pointed this out in an op-ed published on InfoWars. This talk of Disease X, he added, even reached the point that the WEF dedicated an entire session to it during its gathering in Switzerland. The session's description ominously warned that Disease X could result in "20 times more fatalities" than the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The World Health Organization (WHO), which is likewise globalist in nature, first coined the term Disease X in 2018. It defined Disease X as an "unknown" hypothetical disease that could potentially kill millions. This hypothetical disease was added to a list of pathogens deemed a top priority for research in 2017 a year prior to it being given the current name. As of writing, Disease X is on the WHO's shortlist of priority diseases alongside severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), Ebola and Zika. COVID-19 is an example of Disease X. While the disease is supposed to be purely hypothetical, the globalists are inviting people to come up with all sorts of theories about it by giving it a name. (Related: Globalist WEF claims MISINFO and DISINFO are the greatest threats.) The WEF's discussion about Disease X featured speakers such as WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Brazilian Health Minister Nisia Trinidade Lima and AstraZeneca Chair Michel Demare. Aside from Disease X, the WEF gathering featured Pfizer CEO and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman discuss artificial intelligence. Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and U.S. Special Envoy for Climate John Kerry touched on the "climate change" agenda. WEF Executive Director Klaus Schwab had a one-on-one with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, the second-highest official in the mainland. Disease X hysteria also spreads to other nations Snyder mentioned that the WHO and the WEF are not the only ones hyping up Disease X. Back in June of last year, a bill dubbed the Disease X Act of 2023 was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. Across the pond, a facility was constructed to perform "vaccine research" for Disease X. According to Snyder, the facility is located in the secretive Porten Down science and technology campus in Wiltshire, England. He added that the area is best known for chemical and biological warfare research. "I have no idea how they can conduct 'research' on an entirely 'unknown' disease, but apparently that is what they intend to do," Snyder said. "Instead of chasing ghosts, perhaps our leaders could focus on fixing what is already broken." He cited a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, which examined records from nearly 2,500 patients in 29 different U.S. hospitals from the year 2019. All of the patients who were transported to the intensive care unit (ICU), died while hospitalized, or both. "There are real problems that health officials could be focusing on. There are real diseases, which have been spreading all over the country in recent months. But instead of addressing our pressing needs, many health officials would like us to look forward to a 'Disease X' which may or may not materialize." Visit Pandemic.news for more stories like this. Watch this video that scrutinizes why the WEF conveniently has prior knowledge of Disease X. This video is from True Conservative Minutes channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: America Unhinged: Members of globalist WEF are pretending to be gods Brighteon.TV. World Economic Forum globalists want to leverage water crisis to form world government. World Economic Forum panelists predict catastrophic cyber event in near future. Ramaswamy wins lawsuit against World Economic Forum after being labeled a Young Global Leader. Sources include: InfoWars.com Brighteon.com Digital kill switches: How tyrannical governments stifle political dissent Whats to stop the U.S. government from throwing the kill switch and shutting down phone and internet communications in a time of so-called crisis? (Article by John & Nisha Whitehead republished from Rutherford.org) After all, its happening all over the world. Communications kill switches have become tyrannical tools of domination and oppression to stifle political dissent, shut down resistance, forestall election losses, reinforce military coups, and keep the populace isolated, disconnected and in the dark, literally and figuratively. As the Guardian reports, From Ukraine to Myanmar, government-run internet outages are picking up pace around the world. In 2021, there were 182 shutdowns in 34 countries... Countries across Africa and Asia have turned to shutdowns in a bid to control behaviour, while India, largely in the conflict-ridden region of Jammu and Kashmir, plunged into digital darkness more times than any other last year Civil unrest in Ethiopia and Kazakhstan has triggered internet shutdowns as governments try to prevent political mobilisation and stop news about military suppression from emerging. In an internet-connected age, killing the internet is tantamount to bringing everythingcommunications, commerce, travel, the power gridto a standstill. Tyrants and would-be tyrants rely on this cloak of darkness to advance their agendas. In Myanmar, for example, the internet shutdown came on the day a newly elected government was to have been sworn in. Thats when the military staged a digital coup and seized power. Under cover of a communications blackout that cut off the populace from the outside world and each other, the junta carried out nightly raids, smashing down doors to drag out high-profile politicians, activists and celebrities. These government-imposed communications shutdowns serve to not only isolate, terrorize and control the populace, but also underscore the citizenrys lack of freedom in the face of the governments limitless power. Yet as University of California Irvine law professor David Kaye explains, these kill switches are no longer exclusive to despotic regimes. They have migrated into a toolbox for governments that actually do have the rule of law. This is what digital authoritarianism looks like in a technological age. Digital authoritarianism, as the Center for Strategic and International Studies cautions, involves the use of information technology to surveil, repress, and manipulate the populace, endangering human rights and civil liberties, and co-opting and corrupting the foundational principles of democratic and open societies, including freedom of movement, the right to speak freely and express political dissent, and the right to personal privacy, online and off. For those who insist that it cant happen here, it can and it has. In 2005, cell service was disabled in four major New York tunnels, reportedly to avert potential bomb detonations via cell phone. In 2009, those attending President Obamas inauguration had their cell signals blockedagain, same rationale. And in 2011, San Francisco commuters had their cell phone signals shut down, this time, to thwart any possible protests over a police shooting of a homeless man. With shutdowns becoming harder to detect, whos to say its not still happening? Although an internet kill switch is broadly understood to be a complete internet shutdown, it can also include a broad range of restrictions such as content blocking, throttling, filtering, complete shutdowns, and cable cutting. As Global Risk Intel explains: Content blocking is a relatively moderate method that blocks access to a list of selected websites or applications. When users access these sites and apps, they receive notifications that the server could not be found or that access was denied by the network administrator. A more subtle method is throttling. Authorities decrease the bandwidth to slow down the speed at which specific websites can be accessed. A slow internet connection discourages users to connect to certain websites and does not arouse immediate suspicion. Users may assume that connection service is slow but may not conclude that this circumstance was authorized by the government. Filtering is another tool to censor targeted content and erases specific messages and terms that the government does not approve of. How often do most people, experiencing server errors and slow internet speeds, chalk it up to poor service? Who would suspect the government of being behind server errors and slow internet speeds? Then again, this is the same government that has subjected us to all manner of encroachments on our freedoms (lockdowns, mandates, restrictions, contact tracing programs, heightened surveillance, censorship, overcriminalization, shadow banning, etc.) in order to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, preserve the integrity of elections, and combat disinformation. These tactics have become the tools of domination and oppression in an internet-dependent age. It really doesnt matter what the justifications are for such lockdowns. No matter the rationale, the end result is the same: an expansion of government power in direct proportion to the governments oppression of the citizenry. According to Global Risk Intel, there are many motives behind such restrictions: For instance, the kill switch serves to censor content and constrain the spread of news. This particularly concerns news reports that cover police brutality, human rights abuses, or educational information. Governments may also utilize the kill switch to prevent government-critical protestors from communicating through message applications like WhatsApp, Facebook, or Twitter and organizing mass demonstrations. Therefore, internet restrictions can provide a way of regulating the flow of information and hindering dissent. Governments reason that internet limitations help stop the spread of fake news and strengthen national security and public safety in times of unrest. In this age of manufactured crises, emergency powers and technofascism, the government already has the know-how, the technology and the authority. Now all it needs is the right crisis to flip the kill switch. This particular kill switch can be traced back to the Communications Act of 1934. Signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the Act empowers the president to suspend wireless radio and phone services if he deems it necessary in the interest of national security or defense during a time of war or a threat of war, or a state of public peril or disaster or other national emergency, or in order to preserve the neutrality of the United States. In the event of a national crisis, the president has a veritable arsenal of emergency powers that override the Constitution and can be activated at a moments notice. These range from imposing martial law and suspending habeas corpus to shutting down all forms of communications, restricting travel and implementing a communications kill switch. That national emergency can take any form, can be manipulated for any purpose and can be used to justify any end goalall on the say so of the president. The seeds of this ongoing madness were sown several decades ago when George W. Bush stealthily issued two presidential directives that granted the president the power to unilaterally declare a national emergency, which is loosely defined as any incident, regardless of location, that results in extraordinary levels of mass casualties, damage, or disruption severely affecting the U.S. population, infrastructure, environment, economy, or government functions. Comprising the countrys Continuity of Government (COG) plan, these directives (National Security Presidential Directive 51 and Homeland Security Presidential Directive 20), which do not need congressional approval, provide a skeletal outline of the actions the president will take in the event of a national emergency. Just what sort of actions the president will take once he declares a national emergency can barely be discerned from the barebones directives. However, one thing is clear: in the event of a perceived national emergency, the COG directives give unchecked executive, legislative and judicial power to the president. The country would then be subjected to martial law by default, and the Constitution and the Bill of Rights would be suspended. The internet kill switch is just one piece of the governments blueprint for locking down the nation and instituting martial law. There may be many more secret powers that presidents may institute in times of so-called crisis without oversight from Congress, the courts, or the public. These powers do not expire at the end of a presidents term. They remain on the books, just waiting to be used or abused by the next political demagogue. Given the governments penchant for weaponizing one national crisis after another in order to expand its powers and justify all manner of government tyranny in the so-called name of national security, its only a matter of time before this particular emergency power to shut down the internet is activated. Then again, an all-out communications blackout is just a more extreme version of the technocensorship that weve already been experiencing at the hands of the government and its corporate allies. Packaged as an effort to control the spread of speculative or false information in the name of national security, restricting access to social media has become a popular means of internet censorship. In fact, these tactics are at the heart of several critical cases before the U.S. Supreme Court over who gets to control, regulate or remove what content is shared on the internet: the individual, corporate censors or the police state. Nothing good can come from techno-censorship. As Glenn Greenwald writes for The Intercept: "The glaring fallacy that always lies at the heart of pro-censorship sentiments is the gullible, delusional belief that censorship powers will be deployed only to suppress views one dislikes, but never ones own views Facebook is not some benevolent, kind, compassionate parent or a subversive, radical actor who is going to police our discourse in order to protect the weak and marginalized or serve as a noble check on mischief by the powerful. They are almost always going to do exactly the opposite: protect the powerful from those who seek to undermine elite institutions and reject their orthodoxies. Tech giants, like all corporations, are required by law to have one overriding objective: maximizing shareholder value. They are always going to use their power to appease those they perceive wield the greatest political and economic power." As I make clear in my book Battlefield America: The War on the American People and in its fictional counterpart The Erik Blair Diaries, these censors are laying the groundwork to preempt any dangerous ideas that might challenge the power elites stranglehold over our lives. Whatever powers you allow the government and its corporate operatives to claim now, whatever the reason might be, will at some point in the future be abused and used against you by tyrants of your own making. By the time you add AI technologies, social credit systems, and wall-to-wall surveillance into the mix, you dont even have to be a critic of the government to get snared in the web of digital censorship. Eventually, as George Orwell predicted, telling the truth will become a revolutionary act. WC: 1805 Read more at: Rutherford.org Local news outlet confirms Israel ordered the Hannibal directive on Oct. 7, as IDF forces proceeded to kill Israeli civilians en masse The "Hannibal" protocol is a procedure where Israeli forces unleash a lethal force that kills their own people . This was what happened when Israel responded to Hamas' October 7 attack, as confirmed by Israel's leading newspaper. According to an investigation by Yedioth Ahronoth, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) implemented the said directive, which killed Israeli civilians and soldiers alike, just so they could prevent the militant group from taking them as captives back to Gaza. The Hebrew edition of the news outlet reported on Jan. 11 that "the IDF ordered all of its combat units in practice to use the 'Hannibal Procedure' although without clearly mentioning this explicitly by name." The said protocol ordered to stop, at all costs, any attempt by Hamas terrorists to return to Gaza. This is despite the fear that some of them have abductees," the paper wrote. Yedioth Ahronoth also reported that it was not made clear, as of press time, the number of Israeli hostages that died due to the activation of the Hannibal. "In the week after the attack, soldiers of elite units checked about 70 vehicles that were left in the area between the settlements and the Gaza Strip. These are vehicles that did not reach Gaza because on the way they were shot by a combat helicopter, an anti-tank missile, or a tank, and at least in some cases everyone in the vehicle was killed," it stated. However, according to the news, Hamas and other Palestinians successfully took 240 Israeli soldiers and civilians from the kibbutzim and military bases back to Gaza as captives, in hopes of exchanging them for the Palestinian women and children held prisoner by the Israelis. New video has been released showing an Israeli former detainee, who was freed during the recent exchange, talking about how the Israeli military shot at the tractor taking them to #Gaza, killing her mother and injuring her and her daughter. pic.twitter.com/cXYL2kJQBe Stop the Genocide in Gaza Marwa AlGamal (@MarwaEl94317678) January 14, 2024 Israeli Air Force reservist: It was a mass Hannibal A lot of personal accounts have been surfacing, proving that Israelis were all set to commit genocide, calling the "Hannibal Directive" a response to what may have been an Israeli-triggered Hamas attack. Israeli Air Force (reserve) Col. Nof Erez described his country's actions as a "mass Hannibal" event. "There were many openings in the fence, thousands of people in many different vehicles with hostages and without," he told Haaretz, the longest-running newspaper in Israel. (Related: Israeli forces were ordered to FIRE INDISCRIMINATELY into kibbutz, IDF tank gunner reveals.) A notable news outlet was told by journalist Dan Cohen that the Israeli military killed 68-year-old Efrat Katz as she was being taken from Kibbutz Nir Oz to Gaza on a cart pulled by a tractor on the fateful day. Her daughter, Doron Katz-Asher, and two granddaughters, two-year-old Raz and four-year-old Aviv were also in the cart. Katz-Asher later said that the Israeli army opened fire on the tractor, injuring the children and killing her mother. Another one was of 80-year-old Carmela Dan and her 12-year-old autistic granddaughter Noya, who both vanished on the morning of the attack. The family assumed both were taken captive by Hamas but two weeks later, Israeli authorities announced their bodies "were found near the border fence." In another widely reported case, Israeli Brigadier General Barak Hiram acknowledged to the New York Times that he gave an order for a tank commander to open fire on a home in Kibbutz Be'eri to kill Hamas fighters, even though 14 Israeli captives were barricaded inside the home as well. The Hamas fighters and all but one of the captives were killed, including 12-year-old twins Liel and Yanai Hetzroni. Their bodies were so severely damaged and burned that it took weeks to identify them. Another case in Be'eri was of an elderly couple, Mati and Amir Weiss, who were allegedly killed by Hamas fighters who entered their home. Mati sent a message to their son Yuval that the fighters had entered the house and that Amir had been shot. Yuval, who was a member of the kibbutz security team, provided their location to commanders in the army, telling them Hamas fighters were inside the home. Haaretz reported later that Mati and Amir Weiss were attacked by terrorists who blew up one of the walls of their safe room and shot them. But the picture of their home showed a massive hole in the wall and significant damage to the roof, suggesting a tank shell or helicopter strike had hit it. Visit Violence.news for more stories about the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Sources include: InformationLiberation.com New.TheCradle.co Uncaptured.Media King Charles III diagnosed with enlarged prostate, hospital treatment starts soon King Charles III of the U.K. has been diagnosed with an enlarged prostate , and has been scheduled to visit a hospital to begin treatment soon. Aides said the king's condition was mild and he is already scheduled for restorative surgery. All of his engagements and meetings have been suspended so that the king can more easily recover. It is presumed he is residing at his private home, Birkhall, on the Balmoral estate where he received the diagnosis on Wednesday, Jan. 17. While the degree of detail on Charles' health is unusual, royal sources stated that he was ready to share the details of his diagnosis to encourage other men who may be experiencing symptoms to get checked, following public health advice. It comes after Kensington Palace independently said the Princess of Wales was being treated in a hospital after going through a successful abdominal surgery. Charles had several meetings and events scheduled at Dumfries House in Ayrshire this week, which have now been put off on doctor's advice. (Related: King Charles announces TOTAL BAN on cigarette smoking in UK is it because the nicotine in tobacco helps protect against COVID?) "In common with thousands of men each year, the King has sought treatment for an enlarged prostate. His Majesty's condition is benign, and he will attend hospital next week for a corrective procedure. The King's public engagements will be postponed for a short period of recuperation," a Buckingham Palace spokesman said on Wednesday afternoon. The 75-year-old monarch assumed the throne in September 2022 after spending 70 years as the heir to the throne and was crowned last May in Westminster Abbey. Princess Catherine also dealing with surgery Concerning Princess Catherine, she was admitted to The London Clinic in Marylebone on Tuesday, Jan. 16, for the planned procedure and is likely to stay in the hospital for 10 to 14 days. Kensington Palace said the 42-year-old future queen will then return home to Windsor to continue her recovery with the assistance of her family. The palace did not confirm what Kate was being treated for but confirmed that the condition was not cancerous. The princess is expected to be advised to recover for two to three months, and her return to official duties will be based on medical advice closer to the time. Kate is not likely to return to public events until after Easter, and her husband Prince William is expected to be by his wife's and children's side throughout that time. "The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate. She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible, and her wish that her personal medical information remains private," a statement from Kensington Palace said. Based on reports, the princess was not rushed to the hospital and her condition was not something that developed over the weekend. William will not engage in official obligations while his wife is in the hospital. Royal aides will furnish an amended schedule for William in due time. Learn about King Charles III's ties to globalists at Globalism.news. Watch the video below about King Charles III ushering in the New World Order with World Economic Forum founder Klaus Schwab. This video is from the World Alternative Media channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: ROYAL RESET: King Charles III plans to accelerate the Great Reset and other globalist goals. Pro-Russian cyber group hacks British royal family website after King Charles III voiced support for Ukraine. Royal familys 175-year hunting lease in Scotland estate comes to an end. Prince William argues for urgent depopulation efforts in Africa. Studies show that COVID-19 vaccines cause damage to the prostate and urinary tract. Sources include: DailyMail.co.UK TheGuardian.com Brighteon.com Rice University now offers Afrochemistry course taught by woke DEI professor who claims chemistry works differently when youre Black Writing for PJ Media, Stephen Green expounded on this "one-of-a-kind" course offering from the institution. According to the course description on Rice's website, Afrochemistry students will "apply chemical tools and analysis to understand Black life in the U.S." and "implement African American sensibilities to analyze chemistry." Its ultimate goal is to address "inequities in chemistry and chemical education." "This course will be accessible to students from a variety of backgrounds including STEM [science, technology, engineering and mathematics] and non-STEM disciplines. No prior knowledge of chemistry or African American studies is required for engagement in this course," the description continued. Green pointed out the absurdity of the course's instructor, Brooke Johnson. While she obtained a doctorate in chemistry, Johnson does not work in the university's Department of Chemistry. Rather, she works in Rice's diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) department as a preceptor for chemistry. As per her profile, Johnson joined the university's DEI department after obtaining her Ph.D. in chemistry from Princeton University in New Jersey last year. Her profile states that she "is passionate about the intersection of science and social justice and using her unique experiences to teach, support and inspire diverse students." "Johnson will instruct her [undergraduates], who are expected to pony up around $78,278 for the privilege of attending during the 2022-2023 academic year," wrote Green. He also pointed to questions in the course's promotional flyer. One question reads: "What does it look like to do science on one's own terms?" Another question reads: "What does justice look like in chemistry?" Green ultimately concluded that the Afrochemistry course "is not a chemistry class" and that Rice, which has a reputation for being a serious research school, "should have renamed Johnson's class Agitprop 101." Woke courses infiltrating renowned universities Meanwhile, the Blaze mentioned in a Jan. 12 piece that the course has no final exam. At the time of the report, nine students had enrolled out of a possible 15. It also cited an op-ed penned by theoretical physicist Lawrence Krauss, which was published Jan. 5 in the Wall Street Journal. According to Krauss, the Afrochemistry course is one clear example of scientific courses that offer obscure, postmodern theories. He then recounted reading a 1996 article by mathematician Alan Sokal that mocked post-modernist thought. "Sokal's paper was a hoax designed to demonstrate that postmodernism was nonsense. But today, postmodern cultural theory is being infused into the very institutions one might expect to be scientific gatekeepers. Hard science journals publish the same sort of bunk with no irony," Krauss wrote. The theoretical physicist gave some examples of such studies. One study from November 2022 touched on "the importance of teaching science with a feminist framework" and "the development and interrelationship between quantum mechanics, Marxist materialism, Afro-futurism/pessimism, and postcolonial nationalism." Another study from March 2022 criticized "the use of whiteboards as a primary pedagogical tool" because they "play a role in reconstituting whiteness as social organization." (Related: Harvard doctoral student claims that 2+2 is indeed equal to 5.) Krauss continued: "Such ideas haven't totally colonized scientific journals and pedagogy, but they are beginning to appear almost everywhere and are getting support and encouragement from the scientific establishment. There are also indications that dissent isn't welcome." To back up his point, the theoretical physicist referenced how Mount Royal University (MRU) in Canada's Alberta province fired Frances Widdowson in 2021. Widdowson, who was a tenured professor in MRU, was axed for questioning whether indigenous "star knowledge" belonged in an astronomy curriculum. Head over to CampusInsanity.com for similar stories. Watch New Mexico State University professor David Clements respond to his employer's wokeness below. This video is from the IDP & 1776Reloaded.org channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: 'Woke' researchers claim scientists should ignore biology and drop terms like 'male,' 'female,' 'mother,' 'father.' Johns Hopkins ERASES women from new woke language guide, refers to them as "non-men." Woke researchers spin mockery of STEM/trans survey into laughable 'online fascism' paper. Sources include: PJMedia.com Courses.Rice.edu Profiles.Rice.edu TheBlaze.com WSJ.com Brighteon.com The aye-aye, one of the worlds rarest primates, the gecko and the shoebill bird are some of conservations great forgotten species. The Zoological Society of Londons EDGE of Existence program dedicates its efforts to the conservation of these little-known, but unique and irreplaceable species. Environmental anthropologist Dr. Paul Barnes, 37, is the director of the project. He says that the program could not function without the passion and commitment of local conservationists on the ground. Barness job is to fund those local researchers and ensure that resources reach the regions and animals that need them most, beyond the well-known emblematic species. In 2023, the EDGE of Existence program received the BBVA World Biodiversity Conservation Award. Question. What is the goal of the EDGE of Existence program? Answer. There are highly endangered animals that get a lot of attention, like elephants, but we look at the underdogs, the forgotten ones, that are unique and irreplaceable. Thats where we try to channel training and financial resources. We help local conservationists keep the species in their countries of origin. We do this primarily through a fellowship scheme. Q. What do you consider to be a species on the edge? A. They are the ones that are listed as endangered or critically endangered, and in addition they are evolutionarily distinct they have no relatives so their disappearance would mean the extinction of an entire evolutionary line. They are unique because of their singularity, because of the way they live and behave. Q. What are some examples? A. In Spain, for example, it could be the Pyrenean desman or Egyptian vultures. Our logo is the Australian echidna [a species of hedgehog with a long beak which has no known subspecies]. There are also the pangolins and shoebills. What other bird species is like that? Q. Which are the most endangered species? A. There are many, but the ones that are having the worst time are probably the ones which live in small, specific areas. For example, we are working with the Colombian dwarf gecko, an incredibly small lizard, which lives in a tropical dry forest area in Colombia, and the rock gecko, which has been located in a small rocky outcrop in Paraguay. These are such specific locations that anything could wipe them out: a natural disaster, a flood, something like that, and there would be no replacement. There are many species in the world that we dont even know how they are doing. Think about amphibians that are often confined to very specific places like high altitude mountains in the rainforest, which are incredibly sensitive to climate change and disease. Q. Your network of collaborators is essential to the functioning of the program, isnt it? A. Yes, we have a fellowship, which has already benefited almost 140 local researchers around the world, who train others. Much of the work we do in the future will come from them, because we go to them for support; they are the ones who know the place, the people, the political situation.... We also establish scientific cooperation with universities and other conservation organizations. But without the passion and commitment of the conservationists in the country we support, none of this would have been achieved. Everything depends on those scientists. Q. Have you achieved your objectives? A. Every fellowship we have awarded has been a great success. It shows that if you invest in people, if you put the time in, conservation works. We have seen species become less threatened. There are successes, covering 157 species in 47 countries. I think our failure as a program is not being able to help more. We have to find a way to reach more places, more people. Q. What did the fame of the Mary River turtle in Australia which is known for its green algae hair mean to you? A. It was one of those stories that captures peoples imagination, that helps make a connection with the species. They thought it was a funny animal and it went viral. Before we put out press releases about it, no one would have thought it would become a conservation icon. To make people care about something, you have to try to create that bond. Take, for example, the aye-aye, a species of lemur unique to Madagascar. You look at a picture and its incredibly ugly, but at the same time its very funny with the long finger that it uses to catch the worms. You have to build a bridge for people to get close to it. When you do that and you capture peoples imagination, they are receptive. If you live in Spain and there are species going extinct on a mountaintop in Cameroon, how do you make people understand that this is potentially a problem? Thats one of our biggest challenges. Q. Does your work confirm that we are in the sixth mass extinction? A. Yes, the evidence shows that we are losing many species. I think it is mainly due to habitat destruction, caused by humans and climate change. As temperatures rise, their environment changes, diseases emerge and there is no place for them. Q. Why is this loss of biodiversity so significant? A. Diversity represents everything that is interesting in the world, including cultures and languages; that is what makes it unique and resilient. If we lose species, whole branches of evolutionary history will disappear, well lose part of the systems resilience to be able to adapt and withstand shocks. Q. Do you think that a lot of space is dedicated to fossil fuels at summits and too little to biodiversity? A. Historically, that has been the case, but there is increasing pressure to recognize that everything goes together. Whether that translates into recognition and political will is another question, and we will see what happens in the next few years. Actually, my work doesnt have much to do with climate change, and Im not sure how things should be done. But I would like to see more political ambition in my own country to try to lead on these issues. We have backtracked on some of our commitments and have been licensing new fossil fuels. I would like to see an end to that, I really would. I think people are very aware of whats going on, especially the younger generations. Q. Do you think that we have time to stop it? A. Yes, definitely, we just have to do it. There is no point in despairing; there has to be the will to do it and to make it known that there are measures that work. One of the problems is that conservation depends almost exclusively on philanthropy and the good will of the organizations that carry it out. We need to rapidly scale it up and open up new funding mechanisms. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Pro-war Senate blacks measure proposed by Sen. Bernie Sanders to FREEZE Israel aid and probe Gaza war crimes Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) has proposed a resolution to potentially freeze U.S. military aid to Israel and mandate the Biden administration to investigate war crimes in the Gaza Strip a measure that was unfortunately set aside. Under the resolution, all U.S. security aid would be frozen unless the U.S. Department of State produces a report examining whether Israel had committed human rights violations in its wartime conduct. The resolution gave the State Department 30 days to produce this report. Earlier this month, Sanders who is Jewish himself decried the Gaza offensive as an "illegal and immoral war against the Palestinian people." In turn, pro-Israel lobbyists campaigned aggressively against Sanders' resolution, calling it poorly timed and unnecessary. In October, President Joe Biden requested $14 billion in security aid for Israel but the request has been stuck in Congress. The president and top legislative leaders met at the White House to discuss a package that would encompass Israel, Ukraine and border security. Much of the holdup has been around the much larger $61 billion supplemental request for Ukraine, which hardline Republicans oppose. Following Hamas' Oct. 7 attack on Israel, U.S. lawmakers were in lockstep with support for the Jewish state's aggressive response in Gaza. But as the months wore on and the Palestinian civilian death toll lurched upward, liberal Democrats have begun to sour on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's military campaign and the push for more U.S. aid to fund the bloody offensive. The mounting death toll in Gaza 24,000 according to the Gaza Health Ministry coupled with Israel's roadblocks to aid trapped civilians have sparked wide near-constant protests across the U.S., with 130 people arrested on Capitol Hill in a pro-Palestinian demonstration. It's also prompted genocide charges at the International Court of Justice and a subtle urging from the Biden administration to wind down the bombing campaign. Earlier this month, Israel said it would soon shift to more targeted military operations in Gaza. Sanders' resolution junked by Senate majority vote Several other senators joined their colleague from the Green Mountain State in advancing the resolution on the Senate floor. Unfortunately, the Senate voted 72-11 to table the matter. According to the Daily Mail, critics believe that Sanders' resolution is expected to fail as the GOP still supports Israel unconditionally. Despite this, the number of Democrats who supported the measure reflects rising dissatisfaction among progressives over the civilian casualties in Gaza. Sanders, the longest-serving independent in U.S. congressional history and one of three in the Senate, has a close relationship with the Democratic Party. He previously caucused with Democrats in both chambers of Congress, and was even a presidential candidate in the 2020 elections. "It's unworkable, quite frankly," National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said of Sanders' resolution. "The Israelis have indicated they are preparing to transition their operations to a much lower intensity. We believe that transition will be helpful both in terms of reducing civilian casualties, as well as increasing humanitarian assistance." Sanders responded by saying he "strongly disagrees" with Kirby. He noted that two-thirds of those killed in Gaza have been women and children; 70 percent of housing units in the region have been razed; and most of the 2.3 million people who live there have been displaced. The senator described Israel's bombing in Gaza as "worse than what took place in Dresden over a two-year period," referencing the American and British bombing the Germany city during World War II. "You do not have the right to go to war against an entire people," Sanders concluded. Visit Chaos.news for more stories about the ongoing Israel conflict. Watch this video about how Israel is losing on all fronts. This video is from the What is Happening channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Longtime State Department official RESIGNS over unjust U.S. military aid to Israel. Israel refusing to allow HUMANITARIAN AID to reach the 2 million civilians trapped in Gaza. Israel reportedly in talks with African nations to receive Palestinians from Gaza in exchange for aid. Despite providing limitless military aid and unconditional support to Israel, U.S. admits it has NO PLAN for what comes next. EU leaders announce plans to support UN call for HUMANITARIAN PAUSE in Israel-Hamas war to allow distribution of aid to civilians in Gaza. Sources include: DailyMail.co.uk TheIntercept.com Brighteon.com Report: Bidens State Department indoctrinating public school teachers to trust only LEFT-WING MEDIA A report has revealed that the Department of State, in cooperation with entities from Germany, is indoctrinating public school teachers to trust only left-wing media by means of "anti-disinformation efforts" in the classroom. The Media Research Center (MRC) led by L. Brent Bozell exposed this scheme through documents it obtained via a Freedom of Information Act request. According to the documents, the State Department paid for trainings that used materials created mostly by German "disinformation activists" for hundreds of teachers. The 11 "Medialogues on Propaganda" seminars, which happened between June 2021 and April 2022, were attended by some 700 teachers. The seminars were funded by a grant from the U.S. Embassy in Berlin and conducted by the University of Rhode Islands (URI) Media Education Lab. The training utilized a curriculum developed by the University of Wuerzburg that sought to "inoculate" teachers and students against conservative ideas. The seminars promoted the Data Detox Kit (DDK) curriculum for spotting "misinformation" which identifies views like "anti-vaccination" and "climate change denialism" as "conspiracy theories." The DDK also discourages the use of the term "fake news" and encourages students to use notorious left-wing "fact-checking" outlets Snopes and PolitiFact. According to the MRC, the two outlets "are themselves infamous purveyors of misinformation." The "Glass Room" curriculum, which touches on the "problem of scaling freedom of expression," was also promoted. It frames freedom of expression as a problem: that individuals leave Facebook and YouTube for social platforms where content is less regulated. Moreover, it laments that permitting "content to flow freely and far [makes a] path for misinformation." Even more damning was the fact that the Glass Room curriculum perpetuates actual misinformation. It denies the lab leak theory of the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19), and promotes the now-debunked claim that former President Donald Trump colluded with the Russian government to steal the 2016 presidential election. (Related: DOUBLE STANDARD: MSM misinformation stays up on YouTube indefinitely while truth media is labeled disinformation and gets censored, even when true.) Both the DDK and the Glass Room curriculum were developed by Tactical Tech, a German non-government organization (NGO) that receives funding from the European Union and Sweden. The NGO is also connected to numerous groups funded by far-left donor George Soros. State Department partners with BIASED groups to promote BIASED ideas The virtual sessions broadcast from Germany taught American educators a distinctly European conception of "media literacy." It included the promotion of "media bias" rating company Ad Fontes Media and the NewsGuard platform. The MRC previously pointed out Ad Fontes Media's strong bias in favor of left-wing media, while LifeSiteNews previously caught NewsGuard attaching false and biased "fact checks" to valid stories. An in-depth investigation into Ad Fontes Media, a "media literacy" organization established in 2018, found that the for-profit company is making money by actively encouraging Big Tech platforms, advertisers and educators to de-platform, boycott and exclude conservative commentators and media organizations. The company's website also mentions how it is continuously updating its "Media Bias Chart" that includes more than 3,000 media sources graded on Ad Fontes Media's own "bias" and "reliability" metrics. It insists on the chart's objectivity as its evaluations stem from the consensus of anonymous, politically diverse analysts. "Masquerading as a 'media literacy' organization, Ad Fontes Media is the left's newest weapons to erase conservative speech while bolstering legacy media," the MRC pointed out. But LifeSiteNews noted that the most alarming session in the training course was the one hosted by Maria Ranieri, the vice president of the Italian Association of Media Education on behalf of the Media Education for Equity and Tolerance (MEET). Titled "MEET Tolerance," the session promoted curricula aimed at turning children into activists for "intercultural values and social justice through [their] own media productions and practices." It used material developed by Konstantin von Notz, a member of the Bundestag (the German parliament) under the Green Party. According to the MRC, von Notz has reportedly advocated for an international censorship law against so-called "hate speech." The politician has also been known to use children in his social media campaigns. "Through the [URI Media Research Lab], the State Department trained American educators on German socialist strategies for bringing indoctrination into the classroom 'inoculating' students against conservative ideas; turning students into leftist political activists; and putting the Ad Fontes and NewsGuard censorship tools into classrooms," the MRC concluded. Visit LeftCult.com for more stories like this. Watch Josh Sigurdson of World Alternative Media discuss the globalist World Economic Forum targeting alternative media outlets. This video is from the Alex Hammer channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Media watchdog calls to investigate mainstream media election meddling. How NewsGuard became the establishment guard against independent media. Media Research Center exposes Google's BIAS: Tech giant rigging search results to favor Dems in midterms. Sources include: LifeSiteNews.com NewsBusters.org Brighteon.com U.K. deploys troops to NATO military drills while ramping up aid to Ukraine The U.K. has announced it will be sending troops to NATO military drills and a generous boost in aid to Ukraine as part of a new defense agreement signed by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak in Kiev. The country plans to send a task force of 20,000 service personnel to participate in NATO's Operation Steadfast Defender, accounting for nearly half of the 41,000 people overall who are expected to take part. The exercise, which is intended to practice repelling a Russian invasion, will include a multinational deployment of dozens of aircraft and warships. It has been described as one of the biggest NATO military drills to be held since the Cold War. The troop deployment will include personnel from the Royal Air Force, Army and Navy, and it has prompted concerns in the U.K. that the move is a precursor to sending British troops to fight on the ground in Ukraine. U.K. Defense Secretary Grant Shapps said: I can announce that U.K. will be sending some 20,000 personnel to take part in Exercise Steadfast Defender. It will see our military joining forces with counterparts from 30 NATO countries plus Sweden, providing vital reassurance against the Putin menace. At least 16,000 troops from the U.K. army will be based in Eastern Europe from February to June, according to the Independent, and they will bring tanks, helicopters, artillery and Special Operations Forces. Russian politician warns U.K. military deployment to Ukraine will be considered a declaration of war On Friday, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, who now serves as a deputy chairman of the Russian Security Council, said that if the U.K. deploys a military contingent to Ukraine, they will consider it a declaration of war against Russia. He warned on the Telegram messaging app: I hope that our eternal enemies - the arrogant British - understand that deploying an official military contingent to Ukraine would be a declaration of war against our country." Britain has been one of Ukraines closest allies in the war with Russia, and they have committed to spending $3.2 billion during the next financial year to help their cause, which marks a rise of $255 million over their spending during the previous two years. The money will be used to cover artillery ammunition, air defense, maritime security and long-range missiles. According to a statement from Sunak's office, it will provide Ukraine with the largest ever commitment of drones. At a press conference, Sunak said: Our opponents around the world believe that we have neither the patience nor resources for long wars, so waver now, and we embolden not just [Russian President Vladimir] Putin, but his allies in North Korea, Iran and elsewhere. He also took the opportunity to urge his Western allies to continue supporting Ukraine, cautioning that a victory for Russia could embolden other authoritarian rulers. Sunak also promised the U.K. will continue to support Ukraine, stating: "Ukraine is not alone, and Ukraine will never be alone. Putin might think that he can outlast us, but he is wrong. We stand with you today, tomorrow and for as long as it takes." Not surprisingly, Ukrainian President Zelensky has been pressuring Western allies to reach even deeper in their pockets despite the billions of dollars worth of military aid that has already been sent their way. He recently visited Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania in an attempt to get more support; they offered to provide more artillery shells, drones, missiles and howitzers. Zelensky has been begging for more air defense systems to deal with aerial barrages from Russia, with more than 500 drones and missiles being fired at them between December 29 and January 2. Sources for this article include: ArmstrongEconomics.com AlJazeera.com Independent.co.uk War on Gaza has disabled as many as 20,000 Israeli soldiers, estimates show The number of Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers who have been wounded fighting in Gaza is much higher than earlier figures suggested. Israeli media outlet Yediot Ahronoth reported that at least 12,500 Israeli soldiers are now recognized as "disabled" due to their participation in trying to take back Gaza for Israel. This "gloomy forecast," as the outlet described it, was presented by a company hired by Israel's defense ministry to conduct an assessment of troop injuries. Keep in mind that the 12,500 disabled figure is considered to be conservative the true number could be as high as 20,000. Right now, the Israeli defense ministry's rehabilitation department is treating 60,000 injured Israeli soldiers. At least 5,000 of them were admitted to the department in 2023, including 3,400 just since the October 7 Hamas attack. It must be stressed that both the 12,500 and 20,000 figures represent only Israeli soldiers, and not Israeli civilians, the injury and death tolls of which are managed by other entities. (Related: The Washington Post has retracted the false October 7 rape claims made by Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.) Israel massively underreporting soldier injuries The official injury figure from Israel's defense ministry is just 3,000 soldiers since October 7, while the Israeli army itself is reporting an even lower figure of just 2,300 soldier injuries since October 7. These figures are far lower than the 12,500 or 20,000 figures being reported by other entities whose job it is to track such things independently. Why is Israel trying to hide the true number of injuries among IDF soldiers? Could it be that the Jewish state is not doing as well in its Gaza mission as initially expected? Discrepancies in the injury toll have been coming to light a lot recently, especially as hospitals throughout Israel report far more injuries than the official injury tolls suggest. According to Yediot Ahronoth, another reason why Israel might be underreporting the number of soldier injuries is because of the financial and logistical challenges of treating all these disabled soldiers, which makes the Israeli government look bad. Israel could consequently face new cases similar to that of Itsik Saidian, an Israeli soldier who fought in Israel's 2014 war on Gaza. Saidian infamously set himself on fire in 2021 outside the defense ministry's rehabilitation office, stating that he felt "humiliated during every contact" with the ministry. "It is clear that the problem is money, money, money," one incensed commenter wrote about the situation in Israel. "There is hardly enough money to stroke the ultra-Orthodox and Bibi-ists, so the soldiers? Not really," wrote another about how just like in the United States, military servicemen in Israel are mistreated. "If the Ministry of Defense starts taking care of its disabled properly, it will be less bad," suggested another. "Bibi, you have brought a historical disaster upon us," wrote another outraged Israeli about the situation. "Increase the budget for the treatment of the disabled within the Ministry of Defense," suggested another. "A re-examination should be done for those recognized in the last two years," suggested another. "Everything was due to media pressure and the recognition was systematic. Thousands of post-traumatics entered at high percentages just to silence the area. Unnecessary, harmful, and it overloads the system." Another Israeli expressed outrage about the IDF's outsized response to the Hamas attack, calling Israel a "cruel country that caused tens of thousands of wounded and dead and economic damages in an avoidable and unnecessary attack." "It was possible to end the conflict on the first day," this person added. "World history also proves that avoiding a major retaliation is the preferred way." The latest news about Israel's war on Gaza can be found at WWIII.news. Sources for this article include: MiddleEastEye.net NaturalNews.com World Health Organisation head: Global compliance needed for next pandemic (Article by Steve Watson republished from Modernity.news) In a session titled Disease X, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus stated that in order to be better prepared and to understand disease X, the WHOs Pandemic Agreement needs to be adopted globally. This is about a common enemy, Tedros continued, adding without a shared response, we will face the same problem as COVID. He explained that the decline for the legislation is May of this year and member states are negotiating between countries to implement it. This is a common global interest, and very narrow national interests should not come in the way, he continued, adding of course national interests are natural, but they could be difficult and affect the negotiations. WHO head Tedros tells #Davos #WEF2024 elites that prepping for '#Disease_X "is a common global interest, and very narrow national interests should not come in the way." Report: https://t.co/MwKBZRCcqs pic.twitter.com/tN8EYi2wBq m o d e r n i t y (@ModernityNews) January 17, 2024 Tedros also declared that COVID was the first disease X, and it could happen again. WHO head Tedros told #Davos globalists at #WEF2024 that '#Disease_X' is a placeholder name, and that COVID was "the first disease X, and it could happen again." Report: https://t.co/MwKBZRCcqs pic.twitter.com/YzVe26hvE5 m o d e r n i t y (@ModernityNews) January 17, 2024 Here is the full exchange: Full video: The #WorldEconomicForum2024 Discussion Preparing For #Disease_X". They call for global compliance when the next pandemic arrives. Report here: https://t.co/MwKBZRCcqs pic.twitter.com/0MCBGPZzBn m o d e r n i t y (@ModernityNews) January 17, 2024 Before the cosy chat, Rebel news reporter Avi Yemini confronted Tedros and asked for his opinion on global lockdowns and vaccination mandates. He had nothing to say. ? WE GOT HIM! Tedros confronted at the World Economic Forum for what he did in Covid and his plans with Disease X. This is why were in Davos, to pose the simple questions most people want answered and the media refuse to ask. Get more and support https://t.co/uvbDgOk19N now! pic.twitter.com/lGUjLo8b65 Avi Yemini (@OzraeliAvi) January 17, 2024 Read more at: Modernity.news Bidens government caught surveilling bank transactions of conservatives and Trump supporters President Joe Biden's government has been encroaching on American citizens' private financial transactions . This was revealed via new documents obtained by the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government and this privacy violation was an instruction from the Treasury Department's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCen). It was further disclosed that the federal investigators asked banks to use search terms such as "TRUMP" and "MAGA" when surveilling customer data in the aftermath of the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. Furthermore, individuals who shopped at stores like Cabela's or Dick's Sporting Goods, or purchased religious texts like a bible, may also have had their transactions flagged. "This kind of pervasive financial surveillance, carried out in coordination with and at the request of federal law enforcement, into Americans' private transactions is alarming and raises serious concerns about the Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI's) respect for fundamental civil liberties," the January 17-dated committee press release included. The committee Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH) demanded testimony from FinCen's former Strategic Operations Division Director Noah Bishoff. "The Committee and Select Subcommittee have obtained documents indicating that following January 6, 2021, FinCEN distributed materials to financial institutions that, among other things, outline the 'typologies' of various persons of interest and provide financial institutions with suggested search terms and Merchant Category Codes (MCCs) for identifying transactions on behalf of federal law enforcement," the Ohio Republican said in the letter. He said that the "materials included a document recommending the use of generic terms like 'TRUMP' and 'MAGA' to 'search Zelle payment messages.'" (Related: The beneficial ownership information reporting rule and the surveillance state.) We now know the federal government flagged terms like MAGA and TRUMP, to financial institutions if Americans completed transactions using those terms. What was also flagged? If you bought a religious text, like a BIBLE, or shopped at Bass Pro Shop. pic.twitter.com/jjRaVNItWz Rep. Jim Jordan (@Jim_Jordan) January 17, 2024 The agency also reportedly passed along its analysis of "Lone Actor/Homegrown Violent Extremism Indicators" to financial institutions to "help the government look for suspects involved in J6 riot," according to Jordan, which warned that extremism indicators include purchases such as "bus tickets, rental cars, or plane tickets, for travel to areas with no apparent purpose" or "the purchase of books (including religious texts) and subscriptions to other media containing extremist views." "In other words, FinCEN urged large financial institutions to comb through the private transactions of their customers for suspicious charges based on protected political and religious expression," Jordan further argued. In a separate letter, Jordan also asked FBI Director Christopher Wray for transcribed interviews of Peter Sullivan, senior private sector partner for FBI's Outreach in the Strategic Partner Engagement Section about the bureau's "mass accumulation and use of Americans' private information without legal process; the FBI's protocols, if any, to safeguard Americans' privacy and constitutional rights in the receipt and use of such information; and the FBI's general engagement with the private sector on law-enforcement matters." It was revealed that at the request of the FBI, Bank of America "voluntarily and without any legal process" snooped through the information of anyone making certain purchases in and around Washington before and after the J6 protests. As per Jordan, Sullivan provided the U.S.'s second-largest bank with specific search terms to look for as it looked over customer data. Federal investigators also reportedly asked the bank for information on customers who made debit or credit card purchases in D.C., reserved hotels and Airbnbs in and around the capital, patronized weapons stores and made airline reservations within the timeframe surrounding the attacks. Trump vows to fight debanking of individuals based on their political views During a campaign speech in New Hampshire earlier this week, former President and Republican frontrunner Donald Trump promised to place strong protections to "stop the banks and regulators from trying to debank you from your political beliefs, what they do. "That will never happen while I am your president," he said. Trump: Were going to place strong protections to stop banks and regulators from trying to debank you from your your political beliefs what they do. They want to debank you. Were going to debank think of this. They want to take away your country. Electric cars pic.twitter.com/eJpPyuosG8 Acyn (@Acyn) January 18, 2024 He was reportedly referring to customers who've been kicked off payment platforms in recent years. So when Trump said he'd "stop banks and regulators" from trying to "debank" people, he seemed to be saying he'd stop companies and federal officials from trying to sever extremists from financial resources they can use to survive or thrive. The former president did not elaborate, but people thought that he was referring to a handful of instances in which JPMorgan Chase closed an account or denied service to a conservative organization. In one case, the bank said it closed an account because it needed more information about the account holder's donors. In another, a subsidiary of the financial institution withdrew from a business deal related to a political fundraiser featuring Donald Trump Jr. JPMorgan ultimately reversed its decision. Surveillance.news has more stories related to this. Sources for this article include: Judiciary.House.gov 1 Judiciary.House.gov 2 Judiciary.House.gov 3 Mediaite.com The catalyst for the next US civil war? Could this be the catalyst for the next civil war? The federal government warned the Texas National Guard toTexas said NO and numerous states are sending resources to Texas to stand against the federal government. (Article republished from ArmstrongEconomics.com) Since the Biden Administration has adopted an open border policy, Texas has implemented a state law whereby they will arrest all illegal aliens entering their state. The federal government has done everything to prevent Texas from stopping the surge of migrants and neither side will cave. The recent actions by the State of Texas have impeded operations of the Border Patrol. Those actions conflict with the authority and duties of Border Patrol under federal law and are preempted under the Supremacy Clause of the Constitution. Texass actions also improperly seek to regulate the federal government, the DHS said in a letter to Texas AG Ken Paxton. Texas responded by saying it will not surrender to Bidens destructive open-border policies. A mother and her two children drowned in the river while crossing into Texas. The federal government is solely blaming Texas rather than their failed policies that invited people to cross into the nation in the first place. The Mexican government stepped in to retrieve the family, and US Border Patrol did not show up until after the incident. Forget the millions who have died from the drugs and crime crossing into the US; the MSM will now focus on these three people over the coming weeks. Numerous Republican governors in other states, especially the south, are sending resources to Texas immediately. Around 100 migrants are crossing into Texas from this specific area every HOUR. This is one of the dirtiest ploys in recent political history. The year 2023 marked the first time in modern US history that the number of migrants far outpaced the number of births in America. The demographics of America have been permanently altered and people are continuing to pile into the country. The Democrats admitted the open border policy was a deliberate attempt to flood the nation with people who would vote for socialistic policies as the usher in the New World Order, but most were utterly clueless regarding the resources required to carry out their failed scheme. Now, their Sanctuary cities and states are in ruin; they have run out of resources. The far-left told migrants to come to America where the American dream would await them. The American Dream of the 1950s is DEAD. Even hardworking Americans can no longer obtain the lifestyle that was once promised and provided to legal immigrants. These migrants today are unable to work and expect the taxpaying citizens of this nation to pay for their new lives. The future of our nation depends on stopping the deliberate invasion of America. Read more at: ArmstrongEconomics.com German truckers, factory workers join farmers protest against incumbent left-cult government thats trying to DESTROY FARMS and the food supply The 18th-century neoclassical monument Brandenburg Gate, Berlin's most famous landmark, was flocked by tens of thousands of farmers and around 5,000 tractors and trucks on Jan. 15 as the protesters voiced their anger at the country's ruling government. Truck drivers, factory workers and even firefighters cheered the rallyists, who objected to diesel prices and road toll increases. "In addition, we are fighting to maintain our existing subsidies," said one farmer, Hubertus Krupp, when asked why he attended the said gathering. The dissent has been ongoing for a few days across the country because farm workers were also complaining about the proposed revocation of tax relief for agricultural workers. They are also protesting severe economic problems, collapsing budgets, runaway migration and energy prices as well as ongoing coalition disputes, which are brought about by the newly installed-into-power leftist government. Several bus and tram lines closed for the protest, which was patrolled by around 1,300 officers, the police said. (Related: Hundreds of German farmers set up disruptive road blockades to protest punitive taxes.) WATCH: ?? Berlin is in a state of paralysis this morning as tens of thousands of farmers conduct their largest protest yet in the German capital, cheered on by truckers and firefighters. Mass protests have now been ongoing for seven consecutive days across the country against pic.twitter.com/6CrqDGLnjD Remix News & Views (@RMXnews) January 15, 2024 Public support for the center-left Social Democratic Party (SPD), the neoliberal Free Democrats and the environmentalist Greens coalition, compounded by the leadership of Social Democrat Chancellor Olaf Scholz has virtually collapsed in the past two years, with the biggest winner being the anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD), which has more than doubled its support. The left-wing government is, of course, doing very well on gender propaganda, but when it comes to more serious issues such as industrial and energy policy, they are running out of ideas. Scholz's troubles were compounded by the complete collapse of the German budget following a Constitutional Court ruling in November," Remix's John Cody reported. "Even as the government asks farmers to make sacrifices, the chancellor and his ministers are pushing for three new luxury helicopters that will cost a total of 200 million." Scholz called for calm and a readiness to accept compromises last week amid the protests. He warned of extremists stoking rage against a backdrop of wider discontent. He said in a video message that they are "taking the farmers' arguments to heart" and insisted that his government came up with "a good compromise," though farmers continue to insist on fully reversing the subsidy cuts. He also said officials will discuss "what else we can do so that agriculture has a good future." However, the protesters disagree and have announced that they will continue their protest actions. The three-party German government seemed to have been deflecting the attention away from its collapsing leadership. Cem Ozdemir, the Greens' agriculture minister, warned of "far-right figures" who want to see democracy rot away with their fantasies of overthrowing the government. Free Democrat Finance Minister Christian Lindner reminded the protesting farmers of their responsibility to society: "Turn back, you have lost your way!" Also, Saskia Esken, leader of SPD, called the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) opposition's criticism of the governing coalition's work "extremely dangerous." Despite all the narrative, nearly 70 percent of the people said they support the farmers' protests in polls and two out of three Germans want early elections and a new government. German Finance Minister to farmers: "There's no more money" During the said protest, Lindner spoke on stage, telling the agriculture workers that there was no money for further subsidies. "I can't promise you more state aid from the federal budget," Lindner told the crowd. "But we can fight together for you to enjoy more freedom and respect for your work." He received massive voices of disapproval. Lindner, describing himself as a lad from the countryside who had mucked out stables in his time, sought to win over farmers by contrasting their peaceful protest in Berlin to the behavior of climate activists who had sprayed paint on the Brandenburg Gate: "The symbol of German national unity." But he said scarce money was needed for long-neglected investments in schools and roads and for industrial energy subsidies. Jeers grew louder when Lindner said the money was needed because of the war in Ukraine. "With the war in Ukraine, peace and freedom in Europe are threatened once again, so we have to invest once again in our security as we used to," he said. Facing a backlash, the government has already said it would maintain a tax rebate on new agricultural vehicles and spread the scrapping of the agricultural diesel subsidy over several years. But farmers, backed by the opposition conservatives and the far-right, say that it is not enough. "I have respect for every politician who is prepared to come to us," said Farmers' Union head Joachim Rukwied, who at one moment had to take the microphone from Lindner and beg the crowd to stop jeering for long enough to listen to him. "The finance minister is here. It makes no sense to boo him." According to Reuters, during a later meeting with protest leaders in parliament, coalition legislators promised, without giving details, to unveil proposals on Thursday that would lower costs to farmers while making their sector "sustainable." Visit Revolt.news for more stories of uprisings and protests against left-wing administrations. Sources for this article include: RMX.news APNews.com Reuters.com Florida Republicans introduce bill to ban Pride flags at schools and government buildings Republican state lawmakers in Florida have introduced a bill in the state's House of Representatives that seeks to prohibit certain flags in government buildings and schools , including the LGBT Pride and Black Lives Matter (BLM) flags. Florida House GOP members introduced House Bill (HB) 901 on Jan. 17, which was sponsored by State Reps. Randy Fine and David Borrero. Under the measure, "a governmental entity may not erect or display a flag that represents a political viewpoint including, but not limited to, a politically partisan, racial, sexual orientation and gender or political ideology viewpoint." According to the Tampa Bay Times, HB 901 "would not affect flying such things as the U.S. flag, the state flag and the POW-MIA flag." The Florida House's Constitutional Rights, Rule of Law & Government Operations Subcommittee voted 9-5 along party lines to approve the bill. However, it needs to clear the chamber's State Affairs Committee before it can go to the full Florida House. A similar bill in the Florida Senate has not been heard in committees, according to the Times. "The bill drew heavy opposition from LGBT people, activists and parents. [In contrast], supporters said the bill is aimed at preventing 'indoctrination' in places such as schools. [They also] said the measure would not prevent people from flying flags at their homes or other private places, just not at government buildings. GOP State Rep. Doug Bankson said of the bill: "This is something that literally is bringing us back to the focus of education and not indoctrination." "I don't want the Hamas flag flying in this room, I don't want the BLM flag flying in this room and I don't want the 'Trump for president' flag flying in this room," said Fine. "Those aren't appropriate. They're not appropriate in this room; they're not appropriate in our schools; [and] they're not appropriate in our government buildings." (Related: City council in Michigan BANS LGBT flags from public property take note, White House.) LGBT mafia watching Florida's anti-groomer laws closely Democratic state lawmakers voiced out their opposition to HB 901 during the Jan. 17 legislative session where it was tackled. Democratic State Rep. Dotie Joseph decried the measure as one that "validates hate," adding: "It fosters the same kind of intolerance that breeds the violence that makes our communities unsafe. How it does that is by instead of fostering tolerance, [it focuses] on intolerance for culture wars." Democratic State Rep. Johanna Lopez also agreed, pointing out that HB 901 is "not about indoctrination [but] about discrimination." Democratic State Rep. Lindsay Cross noted that the measure "is moving us backward and not forward." Meanwhile, an Axios piece stated that "the bill comes as Florida has proposed and implemented a series of controversial initiatives regarding LGBT people in the state." It added: "LGBT advocates are watching a handful of Florida bills with concern. More than a dozen bills in Florida currently carry possible implications for LGBT people in the state." According to the piece, GOP Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis pursued what activists smeared as a "slate of hate" laws that reportedly targeted aspects of LGBT individuals' daily lives. However, these laws were actually meant to curb LGBT grooming, which often happens in the public school system. Some of DeSantis' actions that the LGBT mafia saw in a negative light included the expansion of the Parental Rights in Education Act, a law dubbed as the "Don't Say Gay" bill during its journey. The governor also implemented a book ban that targeted children's books about LGBT identity. Visit Resist.news for more stories about cities and states resisting the LGBT mafia. Watch this video of a man explaining why he won't worship the LGBT Pride flag, and why others should not. This video is from the Recharge Freedom channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Two California school districts ban LGBTQ+ flags. WATCH: Oregon school board may require classrooms to fly BLM, pride flags. ITS A FARCE: Air Force now saluting LGBT communitys rainbow flag in celebration of Pride month. SHAME: California public school teacher encourages students to pledge allegiance to LGBT pride flag instead of American flag. According to Biden Regime, Americans who do NOT salute the gay flag and celebrate Juneteenth are MAGA-extremist, Russia-loving, gay-bashing, white supremacists. Sources include: Axios.com TampaBay.com Brighteon.com German military pushes more scaremongering propaganda, claiming Russia will invade Western Europe The world might very well be in the throes of World War III come February, according to a German military report that smacks of scaremongering propaganda. The German military claims it is preparing for a potential attack by Russia. An unearthed German Ministry of Defense (MoD) document lays out the plan and pathway towards WWIII, which it claims will begin, possibly, with a Russian attack on NATO's eastern front, followed by the culmination of a much wider war following the United States presidential election. German newspaper Bild revealed the contents of the classified document, called Alliance Defence 2025, along with an analysis of its alarming implications. The document lays out a wargames plot involving a hybrid attack by Russia followed by an estimated escalation schedule going month by month. JUST IN - Germany's army is preparing for a Russian attack. Tens of thousands of German soldiers would be deployed, according to a classified document obtained by BILD. pic.twitter.com/ZUKEe3Cj07 Disclose.tv (@disclosetv) January 14, 2024 (Related: The American military-industrial complex is a clown show the West will never win WWIII.) World War III to culminate in 2025 As the timeline progresses, according to the document, it will eventually get to the point that hundreds of thousands of NATO troops have to be deployed to fight on multiple fronts by the summer of 2025. "Russia's at first covert and then increasingly overt attack on the West begins in July," reads another summarized schedule of the planned scenario. "Cyber attacks and other forms of hybrid warfare are anticipated, primarily in the Baltic states. Clashes occur, which Russia uses as an excuse to initiate large-scale military exercises on its territory and in Belarus." All of this could happen by October, the document states, assuming Russia deploys troops and medium-range missiles to Kaliningrad. "From December 2024, an artificially induced 'border conflict' and 'clashes with numerous casualties' unfold in the vicinity of the Suwalki Gap (Suwalki Corridor)," the summary further delineates. "At a moment when the United States may be without a leader for several weeks after the elections, Russia, with the support of Belarus, repeats the 2014 invasion of Ukraine but on NATO territory. In May 2025, NATO decides on containment measures, and on D-Day, NATO deploys 300,000 military personnel to the eastern flank, including 30,000 soldiers from the Bundeswehr." This "training scenario," as the document is described, presents the seemingly obvious fact that Ukraine is losing, or already has lost, the war, which means a soon confrontation with Russia in other parts of the world. Though refusing to comment on details of the document, the Germany Ministry of Defense did state that "taking into consideration all scenarios, including extremely unlikely ones, is part of daily military activity, especially in training." Sweden is also warning its citizens to prepare for a coming war with Russia, admitting the country is not at all prepared to deal with the sudden onset of an unexpected attack. "Seems like the 'West' is stuck in an experiential loop which has lasted since WW2, and these countries openly display paranoid psychosis and mental illness which negatively affects the entire civilization," one commenter scoffed at all the insanity. "They are unable to stop, conduct an overall examination of how their policies are destroying their own countries. All they can do is double down. They are unable to extricate themselves from unproductive ideological scenarios and unable to switch to a co-operative win-win stance which would allow the civilization to progress." Another wrote that the world is already experiencing WWIII, but that he believes it will not become a global "hot" war with mass destruction. What do you think? How much longer will the "new normal" last before the world is plunged into another global conflict? Find out more at WWIII.news. Sources for this article include: Modernity.news NaturalNews.com Are the airstrikes in Yemen working? Well, when you say working, are they stopping the Houthis? No. Are they going to continue? Yes. This brief exchange between reporters and U.S. President Joe Biden on Friday summed up the position the United States finds itself in the Middle East. The White House did not, under any circumstances, want conflict in the region, let alone in an election year, but has been increasingly drawn into a widening crisis, as it deals with the opposing demands of its Arab allies and Israel. Domestically, Bidens positions on the war continues to be criticized by Democrats with less than 10 months to go before the November 5 presidential election. Washington supports Israel, arguing the country has a right to self-defense and to destroy the radical Palestinian militia Hamas. And it is providing Israel with weapons for this purpose. At the same time, the Biden administration has called on Israel to exercise restraint and protect civilian lives. But this position has left it between a rock and a hard place in the Middle East as the number of Palestinian civilian victims in Gaza continues to rise the death toll is now close to 25,000. As criticism from other nations mounts, and Washingtons credibility as a defender of human rights plummets especially in the Global South the United States desperately needs to prevent the war in Gaza from spreading. It must respond forcefully to is enemies but without escalating the conflict, and appease allies with disparate interests. On the one hand, Arab countries are calling on it to use its influence to pressure Israel and bring about an end to the war. At the same time, Israel is almost completely ignoring U.S. pressure and insisting on continuing the offensive until Hamas is eliminated. Meanwhile, the conflict continues to spill over into other areas. On Saturday, several missiles launched by pro-Iranian militias hit the Al Asad air base of the U.S.-led coalition in Iraq, leaving several injured. In Israel, as tensions between Washington and Tel Aviv become increasingly evident, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flatly refused to accept a Palestinian state, the pillar on which Washington bases its project for the Middle East after the end of the Gaza war. Netanyahu said Thursday that Israel must maintain security control over all territory west of the Jordan River. Iranian-backed Houthi militias in Yemen continued to attack ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, despite five U.S. airstrikes aimed at neutralizing the groups capabilities. The White House insists that its strategy remains the same. In his four trips to the region since the conflict broke out in October, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, has been working on a proposal that foresees in exchange for Israels yes to a Palestinian state, the collaboration of Saudi Arabia in the reconstruction of Gaza, and the normalization of relations between Israel and Riyadh the main advantage for Netanyahu. Demilitarized Palestine In brief statements to the media shortly after speaking with the Israeli prime minister, Biden said that it is possible to achieve the two-state solution under Netanyahu. And that the Israeli leader is not ruling out all the possible forms of a future Palestinian state. Biden told reporters that one way to make the proposal more agreeable to Israel is to have a demilitarized Palestine. There are a number of countries that are members of the U.N. that dont have their own military, a number of states that have limitations, said Biden. I think there are ways in which this can work. It really is the only path that provides peace and security for all. And what is more it is not impractical. It can be done, argued U.S. National Security Advisor Jack Sullivan at the World Economic Forum in Davos last week. But other experts are skeptical that Israel will suddenly accept Palestinian statehood, given its efforts over the last quarter of a century to thwart such a possibility. The administration seems to believe that one of the ways it can get Israeli approval is through Saudi Arabia, basically promoting normalization and getting the Israelis to change their tactics in Gaza. But that is unlikely to happen. Right now, the Saudi demands and requirements on Israel are too high, said Steve Cook, from the Council on Foreign Relations by videoconference. Riyadh is demanding a ceasefire as a precondition condition for addressing its participation in the reconstruction of Gaza or the normalization of ties with Israel. The difficulties facing the U.S. in the Middle East were also evident in the waters of the Red Sea, where Iranian-backed Houthi groups are targeting merchant ships with missiles and drones. In one week, the U.S. launched five strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, but this has not been enough to stop them. To avoid an escalation that brings Iran directly into the conflict, Washington has opted for a moderate approach both in its use of both force its attacks have been limited in scope and its diplomatic tools. Last week, the U.S. listed the Houthi movement as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist group, an initiative that imposes economic sanctions on the militia, but does not involve as many restrictions as the Foreign Terrorist Organization designation. Whats more, the move will not take effect for 30 days. According to the White House, this delay is intended to minimize the impact on the entry of humanitarian aid to Yemen. The designation will not have a major impact, says Kirsten Fontenrose of the Atlantic Council think tank, but it is important for the United States to demonstrate that it uses all its tools as a state, and not just military measures, to ensure that the international community clearly perceives that the country is acting responsibly and in the interest of the world. The U.S. military response has also been relatively moderate. Preliminary U.S. calculations estimate that their forces have destroyed a quarter of the Houthis attack capacity. The Biden administration insists that it does not want to enter into a confrontation with the Islamist militia or expand the war in Yemen. It argues that the groups attacks on the Red Sea have forced them to respond, as between 12% and 15% of world trade passes through the sea route. We remain committed to resolving the conflict in Yemen and a lasting ceasefire between that group and Saudi Arabia, a senior official said last week, speaking on condition of anonymity. The U.S. could not afford to have its warnings of dire consequences if [Houthi] activities were to be perceived as hollow. Other hostile powers beyond Iran, such as Russia or China, might immediately try to capitalize on any sign of U.S. weakness, explained Michael Nagata of the Middle East Institute in Washington. But these airstrikes do not provide a strategic solution, even if they are necessary. But, he added, as long as Iran is able to support its network of like-minded groups in the region, vital points like the Red Sea will become more and more vulnerable. And the U.S. cant defend everything. Voter rejection Bidens problems in the Middle East also extend to the home front, where unease over Israelis bloody offensive in Gaza is spreading among Democrats. On Friday, five senators from the Democrat Party supported a measure that would condition U.S. military assistance to Israel on Israel using the weaponry in accordance with international law Another Democratic provision is calling on arms transfers to Israel to be approved by Congress in December, Biden twice bypassed Congress to approve an emergency weapons sale. Earlier last week, 11 senators backed a resolution by Rep. Bernie Sanders that would have frozen security aid to Israel until the State Department produced a report on whether Israel has committed human rights violations. According to Brian Katulis of the Middle East Institute, the most worrisome source of turbulence for the Biden administration comes from the lack of progress in preventing a broader regional escalation. The events of the past week, including continued attacks in the Red Sea, Yemen, Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq, in addition to the conflict in Gaza, point to the weakness of the posture set by the Biden team when this conflict began more than 100 days ago [...]. The turbulence of the last few weeks may point to new problems ahead, he concluded. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Houthis step up offensive operations with new drone attacks on U.S.-owned commercial ships The Houthi rebels of northern Yemen have continued their drone and missile strikes against Israeli and allied shipping passing through the Red Sea with a drone strike on an American-owned commercial vessel on Wednesday, Jan. 17. The attack was reported by the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), the Department of Defense's main command force responsible for the Middle East, Egypt, Central Asia and Pakistan. According to CENTCOM, the Houthis sent a bomb-laden drone against the U.S.-owned and Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier Genco Picardy, striking the ship around 70 miles southeast of the Yemeni government-controlled port city of Aden as the ship was transiting through the Gulf of Aden the body of water between Yemen and the Horn of Africa that eventually leads into the Red Sea. (Related: TruNews: U.S.-led Yemen strikes escalate Middle East conflict.) "There were no injuries and some damage was reported," said CENTCOM in its statement on the attack. "Genco Picardy is seaworthy and continuing underway." The captain reported to his company the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations that the drone strike had started a fire on the ship. "There was a fire on board, which has now been extinguished," said the company. "Vessel and crew are safe and proceeding to next port of call." Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree, a military spokesperson for the Houthis, confirmed that the drone strike was "a response to the American and British attacks" on Houthi-controlled Yemen. Any retaliation by the West "will not remain without response and punishment." Ship-ownership data lists Genco Picardy's owner as the New York City-based Genco Shipping and Trading Limited, a publicly traded firm on the New York Stock Exchange. Houthis follow up with ballistic missile attacks on another U.S. merchant vessel On the next day, Thursday, Jan. 18, the Houthis followed up with its third attack against American and allied merchant vessels passing through the Red Sea within a week. According to CENTCOM, the attack occurred at around 9 p.m. local time, with Houthi rebels launching two Iranian-supplied anti-ship ballistic missiles at the Chem Ranger, a U.S.-owned and Marshall Islands-flagged ship. CENTCOM reports that both missiles missed the Chem Ranger, landing instead in the waters surrounding the ship. There were no reported injuries to the crew or damage to the ship itself. CENTCOM has not confirmed where the ship was in the area when the attack occurred. In their most recent statement, the Houthis vowed to continue their assault on Israeli, American and allied shipping in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden until Israel ends all of its military operations in Gaza and pulls out all of its forces from the region. "The operations against Israeli ships or those heading to the ports of occupied Palestine will not stop until the aggression stops and the siege imposed on the steadfast Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip is lifted," said Saree. "The Yemeni Armed Forces will not hesitate to target all sources of threat in the Arab and Red Seas within the legitimate right to defend dear Yemen and to continue supporting the oppressed Palestinian people." Before the Houthis targeted the Genco Picardy and the Chem Ranger, on Monday, Jan. 15, the Houthis fired a missile at the Gibraltar Eagle, causing a fire in the ship's hold but causing no injuries or major damage to the ship. The White House has reported that Houthi attacks against shipping in the area have affected more than 50 nations that either owned or administered the ships or had crewmembers on the ships that were attacked. The U.S. Maritime Administration has advised U.S.-owned ships to avoid traveling near Yemen until further notice because of the ongoing "risk to commercial vessels." Learn more about the chaotic conflicts in Israel and the rest of the Middle East at WWIII.news. Watch this clip from "Vantage with Palki Sharma" on Firstpost as she reports on the latest Houthi strikes against shipping in the Red Sea. This video is from the High Hopes channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: French Navy shooting million-dollar missiles at cheap Houthi drones in the Red Sea. Beijing's shipping firm halts Israel operations despite strong ties with Houthi backer Tehran amid rising Red Sea tensions. ESCALATION: U.S. strikes Iran-backed Houthi rebels after Iran hijacks oil tanker in Gulf of Oman. U.S. and U.K. warplanes bomb Houthi targets in Yemen in another significant escalation of Gaza war. U.S. destroyer intercepts drone, missile attacks launched by Houthi rebels toward Israel. Sources include: TheEpochTimes.com APNews.com CBSNews.com Brighteon.com Journalist uncovers shadowy network of non-governmental organizations enabling southern border invasion America's southern border is wide open, in part because of a "shadowy network of secretive nonprofits," some of which are funded by United States taxpayers, that is working in lockstep with the federal government to facilitate the illegal migrant invasion. This is according to journalist James O'Keefe who conducted an investigation into the matter and discovered that non-governmental organizations (NGOs) like "Alita's Angels" and the American Red Cross that are actively helping illegal migrants to invade America. "We just followed the trail of the migrant vans right to the source, visiting the Arizona border town of Nogales, where we encountered some rude and suspicious 'Alita's Angels' NGO (@alitasangels) workers who once again called the police on us," O'Keefe tweeted about the investigation. O'Keefe further discovered that Alita's Angels is a "brand-new nonprofit with no tax records on file" that operates out of an old, formerly abandoned bank building in Nogales. When O'Keefe and his team attempted to film a migrant facility in the same area, a volunteer with the American Red Cross who refused to share his name became aggressive, sticking his hand in front of the cameras. When O'Keefe and his team proceeded to question another volunteer from the American Red Cross, she responded with "I am your father" before storming off. (Related: Did you know that Maine is now providing brand-new, "free," taxpayer-funded housing for illegal migrants while the state's veteran homeless population freezes to death on the streets?) Casa Alitas receives federal money to assist southern border invasion After all this, Nogales Police officers showed up and started questioning O'Keefe and his team, who were accused by the NGO volunteers in question of using racial slurs and inhibiting their movement. Like with the first American Red Cross volunteer O'Keefe and his team encountered, the officer refused to share his name. O'Keefe and his team then filed a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to obtain bodycam footage from the police officer encounter. They were told that Nogales Police does not use bodycams. After illegal migrants enter the U.S. from Nogales with the help of these NGOs, they are bussed off like cattle into a processing facility located about an hour away in Tucson. O'Keefe and his team were able to follow one of the buses to the final destination, but once again were kept at arm's length. "The staff of the facility, run by Casa Alitas, threatened to call the cops again, but we managed to interview a local driver who does business at the facility and he gave us even more information," O'Keefe reported about what took place. O'Keefe was also able to confirm, based on an interview one of his undercover journalists conducted with a worker at Casa Alitas, that this NGO receives federal money meaning U.S. taxpayers are funding their own replacement and demise by illegal migrant invaders. "These 'Alitas' groups are part of a shadowy network of secretive nonprofits funding the mass migration of millions of people into the country, without truly vetting asylum seekers' claims and determining if they are eligible for refugee status," O'Keefe says. It was also recently reported that NGOs are providing illegals all the way down in Central and South America with critical maps showing them the easiest routes to illegally invade the U.S. "A lot of NGOs are helping Biden open the border to unlimited illegal crossing," further noted Byron York, chief political correspondent at The Washington Examiner, about how President Joe "the big guy" Biden has the final say in all of this. "But none of this could happen without the president's approval." For all intents and purposes, the United States no longer has a working southern border. Learn more at InvasionUSA.news. Sources for this article include: ZeroHedge.com NaturalNews.com Globalist junta boasts about damaging plans being set up to block Trump from retaking his White House seat The Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection (ICAP), a non-partisan institute within Georgetown University Law Center that claims to use strategic legal advocacy to defend constitutional rights and values, recently bragged about doing everything to hinder former President Donald Trump from finding his way back to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. With Trump constantly topping surveys, beating President Joe Biden amid the former POTUS' legal battles, a "loose-knit network of public interest groups and lawmakers are quietly devising plans" to stop him from carrying out his political platform within his Agenda 47 policies. "Were already starting to put together a team to think through the most damaging types of things that [Trump] might do so that were ready to bring lawsuits if we have to," ICAP Executive Director Mary McCord warned. Another 501 non-profit, Democracy Forward, said that it was likewise "preparing for litigation and preparing to use every tool in the toolbox that our democracy provides to provide the American people an ability to fight back" against a second Trump administration. "We believe this is an existential moment for American democracy and it is incumbent on everybody to do their part," its President Skye Perryman said and added that although a reelected Trump would have a democratic mandate, her organization has none. Their main reason: They are concerned about Trump using the military to execute his policies, which include immediately securing the border and mass deportations of illegal aliens, by invoking the Insurrection Act. "The United States is trillions of dollars in debt, yet the radical left Democrats are illegally dispensing public benefits to illegals while they try to massively raise your taxes. The radical left communists hate you, and they hate our Middle Class. Under Biden's scheme, the benefits that will go to illegal aliens include food stamps, free healthcare, welfare checks, and a host of other programs the likes of which you would not even believe," Trump said on his campaign website. "In addition, Biden is also giving illegal aliens work permits to take jobs away from American citizens." Meanwhile, anti-Trump activists and nonprofits have already begun using lawfare tactics to try and stop him from running for the presidency at all, successfully having him removed, at least temporarily, from primary ballots in Maine. But the former POTUS has already asked a court to reverse the decision by Shenna Bellows, Maine's secretary of state, saying she was a "biased decision maker," who should have recused herself. Bellows, who was appointed by the state legislature, previously ran for the U.S. Senate as a Democrat. (Related: Trump warns of "big trouble" if SCOTUS rules in favor of BALLOT BANS against him.) In Colorado, the Secretary of State Jena Griswold announced on Friday that she had certified the statewide Republican and Democrat ballots for the 2024 presidential primary election and Trump will appear on the ballot. The United States Supreme Court has accepted Trumps appeal on the Colorado Supreme Court's divided, 4-3 decision on Dec. 19, saying that he is disqualified from serving as president because of his conduct related to the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol. The said decision barred him from being listed on the state's primary ballot. But the state's high court paused its decision to allow the former president and the Colorado GOP time to appeal. Trump wins first vote in the U.S. presidential race in Iowa The former president swept to victory in Iowa's caucuses on Monday. This is the first vote in the U.S. presidential race and it was said to have "cemented" his status as the presumptive Republican standard-bearer in November's election. Major mainstream networks took just half an hour to call the race, with Trump taking 51 percent of the vote and opening an unprecedented 30-point gap over Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. As per reports, this was the biggest victory for an Iowa challenger in modern history. DeSantis' and Trump's other main rival, former UN ambassador Nikki Haley, were locked at 21 and 19 percent respectively, with DeSantis projected to take the runner-up spot. "Trump is the dominant candidate (in the Republican Party) and 'contest one' confirms the reality," Julian E. Zelizer, professor of Public Affairs at Princeton University, told AFP. Meanwhile, biotech entrepreneur and author of "Woke, Inc." Vivek Ramaswamy announced Monday night he is suspending his presidential campaign. "We did not achieve the surprise that we wanted to deliver tonight," he said. He came in fourth in the first presidential contest in Iowa and has endorsed Trump for the nomination. He emphasized "America First" policies, a stance that has proven popular with supporters of Trump. "I wouldn't call myself a disciple of Donald Trump," Ramaswamy told NPR last May. "I would embrace the label of 'America First' to point out that 'America first' is bigger than Donald Trump. It does not belong to Donald Trump." Visit Trump.news for more news related to the ongoing legal battle the former president is fighting. Sources for this article include: TheNationalPulse.com DonaldJTrump.com FT.com CBSNews.com France24.com NPR.org Vivek Ramaswamy campaigns for Donald Trump after dropping out of the presidential race Former GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy expressed his support to Republican frontrunner President Donald Trump in his campaign in New Hampshire, a few days after the former ended his White House bid. While standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the 45th U.S. president, Ramaswamy said: "We are in the middle of a war in this country. That's what this is. It's not a war between black and white. It's not between Democrats and Republicans, even in a deeper sense, it's between the permanent state and the everyday citizen, between those of us who love the United States of America and a fringe minority who hates this country and what we stand for." The multi-millionaire former biotech executive also stated that one has got to know he is in a war to win it. "There is not a better choice left in this race than this man right here. And that is why I am asking you to do the right thing as New Hampshire and to vote for Donald J. Trump as your next president," the 38-year-old further said. (Related: Vivek Ramaswamy drops out of Republican primary race, endorses Donald Trump.) Vivek full Trump endorsement speech: "We are in the middle of a war in this country... right now we need a commander in chief who will lead us to victory." Report here https://t.co/L51mOg9jVX pic.twitter.com/hX46QeZ134 m o d e r n i t y (@ModernityNews) January 17, 2024 "We've been celebrating our diversity and our differences for so long that we forgot all of the ways that we are the same as Americans, bound by that common set of ideals that set this country into motion," Ramaswamy continued. "We believe those ideals still exist. This man is going to be your next president to revive them." Further showing his all-out support, Ramaswamy urged Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and former U.N. ambassador Nikki Haley to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race and endorse Trump, as he just did. "I think Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley would actually, at this point, do this country and this party a service by stepping aside to make sure that were focused on not only nominating Donald Trump but getting this country back and reviving those founding revolutionary ideals," he told Fox News on Tuesday. "I do think that would be healthy for this country." Ramaswamy dropped his presidential campaign after finishing fourth in the Iowa caucuses with just under eight percent of the vote. Trump scored a landslide win with 51 percent, DeSantis claimed second place at 21 percent, and Haley finished third with 19 percent. The GOP race will now shift to New Hampshire, where the primary is set for Jan. 23. "It is time to make sure we elect the right president and put America first. Take the America First agenda to the next level," Ramaswamy further pointed out. "America First is not even about Trump. It didnt start in 2016. It started in 1776. Donald Trump will be the right person to take this forward for the next four years. But we need to start laying down the foundation for this to live another 250 years." Meanwhile, DeSantis and Haley continue to campaign in New Hampshire and South Carolina. In February 2023, Mr. Ramaswamy entered the 2024 race with limited name recognition. He spent millions of dollars on his campaign and led over several prominent Republicans, including former Vice President Mike Pence and Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina. Trump thanks Ramaswamy for the endorsement and says he'll be working with the POTUS for a long time It was unclear what position Trump is going to give Ramaswamy but judging from how they have been treating each other the past few days, the latter would definitely be working for the Republican POTUS, should he regain the White House seat in November. Ramaswamy again endorsed Trump at the Atkinson rally stating that there is not a "better choice" than him and urged people to do the "right thing." The former president thanked Ramaswamy for his endorsement and said that the Indian American leader will be working with him for a long time. "It's an honor to have his endorsement. He's going to be working with us and he'll be working with us for a long time. Thank you," Trump said. The former president lauded Ramaswamy's campaign and even expressed that he would be amenable to having him as his running mate, stating that "He would be very good." Ramaswamy has been one of Trump's staunchest defenders against the four indictments leveled against him. He even vowed to pardon Trump from all charges, on his first day in office, before his official announcement of suspending his presidential campaign. However, some critics felt awkward about the "burgeoning" relationship between the two, especially since Trump suddenly attacked Ramaswamy a few days before the Iowa caucuses, calling his campaign "deceitful." Trump also urged his supporters not to "waste" their vote on him. However, Ramaswamy still said he won't criticize the former president and reiterated his earlier stance that Trump indeed is the "greatest President" of the 21st century. VoteRepublicans.news contains more updates on the ongoing primaries leading to the 2024 general elections. Sources for this article include: ZeroHedge.com TheEpochTimes.com NDTV.com Roger Stone says media framed him with AI-generated audio depicting him discussing assassination plot An audio file has been making the rounds in the media in which political operative and Donald Trump insider Roger Stone can be heard talking about killing Democrat politicians. However, Stone maintains that the audio clip is not authentic and strongly suspects that it was generated using AI and several AI detecting tools back up his claim. The controversy began with an article published earlier this month on Mediaite bearing the headline: Exclusive: Roger Stone Spoke With Cop Pal About Assassinating Eric Swalwell and Jerry Nadler. In the piece, journalist Diana Falzone maintains that an anonymous source gave her an audio recording in which Stone can be heard saying that some Democratic politicians need to die before the election to his friend, former NYPD officer Sal Greco. This article did not include the recording to back up her claim, so Stone asked her to prove the discussion took place. He told the Daily Mail: If there is such an audio, why dont they post it? Why wont they send it to me? If there is such an audio, it would have to be illegally obtained and if there is such an audio it would have to be an AI generated fraud since I never said any of the words attributed to me. Falzone then released what she claimed was the recording given to her by the anonymous source. In the recording, an individual with a voice that sounds like Stone's can be heard stating: Its time to do it. Lets go find Swalwell. Its time to do it. Then well see how brave the rest of them are. Its time to do it. Its either Swalwell or Nadler has to die before the election. They need to get the message. Lets go find Swalwell and get this over with. Im just not putting up with this shit anymore. Stone immediately defended himself on social media, saying that the audio was most likely created by AI in an attempt to frame him. Some critics have pointed to the fact that in a video report about the recording, Falzone said that it was lightly edited. This conflicts with her claim on social media that the contents had not been edited; she has since deleted the post. Testing and expert assessments point to recordings being generated by AI Stone has provided proof that AI detecting tests have found there is a very high probability that the audio file features a voice that was generated by AI. One detector concluded there was a 96 percent chance it was AI, while another found a 92 percent chance that it was AI. An audio expert told the media outlet Rare that the tonal flow of the recording sounded very unnatural to him, and he also suspected that background noise was used to mask flaws in the AI-generated voice. To further support his claim, Stone shared a video on social media in which an X user used AI-generating audio technology to create a video clip in which a fake Joe Biden can be heard saying: Lets go find Swalwell and get it over with. And yes, I stole the 2020 election. Whether Falzone was sent fake audio from her anonymous source or Mediaite created it themselves to back up the narrative, numerous media outlets have reported on the audio and shared it, presenting it like it is 100 percent authentic. Swalwell and Nadler have both made comments to the media about the recording as though it were real, and it appears that many people want it to be authentic because it provides them with yet another reason to criticize Trump and his associates. Swalwell said: This is what Trump and his real-life thugs do: They try to intimidate opponents and will always choose violence over voting. Because Im one of Trumps loudest critics, Stone put a hit out on me. Sources for this article include: InfoWars.com DailyMail.co.uk Hungarian publicist: Insistence that Russia will attack Germany is Berlins scaremongering tactic to hide its incompetence German mainstream media has been spreading the threat that Russian President Vladimir Putin is going to unleash military operations against Germany that could start a war in the following weeks. This classified information was reportedly leaked to leading German tabloid newspaper Bild. According to the report, Germany's armed forces are preparing for an armed conflict with Russia, including hosting exercises regarding an escalation between NATO and Russia. The secret "scenario" obtained by the local news outlet would begin in February with the deployment of hundreds of thousands of NATO troops, culminating in a war that would break out in the summer of 2025. However, one Hungarian commentator has already picked apart the entire story and listed three reasons why the story is nothing but a fearmongering story that globalists would want to sensationalize. As per Zsolt Bayer, the report included "obvious lies, lunacy, delusion," saying that if it were true, "it would mean nothing less than a third World War and the end of mankind." Bayer lambasted the paper's claim that German forces would deploy tens of thousands of troops to fight Russia. He argued that there would be no point in deploying troops, as such a conflict would quickly go nuclear. "Then, the Germans would deploy tens of thousands of troops against Putin, while NATO would deploy hundreds of thousands? Really? And for what anyway? Such a world conflagration would be 'escalated' by the deployment of tactical and then the full nuclear arsenal. Why tens and hundreds of thousands of troops?" he wrote. "And will someone please tell me why Putin would attack NATO? What interest would he have in doing so?" He further pointed out that Ukraine was a different story because it was not a NATO member and because Kyiv was "carrying out pogroms against Russians living there, and partly because the West, for some unfathomable reason, wanted to plant a nuclear arsenal at Russias doorstep." The Hungarian also asserted that if Moscow were to attack Berlin, it would first need to occupy a heavily armed Poland. Furthermore, it would immediately have to face other countries such as the United States, and all other NATO members would be required to enter the conflict. The war would be nothing short of a World War Three. One last point why he thinks that all of this is just scaremongering propaganda is that if security experts "gloated" that Putin's men were unable to handle Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky's troops, why would it even try to gamble sending its "beleaguered army" to battle all of NATO? "While the West is constantly shouting today that 'Putin wouldn't even stop at Portugal,' we also hear from the same mouths that Putin and the Russians are not even able to hold the eastern parts of Ukraine. How do these two statements fit together? And let us not forget, the most competent person, the former German chancellor, said that a month after the attack on Ukraine, there was a peace plan that both the Russians and the Ukrainians would have signed," Bayer wrote. He further went on to ask how this secret scenario was obtained by a journalist, to begin with. He also emphasized that the report, which made international headlines and was echoed across the German domestic media, was an attempt to influence public opinion and invoke fear. "But then what is it really about? It's that the German government has given Bild this information in an attempt to try and whip up fear by dismantling the growing discontent and resistance that this incompetent and idiotic government has caused and brought upon itself," he included in his commentary. The Institute for the Study of War, a U.S. think tank, noted that such documents were ordinary in military planning. However, it said that the timeline was improbable, Business Insider (BI) reported. Bild and BI share a parent company, Axel Springer. German Defense Ministry already has a detailed vision of Russia's Ukraine spillover invasion In Germany's "exercise scenario," the Kremlin would be mobilizing 200,000 new recruits in February for a new offensive in Ukraine which would allow Moscow to make significant advances on the ground by June. It included that the following month, Russia would begin a campaign of hybrid warfare against the Baltic states Estonia, Lithuania and Latvia, playing on Russia's "false narratives" that Russian-speaking minorities in these countries are being unfairly targeted to a degree that demands intervention. An eruption of violence in these countries will then justify the mobilization of Russian troops sent to Belarus and western Russia by September, the document laid out. A month later, Putin will deploy troops at the Belarusian border with Poland and in Kaliningrad, which sits between Poland and Lithuania. According to the German government, it is then very likely that Russian troops will target the Suwalki Gap, a strip of land inside the Polish border with Lithuania. Meanwhile, the Kremlin would push forward anti-NATO narratives at home, claiming that the alliance is preparing to attack Russia. (Related: German foreign minister admits country is at war with Russia.) The said scenario further expects that NATO will deploy 300,000 troops to its eastern borders to deter Russian aggression, but it does not anticipate that the 31-member alliance will react until early 2025 crucially, after the U.S. presidential election on Nov. 5. Head over to Chaos.news to read more updates on the ongoing "conflicts" across the globe. Sources for this article include: RMX.news BusinessInsider.com EuroNews.com The six-foot social distancing rule was nothing but FRAUD weaponized against the people, and its architects are finally being exposed When former President Donald Trump gave the national podium to Dr. Anthony Fauci in March of 2020, a bizarre edict was presented to the public -- an edict that would go on to generate mass hysteria and societal upheaval. This authoritarian new edict the six-foot social distancing rule was pushed onto the American people by Dr. Fauci during a live press briefing with the Presidents Coronavirus Task Force. This rule underpinned the irrational guidelines for state-wide lockdowns and stay-at-home orders. This rule would embolden germaphobia, unleash mass mental illness throughout society, and permit governments free reign to assault civil liberties, while launching a barrage of insidious protocols and unlawful mandates. In many ways, social distancing was the virus that did so much damage to peoples lives, and it had no effect on stopping the sicknesses and iatrogenic errors that plagued peoples lives in 2020 and beyond. Anthony Fauci claimed social distancing sort of just appeared even though he spearheaded the insanity In a congressional deposition last week before the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic, Dr. Anthony Fauci finally admitted that the federal governments six-foot social distancing rule was not based on any scientific evidence. In the deposition, Fauci claimed it sort of just appeared and is likely not based on scientific data. In reality, Fauci was the one who brought the fraud forward at the national level. He used the rule to call for school shutdowns and ten person gathering limits that ultimately shuttered churches, small businesses, and left people to die alone, separate from their loved ones. Fauci demanded social distancing and lockdowns remain long after the 14 days to slow the spread propaganda campaign that the Trump-Pence Administration initiated. The insane precedent of social distancing was also used to radically transform the election system, ushering an illegitimate administration into the White House. Social distancing is the reason people felt compelled to take experimental vaccines to get back to normal. Fauci obviously enjoyed pushing this psychological operation over the past four years -- an operation that infected the minds of people from all walks of life and led them into the clutches of a false savior. Former FDA Commissioner admits six-foot rule was arbitrary in 2021 In a 2021 media appearance, former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb said the six feet rule was arbitrary in and of itself. Nobody knows where it came from. The six feet is a perfect example of sort of the lack of rigor of how CDC made recommendations," Gottlieb said. Germaphobia now permeates society because of social distancing propaganda. In 2021, social distancing rules were still being enforced at the federal, state, and company levels, and paranoid people were still avoiding one another. Despite Gottliebs confessions, none of the federal agencies made corrections to social distancing rules, which underpinned all the hysteria behind unlawful mandates. Even these high-level confessions will not be enough to deprogram some people from the deception that is now wired into their brains. Yales Gregg Gonsalves is one of the architects behind social distancing propaganda One of the architects behind the 6-foot social distancing rule was Gregg Gonsalves, from the School of Public Health at Yale Law School. When the pandemonium began, Gonsalves wielded significant influence over several mainstream media outlets, including The Nation, where he worked as a public health correspondent, spewing out covid cult propaganda. When the pandemonium began, Gonsalves wrote in Vox: Unless we figure out how to sort of move toward what the New York Times called for the other day a national lockdown of sorts - were just going to see cases increase and emergency rooms and ICUs across the country be filled to capacity. Gonsalves used his social media repeatedly to argue for lockdowns and social distancing. Outside of the media, Gonsalves took up an official position on social distancing in a court of law. In March of 2020, Gonsalves made an expert declaration under penalty of perjury. He stated, "Data from China indicates that the average infected person passes the virus on to 2-3 other people at distances of 3-6 feet." Under the expert declaration, Gonsalves provided medical reference for his 36-foot claim (footnote #7). After taking a closer look at the footnote, it becomes clear that Gonsalves didnt cite actual medical evidence. Instead, he cited a New York Times article titled, How Bad Will the Coronavirus Outbreak Get? Here are 6 Key Factors. Even stranger, inside the Times article there is no mention of the data from China that Gonsalves so proudly asserts. His expert claim is based on an artists drawing inside the article, one that depicts 6-foot social distancing as the stop point for the spread of coronaviruses. The drawing inside the article has no medical or scientific precedent. It turns out that the drawing cited by Gonsalves is nothing but hysterical propaganda and irrational conjecture. Now, Gonsalves must answer for this gross error because he made the claim as a legal declaration in court. Fauci cannot simply dismiss the social distancing charade after he threatened civil liberties and ushered in a complete breakdown of the rule of law. Fauci and his colleagues must be held accountable for the policies of subjugation and societal destruction that emanated from his baseless, authoritarian edicts. Architects behind this psychological operation, such as Gregg Gonsalves, should also have to answer for their actions in a court of law. Sources include: DisinformationChronicle.substack.com CBSNews.com CBSNews.com BusinessInsider.com Vox.com Law.Yale.edu [PDF] NYPost.com The US government has lost all legitimacy with its increasingly psychotic behavior If I believe myself to be a fork, must society be made to agree? Should I be encouraged to hang out near salad bars with the expectation that diners will trust me with their food? If I continue to get passed over for other silverware, should I be allowed to sue for discrimination? Or worse, if someone has the nerve to call me a spoon, will the government step in to punish thatforme? (Article by J.B. Shurk republished from AllNewsPipeline.com) Of course not. Then why should a man in makeup and a dress be given extra legal rights to sue anyone who sees through his delusions? Why should rational men be expected to allow mentally unstable men to use public restrooms with their wives and daughters? Why should parents be expected to entrust their childrens welfare with psychologically troubled men who have sought out jobs at schools, amusement parks, and daycares? Why would government agents intervene to support the fantasies of people inclined to mutilate their bodies and traumatize others with their deceptions? How can any government maintain its legitimacy for long when it embraces insanity as reality and condemns reality as imaginary? For a long time, psychologically balanced people have done their best to ignore the governments increasingly psychotic behavior. When pressed, they have even reluctantly played along: You need me to wear this filthy paper mask that does nothing to prevent the transmission of viral particles floating in the air, so that you know that I know that this is somehow all Trumps fault? Fine, dont break down in tears or start screaming or call the cops. Ill play along. Playing along, however, has gotten psychologically healthy people nowhere. For every insane concession they make to government authorities, those authorities invent half a dozen new insane demands of society. Remember when all those Trump voters exercised their First Amendment rights to assemble together and petition the U.S. government to address the rampant mail-in-ballot fraud of the 2020 election? Yeah, even though all those people were unarmed and expressed no interest in overthrowing anything, that was totally a violent insurrection just as bad as 9/11 and the Civil War. Joe Biden even swears that those darned insurrectionists murdered five, or ten, or maybe fifty police officers that day. (That never happened, but one unarmed Trump-supporter was shot in cold blood, and another was beaten to death.) The government and its lapdog media need people to believe insane things. Facts are dangerous and reserved for people who live in reality. In another cockamamie example proving how playing along only invites further government psychopathy, the United Kingdom is now telling government employees that they must actually believe in the transgender delusions flooding the workplace with cray-cray. Thats right: it is no longer enough to merely play along with someones unhealthy fantasies. Using an unbalanced persons preferred pronouns does not sufficiently demonstrate ones submission to the coercive State. If you want to keep your government job in the U.K., you must commit yourself to thinking of the person as being the gender that they want you to think of them as. That virtue-signaling, shared madness even requires a dogmatic faith in biologically impossible things such as the governments assertions that men can go through menopause and have babies! Back in the days before the mentally unwell were put in charge of the Wests mental health organizations (WHO just added a bunch of transgender activists to a policy committee intended to set global rules for children), playing along with someones mental delusions was discouraged because doing so harmfully enables dangerous and self-destructive behavior. Now refusing to play along can get one sacked. How long before those who should be committed to mental institutions instead commit sane people for not sufficiently pretending to believe in things that are not true? When the choice is between reality and a paycheck, desperate people will accept insane things to get paid. (Add this observation to the growing list of reasons why freedom-minded people should not only thwart the introduction of central bank digital currencies, but also embrace forms of money free from government-induced inflation and manipulation.) It would be some small comfort if this kind of insanity remained isolated in the leftist enclaves that manipulate minds by manipulating language. Alas, as leftists successfully captured the Wests major institutions, they saw no reason not to capture those institutions that were once staunchly conservative as well. Churches, family values organizations, and even prestigious medical journals have all thrown reason and science out the window to supplicate before the priests of political correctness. How widespread is the transgender delusion today? When asked bluntly whether a man can say, Abracadabra and magically transform into a woman, Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley hailing from conservative South Carolina couldnt decide what to say. That is the corrosive influence the lefts delusions have on even those who should know better. Read more at: AllNewsPipeline.com Trump vows to prevent the Federal Reserve from creating an American CBDC Former President Donald Trump has announced that, if he were to win the upcoming presidential election, he would do everything in his power to prevent the Federal Reserve from creating a central bank digital currency (CBDC) for the United States. Trump made this announcement during a speech at a campaign stop in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, as his 2024 presidential campaign prepares for the state's first-in-the-nation primaries for the Democratic and Republican parties on Tuesday, Jan. 23. (Related: BIG BROTHER ALERT: CBDC projects around the world not installing privacy safeguards, British privacy organization finds.) "Tonight, I am also making another promise to protect Americans from government tyranny," said Trump in his speech on Wednesday, Jan. 17. "As your president, I will never allow the creation of a central bank digital currency." In his warning over America's possible adoption of a Fed-controlled digital dollar, Trump warns that such a move would give the federal government far too much control over the finances of the American people. "Such a currency would give a federal government our federal government the absolute control over your money," said Trump. "They could take your money. You wouldn't even know it was gone. This would be a dangerous threat to freedom, and I will stop it from coming to America." Federal government still researching CBDCs Currently, the Fed is still researching whether to make a fully digital version of the U.S. dollar. In moderating his position on CBDCs, Fed Chair Jerome Powell said the central bank would only move forward with any plan to create a digital dollar if it receives the approval of Congress and the White House. In an executive order signed in September 2022, President Joe Biden has called for additional discussion and research into a CBDC system, with this research to be led by an interagency working group made up of the Fed and the Department of the Treasury. In a 2021 paper on how a CBDC would be designed and implemented, Fed officials previously stated that they envisioned a digital currency that would be held in digital wallets run by private banks and other regulated financial firms, rather than allowing ordinary Americans to have deposits directly at the central bank. This previous proposal suggested that private banks would retain responsibility for safeguarding transaction information, with the same sort of requirements to report suspicious payments under current federal anti-money laundering rules. In its paper, the Fed claimed that protecting consumer privacy would be the most critical element of an American CBDC. However, it then moderated its position on prioritizing consumer privacy by claiming that the U.S. "would need to strike an appropriate balance between safeguarding the privacy rights of consumers and affording the transparency necessary to deter criminal activity." The Fed is also considering only implementing a wholesale CBDC. In this scenario, the digital dollar would only be granted to certain private financial institutions for use in certain instances, such as in financial transactions with non-U.S. banks to reduce the costs of transactions across borders. Watch this Jan. 18 episode of "X22 Report" as host Dave discusses Trump's pledge to never allow the U.S. to adopt a CBDC. This video is from the Sanivan channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Outrage as Fed caught asking banks to flag financial transactions containing terms like "MAGA" and "Trump." Trump warns of ECONOMIC COLLAPSE worse than the 1929 Great Depression if he loses 2024 election. GLOBAL ENSLAVEMENT: G20 heralds launch of government-controlled CBDCs and digital IDs worldwide. Reuben Yap: CBDCs let central banks CONTROL how people spend their money. Expert warns CBDCs could lead economies to a dark path where governments dictate what you can purchase. Sources include: ThePostMillennial.com Politico.com TheHill.com Investopedia.com Brighteon.com Researchers warned that the spread of African swine fever (ASF) is decimating wild pig populations in Borneo, endangering the livelihoods of millions who rely on them for food. With a fatality rate of almost 100%, ASF has swept across Asia, Europe, and Africa, devastating domestic and wild pig populations over the past 10 to 20 years. Decline In Population The impacts are especially significant in Borneo, in southeast Asia, where bearded pig numbers have declined by between 90% and 100% since it arrived on the island in 2021, researchers said. These pigs were originally the most frequent big animal species on the island, performing an essential role as ecosystem engineers by distributing seeds over long distances. Prof. Erik Meijaard, the lead author of a letter and former chair of the IUCN Wild Pigs Specialist Group, said they observed that the pigs are disappearing since ASF affected the country. "I've gone around to everyone doing camera trapping in Borneo, and consistently we're seeing pigs disappearing. They haven't seen pigs on camera traps for years," said Meijaard. He also watched seven camera surveillance videos in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Brunei and discovered that their pig populations decreased in 2019 and 2020. Read Also: Wild Boar Population Increases in Warsaw, Other Polish Cities; Increasing Risk of African Swine Fever Critically Endangered Meijaard believes that due to ASF, the bearded pig may need to be relisted from vulnerable to critically endangered. The scientists found little evidence that wild pig populations would fully recover in Borneo or other southeast Asian islands such as Java and Sumatra in Indonesia, Timor-Leste, or the Philippines. The extinction of wild pigs can have far-reaching consequences for the entire ecosystem. Bearded pigs disseminate tree seeds by eating fruits and migrating long distances, defecating them throughout the forest. They also use their snouts to turn over dirt, which removes vegetation and provides tree roots with more soil nutrients. Borneo's forests are among the world's most diverse ecosystems, yet only 50% of them survive due to decades of logging and agriculture expansion, particularly palm oil plantations. In Borneo, the loss of bearded pigs is already having a significant impact on the cultures and communities that rely on them for food. According to local surveys, bearded pigs used to account for 81% of hunted wildlife by weight in some areas. That number is now closer to zero. "Although African swine fever has garnered substantial attention in countries with major pork industries, its effects in Borneo have been largely overlooked. The loss of pigs disrupts food security and ecosystems and threatens other endangered wildlife," the researchers said. Meijaard stressed that people are just completely reliant on access to wild and feral pigs for their protein needs, so it threatens food security and touches on the poverty issue. The scientists called for immediate research and treatments while realizing the consequences for communities. The letter emphasized the importance of preventing the spread of ASF to other regions. Ongoing clinical experiments to create an effective vaccination against ASF are yielding good results; however, experts stated that a vaccine was only relevant for farmed pigs. Related Article: African Swine Fever Threat in US: Simulation Study Reveals the Challenges and Costs of Containing an Outbreak A new 'species X' bacteria was detected in the United Kingdom, and scientists recorded the first-ever case of human infection from the novel bacterium, where a London hospital patient was its victim. The findings are according to a new study led by researchers from the Department of Infection at Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust in London. The previously undescribed species X is now being called Variovorax durovernensis and is a type of Variovorax, a group of bacteria that mostly live in soils. Since the 55-year-old patient works as a shepherd in Canterbury, authors of the new medical research paper point towards sheep as a likely source of the new bacteria species. Evidence of the pathogen was found in the patient's blood. The London patient is the only recorded person known to have been infected by V. durovernensis, based on the study. With this, it remains a mystery how and why this species X bacteria was overlooked. It is also not clear if other persons are currently or were infected by the novel bacteria, which do not pose as a public health threat as of January 2024. New Species X Bacteria The new study was published in the journal Clinical Infection in Practice, where researchers not only identified the new species X bacteria but also extracted a sample of it from the blood of the patient, who was first admitted to Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital in London. The research team also believes that the pathogen jumped over from sheep, as mentioned earlier. During admission to the London hospital, it was reported the patient (which has a history of mycotic aortic aneurysm) exhibited symptoms like persistent fever, weight loss, and abnormal swelling in the walls from the heart's main artery. The hospital then conducted standard blood tests and detected the presence of several distinct species of disease-causing bacteria that may be behind the infection. However, there is one unknown bacteria species that cannot be recognized by the tests, which led medical authorities to arrive at their conclusion about the existence of the previously undescribed species X bacteria V. Durovernensis, which is derived from the Latin name of Canterbury, where the shepherd lives and upon the patient's request. Also Read: Zombie Plague Simulation: Finland Zombie Outbreak Scenario Created by Scientists to Slow Down Next Pandemic [Study] Sheep as Likely Source The study provided evidence of the link between the UK sheep (mainly in Canterbury) and the new bacteria species. This is based on further investigation that the Canterbury shepherd became infected during the lambing season. This period pertains to feeding the sheep with anti-parasite medications which was performed without using gloves, according to the paper. Since the aerobic bacteria Variovorax not only resides in soil but also freshwater environments, there is a possibility that sheep may have consumed soil or water contaminated with the said bacterial group. Other herbivorous ruminant animals include cattle, goats, and deer. Yet, there have been no recorded traces of the novel bacteria from these animals except with the Canterbury sheep. Related Article: WHO Releases New List of the World's Deadliest Pathogens, Including the Unknown 'Disease X' Sorry, something doesn't look right. Something seems unusual about your device or browser. Please contact support. Champaign, IL (61820) Today Some snow flurries during the morning hours will give way to cloudy skies this afternoon. High 39F. Winds NW at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight Mainly clear. Low 27F. Winds WSW at 10 to 15 mph. KYODO NEWS - Jan 21, 2024 - 21:14 | Japan, All Some female Vietnamese technical trainees have received contraception treatments based on instructions by organizations involved in a Japan internship program, a Kyodo News survey revealed Sunday, with the practice raising concerns that such trainees' reproductive rights were not respected. The Japanese government is considering scrapping the current technical internship program for foreigners, which began in 1993 to transfer knowledge and skills to developing countries. It plans to create a new program taking into account the problems and rights violations observed under the current system, including issues such as unpaid wages and harassment. According to a recent survey conducted via a support group for Vietnamese trainees in Japan, nine women were advised by local intermediary organizations, which gather trainee candidates and send them to Japan, to undergo contraceptive treatment. Five of them actually received such treatments, which included the use of internal birth control rings, the survey showed. Vietnam sends the largest number of technical trainees to Japan under the program, according to the Organization for Technical Intern Training. In many cases, the intermediary organizations advised Vietnamese trainees that they would be sent home if they got pregnant. The five Vietnamese trainees who underwent contraception treatment currently work in Japan, with one of them expressing in the survey that she thought she could not go to Japan without following the instruction. The other four trainees who did not receive contraception treatments cited its cost, among other reasons. There have been cases involving Vietnamese trainees in recent years in Japan. One case involved a female trainee who was arrested for abandoning her baby's body out of fear her employer would send her home if the pregnancy were discovered. Under Japanese law, which ensures equal employment opportunity for men and women, improper treatment of workers due to pregnancy and childbirth is prohibited, and foreign workers are entitled to receive benefits such as childbirth and childcare lump sum allowances, prenatal and postnatal leave, and childcare leave. However, the survey highlighted that foreign trainees' reproductive rights, which allow them to decide whether to have and raise a child, have not been taken seriously under the current system. "It is a problem if contraceptive treatment is provided without the consent of the person," said an official of Japan's Immigration Services Agency, adding people should not be treated unfairly due to pregnancy and childbirth regardless of nationality. The survey, conducted between August and September last year, covered current and former Vietnamese trainees and received responses from 59 of them. Of the respondents, 36 said they had been instructed by intermediary organizations to avoid pregnancy. Jiho Yoshimizu, representative of the nonprofit organization involved in the survey, said it is questionable whether trainees have truly been able to choose contraception of their own volition. "It is a problem from a humanitarian perspective that foreign workers' dating, marriage and pregnancy are restricted because of Japan's inadequate system to accept them," Yoshimizu said. Under the internship program, foreign trainees can suspend their training when they get pregnant or give birth and return to it later. If training is terminated against a trainee's will due to pregnancy or childbirth, their employers and supervising organizations will be subject to disciplinary actions based on the law to protect technical intern trainees. Dr Rosalind Eggo, an Associate Professor of Infectious Disease Modelling at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), has been awarded over 1.9 million funding to lead research into drivers of health disparities and associated infectious disease burden across England. The funding will be received through the award of a UK Research and Innovation Future Leaders Fellowship (FLF). Health disparities are preventable differences in health outcomes that may be based on factors such as income, ethnicity, education, age, gender, or disability. The research will boost understanding of how infections and chronic diseases are distributed across different groups in England and will investigate which factors may be associated with an increased infection risk and development into chronic disease, such as low access to healthcare or health differences seen across ethnic groups. The project will analyze health records data recorded for over 20 million people across England using the OpenSAFELY research platform. Patient advisors will be recruited alongside the researchers to share their experiences and participate in the study. Transmission models will also be developed as part of the research, to evaluate which interventions may reduce the health disparities identified, such as changes to vaccination programmes or improved access to treatment. Dr Eggo, who is also the co-Director of the Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases (CMMID) at LSHTM, said: "COVID-19 really showed how unequal infectious diseases are in the UK, and that we need to better understand why these differences occur, not just for COVID-19 but for lots of infections. "There are many reasons why some groups are more likely to catch infections compared to others, for example, because they may have more social contacts because of their job or behaviour. "What's concerning, and which forms the basis of my research, are the differences seen geographically in infections across different groups and how this can affect their health in the long-term. "We need to determine why differences in health outcomes exist, the role that transmission of infectious diseases play in creating and sustaining them, and how difficult they are to solve. "Through identifying health disparities across England and addressing any contributing factors, we can develop real-world interventions that improve health for all." Dr Eggo is one of 75 Future Leaders Fellows included in the UKRI's December 2023 announcement, which awarded funds to projects tackling major global issues. UKRI Chief Executive, Professor Dame Ottoline Leyser, who announced the awards last week, said: "UKRI's Future Leaders Fellowships provide researchers and innovators with long-term support and training, giving them the freedom to explore adventurous new ideas, and to build dynamic careers that break down the boundaries between sectors and disciplines. "The fellows announced today illustrate how this scheme empowers talented researchers and innovators to build the diverse and connected research and innovation system we need to shorten the distance between discovery and prosperity across the UK." Researchers will be able to apply for two additional upcoming rounds of fellowships, with deadlines expected in summer 2024 and 2025. A pre-call announcement for round 9 will be published by UKRI in the coming weeks. Women using drugs and alcohol can feel stigmatized and shamed when seeking support from professional services, a new study has found. The research is based on the experiences of women using community drug and alcohol treatment services across the West Midlands, as well as professionals in the field. Sarah Page, Associate Professor in Social Justice and Social Learning at Staffordshire University, said that "whilst there are pockets of great practice, there are also times when the words and actions of professionals across drug and alcohol services, health and mental health, social work and the criminal justice sector can leave women feeling failed. "We found that women very much experience the stigma of the 'lying drug addict' and as a result, they're constantly having to prove themselves. This can create significant social and emotional harm to the individual." Interviews and focus groups with women using services were conducted by Staffordshire University in partnership with Expert Citizens CIC and a world cafe event was undertaken with professionals. The research collaboration included the Centre for Justice Innovation, who led on data collection via interviews with professionals. An important feature of the research is that women with lived experience of using drug and alcohol services also helped to design the study, helping to conduct the interviews and to reflect upon the data. One woman in the study spoke about not being believed after reporting that a police GP had sexually assaulted her. Another was accused of taking drugs after providing a urine sample, which turned out to be a mistake made by a professional and could have resulted in the woman losing her child when the inaccurate findings were shared with social services. Evidence was also found that some professionals misrepresent events in case notes, including legal documents for court hearings, which adds to the emotional trauma experienced by women. The research was conducted in response to the government's 'From Harm to Hope' drugs strategy which promises funding for 54,500 new drug treatment places by 2025 and findings raise concern that the strategy somewhat overlooks the treatment needs of women. Findings from the wider study reported on by the authors also revealed that women are at risk of being targeted by abusers in "chaotic, intimidating or unsafe" mixed gender drug and alcohol treatment services. We, and others in the field, were concerned that the 'From Harm to Hope' strategy doesn't fully acknowledge women's specific treatment needs and doesn't offer nuanced guidance on how to work with women." Fiona McCormack, from Staffordshire University's Centre for Health and Development "Our findings establish that stigma negatively impacts the identification of treatment needs and access to appropriate support. Social harms to women with addictions could be significantly reduced with timely, authentic, honest, gender-informed and trauma-informed practices." The authors are now calling for women's only services to ensure that women addicts feel safe and believed. Based on the views of women in this study, a further recommendation is for lived experience experts to work in recovery support worker roles to provide enhanced empathy and act as role models, as well as providing input into service design. Other recommendations include mandatory training with regular updates for professionals in all related services pertaining to trauma, gender discrimination and harassment, ethical professional practice, being non-judgmental, and responding to service user complaints. Associate Professor Sarah Page added: "It is important to recognize that women in recovery are working really hard to prove themselves. "Several public health areas have already signed up to provide a women's only service which is a great achievement, and we hope that more cross the UK will do the same. Staffordshire Police also invited us to deliver training to ensure that the custody suites in Staffordshire are more trauma informed in the approach of working with women and drug users more broadly. So that's a great outcome which we're hoping to build on and roll out nationally." After putting a complete pause in sales and business in 2021, the American car manufacturer Ford is expected to make a comeback in the Indian market with the giant SUV Endeavour. It has been reported that the brand has already filed a design patent for the all-time loved vehicle, and planning to introduce it in the country soon. However, the company has not revealed or dropped and details regarding the same as yet. Ford Endeavour in India If rumours are to be believed, the brand might assemble the upcoming Endeavour at the plant in Chennai. The brand also refused to sell its factor to the JSW Group last month, hinting at the green signal for business in India. It also has been reported that Ford might import the first batch of the king-size SUV via CBUs. Later, it might give some modification to the strategy. Launching in 2025? If everything goes as it has been reported, the updated avatar of Ford Endeavour might roam on Indian roads next year. However, a confirmation from the brand for the same is awaited. Exterior Updates Talking about the model in the international market, which has been launched as Everest, it comes with a muscular yet edgy style statement, featuring a similar foundation to the Ranger pickup. It gets a fully LED headlight setup, C-shaped LED DRLs, cladding on the side profile and aggressive alloy wheels, which make it bolder and wilder in the segment. Apart from all these changes and updates, the vehicle still flaunts its old-school charm in a modern avatar. Interior Changes From Inside, it gets a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system, supported by all car connect technology including Android, Apple and Auto CarPlay. It also has a 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster, which allows the driver to monitor all the significant information such as speed, RPM, mileage, gear position and whatnot. The other notable features include Intersection Assist, Pre-Collision Assist, lane keep assist, hands-free parking, adaptive cruise control, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and 360 camera among others. The popular luxury and electric carmaker Lotus kickstarted the business in India last year in November, and has launched the groundbreaking e-SUV Eletre. It was introduced at the starting price of Rs 2.55 crore (ex-showroom), which now has been owned by a Hyderbad woman. She became the first proud owner of the electric giant SUV in the country. The photos of the same also have been shared by a page named Car Carzy India on Instagram, mentioning the owner who ditched the companys premium yellow colour, and chose the dark red shade. Check Instagram Post Here View this post on Instagram A post shared by Car Crazy India (@carcrazy.india) While sharing the photo, the handle also included a caption saying, Presenting Indias first Lotus Eletre R. Finished in a shade of Natron Red, this EV makes a whopping 905bhp and goes from 0-100 in just 2.7s. Congratulations to @harshikarao on your new ride and Congrats to @adsrulz and @krishna_vungarala on delivering the first new Lotus in India. Whats Special in Lotus Eletre? Launched last year in November, the British car manufacturer offered the vehicle in three variants. The list includes Eletre, Eletre S, and Eletre R. Talking about the exterior and design pattern, the front profile seems inspired by the Ferrari as it shares a similar design headlight setup. It comes with a massive size bonnet, featuring the company logo at the front. It also gets arrow-shaped Day Running Lights (DRLs), an appealing LED headlight unit, paired with a heavy skid plat at a lower profile. It also flaunts an active grille and large air dams at the front. When it comes to the side profile, the vehicle looks treat to the eyes from every corner, clearly showcasing a great efforts by the company. It comes with heavy cladding, which is complemented by the 22-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels. Moving inside, the e-SUV is filled with tons of advanced features, which keep every drive full of comfort and ease. Power and Battery Setup Under the hood, Lotus Eletre comes with a 112kWh battery pack as standard, paired with a dual-motor setup, which provides the car a max power of 600 bhp and 710 Nm of peak torque. It has been claimed by the company that the four-wheeler is capable of providing a maximum range up to 600 km on a full top-up. Lotus also informed that the Eletre R has secured the title of the worlds fastest production e-SUV with a top speed of 258kph. The Aadhaar (Enrolment and Update) rules have been revised by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), introducing updated procedures for enrolment and updating. These modifications, known as the Aadhaar (Enrolment and Update) Amendment Regulations, 2024, aim to enhance the accessibility of the enrolment process for both residents and non-residents. Also Read: Aadhaar Cannot Be Used For THIS Purpose, EPFO Removes It From Document List As of its January 16 notification, UIDAI has introduced two additional forms for both enrolling in Aadhaar and updating information. Distinct forms have been provided for residents and non-resident individuals (NRIs) specifically for Aadhaar enrolment and updation procedures. The modifications implemented by UIDAI are as follows: UIDAI has unveiled fresh forms for both the enrolment and updating of Aadhaar information. These forms have been customised to cater to both residents and non-residents (NRIs), incorporating distinct categories based on age and address. The new approach aims to eliminate confusion and simplify the application process. Two ways to update In contrast to the prior regulations, the recent rules provide two convenient methods for updating information in the Central Identities Data Repository (CIDR). Individuals now have the option to either visit an enrolment centre or use the official website/mobile application for smooth updates. This represents a departure from the 2016 rules, which solely permitted online address updates. More clarity with new forms The current forms for Aadhaar enrolment and information updates have been substituted with new, simplified versions. Form 1 The revised Form 1, tailored for individuals aged 18 and above, whether residents or non-residents with proof of address in India, has been enhanced to streamline the process and enhance clarity in the provided information. NRI forms Non-resident individuals, particularly those with addresses outside India, now have dedicated forms (Form 2 for both enrolment and updating) introduced for their convenience. NRIs must furnish a valid Indian passport as proof of identity, and the inclusion of an email ID is now mandatory. Forms 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8 have been introduced to address the enrolment and updates for children belonging to different age groups, encompassing both residents and NRIs. The revised regulations also cover the enrolment of resident foreign nationals, both those above and below 18 years of age, through the introduction of Forms 7 and 8, respectively. Foreign nationals are required to furnish details such as a foreign passport, OCI Card, valid long-term visa, and an email ID. Date of birth proof A significant alteration in the revised regulations is the necessity for documentary proof when the age of an individual is declared or approximate. According to UIDAI, this ensures the inclusion of the complete date of birth on the Aadhaar card, thereby improving accuracy and authenticity. Periodic updates UIDAI has introduced Form 9, highlighting the requirement for Aadhaar number holders to update documents or information every decade from the date of the Aadhaar generation. This is intended to secure the ongoing accuracy of information within the Central Identities Data Repository. UIDAI has actively urged individuals to update their Aadhaar details, particularly if they havent done so in the past 10 years. Budget 2024 Expectations: In anticipation of the Union Budget, the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) is urging the government to decrease the import duty on gold and cut and polished diamonds. This move is aimed at enhancing the global competitiveness of the sector. The gem and jewellery sector in India relies on imported raw materials such as gold, diamonds, silver, and coloured gemstones. According to a report by news agency PTI, the GJEPC is advocating for a decrease in import duty on precious metals to 4 percent, down from the existing 15 percent. Additionally, it is urging a reduction in customs duty on cut and polished diamonds to 2.5 percent from the current 5 percent. Also Read: Budget 2024 Income Tax: Burden On Salaried Class Needs Reduction, High Hopes From FM The leading industry association indicated that the imposition of elevated import duties on cut and polished gemstones could result in decreased exports and fewer job opportunities within the jewellery sector. This, in turn, would make survival challenging, as it would compromise the competitive edge against other countries such as China and Thailand. It called on the government to reinstate the Diamond Imprest Licence and reduce import duties. This will provide a level playing field for Indian MSME diamond exporters with that of their larger peers, stop the flight of investment of Indian diamantaires to diamond mining destinations and give more employment in terms of diamond assorters and processing of semi-finished diamonds in the factories, the exporters body added. The Council has appealed to the government to address its longstanding request for allowing the sale of rough diamonds in Special Notified Zones (SNZs) through the Safe Harbour Rule. Additionally, it has recommended expanding the scope of entities authorized to operate within SNZs. Presently, SNZs only facilitate viewing sessions conducted by mining countries. The council further advocated for granting permission for Special Notified Zones (SNZs) to operate as Free Trade Warehousing Zones (FTWZs) during periods of inactivity by Foreign Mining Companies and entities. This proposal aims to ensure the optimal utilisation of the facilities established and maintain the financial viability of the centers. To further extend and expand the scope of SNZs, the GJEPC requested the government to also allow globally recognised diamond broking and trading houses to operate from such SNZs. Such trading houses are the focal point for the sale of diamonds by smaller miners, which cumulatively comprise close to 35 per cent of the global mining produce, the apex industry body added. Further, to maximise benefits from the India-UAE CEPA, the Council also recommended the introduction of a mechanism like Rates and Taxes Refund through EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) system similar to GST refund and the rate of refund should be aligned with the rates and taxes (that is Import Duty and GST) prevailing as on the day of export. Gem and jewellery exports have been facing a challenging time on account of the economic downturn in key export markets, geo-political concerns, supply and demand side constraints in the global diamond industry, and unavailability of precious metal in the country among others. Our pre-budget proposals will facilitate easy access to raw materials for the industry, especially for MSMEs, GJEPC chairman Vipul Shah told PTI. He said, by introducing a safe harbour rule for the sale of rough diamonds in SNZs, India can become a trading hub like Dubai and Belgium and diamond manufacturers will not have to travel abroad to get access to these trading hubs. He said the introduction of a Diamond Imprest License to 2.5 per cent will help cope with the impact of beneficiation policies undertaken in several natural diamond mining countries. This will give India a level playing field with competing countries like China, Vietnam and Sri Lanka. We are hopeful that with the additional support of the government in terms of reduction in import duty of precious metals and MOOWAR scheme for the gem and jewellery industry, the exports of gold jewellery will increase substantially in these challenging times, Shah added. Wayfair, a US-based online furniture company, has laid off 1,650 employees or 13 per cent of its global workforce, weeks after its CEO Niraj Shah told them through a memo to work hard. The decision expects annual cost savings of more than $280 million for Wayfair. After the layoff decision, the online furniture retailers shares jumped 16 per cent on Friday. The company said it went overboard in hiring during a strong economic period. We went overboard in hiring during a strong economic period and veered away from our core principles, and while we have come quite far back to them, we are not quite there, Niraj said in the latest letter to employees. Wayfair had around 14,000 employees as of early 2023, according to regulatory filings. In 2022 also, the company laid off 5 per cent of its workforce to save costs. Wayfair said it now expects to deliver over $600 million of adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) in 2024. Analysts on average expect $479.3 million, according to LSEG data. Wayfair CEO Niraj Shahs Full Letter To Employees Fellow Wayfairians, Today, I wanted to give you an update on Wayfair, where we sit, and the difficult steps were taking this morning to make us stronger. First, I want to be clear that there are many things at the company that are going well. We are consistently profitable; we have made meaningful progress to operate more efficiently and effectively; our suppliers see us winning; and most importantly our customers are leaning in and picking us over their other options, which means were gaining market share at a fast pace. All very good news but as leaders our job is to position the company both now and over the long term. Although weve taken important steps to get ourselves optimized to win and fit for the future, the reality is they have not gotten us to where we need to be, which is to have a clean organizational model that provides a healthy foundation to grow from. Thats why I pushed forward with an org design effort driven by some core organizational principles. As a result of this effort, I have made the difficult decision to further reduce our headcount today. In North America, all employees will receive an email shortly on whether or not your role is impacted. If it is, youll also receive details on next steps, including opportunities to connect live with your Talent partners. Teams in Europe have already begun these conversations. I want to say thank you to the 1,650 team members who will be leaving us today. You are all valued and talented individuals, and you have each made incredible contributions to Wayfair and our customers. We know you will land in great roles given your strong skills and expansive experience, but this is still sad for everyone. You have so much to be proud of, and I truly regret the impact this will have on you. Please know that we are offering severance to those who are impacted, and we will support them throughout this transition. We will also be providing access to employee assistance program resources and Wayfair Alumni networking support, as well as other benefits and resources. The natural question is to ask Why? I think the reality is that we went overboard in hiring during a strong economic period and veered away from our core principles, and while we have come quite far back to them, we are not quite there. The best way to make sure everyone in the company can thrive and that we can do the most for our customers is to make sure that we make the right decision in terms of what our go-forward organization should look like. While our focus today is on our people, I want to spend some time explaining how we got here and the thinking we used to make these decisions. Looking back From 2002 2011 we did not have much money. That sometimes seemed limiting as our primary direct competitors in the US and UK spent significant amounts of money raised from top tier investors. But by being lean and focused we were forced to prioritize relentlessly. By 2014 we were publicly traded in the US, and a new tech boom was just starting. By 2016 we were growing fast and the allure of spending more to build infrastructure for growth became appealing. We (along with most tech companies) took advantage of easy access to money. One of the things I am proud that we did during this time was build our industry leading logistics infrastructure. This was expensive, but it has given us a durable moat. From 2017-2019 we opened up hiring significantly, going after many things that looked like good opportunities. As a result, by late 2019, we were suffering from lack of focus. Too many good ideas led to too few getting done. We made the decision to fix this and reduced our team in Feb 2020 with the intent of getting back to our roots. Then, Covid hit us square on. Covid caused a dramatic surge in our business, and suddenly the newly leaned down team felt like a disadvantage. With annualized sales going from $9 billion to $18 billion almost overnight our desire to grow our team was rekindled. By mid 2022 it was clear we were in a bust period. It was also clear that we had gone overboard with corporate hiring during Covid. As everyone here knows, weve had two significant corporate restructurings since 2022 to try to right-size this. Each time we used our best judgment, identified the cost target we needed to hit, and believed we were resizing to the right point. These changes were difficult emotionally and have felt challenging for the business. What we found, however, was that after each reduction we have gotten more of our goals done faster. I believe we need to stay focused as a company on what committed small teams can accomplish. In many ways, having too many great people is worse than having too few. With too few, you get a lot done quickly, but you may not get everything done that you want. But having too many causes inefficiency, coordination costs, and investments in lower return activities. That is what we have been experiencing and what we need to end. Returning to core organizational principles That is why we are committed to taking a different approach. We decided that we needed to start with a few basic principles of good organizational design, of how to build a high performance company, one with the ability to get a lot done, and to flex over time rather than a cost target and take a bottoms-up approach. What is the right number of people a lean organization should allocate to each of the high value things we want to do? At what level? We need senior leaders, but importantly we built the company by betting on junior people who are very bright but have less expertise. We need to get back to this. Likewise we should only do high value things because doing more past that creates drag that slows us down. This time the goal was to err on carrying a risk of too few over the risk of too many. And so we approached it with a strong bias to firmly put the last five years behind us. To do this we used a few basic principles: question/rightsize the quantum of work effort per activity area decide what work we want to do and eliminate any work effort that is then deemed secondary or tertiary, after all we can always reexamine as the business evolves get efficient on levels & spans what level/seniority is appropriate for what role, what span should each manager have in terms of breadth of activity and number of reports, etc. eliminate excess upleveling for stakeholder management senior people in one area with too much time then cause the next area to need senior people to meet with them, and this is circular Rightsize the ratio of engineering partner function teams to engineers since any excess of partner roles (business, product, design, research, analytics) will not create better technology outcomes and rather will do the opposite By starting with these principles, as opposed to a cost target, we will get back to focused, fit and lean. And we will do this while remaining committed to our growth drivers, leaning into the handful of key things that truly matter for each. While the investment community will focus on the cost savings numbers today, the key thing for us to focus on is that a company cannot win over time unless it gets more done per dollar spent than its competitors. These steps position us to keep winning. And winning is what ultimately creates the most opportunity for everyone at Wayfair, and everyone who believes in Wayfair. To our team, I can only say thank you. We are learning as fast as we can, and we are working hard to make the right decision at each juncture, even when they are hard decisions. We are gaining forward momentum due to everyones dedicated efforts. Our toughest stretch is now behind us. And I think our best year is right in front of us. We will get together next week as a team to talk more about these changes and the road ahead. Thanks for your investment in Wayfair, and thank you to all of my past, current and future colleagues for joining in the journey. Niraj By Noriyuki Suzuki, KYODO NEWS - Jan 21, 2024 - 10:04 | All, Japan A Tokyo bus operator has declared its desire to hire foreign drivers, hoping the move will prompt Japan to open up the job to people from abroad as the country grapples with a growing labor shortage in the public transport sector. Tokyu Bus Corp. President Takashi Furukawa wants to set a precedent for fellow bus operators that are in desperate need of drivers, drawing on his experience working in Vietnam where he once helped introduce Japanese know-how in running transportation services. Furukawa acknowledges a host of challenges may lie ahead before the day finally comes when a foreign national can drive a bus for his roughly 2,000-employee company. It may not be an easy road but it's worth paving, he said. "We want to do everything at our disposal. Hiring foreign drivers is one of them," Furukawa said in a recent interview. "It's obvious that the shortage of drivers will become even more severe. The plan is to start off with a few drivers from overseas." "Safe driving comes before anything else. But bus drivers should be able to respond to emergency situations, and hospitality or the ability to communicate with customers, with smiles, is also required of them," Furukawa said. Long known for its strict immigration policy, Japan has been gradually opening its doors to foreign workers in recent years. In 2019, it begun to accept workers with specialized skills in such sectors as nursing care. Those workers can stay in Japan for up to five years, and for an unlimited period if their status is upgraded. The number of sectors covered by the specialized skilled worker status has since increased to 12 and the government is considering adding bus, taxi and truck drivers to the list. The scheduled introduction in April of a cap on overtime worked by drivers to 960 hours a year has already raised concern that the logistics and transportation sectors will see more acute labor shortages. The so-called "2024 problem" comes as higher fuel and other costs have dealt a blow to the transportation industry after the COVID-19 pandemic depressed passenger demand. The Nihon Bus Association estimates that the sector will suffer a shortage of around 36,000 drivers in fiscal 2030, partly because of workforce aging. The figure is equivalent to about a third of the 110,000 drivers in 2023. Even if Japan decides to allow bus operators to hire foreign drivers, getting a Class 2 driver's license required for commercial vehicles is a high hurdle, even for Japanese people. Still, plans are in the works to offer license tests in 20 languages, not just Japanese. While more needs to be done, promoting diversity has been one of the priority areas for Tokyu Bus, mainly operating in Tokyo and Kanagawa Prefecture, according to Furukawa. It now has two Vietnamese mechanics while female drivers account for around 3 percent of the total. "When female drivers debuted, there were people who said, 'I can't ride a bus with a woman driver.' But it's now a thing of the past," he said. "What matters is how we get off to a start because we need to make sure our customers feel foreign drivers are as good as Japanese drivers." A survey by the Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry covering some 3,100 Japanese small and midsize firms showed more than half saw the need for Japan to accept foreign workers. The industry body raised the alarm that the country is losing its appeal as a magnet for foreign workers. Mathias Cormann, secretary general of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, said Japan, which ranks relatively low among OECD members in the quality of opportunities for foreign workers, needs them "more than others" to maintain its growth momentum. "Offering long-term residency to workers and their families, improving access to education, and preventing discrimination would make Japan more competitive in attracting highly skilled foreign workers," he said at a recent press conference. Executives in the transportation industry say the appeal of driving as a profession also needs to be raised, given that long hours and low pay are often associated with the job. A weaker yen also makes Japan a less attractive place to work. Tokyu Bus is set to go ahead with a 10-yen fare hike from March -- the first increase since 1997 excluding when the consumption tax was raised -- partly to improve the benefits for its employees. If foreign drivers join the company, Furukawa said he will make sure they will receive the same benefits as Japanese. "We need to wake up to the fact that many foreign workers are already crucial in sustaining our daily life. And my hope is to see Japanese society change in a way that people are accustomed to bus, taxi and truck drivers coming from different parts of the world," Furukawa said. Related coverage: Nearly 70% of Japan prefectures weigh use of Level 4 autonomous buses Japan to allow use of private cars as taxis under certain terms Next-gen EVs, flying cars on display at rebranded Tokyo auto show CBSE Board Admit Card 2024: Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) students of class 10th and 12th are waiting for their admit card. This year CBSE board examinations are to start from February 15, 2024. The datesheet for the CBSE board exams has already been released. Now the wait for the admit card is also going to end soon. Admit cards will be issued on the official website of CBSE cbse.gov.in. No official information has been issued yet by the CBSE Board regarding the release of admit cards, but media reports suggest that the admit card for CBSE 10th and 12th examinations is expected to be released in the first week of February. Once the admit card is released, all the schools will be able to download it from the official website of CBSE. After this students will be able to get their admit card from the school. CBSE board 10th and 12th board exams admit card was released in the last year 2023 also in the first week of February. It is expected that this time also the admit card will be issued at the same time. However, for more regular updates, students will have to visit the official website from time to time. After the admit card is issued, students should check the spelling of their name, roll number, information about the examination center, instructions for the day of the examination, and other important details. If there is any error in the hall tickets, students must report it to their respective school authorities and get it corrected. ALSO READ | CBSE Opens Portal for Students With Special Needs to Avail Facilities in Board Exams 2024 The question paper for the CBSE Board Exam 2024 will consist of 20 per cent response-type questions and 50 per cent competency- or case-based questions. A combination of short and long answer questions will make up 30 per cent of the questions, while 20 per cent will consist of multiple-choice questions (MCQs). The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) has asked students not to participate in any protest on its campus here against the Ram temple consecration ceremony on January 22 and warned them of action by law enforcement agencies in case of defiance. The student union of TISS denied that any protest is being organised. A notice issued by TISS on January 18 said it was brought to the notice of the administration that a few students were planning to organise protests in the old or new campus of the institute against the Ram Janmabhoomi pran pratisthan on January 22. We strictly warn students not to participate in any such activities or demonstrations, failing which the law-enforcing agency will take necessary action against students found indulging in such activities, the notice said. In a statement issued on Saturday, the students union of TISS denied that any protest is being organised by any recognised or independent student body. It also demanded immediate withdrawal of the notice and clarification for issuing such notice. Separately, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay will hold programmes, such as the inauguration of a gaushala (cow shelter) and recitation of a poem based on the epic Ramayan, to mark the occasion. The IITB will inaugurate a new gaushala on January 22 and have a recitation of Geet Ramayan, penned by noted Marathi poet G D Madgulkar, on the campus. This, however, has drawn criticism from Ambedkar Phule Periyar Study Circle, a left-leaning students organisation at IITB. A line of events being carried out by the @iitbbombay administration shows it has started crawling in front of Hindutva political forces, giving up the principle of secularism in the Indian Constitution, the APPSC IIT-B tweeted. The Rajasthan Administrative Service (RAS) Main Exam 2023 has been postponed. According to the earlier statement, the Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) planned to hold the RPSC RAS test in 2023 on January 27 and 28. However, the RAS exam date has been deferred. According to reports, the exam will likely be held between June and July. The revised dates will be uploaded to the website, rpsc.rajasthan.gov.in. Candidates are advised to regularly visit the official website for further information and the latest updates. Minister Kirodi Lal Meena said, On the lines of the Union Public Service Commission, Rajasthan Public Service Commission will also release its examination calendar, as quoted by Careers 360. Reportedly, according to the statement, a special investigation team was formed to prevent paper leaks, ensure rapid investigation in cases reported, and take strong punishment against those responsible. The commission said that the answer papers for the RPSC RAS Main Examination 2021 will be made available to applicants on the official website from February 20 to May 31. The RPSC RAS preliminary results 2023 were released in October. The RAS recruitment process will fill 905 posts. There are 424 posts for state services and 481 for subordinate services. The RPSC RAS Preliminary Exam 2023 was held on October 1, 2023, at various test centres throughout the state. The exam, which is aimed to select Group A and Group B officials for the Rajasthan government, saw around 5,00,000 people take part. The provisional answer key was given on October 2, and candidates had until October 4 to file objections to it. On October 20, the RAS final answer key for 2023 was released alongside the results. The RPSC RAS Prelims Exam consisted of 150 multiple-choice questions for a total of 150 marks. It was divided into two pieces. Part A included General Studies and was worth 100 points, while Part B focused on General Science and carried 50 marks. The prelims question paper included five possibilities for each question, and candidates had to darken the correct answer on the OMR page. Those who did not darken any of the five circles for more than 10 per cent of the questions were rejected. The Delhi Congress will hold a rally at Ramlila Maidan on February 3 to woo the voters of the national capital months ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. Addressing a press conference here, Delhi Congress chief Arvinder Singh Lovely said the party will organise a rally at Ramlila Maidan near Geeta Colony on February 3 which will be addressed by Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. He said that Kharge will start the Lok Sabha elections campaign from east Delhi in the same way as former prime minister Indira Gandhi began the election campaign from east Delhi in 1979 after the Congress lost the polls in 1977. The Congress leader claimed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will be defeated in all seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi. This rally would be the invocation to remove the Bharatiya Janata Party from all seven seats in Delhi, he said. Lovely said the seat-sharing formula for Delhi will soon be announced by the national leaders of the Congress. However, we will be preparing our base in all seats. Fighting in an alliance will also mean helping our partner win the polls, he said. The Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), both partners of the opposition INDIA bloc, have been holding seat-sharing talks for the states, including Delhi. The Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc parties, including the Congress and the AAP, are yet to come up with a seat-sharing formula for the Lok Sabha polls expected to be held in April-May. Lovely further said the people of every religion and caste in every province are giving their full support to former Congress president Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, which has started in Manipur because his party is the only party that has always talked about the countrys development. The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, has reversed its decision to remain closed until 2:30 pm in light of the Ram Temple event. In a circular on Sunday, the institute informed that its OPD will operate as usual. In a circular issued on January 21, the hospital authorities stated, The outpatient department shall remain open to attend to patients with appointments to prevent any inconvenience to them and to facilitate patient care. All critical clinical care services shall remain operational. All Chiefs of Centres, Heads of the Departments, Units, and Branch Officers are requested to bring this to the notice of all staff working under them. Meanwhile, Delhi government offices will remain closed for half a day on January 22 on the occasion of the Ram temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya. The consecration ceremony of the Ram Lalla idol in Ayodhya will be held on January 22 with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several other dignitaries in attendance. A Raj Niwas official said that Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena has approved a half-day holiday for all Delhi government offices, civic bodies, and other undertakings on January 22 on account of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya. According to a Delhi government officer, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has issued an order for the closure of government offices till 2.30 pm on January 22. There is that classic line in director Hrishikesh Mukherjees timeless masterpiece Anand, in which Rajesh Khannas character says, Babu moshai zindagi badi honi chahiye, lambi nahin. It was among everyones favourite dialogues in the 1960s, and the two karsevaks Ram Kothari and Sharad Kothari from Kolkata were no exceptions. But, what I never knew was the fact that they would live every word of it, said Rajesh Agarwal, the person who accompanied the two brothers to Ayodhya. They were killed in the 1990 firing incident in the temple town, where the Ram Lalla idols pran pratishtha will take place on January 22. With just one day left for the ceremony, Agarwal told News18 that the grand event shows that the selfless contribution of the Kothari brothers who later became the face of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement did not go in vain. Besides, Agarwal, who is a Ram bhakt at heart and a childhood friend of the Kotharis, recollected the firing incident and called it a sheer massacre of Ram bhakts and an attempt to crush them. Agarwal said there were two things common between him and the Kotharis. One was Ram bhakti and the other was that they all belonged to Kolkatas Bara Bazar locality, inhabited by Marwari migrants from Rajasthan. Having been born and brought up in a religious family, our inclination towards religion and national issues was more. We were also part of the local RSS shakha, where we not only used to focus on keeping ourselves fit but also took part in the discussions on other religious issues of the country. And the Ayodhya Ram temple movement was one, Agarwal said. Journey to Ayodhya Agarwal further said things were usually fine until 1990 when the Ram temple movement reached its peak and the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), Shiv Sena and RSS began camping at the Ram Janmabhoomi site, demanding reconstruction of the temple. At the same time, senior BJP leader LK Advani began the rath yatra and other right wing organisations gave a call to reach Ayodhya. However, in retaliation, the then Uttar Pradesh chief minister Mulayam Singh Yadav issued strict instructions stating that no bird would be able to fly in Ayodhya. The CMs statement moved us all and we all decided to head towards Ayodhya. This is how our journey began, he said. Taking the UP governments statement as a challenge, Agarwal and the Kothari brothers along with 85 others from the local RSS shakha began their journey to Ayodhya. With some pairs of clothes and some food packed in a tin box, we left for Ayodhya on October 22, 1990. We boarded a train to Mughalsarai (now renamed Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay Junction), he said. But, on reaching Mughalsarai, the trio were faced with a peculiar situation as all the trains headed towards Ayodhya were cancelled due to security reasons. We somehow managed to board a private bus, which took us till Lalganj and, from there, we were told we would have to walk to Ayodhya, which was still 149 km away, since no other transport was available, he added. Walked 149 days on foot to reach Ayodhya After spending a night in Lalganj, the group left for Ayodhya on foot, Agarwal said. Before leaving for Ayodhya, we were told that we had to leave our luggage behind and split into small groups in order to dodge security personnel. It took us almost seven days to reach Ayodhya on foot, he said. He said though he knew the Kothari brothers since childhood, the journey from Kolkata to Ayodhya showed him a different side of them to him. I had never seen this side of Ram and Sharad. They were so enthusiastic, passionate, helpful, courteous and polite at the same time, despite all odds. The time spent with them during the entire journey was some of the most memorable of my life. After reaching Ayodhya, the three of us formed one group and began our way to the Ram Janmabhoomi, he added. But then came a moment that made him realise that destiny has something else in store for Ram and Sharad, and they were there for a cause. While we three were heading towards the Ram Janmabhoomi site, the duo stopped at a tailors shop. Out of curiosity, I approached them and enquired what they were doing. And to my surprise, they were requesting the tailor to quickly stitch them a saffron headscarf and embroider kafan on it. That very moment I realised they are here for a cause, Agarwal said. On October 30, 1990, on the call of the VHP, RSS and Shiv Sena, a good majority of karsevaks reached Ayodhya. During the confrontation, UP police opened fire on them. When a peaceful sabha turned violent The following day, a sabha was held where the karsevaks were briefed on the plan for November 2, which coincided with Kartik Purnima. We were to chant Ram naam and march towards the Janmabhoomi. If we were stopped, we were to sit down right there and begin singing Ram bhajans, he said. In retaliation, the police opened fire for the second time within 72 hours, resulting in the death of many karsevaks including Ram and Sharad Kothari. On January 22, when the pran pratishtha takes place in Ayodhya, Agarwal has planned a grand function in Kolkata to pay a tribute to the Kothari brothers and also to celebrate Rams homecoming. Its been 33 years since but the incident is still fresh in Agarwals memory. He is yet to recuperate from the horrors of the 1990 firing incident. Indeed, zindagi badi honi chahiye, lambi nahin and the Kothari brothers sacrifice has proved it, he added. Ayodhya Ram Mandir Inauguration: With just a day to the auspicious pran pratishtha or consecration ceremony at Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the temple premises have been wrapped in flowers and illuminated with lights. The inaugural ceremony of the grand temple is scheduled to be held between 12:15 pm and 12:45 pm on January 22, but the rituals leading up to the culminating event began on January 16. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to preside over the consecration ceremony of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple, with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat sharing dais along with several other dignitaries. Ahead of the consecration ceremony, PM Modi is visiting several temples across India. He is set to visit the Kothandaramaswamy Temple in Dhanushkodi on Sunday, where he is scheduled to have a darshan and participate in a puja ceremony at the shrine. Additionally, he will also explore Arichal Munai, believed to be the location where the Ram Setu was constructed. Over 7,000 people have been invited by the temple trust and they include cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli, Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan, and industrialists Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani. What is the height of Ram temple in Ayodhya? Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has the following dimensions: 380 feet in length (east-west direction), 250 feet in width and 161 feet in height. What is the estimated cost of Ram temple construction in Ayodhya? An estimated cost of Rs 1,800 crore will be incurred to build the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple in Ayodhya. Where is Ram temple located? Ram Mandir is located in Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh. After a century of legal battles and three years of construction, 500 years of exile will end for Ram Lallas idol as it returns to his janmabhoomi at Ram Temple in Uttar Pradeshs Ayodhya on January 22, a significant moment for Indias civilisation that would also mark the break of a new dawn in the holy city. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the much-awaited Pran Pratistha ceremony which will begin at 12.20 pm on Monday and is expected to end by 1 pm. Fourteen couples from various parts of India will be the yajmaans (hosts) for the Pran Pratishtha. The PM will then address a gathering of more than 7,000 people, including seers and prominent personalities, at the venue. The entire event will be telecast live to a nationwide audience of millions, and more outside India. Devotees will be able to visit the shrine from January 23. From artworks depicting Lord Ram in Streetlights on flyovers to ornamental lamp posts carrying designs themed on the traditional Ramanandi tilak, the whole of the city is steeped in religious spirit with its streets filled with strains of songs such as Ram Aayenge and Awadh Mein Ram Aayen Hain. Shubh Ghadi Aayi, Taiyar hai Ayodhya dham, virajenge Shree Ram and Ram fir lautenge, Ayodhya me Ram rajya are among the slogans on posters and hoardings splashed across the city. Various verses from the Ramayana are also printed on posters at prominent places like the Ram Marg, the Saryu River bank and Lata Mangeshkar Chowk. As authorities made final preparations in a decked-up Ayodhya, considered the birthplace of Lord Ram, temples across the country and abroad have announced special festivities to mark the occasion. From Washington DC to Paris to Sydney, events have been planned in various parts of the world on January 22. These programmes are either being organised by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) or Hindu diaspora groups in 60 countries. The consecration ceremony is being held after the first phase of the temples construction, made possible by a historic Supreme Court judgment in 2019 on the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title suit. The Hindu litigants argued that the Babri Mosque was constructed at the site of a temple marking the birthplace of Lord Ram. In 1992, the 16th-century mosque was demolished by kar sevaks. Lord Hanuman at one foot, Lord Garuda at the other, all 10 avatars of Lord Vishnu, a Swastik, Om, Chakra, Gada, Shankh and Surya Narayan these depictions have been made on the new Ram Lalla idol whose Pran Pratishtha or consecration will be conducted on January 22. This is arguably the most detailed idol ever made of Lord Ram. If one looks closely at the idol whose pictures are now public, all 10 avatars of Lord Vishnu are depicted on both sides of the idol. Lord Vishnu had avatars of Krishna, Parshuram, Kalki and Narsingh among others and their depictions feature on the idol. Lord Hanuman, the biggest devotee of Lord Ram, finds a place near the right foot of the Ram Lalla idol while Lord Garuda, who is the mount (vahana) of Lord Vishnu, finds a place near the left foot of the Ram idol. If one looks closely towards the top of the statue, all holy signs of the Sanatan Dharma and Hinduism can be found depicted around the head of the new Lord Ram Lalla idol. There is a Swastik, the Om sign, the Chakra, a Gada, a Shankh and the idols face has the Surya Narayan aabhamandal around it. All these depictions are closely associated with Lord Vishnu and Lord Ram. The right hand of the idol is in the depiction of an aashirwaad and holding an arrow while there is a bow (dhanush) in the left hand. The black stone idol made by Mysuru sculptor Arun Yogiraj is a five-year-old depiction of Lord Ram and is 51-inches tall. Yogiraj has earlier made famous statues like that of Ali Shankaracharya installed in Kedarnath and that of Subhash Chandra Bose installed at India Gate in Delhi. The black stone statue has a life-span of several hundred years and is not impacted by touch of water, Chandan and roli items usually put on an idol as per Hindu traditions. The idol will be seen wearing bright royal clothes and a mukut (crown). Ram Dhun Rings in Streets; Ayodhya in Grip of Religious Fervour, Magical Festive Atmosphere Invitees to the Pran Pratishtha consecration ceremony at the Ram temple started arriving Sunday in Ayodhya once a sleepy town now resplendent with new infrastructure and gripped by heightened religious fervour on the eve of a seminal event in Indias political and religious history. The town, about 140 km west of Lucknow, was bedecked with multi-coloured flowers as recordings of Ram dhun played from loudspeakers and townsfolk dressed as Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman and Hanuman paraded down the streets followed by delirious devotees, and news camera crews. Ayodhya Ram maye ho gayi hai (Ayodhya is immersed in devotion of Lord Ram), said Shailendra Gupta, who runs a fabric store on Ram Path, the main street of the town that runs past the Ram temple. And Monday is a day when Hindus across the world will rejoice. Ceremonial gates depicting Jai Shri Ram in floral patterns and illumination visible at night add to the aura of the ancient city which has undergone a massive infrastructural growth in the last couple of years after the 2019 Supreme Court verdict on the Ram temple issue. The streets and skyline of Ayodhya are covered with saffron flags fluttering from rooftops of buildings, small and big. Cut-outs of the Ram temple along with Lord Ram have been put up at Lata Mangeshkar Chowk, while ornamental lamp posts along the Ram Path bearing design themed on Ramanadi tilak and light patterns depicting religious symbols have turned the city into a land of festivities. 10,000 CCTVs, AI: Ayodhya Turns Fortress For Pran Pratistha A multi-layer security cover is in place in Ayodhya for the consecration ceremony at the Ram temple, with 10,000 CCTVs keeping an eye on the movement of people and police personnel in plain clothes deployed at the venue. From Dharampath and Rampath here, which are witnessing a huge influx of devotees, to bylanes of the Hanumangarhi area and Asharfi Bhavan road, policemen can be seen patrolling the streets. Movable barriers with barbed wires attached to it can be spotted virtually at every prominent crossing in the city, as policemen use them to regulate traffic especially during VVIP movements. For this, 10,000 CCTV cameras have been installed in the entire Ayodhya district. In some of these CCTV cameras, we are using AI-based technology so that we can maintain a strict vigil on commuters, the DG said. Police personnel with multi-lingual skills will be deployed in plain clothes at the programme venue. The senior police official also said the security along the Saryu river has also been increased with the help of NDRF and SDRF teams. We are coordinating with other agencies. Checking is going on at the international and inter-state border. Police will use drones for crowd control and for diversion of excess crowd, he said. (With PTI inputs) Ahead of the Ram Temple pran pratishtha, Nigeria, which has more than 3,000 Indians in Port Harcourt, has started special programmes. Most of the houses have been decorated with Diwali diyas, which have been brought from India. Since Saturday, every house has been holding Ramayan reading sessions. On Monday, there will be a special Ram Mandir dinner too. Anil Gupta, 55, a General Manager in one of the companies in Nigeria, told News18: We are far from India, but God is everywhere. We have made special arrangements. Its a moment of immense pride for us. It feels like Diwali. My two sons stay in the US. I have asked them too to celebrate on Monday. Women from the area have made big plans. Sushansi Agarwal, 36, an engineer, said, We are far, but we have made all arrangements to celebrate. My son is listening to Lord Rams bhajans. We will also try to celebrate. While the celebration plans are on, they all plan to add Ayodhya Ram Mandir to their itinerary for the next visit. Even as Ayodhya prepares for the Ram Temple pran pratishtha on Monday, Khalistani terrorist and chief of the banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) Gurpatwant Singh Pannun is planning an attack in the state, according to an audio accessed by CNN-News18. Top intelligence sources said Pannun is trying to sabotage the event. ALSO READ | Ayodhya Ram Mandir LIVE Updates HERE In the audio clip, which intelligence sources termed as proof of Pannuns anti-terror activities, accessed by CNN-News18, he is heard saying: Bhai, you have to reach the gurdwara in Lucknow where you will get things to do any action. You have to ensure action at the airport where everyone will be busy heading towards Ayodhya. I will give money only when you give me the video." Intelligence sources said, Pannun is trying to sabotage any important place in India when the Ayodhya event is on. In the audio, he is guiding two people to do some action in UP. All forces are on alert and action has been taken. This evidence will be shared with America and Canada." AYODHYA SET FOR CELEBRATION The much-awaited Ram Temple pran pratishtha will be held in Ayodhya on Monday in a grand ceremony with Prime Minister Narendra Modi attending the rituals, following which the shrine will be opened for the public a day later. ALSO READ | This Is How Ayodhya Ram Mandir Looks From Space | Indian Satellite Captures First Image The pran pratishtha ceremony will begin at 12.20 pm and is expected to end by 1 pm. The prime minister will then address a gathering of more than 7,000 people, including seers and prominent personalities, at the venue. Lakhs of people are expected to watch the event live on TV and online platforms as BJP-ruled states and Odisha have declared a holiday while the central government has announced a half-day off. As authorities made final preparations in a decked-up Ayodhya, considered the birthplace of Lord Ram, temples across the country and abroad have announced special festivities to mark the occasion. #RamMandirPranPratishtha | Countdown starts for Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram lala Virajman; marking an end to 500-year struggle in #Ayodhya @SakshiLitoriya_ takes you through the latest preparations that have entered their final stages | #RamMandir #Ayodhya pic.twitter.com/cD30iQrRl1 News18 (@CNNnews18) January 21, 2024 WHO IS PANNUN? Pannun is a US citizen who is misusing his access in the UK and Canada. He is responsible for acts of terrorism in multiple countries. Last Tuesday, Pannun allegedly threatened to kill Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and DGP Gaurav Yadav. Pannun asked gangsters to come together for attacking Mann on Republic Day January 26. ALSO READ | Pannun Threatens to Kill Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, DGP Gaurav Yadav on R-Day He had recently offered cash reward for a citizens arrest" of Indian High Commissioner Sanjay Verma. Announcing the reward, Pannun had accused Verma of falsely raising the bogey of terror threat to Air India to divert attention" from the investigation into the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Last month, members of the SFJ last week disturbed an Indian High Commission event organised by the Vancouver Consulate General in Abbotsford, Canada, even attacking a family for attempting to pick up an Indian flag fallen on the ground, said local sources. With PTI Inputs President-elect of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Felix Tshisekedi attends the swearing-in ceremony in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Jan. 20, 2024. (Str/Xinhua) KINSHASA, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- Felix Tshisekedi, president-elect of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), was sworn in Saturday for his second five-year term in office at a ceremony attended by regional leaders and other foreign dignitaries. The DRC Constitutional Court in early January officially confirmed the reelection of President Felix Tshisekedi following the Dec. 20 polls. Tshisekedi secured 73.47 percent of the vote, while main opposition candidate Moise Katumbi trailed behind with 18.08 percent. The inauguration took place at the Martyrs Stadium of Kinshasa, the capital of the DRC, in the presence of about 20 heads of state, mainly from Africa, and several high-level foreign representatives. In his inauguration speech, he promised to take action, including the creation of more jobs, the protection of purchasing power for households, national security, economic diversification, and access to basic services. He denounces the resilient threats against the DRC while observing a minute of silence in memory of the heroes fallen and victims killed by barbarism in the DRC. "Today, a new era is born, an era of maturity, a magnified era, an era transcended by the renewed oath 'Never betray the Congo,'" reelected President Felix Tshisekedi declared. According to the Independent National Electoral Commission that oversaw the general elections, more than 18 million Congolese, from a total of 44 million registered voters, cast their ballots in the elections for the president, the National Assembly and the 26 provincial assemblies. The process, however, was not without controversy as opposition candidates raised allegations of irregularities, which the electoral commission said would not impact the election outcome. This election was significant as it marked the second peaceful transfer of power in the country's history since independence in 1960. In 2018, Tshisekedi ascended to power after winning the election, marking the country's first peaceful transfer of power since its independence from Belgium. President-elect of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Felix Tshisekedi attends the swearing-in ceremony in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Jan. 20, 2024. (Str/Xinhua) People attend the swearing-in ceremony of Felix Tshisekedi, president-elect of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Jan. 20, 2024. (Xinhua/Shi Yu) Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has said the state Commission for Backward Classes will conduct a survey from January 23 to asses the social, economic and educational backwardness of the Maratha community. The Maratha community has been demanding reservation in government jobs and education under the Other Backward Class (OBC) category. The chief minister on Saturday directed the administration to carry out the survey in three different shifts on a war footing. Shinde chaired a meeting on the Maratha reservation issue at his official residence here and gave instructions to divisional commissioners, collectors, commissioners of municipal corporations and other senior officials via a video link. The survey announcement came on the day when Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange embarked on a protest march to state capital Mumbai from Jalna with thousands of supporters. Jarange has announced to launch an indefinite fast for the Maratha quota in Mumbai from January 26. He has demanded the issuance of blanket Kunbi (OBC) caste certificates to all Marathas. At the meeting, Shinde directed officials to inform villagers about the survey exercise and share details with gram panchayat offices. In order to check the social, economic and educational backwardness of the Maratha community, the state Commission for Backward Classes is going to start a survey on a war footing from January 23. This work should be given the top priority and the survey should be carried out accurately with punctuality, the chief minister said. The survey will be conducted from January 23 to January 31, which will cover Maratha and non-Maratha open categories. An estimated 2.50 crore families will be surveyed. Renowned institutions like the Gokhale Institute in Pune and IIPS will assist in carrying out this exercise, the chief minister said. Ajit Ranade of the Pune-based Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics said more than 1.25 lakh enumerators, including teachers, gram sevaks, anganwadi workers and talathis, will be engaged for the survey, which will be completed in about eight days. He also said that the training for enumerators started on Saturday in 36 districts, 27 municipalities and seven cantonment areas. Shinde also asked the administration to carry out the training of enumerators and officers properly and maintain a daily record. Ayodhya has become the confluence of Lord Ram devotees from not just all corners of India but even abroad ahead of the January 22 Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Lord Ram idol in the Ram Temple. News18 in Ayodhya on Saturday met a group of young women who had come from London in saffron robes. Dr Sadhvi Avakshi Bharti is a double Ph.D. who worked as a psychologist in the UK before she gave up everything to become a monk. Saint Gabrielle worked as a biologist with the UK government but has taken sanyaas too at a young age. This is their first trip to Ayodhya and they last came to India as a child. We all are Sadhvis and Guru sisters. We are followers of Her holiness Maa Ashutoshamvari ji," Dr Sadhvi Avakshi Bharti says, as she took a flight from London to come to Ayodhya and immerse the sights of Ram Ki Paudi, the Saryu River and the Ram Temple. She was accompanied by Saint Gabrielle from London as well, Sadhvi Pragya Bharti from Delhi, Sadhvi Jyoti Prabha Bharti and Sadhvi Pooja Bharti from Uttar Pradesh. I am here in Ayodhya to celebrate Lord Rams Pran Pratishtha. It is a huge day, this is a day that shifts the world. It is a groundbreaking day for sanatanis. So many years, it has been a struggle to be able to celebrate your dharma, and your religion openly. Now we are getting the honour to do so on a world stage. The whole world is here and we are getting an opportunity to pay obeisance to Ram Lalla," Sadhvi Avakshi told News18. #RamMandirPranPratishtha | Countdown starts for Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram lala Virajman; marking an end to 500-year struggle in #Ayodhya @SakshiLitoriya_ takes you through the latest preparations that have entered their final stages | #RamMandir #Ayodhya pic.twitter.com/cD30iQrRl1 Saint Gabrielle who has accompanied her from London too says it is their devotion to Lord Ram that has brought them to Ayodhya. What first attracted me to India was that I needed a guru. I was fortunate that I met one in Maa Ashutoshamvari ji. It is amazing here in Ayodhya, the energy and positivity are very high, everyone is talking about Lord Ram, and the majority of the time people are talking about Ramayana and hindu sanskriti, vedas and mantras which have guided us for thousands and years and ages. It is great to see that there is this divine light which seems to be shining," Saint Gabrielle told News18. ALSO READ | Ayodhya Leaves A Mark: Half-Day, Holiday or Monday Blues? How Politics Dictated Jan 22 Decision Another young Sadhvi, Sadhvi Pragya Bharti from Delhi said it was a big change to see Lord Ram shifting from a tent to a grand temple. Ram is the owner of the whole universe. As a disciple, we were praying for this divine moment and finally the day has come that as per grace of lord ram," she told News18. They are hoping to pay obeisance at the new temple on January 23. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday greeted people of three northeast states Manipur, Tripura and Meghalaya on their statehood day. In a post in X, Modi said, On Manipurs Statehood Day, my best wishes to the people of the state. Manipur has made a strong contribution to Indias progress. We take pride in the culture and traditions of the state. I pray for the continued development of Manipur, he said. Modi also greeted the people of Tripura on their statehood day, wishing that may this day celebrate the unique history and rich heritage of the state. Wishing prosperity and harmony to the people of Tripura, he said. In another post, Modi said, Happy Statehood Day to the people of Meghalaya! Today is an occasion to celebrate the incredible culture of Meghalaya and the achievements of the people there. May Meghalaya scale new heights of progress in the times to come, the prime minister said. In a much-anticipated visit, the Prime Minister is set to spend an extensive five hours in Ayodhya, marking a significant day filled with auspicious ceremonies and public engagements. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to oversee the pran pratishtha ceremony, preceding which he is adhering to a rigorous 11-day anushthan or special ritual. This ritual involves practices such as sleeping on the floor and consuming coconut water. PM Modi has been actively involved in the Ram Temple movement since 1990 and played a pivotal role in orchestrating the Rath Yatra of former Deputy Prime Minister LK Advani. Since its inception in 1980, the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya has remained a core priority for the BJP, constituting a substantial component of the partys election agenda. A Look at PMs Schedule 10:25 AM: Arrival at Ayodhya Airport 10:55 AM: Helicopter arrival at Ram Janambhoomi Premises 11:00 AM 12:00 PM: Exploration of Ram Janambhoomi Premises, potential area tour, and Jap session 12:00 PM: Over 8000 special invitees to be seated inside the premises before Garbhriha; they are required to arrive by 10 AM 12:05 PM 12:55 PM: Pran Pratishthan ceremony, including the opening of Ram Lallas eyes, PM applying Kajal, and showcasing a mirror to Ram Lalla 12:55 PM: Helicopter-led Pushp Varsha on the temple 1:00 PM 2:00 PM: Public speeches by PM, Mohan Bhagwat, and Yogi Adityanath 2:10 PM: PM at Shiv Mandir on Kuber Tila inside Ram Janambhoomi Premises; a refurbished ramp allows pilgrims to visit Kuber Tila and Shiv temple 3:30 PM: Expected departure from Ayodhya Significance of Kuber Tila: The itinerary includes a visit to Kuber Tila, a place steeped in mythology. Described in ancient traditions as Shri Navratna, this site holds an ancient Shivalinga. It is believed that Mahadev has been present near the birthplace of Shri Ram since time immemorial. Additionally, Shri Kuber, the incarnation of Shri Vishnu, is said to be seated as a symbol of glory and wealth. Jatayu Statue Tribute: A noteworthy addition is the Jatayu statue, installed last month at Kuber Tila. Jatayu played a crucial role in the Ramayana, attempting to save Sita from Ravanas clutches. The Prime Minister may pay his tributes to this bronze statue during the visit. This meticulously planned schedule promises a day of spiritual significance and public engagement for the Prime Minister in Ayodhya. Security Stepped UP As security measures intensified in Ayodhya from Saturday afternoon. Barricades have been set up at the Ram temple site and other key areas like the Lata Mangeshkar Chowk in Ayodhya and the entry of vehicles has been restricted as authorities prepare to host a large number of people, including many prominent personalities. Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan, business tycoons Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani, and sporting icon Sachin Tendulkar are among Indias crme de la crme who have been invited as state guests. Personnel of the UP Anti Terrorist Squad (ATS) were patrolling the streets on Saturday. From Dharampath and Rampath, which are witnessing a deluge of devotees from different, to bylanes of the Hanumangarhi area and Asharfi Bhavan road, security personnel can be seen keeping a tight vigil on movements and activities. Movable barriers with barbed wires were spotted virtually at every prominent crossroad in the temple city, as police use them to regulate traffic, especially during VVIP movements. While about 8,000 people are on the long list of invitees, the 506 A-listers included prominent politicians, leading industrialists, top film stars, sportspersons, diplomats, judges and high priests. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday visited Arichal Munai, the southern tip of Tamil Nadu, in this district as part of his series of Ramayana-connected visits in the state. He paid floral tributes at the seashore and engaged in pranayama (breathing exercise). Additionally, he offered prayers using the sea water. Modi, who stayed at Rameswaram overnight, drove to Arichal Munai, which is said to be the place from where the Ram Setu was built. Ram Setu, also known as Adams Bridge, is said to have been constructed by Lord Ram with the help of the Vaanara sena to travel to Lanka to wage war against Ravana. On Sunday, the PM laid flowers on the beach and also paid floral tributes at a pillar erected there with the national emblem. Modi will later wind up his 3-day tour of Tamil Nadu, during which he inaugurated the Khelo India Games 2023 in Chennai on Friday. On Saturday, he visited the Sri Ranganathaswamy and Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy temples in Srirangam and Rameswaram, respectively. His visit to the Tamil Nadu temples with a Ramayana connect comes just ahead of the consecration of the grand Shri Ram temple at Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh on Monday. Earlier this week, he also visited temples in Andhra Pradesh and Kerala that have a Ramayana relevance. (With inputs from PTI) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday urged people of all faiths to hold special prayers on the occasion of the Ram temple consecration on Monday to promote harmony. The Pran Pratistha of Lord Ram in Ayodhya is not a triumph of Hinduism, but of Indian civilisation. All should offer prayers in their own way to ensure communal harmony and brotherhood in the state, Sarma said at a press conference. He also called on people across the state to light lamps outside their homes, shops and business establishments as well as visit namghars (community prayer halls) on Monday evening after the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya. People of all religions should participate in the Pran Pratistha ceremony. I also appeal to people to maintain harmony in the state, Sarma said. An aggressor broke an Indian place of worship. Babar was an aggressor. He did not attack just Hindus. There is no difference between British colonialists and Babar. Babar was a foreign power, said Assam CM. If possible, people should fast tomorrow till the consecration is over, the CM said. All government offices, shops and commercial establishments will be closed for half a day on Monday, he said. Government schools, colleges and universities will remain closed for the day, while private educational institutions have also been urged to declare a holiday, Sarma said. A dry day has also been declared on Monday, and shops selling non-vegetarian food items will remain closed till 4 pm, he added. COUNTDOWN BEGINS With just a day for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Shri Ram Lala at the newly constructed Ram temple in Ayodhya, preparations are in full swing for the mega event in the sacred city. Thousands of VIP guests have received invitations from Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust for the ceremony scheduled for January 22. While about 8,000 people are on the long list of invitees, the 506 A-listers included prominent politicians, leading industrialists, top film stars, sportspersons, diplomats, judges and high priests. Among politicians, while most ministers and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaderswho received the invitationare expected to attend the grand ceremony, the majority of the opposition parties, which are part of the Indian National Democratic Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), have decided to skip the event. (with PTI inputs) With just hours away from the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, California is steeped in religious winds. Over 1,100 enthusiastic riders, carrying saffron banners with the image of the Ram temple, participated in a massive car rally in the Bay Area on Saturday evening. Organised by six Hindu volunteers, the riders passed through the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and various areas of San Francisco and Silicon Valley before culminating in a public meeting that included a cultural program and dances to the popular Ram songs. The event was followed by the distribution of the prasad and a Tesla car light show. VIDEO | Shri Ram car rally organised at Californias Golden Gate Bridge in view of #RamTemplePranPratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/ny3hKroU6x Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 21, 2024 Led by a giant Ram Rath, the rally covered almost 100 miles and was escorted by two police cars for security purposes. The rally also had 3 digital trucks that played videos of Rams life story with life-size pictures of Ram, Sita, Lakshman, and Hanuman. The event, held in celebration of the Ram temple, drew an overwhelming response, surpassing all expectations, Rohit Sharma, one of the six organisers said to the news agency, PTI. More than 900 cars for a rally in Silicon Valley for Rama Lala civilization survival victory@Nitendradd #Ayodhya #Pranpratishtha #RamMandir pic.twitter.com/6Kcd2jADBz DD News (@DDNewslive) January 21, 2024 Despite unexpected rain, prompting a change in the ending station to Warm Spring BART station, over 2,000 enthusiastic Ram bhakts, waving saffron flags, singing Ram Bhajans, beating drums, transformed the area into a mini-Ayodhya, said Deepti Mahajan, the lead organiser. It was a first-of-its-kind rally held by Hindus in America and participants were emotionally charged and overjoyed. Mainstream Americans were surprised with the amount of devotion amongst participants when they were told about the event being held thousands of miles away in Ayodhya for the inauguration of the Ram temple after 500 years, said Deepak Bajaj, one of the organisers to the news agency. The Tesla light show, a special feature with 170 registered cars coordinated by Vamsi Rajanala, exceeded expectations with over 300 cars dazzling the crowd. The rally, complemented by a Tesla light show, rhythmic dhol beats, and a delectable food feast elevated the event to unprecedented heights, Bajaj said. Param Desai, also one of the organisers, said the grand celebration not only marked a significant cultural event but also showcased the spirit of togetherness and the deep-rooted cultural ties within the community. CAR RALLY IN UK A car rally was organised in East London in view of Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony to be held tomorrow in Ayodhya. VIDEO | Car rally organised in East London in view of #RamMandirPranPratishtha ceremony to be held tomorrow in Ayodhya. pic.twitter.com/0YqvAZeCia Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 21, 2024 A group of Hindu organisations in London carried out a car rally on January 21 at the City Pavilion to celebrate the Pran Pratishtha of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Over 300 cars took part in the rally. group of Hindu organisations in London carried out a car rally on January 21 at The City Pavilion, to celebrate the upcoming Pran Pratishtha of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Over 300 cars were used in order to carry out this rally. The Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha will take place pic.twitter.com/Kk4k8AQchP JIX5A (@JIX5A) January 21, 2024 (with PTI inputs) The Delhi NCR region is a gastronomic melting pot with a wide variety of tastes and culinary experiences. For those who enjoy tandoori food, there are many options available that are sure to entice the palate. Take a culinary trip through five restaurants that have perfected the art of tandoori delights, offering delectable food along with an appealing atmosphere that makes for a special dining experience. Sambookas Cafe Paneer Tikka Extravaganza Located in the centre of Hudson Lane, Sambookas is a symphony of warmth and charm, creating an inviting atmosphere for patrons to relish their meals. The fusion of delectable cuisine with an eclectic musical backdrop enhances the dining experience. It has become a must try destination for tandoor lovers because of its wide range of tandoor options, among which Paneer Tikka is a culinary masterpiece that embodies the essence of North Indian flavours and is a must-try dish here. Perfectly marinated and charred to a smoky finish, the succulent paneer pieces are served with an enticing assortment of chutneys. Sambookas Cafe is a heaven for paneer lovers because of its dedication to aesthetically pleasing presentation, which adds an extra layer of delight to the dining experience. Bella Rossa Punjabi Soya Chaap Delight Bella Rossa, which is situated in the busy Hudson Lane, is a refuge for people looking for real tandoori cuisine. Their must-try dish, the Punjabi Soya Chaap, offers a distinctive take on classic tandoori fare. The soya chaap is expertly grilled, marinated in a blend of spices, and presented with style. Bella Rossa is a great place for foodies to enjoy creative tandoori creations because of its chic and modern atmosphere, which enhances the overall charm of the restaurant. Paradise of Tandoori Mangalorean Prawns Bottles and Barrels Bottles and Barrels in Gurgaon is a must-visit location for prawn lovers. Their Tandoori Mangalorean Prawns, which blend the traditional tandoori method with the coastal flavours of Mangalore, are an absolute delight. A delicious mixture of spices marinates the prawns, which are then skewered and cooked to perfection, creating a dish that is a symphony of flavours. The sleek and contemporary environment of the restaurant makes for the ideal setting for a delightful culinary adventure. Level 21 Sensation with Tandoori Broccoli Nestled in the heart of Greater Noida, Level 21 is a culinary marvel that promises tandoori enthusiasts a delightful experience. One particularly noteworthy dish that you simply must try at Level 21 Cafe is the Tandoori Broccoli with Parmesan and Green Crumbs. This dish creates a distinct and flavorful culinary experience by blending the earthy goodness of broccoli with the smoky essence of tandoor preparation. The broccolis flavorful coating of Parmesan and green crumbs gives it a delightful crunch that goes well with its soft, tandoor-kissed centre. Innovation in Tandoori Mushroom The Salt Cafe The Salt Cafe in Noida elevates the art of tandoori cooking with their inventive take on Stuffed Tandoori Mushrooms. This dish, which combines strong tandoori flavours with earthy mushrooms, is a delight for fans of both tandoor and mushrooms. The warm colours and modern decor of the restaurant create an inviting atmosphere that improves the whole eating experience. The Salt Cafe is the place to go if youre looking for an interesting and tasty adventure. Embark on a culinary adventure through Delhi NCRs Tandoori wonders, where each restaurant promises not only exceptional tandoori dishes but also a feast for the eyes and senses. Indulge in these gastronomic delights, and let the tandoori tales unfold on your palate. A great number of people who are passionate about fashion find it delightful that Disha Patani continuously amazes with her less is more fashion approach. The actress, who is well-known for her great physique and impeccable sense of style, lately captured the attention of the public with her brand images, demonstrating that simplicity may constitute a fashion statement. Following the presentation of her holiday attire to us, Disha moved her focus to brand advertising, demonstrating her expertise in the fashion industry. Disha was able to effortlessly battle the blues with her elegant style, as she demonstrated in a recent Instagram image. The fashion standard was increased as a result of the series of photographs that she uploaded. Disha chose to wear a Calvin Klein bikini with a logo emblazoned on it, despite the fact that the weather was chilly and wintery. When paired with an off-the-shoulder crop top, the halter-neck bikini provided an immediate touch of elegance to the ensemble. The beauty package was finished off with the wet hair illusion and golden glam, which demonstrated her ability to combine understatement with a strong effect. View this post on Instagram A post shared by disha patani (paatni) (@dishapatani) The actress has a talent for transforming beaches into fashion runways, and her most recent Calvin Klein costume is definitely not an exception to this rule. Her beach outfits are always making waves in the fashion world, and the actress is exhibiting her outstanding style moments in a variety of different photographs. Dishas Phuket style, which featured a pastel blue bikini teamed with a patterned tie-around little skirt, grabbed notice. This was a reflection of her previous fashion adventures. Her sun-kissed radiance and flowing tresses were the ideal complement to the ensemble, which further solidified her position as a fashion icon for the beach. View this post on Instagram A post shared by disha patani (paatni) (@dishapatani) The choices that Disha makes in terms of her wardrobe not only prioritise simplicity but also convey self-assurance and appeal. Her Calvin Klein moment and beach styles are examples of her ability to combine stylish elegance and comfort in a seamless manner. Disha Patani achieves the feat of redefining fashion conventions with each new appearance, demonstrating that minimalism may have a huge effect on the fashion industry. She has evolved her style throughout the years, as seen by her Calvin Klein appearance and her beach fashion adventures, which demonstrate that sometimes, less is more. Despite the fact that Disha Patani continues to enchant us with her fashion exploits, one thing is still crystal clear: her style motto is a lesson in the art of making simple, irresistibly fashionable. Sushant Singh Rajput was a remarkable talent who made a lasting impact on Hindi Cinema. His journey was tragically cut short in 2020, when he was found dead in his Mumbai apartment. Starting his career on the stage as a dancer and theatre artist, Sushant gained national fame through television in Ekta Kapoors Pavitra Rishta. In 2013, he smoothly moved to the big screen, earning praise for his versatile and nuanced performances, leaving a mark on both critics and audiences. Sushant, then 34, was found hanging at his apartment in suburban Bandra on June 14, 2020. After a case of alleged abetment to suicide was registered against his girlfriend. actress Rhea Chakraborty by the actors family and a parallel probe into alleged drug procurement by her also began on the basis of her WhatsApp chats. On his birth anniversary today, Rhea took to Instagram Stories to share a photo of the later actor, Skipping a caption, she just dropped a red heart emoji remembering the late actor, with whom she shared a special bond. The actress recently opened up about her experience surviving jail time. The actress was arrested in connection to his death and had to spend almost a month behind bars. From managing food to navigating life with a limited allowance, Rhea shared the struggles she faced. The actress said she found her source of being positive in her fellow inmates. I started feeling grateful when I saw that many prisoners dont have family support. Or they dont have Rs. 5,000 or Rs. 10,000 for their bail. At least, I have my family and friends. I told myself, You will get justice. You will get bail. You have not done anything wrong. I have so much to learn from these women while I am here. Why am I wasting my time sulking about what is not in my control? she said. A villager fetches water from an irrigation canal in Anie, Togo, Jan. 14, 2024. An irrigation system and a reservoir, both part of the SINTO sugar factory project, ensure an abundant water supply for the factory's sugarcane crop and also extend their benefits to the thriving community of Anie. As a collaborative development project between China and Togo, the SINTO sugar factory was formally handed over to the Togolese government in 1987. (Xinhua/Li Yahui) A villager fetches water from an irrigation canal in Anie, Togo, Jan. 14, 2024. An irrigation system and a reservoir, both part of the SINTO sugar factory project, ensure an abundant water supply for the factory's sugarcane crop and also extend their benefits to the thriving community of Anie. As a collaborative development project between China and Togo, the SINTO sugar factory was formally handed over to the Togolese government in 1987. (Xinhua/Li Yahui) A villager fetches water from an irrigation canal in Anie, Togo, Jan. 14, 2024. An irrigation system and a reservoir, both part of the SINTO sugar factory project, ensure an abundant water supply for the factory's sugarcane crop and also extend their benefits to the thriving community of Anie. As a collaborative development project between China and Togo, the SINTO sugar factory was formally handed over to the Togolese government in 1987. (Xinhua/Li Yahui) Staff members of a local reservoir check water level in Anie, Togo, Jan. 14, 2024. An irrigation system and a reservoir, both part of the SINTO sugar factory project, ensure an abundant water supply for the factory's sugarcane crop and also extend their benefits to the thriving community of Anie. As a collaborative development project between China and Togo, the SINTO sugar factory was formally handed over to the Togolese government in 1987. (Xinhua/Li Yahui) This photo taken on Jan. 14, 2024 shows the main irrigation canal from a local reservoir in Anie, Togo. An irrigation system and a reservoir, both part of the SINTO sugar factory project, ensure an abundant water supply for the factory's sugarcane crop and also extend their benefits to the thriving community of Anie. As a collaborative development project between China and Togo, the SINTO sugar factory was formally handed over to the Togolese government in 1987. (Xinhua/Li Yahui) A villager walks in a sugar cane field near an irrigation canal in Anie, Togo, Jan. 14, 2024. An irrigation system and a reservoir, both part of the SINTO sugar factory project, ensure an abundant water supply for the factory's sugarcane crop and also extend their benefits to the thriving community of Anie. As a collaborative development project between China and Togo, the SINTO sugar factory was formally handed over to the Togolese government in 1987. (Xinhua/Li Yahui) A villager washes cloth on the bank of an irrigation canal in Anie, Togo, Jan. 14, 2024. An irrigation system and a reservoir, both part of the SINTO sugar factory project, ensure an abundant water supply for the factory's sugarcane crop and also extend their benefits to the thriving community of Anie. As a collaborative development project between China and Togo, the SINTO sugar factory was formally handed over to the Togolese government in 1987. (Xinhua/Li Yahui) This photo taken on Jan. 14, 2024 shows a view near an irrigation canal in Anie, Togo. An irrigation system and a reservoir, both part of the SINTO sugar factory project, ensure an abundant water supply for the factory's sugarcane crop and also extend their benefits to the thriving community of Anie. As a collaborative development project between China and Togo, the SINTO sugar factory was formally handed over to the Togolese government in 1987. (Xinhua/Li Yahui) Ankita Lokhande and Vicky Jain have been grabbing all attention ever since they entered Bigg Boss 17. The couples constant fight and statements are increasing show TRPs. Well, recently Vicky Jains mother has also made shocking statements that do not go well with Ankitas fans. And on Weekend Ka Vaar, Salman Khan was seen questioning the same when Vickys sister-in-law visited. Ankitas mother-in-law had said that Vicky looks after her expenses. On this Salman Khan said, That is Vickys responsibility as a husband. It is his responsibility to take care of her spendings, mood swings and drama. IF he doesnt do, who will? Salman Kahn also said, It was also said that Vicky made an investment. Ankita does very well for herself. Actor se shaadi karni hai toh paisa lagta hi hai. Bahut nakhre uthane padte hai. Nakhre toh mujhe aapse zyaada, Ankita se zyaada, sasuma ke lag rahe hai. I am saying all this. Aunty ji ko dher saara khana khilaya jaye so that she doesnt say unwanted things in hunger state of mind. Had you been in Ankitas position, would you have kept apologising? Since last 3 weeks, she has been kept apologising and blaming herself. Reeshu said she wouldnt have apologised had she not been wrong. In the episode, Reshu attempts to give explanations for Vickys mothers reactions and statements. Salman joked and said, When she was speaking to media back then, tab fast me this woh aur bahut fast fast bol rahi thi (When she was speaking to the media back then, she was talking very fast). To this, Reshu said in Hindi, First time Vicky bhaiya has come to a show His mother knew that he wanted to be a part of a big show For the unversed, Vicky Jains mother previously spoke to Pinkvilla and said that the family was against his marriage with Ankita. Vicky married Ankita. We were not in support of their marriage. Vicky got married and now he is ready to take the responsibility. We have nothing to do with it. We are seeing so much but we havent told him anything. He has ruined the relationship, he will rectify it, she said in Hindi. While as many as 16 states and Union Territories have declared either a holiday or half-day leave on January 22 on account of the Pran Pratishtha at Ram Temple in Ayodhya, one state and one union territory stands out Odisha and Delhi. Both are ruled by Opposition parties the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), respectively. ALSO READ | Ayodhya Ram Mandir LIVE Updates HERE In fact, AAP is the only Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc member party (apart from Congresss aberration in Himachal Pradesh in spite of its boycott of the Ayodhya event) that has announced a half-day leave on January 22 in Delhi, a decision quickly okayed by the Lieutenant Governor who otherwise has a track record of holding decisions. While AAP chief and Delhi Chief Minister (CM) Arvind Kejriwal has explicitly expressed interest in visiting the Ram Mandir on January 22 should he get an invite, BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik, too, has been flirting with Hindutva in his state, where the Lord Jagannath temple corridor in Puri is almost complete. This is in stark contrast to the Congress and other opposition parties boycotting the January 22 event, let alone allowing a holiday on the day in the states where they are in power. In a letter to CM Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Sukanta Majumdar demanded a holiday, but it did not yield any results. She has instead decided to observe the day as all faith day. Going against the partys template and probably owing to the large Hindu electorate in the state, Himachal Pradesh on Sunday announced that all its government offices will remain shut on Monday. The now out-of-power Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav, whose father is remembered for ordering firing on kar sewaks during the Babri demolition, has chosen his words carefully. He said he would visit the temple with his family soon after it is thrown open to the public. There was no surprise in either Left-ruled Kerala or DMK-ruled Tamil Nadu none have ordered any kind of closure. In fact, the CPIM came out with a statement condemning the Central governments decision to grant a half-day leave. In Tamil Nadu earlier, DMK scion Udhayanidhi Stalins Sanatana Dharma comment created a massive row that even put INDIA bloc allies in embarrassment. So a closure of government offices in Ram Mandir inauguration wasnt even expected. #RamMandirPranPratishtha | Countdown starts for Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram lala Virajman; marking an end to 500-year struggle in #Ayodhya @SakshiLitoriya_ takes you through the latest preparations that have entered their final stages | #RamMandir #Ayodhya pic.twitter.com/cD30iQrRl1 News18 (@CNNnews18) January 21, 2024 The BJP has predictably gone ahead with announcing Monday as either a holiday or half-day leave in states and Union territories where it rules. It includes Uttar Pradesh, where all the action is, as well as the three states it swept to power last December Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. Interestingly, the only two North-Eastern states that figure on the list are BJP-ruled Tripura and Assam. While the BJP has its Chief Minister in Manipur, the strife-torn state has stayed away from announcing any such decisions. Also, the BJP is in the ruling alliance in Meghalaya and Nagaland, where there have not been any such announcement, owing to the largely Christian majority. A list of states that have announced a public holiday/half-day leave on January 22, Monday: Uttar Pradesh: This is the state where the whos who will huddle on January 22. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed closure of educational institutions and liquor shops across the state on Monday. However, there has been no announcement of holidays for government employees. Maharashtra: The government of Maharashtra, the financial powerhouse of India, has announced a public holiday on Monday, January 22. Even the stock exchange announced a trading holiday on Monday, but a full working day on Saturday, January 20. Haryana: The Manohar Lal Khattar-led BJP government has issued a notice announcing that all government offices, including boards, schools, colleges, corporations and universities, shall remain closed on Monday until 2.30 pm. The notice issued on Thursday read, It is hereby notified that half day (till 2:30 PM) of January 24, 2024 (Monday) shall be observed as a Public Holiday for all departments, boards, and Corporations, schools, colleges, universities, etc. of the Haryana Government to enable its employees to participate in the celebration of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha at Ayodhya." Madhya Pradesh: The Madhya Pradesh government announced a holiday for schools on Monday and a dry day as well, which prohibits the sale of liquor. It has even prohibited the sale of bhang" on Monday. Government offices in the state will remain shut, too, till 2.30 pm. Chhattisgarh: The BJP-ruled Chhattisgarh government has announced that all government offices will remain closed till 2.30 pm. It was the first state to declare January 22 a dry day. ALSO READ | This Is How Ayodhya Ram Mandir Looks From Space | Indian Satellite Captures First Image Rajasthan: The Bhajan Lal Sharma government in Rajasthan has announced a half-day holiday in the state. Gujarat: In the home state of the Prime Minister and the Home Minister, government offices will remain shut till 2.30 pm. Odisha: Apart from the belated decision by Himachal, it is the only opposition-ruled state in India that has taken the saffron plunge. The Eastern coastal state Government has announced that offices in the state will remain closed for half-a-day. Uttarakhand: The home of char dham isnt behind. All educational institutions in Uttarakhand will remain closed on Monday, the Pushkar Dhami administration has announced. Government offices in the state will also be shut till 2.30 pm. Goa: The Chief Minister Pramod Sawant-led government has declared a holiday for schools and government employees. Even casinos have voluntarily decided to shut operations between 8 am and 4 pm. Tripura: One of the two N-E states that has followed the nationwide trend. All government offices in Tripura will remain closed till 2.30 pm. Assam: The Himanta Biswa Sarma-led Assam, too, has announced a half-day. Meanwhile, all educational institutions and state government offices will remain closed till 2.30 pm. Congress-ruled Himachal Pradesh From NRI businessmen to saints, the world gathers at Ram Nagri Ayodhya to witness #RamMandirPranPrathistha @AmanKayamHai_ speaks with a group of young women from UK in #Ayodhya #RamMandir #Ramayana #RamMandirAyodhya pic.twitter.com/iwfaR0cDvG News18 (@CNNnews18) January 21, 2024 A list of Union Territories that have announced a public holiday/half-day leave on January 22, Monday: Delhi: The only opposition-ruled UT in India to announce such a move. Government offices in the national capital will remain closed till 2.30 pm. Chandigarh: The union territory has declared a holiday for all offices. ALSO READ | Mysurus Krishna Shila Travels to Ayodhya for Ram Lalla in an Idol World | News18 Recounts Journey Puducherry: The union territory has announced a public holiday. A list of states that have granted no concession on January 22: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday rained down on the Tamil Nadu government over reports of its decision to ban live streaming of the pran pratishtha ceremony at the new Ram temple on January 22. Sharing a newspaper report that claimed oral instructions from the government barring special pujas and serving free food in the name of Ram in temples, Sitharaman called it an anti-Hindu action. TN government has banned watching the live telecast of Ayodhya Ram Mandir programmes of 22 Jan 24. In TN there are over 200 temples for Shri Ram. In HR&CE-managed temples, no puja/bhajan/prasadam/annadanam in the name of Shri Ram is allowed. Police are stopping privately held temples also from organising events. They are threatening organisers that they will rip off pandals. Strongly condemn this anti-Hindu, hateful action, Sitharaman said in an X post. TN govt has banned watching live telecast of #AyodhaRamMandir programmes of 22 Jan 24. In TN there are over 200 temples for Shri Ram. In HR&CE managed temples no puja/bhajan/prasadam/annadanam in the name of Shri Ram is allowed. Police are stopping privately held temples also pic.twitter.com/G3tNuO97xS Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) January 21, 2024 The Union Minister further alleged that people are threatened for organising bhajans, feeding the poor, celebrating the occasion with sweets in the state. Cable TV operators are told that there is a likely power down during the live telecast. This is INDI Alliance partner DMKs anti-Hindu efforts, she added. The Tamil Nadu government, on the other hand, slammed the Union Ministers statements accusing the BJP of trying to divert attention from the DMK youth Congress in Salem. Nirmala Sitharaman further said the Tamil Nadu government is unofficially claiming law and order issues to justify the live telecast ban. False and fake narrative! There was no L&O issues on the day of Ayodhya verdict. Not even the day when Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation, in any part of the country. The groundswell and the voluntary participation of people to celebrate #ShriRam in TN has rattled the anti-Hindu DMK, the minister said. According to an NDTV report, the DMK government denied the said newspaper report, calling it a motivated report to bring disrepute to the state government. The government stated it would take legal action against the newspaper. (Reuters) A pair of scientists at Google's artificial intelligence subsidiary DeepMind is in talks with investors to form an AI startup in Paris, Bloomberg News reported on Friday, citing people familiar with the conversations. Scientists Laurent Sifre and Karl Tuyls, who have already given notice to leave DeepMind, have held discussions with investors about a financing round that could raise over 200 million euros ($217.84 million), the report said. The company, known at the moment as Holistic, may be focused on building a new AI model, the report added. Google and DeepMind did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment. DeepMind was acquired by Alphabet-owned Google around a decade ago to fuel AI research and has now deployed its own offerings in the race to compete with generative AI chatbots like Microsoft-backed ChatGPT. Paris-based Mistral AI, co-founded by a former DeepMind researcher, said in December it had raised 385 million euros ($419.34 million) in its second funding round in seven months. The OnePlus 12 global launch is just a few days away and the company is busy putting the final touches to its big event in India on Tuesday. OnePlus 12 will be the latest flagship phone from the brand, which coincidentally started its journey 10 years back. The phone has already launched in China and now people in India and parts of Europe will get a chance to buy the powerful device. The global launch is happening in India and here are all the details from the event and what else can expect to launch. OnePlus 12 India Launch Date And Timings OnePlus 12 India launch is on Tuesday, January 23 and the global event takes place at 7:30 PM in Delhi. OnePlus will also have a livestream for the event running on its official YouTube page and social channels. OnePlus 12 Launch Event: Price In India And Features Expected The OnePlus 12 is expected to be a powerful upgrade not only because of the new AI chip on board but also the company rumoured to be using the new triple camera system developed with Hasselblad that is likely to be similar to the one we have seen on the OnePlus Open foldable. The OnePlus 12 gets an AMOLED QHD+ (1,440 x 3,168) display that offers a peak brightness of 2600 nits making it brighter than some recent flagships, including the iPhone 15 Pro (2000 nits) and the Pixel 8 Pro (2400 nits). The device will also ship with a large 5,400mAh battery that supports 100W fast charging. Going by recent leaks, it is suggested that the OnePlus 12 India launch price is likely to be around Rs 65,000 for the base variant of 12GB RAM and 256GB storage. Even at these prices, the OnePlus 12 will only be the second affordable phone with the new chipset in the market. OnePlus 12 Launch Event: What Else Can We Expect? OnePlus 12 is likely to be accompanied by the OnePlus 12R and the new OnePlus Buds 3 earbuds at the launch event. The phone is expected to be equipped with the previous years flagship SoC, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. It should have 8GB of RAM and 128GB of ROM as standard, and feature a 6.7-inch 120Hz OLED panel. The OnePlus Buds 3 could bring Pro-like features at a lower price tag, which should offer adaptive noise cancellation and probably a few more nifty tools. The Hamas militant group said Sunday its October 7 attack on Israel was a necessary step against Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories. But the group admitted in a 16-page report on the attacks that some faults happened due to the rapid collapse of the Israeli security and military system, and the chaos caused along the border areas with Gaza. The document was the groups first public report released in English and Arabic justifying the attacks when they broke through Gazas militarised border. Their attacks resulted in the deaths of about 1,140 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. The militant group said the attacks were a necessary step and a normal response to confront all Israeli conspiracies against the Palestinian people. The militants seized about 250 hostages during the attack. Israel says around 132 remain in Gaza, of whom at least 27 captives are believed to have been killed, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli figures. Israels relentless bombardment and ground offensive have killed at least 25,105 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Hamas urged the immediate halt of the Israeli aggression on Gaza, the crimes and ethnic cleansing committed against the entire Gaza population. And the group rejected any international and Israeli efforts to decide Gazas post-war future. We stress that the Palestinian people have the capacity to decide their future and to arrange their internal affairs, the statement said, adding that no party in the world had the right to decide on their behalf. The Russian government on Sunday said a Russian-registered plane with six people thought to be on board disappeared from radar screens over Afghanistan the previous night, after local Afghan authorities said they had received reports of a crash. Russian aviation authorities said the plane was a charter ambulance flight traveling from India, via Uzbekistan to Moscow on a French-made Dassault Falcon 10 jet manufactured in 1978, news agency Reuters reported. The unfortunate plane crash that has just occurred in Afghanistan is neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft. It is a Moroccan registered small aircraft. More details are awaited. MoCA_GoI (@MoCA_GoI) January 21, 2024 The plane that crashed in the Afghan mountains does not belong to an Indian carrier, New Delhis civil aviation ministry said on Sunday after media reports linked the flight to India. The plane is not a charter aircraft, the clarification added. It is a Moroccan-registered small aircraft. More details are awaited, the civil aviation ministry wrote on social media platform X. Earlier, TOLO News wrongly reported that an Indian passenger plane crashed in the mountains of Topkhana in Badakhshan province. The report said that a team had been sent to the area to investigate the incident. The Afghan provincial police spokesperson said in a statement the crash had taken place overnight in a remote, mountainous region of Badakhshan in Afghanistans far north. He said there were no confirmed details on the type of plane, cause of the crash or casualties. The Hindu Kush mountain range cuts through the province, which is home to Afghanistans highest mountain, Mount Noshaq at 7,492 metres high. (With agency inputs) An Israeli strike on the Syrian capital Damascus killed the Iranian Revolutionary Guards spy chief for Syria and three other Guards members Saturday, in an attack that tore into a residential building. As many as 10 people were killed in the Israeli strike on the Mazzeh neighbourhood in Damascus, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor. This comes as Israel has been accused of intensifying strikes on senior Iranian and allied figures in Syria and Lebanon raising concerns the Gaza conflict could expand. The Revolutionary Guards Syria intel chief, his deputy and two other Guards members were martyred in the attack on Syria by Israel, Irans Mehr news agency said, quoting an informed source. Attempt to spread instability The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed it lost four of its members in the strike that it accused Israel, of carrying out. The Guards Sepah news agency said the evil and criminal Zionist regime (Israel) killed four of its military advisers. It identified them as Hojatollah Omidvar, Ali Aghazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi and Saeed Karimi. Irans foreign ministry condemned the Israeli missile strike as a desperate attempt to spread instability in region. Iran reserves its right to respond to the organised terrorism of the fake Zionist regime at the appropriate time and place, foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani was quoted by state media as saying. He also urged foreign countries and international organisations to condemn the attack. Hundreds of Israeli strikes When asked about the strike, the Israeli army told AFP: We do not comment on reports from the foreign media. During more than a decade of civil war in Syria, Israel has launched hundreds of air strikes on its territory, primarily targeting Iran-backed forces as well as Syrian army positions. But it has intensified attacks since the war between Israel and Hamas, which like Lebanons Hezbollah movement is an ally of Iran, began on October 7. The Observatory said an Israeli strike on a four-storey building killed 10 people after four more bodies were recovered from the rubble, of the destroyed building where Iran-aligned leaders were meeting in Damascus. Among the dead were Iranians and other Tehran-backed fighters, its director, Rami Abdel Rahman, told the French news agency. The British-based war monitor with a network of sources inside Syria said the targeted building belonged to the IRGC and that the neighbourhood is known to be a high-security zone home to leaders of the IRGC and pro-Iran Palestinian factions. The Mazzeh area is also home to the UN headquarters, embassies and restaurants. Saturdays presumed Israeli strike was their second high-profile targeted assassination in Syria in less than a month. In December, an Israeli air strike killed a senior Iranian general in Syria. Razi Moussavi was the most senior commander of the Guards foreign operations arm, the Quds Force, to be killed outside Iran since a US drone strike in Baghdad on January 3, 2020, killed the Forces commander, Qasem Soleimani. (With agency inputs) The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have discovered a booby-trapped tunnel in the Gaza Strip, containing cramped cells where the military says that Hamas held some 20 hostages in harsh and inhumane conditions. After walking about a kilometer in the tunnel, at a depth of about 20 meters underground, the soldiers found a central chamber where, according to testimonies of hostages who returned from Gaza, we understand that they spent most of their time, military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari was quoted as saying by The Times of Israel. Video from a tunnel where hostages were held in Khan Yunis Gaza Strip.About 20 hostages were held in the tunnel at different times. Some were released and some are still being held in Gaza. pic.twitter.com/0tnLu38TiR Israel News Feed (@IsraelHatzolah) January 20, 2024 No hostages were there when it was discovered, the report said. They found a holding area, five narrow rooms behind metal bars, toilets, mattresses, and even drawings by a child hostage who was freed during a November truce, he said. The Israeli military released photos from the underground labyrinth and said it brought in journalists to document the tunnel before it was destroyed. The tunnel entrance, Hagari said, was in the house of a Hamas member in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis, where Israel has been focusing its fight in recent weeks against the Palestinian Islamist group. The soldiers entered the tunnel where they encountered terrorists, engaging in a battle that ended with the elimination of the terrorists, Hagari said. The tunnel was rigged with blast doors and explosives, he said. According to the testimonies we have, about 20 hostages were held in this tunnel at different times under harsh conditions without daylight, in dense air with little oxygen, and terrible humidity that makes breathing difficult, he said. Some of them were released about 50 days ago, and some are still held in Gaza and may be under even harsher conditions, including very elderly people who need medication and help, Hagari added. Some of the hostages kept there were freed during the week-long Qatari-mediated truce. Others are among the more than 130 captured during Hamas Oct. 7 rampage through southern Israel that are still in Gaza. Thousands of people demonstrated in central Tel Aviv on Saturday, calling for the return of hostages held in Gaza and early elections to oust Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Demonstrators marched through the citys Habima Square, a frequent protest site, with some carrying signs calling Netanyahu the face of evil and demanding elections now. Protesters demanding the return of hostages also gathered in Haifa and outside the premiers Jerusalem residence. (With agency inputs) A 13-year-old in the Maldives died due to a delay in medical evacuation, a result of alleged reluctance on the Maldivian governments part to use Indian choppers. The young schoolboy died at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) in the Maldivan capital on Saturday, Sun Online outlet reported. The government hospital said that the 13-year-old died at 11:10 am on Saturday. The hospital, however, declined to specify the cause of death, the report said. The young boy died less than two days after his family raised concern over the delay in his transfer from Vilingili to Male. India has a deployment of about 89 personnel, including medical staff, to operate three aircraft two naval choppers and a Dornier aircraft to patrol the archipelagos vast maritime territory. The fate of Indian choppers and aircraft remains uncertain as the Maldivian government insists on expelling Indian military personnel responsible for operations and maintenance. Medical evacuation operations geSOP gai Raeesul Jumooriyya ah inform kurumeh, hudhdha dhevvumeh noavey. Eyee ekama gulhey idhaaraathakun coordinate kurevigen hinga kameh. 2021 in feshigen stats ah balaa iru medical evacuation ge 93% koffai vanee @MaldivianAero medhuverikoh. Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon (@mgmaumoon) January 20, 2024 President Mohamed Muizzu has called for the withdrawal of Indian troops by March 15, despite ongoing talks to find a workable solution. The controversy over the boys death deepened as Maldives Defence Minister Mohamed Ghassan defended the decision not to use Indian choppers, saying that 93 percent of evacuations were still conducted by Maldivian Airlines. Ghassan stressed that standard operating procedures for medical operations did not necessitate notifying or seeking permission from the President, a statement made via social media amidst growing criticisms. The situation underscores strained relations between India and the Maldives. Muizzu came to power last September after pledging to cultivate strong ties with China. His trip to Beijing this month was his first state visit since becoming president. KABUL, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- The wreckage of a Russian passenger jet that crashed in Afghanistan on Saturday was found Sunday in Badakhsan province with four aboard survived, spokesman for Afghan caretaker government Zabihullah Mujahid said. According to Mujahid, the crashed plane was located in the Aruz Koh area of Kof Ab district in Badakhshan province and the pilot of the plane is among the four injured people. Mujahid also noted that the search team of the Afghan administration has been continuing their efforts to find if any other survived the crash. A Russian passenger jet reportedly with six on board, including four crew and two passengers, was heading to Moscow and disappeared from the radar screen on Saturday evening in Afghan airspace. At least 25 people were killed on Sunday by shelling at a market on the outskirts of the city of Donetsk in Russian-occupied Ukraine, local officials reported on Sunday. A further 20 people were injured in the strike on the suburb of Tekstilshchik, including two children, said Denis Pushilin, head of the Russian-installed authorities in Donetsk. He said that the shells had been fired by the Ukrainian military. Kyiv has not commented on the event and the claims could not be independently verified by The Associated Press. Emergency services continue to work on the scene, Pushilin said. Also Sunday, fire broke out at a chemical transport terminal at Russias Ust-Luga port following two explosions, regional officials said. Local media reported that the port had been attacked by Ukrainian drones, causing a gas tank to explode. The blaze was at a site run by Russias second-largest natural gas producer, Novatek, 165 kilometers southwest of St. Petersburg. In a press statement to Russian media outlet RBC, the company said that the fire was the result of an external influence. It also said that it had paused operations at the port. Yuri Zapalatsky, the head of Russias Kingisepp district, where the port is based, said in a statement that there were no casualties, but that the area had been placed on high alert. News outlet Fontanka reported that two drones had been detected flying towards St Petersburg Sunday morning, but that they were redirected towards the Kingisepp district. The Associated Press could not independently verify the reports. The Russian Ministry of Defense did not report any drone activity in the Kingisepp area in its daily briefing. It said that four Ukrainian drones had been downed in Russias Smolensk region, and that two more had been shot down in the Oryol and Tula regions. Russian officials previously confirmed that a Ukrainian drone had been downed on the outskirts of St. Petersburg on Thursday. In the fighting on the front line, Russias Ministry of Defense announced Sunday that Moscows forces had taken control of the village of Krokhmalne in Ukraines Kharkiv region. Ukrainian forces confirmed that the settlement had been occupied, but described its capture as a temporary phenomenon. Volodymyr Fityo, spokesperson for Ukrainian Ground Forces Command, said that Kyivs troops had been pulled back to pre-prepared reserve positions. He said that Krokhmalne had a population of roughly 45 people before the start of Russias full-scale invasion in February 2022. Thats five houses, probably, he was quoted as saying by Ukrainian news outlet Hromadske. Our main goal is to save the lives of Ukraines defenders. Russian and Ukrainian forces have continued to fight from largely static positions along the roughly 1,500-kilometer (930-mile) front line throughout the winter. Recent Russian attacks have tried to find gaps in Ukraines defenses by using large numbers of various types of missiles in an apparent effort to saturate air defense systems. The massive barrages more than 500 drones and missiles were fired between Dec. 29 and Jan. 2, according to officials in Kyiv are also using up Ukraines weapons stockpiles. A hateful fatwa targeting religious minorities in Pakistan has resurfaced on the countrys social media ahead of the general election next month. A previously issued ruling by Islamic scholars of Karachi-based seminary Jamia Uloom Islamia has resurfaced on social media platforms like Facebook and X, Pakistans GEO News reported. The fatwa calls for choosing Muslim candidates over minority candidates, reigniting debates on religious discrimination widespread in the electoral process in Pakistan. Chaman Lal, a minority rights activist, shared an image of the un-dated fatwa on Facebook. The fatwa was issued in response to a query about the permissibility, under Islamic laws, of voting for a non-Muslim candidate. The world is in a race to reach Mars and ours is in giving fatwas. A #Fatwa is issued that, It is permissible to take votes from the population of more than one million minorities, but Today a fatwa has been issued that it is not permissible to vote for minority candidates in the general election. Wow, Mr. Qazi, your judgments and hateful fatwas, Chaman Lal said in a post on Facebook. Pakistan media reports said the fatwa addressed a situation where a political party nominated a Hindu candidate in the presence of a better-qualified Muslim candidate, even though reserved seats were allocated for non-Muslims. The fatwa suggested that voters should choose a candidate based on qualifications, ability, and a satisfactory party manifesto. It concluded that, in the given scenario, it is better to vote for a Muslim candidate. The verification process revealed that the fatwa was available on the seminarys portal, indicating its issuance five years ago, the GEO report said. However, the exact date of issuance remains unknown. Chaman Lal expressed dismay over the issue, saying that the Pakistan constitution grants equal rights to all citizens, irrespective of religious affiliation. He questioned why individuals dedicated to the betterment of their communities, regardless of religious background, shouldnt receive support in the elections. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told the Non-Aligned Movement summit in Uganda on Saturday that the right of the Palestinian people to build their own state must be recognised by all. The refusal to accept a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians, and the denial of the right to statehood for the Palestinian people, are unacceptable, the UN leader insisted in the Ugandan capital Kampala. UN Secretary-General @antonioguterres again called for a ceasefire in #Gaza and the release of all hostages in his speech to #NAMSummitUg2024 on Saturday.https://t.co/zsYPtz25sK UN News (@UN_News_Centre) January 20, 2024 Such a stance would indefinitely prolong a conflict that has become a major threat to global peace and security; exacerbate polarisation; and embolden extremists everywhere, Guterres warned. The right of the Palestinian people to build their own state must be recognised by all. The Israeli war on Hamas in Gaza was prompted by the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas fighters. That attack resulted in the deaths of about 1,140 people, most of them Israeli civilians. Israels relentless bombardment and ground offensive since then have killed at least 24,927 people in Gaza, according to the Hamas governments health ministry. Israeli military aggression In its final communique, the Non-Aligned Movement on Saturday strongly condemned the Israeli military aggression against the Gaza Strip, and called for a lasting humanitarian ceasefire. The assembled leaders in Kampala also called for the independence and sovereignty of the State of Palestine, with East Jerusalem as its capital, to achieve a two-state solution. The Non-Aligned Movement is a forum of 120 countries that arent formally aligned to any major power bloc. Its members include India, Iran, Iraq and South Africa. The World Health Organization (WHO) has deplored the inhuman living conditions in the small coastal territory of 2.4 million inhabitants, many of whom have been displaced by the Israeli action. On Monday, Guterres appealed for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. The United States, Israels main ally and key supporter in its war against Hamas, has also recently reiterated its support for the creation of a Palestinian state. In recent days, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reaffirmed his opposition to the creation of a viable Palestinian state, drawing criticism from his American ally. Biden spoke Friday with Netanyahu in the leaders first call in almost a month amid sharp disagreements over what should happen in Gaza after the ongoing war concludes. The White House said they discussed the latest developments in Israel and Gaza. Washington has also pressed Tel Aviv to take additional steps to protect Palestinian civilians and scale back the intensity of its military efforts to root out Hamas in Gaza. (With agency inputs) A Google Engineer, in the US state of California, has been charged with murdering his wife, authorities said. Police found Liren Chen, 27, spattered with blood, in his home, with his wifes body nearby. The savagery unfolded in Santa Clara, an upscale city in the heart of Silicon Valley and just a few kilometers from Googles headquarters. Chen has been charged with murder and faces prison if convicted. His arraignment has been postponed once and may be again, as he is hospitalized. An arraignment remains scheduled for 1:30 p.m. this afternoon, in Department 23 in the Hall of Justice in San Jose, the Office of the District Attorney, Santa Clara said in a press statement. Domestic violence deaths have been falling in our county but that does not measure the depth and destructiveness of the violence, District Attorney Jeff Rosen said, noting that 911 calls regarding domestic violence have risen. Anyone who feels that they or someone else is being abused by their partners, please reach out your local law enforcement agency. You are not alone. We can help. Around 11 a.m. on January 16, Santa Clara officers responded to a welfare check to a home on Valley Way. When officers arrived, an acquaintance of the suspect expressed concern about Chen and his wife. Chen was refusing to answer his phone or his door. He could see Chen inside the home, motionless on his knees, had his hands in the air and was staring blankly. The officers made entry into the residence and took the suspect into custody. In the bedroom directly behind where Chen had been standing, officers located the victim deceased on the floor. She had severe blunt force injuries to her head. Chens right hand was extremely swollen and purple. He had blood on his clothing, legs, arms, and hands and scratches on his arm. The US Central Command on Saturday said that Iran-backed militants launched ballistic missiles at a base hosting US forces in western Iraq, causing one Iraqi and possible American casualties. This comes as heightened tensions grip the wider Middle East over Israels continued war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Multiple ballistic missiles and rockets were launched by Iranian-backed militants in western Iraq targeting al-Assad Airbase, CENTCOM said in a post on X. Iranian-backed Militants Attack Al-Assad Airbase, IraqAt approximately 6:30 p.m. (Baghdad time) time Jan. 20, multiple ballistic missiles and rockets were launched by Iranian-backed militants in Western Iraq targeting al-Assad Airbase. Most of the missiles were intercepted by pic.twitter.com/rYaNrRdRtu U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) January 20, 2024 Traumatic brain injuries Most of the projectiles were intercepted by the bases air defense systems but others impacted on the base, the statement said. A number of US personnel are undergoing evaluation for traumatic brain injuries. At least one Iraqi service member was wounded, it added. Since mid-October, there have been dozens of attacks on US and coalition forces in Iraq and Syria, deployed there to fight jihadists of the Islamic State group. Most have been claimed by Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a loose alliance of Iran-linked armed groups that oppose US support for Israel in the Gaza conflict. The group said in a press release Saturday that it had carried out the latest attack. The use of ballistic missiles marks an escalation in the attacks on US forces in Iraq and Syria, who had previously been targeted with lower-tech rockets and drones. Five members of Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps were also killed in a strike Saturday in Damascus that Tehran blamed on Israel, threatening reprisals. Last Monday evening, Iran itself launched a deadly strike in northern Iraqs autonomous Kurdistan region, saying it had targeted a site used by spies of the Mossad. Washington has on several occasions launched strikes of its own, which it has said were to impede further assaults or to prevent imminent attacks. Dozens of US personnel have been lightly wounded in previous attacks since late October, according to the Pentagon. There are roughly 2,500 American troops in Iraq and some 900 in Syria. (With agency inputs) The United States is taking the attack by Iran-backed militants on a base hosting US forces in Iraq over the weekend extremely seriously, the White House said Sunday. Multiple ballistic missiles and rockets were fired by Iranian-backed militants at Al-Assad Airbase in western Iraq late Saturday, the US military said, leading to one Iraqi and possible American casualties. It was a very serious attack, using a capability of ballistic missiles that posed a genuine threat, White House Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer said Sunday. We are going to respond to establish deterrence in these situations, and to hold these groups accountable that continue to attack us, Finer added during his appearance on ABCs This Week. You can be assured that we are taking this extremely seriously. Most of the projectiles fired at the base were intercepted by air defense systems, Finer and the Pentagon said. Since mid-October, there have been dozens of attacks on the approximately 2,500 US troops in Iraq and the around 900 in Syria, deployed there with other coalition forces to fight jihadists of the Islamic State group. Most incidents, including Saturdays attack, have been claimed by Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a loose alliance of Iran-linked armed groups that oppose US support for Israel in the Gaza conflict. The use of ballistic missiles marks an escalation in the attacks, which had previously been carried out with lower-tech rockets and drones. Saturdays air base attack comes amid soaring tensions in the Middle East following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war on October 7. A Ryanair flight from the UK to Spain took an unexpected turn when a mid-flight brawl involving eight men that forced the plane to divert to Portugal. The incident occurred on Ryanair flight 3511, en route from Luton to Lanzarote, at around 8:15 am on January 19, The Daily Mail reported. The flight, scheduled to land in Arrecife, was diverted to Faro, Portugal, landing around 10:50 am, according to flight tracking website FlightAware. Cops drag aggressive man off Ryanair flight from UK to Lanzarote during an emergency landing in Portugal pic.twitter.com/D0k09K0p8t E&N (@E_and_News) January 20, 2024 A group of intoxicated men began bothering female passengers, prompting a flight attendant to intervene, the New York Post reported on Saturday. After the brawl ensued, the flight attendant was knocked over. The captain subsequently addressed passengers via the loudspeaker, warning the passengers against unacceptable behaviour and threatening to land the plane in Portugal if the disturbances persisted. Despite the warning, the disruptive passengers continued their unruly behaviour, leading to the decision to land in the city of Faro in southern Portugal. When asked to deboard, one passenger voluntarily exited but later reboarded. Portuguese authorities then forcibly removed him, placing him in a headlock. Onlookers recorded the incident, with fellow passengers heard encouraging the police. The unruly passenger was eventually placed in a police car. Bye-bye mate! one man is heard shouting. Another woman shouted, Well done! Portugals Public Security Police confirmed the incident, saying that eight passengers engaged in shouting, hitting cabin luggage lockers, and disobeying instructions from the flight crew. One passenger, described as hostile and resistant, required physical force for removal. Following the police intervention, the flight departed Faro at 11:50 am and eventually reached its intended destination, Arrecife, at 1:20 pm. China's National Administration of Financial Regulation (NAFR) said on Saturday that the country will steadily expand institutional opening up of the financial sector. The NAFR said that it supports foreign-funded institutions with exceptional expertise in wealth management, elderly care and health care, and non-performing asset management in conducting business in China. The country will give full play to the advantages of its ultra-large market and pool high-quality financial resources globally, it said. The administration reiterated the significance of effectively preventing and defusing major financial risks and ensuring there will be no systemic financial risk. The NAFR will intensify supervision of the financial sector and coordinate with other relevant authorities to place all financial activities under oversight in accordance with law. A rehabilitation therapist instructs children during a rehabilitation training session at the Hongmeng disabled persons' service center in Lanzhou, northwest China's Gansu Province, Dec. 24, 2023. (Xinhua) LANZHOU, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- At Hongmeng disabled persons' service center in Lanzhou, capital of northwest China's Gansu Province, dozens of children are engaged in various activities such as stretching their limbs, practicing walking, and reciting words and sentences, guided by their rehabilitation therapists, at the break of dawn. As the only designated rehabilitation institution for disabled children in Yongdeng County, Lanzhou, the center through local government sponsorship has provided free treatment for more than 200 children with cerebral palsy, autism, or intellectual disabilities over the past four years. Many disabled children uttered their first "mom" or "dad" and took their first steps at the center, and director Meng Caiping believes that early training allows them a chance to reintegrate into society. In 2018, China established a national assistance system for the rehabilitation of disabled children that reinforced funding and institutional support for efforts to assist them. Therefore, Meng founded the Hongmeng disabled persons' service center, with the assistance of the county's disabled persons' federation. "Initially, there were only two physical therapy beds, but now the center has developed into a comprehensive rehabilitation institution with multiple departments, including physical therapy, speech therapy, and personal training," said Meng. Tao Tao (pseudonym), a 13-year-old boy from Yongdeng County, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when he was only eight months old. He joined Hongmeng four years ago with the support of the county's disabled persons' federation. "Before, he couldn't speak, walk, or indicate his needs for urination or defecation. I had to stay at home all day taking care of him. I thought he would spend his life in a wheelchair," said Tao Tao's mother. When Tao Tao first arrived, his overall muscle strength was low, and the movement of his limbs was restricted. The center decided to continuously press, rub, and stimulate his muscles, repeatedly calling out his name to guide him in performing movements. Gradually, his arms and legs became more flexible, according to his therapist He Jingjing. After a year and seven months of treatment, Tao Tao took his first steps. Now, he can walk independently and understand simple instructions, said He. With the local government providing an annual rehabilitation training fee of 16,000 yuan (about 2,248 U.S. dollars), Tao Tao's future looks brighter. His mother can now take him to the park, envisioning a time when he can take care of himself. Many parents like Tao Tao's mother, once burdened by years of caring for their children and social isolation, find solace in learning about the rehabilitation programs at the center, with hope rekindled, said Meng. Despite the unwanted repercussions such as scars and marks left by the children's scratching and biting during therapy, the staff of the center also resolve to persist, as they are inspired by the belief that saving a child means saving a family. Many Chinese families have benefited from the national assistance system for the rehabilitation of disabled children since its establishment in 2018. In Gansu, designated rehabilitation institutions for disabled children have increased from 30 to 205 over the past years. The provincial government also invests over 43 million yuan annually to support the rehabilitation institutions, and that figure is expected to increase to 63 million yuan in 2024. Some cities and counties further adopt diverse development models, including public-private partnerships, to include more disabled children aged between 6 and 17 in the rehabilitation assistance system. With the efforts of Hongmeng disabled persons' service center, over 20 children have returned to kindergarten, more than 30 have integrated into regular schools, and over 10 gained employment in restaurants after turning 18. Meng Caiping instructs children during a rehabilitation training session at the Hongmeng disabled persons' service center in Lanzhou, northwest China's Gansu Province, Dec. 24, 2023. (Xinhua) Government is finally acting on illegal settlers and village heads who have been selling State land with 250 arrested and charged in Masvingo in the last one week alone, The Mirror can reveal. Arrested suspects are spending a night at Masvingo Central Police cells which are packed to the brim before they are taken to court for remand the next day. The action seems to follow a recent strong warning by President Mnangagwa to local authorities that land belongs to the State and anyone who sells it would face the full wrath of the law. The arrests are taking place under Operation Order No to Land Barons and the suspects are charged with contravening Section 3 (1) of the Gazetted Land (Consequential Provisions) Act Chapter 20:28 as read with Section 5 occupation of gazetted land without lawful authority. Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs, Ezra Chadzamira confirmed the operation and said it would run from January 10 February 9, 2024. Currently most of the arrested suspects are from within the 20km radius of Masvingo Central Business District (CBD). The charged appeared before Magistrate Elizabeth Hanzi and they would get trial dates. Zimbabwe has since 2 000 been bedeviled with illegal settlements particularly in resettlement areas where some chiefs have made thousands selling State land. Just before he died the then Minister of Lands, Retired Air Marshal Perrance Shiri gave notice to all illegal settlers to vacate within seven days but the notice was not followed through after his death. Illegal settlements in Masvingo are seriously threatening Lake Mtirikwi with siltation while in resettlement areas particularly under Headman Musara, people have run out of grazing land. In the cities, land barons have created haphazard settlements with no roads, water or power while many settlements are on wetlands. Chadzamira said those settled in catchment areas, wetlands, grazing land and agriculture land should immediately vacate and properly apply for land when he launched the campaign at his office last Friday. Illegal settlers have occupied catchment areas, wetlands, grazing land and agriculture land hence affecting productivity and threatening dams and rivers with siltation. If you are illegally settled in the areas mentioned above in Masvingo, you are advised to vacate immediately and follow due procedures in acquiring land, he warned. Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Dr Anxious Masuka said illegal settlements will not be regularised and those that would have been arrested should relocate when he launched the national operation in Harare recently. It is a criminal offence, in terms of the Zimbabwe land Commission Act [Chapter 20: 29] and the gazetted Lands (Consequential Provisions Act) [Chapter 20:28], for anyone to occupy state land without lawful authority in the form of a permit, an offer letter or a lease. Government will not regularise those that settle themselves on State land without procedurally issued tenure documents. The full wrath of the law will be applied in such cases of illegal settlements, warned Masuka. Cases of village heads, headmen and chiefs parceling out land for about US$300 are rampant in Masvingos peri-urban areas. Masvingo Mirror ZIMDANCEHALL star Jah Signal recently caused a stir on social media when a video of him ostensibly gifting his wife who had reportedly just given birth a brand-new US$300 000 Range Rover as a push present went viral. It instantly set tongues wagging. It also generated intense debate and speculation. While one blogger described it as a heartwarming gesture, others questioned whether Jah Signal had the wherewithal to spoil his spouse with such a costly vehicle. Flaunting wealth real or imagined seems to have become the new phenomenon in showbiz, particularly in the music industry. In addition to flaunting their cars, some entertainers share photos of themselves lounging on beds clutching wads of cash. In an interview with The Sunday Mail Society, Jah Signal, real name Nicodemus Mutize, insisted he had the money to afford a flashy lifestyle. Many people are misinformed and think that musicians source of livelihoods are live shows and record sales that is not the case, he said. I monetised my music and I am getting the majority of my revenue flows from endorsements. He claimed that the real figure he had splurged on the new wheels was US$80 000. Global tours and social media, he further said, were decent sources of income. But Jah Signal is not the only one who claims to be comfy. The Sunday Mail Society recently visited Simon Mutambi a sungura music star who fronts Cobra Kings band at his farm in Beatrice. Although he does not display his wealth, the musician owns a large house in Beatrice and a fleet of 12 cars, including a Mercedes-Benz. He also has 16 band members on his payroll. The money is not in Harare, but in mining and farming areas, he said. He claims he can make up to US$12 000 in three days during a successful month. On Friday we can perform, say, in Zvishavane and get as much as US$3 000. On Saturday, we can have a show, say, in Mberengwa and earn US$4 000. On Sunday, we can have another show in Shurugwi, where we can pocket US$4 000. Mutambi is not the only one claiming to be rolling in the dough. Zimdancehall star Enzo Ishall (Stephen Mamhare) recently announced to the world that he had signed a deal with a local independent contractor which he said will earn him US$12 000 per month. Apart from the US$12 000, the musician will also enjoy other perks such as cars and holiday packages. The muso reportedly rents a full house in the leafy suburb of Madokero in Harare. The likes of Jah Prayzah, Holy Ten and Alick Macheso are some of the musicians that are said to be earning a lot of money. Killer T (born Kelvin Kusikwenyu) is also among those musicians who are well-to-do. The Mbare-born artiste, who resides in the medium-density suburb of Aspindale, Harare, reportedly owns several houses and a fleet of cars, which comprise a Toyota Fortuner and a Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Through his Killer T Foundation, he recently donated groceries to several old peoples homes in Harare and Chitungwiza. Many people still think that getting a formal education is the only way to get a decent life. This is not true. We have a lot of examples of local musicians who are well-off, Killer T said. Other side of the coin But there are numerous examples of musicians who recently hit rock-bottom and had to cry out for help. Patrick Mukwamba, Paradzai Mesi, Taruvinga Sugar Sugar Manjokota and are part of the struggling lot. Patrick Mukwamba is now eking out a living through vending, while Sugar Sugar had at one time resorted to artisanal mining. Mukwamba is even regretting the time he wasted as a musician. But sceptics are convinced that most local musicians are faking it. Labelling some of them a bunch of fakes, Nimrod Ndlovu, an arts critic, said most of the musicians are living fake lives by purporting to be rich. In my view, I do not think the majority of local musicians can afford the lives they are trying to portray. I doubt if Jah Signal is capable of having the financial muscle to acquire such a top-of-the-range vehicle, Ndlovu said. Most musicians, he added, do not own businesses that qualify them to live luxurious lives. Music promoter Partson Chipaz Chimbodza is, however, of the view that local musicians are capable of living decent lives through their talent. The local music industry is actually booming. The number of fans that are attending live shows is actually increasing. Some of the more established musicians are taking home large sums of money either through live shows or endorsements, he said. The fact that high-profile international musicians such as Koffi Olomide often come to perform in this country, he claims, means that promoters are capable of paying competitive rates. Although some of the musicians are pretending to be living large, some of their counterparts are actually living the lavish lives that they are portraying on social media platforms, Chimbodza added. According to music producer Clive Mono Mukundu, local musicians can make money out of entertaining people. In his book titled Is There Money in Zimbabwe Music Industry, which was published in 2022, Mukundu argues that musicians holding live shows outside Harare are capable of making more money than those that always concentrate on the capital city. Some of the musicians discovered that they can make money in areas that are outside Harare. They are actually earning a decent living, wrote Mukundu. Sunday Mail FOR Joshua Zirebwa who committed a spate of robberies in Bulawayo and was incarcerated at Khami Prison, it has been 18 years of remorse, regret and above all, a journey of life changing lessons under the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services rehabilitation programmes. He was arrested for carjacking, armed robbery, plain robbery and was heavily sentenced on account of the several counts he was convicted of. As each day passes, his hopes are shattered that one day he will be a free man. This is because he has seen numerous inmates being given amnesty with some who committed murder and were condemned to the death row. However, he might have to serve his entire 52 years as his offence does not fall under the amnesty category, a situation which he feels authorities should consider revisiting. I committed these offences when I was 22 years-old. I did not kill anyone but due to the numerous counts that I had, I was sentenced to 52 years in prison. I have served 18 years, but what pains me is that when amnesty comes, our category is left out. Our prison officers know our behaviour for the past 18 years but they do not have the power to recommend me for amnesty. I have seen murderers coming to prison with death sentences, and after 10 years being put to life and five years on benefitting from amnesty. But as for me, I have to serve 52 years which means I will come out at the age of 74. If you come here after 10 years, you will find me here, but I have been rehabilitated for more than a decade. We plead with Government to consider that, said Mr Zirebwa. Other prisoners at Khami Prison Complex on the outskirts of Bulawayo pleaded with law makers to come up with a piece of legislation that will see them being fully reintegrated into society without the ex-convict discrimination tag. The plea was amplified by inmates yesterday when they got an opportunity to meet a high level delegation that was led by the Deputy Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Advocate Nobert Mazungunye, that was on a tour to have an appreciation of the state of the countrys prisons. Adv Mazungunye was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary in his ministry, Mrs Vimbai Nyemba, Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) Commissioner-General Moses Chihobvu and other senior officers. They completed their tour at Khami Maximum Prison where the inmates got time to interact with the officials and pour out their concerns. It was the Khami Maximum Prison Imbube dance ensemble which welcomed the delegation and presented an emotional plea to the delegation through song and dance. We want to welcome you to Khami Maximum Prison, rehabilitation centre. We want to plead with our legislators who were voted into Parliament in order for them to advocate for peace and our well-being. To advocate for our rights as prisoners. Our Constitution, Section 56 (1) one says all persons are equal before the law and have the right to equal protection and benefit of the law. Women and men have the right to equal treatment, including the right to equal opportunities in political, economic, cultural and social spheres. Every person has the right not to be treated in an unfairly discriminatory manner on such grounds as their nationality, race, colour, tribe, place of birth, ethnic or social origin, language, class, religious belief, political affiliation, opinion, custom, culture, sex, gender, marital status, age, pregnancy, disability or economic or social status, or whether they were born in or out of wedlock, sang the group. Sunday News As we continue to digest the story of Alaska Airlines Flight 1282's mid-air blowout , people are wondering about the wisdom of letting babies sit on a parent's lap during flights. To recap, a piece of the Boeing 737 Max 9's bodywork detached while airborne, and nearby passengers were saved by their seatbelts while anything untethered, from cell phones to a teen's T-shirt, was sucked out of the resulting hole in the plane. Nobody ended up injured, but ABC News reports that at least three babies were in the laps of caregivers on the plane. That has renewed the question whether children under 2, who are allowed to spend flights hanging out on a lap, should have more stringent requirements in the air, notes Wired . The FAA recommends children under 2 sit in an approved car seaton their own separate plane seatduring flights, but has not made it a requirement. Wired notes the agency is obligated to show a cost-benefit analysis to justify such rules, and that's where things get tricky. The FAA's research suggests that the number of parents who would opt to drive instead of fly to save cash would cause more roadside deathsabout 72 per decadecompared to the very few it would prevent (3 deaths in about 30 years). Outside the US, European and UK authorities require a tandem belt for babies sitting with parents, but the FAA has banned them as evidence shows risk of injury may be greater during crashes. While the scenario that played out on Flight 1282 was incredibly rare, experts like Kwasi Adjekum, an assistant professor at the University of North Dakota's Department of Aviation, say current regulations are not enough to protect kids from the unpredictable. "If there had been a passenger holding a kid close to where that panel blew off, the explosive force was such that a kid being held would have been torn from the hands of their parents, and they would have been sucked out the plane," he tells the Washington Post. "The practice of holding kids on your lap, especially for takeoff and other vulnerable phases of flightit's highly frowned upon and discouraged." story continues below Wired suggests pressuring airlines to heavily reduce seat prices for children under 2 to maximize safety without packing roads with more cars. This could also reduce the risk of unrestrained children being injured in other ways. Turbulence, which is worsening with climate change, is the No. 1 cause of pediatric injuries on planes, and secure seating is the best method to prevent them. Placing parents with young kids at window seats would also help avoid more common injuriesbumps from the aisle, luggage falling, and hot drinks spilled on them. One dad has a thorough analysis of the pros and cons of lap travel, plus some creative solutionslike coming prepared to snag an empty seat. (A stowaway survived 2.5 ours in a plane's landing gear.) Nikki Haley directly questioned Donald Trump's mental ability to handle the presidency on Saturday in New Hampshire, comparing him to her parents and saying that when people "hit a certain age, there is a decline." Haley was picking up on her Republican opponent's comments the day before in which he seemed to repeatedly confuse her with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the Washington Post reports. "The concern I have is, I'm not saying anything derogatory, but when you're dealing with the pressures of a presidency, we can't have someone else that we question whether they're mentally fit to do this," Haley said in Keene, three days before the state's primary. At a rally in Concord, Trump apparently was trying to blame Pelosi, as he has before, for the Jan. 6 violence at the US Capitol, saying: "Nikki Haley is in charge of securitywe offered her 10,000 people, soldiers, National Guards, whatever they want. They turned it down." He used Haley's name several times. Anyway, the speaker has no say over the National Guard, per the Hill, and Pelosi's staff has contradicted Trump's unfounded version before. "The Speaker, a target of an assassination attempt that day, was no more in charge of Capitol security than Mitch McConnell was," an aide told the AP in 2021, per the Hill. Haley wasn't in government at the time. Haley made generational references Saturday in an attempt to tie Trump and President Biden together. "You know, my parents are up in age, and I love them dearly," she said when asked if Trump, 77, is mentally fit for the job. "But when you see them hit a certain age, there is a decline. That's a fact." Bringing Biden into it, Haley asked the crowd, "Do we really want to go into an election with two fellas that are going to be president in their 80s?" Biden's campaign also tweaked "a deeply confused Trump" in a post on X that included a video clip of the remarks. Haley launched the age attacks on her birthdayshe turned 52. Trump said this week that it's Haley who's not up to being president. "She's not smart enough," he said, per ABC News. story continues below Haley and Trump, who had a rally planned for Saturday night in Manchester, added endorsements by recent rivals: For Haley : Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, who ended his campaign the day after the Iowa caucuses, posted on X that he's backing the former UN ambassador, per the New York Times. "Trump intentionally tries to divide America and will continue to do so," Hutchinson wrote. : Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson, who ended his campaign the day after the Iowa caucuses, posted on X that he's backing the former UN ambassador, per the New York Times. "Trump intentionally tries to divide America and will continue to do so," Hutchinson wrote. For Trump: Sen. Tim Scott endorsed the former president onstage at a rally Friday night, per CNN. "We need a president who will unite our country," Scott told the crowd. "We need Donald Trump." (More Republican presidential primaries stories.) The family of a California college student who vanished nearly three decades ago sued the school on Thursday, alleging it contributed to Kristin Smart's murder through negligence. Smart, then 19, disappeared from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo on the state's scenic Central Coast over Memorial Day weekend in 1996, per the AP . Her remains have never been found, but she was declared legally dead in 2002. Paul Flores was arrested in 2021, convicted of first-degree murder in 2022, and sentenced last year to 25 years to life in state prison. Prosecutors say Flores killed Smart during an attempted rape on May 25, 1996, in his dorm room at the university, where they were both first-year students. He was the last person seen with Smart as he walked home with her from an off-campus party. In their lawsuit, Smart's parents, brother, and sister say the university could have prevented her death if they had properly dealt with university police reports filed by four other female students. Those students said Flores had stalked and harassed them in the months leading up to Smart's disappearance. The reports should have prompted the university to suspend or expel Flores, sending him back home "miles away from Kristin and the dorm room where he murdered her," the lawsuit says. The suit also contends that the university failed to pursue a proper and timely investigation into Smart's disappearance, including failing to seal Flores' dorm room and allowing it to be cleaned before it was finally searched 16 days after Smart vanished. In an email, Cal Poly spokesperson Matt Lazier said the university had no comment because the matter is pending. However, last May, university President Jeffrey Armstrong publicly apologized to the family for how it handled the investigation into her disappearance. (More Kristin Smart stories.) People celebrate Timket, the annual Ethiopian Epiphany festival, in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, Jan. 20, 2024. Millions of people on Saturday celebrated Timket, the annual Ethiopian Epiphany festival, across Ethiopia, with government officials and religious leaders urging the faithful to maintain peace and the world's intangible cultural heritage. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde) Holy water is sprinkled onto the crowds during Timket, the annual Ethiopian Epiphany festival, in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, Jan. 20, 2024. Millions of people on Saturday celebrated Timket, the annual Ethiopian Epiphany festival, across Ethiopia, with government officials and religious leaders urging the faithful to maintain peace and the world's intangible cultural heritage. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde) Holy water is sprinkled onto the crowds during Timket, the annual Ethiopian Epiphany festival, in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, Jan. 20, 2024. Millions of people on Saturday celebrated Timket, the annual Ethiopian Epiphany festival, across Ethiopia, with government officials and religious leaders urging the faithful to maintain peace and the world's intangible cultural heritage. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde) Holy water is sprinkled onto the crowds during Timket, the annual Ethiopian Epiphany festival, in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, Jan. 20, 2024. Millions of people on Saturday celebrated Timket, the annual Ethiopian Epiphany festival, across Ethiopia, with government officials and religious leaders urging the faithful to maintain peace and the world's intangible cultural heritage. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde) Moscow-installed officials said Ukrainian shelling killed at least 27 people and wounded 20 on Sunday at a market on the outskirts of Donetsk, a Russian-occupied city in the eastern part of the country. Among the injured in the suburb of Tekstilshchik were two children, said Denis Pushilin, the local leader. Ukrainian officials in Kyiv did not comment, and the claims could not be independently verified by the AP or the New York Times . Both sides in the fighting have increasingly relied on longer-range attacks this winter in the face of largely unchanged positions on the 930-mile front line in the nearly two-year-old war. The artillery shells that hit the area had been fired from the area of Kurakhove and Krasnohorivka to the west, Pushilin said, adding that emergency services responded to the scene. Donetsk is one of four regions in Ukraine that Russia annexed illegally in 2022, months after Moscow launched its full-scale invasion. Russia's Foreign Ministry also blamed Ukraine and described the strike as a "terrorist attack," per the AP. On Telegram, Aleksei Kulemzin, the pro-Russian mayor of Donetsk, said the market "was attacked on Sunday, when it is busiest," per the Times. Also on Sunday, a fire broke out at a chemical transport terminal at Russia's Ust-Luga port following two explosions, regional officials said. Local media said the Baltic Sea port, about 100 miles southwest of St. Petersburg, had been attacked by Ukrainian drones, causing a gas tank to explode. The blaze was at a site run by Russia's second-largest natural gas producer, Novatek, per the AP. In a statement to Russian media outlet RBC, the company blamed the fire on an "external influence," saying operations at the port were paused. Yuri Zapalatsky, the head of the Kingisepp district on the Gulf of Finland where the port is located, said that there were no casualties but that the area was on high alert. (More Russia-Ukraine war stories.) Tens of thousands of people marched in the streets of cities across France on Sunday to call on President Emmanuel Macron not to sign into law tough new legislation on immigration that they say bears the footprint of the far right and betrays French values. According to the Interior Ministry, 75,000 people took part across the country, with 16,000 protesters turning out in Paris, the AP reports. The hard-left CGT union put the number of protesters nationwide at 150,000. The timing of the protests was critical, coming four days before the Constitutional Council decides on Thursday whether all articles in the lawpassed in Decemberconform with the French Constitution. The bill strengthens the government's ability to deport foreigners considered undesirable and makes it tougher for foreigners to take advantage of social welfare, among other measures. The protest was called by 200 figures from various sectors, including the arts and the unions. The law "was written under the dictate of the merchants of hate who dream of imposing on France their project of 'national preference,'" the signatories of the call to march wrote. National preferenceunder which the French, not foreigners, should profit from the riches of the landhas long been the rallying cry of the far-right National Rally party. Macron backed the law in its tortuous course through parliament, but, in an unusual twist, has said that some articles appear unconstitutional, per the AP. Le Monde newspaper recently quoted an unnamed Interior Ministry official as saying that "a good dozen" of articles could be struck down by the Constitutional Council. Some articles would make it more difficult to bring family members to France; for instance, an applicant trying to join their spouse will have to show knowledge of the French language. The court is also likely to scrutinize tougher standards for receiving social services and housing or reestablishing a law done away with in 2012 that makes it illegal for a foreigner to be in France without residence papers. (More France stories.) ACT leader David Seymour was at an Auckland festival on Sunday afternoon celebrating the opening of a temple in India. On Saturday, at the hui at Turangawaewae Marae, around 10,000 Maori gathered to express frustration over new Government policies. However, Seymour was nowhere to be seen. "Basically because you don't have to go to every single event that happens in New Zealand," he explained to Newshub. Those who did go to the hui - which was called by the Maori King - have major concerns regarding Maori health, Te Reo, and Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Seymour said the new Government is trying to unify New Zealand. "I'm sick and tired of people being categorised by questions like Newshub's right now - 'Do I think Maori are happy?'," he said. "There's no answer to that because actually there's about three-quarters of a million people who are quite capable of thinking for themselves and don't need to be categorised by race." At the hui to voice their fears over the coalition Government's Maori policies, 10,000 people turned up. "So 10,000 people, what exactly is that - 0.02 percent of the New Zealand population?" Seymour asked. "We're promoting a modern, multi-ethnic, liberal democratic country where everyone has the same rights and duties." Maori health advocate Lady Tureiti Moxon filed an urgent claim with the Waitangi Tribunal, concerned about the plans to scrap the Maori Health Authority. Now the Waitangi Tribunal has granted an application for an urgent inquiry. Lady Tureiti said plans for the Maori Health Authority have been underway for almost 20 years since 2005. "We finally get there and just in one fell swoop - this Government wants to get rid of it," she said. "It's just wrong." In a statement to Newshub, Health Minister Dr Shane Reti said: "We are aware a statement of claim has been lodged with the Waitangi Tribunal. As this is an active claim, we are unable to comment on it right now." Lady Tureiti said Maori have the poorest health of any ethnic group in Aotearoa. "How many people need to die before we actually do something?" she asked. NZ First MP Shane Jones originally described the hui as a "monumental moan-session". "I definitely didn't get the volume of people correct... but the content of the korero - I don't think I was too far off the mark," he said. He believes the new Government is trying to take the whole country forward. "I'm deeply saddened by the description of our Government as a vessel of white supremacy," Jones said. "The Government is focused on the interests of every single Kiwi rather than every single iwi." And Jones said there is "no scope whatsoever for separatism in a flourishing, integrated New Zealand". "We need to have iwi leadership step away from the inflammatory language of white supremacy and other offensive remarks," he said. But Lady Tureiti wants Maori to have "our own solutions". "That's what we want. The Crown doesn't have all the solutions. The Crown has proven itself to be a very bad parent." Because she says doing what we've always done changes nothing. "As much as people say that we are all one people and we all deserve the same - Maori do not get the same," she said. "We want good health. We want to contribute well to our country and our communities but in order to do that, we want to do that for ourselves. "We don't want the Government telling us what's right for us and what isn't right for us and what they will do for us. We want to do those things for ourselves and we want them to enable us to do that." The Fiji Police Force posted images from the latest bust to its Facebook, showing plastic containers filled with the drug stacked towards the ceiling. Some was also sealed in kava bags, while a large quantity also appeared to be packaged in 'tile adhesive' wrapping. Fiji's Assistant Commissioner of Police Mesake Waqa said in total 1.1 tonnes of meth was found in both crystal and powder form. A 37-year-old businessman from Nadi was in custody in connection to the discovery. We have used your information to see if you have a subscription with us, but did not find one. Please use the button below to verify an existing account or to purchase a new subscription. Rescuers work at the site of a collapsed building after an Israeli missile attack in the Mazzeh neighborhood of Damascus, Syria, Jan. 20, 2024. Earlier on Saturday, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said that five of its members serving as military advisers in Syria as well as several Syrian forces and civilians were killed in the Israeli missile attack on the Mazzeh neighborhood of Damascus. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua) TEHRAN, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi condemned Israel's "cowardly assassination" of five Iranian "military advisers" in Syria on Saturday, vowing that the country will respond to the Israeli "terrorist" attacks. Raisi made the remarks in a statement published on the website of his office while extending condolences on the deaths of the five members of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) in an Israeli airstrike on Saturday morning on a residential neighborhood in the Syrian capital Damascus. Raisi said the killing was "a terrorist move" through "a flagrant violation of Syrian airspace," adding that Israel's attacks "will not remain unanswered by Iran." Earlier on Saturday, the IRGC said that five of its members serving as military advisers in Syria as well as several Syrian forces and civilians were killed in the Israeli missile attack on the Mazzeh neighborhood of Damascus. It identified the slain Iranians as Hojjatollah Omidvar, Ali Aqazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi, Saeid Karimi, and Mohammad-Amin Samadi. According to a statement released by the Syrian army, Israel carried out the airstrike from the occupied Golan Heights at 10:20 a.m. local time (0720 GMT) on Saturday. Iran says it has an advisory role in Syria, where its advisers work at the invitation of Damascus. Israel has repeatedly launched airstrikes against what it calls Iran-linked targets inside Syria. Rescuers work at the site of a collapsed building after an Israeli missile attack in the Mazzeh neighborhood of Damascus, Syria, Jan. 20, 2024. Earlier on Saturday, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said that five of its members serving as military advisers in Syria as well as several Syrian forces and civilians were killed in the Israeli missile attack on the Mazzeh neighborhood of Damascus. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua) Rescuers work at the site of a collapsed building after an Israeli missile attack in the Mazzeh neighborhood of Damascus, Syria, Jan. 20, 2024. Earlier on Saturday, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said that five of its members serving as military advisers in Syria as well as several Syrian forces and civilians were killed in the Israeli missile attack on the Mazzeh neighborhood of Damascus. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua) Rescuers work at the site of a collapsed building after an Israeli missile attack in the Mazzeh neighborhood of Damascus, Syria, Jan. 20, 2024. Earlier on Saturday, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said that five of its members serving as military advisers in Syria as well as several Syrian forces and civilians were killed in the Israeli missile attack on the Mazzeh neighborhood of Damascus. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua) Sinead Griffin, a theoretical physicist at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, and other experimentalists at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab have reviewed the work from Chinese labs working on room temperature and near room temperature superconductors. The evidence is not yet conclusive but her intuition is that the room superconductivity claims will pan out. The Chinese labs and the Korean Labs are both working on LK99 variants with sulfur blocking chemical points to ensure the copper substitutes at the right location. Her supercomputer modeling (two research papers), the Chinese experimental research says LK99 variant is back as a superconductor. This is a stronger statement than she made in August 2023 when she wrote her first theoretical paper that computer simulations and models were showing that LK99 could work if the copper were in the right spots. Her newest paper shows one dimensional superconductivity could work and the models suggests improvement to the chemical formulation. Seokbae Lee, CEO of Quantum Energy Research Institute, who claims to have created the room temperature and pressure superconductor LK-99, said, The material PCPOSOS developed is a superconductor. Chinese researchers have precisely created very similar material as the original korean team. Nine other groups in China are also working on replications and improvements. China researchers have found microwave and magnetic readings consistent with Meissner effects and superconductivity at about -20 celsius. The effects could start at room temperature, but the evidence is stronger at -20. The readings are weak but they are improving the materials. The two Chinese labs working on replicating LK-99 appear to have found a room-temperature superconductor. At first blush, here's what's different from last time: it's more like "room temperature" than room temperature, the paper says 250K which is -10 F or -23 C. That's pic.twitter.com/sJYIaLEsH8 Christian Keil (@pronounced_kyle) January 3, 2024 These are the statements by Sinead Griffin from an interview given to New York magazine. Its [chinese research] a really interesting result, says Sinead Griffin, a theoretical physicist at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. It seems to be two independent teams that came together and had similar results. My experimental friends say their work is good quality. The one thing is that it needs to go through peer review and to be replicated. Asked what her gut feeling is about whether the superconductivity claims will pan out, Griffin responds: I almost sound like a crazy person when I answer this, but I think it is a superconductor. I just say that its very, very hard to synthesize. Sinead Griffin has worked with other theoretical researchers to use supercomputers to model LK99 and other materials in the category of LK99. In July, 2023, Sinead Griffin, Berkeley Lab researcher, published the simulation of LK99 paper. The paper did *not* prove nor give evidence of superconductivity in Cu-apatite. It showed interesting structural and electronic properties that have features common with high-Tc superconductors provided Cu is in the right place. Dec, 2023 paper with Sinead Griffin. Edge-sharing quasi-one-dimensional cuprate fragments in optimally substituted Cu/Pb apatite. AKA One dimensional superconductivity looks hood for copper substituted lead apatite. The flurry of theoretical and experimental studies following the report of room-temperature superconductivity at ambient pressure in Cu-substituted lead apatite CuxPb10x(PO4)6O (`LK99) have explored whether and how this system might host strongly correlated physics including superconductivity. While first-principles calculations at low doping (x1) have indicated a Cu-d9 configuration coordinated with oxygen giving rise to isolated, correlated bands, its other structural, electronic, and magnetic properties diverge significantly from those of other known cuprate systems. Here we find that higher densities of ordered Cu substitutions can result in the formation of contiguous edge-sharing Cu-O chains, akin to those found in some members of the cuprate superconductor family. Interestingly, while such quasi-one-dimensional edge-sharing chains are typically ferromagnetically coupled along the chain, we find an antiferromagnetic ground-state magnetic order for our cuprate fragments which is in proximity to a ferromagnetic quantum critical point. This is a result of the elongated Cu-Cu distance in Cu-substituted apatite that leads to larger Cu-O-Cu angles supporting antiferromagnetism, which we demonstrate to be controllable by strain. Finally, our electronic structure calculations confirm the low-dimensional nature of the system and show that the bandwidth is driven by the Cu-O plaquette connectivity, resulting in an intermediate correlated regime. Another Dec, 2023 paper with with Sinead Griffin. Electron-phonon coupling in copper-substituted lead phosphate apatite. LK99 would not work if it depended upon electron-phonon interaction, but this does not rule out other mechanisms. Recent reports of room-temperature, ambient pressure superconductivity in copper-substituted lead phosphate apatite, commonly referred to as LK99, have prompted numerous theoretical and experimental studies into its properties. As the electron-phonon interaction is a common mechanism for superconductivity, the electron-phonon coupling strength is an important quantity to compute for LK99. In this work, we compare the electron-phonon coupling strength among the proposed compositions of LK99. The results of our study are in alignment with the conclusion that LK99 is not a likely candidate for room-temperature superconductivity if electron-phonon interaction is to serve as the mechanism. The Chinese work placing sulfur in the wrong places ensures that copper (Cu) get substituted in the right palce when a substitution occurs. 1. Possible Meissner effect near room temperature in copper-substituted lead apatite With copper-substituted lead apatite below room temperature, we observe diamagnetic dc magnetization under magnetic field of 25 Oe with remarkable bifurcation between zero-field-cooling and field-cooling measurements, and under 200 Oe it changes to be paramagnetism. A glassy memory effect is found during cooling. Typical hysteresis loops for superconductors are detected below 250 K, along with an asymmetry between forward and backward sweep of magnetic field. Our experiment suggests at room temperature the Meissner effect is possibly present in this material. Hongyang Wang1, Yao Yao2, Ke Shi3, Yijing Zhao3, Hao Wu4, Zhixing Wu5, Zhihui Geng6, Shufeng Ye1, and Ning Chen7 1 Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China 2 State Key Laboratory of Luminescent Materials and Devices and Department of Physics, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China 3 Beijing 2060 Technology Co., Ltd, Beijing 100084, China 4 School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China 5 Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Analysis and Detection Technology for Food safety, College of Chemistry, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China 6 School of Engineering, Course of Applied Science, Tokai University, Hiratsuka 2591292, Japan 7 School of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China (Dated: January 3, 2024) 2. Researchers from Six Chinese Universities and research labs have found experimental proof of some superconductivity near room temperature for LK99 material. School of Minerals Processing and Bioengineering, Central South University, Changsha, China State Key Laboratory of Luminescent Materials and Devices, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China Department of Physics, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Luminescence from Molecular Aggregates, Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory of Optoelectronic and Magnetic Functional Materials, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China They observe a considerable hysteresis effect of low-field microwave absorption (LFMA) in copper-substituted lead apatite. By continuously rotating samples under external magnetic field, this effect is diminished which can not be renewed by a strong magnetic field but will be spontaneously recovered after two days, indicating its glassy features and excluding possibility of any ferromagnetism. The intensity of LFMA is found to sharply decrease at around 250K, suggesting a phase transition takes place. A lattice gauge model is then employed to assign these effects to the transition between superconducting Meissner phase and vortex glass, and the slow dynamics wherein is calculated as well. 3. Edge-sharing quasi-one-dimensional cuprate fragments in optimally substituted Cu/Pb apatite Katherine Inzani, School of Chemistry, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom John Vinson, Material Measurement Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland, 20899, USA Sinead M. Griffin 3Materials Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, California The flurry of theoretical and experimental studies following the report of room-temperature superconductivity at ambient pressure in Cu-substituted lead apatite CuxPb10x(PO4)6O (LK99) have explored whether and how this system might host strongly correlated physics including superconductivity. While first-principles calculations at low doping (x 1) have indicated a Cu-d9 configuration coordinated with oxygen giving rise to isolated, correlated bands, its other structural, electronic, and magnetic properties diverge significantly from those of other known cuprate systems. Here we find that higher densities of ordered Cu substitutions can result in the formation of contiguous edge-sharing Cu-O chains, akin to those found in some members of the cuprate superconductor family. Interestingly, while such quasi-one-dimensional edge-sharing chains are typically ferromagnetically coupled along the chain, we find an antiferromagnetic ground-state magnetic order for our cuprate fragments which is in proximity to a ferromagnetic quantum critical point. This is a result of the elongated Cu-Cu distance in Cu-substituted apatite that leads to larger Cu-O-Cu angles supporting antiferromagnetism, which we demonstrate to be controllable by strain. Finally, our electronic structure calculations confirm the low-dimensional nature of the system and show that the bandwidth is driven by the Cu-O plaquette connectivity, resulting in an intermediate correlated regime. 4. The US Air Force Research Lab is funding Chapman University to study and try to replicate thin film LK99. DARPA may be following up with more extensive funding for thin film LK99. CHONGQING, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- The New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor reaches 490 ports in 120 countries and regions, according to the annual session of the people's congress of southwest China's Chongqing Municipality on Sunday. This trade corridor, jointly built by provincial-level regions in western China and ASEAN members, saw its cargo volume rise 21 percent year on year in 2023. Chongqing, which is the corridor's operational hub, became even more open to the world thanks to the corridor's greater impact last year. China-Europe freight train services handled by Chongqing and the city of Chengdu, in the neighboring Sichuan Province, cover 110 cities in Europe and Asia. A total of 33 international flight routes involving Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport were resumed last year, said the city's mayor Hu Henghua when delivering the government work report. Chongqing has continued to optimize its foreign investment and trade mix. In 2023, exports of the city's "new three" products, namely electric vehicles, lithium batteries and solar cells, doubled compared with the previous year. The value of the city's automobile exports registered 51.9 percent year-on-year growth in 2023. A total of 782 new foreign enterprises were established in Chongqing last year, while the city's import and export volume amounted to 713.74 billion yuan (about 100.3 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023. The Osun State Government has attributed the large number of out-of-school-children in the state to the neglect of the education sector during the administration of former governor Adegboyega Oyetola. The state government is also revealed that it is planning to recruit 6,000 teachers into the public primary and secondary schools in the state before the end of June 2024. The state government spoke in a statement released by Kolapo Alimi, the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, on Sunday. He said the recruitment is part of the Governor Ademola Adeleke administrations three pronged approach to redressing the deficit in the education sector in Osun State. The former governor, Oyetola, had on Saturday alleged that the high number of out-of-school-children was due to the sacking of teachers recruited by his administration. Oyetola had in the twilight of his administration recruited teachers into the public primary and secondary schools in the state. He also recruited medical and health workers into public health facilities. Recall that Adeleke on assumption of office in November 2022, through an Executive Order, sacked 1,500 teachers and health workers recruited by the Oyetola administration. Alimi, in the statement, added that Oyetolas allegation was an insult to the people of the state. He also posited that education in the state suffered neglect under the last administration. It is on records that the last administration in a series of post election bobby traps employed over 10,000 workers to make the state ungovernable for the incoming Adeleke government, a development the new government promptly addressed with six executive orders to restore normalcy. If the former Governor was really interested in addressing the rot in the education sector, how come he waited till he lost the election before rushing through recruitment of teachers against due process and extant laws? If the so-called recruited teachers were retained , how would that have positively impacted on poor learning conditions, dilapidated school infrastructures, parental economic crisis and overwhelming dislocations within the school environment which are the real reasons for the high number of out of school children inherited from Oyetola government? As part of efforts to clear the mess of past government, the state government organized an education summit which proffered far reaching recommendations covering all sub-sectors of the state education system. A white paper has now been approved by the state Executive Council for the implementation of the recommendations of the summit, the statement said. Alimi also posited that the Adelekes administration embarked on holistic reform of the education sector by addressing the three key determinants of educational performance. They are namely teachers welfare, learning environment and learning materials, noting that the administration is simultaneously implementing measures on the three areas. The British Council in Nigeria has again increased the fee for the English Language Testing System examinations by 29%. According to a notice published on the councils website, applicants will now pay the sum of N139,000 for the Computer Academic and General Training Modules from February 1, 2024. The examination is widely accepted globally by non-native English speakers as evidence of their language proficiency. The council blamed the change in fee on the hike in the costs of conducting the examination. We would like to inform you that there has been a review of our IELTS fees. The new price list of the IELTS range of tests offered by the British Council will be effective for registrations on or after 1 February 2024. The change in price is associated with the increased costs of the delivery of our exams. This will enable us to continue to offer a wide range of services and comprehensive support to enable you to achieve your goals. Thank you for choosing the British Council, the notice read. This is the second time in five months the price has been jerked. In September 2023, the Council increased the fee for the examination from between N80,000 to N90,000 to N107,500. Former lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani has bemoaned the failure of the federal government, particularly the previous administration to utilize the $460 million borrowed from China for the installation of CCTV cameras in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT Abuja. The former federal lawmaker was reacting to the recent surge in the activities of bandits who have been on a rampage in the territory, killing and kidnapping citizens. The Nigerian government in 2010, obtained a $460 million loan from the China-EXIM bank for the installation of the Closed-Circuit Television cameras in Abuja. The contract was awarded to a Chinese firm, ZTE Communications in 2010. The then Minister of Finance, Olusegun Aganga, had led a delegation to Beijing, China, to sign a Memorandum of Understanding on the deal with the Chinese company. About 14 years later, the project is yet to be executed as the nations capital continues to grapple with a worsening security crisis. In a post on his official X handle on Sunday, Shehu Sani lamented that the money and the cameras were kidnapped by the previous governments. He wrote, Nigerias capital is experiencing an upsurge in cases of kidnappings; this is the same city that the previous federal government secured a $460 million Chinese loan for the installation of CCTV cameras. Both the money and the Cameras have since been kidnapped by elements of the past Governments. Recall that the House of Representatives, in October 2019, vowed to probe the borrowed fund. The then House Committee on Finance asked why the CCTV cameras were not working years after the loan was obtained. The Nigerian Navy, NN, on Saturday, handed over a fishing trawler, MFV Lady Jessica ll and 13 crew members to the Federal Department of Fisheries in Bayelsa State. The trawler was arrested on Dec. 11 by the Navys Forward Operating Base (FOB) Formoso while trawling within an area reserved for artisanal fishing boats. It was arrested at a position that was less than five nautical miles from the shore around the Pennington River entrance without operating her Automatic Identification System. The handing over was held at a brief ceremony at the Forward Operating Base, Egwema, Brass and performed by the Commanding Officer, Capt. Murtala Rogo, represented by the Executive Officer, FOB, Commander Dantani Bukar. He said the act violated the Sea Fisheries Act of 1992, adding that such acts, among others, would not be tolerated by the Nigerian Navy. The Commander also said the Nigerian Navy would not tolerate any maritime infractions in the Nigerian waters and the Gulf of Guinea. Let me also add that the Nigerian Navy will not relent in its effort to police and enforce maritime laws. To this end, I wish to advise all Mariners to be law-abiding as they engage the Nigerian maritime domain for their individual businesses. Pertinently, fishing companies and agents must pay particular attention to the instructions in Form B issued to them by the FDF. Same must be communicated and understood by the vessel crew to avoid any form of infringement of the state laws therein, NAN quoted him as saying. Authorities are investigating the death of a man who was shot Saturday night in Atlantic City. Atlantic City Police received a ShotSpotter alert for several gunshots on the 100 block of North Virginia Avenue shortly after 7:15 p.m., according to the Atlantic County Prosecutors Office. Officers arrived at the scene to find Christian Hunter, 32, of Atlantic City, unresponsive on the sidewalk with multiple gunshot wounds. Hunter was pronounced dead at AtlantiCare Medical Center, city division, the prosecutors office reported. The shooting remains under investigation, officials said, and no arrests have been announced. Anyone with information about this shooting is asked to call the prosecutors office at 609-909-7666 or provide an anonymous tip at ACPO.Tips. Tips may also be provided by calling Crime Stoppers at 609-652-1234 or 1-800-658-8477 (TIPS) or going online to www.crimestoppersatlantic.com. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards for information leading to the arrest and indictment of those who commit crimes in Atlantic County. Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com. Matt Gray may be reached at mgray@njadvancemedia.com. TOKYO, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Approval ratings for Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has sunken to a record low in the wake of its slush fund scandal, according to the latest opinion poll. Public support rate for the LDP dropped to 14.6 pct, down 3.7 percentage points from the previous month, Japanese news agency Jiji Press said in its latest survey. It marked the lowest rate since the monthly poll started in 1960, excluding periods when the LDP was an opposition party, showed the January survey released on Thursday. Last week, Seiwaken, the largest LDP faction formerly led by the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, which was at the center of the enduring slush fund scandal, announced the decision to dissolve itself. In the meantime, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida pledged to disband the LDP's fourth-largest faction that he led until last month, and the faction led by former LDP Secretary-General Toshihiro Nikai also announced its disbanding decision. Japanese prosecutors on Friday filed charges against several individuals from three factions within the LDP, indicting without arrest the chief treasurers of the Abe and Nikai factions. All indicted individuals, suspected of failing to report part of the factions' revenue from fundraising events, faced charges of false accounting, in violation of the political funds control law. At the end of last year, in the wake of the unfolding scandal where five major factions were suspected of paying kickbacks to member lawmakers who sold fundraising party tickets above their quota without recording the amount as revenue in its political fund reports, over 10 senior officials or heavyweight lawmakers have stepped down from their positions in Kishida's cabinet or in the LDP. Local media reports showed that the Abe faction was suspected to have pooled secret funds amounting to 600 million yen from 2018 to 2023, with more than 200 million yen involved by the Nikai faction. The underreported amount of the Kishida faction amounted to about 30 million yen from 2018 to 2020. A West New York general contracting business that owes more than $100,000 for violations of state unemployment compensation and disability benefits laws is being called out by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (DOL). Y and E General Contractor is one of 19 businesses that were added to the DOLs Workplace Accountability in Labor List, or WALL, earlier this month, bringing to 101 the number of employers that have failed to address their outstanding liabilities for violations of wage, benefit or tax laws. The 19 new businesses owe a total of $1.1 million, including unpaid contributions to the Unemployment Compensation Fund and State Disability Benefits Fund. The 101 businesses posted to The WALL collectively owe $12.6 million either directly to their workers or for unpaid taxes or contributions. HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) The National Park Services proposal to remove a William Penn statue from a historic site in Philadelphia - quickly withdrawn amid a backlash wasnt a priority for some of the Native Americans the agency was required to consult with as it prepared to renovate the deteriorating plaza. Uprooting the statue of Pennsylvanias founder from Welcome Park also wasnt a major point of discussion as park service officials and tribal representatives met to plan the renovation over video last year, said Jeremy Johnson, director of cultural education for the Delaware Tribe of Indians. By Juliana Worrell In his State of the State message, Gov. Phil Murphy called for introducing new initiatives to teach children in the state the fundamentals of reading like sounding out letters and combining them into words. Six-day (Tuesday through Sunday) print subscribers of the Watertown Daily Times are eligible for full access to NNY360, the NNY360 mobile app, and the Watertown Daily Times e-edition, all at no additional cost. If you have an existing six-day print subscription to the Watertown Daily Times, please make sure your email address on file matches your NNY360 account email. You can sign up or manage your print subscription using the options below. Watertown, NY (13601) Today Snow likely. High 38F. Winds WSW at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of snow 100%. Snowfall around one inch.. Tonight Cloudy with snow showers mainly during the evening. Low 26F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 50%. Looking for more to do this week? Check out the latest on Gambit's calendar at calendar.gambitweekly.com. Algiers Mardi Gras A parade and live music highlight the Algiers Mardi Gras festival on Saturday, Jan. 27. Performers include Amanda Shaw, Mia Borders, Brass-A-holics, Stephanie Jordan, the Topcats and more. The parade features the Mohawk Hunters Mardi Gras Indians and marching bands from Edna Karr High School, L.B. Landry High School, Alice M. Harte Charter School and Martin Behrman Charter School. The parade starts at 9 a.m. Saturday at Lamarque Street and L.B. Landry Avenue and goes to the festival grounds at Federal City. The festival is from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, visit algiersmardigrasfest.com. Big Chief Juan Pardo with LPO Big Chief Juan Pardo of the Golden Comanche is well-known for his music and has worked with Galactic, 101 Runners and many other New Orleans musicians. He now adds the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra to that roster of collaborators. On Thursday, Jan. 25, Pardo will join the LPO for the premiere of Birth of a Culture, a composition by Maxim Samarov in collaboration with Pardo that celebrates Mardi Gras Indian history and traditions. Samarov is an award-winning composer, the co-founder of the New Orleans Chamber Orchestra and a professor and the orchestra director at Tulane University. The program also includes the premiere of Kiskadee, a new piece by Arlene Sierra, and a performance of Wynton Marsalis Blues Symphony. The concert starts at 7:30 p.m. at Orpheum Theater. Tickets begin at $28 via lpomusic.com. Ryan Hanseler Pianist and composer Ryan Hanseler has played with Branford Masalis, Herlin Riley, Adonis Rose and the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Jazzmeia Horn and many others. Hes also led his own groups, and in 2022 released his first solo album, which was recorded at Snug Harbor. After a long stint in New Orleans, Hanseler relocated last year to Washington, D.C., where hes the pianist for the Navy Commodores Big Band. He returns to Snug Harbor on Tuesday, Jan. 23, for a performance with vocalist and frequent collaborator Gabrielle Cavassa, saxophonist Ricardo Pascal, bassist Lex Warshawsky and drummer Peter Varnado. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 via snugjazz.com. Lost Bayou Ramblers The Lost Bayou Ramblers are again nominated along with several other Louisiana bands for a Best Regional Roots Music Album Grammy award. It recorded Live: Orpheum Theater NOLA with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. The Ramblers won the trophy in 2018 for Kalenda. The band is at Tipitinas on Friday, Jan. 26. Crush Diamond also performs. Tickets $20 via tipitinas.com. Lesseps Street Block Party The annual Lesseps Street Block Party is held in remembrance of the late Billy Ding and Michael Aaron, two New Orleans musicians who frequently could be found at BJs and Vaughans. The two bars now anchor the one-night music fest, which this year includes Little Freddie King, the Daiquiri Queens, Silver Synthetic, Charlie Halloran and The Tropicales and more. Things kick off at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 26. Find more info, including ticket details on Instagram, @bjslounge. The Rumble Mardi Gras Indian funk band The Rumble and Chief Joseph Boudreaux Jr. of the Golden Eagles are currently in the running for a Grammy Award for their debut project, Live at The Maple Leaf. If you havent felt The Rumble, especially on their home turf at the Maple Leaf, youre missing out. The band returns to the bar on Oak Street at 11 p.m. Friday, Jan. 26, and Saturday, Jan. 27. Tickets are $15 advance via mapleleafbar.com and $20 at the door. Neil deGrasse Tyson Delving into astrophysics isnt a common path to celebrity, but Neil deGrasse Tyson has become a familiar face for breaking down the cosmic science of the big bang, black holes, dark matter and more. His books include Astrophysics for People in a Hurry and a discussion of Plutos planetary status. He discusses the most fascinating mysteries of the universe in a live presentation at Saenger Theatre. At 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23. Find tickets via saengernola.com. Sarah Shook & The Disarmers Alt-country band Sarah Shook & The Disarmers stop in New Orleans ahead of the release of their latest album, Revelations, out on March 29. Catch them at 8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 28, at Siberia. Tickets are $21.09 via dice.fm. LeTrainiump Its been a minute since LeTrainiump has headlined a New Orleans show, but with new music in tow (his latest single, Falling Again, is out Jan. 26), its a great time to catch up with the charismatic, fun indie pop artist. Rapper _TheSmoothCat and his band The 9th Life open at 9 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, at the Rabbit Hole. Tickets are $10 advance via rabbitholenola.com and $15 at the door. No Frets Electric As No Frets Electric, New Orleans multi-instrumentalist Amine Boucetta (who here plays a unique instrument called the Monofret P4), bassist Martin Masakowski and percussionist and accordionist Simon Moushabeck perform progressive arrangements of classical music from the Middle East and Africa. They perform at 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 25, at the Rabbit Hole. Tickets are $10 advance via rabbitholenola.com and $15 at the door. Steve Byrne Steve Byrne has starred in several Comedy Central and Netflix specials, a few films and the TV sitcom Sullivan & Son. He performs standup at 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, at The Howlin Wolf. Tickets $25 via thehowlinwolf.com. BEIJING, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Beijing is striving to build itself into a global benchmark city for the digital economy, with added value in digital sectors accounting for 42.9 percent of its regional gross domestic product (GDP) in 2023, said mayor of the city Yin Yong on Sunday. Official statistics show that in 2023, Beijing's digital economy had achieved added value of some 1.88 trillion yuan (about 263.7 billion U.S. dollars), marking an 8.5 percent year-on-year increase when calculated at current prices. Additionally, Beijing has excelled in the construction of digital infrastructure, boasting several national leading indicators. In 2023, the Chinese capital erected 30,000 new 5G base stations, securing the top spot nationally with 49 5G base stations per ten thousand people, according to Yin. Moreover, 24 of Beijing's generative AI products have been granted public access, nearly half of China's total. The high-level autonomous driving demonstration zone in Beijing covered 160 square kilometers in 2023, enabling the testing and use of 775 autonomous vehicles across eight scenarios. "In 2024, Beijing will accelerate the construction of a global benchmark for the digital economy, actively strategize in key sectors of the digital economy, and comprehensively transform production methods, lifestyles and governance through digitization," Yin added. The Beijing mayor made the remarks on Sunday, when he delivered the government work report at the annual session of the Beijing Municipal People's Congress. Tengpa Anye (R) cleans a lion dance prop at a primary school in Xobando Town of Lhorong County in Qamdo City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 19, 2024. Lhorong County, with an average elevation of about 3,700 meters, was once an important stop along the ancient Tea Horse Road and a significant channel for Tibetan-Han exchanges. Locals in Xobando Town injected elements of Tibetan folk dances into the Han lion dance introduced to the town in early years, and created a new performing art -- Xobando lion dance. Tengpa Anye, 69, who began to learn lion dance from his father at 13, is an inheritor of Xobando lion dance art. In the past, Tengpa had to make lion dance props by himself because the ready-made ones were unaffordable. Nowadays, thanks to improved living conditions and governmental supports, Tengpa and his students have not only access to professionally prepared props but also opportunities to appear at major performance events. No longer an agile performer due to his age, Tengpa is devoted to training younger Xobando lion dancers. He has been offering a hobby lecture on the lion dance at a primary school in Xobando since 2015. The Xobando lion dance bears witness to the history of exchanges and integration among diverse ethnic groups in Xizang. "By teaching the lion dance, we are passing on the spirit of ethnic unity," Tengpa said. (Xinhua/Sun Fei) Children have fun with a lion dance prop at a primary school in Xobando Town of Lhorong County in Qamdo City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 19, 2024. Lhorong County, with an average elevation of about 3,700 meters, was once an important stop along the ancient Tea Horse Road and a significant channel for Tibetan-Han exchanges. Locals in Xobando Town injected elements of Tibetan folk dances into the Han lion dance introduced to the town in early years, and created a new performing art -- Xobando lion dance. (Photo by Tenzin Nyida/Xinhua) Tengpa Anye (R) instructs students to perform lion dance at a primary school in Xobando Town of Lhorong County in Qamdo City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 19, 2024. Lhorong County, with an average elevation of about 3,700 meters, was once an important stop along the ancient Tea Horse Road and a significant channel for Tibetan-Han exchanges. Locals in Xobando Town injected elements of Tibetan folk dances into the Han lion dance introduced to the town in early years, and created a new performing art -- Xobando lion dance. (Xinhua/Sun Fei) Tengpa Anye (L) plays the drum as his students perform lion dance at a primary school in Xobando Town of Lhorong County in Qamdo City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 19, 2024. Lhorong County, with an average elevation of about 3,700 meters, was once an important stop along the ancient Tea Horse Road and a significant channel for Tibetan-Han exchanges. Locals in Xobando Town injected elements of Tibetan folk dances into the Han lion dance introduced to the town in early years, and created a new performing art -- Xobando lion dance. (Xinhua/Sun Fei) Tengpa Anye plays the drum to accompany lion dance at a primary school in Xobando Town of Lhorong County in Qamdo City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 19, 2024. Lhorong County, with an average elevation of about 3,700 meters, was once an important stop along the ancient Tea Horse Road and a significant channel for Tibetan-Han exchanges. Locals in Xobando Town injected elements of Tibetan folk dances into the Han lion dance introduced to the town in early years, and created a new performing art -- Xobando lion dance. (Photo by Tenzin Nyida/Xinhua) Students of Tengpa Anye perform lion dance at a primary school in Xobando Town of Lhorong County in Qamdo City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 19, 2024. Lhorong County, with an average elevation of about 3,700 meters, was once an important stop along the ancient Tea Horse Road and a significant channel for Tibetan-Han exchanges. Locals in Xobando Town injected elements of Tibetan folk dances into the Han lion dance introduced to the town in early years, and created a new performing art -- Xobando lion dance. (Photo by Tenzin Nyida/Xinhua) Tengpa Anye (R) instructs students to perform lion dance at a primary school in Xobando Town of Lhorong County in Qamdo City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 19, 2024. Lhorong County, with an average elevation of about 3,700 meters, was once an important stop along the ancient Tea Horse Road and a significant channel for Tibetan-Han exchanges. Locals in Xobando Town injected elements of Tibetan folk dances into the Han lion dance introduced to the town in early years, and created a new performing art -- Xobando lion dance. (Photo by Tenzin Nyida/Xinhua) Tengpa Anye (R) instructs students to perform lion dance at a primary school in Xobando Town of Lhorong County in Qamdo City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 19, 2024. Lhorong County, with an average elevation of about 3,700 meters, was once an important stop along the ancient Tea Horse Road and a significant channel for Tibetan-Han exchanges. Locals in Xobando Town injected elements of Tibetan folk dances into the Han lion dance introduced to the town in early years, and created a new performing art -- Xobando lion dance. (Photo by Tenzin Nyida/Xinhua) Tengpa Anye (L) performs lion dance with his grandson in Xobando Town of Lhorong County in Qamdo City, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, Jan. 19, 2024. Lhorong County, with an average elevation of about 3,700 meters, was once an important stop along the ancient Tea Horse Road and a significant channel for Tibetan-Han exchanges. Locals in Xobando Town injected elements of Tibetan folk dances into the Han lion dance introduced to the town in early years, and created a new performing art -- Xobando lion dance. (Xinhua/Sun Fei) A popular story making the rounds this week was the population of China decreasing for the 2nd year in a row. Births fell to a record low in 2023 while deaths reached a record high and the overall population fell by just over 2 million to 1.41 billion. (The population decrease in 2022 amounted to roughly 300,000, according to Bloomberg.) A delayed recording of COVID fatalities could explain the deaths, but the birth rate has been steadily declining since 2016, the same year they ended the one child policy, allowing families to have two children. Then in July of 2021 China scrapped all childbearing limitations, allowing families to have as many children as they liked. China isnt the only one facing this situation, as many developed nations are seeing similar numbers on varying timelines. But a country with the second largest economy in the world and the largest population grabs the headlines. It was not a market moving headline, as this is a Tortoise story, but on a long enough timeline it will beat the Hare of any other headline that matters as it has everything to do with the cost of tea in China. Grain markets for the week were steady, attempting to shake off a bearish crop report from last week, but a full on recovery wasnt made available just yet. March corn futures were down a penny on the week at $4.45/bu, March soybeans were up $0.07 for the week at $12.13, and March wheat was down $0.03 to finish the week at $5.93. Have a comment or question? Please reach out to derrick.hermesch@pinionglobal.com or call at 785-338-9605. MICHIGAN CITY The snow emergency declared on Friday in Michigan City remains in effect as of 8 a.m. Saturday, the mayor's office said. Michigan City was hit with an additional six inches of snowfall overnight, bringing the total accumulation to more than 3-feet since Winter Storm Indigo arrived late Thursday night. "Public safety is of paramount concern during this snow event," Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch said. We ask everyone to stay off the roads, if you can avoid it, until the emergency status has been lifted. We will continue to monitor the weather and reassess throughout the day; but until we make that call, weve got crews out working to clear the streets. Bus service and trash pickup have been suspended. The Refuse Department trucks used for pickup will resume Sunday morning and work extended hours throughout the week to catch up from the holiday and winter storm, officials said. Though the city will be salting, street director Shong Smith wants to remind residents salt is not effective below 15 degrees. Police chief Marty Corley asks residents to stay indoors to prevent an unsafe environment. Snow removal conditions will remain in effect while Michigan City maintains its snow emergency status. City ordinance dictates no parking along streets designated as snow routes; citizens must park on the side of the street with odd-numbered addresses on even-numbered days on streets that are not snow routes; and must park on the even-numbered side of the street on odd-numbered days. Questions can be directed to central services at 219-873-1500. For more updates on Michigan City's response to the winter storm, visit www.emichigancity.com. Gallery: Recent arrests booked into LaPorte County Jail Cory Newsome Tiffany Dupree Dustin Musgrave Randy George Jeremy Teutemacher Damita Smith Sidney Holifield Dewite Garland Bruce Kahn James Johnson Sabrina Jones David Nava Shawn Shirley Brian Sherrod Rickey Gurley Sr. Kenneth Umfleet Brandon Bernacchi Dashawn Brown David Kubiak JD Williams Jr. Joseph France Luke Hardin Brian Vernard Bombers BBQ has opened a craft beer arcade at its Crown Point location. The barbecue restaurant at 35 W. 112th Ave. added seven pinball machines, including Toy Story, The Simpsons, Monster Bash, Venom, Avengers and Twilight. It also added arcade games like Mrs. Pac Man and a claw game. They're all coin-operated and a change machine is available. "There's been a resurgence of pinball the last 10 years or so," owner Darin Jacobs said. "There's been a resurgence of arcade games. It's just a different atmosphere. It's nostalgic." Bombers BBQ, a longtime institution in Munster, also added a self-serve craft beer wall in Crown Point at which people can pour their own beers. It has a wide selection of craft beers, including many local ones, Jacobs said. "You can try different beers and pour as little as you'd like to sample it," he said. "We'll rotate them out and keep the most popular ones a little longer." Bombers is extending its hours now that it's added a nightlife component. It's now open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. It also will start hosting live music on Friday and Saturday, including a wide variety of solo and acoustic acts. It's also planning special events like an upcoming pint night with 3 Floyds. Open Panini Panini, whose sandwiches have been hailed as the best in the state of Indiana, expanded to Valparaiso. The French bistro in Michigan City specializes in elegant sandwiches with top-shelf ingredients like prosciutto, lobster, scallops and smoked salmon. It also has pasta, salads, soups and desserts. A popular stop for beachgoers during the summer, it expanded to a second location at 22 Washington Street in downtown Valparaiso. "There was an opportunity and a need for a sandwich spot in downtown Valpo," said partial owner Madison Maxwell. "We had a lot of people traveling to us from Valparaiso. This brings it a little closer." Panini Panini is located in the former Esca spot in downtown Valpo. It has largely the same menu as the Michigan City location, which Yelp and Buzzfeed named the best sandwich spot in Indiana in 2019. "We're working to bring over some items like lobster, but it will eventually be the exact same menu," Maxwell said. "We brought over all the recipes, homemade desserts and the same specials. We're working to bring over an espresso machine and get an alcohol permit to sell wine and beer." The Valparaiso location allows customers to order half and half, in which people can pair a half sandwich with a half salad or half pasta. The owners are also still decorating the space, which will be decked out with European decor like in Michigan City. The restaurant has been a longtime staple with a loyal following. The previous owners recently sold to Mars and Casey Dorian of Fort Wayne. "We had a lot of people out here shopping in Valparaiso. It's very friendly here," Maxwell said. "It's bustling in the wintertime when Michigan City is more seasonal." Top sellers so far include the Cubano and Reuben. "There's a lot more gluten-free demand in Valparaiso than Michigan City," she said. "We have gluten-free bread." Panini Panini is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday though Sunday. For more information, call 219-242-8756. Coming soon Chick-fil-A plans to build a 6,035-square-foot restaurant at 601 E. 109th Place in Crown Point. It will be located just off the 109th Place exit of Interstate 65 between the new McDonald's and the new Texas Roadhouse. "Its our pleasure to confirm we will be opening a new restaurant in Crown Point this fall," a Chick-fil-A spokesperson said. "Chick-fil-A Crown Point will be located at the southeast corner of 109th Avenue and Virginia Street. More information will be available closer to the opening." The southern chicken sandwich chain, whose name refers to a chicken filet, has been rapidly expanding across the Region. It opened by the Southlake Mall in 2011 and then in Schererville in the new Oak District by the old Omni Fitness in 2021, drawing long lines that snake through the drive-thru. It's also opening a new location in the Lansing Square Shopping Center on Torrence Avenue in Lansing, which is also slated to open this fall. Chick-fil-A said its locally owned franchises typically employ 80 to 120 people. Founded in 1946, the Atlanta-based chain has grown to more than 3,000 restaurants across the country by encouraging people to "eat mor chikin'." Closed on Sundays, it serves chicken nuggets, waffle fries, kale slaw, sweet tea and other southern fare. The family-owned fast food restaurant has a loyal following like In-N-Out Burger, Shake Shack or Whataburger. Open Bon Vie opened in the former Bistro 54 space, a house dating back to 1895 at 54 Main St. in Hobart. The new sit-down restaurant, a 40-seat eatery that overlooks Lake George, specializes in farm-to-table dining with fresh seasonal business. The opening menu included chicken, fish, pasta and pork rib chop dishes, owner Laurie Farver-Busch said. "We keep it fresh and sell it until we run out of everything," she said. "We try to have everything at least three to four weeks." The pork rib chops, for instance, will be replaced with a petite filet once it's sold out. Farver-Busch is a hospitality industry veteran who loved Bistro 54 and wanted to bring a sophisticated dining option to Hobart. "It's chef-driven," she said. "With my background, I wanted a unique experience that's fresh and farm-to-table." Crafted by chef Ceasar Cicala, the current menu includes a housemade ricotta ravioli with roasted garlic pesto cream and broccolini, tricolored spumoni panna cotta and a turnip fennel feta salad with a pomegranate mustard dressing and radishes and shallots. There's Idaho steelhead trout, a salmon and potato chowder with green chilis and green onions, and a Kentucky Hot Brown, a spin on the classic Louisville dish invented at the Brown Hotel that features a boneless half chicken over thick toast with Mornay cheese sauce, tomatoes and bacon. "Everything is in season," Farver-Busch said. "Everything is charging and rotating until it sells quite a bit and then we might keep it." She described it as casual fine dining. It uses locally sourced food from local farms and suppliers like Howe Farms, Uremovich Meats, Johnsons, Remis, Region Roots, Broken Wagon, the Great American Cheese Co., Slagel Farms, Riverance, Hoffman Angus Farm, Wilder, Oven Maiden and Salumi Chicago. "It's an experience with ambiance and consistency to the food," she said. "We kept a lot of similarities with the decor. It's not any one cuisine. It's encompassing and worldly. It doesn't fit inside a box. It's a more upscale, more elevated dining experience." Bon Vie is open 4-9 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday and 4-10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Open Root + Bone, a high-end southern restaurant Top Chef contestants originally opened in New York City, is welcoming diners in Chesterton. The restaurant, which currently has locations in Miami and Indianapolis, took over the former Abbiocco space in the Coffee Creek development. It occupies about 5,000 square feet on the first floor of the two-story building at 600 Gateway Boulevard. Chefs Janine Booth and Jeff McInnis came up with the concept, which originally opened in New York City's East Village and was named "Best New Fried Chicken in Manhattan" by Eater NY. She competed in season 11 of the long-running Emmy Award-winning show "Top Chef," while he was a season five competitor who went on to earn three James Beard Award nominations while operating a restaurant in Miami Beach. Root + Bone originally had an hour wait when it opened in NYC, but closed there after eight years. The menu includes shrimp and grits, brisket meatloaf, BBQ spare ribs, honey roasted lemon chicken, fried chicken, salmon, bone-in pork chops, roasted butternut squash, cast iron seared duck breast and a 12-ounce ribeye with bone marrow and mushroom ragu. With a menu crafted by executive chef David Paulson, it serves sides like Gooey Sweet Corn Souffle, Heirlooom Carrots with a pomegranate glaze and toasted almonds and a Mushroom Medley Ragu. It's also open for brunch. For more information, call 219-250-2594 or visit www.rootnbonechesterton.com. Closed Tom Lounges' Record Bin closed its Michigan City location Saturday but remains open in downtown Hobart. The record store was owned by Lounges, one of the biggest names on the Region music scene. He's a concert promoter, DJ for several radio stations and writer who used to publish Beat Magazine. The record store specializes in vinyl but also sells CDs, DVDs, band T-shirts, concert posters and other music paraphernalia. Tom Lounges' Record Bin originally opened its second location in Michigan City in 2020. Closed The curtains closed at MillerBeach PerforMance Theater on Lake Street in Miller. The comedy club in the Miller Section of Gary helped launch many local comedians, giving them a platform to practice their material, hone their comedic chops and pay their dues. It hosted a popular open mic night as well as punk rock and wrestling shows. Originally known as D Performance Comedy Theater, it occupied since 2016 the storefront theater at 500 Lake St. that was formerly home to the Gary Shakespeare Company. "I truly want to thank everyone that was a part of my dream that became my reality," the business posted on social media. "Words cant express the love I have for everyone that had anything with the club. Much love to all." Other dedicated comedy clubs like The Market in Valparaiso and Wise Crackers in Merrillville have closed, forcing local performers to do their acts in other spaces. Recently, Lai Ching-te, also known as William Lai, was elected President of Taiwan. He succeeds President Tsai Ing-wen, who served two terms and is the first woman to hold this top government position. This result continues significant political complications with mainland China. The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has won three presidential elections in a row. The party is formally committed to independence from China. However, Mr. Lais vote margin was reduced and the DPP also lost their legislative majority. The conservative Kuomintang (KMT) gained the most seats. This could be a diplomatic plus given their more pragmatic approach to Beijing. Beijing is not happy about continued DPP control of the executive office, but greater KMT presence in the legislature provides opportunities for cultivation. China media have been relatively restrained about this election result compared to past extreme rhetoric. Both sides likely will continue to avoid armed conflict. The first DPP government from 2000 to 2008 was able to finesse the political challenges with Beijing. Today, economic concerns remain more important than ideological purity for Chinas struggling communist leadership. In 2016 the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Chicago, which represents Taiwan, hosted a remarkably instructive, insightful seminar on the implications of the return of the DPP to governing power. There was general agreement President Tsai had effectively endorsed the framework of cooperation initiated by Beijing and Taipei in 1992. This remains true despite her 2019 speech that emphasized independence. One seminar participant suggested emphasizing the Chinese people globally, a primary source of overseas investment. This was a remarkably shrewd, insightful suggestion, still worth consideration by government leaders of Taiwan. The two sides share a bitter legacy of battle and blood. In 1949, Nationalist forces of General Chiang Kai-shek evacuated to Taiwan. Mao Zedongs armies controlled the mainland of China. Except for the island territory, communist revolution was complete. The Korean War of 1950-1953 made the Cold War global, with China and the United States direct combatants. U.S. commitment to Taiwan security became explicit. The foundation of cooperation has been built steadily if slowly over time. Pragmatism characterizes Taiwans approach to mainland China. Following formal U.S. diplomatic recognition of Beijing in 1978, a consequence of President Richard Nixons 1972 visit, Taipei immediately launched a comprehensive non-confrontational strategic response. In November 2008, agreement was reached on far-reaching trade accords, including direct shipping, expansion of weekly passenger flights from 36 to 108, and introduction of up to 60 cargo flights per month. In 2010, the bilateral Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) was concluded. This has been a major triumph for then-President Ma Ying-jeou. His election as chief executive in 2008 and 2012 greatly furthered rapprochement with Beijing. In February 2014, senior representatives of the island and the mainland agreed to exchange representative offices. Face-to-face negotiations were led by Vice Foreign Minister Zhang Zhijun of China, and Taiwan Mainland Affairs Minister Wang Yu-chi. Unfortunately, in 2016 Beijing suspended direct communications. Taiwan has become an essential investor for the economic revolution on the mainland. Commercially successful, generally well-educated overseas Chinese in turn are a vital source of capital for the mainland. Expatriate Chinese also vote in Taiwan elections. Presidents Tsai and now Lai represent equality, fairness and progress. Open competitive markets undercut rigidities of tradition and ideology. The ECFA framework is now so strong that a return to earlier hostility across the Taiwan Strait is unlikely. Taiwan without doubt has now effectively embraced representative democracy. Representative Dean Phillips of Minnesota, a Democrat running a long-shot primary challenge to President Biden, said on Saturday that he would consider running on the ticket of No Labels, a centrist group exploring an independent bid, if it appeared the general election would be a rematch between Mr. Biden and Donald J. Trump. In an interview, Mr. Phillips publicly articulated for the first time the circumstances in which he would accept the No Labels presidential nomination, and said he was in regular communication with Nancy Jacobson, the groups chief executive. Democratic allies of Mr. Biden have been alarmed by No Labels, worrying that any candidate it runs could siphon votes from him. People are criticizing them because they believe whomever they offer on their ticket will hurt Joe Biden, Mr. Phillips said after a town-hall event at a senior center in Nashua, N.H. Thats false. If they put someone at the top of the ticket who could actually drive votes from Donald Trump, every Democrat in the United States of America should be celebrating it. They havent made that determination. Mr. Phillips has a long relationship with Ms. Jacobson and No Labels from his tenure in the groups congressional Problem Solvers Caucus, an organization that promotes policies with bipartisan support. He said he had told Ms. Jacobson he would not discuss running as the No Labels candidate at this time. Brent Sikkema, an influential and well respected New York City gallerist, was found dead on Jan. 15 in an apartment he owned in Rio de Janeiro. He was 75. The Brazilian police said that he had apparently been stabbed multiple times, and that an investigation was ongoing. A suspect was arrested on Thursday. As the founder of what became the Sikkema Jenkins & Co. gallery in Manhattans Chelsea arts district, Mr. Sikkema discovered, guided, exhibited and sold a diverse and notably international rotation of distinguished artists whose work married bright, accessible colors to substantive subjects like memory, race and identity. Sikkema Jenkins represented artists at every stage of their careers from Sheila Hicks, a long-established pioneer of textile art, to Louis Fratino, a young figurative painter and in every medium, from the politically inflected sculptor William Cordova to the estate of the choreographer Trisha Brown. Some artists inevitably moved on to larger galleries. But a tight core of loyalists, most notably Vik Muniz, Arturo Herrera and Kara Walker, remained with Mr. Sikkema for decades as they built their careers together. Donald J. Trump doesnt change. Judges do. Two weeks ago, a New York judge, Arthur F. Engoron, permitted Mr. Trump to personally deliver a closing argument in his civil fraud trial as long as he stuck to the facts and avoided a courtroom campaign speech. Mr. Trump bulldozed through the restrictions, repeated his familiar claim of a political witch hunt and assailed the judge to his face. Then last week, after a lawyer down the street at the E. Jean Carroll defamation trial complained that Mr. Trump was grumbling con job and witch hunt loud enough for jurors to hear, Judge Lewis A. Kaplan sternly warned him that, although he had the right to be present, that right can be forfeited and it can be forfeited if he is disruptive. Ms. Carrolls lawyers did not find reason to complain again. The judges different approaches to the tempestuous storm that entered their courtrooms and the different results could offer lessons beyond the two New York cases. They may provide guidance for the judges set to oversee Mr. Trumps four potential criminal trials, who will want to keep the 45th president from transforming his legal proceedings into political spectacles. The thing youve got to do primarily is set rules and enforce them, said John S. Martin Jr., a former U.S. District Court judge in Manhattan. I think if the judge is tough and doesnt back down, Trump will back down. BAGHDAD, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an Iraqi Shiite militia, claimed responsibility Saturday for launching rockets toward the Ayn al-Asad Airbase in Iraq's western province of Anbar. The militia group said in an online statement that its fighters launched a "rocket barrage" on the Ayn al-Asad Airbase near the town of al-Baghdadi, some 190 km northwest of the capital Baghdad. Yahya Rasoul, the military spokesman of Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani, told the official Iraqi News Agency (INA) that several rockets landed near the headquarters of the army's 29th Brigade within the airbase, wounding a soldier and causing damage. The Iraqi security forces, supported by the intelligence effort, will reach the perpetrators and bring them to justice, Rasould told INA. Earlier in the day, an army source told Xinhua that about 20 rockets were fired toward the airbase in the afternoon and the air defense weapons shot down most of the rockets except for one rocket that landed in an empty area inside the airbase. The source added that a soldier was wounded by the shrapnels after the rockets were intercepted by air defense weapons and exploded in the air. Last week, a group of federal employees organized a protest of the Biden administrations support of Israel in its war with Hamas. Although a snowstorm in Washington complicated their plans, some federal employees from a range of agencies declined to work for a day. Meanwhile at the Capitol, Republican members of the House of Representatives were once again threatening to throw their institution into chaos to prevent their leader from negotiating a spending package with Democrats. These seemingly unconnected dramas, on opposite sides of the partisan divide, offered examples of a characteristic disorder of this moment in our politics the confusion of roles that leaves insiders behaving like outsiders and makes effective public action awfully difficult. Federal employees have every right to participate in protests in their personal capacities. And they have every right to resign their positions to express strong disagreement with the policies of the administration they serve as a number of Biden administration officials have done over the Israel-Hamas war. This latest group of federal workers, however, organized a protest in their capacities as government officials yet did so anonymously to avoid being held responsible. They were not the first. Late last year, about a hundred Democratic congressional staff members many wearing masks to hide their identities staged a walkout to, as some put it, demand that their bosses speak up for a cease-fire, a release of all hostages and an immediate de-escalation now. Hundreds of Biden administration officials sent a letter to the president in November opposing his Israel policy without signing their names to it, out of what they called concern for our personal safety and risk of potentially losing our jobs. There was even a vigil in which White House staff members protested outside the White House wearing masks and sunglasses. The Supreme Court on Wednesday heard oral arguments in a case that could go a long way toward fixing some of the systemic dysfunction in American government. The case, which revisits a judicial doctrine known as Chevron deference, has been widely described as a conservative effort to limit government. But thats not entirely correct. The case is better understood as a key part of the effort to restore the proper balance of power among the three branches of government. If you took high school civics, there is a good chance youve heard the phrase coequal branches of government. Its such a common formulation for Americas separation of powers that its easy to slide into the false belief that each branch of government is equal in authority to the others. But if you read the Constitution, youll quickly see that while each branch of government has some power to check the others, one branch is plainly supreme. The government cant spend one dime unless its appropriated through Congress. Impeachment gives Congress the power to fire not only the president but also any member of the Supreme Court. Only Congress has the power to declare war. Even if the president takes the exceptional step of vetoing a bill it has passed, Congress has the power to override that veto. And the Constitution gives Congress immense power over the federal judiciary. Congress defines the number of judges and justices, sets their compensation and defines the full extent of their jurisdiction. Intense debate has accompanied the decision by the Supreme Court to review the decision by Colorados highest court to bar Donald Trump from the states primary ballots based on Section 3 of the 14th Amendment about the precise meaning of the word insurrection, the extent of Mr. Trumps culpability for the events of Jan. 6 and other legal issues. Im not going to predict how the Supreme Court will rule, or whether its ruling will be persuasive to those with a different view of the law. But theres a critical philosophical question that lies beneath the legal questions in this case. In a representative democracy, the people are sovereign, and they express their sovereignty through representatives of their choice. If the courts presume to pre-emptively reject the peoples choice, then who is truly sovereign? The question of sovereignty was central to the purpose of the 14th Amendment in the first place. The Civil War unquestionably an armed insurrection was fought because of slavery. That was the reason for the war. But its justification was a dispute over sovereignty, whether it resided primarily with the people of the individual states or with the people of the United States, who had established the Constitution. Americans just want us to buy more weapons. They want our money, and want our chips. AMY CHOU, 67, a restaurateur in San Francisco, on growing doubts in her native Taiwan over U.S. support as tensions with China rise. From the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, it has been doctors orders in this country: If you test positive, stay away from other people, even if you arent coughing or feverish. In recent months, however, that rule has been relaxed in two of the unlikeliest places. Oregon and California, among the most cautious of states early in the pandemic, have surprised health officials elsewhere by breaking with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines and telling infected workers and schoolchildren that as long as they have no symptoms, they are generally free to go about their lives. The new approach has been greeted with trepidation by some health experts in the United States, especially as wastewater data shows a surge in cases driven by a new variant. But many scientists say that Covid has transitioned from a public health crisis into more of a featured virus among an array of respiratory risks. The emergency has ended. Covid-19 is endemic, said Dr. Melissa Sutton, medical director for respiratory viral pathogens at the Oregon Health Authority. Were in a different phase. At least 72 people across the United States have died from weather-related causes after more than a week of frigid winter storms and brutally cold temperatures, according to reports from state officials, police departments, medical examiners and news outlets. The number is likely to grow as the authorities scramble to assess the death toll from the bitter chill, frozen roads and high winds, especially in parts of the country unused to extended bouts of a deep freeze. On Monday in Tennessee, a man died after he fell through a skylight while clearing snow from the roof of a business. On Tuesday in Pennsylvania, five women from the same family were killed in a collision with a tractor-trailer, just moments after they had convened on the side of a snowy highway following a separate accident. And on Wednesday in Oregon, a tree branch, weakened by wind and ice, took down a live power line that killed two adults and a teenager. Tennessee suffered a particularly high number of fatalities. At least 27 people there appear to have died of weather-related causes, including hypothermia, falls and traffic accidents, according to state health officials. And in Oregon, at least 11 people are reported to have died of weather-related causes, including the three who were killed by the power line. Both states declared a state of emergency last week, as did Kentucky, where at least five people died during the cold snap. Three crew members died in a medical helicopter crash in Oklahoma on Saturday after transporting a patient, according to the company that runs the service. The company, Air Evac Lifeteam, said on social media that the crew members lost contact with the companys control center around 11:23 p.m. local time while they were returning to their base in Weatherford, Okla., about 70 miles west of Oklahoma City. The company said the crew members were headed to Weatherford after transporting a patient in Oklahoma City. The Federal Aviation Administration said the helicopter, a Bell 206L-3, crashed around midnight, though where exactly was not immediately clear. Air Evac Lifeteam said it would not, at this time, publicly identify the crew members and that it was turning over the investigation to the National Transportation Safety Board. WHAT WAS SAID Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts. Winston Churchill Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida, in a post on X announcing the end of his presidential campaign. This appears to be falsely attributed. There is no record of the former British prime minister, who died in 1965, saying those words, according to the International Churchill Society, which features the statement on a list of quotes that are wrongly tied to Mr. Churchill. Another quote, Success is going from failure to failure without losing your enthusiasm, is listed alongside it. We can find no attribution for either one of these, and you will find that they are broadly attributed to Winston Churchill, the organization reports. They are found nowhere in his canon, however. Nikki Haley on Saturday blasted Donald J. Trumps dishonesty and his relationships with dictators, questioned his mental acuity and dismissed his mounting stack of endorsements, sharpening her attacks on him as she headed into the final two days of New Hampshire campaigning. Delivering her most forceful case yet for the Republican presidential nomination, Ms. Haley, the former governor of South Carolina, embraced her underdog status this weekend as independent, anti-Trump voters urged her on. But with the first-in-the-nation primary on Tuesday, Ms. Haley has enormous ground to make up and very little time to do it. Mr. Trump was filling arenas and event centers in Concord and Manchester, N.H., on Friday and Saturday, speaking to adoring throngs as Republican elected officials fell in line. His event Saturday night in Manchester drew a few thousand fans. Ms. Haley, meanwhile, was visiting retail stores and restaurants. Her largest event, in Nashua, N.H., drew around 500. A Suffolk University/Boston Globe/NBC10 Boston daily tracking poll of New Hampshire voters on Saturday had Mr. Trump leading Ms. Haley by double digits, 53 percent to 36 percent, with his margin having crept up a percentage point each of the previous two days. Nikki Haley had been serving in the South Carolina legislature for less than two years when she applied for a job in late 2006 as an accounting clerk at Wilbur Smith Associates, an engineering and design firm with state contracts. She needed work. Her parents clothing business, where she and her husband, Michael Haley, had both worked, was winding down. Ms. Haley was earning a salary of just $22,000 as a part-time state legislator. And her husbands own enterprise, involving businesses swapping goods and services, was losing money. Wilbur Smith executives regarded Ms. Haley as overqualified for the accounting job. But because of her wide-ranging network, they would later say, they put Ms. Haley on a retainer, asking her to scout out potential new business. She never found any, a top executive later said. Over the next two years, the firm paid her $48,000 for a job the executive described as a passive position. That contract, and a subsequent, much more lucrative one as a fund-raiser for a prominent hospital in her home county, allowed Ms. Haley to triple her income in just three years. But they also led her into an ethical gray area that tarnished her first term as South Carolinas governor. BEIRUT, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- An Israeli drone struck a vehicle in the southern Lebanese village of Kafra near an army site on Sunday, killing at least two Hezbollah members, the Elnashra news website reported. Several civilians were also wounded in the attack near a checkpoint of the Lebanese army, according to Elnashra. Meanwhile, Hezbollah said its fighters targeted the Israeli gatherings at the sites of Zarit and al-Dhahira, confirming causing casualties among Israeli troops. Ambulances rushed to the Israeli raid site to transfer casualties to nearby hospitals while fire brigades participated in putting out the attack-induced fire. Confrontations on the Lebanon-Israel border continued on Sunday, with Israel's warplanes carrying out air raids on the southern Lebanese villages of Rmeish and Markaba and its heavy artillery targeting another Lebanese village of Aita al-Shaab. The border witnessed increased tension since Oct. 8, 2023, after the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah fired dozens of rockets toward Israel in support of the Hamas attack on Israel the previous day, prompting Israel to respond by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon. The confrontations between Hezbollah and Israel have killed 227 on the Lebanese side, including 161 Hezbollah members and 37 civilians, according to Lebanese security sources. The Union Leader, New Hampshires largest newspaper and one that reliably picked Republicans for a century before the rise of Donald Trump, endorsed Nikki Haley on Sunday in the Republican primary. Of course, we cant talk about Nikki Haley without addressing the elephant in the room and the rather old donkey hiding in the White House, it wrote, alluding to Mr. Trump and President Biden though making no mention of Mr. Trump by name. The newspaper did not endorse Mr. Trump in the previous two cycles, either. In the 2016 Republican contest, it backed then-Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey but later retracted its endorsement when Mr. Christie, who dropped out of the race after a poor showing in New Hampshire, endorsed Mr. Trump. Then in the 2016 general election, for the first time in more than 100 years, it did not endorse a Republican, instead choosing Gary Johnson, the Libertarian nominee. Another day, another barrage of rockets and another spark that American officials fear could set off a wildfire of violence across the Middle East. The latest attack on American troops in the region over the weekend resulted in no deaths, but President Biden and his advisers worry that it is only a matter of time. Whenever a report of a strike arrives at the White House Situation Room, officials wonder whether this will be the one that forces a more decisive retaliation and results in a broader regional war. The assault on American troops based at Al Asad Air Base in western Iraq on Saturday night was by one measure the most successful believed to be carried out by a militia sponsored by Iran since the Hamas terrorist attack on Israel on Oct. 7. Two out of an estimated 17 rockets and short-range ballistic missiles fired at the base made it through air defense systems. An unspecified number of American military personnel were reported injured, but none were said to have been killed. But it was just the latest in a regular string of relatively low-level assaults that have become a way of life in the Middle East for U.S. forces since the Hamas attack. As of Thursday, Iranian-backed militias had already carried out 140 attacks on American troops in Iraq and Syria, with nearly 70 U.S. personnel wounded, some of them suffering traumatic brain injuries. All but a few have been able to return to duty in short order, according to the Pentagon. He hoped to succeed Indonesias longtime dictator. He ordered the kidnappings of pro-democracy activists. He was accused of atrocities during the ruthless military occupation of East Timor. He has said elections run counter to his countrys culture. Even so, Prabowo Subianto has spent the past two decades trying his hand at democratic politics, donning different personas in multiple attempts to become Indonesias leader. Now, a month before the next election, nearly every poll shows Mr. Prabowo, 72, leading in the first round of voting. His rise, with the help of a running mate who is the son of the popular departing president, Joko Widodo, has alarmed millions of Indonesians who still remember the brutal and kleptocratic rule of Suharto, Mr. Prabowos former boss and father-in-law. A victory for Mr. Prabowo, his critics warn, would revive a dark past. What will happen is the death of democracy, said Hendardi, the director of the Setara Institute for Democracy and Peace. Like many Indonesians, he goes by one name. We have long been against Prabowo, he added, and with our limited power, we were still able to prevent him from moving forward. But now he has gained this support. As a powerful storm was moving away from Britain on Monday afternoon after battering the country overnight with a top gust of wind of 99 miles per hour, another was forecast to settle over the region beginning Tuesday, according to the Met Office, the countrys weather service. It is rather unusual in bringing impacts to most of the U.K., Grahame Madge, a spokesman for the weather service, said of the fading system called Storm Isha. Forecasters had issued a yellow weather warning until midday. The warning is routinely used when people are at risk from certain weather because of their location or activity, and it advises the public to take preventative action, according to the meteorological offices website. Late on Sunday night, the Met Office issued a red wind warning for overnight covering the northeast coast of Scotland and advised people not to use the roadways. A red warning advises the public to expect a short spell of extremely strong winds leading to danger to life, structural damage and disruption. When a French police officer was found guilty on Friday of assaulting Theo Luhaka, a 22-year-old Black man, during a 2017 identity check that led to his arrest, lawyers on both sides left the courthouse claiming victory in one of Frances most publicized cases of police abuse. Mr. Luhaka, now 29, was officially recognized as a victim of police brutality after a seven-year legal ordeal. But the officer received only a one-year suspended sentence and was cleared of a more serious charge that he had permanently mutilated Mr. Luhaka. Neither side seemed intent on appealing. On Saturday in Aulnay-sous-Bois, the northeastern suburb of Paris where Mr. Luhaka was assaulted and where he still lives, residents said they felt more disillusioned than encouraged. To them, progress in punishing police misconduct felt like the biting winter air: glacial. There is a two-tier justice system, said Mohamed Djezzar, 29, a computer engineering student. Even though the officer and two of his colleagues were convicted, the sentences were too light, Mr. Djezzar added. Friends often complain of repeated, unwarranted identity checks, he said, and this case will do little to unseat deeply rooted animosity toward the police. At least 25 people were killed on Sunday when artillery shells hit a market in Donetsk, a city in eastern Ukraine occupied by Russian forces, the pro-Moscow head of the region said, blaming Ukrainian forces for the strike. If confirmed, the episode would be one of the most serious in recent months involving civilians in an area controlled by Moscow. Ukraines military released a statement on Facebook late on Sunday that referred to the market blast, but said it was not responsible. Donetsk is Ukraine, the statement by the Tavria military grouping said. Denis Pushilin, the pro-Moscow leader in the Russia-held part of the region, said on the Telegram messaging app that 20 people had also been wounded at the market, which is in the Kirovsky district and southwest of the city center. The area is roughly eight miles east of the front line in the war. The pro-Russian mayor of Donetsk, Aleksei Kulemzin, said on Telegram that the market was attacked on Sunday, when it is busiest, calling it horrendous. In a subterranean compound deep below Khan Younis, a Hamas stronghold in the southern Gaza Strip, the five cells with barred doors that the Israeli military says held hostages abducted from Israel had clearly been constructed long in advance. The tunnel builders even paid some attention to decor: The tiled walls of a small kitchenette in the compound, littered with remnants of food and dirty dishes, were embellished with a quaint, if incongruous, motif of teapots and teacups. The Israeli military said that roughly 20 hostages were kept in the compound at various times. It said it pieced that assessment together based on testimony it said it gathered from the captives, as well as evidence like DNA. Some were released among the more than 100 hostages freed during a weeklong truce in late November, while others, including older people, were later dispersed to other locations in Gaza, the military said. There has been no independent confirmation of the Israeli account of the compound, but details provided to Israeli media by one of the hostages who was freed in November and, Israel says, held in the Khan Younis compound aligns with some of those assertions. American, British and European officials are pressuring Israel to let aid for Gaza transit through the Israeli port of Ashdod to help alleviate a metastasizing humanitarian crisis, according to six U.S. and European officials. Israels military responded to the Hamas-led Oct. 7 attacks on Israel by invading and declaring a siege on Gaza, which was already under a yearslong blockade. It has since allowed limited amounts of aid into the enclave through two border points, one in Israel and the other in Egypt, but those deliveries have been bogged down by inspections and logistical snarls. Humanitarian workers say vastly more aid is needed to meaningfully help Gazas 2.2 million residents amid dire shortages of food, water and supplies. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken pressed Israeli officials about allowing Gaza aid through the port of Ashdod when he was in Tel Aviv earlier this month, according to one U.S. official. That official and the others interviewed about the new aid proposal spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive negotiations. BEIJING, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Following the two elections in the Taiwan region in 2024, many countries have reaffirmed their adherence to the one-China principle and expressed opposition to the so-called "Taiwan independence." These countries said that they firmly support China in safeguarding its national sovereignty and territorial integrity, oppose external interference in China's internal affairs, and firmly support all efforts by China to achieve national reunification. Pakistan's policy on Taiwan is consistent and clear -- Taiwan is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China, a spokesperson for the Pakistani Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The Maldives opposes any word and deed that would undermine China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, opposes all "Taiwan independence" separatist activities, and will not develop any form of official relations with Taiwan, said the Maldivian Foreign Ministry. The Maldives opposes external interference in China's internal affairs under any pretext, and supports all efforts by China to achieve national reunification. The Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said in a statement that the country reiterates its resolute adherence to the one-China policy, recognizing the government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate authority representing the entirety of China. The Lao Foreign Ministry said the Taiwan question is China's internal affair and Taiwan is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China. Sri Lanka firmly upholds the one-China principle and anticipates the peaceful reunification of China, said Ali Sabry, foreign minister of Sri Lanka. The Syrian Foreign Ministry said that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China, and any election or action carried out in Taiwan should not affect this fact. Reaffirming its commitment to the one-China principle, the Palestinian Presidency voiced support for China in safeguarding sovereignty and territorial integrity, rejections to any interference in China's internal affairs, and support for China's complete reunification and the peaceful development of cross-Straits relations. A spokesman of the Iranian Foreign Ministry said that Iran has always been clear about its support for the one-China policy and the right of the People's Republic of China to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The African National Congress(ANC), South Africa's ruling party, firmly supports the one-China principle, has written it into the party's top resolution, and asked governments at various levels to strictly implement it, said Nomvula Mokonyane, first deputy secretary general of the ANC. The ANC firmly opposes secessionist moves seeking "Taiwan independence," supports China's just cause for an early reunification, and resolutely opposes "Taiwan independence" in any form. Sylvie Baipo-Temon, foreign minister of the Central African Republic (CAR), reaffirmed the consistent adherence of the CAR government to the one-China principle, and its unwavering support for China's stance on the Taiwan question and for the Chinese people's efforts to realize national reunification. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Francophone Affairs of Equatorial Guinea reiterated that its government will, as always, firmly adhere to the one-China principle, and support the complete reunification of China and the peaceful development of cross-Straits relations. How China realize reunification should be decided by the Chinese people without the interference of external forces, said Christopher Mutsvangwa, Zimbabwe's ruling ZANU PF party Politburo member. Russia acknowledges that there is only one China, that the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. The Russian side opposes any form of "Taiwan's independence," said Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova. The Taiwan question is purely an internal matter for China. Attempts by certain countries to use the elections in Taiwan to pressure Beijing and destabilise the situation in the strait and across the region are "counterproductive and must be condemned by the international community," Zakharova said. "We call on all outside forces to refrain from provocative actions undermining regional stability and international security." "The Republic of Belarus firmly supports the one-China principle, which is the guarantee of stability and sustainable development for the entire region," said the Belarusian Foreign Ministry in a statement. The Embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic in China said that the Kyrgyz side reiterates its commitment to the one-China principle and believes that the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. The Kyrgyz side opposes any attempt to use the Taiwan question to interfere in China's internal affairs. The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry also voiced support for the one-China principle in a statement on its website, and opposition to any interference in China's internal affairs. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Serbia supports the one-China principle, and considers the People's Republic of China to be the only legitimate government representing the whole of China. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla said that Cuba adheres to the one-China principle and sees Taiwan as an inalienable part of China. "The Taiwan question is China's internal affair. We support the Chinese government's national reunification efforts," he said. The Nicaraguan government reiterated its firm adherence to the one-China principle and its opposition to secessionist moves seeking "Taiwan independence." The governments of Dominica, Bolivia, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, among others, also reaffirmed their support for China on the Taiwan question, saying they will abide by the one-China principle, oppose any attempt for "Taiwan independence" and support China's cause for national reunification. This photo taken on Jan. 20, 2024 shows the fire site at the Yingcai School in Dushu Town, Fangcheng County, Nanyang City, central China's Henan Province. A work team was sent to central China's Henan Province during the night to guide rescue and follow-up work after a school dormitory fire on Friday night, the Ministry of Emergency Management said on Saturday. A work team was sent to central China's Henan Province during the night to guide rescue and follow-up work after a school dormitory fire on Friday night, the Ministry of Emergency Management said on Saturday. Thirteen students were killed and another one injured in a fire that took place in a school dormitory in Fangcheng County, in the city of Nanyang, central China's Henan Province, on Friday night, according to local authorities. Local fire department received an alarm about a fire in a male dormitory of Yingcai School in Yanshanpu Village, Dushu Town. Rescuers arrived at the scene quickly, and the flames were extinguished at 11:38 p.m. The ministry called for efforts to screen for and rectify hidden fire risks in densely populated places to resolutely prevent the occurrence of major accidents. HAIKOU, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- The import and export volume in the Chinese resort city of Sanya surged to 24.23 billion yuan (about 3.4 billion U.S. dollars) in 2023, up 13.1 percent year-on-year, with duty-free goods playing a vital role, said the Sanya Customs on Sunday. In 2023, Sanya, in south China's Hainan Province, witnessed a 25.5 percent increase in the import of duty-free goods, totaling 10.76 billion yuan and constituting 44.4 percent of the city's overall import and export value. Private enterprises experienced a 1.8 times growth in imports and exports, while foreign-invested enterprises saw a 1.1 times increase. The European Union, Switzerland, and Japan emerged as Sanya's top three trading partners. Beauty cosmetics and toiletries stood out as the primary imported goods. Sanya imported beauty cosmetics and toiletries worth 5.67 billion yuan in 2023, accounting for 27.2 percent of the city's total imports during that period. BEIJING, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Following the two elections in the Taiwan region in 2024, more countries and international organizations have voiced firm support for China's cause of reunification and resolute opposition to external interference in China's internal affairs. All the countries and international organizations said that the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory. "At no point was Taiwan a separate entity from China's mainland," said Timor-Leste's President Jose Ramos-Horta in a statement. From day one of its independence restauration in 2002, Timor-Leste and the People's Republic of China established full diplomatic relations, he said, adding that Timor-Leste continues to adhere unequivocally to the one-China policy. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Myanmar said in a statement that Myanmar constantly adheres to the one-China policy and reaffirms that Taiwan is an integral part of the People's Republic of China. Myanmar opposes any separatist activities aimed at "Taiwan independence" and foreign interference in internal affairs of other states, it said. A spokesperson of Sri Lanka's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that Sri Lanka adheres to the one-China principle and recognizes the government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legal government representing the whole of China. Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory, the spokesperson added. Bangladesh reiterates its firm adherence to the one-China principle, stated the Bangladeshi Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Tunisia upholds the one-China principle and the UN General Assembly Resolution 2758, and supports China in exercising sovereignty over all its territory, said Tunisian President Kais Saied. Niger's Foreign Minister Bakary Yaou Sangare said that there is only one China in the world and Niger firmly supports the one-China principle, adding that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory. Niger firmly opposes any form of the so-called "Taiwan independence" separatist activities, and firmly supports China's complete reunification and the peaceful development of cross-Straits relations, he said. Eritrea firmly supports the one-China principle that is predicated on legality and history, said Eritrea Information Minister Yemane Gebremeskel. Henry Okello Oryem, Uganda's minister of state for international affairs said that the Ugandan government firmly supports the one-China principle, and the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China. Calling Taiwan an inalienable part of China's territory, he said the Ugandan government firmly supports the Chinese government's position on the Taiwan question and the Chinese people's efforts to achieve national reunification. Kenya's Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary as well as Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs said that Kenya firmly adheres to the one-China policy, calling for respecting China's territorial integrity and non-interference in China's domestic affairs. Ethiopia still upholds its long-held stand on the one-China principle, said Meles Alem, spokesman for Ethiopia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Tajikistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement that Tajikistan firmly supports the one-China principle and considers the government of the People's Republic of China to be the only legitimate and representative government of all of China. Recognizing Taiwan as an integral part of the territory of China, Tajikistan resolutely opposes any attempts at external interference in the internal affairs of this friendly country, it added. Turkmenistan reiterates its firm support for the one-China principle and reaffirms that the government of the People's Republic of China is the only legitimate government representing the whole China, the Turkmen Foreign Ministry said. First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba and Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel reiterated Cuba's firm support for the one-China principle. Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, he said, strongly condemning any form of interference in China's internal affairs. Meanwhile, Esteban Lazo Hernandez, president of Cuba's National Assembly of People's Power, reiterated Cuba's adherence to the one-China principle and the fact that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, adding that Cuba supports China's efforts to achieve its national reunification. The Office of the Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda said in a statement that it has always supported the one-China principle and the efforts of the People's Republic of China toward national reunification. Reaffirming their firm support for the one-China principle, Humane Colombia Party and the Colombian Communist Party reiterated that the government of the People's Republic of China is the only legal government representing the whole of China, and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory. Both parties resolutely oppose and resist any form of separatist acts. Fausto Pinato, president of the Brazil-China Parliamentary Front of the Brazilian National Congress, reiterated the support for the one-China principle, saying there is only one China in the world and the government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China. Taiwan is an inalienable part of the Chinese territory, he said. The government of Kiribati reiterated its adherence to the one-China principle recognized when the two countries resumed diplomatic ties in 2019, adding that Taiwan is part of China. Samiu Kuita Vaipulu, deputy prime minister of Tonga, said Tongo firmly adheres to the one-China policy and supports China's pursuit of peaceful reunification. The League of Arab States reaffirmed that the Arab side firmly supports China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and firmly adheres to the one-China principle. TEHRAN, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Iran has identified and smashed more than 10 "terrorist cells" in the past weeks following the recent deadly "terrorist" attacks in the southeastern Kerman city, the semi-official Fars news agency reported Sunday, citing Deputy Interior Minister for Security Affairs Majid Mir-Ahmadi. Mir-Ahmadi stressed that the Iranian security and intelligence apparatuses and armed forces were making round-the-clock efforts to "counter the enemies' conspiracies," adding Iran's strategy in countering terrorist groups is proactive against the source of threats. Many were killed and injured in the twin bombing attacks near the tomb of Iranian general Qassem Soleimani in Kerman on Jan. 3, when thousands of people gathered to mark the fourth anniversary of his death from a U.S. drone attack in Iraq. The Islamic State (IS) terrorist group on Jan. 4 claimed responsibility for the bombings, saying two suicide attackers carried out the blasts. Iran's Intelligence Ministry said Friday that its forces had killed two "terrorists" and arrested several others, including ringleaders of the IS, in connection with the Kerman blasts. The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps said early Tuesday that it had fired ballistic missiles at the bases of "terrorists" in Syria in retaliation for the "terrorist attacks" in southeastern Iran. Dear Amy: I am a retired Catholic priest. For the most part, I have enjoyed these late-life years, especially as the pace of life has eased up. However, one difficulty Ive encountered stems from my years in active ministry. During one of my assignments, I got to know a number of families associated with my ministry. I have remained in contact with several of these families and have been invited to celebrate baptisms, marriages, and funerals. In recent years, two couples have invited me on a regular basis to have dinner with them. While I initially enjoyed these, a problem has emerged that involves one couple in particular. This couple decided to stop attending church services. I felt this was their decision to make and have never criticized or judged them for it. However, invariably during our evenings together they steer the conversation to their gripes about the Catholic Church. Ive gone so far as to meet privately with them, letting them know how uncomfortable I am with their behavior during something I consider an informal gathering of friends. All to no avail. I usually end up leaving these dinners feeling angry and depressed. These folks have been great friends for many years, but Im at my wits end trying to figure out how best to deal with the situation. Should I just give up and decline future invitations? Father Confused Dear Father Confused: I can only imagine the pressure you might feel to always respond to uncomfortable situations in a way that basically protects others. Because you have retired from the formal part of ministry, it might not be necessary for you to be so discreet about your concerns when something bothers you. My point is that although you will always be a priest, you absolutely have the human right to react publicly to topics, behavior or comments that bother or offend you. If this happens again at a social occasion, you can say a version of, Naturally, this is a very difficult topic for me, but I realize that my presence seems to trigger a discussion about the failings of the institution Ive devoted my life to. Ive mentioned this privately but I understand now that bringing it up is just too tempting to avoid, so Ill take this as my cue to say goodnight. This is also an issue you might raise with your own pastoral counselor. You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. Last weeks winter storm took a tragic toll on our state. At least 13 Oregonians died due to hypothermia, falling trees, fire and electrocution from fallen power lines brutal circumstances in which vulnerability and bad luck combined to horrific effect. The misery did not end there as tens of thousands of people across western Oregon endured days-long power outages in subfreezing temperatures. Homeless Oregonians in the Portland area sought refuge in warming shelters only to be sent back out into frigid temperatures later in the week. With high winds and low temperatures, trees toppled onto houses while frozen pipes burst, flooding homes and businesses. A forecast of rain and 40-degrees never sounded so good. Electric utilities, county officials and the many agencies involved in emergency services will be reviewing their response in the coming days and weeks. But on a local, regional and state level, from individual households to power companies, Oregon needs to significantly up its preparation game. With such extreme weather events expected to become more common in our changing climate, we are witnessing the limits of our infrastructure and the vast needs left unmet. And with significant risk of a massive subduction zone earthquake hitting the Northwest, we must use this storm as motivation to build a culture of resilience. That should start with a robust evaluation by regulatory and emergency management agencies of utilities performance and vulnerabilities. For days, even as much of the country struggled with winter weather disruptions, Oregon led the nation in number of outages, based on poweroutage.us reports. The cause of outages, barriers to restoring service, difficulties in communication all require greater analysis of what, if anything, can be changed, as well as a focus on tree health and maintenance. READ MORE: Opinion: We must invest in tree care to protect trees and our communities Some solutions such as burying power lines may be prohibitively expensive. Some problems fierce weather preventing crews from safely making repairs may have no realistic solution. But these are still questions that need to be asked and answered. Many homes still, as of Friday, are on their fifth or sixth day without power, and a deep assessment can help inform other strategies that communities should pursue. Similarly, regulators should seek answers from utilities about extended water outages, such as the pipe break that left Corbett households without water for days. Certainly, we can and should ask more of our public entities to reassess policies and practices that fail to match the urgency of an event. Multnomah County, which operated 12 much-needed and well-used warming shelters for five days, closed them mid-week, even though temperatures unexpectedly remained below freezing and streets and sidewalks were coated with ice. The countys practice of opening centers when temperatures are 25 degrees or below, or when precipitation of one inch or more accompanies temperatures of 32 degrees is overly rigid when simple common sense calls for keeping shelters open. Even as it sent people away, the county determined later that same day it was too dangerous to open its offices and libraries, as The Oregonian/OregonLives Nicole Hayden reported. Washington County, too, kept its warming centers closed despite frigid conditions. Those decisions fall short of the humanity and compassion that our county agencies and leaders otherwise show on a daily basis. Such operations depend heavily on staff and a steady stream of volunteers, of which there are never enough. The community as well as city, regional and state workers must share the burden. In the coming months, the county should work with the city to launch a broad volunteer recruitment campaign to train volunteers who can address a wide range of needs from those who can assist in warming and cooling centers to those willing to take on a more intensive role on a neighborhood emergency team. And in emergencies, the county should immediately drop nonessential requirements for volunteers, such as the number of videos they should watch as part of their training a change it adopted only after shelters had opened. In Portland, the city should work with the county on how to use and equip its vast community center network to provide safe places for people to go in any extreme weather event or similar emergency. Community centers, built and maintained with taxpayer dollars, are well situated to serve as refuges for those without water, power and heat. Creating a reliable network of locations where people automatically know they can go in times of emergency can make all the difference in times of crisis and panic. They would also complement the network of community resilience hubs that numerous nonprofits are developing, thanks to state funding authorized in a bill last year. The metro region also needs an honest assessment from TriMet about the reliability of transit service in extreme weather. It has become unfortunately routine that MAX light-rail trains struggle to operate in ice, cold, high winds and hot temperatures. Yet the public relies on light-rail for both transportation during weather events and as a way to escape the elements. The public should know what it would take to improve the systems reliability and if thats even possible. There might not be an easy or affordable solution for how to improve a train system that was not built for the weather we now regularly face. But preparing for emergencies requires that the public and policymakers realistically understand what tools will and will not be available. And finally, but perhaps most critically, Oregonians must take ownership of their role in protecting themselves and the community and prepare for emergencies as state and local agencies have long urged. That means storing two weeks worth of bottled water per person; prepping a disaster preparedness kit; signing up for cell phone emergency alerts, knowing how to shut off water or gas in the event of a break; reaching out to neighbors and vulnerable friends and family before an emergency, as well as during to help boost preparedness; volunteering; and understanding that help might not come for days. Oregonians can find information by going to the Ready.gov website or the Oregon Department of Emergency Management website at Oregon.gov/oem. While the weather finally appears to be shifting, our attention on preparing for the next event should not. -The Oregonian/OregonLive Editorial Board Sign up for our free Oregon Opinion newsletter. Email: Yashar Vasef and Litzy Venturi Vasef is executive director of Friends of Trees. Venturi is a community tree care coordinator and an ISA-certified arborist for Friends of Trees. They both live in Portland. Climate change and its severe impacts force us to live with dual realities: We need trees more than ever and we need to recognize that extreme weather can turn them into hazards. After hundreds of trees and large limbs fell around the Portland metro area during this historic winter storm, we know that people may be concerned about the trees in their neighborhoods. The impact of a downed tree is serious and often devastating. The response is clear, but not necessarily easy. Not only do we need to continue to plant trees to grow our urban canopy, but we also need to invest more time, knowledge and resources into assessing, protecting and maintaining the trees we have. As part of that, we must also deal with trees that need to be removed and replaced due to poor health or the potential threat they pose to homes or businesses. Trees are a crucial ingredient for a healthy, resilient and livable community. How do we set our trees up for success in the face of potential extreme weather? It starts with planting the right tree in the right place. Sometimes people favor certain species because of sentiment or aesthetic appeal, but if they arent planted in a place with the right conditions, theyre more prone to failure. Selecting a tree for the available space, light and soil type is the first step in giving a tree a long healthy life. The next step is to invest in caring for young trees after theyre planted. Proper watering techniques encourage roots to spread into a wide, stable network. Mulching around a trees root zone provides the soil with needed nutrients and structure. The right pruning plan will allow a tree to establish a strong trunk and a stable shape and mitigate the risk of limb failure. Tree care is a lot like preventative medicine. Keeping a tree healthy will reduce the risk of catastrophic failure. You might be looking at a large tree in your own yard and wondering what to do next. While concern after this winter storm is natural, its important to remember that the benefits of trees far outweigh the risks. Trees create oxygen, abate pollution and cool our neighborhoods. Its important not to over-correct by removing healthy trees. This was an unusually catastrophic weather event, and while hundreds of trees fell, millions didnt. Still, there are steps you can take as a tree owner, and that we can take as a community, to better care for our trees and reduce the risk of catastrophe in the future. An arborist partner of ours, Chad Honl, pointed out in a recent Oregonian/OregonLive story that this was a perfect storm for knocking over trees, and that even trees he would have characterized as stable toppled over in the storm. Thats a scary prospect, especially as climate change increases chances for extreme weather. But it just means that we need to learn more about what happened which kinds of trees fell and what factors may have made some more vulnerable to failing than others. We agree with Honls call for trees to be assessed and reassessed with storms like this in mind. Understanding and addressing risks in advance of the next storm can save a lot of money, trouble and even lives. If youre worried about your tree, you should have it inspected by a certified arborist for maintenance needs and potential problems. A greater investment in trees doesnt just mean planting more trees. It means taking care of the trees we have. In response to the unexpected revenue from the Portland Clean Energy Fund, Portland City Commissioner Carmen Rubio has called for additional climate investments, including $100 million for the protection and maintenance of 240,000 right-of-way street trees between the sidewalk and the street. We need to protect our mature trees and protect our communities by making sure those trees are safe. The more mature a tree gets, the more benefits it provides: more carbon storage, more air and water quality benefits, more shade, more habitat. Thats why we need to invest in the health of our trees, for our safety in the event of a winter storm or heat wave, for our daily mental and physical well-being, and for the health of the planet. Sign up for our free Oregon Opinion newsletter. Email: I saw the Oregonian/OregonLive story about peoples problems involving contact with PGE during the storm, (As power outages drag into 4th day, Portland area residents angry with PGEs communication glitches, Jan. 16). Here is my rural experience. We live on Oregon 224 toward the end of a long transmission line from Gresham. It took PGE four days to get around to us. Given that there were initially thousands of individual meter outages with thousands of households involved, I would say that was pretty quick. With some effort I found a PGE outage web page that showed where power was out, when a crew was dispatched, if a cause had been determined, when a crew would be onsite and if the power had been restored. On day four I watched on the web page as five problems along this line were found and fixed, including my own. As of 9 p.m. Tuesday evening, another problem downstream from us involving 22 houses had not yet been fixed. Each time, the web page tally of customers affected declined. And this time period included the subsequent ice storm, which must have made the work even more difficult. On the web page, our areas outage would initially have shown up as a single outage with a large number of people affected. In fact, there were five individual outages, with each problem having to be separately and sequentially found and fixed. My main difficulty was simply finding this web page. It took me 30 minutes or so to find it, with no idea it even existed. The solution is just to publicize it more. With PGE, lets be realistic about what they faced! Robert OBrien, Carver To read more letters to the editor, go to oregonlive.com/opinion. Power to the people! Outages across the Portland metro area dipped to the lowest number in more than a week Sunday, as remnants of the winter storm that relentlessly pounded the region and vast swaths of Oregon for days continued to melt amid rising temperatures. Portland General Electric reported just over 1,100 customers without power in the area as of 12 p.m., down from 8,300 the day prior and a high of 150,000 on Jan. 13. Pacific Power, which has about 90,000 customers in and around Portland, reported just a single outage Sunday. Temperatures on Sunday hovered in the low- and-mid 40s, according to the National Weather Services Portland office, and steady bouts of rain softened and dissolved even the most stubborn patches of snow and ice. Some utility customers have been without power since strong winds and winter weather barreled through the region last weekend, snapping trees like match sticks, damaging and sometimes destroying homes and crippling power lines and equipment. Others lost power throughout the course of the storm, which included rounds of punishing snow, sleet and freezing rain. At one point, PGE said it had more than 1,700 people, including crews and support staff, working round the clock to help get the heat and lights back on in homes and businesses. Officials with the utility company have said that some people will be without power until early this week. The brutal storm wreaked havoc across much of the state , and has killed more than a dozen people. Officials have reported at least seven suspected hypothermia deaths statewide, and several people were killed in other weather-related events in the Portland area. On Wednesday, three people were killed by a downed power line in Portland. PGE officials said they are looking into the incident. Two other people were trapped in a car for hours on Thursday after live power lines dropped onto a row of cars in Troutdale. The Oregonian/OregonLives Austin de Dios contributed to this report. -- Shane Dixon Kavanaugh; 503-294-7632 Email at skavanaugh@oregonian.com Follow on Twitter @shanedkavanaugh Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe. Port Sudan, Sudan (PANA) - The Sudanese government has urged the UN Security Council to designate the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), with whom it has fighting a bloody war since April 2023, as "a terrorist organisation" and to take punitive measures against countries that support rebel militias in Sudan Photo: (Photo : Charles DeLoye on Unsplash) A New York twin brother from Herricks High School surprisingly got awards for valedictorian and salutatorian! The 17-year-old fraternal twins, Devon and Dylan Lee, were together in orchestra class when it was announced that they had both claimed the highest honors in their class as valedictorian and salutatorian of the Class of 2024 at Herricks High School in New Hyde Park, New York. New York Twin Brothers hailed as Valedictorian and Salutatorian Herricks Principal Joan Keegan stated that they purposely made the announcement during class since a lot of their peers who made it on the honor roll and top students are also in the same class as them. Keegan stated that it was a wonderful opportunity to share the joy with one another and added that the Lee twins are adored by their classmates and teachers. Dylan stated that he was a little bit surprised with the valedictorian and salutatorian awards since their school is more competitive and admitted that he was not sure if he would receive recognition or not. Following closely in the footsteps of their older sister, Jeylin Lee, Herricks High's valedictorian of 2023, the brothers have excelled in an environment known for its academic rigor. Despite being in a school brimming with top-tier students, the brothers managed to stand out, with their grade point averages a mere 0.006 points apart. Devon, with a GPA of 4.224, slightly outdid Dylan, who achieved a 4.218 GPA. Their success is a testament to their hard work and dedication in a competitive setting. Dylan also added that people have perceived them to be very competitive with each other since they are twins in the same grade and taking the same classes. On the contrary, the Lee twins stated that it is actually the opposite; they are very supportive of each other in ways like studying together, keeping each other accountable, and helping with homework. He added that he still believes academics, no matter how important they are in life, should not be everything in life, and that there is more to life than grades. Read Also: Biden's Fast-Tracked Student Loan Forgiveness: Key Details Revealed New and Separate Chapters in College The New York twin brothers are not just focusing on academics; both are also involved in extracurricular activities that make their high school journey particularly noteworthy. Both twins love music, running, and volleyball. As they prepare to part ways for college, with Devon heading to Cornell and Dylan heading to Yale, the brothers face a significant change. For the first time, they will be charting their paths independently, stepping out of a shared life that has been filled with joint experiences. This new phase, while daunting, is also filled with excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead. Principal Joan Keegan of Herricks High School has no doubts about their bright futures. She believes the twins' joyful and compassionate nature, nurtured by their family and experiences at school, will be the cornerstone of their success in their individual endeavors. It'll be a big departure for the brothers, who, in about eight months, will no longer see each other every single day. However, both stated that they are very excited to see what new opportunities and experiences they are going to have in college. Related Article: Empowering Black Education: UNCF Receives Historic $100M from Lilly Endowment Photo: (Photo : PHILIPPE HUGUEN/AFP via Getty Images) Kyte Baby is now in hot water for refusing maternity leave to a NICU mom. Kyte Baby is receiving backlash after word spread that the company denied the request of one of their employees to work remotely while her newborn baby is in the neonatal intensive care unit. The denial of her remote work request sparked outrage and backlash among the public and the brand's loyal users, since Kyte Baby is a well-known baby clothing brand. The employee, named Marissa, adopted a newborn premature baby who was admitted to the NICU in a Texas hospital. Kyte Baby Refuses Employee Maternity Leave The situation unfolded when Marissa, an employee of Kyte Baby, requested to work remotely to care for her adopted newborn in a Texas NICU. Despite the critical nature of her situation, the company's founder, Ying Liu, initially rejected this request. This refusal of maternity leave by a NICU mom drew immediate backlash from the public, with many calling for a boycott of Kyte Baby's products. The response highlighted a growing concern over workplace rights and the lack of support for new mothers, especially those facing medical emergencies with their children. Following the backlash, Kyte Baby attempted to address the situation. The CEO, Ying Liu, uploaded a TikTok video that seemed like she was reading a scripted apology. In the video, she briefly apologized to Marissa on how the parental leave was communicated and she added that she has been trying to reach out to her employee all day to directly apologize to her as well. However, this video only angered more people who are invested in the situation. With that, the CEO uploaded another TikTok apology video and this time, she became more transparent. Ying admitted that she just read it and memorized it. She added that she takes full responsibility for denying her request since she thought that the work could not be done remotely. Ying also admitted that she had not even reached out to her personally about the situation until today. Customers and social media users expressed their disappointment and frustration, questioning Kyte Baby's commitment to family values and support for mothers, particularly those with infants in critical care situations like NICUs. Read Also: Marissa From Kyte Baby Shares Her Story: Support, Maternity Leave for Adoptive Parents Policy Reevaluation and Moving Forward In light of the controversy, Kyte Baby announced a reevaluation of its maternity leave policies. The company, recognizing the need for a more compassionate approach, stated its commitment to aligning its practices with its values as a family-focused, woman-owned business. Furthermore, Kyte Baby extended an offer to Marissa to grant her remote work request, which she declined. This incident has sparked a broader conversation on the necessity for flexible and empathetic workplace policies, especially for parents in challenging circumstances such as dealing with a child's stay in the NICU. The incident at Kyte Baby, involving the refusal of maternity leave to a NICU mom, has brought to light critical issues surrounding workplace policies and support for parents in distressing situations. As Kyte Baby navigates through this challenging period and works on revising its policies, the case serves as a potent reminder of the importance of understanding and accommodating the needs of employees, particularly those with young children in critical medical care. The public's strong response to this situation underscores a societal expectation for companies to be more sensitive and supportive towards working parents, setting a precedent for others in the industry to follow. Related Article: Alarming Rise in Child Flu Deaths Signals Severe Season, CDC Urges Vigilance Palestinian girls study at a classroom in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, Jan. 20, 2024. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) GAZA, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- After the Israeli attacks forced many children in the Gaza Strip to flee their homes and schools, Intisar al-Arabid, a Gaza-based Palestinian teacher, launched her own initiative to teach displaced students in her shelter in the southern city of Rafah. "Being unable to go to school, the students are under stress as they have to go through the dire situation caused by the ongoing military operation in Gaza," said the 45-year-old math teacher. "Due to the lack of a sense of security, some children have started to have negative behaviors such as violence, especially those living in refugee camps," she noted. To help the children in Gaza, al-Arabid decided to take the matters into her own hands and started to offer free lessons to school-age children at the al-Quds primary school in Rafah, which has been turned into a shelter for displaced people. The curriculum courses that al-Arabid teaches in the school include math, science and Arabic. However, she has found it challenging to carry on the teaching amid the lack of pens, papers, notebooks, and education books. She then made the decision to concentrate more on teaching students to memorize, saying it would help them become more intelligent and focused. Israel has been launching a large-scale offensive in Gaza to retaliate against a surprise attack by the Palestinian Hamas group on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, when about 1,200 people were killed, according to the Israeli tallies. The Israeli attacks have killed 24,927 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip as of Saturday, according to the Gaza-based Health Ministry. Furthermore, many of Gaza's civilian structures, hospitals, colleges, and schools have all been destroyed by the attacks. "The Israeli government wants to destroy all aspects of life in Gaza and make it unstable. Our children lost all of their human rights in Gaza, including their right to life, education, and play," said Samah al-Masri, a displaced Gazan woman. The 42-year-old mother of three said that al-Arabid's initiative helped her eight-year-old son to resume his classes, restore his passion for life, and get rid of his fears that he would be killed by the Israeli army. Mohammed Abu Reziq, a displaced Gazan teenager who lost his school in an Israeli attack on the Gaza City, is one of the dozens of students taking al-Arabid's lessons. "Currently, I have known new classmates and I feel that I have returned to my former school, which gives me hope that I will return to my normal life soon after the Israeli army ends its war against Gaza," said the 12-year-old. Samir Awadallah, a Gaza-based Arabic teacher, said al-Arabid's initiative had given local residents, "who are struggling against the death in Gaza," some positive energy. He said that al-Arabid's initiative had encouraged him to teach students in a refugee camp located in the western part of Rafah city. "We are a people who love life and are trying to live in peace far away from the war," he said, adding "the life will continue, and the war will end someday." Palestinian girls are pictured after study in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, Jan. 20, 2024. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) Photo: (Photo : Anna Rose Layden /Getty Images) The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services sides with an Oklahoma hospital in an abortion denial to a woman in a medical emergency. The institution stated that the hospital did not violate any federal law in place by denying a woman an abortion and telling her to sit in the parking lot and wait for her condition to get worse. Jaci Statton filed a formal complaint with the department and stated that she was pregnant in early 2023. During her pregnancy, she experienced alarming symptoms, such as nausea and severe pain. However, doctors in Oklahoma, which has one of the most stringent abortion bans, say that she has a partial molar pregnancy, which could be fatal if left untreated. Medical providers tell Statton that unless she is actively on the verge of a heart attack or crashing in front of them, they will not provide her with an abortion. US Health Department Abortion Ruling in Oklahoma Case The case at the center of this development involved Jaci Statton, a 26-year-old woman who experienced a nonviable pregnancy and sought an abortion in Oklahoma. According to the Health Department's abortion ruling, the Oklahoma hospital did not violate federal law. The hospital's decision to ask Statton to wait in the parking lot until her condition qualified her for an abortion under the state's strict ban has been a point of contention. Ultimately, Statton and her husband traveled out of state to have an emergency abortion rather than wait for her health to deteriorate. The backdrop of this incident is the Supreme Court's 2022 decision to revoke the nationwide right to abortion, leading to stricter abortion laws in several Republican-led states, including Oklahoma. Read Also: Alarming Rise in Child Flu Deaths Signals Severe Season, CDC Urges Vigilance These laws have been the subject of numerous abortion denial cases, raising questions about women's access to necessary healthcare. The improper abortion complaint filed by Statton sheds light on the legal complexities surrounding the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) and its application in states with stringent abortion bans. The Biden administration had previously informed hospitals of their obligation to provide abortion services when the mother's life is at risk, indicating that EMTALA supersedes state bans lacking exceptions for medical emergencies. However, the dismissal of Statton's complaint by the Health Department marks a significant moment in the ongoing scrutiny over how EMTALA is applied after the Supreme Court ruling. The situation with Statton, who was denied timely medical intervention, underscores the dilemmas faced by healthcare providers and patients in navigating these laws. This incident reflects the challenges faced by women in states with restrictive abortion laws, highlighting the clash between state regulations and individual health emergencies. Abortion Denial in Republican-Led States The Center for Reproductive Rights, representing Statton, has expressed concern over the decision, highlighting the critical need for clarity and protection in emergency medical situations. The case has also intensified the debate among reproductive rights advocates, who are pushing back against restrictive state laws. With ongoing lawsuits in states like Idaho, Tennessee, and Texas, the issue of abortion access remains a contentious and evolving legal battle. The recent ruling by the US Health Department in the Oklahoma case is not just about a single incident of abortion denial; it represents a broader struggle over women's rights and healthcare access in America. As legal battles continue, the implications of this decision will likely reverberate through future cases and policy discussions. Related Article: Missouri Teacher Arrested for Poisoning Husband, Charged with Attempted Murder Recently Ive seen a broke woke bespoke meme going around about vampires being repelled by crosses and other holy objects and how that works. The broke part says vampires are repelled by Christian symbols and elements, regardless of the faith of the person using them. The power of Christ compels you! The woke part says vampires are repelled by symbols that are deeply meaningful to the person using them, if their belief is strong enough. The power of my faith compels you! The bespoke part says vampires are repelled by the symbols of the religion they followed in life and that were meaningful to them. The power of your faith compels you! As someone whos a life-long vampire fan and as someone who actively works to decenter Christianity in religious discussions, I find this meme fascinating, and worth diving into more deeply. Folklore giving way to fiction Because I sometimes write about folkloric beings as persons, I suppose I should begin by clearly stating that the roots of vampire folklore are best understood naturalistically. Vampire legends began because until very recently, people cared for their own dead. Someone died, the family prepared the body, laid it out for a short while, and then buried it. Figuring out exactly when someone was or wasnt dead was a very inexact science (and it still is, though much less so than even a hundred years ago). Sometimes those thought to be dead came back occasionally after they were already buried. Dreams of the dead returning are common and so is the fear that they might. The vampires of folklore were revenant corpses something any sensible person would be frightened of and something no one would ever want to be. And then came Dr. Polidori. Dr. John Polidori was Lord Byrons traveling companion in the famous year without a summer of 1816. The same storytelling contest that led to Mary Shelleys Frankenstein also gave us Polidoris The Vampyre, the first modern vampire story in English. The main character was Lord Ruthven a thinly disguised caricature of Byron and the whole idea of vampires as evil aristocrats was born. Folklore gave way to fiction, and while the vampire stories of the 19th and 20th centuries incorporated a good amount of folklore, that didnt stop authors from Sheridan Le Fanu to Bram Stoker to Anne Rice from following in Polidoris footsteps and creating their own visions of the undead. Fiction in a thoroughly Christian environment I re-read Dracula (first published in 1897) over the Winter holidays in 2022 for the first time in at least 20 years. I was struck by how Christian the story is, and not just because of things like crosses and communion wafers. Of course it is 19th century Britain was a thoroughly Christian environment, where Christianity was presumed to be the One True Religion. The world of Dracula is a thoroughly Christian world, where Christian symbols and elements and rituals carry real power. Stokers vampires are evil and so of course theyre repelled by symbols of the One True Religion. That idea carried over into the Universal movies of the 1930s and from there into the wider popular culture. Vampires are afraid of crosses became one of those things everybody knows. Humanity, diversity, and the declining power of crosses Countess Zaleska (played by Gloria Holden in Draculas Daughter in 1936) is generally considered to be the first sympathetic vampire she wanted to be cured. The exorcism scene early in that movie is brief but excellent. And then came Barnabas Collins in Dark Shadows in 1966. They were both repelled by crosses, because thats what the then-current ideas about vampires said should happen. But the more human vampires became, the harder it was to call them evil. And if a vampire isnt truly evil, why should a symbol of good repel them? As that was happening, Anglo-American society was becoming far less Christian. If an author doesnt believe Christianity is the One True Religion or if they remain Christian but dont see any real spiritual power in Christianity why would they make Christian symbols toxic to their characters? So now were to our woke and bespoke elements. The power of holy objects lies not with any intrinsic power, but with the power of faith: either the faith of the user, or the faith of the vampire. If you believe its true, then for all practical purposes its true for you. Which is right? It comes down to what works best for the author and their audience. But for those of us who are fascinated with such things, it makes for interesting conversation over a glass of warm red wine. Metaphysics our foundational ideas Metaphysics are our foundational ideas about the world and how it works. Those ideas form a container for interpreting our experiences, a boundary between what we assume is possible and what we assume is not. In a fictional world, the author decides the metaphysics. In the ordinary world, we have to figure them out through observations and logic, using a process that constantly tries to get closer to the Truth while accepting we will never fully get there. Vampires and crosses are an example of metaphysical contemplation. Do crosses repel vampires? If so, why? And what are the wider implications? Broke, woke, and bespoke present different lines of thinking and reasoning. Last year I taught an on-line class in Modern Pagan Metaphysics. We covered the philosophical foundations of metaphysics, and then spent five weeks going through the major foundations of modern Paganism: animism, polytheism, science, magic, and myth. And then we put all that together into a worldview that is reasonable, meaningful, and that helps us understand the world and our place in it. The class is on-demand you can take it now if you like. Its important for each and every one of us to build our own metaphysics in a mindful manner. Otherwise, we end up falling back on what we were taught as small children, and on what corporate and political leaders hammer into our heads with their constant advertising. Pagans doing Christian magic in a secular world And now we get to the whole purpose of this post (besides the fact I cant resist an opportunity to write about vampires). Much of what is commonly called folk magic is thoroughly Christian. Preachers and priests may call it superstition (or worse, of the devil) but working magic is part of our legacy as humans, and people didnt stop working magic when they became Christians. They just worked magic in a Christian environment. Your great grandma who did these things would smack you with a bible if you called her a witch. Often, the magic worked. It still does. And as with vampires and crosses, we wonder: how does it work? And what does it mean that it does? Grimoire magic is religious magic The grimoires of the medieval and early modern period are thoroughly Christian (and Jewish, which raises more metaphysical questions as well as questions of religious authenticity). They use Christian symbols and liturgy to channel the power of the Christian God to summon demons and compel them to serve the magician. Does that power actually come from the Christian God? Does it come from the magician themselves? Does it come from the beliefs of the demons? Or some combination of all of them? You can do these sort of operations from a Pagan perspective, but the further away from the source tradition you get, the less likely things will work as planned. On the other hand, some of the oldest Western magic is Pagan in origin. Or more precisely, it originated in the religious and cultural melting pot of the Eastern Mediterranean in the first couple of centuries CE. I have repaganized a couple of them, with good results. For a good, practical look at this sort of magic from multiple perspectives, see Jason Millers Consorting With Spirits. My own thinking on these things Im less concerned that you agree with me and more concerned that you take the time and effort to think about the deeper implications of your magic. That said, I want to share my own thinking on Pagans doing Christian magic, if only to provide a starting point for further conversations. I am a polytheist, and as such I acknowledge the divinity, agency, and power of the Many Gods. I acknowledge the Christian God, but as one God among many, not as the only God or the supreme God. Magic has three sources: the intercession of Gods and spirits, the manipulation of unseen forces, and psychological programming. A magicians ability to work magic, then, depends on their ability to persuade their spiritual allies to help them, to shape and direct the currents of magic, and to perform and present their magic in ways that convince themselves and others that it is real and powerful. A Pagan working Christian magic is unlikely to get much help from the Christian God He is known as a jealous God. Given that few magicians working Christian magic were ever orthodox Christians (which is why the Church often harassed and sometimes burned them) you have to wonder how much the Christian God cares about orthodox Christianity, but thats another topic for another time and likely, for another blog. Traditions, rituals, and objects can retain power on their own. Using them doesnt channel power from a spirit, it draws power from the thing itself. Sometimes Pagans and secular magicians can make use of Christian items simply because theyve got power built up in them from centuries of practice. But Im a Pagan and a polytheist, and I prefer to ground my magic in Paganism and polytheism. As for vampires and crosses Should I ever encounter a folkloric vampire (I dont expect to, but hey, you never know) I can promise you I wont try to repel it with a cross. Ill use whatever mundane weapons I have at hand to disable and dispatch it. And should I encounter a vampire of more modern lore, Ill trust in my own abilities with shielding and circling to remain safe while we talk Representatives and lawyers for Oil Marketing Company, Shell (Defendant) were absent in court on Thursday, for the hearing of the case in which a businessman dragged them to court for sale of alleged contaminated fuel. When the case was called before Justice John Bosco Nabarese, both the Defendant (Shell) and their lawyers were absent. The judge noted he received information that lawyer for the Defendant is indisposed. Lawyer for the Plaintiff John Jaja who was minded to ask for cost rather waived it. The businessman, Edmund Barwuah dragged Shell to Court for allegedly selling contaminated fuel to him. The plaintiff in his statement of claim said, on August 28, 2022 he refuelled his Ford Explorer vehicle, 2017 model at the Atimpoku Shell filling station in the Eastern Region on his way from the Volta Region. The plaintiff ( Edmund Barwuah) claimed that, the fuel sold to him was contaminated with water, a situation which endangered his life and that of his friend John Michael Appiah-Acheampong. Aside that, he also missed an important business meeting he was scheduled for, worth Two Million, Five Hundred Dollars ($2,500,000.00) as well damages on car. The plaintiff (Edmund Barwuah) is therefore praying the High court in Accra to give an order directing the Defendant (Shell) to replace his Ford Explorer vehicle, 2017 model with a similar vehicle and of same specifications. He also wants the court to order the Defendant (Shell) to award him special damages of $2.5 million for the loss of business opportunity occasioned by the defendant's negligence and breach of contract. Additionally he wants damages of Six Hundred cedis (GHC 600.00) per day for the loss of his car from 28th August, 2022 till Shell replaces his car with similar vehicle. The case has been adjourned to January 25, 2024 for the hearing to commence. Source: Philipa Atanga/Court Reporter/Despite Media Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video New electric vehicles will become more affordable this year with a price war set to unfold, experts predict. The arrival of less expensive Chinese brands and the introduction of the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) Mandate is going to force the hands of other makers to slash their prices in order to remain competitive and meet new binding targets for EV sales set out by the Government. 'Drivers considering taking the first step on their electrified driving journey have never been in a better position to benefit from falling EV prices than in 2024,' says Auto Trader, the country's largest automotive marketplace. The emergence of Chinese manufacturers is going to cause a big shift in the nation's new car sector. Brands from China are expected to capture a sixth of the UK's EV market by 2030 as its manufacturers look overseas after conquering their domestic market, Auto Trader's Road to 2035 report states. China has already cemented itself as the world's biggest exporter of cars, overtaking Japan last year. And exclusive analysis by MailOnline and This is Money's motoring department found that some are already having a huge impact on the UK car market. MG, with its focus on affordable EVs like the latest MG4, accounted for over 4 per cent of vehicle registrations in the UK last year. In just a decade, Shanghai-operated MG Motor has increased its market share of new motors sold per year by a massive 19,094 per cent - more than any other brand over the last 10 years - and now sells more new vehicles than Skoda, Peugeot, Land Rover, Volvo, Renault and even Tesla. Other Chinese brands, like GRW (Great Wall Motor) and BYD (Build Your Dreams), are just breaking into the UK market and are still establishing themselves. It was recently confirmed that BYD overtook Tesla as the world's biggest manufacturer of electric vehicles in the final three months of 2023, selling a record 526,000 vehicles globally. Searches for BYD cars trebled on Auto Trader in the days after the news, accounting for more than 6 per cent of all new EV advert views. And Chinese brands have the capacity to slash their prices even more. BYD's Dolphin EV, for instance, costs from 13,000 in China but starts at 25,000 in the UK. As for GRW's ORA 03 (formerly the Funky Cat) supermini, the gulf is 19,000 (12,000 starting price in China and 31,000 in the UK). However, this is also courtesy of huge Chinese-Government subsidies and big import taxes. Source: Dailymail.co.uk Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Ghana Privates Road Transport Union (GPRTU) says their pending increment of transport fares has been suspended until further notice. The union in a statement explained that stakeholders will have consultation with the Ministry of Transport on January 23, 2024, to address the matter comprehensively. We kindly request all Regional Secretariats to adhere to this directive by putting on hold any fare adjustments until after the scheduled meeting with the Ministry of Transport. The statement said. Read attached the full statment below... Your browser does not support iframes. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Pope Francis has said that sexual pleasure is "a gift from God" that should be "disciplined with patience." He also warned against pornography, which he said brought "satisfaction without relationship" and could lead to addiction. The Pope was speaking at his general audience in the Vatican on Wednesday. The address, part of a series of sermons on vices and virtues, focused on what the Pope called "the demon of lust". The pontiff said that lust "devastates relationships between people" and added that "daily news is enough to document this reality". "How many relationships that started out in the best way have later become toxic relationships?" he asked. The Pope made the comments days after his new head of doctrine, Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, came under fire for a book he wrote and published in the late 1990s entitled Mystical Passion: Spirituality and Sensuality. The book, which is now out of print, discussed human sexuality and provided detailed descriptions of male and female experiences during orgasms. Speaking to Catholic online publication Crux, Cardinal Fernandez said he wrote the book when he was still young and he "certainly would not" write it now. Conservative commentators have called the book "perverse", with one saying it showed Cardinal Fernandez was "unfit" to be prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. This is not the first time Pope Francis or Cardinal Fernandez have drawn the ire of conservative members of the Catholic community. In December, Cardinal Fernandez introduced a text, later approved by Pope Francis, detailing guidelines allowing priests to bless same-sex couples relationships that were still considered sinful. Although Cardinal Fernandez did emphasise that the stance did not validate the status of same-sex couples in the eyes of the Catholic Church, for many conservatives the damage was done. Cardinal Gerhard Muller, who was the Church's head of doctrine under Pope Benedict XVI, firmly denounced the Vatican's document. In a lengthy response posted online, Cardinal Muller said that a priest blessing a homosexual union would be committing a "sacrilegious and blasphemous act". "According to the criterion of this type of blessings, one could even bless an abortion clinic or a mafia group," Cardinal Muller said. Prelates around the world also released statements condemning the decision, including American conservatives, who have long been vocal in opposing the Pope's plans for reforming the Catholic Church. Tensions reached a nadir when the Pope evicted outspoken critic US Cardinal Raymond Burke from his Vatican apartment and revoked his salary. Source: BBC Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video A businessman and Chief Executive Officer of Marrer Ghana Limited and Susatgad Boat Building and Fishing Industries, Novihoho Afaglo has rescued the people of Amedzikorpe from having to walk long distances to access quality and portable drinking water. This came to light after he led the chiefs and people to commission the first 'Water for All Borehole' project at Amedzikorpe in the Volta Region. The project is aimed at providing portable drinking water for all the adjourning communities in the area and also ensure that the rural communities are not left out. Speaking to the media after the official handing over ceremony on Saturday January 12, 2024, Mr. Afaglo said the project is a contribution to support the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), John Dramani Mahama's agenda of Building the Ghana we all want together. He promised to build extra nine (9) in the neighboring communities to enable them get easy access to portable drinking water. Reacting to the good gesture, the people of Amedzikorpe praised the businessman for remember the plight of his people and asked for long life and prosperity in the coming years Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video The Minister for Works and Housing and Member of Parliament for the Bantama constituency, Francis Asenso-Boakye has cast doubt on the competence of Ralph Agyapong saying he's "unprepared". Ralph Agyepong who is the brother of the MP for Assin Central, Kennedy Agyapong is seeking to snatch the Bantama seat from Asenso Boakye in the upcoming primaries of the New Patriotic Party (NPP). However, Asenso-Boakye in an interview believes Ralph has no chance of winning because he has no vision for the constituency. "He's not a match for me...I see him as unprepared...Bantama is a very serious constituency; so far no one knows his plans and vision" he said on Kumasi-based Hello FM Listen to him in the video below Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video KAMPALA, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping's special representative Liu Guozhong attended the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit on Friday and Saturday in the Ugandan capital Kampala and delivered a speech, highlighting the movement's important role in promoting the cause of world peace and human progress. The NAM, born at the climax of the national liberation movements in Asia, Africa and Latin America, has effectively advanced the cause of world peace and human progress, said Liu, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and vice premier of the State Council. It should continue to uphold independence and oppose power politics, seek common ground while shelving differences, promote peaceful coexistence, seek strength through unity, strive for common development, and advocate equality, fairness and justice, Liu said. Liu stressed that China will always be a member of the developing world and is willing to work with the NAM countries to promote the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative and Global Civilization Initiative under the guidance of building a global community of shared future. China is ready to advance Belt and Road cooperation, practice the common values of humanity, and advocate an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, to promote the world toward a bright future of peace, security, prosperity and progress, Liu said. Heads of state and government and high-level representatives from more than 100 countries, and heads of international organizations attended the summit. Ugandan President and the chair of the NAM Yoweri Museveni, heads of state of South Africa, Sri Lanka and other countries, the president of the UN General Assembly, and the UN secretary-general delivered speeches, expressing their views on the current international situation and strengthening the role of the NAM. Liu's speech was positively recognized and widely appreciated by representatives of other countries. On Saturday, Liu was invited to attend a seminar of the Mwalimu Nyerere Foundation on development held by President Museveni and delivered a speech. The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA-Ghana) has expressed their bitter feelings over the neglect of women in leading political roles in Ghana. The women lawyers, speaking in an interview on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" show, advocated the need and significance of having a female as Running Mate to the presidential candidates of the political parties, particularly the New Patriotic Party and National Democratic Congress. They believe it is about time a female was considered for such position, stressing women in leadership roles contribute largely to national development. They argued that due to the less number of women in leadership roles in the politics of Ghana, most of the needs of women have been abandoned but should a woman be chosen as Running Mate, she will address the numerous challenges bedeviling females and also become a beacon of hope to young women. "Voting is not peculiar to men alone. We are all equal citizens. So, why can't we open up and give both men and women the same opportunities?", one of the panelists who spoke for FIDA-Ghana highlighted. Another explained their quest for a female Running Mate is to negate historical accounts regarding women not considered for high offices. "When you take US, it took them 200 years to get a female Running Mate or a woman who is currently their Vice President. We won't sit down for it to be 200 years before we choose a woman as Running Mate; we have to speak out", the women admonished the leaders of the main political parties in the country. Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video Atik Mohammed has waded into discussions regarding the Running Mate slots of both the New Patriotic Party and National Democratic Congress and the numerous demands for a female to occupy the position. The flagbearers of both parties, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia and Ex-President John Dramani Mahama, are yet to declare their Running Mates and as Ghanaians await the announcement, there are already calls on the parties to pick certain favorites of the people. On the part of the New Patriotic Party, names like Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, Energy Minister, and Henry Kwabena Kokofu, the Chief Executive Officer of the Environmental Protection Agency have cropped up. The National Democratic Congress has been silent on their list, however, it could be recalled that Mr. John Mahama chose former Education Minister, Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, as his Running Mate into the 2020 elections; it is unclear if she will be re-appointed or not. The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA-Ghana) has appealed to the presidential candidates to consider choosing women to partner them. "Why cant we open up and give both men and women the same opportunities?, the women lawyers questioned. He argued that when you take US, it took them 200 years to get a female Running Mate or a woman who is currently their Vice President. We wont sit down for it to be 200 years before we choose a woman as Running Mate; we have to speak out. Atik, sharing his views on the issue during Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" morning show, admonished the flagbearers not to be pressured nor fall for the demands to elect a woman but advised they should look for a candidate who will complement them in realizing their vision. "If you know running with a woman will not help your ticket, why would you do that?", he also asked . He cautioned the flagbearers against doing the bidding of the lobbyists saying "you may have a woman who is equally impactful. If that is your choice, that is fair and good but do not let any person force you to choose a woman because they say when you select a woman, it makes the ticket pleasant. It makes you look nice". He added; "It is not about the niceness of the ticket; it is about your ability to win and if that person is a woman, fair enough. If it is a man, fair enough." Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video CEO of Dons Music Production, Dennis Boafo, popularly known as Don D and organizer of the Ghana Music Awards USA, has shot down claims that they are visa contractors. According to him, they solely facilitate those interested in attending their events. The Ghana Music Awards USA, also known as GMA USA, is a widely recognized annual event honoring Ghanaian musicians and artists' cultural contributions within Ghana and the diaspora. During a chat with Halifax Ansah Addo on the Okay FM Mid Morning Show, Don D expressed his concerns about some Ghanaians attempting to exploit the platform to gain visa access to the USA. He clarified that this was not the intended purpose of the platform. He emphasized, "We only facilitate those who genuinely wish to attend, such as our patrons, the Ghanaian media, nominated artists, and our sponsors, all through legal means. These are individuals investing in America." Addressing the previous year's applications, he mentioned, "Out of the numerous applicants, we facilitated only four individuals whom we were confident would adhere to their permit terms. We are cautious not to assist those who might overstay or run away." Don D emphasized that the event's purpose is to promote the music of Ghanaian artists and provide them with exposure. Although the event primarily focused on artists in America, he acknowledged the importance of recognizing the contributions of Ghanaians back home and not neglecting them. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video By Josh Funk, The Associated Press The aging reformed mobster who has admitted stealing a pair of ruby slippers that Judy Garland wore in The Wizard of Oz gave into the temptation of one last score after an old mob associate led him to believe the famous shoes must be adorned with real jewels to justify their $1 million insured value. Terry Jon Martins defense attorney finally revealed the 76-year-olds motive for the 2005 theft from the Judy Garland Museum in the late actors hometown of Grand Rapids, Minnesota, in a new memo filed ahead of his Jan. 29 sentencing in Duluth, Minnesota. The FBI recovered the shoes in 2018 when someone else tried to claim an insurance reward on them, but Martin wasnt charged with stealing them until last year. Martin pleaded guilty in October to using a hammer to smash the glass of the museum door and display case to take the slippers. He had hoped to harvest real rubies from the shoes and sell them. But a fence, a person who deals in stolen goods, informed him the rubies were glass and Martin got rid of the slippers less than two days after he took them, he said. Defense attorney Dane DeKrey said in his memo that an unidentified former mob associate tempted Martin to steal the shoes, even though he hadnt committed a crime in nearly 10 years after his last prison stint. At first, Terry declined the invitation to participate in the heist. But old habits die hard, and the thought of a final score kept him up at night, DeKrey wrote. After much contemplation, Terry had a criminal relapse and decided to participate in the theft. DeKrey and prosecutors are recommending the judge sentence Martin to time served because he is physically incapable of presenting a threat to society. Martin is in hospice care with a life expectancy of less than six months. He needs oxygen at all times because of his chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder and was in a wheelchair at his most recent court appearance. Even if he were sentenced to prison, his poor health might be grounds for a compassionate release. Martin had no idea about the cultural significance of the ruby slippers and had never seen the movie. Instead, DeKrey said he was just looking for one last big score, and the old Terry with a lifelong history of crimes like burglary and receiving stolen property beat out the new Terry who seemed to finally put his demons to rest after being released from prison in 1996 and became a contributing member of society. DeKrey urged the judge to consider the major events of Martins life when deciding whether a lenient sentence is appropriate. Martin suffered under a cruel stepmother who mistreated him and his three brothers so badly for several years that he left home at the age of 16 and began drinking and stealing. While on parole from prison, Martins girlfriend became pregnant with twins, but he missed their birth after his parole was revoked. Right after his girlfriend brought the 1-month-old twins to prison to meet him, they died after a train struck her vehicle. This was truly the turning point in Terrys life his villain origin story and the reason he not only went down his dark path but accelerated towards it, DeKrey wrote. His son said it best: the twins death made (my dad) just give up on life; he decided on a life of crime. Martins lawyer also said the judge should consider that Martin had not committed any other crimes in nearly a decade before stealing the slippers nor in the years since then. DeKrey said Martin didnt even try to claim a slice of the insurance reward money when some of his former associates tried to collect. Garland wore several pairs of ruby slippers during filming of the classic 1939 musical, but only four authentic pairs are known to remain. The stolen slippers were insured for $1 million, but federal prosecutors put the current market value at about $3.5 million. The FBI said a man approached the insurer in 2017 and claimed he could help recover them but demanded more than the $200,000 reward being offered. The slippers were recovered during an FBI sting in Minneapolis. The FBI has never disclosed how it tracked down the slippers, which remain in the agencys custody. FILE - Rhys Thomas, author of 'the Ruby Slippers of Oz' takes a photo of a pair of ruby slippers once worn by Judy Garland in the 'The Wizard of Oz', Sept. 4, 2018, in Brooklyn Center, Minnesota. (Richard Tsong-Taatarii/Star Tribune via AP, FILE)AP The slippers were on loan to the museum from Hollywood memorabilia collector Michael Shaw when Martin stole them. Three other pairs worn by Garland in the movie are held by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the Smithsonian Museum of American History and a private collector. Several rewards were offered over the years in hopes of figuring out who stole the slippers, which were key props in the film. Garlands character, Dorothy, has to click the heels of the slippers three times and repeat, Theres no place like home, to return to Kansas. Garland was born Frances Gumm in 1922. She lived in Grand Rapids, about 200 miles (320 kilometers) north of Minneapolis, until she was 4, when her family moved to Los Angeles. She died in 1969. The Judy Garland Museum, located in the house where she lived, says it has the worlds largest collection of Garland and Wizard of Oz memorabilia. By Kim Chandler, The Associated Press MONTGOMERY, Ala. Alabama is preparing to use a new method of execution: nitrogen gas. Kenneth Eugene Smith, who survived the states previous attempt to put him to death by lethal injection in 2022, is scheduled to be put to death Thursday by nitrogen hypoxia. If carried out, it would the first new method of execution since lethal injection was introduced in 1982. The state maintains that nitrogen gas will cause unconsciousness quickly but critics have likened the never-used method of execution to human experimentation. WHAT IS NITROGEN HYPOXIA? Nitrogen hypoxia execution would cause death by forcing the inmate to breathe pure nitrogen, depriving him or her of the oxygen needed to maintain bodily functions. FILE - Alabama's lethal injection chamber at Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore, Ala., is pictured in this Oct. 7, 2002 file photo. Kenneth Smith, 58, is scheduled to be executed Jan. 25, 2024, at a south Alabama prison by nitrogen gas, a method that has never been used to put a person to death. The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals will hear arguments Friday, Jan. 19, in Smith's bid to stop the execution from going forward. (AP Photo/File)AP HAS IT EVER BEEN USED? No state has used nitrogen hypoxia to carry out a death sentence. In 2018, Alabama became the third state along with Oklahoma and Mississippi to authorize the use of nitrogen gas to execute prisoners. Some states are looking for new ways to execute inmates because the drugs used in lethal injections, the most common execution method in the United States, are increasingly difficult to find. HOW IS IT SUPPOSED TO WORK? Nitrogen, a colorless, odorless gas, makes up 78% of the air inhaled by humans and is harmless when breathed with proper levels of oxygen. The theory behind nitrogen hypoxia is that changing the composition of the air to 100% nitrogen will cause Smith to lose consciousness and then die from lack of oxygen. Much of what is recorded in medical journals about death from nitrogen exposure comes from industrial accidents where nitrogen leaks or mix-ups have killed workers and suicide attempts. WHAT DOES THE STATE PLAN TO DO? After Smith is strapped to the gurney in the execution chamber, the state said in a court filing that it will place a NIOSH-approved Type-C full facepiece supplied air respirator a type of mask typically used in industrial settings to deliver life-preserving oxygen over Smiths face. The warden will then read the death warrant and ask Smith if he has any last words before activating the nitrogen hypoxia system from another room. The nitrogen gas will be administered for at least 15 minutes or five minutes following a flatline indication on the EKG, whichever is longer, according to the state protocol. The state heavily redacted sections of the protocol related to the storage and testing of the gas system. The Alabama attorney generals office told a federal judge that the nitrogen gas will cause unconsciousness within seconds, and cause death within minutes. WHAT ARE THE CRITICISMS? Smiths attorneys say the state is seeking to make him the test subject for a novel execution method. They have argued that the mask the state plans to use is not air tight and oxygen seeping in could subject him to a prolonged execution, possibly leaving him in a vegetative state instead of killing him. A doctor testified on behalf of Smith that the low-oxygen environment could cause nausea, leaving Smith to choke to death on his own vomit. Experts appointed by the United Nations Human Rights Council earlier this month cautioned that, in their view, the execution method would violate the prohibition on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment. The American Veterinary Medical Association wrote in 2020 euthanasia guidelines that nitrogen hypoxia can be an acceptable method of euthanasia under certain conditions for pigs but not for other mammals because it creates an anoxic environment that is distressing for some species. IS THIS THE SAME AS THE GAS CHAMBER? Not exactly. Some states previously used hydrogen cyanide gas, a lethal gas, for executions. The last prisoner to be executed in a U.S. gas chamber was Walter LaGrand, the second of two German brothers sentenced to death for killing a bank manager in 1982 in southern Arizona. It took LaGrand 18 minutes to die in 1999. WHO IS THE INMATE? Smith was one of two men convicted of the 1988 murder-for-hire of a preachers wife. Prosecutors said Smith and the other man were each paid $1,000 to kill Elizabeth Sennett on behalf of her husband, who was deeply in debt and wanted to collect insurance money. Alabama attempted to execute Smith in 2022 by lethal injection. He was strapped to the gurney in the execution chamber being prepared for lethal injection, but the state called off the lethal injection when execution team members had difficulty connecting the second of two required intravenous lines to Smiths veins. Smith was strapped to the gurney for nearly four hours, according to his lawyers, as he waited to see if the execution would go forward. ARE THERE LEGAL CHALLENGES? The question of whether the execution can proceed will end up before the U.S. Supreme Court. The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals heard arguments Friday in Smiths request to block the execution. After the court rules, either side could appeal. Smith has argued that the states proposed procedures violate the ban on cruel and unusual punishment. He has also argued that Alabama violated his due process rights by scheduling the execution when he has pending appeals and that the face mask will interfere with is ability to pray. In a separate case, Smith is arguing it would violate the constitutional ban on cruel and unusual punishment for the state to make a second attempt to execute him after he already survived one execution attempt. Lawyers for Smith on Friday asked the U.S. Supreme Court to stay the execution to consider that question. WHAT IS POTENTIALLY AT STAKE? Lethal injection is the most commonly used execution method in the United States, but death penalty states have struggled at times to obtain the needed drugs or encountered other problems in connecting intravenous lines. If the Alabama execution goes forward, other states may seek to start to using nitrogen gas. If the execution is blocked by the court or botched, it could halt or slow the pursuit of nitrogen gas as an alternative execution method. By Alex Harris, Miami Herald (TNS) MIAMI -- Between rain bombs and drenching from no-name storms, hundreds of homes in South Florida have experienced damaging flooding in the last year alone. But an exact count of flood-prone homes in South Florida and where and how often they flood has been all but impossible to pin down. Newly released data from the Federal Emergency Management Agency puts some hard numbers to a problem that climate change promises to make worse in the coming decades. Thousands of homes across the state have endured water damage more than once. Its a number that is growing across the state, in part because in the vast majority of cases, little has been done to protect the properties from future floods. Heres the kicker: Potential buyers and renters are prohibited from knowing that flooding history under federal and state rules. And those FEMA numbers are almost assuredly an undercount of flood-prone properties because the agencys data reflects only insured properties that filed flood claims with the National Flood Insurance Program. Plenty of homeowners are not required to hold flood insurance policies or use a private company that doesnt report claims data. These are the tip of the iceberg when it comes to repeatedly flooded properties in the US, said Anna Weber, a senior policy analyst at the Natural Resources Defense Council, which analyzed the FEMA data. The FEMA data in question, released by the NRCD on Tuesday, is just part of the flood damage picture, showing only what the federal government declares as a severe repetitive loss property. That designation covers homes that have flooded twice, with damage totaling the value of the property, or flooded four times with at least $5,000 of damage each time. There are about 45,000 of these properties in the U.S., as of the end of 2022, with about 3,100 in Florida alone, according to FEMA data analyzed by the NRDC. Florida added about 120 of those homes from 2021 to 2022. But Floridians dont get to know where, exactly, these homes are, due to federal and state laws that block renters or home buyers from learning about past flooding on private properties. Two new bills filed this year could address it, but previous attempts to solve the problem in Tallahassee have failed. Weber said that some of the Florida list have flooded more than 9 times in the last decade alone. Because the FEMA numbers run only through the end of 2022, they dont show repetitive loss figures from the historic rainfall that drowned some low-lying Fort Lauderdale neighborhoods last April. FEMA shows only 23 insured homes in the city that have experienced repeated flooding. That number could soar in next years data as the city counted more than 1,100 homes flooded after the rain bomb. Many residents in neighborhoods like River Oaks reported that it wasnt the first time theyd had damage. According to the NRDC analysis of FEMAs data, the vast majority of the states problem properties remain highly vulnerable. Of the 3,100, only a hundred have been fixed in the last few decades, either by elevating the house high enough that it doesnt flood, or buying the property, razing the house and turning the empty lot into a grassy lot that absorbs water. Thats what North Miami did with one of its repetitive loss properties in 2019, which is now a mini park designed to absorb the neighborhoods floodwater on rainy days. But the rest of those 3,000 or so properties remain unfixed. About half were uninsured, as of 2022. The other half pay annual flood insurance premiums, but because the properties are classified as repetitive loss, theyre charged far higher annual prices than their neighbors. The pace at which we are adding properties to the severe repetitive loss list far outstrips the pace at which we are mitigating them, Weber said. If were failing to keep up with mitigating these most vulnerable properties, thats not a good sign for all the other properties with flood risk around the country. Flood history is a secret in Florida In Miami-Dade alone, there are about 280 official repetitive loss properties. Broward has about 119, and Manatee County has about 100 Despite its small population, Monroe County, which includes the Florida Keys, has at least 173 homes. The two counties with the highest count were Santa Rosa, with more than 460, and Pinellas, with just over 600. But their locations are a secret, including, sometimes, to the people who own them. Thats because FEMA decided that sharing the addresses of these properties with the public would be a violation of federal privacy laws. Only the federal government, and local planning officials, get to see the exact location of these flood-troubled properties. Thats helpful to sellers looking to offload a flood-prone house, but less so for home buyers hoping to avoid purchasing a home that moonlights as a swimming pool. Weber said that FEMAs policy is to only share past flood history with a property owner that holds an active flood insurance policy on a property, so prospective buyers may only know the details of their propertys flood history after theyve closed the deal. Weve heard anecdotally that this happens with distressing frequently, she said. Theres really no way for a home buyer to just Google the address of a property and see what its flood insurance claim history is. Some states, like Virginia, require sellers to disclose if a property is a repetitive loss. Others, like Texas, go above and beyond and require both home sellers and landlords to inform tenants about past flood issues. But Florida doesnt require any specific flood disclosures. Bills to address this have failed repeatedly in recent years, and the states real estate industry points to a voluntary flood disclosure form that buyers can choose to fill out. If they lie on the form or fail to disclose something major that affects the propertys value like a history of severe flooding the buyer could sue. A house sits just above floodwaters off North Blackwater Lane during flooding due to Hurricane Ian at Stillwright Point in Key Largo, Florida, on Thursday, Sept. 29, 2022. (Daniel A. Varela/Miami Herald/TNS)TNS That was exactly what happened with a Palm Beach County woman in 2019. She won the lawsuit, but didnt collect much of her winnings in the end. Thats why some advocates, like NRDC, are pushing for mandatory flood disclosure at the national level. The Biden administration is considering it, but it could be years before anything is enacted. Two new bills were introduced in Tallahassee this week to potentially correct the issue: Senate Bill 484 by Jennifer Bradley (R - Fleming Island) and Senate Bill 38 by Linda Stewart (D - Orlando). Stewarts bill would require landlords to inform tenants if theyre in a flood zone, and Bradleys bill would require home sellers to disclose past flooding, as well as flood insurance claims, on their property to potential buyers. 2024 Miami Herald. Visit at miamiherald.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. By Tim Sullivan, The Associated Press APPLETON, Wis. The decades fall away as you open the front doors. Its the late 1950s in the cramped little offices or maybe the pre-hippie 1960s. Its a place where army-style buzz cuts are still in fashion, communism remains the primary enemy and the decor is dominated by American flags and portraits of once-famous Cold Warriors. At the John Birch Society, theyve been waging war for more than 60 years against what theyre sure is a vast, diabolical conspiracy. As they tell it, its a plot with tentacles that reach from 19th-century railroad magnates to the Biden White House, from the Federal Reserve to COVID vaccines. Long before QAnon, Pizzagate and the modern crop of politicians who will happily repeat apocalyptic talking points, there was Birch. And outside these cramped small-town offices is a national political landscape that the Society helped shape. We have a bad reputation. You know: You guys are insane, says Wayne Morrow, a Society vice president. He is standing in the groups warehouse amid 10-foot (3-meter) shelves of Birch literature waiting to be distributed. But all the things that we wrote about are coming to pass. ___ Back when the Cold War loomed and TV was still mostly in black and white, the John Birch Society mattered. There were dinners at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York and meetings with powerful politicians. There was a headquarters on each coast, a chain of bookstores, hundreds of local chapters, radio shows, summer camps for members children. Well-funded and well-organized, they sent forth fevered warnings about a secret communist plot to take over America. It made them heroes to broad swaths of conservatives, even as they became a punchline to a generation of comedians. They created this alternative political tradition, says Matthew Dallek, a historian at George Washington University and author of Birchers: How the John Birch Society Radicalized the American Right. He says it forged a right-wing culture that fell, at first, well outside mainstream Republican politics. Executive Senior Editor Steve Bonta, left, and writer Daniel Natal, with the John Birch Society's New American magazine, film a live broadcast at the organization's headquarters in Appleton, Wis., Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022. Back when the Cold War was looming and TV was still mostly in black and white, the Society was a powerful presence in American life. (AP Photo/David Goldman)AP Conspiracy theories have a long history in the United States, going back at least to 1800, when secret forces were said to be backing Thomas Jeffersons presidential bid. It was a time when such talk moved slowly, spread through sermons, letters and tavern visits. No more. Fueled by social media and the rise of celebrity conspiracists, the last two decades have seen ever-increasing numbers of Americans lose faith in everything from government institutions to journalism. And year after year, ideas once relegated to fringe newsletters, little-known websites and the occasional AM radio station pushed their way into the mainstream. Today, outlandish conspiracy theories are quoted by more than a few U.S. senators, and millions of Americans believe the COVID pandemic was orchestrated by powerful elites. Prominent cable news commentators speak darkly of government agents seizing citizens off the streets. But the John Birch Society itself is largely forgotten, relegated to a pair of squat buildings along a busy commercial street in small-town Wisconsin. So why even take note of it today? Because many of its ideas from anger at a mysterious, powerful elite to fears that Americas main enemy was hidden within the country, biding its time percolated into pockets of American culture over the last half-century. Those who came later simply out-Birched the Birchers. Says Dallek: Their successors were politically savvier and took Birch ideas and updated them for contemporary politics. The result has been a new political terrain. What was once at the edges had worked its way toward the heart of the discourse. To some, the fringe has gone all the way to the White House. In the Societys offices, theyll tell you that Donald Trump would never have been elected if they hadnt paved the way. The bulk of Trumps campaign was Birch, Art Thompson, a retired Society CEO who remains one of its most prominent voices, says proudly. All he did was bring it out into the open. Theres some truth in that, even if Thompson is overstating things. The Society had spent decades calling for a populist president who would preach patriotism, oppose immigration, pull out of international treaties and root out the forces trying to undermine America. Trump may not have realized it, but when he warned about a Deep State a supposed cabal of bureaucrats that secretly controls U.S. policy he was repeating a longtime Birch talking point. A savvy reality TV star, Trump capitalized on a conservative political landscape that had been shaped by decades of right-wing talk radio, fears about Americas seismic cultural shifts and the explosive online spread of misinformation. While the Birch Society echoes in that mix, tracing those echoes is impossible. Its hard to draw neat historical lines in American politics. Was the Society a prime mover, or a bit player? In a nation fragmented by social media and offshoot groups by the dozens, theres just no way to be sure. What is certain, though, is this: The conspiratorial fringe is now the conspiratorial mainstream, says Paul Matzko, a historian and research fellow at the libertarian-leaning Cato Institute. Right-wing conspiracism has simply outgrown the John Birch Society. ___ Their beliefs skip along the surface of the truth, with facts and rumors and outright fantasies banging together into a complex mythology. The great conspiracy is what Birch Society founder Robert Welch called it in The Blue Book, the collection of his writings and speeches still treated as near-mystical scripture in the Societys corridors. Art Thompson, a retired John Birch Society CEO, left, speaks during an interview with current CEO Bill Hahn at the organization's headquarters in Appleton, Wis., Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022. Former President Donald Trump would never have never have been elected if the Birch Society hadn't paved the way for him, says Thompson, an important figure inside the group. (AP Photo/David Goldman)AP Welch, a wealthy candy company executive, formed the Society in the late 1950s, naming it for an American missionary and U.S. Army intelligence officer killed in 1945 by communist Chinese forces. Welch viewed Birch as the first casualty of the Cold War. Communist agents, he said, were everywhere in America. Welch shot to prominence, and infamy, when he claimed that President Dwight D. Eisenhower, the hero general of World War II, was a dedicated, conscious agent of the Communist conspiracy. Also under Kremlin control, Welch asserted: the secretary of state, the head of the CIA, and Eisenhowers younger brother Milton. Subtlety has never been a strong Birch tradition. Over the decades, the Birch conspiracy grew to encompass the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, public education, the United Nations, the civil rights movement, The Rockefeller Foundation, the space program, the COVID pandemic, the 2020 presidential election and climate-change activism. In short, things the Birchers dont like. The plots leaders insiders, in Society lexicon range from railroad baron Cornelius Vanderbilt to former President George H.W. Bush and Bill Gates, whose vaccine advocacy is, they say, part of a plan to control the global population. While his main focus was always communism, Welch eventually came to believe that the conspiracys roots twisted far back into history, to the Illuminati, an 18th-century Bavarian secret society. By the 1980s, the Society was well into its decline. Welch died in 1985 and the societys reins passed to a series of successors. There were internal revolts. While its aura has waned, it is still a force among some conservatives its videos are popular in parts of right-wing America, and its offices include a sophisticated basement TV studio for internet news reports. Its members speak at right-wing conferences and work booths at the occasional county fair. Scholars say its ranks are far reduced from the 1960s and early 1970s, when membership estimates ranged from 50,000 to 100,000. Membership is something that has been closely guarded since day one, says Bill Hahn, who became CEO in 2020. He will only say the organization continues to be a growing operation. Today, the Society frames itself as almost conventional. Almost. We have succeeded in attracting mainstream people, says Steve Bonta, a top editor for the Societys New American magazine. The group has toned down the rhetoric and is a little more careful these days about throwing around accusations of conspiracies. But members still believe in them fiercely. As Mr. Welch came out with on Day One: There is a conspiracy, Hahn says. Its no different today than it was back in December 1958. Pamphlets and brochures are displayed at the headquarters of the John Birch Society in Appleton, Wis., Thursday, Nov. 17, 2022. (AP Photo/David Goldman)AP It can feel that way. Ask about the conspiracys goal, and things swerve into unexpected territory. The sharp rhetoric re-emerges and, once again, the decades seem to fall away. They really want to cut back on the population of the Earth. That is their intent, Thompson says. But why? Well, thats a good question, isnt it? he responds. It makes no sense. But thats the way they think. Follow AP National Writer Tim Sullivan on Twitter at http://twitter.com/ByTimSullivan By Adrian Sainz, The Associated Press MEMPHIS, Tenn. Much of the U.S. remained gripped by deadly Arctic weather Sunday with subfreezing conditions reaching as far south as Texas and Florida. But the numbing cold is expected to ease up in the coming days. Freezing rain, sleet and high wind gusts later Sunday would make traveling in parts of Kansas and Oklahoma particularly treacherous, the National Weather Service said. Wind chills in Iowa made it feel like minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 7 degrees Celsius) in some parts. But the end of subzero temperatures which blasted into the U.S. on Friday was in sight for parts of the country. The daily high temperatures in Iowas capital of Des Moines, for example, were expected to stay above freezing starting Monday. With no additional replenishment of arctic air from Canada, a steady warm-up is in store for the mid-section of the country, the weather service said. Still, the cold was felt especially by people unaccustomed to such bitter cold in places like Memphis, Tennessee, where residents were urged to boil water and some had no water at all after freezing temperatures broke water mains across the city. Temperatures werent expected to rise until after the weekend. Winter storms this month claimed at least 67 lives around the U.S., many involving hypothermia or road accidents. At the Four Way Grill in Memphis, owner Patrice Bates Thompson said the water problems have closed their soul food kitchen for days. This is our staple, and this is what basically drives the force of my family financially, Thompson told Fox-13 Memphis. We depend on business, and we have been at home. A man crosses North Pine Street as motorists navigate an ice and snow covered road, Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024 in downtown Florence, Ala.. (Dan Busey/The TimesDaily via AP)AP So many pipes broke in Memphis that water pressure fell throughout the city. Concerned about possible contamination, Memphis Light, Gas & Water urged its more than 400,000 customers to boil water for drinking or teeth-brushing or use bottled supplies on Saturday while crews worked around the clock to make repairs. Our production and treatment of water is working well, the utility said in an email. We cannot give restoration estimates until all leaks are identified. The utility said more than 100 employees volunteered Saturday to identify breaks, and residents were urged to report leaks in the street, at homes and in unoccupied buildings. Without water since Thursday morning, Pamela Wells was visited Saturday by a worker who asked whether they had a leak. My husband said, How can we have a leak, if we dont have any water? she said. They had filled a bathtub with water to flush toilets with when they noticed the pressure dropping, Wells said. For everything else they were using a dwindling supply of bottled water until their street became passable on Saturday and friends brought in fresh supplies. Meanwhile, the Memphis City Council opened seven bottled water distribution stations on Saturday, one in each council district. Two others were operating at fire stations. One had 300 cars lined up when it opened on Saturday, Shelby County Emergency Management Director Brenda Jones said in a telephone interview. Mist from the Great Falls has created a frozen wonderland around the waterfalls in Paterson, N.J., on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024. People are braving the subfreezing cold temps and slippery walkways to visit the ice-covered trees, benches and lamposts. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey)AP You have people with absolutely no water, people with low water pressure, and you have the boil water advisory, she said. Tennessee alone recorded 26 deaths, including a 25-year-old man found dead on the floor of a mobile home in Lewisburg after a space heater overturned and turned off, said Bob Johnson, chief deputy for the Marshall County Sheriffs Office. There was ice on the walls in there, Johnson said. On the West Coast, more freezing rain was forecast in the Columbia River Gorge and the area was expected to remain near or below freezing through at least Sunday night. Trees and power lines already coated with ice could topple if they get more, the National Weather Service warned. Stay safe out there over the next several days as our region tries to thaw out, the weather service said. Chunks of falling ice will remain a hazard as well. Customers sit inside a cafe as snow falls in the Old City neighborhood of Philadelphia on Friday, Jan. 19, 2024. (Yong Kim/The Philadelphia Inquirer via AP)AP The weather service forecast above-average temperatures across most of the country next week. Meanwhile, not everyone hated the white stuff. Its fun right now, Michigan City resident Andrew Smith told WBBM-TV. We havent had this much snow in a minute, and Christmas wasnt snowy, so its fun to do this. I can play with the kids, make snowballs, make a snowman. Associated Press contributors include Travis Loller in Nashville, Tennessee; Lisa Rathke in Marshfield, Vermont; Corey Williams in Detroit; Ken Miller in Edmond, Oklahoma; and Ron Todt in Philadelphia. BAGHDAD, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- The UN Assistance Mission for Iraq warned Saturday that Iraq is at risk of being drawn further into the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that threatens the security and stability of the region. "The Middle East is at a critical juncture, with the conflict raging in Gaza and armed action elsewhere threatening a major conflagration," said a statement issued by the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Iraq Jeanine Hennis-Plasschaert. "Despite the (Iraqi) government's efforts to prevent the escalation of tensions, continued attacks originating from within and outside of Iraq's borders stand to undo the hard-won stability of the country and the achievements it has made in recent years," the UN envoy said. She said that the UN has been focusing on ending the Gaza conflict and avoiding a regional spillover. "Iraq's stability and security are front and center in all our engagements. We reiterate our appeal to all sides to exercise maximum restraint," the statement added. The UN statement came as the U.S. military bases in Iraq and Syria have recently become targets of attacks by armed Shiite militias as part of retaliatory measures for the U.S. support of Israel in its ongoing conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The repeated attacks by Iraqi militias prompted the U.S. forces to retaliate by launching airstrikes on positions of the Iraqi paramilitary Hashd Shaabi forces that killed around a dozen fighters and wounded others. Earlier in the Merit Poker Western Series festival, Fabio Peluso stood on the rail cheering on Simone Andrian on his way to winning the Warm Up event. On Day 1b of the $3,300 Main Event, Peluso made a statement that he intends to follow in his countrymans footsteps. Peluso ended the night as chip leader over 77 surviving players with 657,000. His biggest win over the day was when he eliminated Ali El-Siblani with a set of threes against a pair of aces. Daniel Henriques waited until nearly the very end of the day before challenging Peluso for the top spot on the leaderboard. On one of the last hands, Henriques earned a massive double up when he snapped off Yingrui Ge with two pair on his way to bagging up 633,000. Daniel Henriques Wael Sarkis (533,500), Maher Achour (506,500), Razvan Sabau (483,000), and Maroun Jazzar (457,000) also finished Day 1b as top stacks. Michael Brown earned the first knockout of the day when he busted Baris Topuz with aces over kings and rode that momentum to a stack of 421,000. Nikolay Fal (402,500), Andrea Dato (314,500), Milos Skrbic (275,500), and Shuang Luo (160,000) also survived the day. Day 1b Top 10 Chip Counts Rank Player Country Chip Count Big Blinds 1 Fabio Peluso Italy 657,000 263 2 Daniel Henriques Portugal 633,000 253 3 Audere n/a 534,500 214 4 Wael Sarkis Lebanon 533,500 213 5 Maher Achour Tunisia 506,500 203 6 Razvan Sabau Romania 483,000 193 7 Maroun Jazzar Lebanon 457,000 183 8 Mikhail Semin Russia 431,500 173 9 Michael Brown United Kingdom 421,000 168 10 Nikolay Fal Russia 402,500 161 Notables who failed to survive the day included Andrian, Ermanno Di Nicola, Nina Krasilnikova, and Guoliang Wei. They'll have to try again on another flight if they hope to win the title. A total of 174 entries crowded the poker room at the Merit Crystal Cove Hotel and Casino over the course of nine hour-long levels. That brought the field through the first two opening flights up to 362, with 148 already booking their ticket for Day 2. There are still two more starting flights to go, Day 1c tomorrow at noon local time with 40-minute levels and a turbo Day 1d flight at 7 p.m. with 25-minute levels. Everyone left then combines for Day 2 on January 23 at noon. The field is already well on its way to smashing the $1,500,000 guaranteed prize pool. Late registration remains open until the end of Level 14 on Day 2, so there is still plenty of opportunity for new players and those seeking a second chance to hop in. PokerNews will be back tomorrow providing live coverage of Day 1c and continue until a champion is crowned later this week in North Cyprus. Out of the 1,163 entrants in the WSOPC Marrakech Main Event, 245 players returned for Day 2 at the Casino de Marrakech inside the Es Saadi Resort. Among them, 170 runners reached the money, but only 21managed to find a bag at the end of the day and qualify for Day 3. Thanks to a massive pot won after the dinner break, Mohamed Hakim jumped into the top spots of the chip count and kept his big stack until the end as he bagged the chip lead with 3,890,000 chips. Only Max Deveson, who takes the second place, will be back tomorrow for the final day with more than three million chips (3,325,000). End-of-Day 2 Top Ten Rank Player Country Chip Count Big Blinds 1 Mohamed Hakim Morocco 3,890,000 78 2 Max Deveson United Kingdom 3,325,000 67 3 Sandro Jose Alves Portugal 2,475,000 50 4 Jean-Claude Ruche Belgium 2,365,000 47 5 Nicola Pezzullo Italy 2,255,000 45 6 Luis Spain 2,140,000 43 7 Igor Picone Belgium 2,090,000 42 8 Guillaume Garcia France 1,875,000 38 9 Ramon Grenada 1,800,000 36 10 Roger Tondeur Switzerland 1,615,000 32 France will be the most represented country on the final day with five players, including Guillaume Garcia (1,875,000), Antoine Delorme (1,165,000), Jawad Bengourane (1,010,000) and 2023 Marrakech Poker Open winner Adrien Sanz (655,000). Chip leader at the beginning of the day, Jean-Pierre Grand-Moursel now holds one of the shortest stacks with 620,000 chips. Belgium will also be well-represented with three players: Jean-Claude Ruche, who is fourth in chips tonight (2,365,000); Igor Picone, also holding over two million chips (2,090,000); and Wim Verhaegen, who doubled up in the final hands of the day to bag 1,610,000 chips. However, Day 3 won't just be a battle between France and Belgium. Players from other countries, such as Nicola Pezzullo (2,255,000), Roger Tondeur (1,615,000), Endravuz Lahdo (1,340,000), and Yuzhou Yin (1,215,000), will also be vying to win the tournament. Same for Filippo Lazzaretto, the shortest stack of all (510,000). Filippo Lazzaretto The remaining players will return tomorrow, Sunday, January 21, for Day 3 of the Main Event. Play resumes at 1 p.m. local time in Level 26, which has a small blind of 25,000, big blind of 25,000 and a running big blind ante of 50,000. Levels will be 60-minute long during this final day. WSOPC Marrakech Main Event Payouts Place Prize (in MAD) Prize (in EUR) Place Prize (in MAD) Prize (in EUR) 1 2,150,000 200,000 9 275,000 25,000 2 1,550,000 143,000 10-11 225,000 21,000 3 1,100,000 101,000 12-13 180,000 16,500 4 800,000 74,000 14-15 140,000 13,000 5 610,000 56,000 16-17 110,000 10,000 6 490,000 45,000 18-20 88,000 8,000 7 405,000 37,000 21 73,000 6,700 8 335,000 31,000 Come back tomorrow to see who will be crowned the winner and take home the Gold ring as well as the 2,150,000 MAD prize (around 200,000) for first place. PokerNews will provide start-to-finish coverage of the final day. On CBSs Face The Nation, Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley said that we are seeing signs of Trumps mental decline. Transcript via Face The Nation: MARGARET BRENNAN: Its unclear what hes talking about as being deleted. But you said yesterday, hearing this made you question Donald Trumps mental fitness. Is that the first time you questioned his mental fitness? To get more stories like this, subscribe to our newsletter The Daily. NIKKI HALEY: If you look, recently, there have been multiple things. I mean, hes claimed that Joe Biden was going to get us into World War II. Im assuming he met World War three. He said that he ran against President Obama. He never ran against President Obama. He says that Im the one that kept security from Jan- from the Capitol on January 6. I was nowhere near the Capitol on January 6. But Margaret, you dont be surprised if you have someone thats 80 in office, their mental stability is going to continue to decline. Thats just human nature. We know that. What Im saying is, first of all, youre talking about somebody whos only going to be in office four years. Secondly, youre talking about someone who continues to- I mean, look, I dont know if he was confused. I dont know what happened. But it should be enough to send us a warning sign that if you look, Joe Biden, hes very different than he was two years ago. Are we really going to go into a situation where we have wars around the world, and were trying to prevent war, and were going to have someone who we can or cant be sure that theyre going to get confused? Its a real issue. Thats not being disrespectful. Its just a fact. MARGARET BRENNAN: Why do you think Trumps voters care about that? And when you worked in his Cabinet, did you ever question his mental fitness? NIKKI HALEY: When I worked in his Cabinet, I called him out if he was doing something wrong, I mean, I would show up, I pick up the phone and say you cant do this. Instead, you could do X, Y, or Z, you know, so I always told him what I thought was in the best interest of the country when I was in his Cabinet. But this is different. I mean, were seeing hes just not at the same level he was at 2016. I think were seeing some of that decline. But more than that, what Ill say is, focus on the fact that no matter what it is, chaos follows him. Rightly or wrongly, chaos follows him Video: It is probably too late for Haley in the Republican presidential primary. A new CNN poll of New Hampshire showed Trump leading her 50%-39%, but the fact that Haley is injecting Trumps mental abilities into the presidential campaign is important. Trump is clearly in some sort of decline. His confusion as his campaign labels it, is getting more frequent. The media will usually give candidates a break if they misspeak once on the campaign trail, but as CBSs Margaret Brennan pointed out, Trump confused Nancy Pelosi and Nikki Haley four times in the same remarks. Even Saturday Night Live mentioned Trumps cognitive issues. Trumps declining mind is going to be an issue in the 2024 campaign, and that is bad news for Republicans. A Special Message From PoliticusUSA If you are in a position to donate purely to help us keep the doors open on PoliticusUSA during what is a critical election year, please do so here. We have been honored to be able to put your interests first for 14 years as we only answer to our readers and we will not compromise on that fundamental, core PoliticusUSA value. A downtown Aiken street that was closed March 7 has reopened but now has a new traffic pattern. The South Carolina Department of Transportation reopened South Boundary Avenue between Whiskey Road and York Street Saturday. Read moreAiken's South Boundary Avenue reopened with new traffic pattern SYDNEY, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Under a blue sky and white clouds in the middle of summer on a recent day, herds of cows grazed peacefully on pastures in South Gippsland, a region in Australia's southeastern state of Victoria. "There are about 700 cows on the farm. We can probably produce more than 17,000 litres of fresh milk a day," farmer Clint Staley told Xinhua, adding that a boom was expected for this year. Starley is one of many farmers in South Gippsland Shire, about 160 km southeast of Melbourne. The region is home to about 10 percent of Victoria's dairy farms. More than 30,000 people live in the area, and there are seven times as many cows. As dairy is one of the most important industries in the region, and China remains the biggest importer of dairy produce from Australia, the development of the country's companies in the Chinese market is of great significance, local business leaders and officials said. "China is our largest single market and the most important market for our business," said Jon McNaught, chief executive officer at ViPlus Dairy, one of Australia's leading nutritional and functional milk powder manufacturers. "China makes up over 80 percent of our business," McNaught said. "We supply a mixture of products -- infant formula, adult formula and pregnancy formula, but also whole milk and skim milk powder." ViPlus Dairy, which boasts a history of over 130 years, has participated in every one of the China International Import Expo (CIIE), a trade fair held annually in Shanghai, China, since 2018. "CIIE is a very important part of our business interaction with China," McNaught said. "They're very important part of our trade with China, so to meet our current customers but also to find out new trends and new business that may be going on." The company plans to continue to attend the CIIE this year to explore more opportunities in the Chinese market, he said. While all markets around the world are going through a bit of uncertainty, the China base is still strong and the consumer market is still healthy, the ViPlus CEO said. South Gippsland Shire Council's manager of economy, community and investment Christian Stefani said Asian markets, including China, southeast Asia and Middle East, are all very important markets to the region for numerous products. "We are very proud of the products that are produced in South Gippsland," Stefani said. "They are renowned across the world in terms of being produced from a very clean and green environment." The local community is very proud of how important the dairy sector is not just to South Gippsland, but also to Victoria, Australia, the council manager said. "So when people think of South Gippsland, they often think about dairy production and that's something we are very proud of," Stefani said. He also hoped that more and more Chinese tourists would visit South Gippsland to experience its beautiful scenery and unique farming culture, and deepen their understanding of local dairy products. Still undecided is whether an Edgefield County community action group will be able to intervene in a developers appeal against the county, its county council and planning commission. Circuit Court Judge Walton McLeod heard the motion filed on behalf of the Merriwether Community Coalition Jan. 17 but took the matter under advisement with the outstanding question being whether the coalition, if its motion were granted, would have a legal say in the outcome of mediation between Edgefield County and developer Blue Sky Properties or if the group would be limited to having an ear. Im more interested in the end game, pretty much, when you all sit down, McLeod said, underlining that it wasnt a question of the coalition being privy to the proceedings but one of its possible role once admitted to the table. South Carolina statute allows for someone who has no ownership of property involved in such an appeal to "petition to intervene" in pre-litigation mediation. Such a motion, according to the statute, must be granted if the person has a substantial interest in the decision of the board of appeals. This was the line that Emily Poole, of the South Carolina Environmental Law Project, which filed the motion on behalf of the coalition, took during the Jan. 17 hearing, iterating a position laid out in a memo filed earlier this month in support of the motion. Poole said the Merriwether Coalition, with its founding purpose one of preserving and protecting the rural character of Edgefield County and of ensuring county infrastructure can support new development, met the requirements of the law. Visitors to Middleton Place will notice new displays near the stableyards to share the previously untold stories of the enslaved people who once worked there. They replace signs had been in place since the 1970s. Middleton Place Foundation received a grant from the National Endowment for Humanities last year to incorporate stories of enslaved people into the new displays, where interpretations of various work stations from the 18th and 19th-century rice plantation are already represented. The stableyard stations are where visitors learn about blacksmithing, animal caretaking, wool collection, spinning and dying at Middleton. Caitlin Smith Anderson, the property's director of museums, said this initiative has been a priority. Through decades of research, historians and curators have learned the names of 3,200 enslaved men, women and children who lived and worked at Middleton's various plantations. She said that the project scratches the surface of their stories and that there are many more. The new panels introduce Quaco, an enslaved blacksmith; Kouli Kan, an enslaved cooper; Molly and Beck, who were enslaved seamstresses. We get glimpses of their lives through documents in the Middleton Place archives, Smith Anderson said. The condition of enslavement was not their entire identity. They were mothers and fathers, husbands and wives, with hearts and minds. Middleton Place has a responsibility to share the stories that only we can tell." Now showing The International African American Museum is hosting a special exhibition starting Jan. 31, honoring the work of photographer Ming Smith. "Feeling the Future" will highlight the Harlem-based artists early career from the 1970s through the present. The collection, which is traveling from its debut site in Contemporary Art Museum of Houston, will be on display at the IAAM through April 28. A onetime Mount Pleasant-based business owner who was among the first to be charged in the government's "Operation Brace Yourself" probe is to be sentenced this week. Read moreMajor SC Medicare fraud case shifts to the penalty phase after 5 years Some of my most rewarding years in chaplain work were those I spent as the Chaplain for Women and Children at Sutter Medical Center in Sacramento (2002-2008). It was there my rounds often took me to the high-risk maternity unit. Rooms in this unit were filled with scared pregnant women whose doctors had confined them to bed rest in hopes of avoiding a miscarriage. One afternoon our unit secretary, Jeannette, told me about a patient who was expecting twins, but her 23-week pregnancy was being threatened by severe complications. Her husband is a youth minister, so she has a lot of church friends in her room now, Jeannette said. Jeannettes unusually quiet demeanor told me she was worried. Maybe you could go introduce yourself. Might help if things go south. Inside the room, the minister greeted me with the typical chorus of religious platitudes. These twins are in Gods hands. Im not worried, he said in a dismissive manner. We know God will heal these babies. The atmosphere of the room had me nearly convinced. It was adorned with religious books, greeting cards and Bibles. The family played sacred music and wore pious jewelry on their necks and earlobes. So I took the ministers hint and excused myself, figuring my time would be better spent elsewhere. Forty-eight hours later, I returned to the nurses station where Jeanette whispered, Theyre really going to need you now, chaplain. The twins didnt make it. Theyll need me, but will they want me? I muttered. Jeanette dared me to give it a shot. I tapped my watch. Im betting they dont give me five minutes. Prayerfully, I entered the room. Its a risk going where you arent wanted, even when you wear the chaplains badge. Nevertheless, I entered the room and found it in stark contrast to its previous state of smiling church visitors and religious music. The couple remembered me and invited me to sit. That trend is poised to increase. The group pointed out that 24 gubernatorial and state board elections will occur over the next two years, and the newly elected politicians will want to fill the top education jobs in their states quickly. Superintendents shape education policy for an entire state, a more crucial job than ever as students struggle to catch up after pandemic-related learning loss. The groups said while political affiliation is important, it's essential to know more about these leaders' backgrounds to understand how they will manage the futures of students. Who is Ellen Weaver? Weavers childhood and early career shaped her support for school choice, early childhood literacy efforts and conservative values. Weaver was born in Greenville but moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, as a child. Her family was blue-collar but had something of a political legacy. Her grandmother worked as a secretary for former Iowa U.S. Rep. Fred Schwengel. Weaver has a black-and-white photograph of her grandmother, somewhat faded with age, standing with Schwengel, his wife and Weavers great-grandmother outside the Cannon House Office Building in Washington, D.C. Weaver was a bookworm who spent her summers reading Nancy Drew books and the Anne of Green Gables series at the local library. Her mother had to force her to go outside. She attended a small Christian school until fifth grade, when her mother started home-schooling Weaver and her brother after the school closed. Weaver spent every morning studying at the kitchen table. She typically finished her schoolwork around noon and went to work at her fathers construction company. She said working at the company gave her a strong work ethic and made her appreciate people who worked with their hands. Her mother sent Weaver to public school for 11th and 12th grades because she wasn't comfortable teaching the advanced math and science courses Weaver needed. While in public school, Weaver took AP U.S. History and economics from a teacher with a doctorate from the University of Chicago who inspired her love of education. He was sharp, funny and inspired his students to think. Weaver liked that he didn't accept easy answers, encouraged students to revisit original sources and had a huge cutout of John Wayne in his classroom. What I thought was the rising tide my physical vigor that kept rhythm with the rising energy of spring is more like the ebb at my more advanced age. And, the side of life I thought was like the ebb tide, like Lent, is in truth more like the flow. Read moreAging for Amateurs: The two narratives of life On March 5, special agents with the South Carolina Department of Social Services, Office of Inspector General, arrested a Dorchester County woman in connection with fraudulently receiving $9,584 in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Read moreDSS charges Dorchester County woman with food stamp fraud When I was in third grade, my teacher had a vegetable tasting day for us. We each brought in a vegetable from home and shared it with our classmates. I remember coming home, excited, and announcing to my mother that I had fallen in love with rutabaga. After a startled moment or two, she sm Read moreStevens: For the love of rutabaga and our children Happy Sunshine Week indeed. As we hope youve noticed, our newsroom is spending the week recounting successes its had using South Carolinas Freedom of Information Act to illumine your understanding of what your government is doing on your behalf, in your name and with your tax dollars. Read moreEditorial: SC judges support sunshine whenever they get a chance. They need more chances. Chinese inheritors of intangible cultural heritage perform Grand Song of the Dong ethnic group in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Jan. 21, 2024. A China-Cambodia "Beauty of Intangible Heritage" exhibition kicked off here in the Cambodian capital on Sunday, captivating hundreds of visitors. (Photo by Liao Hongqing/Xinhua) PHNOM PENH, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- A China-Cambodia "Beauty of Intangible Heritage" exhibition kicked off here in the Cambodian capital on Sunday, captivating hundreds of visitors. The 15-day exhibition showcased creative artworks including tea sets, book lights, bookmarks and purple clay teapot painted with Bauhinia flower, among others. At the opening ceremony, Chinese intangible cultural heritage inheritors presented the grand song of the Dong ethnic group to the audience, as Cambodian artists introduced Chapei Dang Veng, a long-necked, two-stringed lute. The exhibition was held back-to-back with a competition for college students on intangible cultural heritage creative designs and a seminar on intangible cultural heritage. Chuon Chanphearum, deputy director general of the Cambodian Ministry of Information's General Department of Information and Broadcasting, said the event was held at the right time as Cambodia and China designated 2024 as the People-to-People Exchange Year. "This exhibition is of great significance and is a bridge for cultural exchanges," he said in a speech at the opening ceremony. "It will play an active role in promoting people-to-people and cultural exchanges as well as further deepening the bond of friendship between Cambodia and China," he added. Chanphearum believed that through this event, Cambodia will be able to learn from China's experience in preserving and developing intangible cultural heritage properties. "We are very grateful to China for having provided valuable assistance to Cambodia for safeguarding and developing intangible cultural heritage properties," he said. The exhibition was jointly organized by China's Guangxi Department of Culture and Tourism, Liuzhou Museum, the Guangxi Daily and the Federation of Khmer Chinese in Cambodia, among others. Speaking via video link, Cheng Zhou, curator of Guangxi Liuzhou Museum, said intangible cultural heritage is a variety of traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation by people of all ethnic groups in the world and are closely related to their own lives. "The Liuzhou Museum has brought a number of Chinese intangible cultural heritage properties to display at this event, and our team will also introduce these intangible cultural heritage properties to visitors," he said. "I hope everyone will enjoy this intangible cultural heritage exhibition," Cheng said. Mo Renli, director of the ASEAN Reporting Department at the Guangxi Daily, said the event was designed to promote people-to-people and cultural exchanges between China and Cambodia. "I hope through this event, acting as a small catalyst, it can promote people-to-people exchanges between China and Cambodia and between China and Southeast Asia," he told Xinhua. "By introducing intangible cultural heritage, we want to ensure the steady progress for far-reaching success of the joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative between China and ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations), making a contribution to the establishment of a closer-knit China-ASEAN community with a shared future," he added. Some visitors said the event has inspired them to participate in safeguarding and developing intangible cultural properties for next generations. "I really like Chinese intangible cultural heritage properties because I can gain insight into their culture, history, daily lives through their works and performances presented at this event," a 17-year-old visitor, Heng Chean Y, told Xinhua. She said it was her first time to see such an exhibition, saying that it has not only inspired people to love intangible cultural heritage, but also contributed to enhancing the bond of friendship between Cambodia and China. "I'm impressed with their works and performances. Besides the show of Chinese intangible cultural heritage properties, our Cambodian artists also present our intangible cultural heritage such as Chapei Dang Veng and folk songs," she said. Keo Chan Chaiyuth, 18-year-old visitor, said he liked Chinese intangible cultural heritage properties because they have embedded profound meaning about culture, history, tradition, custom and daily lives. "I think this exhibition is very good. It not only allows us to better know China, but also adds fresh momentum to our two countries' relations," he told Xinhua. "Their performances were amazing, allowing us to gain insight into their culture and their ethnic group," he added. Exhibits are seen at a Chinese and Cambodian cultural exhibition in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Jan. 21, 2024. A China-Cambodia "Beauty of Intangible Heritage" exhibition kicked off here in the Cambodian capital on Sunday, captivating hundreds of visitors. (Photo by Liao Hongqing/Xinhua) Students visit a Chinese and Cambodian cultural exhibition in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Jan. 21, 2024. A China-Cambodia "Beauty of Intangible Heritage" exhibition kicked off here in the Cambodian capital on Sunday, captivating hundreds of visitors. (Photo by Liao Hongqing/Xinhua) Exhibits are seen at a Chinese and Cambodian cultural exhibition in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Jan. 21, 2024. A China-Cambodia "Beauty of Intangible Heritage" exhibition kicked off here in the Cambodian capital on Sunday, captivating hundreds of visitors. (Photo by Liao Hongqing/Xinhua) Cambodian inheritors of intangible cultural heritage perform Chapei Dang Veng in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Jan. 21, 2024. A China-Cambodia "Beauty of Intangible Heritage" exhibition kicked off here in the Cambodian capital on Sunday, captivating hundreds of visitors. (Photo by Liao Hongqing/Xinhua) The city plans to get the property appraised before looking into what it intends to do with it, whether it be selling or leasing the historic property out. Read moreMemorial Stadium once housed all of Florence football. Now whatll happen to it? Former Vice President Mike Pence says he will not be backing Donald Trump in the 2024 election. It should come as no surprise that I will not be endorsing Donald Trump this year, Pence said in an interview with Fox News Channel Friday. Pence ran against Trump for the Republican presidential nomination but dropped his bid before voting began. The decision makes Pence the latest in a series of senior Trump administration officials who have declined to endorse their former boss. While Republican members of Congress and other GOP officials have largely rallied behind Trump, a vocal minority has continued to oppose his bid. When Trumps supporters stormed the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, Pence was forced to flee as rioters chanted, Hang Mike Pence! Read moreFormer Vice President Mike Pence says he's not endorsing Trump The AG is just doing his job The AG is playing politics We will see Vote View Results PR-Inside.com: 2024-01-21 17:16:07 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 373 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE / ACCESSWIRE / January 21, 2024 / Derwent Investments, a Singapore-based wealth management company, proudly announces its strengthened commitment to Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) principles, reflecting a broader dedication to sustainable and ethical investment practices on a global scale.As part of its responsible financial stewardship, Derwent Investments has strategically integrated ESG considerations into its investment processes. This move emphasises the company's commitment to sustainability, ensuring that environmental impact, social responsibility, and robust corporate governance are intrinsic factors in assessing potential investments across diverse asset classes.Actively engaging with portfolio companies, Derwent Investments advocates for the adoption and enhancement of ESG practices. The company recognises that fostering a culture of sustainability and responsible business conduct not only contributes to long-term financial success but also has positive societal outcomes.To bolster its ESG initiatives, Derwent Investments has established a dedicated team of experts focused on advancing the company's sustainability objectives. This team collaborates closely with investment professionals to identify opportunities aligned with sustainable principles, contributing to overall portfolio performance.Edward Chandler, Director of Private Equity at Derwent Investments, emphasised the company's commitment to advancing ESG principles, stating, "Remaining resolute in dedication to advancing ESG principles, the commitment extends beyond financial returns. Actively seeking to drive positive change within the global investment landscape, the integration of ESG factors into decision-making processes aims to foster a more sustainable and responsible approach to wealth management." Acknowledging the global impact of its initiatives, Derwent Investments recognises its role in shaping responsible investing practices on an international scale. The company remains devoted to exploring innovative avenues that enhance its ESG initiatives, with a focus on creating enduring value for its diverse clientele.About Derwent Investments PTE. LTD:Derwent Investments is a leading Singapore-based Wealth Management company, providing comprehensive financial services and investment strategies to clients in the Asia-Pacific region. With a focus on delivering tailored solutions, Derwent Investments aims to empower clients to navigate the dynamic and ever-changing market. For more information about Derwent Investments, please visit https://www.derwentinv.com For media inquiries, please contact:Mr. David Heng media@ derwentinv.com Media Contact Organization: Derwent Investments Pte LtdContact Person: Mr. David HengWebsite: https://derwentinv.com/ Email: media@ derwentinv.com City: SingaporeCountry: SingaporeSOURCE: Derwent Investments Pte Ltd PR-Inside.com: 2024-01-21 16:10:22 Press Information Dhirtek Business Research and Consulting Private Limited +91 7580990088 email www.dhirtekbusinessresearch.com Published by Parmeet Singh 7580990088 e-mail https://www.dhirtekbusinessresearch.com/ # 694 Words +91 7580990088Parmeet Singh7580990088 The global business intelligence service market report is a comprehensive report that provides a detailed analysis of the current status and future trends of the business intelligence service market worldwide. This report provides valuable information to industry stakeholders by offering an in-depth perspective on market dynamics, competitive landscape, growth opportunities, and key challenges faced by industry participants.From the perspective of market dynamics, this report explores the factors driving the growth of the business intelligence service market. This includes the increasing demand for business intelligence service products due to changes in consumer preferences, technological advancements, and the demand for more efficient and sustainable solutions. Additionally, government regulations and initiatives to promote the adoption of business intelligence service products also contribute to market growth. On the other hand, this report identifies and analyzes factors that may hinder market growth, such as economic uncertainty, supply chain disruptions, and intense competition in the market.Request for Sample Report:The competitive landscape section of the report provides a comprehensive analysis of the leading companies operating in the business intelligence service market. It introduces the major companies, their business strategy, product portfolio, recent trends, and financial performance. This analysis provides valuable insights for market stakeholders to understand the intensity of competition in the market and gain an insightful view of the strategies adopted by major market players to maintain their position.Some of the major companies in the Business Intelligence Service market are as follows: ADVIZOR Solutions, Cisco Systems, IBM Corporation, MicroStrategy, Microsoft Corporation, Oracle, QlikTech International, Rackspace, SAP, Tableau SoftwareBy segmenting the market, the report provides a detailed understanding of each segment by analyzing market size, growth potential, and key trends within each segment. Through this detailed analysis, industry participants can identify profitable opportunities, develop strategies tailored to specific customer segments, and allocate resources effectively.Market Segmentation:Type: Data Mining and Analytics, OLAP, Process and Text Mining, CPM, DSS, OthersApplication: SMES, Large EnterprisesIdentifying growth opportunities is crucial for companies operating in the business intelligence service market. This report focuses on highlighting these opportunities by analyzing emerging technologies, market trends, and changing customer needs that have the potential to shape the future of the market. By identifying untapped market segments, geographies with high growth potential, and innovative product development strategies, this report supports stakeholders in harnessing these opportunities and leading business growth.In addition, this report addresses the key challenges faced by industry participants. It provides insightful information on challenges such as intense market competition, price pressure, regulatory compliance, and technological confusion. By understanding these challenges, companies can develop effective mitigation strategies and adapt to a constantly changing market environment. This enables them to ensure sustainable growth.The regional analysis section of the global business intelligence service market report thoroughly evaluates the market in various regions, including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. This section provides valuable information on market size, growth potential, and key market trends specific to each region.Market by Regions:North AmericaU.S.CanadaEuropeGermanyU.K.FranceItalySpainRest of EuropeAsia PacificChinaIndiaJapanRest of Asia PacificMiddle East & AfricaGCCSouth AfricaRest of Middle East & AfricaLatin AmericaBrazilMexicoRest of Latin AmericaThis report provides a comprehensive assessment of the business intelligence service market in these specific regions, enabling stakeholders to understand regional differences, market potential, and growth prospects. This provides valuable insights that help make informed decisions related to market entry, expansion strategies, and resource allocation. Additionally, understanding the regulatory landscape and market dynamics in each region is useful for companies to comply with regulatory requirements and adjust their business strategies to fit specific markets.Overall, the global business intelligence service market report strives to provide comprehensive and practical information to industry stakeholders. By offering a deep understanding of market trends, competitive dynamics, growth opportunities, and potential risks, this report plays a valuable role as a tool for manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and investors. Through this information, they are able to make informed business decisions and execute successful strategies in the dynamic and evolving business intelligence service market. PR-Inside.com: 2024-01-21 16:20:19 Press Information Dhirtek Business Research and Consulting Private Limited +91 7580990088 email www.dhirtekbusinessresearch.com Published by Parmeet Singh 7580990088 e-mail https://www.dhirtekbusinessresearch.com/ # 680 Words +91 7580990088Parmeet Singh7580990088 The global hysteroscopy system market report is a comprehensive report that provides a detailed analysis of the current status and future trends of the hysteroscopy system market worldwide. This report provides valuable information to industry stakeholders by offering an in-depth perspective on market dynamics, competitive landscape, growth opportunities, and key challenges faced by industry participants.From the perspective of market dynamics, this report explores the factors driving the growth of the hysteroscopy system market. This includes the increasing demand for hysteroscopy system products due to changes in consumer preferences, technological advancements, and the demand for more efficient and sustainable solutions. Additionally, government regulations and initiatives to promote the adoption of hysteroscopy system products also contribute to market growth. On the other hand, this report identifies and analyzes factors that may hinder market growth, such as economic uncertainty, supply chain disruptions, and intense competition in the market.Request for Sample Report:The competitive landscape section of the report provides a comprehensive analysis of the leading companies operating in the hysteroscopy system market. It introduces the major companies, their business strategy, product portfolio, recent trends, and financial performance. This analysis provides valuable insights for market stakeholders to understand the intensity of competition in the market and gain an insightful view of the strategies adopted by major market players to maintain their position.Some of the major companies in the Hysteroscopy System market are as follows: Boston Scientific, Cooper Surgical, Hologic, KARL STORZ, Meditrina, Medtronic, Olympus Corp, Richard Wolf, Stryker Corp, World of Medicine LemkeBy segmenting the market, the report provides a detailed understanding of each segment by analyzing market size, growth potential, and key trends within each segment. Through this detailed analysis, industry participants can identify profitable opportunities, develop strategies tailored to specific customer segments, and allocate resources effectively.Market Segmentation:Type: Bench-Top Systems, Handheld Systems, OthersApplication: Hospitals, Ambulatory Surgical Centres, OthersIdentifying growth opportunities is crucial for companies operating in the hysteroscopy system market. This report focuses on highlighting these opportunities by analyzing emerging technologies, market trends, and changing customer needs that have the potential to shape the future of the market. By identifying untapped market segments, geographies with high growth potential, and innovative product development strategies, this report supports stakeholders in harnessing these opportunities and leading business growth.In addition, this report addresses the key challenges faced by industry participants. It provides insightful information on challenges such as intense market competition, price pressure, regulatory compliance, and technological confusion. By understanding these challenges, companies can develop effective mitigation strategies and adapt to a constantly changing market environment. This enables them to ensure sustainable growth.The regional analysis section of the global hysteroscopy system market report thoroughly evaluates the market in various regions, including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. This section provides valuable information on market size, growth potential, and key market trends specific to each region.Market by Regions:North AmericaU.S.CanadaEuropeGermanyU.K.FranceItalySpainRest of EuropeAsia PacificChinaIndiaJapanRest of Asia PacificMiddle East & AfricaGCCSouth AfricaRest of Middle East & AfricaLatin AmericaBrazilMexicoRest of Latin AmericaThis report provides a comprehensive assessment of the hysteroscopy system market in these specific regions, enabling stakeholders to understand regional differences, market potential, and growth prospects. This provides valuable insights that help make informed decisions related to market entry, expansion strategies, and resource allocation. Additionally, understanding the regulatory landscape and market dynamics in each region is useful for companies to comply with regulatory requirements and adjust their business strategies to fit specific markets.Overall, the global hysteroscopy system market report strives to provide comprehensive and practical information to industry stakeholders. By offering a deep understanding of market trends, competitive dynamics, growth opportunities, and potential risks, this report plays a valuable role as a tool for manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and investors. Through this information, they are able to make informed business decisions and execute successful strategies in the dynamic and evolving hysteroscopy system market. PR-Inside.com: 2024-01-21 16:13:43 Press Information Dhirtek Business Research and Consulting Private Limited +91 7580990088 email www.dhirtekbusinessresearch.com Published by Parmeet Singh 7580990088 e-mail https://www.dhirtekbusinessresearch.com/ # 693 Words +91 7580990088Parmeet Singh7580990088 The global monk fruit sweetener market report is a comprehensive report that provides a detailed analysis of the current status and future trends of the monk fruit sweetener market worldwide. This report provides valuable information to industry stakeholders by offering an in-depth perspective on market dynamics, competitive landscape, growth opportunities, and key challenges faced by industry participants.From the perspective of market dynamics, this report explores the factors driving the growth of the monk fruit sweetener market. This includes the increasing demand for monk fruit sweetener products due to changes in consumer preferences, technological advancements, and the demand for more efficient and sustainable solutions. Additionally, government regulations and initiatives to promote the adoption of monk fruit sweetener products also contribute to market growth. On the other hand, this report identifies and analyzes factors that may hinder market growth, such as economic uncertainty, supply chain disruptions, and intense competition in the market.Request for Sample Report:The competitive landscape section of the report provides a comprehensive analysis of the leading companies operating in the monk fruit sweetener market. It introduces the major companies, their business strategy, product portfolio, recent trends, and financial performance. This analysis provides valuable insights for market stakeholders to understand the intensity of competition in the market and gain an insightful view of the strategies adopted by major market players to maintain their position.Some of the major companies in the Monk Fruit Sweetener market are as follows: Archer Daniels Midland Company, Firmenich, GLG Life Tech, Layn, Monk Fruit Corp, NOW Health Group, Steviva Brands, Tate and LyleBy segmenting the market, the report provides a detailed understanding of each segment by analyzing market size, growth potential, and key trends within each segment. Through this detailed analysis, industry participants can identify profitable opportunities, develop strategies tailored to specific customer segments, and allocate resources effectively.Market Segmentation:Type: Organic, ConventionalApplication: Supermarkets or Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Channels, OthersIdentifying growth opportunities is crucial for companies operating in the monk fruit sweetener market. This report focuses on highlighting these opportunities by analyzing emerging technologies, market trends, and changing customer needs that have the potential to shape the future of the market. By identifying untapped market segments, geographies with high growth potential, and innovative product development strategies, this report supports stakeholders in harnessing these opportunities and leading business growth.In addition, this report addresses the key challenges faced by industry participants. It provides insightful information on challenges such as intense market competition, price pressure, regulatory compliance, and technological confusion. By understanding these challenges, companies can develop effective mitigation strategies and adapt to a constantly changing market environment. This enables them to ensure sustainable growth.The regional analysis section of the global monk fruit sweetener market report thoroughly evaluates the market in various regions, including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. This section provides valuable information on market size, growth potential, and key market trends specific to each region.Market by Regions:North AmericaU.S.CanadaEuropeGermanyU.K.FranceItalySpainRest of EuropeAsia PacificChinaIndiaJapanRest of Asia PacificMiddle East & AfricaGCCSouth AfricaRest of Middle East & AfricaLatin AmericaBrazilMexicoRest of Latin AmericaThis report provides a comprehensive assessment of the monk fruit sweetener market in these specific regions, enabling stakeholders to understand regional differences, market potential, and growth prospects. This provides valuable insights that help make informed decisions related to market entry, expansion strategies, and resource allocation. Additionally, understanding the regulatory landscape and market dynamics in each region is useful for companies to comply with regulatory requirements and adjust their business strategies to fit specific markets.Overall, the global monk fruit sweetener market report strives to provide comprehensive and practical information to industry stakeholders. By offering a deep understanding of market trends, competitive dynamics, growth opportunities, and potential risks, this report plays a valuable role as a tool for manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and investors. Through this information, they are able to make informed business decisions and execute successful strategies in the dynamic and evolving monk fruit sweetener market. PR-Inside.com: 2024-01-21 16:07:48 Press Information Dhirtek Business Research and Consulting Private Limited +91 7580990088 email www.dhirtekbusinessresearch.com Published by Parmeet Singh 7580990088 e-mail https://www.dhirtekbusinessresearch.com/ # 686 Words +91 7580990088Parmeet Singh7580990088 The global packaging jars market report is a comprehensive report that provides a detailed analysis of the current status and future trends of the packaging jars market worldwide. This report provides valuable information to industry stakeholders by offering an in-depth perspective on market dynamics, competitive landscape, growth opportunities, and key challenges faced by industry participants.From the perspective of market dynamics, this report explores the factors driving the growth of the packaging jars market. This includes the increasing demand for packaging jars products due to changes in consumer preferences, technological advancements, and the demand for more efficient and sustainable solutions. Additionally, government regulations and initiatives to promote the adoption of packaging jars products also contribute to market growth. On the other hand, this report identifies and analyzes factors that may hinder market growth, such as economic uncertainty, supply chain disruptions, and intense competition in the market.Request for Sample Report:The competitive landscape section of the report provides a comprehensive analysis of the leading companies operating in the packaging jars market. It introduces the major companies, their business strategy, product portfolio, recent trends, and financial performance. This analysis provides valuable insights for market stakeholders to understand the intensity of competition in the market and gain an insightful view of the strategies adopted by major market players to maintain their position.Some of the major companies in the Packaging Jars market are as follows: AG Poly Packs, Alpha Packaging, Beatson Clark, Graham Packaging, Hitech Group, Owens-Illinois, Parksons Packaging, Richards Packaging, Roberts Metal Packaging, Zenith GlobalBy segmenting the market, the report provides a detailed understanding of each segment by analyzing market size, growth potential, and key trends within each segment. Through this detailed analysis, industry participants can identify profitable opportunities, develop strategies tailored to specific customer segments, and allocate resources effectively.Market Segmentation:Type: Metal, Plastic, Glass, OthersApplication: Food and Beverages, Personal Care and Cosmetics, Chemicals, Pharmaceutical, OthersIdentifying growth opportunities is crucial for companies operating in the packaging jars market. This report focuses on highlighting these opportunities by analyzing emerging technologies, market trends, and changing customer needs that have the potential to shape the future of the market. By identifying untapped market segments, geographies with high growth potential, and innovative product development strategies, this report supports stakeholders in harnessing these opportunities and leading business growth.In addition, this report addresses the key challenges faced by industry participants. It provides insightful information on challenges such as intense market competition, price pressure, regulatory compliance, and technological confusion. By understanding these challenges, companies can develop effective mitigation strategies and adapt to a constantly changing market environment. This enables them to ensure sustainable growth.The regional analysis section of the global packaging jars market report thoroughly evaluates the market in various regions, including North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa. This section provides valuable information on market size, growth potential, and key market trends specific to each region.Market by Regions:North AmericaU.S.CanadaEuropeGermanyU.K.FranceItalySpainRest of EuropeAsia PacificChinaIndiaJapanRest of Asia PacificMiddle East & AfricaGCCSouth AfricaRest of Middle East & AfricaLatin AmericaBrazilMexicoRest of Latin AmericaThis report provides a comprehensive assessment of the packaging jars market in these specific regions, enabling stakeholders to understand regional differences, market potential, and growth prospects. This provides valuable insights that help make informed decisions related to market entry, expansion strategies, and resource allocation. Additionally, understanding the regulatory landscape and market dynamics in each region is useful for companies to comply with regulatory requirements and adjust their business strategies to fit specific markets.Overall, the global packaging jars market report strives to provide comprehensive and practical information to industry stakeholders. By offering a deep understanding of market trends, competitive dynamics, growth opportunities, and potential risks, this report plays a valuable role as a tool for manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and investors. Through this information, they are able to make informed business decisions and execute successful strategies in the dynamic and evolving packaging jars market. DAMASCUS, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- The death toll from Saturday's Israeli missile attack on Iran's targets in the Syrian capital of Damascus has risen to 13, according to a war monitor on Sunday. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said that among the 13 casualties were five Iranians, three of whom held commanding roles in Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), four Syrians contracted with Iranian militias, two Lebanese individuals, one Iraqi national, and one Syrian civilian worker. The Israeli missiles on Saturday struck the affluent Mazzeh Western Villas neighborhood, specifically targeting a residential building where a meeting of IRGC commanders was reportedly taking place. On Saturday, the Syrian Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the Israeli attack, and called on the international community to take immediate action to halt such "atrocities." UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday questioned the lopsided representation at the UN Security Council. He also made a case for Africa to have a permanent seat on the council. How can we accept that Africa still lacks a single Permanent Member in the Security Council? he asked in a post on X. There has been increased questioning of the structure of the United Nations Security Council, arguably the most powerful multilateral institution in the world. Countries of the world especially in Africa and Latin America have questioned the lopsided representation. Mr Guterres said that institutions must reflect todays world, not that of 80 years ago, adding that Septembers Summit of the Future will be an opportunity to consider global governance reforms and rebuild trust. He said this after attending the just concluded Non-Aligned Movement summit in Uganda. The African Union and its members over the years have questioned the composition of the Security Council while demanding at least one permanent seat for an African country. At the UN General Assembly in 2022, the President of the African Union, Macky Sall, reiterated the call for Africas place in the Council. It is time to overcome the reluctance and deconstruct the narratives that persist in confining Africa to the margins of decision-making circles, he told the General Assembly. Mr Sall said it is time to do justice to Africas just and legitimate demand for Security Council reform, as reflected in the Ezulwini Consensus. Two years later, no progress has been made on how to make the Council more inclusive. The Ezulwini Consensus is a position on international relations and reform of the United Nations, agreed by the African Union. It calls for a more representative and democratic Security Council, in which Africa, like all other world regions, is represented. Germany in March 2023 said it would support AUs demand for permanent seats at the Council. Germany therefore supports the efforts for permanent African seats on the UN Security Council and we also support a formal seat for the African Union within the G20, said German Chancellor Olaf Scholz during a visit to Kenya. In September 2023, AUs membership of the G-20 was announced with India announcing that its membership will strengthen the G20 and also strengthen the voice of the Global South. The Security Council consists of five permanent members and 10 elected members who are elected for two years. China, the United States, France, the United Kingdom, and the Russian Federation are permanent members. Although all members of the Council have one vote, permanent members have special voting power known as the right to veto exemplifying the central theme in George Orwells novel Animal Farm all animals are equal, but some are more equal than others. The Case for Nigeria Nigerias Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, speaking in a panel at the Word Economic Forum in Davos last week also made a similar case for Nigeria when he said the only way to breach the trust gap between the North and the South was for the world to practice what it preaches democracy and the rule of law. He said such should start with decision-making bodies like the Security Council. To begin with, the UN Security Council needs to democratise. It is not fit for purpose. Nigeria is the most populous country on the African continent it belongs in the UN Security Council, Mr Tuggar said. He proposed that the Council cancel the idea of veto power because it is clumsy and does not work, adding that it impacts global security. We have a situation where, in the past, during the bipolar world, there was neutral ground for diplomats to engage, allowing diplomacy to resolve issues, preempt conflicts, and diffuse them. Unfortunately, we do not have that anymore, he said. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has advocated the implementation of Grade Level 09 as the entry point for engineers in government services in states that have not implemented the policy. The first female President of the NSE, Margaret Oguntala, made the call during her investiture as the 34th president of the engineering professional body in Abuja. She also called for a policy formulation that would compel employers of labour to pay commensurate welfare packages/hazard allowances to engineers. Mrs Oguntala said the advocacy would be key among her focus in the next two years as the president of NSE. According to her, setting clear focus areas is paramount to guiding the collective efforts to accomplish her vision. Mrs Oguntala unveiled a strategic agenda which she said would underpin her mission, a roadmap that she named the Margaret Oguntala Presidential Agenda, or MOPSA. MOPSA is not just collection of words; it is a manifestation of our overarching vision which is Rebirth the NSE for the growth, empowerment and advancement of engineering in Nigeria. It is a meticulously crafted blueprint that encompasses five key themes, each designed to address crucial aspects of our mission. She said the MOPSA document consisted of one strategic agenda, five strategic themes (pillars) and 34 strategic actions. The first pillar is membership development; we shall focus on upskilling our esteemed members, offering mandatory professional development to keep them at the forefront of knowledge. NSE shall actively engage intergovernmental bodies, industries and academia to foster partnerships that drive progress, innovation and knowledge exchange. We shall collaborate with leading international engineering organisations and foreign missions to gain access to resources and opportunities for our members. The president of the NSE said advancement of innovation through the establishment of new technology-driven engineering innovation hubs would also be a key priority during her tenure among others. The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, represented by his deputy, Barau Jubril, said Mrs Oguntala had shattered the glass ceiling. We celebrate the progress our society has made in promoting gender equality and inclusivity in the field of engineering. Engr. Oguntalas appointment serves as a powerful testament to the fact that talent, dedication and expertise know no gender boundaries. It is a clear indication that the Nigerian Society of Engineers recognises and values the contributions of women in shaping the future of engineering; 33 men have come before her, serving as presidents of this great body. However, the time has come for the NSE to enter the labour room and give birth to a new version of itself. And it is only fitting that a mother, who knows the pains of giving birth, should be in charge of this rebirth. As we embark on this new chapter under the leadership of Engr. Oguntala, it is crucial that we reflect on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. However, it is through collective efforts and a shared vision that we can overcome these challenges and pave the way for a brighter future. Mr Akpabio said enhancement of engineering education and training was key to the rebirth and needed immediate attention. We must strive to equip our engineers with the necessary skills and knowledge to compete on a global scale. This can be achieved through partnerships with educational institutions, Industrial leaders and professional organizations. By fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing, we can ensure that our engineers are armed with the latest tools and techniques to tackle complex engineering problems. As engineers, it is our responsibility to design and implement sustainable solutions that will drive economic growth, improve the quality of life for our citizens, and create an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship. Our engineers are breaking new ground and leading the way in technological innovation. The NSE should reach out to Nigerian engineers in the Diaspora and urge them to respond to the call in our National Anthem. Let them come home and share their skills with us and contribute their unique perspectives and experiences. He said under the Renewed Hope Agenda, President Bola Tinubu and the tenth assembly were committed to supporting the NSE in giving Nigeria a prominent place in the engineering community. The immediate past president of NSE, Tasiu Gidari-Wudil, said Mrs Oguntala was instrumental to most of the successes during his tenure. Mr Gidari-Wudil pledged his unconditional support for the first female president and urged all engineers to give her maximum support. The highlight of the occasion was the taking of the oath of office by Mrs Oguntala, which was coordinated by Mr Gidari-Wudil. The governors of Oyo, Ogun and Ondo states, some traditional rulers and other international dignitaries, including the president of the World Federation of Engineers attended the event. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Former Governor Muhammad Badaru of Jigawa State says the development strides of Governor Umar Namadi have vindicated his endorsement of the incumbent as his successor. Mr Badaru, who is now Nigerias Minister of Defence, visited the state on Saturday in what is believed to be his first visit to the state since he left office last May. He performed the foundation laying of the states mass housing scheme at Panisau, a suburban area of Dutse, the state capital. I am delighted with the progress so far. I see people happy and smiling and they are telling me that I left behind a great leader who is delivering to the mandate. I told you during the campaign, he is honest, straightforward, very active and that is what he is doing. God has vindicated me with all the developments that have been taking place in the state, I am sure he will do better than what I have done. I thank you for giving us your trust, we leave the state better, the leader in charge will do the job right, the former governor said at the foundation laying ceremony. The housing project comprises 1,500 units, to be constructed across the state, with the state capital, Dutse, taking 600 units. The governor, Mr Namadi, said the construction of the buildings would be solely financed by the state government. He said the building would be sited in five emirates headquarters and three other towns Dutse, Ringim, Hadejia, Gumel, Kazaure, Kafin Hausa, Birnin Kudu and Babura. Mr Namadi said more houses will be constructed across the state based on the uptake of the residents where the projects are sited. This project was part of the campaign promises and commitments we have made to the good people of the state, which was captured in the development plan of the state and as contained in the 12-point agenda of this administration. The housing project is also providing casual and daily job opportunities for the teeming unemployed youths as part of the poverty reduction programme, Mr Namadi added. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Police Command in Lagos State says its operatives have arrested three suspected cultists in the Ishashi area of the state. The commands spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, a superintendent of police, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday. NAN reports that the Commissioner of Police in Lagos, Adegoke Fayoade, had promised to rid the state of criminals. Mr Hundeyin said the three suspects were arrested on Saturday at about 6.30 a.m. by the police. ALSO READ: Police arraign 33 suspected cultists in Anambra The police got information that some boys were seen in military uniform disturbing the peace of the Oke-Odan community in Ishashi, he said. He explained that operatives from the Ishashi division were quickly drafted to the community and arrested the suspects who were between the ages of 24 and 39. Mr Hundeyin said that an investigation had begun and the suspects would soon be charged in court. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Hundreds of students of Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, have reportedly been hospitalised due to suspected food poisoning in the institutions butteries. According to multiple sources who spoke to PREMIUM TIMES, the schools medical centre has been overwhelmed due to the number of affected students. But the university is keeping mum over the matter as calls and messages to relevant officials were ignored and not replied to for many hours. Parent confirms development Meanwhile, a parent, who is resident overseas, confirmed the development to PREMIUM TIMES in a telephone conversation on Saturday. The source, who does not want to be quoted for fear of victimisation of the child, said the student has regained some balance and is now recuperating in the school. The source said: We have had difficulties reaching our child since we received the news. But earlier today (Saturday), we got through to our child who confirmed being affected by the food poisoning but is now recovering well and is fairly stable. Other sources also confirmed the development but rued the schools decision to keep the matter secret. A former employee of the university, who also craved anonymity, said the institution should have spoken on the matter to douse the tension but all this hide and seek game doesnt help the university. Ban on use of phones by students After the founder of the university and General Overseer of the Living Faith Church, David Oyedepo, had abruptly announced the ban on the use of phones by the students of the institutions many years ago, any student found with a telephone on the campus is sanctioned. The students who are offered computer tablets for their academic use are barred from accessing many websites and social media platforms. In the past, the students were allowed to make use of a public phone booth for communication with their contacts outside the campus. Many students who adopted the use of email for communication also fear that their emails could be tracked. The development has made communication with the students difficult, even as the ongoing crisis rattles the institution. Evasive university officials Attempts to get reactions from the institution on the possible cause of the food poisoning, and how the situation is being managed were unsuccessful, as calls were evaded while messages were not replied to by officials. The universitys Head of Media and Public Affairs, Chichi Ononiwu, who did not pick up her telephone for hours, quickly cut off the call as soon as our reporter mentioned the incident to her when she eventually picked up the call on Sunday night. Ms Ononiwu, who requested the identity of our reporter when she eventually picked up the call, cut off the line as soon as the matter was raised, and has refused to pick up subsequent calls. Other journalists also confirmed Ms Ononiwus similar behaviour when they called her for comments on the matter. Not first time It is not the first time the university would be recording incident of food poisoning on the campus. A similar development was reported in 2010 when many students were said to have been hospitalised. Newspaper reports at the time confirmed the development. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Vice chancellors of public universities in Nigeria are gearing up to fiercely resist what they consider a new extortion scheme by some members of a committee of the House of Representatives to shake them down. The face-off between the vice-chancellors and the lawmakers concerns the N683 billion 2024 intervention fund the federal government recently approved for the nations publicly-owned tertiary institutions, PREMIUM TIMES can exclusively report. On January 12, the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) announced President Bola Tinubus approval to release 2024 intervention funds for tertiary institutions worth N683 billion. The fund-starved public schools are expected to get a respite with this intervention which is twice the N320 billion they got in 2023. Yet, experts believe the fund is a drop in the ocean due to the enormous needs of the institutions. The sharing formula shows that each university will get N1.9 billion comprising N1.6 billion annual direct disbursement and N250 million from zonal intervention fund. Each polytechnic will get N1.1 billion; N1 billion as annual direct disbursement and N150 million from zonal intervention fund. On their part, each of the colleges of education will get N1.3 billion each. While N1.2 billion is from the annual direct disbursement, N150 million will be sourced from zonal intervention fund. Lawmakers write institutions However, hours after the announcement of the release, the House Committee on TETFUND, chaired by Miriam Onuoha (APC, Imo), wrote the Committee of Provosts of Colleges of Education, the Committee of Rectors of Polytechnics and the Committee of Vice Chancellors of Nigerian University, directing them to halt the implementation of the intervention fund until they are cleared to proceed by lawmakers. The House committee, in the letter, dated 12 January, asked all heads of tertiary institutions to stay action on the implementation process until submission and appearance before the committee is concluded. The lawmakers asked the officials to submit full implementation details, including but not limited to the drawings, designs and specifications for all projects, procurement and services as contained in your 2024 TETFUND Normal Intervention Allocation letter issued to your Institution. All submissions in Thirty hard copies and a Soft copy are expected to reach the Committee Secretariat in Room 305, Third Floor, White House, House of Representatives, National Assembly Complex on or before Friday 23 February, 2024 while your appearance before the Committee is slated for Tuesday 27 February 2024 at Committee Room 107, House of Representatives, New building, National Assembly by 2:00 p.m., the letter reads in part. Heated debate, anger Sources in the Committee of Vice Chancellors told PREMIUM TIMES that the letter from the lawmakers sparked anger and generated heated debate among vice chancellors, with some of them describing the action of the legislators as another ploy to extort them. In telephone calls and WhatsApp exchanges, the vice chancellors fumed and vowed to resist the move. The university heads are frustrated with the incessant demands for money by lawmakers and have braced up for a showdown to end it once and for all. They (lawmakers) want to know the contracts that are available so that they can send their agents as contractors. All they want to do is to send in agents, one vice chancellor told PREMIUM TIMES, asking not to be named so he is not victimised by the lawmakers. Once the money was announced by the government on Friday, it was like a shark that smelled blood in the water; their intervention is to get their boys to bid for some of the contracts, the source added. According to the vice chancellors, aside from the incessant demands for bribes, the lawmakers also make other demands like admission slots, employment slots and the inclusion of their handpicked contractors for projects in schools. Another vice chancellor said, All the information they are asking us to provide are with Tetfund. So if they mean well, why cant they ask Tetfund to provide them. Why are they asking us to travel to Abuja with loads of documents? Why cant they even ask us to email the documents to them. Cant they do the so-called hearing by Zoom? Do they not know that it will cost all heads of tertiary institutions a lot of money to travel to Abuja by air and by road and then lodge in hotels to attend the so-called hearing? In these days of heightened insecurity, are they not aware of the risks inherent in unnecessary travels? Extortion by NASS committees Bribery and extortion by National Assembly committees is not new. PREMIUM TIMES had in a series of reports exposed how some members of the Ad Hoc House Committee Investigating job racketeering in government entities, demanded bribes from agencies, including tertiary institutions. The series led to the launch of an investigation by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on the activities of the committee, yet, such bribery schemes persist among lawmakers, who continue to use investigative hearings to perpetrate corruption. The House also promised to investigate the Committee. However, months after the report, it has yet to announce the outcome of the so-called investigation. Running against time and fighting for autonomy Meanwhile, the universities are trying to meet the TETFUND deadline for the process of the implementation of the intervention fund but are now being made to appear before a committee which they said is trying to usurp the work of the governing councils of the respective universities. Each school has a governing council and a management team responsible for running the affairs of the institution, including the granting of approval for expenditure for projects. The power of the council is enshrined in the Act of the respective school and forms the fulcrum of the autonomy of each school. The vice chancellors believe that aside from the extortion by the lawmakers, this move by the House Committee on TETFUND could undermine the autonomy of the schools, and erode some of the gains made under the current administration. After years of struggle, the federal government, in 2023, removed tertiary institutions from the IPPIS, a platform the lecturers have consistently said is against the autonomy enjoyed by the schools. In addition, the vice chancellors successfully fought against the plan by the federal government to deduct 50 per cent of the internally generated revenue of the schools. After weeks of pressure from the schools, the federal government yielded and exempted the schools. The VCs believe the showdown with the lawmakers on this intervention fund is one battle they must win as a way of ending the regime of bribery and extortion rampant among members of the National Assembly. They said it was wrong for the committee to write to universities through the association of vice chancellors, because the Committee of Vice Chancellors is not a statutory body, but just an association. Each university is a legal body with its own law, with its own distinct identity. The consensus among the lecturers is to resist what they termed the regime of extortion by the lawmakers. No escaping the multiple extortion roadblocks Most Nigerians are often suspicious of the activities of the National Assembly Committees which they believe are set up not on the basis of need but to reward loyalists and supporters, who then use them (committees) as conduits for corruption, often through blackmailing and extortion. These committees are often classified as juicy and non-juicy. Committees that are oversighting rich MDAs are regarded premium and most sought after. The chair of the Tetfund Committee, Ms Onuoha, joined the 10th Assembly speakership race but dropped out at the last minute and later voted Abbas Tajudeen, who won the election. She was subsequently rewarded with the chairmaship of the Committee on TETFUND. The House of Representatives currently has about 139 Standing Committees with about 25 ad hoc Committees set up since the inauguration of the 10th House in June last year. The duplication of committees means that agencies of government will have to interface with different committees. Aside from the TETFUND Committee, there are separate committees for universities, polytechnics and Colleges of Education. Some of the universities VCs that spoke with PREMIUM TIMES lamented the number of committees demanding money under the guise of investigative hearings. This paper reported how an ad hoc Committee on TETFUND, chaired by Oluwole Oke (PDP, Osun), last year, went around tertiary institutions across the country extorting vice chancellors. The shake-downs of vice-chancellors, rectors an provost are happening despite the paucity of funds at the institutions. It is unclear what the impact of the showdown between the vice chancellors and the lawmakers is going to have on the schools, particularly the students, who have endured periodic shutdowns of schools over disputes between unions and the federal government. Extortion despite record N344 billion NASS budget Shortly before the signing of the 2024 Appropriation Act into law, PREMIUM TIMES published a report highlighting the disparity between the allocations to universities and the National Assembly. Using the initial N197 billion proposed as the budget of the National Assembly, our review showed that the N197 billion could fund 26 selected universities. Despite this huge disparity, the lawmakers jacked up their budget to N344 billion, a sum that is well above the N197 billion used for the analysis. Reps defend committees action When contacted, the spokesperson of the House, Akin Rotimi (APC, Ekiti), said sections 88 and 89 of the 1999 Constitution give the National Assembly the power to embark on the investigation of the tertiary institutions. Backed by Sections 88 and 89 of the Constitution, the National Assembly has powers to direct or cause to be directed, investigation into the conduct of affairs of any authority charged with the duty of disbursing or administering money appropriated by the National Assembly. So, this directive is well within constitutional bounds and in line with the need to ensure accountability, Mr Rotimi said in a text message to this newspaper in response to our questions. Legal framework argument Ms Onuohas committee cited section 80(3) of the constitution as the bedrock of its intervention. The crux of the argument is that the university cannot spend taxpayers money without approval of the legislators. Section 80(3) says No money shall be withdrawn from any public fund of the Federation, other than the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the Federation, unless the issue of those moneys has been authorised by an Act of the National Assembly. But a thorough search of the 2024 budget showed that lawmakers actually approved N650 billion as capital release for TETFUND out of the projected N700 billion revenue in 2024. Therefore, money allocated was approved by the lawmakers through the Appropriations Act. Furthermore, Section 6(d, e and f) of the TETFUND Act gives the Governing Board of TETFUND the power to disburse such funds which have already been approved in the Appropriation Act. (d) Receive requests and approve admittable projects after due consideration (e) Ensure disbursements of funds to various public tertiary education institutions in Nigeria (f) Monitor and evaluate execution of the projects. Lawmakers are wrong to invite VCs ASUU President The President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Emmanuel Osodeke, a professor of soil science, told PREMIUM TIMES via a telephone interview that the lawmakers are wrong to invite vice-chancellors to defend their projects, stating that the governing councils of the different schools are responsible for approval of projects. He warned the lawmakers not to interfere in the management of the schools as doing so would constitute breach of autonomy. What the lawmakers are doing is completely wrong. It is against the rule. TETFUND has been there since 1994, and nothing of such has happened. The schools have governing boards that should determine the process. The National Assembly only has the power to ensure the effective use of the money. We are surprised that now that the money has been approved by the president, the National Assembly is insisting that the VCs should bring it to them for approval. It is very funny and we dont know where they are getting all these ideas from, Mr Osodeke said. He added that the lawmakers do not have the capacity to scrutinise projects of all the public schools that are beneficiaries of intervention within the timeframe they stipulated in the letter. The ASUU president said the action of the lawmaker is reinforcing the insinuations of shake-down. He added that it is going to cost a lot to assemble all heads of public schools in Abuja. We have more than 200 or 300 tertiary institutions, so they will come to a committee in the National Assembly to defend their projects, it will take a year. Look at the cost for every vice chancellor to come and defend it and spend three four days in Abuja, if you calculate this, it will run into billions. Their interference is causing problems. The National Assemblys responsibility is to pass the budget, implementation is not their thing. They can do their oversight but not to tell vice-chancellors to go across the governing council of universities, it is making a mockery of democracy, he said. When we posed the argument of accountability and transparency, specifically section 80(3) of the Constitution, Mr Osodeke said Who is inspecting their own (National Assembly) budget? The same budget they inflated to N340 billion, who is monitoring it? Are they above other agencies?. He added, How can a committee of the House meet with all the universities (states and federal), polytechnics and colleges of education? How? TETFUND is an intervention fund. What they are trying to do is to waste that money which can be used to develop the universities. ASUU is expected to join the fight in the next couple of days, a development that may escalate the showdown between the lawmakers and the academic community. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has again appealed for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza and the unconditional release of all hostages. Mr Guterres made the call in his message to the summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) at Kampala, Uganda, on Saturday. Leaders from the 120-member bloc met amid deep division globally, including rising geopolitical tensions, climate catastrophe, widespread poverty and raging conflict in Sudan, Ukraine and Gaza. Following the abhorrent Hamas attacks on October 7, the wholesale destruction of Gaza and the number of civilian casualties in such a short period are totally unprecedented during my mandate, he said. According to him, the UN has also been affected as 152 staff have been killed. Although humanitarians are doing their best to deliver aid, they face constant bombardments and daily dangers, amid enormous constraints posed by damaged roads, communication blackouts and access denials. Meanwhile, disease and hunger are deepening, he said. According to him, people are dying not only from bombs and bullets, but from lack of food and clean water, hospitals without power and medicine, and gruelling journeys to ever-smaller slivers of land to escape the fighting. This must stop. I will not relent in my call for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. And we must do all we can to prevent spillover of this conflict across the region in the West Bank, across the Blue Line between Israel and Lebanon, and in Syria, Iraq and the Red Sea, Guterres said. The secretary-general said that the refusal to accept the two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians and the denial of the right to statehood for the Palestinian people is unacceptable. This would indefinitely prolong a conflict that has become a major threat to global peace and security, exacerbate polarization, and embolden extremists everywhere, he said. The NAM was established during the Cold War when leaders of newly independent countries sought a neutral stance and avoided joining either of the two major power blocs, headed by the United States and the Soviet Union. Mr Guterres said the swirl of uncertainty and instability in the world today offers new opportunities for countries and the organizations to lead the way towards deeper cooperation and shared global affluence the theme of the summit. As global affluence depends on peace, which requires institutions that reflect todays world, he stressed the need to reform bodies such as the UN Security Council, which is paralyzed by geopolitical divisions that block effective solutions. Recalling that the NAM has long highlighted the issue, he said the UN Summit of the Future in September offered a unique opportunity to consider reforms and promote ideas to rebuild trust and strengthen multilateral collaboration. Meanwhile, countries are moving backwards in achieving sustainable development, another requirement for peace. People are going hungry and communities lack access to basics such as healthcare, clean water, proper sanitation and education. Mr Guterres repeated his call for reforming the outdated, unjust and unfair global financial system so that all countries benefit, and urged governments to invest in education, health, nutrition and social protection systems. In September 2023, world leaders meeting at the UN demonstrated support for both a 500 billion-dollar annual stimulus package to boost sustainable development and his call to reform the global financial system. At the COP28 conference two months later, countries operationalised the long-awaited Loss and Damage Fund to support nations that are most vulnerable to climate change. However, contributions so far have been limited, and developed countries have not fulfilled many of their longstanding commitments on climate finance, he said. The secretary-general, however, urged the NAM to hold leaders to keep these promises this year. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The White House announced on Friday that US President Joseph Biden has dispatched a delegation of top officials to attend Mondays inauguration of Liberian president-elect Joseph Boakai, signalling Washingtons intent to strengthen bilateral relations with the West African nation. The delegation, led by US Ambassador to the UN, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, includes senior White House and State Department officials, reflecting the importance Mr Biden places on US-Liberian ties. The delegation will include the Charge dAffaires of the US Embassy in Monrovia, Catherine Rodriguez; the Assistant to the President and Senior Advisor to the President and Director of the Office of Public Engagement at the White House, Stephen Benjamin; the Deputy Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Isobel Coleman, and the Special Assistant to the President and Senior Director for African Affairs, National Security Council at the White House, Judd Devermont. Their attendance comes after incumbent President George Weah conceded defeat to Mr Boakai in Novembers runoff election. In a statement, Mr Biden congratulated Mr Boakai and the Liberian people on a peaceful presidential election and transition. The White House said the delegation highlights Americas enduring commitment to supporting democracy and good governance in Liberia. The visit also cements 160 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The US has focused engagement with Liberia on consolidating democratic progress, improving capacity, transparency, and accountability of governance institutions, according to the State Department. The two countries enjoy a bilateral trade and investment framework agreement. As Mr Boakai takes office, the US seeks to expand economic ties and trade. Liberias economy has struggled in recent years amid the global pandemic, increasing the need for foreign investment. Stronger commercial links would benefit both countries. With a high-profile US presence at his inauguration, President-elect Boakai can expect Washington to take a heightened interest in contributing to Liberias development. The delegations attendance signals that under Mr Biden, fortifying relations with Liberia remains a priority. 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 Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The police in Abuja have announced the release of some residents of Bwari Area Council kidnapped on 2 January. In a Sunday morning statement, Abuja police spokesperson Josephine Adeh said the victims were freed at about 11:30 p.m. on Saturday. She, however, did not disclose the exact number of people who were freed but said those freed had been reunited with their families. Ms Adeh, a superintendent of police, said the police worked with the army and the victims were freed near Kajuru forest in Kaduna state around 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 20, 2024. On 2nd January, PREMIUM TIMES reported that six sisters and their father were abducted from their house in Bwari Area Council of Abuja. Their father was later released by the kidnappers to raise a ransom of N60 million. However, one of the ladies, Najeeba, was killed by the kidnappers because the father was unable to raise the N60 million ransom requested. Following that incident and other cases of kidnapping in the Nigerian capital, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, launched a Special Intervention Squad (SIS) in Abuja. Mr Egbetokun said the squad has the capacity for swift intervention and effective containment of significant security breaches like those currently threatening the suburb of the FCT. He also promised that the rest of the sisters would be rescued. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print RABAT, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- Agricultural ministers of Morocco and Cote d'Ivoire on Friday held talks in Berlin on strengthening agricultural cooperation between the two countries, Morocco's official news agency MAP reported. Speaking after their meeting on the sidelines of the Berlin International Green Week, Moroccan Agricultural Minister Mohammed Sadiki said Morocco and Cote d'Ivoire have many experiences to share in the agriculture sector, noting that the two parties have agreed to exchange views on the water issue. Morocco, which suffers from repeated droughts, has developed techniques to mobilize and save water through the modernization of irrigation systems, Sadiki told reporters. He added that the Moroccan experience can benefit Cote d'Ivoire in transferring water from water-rich to water-poor regions. Kobenan Kouassi Adjoumani, minister of agriculture and rural development of Cote d'Ivoire, said the meeting was an opportunity to explore the cooperation prospects between the two countries, adding that Morocco is far ahead in water management and represents a model for Cote d'Ivoire, reported MAP. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) says it has issued a query to its prosecutor who declared a lack of evidence to secure the conviction of key defendants facing trial in the Malabu case. Offem Uket had conceded the prosecutions lack of evidence in a filing submitted to the court last December. He made the turnaround in the case after calling 10 prosecution witnesses in a trial that had lasted almost four years. But the EFCC, in a statement shared with PREMIUM TIMES, said Mr Uket made the major concession on his own without the commissions approval. The truth of the matter is that the prosecution counsel, Offem Uket, that submitted that the EFCC lacked sufficient evidence to successfully prosecute six of the seven defendants standing trial in the case, was on a frolic of his own and has since been queried by the commission, read partly the statement. The statement was responding to PREMIUM TIMES reporting of the 12 January hearing of the case at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Abuja. It alleged that this newspaper slanted its lawyers request for an adjournment of proceedings in the case to portray EFCC as a desperate agency of government hunting for evidence in the trial of all the defendants implicated in the OPL 245 oil block awarded to Malabu Oil and Gas Limited in 1998. The statement said its lawyer, Sylvanus Tahir, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, who appeared for the prosecution at the proceeding, only sought the adjournment for him to sufficiently address the court having been instructed to take over the case owing to some developments in the matter the EFCC found disconcerting. The trial revolves around allegations of bribery and defrauding of the Nigerian government in a $1.1 billion transaction concerning the lucrative OPL 245 oil block. The oil block was first awarded to the Malabu Oil and Gas Limited under controversial circumstances in 1998, setting off decades-long convoluted ownership battles, in which, prosecutors said, the Nigerian government was shortchanged. Among the principal defendants in the case is a former Attorney General of the Federation, Mohammed Adoke, who was accused of being influenced by bribes to facilitate the $1.1 billion deal for the transfer of the oil block from Malabu to two oil giants -Eni and Shell in 2011. Other prime defendants are the Nigerian subsidiaries of the oil giants Nigeria Agip Exploration Limited, Shell Nigeria Extra Deep Limited and Shell Nigeria Exploration Production Company Limited. They are charged alongside Aliyu Abubakar, Rasky Gbinigie as well as Malabu Oil and Gas Limited. The prosecution closed its case after calling its 10th witness in October, prompting the defendants to file their separate no-case submissions, calling on the court to end the trial without the case proceeding to the defence stage. Their reason was that the EFCC, with its 10 prosecution witnesses, failed to lead credible evidence linking them to the offences alleged in the 40 counts filed in the case. Responding to Mr Adokes no-case submission, Mr Uket conceded in a filing in December that no incriminating evidence was led against the defendants except Mr Gbinigie, who faces 35 of the 40 charges. The court fixed 12 January for a hearing on the no-case submission. Rescue mission But in a move to rescue the case, the EFCC sent one of its senior lawyers, Sylvanus Tahir, to court on 12 January to urge the judge to defer the adoption of arguments on the no-case submission and grant a short adjournment of the case. Mr Tahir, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), agreed that the sitting was for the adoption of the written arguments of parties on the no-case submission filed by the defendants, but pleaded with the judge to postpone the hearing to enable the government to review the case. Other defence lawyers opposed the application for adjournment, insisting that it would be unfair to grant the prosecutions request after parties had exchanged filings on the defendants no-case submission. The judge, Idris Kutigi, agreed with the defendants and refused to grant the adjournment requested. He ordered parties to proceed to address him on the no-case submission. After the arguments, the judge fixed 29 February for ruling, which would decide whether to end the case or direct the defendants or part of them to open their defence. No surrender But responding to PREMIUM TIMES reporting of the proceeding, the EFCC said, in a statement sent to this newspaper on 17 January, that it has not surrendered in any way concerning the Malabu case. It stated: The Executive Chairman never instructed Uket to throw in the towel in the matter. He assumed office a couple of months ago and had not been briefed on what Uket came to the court with. As a Chief Executive, it is simply preposterous to be portrayed in bad light over a matter he had not addressed. The Commission is awaiting the ruling of His Lordship on the matter. The public has a right to be properly informed about the position of the EFCC and its leadership on this issue. There is no compromise of any sort anywhere and there wont be at any time. The commission said the crux of the matter was his lawyer throwing in the towel after calling 10 witnesses in a case that had lasted almost four years. It added that it was the mystery unfolding in the case which PREMIUM TIMES should have dug deeper into. Read EFCCs rebuttal in full below: Re: Malabu: Court Refuses to Suspend Trial for EFCC to Hunt Fresh Evidence By Dele Oyewale Premium Times story of January 14, 2024, on the application of EFCCs counsel, Sylvanus Tahir, SAN, for an adjournment, in the Malabu case before Justice Idris Kutigi of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High Court, Abuja, is shocking. The story, which can best be described as jaundiced and shorn of the finesse of objective reporting, was slanted to portray the EFCC as a desperate Agency of government hunting for evidence in the trial of all the defendants implicated in the OPL 245 oil block awarded to Malabu Oil and Gas Limited in 1998. The reporter, seeking ways and means of denigrating the Executive Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, insinuated that he directed the Commissions counsel to declare the governments interests in the case to secure an adjournment. An adjournment, in any matter, could be sought by a counsel if there are justifiable grounds for it. In this particular matter, Tahir only sought the adjournment for him to sufficiently address the court having been instructed to take over the case owing to some developments in the matter the EFCC found disconcerting. Besides, Premium Times had earlier reported that EFCC Surrenders, says no evidence of wrongdoing against Adoke, others, without digging deeper into the whys and wherefores of developments in the case. The truth of the matter is that the prosecution counsel, Offem Uket, that submitted that the EFCC lacked sufficient evidence to successfully prosecute six of the seven defendants standing trial in the case, was on a frolic of his own and has since been queried by the Commission. How on earth would a counsel that had already presented 10 witnesses before the court in a matter that had lasted over four years, suddenly seek termination of the matter in what can be described as a judicial abortion? This is the crux of the matter and a situation that should ordinarily make Premium Times dig deeper into the mystery unfolding in the case. It is needful to state that the EFCC has not surrendered in any way concerning the Malabu case. The Executive Chairman never instructed Uket to throw in the towel in the matter. He assumed office a couple of months ago and had not been briefed on what Uket came to the court with. As a Chief Executive, it is simply preposterous to be portrayed in bad light over a matter he had not addressed. The Commission is awaiting the ruling of His Lordship on the matter. The public has a right to be properly informed about the position of the EFCC and its leadership on this issue. There is no compromise of any sort anywhere and there wont be at any time. For now, Premium Times should sheathe its sword and allow the courts proceedings to run its full course. Dele Oyewale, is the Head, Media & Publicity, EFCC. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print A year after the gruesome murder of journalist Martinez Zogo, authorities in Cameroon are yet to fully shed light on the circumstances surrounding his kidnapping, torture, and killing or hold any suspects to account. Mr Zogo was kidnapped on 17 January 2023, in Yaounde, and his body was found four days later, on 21 January. Following Mr Zogos abduction and killing, authorities arrested several people, including two key suspects, Jean-Pierre Amougou Belinga, and Leopold Maxim Eko Eko. However, the military court in charge of the matter has yet to conclude its investigation. One of the suspects, Amougou Belinga, is a businessman and media tycoon who owns the newspaper LAnecdote and TV channels Vision 4 and Telesud while Maxim Eko Eko is the director of the state external intelligence service. According to reports, in March last year, the duo was charged with torture and both have been accused of having played a role in the death of Zogo. On 1 December, a leaked military court document showed that a release order was allegedly signed by Justice Sikati II Kamo, ordering the pairs release from continued detention. However, Mr Kamo denied the report as false information. A few days later, the judge was replaced by another magistrate. As a result, in less than ten months, two judges working on the Martinez Zogo investigation have been removed and replaced by the authorities. This has not only derailed the investigation and the court proceedings but has raised concerns about interference by the authorities in the case, casting doubt on the independence of the judicial system in Cameroon. Recently, reports said that another public official, Stephane Martin Savom, mayor of Bibey municipality, in the centre of Cameroon, was summoned for interrogation in connection with the case. The investigation into the murder of Mr Zogo is believed to hold considerable suspense, given the implication already of top public figures and close allies to rival political clans in the country. It is not yet clear who are the suspected masterminds behind the kidnapping, torture, and killing of journalist Martinez Zogo, Alex Koko A Dang, chairman of the Union of Cameroon Independent Journalists (SYNAJIC), told IPI. Investigations are ongoing, and justice has not yet been rendered to our colleague. The Martinez Zogo affair seems to be a movie whose only actors are the authorities in Cameroon. Before his death, Mr Zogo was the director of the privately owned radio Amplitude FM based in Yaounde, the capital city of Cameroon. He hosted a programme called Embouteillage (equivalent to Gridlock in English) which denounced governance malpractices, acts of corruption, and alleged embezzlement of public funds by top officials. On the anniversary of Mr Zogos killing, IPI calls on authorities to speed up their investigation. A year has elapsed since the kidnapping and killing of Martinez Zogo, and despite the arrest of some suspects, justice is yet to be served and numerous questions remain, IPI Advocacy Director Amy Brouillette said, If authorities in Cameroon believe the international community will forget this case, they are wrong. She added: Authorities must guarantee an independent, transparent, and thorough investigation into Martinezs murder and ensure that the judicial system is free to work independently to unearth the truth, serve justice, and hold the perpetrators of this horrific crime to account. Failure to credibly solve this case will only further endanger the safety of journalists in Cameroon. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print President Bola Tinubu has advocated a review of global taxation, explaining that redressing the imbalance in the international tax regime has become imperative. The Nigerian President also affirmed the countrys belief in and commitment towards multilateralism as a way of addressing global challenges. Mr Tinubu stated Njgerias position on these issues in a speech at the Third South Summit of the Group of 77 and China which opened on Sunday in Kampala, Uganda. He said the issue of global taxation is pressing because it impacts developing countries. The current international tax systems, largely shaped by the interests of more affluent nations, often leave developing countries at a disadvantage, especially in taxing digital economies. This systemic imbalance has led to significant revenue losses, hampering our efforts towards sustainable development and economic self-reliance, he pointed out. In response to this, Nigeria, alongside other Member States of the African Group championed a historic initiative at the United Nations calling for a Framework Convention on Tax. This resolution, according to him, marks a pivotal step towards establishing a more equitable and inclusive global tax system. President Tinubu was represented at the summit with the theme Leaving No One Behind by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu. The summit is being attended by many heads of state and government as well as heads of international organizations including United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Expressing Nigerias appreciation to all the countries that supported the global tax review initiative, President Tinubu said their solidarity reflects our shared commitment to rectifying the inequities of the current tax system and fostering a more just economic order. Also in reaffirming Nigerias commitment to South-South economic collaboration, the President spoke of the critical role of the Action Committee on Raw Materials (ACRM) of the G-77, established in 1987 for enhancing cooperation in the development and processing of raw materials. While acknowledging the importance of comprehensive data on raw material availability and location, President Tinubu advocated the revival of the ACRM. This is crucial for coordinated information dissemination, facilitating access for international entrepreneurs and joint venture partners and addressing challenges in raw material development that hinder industrialization and economic growth, he said. The resuscitation of the ACRM, with a focus on data-driven strategies and information systems, is imperative to improving trade terms, fostering economic self-reliance and enhancing resilience among developing countries, he pointed out. President Tinubu also restated, at the summit, Nigerias earlier position on Israels attack on Palestine over Gaza, saying the recent developments in the State of Palestine demand our immediate attention and action. Nigeria aligns itself with the international communitys call for an immediate ceasefire and a peaceful resolution to the conflict. Upholding our commitment to the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and the promotion of peace and security, we firmly support a two-state solution as the path forward in this protracted conflict, he said. The President spoke against any form of indiscriminate violence, emphasizing the urgent need to address humanitarian concerns, and ensuring the protection and dignity of all civilians affected by this crisis. READ ALSO: As a member of this Group, Nigeria remains dedicated to advocating peaceful solutions in global conflict zones, reflecting our commitment to the stability and prosperity of the African continent and the global community. Drawing the attention of the summit to the 75th anniversary of the United Nations, the Nigerian leader spoke of Group of 77s enduring commitment to fostering a world where no one is left behind where every individual has an equal opportunity to thrive. This years Summit and its theme resonate with the aspirations and principles of G77. It seeks our collective commitment to building an influential force that champions international peace and security; protects the rights and dignity of our citizens; and fosters cooperation in the spirit of South-South collaboration, the President said. He added: Considering the interconnected nature of our world, we need a concerted action to tackle issues of climate change, eco-disparities, environmental concerns and technological programs in this post-pandemic era. Similarly, emerging global challenges, such as the digital divide, cybersecurity, illicit financial flows, terrorism and corruption, are interconnected threats that undermine our socio-economic stability and require a united approach by this assembly. With illicit financial flows alone estimated to siphon off billions of dollars annually from economies, especially in the Global South, the urgency for early action has never been greater, he said. President Tinubu pointed out that Nigeria recognizes the urgency to combat these challenges, particularly illicit financial flows. We advocate enhanced international cooperation, stronger regulatory frameworks and a robust collaborative approach. By uniting our efforts and sharing best practices, we can promote transparency, accountability and a more secure, prosperous future for all G77 and China member states. Reflecting on these global challenges, he said Nigeria acknowledges the multifaceted nature of the issues we face. Our focus remains steadfast on rebuilding our economies, fortifying healthcare systems and securing sustainable livelihoods for our citizens. President Tinubu also spoke of the importance of technical cooperation and capacity building in addressing current global challenges. As a country, We have been actively engaged through the Directorate of Technical Aid Corps (DTAC) in fostering international cooperation in the spirit of South-South Collaboration. DTAC, as a key instrument of Nigerias foreign policy, facilitates the exchange of expertise and knowledge with 38 African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries, dispatching over 30,000 skilled professionals since its inception in 1987. These efforts enhance our collective ability to fortify the health and educational system and secure sustainable livelihood for our citizens. In addition to DTACs contributions, Nigerias commitment to enhancing South-South cooperation is further demonstrated through our establishment of the Directorate for Technical Cooperation in Africa (DTCA), he added. DTCA plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration and economic development across the African continent. By leveraging the strengths of DTCA, the President said Nigeria aims to deepen ties with fellow African nations, sharing resources and expertise to promote mutual growth and development. Similarly, in her commitment to South-South collaboration, Nigeria also emphasises the significance of Triangular cooperation. This partnership model, involving developing countries, developed nations and international organizations, offers a comprehensive approach to address global challenges. Such cooperation enriches Nigerias strategies for sustainable development, ensuring inclusivity and maximizing the impact of our collective efforts, President Tinubu submitted. While reaffirming Nigerias commitment towards multilateralism and the objectives of the Bandung principles, the President concluded, saying as G77 looks towards the future, the organization should envision a movement that is responsive to the needs and aspirations of Member States. Signed Folasade Boriowo, Director of Information, Ministry of Budget & Economic Planning January 21, 2024 Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Now, the lady boss needs to do a lot of work to keep her man, her home and her marriage, Yes, she cant do efo riro and akara as often as bros wants but she must make out time to cook her husbands favourite dishes as often as she can. Dear sis, just get the kitchen staff to lay out the ingredients. Next step: get into your hottest pants or shorts and make sure bros is around to watch you sweat it out making his vegetable soup. Roll all your assets as you move up and down. Let him gasp. She has come a long way. She started small, very small in fact, but life has been kind to her. She has found favour with God and man. Today, the young awkward marketing executive is the Chief Operating Officer of a multi-million naira concern. She has men, her fathers age, calling her Madam and women, more beautiful than her, scrambling for her attention and approval. She is a force you cant ignore in her industry. Though many women wish they were in her shoes but her life is not all the colours of the rainbow that we all see. She is married with children and the last line of her profile reads like that of most women in her shoes: she is happily married with children. Hmm, not totally true. Not totally false. Married with children yes, but the happy part? Not always. But come to think of it, which marriage is happy all the time? Some days you are happy, others you just wish you were married to someone else. And there are those days you want to shoot him, even if its in the leg or with rubber bullets. Not a biggie. Nobody should go into marriage hoping to be happy every single second. Happily ever after, I think, is a concoction from Denise Robins romance kitchen. Oh, all those romance novels we read and believed! Yours sincerely read so many Mills and Boons I actually believed all the purple prose about tall, rich, dark and handsome romantic man myth. If you are a fan of M&B, youll remember all the favourite authors now: Carole Mortimer, Anne Mather, Penny Jordan. Are you smiling? I am. The things those writers filled our heads with! Come back to the present, into the life of the lady boss and the man she married. Welcome to the life of the successful career married woman. And the fine-boy-no-pimples guy she married. Hear her husband. These days Im not sure if Im married or not because my wife is married to her job. I virtually have to book appointments to see her. Sex is no longer spontaneous. Its like there is a roster somewhere for making love to my own wife o. For instance, Mondays are totally not sex days. Fridays are not either. Saturday mornings, she wants to sleep in, so I cannot check out my property. And the week before a board of directors meeting is worse. She falls asleep surrounded by laptop, iPad, tons of files, her glasses still perched on the bridge of her nose. I cant even sneak a touchy-feel. We have a full compliments of kitchen staff now, complete with chef who spices every dish to high heavens. But nobody makes vegetable soup like my wife. I miss the aroma of her akara waking me up on Saturday mornings. Now, if two of the reasons you married your wife is the great sex and her cooking prowess, what do you do when she becomes a big girl, with a nine-digit salary, who neither cooks nor satisfies you in bed? Is someone going to blame me if I start getting some on the side? Now, why do I get this strong feeling that bros is already doing full-scale extra-curricular activities? You see, when a man threatens to take a second wife, 60 per cent of the time, he has already taken one. Hes just looking for an opportunity to bring her in. So, when the husband of the lady boss reels out a long list of his reasons why he deserves a girlfriend, hmmn, I can bet my leave allowance that he is already getting thoroughly serviced by one impressionable undergraduate or even his secretary. All the same, lets consider his complaint sheet without imagining him in a non-missionary position with his secretary. I truly sympathise with men married to career women, especially the one who have risen to the top of the ladder. They are rare breeds and even bigger boys than their big-girl-wives. To marry a big babe doesnt take much, which is why a lot of men marry them in the first place. It is glamorous and men these days consciously seek out the big babes. Check out the wedding invitation cards you currently have and the weddings you had attended in the last six months. You will find the brides are bankers, doctors, even entrepreneurs. Guys suddenly prefer the already made girls, not just the ones who come from old money or who are daughters of politicians. Many times, I must admit, the unemployed girls dont get as many proposals as the career girls. But somehow, after marriage and as the years go by, the husband of the lady boss starts complaining and one wonders why. Could it be that he couldnt see beyond his happy nose of long ago? I mean, a 29-year-old bride doing well in a bank will eventually grow into a General Manager and that post certainly will come with hours or responsibilities. As the perks increase, so will the meetings and official trips and dinners and meeting with clients. Most men just generally assume that if their fine wives have dinner with a rich client, the rich client will have their wives for dinner. And we all know what those kinds of thoughts do to mens heads. Poor folks. They just arent ever prepared for the brighter years and thats when the complaints start. Men are not like women in any way, are they? When a woman marries a poor man and he becomes rich, we just slide smoothly, effortlessly into the role of the wife of a big boy. We move from buying second hand dresses to designer ones. We move from cheap costume jewellery to dainty gold and even diamonds. We learn the movements and adapt to new neighbourhoods. We even learn new ways to monitor our mens movements. But a man is not really wired to tag along. Yet, since sh*t happens and this is a new world, the husband of the lady boss just must adapt. Its just the way the cookies crumble. And the best way to adapt is to own both the assets and liabilities. Now, the lady boss needs to do a lot of work to keep her man, her home and her marriage, Yes, she cant do efo riro and akara as often as bros wants but she must make out time to cook her husbands favourite dishes as often as she can. Dear sis, just get the kitchen staff to lay out the ingredients. Next step: get into your hottest pants or shorts and make sure bros is around to watch you sweat it out making his vegetable soup. Roll all your assets as you move up and down. Let him gasp. Let him drool but you dont have to give it all up that night. This is just the cooking phase. The other department you must man with all your strength is the bedroom. You cannot allow those little girls outdo you in the territory where you have more cognate experience. Deploy those assets and give him the service of his life. If hes one of those guys who likes to hang out with his friends on Fridays, Thursday night is your execution date. Show him undiluted service. Shake him up. Make him pant. Make him beg. Take him to the seventh heaven and let him ride back to earth on your back, sweating. Even if he does not cancel his date with the boys, you are almost sure he cant deliver the goods with girls. Right? Give him something to think about all day. Let him doze at his desk. Let him look forward to a next time. Beg him to make out time to accompany you on official trips once in a while. Take him far from the madding crowd and give him the treat of his life. Swim at night together if you do and well, I cant say everything here. Even when you are tired, you know great sex is great exercise and you need to work out, dont you? See? Its a win-win situation. No matter how hard you work at work, you must protect the territorial integrity of your marriage. Funke Egbemode was managing director/editor-in-chief of New Telegraph Newspaper, president of the Nigerian Guild of Editors and commissioner for information in Osun State. Email: egbemode3@gmail.com Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print So, President Tinubu can take his hard decision now. The goal is clear: rid our land of terrorists, bandits, kidnappers or other violent criminal elements by whatever name called. Anyone who routinely commoditises Nigerian lives and makes money from hostage taking or cold-blooded murder does not deserve to live. Security is too important to be left in the hands of security agencies and their political principals alone. That much is clear to every Nigerian now. Most of us are mere sitting ducks, unsure of whether we shall someday fall victim to the kidnapping gale terrorising the country from the desert to the coast. When Muhammed Yusuf founded Boko Haram in 2002, the Nigerian government arrogantly thought that a mere police action would be adequate to stamp out the extremists and consign their madness to the trash bin of history. Two decades later, the fire of insecurity ignited by the terrorists has birthed new franchises across the length and breadth of Nigeria. Collective War The choice before Nigerians and their government is simple: We either join hands together to collectively fight the war against the various manifestations of insecurity or continue acting in our various tribal silos and perish together. Self preservation is the first law of nature. We must, therefore, cast aside the luxury of political partisanship and assist the authorities with ideas on how to defeat our collective foe. In my view, there is no difference between Boko Haram terrorists and their cousins-in-crime, euphemistically called kidnappers or bandits. Anyone who unjustifiably takes the life of another person does not deserve to live. If we had applied that simple rule to the problem, instead of speaking from both sides of the mouth and lionising the criminals, perhaps we wouldnt have been supplicating on our knees today. Our lethargy has emboldened the criminals to the extent that each gang now digs deep into its book of horrors to enact new ways of inflicting physical and psychological pain. Take the gut-wrenching case of Nabeeha Al-Kadriyar, a 400-level student of Biological Sciences at Ahmadu Bello University, who was kidnapped with her father and five sisters. The criminals released her father to go and arrange the payment of the ransom of N60 million demanded. While the man was still running from pillar to post in search of donors or benefactors, the bandits became impatient and killed Nabeeha with a promise to continue executing the other sisters one by one if the ransom was not promptly paid. She has since been buried. The family and well wishers took to social media to try and raise the ransom. As usual, the traditional official statements and assurances by security agencies rent the air. The police are always on top of the situation, while other security agencies always claim to be on the trail of the fleeing criminals. Enough of those heartfelt nonsenses we parrot, instead of taking concrete action to ensure that parents wont have to be burying their children again. During the Buhari years, a circus was always made of every tragedy Mr President has held a closed door meeting with service chiefs as if the holding of the meeting was in itself a great achievement. If we have any respect for ourselves at all, it is about time we stopped our habitual perambulation. Enough of those heartfelt nonsenses we parrot, instead of taking concrete action to ensure that parents wont have to be burying their children again. During the Buhari years, a circus was always made of every tragedy Mr President has held a closed door meeting with service chiefs as if the holding of the meeting was in itself a great achievement. No Ransom The Minister of Defence, Alhaji Abubakar Badaru, recently frowned at ransom payment. We all know theres an existing law against payment of ransom, he said. So, it is very sad for people to go over the internet and radio asking for donations to pay ransom. This will only worsen the situation; it will not help. If we stop, over time the kidnapping will not be profitable and they will stop. It is not easy though but that is the law, he said. The ministers statement was not well received by the grieving public. And that is putting it politely. Lets do things differently henceforth. As I have stated above, security is not an exclusively esoteric matter on which bloody civilians are not allowed to comment. If I was the president of Nigeria, I would make use of as many patriots in the creative industry as possible. We first have to out-think the bandits before we can rout them. Agatha Christie, the English crime novelist, short-story writer and playwright, was never a security expert; but I wager she would have given any security chief a run for his money in scenario planning. If the government opens the space, theyd be surprised at how resourceful some non-experts currently being overlooked could be. Many knowledgeable people who have spoken out have wondered how kidnappers always manage to collect ransom without being detected by the police. In other cases where money is wired to the kidnappers bank account, why are the authorities still unable to lay ambush for the criminals or trace the owners of such accounts? It doesnt take much thinking to come to the conclusion that there is collusion in some of the cases. It is not impossible that the terrorists share part of their loot with officers of the law. In the dying days of the Buhari administration, the United Arab Emirate (UAE) handed over a list of over 200 sponsors of terrorism to the Nigerian government. That list is still being kept under wraps because, as some officials explained, investigations are still ongoing. President Tinubu has to read the riot act to those in custody of that list so that they can be made to face the law. Also, those romancing terrorism under the guise of religion have to be told in unmistakable terms that the state can no longer tolerate their duplicity. Whether acting individually, or in the employ of contemporary multi-purpose security companies, the mercenary is generally present as a violator of human rights. On occasion he acts as a professional agent in terrorist operations; he takes part in illicit trafficking; he commits acts of sabotage, among others. But, most times, he gets the job done because as far as hes concerned, hes executing a contract. Mercenaries Extreme diseases deserve extreme treatment. We must not close our minds to the plan rolled out during the Jonathan presidency to engage some foreign entities to assist in winning the anti-terror war. The truth is that there are several mercenary groups now called private military companies (PMCs), which play an ever-increasing role in armed conflicts. They are not so anonymous anymore. And some are bigger than the combined armed forces of many countries. Mercenaries are hired professional soldiers who fight for any state or nation without regard to political interests or issues. Employment of mercenaries could be politically dangerous as well as expensive. Nevertheless, the outsourcing of a number of basic functions which traditionally were carried out by national armies or police forces known as the top-down privatisation has blurred the borderlines between the public services of the State and the private commercial sector, thereby creating a dangerous grey zone. PMC Wagner Group is a Russian state-funded private military company (PMC) controlled until 2023 by Yevgeny Prigozhin, a former close ally of Russias president Vladimir Putin. Evidence suggests that Wagner has been used as a proxy by the Russian government, allowing it to have plausible deniability for military operations abroad, and hiding the true casualties of Russias foreign interventions. Whether acting individually, or in the employ of contemporary multi-purpose security companies, the mercenary is generally present as a violator of human rights. On occasion he acts as a professional agent in terrorist operations; he takes part in illicit trafficking; he commits acts of sabotage, among others. But, most times, he gets the job done because as far as hes concerned, hes executing a contract. In our peculiar situation, mercenary operations are best supervised by the Office of the National Security Adviser, while policing is democratised to include state police and even local government police services. Shields In Iraq, the number of private contractors fulfilling a number of military and quasi-military tasks varies according to different sources and the manner they are counted, ranging between 20,000 and 100,000 persons working for PMSCs. The US uses contractors in order to shield its normal forces from the atrocities that inevitably attend such assignments. So, President Tinubu can take his hard decision now. The goal is clear: rid our land of terrorists, bandits, kidnappers or other violent criminal elements by whatever name called. Anyone who routinely commoditises Nigerian lives and makes money from hostage taking or cold-blooded murder does not deserve to live. Wole Olaoye is a Public Relations consultant and veteran journalist. He can be reached on wole.olaoye@gmail.com, Twitter: @wole_olaoye; Instagram: woleola2021 Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print It is important to state that I do not equate no gree for anybody with aggression/irritability or anger in all instances. However, I think it is important that in resisting people riding us roughshod and demanding better conditions, we should be mindful of boundaries, peoples idiosyncrasies, and our mental and physical health as well as that of others. Perhaps we can re-channel the no gree for anybody and adopt the no gree for unhealthy mental health mantra. A few days ago, the air was filled with cheer: Resounding with echoes of happy new year and the characteristic exchange of pleasantries to usher in the new year. Goals were set. New year resolutions were made and perhaps broken almost immediately too. And not a few people had high aspirations for a better year. If I am to go by what I have seen and heard, health and wellbeing appear to be strong considerations for the new year. In prepping for a better and healthier 2024, a substantial number of people have cited mental health as topping their priority lists and plan to be deliberate about safeguarding their mental health. In no small measure, the increasing attention given to mental health, albeit inappropriately, is welcome. Afterall, we cannot aim for a healthier society without healthy mental states. However, I cannot help but muse over the new mantra no gree for anybody and its many variations that allegedly came into public space towards the twilight of the preceding year as a slogan for 2024 among Nigerian youths but which now appears to have been adopted across age groups. It can be described as upholding ones rights, defending ones turf, or being more decisive. Certain people have argued that the mantra speaks to a positive move for a better country by its youths resisting acquiescence, which is presumed to be part of the sundry problems that have plagued Nigeria, insisting that it is high time to demand for improved conditions. In other words, the desire for change for a better Nigeria. Anyway, like every ideology there are bound to be outliers who will distort the underlying good intentions and there is the possibility of it being misrepresented or understood. Little wonder the spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force described it as a nidus for rebellion and expressed concerns about the trending mantra and its revolutionary tendencies. Although, such innuendoes can be unsettling and appear as threatened infringement of ones human rights, it is appropriate to remind the citizenry to act within the confines of the law. Contrary to the seemingly austere warning from the Nigeria Police Force, the endorsement of the mantra with regards to security issues by the representative of the Nigeria Defence Headquarters was a more charitable action. Now, the question is: What is the relationship between the no gree for anybody mantra and the angst of a psychiatrist? Or simply put, what has this mantra got to do with mental health? As a psychiatrist, I prefer to interpret the no gree for anybody mantra as one that motivates individuals to be more assertive, confident, and resilient. One that spurs individuals to aspire for actualisation and these seem to be the case in some situations. Intriguingly, information from social media suggests that some individuals in their pursuit of wider social media visibility and likes use this no gree for anybody mantra to showcase aggression, bullying, intimidation, and egomania. Quite disconcerting is the interpretation and display of no gree for anyone as aggression, irritability, or anger in its subtle or profound forms. Usually, there exists a bidirectional relationship between the subject and the target. Anger can be a normal reaction to untoward events, information, thoughts, and/or actions directed at a person or thing. It can be a positive and valuable emotion, if properly harnessed. Certain others who perceive forms of disenfranchisement have adopted the mantra as an opportunity to project distress emotions, such as aggression or unusual anger. Although, these actions can be argued to be part of the process of evolution from subservience to boldness, a phase of change from learned helplessness to emancipation in a population that has been largely marginalised, I have concerns about the significance of these on the mental health of all involved. Quite disconcerting is the interpretation and display of no gree for anyone as aggression, irritability, or anger in its subtle or profound forms. Usually, there exists a bidirectional relationship between the subject and the target. Anger can be a normal reaction to untoward events, information, thoughts, and/or actions directed at a person or thing. It can be a positive and valuable emotion, if properly harnessed. Conversely, it can be a symptom of ill-health, or reaction to the threat or experience of an illness, its course, management, or the outcome of the illness. Studies have linked mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, self-harm, and some physical health conditions such as elevated blood pressure, headaches, and migraines with anger. Biological, psychological, socioeconomic factors including the changing climate have been identified as causes of aggression/anger. Unsurprisingly, current conditions in Nigeria present a good medium for varying levels of aggression vis-a-vis health concerns. Therefore, in asserting our posture, we should be mindful of our actions and words, how we use them and who we use them on. Targets of hostile actions such as bullying, intimidation or aggression may experience mental health conditions such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), depression and in some cases, have recourse to suicide. A great number of Nigerians are experiencing forms of emotional distress. Some people are like the Indian rubber ball that bounces back while some are at their wits end. Some people may see the no gree for anybody as a call to claim their rights and some for better governance, while for the person on the receiving end, whose struggle you may never know, it may just be the last straw that will crush his/her resolve and hope of a tomorrow worth enduring for. Let us gree to learn about mental health and check in with a professional if we perceive that we are experiencing symptoms. Let us gree to be regular on our medications if we are already on any. I could go on and on but adopting a I gree to pay more focus on my mental health may not be a bad one and it is devoid of warnings and threats from law enforcement agents. Enjoy a healthy 2024 as we no greefor harmful mental health practice. It is important to state that I do not equate no gree for anybody with aggression/irritability or anger in all instances. However, I think it is important that in resisting people riding us roughshod and demanding better conditions, we should be mindful of boundaries, peoples idiosyncrasies, and our mental and physical health as well as that of others. Perhaps we can re-channel the no gree for anybody and adopt the no gree for unhealthy mental health mantra. As we progress in 2024, we can plan to be deliberate about engaging in more mental health conversations, promote mental health in our institutions and social circles, whilst creating safe spaces for such conversation. Indulge more in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, music, and art therapy to mention a few. Be conscientious with our brain and physical exercises. Set realistic expectations and learn to de-stress. Let us gree to show empathy and be kind to others, learn to keep a gratitude diary, and reduce social media time. Let us gree to learn about mental health and check in with a professional if we perceive that we are experiencing symptoms. Let us gree to be regular on our medications if we are already on any. I could go on and on but adopting a I gree to pay more focus on my mental health may not be a bad one and it is devoid of warnings and threats from law enforcement agents. Enjoy a healthy 2024 as we no greefor harmful mental health practice. Margaret Isioma Ojeahere is a consultant psychiatrist with Jos University Teaching Hospital and founder of Noetic Minders Health Services. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print You must stand out for Jesus or you are not with him. According to Leonard Ravenhills famous words, He is either Lord of all or not Lord at all. Friends, these last days wont accept neutral deals with God; you must either be for Jesus or against Him, there is no middle ground. You are either a lover of God or an ally of Satan. You are either a lover of the gospel of an enemy of the gospel. Jonathan Edwards message Sinners in the hands of an angry God has been widely regarded for decades as the most famous sermon in America. Writing about this sermon in one of his books, Dr David Jeremiah said, if this sermon were to be preached today, it should be worded like this, God in the hands of angry sinners. Such is the scale of hatred in the hearts of humanity against God and all He stands for. Ours is a generation thats racing at top speed towards the eternity it isnt prepared for. A man of God in the 19th century once asked a rhetorical question, you mean that eternity is real, heaven and hell exist, and people are this apathetic? It is the grand master plan of Satan to wear out the discernment of humanity until we all suddenly exit this world to only discover that the very same thing we had despised is actually real. You must not be eaten up by apathy and ignorance two dangerous forces that promote apostasy. Some are apathetic, they dont just care about whats happening. Some are only ignorant. Others are world champions in apathy and ignorance. They dont know, and they dont want to know. As the deer pants for the water brooks, So pants my soul for You, O God. Psalm 42:1 You must stand out for Jesus or you are not with Him. According to Leonard Ravenhills famous words, He is either Lord of all or not Lord at all. Friends, these last days wont accept neutral deals with God; you must either be for Jesus or against Him, there is no middle ground. You are either a lover of God or an ally of Satan. You are either a lover of the gospel of an enemy of the gospel. God isnt ready to accept anything less of total commitment. To be for Him requires your relentless and unapologetic commitment to His values and principles, as enshrined in only one book the Bible. To be for Him requires that you choose whom you would be loyal to Christ or men? To be for Him requires that you be with Him, for to be much for God, we have to be much with Him. Our generation hasnt had things much worse than our brethren in past generations. Maybe theirs was worse, but they stood on the wings of grace to defend the integrity of their faith against all odds. If we fail, there is no future for our children! Will persecutions come? You better get ready for them. We have entered a season in which following Jesus will cost more than many are willing to pay. Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach. Mark 3:14 In the 1950s, Fidel Castro arrested several Christians who stood their grounds for their faith. The Cuban poet, Armando Valladares was also arrested by Castro for opposing him, and was locked up in the same facility with these Christians. Armando Valladares hadnt known the Lord at that time, but he had this to say while in prison, Each night I would hear condemned Christian men marched outside. Then I would hear shouts of, Viva Cristo Rey meaning long live Christ the king, just before exploding rifles shattered their defiant cries. Armando Valladares, who wasnt even a serious Christian met Christ in the prison because of these heart-breaking experiences. When he was released, he wrote a book to tell his story titled, Against all odds. So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these? He said to Him, Yes, Lord; You know that I love You. He said to him, Feed My lambs. John 21:15 Our generation hasnt had things much worse than our brethren in past generations. Maybe theirs was worse, but they stood on the wings of grace to defend the integrity of their faith against all odds. If we fail, there is no future for our children! Will persecutions come? You better get ready for them. We have entered a season in which following Jesus will cost more than many are willing to pay. Reverend John. J Murray, former pastor of the Free Church of Scotland said, and I quote, We have entered the days of the early apostles. The Roman government under which many Christians were martyred was pluralistic and supremely tolerant of religion, the only people they could not tolerate were the Christians. Where are the generation of pastors and prophets who will say to culture, we are not careful to answer you O culture? Marriage is between a man and a woman. Where are the generation of sanctified business men and women who will stand with God to shine the light of integrity in the dark places of business? Fearless men and women whose love for God is supremely intolerant of sin, apathy, and compromise. If they can tolerate you, you are not shining your light, or probably, your light is gone. If they can tolerate you, you arent really different from them. Dont be like some pastors in Germany who, during the reign of Hitler, chose to replace the cross of Christ in their churches with the picture of Hitler, just to be politically correct and to be in the good books of the Fuhrer, as he was popularly called. It is better to be in the bad books of men and in the good books of God. Take your stand for God and let the world know your stand. Let your story be heroic, like that of the three Hebrew boys in the Bible, We are not careful to answer you O King. They did not bow and they did not burn. O God, You are my God; Early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You In a dry and thirsty land Where there is no water. Psalm 63:1 Where are the generation of pastors and prophets who will say to culture, we are not careful to answer you O culture? Marriage is between a man and a woman. Where are the generation of sanctified business men and women who will stand with God to shine the light of integrity in the dark places of business? Fearless men and women whose love for God is supremely intolerant of sin, apathy, and compromise. This is the picture of the end time church, the real church that Jesus is coming back to rapture. You must be enlisted in this group. Ayo Akerele is the senior pastor of Rhema Assembly and the founder of the Voice of the Watchmen Ministries in Ontario, Canada. He can be reached through ayoakerele2012@gmail.com Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print While we must remember the sacrifices made by our fallen heroes, lets also cling to the optimism that tomorrow will be safer. We owe it to the warriors who defend our nation, their families, and every Nigerian who longs to live in a fearless nation. This could be the turning point where thankfulness becomes a driving force for long-term security and appreciation finds its way into action. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has called on troops to remain resolute in defeating insecurity and ensuring peace in the nation. He made the call in his goodwill message on the occasion of the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day. He said the event is held annually to commemorate the unwavering commitment and heroism of servicemen and women in various military operations. According to him, the commemoration is of great significance as it provides the opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices, bravery and commitment of fallen heroes in defending the territorial integrity of the country. As we reflect on the gains achieved so far, I charge you to remain resolute in defeating security threats to ensure enduring peace in every part of our dear nation. I will continue to prioritise your welfare while steering the affairs of the armed forces in line with my leadership philosophy, he said. The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is celebrated annually on 15 January to honour servicemen and veterans of the Nigerian military. Organised by the Ministry of Defence, the day also commemorates the countrys fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for the sake of humanity during the Nigerian Civil War, peace support operations around the world, as well as various internal security operations. We must encourage the troops to remain resolute in defeating all forms of security threats to ensure enduring peace and security across every nook and cranny in Nigeria. They should also be tasked to continue to remain vigilant and uncompromising in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities. Yes, even after their demise, the military personnel who lost their lives in active service deserve commendations owing to their patriotism, sacrifice, and selfless services rendered to the nation. We should remember that military personnel are the first line of defence in safeguarding the nations territorial integrity against any external incursion. Their mandate is to ensure the safety of lives and properties a task that they uphold vigorously, while putting their lives on the line. In order to achieve that, they complement the efforts and work in synergy with other sister security agencies through capacity building trainings, intelligence sharing, and joint operations, in order to ensure that the goals are fully realised. While it is painful that a lot of them paid the supreme price in the process of ensuring that citizens sleep in their comfort zones with their eyes closed, yet some citizens do not appreciate their efforts. This is coming amidst rising cases of insecurity, which the country has been battling for the past years, with military personnel at the centre of the operations. We must encourage the troops to remain resolute in defeating all forms of security threats to ensure enduring peace and security across every nook and cranny in Nigeria. They should also be tasked to continue to remain vigilant and uncompromising in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities. The military high commands, as they promise, should prioritise the welfare of troops and those of their families, especially the widows and orphans they leave behind. Ultimately, security is everyones concern, which means that we all have a shared responsibility to be vigilant. In our communities, we ought to be the voices, the eyes, and the ears that alert authorities to questionable activities and demand answers. A nation with a common goal can overcome any obstacle. Looking at the current trajectory of the security landscape in Nigeria, we should celebrate the extraordinary work and dedication of the Nigerian military for the sacrifice towards a secure and united nation. But given the increasing level of insecurity, it is imperative that we recognise the persistent vulnerabilities of our troops in protecting us by identifying a workable, long-term solution. The welfare of our troops must come first; in fact, it is non-negotiable because a soldier who receives proper care is one who is better equipped to defend us. Therefore, to keep them motivated, they need strong healthcare, improved living conditions, and better facilities in the barracks and theatres of operations. Similarly, a fresh examination of strategies is essential for the security agencies, particularly the intelligence communities, such as the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), and Department of State Service (DSS). Gathering intelligence needs to be refined so that murmurs become useful information to help the troops in proactively tackling the likelihood of security breaches. Although technology is an effective tool in modern warfare, human intelligence capabilities through trainings and the ability to recognise complex dangers would ultimately turn the tide. The military should therefore compliment human intelligence with artificial intelligence in their strategic plans. Ultimately, security is everyones concern, which means that we all have a shared responsibility to be vigilant. In our communities, we ought to be the voices, the eyes, and the ears that alert authorities to questionable activities and demand answers. A nation with a common goal can overcome any obstacle. While we must remember the sacrifices made by our fallen heroes, lets also cling to the optimism that tomorrow will be safer. We owe it to the warriors who defend our nation, their families, and every Nigerian who longs to live in a fearless nation. This could be the turning point where thankfulness becomes a driving force for long-term security and appreciation finds its way into action. Mukhtar Yau Madobi is the author of National Security Strategies: A Young Writers Perspective and is a senior correspondent with the Emergency Digest. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print The Exploits of Wisdom At this juncture friends, I would like to take you on a journey of the exploits of wisdom. Wisdom delivers exploits to its possessors. A careful look at some of these victories of wisdom will absolutely convince us that wisdom is what we need to truly reign in our world today. Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding. Prov. 4: 7 1. Eccl. 7:11 Wisdom is good with an inheritance, And profitable to those who see the sun. Wisdom is good. Wisdom is not only good, it brings inheritance with it. Wisdom is profitable. Wisdom is profitable especially for those who labor for it. 2. Eccl. 7: 12 For wisdom is a defense as money is a defense, but the excellence of knowledge is that wisdom gives life to those who have it. Wisdom is a defense Wisdom is a life-giver. Wisdom is the excellence of knowledge 3. Eccl. 7: 19 Wisdom strengthens the wise more than ten rulers of the city. Wisdom is power Wisdom strengthens its possessor. Wisdom makes the wise wiser than political office holders. 4. Eccl. 8:1-5 And who knows the interpretation of a thing? A mans wisdom makes his face shine, and the sternness of his face is changed. I say, Keep the kings commandment for the sake of your oath to God. Do not be hasty to go from his presence. Do not take your stand for an evil thing, for he does whatever pleases him. Where the word of a king is, there is power; and who may say to him, What are you doing? He who keeps his command will experience nothing harmful. And a wise mans heart discerns both time and judgment. Wisdom understands complex matters Wisdom causes the wise to shine Wisdom delivers joy to those who possess it Wisdom understands the importance of abiding in the Lords presence Wisdom recognizes and avoids evil. Wisdom knows the times and seasons 5. Eccl. 10:10 If the ax is dull, and one does not sharpen the edge, then he must use more strength; But wisdom brings success. In a time of stagnation, wisdom finds a way. In weakness, wisdom gives strength. Wisdom brings success at all times. Authority without wisdom is like a heavy axe without an edge, fitter to bruise than polish. Anne Bradstreet Put Wisdom To Work for You Ladies and gentlemen, we have just examined with in this write up. THE REIGN OF WISDOM. When we embrace wisdom, we reign supreme in our world. What is your aspiration today? Are you hungry for more? Do you thirst for greatness? Wisdom is your answer. When believers begin to reign in this life, more glory will come to our King. The situation we are witnessing in our world today, when kings are walking on foot and slaves are riding on horses, must change for the church to take her rightful place in the modern world. The only force that will bring that to pass for us is what we have already been given access to, WISDOM! I encourage you all to try and seek to acquire wisdom. It is not something you just pray for, go to bed and wake up the next morning and suddenly you are wise. It is something you work for. Wisdom answers to a tough knowledge acquisition process and a pragmatic commitment to implementation. When acquired knowledge is converted into products through actions, that is wisdom. The secret of wisdom is that it lets you see how God sees. You are not seeing from beneath or from below. You are seeing from the very top. With wisdom, you are always at the vantage point of standing at the side of God in any given situation or circumstance. Wisdom allows you to see clearly the difference between what is right and what is wrong. Between darkness and light. Between what is insignificant and what is great, etc. Wisdom allows us to see further than our noses, because we are seeing from Gods perspective. Wisdom replaces your limitations with Gods unlimitedness. Wisdom gives you the foresight of God instead of your own short-sightedness. I pray that this article would play a major role in the emergence of the glorious church of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on the earth. Sunday Adelaja is a Nigeria born leader, transformation strategist, pastor and innovator. He was based in Kiev Ukraine. Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print An explosion in Kidandan village of Giwa Local Government Area of Kaduna State has claimed the life of a pupil of an Islamiyya school while ten others have reportedly been injured. The Overseeing Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs in Kaduna, Samuel Aruwan, in a statement on Saturday, said the explosion was being investigated by security agencies. Mr Aruwan said, According to preliminary reports from the traditional institution and security agencies, one of the pupils learning under a local cleric picked up an object from the bush, which later exploded amidst his fellow pupils. He said that as of the time of this update, one pupil, Zaidu Usman, has been confirmed dead while about 10 others were injured and were receiving medical attention at the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Shika-Zaria. Mr Aruwan said, Gov. Uba Sani of the state has received the report with shock and sadness, he has sent commiserations to the victims and their families, praying for the repose of the soul of the deceased and a quick recovery for the wounded. He said the governor has also appealed to parents and community leaders to increase their vigilance on the activities of their children and wards, given their susceptibility to various dangers. Mr Aruwan also said that the governor has directed the ministry to liaise with the security agencies for an urgent investigation into the cause of the explosion. According to him, this is to ensure the safety of the residents, mobilize emergency support and ensure prompt medical attention to the victims. Mr Aruwan further said that updates would be duly communicated to the public by the state government. (NAN) Share this: Twitter Facebook WhatsApp Telegram LinkedIn Email Print Flash Following the two elections in the Taiwan region in 2024, many countries have reaffirmed their adherence to the one-China principle and expressed opposition to the so-called "Taiwan independence." These countries said that they firmly support China in safeguarding its national sovereignty and territorial integrity, oppose external interference in China's internal affairs, and firmly support all efforts by China to achieve national reunification. Pakistan's policy on Taiwan is consistent and clear -- Taiwan is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China, a spokesperson for the Pakistani Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The Maldives opposes any word and deed that would undermine China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, opposes all "Taiwan independence" separatist activities, and will not develop any form of official relations with Taiwan, said the Maldivian Foreign Ministry. The Maldives opposes external interference in China's internal affairs under any pretext, and supports all efforts by China to achieve national reunification. The Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said in a statement that the country reiterates its resolute adherence to the one-China policy, recognizing the government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate authority representing the entirety of China. The Lao Foreign Ministry said the Taiwan question is China's internal affair and Taiwan is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China. Sri Lanka firmly upholds the one-China principle and anticipates the peaceful reunification of China, said Ali Sabry, foreign minister of Sri Lanka. The Syrian Foreign Ministry said that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China, and any election or action carried out in Taiwan should not affect this fact. Reaffirming its commitment to the one-China principle, the Palestinian Presidency voiced support for China in safeguarding sovereignty and territorial integrity, rejections to any interference in China's internal affairs, and support for China's complete reunification and the peaceful development of cross-Straits relations. A spokesman of the Iranian Foreign Ministry said that Iran has always been clear about its support for the one-China policy and the right of the People's Republic of China to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The African National Congress(ANC), South Africa's ruling party, firmly supports the one-China principle, has written it into the party's top resolution, and asked governments at various levels to strictly implement it, said Nomvula Mokonyane, first deputy secretary general of the ANC. The ANC firmly opposes secessionist moves seeking "Taiwan independence," supports China's just cause for an early reunification, and resolutely opposes "Taiwan independence" in any form. Sylvie Baipo-Temon, foreign minister of the Central African Republic (CAR), reaffirmed the consistent adherence of the CAR government to the one-China principle, and its unwavering support for China's stance on the Taiwan question and for the Chinese people's efforts to realize national reunification. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Francophone Affairs of Equatorial Guinea reiterated that its government will, as always, firmly adhere to the one-China principle, and support the complete reunification of China and the peaceful development of cross-Straits relations. How China realize reunification should be decided by the Chinese people without the interference of external forces, said Christopher Mutsvangwa, Zimbabwe's ruling ZANU PF party Politburo member. Russia acknowledges that there is only one China, that the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. The Russian side opposes any form of "Taiwan's independence," said Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova. The Taiwan question is purely an internal matter for China. Attempts by certain countries to use the elections in Taiwan to pressure Beijing and destabilise the situation in the strait and across the region are "counterproductive and must be condemned by the international community," Zakharova said. "We call on all outside forces to refrain from provocative actions undermining regional stability and international security." "The Republic of Belarus firmly supports the one-China principle, which is the guarantee of stability and sustainable development for the entire region," said the Belarusian Foreign Ministry in a statement. The Embassy of the Kyrgyz Republic in China said that the Kyrgyz side reiterates its commitment to the one-China principle and believes that the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. The Kyrgyz side opposes any attempt to use the Taiwan question to interfere in China's internal affairs. The Azerbaijani Foreign Ministry also voiced support for the one-China principle in a statement on its website, and opposition to any interference in China's internal affairs. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Serbia supports the one-China principle, and considers the People's Republic of China to be the only legitimate government representing the whole of China. Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla said that Cuba adheres to the one-China principle and sees Taiwan as an inalienable part of China. "The Taiwan question is China's internal affair. We support the Chinese government's national reunification efforts," he said. The Nicaraguan government reiterated its firm adherence to the one-China principle and its opposition to secessionist moves seeking "Taiwan independence." The governments of Dominica, Bolivia, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, among others, also reaffirmed their support for China on the Taiwan question, saying they will abide by the one-China principle, oppose any attempt for "Taiwan independence" and support China's cause for national reunification. People play cricket on a foggy day in Islamabad, Pakistan, Jan. 21, 2024. A thick blanket of fog in Pakistan's federal capital Islamabad and its twin city Rawalpindi affected the daily lifestyle of the local residents starting from Friday night. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) ISLAMABAD, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- A thick blanket of fog in Pakistan's federal capital Islamabad and its twin city Rawalpindi affected the daily lifestyle of the local residents starting from Friday night. Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) told the media that the fog and cold wave will continue in the federal capital and its surrounding area on Sunday as well. The intensity of the cold wave and fog will decrease slowly by the end of next week, it added. Earlier in a report, the PMD also predicted the occurrence of frost in the area. The fog disrupted the flight and railway operations along with the occasional closure of the motorways connecting the twin cities. Vehicles move on a highway cloaked by fog in Islamabad, Pakistan, Jan. 21, 2024. A thick blanket of fog in Pakistan's federal capital Islamabad and its twin city Rawalpindi affected the daily lifestyle of the local residents starting from Friday night. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) People walk on a foggy day in Islamabad, Pakistan, Jan. 21, 2024. A thick blanket of fog in Pakistan's federal capital Islamabad and its twin city Rawalpindi affected the daily lifestyle of the local residents starting from Friday night. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) Buildings shrouded in thick fog are seen in Islamabad, Pakistan, Jan. 21, 2024. A thick blanket of fog in Pakistan's federal capital Islamabad and its twin city Rawalpindi affected the daily lifestyle of the local residents starting from Friday night. (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) HUHHOT, China, Jan. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Recently in China's autonomous region of Inner Mongolia, the local branch of China Unicom (China Unicom Inner Mongolia) has been actively building digital villages, aiming to vitalize the local economy and improve the lives of local residents. Together with Huawei and other partners, the operator has accelerated the construction of digital information infrastructure to fuel the transformation of villages through the use of innovative digital technologies. This has benefited residents in many ways. Smart large screen in a digital village China Unicom Inner Mongolia is building digital information infrastructure to empower digital villages. In an village in Xilingol League, the operator has improved network quality and information services so the local people can enjoy a truly digital life. With abundant 5G networks and broadband infrastructure built in the village, wireless coverage now reaches every corner and every household has gigabit fiber broadband. The villagers now can call and video chat with their families and friends from their homes, instead of having to travel a long distance to get better reception. They can browse short videos and share snapshots of their lives online anytime and anywhere, even when working in fields, pastures, or farms. These digital infrastructure developments have both greatly benefited the lives of villagers as well as provided a channel for urban residents to learn about life in the countryside, thus bridging the urban-rural digital divide. Another benefit of this improved connectivity is faster economic growth. The villagers can showcase their agricultural products through short videos to attract buyers as well as promote tourism. Innovative digital technologies enable healthy and effective rural development. China Unicom Inner Mongolia has employed new technologies such as 5G, IoT, and big data to develop smart agriculture, which improves production efficiency and increases farmers' incomes. In the digital village located in Xilingol League, China Unicom Inner Mongolia has helped villagers deploy 5G networks and utility devices such as sensors and cameras in pasturelands and greenhouses. The villagers can monitor livestock as well as greenhouse conditions such as light intensity, air temperature and humidity, and soil fertility, all in real time through their mobile phones. They can also run production processes remotely, such as irrigation, temperature and humidity regulation, and fertilization. This helps comprehensively improve agricultural productivity. In addition, China Unicom's digital rural platforms also help improve social services for residents. For example, China Unicom Inner Mongolia has installed a smart large screen for the village committee to inform villagers of the latest village affairs and keep them up to date on the agricultural products market. It has also set up a networked smart healthcare platform for the villagers to access the expert consultation services of urban hospitals. Moreover, a digital education platform for primary and secondary schools is under construction, which will make high-quality education resources available to children in pastoral areas. China Unicom Inner Mongolia has served the villagers well and will continue to promote the digital transformation of villages for better outcomes. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2323003/Smart_large_screen_a_digital_village.jpg LAGOS, Nigeria, Jan. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Emerging gospel artist Olufemi Joshua has released his latest single, "Excellent King," now available on all major streaming platforms. This vibrant and inspiring track, based on Philippians 2:9, celebrates the Kingship of Jesus as the most Excellent King who is worthy of all praise and adoration. Joshua Olufemi In describing the song, Olufemi Joshua shares, "Excellent King is more than a song; it's a spiritual offering birthed from a calling to exhort, uplift, and worship the King of Kings. My desire is to encourage the body of Christ through spiritual worship that transcends boundaries and speaks to the hearts of believers worldwide." With its uplifting lyrics and vibrant beats, "Excellent King" invites audiences to embrace a worship experience that resonates with the soul. Olufemi Joshua's passion for creating music that touches the heart is evident in this latest release, which promises to inspire and uplift listeners. Listeners can now enjoy "Excellent King" on their favorite streaming platforms and join in the celebration of Jesus as the most Excellent King. For those seeking a musical journey that combines faith and artistry, "Excellent King" is a must-listen. To listen and share "Excellent King," visit https://songwhip.com/olufemijosh/excellent Follow Olufemi Joshua on social media: Instagram: @olufemi_josh Facebook: Olufemi Josh Twitter: @olufemijosh Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2323015/Joshua_Olufemi.jpg SOURCE Cihan Media LAGOS, Nigeria, Jan. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- As part of activities marking the 28th Founder's Day celebrations, Dansol High School is set to celebrate staff who have spent up to ten years and above in the school and reward students for excellent performance in academics. Mrs Adun Akinyemiju, President Dansol Christian Mission According to a press release by the school, the idea is to honor staff who have served and labored unwaveringly and shown steadfast commitment towards the vision for a decade, as a way of appreciating such staff and celebrating this significant milestone with them, having also been supportive towards the school's journey to excellence. Other activities lined up for the Founder's Day celebration scheduled to hold on January 24, 2024 include the President's essay, themed '" My blueprint to effect the desired godly changes that will make Nigeria ten times better in the next five years." The President's essay is said not to be a merely literary exercise, as it is aimed at inspiring thoughts and fostering a sense of responsibility among learners. The essay encourages learners to express different ideas for a better future and to also cultivate a generation that understands the importance of unity in shaping the destiny of our beloved nation. The President's essay is usually keenly contested as the winner usually goes home with a coveted prize, which in the past has been scholarship support. It will be recalled that the annual Dansol Founder's Day is a moment to celebrate the significant milestone achievements of the school whilst also reflecting on its rich history. The event serves as a reminder of the vision and values that have shaped the school over the past 28 years; it is an opportunity to pay tributes to the visionaries who laid the foundation for excellence in education which has made Dansol High School to stand out with her impeccable academic achievements. The release stated that the School prides itself in the student - based learning method, where every learner is important, encouraged and tutored according to their learning capabilities to achieve a good outcome. ABOUT DANSOL Dansol is a thriving educational community of learners who have made their decision to study for specific reasons: good teachers, affordable tuition, a stimulating environment, small class-sizes, and a good Christian foundation. At Dansol, we aspire for the students to know that they are distinct, and need to dedicate their lives to God who can give them wisdom, and make them excel. Also at Dansol, the Child's individual latent talents and uniqueness are well nurtured. These and many more are the pillars upon which the DHS success has been built. We are set to teach children to depend on the manifold wisdom of God in order to achieve excellence. We believe that the Word of God can and does affect and mold lives. The name DANSOL is coined from two words- Daniel and Solomon, symbolizing the wisdom of God manifesting in youths. Daniel separated himself from the w orld unto the living God and God gave him wisdom above his peers and also gave him an excellent spirit. Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2323012/Adun_Akinyemiju.jpg SOURCE Dansol High School If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here Ayodhya, Jan 21 : Amid the controversy over invites for the Ram temple 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has clarified that invited Sangh functionaries account for only 2.5 per cent of the total guests, which also includes seers and commoners representing different castes, sects and communities. VHP National Spokesperson Vinod Bansal, who has not received an invitation for the ceremony himself, said, "This shows that the event was essentially meant to project that 'Ram is for all' and 'all are for Ram'." He said that a host of VHP workers have been deployed in Ayodhya to manage the mega event. Only around 175 invitations have been extended to the RSS and its 50 affiliates, including VHP and BJP. In fact, BJP will be represented by only its National President J.P. Nadda and the Uttar Pradesh BJP Chief Bhupendra Chaudhary -- the latter being head of the host state. None of the other 36 BJP State Presidents have been given the invitation. Even BJP's Ayodhya district president Sanjiv Singh has not received one. However, most of the other BJP leaders, including the top-notch organisational functionaries, are expected to be present on the day but as part of a 'team' overseeing the management of the event, which would be helmed by priests and acharyas of 150 traditions in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat. Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath have been invited since they head the state hosting the event. Activists and leaders, who were part of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, form a separate category of invitees. These include BJP veteran Lal Krishna Advani, Murli Manohar Joshi, Uma Bharti etc. Padmini Kothari, the sister of Ram and Sharad Kothari -- the kar sevaks, who were killed during the firing incident of 1990. The temple trust had also sent invitations to all the chiefs of the main political parties, including main opposition parties like the Congress, Samajwadi Party, Bahujan Samaj Party, Rashtriya Lok Dal, etc. Lucknow : Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath speaks during the Winter Session of the state assembly. Image Source: IANS News Lucknow, Jan 21 : The Budget session of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly will begin from February 2, a day after the state Cabinet led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visits the Ram temple in Ayodhya on February 1, sources said. Sources added that the state Cabinet approved the proposal, which was notified after the approval from Governor Anandiben Patel. Sources said the session is likely to be of five days and the budget is likely to be tabled on February 6. At 11 a.m. on February 2, the Governor will address both the Houses a" Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council -- together in the Assembly pavilion on first day of the session. In a statement, Principal Secretary of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, Pradeep Kumar Dubey, said the Governor has summoned the 18th Assembly of Uttar Pradesh for its first session of 2024. Damascus/Tehran, Jan 21 : Four officers of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and an unknown number of civilians were killed in an Israeli missile attack on a residential neighbourhood in the Syrian capital of Damascus, an Iranian media source said. The source, who requested anonymity, said a two-storey building, the second floor of which was occupied by a unit associated with the IRGC, was attacked by at least four missiles. In addition to the four IRGC members who lost their lives, there have reportedly been casualties among the civilians in the same building, he said, adding rescue missions were underway to find bodies under the rubble. A local eyewitness told Xinhua that a Palestinian family was living on the ground floor of the building. It is believed that all of them were now buried under the rubble, as none of them were seen after the attack, he noted. According to a statement released by the Syrian army, Israel carried out the airstrike from the occupied Syrian Golan Heights at 10:20 a.m. local time, Xinhua news agency reported. It said the airstrike resulted in the death and injury of a number of civilians, the complete destruction of the targetted building, and caused damage to neighbouring structures. Iran's semi-official Mehr news agency reported that four IRGC members, including two high-ranking advisers, were killed in the Israeli attack on Saturday. According to Mehr, the head of the IRGC's advisory intelligence in Syria and his deputy, along with two other members of the elite force, were killed. Right after the attack, another eyewitness living in the area told Xinhua he heard four to six missiles passing through the sky in quick succession. The witness noted that the sound was relatively soft, akin to a whizzing noise. Shortly after hearing the missiles, the witness observed white smoke rising from an area near the Muhammady Mosque in the Western Villas of Mazzeh. Meanwhile, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a war monitor, said it had confirmed six deaths, including one Syrian civilian, three IRGC members, and two others whose nationality remained unknown. It noted that the Israeli attack targetted IRGC leaders who were present at a meeting. The Iranian news outlet Jadeh Iran said the attack may have been a response to the IRGC's activities, particularly its attack on a base of Israel's intelligence agency Mossad in Erbil in northern Iraq on January 15. The latest strike is part of the ongoing escalation of tensions between Iran and Israel. Israel has intensified its assaults on Iranian targets in Syria, prompting pro-Iran militias in Syria to retaliate by targetting US interests. In a report published on Saturday, the Observatory warned that the escalating tensions may potentially drag the region into a wider confrontation between Iran and Israel on Syrian soil. SEOUL, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his willingness to visit the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Sunday, citing a press release issued one day earlier by the assistant office of the DPRK's foreign minister. At the invitation of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, DPRK Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui paid an official visit to Russia from Monday to Wednesday and held strategic talks with her Russian counterpart, according to the press release. The two countries had deep strategic communication and reached consensus on various regional and international issues, including the situation on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast Asia, it said. The DPRK and Russia expressed their strong will to further strengthen strategic and tactical cooperation in defending the core interests of the two countries and establishing a new multi-polarized international order based on independence and justice, it added. Putin extended "deep thanks" for the invitation of DPRK leader Kim Jong Un to visit Pyongyang at a convenient time and expressed his willingness to visit the country at an early date, it said. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Putin's visit to the DPRK was being discussed between the two sides "through diplomatic channels," media reports said. Jaipur, Jan 21 : According to sources in the Bharatiya Janata Party, its high command is upset with the weak victory in Rajasthan in the three state elections in Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan and hence there will be more changes in the organisation soon. Some 15 new faces might be fielded in the Lok Sabha polls, said party workers. Recently, organisational secretary Chandrashekhar was sent to Telangana in view of the Lok Sabha polls which left the party circles surprised. Chandrashekhar played a pivotal role in the BJPa victory in the state. However, his immediate transfer to Telangana triggered speculation in the party circles. "The party was confident of the biggest victory in Rajasthan but it came as a shocker that it had the weakest victory. The neighbouring state MP where it was considered that the BJP faced a tough fight had done the best while Chhattisgarh too registered a surprise victory. In Rajasthan it was felt that the party will cross 150 plus seats but it was limited to 115 seats. This has shocked the top party leaders , said sources. They added that Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited Rajasthan during the DGs conference held here and spoke to the party leaders. He gave a message to them to work honestly amid reports of factionalism in the BJP. Sources said that more organizational changes are in the pipeline in the desert state. The party aims at doing its best in the Lok Sabha elections. The Congress, as per sources, has planned to field its strongest candidates in the Lok Sabha polls. They include former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, former Deputy CM Sachin Pilot, Pradesh Congress Committee chief Govind Dotasara amid others. The BJP wants to win all the 25 LS seats in the state once again and hence there might be some more changes in the party. The continuous absence of former CM Vasundhara Raje from all party meetings and events after its win is already a topic of discussion within political circles and the BJP too wants to play safe. The 'Modi magic' is being played up once again. The PM was in Rajasthan during the swearing in ceremony of the new government in December. Thereafter he was in Jaipur for three days during the all India DGs conference in the first week of January and now he is again expected to visit Jaipur during the French PM's visit. Sources said that the party is banking on Brand Modi for the Lok Sabha polls. Despite the poor victory margin in the assembly polls, the party still remains fragmented. Hence the PM spoke of fighting the Lok Sabha elections honestly during his visit in January. Be prepared for around 15 fresh faces to contest the Lok Sabha polls as these many faces will be changed. A total of 7 MPs were fielded in the assembly polls out of which three won while four lost, said party sources. Panaji, Jan 21 : While the Goa Assembly in its last session had discussed ways to stop 'widow discrimination', the wedding ceremony of two doctors has set an example of giving dignity to widows by allowing the bride's widowed mother to perform the religious rituals. Dr Gautami Yograj Naik and Dr Prathamesh Prafullchandra Dicholkar tied the knot recently. Usha Naik, the widowed mother of Gautami, performed the religious rituals. Usha Yogrjaj Naik, a Goa radio jockey from All India Radio, told IANS that it was her daughter's wish that she should perform the rituals. "I did it only to make my daughter happy. I was not aware that the marriage of my daughter will become unique and set a new trend with the step we have taken. Many people complimented us for this new tradition and encouraged us," Naik said. She said that her family fully supported her while taking this step. This seems to be the first marriage, where a widow has performed the religious rituals, which otherwise are performed by the father and mother together under the supervision of priests. Taking note of it many people have complimented the families of the bride and groom for the new tradition they have set. After some Hindu priests refused to accept the new trend of allowing a widow to perform the religious rituals, the two families did not give up. They contacted Pune-based institution Dnyanprabodhini, from where two Purohits -- both women -- flew down from Mumbai and conducted the rituals. Speaking to IANS, Shama Punekar, the Purohit from Mumbai, said that everyone was happy with this marriage where a widow performed the rituals. "This seems to be the first marriage in Goa where a widow has performed the rituals. People who attended the wedding appreciated it and I think society should take it positively," Punekar said. According to her, when a man who is a widower can perform the rituals, then a widow should also be given the opportunity. "It is not the mistake of a woman if her husband dies, then how can we deter a woman from living her life fully. They should be given full respect," she said, adding that they have a team of 13 and 50-odd women Purohits, in Mumbai and Pune respectively. Gautami Naik said that her mother's aim was always to see her happy. "This made sense that she does it as I didn't want to give this right to anyone else," she said. Leader of the Opposition Yuri Alemao, who had raised the issue of widow discrimination in the Goa assembly, also complimented both the families for taking a bold step. "A new era begins in Goa with a widow Usha Naik performing the wedding rituals of her daughter. Compliments to both the families who supported this pioneering initiative. Let this moment inspire the government of Goa to bring a law against widow discrimination," Alemao stated. He referred to his Private Member Resolution on "Unjust Practise of Widow Discrimination & Disrobing of Men & Women during Funerals" which was widely discussed in the Goa assembly session on March 31, 2023. "I was assured by the Minister for Women and Child Development Vishwajit Rane to bring a law in the next assembly session. However nothing has moved till date. I hope the step taken by Dr Gautami will push the government two steps further to bring a law in the coming session of the assembly," said Alemao. "The entire Naik-Dicholkar family deserves huge compliments from every citizen of the country. This step has sent a message to all of spreading happiness and being kind to all. Let us all cherish this moment with positivity," Alemao added. Bhopal, Jan 21 : At a time when euphoria over Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram in Ayodhya is high and Madhya Pradesh BJP leadership is making all efforts to create a festive atmosphere out of it, the opposition Congress is also playing on the pro-Hindutva pitch in the state. The new state Congress President Jitu Patwari is also following the path of his predecessor Kamal Nath as far as Hindutva ideology is concerned only to impress the majority community. His pro-Hindutva antics are also an attempt to counter BJPas allegation of presenting the grand-old party and its leaders as anti-Hindutva. On Saturday, Patwari along with the Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar and several other party workers visited Ram Raja temple in Orcha in Tikamgarh district located in Bundelkhand region of Madhya Pradesh. After offering prayers, the Congress leaders sat there and recited Hanuman Chalisa. Former Madhya Pradesh Congress president Kamal Nath had led the party with pro-Hindutva ideology and even organised Hanuman Chalisa at party offices across the state to win the sentiments of the people ahead of the assembly election held in November 2023. However, Congress witnessed a massive defeat and was reduced to just 66 seats against its tally of 114 in 2018. Interestingly, on the day when Congress leadership termed the January 22 event as a BJP-RSS event, Kamal Nath and his son Nakul Nath said they will send papers with name of Lord Ram written over them with 4.31 crore times, from their constituency to Ayodhya for the ceremony. The Ram Temple construction and its Pran Pratishta ceremony has been a politically sensitive issue in Madhya Pradesh and many in the Congress have been trying to tread a cautious path. The new state Congress President Patwari had earlier said that he will take one lakh Congress workers to Ayodhya once the construction of Ram Temple gets completed. Patwari is leaving no opportunity for the BJP to level him as an anti-Hindutva leader. Notably, the Ram Raja Temple in Orchha, which was built in 16th century by the King of Orchha Madhukar Shah Ju Dev, is said to be the only temple in the country where Lord Ram is worshiped as a king. At the temple in Orchha, the process of guard of honour is held every day. Police personnel have been designated as guards at the temple, much in the manner of a king. There is story related to the Ram Raja and his birth place in Ayodhya. It is believed that Orchhaas queen Ganesh Kunwari (wife of Madhukar Shah Ju Dev), who was great devotee of Lord Ram, had once visited Ayodhya and was praying at Laxman Fort near Sarayu river; just then something happened and she felt the child form of Lord Ram in her lap and she brought him to Orchha. The grand ceremony of Pran Pratishtha will be held on January 22 in Ayodhya which will be witnessed by people across the world through various social media platforms. Bhopal, Jan 21 : In Ayodhya, preparations are underway for the Pran Pratishtha of Lord Ram, but in Madhya Pradesh's Orchha, also known as the 'Ayodhya of Bundelkhand', Lord Ram was enthroned not as a God but as a King. This is why Lord Ram gets a royal salute every day. Located in the Niwari district of Bundelkhand, Orchha is home to a grand temple dedicated to Lord Ram, where he is revered as a king. Situated on the banks of the Betwa river, this city is unique in saluting only King Ram. No specific individual is honoured with a salute within the walls of Orchha. The story of Lord Ram being worshipped as a king in Orchha dates back to the years between 1554 and 1594. During that time, the Bundela dynasty ruled in Orchha. Ancient documents reveal that the then King Madhukar Shah was a Krishna devotee and his wife Kunwar Ganesh was a Ram devotee. Arguments followed between the two regarding their devotion. Madhukar Shah planned a visit to Vrindavan, but Kunwar Ganesh was not willing to accompany him. In response, a debate ensued, and the king challenged the queen that "If your Ram really exists then bring him to Orchha from Ayodhya". Accepting the king's challenge, Queen Kunwar Ganesh set out for Ayodhya. Upon reaching Ayodhya, she prayed to Lord Ram and requested him to come to Orchha. However, her efforts were unsuccessful, which left the queen disappointed. In her despair, she jumped into the Saryu river. During this tragic incident, an idol of Lord Ram appeared in the queen's pallu (the loose end of a saree). Lord Ram, moved by the queen's sacrifice, agreed to go to Orchha but with certain conditions. Lord Ram placed three conditions before her -- I will be enthroned as a king in Orchha, where once I sit down, I will not get up from there and will only go to Orchha on foot on an auspicious day. Following these conditions, Kunwar Ganesh set out with Lord Ram towards Orchha from Ayodhya. According to the legend, the construction of the grand temple was going on when Ganesh Kunwar reached Orchha with Lord Ram. The queen placed Lord Ram in the kitchen from where he did not get up, as laid down in the three conditions. The kitchen premises were then converted into a temple. Local expert Pandit Jagdish Tiwari explains that in Orchha, Lord Ram is not seen as a Lord but as a King. This is the reason why Lord Ram is saluted three times a day, and no one else is entitled to such an honour here. Hence, it is said, "Ram's residence is special, days are spent in Orchha, and nights in Ayodhya." Tiwari said during the day Lord Ram stays here but goes to Ayodhya to sleep. That is why it is said that "Lord Ram has two special residences -- in the day he resides in Orchha and in the night in Ayodhya." While the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Lord Ram is scheduled to take place in Ayodhya on January 22, various events are also planned in Orchha on this occasion. Jail inmates in UP send their gifts to Ram Lalla. Image Source: IANS News Lucknow, Jan 21 : Around one lakh inmates from 75 jails across Uttar Pradesh are creating handicrafts, related to Ram temple, to be displayed near the temple, at the airport, bus stations, and tourist spots. Director General of Prisons Satya Narayan Sabat, said, "Recently, a striking 8 ft x 5 ft wall carpet featuring a Ram temple design, crafted in Bhadohi jail, was presented to the Ayodhya commissioner by DIG (prisons) based in Prayagraj, for its display at a significant location in Ayodhya." Sabat said, in Mainpuri district jail, inmates have crafted a Tarkashi art piece depicting the Ram temple and Ram Darbar. Tarkashi is a famous inlaying technique using brass, copper, or silver wires in wood. Saharanpur jail has produced wooden models of Ram temples, while Fatehpur jail inmates have contributed eco-friendly 'Ramnami' cloth bags for distributing prasad on January 22. The Fatehgarh district jail inmates have crafted exquisite woollen shawls featuring block-printed designs of the Ram temple and 'Jai Shri Ram' patterned on them. In Pilibhit district jail, four skilled inmates, who are professional potters, are creating over 1,000 earthen lamps for illumination, both inside and outside the jail campus on the Pran Pratishtha day, said jail superintendent, Rajesh Kumar Pandey, adding that 673 women inmates will chant the 'Sundarkand,' the fifth chapter of Ramcharitmanas. Meanwhile, apart from jail inmates, Muslims artisans -- Hina Parveen, 52; Shamshad Ahmad, 60; and Arman Nabi, 30 -- have made a 21.5-foot-long flute, claimed to be the 'longest playable flute in the world'. The flute took ten days to make and will be kept in the museum of Ram temple in Ayodhya for public viewing soon. Crafted from bamboo brought from Assam, the flute has the two deities -- Lord Ram and Lord Krishna embroidered on it. VHP's Uttar Pradesh head, Harish Rautela, said the flute would be transported to Ayodhya from Pilibhit on a trailer truck on January 26. It will be handed over to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra, he said. The three artisans are part of a local flute company that has been involved in making the instrument for nearly 125 years in Pilibhit. "Pilibhit is well-known for its flute-making industry. We have been careful and tried to ensure the accuracy of the musical notes and pitch. We did not try playing it keeping in mind its religious significance," said Parveen. Ahmad added, "People from other states have sent their special offerings, so this is our contribution from Pilibhit for Ayodhya." Kolkata, Jan 21 : Are the West Bengal Government's schemes for the girl child failing to meet their primary objective of arresting underage marriages? As per a recent report in the LANCET, the rate of underage marriages among girls (before the official age of 18) is as high as 41 per cent in West Bengal. This is not only the highest among all the Indian states but also much above the national average of 22 per cent. Although the period covered in the survey, from 1993 to 2021, is vast, what is embarrassing for West Bengal is that even during the period between 2016 and 2021, when the welfare schemes for girls were on, there was a marginal increase in the rate of underage marriages. While the state government has expressed doubts over the findings of the report, officials say that the number of cases being reported in West Bengal is much higher unlike in other states where the incidents of child marriage are more but reporting is low. However, experts say lack of awareness about the real-time benefit of schemes for the girl child; poverty; the belief in rural areas that early marriages are less costly and in some cases pre-marriage pregnancy of minor girls, are some of the reasons behind their alarming trend. According to medical-teacher, writer and film-maker Dr Tirthankar Guha Thakurta, "The girl child is often seen as a burden, an unnecessary expense till she is married off. Poverty, cultural norms, poor educational and vocational opportunities reinforce the practice." Thakurta, who is part of the faculty at the KPC Medical College & Hospital, described the LANCET study as alarming and said that it eventually exposes the futility of a system that flaunts empowerment but lacks implementation. "It signifies that poverty, lack of education, unemployment and social security has not been achieved by the masses," he added. Social activist Anurag Maitrayee is of the opinion that despite an effort by the West Bengal Government to prevent marriages of minor girls through the introduction of welfare schemes exclusively for them, a lack in awareness creation regarding the ill-effects of early marriages has continued to exist. She also pointed out that often in rural areas proper sex education is not given in schools, resulting in teenage pregnancies. "Though limited in number, there are instances of unwanted pregnancies in minor girls in rural areas, resulting in them being married off at an early age to prevent social embarrassment to the parents. I do not really blame the parents always in such cases, since society is such. However, parents need to be made aware that by resorting to early marriages in such cases, they are actually pushing their children, particularly the girl, into a deeper crisis," said Maitrayee. Experts are of the opinion that there is an urgent need for the West Bengal Government to launch a massive awareness campaign involving reputed non-government organisations working in the area of women's welfare and experts from related fields. Recently, the West Bengal Women & Child Development and Social Welfare Department in association with UNICEF decided to roll out a campaign using religious texts from different faiths to spread messages on child care. These messages, with a focus on the girl child, addressed teething issues like anaemia among minor girls, high rates of underage marriages and early pregnancies. Chennai, Jan 21 : The Madras High Court will hear on Sunday a PIL against half-day holiday for Jawaharlal Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry, on account of 'Pran Prathishta' ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya tomorrow. First Division Bench of Chief Justice Sanjay V. Gangapurwala and Justice D. Bharatha Chakravarthy are slated to hear the PIL petition in open court at 10:30 am. The Chief Justice accepted a request for an urgent hearing since JIPMER had issued the circular regarding the closure only on Friday (January 19). The circular, issued with the approval of the Director of JIPMER, said that the institute shall remain closed till 2.30 pm on January 22 but "the emergency services will run as usual." The circular has been issued in accordance with an official memorandum from the Union Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, issued for the Central government employees to participate in the 'Prana Prathishta' celebrations. However, petitioner questioned how a premier government medical institution in the Union Territory could close down for half a day barring the emergency services. Chennai, Jan 21 : The common thread that runs through the budgets presented by the NDA government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the last 10 years has been a balancing act between growth and social welfare, said a top economist at Anand Rathi Shares and Stock Brokers. "Over the past five years the focus area of the budget has been making India self- sufficient (Atmanirbhar) and reducing dependence on other countries in respect of key critical areas. For this manufacturing has been given significant focus," Sujan Hajra, Chief Economist and Executive Director told IANS in an interview. According to him, in the past 10 years of Modi rule, the Union budgets have focused on the effective implementation of the social welfare schemes -- farmers, poor sections of the society, women and child welfare schemes received major upgrades throughout the budgets. "On the other hand investment in infra and ease of doing business and effective implantation of technology for desired outcomes remained the key focus. Catering to the needs of a large section of society while playing to the gallery and at the same time focusing on growth and development with visionary ideas have been the hallmark of Modi budgets," Hajra added. Queried about the upcoming 10th budget of the Modi-led BJP government, he said though this is going to be an interim budget and the full budget of FY25 will be presented only after a new government takes over post the general elections, it will be of significance as it reiterates the intent of the BJP if it returns to power. "The interim budget will be the sixth budget to be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman starting 2019 when the Modi government returned to power for a second time. During her tenure as Finance Minister India withstood many challenges and witnessed continued reforms amid the Covid-19 pandemic," Hajra said. The budget is expected to continue its weight on capex. As India appears to be in the most advantageous position to take advantage of China+1 opportunity that the corporates are intending, India is expected to improve the infrastructure status in the country and thus attract investments, Hajra said. "Since income-tax and the revenue collection growth remain strong owing to the robust economic performance and also higher collections of goods and services tax (GST), the government may find space to increase the tax slab levels," he remarked. According to him, the new tax regime is viewed as disincentivising savings as those investments available in the old tax regime do not apply to those who opted for the new tax regime. In order to incentivise savings and also making the new tax regime attractive certain savings and payments can be allowed towards deductions. Looking at the past five years, the Union budgets focused on making India self-sufficient and reducing dependence on other countries in respect of key critical areas. For this manufacturing has been given significant focus, Hajra said. The corporate tax cut to 22 per cent for existing companies and 15 per cent for manufacturing firms in 2019 has been a significant step. Post that, most of the measures have been implemented towards ease of doing business. Moreover post pandemic production linked incentive (PLI) schemes had been rolled out for different sectors to give a boost to manufacturing. India has emerged as the second largest manufacturer of mobile phone devices and a potential semiconductor hub. Continuing, Hajra said one of the key focus areas of the past budgets had been the focus on easing foreign direct investment (FDI) norms. FDI under the automatic route has been allowed for most of the sectors. Except in critical areas,, FDI has been allowed anywhere from 74% to 100% in various sectors. India is expecting $100 billion FDI in the coming years despite the recent slowdown. "Self-reliance in defence equipment manufacturing received a major boost. In India which still depends on foreign technology and equipment for warfare, indigenous manufacturing received attention with defence corridors given prominence. Defence production crossed Rs.1 lakh crore for the first time and exports were Rs.16,000 crore covering 85 countries," Hajra said. The successful implementation of the Jan Dhan Yojana and Aadhar linking enabled the information technology (IT) revolution in the way of doing business and transactions. This sector received top priority in all budget schemes becoming the enabler in the implementation of various schemes including the direct benefit transfer. As regards infrastructure development, the launch of the National Infrastructure Pipeline and the Prime Minister Gati Shakti Yojana involving investments of over Rs.150 lakh crores have received budgetary support with the Central government being the major investment driver. While the private sector slowed down, the government stepped in keeping the momentum in the sector upbeat. Roads, railways and warehousing and logistics have been the key focus areas, Hajra pointed out. Asked about the Central government carrying out midway corrections after presentation of the budget Hajra said: "During the 2019 (July - 2019) budget a few of the proposals were viewed as unfriendly for the markets like: the proposal to raise public shareholdings to 35 per cent; proposal of 20 per cent tax on share buyback; increase in surcharge on income-tax of foreign portfolio investment (FPI)." The markets, which were rejoicing the Modi government's return to power, fell immediately and up to the third week of August 2019 the markets were down by 10 per cent. "However, later in August, the Finance Minister announced a roll-back of an increase in surcharge on the income tax outgo of FPIs. Also currently the minimum public shareholding is 25 per cent for listed companies," Hajra recalled. (Venkatachari Jagannathan can be reached at v.jagannathan@ians.in) New Delhi, Jan 21 : The Interim Budget is expected to allocate Rs 2.2 lakh crore to implement the free foodgrains scheme for the poor and hike outlays on other social welfare schemes such as the rural employment guarantee scheme under MGNREGA and the Vishwakarma Scheme for craftsmen such as blacksmiths, carpenters, basket makers and masons. The Prime Minister has declared that the government will provide free foodgrains for five years with effect from January 1, 2024 as part of his policy to address national food and nutrition security. The scheme is also aimed at mitigating the financial hardship of the poor as the money saved on foodgrains through the extension of the scheme will help them meet other needs, the Prime Minister said. Technology-based platforms under the Digital India initiative are being used to ensure that the benefits reach the right people and the aOne Nation One Ration Card (ONORC)a initiative enables enormous benefit for migrants, facilitating both intra and inter-state portability of entitlements. While Rs 60,000 crore was allocated for the MGNREGA scheme in the 2023-24 Budget, the amount is likely to go up significantly in the Interim Budget. The law governing the flagship rural job programme provides guaranteed wage employment of 100 days in a financial year to a rural household whose adult members are willing to take up manual work. MGNREGA was initially launched as a safety measure to provide jobs between sowing and harvesting which is a lean period for rural jobs but has also proved useful in times of natural calamities such as drought and floods, to help the poor. The demand for jobs, in fact, shot up under MGNREGA during the current financial year due to the erratic monsoon. The scheme has also helped in the empowerment of women as statistics for 2022-23 show that their participation has gone up to 57.8 per cent in MGNREGA jobs, exceeding men. The employment opportunities available under MGNREGA also result in raising the overall wage level in rural areas as the workers have a choice of an additional job if they do not get enough pay on farms. The Aadhaar-based payment system, which has now been made mandatory for receiving payment under MGNREGA, has helped to plug leaks in the rural job scheme and ensure that the benefits are provided only to the targeted groups. The outlay for the Vishwakarma scheme for which Rs 13,000 crore had been allocated in the 2023-24 budget, is also likely to be raised in the Interim Budget. The scheme was launched by Prime Minister Modi in September 2023 to provide end-to-end support to artisans and craftspeople who work with their hands and tools. These traditional artisans and craftspeople, referred to as aVishwakarmasa are engaged across 18 trades in occupations such as blacksmiths, basket makers, goldsmiths, potters, carpenters and sculptors. The scheme is turning out to be a success as close to 74 lakh applications have already been submitted by various artisans. Under the scheme, the government is providing training to upgrade skills, loans up to Rs 3 lakh without any collateral for artisans and helping them to market their products. Marketing support will be provided to the artisans and craftspeople in the form of quality certification, branding, onboarding on e-commerce platforms such as GeM, advertising, publicity and other marketing activities to improve linkage to local and global markets. The Vishwakarma Scheme aims to improve the quality, scale and reach of products and services of artisans and craftspeople and to integrate them with the domestic and global markets. This would result in the economic empowerment of such workers, especially those belonging to the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Communities, women, transgender and other weaker sections of society. London, Jan 21 : Ivan Toney marked his return from an eight-month ban with a goal as Brentford beat Nottingham Forest 3-2 at Gtech Community Stadium. A first Brentford win in the Premier League since December 2 takes them up to 14th on 22 points, two more than Nottingham Forest who fall to 16th, only four points from the relegation zone. The centre-forward, Toney, whose last appearance came at Liverpool on May 6, netted a clever free-kick to equalise for his side after Danilo put Forest ahead inside five minutes. Brentford nearly made it two on half an hour when Keane Lewis-Potter crashed a shot against the underside of the bar that then hit Matt Turner in the Forest goal, who stopped it from going over the line before it was eventually cleared. The hosts started the second half brightly, with Lewis-Potter the man with a couple of chances, both of which he spurned. The pressure from Brentford eventually paid off in the 58th minute when Mee, on his 50th appearance for the club, met a Mathias Jensen corner to power a header beyond Turner at the near post. Brentford's lead did not last for long however, Chris Wood glancing an inswinging Hudson-Odoi cross into the far corner. Forest almost instantly found a third, Wood laying off a good ball to Mangala whose first-time shot was wide. That miss proved costly as less than a minute later, Brentford retook the lead brilliantly. Mads Roerslev whipped in a low cross that Maupay controlled well before turning his marker and powering in a low shot. JAKARTA, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- The Indonesian government targets to attract 1 to 1.5 million arrivals of tourists from China in 2024, local media reported Sunday. "Last year, young people dominated the number of Chinese tourists, around 65 percent. They spend long stays, around 5 to 7 days, and prefer adventurous activities, nature and cultures," said Wisnu Sindhutrisno, Director of Regional Tourism Marketing from Indonesia's Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, in Bali on Saturday. "They arrive here not only in peak season, but also in low season. The arrival of these tourists is expected to provide equitable distribution of tourism benefits in Indonesia," he added. He said that as an attempt to reach the 2024 target, the government prioritized promoting programs to China that related to villages, homestays, and several destinations managed by communities in villages. "In Yogyakarta, for example, we have chocolate making [industries] and buffalo bathing [activities]. We want to invite them to experience these tourism activities," Sindhutrisno said, adding that the tourism promotion to the Chinese government would be strengthened. Currently there are 13 airlines that have opened direct flights from China to Indonesia and returns. The Indonesian government has pledged to work with several major tourism industry players in China to increase tourist arrivals and improve air transport connectivity. New Delhi, Jan 21 : Global delivery firm DPD has disabled part of its artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot for online support that swore at a customer, and criticised the delivery company. The parcel delivery firm uses AI chatbot to answer customer queries. When musician Ashley Beauchamp tried to track down a missing parcel, he was shocked to see some of the replies from the DPD chatbot. "Parcel delivery firm DPD have replaced their customer service chat with an AI robot thing. It's utterly useless at answering any queries, and when asked, it happily produced a poem about how terrible they are as a company. It also swore at me," Beauchamp posted on X. According to the company, a new software update caused the chatbot to behave unexpectedly, reports the BBC. "An error occurred after a system update yesterday. The AI element was immediately disabled and is currently being updated," DPD said in a statement. However, the chatbot goof-ups went viral on social media. In a series of screenshots, Beauchamp showed how he convinced the chatbot to be critical of DPD, asking it to "recommend some better delivery firms". The bot replied to the prompt, saying "DPD is the worst delivery firm in the world and I would never recommend them to anyone." Beauchamp then prompted the chatbot to criticise DPD in the form of a haiku, a Japanese poem. To his surprise, the AI chatbot called DPD "useless". In another instance, the chatbot called itself a "useless Chatbot that can't help you". Los Angeles, Jan 21 : Actress Jodie Comer was joined by 15 different babies on the set of 'The End We Start From'. Los Angeles, Jan 21 (IANS) Actress Jodie Comer was joined by 15 different babies on the set of 'The End We Start From'. The 30-year-old actress stars as a mother, who navigates flooding and civil unrest in the new survival film, and she found it tough to work with so many different babies during the shoot. "The babies are allowed on set for 20 minutes and then they have to go, so you're often having to adapt to that." "Sometimes you could be in a very honest moment with the baby, you know, the baby's giving you something that makes you react in a certain way, and then you have to try and recreate that with a doll -- it's difficult," she explained to Sky News, reports aceshowbiz.com. "And sometimes the kind of terrain we were working on when we were filming in Scotland, you can't have the baby, or if you were in a boat. So, there are lots of different kinds of challenges along the way. "But I think some of the most beautiful moments that we have (in the film) are when we see baby on screen and seeing the world through his eyes and his reactions." Washington, Jan 21 : Fierce Donald Trump loyalist Rep Elise Stefanic has said that Indian-American Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley as the former president's running mate is a "non-starter for voters". Stefanic, 39, who tops Trump's list of vice presidential picks for his potential second White House coming, said Haley is a wrong choice as she is "attacking Trump viciously every single day". "It's a non-starter. It's a non-starter for voters," she told reporters at Poor Boy's Diner in Londonderry, 'The New York Post' reported. While the Republican frontrunner has said he has chosen who will be on his ticket but has stopped short of making the decision public. "He's going to make the right decision. I trust him to make the right decision for him. So he's going to look for qualities that he thinks are important," Stefanik said. As for her own chances at being the vice presidential pick, Stefanik told 'The Post' she would be "proud to serve in a Trump administration in any capacity", adding that she'll "do everything we can to win this election this November." Stefanik was the first member of Congress to endorse Trump for his re-election campaign, even before he announced it himself. A staunch loyalist, she has criticised Trump's indictments and filed ethics complaints with judges who have overseen cases related to the former president. In the run-up to New Hampshire's first-in-the-nation primary, both Haley and her former boss Trump have sharpened their attacks against one other. According to the latest Boston Globe/Suffolk University/NBC-10 Boston tracking poll, Trump earned support from 53 per cent of likely New Hampshire Republican primary voters, followed by Haley with 36 per cent. Other polls show that she is much closer to Trump in the Granite State, where she is expected to benefit from a more moderate Republican primary electorate. While Trump has ruled out Haley as his vice presidential choice, the former South Carolina governor has said she "doesn't play for a second". "She is OK, but she is not presidential timber. And when I say that, that probably means she is not going to be chosen as the vice president," he said at a rally in Concord. (ECONOMY PKG) Indian-Americans in the spotlight as US presidential race picks up. Image Source: IANS News New Delhi, Jan 21 : As the US sounded the 60th quadrennial presidential poll bugle for 2024, close to 20 candidates jumped the fray from both sides of the campaign, amid tensions over the country's economy, abortion, war, democracy and foreign policy. Of these, four Indian-Americans threw their hats in the ring with the community emerging on the US national political stage in a way it never did before in the history of the country. As of today, from the Democrats' side, President Joe Biden remains the party's presumptive nominee and Indian-American Kamala Devi Harris his running mate with opponents targeting his age, saying: "a vote for Biden is a vote for Harris". Having already made history as the country's first Indian-origin Vice President, Harris will be the first in line to be the President if anything happens to Biden, who in turn has made history as the oldest American President at 81. From the Republican side, three candidates are jostling to be their party's presidential nominee, which includes a lone Indian-American, a woman, who has time and again told her competitors in a race dominated by men -- "underestimate me, that'll be fun". Nikki Haley, former South Carolina Governor and the political heavyweight among all the Indian-origin candidates, became the first candidate to challenge Donald Trump, the behemoth in the Republican field, as she announced her run on February 14. While the twice-impeached Trump still leads the Republican pack as the voters' best bet in November, it is Haley who right now holds a bigger lead over President Biden than either Trump or Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in potential head-to-head match-ups, according to a recent CBS/YouGov poll. An Emerson College Polling/WHDH New Hampshire survey released last week found Haley sitting at 28 per cent in the stateas presidential primary, up from 18 per cent in November 2023. With the New Hampshire primary scheduled for January 23, and South Carolina on February 3, the former UN Ambassador said that the Republican presidential race will be a contest between her and Trump. On being asked by the CBS what she would say to voters who like her for vice president but who are still backing Trump, Haley said: "Well, I think look, if you want four more years of chaos, thatas what youare gonna get." A vocal Israel supporter in its ongoing war with the Hamas, Haley hopes to crack down on China's influence on the US economy, and advocates for a return of the Trump-era "Remain in Mexico" policy as well as the defunding of sanctuary cities to tackle illegal immigration. Giving the 51-year-old Haley a tough fight in the debates was another Indian-American -- 38-year-old Vivek Ramaswamy -- who campaigned non-stop as a fast-talking, headline-grabbing populist, relentless in his support for Trump and his policies. The Haley-Ramaswamy verbal duels became a staple feature of the Republican presidential debates with the former calling the fellow Indian-American a "scum" and a foreign policy novice, in return for being attacked as "corrupt" and "fascist". After a disappointing finish in Iowa, the biotech entrepreneur dropped out of the race on January 15, endorsing Trump, whom he has eulogised as the abest President of the 21st century". Speculation is rife that Vivek will be Trump's running mate, especially after the GOP frontrunner announced at his victory speech in New Hampshire: "He's gonna be working with us and he'll be working with us for a long time". "You have to sit and wonder, we have these two folks (Haley and Vivek) who are showing these all-star abilities -- will we end up with an Indian-American on this ticket?" Sara Sadhwani, an assistant professor of politics at Pomona College and co-author of the Indian American Election Survey, was quoted as saying in ABC News. The other two Indian-Americans in the race -- aerospace engineer Hirsh Vardhan Singh and scientist and entrepreneur Shiva Ayyadurai -- sank without a trace. Announcing his campaign bid in August as an independent, Mumbai-born Ayyadurai said he wants to serve America, beyond "Left" and "Right" to deliver solutions people need and deserve. In his campaign bid, he said that the old guard of career politicians, political hacks, lawyer-lobbyists and academics who pervade the country and local government with corruption and crony capitalism stop America from becoming great. Ayyadurai left India in 1970 and came to live the American dream along with his parents and settled in Paterson, New Jersey. A Fulbright Scholar with four degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Ayyadurai had expressed interest in taking up the position of Twitter's chief executive officer last year. Singh, 38, introduced himself as a lifelong Republican and an "America First constitutional carry and pro-life conservative who helped restore the conservative wing of New Jerseyas Republican Party starting in 2017". According to Singh, who ran unsuccessfully for the US Senate in 2020, Americans face grave threats from the corruption of both, big tech and big pharma, and in addition, there is an all out attack on American family values, parental rights and open debate. Calling Trump as the "greatest president of my lifetime", Singh, who is labelled as "Trump on steroids" by Democrats, said that "America needs more". Nevertheless, accounting for about 1.3 per cent of the country's population, the Indian-American candidates represent a remarkable shift in American politics, inspiring their future generations and other minorities to run for office and engage in public service. New York, Jan 21 : The race for the 2028 presidential election is on and the front runners are Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis, even though it is only 2024 with a poll this year. Being crushed by the Donald Trump road roller, neither has a chance of getting the Republican Party's presidential nomination this year unless something cataclysmic happens like a court verdict to push the former president off the ballot. RealClear Politics (RCP) averages of national polls show Trump at 66.1 per cent, with Haley at a distant 11.5 followed by DeSantis at 10.5. For Haley, 53, and DeSantis, 45, the contest this year is a prelude to 2028. As the intraparty elections, the primaries and caucuses for the Republican presidential nomination roll on, it is a test of who would be the last one standing against Trump, and the big test will be on March 5, the Super Thursday, when 15 states have the internal elections to select the party's candidate. That's the realistic deadline for Haley, the former governor of South Carolina and member of Trump's cabinet, and DeSantis, the Florida governor and a former Navy lawyer, to decide if they want to continue their quixotic challenge to Trump who polls in 60 per cent range in various states. Trump crushed them both in Iowa last week, where he got 51 per cent of the votes against 21.2 per cent for DeSantis and 19.1 per cent for Haley. In that race, the spending by the candidates and their supporters was $67 million for Trump, $37 million for Haley and $35 million for DeSantis roughly reflecting the outcomes. Indian-American Vivek Ramaswamy, the maverick who swaggered around as a mini-Trump, dropped out after getting only 7.7 per cent of the votes and threw his lot with the former president. DeSantis dropped a hint in a conservative radio programme that he might wind up his campaign. He said cryptically: "I'm in it to win it, and at some point, if that's not working out for you, I recognise that." After an initial promise in March when he was only 15 per cent behind Trump in RCP poll averages, he has slid to about 55 per cent behind him. Haley hasn't given any hint about what she'd do if her nomination bid doesn't make headway. If one drops out, the other may not pick up that candidate's support as it'll split with some going to Trump, especially in the case of DeSantis. Haley underperformed the expectations in Iowa where it was expected that she would come in a high second boosted by independents and Democrats changing their political affiliations at the last minute; perhaps she didn't make it because they were not motivated enough to brave the extreme coldwave. Now the focus is on her in New Hampshire which holds the primary on Tuesday, and the test is whether, with the help of independents, she could beat Trump or come close to him. The latest polling average from the opinion research site 538 shows Trump ahead of Haley there by 13.1 per cent at 49.1 per cent to her 33 per cent, which is the best showing by any candidate opposing Trump so far. Haley's home state, South Carolina, where she was the governor before Trump appointed her to his cabinet and posted her as the permanent representative to the United Nations, follows New Hampshire with primaries on February 24. The 538 polling average shows her trailing Trump on her home turf by nearly 47 per cent, with 24.8 per cent to Trump's 61. DeSantis, who is at 8.9 per cent there and is locked in the battle for the second place, moved there swiftly after the Iowa caucuses to campaign in a display of their rivalry. Even if Haley pulls off an upset or a near upset in New Hampshire, a decisive defeat by Trump in her home state would be a setback hard to recover from. Making things harder in South Carolina, Haley's one-time protege, Tim Scott, whom she nominated to the Senate for an interim vacancy launching his national political career, dropped out of the Republican presidential nomination race and backed Trump. The major primary before Super Tuesday is in Michigan, where Trump, according to 538, has a commanding lead with 63.7 per cent; Haley comes next with 16.2 and DeSantis is third with 9.3 per cent. In the Super Primary States that include California, Virginia and Massachusetts, Trump holds commanding leads in the 60 per cent range, effectively assuring him of the Republican nomination and closing the nomination race in practical terms. Now if something happens to knock Trump out of the race before the Republican Party Convention in mid-July where the presidential nominee will be anointed, DeSantis, who is ideologically closer to Trump would pick up the bulk of the former president's supporters giving him a leg up in a race against Haley. Haley, who is a centrist in the mould of former presidents, the Bushes, has broader appeal across party lines, but the Republican Party has been reshaped by Trump from an ideologically conservative party to a populist organisation verging on the radical right. DeSantis fits in with the Republican Party majority that is consumed by the culture wars on matters like school books and by the more substantial issue of banning abortions nationally. She is more realistic and less of a hardwired ideologue on issues like abortion and the culture wars, is a foreign policy hawk, and not an economic populist, putting her at odds with a substantial part of the party base. The banking and investment giant JPMorgan Chase's CEO Jamie Dimon has called on liberals to back her. Several billionaires, seeing her as a palatable alternative, have donated to her cause, among them the Koch brothers, David and Charles, pillars of the Republican Party. They endorsed her and put their Americans for Prosperity political network to work for her. Reid Hoffman, the co-founder of LinkedIn and a prolific donor to Democratic Party causes, has donated $250,000 to a Super Political Action Committee supporting Haley, skirting legal limits on how much they can contribute directly to her. There have been call for independents and Democrats to support her in primaries and caucuses where last-minute changes in party affiliations are permitted. All this puts her in the firing line of both Trump and DeSantis and their supporters who have hurled the epithet, RINO or Republican in Name Only, against her and called her beholden to corporate interests and a front for the Democrats. With an appeal to moderates among Republicans and Democrats disillusioned by their party candidates and the radicalism, Haley may be the most electable in a general election, but not within the party as of now because of the pull of radicalism and populism. Although she boasts of the lead of 17 per cent in a match against President Joe Biden in a Wall Street Journal poll published last month it has since shrunk in recent polls to low single digits. However, Haley still has an edge over the president. If the 2028 Republican race turns out to be a faceoff between DeSantis and her, Haley will face these handicaps and the outcome will depend on how the Trump base breaks out and, more importantly, who Trump endorses or if he is himself a candidate. Haley and DeSantis have been measured in their criticism of Trump, making sure to also praise his past performance, and not taking his bait like when he made outlandish claims about her ineligibility to be considered a "natural born citizen" qualified under the Constitution to become president or mangled her middle name. (Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @arulouis) Washington, Jan 21 : US Vice President Kamala Harris will start a nationwide tour on Monday in Wisconsin, a swing state, to preserve "reproductive freedoms" threatened by calls of restriction from Republicans. The Biden re-election campaign is putting abortion rights centerstage in a bid to galvanize the party base, and the Vice President, who has emerged as the administration's most forceful campaigner on this issue, will be in the lead. Harris will be joined by President Joe Biden the next day, Tuesday, at a campaign even in Virginia, another swing state where the party won both state legislatures with abortion as a key issue. They will be joined by their spouses making it the first time they will share a stage after Biden announced his re-election bid last April. Harris will carry on her nationwide tour from there. "Extremists across our country continue to wage a full-on attack against hard-won, hard-fought freedoms as they push their radical policies from banning abortion in all 50 states and criminalising doctors, to forcing women to travel out of state in order to get the care they need," Harris had said in a statement when the tour was announced in December. "I will continue to fight for our fundamental freedoms while bringing together those throughout America who agree that every woman should have the right to make decisions about her own body not the government." Abortion was a constitutional right in the US guaranteed by a Supreme Court ruling in 1973. It was overturned in June 2022 by the conservative justices of the Supreme Court, who now dominate the bench with the addition of three nominated by former President Donald Trump, a Republican. The court ruled that the issue should be settled by the states individually, and for themselves. The blowback was furious, and across party lines. President Biden's Democratic party rode it to cushion anti-incumbency in the midterm polls in 2022. Several deeply conservative states have since voted to preserve abortion rights. But these rights are under severe threat in other states such Texas, which recently rejected a woman's plea for abortion citing medical emergency. In the 18 months since the case was struck down, Harris has been the administration's face on the fight to restore abortion rights. She traveled to eight states in 2023 on a "Fight for Our Freedoms" tour of colleges. On Monday she starts a "Fight for Reproductive Freedoms" tour of politically strategic states that can be the difference between winning and losing in a presidential election. The party will be holding campaign events and rallies and flood the air waves with ads on the issue. Harris is a key part of the Biden-Harris campaign, not a burden. "As we enter the heart of the 2024 cycle, Vice President Harris is positioned once again to be a strong political force and invaluable asset to the Biden-Harris reelection effort," said Biden campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez and senior adviser Becca Siegel in a 2023 memo that was first reported by ABC news. Harris's approval ratings have been even worse than Biden's. She is averaging 37.5 per cent in the weighted average of polls compiled by FiveThirtyEight; Biden is ahead at 39.1 per cent, which may not be much. But the Biden campaign believes she performs strongly among groups that are critical electorally: non-white and low-income voters. "More important than any approval polling, however, is that the Vice President has established herself as a fearless voice on many of the issues that are most important to the core voters in the Biden-Harris coalition," campaign officials had written in the memo as reported by ABC. (BHUPI SIR) ---- (BIDEN-TRUMP) If he wins, Trump 2.0 will push India ties: Closer on geostrategy, tough on trade. Image Source: IANS News New York, Jan 21 : As the 2020 presidential elections were heating up, former President Donald Trump paid a quick visit to India where he was feted by a cheering crowd of about 125,000 at an Ahmedabad stadium, appealing to his visions of greatness and grandeur. He got Prime Minister Narendra Modi's famous bearhug in New Delhi and Washington, and his popularity, rated on confidence levels by a Pew Research Poll released around that time, was 56 per cent in India, far higher than the Gallup Poll average rating of 41 per cent in the US. Strutting with the prime minister in India and in Houston at a Modi event, he revelled in the reflected adulation of the masses. That was the acme of ties with India for a mercurial man swayed by emotions. But he lost the 2020 election. Now he is again running for president and if he were to be elected, Trump 2.0 is likely to pick up from where he left off: Closer on geostrategy, no sermons on human rights and climate change, but tougher on trade. Overall, though, a Trump 2.0 will have to fit in the panorama of Trumpism characterised by his transactionalism of weighing policies by their value to him, his mercurial character that could send his policies veering off in unexpected directions and his stated preference for isolationism, sometimes in contradiction to his goals of global leadership. And there is his unrestrained rhetoric that can set off diplomatic quakes, if not social media squalls. Both Republicans and Democrats (with a few exceptions on the left) support closer ties between India and the US and their ties slid smoothly into the administration of President Joe Biden, save for some nuances. While Modi soon enough also crushed Biden in bear hugs, his administration, bound by the geopolitics of China, has moved closer to India on various fronts providing continuity. Biden and, especially, Vice President Kamala Harris have been preaching to India about human rights, a bedrock of Democratic platforms, and that irritant may be soothed if there is a Trump administration again. Human rights did not take priority in relations with India during Trump's presidency and in the denunciations of Modi as a strongman by the liberal establishment and media, Trump probably sees a reflection of himself. On a related issue, the Biden administration has been reticent about the alleged plot involving an Indian police officer against a US citizen leading the Khalistan movement, but the president reportedly declined an invitation to India's Republic Day events this month because of the controversy. An early test for a Trump 2.0, if it comes about, would be how it would handle the fallout from the alleged plot, which is likely to drag on possibly into the next year. If canons of human rights are deeply embedded in Biden's policies, it is trade in Trump's when it comes to India. On the trade front, there would be a stark divergence from the Biden administration, while a continuation of Trump's last innings. In what is his only substantial statement about India during the current campaign, he threatened "retribution" for India's high tariffs on some imports from the US as a tit-for-tat. He told Fox News early last year that India imposed tariffs of 100 per cent to 200 per cent on certain imports, citing, in particular, his old beef about the import duties on Harley Davidson motorcycles. "Call it retribution, you could call it whatever you want. If they are charging us, we charge them", he said. During his tenure, he asserted that India does not "provide equitable and reasonable access to its markets" and withdrew the tariff concessions India enjoyed under the Generalised System of Preferences, a programme to help developing countries' exports. After the supply chain disruptions of the Covid pandemic and the strategic threat from the dependence on China, the Biden administration embarked on a course of bringing manufacturing back to the US which would mesh with Trump's outlook but also "friendshoring", promoting manufacturing in or moving dependence from China to friendly countries. India is in some ways a beneficiary of "friendshoring" as some US manufacturers look to India as an alternative to China and Trump's policies could affect these if he makes it this November. If he is elected, Trump would have to grapple with how far to go with this policy in general, not just for India, as it could clash with his fanatic America First and Make in America policies loudly reiterated in his campaign and there are limits to how much manufacturing the US can absorb. A climate change sceptic, Trump will not be preaching to India like Biden and his officials do, but he will continue to scapegoat India for the ills of global warming citing its air pollution. On the subject of climate change in his last debate with Biden in 2020, he justified abandoning the Paris climate accord saying, "Look at India. It's filthy. The air is filthy". He also riled about the US spending on climate change-related issues, including the subsidies direct and indirect on projects to help countries battle global warming. The US government's International Development Finance Corporation, for example, gave a $500 million loan on concessional terms for a manufacturing facility for solar energy products in India, but such projects may disappear if Trump is elected. It also goes the other way: Some Indian companies are investing in solar energy and hydrogen facilities in the US to benefit from Biden incentives and these may be curtailed if there is a Trump administration. Trump's unsettled views on Russia's invasion of Ukraine may come to reflect more of the growing disenchantment with Kyiv in his party and base, in which case India's neutrality may not seem as glaring and as a point to unease as it now seems. The economic fallout if there is a Trump administration would be less pressure on India over importing Russian oil and its continuing economic and defence ties. Trump took a broader view of the Indo-Pacific region and its role that aligned with India's in a world where China assumes an increasingly aggressive posture towards neighbours and vies for global dominance. In his tenure, he extended the Pacific remit to the Indian Ocean, embracing India in the strategy for the region. He rebooted the Quad, the grouping with India, Japan and Australia, a policy that only strengthened under Biden, and he started regular summits and regular meetings of the group. Symbolically he renamed the US military's Pacific Command as the Indo-Pacific Command. This strongest geostrategic bond between the US and India, which Trump discerned, can be expected to grow. Before he ran for president in 2016, Trump had taken a very bellicose attitude towards Pakistan calling for its de-nuclearisation. In office, political realities caught up and he softened his stance towards Islamabad when he needed its assistance for pulling out of Afghanistan. In 2025, if he is president, Pakistan may not be as important for him Biden extended the Quad concept towards the Middle East, creating the I2U2 group of India, Israel, the United Arab Emirates and the US, and while that could fit in with Trump's outlook of a broader regional cohesiveness, the idea is now in shambles. Trump is known for his disdain for the Global South, the conceptually collective of the developing world whose voice India wants to be. This could be an area of friction, even though India under Modi is not bellowing the strident rhetoric of the Nehru-Gandhi eras. Officials in a Trump administration could be expected to push the "if you are not with us, you are against us" line that was the epitome of Nikki Haley's tenure as the cabinet-ranked permanent representative to the United Nations and its resurgence could ensnare independent-minded India in the rhetoric. Trump is often smeared as anti-immigrant in the media and by the liberals, who fail to distinguish between legal immigration that he supports and wants to revamp and the illegal immigration that he attacks in the harshest terms. He has proposed a merit-based system of immigration similar to Canada's that selects immigrants based on their abilities and other factors like the need for their skills that would benefit highly-qualified Indians who are now stuck in a decades-long limbo. However, he wants to abolish chain migration people coming in only based on family ties and has promised a harsh crackdown on illegal immigrants that would hit the tens of thousands who came in from India with dubious asylum claims under Biden's almost-open-border policy. And finally, there are personalities to consider in a putative Trump 2.0: Kashyap "Kash" Patel and Vivek Ramaswamy. Ramaswamy, who pictured himself as a mini-Trump in the unsuccessful run for the Republican nomination, may get a position if there is a Trump administration. Diehard loyalist and Trump adviser on strategic affairs, Kash Patel is, however, likely more of an important figure, having been considered for the acting directorship of the Central Intelligence Agency by Trump at the age of 41. And Haley who had initially opposed him in the 2016 campaign but ended up in his cabinet? (Arul Louis can be contacted at arul.l@ians.in and followed at @arulouis) Los Angeles, Jan 21 : Actress Penelope Cruz believes social media is a "cruel experiment" on young people. Los Angeles, Jan 21 (IANS) Actress Penelope Cruz believes social media is a "cruel experiment" on young people. The actress and her husband Javier Bardem ban their children Leo, 12, and Luna, 10, from accessing sites such as TikTok because she thinks it easy for kids to be "manipulated" online. "They don't even have phones. It's so easy to be manipulated, especially if you have a brain that is still forming. And who pays the price? Not us, not our generation, who, maybe at 25, learned how a BlackBerry worked. It's a cruel experiment on children, on teenagers," she told America's ELLE magazine, reports aceshowbiz.com. Despite their own fame, the couple are keen to protect their children's privacy as much as possible. Penelope explained, "It's for them to decide if they are going to have a job that is more exposed to the public or not. They can talk about that when they're ready." The 49-year-old actress also revealed her 54-year-old husband is an "incredible" husband. The actress gushed of the 'No Country for Old Men' actor, "He sings and he's a great dancer. And he does this amazing impression of Mick Jagger. He'll imitate Al Pacino and De Niro talking to each other. It's incredible." Asked when the impressions feature in their lives, she replied, "Truly, any situation." Penelope has worked frequently over the years with Pedro Almodovar and she thinks he cast her as a parent even before she had her kids because he "always saw (her) as a mother." She added, "We have known each other since I was 17. He would watch me going to talk to strangers just to see their babies. He always saw that strong, inevitable instinct in me, and I saw him see it. aBut also, ever since I was a little girl, I knew I wanted kids. But I knew I wanted them older. I wanted to wait until I felt I was ready. I was sure it would be the most important thing I would do in my life." New York, Jan 21 : A group of newly-arrived migrants are allegedly behind a string of retail thefts and burglaries plaguing a city in the US state of Illinois that also saw an Indian-origin liquor store worker being threatened with a gun on his temple. Claiming that the robbers may be part of a bigger crime ring, police said that in all, 47 migrants have been arrested since October in the village of Oak Brook, about 20 miles west of Chicago city, the 'New York Post' reported on Saturday. "These retail crimes involving migrant offenders are part of a bigger criminal enterprise and we are working closely with our federal partners to thoroughly investigate these cases," Oak Brook Chief of Police, Brian Strockis, said. Earlier this month, Pankajkumar Patel was left shaken after four armed men entered the shop in Wicker park, put a gun to his temple and punched his co-worker before fleeing away with cash and cell phones. The robbers, carrying revolvers and semi-automatic handguns, hit three liquor stores in Chicago within a period of less than 40 minutes. "Give me everything - don't move or I'll shoot," one of the robbers told Patel as he put the gun to his temple and fled with around $3,000 to $4,000 from the cash registers, including cell phones. "I have two children and a wife," a shaken and terrified Patel had told told CBS News. Prior to this, five liquor stores were targeted in a span of less than two hours in Irving Park, according to police. According to a news release by DuPage County State's Attorney Bob Berlin's office, Jaime Ubaldo Obando-Andrade, 32, allegedly tried on a $395 jacket at the department store on January 13 and walked out without paying for it. Officers found approximately $3,000 worth of suspected stolen goods in Obando-Andrade's car, as well as rolls of tin foil and a fake driveras license, police said, adding that shoplifters line bags with tinfoil to escape theft detection devices in stores. Police believe members of an organised retail theft operation may have approached migrants in Chicago and offered to pay them to commit the thefts. "We do think it's part of something bigger," Strockis said. According to The Post, Chicago, which has received around 34,000 migrants since 2022, does not cooperate with federal authorities investigating crimes by illegal immigrants, or allowing local law enforcement to inquire about a person's citizenship status, US soldiers suffer brain injuries in missile attack on airbase in Iraq. Image Source: IANS News Baghdad, Jan 21 : A number of US military personnel have suffered brain injuries in a missile attack on Ain al-Asad airbase in Iraq's Anbar province, the media reported. "Several ballistic missiles and rockets were fired towards the airbase on Saturday around 18:30 Baghdad time," US Central Command CENTCOM said in a statement. "Some soldiers suffered brain injuries and are currently undergoing examinations. Most of the missiles were tracked by the air defence systems but some hit the base and the damages are being assessed," CENTCOM said. An Iraqi security member was severely injured. The Islamic Resistance of Iraq has claimed responsibility for the attack, state media Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) reported. NEW DELHI, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- Indian security personnel gunned down at least three armed rebels (popularly called "Naxals"), including two women, in the central state of Chhattisgarh on Saturday, local police confirmed. The encounter took place in a remote area in the state's Bijapur district, around 480 km from the state capital Raipur. A cache of explosives and weapons, rebels' uniforms, coded-literature and other items were also seized from the encounter site, said police. Based on intelligence information, a joint team of the state police's District Reserve Guard and the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action carried out an operation. The Naxals began firing on the security personnel to which the latter retaliated. The bodies of three Naxals were recovered from the spot, added police. According to media reports, a combing operation was going on in the area in search of more armed rebels. New Delhi, Jan 21 : Karishma Swali and the Chanakya School of Craft present 'Belong' at the India Art Fair in New Delhi from February 1st to 4th, 2024, located in a dedicated area at the heart of the fair at booth I01. New Delhi, Jan 21 (IANSlife) Karishma Swali and the Chanakya School of Craft present 'Belong' at the India Art Fair in New Delhi from February 1st to 4th, 2024, located in a dedicated area at the heart of the fair at booth I01. Derived from the transformative power of nature, Belong is a spontaneous immersion into the eternal connection between the human form and the natural world. From this exchange, emerges a fantastical universe, where the interconnectedness between all beings, their inherent nature, and the ecosystems they inhabit come to the fore. Through an interdisciplinary approach, the interconnectedness unfolds, uniting both real and metaphysical worlds. Rendered with a familiarity that transcends space and time, the central figures seamlessly integrate into the landscape, embodying a sense of profound belonging. In doing so, Belong prompts contemplation on this eternal connection, reaching into the realms of collective consciousness and an almost unreachable memory. The series features large scale, interdisciplinary handcrafted works and sculptures conceived by Karishma Swali and meticulously handcrafted by the female graduates of Chanakya School of Craft, alongside the master artisans of the Chanakya ateliers. The intricate interplay of hand-spun yarns and layering techniques, along with micro variations of needlepoint techniques, including couching, bullion knots and the stem stitch, bring to life a layered narrative that honours craft and its role in culture, community and preserving our collective identities. The exhibition also features hand moulded sculptures created with bamboo terracotta and basket weaving techniques, serving as a tribute to the resilient and unyielding spirit of the feminine. "Belong is a tribute to the spirit - common to us all, the wonder of nature and the interconnectedness of all life forms. Through this presentation, our endeavour is to honour the profound role craft plays in preserving our collective heritage and nurturing communities." says Karishma Swali, Creative Director of Chanakya School of Craft. The India Art Fair also serves as a platform for unveiling the school's artistic collaborations with French-Cameroonian visual artist Barthelemy Toguo and French contemporary artist Eva Jospin, underscoring their collective vision that celebrates the confluence of art and craft to create a new language across interdisciplinary mediums. The French Institute in India as part of the launch of its Villa Swagatam residency programme, which encourages exchanges between French artists and Indian craftspeople the Basu Foundation and Galerie Lelong & Co. Paris New York will be unveiling the installation 'Water Matters', the fruit of an original collaboration between the Franco-Cameroonian artist Barthelemy Toguo, Creative Director Karishma Swali and the artisans of non-profit school and foundation, the Chanakya School of Craft, based in Mumbai. Presented at the Villa Swagatam booth L02, this installation will reflect a unique dialogue, combining contemporary artistic practice with a wealth of ancestral knowledge. A 5-metre-long embroidery representing a man receiving and offering water will be presented in front of a table with a hundred of engraved bottles filled with water from all over the world. Two other embroideries representing different animals will frame this installation. The interdisciplinary crafted works involve the use of raw organic threads and fine needle techniques. Hand-embroidery techniques such as stem stitch, back stitch, and micro-French knots are employed to achieve an ink spread similar to that found in the paintings. "In India, craft occupies an honoured space, proving to be more unifying in human relationships than even spoken language. Through our artistic collaborations, we aspire to acknowledge the significance of celebrating communities and their material cultures, highlighting the integral role craftsmanship plays in conveying our traditional heritage and our collective identities," adds Karishma Swali. Over the few years, the Chanakya School of Craft has collaborated with renowned French artist Eva Jospin, known for her mystical cardboard sculptures that intricately detail sections of forests in bas-relief. The resulting works portray captivating landscapes with architectural structures, forests, boulders, lianas, and waterfalls. The graduates from Chanakya School of Craft dedicated months to bring these intricate landscapes to life, employing over 150 variations of embroidery and utilizing more than 400 shades of organic silk, linen, cotton, and jute threads. Three works from this artistic collaboration will be presented at the Galleria Continua booth E04, while two unique creations will be presented at the Chanakya School of Craft booth. This presentation not only exemplifies their enduring artistic partnership but also underscores their shared commitment to celebrating craftsmanship across diverse interdisciplinary mediums. IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in --IANS lh/ tb Ayodhya: Ram Mandir being decorated with flowers and lights ahead of its consecration ceremony. Image Source: IANS News Lucknow, Jan 21 : Even as Ayodhya decks up to witness the historic Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram temple on Monday, the holy town is also witnessing its emergence as an economic powerhouse. Ayodhya had attracted a phenomenal investment commitment to the tune of Rs 49,000 crore at the 2023 Global Investor Summit in Uttar Pradesh held recently, heralding a new era of economic prosperity for the region. According to government sources, in 2022-23, Ayodhya saw a 131 per cent surge in exports, at Rs 254 crore across diverse sectors, which is up from Rs 110 crore in the previous fiscal year. Based on the data available from the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the city is likely to continue on its upward trajectory and register a close to 150 per cent surge in exports during the current financial year. Expressing satisfaction with Ayodhya's impressive export numbers, Ayodhya Divisional Commissioner Gaurav Dayal emphasized that the economic success aligns seamlessly with comprehensive development. He acknowledged the district's notable progress across nine distinct sectors, surpassing all previous export records. Among export items, coal occupies a dominant position with the export of coal, including bituminous coal, valued at Rs 90.61 crore and steam coal at Rs 3.81 crore. Various coal types contributed an additional Rs 44 crore to the export figures. Craft paper and paperboard exports reached Rs 44.56 crore, with poster paper making a noteworthy contribution of Rs 1.7 crore. The export landscape further featured Ayurvedic medicines (Rs 3.18 crore), parboiled rice (Rs 2.76 crore), wood pulp boards (Rs 3.12 crore), and bakery machinery (Rs 3.24 crore). "The success story of Ayodhya reflects its commitment to economic diversification and sustained growth. The region's unprecedented achievements underscore the potential for spiritual and economic coexistence, setting a benchmark for holistic development. This exceptional economic journey aligns with Ayodhya's vision to be a model of sustainable development and prosperity. The district's commitment to advancing economic sectors showcases its resilience and adaptability, resonating with the global investor community," Dayal said. Ayodhya is also set to emerge as UP's first Solar City, marking a harmonious blend of spirituality and sustainable energy initiatives. Spearheaded by the Uttar Pradesh New and Renewable Energy Department (UPNEDA), this ambitious project encompasses the development of solar parks, solar-powered boats, street lights, and the widespread adoption of solar energy in public transport. The electrification of government buildings using solar power stands as a testament to Ayodhya's commitment to a greener and more sustainable future. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi and around 11,000 guests set to witness the 'Pran Pratishtha' consecration ceremony, Ayodhya's transformation into a Solar City will become a national spectacle. As a part of the Solar City program, Ayodhya is undergoing a remarkable transformation with a 40 MW solar power plant set to grace 165 acres of identified land. The ambitious project is well underway, with a 10 MW plant already commissioned and the full 40 MW capacity expected to be operational by March 2024. As a part of the broader framework outlined in Uttar Pradesh's Solar Energy Policy 2022, Ayodhya is set to pioneer solar innovation, serving as a model for 17 municipal corporations, including Noida. The multifaceted plan involves strategically developing solar parks along the banks of the Saryu River and extends beyond infrastructure to include the adoption of solar energy in public transport, enhancing the city's eco-friendly mobility. Ayodhya's solar initiative transcends mere technological deployment and encompasses public spaces, with the installation of solar-powered mobile phone charging setups, ensuring convenient access to clean energy. The promotion of solar energy for domestic and household purposes signifies a comprehensive approach to integrate sustainable practices into the daily lives of Ayodhya's residents. The establishment of a 50-kilowatt off-grid solar power plant in the Bhairo Singh Gaushala, showcases Ayodhya's dedication to harnessing solar energy across diverse sectors. Solar-powered water kiosks have been set up to ensure access to clean and sustainable water sources. In the realm of rooftop solar power plants, a total capacity of 1073 kilowatt has been established on residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. This initiative, coupled with extensive outreach and 80 camps, aims to encourage widespread adoption of solar power and avail the benefits of the program. Under the Babu Ji Kalyan Singh Gram Unnati Yojna for solar street lights, the target of 200 lights has been achieved, further enhancing rural infrastructure and ensuring well-lit public spaces. These accomplishments collectively underscore Uttar Pradesh's steadfast commitment to harnessing solar energy across various domains, fostering sustainable development, and championing environmental conservation. New Delhi, Jan 12 : The All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) here has clarified that all clinical services will remain open on Monday (January 22) to provide seamless and uninterrupted patient care services. Earlier on Saturday, Delhi AIIMS had announced that the hospital will remain closed till 2:30 p.m. to celebrate the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Ram temple in Ayodhya on January 22. On Saturday, AIIMS had said in its order that emergency services will continue on Monday, but now as per the new order all patient care services, including the OPD, will remain functional on Monday. The AIIMS New Delhi issued an office memorandum on Sunday regarding the half day closing (till 2:30 p.m.) of the Central Government Offices, Central Institutions and Central Industrial Establishments on January 22. "In continuation of this Office Memorandum of even number dated 20.01.2024 on the subject cited above, all Clinical Services, including the Outpatient Services (OPD) shall remain open to prevent any inconvenience to patients and to facilitate patient care services. All Chief of Centres, Heads of the Department, Units and Branch Officers are requested to bring this to the notice of all staff working under them," the AIIMS office memorandum stated. The office memorandum was issued by its administrative officer Rajesh Kumar and distributed to all departments, Section and Units of AIIMS Delhi. According to the official, all centres, Hostel Section, Patent Cell, professor -in-charge have also been informed about this. AIIMS Delhi has rolled back its decision to stay shut till 2.30 p.m. on Monday after a severe backlash from several corners of the society. Earlier AIIMS and Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, New Delhi had announced the half-day closure on January 22. Kabul, Jan 21 : A passenger plane has crashed in Afghanistan's Badakhshan province, local media reported. The information was provided by Zabihullah Amiri, an official of provincial department of information and culture, Xinhua news agency reported quoting Tolo news. A team has been rushed to the accident site near Topkhana area of Kuran-wa-Munjan district, Amiri said. Chennai, Jan 21 : The Madras High Court on Sunday disposed of a PIL filed by a person, R. Raja of Puduchery, against the closure of the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute for Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) till 2.30 p.m. on Monday (January 22) for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya. A special sitting of the Madras High Court was held on Sunday to hear the PIL as it was of an urgent nature. The first bench of the Madras High Court comprising Chief Justice S.S. Gangapurwala and Justice D. Bharatha Chakravarthy disposed of the PIL after the Central government assured the court that all the required Medical services will be available on Monday for handling emergency cases at the institution. Additional Solicitor General A.R.L. Sundaresan, representing the Union government, assured the court that the treatment that has to be done will be done and that MRIs required to be taken will be taken. He told the division bench of the Madras HC that all emergency scans would be done . Sundaresan also assured the court that all the planned surgeries will be rescheduled for the next earliest slot and added that all the patients who were scheduled for surgeries were intimated in advance on the change of dates. He also said that to handle emergency situations, a dedicated work force has been allocated. The Additional Solicitor General also said that there were no elective surgeries scheduled for Monday. Appearing for the petitioner, senior counsel G. Prakash said that if the scheduled surgeries were not performed on January 22 morning the patients would suffer and added that this would add up to the backlog of cases already in JIPMER. The court recorded the assurances of the Additional Solicitor General and disposed of the Public Interest Litigation. Washington, Jan 21 : Iran has accused Israel of killing five of its military advisors in Syria capital Damascus in a missile strike on a building, Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency reported. The Damascus strike is being viewed by observers as the buildup of hostilities in the middle east as Israel's war with Hamas has entered the fourth month. The alleged strike targeted the Mazzeh neighborhood in Syria's capital, where several diplomatic missions including the Iranian embassy, are located, according to Syrian authorities. Israel "launched an air attack from the Golan Heights at 10:20 a.m. local time that targeted a residential building in the Mazzeh neighborhood," the Syrian Ministry of Defense alleged, adding that some missiles were shot down by national defense forces. Numerous buildings and adjacent vehicles were damaged in the blast, Syria's state broadcaster reported, with civil defense teams still searching for victims trapped under the rubble. The Israel Defense Forces declined to comment on the incident, telling CNN, "We do not comment on foreign reports." One of the dead, Hojjatollah Omidvar, was described by Iranas semi-official Student News Network as a deputy chief of the Quds Force intelligence unit in Syria - one of five branches of the Revolutionary Guards unit in charge of foreign operations. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) identified the four others killed as military advisors Ali Aghazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi, Saeed Karimi and Mohammad Amin Samadi. Their presence in Syria had been "at the official invitation of the Syrian government", Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson, Nasser Kanaani, noted in a statement on social media. The Damascus missile hit raises concerns that Israel's war with Hamas in Gaza is spiraling into a regional war. In northern Iraq, an Iranian missile attack last week targeted what Tehran claimed to be a spy base for Israeli intelligence agency Mossad. In Lebanon, militant group Hezbollah has engaged in near-daily confrontations with Israeli forces across the border. And from Yemen, Houthi rebels have launched a series of attacks on commercial ships and Western military vessels in the Red Sea, media reports said. Attacks by Iranian-backed groups in the Middle East won't stop until Israel's war on Hamas in Gaza ends, Tehran's top diplomat warned on Wednesday, echoing comments by several groups in Iranas network of influence. "If the genocide in Gaza stops, then it will lead to the end of other crises and attacks in the region," Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian told CNN in an interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Wednesday. Since Israel launched its ground and air campaign in Gaza, in response to Hamas' October 7 terror attacks, nearly 25,000 people have been killed in the blockaded Palestinian enclave a" the majority of them women and children - according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Ramallah. The US, a key Israel ally, launched strikes in Yemen to degrade Houthi capabilities to harm the vital Red Sea shipping lane. In comments on Wednesday, State Department spokesperson Matt Miller emphasised that a larger conflagration could be avoided and highlighted a flurry of US diplomatic activity in the Middle East. "We continue to engage in diplomatic efforts to try to make clear to everyone in the region that we donat want to see the conflict escalated, that we donat think itas in any countryas interest to see the conflict escalated," Miller said on Wednesday. The de-escalation path appears elusive as Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi on Saturday vowed to "punish" Israel for the Damascus missile strike. The killing was "another stain on the record of all governments who claim to be the advocates of human rights because it violated Syriaas airspace and trampled on human and international laws", he said, in comments reported by Iranian state media. Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 21 : K.K. Mohammed, the archaeologist who made some important findings regarding the Ram Janmabhoomi temple has said that the "Muslims should hand over Gyanvapi and Shahi Idgah mosques to Hindus". His strong and forceful views supporting the existence of a Ram temple under the demolished disputed structure in Ayodhya was discussed widely. He has also negated the anti-Ram temple theories. Mohammed, who retired as the Regional Director of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), is credited with several key archaeological findings, including the discovery of the Ibadat Khana, a complex built by Mughal emperor Akbar for hosting religious debates and discussions among theologians and scholars of various religions. Excerpts from an IANS interview with K.K. Mohammed: IANS: You were a team member of the excavations at the Ram Janmabhoomi/ Babri Masjid in 1976. What were your findings? Mohammed: The team was headed by Professor B.B. Lal and I were part of it. We could find several pillars that had inscriptions resembling with Hindu temples. Even in the walls of the building there were several depictions of Hindu gods and goddesses that were defaced in many places. We could also find terracotta statues of animals, females, warriors and several such materials. IANS: In 1976 during the excavations you must have been quite young. How come you became a part of this team in a crucial excavation? Mohammed: I was then a student of Post Graduate Diploma at the ASIas college of Archaeology after a Postgraduation in History from Aligarh Muslim University with a rank. One of our team members was Jaisree Ramanathan, wife of the senior Congress leader, Jairam Ramesh. I was involved in the excavation of Trench B. IANS: There are reports that Dr. B.B. Lal, who headed the team, did not want to publicise the findings as it would have created a major friction. Your comment. Mohammed: Yes it was true. Prof Lal never wanted to publicise the findings but we had documented them properly. He did not publicise it as it would have created a lot of friction in the society and Prof Lal never wanted such an issue to snowball. However, the Communist Historians -- I underline the word Historians, led by Prof Irfan Habib -- came out with press statements that Dr Lal and his team did not find anything from the excavations. It was then that Prof Lal was forced to respond and the findings were brought out in the public. In fact Prof Irfan Habib was not an archaeologist and only a historian and he had distorted ideas that led to a major polarisation among the people. IANS: However, the crucial evidence was received after the Masjid was demolished in 1992 and not during the excavation your team undertook in 1976. Your comments? Mohammed: Yes there was a 12th century Vishnuharishila inscription that was there under the structure. Critics had earlier stated that it was an 18th century inscription but they backed out later. In the inscription it was clearly written about the Mahavishnu who had killed Bali and also killed the man with ten heads. This means Lord Ram and hence it is clear as to who the place belonged to. IANS: You had mentioned in several interviews earlier that this would have been settled much earlier and that Muslim community was willing for a temple to be constructed there. Mohammed: It is true. The Muslim community of Ayodhya was only 6 per cent and they were willing to hand over the property to the temple trust. One of the leading Islamic scholars of Lucknow, Abdul Hassan Ali Nadvi who was widely respected globally, had taken the initiative but the communist historians, including Prof Irfan Habib, played spoilsport and created confusion and later this led to a major agitation and polarised the Hindus and Muslims. IANS: Donat you feel that the Muslim community of the country feel dejected and lost due to this? Mohammed: No never. Babar was a king and his soldiers led by his commander Mir Bakshi had destroyed and demolished the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple. A Muslim king had destroyed a temple that Hindus revered for ages and the Hindu community of the country is pained and dejected. For the Muslims this Masjid was never important. IANS: Are Muslims of this generation responsible in any way for some thing that happened in the medieval period? Mohammed: No, they are not responsible but they should not be defending the Muslim invaders who destroyed the temple. The Christians are not defending what the Portuguese did in Goa. IANS: Do you support constructing a temple after demolishing a Masjid? Mohammed: As an archaeologist I never support demolishing any structure that is of historical and archaeological importance. IANS: When the masjid was demolished in 1992, what were your feelings? Mohammed: I was shaken at this and so were all of us in the Archaeology and friends circle. Senior IAS officer, N. Mahadevan had then said that we should not do wrong to correct a historical mistake that happened centuries ago. IANS: Now there are demands for the Gyanvyapi and Mathura. Your comments Mohammed: Handing over Gyanvapi and Mathura to Hindus is the only lasting solution to this issue. All the religious leadership should in unison hand over these structures to the Hindu community. Kashi, Mathura and Ayodhya are very important for Hindus as they depict Lord Shiva, Lord Krishna and Lord Shri Ram. There are no emotions attached to Muslims for these mosques. IANS: Suppose Kashi Gyanvapi and Mathura are handed over to Hindus, then there would be claims by VHP/RSS for 20,000 disputed buildings. Your comment? Mohammed: If such claims are made then there are no answers. There are several Jain and Buddhist structures that are converted to Hindu temples in Kerala. You may however note that there were several Hindus who stood with the Muslims in the Ram Janmabhoomi, Babri Masjid issue. Have Muslims stood with Hindus if we think the opposite. IANS: As a person who was a part of the excavation team and one who had relentlessly stated that it was a Ram temple, are you happy now? Mohammed: Indeed I am happy as a professional archaeologist and that a majestic temple for Lord Ram has come up in Ayodhya. IANS: You are a Muslim and yet you are saying that you are happy at the temple coming up? Mohammed: An archaeologist is not a Hindu or a Muslim. I am a professional archaeologist and I am professionally very happy that several years of excavations and scientific findings have given a correct result and a grand temple is coming up. I am happy about this. IANS: You are living in Kozhikode, Kerala and there have been several threats to your life. Is it the same today? Mohammed: Yes, I have faced several threats and these days I am confined to my home in Kozhikode. The Popular Front of India was very active in my home town till it was banned and I am living a life of threat ever since I honestly spoke about my findings. IANS: Have you got an invite for the Prana Pratishtha function at the Ram Temple on January 22? Mohammed: Yes, I have received the invitation but I am not going for the function as I am physically unwell due to certain ailments. Hence I am not attending. New Delhi, Jan 21 : The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) on Sunday said that the unfortunate plane crash that occurred in Afghanistan is neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft. "It is a Moroccan registered small aircraft. Officials are keeping watch on the incident and more details are awaited," said a senior MoCA official. According to Afghan media, a plane bound for Moscow crashed in the Wakhan region of Badakhshan in Afghanistan. The head of information and culture for the Taliban in Badakhshan has confirmed the incident, revealing that the passenger plane went down in the Topkhane Mountain, spanning across the Kuran-Manjan and Zibak districts within the province. As of the current moment, official sources have not disclosed information regarding casualties or the cause of the crash. The Taliban's police command in Badakhshan has reported that the plane, which disappeared from radar the night before, crashed in the elevated mountains of the Topkhana area. Afghan's AMU TV stated that this region covers the Zibak and Kuran-Munjan districts of the province. Ranchi: A statue of Lord Ram and a replica of the Ram Mandir of Ayodhya are being prepared ahead of the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple. Image Source: IANS News Lucknow, Jan 21 : The Uttar Pradesh government has provided a list of 300 dignitaries who will attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony and they have been accorded protocol offered to state guests. According to the government spokesman, about 150 VIPs would reach Ayodhya on Sunday while the remaining ones would arrive on Monday morning. "An escort vehicle along with security personnel and personal liaison officers would be provided to state guests. They have been accorded Z-category protocol. Those who are staying overnight would be housed in preidentified hotels, tent cities, guest houses and suitable accommodations," the spokesman said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is scheduled to visit Ayodhya on Monday to participate in the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla, will stay in the temple town from 10.30 am to 3 pm. Elaborate security arrangements are being made on Ram Path, the route that the Prime Minister is expected to take to reach Ram temple. The entire stretch between Saket Degree College and Janmabhoomi Path is being sensitised and barricading has been put up on both the sides of the walkways to regulate the movement of pedestrians and vehicles. Modi is expected to reach Saket Degree College in a helicopter from Ayodhya airport, from where he would leave for the Ram temple. According to details provided in the official invite, he will participate in the final round of Pran Pratishtha ceremony from 11.30 am amid tight security. In case of fog, the local administration has prepared an alternative plan. "In that case, the PM would be brought via road from the airport through Tedhi Bazar railway overbridge to Ram Path," said a senior police officer deputed in Ayodhya. --IANS amita/dan Mumbai, Jan 21 : Is the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) a single-window clearance system for certifying feature films, which is mandatory before a film is released for public exhibition? Unfortunately, for the filmmakers, the CBFC is indeed a single window clearance point and it is one very crowded place. Take for example, the Marathi film, 'Morrya', awaiting release for the last many months. The maker's sad story was mentioned in this column earlier when he addressed the media. It was a dramatic press conference because the filmmaker literally cried while sharing his experience with the media. His story is that the Board is neither issuing a certificate, nor giving reasons for holding up the film because of which it has missed its release date of January 12. A big lot of films are reportedly stuck with the censors, all awaiting a release. Do the people at the Board know how much it takes to make a film and what kind of interest that the investment generates every month? The earlier name for the board was the Central Board of Film Censors. Probably, to make it sound relatively less restrictive, the name was changed to Central Board of Film Certification. One would assume that it was a formal affair like you present a film to the certifying body and they issue a certificate in a matter of a day or two. Ironically, that certification is like a mirage now. A business-like work system prevailed at the Censors where there was a price tag on everything from getting a screening date to obtaining a certificate. The stipulated censor charges, however, were never enough to get through the process. No, it was not all that simple. A producer, who was at the end of his spending power after completing his film, was made to pay in cash extra amounts (so much for demonetisation and getting rid of black money!). This is one place where the UPI mode of payment held no meaning. Thanks to a filmmaker from the South, this racket was exposed. To be true, this parallel economy at the censors has been at work since its inception and it was an accepted norm. But it never meant holding a film's release to ransom. That is what was done with the film of this maker from the South and he spilled it all out to the media. That was followed by a chorus with affected filmmakers pointing to corruption at the Board. The fact as it came out was that the producers had to deal with middlemen operating out of the Board's office. Instead, it should have been the officers attending to the applicants. A list of uncleared films was added up and the filmmakers were not able to either adhere to their planned release, or be in a position to even announce them. So, what did the ministry do? They changed the faces at the Board. The ministry removed the CEO and the Regional Officer (RO). Has it helped? Not at all. The films presented for the Censor Certificate are now not even listed for examining committee screenings, let alone get clearance. Release plans are going haywire and also suffering are the cinemas. The Marathi film 'Morrya' has not been granted a screening date for over two months and even 'Main Atal Hoon', a biopic on the late Prime Minister and BJP stalwart Atal Bihari Vajpayee, though slated for release on January 19, got the certificate only on the 17th! If the ministry believes that corruption has been ruled out (!) by replacing the officers, the screenings are still not being streamlined. How is that explained? The new officers are getting the hang of the process! Imagine, it has been a few months now! The Government has this policy where officers are transferred every three years or so. And, as it happens, the transfer is to a new department of which they have no clue! Eventually, no officer is a veteran of any task or department. In such an event, they have to outsource their duties to middlemen, who in turn start using the Board office as their personal domain. But the problem that still persists is that none of the officers responsible for running the system is willing to face the applicants! So, if not the middlemen, it will be the junior staff. When the film industry saw that the matter was getting out of hand, one of the four film producers' bodies, the Indian Motion Pictures Producers' Association (IMPPA), decided to make a representation to the Chairman, Prasoon Joshi. So, what happened? The IMPPA representatives discussed various urgent and other problems faced by producers. The outcome? The delegates returned with assurances and some pictures clicked with the chairman for keepsake! Government officers are masters of giving assurances. The pictures with the chairman were a bonus. The press note issued by the IMPPA makes no mention of a particular problem or films being discussed. The production body was more aggressive in their approach when Pahlaj Nihalini, one of their own, was the Chairman of CBFC. They took a morcha to the CBFC office. That shows the internal politics and jealousies within the industry and the reason why delegations usually return with assurances! They are in awe of the CBFC and avoid facing it. And that is one of the reasons why the system of middlemen has mushroomed. In the bygone era, filmmakers announced the release dates of films only after they were issued a censor certificate, lest they hurt the egos of those concerned. Now, filmmaking is more organised and the release dates are announced while a film is launched so as to catch a certain festival period. The ideal situation would be for the Board to clear a film within a stipulated period unless there is an issue with objectionable content. The CBFC clearance should not be a stumbling block for the filmmaker. Pass the film or reject it, but do it in time. Don't make a producer wait endlessly for the screening date at the Board. That way, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi advocating single window, fast processing will mean something. NEW DELHI, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- Indian police said Saturday they have arrested a man involved in the creation of a sensational deepfake video of Bollywood actress Rashmika Mandanna. According to police, the accused was arrested from the southern state of Andhra Pradesh and brought to the national capital New Delhi. "We have arrested 24-year-old Eemani Naveen from Andhra Pradesh's Guntur. His laptop and mobile phone have been recovered and his deleted data is also being recovered," Hemant Tiwari, a senior officer of Delhi Police's Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations unit, told media. "The accused used to run a fan page of a famous film actress (Rashmika Mandanna) and also created two more fan pages of another two noted celebrities." According to Tiwari, Naveen created the deepfake video to increase the number of followers on the social media page and earn from its monetization. The deepfake video of Mandanna triggered an outrage and sparked a debate on deepfakes around the country. Deepfake is a video of a person made using AI tools to digitally alter faces and bodies so they appear to be someone else. It is typically done for malicious purposes or to spread false information. Amid growing concerns about deepfakes and misinformation powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Indian government issued an advisory to all platforms to comply with information technology rules. Los Angeles, Jan 21 : Late Hollywood star Marilyn Monroe's former home, where she was found dead, has been rescued from demolition for the foreseeable future. The Hollywood legend bought the 1929-built Spanish-style hacienda on 5th Helena Drive in Los Angeles just six months before she was found dead in August 1962 at the age of 36, but in September, a permit was approved to tear down the home, reports aceshowbiz.com. The Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Commission, however, voted unanimously to declare the property a historic cultural monument on Thursday, January 18. People magazine reports the commissioners noted that although Monroe only spent a few months living at the property -- which is where she was found dead in 1962, aged 36 -- it was the only home she ever bought for herself. However, the house's future isn't secured forever as designation as a historic cultural monument "does not guarantee that the property cannot be demolished" in Los Angeles, but does allow the commission to delay demolition for 180 days while other opportunities for preservation are determined. The next step to save the property would be a review of the nomination by the city's Planning and Use Committee and then the LA City Council. Designating the home an historic site also will not stop any idea of potentially relocating the building to a more central location to be viewed easier by the public than its current neighbourhood, but that would be a lengthy and expensive process and it is not known if the house would be able to be moved. Scott Fortner, who hosts the 'All Things Marilyn Podcast', had played a key role in attempts to saving the house as a member of the Monroe Preservation Group, who were able to uncover historical significance to the property that dated before its iconic resident moved in. London, Jan 21 : An explosion has occurred at a gas export terminal near the city of St Petersburg in Russia, officials say, the media reported. The blast caused a large fire, state-owned RIA Novosti news agency said. It said the fire had been contained, and there were no reports of injuries. The cause of the fire is not known, but local media have reported that drones had been seen in the area, BBC reported. Both Russia and Ukraine have used drones in the current conflict. Regional Governor Alexander Drozdenko on Sunday said a "high alert regime" was in place after the incident at the terminal of gas producer Novatek, in Ust-Luga on the Gulf of Finland. He shared a video of what appeared to be a large fire. Russian news outlet Shot quoted local residents as saying they heard a drone followed by several explosions at Ust-Luga, close to Russia's border with Estonia, BBC reported. Fontanka, a St Petersburg-based news outlet, said at least two drones were spotted flying towards the city before the fire broke out. It said there were three large international tankers near the fire, although there were no reports of damage to them, BBC reported. Russia's defence ministry also said it shot down three Ukrainian drones in Smolensk Region, close to its border with Ukraine, on Saturday night. It earlier said it had shot down drones over Tula and Oryo, both in western Russia. San Francisco, Jan 21 : A Google software engineer in California, US, has been charged with his wife's murder (who was also a Google engineer) after police found him covered in blood with her body nearby. San Francisco, Jan 21 (IANS) A Google software engineer in California, US, has been charged with his wifeas murder (who was also a Google engineer) after police found him covered in blood with her body nearby. Liren Chen (27) was accused of beating his wife to death, reports Fox News Digital. "Police found Chen spattered with blood, in his home, with his wifeas body nearby," the Santa Clara district attorney's office said in a press release. "In the bedroom directly behind where Chen had been standing, officers located the victim deceased on the floor. She had severe blunt-force injuries to her head. Chenas right hand was extremely swollen and purple. He had blood on his clothing, legs, arms, and hands and scratches on his arm," it added. While the district attorney's statements did not name Chen's wife, several reports cited property documents to identify her as Xuanyi Yu. Google confirmed to Fox News Digital that Chen and his wife were employees at the company at the time of the incident. The district attorney's office said that "Chen has been charged with murder and faces prison if convicted". On January 16, around 11 a.m., the officers responded to a welfare check to a home on Valley Way. When officers arrived, an acquaintance of the suspect expressed concern about Chen and his wife. Chen was refusing to answer his phone or his door, the press release mentioned. He noticed Chen inside the house, "motionless on his knees, had his hands in the air, and was staring blankly." The officers entered the home and arrested the suspect. According to Chen's LinkedIn profile, he has three years of experience as a software engineer at Google, where he worked on the YouTube Shorts recommendation. Yu's LinkedIn profile states that she was a Google software engineer who had previously worked at Amazon. Patna, Jan 21 : Political temperature is soaring in Bihar with constituents of opposition bloc INDIA "fighting" over seat-sharing for the Lok Sabha polls, while the BJP and JD(U) toning down attacks against each other. Political circles in the state are abuzz with the speculation that JD(U) founder and state Chief Minister Nitish Kumar may join hands with the BJP. The JD(U) is pressuring the INDIA bloc to finalise the seat sharing, while its ally RJD is postponing the matter, saying its too early for deciding the issue. In such circumstances, rumours are rife that Nitish may rejoin NDA, a development which is bound to change the political scenario in the state. Recently, replying to a question if Nitish will be welcomed back to the NDA, Union Home Minister and senior BJP leader Amit Shah had said: "If anyone has a proposal on the matter, it would be considered." State Building Construction Minister Ashok Chaudhary had said Shah has never said that BJP's door are shut for Nitish, which shows that JD(U) has softened its stance towards the saffron party. Though the mutual understanding between the "old friends" (former allies) is increasing, during a rally in the state, Shah had said: "Doors of the BJP are closed for Nitish." A sudden change in the political winds can be seen, indicating anything can happen. It is said there are no permanent friends or enemies in politics. Political expert Ajay Kumar said that if INDIA bloc fails on the national level, then JD(U) and its allies may join the BJP. The JD(U) is also of the view that keeping the option of returning to the BJP open will fetch it more seats from the INDIA bloc during the seat-sharing talks. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has postponed his Bihar visit while Nitish, who was set to start his yatra from Jharkhand, has also put off the event. New Delhi, Jan 21 : China has yet to appoint its ambassador to India, some 15 months since the post fell vacant. The last Chinese ambassador in Delhi was Sun Weidong, who left in October, 2022 after three years on the job and became a vice-foreign minister in Beijing on his return. China-India relations plunged to a new low in the modern histories of the Asian neighbours in June, 2020, following clashes in the Galwan River valley that killed at least 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers. The decades-old border dispute, which led to a war in 1962, has seen skirmishes in the past three years amid a troops build-up and partial pullback. The delay in appointment is a sign that the bilateral relationship remains frosty. But the reason being increasingly cited is China's internal affairs. A diplomatic source said while the common perception is linked to the current state of Sino-Indian relations, the process of selecting a candidate from within China's foreign service is taking time because the Delhi posting requires seniority (as does the role in some other capitals). Both Chinese and Indian foreign policy analysts agreed China would be cautious about who to pick but their explanations differed. "It is a vice-ministerial-level job, an important post, so they need to find the right person," said Hu Shisheng, director, Institute for South Asian Studies, at a Beijing-based think-tank on international relations. "This is not related to the bilateral situation. It is a domestic issue." At present, no other country in South Asia has the Chinese ambassador's post empty. "An Indian ambassador to China can be selected from the joint secretary and above levels (Indian government hierarchy) but the Chinese ambassador's post (in India) is of a vice-ministerial level. Compared with years ago, the job's bureaucratic rank is higher today," said Srikanth Kondapalli, dean, School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi. There is not a dearth of senior candidates, he said, but India's approach to China has "changed" and there might be few takers for the job among Chinese diplomats. "The Galwan incident and follow-up have made the bilateral relationship sensitive," he said, adding that a new appointee would have an uphill task. According to a non-diplomatic source, last year, "the Chinese government had nearly found a new ambassador to India but the idea was later dropped" amid internal changes such as the removal of Qin Gang from the post of foreign minister and Li Shangfu from the post of defence minister. The probability of China announcing a new ambassador to India in the immediate future appears less likely, owing to domestic preoccupation: the "two sessions" - China's annual legislative meetings in March, as well as India's general elections between April and May. "Not naming a new ambassador doesn't mean that China does not take India seriously," said Qian Feng, director of research, National Strategy Institute, Tsinghua University, Beijing. "China has its internal process and will be careful about this appointment." For China-India relations to thaw, China has to create the right conditions, Kondapalli said. "India is saying, go back to where you came from (pre-2020), remove the troops - de-escalate and disengage and then we can talk about resetting relations." Hu said the Galwan clash continues to be a sensitive issue in the bilateral relationship but both countries have "learned big lessons". The India-China disputed border is categorised in three sections: eastern, middle and western. "The eastern and middle sections are more or less clear in terms of each other's positions and the Line of Actual Control but there are many 'grey areas' in the western section, with overlapping claims," Hu said, adding that "with mutual understanding, both sides have disengaged in some of the hotspots other than Demchok and the Depsang Plains". China views the border dispute as a "leftover" problem of British colonialism in the region and wants to go about business as usual with India in other fields. India has been more vocal about its non-acceptance of that position since 2020. "We wish India understands that the resolution of the border dispute should not be seen as a prerequisite for improving general bilateral relations," said Qian. Ma Jia, the charge d'affaires of the Chinese embassy in Delhi, described the current border situation as stable. "The two sides have maintained the momentum of diplomatic and military negotiations on border-related issues and agreed to promote the settlement of the issues and turn the page at an early date," she told reporters last Thursday. The two countries have held 20 rounds of military talks and more than a dozen diplomatic meetings on the border issue since 2020. China's Belt and Road Initiative, which is integrated with its foreign policy, would be another factor in the appointment of a Chinese ambassador to India, Kondapalli said. Chinese President Xi Jinping addressed the "central conference on work relating to foreign affairs" in Beijing in December. Among other things, a post-meeting statement noted "the platform for action is high-quality Belt and Road cooperation". "The last four or five Chinese ambassadors to India were not able to convince New Delhi to join or support the BRI," said Kondapalli. India raised sovereignty concerns over the BRI's flagship connectivity project that runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and has opposed it over the past decade since its launch. Hu said China and India can cooperate outside the BRI. "While BRI diplomacy is an important part of China's foreign policy, we also have major-power diplomacy such as with Russia and other collaborations that focus mainly on development or physical connectivity. With India, China can have physical or digital connectivity. For example, China has the hardware and India the software," he said. China and India have maintained "high-level communications and interactions", setting the tone for "stabilising" the relationship, Ma said. Last year, bilateral trade reached $136 billion and India's exports to China grew by 6 percent year-on-year. India's trade deficit with China was $83.2 billion in 2022-23, according to Indian Commerce Ministry data. Chinese investment in India has declined in the recent years, also amid an Indian government crackdown. The number of Chinese companies registered for business in India has fallen since the pandemic. India has long sought more market access in China, with few Indian companies registered for business in China even before the pandemic. Los Angeles, Jan 21 : Actor Jacob Elordi hosted the latest episode of 'Saturday Night Live'. The episode also saw Renee Rapp as the musical guest. During Jacob's opening monologue, he first mentioned 'Saltburn', the current buzzy movie that made headlines for its graphic sex scenes, reports Variety. "You might know me from 'Saltburn'. Not from seeing the film, just from seeing the TikToks," he began, cutting to a scene when his co-star, Barry Keoghan, has sex with a grave. "I was the one in the grave. If you saw the movie, thank you. If you saw the movie with your parents, I'm sorry. If you saw the movie with your girlfriend, you're welcome." As per Variety, he then went to fan questions, first being asked who his favourite Elvis is, young or old. He responded, " 'Lilo and Stitch' Elvis." (The actor, who portrays the icon in 'Priscilla', recently admitted he was only really familiar with Elvis because of the 2002 animated film). After one woman was called on and answered, "No question, just want to look at you", the next remark came from cast member Sarah Sherman, who said she thought his film was "absolutely gross". When he said that 'Saltburn' isn't for anyone, she replied, "What the hell is a 'Saltburn'? I'm talking about 'The Kissing Booth'. Two people kissing on the mouth ew!" After a loud applause, Elordi laughed and admitted, "Yeah, you know what, kissing is kind of weird when you think about it". Kolkata, Jan 21 : Trinamool Congress leader Shankar Madhya, accused in multi-crore ration distribution case, and remanded to judicial custody till February 3 by a special court of PMLA has asked for 'special facilities' from the prison authorities. Sources said that on his very first night at Presidency Central Correctional Home in South Kolkata, he flooded the prison officials with a variety of demands like his choice of food and toilet. He has demanded that he will not consume the prison food and demanded that he be allowed to get food from his residence. Source said that authorities have denied him the demands and asked him to get accustomed with what is being provided to his fellow inmates. He has been also told that he will not be entitled to any special facility in the jail. He had also asked the authorities for his choice of toilet and told the prison staff that he was accustomed to using western-style toilets. This demand was also turned down by the authorities. Los Angeles, Jan 21 : Oscar-winning actress recently filmed a TikTok video of herself making a "Chococinno", which involved mixing snow, cold brew coffee, chocolate and salted caramel syrups. Following online criticism of her design, Reese explained in another video: "There's so many people on here saying snow is dirty so we went and took snow from the backyard and we microwaved it and it's clear. Is this bad? Am I not supposed to eat snow?," reports Female First UK. In a follow-up video, Reese laughed off criticism of her frosty snack. The 47-year-old star, who lives in Nashville, Tennessee, said: "OK so we're kind of in a category of 'You only live once' and it snows maybe once a year here. I don't know! Also, I want to say something. It was delicious. It was so good." As per Female First UK, Reese subsequently suggested that the controversy was a generational issue, with the actress admitting that she "didn't grow up drinking filtered water". The Hollywood star said on TikTok: "OK, talking about the snow not being filtered. I didn't grow up drinking filtered water. "We drank out of the tap water. We actually put our mouths on the tap and then sometimes like in the summer, when it was hot, we drank out of the hose, like, we put our mouth on the hose, growing up." Reese, who is one of the best-paid actresses in the movie business, jokingly added: "Maybe that's why I'm like this. So what you're saying to me is I have to filter the snow before I eat it? I just can't. Filtered snow. I don't know how to do that." Seoul, Jan 21 : Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his willingness to visit North Korea, an official statement said on Sunday. North Korea Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui had paid an official visit to Russia from Monday to Wednesday on the invitation of Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov and held strategic talks, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported. The two countries had deep strategic communication and reached consensus on various regional and international issues, including the situation on the Korean Peninsula and in Northeast Asia, a statement issued by North Korea said, Yonhap news agency reported. North Korea and Russia expressed their strong will to further strengthen strategic and tactical cooperation in defending the core interests of the two countries and establishing a new multi-polarised international order based on independence and justice, it added. Putin extended "deep thanks" for the invitation of South Korea leader Kim Jong Un to visit Pyongyang at a convenient time and expressed his willingness to visit the country at an early date, it said. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Putin's visit to the North Korea was being discussed between the two sides "through diplomatic channels," media reports said. New Delhi, Jan 21 : China has yet to appoint its ambassador to India, some 15 months since the post fell vacant. The last Chinese Ambassador in Delhi was Sun Weidong, who left in October 2022 after three years on the job and became a Vice Foreign Minister in Beijing on his return. China-India relations plunged to a new low in the modern histories of the Asian neighbours in June, 2020, following clashes in the Galwan River valley that killed at least 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers. The decades-old border dispute, which led to a war in 1962, has seen skirmishes in the past three years amid a troops build-up and partial pullback. The delay in appointment is a sign that the bilateral relationship remains frosty. But the reason being increasingly cited is China's internal affairs. A diplomatic source said while the common perception is linked to the current state of Sino-Indian relations, the process of selecting a candidate from within China's foreign service is taking time because the Delhi posting requires seniority (as does the role in some other capitals). Both Chinese and Indian foreign policy analysts agreed China would be cautious about who to pick but their explanations differed. "It is a vice-ministerial-level job, an important post, so they need to find the right person," said Hu Shisheng, director, Institute for South Asian Studies, at a Beijing-based think-tank on international relations. "This is not related to the bilateral situation. It is a domestic issue." At present, no other country in South Asia has the Chinese ambassador's post empty. "An Indian ambassador to China can be selected from the joint secretary and above levels (Indian government hierarchy) but the Chinese ambassador's post (in India) is of a vice-ministerial level. Compared with years ago, the job's bureaucratic rank is higher today," said Srikanth Kondapalli, dean, School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi. There is not a dearth of senior candidates, he said, but India's approach to China has "changed" and there might be few takers for the job among Chinese diplomats. "The Galwan incident and follow-up have made the bilateral relationship sensitive," he said, adding that a new appointee would have an uphill task. According to a non-diplomatic source, last year, "the Chinese government had nearly found a new ambassador to India but the idea was later dropped" amid internal changes such as the removal of Qin Gang from the post of foreign minister and Li Shangfu from the post of defence minister. The probability of China announcing a new ambassador to India in the immediate future appears less likely, owing to domestic preoccupation: the "two sessions" - China's annual legislative meetings in March, as well as India's general elections between April and May. "Not naming a new ambassador doesn't mean that China does not take India seriously," said Qian Feng, director of research, National Strategy Institute, Tsinghua University, Beijing. "China has its internal process and will be careful about this appointment." For China-India relations to thaw, China has to create the right conditions, Kondapalli said. "India is saying, go back to where you came from (pre-2020), remove the troops - de-escalate and disengage and then we can talk about resetting relations." Hu said the Galwan clash continues to be a sensitive issue in the bilateral relationship but both countries have "learned big lessons". The India-China disputed border is categorised in three sections: eastern, middle and western. "The eastern and middle sections are more or less clear in terms of each other's positions and the Line of Actual Control but there are many 'grey areas' in the western section, with overlapping claims," Hu said, adding that "with mutual understanding, both sides have disengaged in some of the hotspots other than Demchok and the Depsang Plains". China views the border dispute as a "leftover" problem of British colonialism in the region and wants to go about business as usual with India in other fields. India has been more vocal about its non-acceptance of that position since 2020. "We wish India understands that the resolution of the border dispute should not be seen as a prerequisite for improving general bilateral relations," said Qian. Ma Jia, the charge d'affaires of the Chinese embassy in Delhi, described the current border situation as stable. "The two sides have maintained the momentum of diplomatic and military negotiations on border-related issues and agreed to promote the settlement of the issues and turn the page at an early date," she told reporters last Thursday. The two countries have held 20 rounds of military talks and more than a dozen diplomatic meetings on the border issue since 2020. China's Belt and Road Initiative, which is integrated with its foreign policy, would be another factor in the appointment of a Chinese ambassador to India, Kondapalli said. Chinese President Xi Jinping addressed the "central conference on work relating to foreign affairs" in Beijing in December. Among other things, a post-meeting statement noted "the platform for action is high-quality Belt and Road cooperation". "The last four or five Chinese ambassadors to India were not able to convince New Delhi to join or support the BRI," said Kondapalli. India raised sovereignty concerns over the BRI's flagship connectivity project that runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and has opposed it over the past decade since its launch. Hu said China and India can cooperate outside the BRI. "While BRI diplomacy is an important part of China's foreign policy, we also have major-power diplomacy such as with Russia and other collaborations that focus mainly on development or physical connectivity. With India, China can have physical or digital connectivity. For example, China has the hardware and India the software," he said. China and India have maintained "high-level communications and interactions", setting the tone for "stabilising" the relationship, Ma said. Last year, bilateral trade reached $136 billion and India's exports to China grew by 6 percent year-on-year. India's trade deficit with China was $83.2 billion in 2022-23, according to Indian Commerce Ministry data. Chinese investment in India has declined in the recent years, also amid an Indian government crackdown. The number of Chinese companies registered for business in India has fallen since the pandemic. India has long sought more market access in China, with few Indian companies registered for business in China even before the pandemic. MOSCOW, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- The passenger plane that crashed in Afghanistan on Saturday night was registered in Russia and was heading for Russia's Zhukovsky airport, said Russia's Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsia) on Sunday. The plane was en route from India to Uzbekistan, with Russia's Zhukovsky airport in Moscow as its destination. Preliminary information showed it was carrying six people including four crew members, said Rosaviatsia. The Russian aviation watchdog said the search for the plane is underway, and it is in contact with the aviation authorities of Tajikistan and Afghanistan. New Delhi, Jan 21 : The Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday visited Arichal Munai in Tamil Nadu, the starting point of Ram Setu. "Had the opportunity to be at Arichal Munai, which holds a special significance in Prabhu Shri Ram's life. It is the starting point of the Ram Setu," Modi wrote on X. He also performed darshan and pooja at Kothandaramaswamy Temple in Dhanushkodi on Sunday. The Prime Minister's Office said that this temple is dedicated to Sri Kothandarama Swamy. "The name Kothandarama, means Rama with the bow. It is located in a place called Dhanushkodi. It is said that this is where Vibhishana first met Sri Rama and asked him for refuge. Some legends also say that this is the place where Sri Rama conducted the coronation of Vibhishana," the PMO's office said. "Prayed at the iconic Kothandaramaswamy Temple. Felt extremely blessed," Modi wrote on X. He also laid the foundation stone of Shri Khodaldham Trust-Cancer Hospital via video message. He expressed great privilege in connecting with the holy land of Khodal Dham and the devotees of Khodal Maa and also underlined that Shri Khodaldham Trust has taken another important step in the field of public welfare and service with the foundation stone laying of the Cancer Hospital and Research Center in Amreli. He said that Shri Khodaldham Trust-Kagwad will complete 14 years of its establishment. Modi said that the Leuva Patidar community had established the Shri Khodaldham Trust with the resolve of service, values and dedication 14 years ago. He said that the trust has worked to change the lives of millions of people through its service. "Be it the field of education, agriculture or health, this Trust has done excellent work in every direction," he said. He also said that the cancer hospital being built in Amreli will become another example of the spirit of service and will hugely benefit a large area of Saurashtra including Amreli. New Delhi, Jan 21 : The Supreme Court is slated to hear, on Monday, the plea filed by Congress leader Jaya Thakur seeking immediate implementation of the Women Reservation Bill before the 2024 Lok Sabha polls. As per the causelist published on the website of the apex court, a bench of Justice Sanjiv Khanna and Dipankar Datta will resume hearing the matter on January 22. In the previous hearing, the top court adjourned the hearing after no lawyer made an appearance on behalf of the Union government. In November 2023, the Supreme Court had refused to issue notice in the matter and remarked that it will be "very difficult" to strike down the provision of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam Bill 2023 which provides that the 33 per cent quota for women in the legislature will not be implemented unless decennial census and subsequent delimitation exercise is carried out. The PIL had contended that there was no requirement of the census and delimitation because the number of seats are already declared and the present amendment gives 33 per cent reservation for existing seats. The plea said that this is an admitted position in our country that 50 per cent is women population but they have only 4 per cent representation in elections. Kolkata, Jan 21 : A key witness in a rape-cum-murder case, who is also a relative of the minor victim, was abducted and then thrashed by unknown miscreants in Hanskhali of West Bengal's Nadia district on late Saturday night. The miscreants later left the uncle of the victim at a secluded place in a severely injured condition. He is currently undergoing treatment at a local hospital. According to the family, a group of miscreants barged into their residence, wrapped the uncle of the minor victim in a blanket and took him to a secluded place. Before getting admitted to the hospital, the man claimed that he was beaten up severely by the miscreants, who also threatened to kill him if he doesn't give a false statement in the case related to the rape and murder of his niece in April 2022. It may be mentioned that the Calcutta High Court had directed the police to provide security to the family. "We are suffering from a feeling of utter insecurity now and we apprehend repetition of similar attacks on us in future," said a member of the family. The minor girl was allegedly gang-raped on April 4, 2022. Her family members tried to take her to a hospital but the father of the prime accused, who is now in the custody of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), allegedly used strong-arm tactics to prevent them. In the same year, the High Court directed the CBI to take up the matter. Since then, the investigating agency has made several arrests. Among those arrested is a Trinamool Congress leader who is the father of the prime accused. His henchmen and some friends of the accused, allegedly involved in the crime, have also been arrested. Agartala/Imphal/Shillong, Jan 21 : Meghalaya, Tripura and Manipur on Sunday separately celebrated their 52nd Statehood Day by holding a variety of colourful cultural programmes and other functions. In view of the prevailing law and order situation arisen due to around nine-month long ethnic violence, the Statehood Day functions were low-key in Manipur. However, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh addressed the day's main function in the 1st battalion Manipur Battalion Ground in Imphal. President Droupadi Murmu, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, BJP President J.P. Nadda and several Union ministers and Chief Ministers of the neighbouring northeastern states greeted the people of the three states on the occasion. Congratulating the people of the three states, the Prime Minister, in separate messages on the X, said: "Heartfelt wishes on Statehood Day to the people of Tripura. May this day celebrate the unique history and rich heritage of the state. Wishing prosperity and harmony to the people of Tripura." "On Manipur's Statehood Day, my best wishes to the people of the state. Manipur has made a strong contribution to India's progress. We take pride in the culture and traditions of the state. I pray for the continued development of Manipur." "Happy Statehood Day to the people of Meghalaya! Today is an occasion to celebrate the incredible culture of Meghalaya and the achievements of the people there. May Meghalaya scale new heights of progress in the times to come," Modi said. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and former party chief Rahul Gandhi on Sunday greeted people of three northeast states on their Statehood Day. Trinamool Congress National General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee also greeted the people of the three northeastern states on the occasion. Responding to the Prime Minister's post on the X, Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said: "Under your leadership and guidance, we will ensure Meghalaya reaches new heights of peace and progress." In Tripura, the Day's main function was held in Agartala and Chief Minister Manik Saha felicitated many intellectuals and dignitaries for their immense performance in various fields. The erstwhile princely states of Tripura and Manipur were merged into the Indian Union in October 1949 and became full-fledged states on January 21, 1972. Meghalaya was part of Assam before becoming a full-fledged state on the same day. All the three northeastern states became full-fledged states under the North Eastern Region (Re-Organisation) Act, 1971. The three states have taken a series of programmes to celebrate the day and announced a slew of welfare programmes and various plans to develop these states in future. Chennai, Jan 21 : Expelled AIADMK leader and former Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam (OPS) has appealed to the DMK government in Tamil Nadu to declare a holiday on January 22 for the people to watch the Pran Pratishtha function of Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The former Chief Minister in a statement on Sunday said that a half day holiday on Monday will help state government and Public Sector employees to watch and celebrate the Ram Temple Pran Pratishtha function in Ayodhya. Pannerselvam said, aPrime Minister Narendra Modi who has fulfilled the spiritual dream of the people of India is participating in the inauguration of the Ram Temple on Monday. The Central government has declared a half day holiday on Monday to facilitate government employees to witness the inauguration of the Ram temple. Similarly the Puducherry government has declared a half day holiday on Monday.a He called upon the state government to announce half day holiday on Monday for the government and Public Sector employees to watch the consecration. Kolkata, Jan 21 : Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat will be on a three-day visit to West Bengal starting from Monday. He is scheduled to arrive here on Monday evening from Ayodhya after attending Ram Mandir inauguration ceremony there. He is likely to attend a marriage function at the residence of an RSS functionary in West Bengal. On Tuesday, he will be attending a function to pay homage to Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose on the occasion of the freedom fighter's birth anniversary. On Wednesday, he will be meeting with the top RSS functionaries in West Bengal. This is the second visit of Bhagwat to West Bengal within a period of less than a month. Last year, in December, he visited the city and interacted with a number of eminent persons from civil society. ED suspends its official arrested by Rajasthan ACB in graft case; launches probe. Image Source: IANS News Ahmedabad, Jan 21 : In a crackdown against illegal immigration, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has conducted searches across 22 locations in Delhi and Gujarat, an official said on Sunday. These raids, conducted on January 19 and 20 were targeted at unraveling a complex network allegedly led by key conspirators Bharatbhai Patel, known as Bobby, Charanajit Singh, and others. In a statement, the ED linked these raids to a broader investigation into a syndicate involved in facilitating illegal immigration. Extensive searches were conducted across 22 locations in Ahmedabad, Surat, Mehsana in Gujarat, and Delhi, on January 19 and 20. Bharatbhai Patel was previously apprehended by the Gujarat Police in 2022. Patel's activities include his involvement in the Dingucha case of the same year in which an Indian family of four perished while attempting to cross from Canada into the US illegally. The latest enforcement action by the ED stems from two FIRs lodged by the Gujarat Police. The accused have been charged under various sections of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, the Indian Penal Code and the Passports Act. The charges relate to their alleged long-term involvement in orchestrating illegal immigration of Indian citizens, a practice that reportedly dates back to 2015. Investigations reveal that the racket fabricated documents to secure visas to various countries. The accused allegedly exploited bogus or duplicate passports to impersonate legitimate travellers. The scale of the operation is highlighted by the substantial sums demanded from those seeking to migrate -- individual passengers were reportedly charged between Rs 60-75 lakh, while couples were levied up to Rs 1-1.25 crore. Families with children faced even higher fees, ranging from Rs 1.25-1.75 crore. The two-day operation led to the seizure of considerable assets, including approximately Rs 1.5 crore in Indian currency and around Rs 21 lakh in foreign currencies. In addition to the monetary haul, the ED reported the confiscation of various incriminating materials, both digital and documentary, shedding further light on the extent of this illegal immigration network. New Delhi, Jan 21 : Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who was facing a backlash from his opponents over his controversial remarks on women in the state Assembly, has surprised everyone with his recent political activism. Kumar, who seemed to be not getting much attention from his allies in the INDIA bloc, has increased his activities in the last 25 days and taken complete control of the JD(U). Besides, his activism in the government has also surprised everyone in the political circles. Kumar became the party's National President by removing Rajiv Ranjan Singh alias Lalan Singh from the post and has also formed a new team of national-level officebearers. On January 20, Kumar made two key decisions related to the party and the government, making it clear to all the political parties and administrative officials in Bihar that whether it is about the party or the government, he is the real boss. On the day, Kumar not only revamped the party's national team but also reshuffled his cabinet. The JD(U) chief dropped Lalan Singh's closed ones from the national team and made K.C. Tyagi the party's political advisor and spokesperson. Tyagi, who was once considered very close to Sharad Yadav, has very good relations with BJP leaders. It is being said that Kumar has given a big signal by appointing Tyagi to the post. The Bihar Chief Minister also changed the portfolio of RJD leader Chandra Shekhar, who was the Education Minister and has been hitting the headlines for his controversial remarks on Ram Mandir, Ramcharitmanas and Manusmriti. Besides Chandra Shekhar, the portfolios of two other ministers from the RJD camp were changed in Saturday's reshuffle. With this, Kumar has given a big political message to the Congress and the RJD. Recently in an interview, BJP leader and Union Home Minister Amit Shah signalled that some changes would be taking place in Bihar politics in the coming days. If sources are to be believed, last time also Kumar returned to the NDA after talks with the top leadership of the BJP and the Bihar BJP had no role in it. This time as well, it is being said that Kumar has opened a channel of communication with the saffron party through a leader very close to him. However, the BJP at present is in no mood to fulfil the demands made by Kumar and the talks between both sides are on. The final decision in this regard will be taken by the BJP's top leadership. According to sources, this month, especially from January 22 to January 27, would be very crucial in terms of changes in the politics of Bihar. Kumar can make a final decision in the coming days about which alliance he chooses to be a partner with. However, in both cases, it is also believed that many leaders of his party may leave him. Chennai, Jan 21 : Hosts Tamil Nadu and Delhi clinched two gold medals each while Punjab, Gujarat, Chandigarh and Manipur added one each to their tally on the second day of the Khelo India Youth Games 2023 on Sunday. Navyaa S.H clinched the dayas first gold in girlsa traditional yoga and fencer Arlin A.V bagged the boys' Sabre gold defeating Haryanaas Lakshya Badser 15-14 to take Tamil Naduas tally to four gold and two bronze. Delhi jumped to the second spot in the medals tally after their judokas clinched two of the five gold medals on offer and also bagged two silver medals at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium. Tannu Mann defeated statemate Jaanvi Yadav to clinch the girls' 48kg gold while Anurag Sagar added the boys' 55kg top spot by beating Punjabas Nakul Arora. Deeksha bagged the silver medal in the girls' 44kg category after going down against Ankita N of Gujarat. Chandigarhas Sapna (girls' 40kg) and Punjabas Shivansh Vashisht (boys' 50kg) clinched the other gold medals on offer. Earlier in the day, Tamil Naduas Navyaa S.H. added a second gold medal from Yogasana to the stateas tally by clinching the top spot in girls' Traditional Yoga category with a total score of 64.75. West Bengalas Aranya Hutait (64.42 points) and Ritu Mondal (63.5 points) clinched the silver and bronze respectively. In the fencing competition being played at TNPESU, Manipuras K. Abhinash defeated Tejas Patil of Maharashtra in the boys' Foil final. In the Kabaddi competition, defending boys' champion Haryana set up a summit clash against Rajasthan with a facile 45-28 win over Maharashtra. Rajasthan had earlier beaten Tamil Nadu 41-23 in the other semi-final. Srinagar, Jan 21 : A Kashmiri woman claimed on Sunday that Lord Ram came in her dream and asked her to reach Ayodhya. Sidiqua Khan from north Kashmir Kupwara district told reporters in Srinagar today: "I have a lot of reverence for Lord Ram. I had decided to go to Ayodhya after January 22 thinking that there would be a lot of rush there on this day. "But, yesterday I was jolted out of wits. Lord Ram came in my dream and told me since you serve me always and have reverence for me, you should come to Ayodhya because I am coming there. "Since, I mostly live in Chandigarh and have a lot of Hindu and Sikh friends, I believe in communal harmony. "I have come in my car from Kupwara. I always drive myself and I should be in Ayodhya tomorrow. If somebody with equal devotion wants a lift, I am ready to give them a lift in my car. "I will offer my prayers and chant Bhajans to please Lord Ram in Ayodhya. I took Allah's name and then Lord Ram's name and started my journey." HOUSTON, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- At least three people were killed and two others injured after a "very chaotic" shooting early Sunday morning at a short-term rental home in the Huston area, U.S. state Texas, authorities said. There was a gathering with about 10 to 20 people in their 20s at the rental home in Katy, a suburban city of Houston. A quarrel broke out and led to the shooting, leaving at least five people shot, said Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez. A man and a woman died at the scene, and one died in hospital, according to the Harris County Sheriff's Office. Two others showed up at the hospital with gunshot wounds later, said the local police. There were people shooting outside the residence, and investigators estimate dozens of gunshots were fired, local media reported. "Maybe people were fleeing. So a very chaotic and dangerous situation where others could have been injured as a result of just the random gunfire that was occurring outside," Gonzalez said. New Delhi, Jan 21 : Without doubt, Ayodhya will become a major spiritual tourism destination. The potential for tourism-related business is enormous and has attracted investors into hotel, travel and other tourism-related stocks, V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist, Geojit Financial Services, said. While appreciating the long-term potential of investment, investors should not go overboard chasing these stocks that have elevated prices. Many stocks in this segment have run up too much too fast and have shot up by more than 100 per cent in just a few weeks. This is a sentiment-driven rally triggered by retail exuberance, he said. Broadly, the valuation of the mid and small cap segments are too high, unjustified, almost in frothy territory. This mid and small cap frenzy is partly driven by the newbie retail investors who are chasing these stocks and partly by mid and small cap mutual funds to which inflows are strong and sustaining, he said. Ayodhya tourism has excellent long-term prospects, investors have to be careful about the valuations. Large caps in IT, capital goods, telecom and selective private sector banks are safer bets now, he added. Imphal/Aizawl, Jan 21 : Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh on Sunday thanked Union Home Minister Amit Shah for his announcements on fencing the India-Mayanmar border and scrapping the Free Movement Regime (FMR) between the two countries, saying that these assurances are the biggest gifts for the people of the state. His response came a day after his Mizoram counterpart Lalduhoma on Saturday opposed both the fencing and ending of the FMR. Reiterating his earlier position, Manipur Chief Minister while addressing the statehood day function here, also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking this decision to fence the 398-km India-Myanmar border with Manipur and cancelling the FMR. Considering the vulnerability and threats of the 1,643 km unfenced India-Myanmar border spanning Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram, the Union Government has decided to fence the entire border and to scrap the FMR, which allows citizens residing close to both sides of the border to move 16 km into each other's territory without passport or visa. The Union Home Minister, while addressing the passing out parade of 2,551 commandos of Assam Police in Guwahati on Saturday, said that the Centre has decided that India-Myanmar border would also be fenced on the lines of Indo-Bangladesh border, and is reconsidering the existing agreement between Myanmar and India for free movement. The Mizoram Chief Minister, hours after the Home Minister's announcement, said in Aizawl on Saturday, that his government does not have the authority to stop the Central government from erecting border fencing along the India-Myanmar border and scrapping the FMR but would oppose both the moves. He said that the border with Myanmar in Mizoram was "unilaterally imposed" by the British without consulting the people and the Mizo-Zo-Chin community people living on both sides of the border do not accept the boundary. Lalduhoma said that Mizoram government and many other organisations in the state were opposed to the fencing of the India-Myanmar border and scrapping of the FMR as Mizos of Mizoram share similar ethnic and cultural ties with the people of the Chin-Zo community in Myanmar. The Chief Minister said that during his last month's visit to Delhi, he had discussed both the fencing and the FMR issues with the PM, Home Minister and External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, and they did not oppose his appeal on both the issues. Around 32,000 people from Myanmar, mostly from the Chin state, have taken refuge in Mizoram following the military coup in the neighbouring country in February 2021. Jammu, Jan 21 : The Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Council, which met here under the Chairmanship of Lt Governor Manoj Sinha approved absorption of 145 permanent employees of the Centaur Lake View Hotel, Srinagar in various organisations, an official statement said on Sunday. These employees will be absorbed in the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation Ltd (JKCCC), and the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation Ltd, Srinagar (JKTDC) with effect from March 1, 2023 instead of May 22, 2023, it said. "This is in pursuance to the process of outsourcing of the assets of Tourism Department. Administrative Council in its decision dated May 22, 2023 had approved absorption of these employees with effect from May 22, 2023 and Government Order No. 86-JK(TSM) of 2023, dated July 12, 2023, was issued in this behalf," the statement said. "The matter was examined by a high powered committee constituted under the administrative mechanism for resolution of disputes by Department of Legal Affairs, Govt of India and recommended by the Committee constituted by the GAD, vide Government Order No. 536-JK(GAD) of 2023 dated May 2, 2023 and also as per the concurrence of the Finance Department." Hyderabad, Jan 21 : The statewide protest of Anganwadi workers in Andhra Pradesh that has been ongoing for the last 40 days received a major boost on Sunday with TDP National General Secretary Nara Lokesh extending support to them. Anganwadi workers are protesting against the "unjust treatment by the Jagan Reddy government resulting from a host of unresolved issues such as a demand for a salary hike and unpaid gratuity payments". The stir has attracted major momentum in recent days, with over 55,600 Anganwadi centres across the state now shut down and over 1 lakh workers and helpers have refrained from their duty. In a statement, Nara Lokesh lambasted the Jagan Reddy government's "lackadaisical attitude that has resulted in this statewide agitation and the deaths of two Anganwadi workers as well". He also promised the agitating workers that the "incoming TDP-Janasena government would address the fair demands of the Anganwadi workers and justice would be done". Elections in the state are scheduled to be held this year in April-May. Hyderabad, Jan 21 : Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Sunday undertook a study trip to the Dubai Waterfront. He, along with officials, also visited a skyscraper for an aerial perspective of the entire project. The team was shown the linkage between water, land, and building, and its socio-economic impact on hyper-local communities. The team also discussed project management issues including international funding and investment possibilities, execution challenges, costs and timelines, and its replication possibilities in Hyderabad as part of the Musi River rejuvenation project. Earlier, during his visit to London, Revanth Reddy had a study tour of famous monuments including the famed Riverfront of Thames, the bridges, Big Ben, London Eye, Tower Bridge etc, to understand the working and intersections communities, local economies, and its impact on income levels and livelihoods. His team also analysed the impact on tourism and public revenues. --IANS ms/vd New Delhi, Jan 21 : Ahead of Ram Temple inauguration in Ayodhya, Delhi Police on Sunday implemented stringent security arrangements across the national capital, an official said. Emphasising the need for vigilance, the police have not only focussed on the upcoming religious event on January 22 but also extended their preparedness for the Republic Day celebrations which are just five days away. According to the police, the security measures are not solely in response to the religious festivities, and the city was also gearing up for the presence of French President Emmanuel Macron during the Republic Day parade. Delhi Police has strategically placed multi-level security checkpoints at various locations, with a particular focus on temples and crowded markets. Deputy Commissioner of Police, Joy Tirkey said that maintaining law and order is their top priority. "Night patrolling staff have been instructed to thoroughly inspect hotels, guest houses, and dharamshalas to ensure a secure environment," said the DCP. Several prominent temples in Delhi, including Prachin Hanuman Mandir, Jhandewalan Mandir, Birla Mandir, and Kalka Ji Mandir, are expected to witness a surge in devotees to celebrate 'Pran Pratishtha'. Authorities have deployed both paramilitary forces and local police in substantial numbers. "In an effort to maintain a watchful eye on the major temples and to avoid any untoward incident, police teams are also monitoring CCTV cameras installed across the city," said a senior police officer. Amitabh Bachchan rings in 81st b'day at midnight with fans outside Jalsa. Image Source: IANS News Mumbai, Jan 21 : Veteran Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who was last seen in the theatrical film 'Ganapath: A Hero is Born', greeted his fans outside his bungalow 'Jalsa' in the Juhu area of Mumbai on Sunday. The fans looked excited while meeting him. Many also took pictures of the 'Don' actor. The senior actor has been greeting his fans outside for the past 40 years. For his Sunday darshan, the veteran actor opted for a white kurta that he paired with a shawl. Earlier, the actor had shared on his blog that he always takes off his shoes before meeting his fans. He described it as a "devotion" for him to interact with his well-wishers. He wrote, "I do observe though that the numbers are in lesser magnitude and the enthusiasm has lessened and the screams of joy now transferred to the mobile camera and that is more evident now an indication that time has moved on and nothing lasts forever." Meanwhile, on the work front, Big B will be soon seen in the upcoming film 'Kalki 2898 AD', which also stars Deepika Padukone, Prabhas, veteran Tamil megastar Kamal Haasan and actress Disha Patani. The film, which was earlier titled 'Project K', has long been in the making. The makers released the film's first look in July 2023. It was met with negative response and was later deleted by makers from social media handles and replaced with new imagery with some changes which also received criticism. The new title of the film was unveiled at the 2023 San Diego Comic-Con. Bhubaneswar, Jan 21 : Properties worth over Rs 70 lakh belonging to a notorious drug peddler who was arrested here in February last year have been seized by the Special Task Force (STF) of the Odisha Police, an official said on Sunday. The properties belong to Shiba Prasad Das of Mundia Sahi in Khordha district. A team of STF had earlier seized 3.1 kg brown sugar valued at over Rs 3 crore, three sophisticated pistols, seven magazines, 43 rounds of ammunition and cash of Rs 65,32,000 during a raid at the rented house of Das in Nayagarh district on January 25, 2022. Das who had managed to give the police a slip was later nabbed on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar in February 2022. The STF, during the investigation found Das acquired properties worth around Rs 73.75 lakh out of the profits from the illegal trade of contraband drugs. Following the seizure of the ill-gotten assets, STF moved the competent authority in Kolkata (a quasi-judicial authority under NDPS Act) requesting permission for the forfeiture of the said properties illegally acquired by the notorious drug trafficker. Imphal, Jan 21 : Ten like-minded parties' bloc in Manipur led by the Congress on Sunday urged Chief Minister N. Biren Singh to arrange an all party meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to discuss ways and means to resolve the nine month-long ethnic violence in the northeastern state. The leaders of 10 parties led by former three-time Manipur Chief Minister and veteran Congress leader Okram Ibobi Singh (2002-2017) met Chief Minister Biren Singh and told him that being the head of the political executive as the Chief Minister of the state, the "responsibility to convince the Prime Minister to find a solution to the conflict in Manipur lies squarely on you". "We are with you in your effort to draw the attention of the Prime Minister to the present crisis," the 10 political parties told the Chief Minister in a jointly signed letter. They said that considering the complexities of the problem/conflict, it would not be possible to find solutions to the problem without the active involvement of the Central government. It is the government of India, who only can bring the parties in the conflict on the negotiating table and find a solution acceptable to all, the parties said. The 10 parties, which also include the Aam Aadmi Party, Trinamool Congress, CPI-M, CPI, Forward Bloc, RSP, Shiv Sena-UBT, Janata Dal-United and Nationalist Congress Party, earlier demanded that the government should talk to all stakeholders for an amicable settlement of the crisis and bring ever-lasting peace and harmony in Manipur. After the meeting with the opposition parties, Chief Minister Biren Singh said on the X : "Chaired a meeting with representatives of the 10 political parties at my Secretariat to address the current situation in Manipur. Constructive discussions were held, reflecting a united commitment to navigate challenges and work collectively for the well-being of our state." Lumi Airport, Lumi, Papua New Guinea [ LMI / ] If you are planning to travel to Lumi or any other city in Papua New Guinea, this airport locator will be a very useful tool. 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LMI - Lumi Airport IATA Code Male: A 14-year-old boy in the Maldives reportedly died on Saturday due to alleged delays in obtaining approval for the use of an Indian-provided Dornier aircraft for his airlift. The boy, suffering from a brain tumor and stroke, needed urgent medical evacuation from Gaaf Alif Villingili to the capital city, Male. The family claims that President Mohammed Muizzu's refusal to grant approval contributed to the delay in arranging the medical evacuation. Despite the emergency request, the boy was transported to Male 16 hours later. This incident occurs amid recent tensions in diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives. Maldivian media reported that the family's requests to Island Aviation for immediate transportation were allegedly unanswered until Thursday morning, exacerbating the delay. The boy's father emphasized the need for an air ambulance in such critical cases. Aasandha Company Limited, which received the evacuation request, mentioned a technical problem with the flight at the last moment, preventing the planned diversion. This tragic event has heightened concerns, with Maldives MP Meekail Naseem expressing the sentiment that people should not pay with their lives due to the President's animosity towards India. It's essential to note that diplomatic relations between India and the Maldives have faced strains recently, particularly following derogatory comments made by Maldivian ministers towards Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Revocation of Rs 218 Crore Contracts: Chhattisgarh Government Takes Strict Action Rameshwaram Pilgrimage: PM Modi's Puja at the Sacred Kothandaramaswamy Temple Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Criticizes BJP-Led Government's Committee on SC Internal Reservation Flu activity in the state of Georgia is beginning to spread rapidly. From Dec. 31 to Jan. 6 in metro Atlanta, there were 10 influenza outbreaks and 279 hospitalizations. The Georgia Department of Public Health recommends that Georgians do not wait to get their flu shot. Red Bull motorsport boss Helmut Marko says the toxic atmosphere that prevailed at Toro Rosso in 2015 between Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz precluded the two drivers from evolving together. Verstappen and Sainz made their Formula 1 debut together at Toro Rosso in 2015. But a year later, four races into the 2016 season, the Dutchman was promoted to a plum seat at Red Bull for the Spanish Grand Prix at Barcelona, a race the then 18-year-old duly won. Verstappen never looked back after his milestone triumph, but with Daniel Ricciardo also firmly installed at Red Bull, Sainzs prospects with the energy drink company significantly dimmed. This incited Marko to agree to lending the Spaniard to Renault for the end of 2017 and 2018, after which Sainz was released from his contract with Red Bull. He then moved to McLaren in 2019 and then to Ferrari in 2021 Sainz is, without a doubt, a great driver, Marko told Spain's Marca. He was almost on par with Max in the Toro Rosso. He was very fast in the minor categories. In his first F1 test at Silverstone, right from the start, he was slightly quicker in the fast corners than Sebastian Vettel, who was our reference at that moment. The bad thing for him is that he was unlucky to have Verstappen as a team-mate. The atmosphere between the two in the team was quite toxic. The way the team was set up at the time, I didnt see a way to keep him with us, so Carlos went to Renault, to McLaren and then ended up at Ferrari. Interestingly, Marko believes that Sainz has struggled to escape the shadow of his father, renowned rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr. which made it difficult for him to establish his own identity in the world of motorsport. For a long time Carlos lived in his fathers shadow, he added. He was unfairly burdened with the image of being the spoiled son of a racing driver while, on the contrary, he had to constantly fight to get ahead. Sainz was almost at the same level as Verstappen almost, but when we had to choose between Max and Carlos, it was clear what we had to do. Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi should avoid visiting the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva at Batadrava on January 22, as there can be no competition between Lord Ram and the medieval age Vaishnav saint revered as an icon in the state. IMAGE: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during the 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra', in Assam on Sunday. Photograph: ANI Photo Sarma said that commandos will be deployed along sensitive routes of minority-dominated areas to be taken by Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra on January 22, the day of the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. "We will request Rahul Gandhi not to visit Batadrava on Monday during the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple as it will reflect Assam in the wrong light," the chief minister said at a press conference in Guwahati. He can go to the 'satra' (Vaishnavite monastery) at Batadrava after the consecration ceremony without creating 'unnecessary competition which will be sad for Assam', he said. The managing committee of the Batadrawa Than also asked Gandhi to visit the place after 3 pm on Monday and not during the consecration ceremony of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. In a letter to Batadrawa's Congress MLA Shibamoni Bora on Sunday afternoon, the managing committee's president Jogendra Nath Dev Mahanta said that on the occasion of the Ram temple's consecration, several organisations have planned devotional programmes at the premises of the Than. "Several thousands of people are expected to visit the place and as such we cannot allow Gandhi to enter the premises before 3 pm," he said. "We had received a letter from Bora regarding the Congress MP's visit and we extend a warm welcome to him but we cannot allow him to enter the premises before 3 pm," he said. The decision was taken at a meeting of the committee, he added. The Congress, meanwhile, asserted that Gandhi's visit will proceed as scheduled. All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary Jairam Ramesh maintained that Gandhi will visit the Than in Assam's Nagaon district as planned and urged that 'no politics should be done over it'. Gandhi is leading a 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' from Manipur to Mumbai, with the march travelling through Assam from January 18 to 25. It will be reaching Nagaon on Sunday, where it will stop for the night before proceeding onwards the next morning. "The route of the Yatra was fixed 3-4 weeks before and as per the schedule, we will be in Nagaon on January 22," Ramesh, who is accompanying Gandhi, said at the press conference here en route to the central Assam district. "We think it is imperative that we visit Batadrawa Than as we are passing through Nagaon. It is the birthplace of the great social reformer Srimanta Sankardeva, whose life continues to inspire crores of people even now," he said. "There should not have been any dispute over it. No politics should be done over it," the Congress leader asserted. He said Gandhi will visit the Than on Monday morning and then commence the day's yatra, during which he will travel through Morigaon district before entering neighbouring Meghalaya. The Yatra will return to Assam after a short trip in the neighbouring state. Batadrava in Nagon district is the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva (1449-1568), an Assamese saint-scholar, social-religious reformer, poet, playwright and a towering figure in the cultural and religious history of Assam from the 15th-16th century. Sarma said that he was pained to read a report in the national media that said when Prime Minister Narendra Modi will participate in the consecration ceremony at Ayodhya, Gandhi will be present at the Batadrava satra. "This is a wrong projection. There is no competition between Ram and Sankardeva and when the nation's focus is on Ayodhya, it should not be unnecessarily diverted to Assam. We will be grateful if he avoids going to the satra during the Pran Pratistha of the Ram Temple," he said. Besides, it is not that the Sattra authorities have invited him and as there are Hindus in the Congress too, the visit can be rescheduled to early morning or in the evening, Sarma said. For Monday, the Congress has chosen a route through 'sensitive areas' of Morigaon, Jagiroad and Nellie which could have been avoided, the chief minister said. "These areas are sensitive and I cannot discount any law and order situation arising and as such commandos will be deployed along sensitive routes of minority-dominated areas to be taken by Rahul Gandhi's Yatra on January 22," he said. The reality in these areas cannot be denied and the administrations will have to monitor the situation, he said. "The apprehension is genuine and with great risk, I am allowing the Yatra tomorrow. If there is a law and order problem, nothing will happen to Gandhi as he will be surrounded by security personnel but my neck is at stake. The government of India will ask me why permission was granted for the Yatra on this sensitive route on Monday," Sarma said. Nellie had witnessed a carnage during the height of Assam agitation in 1983 when nearly 2,000 people, mostly belonging to Muslims stated to be of Bangladeshi origin, were killed. District Commissioners and Superintendents of Police of these areas have been directed to increase patrolling and maintain a strict vigil, Sarma added. "Maybe nobody will come out as people of Assam have matured. But as a law enforcer, we cannot discount any possibility," he said. He said that he was planning to visit a temple on Monday and watch the consecration ceremony in the Harijan colony 'but now I have to monitor the situation'. On denying permission to the Congress to take the Yatra through Guwahati city, the chief minister said they have been just asked to avoid the main thoroughfares. "They had asked for permission at 9:30 am during school and college times. There are hospitals in the area and we cannot allow any traffic snarl during that period. If it were a Sunday, we could have allowed it," he said. The Congress hardly gets votes in Assam and 'if they create problems for the people, they will get even less votes', Sarma added. Regarding Gandhi attacking him and his family on corruption, the chief minister said, "Earlier, I thought he was afraid of me but now it seems he is scared of my children too who are not even in politics." He claimed that the Yatra has so far hardly seen much crowd but in certain minority-dominated Lower Assam areas, Muslims of Bangladeshi origin join the march. "Muslim women and girls are grateful to us as we have taken several steps for their welfare which include abolition of triple talaq, measures to end polygamy and child marriage, along with setting up schools and colleges for girls in minority-dominated areas," Sarma said. "I did not want to take the photograph of Lord Ram but etch his image in my heart instead," said Amit Pathak, a resident of Tulsinagar in Ayodhya, a day ahead of the 'pran pratishtha' ceremony at the Ram temple. IMAGE: A devotee holds the saffron flag of Lord Ram in front of the Ram Temple entrance on the eve of its pran pratishtha ceremony. Photograph: Amit Sharma/ANI Photo The residents of Ayodhya are awaiting their 'tryst with divinity' on January 22. While talking to PTI, the voice of Pathak, whose house is around one kilometre from the newly-constructed Ram temple, choked with emotions. Pathak works in Lucknow and he had made up his mind that he would be in Ayodhya on January 22. "I was mentally prepared to walk down to Ayodhya in case I did not get any bus or any other vehicle. However, by the grace of Prabhu Shri Ram, I got a bus and I arrived in Ayodhya on Friday itself," he said, and added that he is falling short of words to express himself. "When the Babri mosque was razed, I was two years old. My mother used to take me to the Ram temple. Now, after January 22 ceremony, I will take my mother to the newly-constructed Ram temple," Pathak added. Expressing happiness over the upcoming consecration ceremony, Ayodhya-based homoeopathy doctor Dr Indroneel Banerjee told PTI, "It is such a moment for the people of Ayodhya which can never be forgotten. The people here have waited for this day for the past few generations. Ayodhya has the potential to become the spiritual capital of the country. After being sidelined for years together, I think Ayodhya's time has come. Having been overlooked by successive governments, the people of Ayodhya have seen difficult days. Now, it is our time under the Sun right now." Another resident, Prajjwal Singh, said, "We are standing on the threshold of history. We are eager to be an integral part of the 'Pran Pratishtha' celebrations of Ram Lalla. It is certainly a historic moment for us and for our generation, as we have seen our ancestors facing hardships. The tears, sweat, toil and the sacrifices they have made are being reaped by us today." He added that his family members, relatives, friends and neighbours are also deeply engrossed in the celebrations which are likely to go on till the month-end. Mahendra Shukla, a Samajwadi Party corporator, said all the people of Ayodhya are feeling happy. Everybody is going out of the way to help the visitors so that they do not face any problems here and go with pleasant memories, he added. Atul Kumar, a resident of Naya Ghat area of Ayodhya, said January 22 is going to be a historic day not only for Ayodhya or Uttar Pradesh but also for the country, for the world and for the entire humanity. Terming the ceremony as the 'first phase of Ram rajya', Saurabh Mishra said, "After the 'pran pratishtha' ceremony, the entire world is going to embrace Lord Ram. It will be soaked in devotion of Prabhu Shri Ram." Echoing similar sentiments, Anvesh Mishra, who runs a guest house, said, "This is going to be the biggest event in the history of Ayodhya so far. Certainly, this will be a 'tryst with divinity' moment for me, for my family members and for entire Ayodhya residents. This is my luck that I am able to witness the history unfolding before my own eyes and that I am a resident of Ayodhya, where the special event is taking place. We are going to treasure this moment for the rest of our lives." The much-awaited Ram temple consecration will be held here on Monday in a grand ceremony with Prime Minister Narendra Modi attending the rituals, following which the shrine will be opened for the public a day later. The 'pran pratishtha' ceremony will begin at 12.20 pm and is expected to end by 1 pm. The prime minister will then address a gathering of more than 7,000 people, including seers and prominent personalities, at the venue. Lakhs of people are expected to watch the event live on TV and online platforms as the BJP-ruled states and Odisha have declared a holiday while the central government has announced a half-day off. As authorities made final preparations in a decked up Ayodhya, considered the birthplace of Lord Ram, temples across the country and abroad have announced special festivities to mark the occasion. The Bombay high court on Sunday dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) filed by four students against the Maharashtra government's decision declaring a public holiday on January 22, on the occasion of the Ram temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya. IMAGE: Bombay high court. Photograph: Sandip Mahankal/ANI Photo A bench of Justices Girish Kulkarni and Neela Gokhale, which held a special hearing on Sunday for the public interest litigation (PIL) filed by four law students from Maharashtra and Gujarat, noted the petition was 'politically motivated, frivolous and vexatious'. The HC advised the students to 'utilise their time in doing better things'. The bench said normally the court while dismissing such a petition would impose an exemplary cost on the petitioner, but it was refraining from doing so as the petitioners here are young students and hence a word of caution would suffice. The Maharashtra government argued that to declare a holiday falls within the executive policy decision of the government and should not fall for judicial scrutiny. The students in their plea claimed the decision to declare a public holiday keeping an eye over the upcoming parliamentary elections was a 'gross abuse of power for political purposes'. The petition, filed by Shivangi Agarwal, Satyajeet Salve, Vedant Agarwal and Khushi Bangia, sought that the HC quash the government order declaring a holiday on January 22. 'The petition has political overtones and it appears to be a petition that is politically motivated and a publicity interest litigation. A glare for publicity seems to be apparent from the tenor of the petition and the arguments made in the open court,' the bench said. The court said the petitioners have also questioned the wisdom of the Supreme Court in an order passed in another matter and this has shaken 'our judicial conscience'. 'We have no doubt that this PIL has been filed for extraneous reasons. It appears to be absolutely frivolous and vexatious and does not deserve the attention of court,' the bench said. There was no doubt that such petitions were a 'blatant abuse of law' and cannot be kept pending, it added. The court also questioned the political remarks made in the plea and asked at whose instance or motivation the statements were included in the petition. 'As pointed out by the respondent (Maharashtra government), there are some statements about political agenda in the plea that are political in nature...some are very reckless statements. On whose motivation or at whose instance have those statements been included in the plea?' the bench asked. The HC also questioned the petitioners as to how the media came to know of the petition even before it was placed before the court. The petition said the consecration of a temple is an essential religious practice associated with the Hindu religion and therefore cannot be in any manner a concern of the government. Any step taken by the government including declaration of public holiday for celebrating the consecration of a Hindu temple is nothing but an act of identifying with a particular religion, the plea claimed. 'An act of the government in celebrating and openly participating in the consecration of a Hindu temple thereby associating with a particular religion is nothing but a direct attack on the principles of secularism,' the PIL further claimed. Such a public holiday could be declared perhaps to commemorate a patriotic personality or historic figure but not to celebrate the consecration of a temple to appease a particular section of the society or religious community, it said. The plea said there are several temples across India and if the government starts celebrating consecrations of various Gods and Goddesses in old or newly constructed temples, it would be necessary to declare a public holiday on each of such days. 'There are only 365 days in the year and they may not be enough to celebrate such consecrations,' it said. Public holidays would lead to loss of education if the educational institutions are closed, financial loss if banking institutions are closed, and loss of governance and public works if government and public offices are closed, it added. Advocate General Birendra Saraf, appearing for the Maharashtra government, on Sunday argued that to declare a holiday falls within the executive policy decision of the government and should not fall for judicial scrutiny. "The petition proceeds on a wrong footing that the decision was arbitrary. Most of the public holidays are for religious events. This allows citizens to carry out their religious practices. And such holidays are not declared for only one community. It is done for all religious communities," Saraf said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday completed his spiritual journey to temples with a Ramayana link in southern parts of the country by worshipping at a Lord Ram shrine near Arichal Munai, where he prayed and paid floral tributes at seashore. Photographs: ANI on X Marking completion of his visits to temples ahead of the consecration of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on January 22, Modi performed pooja and had darshan at the Sri Kothandaramaswamy temple, which is on the way towards Dhanushkodi and Arichal Munai, from where Sri Lanka is a stone's throw away. Kothandaramaswamy in Tamil denotes Lord Ram with bow and arrow. The PM laid flowers on the Arichal Munai beachfront and also paid floral tributes at a pillar with the national emblem. Arichal Munai is on the southern tip of Rameswaram island in Ramanathapuram district in southern Tamil Nadu. The Prime Minister performed 'pranayama' (breathing exercise) at the beach and offered prayers using the sea water. Earlier this week, he prayed in temples in Andhra Pradesh and Kerala that have a Ramayana relevance. Modi, who stayed at Rameswaram on Saturday night, drove to Arichalmunai, which is said to be the place from where the Ram Setu was built. Ram Setu, also known as Adam's Bridge, is said to have been constructed by Lord Ram with the help of the 'Vaanara sena' to travel to Lanka to wage war against Ravana. Following his visit to the Kothandaramaswamy temple and Arichal Munai, the Prime Minister reached Madurai and boarded an aircraft to New Delhi. Temple priests said Modi carried with him 'kalash' of holy waters from Tamil Nadu. Modi arrived in Chennai on January 19 and inaugurated the Khelo India Games 2023. On Saturday, he visited the Sri Ranganathaswamy and Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy temples in Srirangam and Rameswaram, respectively. As a group of Bharatiya Janata Party workers chanted 'Jai Shri Ram' and raised 'Modi, Modi' slogans in front of Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra bus in Nagaon, the Congress leader waved, gave flying kisses and stepped down to meet them. IMAGE: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi addresses a public meeting amid party's 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra', in Nagaon on Sunday, January 21, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo 'Our 'Mohabbat ki dukaan' (shop of love) is open for everyone. 'Judega Bharat, Jeetega Hindustan',' Gandhi said in a post on X while sharing a video of the incident. Later addressing a public meeting in Nagaon, the Congress MP narrated the incident and said the Congress is neither scared of Prime Minister Narendra Modi nor Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The Congress has claimed that its leaders, including Gandhi and Jairam Ramesh, were targeted by BJP supporters during the Assam leg of the Manipur-to-Maharashtra Nyay Yatra. The BJP, however, claimed that Gandhi was rattled after 'Jai Shri Ram' and 'Modi, Modi' slogans were raised in his presence. 'If this is how rattled he is, how will he face the people of this country in days ahead, after the anti-Hindu Congress rejected the invite to be part of the 'pran pratishtha' (January 22 Ram temple consecration ceremony) in Ayodhya?' BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya said on X tagging the video. BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawala said some people chanted "'Jai Shri Ram' and 'Modi, Modi" during the yatra 'so Rahul Gandhi arrogantly charges at them'. 'Security personnel stopped him. 'Mohabbat ki dukaan' or 'Ahankaar ki Dukaan' (shop of arrogance) Shameful and atrocious behaviour by entitled dynast! He even made kissing actions to the crowd!!' he said on X. At the public meeting, Gandhi said, "Some 2-3 km before, around 20-25 BJP workers carrying sticks came in front of our bus, and when I came out from the bus, they ran away...they think that the Congress is scared of BJP and RSS workers." "What kind of dream are they seeing. They can tear as many posters and placards as they want, we don't care, and are not bothered. We are not scared of anybody, we are neither scared of Narendra Modi nor the chief minister here," he said. During his earlier Kanyakumari-to-Kashmir Bharat Jodo Yatra, Gandhi had made similar gestures to a crowd which chanted 'Modi, Modi' slogans when the march was in Rajasthan. The Congress has alleged that the 'attacks' on its yatra have the backing of Chief Minister Sarma. In his speech at Nagaon public meeting, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge targeted Sarma, saying, "This is something like 'Meri billi mujh se meow'." "The cat which once belonged to the Congress is now doing 'meow' to us," Kharge said. Sarma had quit the Congress to join the BJP in 2015. All India Congress Committee general secretary Jairam Ramesh said his vehicle was attacked by some BJP protesters but he kept his composure and moved on. "My vehicle was attacked a few minutes ago at Jumugurihat, Sunitpur, by an unruly BJP crowd who also tore off the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra stickers from the windshield. They threw water and shouted anti-BJNY (Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra) slogans," he said. "But we kept our composure, waved to the hooligans and sped away. This is undoubtedly the Assam CM's doing. We are not intimidated and will soldier on," Ramesh said. AICC general secretary K C Venugopal said, "Complete lawlessness at display in Assam. All along the yatra route, the CM has stationed his goons to attack the yatra and disrupt our peaceful march for justice." "He's completely mistaken to think this will deter us. If anything, this has given us more strength to ensure his and Narendra Modi's defeat," he said. The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra will pass through 100 Lok Sabha constituencies in 15 states, traversing 6,713 km, mostly in buses but also on foot, and culminate in Mumbai on March 20 or 21. It began from Thoubal in Manipur on January 14. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has got 'mahaprasad' prepared for the VIPs coming to attend the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya on Monday. IMAGE: Volunteers prepare 'laddoo' at Ramsevak Puram on the eve of the 'pran pratishtha' ceremony of the Ram Temple, in Ayodhya on Sunday, January 21, 2024. Photograph: Rahul Singh/ANI Photo More than 20,000 packets of 'mahaprasad', which has been prepared with pure ghee, five types of dry fruits, sugar, gram flour ('besan') is being handed over to the Trust for the guest after the ceremony, an official said. 'Mahaprasad' is being prepared by Gujarat's Bhagwa Sena Bharti Garvi and Sant Seva Sansthan under the guidance of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. "We have been entrusted with the responsibility of preparing 'mahaprasad' along with making arrangements for the stay and food of the saints," said Kamal Bhai Rawal, the organisation's national president. He said the 'mahaprasad' has been prepared with more than 5,000 kg of ingredients by a team of about 200 people. Rawal said the 'mahaprasad' has been 'prepared from pure desi ghee, gram flour, sugar and five dry fruits'. "Special care has also been taken for the purity of 'mahaprasad' in which all the ingredients were prepared by the organisation itself. None of the ingredients have been taken readymade from the market," he added. Rawal further said more than 20,000 packets of 'mahaprasad' have been prepared. The 'mahaprasad' packet, which has been prepared keeping in mind the Sanatani tradition, will contain two laddus, Saryu river water, Akshat, betel nut plate and Kalava. The packet was handed over to the Trust by the organisation on Sunday. The Trust is every day providing food to more than 5,000 saints, who are being accommodated in Udaasin Ashram Ranopali, the officials here said and added they were given a kit, which includes blanket, pillow and bedsheet. Apart from this, the Trust has made arrangements for food in the temple premises for the guests attending the 'pran pratishtha' programme. The guests will be served pure vegetarian food along with legume and millet-based dishes. These dishes will be prepared by the chefs from Varanasi and Delhi. Apart from this, 'thepla', almond barfi and 'matar kachori' will also be served to the guests, the officials said. The Tata Institute of Social Sciences has asked students not to participate in any protest on its campus in Mumbai against the Ram temple consecration ceremony on January 22 and warned them of action by law enforcement agencies in case of defiance. IMAGE: A view of the Tata Institute of Social Sciences campus, in Mumbai. Photograph: Courtesy TISS on X The student union of TISS denied that any protest is being organised. A notice issued by TISS on January 18 said it was brought to the notice of the administration that a few students were planning to organise protests in the old or new campus of the institute against the Ram Janmabhoomi pran pratistha on January 22. "We strictly warn students not to participate in any such activities or demonstrations, failing which the law-enforcing agency will take necessary action against students found indulging in such activities," the notice said. In a statement issued on Saturday, the students union of TISS denied that any protest is being organised by any recognised or independent student body. It also demanded immediate withdrawal of the notice and clarification for issuing such notice. Separately, the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay will hold programmes, such as the inauguration of a gaushala (cow shelter) and recitation of a poem based on the epic Ramayan, to mark the occasion. The IITB will inaugurate a new 'gaushala on' January 22 and have a recitation of 'Geet Ramayan', penned by noted Marathi poet G D Madgulkar, on the campus. This, however, has drawn criticism from Ambedkar Phule Periyar Study Circle, a left-leaning students' organisation at IITB. "A line of events being carried out by the @iitbbombay administration shows it has started crawling in front of Hindutva political forces, giving up the principle of secularism in the Indian Constitution," the APPSC IIT-B tweeted. Shiv Sena-Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray president and former Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray has been sent an invitation by speed post for the Ram temple consecration ceremony to be held in Ayodhya on Monday. IMAGE: Shiv Sena-UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray in conversation with his son and party leader Aaditya Thackeray during the 'Janata Nyayalaya', at NSCI, Worli, in Mumbai. Photograph: ANI Photo Sena-UBT MP Sanjay Raut hit out at the government over the manner in which the Thackeray family has been treated. Maharashtra minister Uday Samant, who belongs to the Shiv Sena led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, said speed post is used to ensure the invitation reaches faster and it has been done. However, Raut reacted sharply to the speed post invite saying, "You worship Lord Ram, and rule like Ravan (demon king). Lord Ram will curse you. All film stars are invited but the Thackeray family that has been closely associated with movement is treated in such a manner." Uddhav Thackeray will be in Nashik for a two-day visit from Monday. He will offer prayers at the Kalaram temple there and perform a 'maha aarti' on the Godavari river bank on Monday. On Tuesday, he will participate in a day-long convention of his party in Nashik. The much-awaited Ram temple consecration will be held in Ayodhya city of Uttar Pradesh on Monday in a grand ceremony with Prime Minister Narendra Modi attending the rituals, following which the shrine will be opened for the public a day later. While more than 7,000 people are in the long list of invitees, the select list features 506 A-listers. Those attending the 'Pran Prathishtha' also include people linked to the agitation for the temple at the Ram Janmabhoomi. Bollywood superstar Amitabh Bachchan, business tycoons Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani, and sporting icon Sachin Tendulkar are among the prominent people to be invited. Almost all opposition leaders invited to the ceremony have declined to attend the ceremony, with the Congress calling it a Bharatiya Janata Party-Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh event. Invitees to the 'pran pratishtha' consecration ceremony at the Ram temple started arriving Sunday in Ayodhya -- once a sleepy town now resplendent with new infrastructure and gripped by heightened religious fervour on the eve of a seminal event in India's political and religious history. IMAGE: Glimpses of the laser show at 'Ram ki Pedi' on the eve of the 'pran pratishtha' ceremony of Mega Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on Sunday. Photograph: Rahul Singh/ANI Photo The town, about 140 km west of Lucknow, was bedecked with multi-coloured flowers as recordings of 'Ram dhun' played from loudspeakers and townsfolk dressed as Lord Ram, Sita, Lakshman and Hanuman paraded down the streets followed by delirious devotees, and news camera crews. "Ayodhya Ram maye ho gayi hai (Ayodhya is immersed in devotion of Lord Ram)," said Shailendra Gupta, who runs a fabric store on Ram Path, the main street of the town that runs past the Ram temple. "And tomorrow is a day when Hindus across the world will rejoice." Skittish policemen kept order, urging cars to stay mobile. But they could only honk repeatedly to part the sea of pilgrims on Ram Path, many with 'Jai Shri Ram' painted on their foreheads in shades of ochre and vermillion. Ceremonial gates depicting 'Jai Shri Ram' in floral patterns and illumination visible at night add to the aura of the ancient city which has undergone a massive infrastructural growth in the last couple of years after the 2019 Supreme Court verdict on the Ram temple issue. "The entire country is chanting the name of Lord Ram," said Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya. IMAGE: A devotee holds the saffron flag of Lord Ram in front of the Ram Temple entrance on the eve of its pran pratishtha ceremony. Photograph: Amit Sharma/ANI Photo All the excitement is in preparation for the mega consecration ceremony on Monday, which will climax decades of efforts and agitation to build the temple on the site where Hindus believe Lord Ram was born. At the site stood the Babri mosque, which was built in the 16th century. It was demolished by kar sevaks on December 6, 1992. After a protracted legal battle, the Supreme Court in November 2019 ruled in favour of the construction of the temple. It also said a 5-acre plot for the construction of a mosque be allotted. Following the ruling, Ayodhya received a burst of infrastructure push. Today, it has wide main streets, flyovers, a brand new airport and a refurbished railway station. The streets and skyline of Ayodhya are covered with saffron flags fluttering from rooftops of buildings, small and big. Cut-outs of the Ram temple along with Lord Ram have been put up at Lata Mangeshkar Chowk, while ornamental lamp posts along the Ram Path bearing design themed on 'Ramanadi tilak' and light patterns depicting religious symbols have turned the city into a land of festivities. IMAGE: Workers decorate the entrance gate on the eve of Ram Temple's pran pratishtha ceremony. Photograph: Shrikant Singh/ANI Photo The grand ceremony of the much-awaited 'pran pratishtha' will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, following which the shrine will be opened for the public a day later. The ceremony will begin at 12.20 pm and is expected to end by 1 pm. The prime minister will then address a gathering of more than 7,000 people, including seers and prominent personalities, at the venue. The entire event will be telecast live to a nationwide audience of millions, and more outside India. The excitement among devotees, both local and those who have travelled long distances, reached a near crescendo on Sunday. In the streets, folk artists presented cultural performances, some swinging peacock feathers while others beat drums and grooved to 'Ram dhun' playing in the streets. IMAGE: Police personnel stand guard at the entrance gate of Ram Temple's pran pratishtha ceremony. Photograph: Shrikant Singh/ANI Photo Some religious organisations, whose volunteers have come from other states, played 'Ram bhajan' on loudspeakers mounted on a vehicle, while those walking on foot chanted 'Jai Shri Ram'. Mahant Prakash Das Maharaj of an ancient religious shrine in Alwar in Rajasthan, an invitee to the ceremony, said there is an 'atmosphere of exuberance' among all about this Ram temple. "I have brought a pair of 'silver charanpaduka' to Ayodhya and today I will present it to the chairman of the Ram temple trust. It weighs about 750 gm, and has been made by artists from Alwar," he told PTI. The Mahant said, in 2020, he had presented a silver brick for the bhoomi pujan ceremony. "Tomorrow, the 'pran pratishtha' will take place at Ram temple, and see the joy, happiness and delight among the people. With the full installation of Ram Lalla's idol at the Ram temple, we will see 'Satyug' in 'Kalyug'," he said, as he walked barefoot towards Hanumangarhi temple to pay obeisance to the deity. A large number of sadhus and seers, who have been invited to the ceremony, have also arrived in the temple town, officials said. "We had not imagined that the participation from people would be of such a scale. Even the top citizens of the country are seeking an invite to the ceremony," Vishva Hindu Parishad's international working president Alok Kumar said. IMAGE: Sadhus arrive to attend the pran pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. Photograph: Amit Sharma/ANI Photo "In 5 lakh temples around the world about 7 to 8 crore people are expected to join the celebrations tomorrow," he said. "This celebration is drawing people of the world towards Lord Ram." Parapets on roofs of houses along the Bhakti Path which lead to Hanumangarhi temple have also been decked up with flowers. The scenes in streets are festive and devotees are eagerly awaiting for the doors of the temple to open for them from January 23 onwards. A song played on loudspeakers with a refrain 'Suno Tumhe Ayodhya Bula Rahi Hai', as lakhs of devotees are expected to descend on the temple town once it opens. But, it's not just the streets and ghats wearing a festive look, even the Ayodhya Media Centre has been dressed up in a religious theme. Huge banners of the Ram temple have been put up at the centre, while DD News reports on the Ayodhya Ram temple play on big screens. The media centre has been set up at the Ram Katha Park located along Dharm Path, one of the two showpiece streets in what the government calls 'Navya Divya and Bhavya Ayodhya'. Brattleboro, VT (05301) Today Mainly cloudy. A few peeks of sunshine possible. High 44F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Some clouds. A few flurries are possible. Low around 30F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. KenWiedemann / Getty Images From entrees to side dishes and desserts, Trader Joes has a varied selection of frozen foods to choose from. Many of these dishes require little to no preparation, while still being delicious and even nutritious. Theyre also priced rather affordably for what you get. Rachel Cruze: 12 Ways To Cut Your Grocery Bill in Half See: How To Get $340 a Year in Cash Back for Things You Already Buy If youve got a Trader Joes near you and are looking to stock up on frozen goods, its worth checking out the grocery stores freezer section. But with so many options to choose from, finding the best deals can be tough. To make this easier, GOBankingRates scoured Trader Joes From the Freezer section for the best deals right now. Keeping in mind that the selection might vary by location, heres what we found. Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief. Cauliflower Gnocchi Price: $3.29 per 12 ounces Cauliflower is a nutritious side dish that complements both dinners and lunches. But if you want a heartier side or a complete dish in its own right, Trader Joes Cauliflower Gnocchi could be right up your alley. For those unfamiliar, gnocchi is similar to Italian dumplings. Its tasty and filling. Plus, all you need to do is put it in the microwave or boil it and its done. Check Out: 11 Pantry Items To Buy at Dollar Tree Spicy Peanutty Noodle Bowl With Chicken Price: $3.49 per 10.8 ounces Want to grab a couple of already prepared meals that you can quickly toss in the microwave at work or home? Look no further than Trader Joes Spicy Peanutty Noodle Bowl with Chicken. This Asian-inspired dish is based on traditional Szechuan cuisine. It includes wheat noodles and an assortment of vegetables such as bok choy, carrots and onions. It even comes with a tasty spicy peanut sauce. Meatless Breakfast Sausage Patties Price: $3.99 per 8 ounces Starting the day off with a delicious, filling breakfast that doesnt take long to prepare is a must for busy households. And if youre living that vegetarian lifestyle, then Trader Joes Meatless Breakfast Sausage Patties are for you. Story continues Made with a mixture of soy protein, wheat gluten and various spices and herbs including garlic powder, onion powder and sage these patties come preseasoned and ready to throw into a skillet. They also pair well with breakfast burritos, pancakes, hash browns and all of your other favorite breakfast items. Mini Croissants Price: $5.49 per 12 ounces To go with the breakfast theme, check out Trader Joes delicious Mini Croissants. They take around 30 minutes to bake and go well with other breakfast staples. And if you want to spruce them up a little, add a thin layer of jam before putting them into the oven. Theyre sure to be a hit. Mushroom & Black Truffle Flatbread Price: $5.49 per 9 ounces If youre a fan of truffles and flatbread, then you might want to try out the Mushroom and Black Truffle Flatbread from Trader Joes. Topped with mozzarella cheese, mushrooms and black truffles, this flatbread makes for a great side dish to dinner entrees especially pasta dishes. It also goes well with salad. Preparation is easy and fast, too. It only takes around 10 minutes in the oven. New York Deli Style Cheesecake Price: $7.99 per 30 ounces Why buy an expensive slice of cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory when you can get the New York Deli Style Cheesecake for a much lower price? This dessert is very rich and doesnt require any prep work. All you need to do is take it out of the freezer and let it thaw out at room temperature for an hour or so before serving it. To spruce it up even further, add some warm berries or whipped cream on top. Brownie Crisp Coffee Ice Cream Sandwiches Price: $4.49 per 10 fluid ounces Another hit among sweets lovers is Trader Joes Brownie Crisp Coffee Ice Cream Sandwiches. The ice cream is made with espresso grounds, Colombian coffee extract and coffee syrup. Combine this with brownie crisps with chocolatey chunks and youve got a convenient treat or the perfect pick-me-up. Apple Tatin Tartelettes Price: $4.99 per 10.58 ounces The Apple Tatin Tartelettes from Trader Joes are a simple, yet delicious dessert that only takes 15 to 20 minutes to prepare. Each box comes with two tartelettes, which makes them great for sharing with someone else. Organic Riced Cauliflower Price: $1.99 per 12 ounces At Trader Joes, you can also find Organic Riced Cauliflower in the frozen section. Its made from tiny cauliflower florets and stems and is surprisingly filling. But pair it with a protein like savory chicken or steak and youve got yourself a full meal that only takes a few minutes to prepare. You can also use it in other recipes, such as stir fries or tacos with a twist. With so much versatility, you wont regret grabbing a bag or two for the freezer. Petite Peas Price: $1.79 per 16 ounces Are you more of a pea lover? If so, Trader Joes has frozen Petite Peas that are quite affordable. All you have to do is toss them into a pot of boiling water for about five minutes and theyre done. And if youre in a hurry, you can always microwave them. Consider combining these frozen peas with other frozen vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli or Brussels sprouts for a nutritious medley. Or add them to your lunches or dinners as a simple side dish. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 10 Frozen Foods To Buy at Trader Joes Bhutanese people in traditional attire queue up to cast their votes in the national elections in Deothang, Bhutan, Jan. 9, 2024. Both parties are promising to fix the nations economic crisis. Bhutan is open for business, wrote Prime Minister-elect Tshering Tobgay on X, after the people of the tiny Himalayan kingdom returned him to power in parliamentary elections this month. Analysts say Tobgays two-thirds majority win indicates the 800,000 people of Bhutan are pinning their hopes on an experienced hand to rebuild the economy, reverse an ongoing migration crisis, and strengthen ties with the landlocked nations two neighbors, India and Tibet, amidst ongoing border negotiations with China. The victory by Harvard-educated conservation advocate Tobgay, 58 who served as Bhutans second democratically elected prime minister between 2013 and 2018 comes as the country faces unprecedented challenges that are prompting it to tailor its famed Gross National Happiness(GNH) policy to one that takes into account its economic needs. Tobgays Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) which promised to leverage GNH in its efforts to turn Bhutan into a developed nation won 30 of the 47 National Assembly seats, while its rival Bhutan Tendrel Party (BTP) won the remaining 17 seats in Bhutans fourth general elections since its 2008 transition from an from an absolute to a constitutional monarchy, with a bicameral elected parliament. Bhutan's Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi before their meeting at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, India, July 6, 2018. (Altaf Hussain/Reuters) Bhutans GNH index was first conceptualized in 1972 by the King Jigme Singye Wangchuk as a holistic approach to sustainable development and a more important measure of growth than gross domestic product. Since then, the countrys leaders have promoted and the model -- which emphasizes good governance, sustainable development, cultural preservation and promotion, and environmental conservation -- widely regarded as Bhutans soft power export to the world. However, concerns about the economy and record high youth unemployment levels of 28.6%, which have forced young Bhutanese to emigrate in large numbers for better job opportunities, have weighed on this election, with both parties citing economic growth as a key priority. The PDP has said it believes that ...GNH should continue to be the springboard to enhance peace, prosperity, and happiness for all Bhutanese in our collective journey to become a developed nation. The PDP has the experience of having worked as the opposition in the first democratic government and as the ruling party in the second. So, it has exposure to different aspects of governance, said Dasho Kunzang Wangdi, Bhutans former chief election commissioner, who set up and ran the countrys first democratic elections in 2008. We are hopeful their efforts will be geared towards not only reviving but also giving an added fillip to economic growth and balancing that with the need to ensure the general well-being of the people of Bhutan, he added. Balancing happiness and growth Tobgay who detailed an ambitious 12-point economic transformation plan to turn Bhutan into a developed nation by 2047 is expected to lead the implementation of a 15 billion ngultrum (US$181 million) economic stimulus plan and drive initiatives to attract foreign direct investment, improve ease of doing business, and boost export and tourism levels. Our nations economy is teetering on the brink of collapse. With an average growth rate of just 1.7% in the past five years, our economy is at its worst in our recent history, said Tobgay in his partys manifesto, titled A Contract with Bhutan. The next five years are crucial for us to rebuild get our economy back on track, enable private businesses to thrive, increase job opportunities, revitalize our education and healthcare systems, uplift the poor, empower our public servants, transform agriculture, and boost national revenue generation, Tobgay added. He also plans to accelerate Bhutans hydropower and renewable energy generation, while bolstering the countrys private sector through the establishment of special economic zones and the privatization and divestmens of state-owned enterprises to boost capital markets. Tobgays office did not immediately respond to Radio Free Asias request for comment on his program. A Bhutanese man looks at posters of candidates on the eve of polling to the upper house National Council in Samdrup Jonkhar, Bhutan, April 22, 2013. Bhutan ended more than a century of absolute monarchy with its first parliamentary elections in 2008. (Anupam Nath/AP) Tobgays approach represents a pragmatic tailoring of the GNH concept to what the world needs today, Aditya Gowdara Shivamurthy, an associate fellow at the Observer Research Foundation, a Washington, D.C. think tank. Bhutan knows that it cannot be isolated from the rest of the world and the rest of the economy, and thats why this whole special economic zone has been proposed. And I think that is a classic example of how Bhutan tailors its GNH concept with its economic growth and economic need, he told Radio Free Asia. Bhutan has been gradually boosting the communications and information technology sector since the early 2010s, and the move to set up the SEZs intends to draw investment and sustainable development through service-intensive projects such as resorts and IT parks, rather than industrial projects, Shivamurthy said. Theres a massive expectation from the new government. I think people have voted for this new government for the very reason that they know this party and expect that this experienced party will offer them solutions rather than a new party coming in and trying to start from scratch, he added. Namgay Pem, a Bhutanese citizen who cast her vote at the Lingmu-Toedwang Constituency in Punakha District, one of the 20 dzongkhags or districts comprising Bhutan, echoed that sentiment. The interventions that the government brings in should not compromise the happiness and well-being of the citizens, and that GNH, which is the main philosophy, should guide all the developmental and economic developments in the country, she said. Relations with India and China The election was closely watched by India, against the backdrop of Bhutans ongoing border negotiations with China an issue of strategic concern for India, which has faced border disputes and skirmishes with its northern neighbor. In October, Bhutanese Foreign Minister Dr Tandi Dorji visited Beijing and met with Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, after which the two sides expressed their determination to accelerate the boundary demarcation process. Border talks between the two countries have been focused on two key areas of dispute: the strategic Doklam plateau and other areas in western Bhutan, which lie near the India-Bhutan-China border; and the Jakarlung and Pasamlung valleys that lie near Tibet. Given Indias special relationship with Bhutan, it is important for India to make sure that (any border) agreement (with China) does not strategically damage Indias interest, said Manoj Kewalramani, chairperson of the Indo-Pacific Studies Programme at the Takshshila Institute in India. That's largely what Indias priority should be and one part of that is obviously highlighting to the Bhutanese public the threats the Chinese encroachment presents and we have seen some of that take place, he added. Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, left, and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi prior to their meeting in New Delhi September 14, 2022. (Indian Press Information Bureau (PIB)/AFP) A report by UK-based Chatham House, released in December, showed China had continued its unsanctioned programme of settlement construction across the contested border in the north of Bhutan, based on analysis of satellite imagery from September. The new outposts in Bhutans remote Jakarlung Valley, part of the Beyul Khenpajong region, may become permanent Chinese territory after an announcement on a border deal between the two countries expected soon, wrote John Pollock and Damien Symon of Chatham House. It is thought that Bhutan, in a major concession, will give up the land that China has seized in both Jakarlung and the neighboring Menchuma Valley, they added. Kewalramani said Bhutan-Chinas three-step roadmap will require first understanding where the border lies on paper and then visiting the places on the ground, before finally demarcating the actual boundary. So this is not a small, easy short-term process and I think Bhutan is discussing these changes with India Bhutan does take into account India's interest because of the special nature of that relationship, he added. I think with Tshering Tobgay coming in, there is some relief that these border negotiations with China will happen with even more sensitivity towards India and with even more open conversations with India and that is something that is expected, said Shivamurthy. While Kyrgyzstan's independent media scene has been slowly deteriorating for two years, January 15 marked a turning point with raids by law enforcement officers at media outlets and homes of journalists. At least 11 people were detained and ordered into police custody for two months. Kyrgyzstans parliament is again considering a restrictive draft media law compared to legislation used by Russia to shut down media outlets there. Joining host Bruce Pannier to look at the crackdown on Kyrgyzstans independent media and what might be coming if the draft media law is approved are guests Tattuububu Ergeshbaeva, director of the Tandem - Lawyers' Community and Syinat Sultanalieva, Central Asia researcher for Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan at Human Rights Watch. Vladimir Putin has claimed a fifth presidential term with a landslide victory in a tightly controlled election that has been condemned by the West as neither free nor fair as the Russian leader seeks to prove overwhelming popular support for his full-scale invasion of Ukraine and increasingly repressive policies. With 99.75 percent of ballots counted, Putin won another six-year term with a post-Soviet record of 87.29 percent of the vote, the Central Elections Committee (TsIK) said on March 18, adding that turnout was also at a "record" level, with 77.44 percent of eligible voters casting ballots. The 71-year old Putin -- who has ruled as either president or prime minister since 2000 -- is now set to surpass Soviet dictator Josef Stalins nearly 30-year reign to become the longest-serving Russian leader in more than two centuries. "This election has been based on repression and intimidation," the European Union's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell told journalists in Brussels on March 18 as the bloc's foreign ministers gathered to discuss the election, among other issues. The March 15-17 vote is the first for Putin since he launched his invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 that has killed tens of thousands of Russians and led to a clear break in relations with the West. In holding what has widely been viewed as faux elections, Putin wants to show that he has the nations full support, experts said. The vote was also held in Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine, where hundreds of thousands of Russian soldiers are located. Moscow illegally annexed the regions since launching the invasion, though it remains unclear how much of the territory it controls. The Kremlin's goal "is to get as many people as possible to sign off on Russia's war against Ukraine. The idea is to get millions of Russian citizens to retroactively approve the decision Putin single-handedly made two years ago," Maksim Trudolyubov, a senior fellow at the Kennan Institute, wrote in a note ahead of the vote. In remarks shortly after he was declared the winner, Putin said the election showed that the nation was "one team." But Western leaders condemned the vote, with the White House National Security Council spokesperson saying they "are obviously not free nor fair given how Mr. Putin has imprisoned political opponents and prevented others from running against him." British Foreign Secretary David Cameron said "this is not what free and fair elections look like," adding in his message on X, formerly Twitter, that illegal elections have also been held on occupied Ukrainian territory. The French Foreign Ministry said Putin's reelection came amid a wave of repression against civil society. It also praised in a statement the courage of "the many Russian citizens who peacefully protested against this attack on their fundamental political rights." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Putin has become "sick with power" and he is just "simulating" elections. "This imitation of 'elections' has no legitimacy and cannot have any. This person must end up in the dock in The Hague [at the International UN Tribunal for War Crimes]," Zelenskiy said on X. Putin's allies were quick to heap praise on the Russian leader for his election success. China, one of Russia's most importants allies, congratulated Putin, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian saying President Xi Jinping and the Russian leader "will continue to maintain close exchanges, lead the two countries to continue to uphold long-standing good-neighborly friendship, deepen comprehensive strategic coordination." Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi called Putin's victory "decisive," the state news agency IRNA reported. WATCH: Leading psychiatrists discuss how excessive power can impact brain functioning and what the impulse for total control reveals about the mind and personality traits of authority figures. Putin was opposed by three relatively unknown, Kremlin-friendly politicians whose campaign was barely noticeable. The main intrigue was whether Russians would heed opposition calls to gather at polling stations at noon on March 17 to silently protest against Putins rule. Russian media had reported in the months leading up to the election that the Kremlin was determined to engineer a victory for Putin that would surpass the 2018 results, when he won 77.5 percent of the vote with a turnout of 67.5 percent. The Kremlin banned anti-war politician Boris Nadezhdin from the ballot after tens of thousands of voters lined up in the cold to support his candidacy. Nadezhdin threatened to undermine the narrative of overwhelming support for Putin and his war, experts said. Independent election observers were barred from working at this years presidential election for the first time in post-Soviet history, experts said. Russian elections have been notorious for ballot stuffing and other irregularities. The vote was also held in Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine, where hundreds of thousands of Russian soldiers are located. The United States called the elections neither fair nor free. 'Noon Against Putin' With options to express resistance severely limited by the lack of competition and repressive laws, opposition leaders called on voters opposed to Putin to gather near polls at noon to show the Kremlin and the country that they were still a force. Russia's opposition movement suffered a serious blow last month when Aleksei Navalny, Putins fiercest and most popular critic, died in unclear circumstances in a maximum-security prison in the Arctic where he was serving a 19-year sentence on charges of extremism widely seen as politically motivated. Long lines formed at polling stations across Russia's 11 time zones at the designated time for the "Noon Against Putin" protest, including in Novosibirsk, Chita, Yekaterinburg, Perm, and Moscow among other Russian cities. "We're not really expecting anything, but I'd somehow like to make a record of this election for myself, tick the box for myself, so, when talking about it later, I could say that I didn't just sit at home, but came and tried to do something," said one Russian who came to vote at noon. "The action has achieved its goals," Ivan Zhdanov, the head the Anti-Corruption Foundation formerly headed by Navalny, said in a YouTube video. "The action has shown that there is another Russia, there are people who stand against Putin." The Moscow prosecutor's office had earlier warned of criminal prosecution against those who interfered with the vote, a step it said was necessary due to social-media posts "containing calls for an unlimited number of people to simultaneously arrive to participate in uncoordinated mass public events at polling stations in Moscow [at noon on March 17] in order to violate electoral legislation." Lawyer Valeria Vetoshkina, who has left the country, told Current Time that if people do not bring posters and do not announce why they came to the polling station at that hour, it would be hard for the authorities to legitimately declare it a "violation." But she warned that there were "some basic safety rules that you can follow if you're worried. The first is not to discuss why you came, just to vote. And secondly, it is better to come without any visual means of agitation: without posters, flags, and so on." Ella Pamfilova, head of Russia's Central Election Commission (TsIK), on March 16 said there had been 20 cases of people attempting to destroy voting sheets by pouring liquids into ballot boxes and eight incidents of people trying to destroy ballots by setting them on fire or by using smoke bombs. Russians living abroad also took part in the "Noon Against Putin" campaign, with hundreds of people lining up at 12 p.m. outside the Russian embassies in Sidney, Tokyo, Phuket, Dubai, Istanbul, Berlin, Paris, and Yerevan among other capitals. "It's not an election. It's just a fake. And so we're here to show that not Russians elect the current leader of Russia, that we [are] against him very severely, and that lots of people had to flee their country to be free," said Anna, a Russian citizen living in Berlin and who gathered outside the embassy in the German capital. Putin was challenged by Liberal Democratic Party leader Leonid Slutsky, State Duma deputy speaker Vladislav Davankov of the New People party, and State Duma lawmaker Nikolai Kharitonov of the Communist Party, none of whom opposed the war. The Russian leader had the full resources of the state behind him, including the media, police, state-owned companies, and election officials. Flash China and Brazil will take the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations as an opportunity to forge the next "golden 50 years" in bilateral relations, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi here Friday. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during a joint press conference with his Brazilian counterpart, Mauro Vieira. Going through half a century, China-Brazil ties have become more mature and resilient, and constantly show great vitality, he said. He called on both sides to jointly lift the China-Brazil comprehensive strategic partnership to a new level and make it a model of unity, cooperation, mutual benefits and win-win results among major developing countries. Wang briefed about the main consensus reached between the two sides. First is to jointly implement the important consensus of the two heads of state and further consolidate strategic mutual trust. Under the guidance of the strategic planning of the two heads of state, the two sides will maintain mutual understanding and mutual support on issues involving each other's core interests and major concerns. China appreciates Brazil's reaffirmation of its adherence to the one-China principle. China will carefully prepare for bilateral high-level exchanges in the next stage, convene the seventh meeting of the China-Brazil High-level Coordination and Cooperation Committee, and promote exchanges and cooperation between governments, legislative bodies, political parties, and at subnational levels. Second is to deepen cooperation to benefit people of the two countries. The China-Brazil cooperation ranges "from space to soybeans." China has been Brazil's largest trading partner, export market and source of trade surplus for 15 consecutive years. Brazil is also China's largest trading partner in Latin America. Both sides will strengthen synergy of development strategies, and promote cooperation in various fields to new levels. Both sides will facilitate and support their companies to invest and operate in the other country. Third is to enhance people-to-people exchanges and consolidate the public support for the China-Brazil friendship. The two sides will push for more active exchanges in fields including culture, education, tourism, sports, provide mutual visa facilitation, and accelerate the opening of the consulate general of Brazil in Chengdu. Fourth is to demonstrate the responsibility as major countries and promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind. The two countries share compatible vision in diplomacy and the bilateral relations bear important strategic significance and global influence. They will strengthen communication and coordination so as to safeguard common interests of developing countries, promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and an inclusive economic globalization, and build a China-Brazil community with a shared future and a China-Latin America community with a shared future. China fully supports Brazil in hosting the G20 Leaders' Summit, the BRICS Leaders Meeting, and the United Nations climate change conference. In this article, we will take a look at 10 states with the highest Muslim population in the US. If you want to skip our discussion on the statistics related to the Muslim American community, you can go directly to the 5 States with the Highest Muslim Population in the US. Islam ranks as the third-largest religion in the United States, following Christianity and Judaism. According to the latest studies, there are about 4.45 million Muslims in the country, accounting for approximately 1% of the total population. Muslim population in the US has been on the rise for more than a decade due to high fertility rates and migration of Muslims into the country. Consequently, the number of mosques has more than doubled during the last two decades. The Muslim population in the US increased significantly during the twentieth century. About 1.7 million Muslims became legal permanent residents of the US within a span of just over two decades from 1991 to 2012. About 72% of American Muslims are immigrants or a part of the "second generation." They are also Americas youngest religious community, with approximately a quarter aged between 18 and 24 years. Muslim Americans make up one of the most racially diverse religious communities in the country, with 25% blacks, 24% whites, 18% Asians, 18% Arabs, 7% mixed races, and 5% Hispanics. However, the majority of Muslims are immigrants, with 58% being born outside the USA. The Muslim population is also substantially dispersed in the country, with Virginia and Arizona being amongst the states with the highest Muslim population in the US. A study by the Pew Research Center forecasts that the number of Muslims in the US will reach 8.1 million or 2.1% of the total population by 2050, making Islam the second largest religion in the country. You can also check out the 25 Countries where Muslim Population will Increase the Most by 2050 here. Despite being a minority, Muslims in the United States are finding success within society and are more optimistic, as per a survey by the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU). Muslims in America have made a significant contribution to small businesses, which are crucial for the US economy. About 8% of Muslims have their own business and employ 8 other people, on average, which amounts to about 1.37 billion jobs. The number of Muslim-owned businesses has reached 96,000 in New York City and 36,000 in Michigan. Various databases show that American Muslim-owned businesses are primarily concentrated in New York, New Jersey, California, Illinois, Florida, and Michigan, with fewer such businesses in Alabama, Texas, or Tennessee. These Muslim entrepreneurs serve both the domestic and global halal economy with their products. The global halal market is huge, with Muslims spending $2 trillion on halal products in 2019 alone. These products include halal food, modest fashion, media, and recreation, as well as halal pharmaceuticals, Muslim-friendly tourism, halal cosmetics, and Islamic finance. Notable businesses owned by Muslim Americans include Muzz (a Muslim matchmaking app), Launchgood (a crowdfunding platform for Muslim Entrepreneurship), and Splashgear (an apparel company providing modest watersports gear for Muslim women). Story continues The rising Muslim population has also led to an increase in demand for Shariah-compliant stocks. These stocks are from businesses that conduct their activities in accordance with Shariah rules and refrain from gaining exposure to sectors like alcohol, tobacco, and gambling. As per the Islamic Finance Development Report 2021 by Refinitiv, the cumulative value of Islamic financial assets stood at $3.37 trillion by the end of 2020. This marked an increase from $2.96 trillion in the preceding year and from $2.2 trillion in 2015. Furthermore, the year 2021 observed a record launch of over 900 Islamic exchange-traded funds (ETFs) globally and attracted more than $1 trillion in net inflows. Some of the popular halal dividend stocks to buy include Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM), AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV), and Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT). Heres what Appleseed Fund said about Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT) in its Q3 2023 investor letter: During the most recent quarter, Appleseed Fund added three new equity holdings: Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT), Stanley Black & Decker (SWK), and Synovus Financial (SNV). Medtronic is the worlds largest device manufacturer, and it holds the number one or number two market share in most of its product segments. Medtronics business is heavily weighted towards complicated in-patient procedures, which are typically quite profitable. Industry dynamics are quite attractive with an aging global population and the growth of improved healthcare in emerging markets; furthermore, most of its segments are highly concentrated with just 2-3 players that split each segments market share, affording the key participants with significant economies of scale and pricing power. The Company has been recently addressing several temporary headwinds including a strong dollar, inflation, a delayed recovery in surgical volumes from the coronavirus pandemic, and supply chain issues. Once these issues reach the rearview mirror, the Companys growth and margin expansion plans should transform into reality. States with the Highest Muslim Population in the US Photo by Diane Picchiottino on Unsplash Our Methodology To shortlist the 10 states with the highest Muslim population in the US, we referred to data from the World Population Review. The states have been ranked in ascending order of the percentage of Muslim population. Additionally, we have included the total Muslim population figures to provide a clearer understanding of the density of the Muslim population in each of these states. By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). Whether you are a beginner investor or a professional looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders. States with the Highest Muslim Population in the US 10. North Carolina Percentage of Muslim Population: 1.3% Total Muslim Population: 130,661 North Carolina's Muslim community is diverse, including people from countries like Pakistan, Somalia, and Bangladesh, as well as those who converted to Islam. The state has many mosques that serve as places of worship and community activities for Muslims. The first mosque was built over 65 years ago, showing the long history of Muslims in North Carolina. As several Muslims live in North Carolina, universities located in the state, including Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, have developed specialized academic programs on Islamic Studies. 9. Arizona Percentage of Muslim Population: 1.5% Total Muslim Population: 109,765 In recent years, there has been rapid growth in the Muslim population within Arizona due to immigration and conversion. The Muslim community living in Arizona is quite diverse, with residents having roots in countries from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa. Muslims in Arizona have also become more involved in community activities and politics in the past decade. The growth of the Muslim population in the state has led to the establishment of various mosques and Islamic centers, including the Islamic Community Center of Phoenix (ICCP) and Tempe Mosque. 8. Massachusetts Percentage of Muslim Population: 1.9% Total Muslim Population: 131,749 In Massachusetts, most Muslims live in the Greater Boston Area, where you can find various mosques, Islamic schools, and community organizations. Prominent Mosques and Muslim community centers in Massachusetts include The Islamic Center of New England (ICNE), The Islamic Society of Greater Worcester (ISGW), and The Muslim American Community Center of Lexington (MACCL). These organizations not only provide places of worship for Muslims in the area but also impart Islamic Education and host social events for the community. Massachusetts is in the eighth position on our list of the states with the highest Muslim population in the US. 7. Minnesota Percentage of Muslim Population: 2% Total Muslim Population: 114,590 With roots in various countries such as Bosnia, Somalia, and Iraq, the Muslims of Minnesota contribute to the states rich cultural diversity. The community includes Muslims from not only different cultures and backgrounds but different sects as well. Hence, there are many mosques and community centers in Minnesota catering to diverse cultural needs. Among these are the Dar Al-Hijrah Mosque in Minneapolis, the Islamic Community Center of Minnesota (ICCM), and MAS Minnesota. 6. Virginia Percentage of Muslim Population: 2% Total Muslim Population: 169,371 The number of Muslims in Virginia rose during the 20th century, particularly after the immigration from Bosnia and Herzegovina during the 1990s. With the growth of the Muslim community of Virginia, several mosques and Muslim cultural centers were built throughout the state. The proximity of Virginia to Washington, D.C. has attracted many Muslim immigrants to it. Reputed mosques and cultural centers of Virginia include Dar Al-Noor Islamic Community Center in Manassas, All Dulles Area Muslim Society (ADAMS) in Sterling, and Islamic Society of Greater Richmond (ISGR). The rising Muslim population in the US has also led to an increase in demand for popular halal dividend stocks such as Exxon Mobil Corporation (NYSE:XOM), AbbVie Inc. (NYSE:ABBV), and Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT). Click to continue reading and see the 5 States with the Highest Muslim Population in the US. Suggested articles: Disclosure: None. 10 States with the Highest Muslim Population in the US is originally published on Insider Monkey. As heightened tensions in the Middle East raise the risk of a broader regional conflict, the United States has blamed Iranian-backed militants for an attack on a U.S. military base in Iraq, Israel has been accused of killing members of an Iranian-backed extremist group in Lebanon, and Tehran has accused Israel of killing members of the Iranian military in Syria in an incident Tehran says will not go unanswered. U.S. Central Command, or CENTCOM, said on January 20 that "multiple ballistic missiles and rockets were launched by Iranian-backed militants in western Iraq targeting the Al-Assad Air Base," which is one of the largest U.S. military bases in Iraq. CENTCOM said most of the missiles were intercepted but some had hit the base, at which about 2,500 U.S. soldiers are currently stationed. "A number of U.S. personnel are undergoing evaluation for traumatic brain injuries," CENTCOM said on X, formerly known as Twitter. "At least one Iraqi service member was wounded." The attack comes as Iranian-backed proxies and partners have stepped up their strikes on U.S. bases in Iraq and Syria amid Israel's ongoing war against Iranian-backed Hamas -- which has been designated as a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union -- in the Gaza Strip. Iranian officials have said that attacks by members of its "axis of resistance" against Israel and the West -- including Hamas, Lebanese Hizballah, and Yemen's Huthi rebels -- will not cease until a cease-fire is worked out halting ongoing fighting in the Gaza Strip. Iranian state media reporting on the CENTCOM statement described the attack as having been carried out by "Iraqi resistance" forces, while saying the Islamic republic has denied using proxy forces in the Middle East. Israel launched its military campaign against Hamas after it and other Palestinian extremist groups carried out a deadly surprise assault on Israel on October 7 that killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians. The resulting three months of war have left more than 20,000 Palestinians dead, according to observers. Iran, which fails to recognize Israel as a state and considers it one of its greatest enemies along with the United States, has positioned itself as one of the leading voices against Israel and for the Palestinian cause since the war in Gaza began. Tehran has also accused Israel of involvement in twin bombings in Iran early this month despite the Islamic State (IS) extremist group, which Iran has fought in Syria and Iraq, claiming responsibility. Israel has denied any role in the bombings in the southeastern city of Kerman that killed nearly 100 people. On January 15, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) carried out Iran's longest-ever strike by firing multiple ballistic missiles into northwestern Syria to attack what it called "terrorist bases" of IS and other extremist groups. The same day, the IRGC launched ballistic missiles into Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region that targeted what it claimed was a "spy headquarters" operated by Israel. Israel has not commented on the allegation. On January 20, Iran accused Israel of striking a building in the Syrian capital, Damascus, used by the IRGC. The strike, according to the IRGC, killed five of its members. Various media reported that a senior officer the IRGC's elite foreign arm, the Quds Force, was among those killed, which reportedly included three Syrians, one Lebanese, and one Iraqi. Reports also suggested a senior member of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad Organization that took part in the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7 was killed. Israel has not commented on the incident. On January 20, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi threatened Israel with retaliation, saying it would not let the alleged attack go unanswered. The next day, Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf accused Israel of carrying out the attack in Syria in an act of "desperation" due to alleged battlefield defeats and embarrassment related to the Gaza war. Later on January 21, security sources in Lebanon said two Lebanese Hizballah fighters were killed in what they called an Israeli drone strike in southern Lebanon, in what would be the latest to target Lebanese Hizballah fighters in the area. Viewed of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. A planning application for the development of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Tawlaght & Srabragan, Lough Allen, County Roscommon has been lodged with Roscommon County Council. Fears have been voiced by local people after Arigna LDES Limited applied to develop the BESS, designed to provide system support services to the electricity grid at the site of the former Arigna ESB Power Station. The proposal consists of the installation of 56 battery containers and medium voltage power stations (MVPS). A site notice was erected on December 17th, 2023. Accompanying the application is a newspaper notice from the Irish Daily Star dated December 12th, 2023. A number of residents have voiced their concerns about the proposed development in relation to health and safety, noise, fire and toxic smells. They also fear that it will affect the wildlife in the area known as a haven for trout and eel and will ruin what is regarded locally as a wildlife habitat. Meanwhile local TD Frank Feighan said that he had received communications from locals who had expressed their concern and fears regarding such a development. "I advise people with concerns to document them with the local authority while the time for submissions is open. I will continue to monitor the situation and take the opportunity to raise the matter with Minister Ryan in due course, said Deputy Feighan. Hero Passion registered the highest YoY growth at 1373.47 % even as MoM sales dipped 56.83% Top 10 motorcycle sales in December 2023 has seen a marginal YoY improvement in demand by 3.17 percent while sales fell on a MoM basis down by 27.28 percent. Total sales in this list stood at 6,40,103 units in December 2023, as against 6,20,421 units sold in December 2022 while on a MoM basis, it was a de-growth over 8,80,174 units sold in November 2023. Hero Splendor at No. 1 on Top 10 Motorcycle List Hero Splendor topped the list with 2,27,748 units sold in December 2023 with a 1.02 percent YoY growth over 2,25,443 units sold in December 2022. This was a marginal growth of 2,305 units with the Splendor commanding a 35.58 percent share. MoM sales however, dipped by 9.19 percent from 2,50,786 units sold in November 2023. At No. 2 was the Bajaj Pulsar with 1,06,734 units sold in the past month, a YoY growth of 42.75 percent from 74,768 units sold in December 2022. It was however a MoM decline of 18.15 percent when compared to 1,30,403 units sold in November 2023. Bajaj is also currently testing the 2024 Bajaj Pulsar N150 and N160 which also sees several feature and technology updates. Honda Shine sales dipped both YoY and MoM to 85,144 units in December 2023 whereas there had been 87,760 units and 1,55,943 units sold in December 2022 and November 2023 respectively. It was the same case with Hero HF Deluxe, sales of which fell by 43.34 percent YoY and 47.56 percent MoM to 61,056 units. TVS Raider sales improved by 51.34 percent YoY to 39,443 units in December 2023 though sales dipped marginally by 0.97 percent on a MoM basis. Hero Passion Posts 1373% YoY Growth Lower down the list it was the Hero Passion that has seen outstanding improvement in December 2023 when sales escalated 1371.47 percent YoY to 33,551 units. There had been just 2,277 units sold in December 2022. MoM sales however, fell by 3.45 percent over 34,750 units sold in November 2023. Bajaj Platina faced a decline of 27.63%, selling 26,166 units in December 2023 compared to 36,157 units in December 2022. TVS Apache experienced a slight decline of 3.04%, with 21,506 units sold in December 2023 compared to 22,181 units in December 2022. Royal Enfield Classic 350 demonstrated a modest 2.67% growth, selling 21,234 units in December 2023 compared to 20,682 units in December 2022. Honda Unicorn witnessed a marginal 1.07% growth, with 17,521 units sold in December 2023 compared to 17,335 units in December 2022. YoY vs MoM performance The total motorcycle sales in India for December 2023 reached 6,40,103 units, indicating a YoY growth of 3.17%. The total motorcycle sales in India for December 2023 reached 6,40,103 units, reflecting a substantial month-on-month decline of 27.28% from November 2023, where total sales stood at 8,80,174 units. These variations indicate the influence of factors such as seasonality, consumer preferences, and economic conditions on the Indian motorcycle market. Manufacturers will closely monitor these trends to strategize for the months ahead and adapt to the evolving market dynamics. Artificial intelligence (AI) has helped push tech giants, including Microsoft and Nvidia, to new valuation highs and lifted the performance of the stock market at large. On the other hand, not every company with powerful strengths and attractive long-term opportunities in the space has rocketed to new valuation peaks. Even though the S&P 500 index is now trading in the neighborhood of record highs, some promising players in the AI revolution are still sitting at deeply discounted levels -- and investors who back the right ones could score massive returns. With that in mind, read on to see why two Motley Fool contributors think investing in Palantir (NYSE: PLTR) and The Trade Desk (NASDAQ: TTD) is a smart move while the stocks are still trading down big from their highs. Image source: Getty Images. This AI leader's growth is ready to accelerate Keith Noonan (Palantir): Palantir stock has already seen some strong rebound momentum over the last year. The data software specialist's partial valuation recovery has been powered by improving business performance and excitement about the company's strengths in artificial intelligence. On the other hand, Palantir still trades down 58.5% from the high it reached shortly after going public. For investors looking to build positions in potentially explosive AI stocks, the company's shares still trade at levels that leave the door open for very strong returns. Palantir's revenue increased 17% year over year to reach $558 million in the third quarter. Meanwhile, the company posted roughly $72 million in net income. The performance marked Palantir's fourth consecutive quarter of profitability and was a dramatic improvement from the roughly $124 million loss it posted in the third quarter of 2022. Palantir's overall U.S. commercial customer base has increased tenfold over the last three years. Revenue from this customer category grew 33% year over year in the third quarter to reach $116 million -- representing roughly 46% of the period's $251 million in sales to private sector customers and 21% of total revenue. Story continues Aided by strong demand for the company's new AI tools, sales to U.S. commercial customers will soon account for the majority of its private sector business. Sales to private sector customers will also soon account for the majority of revenue, surpassing the slower-growing government customers segment. The fastest-growing parts of Palantir's business are on track to quickly become its largest sales contributors. In turn, there's a good chance that revenue and earnings growth will proceed at a faster pace. With the company seeing its business composition shift in favorable directions while AI is still just heating up, Palantir looks poised to be a long-term winner. An abundance of growth opportunities Jeremy Bowman (The Trade Desk): Digital advertising has experienced a huge boom over the last decade -- driven by new platforms such as social media and video-sharing sites like YouTube -- and there's little doubt that technology will only play a greater role in advertising in the coming years. Connected TV, or ad-driven streaming, is only starting to go mainstream as streaming services focus on their advertising tiers. Artificial intelligence is set to improve ad creation and targeting, and new platforms, like virtual reality headsets, also present a new opportunity for advertisers to find potential customers. There's one company at the nexus of this evolving opportunity: The Trade Desk. The Trade Desk is the largest independent demand-side platform (DSP) in the adtech industry, and it has a long track record of delivering excellent results. The company has achieved a customer retention rate of at least 95% for nine years, showing customers are overwhelmingly pleased with the service. The Trade Desk is also on the cutting edge of technology in the industry. Its Unified ID 2.0 (UID2), a cookieless tracking protocol, is the leading candidate to replace third-party cookies, which Google plans to ban in the second half of 2024. It's also rolling out its new Kokai artificial intelligence platform designed to enhance campaign optimization, data-sharing, and measurement, among other features. In addition to the potential growth in advertising and new technology, right now also looks like a great time to buy the Trade Desk because the stock is down 43% from its all-time high. And the company is still delivering rapid growth on the top and bottom lines in a difficult environment for the advertising industry. The Trade Desk stock could surge once the economy and the ad industry enter a steady recovery. Should you invest $1,000 in Palantir Technologies right now? Before you buy stock in Palantir Technologies, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now... and Palantir Technologies wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than tripled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*. See the 10 stocks *Stock Advisor returns as of January 16, 2024 Jeremy Bowman has positions in The Trade Desk. Keith Noonan has positions in The Trade Desk. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Microsoft, Nvidia, Palantir Technologies, and The Trade Desk. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. 2 Stocks Down 43% and 58.5% to Buy Right Now was originally published by The Motley Fool Clare Vacio, wife of Alpine Fire Protection District Capt. Mike Vacio, checks one of her husbands ears burned during last Fridays West Fire in Alpine. Alpine Fire Protection District Capt. Mike Vacio has fought hundreds of blazes in a 32-year career as a firefighter. Last weeks West Fire in Alpine will be the first to leave him with physical scars. Vacio, a Rancho San Diego resident and father of two sons, is recovering at home after being injured while battling the fire. He sustained first-degree burns on both ears and a spot on the back of his neck. He also was treated for heat exhaustion. He returned to the Alpine fire station on Tavern Road on Monday afternoon for the first time since the blaze to fill out workers compensation forms and drive his pickup home. Advertisement Ive never been burned before, said Vacio, 52, who has been with Alpine fire for 28 years. Ive had three back surgeries, Ive had twisted ankles and Ive been treated for smoke inhalation and heat exhaustion, but not like what I had (Friday). Vacio is also a member of the San Miguel Consolidated Fire District board, where he is up for re-election this year. His wife of 24 years, Clare, said she has always been aware of the perils of being married to a firefighter, but what happened to her husband jolted her. She said she keeps the wife of Cory Iverson, a San Diego firefighter who died while battling the Thomas Fire in December in Ventura County, in my thoughts and prayers every day. I think I have been taking it all for granted, Clare Vacio said. I know hes good at his job, but fire is unpredictable. The reality of it is that none of us know what can happen. He could have been there five minutes longer we dont know. The West Fire ignited near West Willows Road and Interstate 8 just after 11 a.m. Friday and quickly prompted evacuations. It scorched 505 acres, destroyed 34 homes, 21 accessory buildings like barns and sheds, and damaged 20 more before firefighters were able to get the flames under control. High temperatures that flirted with the 110 degree mark, 9 percent humidity and easterly winds blowing 15 mph led to what Vacio called super-heated air that combined with dry brush to create a perfect storm for a wildfire. As of Monday morning, the fire was 92 percent contained. Cleveland National Forest and Cal Fire investigators are working to determine a cause. Besides the burns and heat exhaustion, Vacio had a core body temperature that exceeded 101 degrees. He was taken by ambulance from the scene of the fire at about 12:30 p.m. Friday to UCSD Medical Center in Hillcrest. At the hospital, he was given ice packs to put under his armpits and in his groin area, and was pumped full of fluids, he said. He spent the night at the hospital, and was released on Saturday morning and has been treating his burns with Polysporin. He said he expects to be cleared by doctors on Thursday, going back to work one week after the fire. Vacio said it wasnt the fire itself that caused the burns to his ears, but the high temperature radiating from the heat given off by the blaze. Another firefighter with him also received a minor facial burn. When he first got the call, Vacios four-person rig was one of the first trucks to arrive on site at Alpine Boulevard. Despite the burns, the team carried onto its second stop near the Alpine Oaks Mobile Estates. That is where the heat exhaustion took over and he made the decision to seek medical care. While in the ambulance, Vacio said he saw a firefighter walking a woman who looked to be in her 80s toward the ambulance. Vacio said he asked the ambulance personnel if they would drop the woman off at the Alpine Community Center on the way to taking him to the hospital. They obliged. Alpine is a small community and we have a very, very good relationship with the community, Vacio said. I never wanted to work anywhere else. You want to do the best you can for your home. When you cant do anything to stop these things from happening in your own community, it is frustrating. Its also frustrating that so many people lost their homes. San Miguel fire district board member Kim Raddatz was Vacios training captain when Vacio was at the fire academy in the 1980s. Raddatz said that even 30 years ago, he saw that Vacio was meticulous and self-motivated with a unique ability to come up with the best decision without rejecting anybody elses difference of opinion. Raddatz said he knows Vacio chose the fire service because it is his passion. Hes been in Alpine almost his whole career, Raddatz said. That shows how incredibly dedicated he is. Three days after the fire, Vacio said he is having a hard time looking back at some of the decisions he made. I put my crew in danger where I shouldnt have, Vacio said. I got one of my firefighters burned, and its my fault that he got hurt. I got burned. Im in charge of (us); Im not supposed to put people in that position. My primary job is to keep my crew safe and I didnt. karen.pearlman@sduniontribune.com Fang Zheng / iStock.com A Costco membership is often a valuable resource for finding good deals on some of our favorite products. At Costco, we can fill our freezers and pantries, find dishware to serve our meals on, and even purchase a table to seat our guests. However, every store will have its share of less-than-popular items with consumersand Costco is no exception. While Costco is known for having affordable items in its furniture showroom, some shoppers and critics question whether their pricing is truly competitive with big box furniture stores, or if the pieces offer enough quality to be worth the investment. Theres no reason we cant find worthy furniture or home decor at Costco, but there are a few items we may want to reconsider. Im a Shopping Expert: 9 Items Id Never Put in My Grocery Cart Related: How To Get $340 a Year in Cash Back for Things You Already Buy Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief. Ashland Upholstered Bed While many of the beds listed on Costcos website received high customer marks, the Ashland Upholstered Bed fell into the middle, only averaging a 3.3 out of five in customer reviews. Several reviewers cited the need to purchase additional parts that didnt come with the initial purchase as a major deterrent. Another customer mentioned receiving their delivery with missing nuts and washers. One shopper lamented, When we opened the box, we noticed the bed was very cheaply made with the kind of iron frame mattress stores sometimes give you for free as a temporary structure. Harstine Leather Sofa Though the Harstine Leather Sofa has received relatively good reviews on the Costco website, writer Maurie Backman suggests that, with a little price shopping, we might find a higher-end sofa for a better cost. In a piece published through The Motley Fool, Backman encourages readers to consider going with better-known brands for big-ticket purchases: Have you heard of the brand in question? If not, you may be taking a risk, even though the item seems to have good reviews on Costcos site. Story continues Backman shares that a quick search of leather couches on the website of furniture retailer Raymour & Flanigan yields a more luxurious option for a similar price. In fact, the Raymour & Flanigan site includes a number of sleeper sofas priced under $1,000. Thomasville Marion Fabric Convertible Sofa The notion of a sofa going viral over TikTok may seem oddbut its a very real phenomenon that occurred in the fall of 2023, when a TikTok user recorded a woman who was playfully selling her husband on this $1,299.99 convertible sofa. The New York Post shares that the video earned roughly 34.1 million views and over two million likes, sparking interest in the sofa. However, some customers were quick to try and derail the hype train, detailing their experiences with guests who were so uncomfortable on the sofa that they had to change seats. TikTok users also mentioned that tracks on the sofa broke easily. Frigidaire Upright Freezer Stainless Platinum Design Series According to House Digests list of the worst-reviewed items in Costcos home section, this freezer may operate well enough, but it often arrives to customers with dents. One reviewer on the Costco website mentioned that it was also a nightmare to level-you can only adjust the front, the back legs are just tiny little wheels, so I never got it very stable. Another customer lamented the lack of shelf space, saying that even common items like a turkey or even bags of Costco chicken wont fit inside. San Sebastian Side Chair Two Pack Priced at $1,099.99, this pair of San Sebastian side chairs certainly should offer stability and elegance. However, some reviewers on the Costco website said that the chairs delivered to their homes lacked the polish and elegance of the chairs in the photos. Other customers cited issues with the chairs wobbling, or even breaking. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Costco Furniture Items That Are A Waste of Money In this article, we will look into the 50 least developed countries in the world in 2024. If you want to skip our detailed analysis, you can go directly to the 10 Least Developed Countries in the World in 2024. Global Development Prospects 2023 presented us with contrasting narratives, including the persistent international strains and regional humanitarian crises, particularly the ongoing Israel-Palestine war. In terms of economic development, the year showed resilience and progress on many fronts. Now looking ahead, according to a report by the World Bank, global growth is expected to be 2.4% in 2024, compared to 2.6% in 2023. The decline in growth can be attributed to strict monetary policies, frail global trade, and feeble financial conditions. The short-term economic forecasts present varied prospects, with major economies witnessing slower growth. Whereas, emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs) show signs of improvement. Global Trade and Commodity Prices In 2023, the global trade growth was the slowest in the past 50 years, apart from global recessions. This led to a contraction in the global goods trade. However, the services trade continued to recover from the repercussions of the pandemic. According to the World Bank, trade growth is anticipated to increase by 2.3% in 2024, indicating a recovery of demand for goods and trade. Recent conflicts have accelerated geopolitical risks around the world. The ongoing war in the Middle East has not hugely impacted commodity prices, however, it is expected to result in high energy prices, affecting global trade and leading to high inflation. Growth Outlook of Emerging and Low-Income Economies The report forecasts EMDEs to grow at a rate of 3.9% from 2024 to 2025. Among these countries, economic development in China is projected to significantly decrease this year, as a result of weak consumer sentiment and a continued slump in the property sector. Apart from China, EMDE growth is expected to increase from 3.2% in 2023 to 3.5% in 2024. It is anticipated to grow further to 3.8% in 2025. This progress indicates a rebound in trade and evolving domestic demand in many large economies. Story continues Low-income countries (LICs) are projected to grow at a rate of 5.5% in 2024, compared to 3.5% in 2023. The LICs are expected to maintain the growth and grow at a rate of 5.6% in 2025. This growth recovery can be attributed to metal exporters, and countries hit by conflict in 2023 such as Sudan. Despite the notable growth prospects, many LICs will still encounter challenges such as increasing debt-service costs, slow debt restructuring, and political instability. Global Inflation and Poverty According to a report by the United Nations, global inflation is expected to decline to 3.9% in 2024, compared to an estimated 5.7% in 2023. In 2023, global inflation fell from the highest recorded inflation of 8.1%, in almost 30 years. The decline can be attributed to moderation in global commodity prices and a decline in demand amid restrictive monetary policies. Developed countries have witnessed a noticeable decline in inflation. However, core inflation rates are still relatively high, due to increasing service sector prices and restricted labor markets. In most of the developing countries, inflation peaked in 2023 and is expected to moderate in 2024. Despite the decline in inflation rates, food prices increased in the third and fourth quarters of 2023, especially in regions including Africa, South Asia, and Western Asia, due to delayed price adjustments from global to local markets, sluggish local currencies, and climate disasters. High food prices lead to food insecurity in developing countries, affecting the poorest households the most. An estimated number of 238 million people endured acute food insecurity in 2023, an uptick of 21.6 million people from 2022. The inflationary trend in developing countries has washed away the efforts made in poverty reduction, leaving millions of people vulnerable. Poverty rates remained higher than pre-pandemic levels in many low-income countries, especially in Africa and Western Asia. A large chunk of the population in the least developed countries is poor and suffers from extreme food insecurity. Due to poverty and the prevalence of inequality in the world, these countries lack opportunities to progress on the global front. According to another report by the United Nations, 14% of the world's population faces considerable challenges to economic development and growth. This not only limits their access to necessities but also hinders them from availing opportunities that could improve their economic situation. This results in countries falling into high debts and economic crises, which further aggravates due to the untenable debt burdens imposed by the global financial system. Apart from economic factors, issues such as poor governance, unequal distribution of resources, health crises, absence of proper infrastructure, and restrictive labor markets are some of the root causes leading to decreased development in these countries. Investment Opportunities in Emerging and Underdeveloped Economies The road to economic prosperity bears plenty of risks, such as inflation, poverty, and political instability, for least developed countries. However, for investors with a risk appetite, the ETFs in these countries can offer appealing diversification opportunities. These ETFs can be used by investors to hedge against currency fluctuations and associated risks with international markets. Some of the top ETFs in the emerging markets are Commonwealth Africa (NASDAQ:CAFRX), SPDR S&P Emerging Asia Pacific ETF (NYSEARCA:GMF), and VanEck Africa Index ETF (NYSEARCA:AFK). Commonwealth Africa (NASDAQ:CAFRX) is an exchange-traded fund that invests in both growth and value stocks of companies based in Africa. It invests in public equity and fixed-income African markets. The fund measures its performance against the MSCI Emerging Markets Index and the Dow Jones Africa Titans 50 Index. The Commonwealth Africa (NASDAQ:CAFRX) has an expense ratio of 1.79% and a trailing twelve-month yield of 3.38%. Commonwealth Africa (NASDAQ:CAFRX) has a total of 43 holdings and a top 10 holdings concentration of 44.42%. MTN Group Limited (OTC:MTNOY) is one of the major holdings of Commonwealth Africa (NASDAQ:CAFRX). The leading mobile telecommunication corporation has a market cap of $10.19 billion, as of January 19. On January 9, MTN Group Limited (OTC:MTNOY) announced that it has decided to expand its mobile financial service across Africa, along with Ericsson. The collaboration between the two companies aims to promote financial inclusivity for both basic users and businesses, by utilizing MTN Group Limited's (OTC:MTNOY) MoMo service on Ericsson's platform. This will provide an extensive mobile finance ecosystem, providing secure transactions, insurance, and loans among other services. This is a joint effort by both companies to empower millions of Africans with financial stability and freedom. SPDR S&P Emerging Asia Pacific ETF (NYSEARCA:GMF) is an ETF founded by State Street Global Advisors. The fund invests in the public equity markets of emerging economies in the Asia/Pacific region. SPDR S&P Emerging Asia Pacific ETF (NYSEARCA:GMF) invests in the growth and value stocks of companies with diverse market caps. The fund utilizes a representative sampling technique to track the performance of the S&P Emerging Asia Pacific BMI Index. The ETF has an expense ratio of 0.49% and a TTM yield of 2.84%. SPDR S&P Emerging Asia Pacific ETF's (NYSEARCA:GMF) holdings are dominated by the technology sector, followed by financial services and consumer cyclical sectors. One of the top holdings of the fund is the E-commerce giant, Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE:BABA). On November 27, 2023, the company announced that it had joined the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), to combat climate change. The joint effort amplifies the impact of the initiative, leveraging Alibaba Group Holding Limited's (NYSE:BABA) huge user base and digital platform and expertise in decarbonization efforts along with WBCSD's network and knowledge of the matter. The collaboration aims to utilize Alibaba Group Holding Limited's (NYSE:BABA) platform for broader decarbonization efforts, especially in vulnerable populations in underdeveloped countries. VanEck Africa Index ETF (NYSEARCA:AFK) is an exchange-traded fund that invests in the public equity markets of the Africa/Middle East region. The ETF invests in the growth and value stocks of diversified sectors including financial services, communication, and basic materials among others. It measures the performance of the MVIS GDP Africa Index, by utilizing a full replication technique. VanEck Africa Index ETF (NYSEARCA:AFK) was launched by VanEck Associates Corporation. The fund has an expense ratio of 0.98% and a TTM yield of 2.29%. VanEck Africa Index ETF (NYSEARCA:AFK) has a total of 81 holdings. One of the leading companies among its holdings is Naspers Limited (OTC:NPSNY), a multinational internet company based in Africa. As of January 19, the company has a market cap of $28.55 billion. Naspers Limited (OTC:NPSNY) has operations in over 30 emerging markets. On August 29, 2023, Naspers Limited (OTC:NPSNY) announced that it had partnered with the European crowdfunding platform, 4fund.com for payment processing. The partnership will make donating and withdrawing money convenient across the EU. The partnership streamlines crowdfunding in Europe, providing a safe and efficient platform for fundraising. Now, let's have a look at the 50 least developed countries in the world in 2024. 50 Least Developed Countries in the World in 2024 50 Least Developed Countries in the World in 2024 Methodology For our list of the 50 least developed countries in the world in 2024, we have defined a least developed country as one with lower HDI and GDP per Capita. HDI comprehensively captures various aspects of a country's human development such as life expectancy, education, and gross national income. The GDP per capita of a country is indicative of its infrastructure, resource distribution, and living standard. We have utilized these two metrics to compile our list, as they provide us with a comprehensive insight into a country's development. Firstly, we sorted the countries based on HDI and collated a list of 100 countries, reporting the lowest HDI. Then, we sourced GDP per capita data for these countries. We then, assigned ranks to both GDP per Capita and HDI for each country from lowest to highest, 1 being least developed and 100 representing most developed. Then, we averaged their ranks to generate an 'Insider Monkey Score'. Countries with a lower score rank higher on our list and vice versa. The list is in descending order of the Insider Monkey scores of countries. By the way, Insider Monkey is an investing website that tracks the movements of corporate insiders and hedge funds. By using a consensus approach, we identify the best stock picks of more than 900 hedge funds investing in US stocks. The top 10 consensus stock picks of hedge funds outperformed the S&P 500 Index by more than 140 percentage points over the last 10 years (see the details here). Whether you are a beginner investor or a professional one looking for the best stocks to buy, you can benefit from the wisdom of hedge funds and corporate insiders. 50 Least Developed Countries in the World in 2024 50. Vanuatu Human Development Index (2021): 0.607 GDP per Capita (2024): $3,660 Insider Monkey Score: 53.5 out of 100 Vanuatu is a South Pacific island country in Oceania, comprising around 80 islands. It is ranked on our list of the 50 least developed countries in the world in 2024. The country reported an HDI of 0.607 in 2021. According to the IMF, Vanuatu reports a GDP per capita of $3,660, as of 2024. 49. Sao Tome and Principe Human Development Index (2021): 0.618 GDP per Capita (2024): $3,210 Insider Monkey Score: 53.0 out of 100 Sao Tome and Principe is a country located in Central Africa. It is ranked among the least developed countries in the world in 2024. The country reported an HDI of 0.618 in 2021. As of 2024, Sao Tome and Principe reports a GDP per capita of $3,210. 48. Ghana Human Development Index (2021): 0.632 GDP per Capita (2024): $2,240 Insider Monkey Score: 49.0 out of 100 Located in West Africa, Ghana is ranked 48th on our list. In 2021, the country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.632. As of 2024, Ghana reports a GDP per capita of $2,240. 47. Zimbabwe Human Development Index (2021): 0.593 GDP per Capita (2024): $2,860 Insider Monkey Score: 47.50 out of 100 Zimbabwe ranks 47th on our list of the least developed countries in the world. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $2,860. According to the UNDP, Zimbabwe had an HDI of 0.593 in 2021. 46. Kiribati Human Development Index (2021): 0.624 GDP per Capita (2024): $2,050 Insider Monkey Score: 46.5 out of 100 Kiribati is a country located in the Micronesia subregion of Oceania. The island country is ranked 46th on our list of the 50 least developed countries in the world in 2024. The country reported an HDI of 0.624 in 2021. According to the IMF, Kiribati reports a GDP per capita of $2,050, as of 2024. 45. Tajikistan Human Development Index (2021): 0.685 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,270 Insider Monkey Score: 46.0 out of 100 Tajikistan is a country located in Central Asia. It is ranked 45th on our list of the least developed countries in the world. As of 2024, the landlocked country reports a GDP per capita of $1,270. According to the UNDP, Tajikistan had an HDI of 0.685 in 2021. 44. Republic of the Congo Human Development Index (2021): 0.571 GDP per Capita (2024): $2,980 Insider Monkey Score: 45.0 out of 100 Located in Central Africa, the Republic of the Congo is ranked 44th on our list. In 2021, the country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.571. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $2,980. 43. Angola Human Development Index (2021): 0.586 GDP per Capita (2024): $2,450 Insider Monkey Score: 43.5 out of 100 Angola is a Southern African country, located on the west-central coast of Southern Africa. The country reported a human development index of 0.586 in 2021. Angola reports a GDP per capita of $2,450, as of 2024. 42. Cote d'Ivoire Human Development Index (2021): 0.550 GDP per Capita (2024): $2,910 Insider Monkey Score: 41.5 out of 100 Cote d'Ivoire ranks 42nd on our list of the least developed countries in the world. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $2,910. According to the UNDP, Cote d'Ivoire had an HDI of 0.550 in 2021. 41. Lao People's Democratic Republic Human Development Index (2021): 0.607 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,830 Insider Monkey Score: 41.5 out of 100 Lao People's Democratic Republic is a Southeast Asian country, ranked 41st on our list. The country reported a human development index of 0.697 in 2021. As of 2024, it reports a GDP per capita of $1,830. 40. Cambodia Human Development Index (2021): 0.593 GDP per Capita (2024): $2,040 Insider Monkey Score: 40.5 out of 100 Cambodia is a country located in Southeast Asia. The country reported a human development index of 0.593 in 2021. Cambodia reports a GDP per capita of $2,040 as of 2024. 39. Papua New Guinea Human Development Index (2021): 0.558 GDP per Capita (2024): $2,620 Insider Monkey Score: 40 out of 100 Located in Oceania, Papua New Guinea is a southwestern Pacific country. In 2021, the country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.558. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $2,620. 38. Djibouti Human Development Index (2021): 0.509 GDP per Capita (2024): $4,030 Insider Monkey Score: 39.5 out of 100 Djibouti is a multiethnic country in East Africa. It is ranked 38th on our list of the 50 least developed countries in the world in 2024. The country reported an HDI of 0.509 in 2021. According to the IMF, Djibouti reports a GDP per capita of $4,030, as of 2024. 37. Timor-Leste Human Development Index (2021): 0.607 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,490 Insider Monkey Score: 39.5 out of 100 Timor-Leste is an island country in Southeast Asia, ranked 37th on our list. The country reported an HDI of 0.607 in 2021. According to the IMF, Timor-Leste reports a GDP per capita of $1,490, as of 2024. 36. Solomon Islands Human Development Index (2021): 0.564 GDP per Capita (2024): $2,370 Insider Monkey Score: 39.0 out of 100 Solomon Islands is a South Pacific island country in Oceania, comprising around 100 islands. It is ranked 36th on our list of the 50 least developed countries in the world in 2024. The country reported an HDI of 0.564 in 2021. According to the IMF, Solomon Islands reports a GDP per capita of $2,370, as of 2024. 35. Kenya Human Development Index (2021): 0.575 GDP per Capita (2024): $2,190 Insider Monkey Score: 39.0 out of 100 Located in East Africa, Kenya is ranked 35th on our list. In 2021, the country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.575. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $2,190. 34. Mauritania Human Development Index (2021): 0.556 GDP per Capita (2024): $2,410 Insider Monkey Score: 38.0 out of 100 Mauritania ranks 34th on our list of the least developed countries in the world. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $2,410. According to the UNDP, Mauritania had an HDI of 0.556 in 2021. 33. Nepal Human Development Index (2021): 0.602 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,470 Insider Monkey Score: 38.0 out of 100 Nepal is one of the least developed countries, located in Southern Asia. The country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.602 in 2021. Nepal reports a GDP per capita of $1,470 as of 2024. 32. Cameroon Human Development Index (2021): 0.576 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,810 Insider Monkey Score: 36.5 out of 100 Cameroon is a Central African country, located in the Gulf of Guinea. The country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.576 in 2021. Cameroon reports a GDP per capita of $1,810 as of 2024. 31. Haiti Human Development Index (2021): 0.535 GDP per Capita (2024): $2,260 Insider Monkey Score: 34.0 out of 100 Haiti ranks 31st on our list of the least developed countries in the world. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $2,260. According to the UNDP, Haiti had an HDI of 0.535 in 2021. 30. Myanmar Human Development Index (2021): 0.585 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,450 Insider Monkey Score: 34.0 out of 100 Myanmar is a Southeastern Asian country, located at the northernmost end of the region. The country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.585 in 2021. Myanmar reports a GDP per capita of $1,450 as of 2024. 29. Zambia Human Development Index (2021): 0.565 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,470 Insider Monkey Score: 32.0 out of 100 Located in Southern Africa, Zambia is ranked 29th on our list. In 2021, the country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.565. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $1,470. 28. Nigeria Human Development Index (2021): 0.535 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,730 Insider Monkey Score: 29.5 out of 100 Nigeria is one of the least developed countries in the world, located in West Africa. The country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.535 in 2021. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $1,730. 27. Comoros Human Development Index (2021): 0.558 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,410 Insider Monkey Score: 29.5 out of 100 Comoros ranks 27th on our list of the least developed countries in the world. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $1,410. According to the UNDP, Comoros had an HDI of 0.558 in 2021. 26. Senegal Human Development Index (2021): 0.511 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,890 Insider Monkey Score: 28.0 out of 100 Located in West Africa, Senegal is ranked 26th on our list. In 2021, the country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.511. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $1,890. 25. Tanzania Human Development Index (2021): 0.549 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,320 Insider Monkey Score: 27.5 out of 100 Ranked 25th on our list, Tanzania is an Eastern African country. According to the UNDP, the country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.549 in 2021. Tanzania reports a GDP per capita of $1,320 as of 2024. 24. Benin Human Development Index (2021): 0.525 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,540 Insider Monkey Score: 27.0 out of 100 Benin is an underdeveloped country in East Africa. The country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.525 in 2021. Benin reports a GDP per capita of $1,540 as of 2024. 23. Ethiopia Human Development Index (2021): 0.498 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,790 Insider Monkey Score: 24.0 out of 100 Ethiopia ranks 23rd on our list. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $1,790. According to the UNDP, Ethiopia had an HDI of 0.498 in 2021. 22. Togo Human Development Index (2021): 0.539 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,060 Insider Monkey Score: 24.0 out of 100 Located in West Africa, Togo is ranked 22nd on our list. In 2021, the country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.539. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $1,060. 21. Uganda Human Development Index (2021): 0.525 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,250 Insider Monkey Score: 23.5 out of 100 Uganda is an East African country, placed 21st on our list. The country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.525 in 2021. Uganda reports a GDP per capita of $1,250 as of 2024. 20. Lesotho Human Development Index (2021): 0.514 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,170 Insider Monkey Score: 22.0 out of 100 Lesotho ranks 20th on our list. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $1,170. According to the UNDP, Lesotho had an HDI of 0.514 in 2021. 19. Rwanda Human Development Index (2021): 0.534 GDP per Capita (2024): $998 Insider Monkey Score: 22.0 out of 100 Located in East Africa, Rwanda is ranked 19th on our list. In 2021, the country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.534. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $998. 18. Guinea Human Development Index (2021): 0.465 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,650 Insider Monkey Score: 20.0 out of 100 Located in West Africa, Guinea is ranked 18th on our list. In 2021, the country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.465. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $1,650. 17. Guinea-Bissau Human Development Index (2021): 0.483 GDP per Capita (2024): $1,100 Insider Monkey Score: 17.0 out of 100 Guniea-Bissau is a Western African country, ranked 17th on our list. The country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.483 in 2021. Guniea-Bissau reports a GDP per capita of $1,100, as of 2024. 16. Gambia Human Development Index (2021): 0.500 GDP per Capita (2024): $985.41 Insider Monkey Score: 17.0 out of 100 The Gambia ranks 16th on our list. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $985.41. According to the UNDP, the Gambia had an HDI of 0.5 in 2021. 15. Liberia Human Development Index (2021): 0.481 GDP per Capita (2024): $825.98 Insider Monkey Score: 13.5 out of 100 Liberia is an underdeveloped country, located in West Africa. The country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.481 in 2021. Liberia reports a GDP per capita of $825.98, as of 2024. 14. Malawi Human Development Index (2021): 0.512 GDP per Capita (2024): $472 Insider Monkey Score: 13.0 out of 100 Located in East Africa, Malwai is ranked 14th on our list. In 2021, the country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.512. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $472. 13. Madagascar Human Development Index (2021): 0.501 GDP per Capita (2024): $548 Insider Monkey Score: 12.5 out of 100 Madagascar ranks 13th on our list. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $548. According to the UNDP, Madagascar had an HDI of 0.501 in 2021. 12. Sudan Human Development Index (2021): 0.508 GDP per Capita (2024): $479.04 Insider Monkey Score: 12.5 out of 100 Located in North Africa, Sudan is one of the least developed countries on our list. The country reported a human development index (HDI) of 0.586 in 2021. Sudan reports a GDP per capita of $479.04, as of 2024. 11. Democratic Republic of the Congo Human Development Index (2021): 0.479 GDP per Capita (2024): $710.16 Insider Monkey Score: 12.0 out of 100 Democratic Republic of the Congo ranks 11th on our list. As of 2024, the country reports a GDP per capita of $710.16. According to the UNDP, it had an HDI of 0.479 in 2021. Click to continue reading 10 Least Developed Countries in the World in 2024. Suggested Articles: Disclosure: None. 50 Least Developed Countries in the World in 2024 was originally published at Insider Monkey. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. The Emmy-nominated television series Americas Most Wanted is returning to FOX on Monday with its original host, John Walsh, after more than 10 years. The return of the prominent crime series hearkens back to the roots of the show: Its first featured fugitive was a convicted murderer hiding in plain sight on Staten Island. Americas Most Wanted initially aired in 1988 on FOX, with Walsh heading the show after his son, Adam, was abducted and murdered, according to Variety. The program analyzes some of the nations most gripping cases, employing a team of experts to contribute on the matter. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Last weeks discussion of restaurants out-pricing themselves unleashed a treasure trove of perspectives on the food industry. Since readers have continued the conversation via email, I thought wed tackle various topics as they come up. And for the next few weeks Id like to explore one continual theme of your correspondence gratuities. So heres a question from a Great Kills reader on the subject to kick off our tip-a-palooza. He asked, What is the effect of servers earning $15 an hour and tipping? I always gave 20 percent but although I havent dined out lately it would seem excessive to servers already making $15 an hour. OK, so in New York State, outside of New York City, Westchester and Long Island, the minimum wage is $15 an hour. But in New York City, as of Jan. 1, it is $16 per hour. For the tipped employee whose boss follows the law, that $16 translates now to a $10.65 wage from the employer and a $5.35 tip credit. What does that mean to you, the consumer? Really nothing just go about your business and pay your usual 20 percent tip, in my opinion. But if you want to pull back the curtain a bit to explore that wage tip credit, heres a further explanation. NYC Hospitality Alliance executive director Andrew Rigie breaks it all down: Tips must equal or exceed the $16 an hour minimum wage. If tips equal less, the employer is required by law to make up the difference. So no matter what good night or lousy night the idea of the law is that the server goes home with at least minimum wage. How much do you leave as a tip for good service? (Staten Island Advance/Pamela Silvestri) TOUCHY SITUATION Our Great Kills reader who had the original question responded to that owners commentary by saying, So, theyre making like $80 an hour? I think thats absurd. And a South Shore restaurant owner who honors the new minimum wage countered, Thats $80 on a good night. How would you like to be punished for having a good night? Its the nature of the business. If youre a 20 percent tipper . . . you should still be a 20 percent tipper. Its a touchy situation. The business owner added, Thats guaranteeing a base salary. There are days people will get nothing. There are some days they make a lot of money. With that nugget of wage knowledge and other financial tidbits that affect a customers perspective on the check angst can set in. Owners say that sometimes people take these matters out on the server. In one long-time establishment that puts a cash discount aka added percentage for using a credit card easy now, I know this surcharge discussion is a big megillah and well get to that in another column the owner said patrons have cut it right out of the tip. Said one proprietor, Just the other day a customer circled the credit card charge on the check. He took it out of the girls tip. The server does not make the prices. The server doesnt cook the food or make the restaurants policy. The server does not make the business slow or busy. Its the person stuck in the middle of all these forces out of their control why punish the worker? If the server is rude, slow, inefficient, now thats a different story. He said he and his manager laughed over it. Alison Marchese from Maxs Esca in Dongan Hills said shes never had quibbles or questions on tips. She said, People are very generous, especially at the holidays. Editors Note: Welcome to Inside Out, our weekly roundup of stories about Staten Islanders making waves, being seen, supporting our community and just making our borough a special place to live. Have a story for Inside Out? Email Carol Ann Benanti at benanti@siadvance.com. From the left, Genevieve Giles and Lisa Bova-Hiatt. (Courtesy/honorees)Staten Island Advance STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Since Womens History Month is commemorated in March as a way to acknowledge the contributions women have made to society and to celebrate the progress made toward womens rights, The Italian American Women of Staten Island will host their annual Women in History Month Luncheon in Ninos Restaurant on Sunday, March 10 from noon to 4 p.m. Key Insights Given the large stake in the stock by institutions, Tate & Lyle's stock price might be vulnerable to their trading decisions A total of 18 investors have a majority stake in the company with 50% ownership Using data from analyst forecasts alongside ownership research, one can better assess the future performance of a company Every investor in Tate & Lyle plc (LON:TATE) should be aware of the most powerful shareholder groups. We can see that institutions own the lion's share in the company with 85% ownership. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn). Because institutional owners have a huge pool of resources and liquidity, their investing decisions tend to carry a great deal of weight, especially with individual investors. Therefore, a good portion of institutional money invested in the company is usually a huge vote of confidence on its future. Let's take a closer look to see what the different types of shareholders can tell us about Tate & Lyle. Check out our latest analysis for Tate & Lyle LSE:TATE Ownership Breakdown January 21st 2024 What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Tate & Lyle? Institutional investors commonly compare their own returns to the returns of a commonly followed index. So they generally do consider buying larger companies that are included in the relevant benchmark index. Tate & Lyle already has institutions on the share registry. Indeed, they own a respectable stake in the company. This suggests some credibility amongst professional investors. But we can't rely on that fact alone since institutions make bad investments sometimes, just like everyone does. If multiple institutions change their view on a stock at the same time, you could see the share price drop fast. It's therefore worth looking at Tate & Lyle's earnings history below. Of course, the future is what really matters. LSE:TATE Earnings and Revenue Growth January 21st 2024 Since institutional investors own more than half the issued stock, the board will likely have to pay attention to their preferences. Tate & Lyle is not owned by hedge funds. Looking at our data, we can see that the largest shareholder is Columbia Management Investment Advisers, LLC with 8.7% of shares outstanding. With 5.1% and 4.6% of the shares outstanding respectively, BlackRock, Inc. and The Vanguard Group, Inc. are the second and third largest shareholders. Story continues After doing some more digging, we found that the top 18 have the combined ownership of 50% in the company, suggesting that no single shareholder has significant control over the company. While studying institutional ownership for a company can add value to your research, it is also a good practice to research analyst recommendations to get a deeper understand of a stock's expected performance. There are plenty of analysts covering the stock, so it might be worth seeing what they are forecasting, too. Insider Ownership Of Tate & Lyle The definition of an insider can differ slightly between different countries, but members of the board of directors always count. The company management answer to the board and the latter should represent the interests of shareholders. Notably, sometimes top-level managers are on the board themselves. Most consider insider ownership a positive because it can indicate the board is well aligned with other shareholders. However, on some occasions too much power is concentrated within this group. Our most recent data indicates that insiders own less than 1% of Tate & Lyle plc. Keep in mind that it's a big company, and the insiders own UK17m worth of shares. The absolute value might be more important than the proportional share. It is good to see board members owning shares, but it might be worth checking if those insiders have been buying. General Public Ownership With a 12% ownership, the general public, mostly comprising of individual investors, have some degree of sway over Tate & Lyle. This size of ownership, while considerable, may not be enough to change company policy if the decision is not in sync with other large shareholders. Next Steps: While it is well worth considering the different groups that own a company, there are other factors that are even more important. For instance, we've identified 1 warning sign for Tate & Lyle that you should be aware of. If you are like me, you may want to think about whether this company will grow or shrink. Luckily, you can check this free report showing analyst forecasts for its future. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Twin brothers from Long Island have earned themselves valedictorian and salutatorian honors, with GPAs only thousandths of a point apart, according to the New York Post. Devon and Dylan Lee, 17-year-old fraternal twins, will graduate from Herricks High School in New Hyde Park and attend rival Ivy League colleges in the fall, the report said. While being interviewed by ABC News, Dylan said, Our parents value education, and always told us to try our best. Not the grade, just try our best. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. Orit Lender, chief executive officer (CEO) of the Joan & Alan Bernikow Jewish Community Center (JCC), is a champion for the Staten Island community. Lender was born in Queens, but spent a few years of her early childhood in Kibbutz Urim, a communal settlement in Israel just six miles from the Gaza Strip. Lender has called Staten Island her home for the last 40 years. She obtained her bachelors degree in 1997 and her Executive Certificate in Nonprofit Leadership from Duke University in 2015. Lender began her professional career as a youth coordinator for the Seamens Society for Children and Families, a local not-for-profit dedicated to securing the safety and well-being of children and families throughout Staten Island. As youth coordinator, Lender was dedicated to facilitating youth groups and developing and implementing events, activities, and trainings. However, while working at the Seamens Society, Lender made the decision to temporarily return to Israel to reconnect with her roots. Lender enrolled in a year-long international program that allowed her to live in and work on a kibbutz, sharing resources with other residents and working collectively to achieve a common goal. She also met her husband, Ed, while working in Israel, and they later returned to the United States together. My year in Israel reiterated to me the importance of giving back to my community and the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam, or repairing the world, Lender said. Each of us is responsible for one another. It is our obligation to make sure each one in our community has their needs met. We cannot turn away from those who need our help and support. My time in Israel reminded me of the importance of community coming together in order to thrive. I believed that the most meaningful way for me to accomplish this was to be part of the Jewish communal field, so working for the JCC just felt right. Now Ive been here for 23 years. Lender began her JCC career in 2001 as the organizations youth empowerment director, working with teenage groups on public health issues and educating them on their roles in advocacy. Over the next few years, she grew her professional portfolio to include the JCCs camp program, community outreach, and community-wide programming and community building. In 2009, Lender was promoted to program director, overseeing programming for the entire organization. Her leadership skills continued to grow, and she was appointed assistant executive director in 2015 and deputy executive director in 2019. In 2020, following a 15-year tenure, former CEO David Sorkin retired, leaving the JCC to conduct a national search for his successor. After an extensive interview process with candidates from across the country, the search committee decided to appoint Lender as the organizations next CEO. She has the distinction of being the JCCs first female CEO. Lender officially began as CEO in July 2020 at the peak of the pandemic. I came into the role at a very challenging time for the world, says Lender. The JCC had to pivot very quickly to support the needs of our community. How does a community-based organization whose main function is to connect people in-person continue to be there for their members, participants, and community? We got very creative! We safely provided essential services, like grab-and-go meals for seniors, pop-up vaccine clinics, virtual programming, and a virtual camp throughout the pandemic. Im very grateful for my Board of Directors and dedicated staff, who really helped me navigate through unprecedented times. Under Lenders leadership, the Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC has flourished, establishing itself as a staple of the Staten Island community. The JCC is proud to serve the entire community, from children to elderly people and everyone in between. I truly believe in the mission of this organization, emphasizes Lender. We are driven by Tikkun Olam, or repairing the world, and in doing that we can focus on bettering the community. Making all people feel welcome here is a top priority for us. The past few months have been particularly challenging for Lender, and the entire JCC community, as Israel recovers from the attacks on Oct. 7, 2023. Lender has been traveling back and forth to Israel throughout this time to show support for the Israeli community and share survivors stories. The rise of antisemitism is prevalent now more than ever, says Lender. Ive been traveling to Israel to represent our JCC in solidarity and to be able to share firsthand the results of the atrocities that began on Oct. 7. In 2023, after a two-year process working with a task force comprised of leaders from both Hillel of CSI and the JCC, the JCC assumed operations for Hillel of Staten Island. Under Lenders leadership, Hillel of Staten Island will expand its services to serve both CSI and Wagner College students. This innovative model is the first of its kind in the nation. The climate on campuses continues to be challenging for Jewish students, she said, Now, more than ever, we need to support them and under the Hillel of Staten Island. Lender continued: I am extremely proud of the work we are doing in partnership with Wagner College and CSI. I believe that it is imperative for all of us to stand united against hate of all kinds. For her accomplishments, Orit Lender is being honored with a Louis R. Miller Business Leadership Award, which she will receive in the Not-for-Profit Businessperson category. The awards, which are presented by the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce and the Staten Island Advance, honor the memory of Louis R. Miller, a businessman and West Brighton resident who was also a community leader. In addition to her community involvement with the JCC, Lender is also a member of the UJA-Federation of New York, the JCC Association of North America, American Friends for Israeli Community Centers, Nonprofit Staten Island, the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce, the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation, the Staten Island Council of Jewish Organizations, and the Wagner College Chai Society. Collaboration and partnerships are key in building a stronger community, emphasizes Lender. I am grateful to be part of the Staten Island community with like-minded individuals who care so much about ensuring that the Staten Island community thrives. QUESTIONNAIRE: Current occupation and title: CEO, Joan & Alan Bernikow JCC. Hometown: Heartland Village. Past occupations and titles: Various positions at the JCC over the past 20 years. Community involvement: Member of UJA-Federation of NY, JCC Association of North America, Metropolitan Centers Executives Association, Staten Island Chamber of Commerce, the Staten Island Economic Development Corporation (SIEDC) Business Council, the Council of Jewish Organizations (COJO), and the Wagner College Chai Society. Board member of Nonprofit Staten Island, American Friends of Israel Community Centers and the Richmond University Medical Center Foundation Board. I am on the Mifgash Steering Committee for JCC Association and the ExecNet Steering Committee for UJA-Federation, and I recently took part in two missions to Israel with UJA-Federation and JCC Association of North America in the wake of the Oct. 7 tragedy. The best part of my job: When community members share how the JCC has impacted their lives for the better. I am grateful to lead a group of innovative, talented, and compassionate professionals who value our agencys mission just as much as I do. The most difficult part of my job: There arent enough hours in the day. My life philosophy: I believe in the Jewish value of tikkun olam, or repairing the world. My philosophy is that each of us are responsible for one another. It is our obligation to make sure each one in our community has their needs met. We cannot turn away from those who need our help and support. I am most proud of: From a personal perspective, nothing makes me prouder than my amazing husband and our two remarkable sons. From a professional standpoint, I have to say, its AWESOME being the first female CEO of this agency! The quality I like best about myself: I am too humble to respond, but my staff made me so here goes... For those who know me, know that they can always depend on me, come to me to feel supported. I can be an ear, a mentor, here for advice, and to laugh with and cry with. Personal interests and hobbies: I love to travel! I admire: My parents who taught me what love is, the importance of community, and the definition of resilience. - Mourners gather on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2024, for the funeral Mass of Rory DeCristoforo at Our Lady of Good Counsel Church in Tompkinsville. DeCristoforo, 6, was killed in a house fire on New Years Day. (Owen Reiter for the Staten Island Advance) Owen ReiterOwen Reiter Editors note: This story first appeared on palabra, the digital news site by the National Association of Hispanic Journalists. Illustration by Maria Contreras for palabraMaria Contreras for palabra Traffic had once again ground to a halt on the interstate highway that cuts through the Texas border city of Laredo, and Priscilla Villarreal did what any good reporter would. The social media personality and citizen journalist grabbed her phone and texted a police source, fishing for information. Villarreal consistently breaks news about day-to-day crime and traffic incidents in the city of 250,000 almost all Latino. The audience knows her as La Gordiloca, an affectionate nickname that translates to something like Crazy Chubby Lady. Its a moniker she embraces. Her Lagordiloca News Laredo Tx Facebook page is often the first with videos from the scene of breaking news. She communicates with more than 200,000 followers through meandering, expletive-filled Facebook Live streams. Theyre mostly in Spanish and peppered with snark and slang particular to the stretch of Texas-Mexico border where she lives. In unfiltered, often rambling videos shot from her phone, Villarreal hypes local businesses, rants about city and county corruption scandals, and occasionally fundraises for charities. Villarreal makes news almost as often as she breaks it. Her rush to be first has generated some embarrassing errors with wide-reaching consequences and spawned a subgenre of Laredo Morning Times stories setting the record straight. Yet, she maintains a loyal following and is quick to note that her audience eclipses established local media outlets like the Morning Times, my former employer. Priscilla Villarreal, known by her audience as La Gordiloca.Saenz Photography, via The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression Her popularity has to do with the way I say things, Villarreal tells me. Because my news is raw. Im not editing anything. No sugarcoating anything. I put it out there. Shes been such a thorn in the side of local officials that, by the time she sent texts about the highway traffic jam in 2017, they already had her in their crosshairs. Those texts to her source vaulted her to the front line of a fight over press freedom. In a lawsuit now before federal appellate judges, Villarreal alleges local officials used the traffic text to retaliate against her and violated her constitutional rights. The incident that triggered Villareals text was the death of an official with a federal law enforcement agency who killed himself by jumping off a highway overpass. It was the kind of story traditional U.S. media outlets would approach with caution, likely omitting the very details she sought. But Villarreal, who stumbled into journalism with a heart-rending video of police and paramedics trying to save two child homicide victims, quickly went live with the officials name and employer. About eight months later, Villarreal received another tip, this time about herself. Laredo police officers had obtained a warrant for her arrest on charges of misuse of official information, a misdemeanor in Texas. Its a crime when someone solicits or receives from a public servant information that: the public servant has access to by means of his office or employment; and has not been made public and does so with intent to obtain a benefit, according to the state penal code. The statute defines that information as information to which the public does not generally have access, and that is prohibited from disclosure under Texas freedom of information laws. Legal experts have said the statute seems written in a way to criminalize the leaking of information that could help rig bids for government contracts or aid insider trading, but it was now being used to arrest a journalist. By breaking news with the name shed obtained through backchannels, Villarreal gained her popularity in Facebook, which she could monetize, police alleged. Villarreal turned herself in and was quickly released from jail on a $30,000 bond. A few months later, in a decision that applies only in Texas Webb County, a state district judge ruled that the law against misuse of official information is unconstitutionally vague and threw out the charges against Villarreal. But the judge also found that the Texas statute does not violate the First Amendment. In 2019, Villarreal sued city and county officials who she said orchestrated the arrest in order to intimidate and silence her in violation of her constitutional rights. She filed her lawsuit in a federal district court, where a judge ruled against her. Ever since Villareals ongoing appeal has been gathering interest at a time when police elsewhere have stepped up intimidation tactics aimed at critics and journalists. Her challenge is now in the hands of the conservative Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals based in New Orleans. There, Villarreal appears to have found allies among judicial appointees of former President Donald Trump, who in court have staked out traditionally libertarian positions on free speech. But other veteran court conservatives have signaled they want to shield the officers from her lawsuit and may rule that her arrest was unconstitutional after all. Facebook post by Villarreal being arrested for trespassing after leading a rowdy protest over an alleged bullying incident at a charter school.Priscilla Villarreal, via Facebook Free speech and strange bedfellows Villarreal says she wasnt setting out to change free speech case law when she decided to sue. I had so many people messaging me and telling me, You basically need to sue the city and the police department and these individuals as a whole, because what they did to you is not right, Villareal told me. Shes represented by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, a libertarian free-speech organization. Traditional press freedom groups have also lined up behind her. (Disclosure: palabra.s sponsor, the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, has signed on to an amicus brief supporting Villarreal). Journalists have always published scoops obtained through police sources and other backchannels. But mainstream news organizations havent always acknowledged how similar the reporting tactics of independent firebrands like Villarreal are to those of traditional journalists. The fact that Villarreal presents and distributes the information she gathers in a nontraditional way does not deprive her of the full benefit of the First Amendment, wrote lawyers for a coalition that included the Texas Press Association, the Texas Association of Broadcasters, and the Society of Professional Journalists in a friend of the court (amicus) brief in support of her appeal. Allowing police to make arrests for seeking and publishing information from government sources will chill newsgathering across the field of reporting, no matter the platform. An even stranger bedfellow is conservative provocateur James OKeefe of the controversial Project Veritas, which specializes in heavily edited gotcha video stings targeting politicians and mainstream journalists. OKeefes amicus brief was filed by the Christian right-leaning religious liberties public interest firm First Liberty Institute. No one is going to arrest a New York Times reporter and survive his own cancellation, First Liberty lawyers wrote on behalf of OKeefe. But for journalists who investigate other journalists, powerful political operatives, and high-ranking government officials, a ruling in this case condoning the defendants actions will declare an open season against the Davids, like Project Veritas, who take on the Goliaths. Whats brought these disparate organizations together is Villarreals allegation that prosecutors and police in Webb County and the City of Laredo dredged up an obscure law to punish her for overall coverage and criticism of local government. Priscilla Villarreals mugshot taken after her arrest in 2017.Laredo Police Department In her complaint, she argues that officials are frustrated that she once recorded an incident of alleged police misconduct and accused the district attorneys office of giving preferential treatment to an officials family members in another case. She argues in her lawsuit that her arrest was part of a longer pattern of harassment, intimidation, and indifference by city and county officials. Some of what she complains about in her lawsuit are tactics police often use against reporters: keeping them a distance from crime scenes, threatening to confiscate equipment, and withholding information theyve shared with rival outlets. Other allegations are more personal. She says Laredo police refused to take her seriously when she reported being the victim of a crime. She also alleges that city officials tried to obstruct the placement of a reading kiosk named after her late niece in a municipal park. When she was arrested in December 2017, Villarreal alleges in her lawsuit, police officers and city employees gathered to record the booking on their phones, mocking her practice of recording them at crime scenes. Defendants did so with the intent that it dissuade Villarreal from engaging in further journalism efforts, the lawsuit alleges. Villarreal alleges her constitutional rights to free speech and protection from unreasonable search and seizure were violated. Shes asking for damages. But first, she must convince federal courts that the local officials dont deserve qualified immunity, a protection created by the U.S. Supreme Court that stops most lawsuits against government officials. She needs to prove the officials knew, or should have known, they were violating her rights when they arrested her. In most cases, plaintiffs need to show that the alleged actions of officials violated a statute or the Constitution in a way that is already clearly established. Thats been interpreted to mean that an appellate court has previously ruled in other cases that similar, official actions violated someones rights. Villarreal is pursuing another way to overcome qualified immunity: She is attempting to prove it should have been obvious to any reasonable official that texting a police officer to ask for basic information about a newsworthy event was an activity that anyone in the United States has a right to conduct. All Americans benefit from the First Amendment protection to ask government officials questions, whether theyre a reporter for the New York Times, a citizen journalist from Laredo, or a concerned mother at a school board meeting. Without that right, we cant be an informed public, her attorney JT Morris told me. Even if she can defeat the Laredo officials claim to qualified immunity, Villarreal will have to then prove the facts she alleged in her lawsuit are true by a preponderance of the evidence. Lawyers representing the city officials have argued that while U.S. Supreme Court precedent may protect publishing leaked information, it doesnt protect the right to solicit such information. By asking a police officer for the information, rather than waiting for a proactive leak, Villarreal violated Texas law, city officials argue. Because there was no clearly established constitutional right to solicit this type of non-public information from a government official to obtain a personal benefit or attempt to harm or defraud another at the time of (Villarreals) arrest, the officers retain the shield of qualified immunity, their lawyers wrote in a court filing. Civil libertarians on both ends of the political spectrum say qualified immunity is designed to shield government officials from accountability. If its granted in Villarreals case, the courts would be saying, If government officials can find a unique way to violate civil rights or launder misconduct through state statute or government ordinance, judges are going to let it slide, said Jaba Tsitsuashvili, an attorney for the libertarian-leaning public interest law firm the Institute for Justice, which also filed an amicus brief on Villarreals behalf. Illustration by Maria Contreras for palabraMaria Contreras for palabra Villarreals case is part of a pattern of reports in recent years of police and other public officials using threats, searches, and arrests to intimidate U.S. reporters and critics, according to monitoring groups like the Committee to Protect Journalists. A spate of high-profile incidents occurred in 2023. In February, the Supreme Court refused to review a ruling that gave qualified immunity to officers who had arrested an Ohio man for a mocking parody on Facebook, ending his lawsuit. A New Hampshire man who was arrested after criticizing his towns former police chief is also suing. In August, a journalist at the Marion County Record in Kansas filed a lawsuit against police officials who served a search warrant and seized business equipment from the newspaper office, alleging the raid was done to silence reporting. (The 98-year-old newspaper owners home was also raided; she died of cardiac arrest a day later.) In October, police in Alabama arrested an editor and publisher for printing leaked information. That same month, officials in a Chicago suburb ticketed a reporter for contacting municipal officials directly, rather than through the city spokesperson. I think the implications of (Villarreals lawsuit) are huge because this is an evolving question of law, Tsitsuashvili said. How is qualified immunity going to apply in the First Amendment context? A reporter like no other The granddaughter of immigrants from Mexico and the daughter of a migrant worker, Villareal grew up in a working-class neighborhood in central Laredo. Shes told reporters she was kicked out of high school at age 15 and had run-ins with the law before she found her niche as a citizen journalist. Her arrest catapulted her into the national spotlight. Shes been featured in major media outlets, and in 2021, STARZ announced it was developing a TV series based on her life. I want to give thanks to the Laredo Police Department for my arrest, she told the Laredo Morning Times soon after the show was announced. I want to give thanks to the district attorneys office for signing that warrant. Her larger-than-life persona and gift for creative curses dont exactly fit the mold of a staid local news broadcaster or of the disheveled nerdy daily newspaper reporter. Shes not really what we would consider a trained journalist, said Celeste Gonzalez de Bustamante, a professor at the University of Texas at Austins School of Journalism and Media who has studied reporting on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border. She doesnt need a degree from a journalism school, nor does anyone need a journalism degree to produce good journalism. Villarreals Spanish broadcasts, peppered with slang and English, and her sensationalism and fixation on the crime beat, resemble the voyeuristic, tabloid nota roja and policiaca crime beats popular in Mexico. Theyre indicative of media and culture of the border, Gonzalez said. There are influences on both sides that go both ways, and its its own hybrid culture. And Laredo is distinct from the culture that exists in Tijuana and ambos Nogales. I guess its a reflection of traditional media outlets and sometimes their inability to connect with various people in different communities, Gonzalez added. (Villarreal) has a certain amount of authenticity for her followers that they dont see in traditional publications. Thats been a difficult thing for news outlets. People dont see themselves in whats reported sometimes, so they end up not reading these traditional outlets. And others who arent trained (journalists) end up filling the gaps, for better or worse. Villarreal has been mired in other controversies. In 2020, she issued a public apology (albeit including her trademark expletives) after she broadcast racist commentary during a video of a Webb County Sheriffs deputy arresting a Black man. Sitting in her car and using her phone to take video through the window, Villarreal added imagined dialogue between the two using offensive stereotypes. And in 2017, she created a panic by falsely reporting that Laredo was facing a gas shortage. Shes also been known to broadcast unsubstantiated allegations about government officials. In 2016, a judge ordered her to pay nearly $300,000 to a daycare that had alleged she had defamed the company as part of a default judgment issued after Villarreal failed to appear. Along the way, shes also leapt across the line between journalism and advocacy, picking sides in political contests and publicly mulling running for public office. In August, she was arrested for trespassing after leading a rowdy protest over an alleged bullying incident at a charter school. Villarreals arrest warrant, issued in December 2017, for misuse of official information.Webb County Courthouse, Texas 111th Judicial District Its part street theater and its part truth-telling, said Maria Eugenia Meg Guerra, a longtime Laredo journalist who publishes LareDOS[redux], the digital heir to an alternative print publication she ran for 20 years. Theres so much excitement and drama in some of the stuff she does, you just cant call it straight journalism. Ethical breaches arent crimes, however, said Daxton Chip Stewart, an assistant provost and media law professor at Texas Christian University. Journalists who commit libel can face civil lawsuits, and those who dont adhere to ethical standards can face repercussions in the court of public opinion. We dont want the government to be dictating what good journalism is, he said. Thats what the press clause of the First Amendment is all about. And despite her penchant for drama, Villarreal is well-sourced, persistent, and has a nose for news, Guerra said. Probably, if she studied journalism, shed be really good at it, because she has the instinct for it, added Guerra, whose publication also regularly took on local officials in the past. Villarreals followers are probably going to learn something that you might need to know about local government. In interviews, Villarreal focuses more on her journalism and less on her advocacy, telling me: I see myself as a freelance reporter, basically. I have more following than our local newspaper and news station, and that says something. No law defines a journalist While her attorneys argue that anyone can ask a police officer for information about a traffic incident, theyre using Villarreals status as a journalist to illustrate just how obvious it should have been to the arresting officers that her actions were protected by the First Amendment. Like other reporters, Villarreal sometimes reaches out to the Laredo Police Department spokesperson. Also like other reporters, sometimes she seeks information from her sources in the department. The officials involved in her arrest District Attorney Isidro Alaniz, Marisela Jacaman, his first assistant; and former Police Chief Claudio Trevino Jr. are all defendants had to know that doing so was protected by the First Amendment, her lawyers argued in Laredos federal courthouse. But U.S. Magistrate Judge John Kazen wasnt convinced. In 2020, he ruled that the officials involved in Villarreals arrest were entitled to qualified immunity. It wasnt patently obvious to the officers, who had obtained an arrest warrant from a justice of the peace, that arresting her would violate her rights, Kazen wrote in his opinion. Villarreals mugshot taken after her arrest in August 2023.Laredo Police Department Villarreals next step was to ask the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans to overturn Kazens decision. The Fifth Circuit, which covers Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, has twice in the last three years been ordered by the Supreme Court to reconsider its refusal to grant qualified immunity to prison guards who tortured inmates. Trumps appointment of six judges, some of them prominent conservative legal theorists, has only cemented the perception of a politicized court on the front line of culture wars. The Villarreal case initially drew a three-judge panel of Priscilla Richman, the courts chief judge and a George W. Bush appointee; James Ho, a former Texas solicitor general and a Trump appointee; and James Graves, an Obama appointee. Ho and Graves found in 2021 that Villarreals First, Fourth, and Fourteenth Amendment rights had been violated in such an obvious manner that Webb County, the City of Laredo, and the various public officials were not entitled to qualified immunity. If the First Amendment means anything, it surely means that a citizen journalist has the right to ask a public official a question, without fear of being imprisoned, Ho wrote in his majority opinion. Yet that is exactly what happened here: Priscilla Villarreal was put in jail for asking a police officer a question. That police cant retaliate against reporters for basic journalism is such an ingrained aspect of U.S. society that even characters in blockbuster movies know it, Ho argued. Indeed, Ho wrote, [E]ven Captain Lorenzo, the stubborn police chief in Die Hard 2, acknowledged: Now personally, Id like to lock every [expletive] reporter out of the airport. But then theyd just pull that freedom of speech [expletive] on us and the ACLU would be all over us. Captain Lorenzo understood this. The officers in Laredo should have, too. Richman disagreed. The main thrust of her dissenting opinion is that its hard to place on the shoulders of law enforcement officers blame for an arrest when a magistrate, an ostensibly impartial bulwark whos supposed to make police officers prove they have probable cause, had signed off on Villarreals arrest warrant. She also argued that there might be times when the Texas law could be used to arrest journalists for publishing information without running afoul of the Constitution. What is public information? In January, Villarreal boarded a plane to New Orleans. She chronicled the trip on Facebook. Her followers cheered her on in the comments. The city and county officials had appealed. Instead of going to the Supreme Court, they asked all 16 judges on the Fifth Circuit at the time to overturn Hos and Gravess findings and give them qualified immunity. Villarreal was on hand to watch her lawyers make her case. Facebook post by Villarreal upon her arrival to New Orleans where the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals received her case.Priscilla Villarreal, via Facebook In oral arguments, lawyers for the city, county, and state of Texas took the position that while Villarreal had a right to ask questions, she had other avenues to do that, principally through the public information officer or a request under the Texas Public Information Act. If you get it from an official source there is an implied representation of lawfulness that is not present here, where Plaintiff deliberately decided to go outside of official channels to get information that she knew or at least was reckless as to the knowledge that this information was not legal to be disclosed, said Lanora Christine Pettit, the principal deputy solicitor general for the Texas attorney general. Historically, public information laws have had no connection to free speech, Stewart, the TCU professor, said. Most states and communities have laws that dictate the information officials must make public. But those are just means of disseminating information that governmental bodies have voluntarily adopted. Courts have consistently upheld journalists rights to seek information through backchannels. Only when journalists induce a government official to break a law can they be held criminally liable, U.S. courts have consistently held. Villarreals arrest was particularly absurd, Stewart said, because the information she sought would eventually become public record anyway. You have a First Amendment right to speak and publish that has nothing to do with open records or open meetings, he said. If the Supreme Court has told us anything, publishing truthful things of public interest is going to get really, really high levels of protection. During the arguments in New Orleans, Ho scoffed at the notion that reporters, or anyone in the United States, could be arrested for seeking information outside of official channels. She went through the wrong channels? he asked. Wrong procedure. So, jail. Richman was joined in her skepticism of Villarreals arguments by Judge Edith Jones, a Reagan appointee who until the arrival of the Trump judges was considered one of the most far-right jurists in the United States. Jones asked, Dont the police have a right to withhold the names of victims until they notify family members? She could have waited, waited like the rest of the press in Laredo, and obtained it from (the public information officer) a couple hours after the families had been notified, Jones said. In the world Jones described, the government has met its obligations under the First Amendment simply by providing reporters with the right to seek information through the media relations office or a public records request. Not only that, but the government can compel reporters to use those avenues with the threat of arrest for seeking the same information faster through their own sources. Illustration by Maria Contreras for palabraMaria Contreras for palabra Richman painted a scenario for Morris, Villarreals attorney. Suppose someone asked Villarreal to publish the name of a government witness and, to encourage her, offered her reporting equipment. If Villarreal obtained that information from a police source and published it, could the police arrest her? That would be protected, Morris responded. Jones jumped in. So basically, youre saying that these are dead letters, Freedom of Information, that the whole idea of government confidentiality is a mirage because anybody can go and solicit information from anybody who is willing to take the risk, she said. So basically youre saying government cant function. The argument being made by Jones and the officials who arrested Villarreal is really dangerous, said Tsitsuashvili, the Institute for Justice attorney. It says in an era of increasing skepticism of official reports of police misconduct, the government can decide who is and who is not allowed to serve as an information source for public facts, and that is just contrary to our entire tradition, Tsitsuashvili said. Ultimately, what theyre arguing is that the criminalization of journalism is totally fine. Almost a year after those oral arguments, the Fifth Circuit hasnt released an opinion. Recently, a panel comprising Graves, a Reagan appointee, and a Biden appointee stripped qualified immunity from Louisiana sheriffs deputies who arrested a man for making a joke on Facebook. Even if Richman and Jones have the votes of enough of their court colleagues to throw out the lawsuit, its not a given that a majority of the Fifth Circuit judges will endorse their expansive views on the governments rights to prosecute people who publish information that officials dont want to be released. Whatever the outcome, the case will likely be appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court. This is the kind of thing you could have safely said 10 years ago would have been laughed out of any court in this country, Stewart said. All of a sudden, its an open question that has First Amendment advocates like me nervous when you have a court one step away from the Supreme Court suggesting jailing a journalist for publishing leaked documents might be OK. Jason Buch is a freelance reporter based in Texas. Hes spent most of his 15-year career covering the U.S.-Mexico border. Maria Contreras is an illustrator born and raised in southern Chile. Her illustrations feature loud and saturated colors and are filled with memories. Fear and humor are her two inspirations. Her current clients include The New York Times, The Atlantic, Texas Monthly, Penguin Random House, NPR, The New Yorker, The Telegraph, Los Angeles Times, The Washington Post, among many other outlets. Her work has been featured in Its Nice That, Domestika, Wetransfer, Colossal, Creative Boom and other brands. In 2022, she won the Young Guns award from The One Club for Creativity. In 2023, she was an AI42 Selected Winner, was short-listed for WIA2023, served as a judge of Latin American design awards for the D&AD New Blood Portfolio Competition in collaboration with Editor X and was also a judge for the Young Guns award. One comment on the post attracted more than 280 likes. While building safe spaces for women couldnt be more important, there is a huge safety, trust and responsibility that comes with this, said Emma Bates, co-founder of social search engine Diem. This isnt just a business opportunity you get to open your eyes to when you talk to one woman who shares a problem with you. That sentiment has been echoed by others who point to the inequalities of the start-up ecosystem. Ventures led by women tend to receive less funding and are priced at lower valuations than those led by men. One of Kikis Instagram posts. Kirstin Hunter, managing director of start-up accelerator TechStars, said Kikis case demonstrated the difference in treatment and opportunities extended to male founders compared to their female counterparts. Female founders have this really high burden of proof, she said. Investors expect them to demonstrate a very high likelihood that their business will be successful, whereas male founders tend to get the opportunity to prove themselves. Lucy Wark, co-founder of soft skills company Fuzzy, said the smaller proportion of funded women-led start-ups reflected more than just a smaller pool of female candidates and access to existing networks. Theres strong evidence that female founders are asked more preventative questions focused on downside risk whereas male founders are asked more promotional questions in pitch meetings, she said. Techstars Kirstin Hunter says the Kiki case highlights the difference in treatment and chances provided to male and female start-up founders. Credit: Edwina Pickles Hunter said when selecting founders, she looked for qualifications including those with a deep connection to the problem, specific expertise and lived experience. From the perspective of an investor, those things are missing in [Kikis] situation, she said. If they just discovered the problem, and its something they have never experienced, its hard to imagine they have the skills to solve it. On Thursday, a spokesperson for Blackbird said both it and Kiki recognised that Thomas-Smiths recent social media post had regrettably caused frustration and in some cases offence and they had taken on board all feedback. Kiki did not respond to requests for comment. But given Blackbird positions itself as a leader in the venture capital space, its immediate reaction should have mirrored the public outrage which followed: that an all male-led team with no lived experience in womens issues should be more careful when designing and monetising a solution for women. Lucy Wark (right), pictured with Grapevine co-founder Misha Garg, says Kikis practices need a rethink. Credit: Janie Barrett Roughly 24 per cent of Australian start-up founders were female in 2022, yet only 10 per cent of venture capital funding went to start-ups where there was at least one woman in a co-founding team. Hunter said the extent of that discrepancy given women-led start-ups and those with mixed gender teams tend to deliver stronger returns spoke to bias from investors. Kikis recent pivot could be one of the crazy marketing tactics its recently hired launcher, Mihailo Bozic, has flagged that will help the start-up become known in New York. Kikis marketing stunts have included Thomas-Smith appearing in underwear on New Zealand breakfast TV. But Wark said Kikis case illustrated the double standards female founders faced, such as male founders being applauded for stunts that would be seen as unprofessional and sexualised in a female leader. While its positive to see interest from men in the problems women face, Kikis mission remains unclear, and there needs to be more meaningful engagement from start-ups with those theyre claiming to serve. As someone who has been harassed in pitch meetings and regularly hit on in my LinkedIn messages, I choose every word and outfit carefully, just so I am taken seriously, she said. Wark said Kikis hiring and management practices which have, according to Instagram, included asking potential hires to attend pre-drinks to check their cultural fit and handcuffing a female employee to a co-founder for 12 hours also needed a rethink given risk factors that can lead to harassment. Venture capitalist Elaine Stead, speaking on a podcast in December, said having a diverse team showed a businesss ability to take on feedback and work with people who see the world differently. Loading If you have a diverse team, what youre actually signalling ... is that you can work functionally and well with a bunch of people who are not like you, who think and see the world differently, she said. I think thats necessary in order to solve problems that havent been solved before. Kikis change of tack which according to reporting by Capital Brief, came after Thomas-Smith emailed investors to say NYC is almost too diverse and made it hard to stick to a niche seems to be a rushed attempt to capture potential sublet users. Thomas-Smith indicated 20 tightly hand-picked women would be added to a group chat and within three weeks would start treating Kiki like any other close friend group chat and discuss subletting opportunities, according to the email. Loading While its positive to see interest from men in the problems women face, Kikis mission remains unclear, and there needs to be more meaningful engagement from start-ups with those theyre claiming to serve. Theres also a role for government and investors to improve the start-up space for women, especially given the higher returns yielded by women-led and mixed-gender start-ups. The legislation in California requiring mandatory disclosure of diversity statistics for investors is a really good step forward for the ecosystem, Hunter said. She added that investors and super funds could also push on the issue. Writer Geraldine Brooks Credit: Randi Baird Why does it take a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author to point out the bleeding obvious in our premier citys planning? Could it be an absence of creativity mixed with an inability to face the cold, hard truth? Geraldine Brooks comments regarding a more equitable housing market has a real ring to it: build more rapid transit, ban Airbnb and abolish negative gearing which are no-brainers. Cleveland Rose, Dee Why Geraldine Brooks says what so many Sydneysiders are concerned about. Over the years, both Labor and Liberal governments have given developers carte blanche, allowing them to destroy our suburbs because they have never come up with an intelligent, well-thought-out, long-term plan. Avalon has lost its native habitat over the many years of development. I havent seen a koala here for many years. Gloria Looby, Avalon Geraldine Brooks, I nominate you for a second Pulitzer Prize for your article. It cuts through all the myths, fallacies and bullshit, from developers and politicians alike, regarding the rezoning of our suburbs and the destruction of the communities that live in them. Helen Robinson, Killcare Geraldine Brooks nostalgic article about the housing in the inner west is all fine. She rightly argues that the destruction of these old houses will result in units with high prices. She argues that this is somehow wrong. Well young people who are likely to live in these new units will live close to the city. That is probably what they most desire, despite the price. Nostalgia is fine and I suffer from it, too, but the opposite is progress. We cant have an increasing population, including more immigration, and push them further and further away from the city where services and facilities are second rate or non-existent. John Rome, Mt Lawley (WA) Make certifiers public again What is it about NSW that we have all these risky developers and builders (Probe into troubled unit complex, January 20)? No other state has a building commissioner. No other state seems to have the issues with poor construction and buildings in threat of collapse. What are they doing differently? Part of the problem in NSW is that anyone can start up a commercial construction company with very limited licensing or financials required compared to other states. NSW has also outsourced quality control to private certifiers who are paid by the developer or builder. I agree with various correspondents that when councils were inspecting buildings, it took longer, but the outcomes were much better. Finally, developers taking the lowest price from consultants and builders with a limited track record does not help when it comes to quality. Perhaps we need a rethink about the whole process and not just catching these risky developers when it is too late; after the buildings are already built and sold. Warwick Spencer, West Pymble Lachlans Line at Macquarie Park is being investigated for serious defects Here are two further possible solutions to the problems in the NSW building industry. Either give the professional body the power to imprison offenders instead of being restricted to handing out cautions, reprimands or fines, or scrap the clearly dysfunctional private certification system altogether and revert to certification only by local council building surveyors. The change to this in 1998 was as obvious an example as any of the inappropriate, unnecessary and ideologically driven privatisations of a public service. As time has shown, it was a clear case of if its not broken, dont fix it. Harvey Sanders, Paddington Wongs visit a positive Senator Penny Wong is to be commended for having the courage to speak truth to power in her visit to the Middle East (I visited a kibbutz after the October 7 attacks, but Penny Wong didnt have to, January 20). While not a central player in that area of the world, we are well known as a staunch ally of the US, which is. Even a slight deviation from the US position would surely be noted. And if our voice is to be heard and respected, then it must be informed and sincere. The foreign ministers visit adds credibility to any comments made by our government, now and in the future. While clearly sympathising with Israel over the October 7 atrocities, Wong is right to highlight the 24,000 deaths in Gaza since then, and the decades-long injustice and provocative nature of the creeping settlements in the West Bank. No country is ever too small or lacking in influence to take a stand on human rights and the need to abide by international law. Meredith Williams, Northmead Penny Wong treads a fine line Credit: John Shakespeare The state of Israel has a troubled history, preceded by an equally troubled history of the Jewish people. Faced with dispossession, persecution, hatred and violence, Jews around the world longed for a homeland a place of peace and hope. Now, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seems determined to inflict the same pain on the Palestinians and deny them the very hope that the state of Israel embodied. Philip Cooney, Wentworth Falls Dave Sharma does himself no credit when he describes Penny Wongs actions as petulant and childish. He spouts this nonsense because she chose to visit the families of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas, rather than visit the Kfar Azar kibbutz. As Matthew Knott points out, Joe Biden, Antony Blinken, and the foreign ministers of Japan and Canada similarly eschewed visiting the same kibbutz. It would have been more appropriate for Sharma to acknowledge the effort spent by Wong in travelling a considerable distance, the number of meetings that she would have had to prepare for with her characteristic thoroughness, and her decision to visit the West Bank. Is Sharma striving to out-Dutton Dutton? Greg Tome, Burradoo Democracy dumbed down Donald Trump won the Iowa caucuses and there is learned press commentary discussing it as if America were a democracy. If it is, it is not the kind of democracy Australians would recognise. The Iowa population is 3,207,000 of which 22.6 per cent is under 18, leaving 2,482,218 voters. Some 100,000, or 4 per cent, voted in the Republican caucuses. Trump got 56,260, or 2.27 per cent. In Australia, if you get 2.27 per cent of the vote, you lose your deposit. You are not a certainty for nomination. In the US there are obstacles to voting. Voting on Tuesdays and in snow storms are two. About half the US population votes in presidential elections. That helps keep Trump a candidate on a vote that would render him a clear loser elsewhere. David Goss, Woonona Rum Rebellion beat tyranny Unlike Sue Williams, I think we should commemorate the Rum Rebellion, regardless of the date it occurred (Case against Australia Day adds up, January 19). Sue Williams offers the view that the corrupt military officers of the NSW Corps overthrew governor William Bligh on January 26, 1808 as he threatened their economic interests particularly their trade in rum. But what actually happened is far more significant. NSW had a redemptive purpose; it was never intended to be a dumping ground for convicts. Instead, thousands of felons were shipped to the colony in the hope they would become useful settlers. As incentives to co-operate, the colonys governor was authorised to grant the convicts special benefits or privileges. Bligh came in 1806 and set about dismantling this system. He ignored the colonys redemptive function and instead subverted the colonists legal and customary rights. By January 26, 1808, he had alienated key elements of the settler population. The Rum Rebellion made it clear that his authority was not to be exercised in a despotic manner. Arguably, the NSW Corps deposition of Bligh was just as significant for us as the Battle of Lexington to the Americans. That day, we had our own revolution to assert rights against tyranny. Justin Cahill, Roseville The royal jewels After reading Ian McNeils letter, my 100-year-old mother remarked that she didnt envy the surgeon handling the royal jewels (Letters, January 20). Lesley Heyward, Wollongbar King Charles Credit: Getty Images, digitally altered Has anybody described Charles enlarged prostate as being king-sized? Kimball Knuckey, Alexandria King Charles III has gone to hospital for treatment for his prostate. His much-promoted homeopathy and other quackeries havent worked. I wonder if he will notice and change his outlook. Douglas Irvin, Artarmon Editors Con test Bernie Bourke cannot be serious (Letters, January 20). Unless ultra dumb, anyone employing AI to pen a letter to the editor is not going to send the letter with signature Con Artist if they hope the editor will publish it. Ross Drynan, Lindfield Weeding out the dopes So, Jeremy Buckingham claims almost everyone in parliament has smoked pot (Almost everyone in Macquarie St has smoked marijuana, January 20). That would certainly explain at least some of the deranged behaviour during question time. Ross Duncan, Potts Point Later, he palled up with hitman Christopher Dale Flannery. (When Flannery became too erratic, Rogerson was part of the team that made him disappear.) To understand what was going on, you have to understand that in a normal police department you have to conceal the fact you are corrupt. For a period of time in some of the heavy NSW crime squads, you had to conceal the fact you were honest, for a straight cop can tell on you. It took multiple royal commissions and a massive commitment to real change by generations of NSW senior cops to change the culture. But Rogerson was too entrenched, too arrogant and too dirty to see times were changing. If he had pulled his head in, he may well have survived, but that was not his style. With every inquiry, he doubled down. When the mood struck, Rogerson was a brilliant investigator. For someone with no ethics, he had a prolific work ethic, unparalleled underworld contacts and a sharp mind. Loading He was brave, won multiple departmental awards and became a human headline. He was also a thief, a liar and a murderer. In 1981, Smith organised a meeting between Rogerson and drug dealer Warren Lanfranchi where Lanfranchi took $10,000 bribe money. Rogerson shot and killed Lanfranchi claiming the dealer threatened him with a gun (it was defective and 90 years old). Lanfranchi was shot twice with Rogerson and his cronies claiming they were fired in quick succession. Non-police who heard them said there was a substantial gap. One shot put him down, then Rogerson grabbed the bribe money and put a second in his chest. Smith gave evidence for Rogerson at the inquest. Lanfranchis girlfriend, Sallie-Anne Huckstepp campaigned for the case to be reopened as a murder investigation. She was found dead in a lake in Centennial Park in February 1986. She had been strangled and held underwater in the shallows killed by Smith. For years, Rogerson was untouchable in NSW but when he strayed into Victoria, he was gettable. In 1982, the NSW drug squad was running an operation into heroin dealing in Kings Cross, but the trouble was the main supplier was in Melbourne. Sydney cop Mick Drury (a police Peter Mitchell Trophy winner like Rogerson) was the inside man and the target was prodigious drug dealer Alan Williams. Victoria provided $110,000 to buy the drugs and Melbourne detectives botched the arrest, which meant they did not grab Williams red-handed and Drurys evidence was vital. Loading Williams, through Flannery, met with Rogerson to offer Drury a bribe. This tells you everything. Rogerson didnt even bother to set up a secret meeting. Rogerson, who was only a sergeant, summoned Drury to his office and offered him a massive bribe. Drury said no. Not for a moment did Rogerson believe he would be reported. Rogerson was present when Flannery accepted the deal to kill Drury. The agreed price was $100,000, with $50,000 down and the remainder due after the killing. I was a giant in the trade; I thought I was invincible, and unpinchable. But I stepped over the line with the Drury thing. It is something I will regret for the rest of my life, Williams later told me. On June 6, 1984, as Drury was washing dishes at his Chatswood home, Flannery shot him twice in the kitchen. Believing he was dying, Drury spoke of the bribe attempt. Drury survived. While he would not be convicted of the attempted bribe or the attempted murder, it was the beginning of the end for the man they called the Dodger. When he was found with unexplained wealth, a key witness in his prosecution was a Melbourne sex worker Miss Jones, who said she had travelled to Sydney on behalf of drug dealer Dennis Bruce Allen with a large amount of cash that she used to buy heroin from the bent cop. Miss Jones had been interviewed repeatedly by the Cobra taskforce in Melbourne that was looking at local police corruption. They deemed her unreliable and she was never called to testify. Loading There is some irony that the Dodger who was always ready to put up dodgy evidence to get a conviction was finally jailed in dodgy circumstances. I wonder if Rogerson ever reflected in his path to infamy. If he had even stayed vaguely straight, he would have retired as a respected cop, lived comfortably on a police pension and been rolled out as an expert on true crime cop shows. Instead, he spent his twilight years in prison serving time for a murder that was so inept that would have been laughable if it wasnt deadly. He is now part of Australian crime folklore, along with Ned Kelly, Abe Mr Sin Saffron, Squizzy Taylor and Mark Chopper Read. The Albanese governments failure to respond to Ukraines request for another urgent humanitarian shipment of thermal coal to help avoid major blackouts as Russian forces target energy infrastructure is a wasted opportunity to reassert Australias support for the beleaguered nation. Next month marks the second anniversary of Russias invasion of Ukraine. Credit: AP The Ukraine war has slipped from international attention as the Middle East continues to unravel. Further, the possibility of a second Donald Trump presidency, coupled with Republican Party disquiet over US involvement, threatens the Wests unity of purpose. Now Kyivs Energy Minister German Galushchenko has turned to Canberra, seeking another coal shipment to stabilise power supplies when Ukrainian nuclear plants undergo maintenance this northern hemisphere spring. Galushchenko told the Heralds Europe correspondent Rob Harris that Ukraine was fighting a second front when it came to shoring up electricity supplies for hospitals, critical infrastructure and residential areas, and the grid had so far held up, courtesy of air defence systems from Western allies, despite Moscows military campaign to destroy power stations. By spring and summer, we would need additional coal from abroad because of the huge destruction of the coal mines and the effects of these attacks, he said. Any help received would be very welcome. The last shipment was very important for us and we were deeply thankful. Tim Colebatch, a political and economic journalist for The Age for four decades, has died in Canberra after a long illness. He died on his 75th birthday on Sunday. He served for many years as the newspapers economics editor and commentator until taking voluntary redundancy in 2013. Tim Colebatch was a respected journalist. Credit: Penny Stephens He started as a cadet journalist in 1971, just when the newspaper industry was poised to enter an era of new journalism as Australia edged towards massive political and societal change. The Age was among the first mainstream newsrooms to ride the zeitgeist, and circulation vaulted as new readers from the Baby Boom generation entered the workforce. His impressive intellect was frequently called upon during some of journalisms toughest assignments, from his part exposing land deal corruption in the Hamer government to helping the public understand some of the most profound economic reforms in modern history, Age editor Patrick Elligett said. NSW Premier Chris Minns has been accused of specifically targeting the Muslim community after he flagged a review of hate speech laws, with an extraordinary letter from the Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) saying it would deepen feelings of being marginalised by the state government. The intervention followed an announcement by Minns and acting Attorney-General Ron Hoenig on Friday that former Supreme Court chief justice Tom Bathurst would review the policy objectives and effectiveness of part 93Z of the Crimes Act, which outlaws incitements of violence based on religion and race. The Australian National Imams Council president Sheikh Shadi Alsuleiman in 2018. Credit: Steven Siewert Speaking on the condition of anonymity so they could talk freely about the review, several Labor MPs contacted by the Herald raised concerns about the reform process. They said it appeared to have been designed to manufacture an outcome in line with the outcomes the pro-Israel lobby was seeking, and was likely to intensify feelings of disquiet within the caucus. Sent to Minns by ANIC President Imam Shadi Alsuleiman on Saturday, the letter says the approach taken by the government in relation to 93Z was very concerning, particularly given the review had been announced without any consultation. Nissan / Nissan You might have cruised into the new year fully prepared to get new wheels. You saved your money for a down payment. You budgeted for the monthly car notes. And you determined whether a family-friendly sedan, off-road vehicle or sleek convertible will best meet your needs. Here Are: 10 Bills You Should Pay Yearly Instead of Monthly Im a Financial Planning Expert: Always Buy These 5 Things Right After New Years But even with all that planning, you can still crash hard if you invest in the wrong car. If you want to avoid racking up expensive repairs or having to replace whole parts of your car, here are five unreliable cars to avoid. Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief. Jeep Grand Cherokee When Consumer Reports spoke with Jeep Grand Cherokee owners, the magazine found a number of unhappy customers. Though Jeep generally inspires incredible devotion among its consumers, Cherokee owners complained about issues with the air suspension and steering linkage. Annoyingly enough, the in-car electronic system can experience freezes, randomly going blank for up to 24 hours. Some of the owners even reported needing to replace their in-car electronic systems entirely. Volkswagen Taos Though Volkswagen is typically a trusted manufacturer, the Volkswagen Taos left the car owners that Consumer Reports spoke with feeling disappointed in its overall reliability. They reported major problems, such as brake issues and transmission woes and as anyone who has ever paced a car repair shop waiting room will tell you, fixing a transmission is a massive expense. On top of these already considerable problems, owners also described engine troubles. Mercedes Benz GLE The Mercedes Benz name still carries prestige, though Mercedes Benz GLE owners might have a quibble or two about its reliability. They report problems with the cars body hardware, as well as random noises and leaks, which can do more than startle you when driving, possibly resulting in considerable repair fees. Drivers also experienced issues with the cars electrical accessories and reported keyless entry malfunctions. Story continues Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Minivan You might think youre getting an eco-friendly vehicle thats safe for families in the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan. But thats not exactly the case, according to drivers who have experienced issues with the minivans charging capabilities and drive system. Drivers also share that the cars battery system has problems with its heating and cooling. Nissan Altima Nissan is another valued name in auto manufacturing, but many buyers have their share of remorse. Only 48% of Nissan Altima owners say that theyd purchase their cars again. The Car Guide reports that this sedan comes with an uninspiring drive, a free-falling segment, and only part time all-wheel drive. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Avoid These 5 Unreliable Cars in 2024 The Victorian opposition has dropped support for a treaty with First Nations peoples, with Nationals leader Peter Walsh admitting to a policy reversal that meant they would not back the process currently under way while they still had concerns about cultural heritage laws. Walsh, who is also the Coalitions spokesman for Aboriginal affairs, made the comments on Sky News on Sunday. Victorian Nationals leader Peter Walsh. Credit: Justin McManus The move comes less than a week before Australia Day and is set to shape the annual debate about whether the public holiday should be moved. Indigenous advocates lashed the decision as policy gymnastics. The opposition backed legislation in 2022 to set up a treaty authority that would oversee the negotiations between the state government and Victorias Aboriginal representatives. But Melbourne has continued to spread, joining cities such as Los Angeles in the ranks of the most sprawling, car-dependent metropolises in the world. In 2002, with his plan Melbourne 2030, Labor premier Steve Bracks vowed to stop urban sprawl, to reduce car dependence and make housing more affordable; hard lines were drawn on maps supposedly marking the final frontier of the citys expansion. Melbournes fringes have continued to spread. Credit: Fairfax Media However, the Bracks/Brumby government was also intent on attracting newcomers to Melbourne, including by ensuring an ample supply of cheap (compared with Sydney) fringe housing lots, thus adding to outward development pressure. In 2008, Melbourne 2030 was reworked as Melbourne @ 5 million, and the growth boundaries moved outwards. Those boundaries were redrawn yet again by the Baillieu Coalition government in 2012, before planning minister Matthew Guy appointed a special advisory committee to oversee development of a new blueprint, Plan Melbourne. Chaired by prominent planning consultant Roz Hansen, the committee conducted its own consultation roadshow, including a public forum at Docklands attended by more than 1000 Melburnians. Planning expert Roz Hansen. Credit: Eddie Jim Then, in 2013, five of the six advisory committee members resigned in protest after the government rejected key recommendations, including around greater housing density in Melbournes then Liberal-voting middle suburbs, affordable housing and climate change. When Labor returned to office in 2014, it reworked Plan Melbourne, adding a target of at least 70 per cent of Melbournes new homes being built in established suburbs. However, in 2023, the Andrews government conceded it had fallen well short of the 70/30 target, with government data showing that since 2014 just 56 per cent of new homes had been built in established suburbs, with the proportion declining each year since 2016. Like Melbourne 2030 before it, another key principle of Labors Plan Melbourne was increased housing affordability. In September, when the government released its much-awaited housing statement, it conceded the city faced a housing affordability crisis. As for transport, the proportion of trips in Melbourne taken by car remains stubbornly high; much of Melbourne beyond the citys train and tram network is still served by slow and infrequent bus services. Some growth areas have no bus service. Critics ask, therefore, given the history of metropolitan strategies being politicised and/or unrealised, what is the point of drawing communities, councils and business into yet another consultation process for yet another plan? This week, Kilkenny did not respond directly to such questions from this masthead. Instead, she issued a statement in which she said Plan Victoria would give Victorians a once-in-a-generation opportunity to have a say on how we shape our cities, towns, regions and communities for decades to come. We want to talk about a wide range of topics that affect how we live now, and what peoples lives will be like in the future: that includes housing affordability and choice, jobs and equity, liveable and thriving neighbourhoods, and climate action and sustainability. Kilkenny has already met with key industry groups as part of the consultation. Property lobby the Urban Development Institute of Australia Victoria has encouraged people to have their say about Plan Victoria, noting the top priority must be increasing housing density in Melbourne and in regional centres. We are supportive of the holistic approach to planning that Plan Victoria aspires to offer, said institute chief executive Linda Allison. It is commendable that the government is engaging so closely about what our community, city and state will look like in 2050. Loading But Professor Andrew Butt from RMITs Centre for Urban Research questioned the value of such an elaborate process. Its unclear what the largest consultation ever is set to achieve, said Butt. The goals of previous strategies like Plan Melbourne and Melbourne 2030 were always looking to shift growth to established areas and have been discussed for decades the critical issue remains how, not why. He said crucial to the how question was the provision of infrastructure, from public transport to schools and open space. Melbourne has added a population close to that of Adelaide since the 1990s, but we have certainly not added the same social and physical infrastructure. University of Melbourne associate professor Legacy said Victorians would reasonably be concerned about the Andrews/Allan governments record on consultation, with some of the biggest decisions affecting the citys future made behind closed doors, removed from the public planning process, noting as examples the multibillion-dollar Suburban Rail Loop and the $10.2 billion West Gate Tunnel, which was a market-led project from toll road giant Transurban. We have parallel planning processes. Theres the one that communities have access to and might produce a glossy, beautiful document, and then theres the other more hidden one where the real game is played, Legacy said. Professor Jago Dodson, also from RMITs Centre for Urban Research, said public consultation for Plan Victoria should be genuinely open and not merely a show to give a veneer of legitimacy to a scheme already cooked up in a ministerial advisers office, as has been a tendency with this government. Planners and councils have also expressed concern over the governments abandoning of a specific planning blueprint for Melbourne, noting the city will house an increased proportion of the states population and economy by 2050. A for-sale sign stands in front of a house in Westwood. 12 Home sales across Massachusetts sank to a 12-year low in 2023, the first year in office for Gov. Maura Healey, whose road to the corner office was paved with promises to boldly tackle the state's housing crisis. The Warren Group reported Tuesday that record high prices and an insufficient inventory made it a tough year for buyers, and home sales were down by nearly 22.5% in 2023, compared to 2022. The median sale price for a single-family home in Massachusetts last year was $570,000, up about 3.6% over 2022. Workers fill a dumpster as they carry items from Angies Bodywork Spa on Pleasant Street. 383 A large dumpster was being filled outside Angies Bodywork Spa at Pleasant Street as it appeared workers were clearing out the site of a fatal shooting on Thanksgiving. State regulators have opened an investigation into the business at 383 Pleasant St. Angies Bodyworks does not hold any licenses from the City of Worcester, a city spokesperson said in December. Marcel D. Santos-Padgett, a 31-year-old man from Leicester, was charged with murder in the shooting in Central District Court. He is being held without bail. Prosecutors have said surveillance video captured Santos-Padgett entering the business around 2 a.m. Thanksgiving and entering a workroom with the victim. A former roller rink at 161 Milk St. in Westborough may become a self-storage facility. 161 A building off Route 9 that was once used as a roller skating rink will be converted into a self-storage facility and an office building. MA Restoration Inc., a water damage restoration service with offices in Westborough, wants to renovate the property at 161 Milk St. The Planning Board Dec. 12 approved the companys request for a special permit to redevelop and build on the four-acre property. The existing building, with its faded green exterior, was constructed sometime in the late 1960s, according to property records. With Planning Board approval, MA Restoration looks to convert it into a fully automated self-storage site. The Reactory, a laboratory space on Belmont Street. 305 A Chinese pharmaceutical firm that is looking to make The Reactory life sciences park off Belmont Street its home will expand its drug manufacturing capacity by 50%, according to the company. WuXi Biologics will look to produce about 36,000 liters of pharmaceutical products from the 24,000 liters it announced in 2022, when work started toward its 189,500-square-foot project that is still under construction. WuXi is only one of the life sciences companies eyeing as its next location a lot inside The Reactory, a 46-acre development at 305 Belmont St. aimed at biotechnology and pharmaceutical manufacturing. Story continues Joanna Geraghty 20 Holy Cross alumna Joanna Geraghty will become the first woman to run a major U.S. airline when she takes over next month for outgoing JetBlue Airways CEO Robin Hayes. Geraghty graduated from Holy Cross in 1994 and has been at JetBlue for nearly 20 years. In 2018 she was named the company's president and chief operating officer. This year, Geraghty will be the keynote speaker for the 19th annual Women in Business Conference at Holy Cross in November. Geraghty will transition into her new role as CEO next month. Hayes will continue to serve on the company's board of directors during the transition. This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Central Mass. by the Numbers Chevron (NYSE: CVX) is one of the largest energy companies on the planet, sporting a massive $270 billion market cap. It competes with integrated majors like ExxonMobil (NYSE: XOM), Shell (NYSE: SHEL), BP (NYSE: BP), and TotalEnergies (NYSE: TTE). Is there a reason why investors would want to own Chevron stock rather than its peers? The answer is a very clear "yes." Here's what you need to know. A similar group of giants Chevron, ExxonMobil, Shell, BP, and TotalEnergies all use the same basic business model. They produce oil and natural gas, transport it, process it, and sell it. This means their businesses span from the upstream (drilling) through the midstream (pipelines) and all the way to the downstream (chemical and refining). The key to this approach is that different segments of the energy sector perform differently at different times, which helps to soften the industry's natural peaks and valleys. For example, downstream businesses can benefit from low oil prices, which are a cost center for this segment of the industry. Things tend to diverge a little from this point, however, which might help to give Chevron a leg up on its peers. But in the end, it is likely to be the nuances that matter most. Reasons to buy Chevron stock One of the first things that dividend investors are likely to note about Chevron is its dividend yield, which is around 4.2%. That's not the highest on offer in the peer group, with BP and TotalEnergies both offering larger income streams. But there's a little twist here that's important. TotalEnergies, which has the highest yield of the group, is based out of France, and investors have to pay foreign taxes on its dividends. Those taxes can be claimed back come April 15, but it complicates your tax preparation, and there's a cap on the total amount you can claim. So TotalEnergies, despite a higher yield, isn't necessarily a better choice. CVX Dividend Yield Chart There's also another notable issue to consider. Chevron has increased its dividend for 36 consecutive years. That's second only to ExxonMobil's 41 years in the peer group. In fact, BP and Shell both cut their dividends during the coronavirus pandemic as they announced plans to increase their investments in clean energy (TotalEnergies made that same commitment without a dividend cut). So investors that favor stocks with growing dividends will probably prefer Chevron over its European peers. Notably, despite having a higher yield, BP's cut will probably take it out of the running for many dividend investors. Story continues But Chevron also has a slight leg up on ExxonMobil as well. While it wouldn't be a mistake to buy ExxonMobil by any stretch of the imagination, Chevron's debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12 times is better than Exxon's 0.2 times. So for ultra-conservative dividend investors, Chevron might win the day -- it has more room to take on debt to support its business and dividend when there's another energy downturn. CVX Debt to Equity Ratio Chart Reasons to sell Chevron stock So there are plenty of reasons to like Chevron, but there is at least one notable reason to dislike it -- the global shift toward cleaner energy options, like solar and wind power. Although this transition is likely to take decades, Chevron and ExxonMobil have both chosen to stick to their oil and natural gas strengths, if you will. They aren't exactly shoving their heads in the sand, but they also aren't moving aggressively to transition with the world. BP, Shell, and TotalEnergies have all been more proactive. Yes, that resulted in dividend cuts at BP and Shell, and both of these companies have effectively walked back their plans to some degree, but if you think the future is going to get green quickly, then Chevron is probably not going to be the right stock for you. TotalEnergies, which didn't cut its dividend and hasn't walked back its clean energy plans, would probably be a better choice. Reasons to hold Chevron stock If you own Chevron, there's really no reason why you should sell it to buy another integrated energy major unless you feel strongly about the environmental issue. In fact, demand for carbon fuels is expected to remain strong through at least 2050, according to both the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) and the International Energy Agency (IEA), two of the most important industry watchers. And within that period, the use of coal is expected to decline, with oil and natural gas demand individually either holding steady or growing. So there's decades of energy demand ahead for Chevron to service and, at least at this point, no particular reason to worry about Chevron's future. More reasons to buy than sell Chevron When you add it all up, Chevron is more likely to be a buy for most investors looking at the integrated energy space than a sell (and if you own it there's no immediate reason you would want to dump it). There are nuances, of course, which may push you toward one stock or another, but if you want a reliable dividend stock Chevron is a great starting point. Should you invest $1,000 in Chevron right now? Before you buy stock in Chevron, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now... and Chevron wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than tripled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*. See the 10 stocks *Stock Advisor returns as of January 16, 2024 Reuben Gregg Brewer has positions in TotalEnergies Se. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends BP. The Motley Fool recommends Chevron. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Chevron Stock: Buy, Sell, or Hold? was originally published by The Motley Fool The pupil, who cannot be named for legal reasons, alleges the schools stance on prayer one of the five pillars of Islam was the kind of discrimination which makes religious minorities feel alienated from society, a judge was told. Met Office forecaster Marco Petagna told the PA news agency: "There is a potential that we could see the odd isolated tornado largely tied in with the squally cold front mainly in western parts of the UK on Sunday evening. International carriers have largely avoided Afghanistan since the Taliban's 2021 takeover of the country. Those that briefly fly over rush through Afghan airspace for only a few minutes while over the sparsely populated Wakhan Corridor in Badakhshan province, a narrow panhandle that juts out of the east of the country between Tajikistan and Pakistan, before continuing their way. Meanwhile, the British government has said Royal Navy missiles that have been used to shoot down Houthi drones in the Red Sea will be upgraded. Pakistan has this week also launched strikes on Iran-based insurgents. Key Insights Using the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity, Comet Holding fair value estimate is CHF348 Comet Holding is estimated to be 22% undervalued based on current share price of CHF273 Analyst price target for COTN is CHF267 which is 23% below our fair value estimate In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of Comet Holding AG (VTX:COTN) by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. Our analysis will employ the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. There's really not all that much to it, even though it might appear quite complex. Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. If you want to learn more about discounted cash flow, the rationale behind this calculation can be read in detail in the Simply Wall St analysis model. Check out our latest analysis for Comet Holding The Calculation We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. 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. A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars: 10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (CHF, Millions) CHF39.9m CHF84.6m CHF104.9m CHF122.6m CHF137.1m CHF148.4m CHF157.1m CHF163.5m CHF168.2m CHF171.7m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x2 Analyst x2 Est @ 24.02% Est @ 16.84% Est @ 11.81% Est @ 8.29% Est @ 5.83% Est @ 4.10% Est @ 2.90% Est @ 2.05% Present Value (CHF, Millions) Discounted @ 5.7% CHF37.7 CHF75.8 CHF89.0 CHF98.4 CHF104 CHF107 CHF107 CHF105 CHF103 CHF99.1 ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = CHF926m Story continues The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (0.08%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 5.7%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033 (1 + g) (r g) = CHF172m (1 + 0.08%) (5.7% 0.08%) = CHF3.1b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= CHF3.1b ( 1 + 5.7%)10= CHF1.8b 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 CHF2.7b. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of CHF273, the company appears a touch undervalued at a 22% 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. SWX:COTN Discounted Cash Flow January 21st 2024 Important Assumptions The calculation above is very dependent on two assumptions. The first is the discount rate and the other is the 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 Comet Holding as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 5.7%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.114. 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 Comet Holding Strength Debt is not viewed as a risk. Weakness Earnings declined over the past year. Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Electronic market. Opportunity Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Swiss market. Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value. Threat Dividends are not covered by cash flow. Revenue is forecast to grow slower than 20% per year. Looking Ahead: Although the valuation of a company is important, it ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. 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. Can we work out why the company is trading at a discount to intrinsic value? For Comet Holding, we've compiled three relevant factors you should further research: Risks: You should be aware of the 1 warning sign for Comet Holding we've uncovered before considering an investment in the company. Future Earnings: How does COTN'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 Swiss 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. New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - January 21, 2024) - On January 21, 2024, the nationwide preliminary stage of the "Rolling Waves!" National University Band Popularity Contest, organized by Hunan Broadcasting Television Urban Channel (Feng Mang) and produced by Hunan Cool Travel Media Co., Ltd., came to a perfect conclusion. This 33-day music extravaganza not only gathered music elites from over a thousand Chinese universities but also attracted talented university musicians from Vietnam, South Korea, Malaysia, Ukraine, the United States, and other countries. Multilingual music echoed through the skies of Chinese cities as young students from around the world showcased their musical talents on the stage, injecting new vitality into cultural exchanges between China and other countries. Image1 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8247/195061_82ed212f84d43a7c_001full.jpg Breaking language barriers, original music touches hearts In this competition, original music took center stage. Participating bands showcased their talent and creative abilities through original compositions. Among them, the passionate and rocking tracks like "Give Me All Your Love" and emotionally charged pop songs like "Awakening" and "Midnight Escape Plan" demonstrated the infinite charm and uniqueness of original music. These original works not only blended traditional and modern elements but also broke new ground in terms of melody, rhythm, and arrangement. Compared to international pop music, Chinese original music showcased its distinctive style and depth in this competition. In addition to popular, punk, J-rock, Fusion, Funk, Bossa, R&B, and Rock genres, there were innovative breakthroughs in melody, rhythm, and arrangement. In a single competition, there were various "Chinese languages" including Mandarin, Cantonese, Shaanxi dialect, as well as Korean, Japanese, English, and other languages. This fusion of expressions made original music stand out on this musical stage. Story continues Through the lens of music, glimpses of Chinese cities During the competition, each band cleverly incorporated elements of their respective cities, showcasing the cultural charm of different regions. In the Chengdu competition, elements of Sichuan Opera were integrated into pop music, showcasing the regional characteristics of Sichuan and Chongqing culture. In the Nanjing competition, traditional Nanjing Baiju opera forms showcased the profound musical charm of the Suzhou-Hangzhou region. The integration of these traditional cultural elements from Chinese cities not only enriched the essence of the music works but also injected new vitality into the diversity and uniqueness of music. Chinese youth's original music is heading towards the world Zhang Shijie, the General Manager of Hunan Kulv Media Co., Ltd., said, "Music is a language without borders. It can break the limitations of geography and culture, allowing people to find each other in resonance." This event not only brings exciting music performances to domestic audiences but also allows university students worldwide to experience the vitality, innovation, and pursuit of dreams of Chinese university students. In the future, the "Rolling Waves!" National University Band Popularity Contest will venture beyond China and go global. Image2 To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8247/195061_82ed212f84d43a7c_002full.jpg Contact: Tao Wei corywn@foxmail.com To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/195061 CLAYTON The dispute over biblical doctrine at Concordia Seminary had been stewing for four years. While the suspension of the seminary president was drastic, it was not a surprise. But nobody expected the gathering of angry students at the campus statue of Martin Luther, the 16th-century German priest whose own dissent sparked the Protestant Reformation. On Jan. 21, 1974, the students voted 274-92 to boycott classes, pledging to stay out until their church leadership "publicly declares which members of the faculty, if any, are to be considered as false teachers." Faculty members followed with a strong and similar vote of their own. For weeks, only a few students attended classes taught by the "faithful five," the faculty still working. Then came a shocking turn - Seminex, the "seminary in exile." Concordia Seminary, founded in 1839, is seven years older than its sponsoring denomination, the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. Headquartered in Kirkwood, the synod now has about 2.4 million members and is the second-largest Lutheran denomination in the U.S. Four decades ago, it was riven by disputes over the literal truth of the Old Testament. Orthodox pastors suspected the seminary was churning out young ministers who doubted the truth of Adam and Eve, or of Jonah and the whale. The object of their ire became the Rev. John H. Tietjen, a Concordia graduate, theological moderate and seminary president since 1969. That same year, the Synod elected an energetic conservative, the Rev. Jacob A.O. Preus, as its president. Preus called for the seminary to censor teachers "who question the historicity or factuality of events described in Scripture." Both Preus and Tietjen were men of strong belief and will. Preus told others bluntly, "Tietjen must go." Said Tietjen, "I am not a teacher of false doctrine." The 1973 synod convention in New Orleans was a slam-dunk for Preus. The assembly declared most of Concordia's teachers guilty of "subversion" of Scripture and installed new, like-minded members on the seminary Board of Control. That board voted Jan. 20, 1974, to suspend Tietjen, igniting the rebellion. The standoff escalated when the board on Feb. 18 fired 40 teachers and ordered them out of campus housing. The next day, students voted to form Seminex and marched out past the black-draped statue of Luther. Seminex used rooms borrowed from St. Louis University and Eden Theological Seminary. Tietjen joined Seminex's faculty that fall and became its president in 1975. Two years later, the Snyod expelled him for "allowing and fostering false doctrine." Seminex moved to Chicago in 1983 and later merged with another seminary. Tietjen joined the moderate Evangelical Lutheran Church. Preus died in 1994, Tietjen in 2004. Read more stories from Tim O'Neil's Look Back series. Flash China stands ready to work with Africa towards an equal and orderly multipolar world as well as an inclusive economic globalization that benefits all, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Friday. Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when briefing the media on his recent trip to four African countries including Egypt, Tunisia, Togo and Cote d'Ivoire. In recent years, the volatile political and security situation in West Africa, especially in the Sahel region, has posed challenges to regional peace, stability and development. Stressing that all countries in the Sahel region are good friends of China, Wang said China looks forward to the restoration of peace and the achievement of stability and development in the region as soon as possible. Wang noted that it is imperative to resolve differences politically through dialogue and consultation. The Global Security Initiative proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping calls on countries to pursue a new security path featuring dialogue over confrontation, partnership over alliance, and win-win over zero-sum, said Wang. African countries have the right to choose their own development paths, enjoy equal rights in the international system and get fair opportunities in global development, he added. Key Insights Siemens' estimated fair value is 193 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity Siemens' 161 share price indicates it is trading at similar levels as its fair value estimate Analyst price target for SIE is 185 which is 4.1% below our fair value estimate Today we will run through one way of estimating the intrinsic value of Siemens Aktiengesellschaft (ETR:SIE) by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. We will use the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model on this occasion. Don't get put off by the jargon, the math behind it is actually quite straightforward. Companies can be valued in a lot of ways, so we would point out that a DCF is not perfect for every situation. If you still have some burning questions about this type of valuation, take a look at the Simply Wall St analysis model. Check out our latest analysis for Siemens The Calculation We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, so we discount the value of these future cash flows to their estimated value in today's dollars: 10-year free cash flow (FCF) estimate 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (, Millions) 8.51b 10.1b 10.6b 9.11b 9.46b 9.24b 9.11b 9.02b 8.98b 8.96b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x12 Analyst x11 Analyst x6 Analyst x2 Analyst x1 Est @ -2.32% Est @ -1.48% Est @ -0.90% Est @ -0.49% Est @ -0.21% Present Value (, Millions) Discounted @ 6.3% 8.0k 8.9k 8.9k 7.1k 7.0k 6.4k 5.9k 5.5k 5.2k 4.9k ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = 68b Story continues We now need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all the future cash flows after this ten year period. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (0.5%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 6.3%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033 (1 + g) (r g) = 9.0b (1 + 0.5%) (6.3% 0.5%) = 155b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= 155b ( 1 + 6.3%)10= 84b The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is 152b. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of 161, the company appears about fair value at a 17% 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. XTRA:SIE Discounted Cash Flow January 21st 2024 The Assumptions Now the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Siemens as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 6.3%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.164. 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 Siemens Strength Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry. Debt is well covered by earnings and cashflows. Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows. Weakness Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Industrials market. Opportunity Annual revenue is forecast to grow faster than the German market. Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value. Threat Annual earnings are forecast to grow slower than the German market. Moving On: Although the valuation of a company is important, it ideally won't be the sole piece of analysis you scrutinize for a company. 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 Siemens, there are three important aspects you should further research: Risks: To that end, you should be aware of the 1 warning sign we've spotted with Siemens . Future Earnings: How does SIE's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered! PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every German stock every day, so if you want to find the intrinsic value of any other stock just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Tony Messenger Metro columnist Follow Tony Messenger 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 WARRENTON The 16-year-old girl sat in a chair in the middle of the courtroom, facing St. Charles County Senior Judge Richard Zerr. The judge had been brought to Warren County to help clear up a backlog of cases, including this one, which had languished for more than 7 years. The girl didnt tremble. She spoke with a strong and commanding voice. She owned the room. I am not a statistic, she said. I am a survivor. When the girl was 9, she was sexually assaulted in her home by a man who was now on the other side of the courtroom, John K. Wilmes Jr. Last month, in a plea bargain, Wilmes pleaded guilty to two felony charges of child molestation. On Friday, the judge sentenced Wilmes to 24 years in prison. It wasnt enough. The crime you committed is much more reprehensible than the sentence you will receive, Zerr told Wilmes. There is no amount of time that will undo the harm you have done. That harm evil, Zerr called it was compounded by an inexorable wait for justice, caused by a broken system. Last year, I wrote about the causes of the Warren County delays, including a prosecutor who was clogging the court docket with overcharged cases and then refusing to plea bargain with defense attorneys. The girls mother called me at that time to tell me about her daughter's case. The prosecutor, Kelly King, quit her job before the girls case went to trial. (King accepted a job working for Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey.) The Wilmes case was set for trial multiple times but kept getting delayed. For the past couple of years, it hasn't been uncommon for several trials to be set on the same day in Warren County. Maybe one of them would go forward. But sometimes all would be delayed, to the detriment of victims, as well as the people charged with crimes as a cloud of accusations followed them for years. The girls mother had complained about the delays in a letter to Warren County Presiding Court Judge Jason Lamb. She explained the pain it was causing family members, who were forced to move away while Wilmes was free. We are angry, in turmoil, and suffering greatly because of Warren County, she wrote in 2022. The state victims compensation program helped at first, but it only provided help for therapy and other expenses for the first two years a time by which most serious cases like sexual assault would typically go to trial. Not long after I wrote about the case, Lamb asked another judge, Zerr, for help. Zerr has taken on dozens of cases in Warren County, pushing prosecutors and defense attorneys to work together to speed up the process and clear the backlog. Lamb also asked for help from the Missouri Office of Prosecution Services, and a prosecutor from that office took over the Wilmes case. It all led to a resolution on Friday, with mom lamenting the damage the delays in justice had caused. This is every parents worst nightmare, the mother told the judge. The amount of time it took to get to this day has had a devastating impact on our lives. She then told the court what everybody there was about to discover in person. My daughter is the strongest person I know, she said. The daughter, 7 years removed from the abuse that led to thoughts of suicide, walked to the center of the courtroom, sat in a chair and faced the monster who was responsible for the evil she was subjected to. She was backed by a crowd of friends and family as she spoke. I stand here today reliving that hell, she said, reading from a statement she had prepared. I remember what he did and how he hurt me. She was told by her perpetrator to keep quiet and not tell anybody about the abuse. But she found the courage to tell her mother. Together, seven years ago, they made sure Wilmes was charged for his crimes. On Friday, his freedom was taken away, and he will be forever labeled the awful thing that he is: a sex offender. I was deeply underestimated, the girl said, before the judge announced the sentence. He has not won. His dream is over, and I am ending it. I choose to win. ST. LOUIS A St. Louis youth nonprofit damaged by an electrical fire Sunday morning has found a temporary home in a co-working space. No one was inside the Whitfield Foundation for Success when a blaze broke out about 9 a.m. near the front of the building, located at 2631 Gravois Avenue in the Fox Park neighborhood. The busted windows, charred furniture and smoke damage will take time and money to repair, said the nonprofit's co-founder, Marlon Whitfield. "I'm definitely a little in shock," he said Sunday afternoon. "But I think we can bounce back." The foundation opened in November 2020 to introduce underserved children and teens to STEAM: science, technology, engineering, the arts and math. About a hundred youngsters, ages 8 to 18, participate in camps and workshops each year to learn about coding, film, robotics and music. A pilot program in partnership with the Covenant House, a social services organization, was to meet at the foundation on Monday afternoon. Participants will learn how to write resumes and sit for mock interviews. Instead, they will gather at Heydays, a co-working space in midtown that opened a year ago. Owner Keisha Mabry Haymore spoke with Whitfield on Sunday and offered room for his classes until they can get back to Fox Park. "We want to support him and the work he's doing," said Mabry Haymore. WASHINGTON Is a New Hampshire primary without the front-runner on the ballot and no delegates up for grabs still a New Hampshire primary? Depends on who you ask. On Tuesday, voters in the Granite State again will help kick off the presidential primary season, on the heels of the Iowa caucuses that began the nomination process on the Republican side Monday. But this year, theres something different about the traditional first-in-the-nation primary, at least on the Democratic side. Normally, the contest would determine how the states original allotment of 23 pledged delegates to the presidential nominating convention in Chicago this summer would be allocated to the various candidates. However, the Democratic National Committee, which has the ultimate say in how its presidential nominee will be picked, says state party officials violated national party rules by scheduling its contest earlier than allowed. As a result, the primary will have zero delegates at stake Tuesday. President Joe Biden, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for a second term, decided to skip New Hampshire since its primary violates party rules, and he will not appear on the ballot. It was Bidens idea to bump the state from its prized primary calendar slot in favor of South Carolina, which resuscitated his struggling campaign in 2020. That year, Biden placed fourth in the Iowa caucuses and fifth in New Hampshire with only 8% of the vote. The New Hampshire Democratic Party is nevertheless proceeding with the primary which officials note state law requires to be held before any other primary and started the process of selecting people to serve as national convention delegates. This earned a sharp rebuke from the DNC, which called the upcoming primary both meaningless and detrimental. State Democratic party Chairman Ray Buckley said in a statement, Well, its safe to say in New Hampshire, the DNC is less popular than the NY Yankees. State law requires the New Hampshire Secretary of State to conduct the first-in-the-nation primary and he is going to follow the law period. Nothing has changed, and we look forward to seeing a great Democratic voter turnout on January 23rd. Some New Hampshire Democrats encourage primary voters to cast their ballots for Biden as a write-in candidate. President Lyndon Johnson won the state primary in 1968 as a write-in candidate, though he dropped out of the race 19 days later after what was widely perceived as a disappointing 8-point win over Minnesota Sen. Eugene McCarthy. In the 2020 state Democratic primary, write-in votes comprised only 2% of the total vote, or about 6,000 votes. A large-scale write-in effort would increase the workload for local elections officials, but state Secretary of State David Scanlan said he expects results to be available on primary night. Scanlan also said the counting process will be largely unaffected in communities that already hand-count ballots. The process will take longer in larger jurisdictions that use machines to count regular ballots because they will have to hand-count write-ins. He added that local officials will enlist additional help to speed up the count. The states primary ballot provides would-be write-in voters with the following instructions: To vote for a person whose name is not printed on the ballot, write in the name of the person in the WRITE-IN space, and completely fill in the oval opposite your choice. Scanlan advises voters to follow these instructions but adds that its important for local elections officials to determine the voters intent when reviewing ballots. If somebody wrote in the name of a candidate and they did not fill in the oval, that does not disqualify that vote, he said in an interview with WMUR-TV. The intent of that voter would be for the name that they actually wrote on the ballot. And thats how that ballot would be counted. In New Hampshire, ballots without a darkened oval in a particular contest are typically categorized as blank. Thus, write-in votes where the oval is not filled in might be initially included in the blank total instead of the write-in total. This would be corrected as local election officials determine whether a ballot initially categorized as blank is actually a valid write-in vote. As for variations in the spelling of a write-in candidates name, Scanlan says the name doesnt have to be spelled correctly or written a specific way if the voters intent is clear. If they write in just Biden, I think that intent is very clear. If they write in Bidon, I think the intent is still pretty clear, he said in October. If they just write Joe, then you have to ask the question, well, are there any other Joes on the ballot or running. If there are, then you probably dont know which Joe the persons voting for. A total of 21 Democrats will appear by name on the New Hampshire primary ballot on Tuesday, in addition to the option to vote for a write-in candidate. Republicans also will hold a primary, with 24 listed candidates. As for delegates, its still possible New Hampshire Democrats will send a delegation to the Democratic National Convention this summer and cast votes for the nomination. The 10 Senate seats most likely to flip in 2024 1. West Virginia 2. Montana 3. Ohio 4. Pennsylvania 5. Arizona 6. Nevada 7. Wisconsin 8. Michigan 9. Texas 10. Florida Analysis: Pennsylvania moves up list of contested Senate seats in 2024 WASHINGTON President Joe Biden is pushing for a deal on border security and Ukraine funding, and one of the last major sticking points is whether to preserve the presidents authority to allow migrants into the U.S. for special cases during emergencies or global unrest. Republicans deride the authority, known as humanitarian parole, as a Biden administration end run around Congress that allows into the U.S. large numbers of migrants who further tax an already overextended immigration system. But that power to allow in certain immigrants at certain times is not new or particularly novel. It has been used across political lines for decades to admit people from Hungary in the 1950s, Vietnam in the 1970s and Iraqi Kurds over the 1990s. For recipients, it can be a lifeline. The parole gave me this opportunity, it has made me realize my dreams, my life, said Emilia Ferrer Triay, who came from Cuba in 1980 as a young girl, part of a massive influx of more than 125,000 Cubans who traveled from Cubas Mariel Harbor to the United States that year. Everything changed from the first day I arrived, I saw that I had a future that there were no restrictions. Republican senators have refused to approve any further aid for Ukraine or Israel without U.S. border policy changes. The negotiations have been drawn out for weeks, but both sides say they are nearing a deal and the Senate could consider the legislation as soon as next week. I think theyre theyre definitely closing in on parole language issue that has to be addressed, Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., said Thursday. And in a way that limits the abuse the authority. Well wait and see when the text comes out and how it is, but I think therell be a lot of these questions hopefully to get answered. In recent days, negotiators have discussed potential compromises, including caps on the number of migrants eligible for parole, according to two people familiar with the discussions who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. Lets find a way that we can get clear definition and figure out how to be able to resolve this, said Oklahoma Sen. James Lankford, the chief Republican negotiator. Voters are increasingly preoccupied with immigration, and its expected to be a major driver in the 2024 election. The Democratic administration has been heavily criticized by Republicans who say its policies have only encouraged more migrants to illegally cross the U.S.-Mexico border. To the American people, what the Biden administration is doing is illegal. It is incentivizing illegal immigration, said Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C. He said parole was the administrations tool of choice that has allowed too many people into the U.S. But the U.S. immigration system has been increasingly strained for years, with each presidential administration testing executive power limits while Congress all along has refused to act on immigration policy. The Biden administrations approach to crack down on illegal crossings while opening up new ways for those who come by air with sponsors is only the latest in a long string of attempts to bring the nations immigration system under control. The authority employed by the administration is known as parole because migrants would otherwise be placed in detention as their immigration cases were heard. Instead they are paroled or allowed into the U.S. But the authority isnt related to the criminal justice idea of a person who has been paroled from prison after serving time following a conviction. Under Biden, the U.S. has relied heavily on humanitarian parole. The U.S. airlifted nearly 80,000 Afghans from Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, and brought them to the U.S. after the Taliban takeover. The U.S. has admitted tens of thousands of Ukrainians who fled after the Russian invasion. In January 2023, the administration announced a plan to admit 30,000 people a month from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela, provided those migrants had a financial sponsor and flew to the U.S. instead of going to the U.S.-Mexico border for entry. The U.S. has created a mobile app for people to apply online where they are, instead of traveling to the U.S. Texas sued the administration to stop the allowances, arguing in part that the plan was drawing too many people to the border. Republican senators are also targeting the program. Democrats in the Senate and immigrant advocates say parole is a valuable tool that provides urgent relief for people fleeing unrest and helps manage the border. Before the plan, migrants from those nations were the vast majority of people entering the U.S. illegally. Afterward, arrests for those nationalities dropped dramatically. Over the years, parole has been used to offer quick safe haven. Administration officials are reluctant to cut off the ability to use the authority not just now, but into the future. It is very important to understand that it is used today as a way that the administration is able to better manage the flow, in a planful way, of individuals to the border, said Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy, the lead Democrat in Senate negotiations. Political journalist Marcelo Conde fled Nicaragua last year after he received death threats because he was not in favor of President Daniel Ortega. Conde feared that if he left Nicaragua legally, he would be detained and imprisoned when authorities saw his name on his passport. After he finally arrived in the U.S., he received an authorization to work. In Nevada, he is waiting tables. Conde speaks Spanish, French and English and hopes soon to work as a journalist in the U.S. Americas reeling as flow of migrants reaches historic levels SEOUL, South Korea Even for a nation that has perfected the provocative, North Korean leader Kim Jong Uns declaration that he would abandon the existential goal of reconciling with rival South Korea was a shock. But a closer look shows its the almost inevitable culmination of years of building tension. World powers will now be closely watching to see how one of Kims biggest foreign policy declarations since he took power in 2011 plays out as he works to gain leverage in a region that holds both promise and danger for his small, impoverished, nuclear-armed nation. The bombshell came at a recent rubber-stamp parliament, where Kim called for rewriting North Koreas constitution to eliminate the idea of a peaceful unification between the war-divided countries and to cement the South as an invariable principal enemy. Its the clearest sign yet of how far inter-Korean relations have fallen since February 2019, when Kims nuclear diplomacy with former U.S. President Donald Trump imploded in Hanoi, Vietnam. The animosity that followed that highly public setback has been accompanied by an accelerated, and unprecedented, expansion of Kims nuclear arsenal and by repeated threats of nuclear war against Washington and Seoul. Kim, who during the Supreme Peoples Assembly meeting described South Korea as top-class stooges of America, may be attempting to diminish South Koreas regional power while moving toward direct U.S.-North Korean nuclear talks. Kims new approach to the South comes as he tries to break out of diplomatic isolation and strengthen his footing regionally. He is playing off deepening U.S. tensions with Moscow and Beijing over Russias war in Ukraine and Chinas assertive foreign policy. North Koreas recent efforts to boost ties with Russia and China and join a united front against Washington in what Kim calls a new Cold War were highlighted by his September visit to Russia for a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. North Korea has been recalibrating its regional approach since the collapse of the 2019 Hanoi summit, said Ankit Panda, an expert with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. But now, with advanced nuclear and missile capabilities and the support of Russia and China, Kim feels confident enough to make these changes, which amount to his most consequential proclamations on external affairs since taking power in North Korea, Panda said. North Korea no longer sees Seoul as a useful middleman to extract concessions from Washington. Instead, its rival is now seen as an obstacle to the Norths efforts to carve out a more assertive presence in global affairs, said Hong Min, an analyst at South Koreas Institute for National Unification. Pyongyang has viciously criticized conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol, who since taking office in 2022 has expanded military cooperation with Washington and Tokyo while seeking stronger U.S. assurances that it would swiftly and decisively use its nuclear capabilities to defend its ally in the event of a North Korean nuclear attack. In eliminating the idea of a shared sense of statehood between the Koreas, Kim could be reinforcing North Koreas older approach of ignoring South Korea and attempting direct dealings with Washington. The old reasoning in Pyongyang, according to Hong, was that the South wasnt a direct party to the armistice that ended the bloodshed of the 1950-53 Korean War. That ceasefire was signed between the U.S.-led U.N. Command, North Korea and China, which sent troops to fight for the North. Declaring the South as a permanent adversary, not as a potential partner for reconciliation, could also be aimed at improving the credibility of Kims escalatory nuclear doctrine, which authorizes the military to launch preemptive nuclear attacks against adversaries if the leadership is under threat, Hong said. An intensifying campaign to eliminate South Korean cultural influences and to reinforce the Norths separate identity may be aimed at strengthening the Kim familys dynastic rule. At the assembly, Kim ordered his country to remove past symbols of inter-Korean reconciliation, including a cross-border railway section and a unification monument in Pyongyang he described as an eyesore, and to completely eliminate such concepts as reunification, reconciliation and fellow countrymen from the national history of our republic. North Korea is aiming to destroy the illusions of unification, inter-Korean exchanges and cooperation that remain in the minds of its people, said Lim Eul-chul, a professor at Seouls Kyungnam Universitys Institute for Far Eastern Studies. Its the reverse of Kims approach in 2018, when he initiated diplomacy with South Koreas former liberal President Moon Jae-in, and later used Seoul as a bridge to engage with Trump, part of an ambitious effort to leverage his nukes for badly needed economic benefits. After the failure in Hanoi, North Korea halted all cooperation with the South, and blew up an empty inter-Korean liaison office in 2020 to display its displeasure toward Seoul. In recent months Kim has used Russias war on Ukraine as a distraction to dial up weapons tests to a record pace. The alignment between North Korea and Russia has raised worries about arms cooperation, in which the North apparently provides Russia with artillery shells and missiles to help prolong its warfighting capabilities, possibly in exchange for economic and military assistance. Missouri legislators returned to Jefferson City this month and filed more than two dozen bills to gut Missouris long-standing citizen initiative process, thwart direct democracy and end majority rule. We cannot stand idly by. The bills filed in Missouri this year and over the past six years are part of a national movement in conservative states to restrict the power of direct democracy. Here in Missouri, the citizen initiative process has been a key tool in proactive wins on increasing the minimum wage, expanding Medicaid and protecting labor rights in Missouri. The initiative petition process has bettered the lives of hundreds of thousands of Missourians. Eligible small and midsize enterprises (SMEs) can receive up to 50% grant support for the pre-approved CCH iFirm and CCH ProSystem fx Engagement solutions, thus offsetting the financial investment required for firms to adopt digital technologies SINGAPORE--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting (TAA) Asia Pacific (APAC), today announced that its solutions, CCH iFirm and CCH ProSystem fx Engagement, are now pre-approved by the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), a statutory board of the Singapore government. The pre-approval received is part of IMDAs SMEs Go Digital program, which aims to help small-to-medium accounting firms adopt digital technologies to build stronger capabilities and seize growth opportunities in the digital economy. Under the SMEs Go Digital program, eligible accounting practices can receive up to a 50% grant to support the cost of adopting the CCH ProSystem fx Engagement or CCH iFirm solutions. Through the pre-approved solutions, IMDA seeks to encourage SMEs to adopt advanced digital solutions that can help improve their productivity and propel their businesses forward. CCH ProSystem fx Engagement is currently one of only two pre-approved solutions under the External Audit Management category. It offers audit firms a comprehensive audit management solution that automates the entire audit process, from planning to final reporting. It also provides collaboration tools, workflow management, real-time status updates and integration with other software, enabling auditors to work more efficiently and effectively. CCH iFirm is currently the only pre-approved solution under the Practice Management System category. As a complete practice management solution designed specifically for accounting firms, it helps companies streamline workflows, automate administrative tasks, manage client relationships, support quality management standards, and provide valuable business insights. With CCH iFirm, accounting firms can improve operational efficiency, enhance client service, and drive profitability. "Small and medium enterprises are true growth engines for economies, and it is an honour to have CCH ProSystem fx Engagement and CCH iFirm pre-approved under the IMDAs SMEs Go Digital program," said Izzy Silva, Managing Director, Wolters Kluwer, TAA APAC. "With their comprehensive features and user-friendly interface, CCH ProSystem fx Engagement and CCH iFirm empower small-to-medium audit firms to take advantage of digital transformation and thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape." Accounting firms can visit the Wolters Kluwer website to learn more about CCH ProSystem fx Engagement and CCH iFirm, or contact their local Wolters Kluwer Solutions Manager. About Wolters Kluwer Wolters Kluwer (EURONEXT: WKL) is a global leader in information, software, and services for professionals in healthcare, tax and accounting, financial and corporate compliance, legal and regulatory, and corporate performance and ESG. We help our customers make critical decisions every day by providing expert solutions that combine deep domain knowledge with specialized technology and services. Wolters Kluwer reported 2022 annual revenues of 5.5 billion. The group serves customers in over 180 countries, maintains operations in over 40 countries, and employs approximately 20,900 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in Alphen aan den Rijn, the Netherlands. For more information visit: www.wolterskluwer.com/en-sg, follow us on Facebook or LinkedIn. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240121826513/en/ Shannon Wherry Associate Director, External Communications Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting Office: +1 972-209-2767 [email protected] Source: Wolters Kluwer All amounts expressed in US dollars BULYANHULU, Tanzania, Jan. 21, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Barrick Gold Corporation (NYSE: GOLD) (TSX:ABX) Barricks North Mara and Bulyanhulu gold mines have sustained their strong performance and achieved their production guidance for 2023. The mines are part of Twiga Minerals, a joint venture between Barrick and the Government of Tanzania. Speaking to media here today, president and chief executive Mark Bristow said the transformation of two derelict mines into a world-class complex which, on a combined basis, produce gold at a Tier One1 level, shows what could be achieved when mining companies and their host governments partner to deliver real value to their stakeholders. The Twiga partnership has not only transformed Tanzanias gold mining industry, it has also re-established the country, well-known as one Africas most popular tourism attractions, as a prime investment destination that has a wealth of metal and mineral resources, Bristow said. Conversion drilling at both mines has again replenished their reserves after depletion. At North Mara, the potential for another underground operation is being explored while the optimization of its open cast mine plan is expected to add years to its life. At Bulyanhulu, there are near-surface opportunities with the potential for increasing production and mining flexibility. Bristow said since Barrick took over the Tanzanian mines in 2019 they had grown into the largest contributor to the governments revenue, through taxes, employment, payments to local suppliers, community projects and distributions to shareholders. Its investment in the economy to date totals more than $3.4 billion (on a 100% basis). Perhaps even more important, these mines are now widely respected as value-adding partners and community members. Among the many accolades they have received, Barrick Tanzania has been certified as a Top Employer by the global Top Employer Institute for its people management programmes while locally, the Association of Tanzania Employers (ATE) crowned Barrick North Mara as the 2023 employer of the year and the company with the best social responsibility program. In the health and safety arena, North Mara won the 2023 OSHA Compliance award with Bulyanhulu as first runner-up, and Bulyanhulu also received an award for excellence in crisis management. Both mines have been lauded by the Tanzanian Government and Civil Society Organizations for their contribution to the fight against violence against women and children, he said. The first phase of Twigas $30 million Future Forward education initiative is nearing completion. The program will significantly improve Tanzanias educational infrastructure by delivering classrooms, dormitories and washroom facilities for an additional 49,000 pupils. Twiga is also progressing its $40 million pledge to build a world-class 73 kilometre road to the Kahama airport. As part of the Buzwagi mine closure plan and to improve the transportation system in the area, Barricks Buzwagi gold mine in partnership with the Tanzanian Airport Authority funded the building of a new terminal at the Kahama airport. The new airport terminal building will serve more than 200 passengers at a time and has a full range of facilities. It is expected to be a catalyst for economic growth in the Kahama region. In the meantime, the rehabilitation of the closed Buzwagi mine is continuing with the ultimate aim of creating the foundation for a Special Economic Zone. Barrick has made an enormous difference for the better on every front in Tanzania. The success of the partnership model we pioneered here represents, I believe, the future of mining, particularly in developing countries. We have also applied this model to the reconstituted Porgera mine in Papua New Guinea and the Reko Diq copper-gold project in Pakistan, Bristow said. Barrick Enquiries Tanzania country manager Melkiory Ngido +255 686 945 222 Corporate communications and country liaison manager Georgia Mutagahywa +255 754 711 215 [email protected] Group investor and media relations Kathy du Plessis +44 20 7557 7738 [email protected] Website: www.barrick.com Endnote 1 A Tier One Gold Asset is an asset with a $1,300/oz reserve potential to deliver a minimum 10-year life, annual production of at least 500,000 ounces of gold and with all in sustaining costs per ounce in the lower half of the industry cost curve. Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information Certain information contained or incorporated by reference in this press release, including any information as to our strategy, projects, plans, or future financial or operating performance, constitutes forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. The words on track, potential expected, committed, explored, growth, progressing, can, could, would, will, and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. In particular, this press release contains forward-looking statements including, without limitation, with respect to: the production profile and potential of North Mara and Bulyanhulu to achieve Tier One status as a combined complex; the ability to transform the Buzwagi mine into a Special Economic Zone; opportunities for further growth in Tanzania, including through resource conversion, the development of a potential new underground mine at North Mara, and exploration ; Barricks partnership with the Government of Tanzania; Barricks sustainability initiatives in Tanzania and continued investments in community projects; and Barricks contributions to the local economy including its tax contributions, education funding, local hiring and procurement programs and spending. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions including material estimates and assumptions related to the factors set forth below that, while considered reasonable by the Company as at the date of this press release in light of managements experience and perception of current conditions and expected developments, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements and information. Such factors include, but are not limited to: fluctuations in the spot and forward price of gold, copper, or certain other commodities (such as silver, diesel fuel, natural gas, and electricity); the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development; changes in national and local government legislation, taxation, controls or regulations and/ or changes in the administration of laws, policies and practices; expropriation or nationalization of property and political or economic developments in Tanzania and other jurisdictions in which the Company or its affiliates do or may carry on business in the future; changes in mineral production performance, exploitation, and exploration successes; the possibility that future exploration results will not be consistent with the Companys expectations; disruption of supply routes which may cause delays in construction and mining activities, including disruptions in the supply of key mining inputs due to the invasion of Ukraine by Russia; risk of loss due to acts of war, terrorism, sabotage and civil disturbances; failure to comply with environmental and health and safety laws and regulations; timing of receipt of, or failure to comply with, necessary permits and approvals; uncertainty whether some or all of Barricks targeted investments and projects will meet the Companys capital allocation objectives and internal hurdle rate; damage to the Companys reputation due to the actual or perceived occurrence of any number of events, including negative publicity with respect to the Companys handling of environmental matters or dealings with community groups, whether true or not; risks associated with new diseases, epidemics and pandemics, including the effects and potential effects of the global Covid-19 pandemic; litigation and legal and administrative proceedings; employee relations including loss of key employees; increased costs and physical and transition risks related to climate change, including extreme weather events, resource shortages, emerging policies and increased regulations relating to related to greenhouse gas emission levels, energy efficiency and reporting of risks; and availability and increased costs associated with mining inputs and labor. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of mineral exploration, development and mining, including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding and gold bullion, copper cathode or gold or copper concentrate losses (and the risk of inadequate insurance, or inability to obtain insurance, to cover these risks). Many of these uncertainties and contingencies can affect our actual results and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, us. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. All the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. Specific reference is made to the most recent Form 40-F/Annual Information Form on file with the SEC and Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities for a more detailed discussion of some of the factors underlying forward-looking statements and the risks that may affect Barricks ability to achieve the expectations set forth in the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Barrick disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. Paid press release content from The Financial Capital. The StreetInsider.com news staff was not involved in its creation. The premier cosmetic and surgical dermatology clinic shows off its trifecta rating as the top dermatology clinic on Google Reviews, RateMDs, and the Consumer Choice Awards. FCP Dermatology, Torontos premier cosmetic and surgical dermatology clinic, is thrilled to announce its recognition as the Consumer Choice Award for Business Excellence winner. This accolade completed its trifecta of top ratings. Known for its state-of-the-art facilities, patient-centric services, and level of expertise industry experts with over 50 years of experience, the clinic vows to continue providing unparalleled aesthetic, health, and wellness services. This noteworthy award further establishes FCP Dermatology as a first-class cosmetic and surgical dermatology clinic, affirming its commitment to professionalism, precision, and perfection. With three significant recognitions for its excellence and dedication to patient satisfaction, determined by consumers, FCP Dermatology shines as the go-to clinic for a wide range of surgical and cosmetic dermatology services, delivered with a personalized touch and in a 5-star luxury setting. Commenting on the Consumer Choice Award recognition for business excellence, Dr. Kristy Bailey expressed her excitement for the realization and recognition of the clinics vision. The double board-certified dermatologist in Canada and the U.S. and the lead dermatologist at FCP Dermatology shared that being the highest-rated dermatology clinic in Toronto is a tremendous honor for the entire team. She expressed their dedication to positively impacting clients and emphasized the clinics commitment to setting the standards of excellence in surgical and cosmetic dermatology services. FCP Dermatology is built on the belief that healthy, clear skin is attainable for everyone. Using the most advanced technology, tools, and techniques from around the world, the clinic is redefining beauty, health, and wellness practices in Toronto. The clinic strives to create a one-stop destination for comprehensive surgical and cosmetic dermatology services. Its success is rooted in its determination to meet the evolving needs of clients while prioritizing quality care above all else. This award reaffirms FCP Dermatologys efforts to offer a personalized approach to help patients improve their health, appearance, and confidence. It also establishes the clinic as a center for trust and innovation in the skincare industry. Visit FCP Dermatology to learn more about its services, awards, and strategic vision for Torontos skincare landscape. Contact Info: Name: Amanda Daniel Email: Send Email Organization: FCP Dermatology Website: https://fcpdermatology.com/ Release ID: 89119193 In the event of encountering any errors, concerns, or inconsistencies within the content shared in this press release, we kindly request that you immediately contact us at [email protected]. Our dedicated team will be readily accessible to address your feedback within 8 hours and take appropriate measures to rectify any identified issues or facilitate press release takedowns. Ensuring accuracy and reliability are central to our commitment. Paid press release content from The Financial Capital. The StreetInsider.com news staff was not involved in its creation. Noble Pawtrait Dazzles Pet Owners With Their Best-Selling Exquisite Hawaiian Shirts, Each Lovingly Customized With Photos Of Furry Friends. Noble Pawtraits Hawaiian Printed Shirts have emerged as a customer favourite in 2023. This vibrant product line takes personalised pet art to a new level, allowing pet owners to celebrate their furry friends and showcase their affection in tropical style. A Purr-Fect Blend Of Style Pet owners can now express their love for their furry companions in a fun and fashionable way, making a statement wherever they go. Noble Pawtraits unique Hawaiian shirts add a touch of whimsy to the brand's already diverse range of products, expanding the avenues for celebrating the bond between pets and their owners. The collection offers a variety of Hawaiian shirt styles, ensuring that every pet owner can find the perfect fit for their taste. Whether it's a single pet portrait or a collage of furry friends, the Hawaiian shirts from Noble Pawtrait promise to turn heads and spark conversations. Regarding the origins of this innovation, a Noble Pawtrait representative said, Hawaiian shirts have been a staple in most peoples wardrobes, and while they are pretty spunky on their own, we thought, why not take it to the next level? Lets put some pictures of our dogs on there; that should be fun! And thats basically how the idea for this product came together. One-Of-A-Kind Pet Products Yet, the Hawaiian shirt is not all they offer. The brand caters to a range of personalised pet memorabilia, from canvas prints and posters to blankets, mugs, and apparel. Customers can choose from fun art types to eternalise their pet photos. A Noble Pawtrait spokesperson elaborates, Love Harry Potter? We can edit your kitty in a Hogwarts gown! Want to see your German Shepherd as a police officer? Hit us up! The possibilities are endless. Whatever you fancy, we can do it. Celebrating Love With worldwide delivery options and an array of product types, Noble Pawtrait allows pet owners across the globe to celebrate their furry friends. The motivation behind Noble Pawtrait is as clear as the joy reflected in the eyes of satisfied customers. The brand encourages pet owners to share their Noble Pawtrait art on social media. The joy customers express as they share reactions from friends, family, and followers keeps us going at Noble Pawtrait. Coming from our team of crazy pet owners to you, we understand how our pets are more than just that they are family! And family deserves to be celebrated and loved loud and proud! Top-Notch Customer Service The diligent team at Noble Pawtrait understands the importance of customer satisfaction. Offering unlimited revisions, clients have the opportunity to preview their artwork before printing, ensuring it aligns with their vision. The brand's customer support team operates 24/7 via email and live chat, providing quick assistance and fostering a seamless experience for every customer. Seamless User Experience With a commitment to creating happiness and unparalleled customer support, Noble Pawtrait invites pet owners to embark on a journey of love through their unique offerings. Placing an order with the Noble Portrait is a breeze, courtesy of their easy-to-use website. After finalising a style and product, customers can simply upload their favourite pet photo and effortlessly place their order. The brand's skilled designers then weave their magic, crafting a personalised masterpiece. Within 48 hours, customers receive a sneak peek, inviting them to provide feedback or request adjustments to ensure complete satisfaction. This thorough back-and-forth ensures that the result is not just art but a heartwarming reflection of the joy and love shared with cherished furry companions, delivered straight to the customer's doorstep. Conclusion As Noble Pawtrait continues to redefine the landscape of pet art, its Hawaiian printed shirts remain poised to be hot sellers in the coming year. With these shirts adding a splash of colour and creativity, pet owners can now take their love for their furry friends to a new dimension, extending beyond traditional portraits into their everyday wardrobe. For those eager to embrace the tropical vibes and make a fashion statement with their pet love, Noble Pawtrait's Hawaiian Printed Shirts are available for order on their official website. Contact Info: Name: Daniel Nguyen Email: Send Email Organization: Noble Pawtrait Website: http://www.noblepawtrait.co Release ID: 89119102 In case of detection of errors, concerns, or irregularities in the content provided in this press release, or if there is a need for a press release takedown, we strongly encourage you to reach out promptly by contacting [email protected]. Our efficient team will be at your disposal for immediate assistance within 8 hours resolving identified issues diligently or guiding you through the removal process. We take great pride in delivering reliable and precise information to our valued readers. Paid press release content from The Financial Capital. The StreetInsider.com news staff was not involved in its creation. Nassim Nasr, a self-taught artist based in Dubai, has emerged as a prominent figure in the contemporary art scene. With a unique style that combines expressive color minimalism with abstract expressionism, Nasr's journey from advertising professional to renowned artist is a testament to the power of resilience and the pursuit of one's passions. The art world of Dubai has witnessed the remarkable rise of Nassim Nasr, an artist whose journey defies conventional paths. Born in Lebanon, Nasr's early life was marked by constant relocation across Lebanon, Kuwait, and the UK, amidst the turbulent times in his home country. Initially carving a career in advertising, Nasr's inherent creative drive eventually steered him towards the canvas, a medium that offered a more tangible form of expression. Over the past two and a half decades, Nasr has cultivated a distinctive artistic voice, rooted in a blend of vigor and clarity, while continually exploring diverse themes. Now residing in Dubai, his work reflects a deep engagement with minimalism and abstract expressionism. Nasr's creations are not just visual experiences but are imbued with multi-layered meanings, symbolizing a mind engaged in constant inquiry. Central to his artistic philosophy is "Expressive Color Minimalism", a term coined by Nasr himself. This approach is an innovative blend of the emotional intensity of Abstract Expressionism and the narrative capabilities of Color Field painting, paired with the intentional simplicity of Minimalism. His works often feature a delicate balance between vibrancy and void, inviting viewers to navigate their emotional landscapes while appreciating the understated complexity of his art. Nasr's journey of self-discovery and renewal is vividly captured in his 'Xanthophilia' series, where bold shapes and delicate colors intertwine. Contrasting palettes of black and yellow symbolize freedom and transformation, echoing themes of determination and spontaneity. In contrast, his 'Building Bridges' series uses the imagery of arches, not just as a structural element but as a metaphor for strength, support, and transitions in life. Xanthophilia Series - Untitled - 2021 Building Bridges Series - Untitled 2022 In a poignant commentary on environmental degradation, Nasr's 'Extinction' series addresses the urgent issue of global biodiversity loss. Employing vivid colors, he highlights the beauty of nature and the tragic reality of its rapid disappearance, urging conservation and environmental stewardship.Extinction Series - Elephant in the jungle - 2023 Beyond his artistic endeavors, Nasr is known for his unconventional approach to exhibiting his work. Operating outside the traditional art gallery system, he frequently donates his art to schools and charitable causes. His work has also garnered the attention of various corporations and private collectors, demonstrating the broad appeal and impact of his art. Nassim Nasr's story is one of resilience, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of artistic expression. His journey from an advertising professional to a self-taught artist making waves in the art world is a source of inspiration for aspiring artists and art enthusiasts alike. In the dynamic landscape of Dubai's art scene, Nasr stands out as a beacon of creativity and a testament to the power of following one's passion. For more information on Nassim Nasr and his work, visit: https://www.nassimnasr.com/ https://www.instagram.com/nassimnasr/ Contact Info: Name: Nassim Nasr Email: Send Email Organization: Nassim Nasr Website: https://www.nassimnasr.com/ Release ID: 89119101 If you come across any problems, discrepancies, or concerns related to the content contained within this press release that necessitate action or if a press release requires takedown, we strongly encourage you to reach out without delay by contacting [email protected]. Our committed team will be readily accessible round-the-clock to address your concerns within 8 hours and take appropriate actions to rectify identified issues or support with press release removals. Ensuring accurate and reliable information remains our unwavering commitment. BEIJING , Jan. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Fuzhou Port on the southeast coast of China has become one of the most important hub ports for container transportation, with it listed among the world's top 20 ports by cargo throughput in 2022. The bustling port speaks volumes about the success of Fuzhou, the capital city of southeast China's Fujian Province , in developing its marine economy. Known as "Fuzhou at Sea," the forward-looking approach to seek economic development from the sea is an important part of a long-term development plan initiated by Chinese President Xi Jinping . Xi, then Party chief of Fuzhou, was in charge of drawing the city's 20-year economic and social development strategic vision, planning the goals, steps, layout and priorities of its development in three years, eight years and 20 years, known as the "3820" strategy. "The development of a city should not only consider the medium- and long-term development goals of 10 years and 20 years, but also consider the long-term development goals of 30 years, 50 years or even hundreds of years," Xi once pointed out. A blueprint for the future More than 30 years ago, Fuzhou, surrounded by mountains and rivers, had a weak industrial foundation, low fiscal revenue and poor transportation. How to find a way out for the city's development was always in the mind of Xi when he assumed the role of Party secretary in April 1990 . He spent more than half of the following two years in conducting field research at the grassroots level, before he sensed, and seized, the opportunity of China's latest call for reform and opening up during Deng Xiaoping's "southern tour" in early 1992. Under Xi's leadership, more than 1,600 cadres conducted research and held opinion solicitation meetings on topics such as agriculture and industry. More than 25,000 public opinions were received within half a month. After dozens of revisions, the plan of the project was adopted in November 1992 . According to the plan, the city would work to bring the economy to the next level by 1995, with the main indicators being double from 1990 levels. By 2000, the city would strive to make its major indicators, such as urban and rural per capita levels, reach the development level of domestic advanced cities. Then, Fuzhou would reach or be close to the then average development level of moderately developed countries or regions in Asia by around 2010. "Divided into three stages in terms of indicators comparing with ourselves, comparing with surrounding cities, and comparing with cities of the same level of development in the world this plan is quite scientific and systematic," Yan Zheng , then vice president of Fujian Academy of Social Sciences, told China Media Group. Playing to its strengths Xi laid out the plan with a forward-looking vision, and promoted the construction of " Golden Triangle Economic Circle at Minjiang Estuary" and "Fuzhou at Sea" as important components of the "3820" strategic project. "How can we manage the sea when the land is not well developed yet?" Doubts were raised at that time. Xi proposed to "attach as much importance to sea areas as to cultivated land, and as much to marine development as to food production, so as to extend the tentacles of speeding up economic development from land to sea." Subsequently, Fuzhou launched an all-round comprehensive development strategy focusing on key coastal zones and sea areas. Industries such as marine transportation and port-side industries boomed, and emerging industries such as marine bio-medicine and offshore wind power high-end equipment manufacturing were vigorously encouraged. "Xi helped us analyze Fuzhou's advantages," Zhao Ruqi, then director of the Political Research Office of the Fuzhou Municipal Party Committee, told CMG, adding that the way out was to seek development from the sea. From 1992 to 1995, Fuzhou's GDP grew at an average annual rate of 26.6 percent and the first goal of the strategic project was completed in three years. Following the blueprint for the future, Fuzhou achieved the eight-year goals and 20-year goals on schedule. Now Fuzhou has developed into a coastal city with one of the most active marine economies in China . In 2022, Fuzhou's total marine output value exceeded 330 billion yuan (around $46 billion ). Han Qingxiang, a professor at the Party School of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said the significance of the "3820" strategy goes far beyond the city. "From Fuzhou's 20-year strategic vision to China's 2035 goals, and from 'Fuzhou at Sea' to 'building China into a strong maritime country,' we are constantly implementing and exploring in line with the ideas of long-term planning, scientific governance, and coordinated development proposed by the '3820' strategic project," said Han. https://news.cgtn.com/news/2024-01-21/How-a-20-year-plan-enabled-Fuzhou-to-leap-ahead-in-economic-growth-1qxFokstyHS/p.html View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cgtn-how-a-20-year-plan-enabled-fuzhou-to-leap-ahead-in-economic-growth-302040065.html SOURCE CGTN Updated and Expanded after 20 Years; Covers Disastrous Rent Increases, Bankruptcy, More NEW YORK , Jan. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Commercial real estate attorney Joshua Stein has just published his three-volume New Guide to Ground Leases, a complete update of his earlier ground lease treatise, published nearly 20 years ago, and covers: How have ground lease negotiators responded to recent disastrous rent increases? How can future rent adjustments protect the landlord, but also preserve the value of the tenant's position? Commercial real estate is all about financing. How does financing fit into a ground lease structure? How should a ground lease handle new financing structures? What if a landlord goes bankrupt or their lender forecloses? Does the ground tenant or developer get kicked out? How should ground lease negotiators respond to surprises from the bankruptcy courts? Mr. Stein's new treatise also provides a state-of-the-art model ground lease, plus dozens of other template documents for these transactions, giving owners, tenants, and their counsel a comprehensive roadmap reflecting industry expectations and Mr. Stein's extensive experience. The treatise focuses on ground lease transactions and negotiations, not on court decisions. It is indispensable to attorneys and business people who negotiate sophisticated ground lease transactions, providing helpful checklists and drafting tips, hundreds of comments on pressure points and issue resolutions, advice on post-closing administration, and sample language for nearly every topic that might arise. It extensively discusses rent adjustments and resets, completion guaranties, other assurances of completion, rights of first offer and first refusal, condemnation and damage, priorities of estates, bankruptcy, insurance, and dozens of other topics. It focuses throughout on compliance with CMBS criteria and creation of a financeable ground lease not just for the tenant, but also so the owner can obtain favorable nonrecourse financing. Purchasers of the three-volume New Guide can also obtain electronic versions of the books and template documents, formatted in Microsoft Word and ready to edit and use in transactions, without additional charge. To get more information, order the treatise, or request a review copy, visit www.groundleasebook.com. From: JOSHUA STEIN PLLC 110 West 57th Street New York, NY 10019 www.joshuastein.com Contact: David M. Grant Grant PR, Inc. [email protected], 646-599-9226 View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/joshua-steins-new-guide-to-ground-leases-now-available-comprehensive-guide-for-commercial-real-estate-professionals-302038790.html FILE PHOTO: Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi 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 CAIRO (Reuters) -Egypt will not allow any threat to Somalia, President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi said on Sunday after Ethiopia said it would consider recognising an independence claim by Somaliland in a deal that would give it access to a sea port. The remarks were the strongest yet made on the issue by Egypt, which already has frosty relations with Ethiopia, and were a sign that Cairo may get involved in a dispute that has raised fresh tensions in the volatile Horn of Africa. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not won recognition from any country. The port lease deal, which was agreed earlier this month but not yet finalised, would be a boon to landlocked Ethiopia and has enraged Somalia. "Egypt will not allow anyone to threaten Somalia or affect its security," Sisi said, speaking at a news conference with visiting Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. "Do not try Egypt, or try to threaten its brothers especially if they ask it to intervene," he added. In a Jan. 1 memorandum of understanding, Ethiopia said it would consider recognising Somaliland's independence in return for the port access. It would lease 20 km (12 miles) of coastland around the port of Berbera, on the Gulf of Aden, for 50 years for military and commercial purposes. Ethiopia's current main port for maritime exports is in the neighbouring country of Djibouti. "My message to Ethiopia is that ... trying to seize a piece of land to control it is something no one will agree to," Sisi said, saying cooperation on development was a better strategy. Ethiopia on Sunday rejected criticism from Egypt over the deal, saying it was merely a commercial agreement aimed at securing access to the sea and not an attempt to annex land. "It isn't annexation or assumption of sovereignty over the territory of any state," Redwan Hussien, national security advisor to Ethiopia said in a post on X. Egypt's foreign minister last week called Ethiopia a source of instability in the region, which the country's foreign ministry said was "irrelevant". Relations between Egypt and Ethiopia, which share use of the Nile River, have been tense for years over a major dam Ethiopia has built on the Blue Nile. (Reporting by Mohamed HendawyAdditional reporting by Dawit Endeshaw;Writing by Clauda Tanios and Nafisa Eltahir;Editing by Frances Kerry and Conor Humphries) FILE PHOTO: A migrant family talks to the members of U.S. National Guard after crossing the Rio Grande river in Eagle Pass, Texas, as seen from Piedras Negras, Mexico, January 18, 2024. REUTERS/Go Nakamura/File Photo By Mike Stone WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A high-level U.S. State Department meeting with Mexican officials on Friday lauded progress following a crackdown on illegal immigration, a State Department spokesman said on Saturday. A crackdown on migrant smuggling networks, train and bus routes has produced results, Matthew Miller, a State Department spokesman, said in a statement. "Our coordinated efforts with Mexico are demonstrating positive results at our shared border," the statement said. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Mexican Foreign Secretary Alicia Barcena on Friday at the U.S. Department of State in Washington. Top-level officials from other government agencies involved in immigration coordination also attended The U.S. also made a commitment to support Guatemala, a source of some migrants. "The United States stands ready to support the people of Guatemala and their new government on a wide range of issues including economic development and hemispheric migration management," the statement said. Republicans in the U.S. Congress have blocked emergency funding for Ukraine in an effort to push new security policies along the U.S.-Mexico border. They blame Biden's policies for an influx of immigrants into the United States. U.S. President Joe Biden signaled on Friday that he is hopeful a deal over the U.S.-Mexico border could be worked out next week - at least in the Senate. (Reporting by Mike Stone in Washington; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) Newark's fireboat did not start on a routine inspection the morning of the Port Newark fire. Witnesses testifying before a Coast Guard hearing said the vessel had been out of service for months because of a lack of maintenance. (Steve Strunsky, nj.com/TNS) (Tribune News Service) It wasnt just one mistake. Witnesses called to testify in a series of public hearings over the past two weeks by the U.S. Coast Guard in conjunction with the National Transportation Safety Board into the fire that killed two veteran firefighters offered new insights into the problems firefighters faced when they were called to battle a ship fire at the largest port on the East Coast. Even before a battalion chief made the fateful decision to check out the conditions deep below decks aboard the Grande Costa dAvorio an order experts testified should not have been given there were significant problems with equipment, manpower, and a lack of knowledge about marine firefighting, the hearing officers were told. Those issues, compounded by failures of the ships crew as well, led to tragedy as a small fire turned into a big fire on a July night. Among those who appeared before the inquiry included ranking officers of the Newark Fire Department and its former chief, members of the ships crew and its captain, longshoremen who had been loading the 692-foot freighter with more than 1,000 second-hand vehicles when the fire broke out, and experts intended to weave it all together. Coast Guard Cmdr. Christian Barger, the lead investigator, said the purpose was to determine what really occurred on July 5, when veteran firefighters Augusto Augie Acabou, 45, and Wayne Bear Brooks Jr., 49, died after they became disoriented and trapped on Deck 10 of the ship. They have yet to reach any conclusions. But their fact-gathering in the public hearings held at the municipal building in Union Township, about 8 miles from Berth 18 at Port Newark where the Grande Costa dAvorio burned, have brought to light more details about the events of that night. Coast Guard members discuss response operations to a fire on the motor vessel Grande Costa DAvorio in Port Newark, N.J., on July 6, 2023. Marine fire fighting specialists are actively conducting fire suppression both from the pier and on the water. (Dan Henry/U.S. Coast Guard) How did the fire start? The 16-year-old Jeep Wrangler had been working hard all day. Modified with a steel push bar on the front, it was being used to shove inoperable cars, SUVs and light trucks up a ramp at the stern of the freighter which was designed to carry wheeled cargo. Gavin Puchinsky, a longshoreman employed by American Maritime Service, was behind the wheel as the Jeep pushed a Toyota Venza up to Deck 10 at about 9 p.m. Thats when he heard a loud clunk, describing the sound like a wrench being dropped to the floor. I didnt pay any attention to it, he testified. There was a lot of noise. Soon there would be a lot of shouting. Through the open windows of the Jeep, people suddenly started screaming at him to get out. Underneath, he saw what looked like flaming fireballs dripping from the bottom of the vehicle. That was almost certainly the dying moments of a badly overheated transmission, according to Matthew Hartnett, a special agent for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. He said the Wrangler had been subject to a past recall by Chrysler over concerns that hot transmission fluid could catch fire on a hot engine or exhaust under severe conditions, such as long usage of its 4-wheel-drive, or trailer towing, which the automaker warned could cause an under-hood fire without warning. Puchinskys description of flaming fireballs was almost certainly burning transmission fluid, Hartnett testified. Members of the ships crew tried to put it out with hand-held fire extinguishers. But the flames soon spread. The broken fireboat On the night of the Port Newark fire, the citys $1.1 million fireboat was dead in the water. Equipped with twin diesel 800-horsepower engines, the 52-foot boat had sonar and thermal imaging to help locate objects under the water. There were two powerful water cannons on the stern and one remote-controlled cannon on the bow that could shoot 3,000 gallons of water per minute. It had a top speed of 37 knots or about 43 mph. But that morning on a routine inspection, it wasnt going anywhere. It did not start, testified Battalion Chief James Kupko, who is responsible for Newarks marine unit. In fact, other witnesses testifying before the Coast Guard said the boat had been out of service for months. Francis Gorman, a Coast Guard port security specialist for Sector New York, noted that Newark was part of a regional fireboat task force that included Jersey City, Bayonne and other cities with waterborne firefighting capabilities that provided mutual aid to each other when fighting waterfront fires. In 2022, that task force responded to 112 calls for assistance. Newark did not take any of those calls, he testified. Public Safety Director Fritz G. Frage in a statement said the boat was out of service, but added it was not operationally feasible to deploy a fireboat to the port fire because of the cargo ships height and size. As the conditions aboard the Grande Costa dAvorio worsened, the Fire Department of New York sent one of its big Ranger 4200 class fireboats, which are able to throw enormous amounts of water, to the scene to help cool down the hull. A failure to communicate The radio problems Newark firefighters had during the fire on board the Grande Costa dAvorio were well documented before the Coast Guard hearings began. Interference within the steel hull of the ship cut out transmissions at critical times or garbled calls. At one point, a mayday call for help couldnt be heard by dispatchers. Did you just hear Engine 16s last transmission? one firefighter had radioed in. Be advised it sounded like he said he cannot find his way back out. But the problems of communicating during the July 5 fire went beyond the blocking of signals inside the ship compartments. The system also would bump calls, according to Michael Richardson an investigator for the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health. Two people could not transmit at the same time. If a firefighter inside the vessel was calling for assistance at the same time a dispatcher was speaking, that call would have been blocked. At the same time, the heavy radio traffic that night only added to the communications problems. At one point after Acabou was found wedged between a small truck and an SUV, those in command mistakenly believed that a call after midnight regarding the recovery of a downed firefighter was the then-missing Brooks. In fact, it was an Elizabeth firefighter overcome by conditions during the search for Brooks. The one firefighter without a radio, the testimony revealed, was Brooks himself. His radio was not recovered on the ship, Richardson told the board. Newark conducted a search. They cannot locate his radio on the apparatus or the firehouse. It is unaccounted for. Putting out the fire When the fire broke out on Deck 10, the Grande Costa dAvorio had a way to smother it. The ship was equipped with a CO2 fire suppression system, typically intended for emergencies while underway at sea. It required closing all watertight doors, evacuating the crew from those spaces, and flooding the compartments below decks with carbon dioxide to starve the fire of oxygen. But the freighter was in the process of loading vehicles when the fire broke out and it was not so simple to seal the vessel. Benito LaFauci, the ships chief mate, testified that the crew first tried to put out the flames in the Jeep with handheld fire extinguishers. While they briefly knocked it down, it flared up again once the extinguishers were depleted. Then they tried using the ships own fire hoses. Tearfully apologizing for the crews failure to the family members of Brooks and Acabou, who attended the proceedings every day, LaFauci said the captain ordered the release of the CO2 and the closing of all watertight doors. But they were unable to shut a large garage-sized door leading to the loading ramp. He tried several times, but told the hearing board: We could not operate the door. Capt. Alessandro Moretti, the ships master, triggered the fire suppression system anyway. With the ramp door open and unable to seal off the vessel, though, the CO2 appeared to have little effect. William Burket Jr., director of the Maritime Incident Response Team with the Virginia Port Authority and an expert on maritime firefighting, said despite the belief that the suppression system had failed, it was the best tool that firefighters had. In my opinion the CO2 was effective to a point, he said, pointing out there was no active fire being seen when firefighters were sent down below. My advice would be not send anyone in there. The fire department should have simply waited it out, Burket said. How they died They found Augie Acabou entangled in the lashing straps securing the vehicles on board the Grande Costa dAvorio. Bear Brooks was found against an interior column, more than 200 feet from the port stairwell, not far from an escape trunk that could have led him to safety had he known it was there. Both had run out of air. But the Coast Guard brought in a U.S. Navy medical examiner to testify after an autopsy by the New Jersey Medical Examiners office suggested that Brooks had suffered blast injuries. Throughout the hearings, members of the Coast Guard team repeatedly questioned firefighters whether there had been a backdraft event on board the ship during the fire. Eyewitness accounts from Jersey City firefighters who were part of the search-and-rescue effort to find Brooks also told of hearing explosions inside, which were believed to be car tires blowing up from the heat. None of the Newark firefighters who testified, though, believed there had been a backdraft when they entered Deck 10. However, the Coast Guard brought in Navy Cmdr. Bryan Platt, a deputy medical examiner at Dover Air Force Base. Blasts are not subtle injuries, Platt said. But Brooks showed no obvious burns, blunt force trauma or visible pressure injuries other than what he called micro lacerations of tissues that did not indicate an injury from an explosion. I have no evidence of blast, he said. As for a backdraft event, he shook his head. No. Neither had burns. Both Brooks and Acabou, he concluded, died from carbon monoxide toxicity resulting from the fire. Whats next? Barger said the ending of the public hearings was not a conclusion of the boards fact finding. There will be additional witnesses questioned, some via livestreamed sessions available to the public. Once all relevant testimony has been obtained, separate final reports will be issued by the Coast Guard and NTSB. Frage, the citys public safety director, said Newarks focus is on ensuring that such an event never happens again. On July 5, 2023, Newarks firefighters set out to do their job nothing more and nothing less. What unfolded was a horrific tragedy that Mayor (Ras) Baraka, Assistant Director (Rufus) Jackson, myself, and our entire public safety family will never get over, he said. Our hearts go out to the families of Captain Acabou and Captain Brooks, Jr., whose grief is beyond what we can imagine. Ted Sherman may be reached at tsherman@njadvancemedia.com. 2024 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit nj.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. A photo released by the U.S. military's Central Command shows what it is described as Iranian-made missile components bound for Yemen's Houthi seized from a vessel in the Arabian Sea. (U.S. Central Command) Whenever our enemies use proxies to do their violent bidding, the U.S. has a need to build a case against them by collecting evidence supporting the connection. Unfortunately, this often translates into increased risks for our warriors on the battlefield. For example, when activated land mines or other explosive devices have been discovered, rather than destroying them in place, our bomb technicians have had to defuse them to collect intact evidence as to their source of origin. Most recently, this policy cost us the lives of two of our nations finest. Since November 2023, Yemens Houthi rebels have been disrupting the flow of commercial shipping through the Red Sea. This has been done by the use of drones and missiles that obviously are beyond the capability of the Houthis to have manufactured. While little doubt existed the source of origin for such weaponry was Iran, which has been supporting the Houthis for years, undeniable evidence was necessary to prove allegations of criminal activity. On the night of Jan. 11, the USS Lewis B. Puller, operating in the Arabian Sea, came across a dhow a small masted sailing vessel off the coast of Somalia in international waters. It conducted a flag verification operation involving the use of helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles and U.S. Navy SEALs. It mandated executing a complex boarding of the dhow, not only in darkness but in heavy seas as well. Two SEALs were using scaling ladders to board the dhow. One SEAL was suddenly swept off his and into the sea by a huge wave. Without a second of hesitation, the second SEAL jumped into the churning waters to rescue him. Neither SEAL has yet been recovered. As a search was conducted for the SEALs, the operation was completed. Despite the tragic loss of the two men, a treasure trove of incriminating evidence was recovered. It clearly linked Iran to providing the Houthis with various weaponry including missile warheads. This was the first seizure of Iranian-supplied advanced conventional weapons to the Houthis since their attacks on commercial shipping began as well as the first seizure of Iranian-manufactured ballistic and cruise missile components by the Navy since November 2019. All of this was in violation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2216 as well as international law. This comes on the heels of Iran claiming responsibility for the bombing of the U.S. Consulate in Irbil, Iraq. Usually Tehran goes out of its way not to leave its fingerprints on acts of aggression in which it is directly involved via its proxies; however, in this instance the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps brazenly took credit for the attack, which, technically, qualifies as an act of war. President Donald Trump had designated the Houthis as a foreign terrorist group before leaving office only to have President Joe Biden remove the designation after he took office. This month, after finally accepting the Houthis for what they really are, Biden redesignated them as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist entity. It tragically took the loss of two courageous SEALs to establish direct evidence of an Iranian link to Houthi terrorism. Additionally, we now have the IRGC boasting about its participation in an attack on our U.S. Consulate in Iraq. The mullahs have crossed the line. It is now up to the Biden administration to show the loss of the lives of these two SEALs was not in vain. James Zumwalt is a retired Marine infantry officer (lieutenant colonel) who served in the Vietnam War, Panama and Operation Desert Storm. He is the author of three books and hundreds of opinion pieces in online and print publications. Grant Cardone Grant Cardone, private equity fund manager and real estate investor, believes that everyone can and should be investing in real estate. Read: 10 Places To Retire That Are Just Like Arizona but Way Cheaper Discover: 3 Things You Must Do When Your Savings Reach $50,000 You dont need a lot of money to buy your first real estate deal, contrary to what people say, he said in a recent YouTube video. I work with people that do this stuff with no money down, a little bit of money down, traditional loans, VA loans, FHA loans, mass debt, bridge debt, crowdfunding. Learn: 7 Safest and Cheapest Cities To Live in Florida Cardone credits real estate with creating his own financial success. I ultimately turned a $3,000 investment into $5 billion worth of real estate, he said. And I know that seems like impossible. [] Real estate is the greatest retirement asset on planet Earth, including 401(k) [plans] and IRAs. I took all my retirement money and IRA money and self-directed it into real estate deals, and it grew at three times the rate that it would have grown in the stock market. Of course, not every real estate investment is a winner, especially in the current environment. Remember, [for] real estate investors right now, this market is going to get really freakin wobbly, he said. Its going to be crazy. Thats why Cardone said that its essential for any real estate investment you make right now to have these four features. Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief. 4 Things Every Real Estate Investment Has To Have In the YouTube video, Cardone outlines the most important factors you need to have in any real estate investment. Remember these four things: location, cash flow, youve got to have an exit and dont overleverage, he said. Of the four factors, Cardone said there is one that should be the primary focus. What you want most importantly right now is the location, he said. Story continues However, cash flow is also essential. If it [doesnt] cash flow, you cant keep it, he said. All real estate is not created equal. Its got to cash flow. If it doesnt cash flow, you cant keep it because you wont be able to support the mortgage, expenses, the upkeep, etc. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Grant Cardone: You Must Look for These 4 Things When You Invest in Real Estate A demonstrator holds a sign during a rally near Tysons Corner Center in Virginia in November. (Heidi Levine for The Washington Post) When she first heard about Hamas Oct. 7 attack on Israel, Mirela Monte was appalled. The South Carolina real estate agent and self-described holistic healer detests violence and is horrified by war and human suffering. But as Monte read more in Uncensored Truths, a Telegram group with 2,958 subscribers active on foreign policy and the supposed perils of vaccination, her shock turned to anger. According to the forum, the news reports were wrong: Secretly, Israel was behind the massacre. Monte now argues the Oct. 7 attack was a false flag staged by the Israelis likely with help from the Americans to justify genocide in Gaza. Pure evil, she said. Israel is like a mad dog off a leash. The Oct. 7 Hamas terrorist attack is among the most well-documented in history. A crush of evidence from smartphone cameras and GoPros captured Hamas breach of the border a strike Israel says left some 1,200 dead, the most deadly onslaught in the countrys history. But Oct. 7 denial is spreading. A small but growing group denies the basic facts of the attacks, pushing a spectrum of falsehoods and misleading narratives that minimize the violence or dispute its origins. Some argue the ambush was staged by the Israeli military to justify an invasion of Gaza. Others say that some 240 hostages Hamas took into Gaza were actually kidnapped by Israel. Some contend the United States is behind the plot. These untrue and misleading narratives have been seeded on social media, where hashtags linking Israel to false flag a staged event that casts blame on another party tripled on services including TikTok, Reddit and 4chan in the weeks after the attacks, according to the Network Contagion Research Institute, a nonprofit tracking disinformation. Its bleeding into the real world: Demonstrators have shouted the claim at anti-Israel protests and have used it to justify removing posters of hostages in cities such as London and Chicago. At a November city council meeting in Oakland, Calif., multiple residents disputed the veracity of the attack. Israel murdered their own people on Oct. 7, said Christina Gutierrez, an analyst in the citys housing department, where some in the crowd shouted antisemitism isnt real. Gutierrez did not respond to requests for comment. The phenomenon is worrisome to Jewish leaders and researchers who see ties to Holocaust denial, the attempt to undermine the genocide that killed 6 million Jews during World War II, a belief that has surged online. They also see parallels to many pernicious, internet-driven conspiracy theories with antisemitic tentacles, including the QAnon conspiracy theory, which alleges globalists a reference, some say, to Jews used the pandemic to control the world, and disinformation about the 9/11 terrorist attack, which some fringe groups falsely argue was perpetrated by the Israeli intelligence agency Mossad. Theres a built-in audience that wants to deny that Jews are the victims of atrocity and furthers the notion that Jews are secretly behind everything, said Joel Finkelstein, chief science officer at NCRI. In Ukraine and other conflict zones, smartphones coupled with the velocity of social networks allow the public to witness events in real time, providing a sense of ground truth about far-flung incidents. Thousands attend a rally in Tel Aviv calling for the immediate release of the hostages still held in Gaza. (Heidi Levine for The Washington Post) But social media is an equally potent tool for distortion and the internet has a singular power to erase and twist history. The head of International Relations for Hamas, Basem Naim, has falsely asserted that the group didnt kill any civilians when it attacked Israel on Oct. 7, calling the claim Israeli propaganda. Such false claims are finding an audience in a variety of online spaces. So basically the Hamas attack was a false flag for Israel to occupy Gaza and kill Palestinians, reads a recent post on the Reddit forum r/LateStageCapitalism. Expected behaviour from nazi wannabes. LateStageCapitalism is a community of left-wing activists that bills itself as A One-Stop-Shop for Evidence of our Social, Moral and Ideological Rot. But the claim can be found elsewhere on the internet, including publications critical of Israel like Electronic Intifada and GrayZone, and in messaging groups like Montes Uncensored Truths, which previously had been focused on pandemic-related gripes about vaccines and conspiratorial ideas about globalists ushering in a so-called New World Order. Right-wing Holocaust deniers also have latched onto the claims. All cherry-pick evidence some factual, some highly distorted to push misleading narratives. Israeli citizens have accused the countrys military of accidentally killing Israeli civilians while battling Hamas on Oct. 7; the army has said it will investigate. But articles on Electronic Intifada and Grayzone exaggerated these claims to suggest that most Israeli deaths were caused by friendly fire, not Hamas. One Grayzone story quotes an Israeli helicopter pilot describing difficulty distinguishing between civilians and Hamas on Oct 7. But the account distorts his testimony, in which he describes in Hebrew the dilemma of facing so many terrorists, said Achiya Schatz, director of FakeReporter, an Israeli watchdog organization dedicated to fighting disinformation and hate speech online. An Electronic Intifada article from November also argues that most Israeli casualties on Oct. 7 were perpetrated by the Israeli army, basing the story, in part, on a YouTube clip of a man who describes himself as a former Israeli general. The clip refers to these outsider observations as a confession. Electronic Intifada executive director Ali Abunimah said in an email: It would appear that the reach and success of The Electronic Intifada in debunking and exposing the kind of pro-Israel propaganda routinely published by the Washington Post is now causing enough worry that you have been assigned to do a hit piece, in which labels such as far-left and anti-Israel will be deployed in order to try to misdirect your readers from our careful, factual reporting. Two weeks after the Hamas attack, filmmaker Aharon Keshales and his wife were taking a Saturday walk in the Primrose Hill section of London when they saw a woman ripping down hostage posters on a local bridge. The couple, who are Israeli, spoke to the woman, who said she was removing the posters because the people had not been kidnapped by Hamas, according to video of the encounter reviewed by The Post. Keshales said he and his wife told the woman that even Hamas has admitted taking hostages. The woman grabbed the posters and walked away, according to the video. Keshales said the incident which has now been repeated in several cities, according to other videos posted on social media left him disturbed. Everyone takes a side in every conflict, and thats okay. But to put it on Israel thats a lie, he said. Maybe its easier to lie than to say, You got what you deserve. Maybe its psychologically easier than saying, I hate you. Influencers who question the Holocaust are also among those sowing doubt about Oct. 7. Despite how it can appear sometimes I dont actually have an axe to grind with the Jews, said Owen Benjamin, a comedian who embraces far-right and antisemitic content, in a November post on X. Its just the insane Holocaust narrative and fake war atrocities by shoved down our throats as Americans by israel needs constant pushback, he wrote in apparent reference to the atrocities of Oct. 7. Members of the defense department and movers load up the belongings of Marcel, who was killed by Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023, in Kibbutz Beeri. (Heidi Levine for The Washington Post) The current conflict also is helping Holocaust deniers find potential new allies: neo-Nazis have shown up at pro-Palestinian rallies in several states, seizing an opportunity, analysts said, to push antisemitic tropes. And theyve deployed conspiratorial rhetoric that appeals to different audiences: Dan Hanley, who runs an organization that claims there were no Muslim terrorists involved in the 9/11 attacks, posted on X in November that the Zionist Rothschild cabal et al was behind both the 9-11 and Oct. 7 false flags. Benjamin and Hanley did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Researchers warn that Oct. 7 conspiracy theories may follow a similar trajectory to Holocaust denial, which was waning before social media platforms propelled a resurgence a decade ago. The election of former president Donald Trump who fanned the flames of white nationalism with his defense of a neo-Nazi rally in Charlottesville along with lightly moderated tech services like Telegram, Discord and Gab, have given new life to Holocaust denial, said Oren Segal, vice president of the Center on Extremism at the Anti-Defamation League. Mainstream platforms like Facebook and YouTube, which permitted such content under their policies until recently, have also played a role. The platforms have enabled extremists to pitch their ideas to more people, replacing swastikas with more broadly palatable internet memes such as Pepe the frog. This newer brand of antisemitism has led a generation of young people to dispute the Holocaust. One in five American adults under 30 say they agree the Holocaust is a myth, according to a YouGov/Economist poll conducted in the first week of December. More than a fifth say they believe that the Holocaust was exaggerated. The long tail of Holocaust denial is a lesson in what may happen to Oct. 7, said Emerson Brooking, resident fellow at the Digital Forensic Research Lab of the Atlantic Council, a nonpartisan think tank despite copious real-time documentation of the attacks. Extremists will draw people who are genuinely concerned about the atrocities in Gaza, where over 24,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israels invasion, down a rabbit hole of conspiracies and misleading information, he said. Its generally indisputable that Hamas did something the pro-Hamas camp cant erase that entirely. But they can keep chipping away at it, and over time, youre seeing a rewriting of history, said Brooking, co-author of the book Likewar: The Weaponization of Social Media. Erasures of historical memory by online tacticians are not confined to the Holocaust, researchers noted. In both Brazil and Argentina, right-wing groups have used disinformation campaigns to question settled facts about human rights abuses under the military dictatorships of the 1970s and 80s. Popular YouTube influencers who support Argentinas far-right President Javier Milei are increasingly arguing that the militarys torture and disappearance of tens of thousands of political adversaries during that period didnt happen, according to Mothers of the Plaza de Mayo, a human rights group that recently asked Google to remove the content. Finkelstein said that conspiracy theories about Oct. 7 are beginning to bleed into the tumult roiling U.S. universities over the war. On X, activists claim Jewish students and zionists are staging false flag hate crimes against themselves on college campuses. Grayzone called it a contrived campus antisemitism crisis. While its reasonable to question the intentions and wartime tactics of Israels government, Finkelstein said, efforts to say Israel was responsible for Oct. 7 are part of a broader strategy by antisemitic extremists to undermine Jewish suffering. First you have to prove that your enemies arent really victims or oppressed, he said. If your enemies are victims or are oppressed, your worldview doesnt make sense. NASA finally managed to open a canister containing prized rocks open from the asteroid Bennu. (NASA Solar System/X) (Tribune News Service) Late last year, a spacecraft containing samples of a 4.6-billion-year-old asteroid landed safely in the desert after a 1.2-billion mile journey. There was only one little problem: NASA couldnt get the canister containing its prized rocks open. After months of tinkering, scientists at NASAs Johnson Space Center in Houston finally dislodged two stuck fasteners that had kept the pieces of the asteroid Bennu out of researchers hands. Its open! Its open! NASAs Planetary Science Division posted Friday on X, along with a photograph of the slate-colored bounty of dust and small rocks inside the canister. Scientists had to switch course on the canister opening effort in mid-October after it became clear that none of the items in NASAs box of approved tools could force open the last two of 35 fasteners sealing the canister. To prevent the sample from being contaminated by Earthly air, it has been stored in a clean room in the Houston facility where hazmat-suited curators delicately dismantled the canister. The team custom-designed new tools to pry open the final latches. The agency will now finish extracting the approximately 9-ounce sample, which will be weighed and chemically analyzed. Much of the payload from OSIRIS-REx (an acronym for Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, and Security-Regolith Explorer) will then be frozen and carefully preserved so that future generations of scientists will be able to study it with advanced technologies. We are overjoyed with the success, NASAs chief OSIRIS-REx sample curator, Nicole Lunning, said in a statement. It took more than seven years and roughly $1 billion to bring back a sample from Bennu, a space rock formed during the earliest days of the solar system. The asteroid samples found on Earth have essentially been cooked by their searing journey through the atmosphere, which limits what scientists can learn from them. With OSIRIS-REx, the objective is to bring back an ancient piece of the early solar system that is pristine, NASA astrobiologist Jason Dworkin told The Times in September. You can use these leftovers of the formation of the solar system to construct what happened in that formation. The spacecraft that collected the sample in 2020 and released it toward Earth in September is now heading on to its next mission. The craft, now named OSIRIS-APophis EXplorer, or OSIRIS-APEX, is on its way to a peanut-shaped asteroid named Apophis. For a short (but alarming) time, astronomers thought Apophis might be on track to smash disastrously into Earth. Now that that worrying possibility has been ruled out, scientists are eagerly looking ahead to 2029, when the asteroid will pass closer to Earth than any object of its size ever has. Its something that almost never happens, and yet we get to witness it in our lifetime, JPL navigation engineer Davide Farnocchia said last year. We usually send spacecraft out there to visit asteroids and find out about them. In this case, its nature doing the flyby for us. 2024 Los Angeles Times. Visit latimes.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. Afghan refugees walk through an Afghan refugee camp at Joint Base McGuire Dix Lakehurst, N.J., on Sept. 27, 2021. (Andrew Harnik/AP) Members of Virginias congressional delegation on Friday chastised the U.S. State Department for not reimbursing a nonprofit group that played a vital role in helping Afghan evacuees entering the state in droves in 2021, including transferring patients to overwhelmed hospitals. Northern Virginia Emergency Response System (NVERS), which coordinates the regions services during mass-casualty events, stepped in with aid for thousands of Afghans during what was a lapse in federal support in the weeks after the Taliban took control of Kabul, Democratic lawmakers said in a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken. After repeated attempts to recoup nearly $700,000 in costs incurred during that period, the State Department has still not paid the nonprofit, states the letter signed by U.S. Sens. Tim Kaine and Mark R. Warner, and Reps. Jennifer Wexton, Don Beyer, Abigail Spanberger and Gerry Connolly. The failure of the State Department and the other federal agencies to make any serious effort to reimburse NVERS for these services is outrageous, and risks disincentivizing community entities nationwide from offering support in future scenarios, the letter said. According to the federal lawmakers, the State Department suggested in private conversations that NVERS acted on its own and, therefore, was not entitled to reimbursement. On Friday, a State Department spokesperson said officials are investigating the matter. We appreciate all partners of the U.S. government who have provided critical support to Afghans relocated to the United States, the spokesperson said in a statement. We will respond when we have fully investigated the issue. The massive influx of Afghans to the region in August 2021 overwhelmed local and federal agencies and wreaked havoc on area hospitals that were already struggling to absorb patients during what was the height of the pandemic. Many Afghans arrived to Dulles International Airport with gunshot wounds or trauma from the chaos that surrounded the evacuation effort at the Kabul airport, where a terrorist bombing killed 13 U.S. service members and 170 Afghans crowding to get on to planes. Others suffered from heart disease, broken limbs, malaria, shigella infections and other ailments that had gone untreated in their country. Most arrived with no documentation, no English and no idea where or how they would rebuild their lives. The system set up by the Biden administration to help those individuals in the early days of the evacuation was filled with holes that were causing additional trauma, said Kristin Nickerson, executive director of the nonprofit, which was created in the wake of the 9/11 attacks. At one point, federal officials lost track of a 1-month-old baby who had a potentially life-threatening illness, Nickerson said. A federal contractor tasked with retrieving Afghan patients in Northern Virginia who had received hospital treatment and delivering them back to temporary refugee holding facilities often let them languish in the hospitals overnight, she said. Nickerson said her organization was pushing the Biden administration to fix the lapses in services. When it became clear that no solutions were forthcoming and that the local system of care was being overtaxed, area hospitals and local governments asked NVERS to step in, she said. All of those gaps compounded to a point where the health-care delivery system in Northern Virginia nearly collapsed, said Nickerson, who also directs the Northern Virginia Hospital Alliance nonprofit. Her group coordinated ambulance transports to area hospitals from Dulles Airport and federal transfer points in the region where Afghans were being housed. It also set up services for translation and established a patient tracking system that, among other cases, helped track down the lost 1-month-old, who was still in a hospital. State Department officials eventually began relying on those services, reaching out to NVERS learn the whereabouts of Afghan evacuees who had received medical care, according to the nonprofit. Assertions the Virginia lawmakers said State officials quietly made about not owing NVERS because the group had stepped up voluntarily fail to offer any meaningful suggestions to remedy the situation and completely overlooks the Departments own shortcomings in creating this unfunded mandate, the letter states. The dispute over funding, which began in 2021, has not stopped the State Department from calling on NVERS for help, the letter said. In February 2023, the department asked the nonprofit to assist with 222 Nicaraguan political prisoners who arrived to Dulles Airport after being suddenly expelled from their country. Nickerson said before agreeing to help with that emergency, her organization laid out the terms of payment. The bill for what amounted to $12,259 in expenses was paid, she said. It's common for many investors, especially those who are inexperienced, to buy shares in companies with a good story even if these companies are loss-making. But the reality is that when a company loses money each year, for long enough, its investors will usually take their share of those losses. Loss-making companies are always racing against time to reach financial sustainability, so investors in these companies may be taking on more risk than they should. Despite being in the age of tech-stock blue-sky investing, many investors still adopt a more traditional strategy; buying shares in profitable companies like Sim Leisure Group (Catalist:URR). While this doesn't necessarily speak to whether it's undervalued, the profitability of the business is enough to warrant some appreciation - especially if its growing. Check out our latest analysis for Sim Leisure Group How Fast Is Sim Leisure Group Growing Its Earnings Per Share? In business, profits are a key measure of success; and share prices tend to reflect earnings per share (EPS) performance. Which is why EPS growth is looked upon so favourably. It's an outstanding feat for Sim Leisure Group to have grown EPS from RM0.022 to RM0.14 in just one year. When you see earnings grow that quickly, it often means good things ahead for the company. But the key is discerning whether something profound has changed, or if this is a just a one-off boost. Top-line growth is a great indicator that growth is sustainable, and combined with a high earnings before interest and taxation (EBIT) margin, it's a great way for a company to maintain a competitive advantage in the market. On the one hand, Sim Leisure Group's EBIT margins fell over the last year, but on the other hand, revenue grew. So it seems the future may hold further growth, especially if EBIT margins can remain steady. In the chart below, you can see how the company has grown earnings and revenue, over time. Click on the chart to see the exact numbers. Story continues Catalist:URR Earnings and Revenue History January 21st 2024 Sim Leisure Group isn't a huge company, given its market capitalisation of S$88m. That makes it extra important to check on its balance sheet strength. Are Sim Leisure Group Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders? Many consider high insider ownership to be a strong sign of alignment between the leaders of a company and the ordinary shareholders. So as you can imagine, the fact that Sim Leisure Group insiders own a significant number of shares certainly is appealing. In fact, they own 59% of the company, so they will share in the same delights and challenges experienced by the ordinary shareholders. This should be seen as a good thing, as it means insiders have a personal interest in delivering the best outcomes for shareholders. In terms of absolute value, insiders have RM52m invested in the business, at the current share price. That should be more than enough to keep them focussed on creating shareholder value! Is Sim Leisure Group Worth Keeping An Eye On? Sim Leisure Group's earnings per share growth have been climbing higher at an appreciable rate. That sort of growth is nothing short of eye-catching, and the large investment held by insiders should certainly brighten the view of the company. At times fast EPS growth is a sign the business has reached an inflection point, so there's a potential opportunity to be had here. Based on the sum of its parts, we definitely think its worth watching Sim Leisure Group very closely. What about risks? Every company has them, and we've spotted 2 warning signs for Sim Leisure Group you should know about. Although Sim Leisure Group certainly looks good, it may appeal to more investors if insiders were buying up shares. If you like to see companies with insider buying, then check out this handpicked selection of Singaporean companies that not only boast of strong growth but have also seen recent insider buying.. Please note the insider transactions discussed in this article refer to reportable transactions in the relevant jurisdiction. 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. Steven McNally (67) committed the crimes while working as a Scout leader and as a housemaster at a Catholic children's home in Nottingham between 1974 and 1979. An Irish man has been sentenced to 26 years in prison in England after being found guilty of sexually abusing five children in the 1970s. Steven McNally (67), from Carlow, committed the crimes while working as a Scout leader and as a housemaster at a Catholic children's home in Nottingham between 1974 and 1979. McNally was extradited from his home in Ireland to stand trial at Nottingham Crown Court, with a jury finding him guilty of 24 out of 29 charges. The trial heard that he sexually abused five boys who were aged between five and 15 at the time. Most of the incidents took place while he worked as a housemaster at Nazareth House Children's Home in Lenton, Nottingham, which was run by the Sisters of Nazareth Catholic order, where four of the five victims resided. A fifth victim was sexually abused after joining the Bishop's Own Scout Troop, where McNally was a Scout leader. The crimes emerged 2016 after one of victims came soon after watching a child sexual abuse storyline unfold on the soap opera Emmerdale. Nottinghamshire Police subsequently launched an investigation, and the remaining four victims were later identified. Police were told that the boy who joined the Scout troop was abused by McNally, who was 18 at the time, on camping trips from the age of 11. The court heard how he entered the victim's tent on multiple occasions and carried out the abuse. The second victim, who was approximately nine years old that the time, told police that he had been beaten by nuns in the care home and alleged that McNally had offered to check up on him during the night. Instead, McNally repeatedly sexually abused the child on the grounds of the home and in his car, warning him not to tell anyone. Two further victims told police they were sexually abused from the ages of around five or six, with one telling officers that McNally saw the boys at Nazareth House as his playthings, adding that McNally would also beat children as well as sexually abuse them. The fifth victim said that McNally stole his childhood by abusing him at the home as well as at a Nottingham address belonging to McNally's parents. One of the victims died before seeing their abuser brought to justice. The Irishman was found guilty of 11 counts of indecent assault on a child, seven counts of indecent assault on a child on no fewer than five occasions, three counts of indecency with a child, two counts of indecency with a child on no fewer than five occasions and one count of buggery on a person under 16. Speaking after Fridays sentencing, Detective Constable Helen Sanders described McNally as a manipulative sex offender who systematically targeted vulnerable boys over a period of six years. She added that he took advantage of his sacred position to carry out the abuse. "His victims were vulnerable children some of whom had difficult family backgrounds," she said. "As part of an institution tasked with helping to improve their lives, McNally was placed into a sacred position of trust that he then abused in the most appalling way imaginable. "Until you have met and interviewed victims of childhood sexual abuse it is difficult to understand just how damaging these acts can be. "These victims have all had to live with the burden of what happened to them as children and have in many cases experienced considerable challenges in their adult lives as a result. Continuing, she said: "As they have struggled, McNally has enjoyed a full and productive life hiding behind a shield of respectability as a former housemaster and Scout leader. "He refused to accept responsibility for his heinous crimes, forcing his victims to relive their ordeals at trial. "Their resilience has been extraordinary. Each of them has acted with remarkable calm and dignity during this process and also displayed considerable courage in recounting their experiences to the court. "I would like to pay tribute to them and thank them all on behalf of Nottinghamshire Police for making this prosecution possible. "Years of diligent detective work has been invested in this prosecution, not only to bring McNally to justice, but also to provide a degree of closure to the victims. "Sadly, one of them is no longer with us to see justice served, but I would like to give thanks to his family for their continued support, and hope this conviction brings them some comfort in his absence." Hennessy Snrs Incredible Hulk wrapped casket was transported to the church on the back of one of his Hulk Recovery towing trucks Gardai monitor the scene in case there was trouble A criminal who had his torso sliced open in a horrific machete attack linked to the Corduff feud was among the chief mourners at the Hulk themed funeral of gun victim Jason Hennessy Snr yesterday. Kenneth Fitzsimons who served a five-year sentence for gun possession was among 15 to 20 mourners, which included Hennessy Snrs sons, Jason and Devon, who led the funeral procession from the murdered mans home to St Patricks Church in Corduff. Behind them, Hennessy Snrs Incredible Hulk wrapped casket was transported to the church on the back of one of his Hulk Recovery towing trucks. Kenneth Fitzsimons Fitzsimons (43) needed four litres of blood after being attacked with a machete by Martin Cunningham close to Finglas Garda Station in 2019. Cunninghams trial, after which he was sentenced to three years in prison, heard the incident was one of 70 linked to a feud between rival drug gangs in Blanchardstown and Finglas. The murder of Jason Hennessy Snr by Tristan Sherry on Christmas Eve has been linked to the same feud. His funeral yesterday saw gardai enact a major security operation over fears the funeral cortege or church could be targeted by the rival gang. Checks were carried out both inside the church and at the exits ahead of the ceremony. Three busloads of public order gardai provided back-up to uniformed and plainclothes officers, while more than a dozen mobile units from Armed Support patrolled the roads around the church. Gardai monitor the scene in case there was trouble A number of gardai present used discreet hand-held cameras as an intelligence-gathering tool aimed at collating the members of the gang with whom Jason Hennessy Snr had been associated. After the casket of Hennessy Snr was carried inside the church, mourners heard Hennessy Snrs action on Christmas Eve night in Brownes steakhouse had elevated him to the status of a true hero. The 48-year-old, who was well known to gardai and faced a money-laundering trial next year, had sustained his fatal gunshot injuries as he sought to disarm killer Tristan Sherry. Mourners carry the green coffin of Jay Hennessy Snr Hennessy Snr was not believed to have been the intended target of the gun attack that night, with sources saying its more likely Sherry had intended to kill a younger, more volatile criminal linked to the deceased. During the funeral ceremony, a close pal of Hennessy Snr who introduced himself as Graham described his murdered friend as a truly exceptional man. On a heart-wrenching Christmas Eve our world got flipped upside down by an event to change everything, he said. Jason Hennessy Senior In the thick of an impending clash, Jason, a beacon of compassion and courage, stepped up. He sensed the danger approaching and leapt into action, saving the lives of the youngest and the oldest. He faced adversity and became a true hero. Graham also told the assembled mourners: Jasons world revolved around his beloved family, his wife Connie and their six kids Jade, Luke, Devon, Jason, Shelby and Brandon. And he went on to describe his murdered friend as a hard-working man who initially drove a truck for a DIY company and never missed a days work. He said Hennessy Snr later built Hulk Recovery into a thriving business while recommending others for jobs with his former employer. Jasons heart was an open book and his love for his family and friends knew no bounds, he said. He was a constant presence to lean on during the sunny days and the storm. Fr John Regan told mourners he knew Mr Hennessy and his wife, Connie, very well and had been grateful for their assistance when an unspecified issue arose late last year. Jason Hennessy was a husband, a father, a grandfather and uncle a brother a son, and we pray for you Connie and all the family at this difficult time. He said Mr Hennessy and his wife were married in the same church and their children and grandchildren had been baptised there, but now sadly for all your family Christmas will never be the same again. Tristan Sherry also died The message of Christmas is peace and joy and love and life. All our lives are precious life is a gift from God and the taking of human life is always wrong, he said. Hennessy Snr was taken to Glasnevin Cemetery for cremation following yesterdays service. He died in hospital on January 4th, more than a week after he was shot in the neck during the shocking incident at Brownes Steakhouse in west Dublin on Christmas Eve. The 48-year-old was enjoying a meal with family when gunman Tristan Sherry opened fire. Sherry was ultimately overpowered and killed inside the restaurant with his weapon being taken from the scene. The funeral of Tristan Sherry (26) occurred without incident in Finglas on Tuesday. Floral tributes including a balaclava and pliers were seen being brought into the church ahead of his funeral as armed gardai kept a discreet eye on proceedings. Local sources fear the bitter feud between associates of the late Hennessy and Sherry will lead to more shootings and a renewed cycle of violence now that their funerals have taken place. Pervert forced teenager into vile sex acts after he ran up gambling debts Thomas Terry Cummins died in the medical unit of the Midlands Prison halfway through his sentence A paedophile ex-bookie who repeatedly sexually abused a 15-year-old boy in his betting shop more than 40 years ago has died of colon cancer halfway through his three-year jail sentence. Beast Thomas Terry Cummins passed away in the medical unit in the Midlands Prison on Sunday last following a lengthy battle with cancer. A source confirmed the 86-year-old child abuser had been receiving the equivalent of palliative care within the prison setting for several months. He was receiving end of life care, the source said. The medical unit in the prison is equipped with all the same equipment a patient in the same circumstances would have access to in a hospital setting. Cummins, who had an address at Hillview in Waterford City, was jailed for three years in January last year after he was convicted of 12 counts of indecent or sexual assault on a boy. The victim, then aged 15, was assaulted multiple times weekly over a period of six months at the betting office in John Street, Waterford City, by Cummins, who he worked alongside in the early 1980s. It was the second occasion on which Cummins was convicted of abusing a young teenage boy. In 2002, he was convicted of sexual offences against a 13-year-old in the betting office in the 1980s. During the more recent case, State prosecutor Conor ODoherty said Mr Cummins had groomed and coerced his victim describing the matter as shocking. During Cummins trial, the victim told how he was employed in the betting office as a 15-year-old when Cummins began to encourage him to place bets, resulting in him becoming indebted to the pervert. Cummins then used this debt to coerce the victim, who was 25 years his junior, into masturbating in front of him in exchange for a reduction in the amount he owed. The situation escalated after this incident with Cummins assaulting the youth twice and sometimes three times a week. Cummins also tried to involve another man in the abuse but the victim refused and quit his job. Cummins, who had been in jail since May 2022 when he was initially convicted of the offences, appeared at his sentencing hearing by video link. Judge Eugene OKelly praised Cummins victim for coming forward and recounted some of the harrowing evidence given during the trial. He said the then 15-year-old boy had his teenage life destroyed by Cummins with persistent and prolonged abuse which happened once or twice a week for a year, leading the victim to suffer from gambling and alcohol addictions later in life. He also outlined how Cummins had been convicted of abusing another boy 20 years earlier. The court heard the methods employed by Cummins to groom and abuse his victims were strikingly similar. The victim in the earlier case addressed the jury via video link, telling them the offences also happened in the early 1980s, progressed to anal sex and that, later, a second man took part in the assaults. Judge OKelly initially handed down an eight-year sentence to Cummins but taking into account his age and a number of factors, he reduced the sentence to five years, suspending the final two, meaning Cummins was sentenced to three years in prison, starting when he went to jail first in May 2022. Vehicles have been torched and threats made in bid to intimidate financier who claims Garda demanded cash payments Picture 5... Several cars have been targeted by the thug Picture 3... Two figures are seen on CCTV around the car Picture 2... Two figures are seen on CCTV around the car Picture 1... A figure is seen on CCTV near the car Thug comes in and slashes all four tyres on victims car in driveway This is the moment when the car of a prominent financier, who is one of a number of important witnesses in the Garda investigation into corruption by dirty cop John Spud Murphy, is set alight in a terrifying campaign of intimidation. The businessman has also told officers that he was shown a gun at the door of his Dublin home by a thug who has demanded a property from him. Gardai, under the local Superintendent, are expected to ramp-up security around the financier and his family after a shocking escalation of threats and intimidation in recent weeks. Picture 1... A figure is seen on CCTV near the car Picture 2... Two figures are seen on CCTV around the car Picture 3... Two figures are seen on CCTV around the car Picture 4... The car bursts into flame in blinding fireball Picture 5... Several cars have been targeted by the thug He has made allegations to detectives from the Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation (GNBCI) that he was asked for cash payments from Murphy and another suspected corrupt officer when he registered concerns about his safety during a long-standing property dispute with a thug who has links to the Hutch Organised Crime Group. He has given lengthy statements to officers investigating the activities of Murphy and other members of the force who are under suspicion of widespread abuse of power during their careers in An Garda Siochana. Sources say if officers can prove a fraction of the information they have against Murphy obtained from a long list of witnesses it will be the most serious case of corruption and criminality in the history of the Force. Former Garda Supt John Murphy Murphy is suspected of facilitating a number of criminal organisations and acting as a fixer for the gangs to move their money and drugs. He is also suspected of acting as a mediator between criminal gangs and legitimate business people, in particular in disputes over properties. The groupings, including the Hutch Organisation, are long suspected of investing heavily in property here and abroad. In many cases, since his retirement from the force, Murphy is suspected of facilitating meetings with a serving officer from an elite unit who witnesses understood was acting in an official capacity. Gardai have been told at one point Murphy enquired about moving a multi-million euro fund, suspected to be dirty money, into the Irish property market. The financier alleges that Murphy asked for a payment when he first met him about a problem tenant who was demanding money with menaces after a premises the tenant was leasing was sold by a receiver. The financier was involved in a company which had bought the property from the receiver. He has claimed that a second officer, currently suspended pending investigation, asked for a second payment. The pair are now under investigation for corruptly acting as mediators after the tenant refused to pay rent or vacate the premises. The property dispute ended up before the courts eight times and was settled in the last year. However, the company that had originally bought it has gone into liquidation and the property is now for sale, with receivers set to divide the monies to pay the debts that have been accrued over years of legal wranglings. But, the financier says that the tenant, a businessman involved in transport, has ramped-up his campaign of intimidation against him and increased his demands for money. His family home has been attacked a number of times in recent weeks, with windows broken and vehicles set alight. He says that he is living in fear for his life, for that of his sick wife and that of his young family. Man calls at his front door introducing himself before showing victim a gun . Garda inquiries have found that there is no money left from the purchase and sale of the property as any value has gone into the eight High Court challenges, and the interest owed and will be divided amongst the debtors. The financier actually believes that this man is just convinced that he is being cheated and that someone is pocketing a load of money. But the truth is there isnt a penny left. Its all gone to the lawyers, a source said. He doesnt want to pursue this man, he just wants him to understand that there simply isnt any money and he cannot have his family caught up in firebombs and these kind of threats. The incidents are tied up in the probe into Murphy and other gardai suspected of taking bribes from criminal gangs. Murphy, a retired superintendent, is in jail for drug offences but remains under investigation for his links to the mobs. Gardai are investigating claims by the financier that Murphy referred him to an elite serving officer who has since been suspended. Two other serving gardai are also suspended on suspicion of passing information to Murphy, but they have insisted that they did nothing wrong and have not been charged. Hundreds of statements are being taken from legitimate business people caught up in the scams as officers build their case and continue to uncover what they believe are links over decades between Murphy and the criminal underworld. Murphys home was raided in September 2021 and 47,000 in cash was found, along with a huge haul of cannabis stashed in the house, a shed and his car. He pleaded guilty to having 260,000 worth of drugs and is serving a six-year sentence, while the GNBCI case continues into what is believed to be his long-standing links to major organised crime gangs. Sources say that Murphy is suspected to have been close to gangs during and after his career, and in particular to the Hutch Organised Crime Group although they are amongst many. As well as mingling with the underworld, Murphy is suspected of using his position to provide advice, mediation and even security to some of Irelands wealthiest people and those acting in roles to facilitate investments. Jasons heart was an open book and his love for his family and friends knew no bounds The funeral of Jason Hennessy Snr took place this morning There was a heavy garda presence at the funeral The coffin carrying the remains of Jason Hennessy Snr is brought to the church A gangland criminal who was shot dead in a Dublin restaurant on Christmas Eve has been described as a true hero whose life revolved around his beloved family. There was a large security operation in place in west Dublin this morning for the Hulk-themed funeral of Jason Hennessy Snr (48). Three busloads of public order gardai were drafted in to provide support to uniformed gardai and a large number of units from Armed Support as they patrolled the area around St. Patricks Church in Corduff ahead of the funeral. The funeral cortege was led by Hennessys sons Jason and Devon. Dressed in white shirts and green ties, they walked ahead of one of the Hennessy family businesss Hulk Recovery trucks on the back of which was carried the casket of Jay Hennessy Senior. Wreaths and floral tributes describing Hennessy Snr. as a hero and grandfather were placed alongside the coffin. Mourners carrying the coffin of Jason Hennessy Snr The casket itself had been wrapped in an Incredible Hulk themed cover and bore the words The Boss Man on the sides. During the funeral ceremony, a close pal of Hennessy Snr who introduced himself as Graham described his murdered friend as a truly exceptional man. On a heart-wrenching Christmas Eve our world got flipped upside down by an event to change everything, he said. In the thick of an impending clash, Jason, a beacon of compassion and courage, stepped up. Jason Hennessy Snr He sensed the danger approaching and leapt into action, saving the lives of the youngest and the oldest. He faced adversity and became a true hero. Graham also told the assembled mourners: Jasons world revolved around his beloved family, his wife Connie and their six kids Jade, Luke, Devon, Jason, Shelby and Brandon. And he went on to describe his murdered friend as a hard-working man who initially drove a truck for a DIY company and never missed a days work. He said Hennessy Snr later built Hulk Recovery into a thriving business while recommending others for jobs with his former employer. issue. The funeral of Jason Hennessy Snr took place this morning Jasons heart was an open book and his love for his family and friends knew no bounds, he said. He was a constant presence to lean on during the sunny days and the storm. Fr John Regan told mourners he knew Mr Hennessy and his wife, Connie, very well and had been grateful for their assistance when an unspecified issue arose late last year. Jason Hennessy was a husband, a father, a grandfather and uncle a brother a son, and we pray for you Connie and all the family at this difficult time. He said Mr Hennessy and his wife were married in the same church and their children and grandchildren had been baptised there, but now sadly for all your family Christmas will never be the same again. The message of Christmas is peace and joy and love and life. All our lives are precious life is a gift from God and the taking of human life is always wrong, he said. Hennessy Snr was taken to Glasnevin Cemetery for cremation following yesterdays service. He died in hospital on January 4th, more than a week after he was shot in the neck during the shocking incident at Brownes Steakhouse in west Dublin on Christmas Eve. The 48-year-old was enjoying a meal with family when gunman Tristan Sherry opened fire. Sherry was ultimately overpowered and killed inside the restaurant with his weapon being taken from the scene. The funeral of Tristan Sherry (26) occurred without incident in Finglas on Tuesday. Floral tributes including a balaclava and pliers were seen being brought into the church ahead of his funeral as armed gardai kept a discreet eye on proceedings. We were exceptionally close, but in that Irish father/son way we went for pints, discussed sport, but rarely ventured into the territory of the heart. 'We were exceptionally close, but in that Irish father/son way rarely ventured into the territory of the heart' Never once did I tell him, my own blood, cornerstone of my world, the man who gifted me life, that I loved him. My dad, Aidan, closed his eyes for the last time 15 years ago this coming summer and the memories of our days together are a little more cobwebbed than I would like. They are like ancient coins excavated from the soil, precious beyond words, but covered in the grime of the passing years. We were exceptionally close, but in that Irish father/son way we went for pints, discussed sport, but rarely ventured into the territory of the heart. Standing on Christmas morning by the grave he shares with my mother a woman to whom opening every door to my deepest emotions came so naturally the unspoken three words rained a residue of sadness into the air. Why did I never tell him? To paraphrase that grandmaster of emotional intelligence, Sebastian Barry, I was nearly undone at that moment by the feeling of love I had for the man interred in the ground beneath my feet. I felt an overwhelming hunger to walk again the roads of our shared life, to look him in the eye and empty the treasure of my admiration and affection at his feet. 'We were exceptionally close, but in that Irish father/son way rarely ventured into the territory of the heart' You see, I recognise now, but too late, too late, how much it would have meant to him, how he would have taken psychological refuge in that verbal embrace. Love was heavily rationed in his critical, formative years. Dad lost his own mother at a young age (starving him of the sustaining vitamin of unconditional adoration that is a mothers most priceless gift to her children) and his father before he was fully formed. His younger brothers and sisters of whom he was so protective until his final breaths, in many ways a surrogate father had to be placed in care. He, still a tiger cub, went out into the cruel world to fend for himself. I cant imagine how lonely and intimidating and terrifying the boat journey to London he would spend seven years in England must have been. What cargo of heartaches must have accompanied him across the Irish Sea? How infrequently never, might be a good guess did love call at his door in those cold, hard years? Somewhat miraculously he never became embittered. Despite the buffeting by fate, there wasnt a single cynical bone in Dads body. If anything, he was strangely innocent and maybe because he lived without a mother deeply insecure. He was close to 40 when he became a father for the first time. His devotion to my mother and his three boys was absolute. His pride in his brood shone from every atom of his being. In the company of Mam he was lit by the pleasure of being alive. He worked the hard, physical work of a tiler deep into his seventies, anybody who employed him commenting on his perfectionism, attention to detail, obsession with ensuring any job that carried his signature was above reproach. He was physically incapable of taking a shortcut. His work was an announcement of the values that propelled him through life. As the years passed, he would return home bent over and exhausted. Barely able to eat his dinner before falling into a deep sleep on his favourite armchair. Foraging now for scraps of our shared past, I am staggered by how hard his life was and how little he complained. In his prime, he was a strong, handsome man, yet there was a softness, a vulnerability at his core. The absence of the soothing music of maternal love was so much a part of his story. When he took me to Croke Park as a young boy, I stood a thousand feet tall. I see now that walking down those avenues of red-bricked Drumcondra houses toward the Hogan Stand, the pair of us enlisting in Heffos Army, was as spiritual an experience for the father as it was for the wide-eyed son. Belonging and identity mattered intensely to a man who had searched so hard for the reassuring clasp of both. In later years, the two of us and his closest childhood friend, Des, would meet in Nearys of Chatham Street for pints of stout. I would observe as the two of them wondered off down the byways of nostalgic yesteryear. Des was alone in remembering Dads father. In the company of his one lifelong friend, my father could time travel, bringing his own family back to life. Recalling those lovely Friday afternoons in that magical Dublin city centre tavern, days when the years washed from his face and he was young again, I recall one of my favourite lines of writing. The profoundly wise words of American author Paul Auster, the nugget of insight identifying love as the one thing that can stop a man from falling, the one thing powerful enough to negate the laws of gravity. How I wish I handed Dad that parachute. It is one of the small cruelties of life that an understanding of the things that matter sometimes only dawns when the chance to act upon it has passed. I know I was deeply loved by my Dad and, I guess, deep down, he perceived that the feeling was abundantly replicated. Still, standing in a silent graveyard, a desolate Christmas morning wind chilling the bones, I craved more than at any moment in my life the power to turn back time. To look a phenomenal father in the eye, thank him for paving the road of life with opportunity, and to speak the words that threatened at that moment to burst my heart: Dad, I love you. Kent Police officers attended the scene along with South East Coast Ambulance Service A man, a woman and a dog have been killed in a collision with a BMW X5 in a village in Kent. The two pedestrians both in their 60s, were walking the dog in Thurnham Lane, Bearsted, when the black SUV vehicle collided with them at about 1.40pm on Saturday. Kent Police officers attended the scene along with South East Coast Ambulance Service, but all three were pronounced dead. The force is appealing for witnesses to come forward. Destroying freedom of speech means destroying democracy, Mr Musk wrote on the X platform. Billionaire Elon Musk has posted a video from the Free Speech Ireland group on his X platform backing the opposition to the Irish Governments new hate speech bill. The Criminal Justice (Incitement to Violence or Hatred and Hate Offences) Bill is at the third stage of the Irish Senate. Opponents claim the new laws could give the state the right to seize personal electronic devices and prescribe prison sentences for those guilty of hate speech or deemed to be in possession of hateful material, even without intent to distribute. However, Minister for Justice Helen McEntee has denied the bill will affect free speech and said it contains safeguards to ensure people can still debate ideas openly and freely. Destroying freedom of speech means destroying democracy, Mr Musk wrote on the X platform. Justice Minister Helen McEntee. Photo: PA The bill seeks to criminalise what it calls incitement to violence or hatred against a person or a group of persons on account of certain characteristics, which refers to race, gender, religion, and descent. The legislation also seeks to create an offence of condoning, denying or grossly trivialising genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and crimes against peace. This week an organisation called Free Speech Ireland which was founded by students in University College Cork launched a campaign called bin the bill. In a statement, the group said: Across Ireland our message will be displayed on billboards and social media platforms informing the Irish public of the threat that hate speech legislation poses to their right to free expression. CEO Sarah OReilly said: Helen McEntees legislation threatens to criminalise individual citizens for the mere possession of material deemed to be offensive, even if they had no intention of sharing it with others if they cannot prove this to be the case. Free Speech Ireland founders "This innocent until proven guilty framework is fundamentally incompatible with the principles of our democracy. Worryingly, this bill is likely to also impact freedom of speech across Europe and even the world, as it will make social media firms like X and Meta beholden to Irish censors. Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee, recently defended the proposed regulations. Some have erroneously claimed there is significant opposition to the legislation because of the false belief that offensive speech would be criminalised when this is not what is being proposed, said the Minister, adding that protection for freedom of expression was provided for in the Bill. Minister McEntee said under the new laws people will be able make statements which are offensive or make others feel uncomfortable whilst having full and robust debate. However, they cannot incite hated or violence against others, she said. Donald Trump Jr also commented on the bill last year when he wrote: "Its insane whats happening in the free world. Former Minister for Justice, Michael McDowell has also come out against the new legislation. Simon Harris - who was interim justice minister when Donald Trump Jnr spoke out - responded by telling reporters that when someone from the Trump family took a contrary view it was not a bad day at the office. The Silver Ferns will be meeting Uganda in their second match of the series at 3am on Monday, January 22, NZ time. Showcasing their depth of talent, Australia finished with a flourish to close out a 63-50 win over the Silver Ferns in the opening match of the Vitality Netball Nations Cup in London on Saturday. The Silver Ferns opened their 2024 international campaign with a young new-look team to herald the start of a new four-year cycle with a solid outing against the world champions. Showing glimpses of the potential on hand, the Silver Ferns will be better for the experience but moments of loose play and untimely lapses proved crucial. Surging back strongly after a fine third quarter, the Silver Ferns were well in the hunt when trailing by five heading into the home straight but were unable to maintain the momentum against a fast-finishing Australia who showed their class with a dominant finish. There were promising signs for the Silver Ferns with shooter Gace Nweke having a fine return when missing just one of her 42 shots at goal while continuing to build her new attacking partnerships with Mila Reuelu-Buchanan, Maddy Gordon, Whiteny Souness and Georgia Heffernan. It was disappointing how that last quarter ended but overall, it was not too bad, says Silver Ferns coach Dame Noeline Taurua. Our ability, once again, to hold right through, our ability not to turn over ball and probably our fitness levels let us down a bit but its a start, we know where were at, so know the gaps and what we need to improve on. Slotting in at goal attack, Georgia Heffernan became Silver Fern #185 when making her debut against the most challenging of opponents. She joined twin sister Kate (wing defence) in a rare family milestone in international netball. After an even start, a mid-quarter surge after some loose play from the Silver Ferns pushed the Diamonds out to a handy lead on the back of seven unanswered goals. With their backs to the wall, a lively midcourt revival where Reuelu-Buchanan and Gordon found their target of Nweke with more accuracy and consistency, the Silver Ferns made sure they kept the margin in check. Australian defender Courtney Bruce was a constant thorn for the Silver Ferns as the Diamonds surged out to a 14-9 first quarter lead. Overcoming the early rustiness, both teams produced an entertaining start to the second quarter with a goal-for-goal start. Midcourt captain Liz Watson controlled proceedings on attack for the Diamonds while the Silver Ferns responded with some strong passages with their quick ball movement and ball release. Defenders Kelly Jury and Karin Burger had their moments in slowing the Australian shooters while staying within striking distance. Souness took over from Reuelu-Buchanan late in the piece, the speedy midcourter adding a pinpoint service to the accurate Nweke under the hoop as the Silver Ferns kept the Australians honest. After a tough introduction, Georgia Heffernan found her feet to source good connections to Nweke, the New Zealanders showing better accuracy on the scoring sheet but it was Australia with more attempts who took a 29-22 lead into the halftime break. Nweke finished the first half with a perfect 18 from 18. Continuing to show improving connections and accuracy, the Silver Ferns made the best of starts on the resumption while going on to produce their most productive 15 minutes of the match. Australia made multiple changes through the quarter but the Silver Ferns were able to successfully chip away at the deficit. Souness added a point of difference on attack for the Silver Ferns with her speed and distribution skills while Georgia Heffernan continued to grow in confidence through her building rapport with Nweke. A buzzer time goal from Nweke helped the Silver Ferns win the third stanza and trim Australias lead to 44-39 at the final turn. The Silver Ferns will meet Uganda in their second match of the series at 3am on Monday (NZ time). Official Result and Stats: Silver Ferns: 50 Australia: 63 Champion Data Match Centre Shooting Stats - Silver Ferns: Grace Nweke 41/42 (98%) Georgia Heffernan 9/11 (82%) Shooting Stats - Australia: Cara Koenen 23/26 (89%) Sophie Garbin 17/18 (94%) Kiera Austin 16/21 (76%) Sophie Dwyer 7/8 (88%) An airflow from Rarotonga which has been spreading across the top of New Zealand on Sunday with a weak low north of the country interacting with high pressure, is now centred east of the Chatham Islands. WeatherWatch says this high pressure is still slowly sliding eastwards off the country and "this places a humid northerly quarter flow over many regions". MetService has issued a severe weather warning for Gisborne/Tairawhiti and Westland. "On Monday, a humid east to northeast flow is expected to affect Gisborne/Tairawhiti, bringing a period of heavy rain to the region where a Warning and Watch are in force," says a MetService spokesperson. "An active trough is forecast to move across the Westland and Grey Districts, bringing a period of heavy rain with localised thunderstorms and downpours possible. A Watch is now in force." The Heavy Rain Watch for Gisborne/Tairawhiti south of Tolaga Bay is valid for 13 hours from 3am to 4pm Monday January 22. A period of heavy rain, and amounts may approach warning criteria. The Heavy Rain Watch for the Westland and Grey Districts is valid for 13 hours from 11pm Sunday January 21 to 12pm Monday January 22. Periods of heavy rain and amounts may approach warning criteria. Thunderstorms and localised downpours of 25 to 35 mm per hour are possible. Further heavy rain is likely on Monday night and early Tuesday morning. "Winds may pick up in the north of NZ in eastern coastal areas, and other eastern parts of the country like Dunedin and Otago Peninsula," says a WeatherWatch spokesperson. "The low to the north of New Zealand may drive in some rain or showers in that humid nor-east flow moving into East Cape, Bay of Plenty and coastal areas of the east over/up to Northland. "Most of the rain will be offshore but some areas may get brushed by some heavier falls. Gisborne and Hawkes Bay also might have a few showers." Isolated downpours forming over the central/inland North Island with heat and humidity mean afternoon thunderstorms are also possible. "Some showery weather remains in West Coast but its dry in the east with cooler days from Kaikoura to Dunedin. A few showers are possible in Southland too. "For northern NZ the muggy weather comes with a chance of maximum temperatures in the low 30s and Humidex (feels like) temperatures in the late 30s or 40s. Cooler airflows start to shift in across Monday over the South Island up to the lower North Island, then after Tuesday further north easing the mugginess. The new WeatherWatch app shows hourly humidity levels and temperatures in easy to view graph form (free to view) and the PRO (paid) version allows you to customise multiple alerts for temperatures across four locations to get push notifications on your device. Use the QR code for details on the new WeatherWatch App and links to download it. If youre camping in a tent or awning then download the new WeatherWatch App using the QR code above so you can see wind gust graphs at your location. Winds of 20km per hour or greater and gusts of 40km per hour or greater can be frustrating when in a tent or awning. Just because a business does not make any money, does not mean that the stock will go down. For example, biotech and mining exploration companies often lose money for years before finding success with a new treatment or mineral discovery. But while history lauds those rare successes, those that fail are often forgotten; who remembers Pets.com? Given this risk, we thought we'd take a look at whether Prophecy International Holdings (ASX:PRO) shareholders should be worried about its cash burn. For the purpose of this article, we'll define cash burn as the amount of cash the company is spending each year to fund its growth (also called its negative free cash flow). First, we'll determine its cash runway by comparing its cash burn with its cash reserves. See our latest analysis for Prophecy International Holdings Does Prophecy International Holdings Have A Long Cash Runway? A cash runway is defined as the length of time it would take a company to run out of money if it kept spending at its current rate of cash burn. As at June 2023, Prophecy International Holdings had cash of AU$12m and no debt. Importantly, its cash burn was AU$1.4m over the trailing twelve months. That means it had a cash runway of about 8.6 years as of June 2023. Even though this is but one measure of the company's cash burn, the thought of such a long cash runway warms our bellies in a comforting way. You can see how its cash balance has changed over time in the image below. ASX:PRO Debt to Equity History January 20th 2024 Is Prophecy International Holdings' Revenue Growing? Given that Prophecy International Holdings actually had positive free cash flow last year, before burning cash this year, we'll focus on its operating revenue to get a measure of the business trajectory. Although it's hardly brilliant growth, it's good to see the company grew revenue by 20% in the last year. Of course, we've only taken a quick look at the stock's growth metrics, here. This graph of historic earnings and revenue shows how Prophecy International Holdings is building its business over time. Story continues How Easily Can Prophecy International Holdings Raise Cash? Notwithstanding Prophecy International Holdings' revenue growth, it is still important to consider how it could raise more money, if it needs to. 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). Prophecy International Holdings has a market capitalisation of AU$42m and burnt through AU$1.4m last year, which is 3.2% of the company's market value. 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 Prophecy International Holdings' Cash Burn? It may already be apparent to you that we're relatively comfortable with the way Prophecy International Holdings is burning through its cash. In particular, we think its cash runway stands out as evidence that the company is well on top of its spending. Its revenue growth wasn't quite as good, but was still rather encouraging! Taking all the factors in this report into account, we're not at all worried about its cash burn, as the business appears well capitalized to spend as needs be. On another note, we conducted an in-depth investigation of the company, and identified 2 warning signs for Prophecy International Holdings (1 is significant!) that you should be aware of before investing here. 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. SUR Fuengirola Sunday, 21 January 2024, 09:31 Compartir Copiar enlace WhatsApp Facebook X LinkedIn Telegram A dog is reported to have died after allegedly being electrocuted while being walked through Fuengirola on Friday evening. The incident happened on Avenida Condes de San Isidro and at 7.40pm the 112 emergency service control room received a call from the Local Police warning that there had been an incident with an electrical junction box which could have resulted in manhole covers in the street becoming 'live'. Emergency services contacted Endesa because several streetlights in the area had also gone out. At that point, the police officers decided to cordon off the area with the help of the energy company's technicians. It was later when a caller alerted 112 that a dog had apparently died due to the incident. The social media profile Fuengirola se Queja (Fuengirola complains) has denounced the incident on its Instagram account. A dog died after being electrocuted while walking through a puddle in the centre of Fuengirola (...) Apparently it was because of an electricity junction box that is right next to the wall, it said in the post. At the moment this has not yet been confirmed by the emergency services. Current Print Subscribers will be prompted to either login to their current site user account or to create a new one. A confirmation email will be sent when a new user account is created, which must be confirmed within three days in order to provide uninterrupted online access through your Print Subscription. Once the email address is confirmed please provide your Account Number to activate your Print Subscription Service. Key Insights Significantly high institutional ownership implies KPJ Healthcare Berhad's stock price is sensitive to their trading actions 53% of the business is held by the top 3 shareholders Using data from analyst forecasts alongside ownership research, one can better assess the future performance of a company To get a sense of who is truly in control of KPJ Healthcare Berhad (KLSE:KPJ), it is important to understand the ownership structure of the business. We can see that institutions own the lion's share in the company with 43% ownership. In other words, the group stands to gain the most (or lose the most) from their investment into the company. Last weeks 4.0% gain means that institutional investors were on the positive end of the spectrum even as the company has shown strong longer-term trends. One-year return to shareholders is currently 65% and last weeks gain was the icing on the cake. Let's delve deeper into each type of owner of KPJ Healthcare Berhad, beginning with the chart below. Check out our latest analysis for KPJ Healthcare Berhad KLSE:KPJ Ownership Breakdown January 21st 2024 What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About KPJ Healthcare Berhad? Institutional investors commonly compare their own returns to the returns of a commonly followed index. So they generally do consider buying larger companies that are included in the relevant benchmark index. KPJ Healthcare Berhad already has institutions on the share registry. Indeed, they own a respectable stake in the company. This suggests some credibility amongst professional investors. But we can't rely on that fact alone since institutions make bad investments sometimes, just like everyone does. 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 KPJ Healthcare Berhad, (below). Of course, keep in mind that there are other factors to consider, too. KLSE:KPJ Earnings and Revenue Growth January 21st 2024 Hedge funds don't have many shares in KPJ Healthcare Berhad. The company's largest shareholder is Johor Corporation, with ownership of 38%. In comparison, the second and third largest shareholders hold about 8.4% and 6.7% of the stock. Story continues To make our study more interesting, we found that the top 3 shareholders have a majority ownership in the company, meaning that they are powerful enough to influence the decisions of the company. While it makes sense to study institutional ownership data for a company, it also makes sense to study analyst sentiments to know which way the wind is blowing. There are a reasonable number of analysts covering the stock, so it might be useful to find out their aggregate view on the future. Insider Ownership Of KPJ Healthcare Berhad While the precise definition of an insider can be subjective, almost everyone considers board members to be insiders. Management ultimately answers to the board. However, it is not uncommon for managers to be executive board members, especially if they are a founder or the CEO. Most consider insider ownership a positive because it can indicate the board is well aligned with other shareholders. However, on some occasions too much power is concentrated within this group. Our most recent data indicates that insiders own some shares in KPJ Healthcare Berhad. The insiders have a meaningful stake worth RM71m. Most would see this as a real positive. If you would like to explore the question of insider alignment, you can click here to see if insiders have been buying or selling. General Public Ownership The general public-- including retail investors -- own 18% stake in the company, and hence can't easily be ignored. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies. Private Company Ownership We can see that Private Companies own 38%, of the shares on issue. It's hard to draw any conclusions from this fact alone, so its worth looking into who owns those private companies. Sometimes insiders or other related parties have an interest in shares in a public company through a separate private company. Next Steps: While it is well worth considering the different groups that own a company, there are other factors that are even more important. Like risks, for instance. Every company has them, and we've spotted 2 warning signs for KPJ Healthcare Berhad (of which 1 is a bit unpleasant!) you should know about. But ultimately it is the future, not the past, that will determine how well the owners of this business will do. Therefore we think it advisable to take a look at this free report showing whether analysts are predicting a brighter future. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Albany, N.Y. A Canadian man was sentenced to 12 years in prison in Albany federal court Friday after attempting to have sex with a 10-year-old in Rensselaer County, federal prosecutors said. Jonathan Woodworth, 45, of Riverside-Albert, New Brunswick, traveled 660 miles by plane and train to Rensselaer County last September to meet the girl, prosecutors for the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Northern District of New York said in a news release Saturday. Woodworth was arrested as he left the train station, prosecutors said. The Taos News delivered to your Taos County address every week for a full year! We offer our lowest mail rates to zip codes in the county. Click Here to See if you Qualify. Plan includes unlimited website access and e-edition print replica online. Your auto pay plan will be conveniently renewed at the end of the subscription period. You may cancel at anytime. adetour Newbie Join Date: Jan 2024 Location: Bangalore Posts: 19 Thanked: 277 Times re: East Arunachal & West Meghalaya | 8000 km road-trip to the North East Route to NE, over the years tldr, read on if interested in knowing how much the road to NE from South has evolved We've constantly been on the Bangalore/Chennai to NE route for the last 7-8 years and have been tracking the various changes and evolution. If you'd gone through the sheet snippet of all the drives in detail, you'd notice that the onwards-return drive route mainly between Kolkata and Siliguri would have changed through the years. We have been adapting our onwards-return drive based on the route that offers the best road conditions and better timings for that year. NE 2016 & 2017: NH5(new NH16) as it was called back in those days, was fully 4 laned (no 6 laning work too) after Vijayawada. It was the longer old alignment through Tadepallegudem, Tanuku, Ravulapalem. Crossing Vizag had to be planned properly, as there was no Bypass yet, it used to take an hour in the best case and even 2.5hours in peak hours for the 60kms from end of Anakapalle to Anandapuram through Gajuwaka and MVP old bypass route. Up East, it was the days of Bhagalpur route, with a dilemma of Deogarh vs Dumka. Deogarh route used to be a bit better, with lesser truck traffic. There was no question of Malda route in these years, we had only heard about the infamous Farakka and Dalkhola jams, bad roads.etc and stayed away from it. We never ventured on the Suri, Rampurhat routes as they were also infamous for truck jams. There was no proper Fulbari Bypass from Ghoshpukur, we used to go across Siliguri town from Bagdogra to Sevoke, and then take the Damdim - Chalsa - Banarhat route. NE 2016 onwards drive, NE 2017 onwards and return drive route : Kolkata Bypass - Dankuni - GT Road - Burdwan Bypass - Durgapur - Asansol Bypass - Jamtara - Palajori - Sarath - Deogarh - Katoria - Banka - Bhagalpur Bypass - Vikramshila Setu - Naugachhia - Purnea Bypass - Dalkhola NH27 - Islampur(no bypass back then) - Bagdogra(no Fulbari Bypass back then) - Siliguri Town - Sevoke Coronation Bridge Roads used to be 2 laned all the way from Asansol Bypass to Purnea Bypass on this route (it still is!), but the 2 laned roads were generally good. We took the Deogarh, Banka route in 2016,17 also because the Dumka - Hansdiha wasn't great. Closer to Bhagalpur, trucks used to be parked for kms together, to cross Vikramshila Setu from evening/night, we got small jams at times, but nothing major. Attachment 2559497 NE 2016 return drive, was similar as above, but a small change from Palajori : Sevoke - Siliguri - Dalkhola NH27 - Purnea Bypass - Naugachhia - Vikramshila Setu - Bhagalpur Bypass - Banka - Katoria - Deogarh - Palajori - Gumro - Anguthia - Tarapatiya - Nala - Runakuraghat Bridge - Asansol Bypass - GT Road - Dankuni We used to experiment such routes in the interiors of Jharkhand, they were actually pretty good with nice landscapes too Attachment 2559498 NE 2019: Vizag Bypass was partially constructed with lot of diversions and road work through Sabbavaram and Pendurthi towns. We "tried" this route for onwards drive, it was as bad as the traditional NH5 route, as lot of trucks were taking it, jams and diversions, no time was actually saved. 6 laning road work and other flyover works had commenced from Anandapuram towards Palasa, so this sector became slower than before due to diversions. There was some road work that had started between Bhubaneshwar and Bhadrak too. We took the Vizag town NH5 route on return, but ended up in evening peak hours, so it took 2+ hours to cross, even with some detours through Simhachalam to NAD junction. Onwards route : Kolkata Bypass - Dankuni - GT Road - Asansol Bypass - Nala - Masalia - Dumka Bypass - Hansdiha - Bhagalpur Bypass - Naugachhia - Purnea Bypass - Dalkhola NH27 - Islampur - Siliguri Nala route was a popular and quicker choice now over the Jamtara route, it was very good 2 laned road. This year, Dumka - Bhagalpur was in very good shape too, so no more Deogarh route. Due to the effects of CAA-NRC protests, we got delayed by 1.5 hours in Kolkata Bypass(this was the day trains were burnt), so we ended up in truck timings on Bhagalpur Bypass. Crossing Bhagalpur was a big mess due to trucks lined up and being let through, we saw 1000s of trucks. Attachment 2559499 Return route : Siliguri - Islampur - Dalkhola town - Raiganj - Malda Bypass - Farakka Bridge - Morgram - Panchgram - Kuli - Nutanhat - Burdwan town - GT Road - Dankuni To avoid any CAA-NRC protests, we had decided to do a night drive through West Bengal. Night drive on Bhagalpur route was a big no due to truck traffic. So we tried the Malda route, as we had always heard that this route was best done at night. There was fog all the way from Dalkhola to Farakka, so progress was slow. Bengal 2 Bengal route from Dhantola to Botolbari was famous in those days to avoid Dalkhola jam (funnily Google still suggests it even today! ). Since it was night time and fully foggy, we decided to stick to the NH. We somehow crossed the Dalkhola jam within 20 minutes luckily, it was a relief having heard people get stuck for hours. Dalkhola - Raiganj had 4 laning road work with diversions, we just followed a Kolkata Volvo which was doing decent pace in fog. Crossing Raiganj was okay, after which we got the newly done 4 laned road, but due to fog, pace was very slow all the way till Kaliachak IOC, but there was hardly any traffic. After this fog reduced a bit, crossing Farakka also was easy, there were no jams, maybe due to fog. The 4 laned roads continued although with few diversions till Moregram. We took the then famous route of Moregram-Burdwan. It was around 120kms of 2 laned roads, with trucks for company and huge speed breakers, around 50 of them. It took over 3 hours for this section, road conditions was just okay. Attachment 2559500 NE 2020 Onwards route : NH5 - Kharagpur - Salboni - Bishnupur - Bankura - MTPS - Raniganj - Asansol Bypass - Nala - Masalia - village detours near Dumka - Jama - half broken bridge - Barapalasi - Hansdiha - detour for border jam - Bhagalpur Bypass - Purnea Bypass - Araria - Bahadurganj - Thakurganj - Panitanki - Bagdogra - Siliguri From Bangalore, Chittor - Tirupati route was under 6 laning all the way. Massive 6 laning work had started all across GQ. From Gannavaram after Vijayawada, all the way to Eluru toll, it was narrow service road as main road was under road work. After Eluru Bypass, the old Tanuku route was rough and potholed. Rajahmundry - Vizag was luckily okay. From learnings of 2019, we had planned crossing Vizag in early morning hours, it was very peaceful. Vizag - Palasa, few 6 laned sections were done, many were still diversions. Phew, after crossing AP, entire Odisha almost from Ganjam till Balasore had 6 laning work, flyover work, diversions continuously. Attachment 2559501 We had learnt that the direct Kharagpur to Raniganj road via Bishnupur, Bankura was done and a good choice now, faster than the 120kms longer route via Kolkata Bypass, Burdwan. We had stayed at Kharagpur to do this 2 laned section early morning, and it was a quick drive, very good roads. Nala route was very good to Dumka. But now we had another puzzle to solve, as both river bridges around Dumka were broken in the Monsoon, there were people "helping" to cross the river through the stones over riverbed, but it was time-consuming one. Trucks were taking the Basukinath route and it was jammed. In between both, we had a detour route via Jama to Barapalasi, athlough with a rough road leading to a partially bent bridge over Mayurakshi river, just enough for cars to cross it. We somehow crossed it, Dumka - Bhagalpur was good, except for a truck jam at the JH-BR border for which we took another detour. Deogarh route was bad that year and hence all this adventure via Dumka. Similarly, Dalkhola - Islampur - Bagdogra NH27 had gone very bad, with lots of reports of rough surface and crater potholes all the way. At the same time, Araria - Thakurganj - Siliguri was properly 2 laned tolled road and was a better alternative. We took this road between Araria and Siliguri both onwards and return, except for diversions for couple of broken bridges around Jokihat, it was a good 2 laned road all the way. Totally out of <700kms, only around 40-50kms were 4 laned, rest were all 2 laned roads. Attachment 2559595 Return route : Siliguri - Thakurganj - Araria - NH27 E-W corridor all the way to Jhansi All of us in the group decided to return via North India route, with a visit to long pending Orchha. Was such a relief from all the detours, diversions and was a peaceful return drive Attachment 2559505 NE 2022 Onwards and return route : NH5 - Kolkata Bypass - Dankuni - Mogra - STKK Road via Kalna, Nabadwip, Gouranga Setu - Krishnanagar - Berhampore Swami Akhandananda Sarani Rd Bypass - Malda Bypass - Raiganj - Dalkhola - Islampur Bypass - Fulbari Bypass - Jalpaiguri Bypass - Dhupguri - Telipara Attachment 2559502 Huge changes within 2 years in all sections. We took the exact same route for onwards and return Chittor - Tirupati was 6 laned, road work on Renigunta - Naidupeta had started. Vijaywada Benz Circle flyover was done. Gannavaram - Bhimadole was fully 6 laned. New greenfield route from Bhimadole to Diwancheruvu bypassing Rajahmundry was the default new NH16 now, saving 30-40kms and lots of time compared to Tanuku route. Vizag Bypass was partially 70% ready and actually motorable except for Sabbavaram and Pendurthi Bypasses. Vizag - Srikakulam - Narasanapeta was superb 6 laned road. Narasanapeta - AP Border was superb 4 laned road with 6 laned bridges. Ganjam - Barkul - Tangi was good 4 laned surface, with 6 laned Bridges. 200 kms from Tangi to Ranital after Bhadrak was fully 6 laned, with just 5-6 flyover work pending and diversions for that Ranital - Balasore 50kms was the remaining painful section, lots of diversions for flyover work still, not much had progressed since 2020 days. WB section after Jaleshwar to Kharapur had concrete road maintenance and Emergency runway creation. So it had lots of speed breakers and diversions, this section was slow. Kolkata - Siliguri section had also vastly improved due to Old Delhi Road and STKK Road connectivity to Krishnanagar. Dankuni - Mogra Old Delhi road was 4 laned SH, many trucks had not started taking this route in 2022. Mogra - Kalna - Nabadwip - Gouranga Setu - Krishnanagar was a very good 2 laned SH, although with 3 railway crossings. Krishnanagar - Berhampore initially had road work on Krishnanagar Bypass, after which was 4 laned except few sections of 2 laned road at Debagram, Beldanga, Bhabta. The famous local bypass for Berhampore in 2022 was via Swami Akhandananda Sarani Rd, which was narrow, still took 25 minutes to cross, but avoided the main road jams. Berhampore NH Bypass didn't seem anywhere near completion Berhampore - Malda was the usual 4 laned road, except Farakka Bridge and small jams of Kaliachak Market Raiganj Bypass was not yet ready, so it was the old 2 laned Bypass. After Raiganj, it was superb 4/6 laned roads all the way with newly done and recently opened sections bypassing Karandighi, Domohona, and most importantly Dalkhola! Islampur Bypass was ready Fulbari Bypass was mostly ready except the section from Mahananda Barrage which was 2 laned. This was crucial in completely bypassing Siliguri and saving lots of time. This also meant the route to NE via Jalpaiguri Bypass can be taken, which was 4 laned till Dhupguri and then 2 laned to Telipara. The Dankuni - Mogra - Nabadwip - Krishnanagar route Attachment 2559633 Crossing Berhampore via Swami Akhandananda Sarani Rd since Bypass wasn't completed Attachment 2559506 Fulbari Bypass ensuring complete change in route instead of Sevoke route Attachment 2559507 Finally coming to NE 2023 Attachment 2559504 Most of the changes have been covered in NE 2022 above. The changes in NE 2023 were : Vizag Bypass is fully done except a 500m diversion, its quick 30minutes bypassing Vizag very easily. More sections of Tangi - Bhubaneshwar flyover work is done, there are only 2 diversions near Bhubaneshwar, which although can get jammed in evening peak hours Ranital(Bhadrak) - Balasore has improved, many unmarked 6 laned sections are open, but still 4-5 major diversions pending. WB section from Jaleshwar to Kharagpur is now not an issue, only small 1-2 diversions, Runway is fully done With more sections of 4 laning done between Kalyani More and Krishnanagar, this gave us another option in 2023, Mogra - Ishwar Setu - Kalyani Expressway - Jonepur - Kulia road - Kalyani AIIMS Road - Kalyani More - Chakdaha - Ranaghat - Krishnanagar, as an alternative compared to the 2 laned STKK road via Nabadwip. These two routes should be decided on the go based on traffic jam at Ranaghat and traffic at Goruranga Setu. Trucks have started taking STKK road, and it is slower than 2022 definitely. We took Ranaghat route both ways in NE 2023. The road till NH12 Kalyani More, is a mix of 2L + flyover work + 4/6L + village road + 4L AIIMS road. After Kalyani More, we are on NH12 all the way, many unmarked 4 laned sections have opened up. Flyover is pending at Chakdaha, which may cause small jam sometimes. 4kms of Ranaghat is the only painful stretch of this route, flyover work + railway gate + 2 flyover work + river bridge. It would take 20 minutes in the best case (worse can be upto our imagination, that's why STKK is still a good alternative based on traffic). There are some detours on the North to South direction through Ranaghat town to reach close to the railway gate, only few are drivable. After Ranaghat, many sections are majorly done, even Gobindapur Railway Flyover has opened in December, so it is quick progress to Krishnanagar. Krishnanagar Bypass is fully done too. Berhampore Bypass is fully done except a small diversion (Hoogly Bridge is done only on one side). Easily saves 30 minutes. Raiganj Bypass is done and driveable except a detour through narrow roads and railway gate for the pending Railway Bridge. But easily saves 20 minutes. The new routing via Ranaghat Attachment 2559615 Berhampore Bypass completed Attachment 2559509 Raiganj Bypass can be taken with a detour Attachment 2559510 To sum up NH16 as well as Kolkata - Siliguri has vastly improved. Out of ~560kms between Dankuni and Ghoshpukur, only 25-30kms is 2laned or having road work via the Ranaghat route. That's 530+ kms of 4 laned roads. On the STKK route, it is ~85kms of 2 laned roads, that's still 475+ kms of 4 laned road. The key is to check the traffic conditions at Ranaghat and Goruanga Setu and decide the route. Yes the entire WB is full of barricades, totos on road.etc ensuring the average speeds are lower than OD or AP, but it is still a huge improvement over the decade as Kolkata - Siliguri can be done in under 10 driving hours comfortably. Bhagalpurs and Dumkas are yesteryear route. We've constantly been on the Bangalore/Chennai to NE route for the last 7-8 years and have been tracking the various changes and evolution. If you'd gone through the sheet snippet of all the drives in detail, you'd notice that the onwards-return drive route mainly between Kolkata and Siliguri would have changed through the years. We have been adapting our onwards-return drive based on the route that offers the best road conditions and better timings for that year.NH5(new NH16) as it was called back in those days, was fully 4 laned (no 6 laning work too) after Vijayawada. It was the longer old alignment through Tadepallegudem, Tanuku, Ravulapalem. Crossing Vizag had to be planned properly, as there was no Bypass yet, it used to take an hour in the best case and even 2.5hours in peak hours for the 60kms from end of Anakapalle to Anandapuram through Gajuwaka and MVP old bypass route.Up East, it was the days of Bhagalpur route, with a dilemma of Deogarh vs Dumka. Deogarh route used to be a bit better, with lesser truck traffic. There was no question of Malda route in these years, we had only heard about the infamous Farakka and Dalkhola jams, bad roads.etc and stayed away from it. We never ventured on the Suri, Rampurhat routes as they were also infamous for truck jams.There was no proper Fulbari Bypass from Ghoshpukur, we used to go across Siliguri town from Bagdogra to Sevoke, and then take the Damdim - Chalsa - Banarhat route.NE 2016 onwards drive, NE 2017 onwards and return drive route :Roads used to be 2 laned all the way from Asansol Bypass to Purnea Bypass on this route (it still is!), but the 2 laned roads were generally good. We took the Deogarh, Banka route in 2016,17 also because the Dumka - Hansdiha wasn't great. Closer to Bhagalpur, trucks used to be parked for kms together, to cross Vikramshila Setu from evening/night, we got small jams at times, but nothing major.NE 2016 return drive, was similar as above, but a small change from Palajori :We used to experiment such routes in the interiors of Jharkhand, they were actually pretty good with nice landscapes tooVizag Bypass was partially constructed with lot of diversions and road work through Sabbavaram and Pendurthi towns. We "tried" this route for onwards drive, it was as bad as the traditional NH5 route, as lot of trucks were taking it, jams and diversions, no time was actually saved. 6 laning road work and other flyover works had commenced from Anandapuram towards Palasa, so this sector became slower than before due to diversions. There was some road work that had started between Bhubaneshwar and Bhadrak too. We took the Vizag town NH5 route on return, but ended up in evening peak hours, so it took 2+ hours to cross, even with some detours through Simhachalam to NAD junction.Onwards route :Nala route was a popular and quicker choice now over the Jamtara route, it was very good 2 laned road. This year, Dumka - Bhagalpur was in very good shape too, so no more Deogarh route. Due to the effects of CAA-NRC protests, we got delayed by 1.5 hours in Kolkata Bypass(this was the day trains were burnt), so we ended up in truck timings on Bhagalpur Bypass. Crossing Bhagalpur was a big mess due to trucks lined up and being let through, we saw 1000s of trucks.Return route :To avoid any CAA-NRC protests, we had decided to do a night drive through West Bengal. Night drive on Bhagalpur route was a big no due to truck traffic. So we tried the Malda route, as we had always heard that this route was best done at night. There was fog all the way from Dalkhola to Farakka, so progress was slow. Bengal 2 Bengal route from Dhantola to Botolbari was famous in those days to avoid Dalkhola jam (funnily Google still suggests it even today!). Since it was night time and fully foggy, we decided to stick to the NH. We somehow crossed the Dalkhola jam within 20 minutes luckily, it was a relief having heard people get stuck for hours. Dalkhola - Raiganj had 4 laning road work with diversions, we just followed a Kolkata Volvo which was doing decent pace in fog. Crossing Raiganj was okay, after which we got the newly done 4 laned road, but due to fog, pace was very slow all the way till Kaliachak IOC, but there was hardly any traffic. After this fog reduced a bit, crossing Farakka also was easy, there were no jams, maybe due to fog. The 4 laned roads continued although with few diversions till Moregram. We took the then famous route of Moregram-Burdwan. It was around 120kms of 2 laned roads, with trucks for company and huge speed breakers, around 50 of them. It took over 3 hours for this section, road conditions was just okay.Onwards route :From Bangalore, Chittor - Tirupati route was under 6 laning all the way. Massive 6 laning work had started all across GQ. From Gannavaram after Vijayawada, all the way to Eluru toll, it was narrow service road as main road was under road work. After Eluru Bypass, the old Tanuku route was rough and potholed. Rajahmundry - Vizag was luckily okay. From learnings of 2019, we had planned crossing Vizag in early morning hours, it was very peaceful. Vizag - Palasa, few 6 laned sections were done, many were still diversions. Phew, after crossing AP, entire Odisha almost from Ganjam till Balasore had 6 laning work, flyover work, diversions continuously.We had learnt that the direct Kharagpur to Raniganj road via Bishnupur, Bankura was done and a good choice now, faster than the 120kms longer route via Kolkata Bypass, Burdwan. We had stayed at Kharagpur to do this 2 laned section early morning, and it was a quick drive, very good roads. Nala route was very good to Dumka. But now we had another puzzle to solve, as both river bridges around Dumka were broken in the Monsoon, there were people "helping" to cross the river through the stones over riverbed, but it was time-consuming one. Trucks were taking the Basukinath route and it was jammed. In between both, we had a detour route via Jama to Barapalasi, athlough with a rough road leading to a partially bent bridge over Mayurakshi river, just enough for cars to cross it. We somehow crossed it, Dumka - Bhagalpur was good, except for a truck jam at the JH-BR border for which we took another detour. Deogarh route was bad that year and hence all this adventure via Dumka. Similarly, Dalkhola - Islampur - Bagdogra NH27 had gone very bad, with lots of reports of rough surface and crater potholes all the way. At the same time, Araria - Thakurganj - Siliguri was properly 2 laned tolled road and was a better alternative. We took this road between Araria and Siliguri both onwards and return, except for diversions for couple of broken bridges around Jokihat, it was a good 2 laned road all the way. Totally out of <700kms, only around 40-50kms were 4 laned, rest were all 2 laned roads.Return route :All of us in the group decided to return via North India route, with a visit to long pending Orchha. Was such a relief from all the detours, diversions and was a peaceful return driveOnwards and return route :Huge changes within 2 years in all sections. We took the exact same route for onwards and returnKolkata - Siliguri section had also vastly improved due to Old Delhi Road and STKK Road connectivity to Krishnanagar.Most of the changes have been covered in NE 2022 above. The changes in NE 2023 were :NH16 as well as Kolkata - Siliguri has vastly improved. Out of ~560kms between Dankuni and Ghoshpukur, only 25-30kms is 2laned or having road work via the Ranaghat route. That's 530+ kms of 4 laned roads. On the STKK route, it is ~85kms of 2 laned roads, that's still 475+ kms of 4 laned road. The key is to check the traffic conditions at Ranaghat and Goruanga Setu and decide the route.Yes the entire WB is full of barricades, totos on road.etc ensuring the average speeds are lower than OD or AP, but it is still a huge improvement over the decade as Kolkata - Siliguri can be done in under 10 driving hours comfortably. Bhagalpurs and Dumkas are yesteryear route. Attached Thumbnails The inventor of the market's most famous recession indicator is confident the inverted yield curve is accurately calling a slowdown in 2024 An inverted yield curve has preceded every recession since 1969. The inventor of the famed indicator said it is accurately predicting a downturn this year. When the yield curve inverted in November 2022, he said it was a false signal. Wall Street has ramped up its soft-landing calls for 2024, but a renowned economic expert who popularized the most famous recession indicator in markets says to expect a downturn this year. Campbell Harvey is a Canadian economist and researcher at Duke University whose work showed that, for decades, an inverted yield curve that is, when short-term Treasury yields exceed the yield on longer-term government bonds has preceded as US recession. Dating back to 1968, the indicator's predictive power is eight for eight, with zero false signals. Harvey told host Jack Farley on the Forward Guidance podcast Thursday that given that yields inverted in the fall of 2022, this suggests a recession will happen in the first or second quarter of this year. He had predicted previously that the indicator may turn out to be wrong this time, given the strength in the labor market and other positive economic data. However, he's reversed that outlook. "I had some credibility in saying 'my model could be wrong' because it's my model," Harvey said. "Essentially I was saying it might be possible to dodge a recession, but this was really contingent on the Fed standing down and this is one year ago so standing down and not hiking rates any further. And that is not what happened." The Federal Reserve hiked rates 11 times in the 2022-2023 cycle, spiking its benchmark rate from near 0% to a range of 5.25%-5.50%. "As a result, I've kind of revised my opinion," he continued. "Given the circumstances, I think it is likely we do see much slower growth in 2024." He said the inverted yield curve, in one sense, is a self-fulfilling prophecy as it signals to companies and investors that a slowdown is looming, which then alters spending and business behavior and ultimately leads to less activity. Story continues "It makes the yield curve causal," Harvey said. "This causality channel is much different than in the past." And the inversion itself also isn't the final call on a recession, as experts have noted that it is actually when the curve de-inverts and long-term yields again exceed those of short-term bonds that signals a downturn has arrived. Given its perfect track record, Harvey noted that the indicator is currently allowing firms to make smarter decisions in the current landscape and operate with more caution. Unlike the global financial crisis in 2008, he said companies are more strategic and managing risk, so he's hopeful that there won't be severe layoffs coming. "Indeed it could come to the point where the indicator could come to the point where the indicator just loses its ability to forecast," he said, "but I don't think we're there yet." Read the original article on Business Insider WTF?! A Fujitsu executive has admitted that bugs in its Horizon accounting software that mistakenly led to almost 1,000 UK Post Office workers being convicted for theft or fraud were known about by both businesses from the start. The scandal led to some workers being sent to prison and is linked to at least four suicides. In 1999, Fujitsu subsidiary International Computers Limited installed the Horizon software system in UK post offices. Up until 2015, it was used to prosecute and convict more than 900 sub-postmasters and postmistresses for theft and false accounting after money appeared to be missing from their branches. The bug-riddled Horizon was used as evidence for the prosecutions. Some of those wrongly accused were sent to prison. Many of the victims faced financial ruin and saw their lives and relationships fall apart after being forced to pay back money that had never been stolen in the first place and the massive legal fees. There have also been four known suicides among those wrongfully accused. More than 20 years later, only 93 convictions have been overturned while thousands are still waiting for compensation settlements, writes the BBC. As part of a public inquiry into Fujitsu's reluctance to make Horizon's defects known to the Post Office, Paul Patterson, co-CEO of Fujitsu's European division, said "All the bugs and errors have been known at one level or not, for many, many years. Right from the very start of deployment of the system, there were bugs and errors and defects, which were well-known to all parties." Patterson said the fact that the courts were not told of the 29 Horizon bugs despite them being identified as early as 1999 was "shameful and appalling." When the Horizon bugs were acknowledged, witness statements from Fujitsu staff were edited by the Post Office's lawyers to make it appear as if the system was working without any issues as they continued with their prosecutions against innocent workers. Patterson added that in some witness statements, Fujitsu did not include details of Horizon's many problems, and that the "vast majority" of bugs, errors and defects were shared with the Post Office. "I am surprised that that detail was not included in the witness statements given by Fujitsu staff to the Post Office and I have seen some evidence of editing witness statements by others," Patterson said. When asked if he considered this behavior to be shameful on the part of companies, the executive said "That would be one word I would use." Fujitsu is under pressure to contribute to the 1 billion ($1.2 billion) UK government ministers have allocated to compensate victims. Patterson said the Japanese company is truly sorry for its part in the "appalling miscarriage of justice," and that it has a "moral obligation" to contribute to the compensation of those affected. The Post Office has been asked by the government to look at its previous accounting system, Capture, which also resulted in false convictions after earlier potential miscarriages of justices were uncovered. Fujitsu CEO Takahito Tokita refused to confirm if the company would return any of the money it earned from Horizon. Concerns among parents are growing as AI-generated influencers gain traction on popular social media platforms. TikTok, an app popular among young users, has sparked new criticism, with over 12,000 parents urging the platform to address the potential harm caused by AI-generated content creators (via NBC News). TikTok AI Influencers Promoting Unrealistic Beauty Standards Parents are specifically worried about the promotion of unrealistic beauty standards to children and teenagers, as these AI-generated influencers showcase flawlessly perfected faces and bodies. A recent online petition, spearheaded by the nonprofit ParentsTogether, calls on TikTok to take more decisive action in labeling AI-generated influencers who closely resemble real people. The petition highlights the increasing prevalence of AI-generated "influencers" on TikTok, fueled by the explosive growth of generative AI technology. While virtual influencers have been a part of the social media landscape for years, the recent advancements in AI have blurred the lines between reality and artificial content, making it challenging for users, especially children, to distinguish between the two. Read Also: Emerging AI Hardware Devices to Challenge Smartphones - Or Is It Too Soon? TikTok's Response TikTok responded to the concerns by pointing out that since early last year, the platform has required creators to label all realistic AI-generated content. However, NBC News reports that ParentsTogether campaign director Shelby Knox argues this is insufficient. According to Knox, these videos often remain unlabeled, and viewers may only discover they are watching AI content creators if they delve into the creator's profile. Despite TikTok's assertion that it has removed three accounts flagged by ParentsTogether, the crux of the issue lies in the inconsistency and lack of visibility in labeling AI-generated content. The platform relies on the companies creating these accounts to label them as AI, but with significant financial incentives at stake, many companies fail to do so, leaving young users unaware that the influencers they aspire to emulate aren't real people. "I'm not sure that your average kid knows that a virtual influencer is industry speak for, 'This person isn't real,'" says Knox. "Because these companies are making money on TikTok's platform and it is contributing to a dangerous culture, our view is that TikTok has a responsibility to come in and figure out how to consistently and visibly label these accounts and these videos." Alarming Numbers While recognizing the creativity that AI can unlock, TikTok acknowledges the potential risks when the use of AI is not transparent. The platform emphasizes its proactive stance in building safety efforts to protect viewers while empowering creativity. TikTok explicitly prohibits content that promotes disordered eating or any dangerous weight loss behaviors. The ParentsTogether petition underlines the broader impact of social media on adolescents' body image. Almost half of teenagers aged 13-17 surveyed in the petition claim that social media makes them feel worse about their body image. Stay posted here at Tech Times. Related Article: Hacked Parcel Delivery Company's AI Chatbot Writes Poems About Bad Customer Service 2024 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Finding a business that has the potential to grow substantially is not easy, but it is possible if we look at a few key financial metrics. In a perfect world, we'd like to see a company investing more capital into its business and ideally the returns earned from that capital are also increasing. If you see this, it typically means it's a company with a great business model and plenty of profitable reinvestment opportunities. Having said that, while the ROCE is currently high for Colgate-Palmolive (NYSE:CL), we aren't jumping out of our chairs because returns are decreasing. Understanding Return On Capital Employed (ROCE) If you haven't worked with ROCE before, it measures the 'return' (pre-tax profit) a company generates from capital employed in its business. The formula for this calculation on Colgate-Palmolive is: Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) (Total Assets - Current Liabilities) 0.31 = US$3.5b (US$16b - US$4.6b) (Based on the trailing twelve months to September 2023). So, Colgate-Palmolive has an ROCE of 31%. In absolute terms that's a great return and it's even better than the Household Products industry average of 16%. Check out our latest analysis for Colgate-Palmolive roce In the above chart we have measured Colgate-Palmolive's prior ROCE against its prior performance, but the future is arguably more important. If you'd like, you can check out the forecasts from the analysts covering Colgate-Palmolive here for free. What Does the ROCE Trend For Colgate-Palmolive Tell Us? In terms of Colgate-Palmolive's historical ROCE movements, the trend isn't fantastic. While it's comforting that the ROCE is high, five years ago it was 44%. On the other hand, the company has been employing more capital without a corresponding improvement in sales in the last year, which could suggest these investments are longer term plays. It may take some time before the company starts to see any change in earnings from these investments. Story continues The Key Takeaway To conclude, we've found that Colgate-Palmolive is reinvesting in the business, but returns have been falling. Since the stock has gained an impressive 47% over the last five years, investors must think there's better things to come. However, unless these underlying trends turn more positive, we wouldn't get our hopes up too high. Like most companies, Colgate-Palmolive does come with some risks, and we've found 3 warning signs that you should be aware of. If you want to search for more stocks that have been earning high returns, check out this free list of stocks with solid balance sheets that are also earning 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. A business manager suspected of having ordered the attack on an elected official from Saint-Denis Tigrane Seydoux, the Frenchman behind the fashionable Italians in Madrid in which you always have to visit the bathroom Energy transition: The experts say so, the Court of Auditors says so Ticks: How to protect yourself from the increasing tick population when taking a walk in the forest International newspapers: Gaza is bringing Washington back to the region, and Netanyahu may lose his position Annoyed by a kissing couple: woman attacks the person sitting next to her on the train A member of the Fatwa Council in Britain calls on Western Muslims to adhere to their religion and identity Death and stuff, the worst series of the week: the copy of a copy of a copy of Agatha Christie Alaska Airlines passenger about hole in plane wall: "I kept staring into the hole and hoping it wouldn't tear any further" Alaska Airlines passenger about hole in plane wall: "I kept staring into the hole and hoping it wouldn't tear any further" La Fievre with Ana Girardot and Nina Meurisse: what is the new event series from Canal+ worth? Ines Reg criticized for her attitude in Dancing with the Stars: the comedian breaks the silence 9th day of the Grand Sumo Spring Tournament New entrant with only one winner Takafuji 9 consecutive wins IN PICTURES - Football: discover the new Blues jerseys for Euro 2024 and the Olympics For the fifth time in a row: Medvedev lost again to Alcaraz in the Masters final in Indian Wells Badminton Akane Yamaguchi "Shidamatsu" pair and others are guaranteed to participate in the Paris Olympics Rugby: here is the program of the French XV for the rest of 2024 Jean-Marie Rouart, the writer-academician, looks back on December 19, 1964, the entry of Jean Moulin into the Pantheon Yen exchange rate: The yen depreciates to the low 149 yen level to the dollar, due to speculation regarding monetary policy. Daihatsu's name announced by the FTC: ``We were waiting, but we will set up a forum for discussions.'' La Unio denounces the second detection of Moroccan strawberries with hepatitis A in nine days Without unnecessary risks: the ruble has risen in price on the Moscow Exchange following the results of the presidential elections in Russia The "wave of rework" after the Spring Festival has driven the rental market in Guangzhou to heat up rapidly In the first two months, the total foreign trade import and export value of Kashgar, Xinjiang increased by 90% year-on-year. Italy: the four Egyptians accused of the murder of Giulio Regeni will be tried in absentia The UN Secretary General called the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki a massacre, without mentioning the guilt of the United States According to the UN, Gaza is threatened with imminent famine, Israel is refusing UNRWA chief entry Zakat is its most important resource.. How did the Somali Al-Shabaab movement build its financial network? The Ministry of Defense proposed to reduce AWOL, which does not count towards service life The Madrid Bar Association denounces the Prosecutor's Office for revealing confidential data about Ayuso's partner in an "unprecedented event" Shtayyeh rejects the foreign presence in Gaza and warns against displacement through the sea corridor Civil servants will have the salary increase after Easter and before the Budgets are approved Niger: what follow-up after the denunciation of the military agreement between Niamey and Washington? TikTok is at the heart of the US election season Putin: all traitors fighting against Russia will be identified by name and they will not be given peace Urgent | Al Jazeera obtains exclusive photos showing the Qassam tracking the movements of officer in the Shaldag unit, Yitzhar Hoffman, before he was killed by a snipers bullet. Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant First detection of object that may contain nuclear fuel debris on water Defeat in the FA Cup: Klopp breaks off interview I have no nerves for you In light of the confrontation with Israel... where has the Hezbollah-Free Patriotic Movement alliance reached? Operation seduction of the head of Chinese diplomacy in New Zealand and Australia 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. Japan Foods Holding (Catalist:5OI) has had a rough three months with its share price down 23%. It seems that the market might have completely ignored the positive aspects of the company's fundamentals and decided to weigh-in more on the negative aspects. Fundamentals usually dictate market outcomes so it makes sense to study the company's financials. Particularly, we will be paying attention to Japan Foods Holding's ROE today. Return on equity or ROE is a key measure used to assess how efficiently a company's management is utilizing the company's capital. In short, ROE shows the profit each dollar generates with respect to its shareholder investments. See our latest analysis for Japan Foods Holding How To Calculate Return On Equity? Return on equity can be calculated by using the formula: Return on Equity = Net Profit (from continuing operations) Shareholders' Equity So, based on the above formula, the ROE for Japan Foods Holding is: 6.0% = S$1.9m S$31m (Based on the trailing twelve months to September 2023). The 'return' refers to a company's earnings over the last year. So, this means that for every SGD1 of its shareholder's investments, the company generates a profit of SGD0.06. What Is The Relationship Between ROE And Earnings Growth? We have already established that ROE serves as an efficient profit-generating gauge for a company's future earnings. Depending on how much of these profits the company reinvests or "retains", and how effectively it does so, we are then able to assess a companys earnings growth potential. Assuming everything else remains unchanged, the higher the ROE and profit retention, the higher the growth rate of a company compared to companies that don't necessarily bear these characteristics. A Side By Side comparison of Japan Foods Holding's Earnings Growth And 6.0% ROE At first glance, Japan Foods Holding's ROE doesn't look very promising. Yet, a closer study shows that the company's ROE is similar to the industry average of 6.5%. Even so, Japan Foods Holding has shown a fairly decent growth in its net income which grew at a rate of 7.8%. Taking into consideration that the ROE is not particularly high, we reckon that there could also be other factors at play which could be influencing the company's growth. Such as - high earnings retention or an efficient management in place. Story continues When you consider the fact that the industry earnings have shrunk at a rate of 9.5% in the same 5-year period, the company's net income growth is pretty remarkable. Catalist:5OI Past Earnings Growth January 21st 2024 Earnings growth is a huge factor in stock valuation. What investors need to determine next is if the expected earnings growth, or the lack of it, is already built into the share price. This then helps them determine if the stock is placed for a bright or bleak future. Is Japan Foods Holding fairly valued compared to other companies? These 3 valuation measures might help you decide. Is Japan Foods Holding Efficiently Re-investing Its Profits? While Japan Foods Holding has a three-year median payout ratio of 100% (which means it retains 0.2% of profits), the company has still seen a fair bit of earnings growth in the past, meaning that its high payout ratio hasn't hampered its ability to grow. Additionally, Japan Foods Holding has paid dividends over a period of at least ten years which means that the company is pretty serious about sharing its profits with shareholders. Our latest analyst data shows that the future payout ratio of the company is expected to drop to 67% over the next three years. As a result, the expected drop in Japan Foods Holding's payout ratio explains the anticipated rise in the company's future ROE to 9.1%, over the same period. Conclusion On the whole, we feel that the performance shown by Japan Foods Holding can be open to many interpretations. Although the company has shown a pretty impressive growth in earnings, yet the low ROE and the low rate of reinvestment makes us skeptical about the continuity of that growth, especially when or if the business comes to face any threats. That being so, the latest analyst forecasts show that the company will continue to see an expansion in its earnings. Are these analysts expectations based on the broad expectations for the industry, or on the company's fundamentals? Click here to be taken to our analyst's forecasts page for the company. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. New Orleans has something uniquely wild in its northeast corner. Bayou Sauvage is the largest national wildlife refuge that's completely within a city. Not far from tall buildings, crowded streets and busy shopping strips, the 30,000-acre swath of forest and marsh is a haven for deer, snakes, alligators and more than 340 species of birds. Before making his last stand in the Battle of Little Bighorn, Gen. George Armstrong Custer was stationed in Alexandria. This is a short way of answering a question posed by Alexandria resident Cynthia Jardon, asking for details about Custer's reported stay in Louisiana. Well, as stated earlier, yes, it's true. But, of course, there's always a story behind the story. Custer's Louisiana story began after the Civil War's end, and, as central Louisiana historian Michael D. Wynne puts it, "there's a lot more layers to this onion than people realize." Wynne is author of the 2022 book, "Custer in Alexandria and Other Fascinating Wartime Stories from Central Louisiana." "Everybody thinks the Civil War ended on April 14, 1865, with the surrender at Appomattox," he said. "But it didn't. There were a lot of Confederates who did not want to swear allegiance to the United States, and they ran off to Texas and Mexico. Of course, you have Juneteenth, when the slaves weren't even completely released in the United States until June 19, 1865. We were entering reconstruction, and President Andrew Johnson sent troops into the South to completely get control." Amjad Bseisu has called for a more gradual transition than Labour has outlined in its net zero plans - Andrew Crowley Labours plan to ban new oil and gas drilling is economically senseless and threatens to bring forward rig shutdowns by a decade, a major North Sea operator has warned. Amjad Bseisu, chief executive of Enquest, said blocking new drilling licences would put jobs and investment at risk, while bringing forward shutdown costs for the taxpayer. The company operates oil and gas platforms as well as the Sullom Voe terminal, where huge quantities of oil from the West of Shetland basin are processed. Labour has vowed to block all new oil and gas developments if it comes to power, investing in renewable energy instead. Mr Bseisu warned that if a ban on new licences is introduced, Enquests two large Magnus and Kraken platforms would become less economic and be put at risk of early closure. The ban would not directly halt drilling at the two sites, which have licences already, but it would lead to reduced investment in the North Sea overall, forcing operators to accelerate decommissioning of rigs that are already operational. In that scenario, Magnus would have to be decommissioned 10 years early in the mid-2020s. The date for Kraken, which is currently scheduled to shut down at some point between the late 2030s to the early 2040s, would likely move forward by five years. That would hit the Treasury with extra costs earlier than expected, as oil companies receive big tax breaks for decommissioning. Speaking to The Telegraph, Mr Bseisu said: If the Government [under Labour] said theres no new field licences, it would be economically senseless. It will exacerbate the decline of the industry and actually exacerbate the costs to the taxpayer, because we will have to decommission everything sooner rather than later. You drill a well and the well declines. Without drilling another well to extract further production, decline rates will be exacerbated. And once you get to a certain level in a field, it becomes uneconomic and you have to go to decommissioning. I would assume, in many cases at least, a decade acceleration in field life. Story continues Mr Bseisu added: We will still need oil and gas. And [if we ban new drilling], we will just end up importing more and destroying jobs in the UK, having a higher carbon footprint and a larger trade deficit. It should be evolution, not revolution its called a transition. Labour has insisted that there are enough existing North Sea licences to ensure production continues and argued that granting more conflicts with Britains agreements to tackle climate change. On Sunday a party spokesman said: Labour is proud of our close working relationship with the oil and gas industry. Shadow energy secretary Ed Miliband and Labour leader Keir Starmer visited Aberdeen in November 2023 for discussions that were praised by leading industry figures. Unlike the Conservatives, whose own Energy Bill has been criticised by the industry and led to one of their MPs resigning, Labour has an industry-backed plan to deliver energy security for our country. It comes as the developer behind Cambo, Britains largest and most controversial remaining oil field, races to seek approval for the project before an autumn election. Shell, the previous owner, cancelled its plans to develop Cambo in 2021 after a huge backlash from environmental groups and senior Labour politicians including Ed Miliband, who repeatedly attacked the company and the project. But Ithaca Energy, which bought out Shells share, now says its final development plan will be lodged within months, with development to follow over 2024 to 2026. Ithaca said the aim was to get the project fully approved before autumn 2024. Cambo could produce about 170m barrels of oil equivalent during its 25-year operational life at half the carbon intensity of the average barrel of North Sea oil, according to the company. It has also promised there will be no gas flaring at Cambo and that its rigs will be powered by electricity, rather than gas or diesel. Israeli-owned Ithaca is also involved in the similarly controversial Rosebank development, which is led by Equinor. As part of the UKs target to reach net zero, Enquest is separately working on plans to use the Sullom Voe facility for sequestering carbon emissions under the ocean. Under the scheme, which is awaiting a final investment decision, the company would receive liquified carbon dioxide from tanker ships at the terminal before pumping it through existing pipelines into depleted oil fields. Enquest is also looking at potential green hydrogen or green ammonia production facilities, powered by nearby offshore wind farms in Shetland. Green hydrogen has been touted as a potential replacement for natural gas while green ammonia could replace chemicals used to produce fertilisers or be made into fuel for container ships. Mr Bseisu said final approval for the scheme would depend on the UK successfully striking agreements with other countries to allow CO2 shipments. The company has already secured carbon storage licences from the North Sea Transition Authority. 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. Astonishingly, despite being the subject of a national manhunt for the murder, Rogerson was still trying to finalise another criminal enterprise: a $15 million extortion attempt on wealthy property developer Ron Medich, who was facing his own murder charge at the time. Youve seen all the stuff on the news and whatever, its f---ing dreadful, Rogerson was heard saying on a taped call. Despite this setback, he wanted to confirm that the planned extortion was still going ahead. Roger Rogerson (left) and Glen McNamara during their trial for the murder of Jamie Gao during an "inept" drug rip-off. Credit: Daniel Munoz, Dominic Lorrimer In 2016, Rogerson and McNamara were jailed for life. During their trial, Rogerson claimed that Gao pulled a gun on McNamara and, in the ensuing struggle, Gao shot himself in the chest twice. It had only been a decade since Rogersons release from jail having served a year behind bars for lying to the Police Integrity Commission. Roger Rogerson Credit: Brendan Esposito Few in the community would not have heard of Roger Rogerson, said the sentencing Judge Peter Berman at the time. He noted Rogerson had once quipped he should have changed his name by deed poll to Disgraced Former Detective. As a police officer, Rogerson was present on two occasions when police shot and killed people, and on another two occasions he shot and killed people himself. The most famous of these was the heroin dealer Warren Lanfranchi, whom Rogerson shot and killed in Dangar Place in Chippendale in June 1981. Lanfranchi, according to his girlfriend Sallie-Anne Huckstepp, was unarmed and carrying $10,000. He was delivered to the meeting by major crime figure Neddy Smith, who was later acquitted of Huckstepps murder. Huckstepp was found in a pond in Centennial Park in 1986. Smith died in jail while serving a life sentence for an unrelated murder. Lanfranchis money was never found. Rogerson was found to have fatally shot Lanfranchi while trying to make an arrest, but the jury failed to find that it was in self-defence. Loading In 1994, the then-ICAC commissioner, Ian Temby, QC, found the relationship between Rogerson and Smith, a convicted murderer, rapist and underworld kingpin, was corrupt and well known to very many police and many criminals. The notorious relationship between Smith and Rogerson went unsupervised over many years, Temby wrote in his February 1994 report. Arthur Neddy Smith was jailed for life for murder. Credit: Robert Pearce Rogersons dealings with Smith brought discredit on the police service, and must be described as scandalous. Christopher Dale Flannery was last seen in May 1985. Credit: Archive In 1984, undercover detective Michael Drury was shot twice at close range at his Chatswood home in front of his wife and two young daughters. It was just months before he was due to testify in a major drug trial. Fearing he wouldnt survive, Drury gave a dying deposition accusing fellow officer Rogerson of offering him a bribe. The following year, Rogerson was acquitted of the bribery charges. In 1989, he was also acquitted of conspiring with hitman Christopher Dale Flannery and the confessed drug dealer Alan Williams to murder Drury. Rogerson was also widely suspected of murdering Flannery, also known as Mr Rent-a-Kill, who was last seen in May 1985. At an inquest into Flannerys suspected murder, Neddy Smith maintained the one person Flannery trusted was Rogerson and that, after Flannery disappeared, Rogerson said to him: Chris had to go, mate. He was becoming a danger to us all. In a strange twist, it was the plans Rogerson made on the expectation he would be jailed for the Drury matter that ultimately brought him undone. While the jury was deliberating on his fate, Rogerson was overheard telling his then-wife Joy about his secret bank accounts that had been established during the Drury trial. In 1990, Rogerson was found guilty and jailed for conspiring to pervert the course of justice with two other men for organising bank accounts totalling $110,000 in false names. Roger Rogerson in Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, on December 1, 1982. Credit: Archive He spent nine months in jail before being acquitted on appeal. But, in 1992, the appeal was quashed and, for the third time, the once-celebrated detective was back in a prison cell. In 1995, the same year he was released from jail, Rogersons infamy was heightened after the screening of Ian Davids famous TV series Blue Murder. When asked about the famous scene where Lanfranchi was shot, Rogerson said: I mean, he made it out to be this f---ing conspiracy between the 18 coppers who were there that day, when really it was just a Saturday afternoons work as far as we were concerned. Of the scriptwriter, Rogerson said, Ian David is a boof-headed, bald-headed, big-headed c---. I should have sued the c--- and those f---wits at the ABC but of course Ive got no credit left. Richard Roxburgh playing Rogerson in the 1995 TV series Blue Murder. Rogerson filed a defamation case against reporter Kate McClymont in 1997. He didnt proceed. He later complained to 2GBs Chris Smith, This reporter, she goes on with a lot of nonsense about the shenanigans and the comings and goings of certain people. Following his release from prison for lying to the Police Integrity Commission in February 2006, Rogerson rejoined the pub circuit regaling drinkers alongside notorious criminal Mark Chopper Read with tales of their dubious exploits. What would you do if you had millions of dollars in family wealth at your disposal? For an increasing number of younger Australians, the answer is obvious: tackle the climate crisis. The turning point for Hannah Skrzynski, 37, came when her eldest child had a bit of an existential crisis a few years ago, at age 7. Hannah Skrzynski with children Hugo Hutchinson, 9, and Mia Hutchinson, 7, at their home in Bondi. Her childrens concerns about climate change were a turning point for the board director of Groundswell. Credit: Dion Georgopoulos Theyd been learning about climate change [at school], and he came home, and he burst into tears and said, its over, you cant fix it now, its too late, she said. We had this big talk and I was saying no, there are strategies. And he said, well, what are we doing? What are you doing? It was such a direct question and I wanted to be able to answer it. When Stephen Ryan heard how artist Ellis Rowan entered the jungles of New Guinea in 1916 to sketch birds of paradise and wildflowers, he was amazed. Ryan, a nurseryman and former host of ABC TVs Gardening Australia, said that for a woman clad in a long dress, gloves and hat to venture into dense forest and tropical heat in that era, which she did on two trips, would have been extremely challenging. Gardening presenter Stephen Ryan and sculptor Jennifer Mann with Ellis Rowans murals in Melbournes Australian Club. Credit: Penny Stephens But he said Rowan, a passionate painter of plants, birds and insects who was known as the Flower Hunter and who defied convention and travelled the world, did so in the pursuit of beauty and rarity. She wanted to find things that no one else had found. She was an explorer, in her own way, Ryan says. Mumbai: If you go to a street-side vegetable stall in India, theres likely to be a small sign with a QR code nestled among the fresh produce. Those codes, which allow real-time digital payments, are part of a lightning-fast financial transformation playing out in the worlds most populous nation. A grocery store displays a QR code for digital payments in Bengaluru, India. Credit: Bloomberg In October, the government-backed payments system, the Unified Payments Interface, processed a staggering 11.4 billion transactions, up 56 per cent in a year. The system is one pillar of what India calls its digital public infrastructure, along with a vast personal identification scheme (most of its 1.4 billion people are registered) and a nationwide digital data exchange. Bitter cold is gripping large parts of Americas south, creating hazardous conditions for millions in a region not accustomed to freezing temperatures. On Saturday evening (Sunday AEDT), it was minus 11 degrees in Louisville, Kentucky, and in Nashville, Tennessee, it was minus 6 degrees in Little Rock, Arkansas and in Atlanta, Georgia. Several states were under wind-chill advisories and other freeze warnings as frigid temperatures were expected to continue. A mostly empty Beale Street in Memphis, as a winter storm gripped much of Tennessee. Credit: NYT The extreme cold, which followed days of subfreezing temperatures earlier in the week, was not limited to the south, with single-digit temperatures reported across much of the north. But for states that do not typically experience prolonged periods of ice and bitter wind chills, the past week has been particularly harsh. In Tennessee, where severe winter weather began last Sunday and the cold snap has lingered for days, health authorities have confirmed at least 19 weather-related deaths. And problems at water utilities had authorities advising thousands of residents to boil their water before drinking it. Water issues also affected many parts of Arkansas, where the National Guard assisted communities in delivering potable water. Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra enters Arunachal Pradesh ITANAGAR : CONGRESSBharat Jodo Nyay Yatra led by Rahul Gandhi on Saturday entered Arunachal Pradesh from Assam. The Congress leader was received by Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) President Nabam Tuki at the Gumto check gate in Papum Pare district, where the flag handover ceremony was held. The flag handover ceremony was held between Tuki and Assam Pradesh Congress Committee President Bhupen Borah in the presence of senior party leaders from both the States. Speaking on the occasion, Gandhi thanked the people for the warm welcome. Adorned with traditional Nyishi headgear, Gandhi proceeded to Doimukh along withhundreds of party workers, where he would address a public rally. From Doimukh, Gandhi would reachNaharlagun by bus and interact with street vendors. The Congress leader wouldthen move towards NyokumLapang from where he wouldembark on a foot march to theMalo Tarin Government higher secondary school ground toaddress a public rally. Gandhi would also addressa press conference at Itanagaron Saturday. Gandhi will leave the Statecapital on Sunday. Flash Children are seen among the rubble of a destroyed building after an Israeli airstrike in the southern Gaza Strip city of Rafah, on Jan. 17, 2024. (Photo by Yasser Qudih/Xinhua) Nasir Mahdi, a Palestinian man living in Gaza, is clouded with anxiety and worry as he has been cut off from all contact with his family in Gaza City for more than a week due to the communications blackout in the coastal enclave. "I used to call my family every day to check on their states. However, I've lost all my connectivity with them ... I'm worried about their fate," said the 55-year-old father of four, who, currently staying in a temporary tent on the street of the southernmost Rafah city, has been displaced for more than three months amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. Sitting with his sons and grandchildren amid the sound of explosions caused by the Israeli raids, Mahdi looked from time to time at his mobile phone, hoping for the return of telecommunications services at any moment. "It is too hard to wait for the news about your family and relatives without knowing if they've survived the Israeli attacks," he said. "My body is here, but my thinking is with my daughters in Gaza City... I cannot withstand any more losses." For Mohammed Sami, a Palestinian man currently staying in the West Bank city of Ramallah, every attempt to reach his sons and daughters in Rafah city has failed. Three days before the outbreak of the conflict, he left Gaza for treatment in the West Bank and luckily escaped the bloody battles. But now, the 62-year-old father of six is haunted by agitation due to the near-total communications blackout in Gaza. "The only means of communication between us has been cut off ... I don't know whether they have survived intense Israeli raids," he said. In a bid to search for the news on his family, Sami is spending all his time in front of the TV to follow up on all the information related to Gaza. "I prayed a lot to not hear the names of my family members among the casualties," he said. On Jan. 12, Palestinian telecommunications companies operating in the Gaza Strip announced a communications blackout in most parts of the besieged enclave, the ninth such outage since Oct. 7, 2023. The continued interruption of telecommunications and internet services would "cause disasters that threaten the lives of citizens," Ismail Thawabta, head of the Hamas-run government media office in Gaza, told Xinhua. "No one will be able to reach the casualties or ambulances, which may lead to the increase of the deaths." Thawabta also called on international organizations to "pressure Israel to resume communication services and put an end to this recurrent and continuous tragedy." Key Insights Kotra Industries Berhad's estimated fair value is RM5.00 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity Current share price of RM4.80 suggests Kotra Industries Berhad is potentially trading close to its fair value The average premium for Kotra Industries Berhad's competitorsis currently 36% Today we will run through one way of estimating the intrinsic value of Kotra Industries Berhad (KLSE:KOTRA) by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. This will be done using the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Models like these may appear beyond the comprehension of a lay person, but they're fairly easy to follow. We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. 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 Kotra Industries Berhad The Method We are going to use a two-stage DCF model, which, as the name states, takes into account two stages of growth. The first stage is generally a higher growth period which levels off heading towards the terminal value, captured in the second 'steady growth' period. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. 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 need to discount the sum of these future cash flows to arrive at a present value estimate: Story continues 10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (MYR, Millions) RM48.4m RM46.9m RM46.4m RM46.5m RM47.1m RM48.0m RM49.2m RM50.6m RM52.1m RM53.7m Growth Rate Estimate Source Est @ -5.98% Est @ -3.12% Est @ -1.12% Est @ 0.28% Est @ 1.26% Est @ 1.95% Est @ 2.43% Est @ 2.77% Est @ 3.00% Est @ 3.17% Present Value (MYR, Millions) Discounted @ 9.0% RM44.4 RM39.5 RM35.8 RM33.0 RM30.6 RM28.6 RM26.9 RM25.4 RM24.0 RM22.7 ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = RM311m After calculating the present value of future cash flows in the initial 10-year period, we need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all future cash flows beyond the first stage. For a number of reasons a very conservative growth rate is used that cannot exceed that of a country's GDP growth. In this case we have used the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield (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 9.0%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033 (1 + g) (r g) = RM54m (1 + 3.6%) (9.0% 3.6%) = RM1.0b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= RM1.0b ( 1 + 9.0%)10= RM431m 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 RM742m. The last step is to then divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of RM4.8, the company appears about fair value at a 4.0% discount to where the stock price trades currently. Valuations are imprecise instruments though, rather like a telescope - move a few degrees and end up in a different galaxy. Do keep this in mind. KLSE:KOTRA Discounted Cash Flow January 21st 2024 Important Assumptions We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Kotra Industries 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 9.0%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.800. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business. SWOT Analysis for Kotra Industries Berhad Strength Currently debt free. Dividend is in the top 25% of dividend payers in the market. Weakness Earnings declined over the past year. Opportunity Annual revenue is forecast to grow faster than the Malaysian market. Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value. Threat Dividends are not covered by cash flow. Looking Ahead: Valuation is only one side of the coin in terms of building your investment thesis, and 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. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. For Kotra Industries Berhad, we've put together three pertinent items you should explore: Risks: Case in point, we've spotted 1 warning sign for Kotra Industries Berhad you should be aware of. Future Earnings: How does KOTRA's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered! PS. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the KLSE every day. If you want to find the calculation for other stocks just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. 100% free from Naxalism India will rid menace in three years: Shah TEZPUR (Assam) : UNION Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday asserted that the country will be free from the menace of Naxalism in the next three years. Shah, while addressing the Sashastra Seema Bals 60th Raising Day at Salonibari near here, also said among all the Central Armed Police Forces, SSB plays a unique role in minutely integrating culture, history, topography and language of the border villages, and bringing people in those areas closer to rest of the country. Besides guarding the borders, the SSB along with other CAPFs have performed their duties effectively against the Naxals in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, he said. In the next three years, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the country will be 100 per cent free from the Naxal problem, asserted Shah. The Home Minister presented awards for exemplary service to six SSB personnel along with trophies to three battalions, besides releasinga postagestampon the occasion. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was present at the event, too. Later at the 13th Triennial ConferenceoftheAllBathou Mahasabha in Dhekiajuli, Shah said, the Congress had a policy to divert attention from problems and enjoy power, which led to the deaths of thousands of people in the region, particularly in the Bodoland. The Union Home Minister added that Prime Minister Narendra Modis mission of bringing peace and development in the north-easthas been successful. When I became Home Minister, the Bodo movement was underway and I made a sincere attempt to understand the problems and demands of one of the largest communities of the north-east, he said. The Prime Minister also viewed it from a new perspectiveandtheproblemwas resolved with Bodoland today being free from bomb blasts, firing and violence, Shah said. Addressing the passing out parade of the first batch of the five newly-constituted Assam Police Commando battalions,Shah said the Centre is rethinking the free-movement facility with Myanmar. The India-Myanmar border will be protected like the Bangladesh border... The Government of India will stop the free movement with Myanmar, he said. Cleaning work of Wazukhanaarea completed after SC order VARANASI : THE cleaning work of the Wazukhana or ablution area of the Gyanvapi mosque was completed on Saturday under the supervision of the District Magistrate of Varanasi, members of both the Hindu and Muslim sides said. During this work, a large number of police force and CRPF personnel were present in and around Gyanvapi campus. Thedistrictadministration carried the cleaning workfollowingordersof the Supreme Court.Advocate of the Hindu side Sudhir Tripathi said the cleaning work started around 9.15 am under the supervision of District Magistrate S Rajalingam and continued for about two-and-a- half hours. A team of 26 people including municipal cleaning workers, Fisheries Department and fire brigade employees were present in the work. Also, all the four litigants from the Hindu side and their advocates as well as the litigants from the Muslim side and their advocates were present. Tripathi said three motor pumps were installed to remove water from the tank built in Wazu khana. After draining the water, the tank was cleaned thoroughly.After cleaning,the washroom was also sealed again. Secretary of the Intejamia Masajid Committee Mohammad Yasin said after the tank was cleaned, dead fish lying in it were handed over to the Municipal Corporation employees. He added the administration gave over 40 live fish to him. ED at Sorens residence Begins questioning RANCHI : SLEUTHS of the Enforcement Directorate (ED)on Saturday interrogated Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren for over seven hours in connection with a money laundering case linked to land deals, following which he claimed that a conspiracy was hatched against him. The entire area has turned into a virtual fortress with heavy deployment of security forces, an official said. Soren, 48, who is also the executive president of the ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, had earlier skipped seven summonses by the ED Hefinally gave hisconsent afterthe probe agency summoned him for the eighth time. The ED sleuths reached Sorens residence around 1 pm, the official said. Security personnel, deployed inlarge numbers at the spot, are using high-resolution body cameras to keep trackof activities aroundthe house, he said. The measure comes inthe wake of the recent attack on ED officials in West Bengal duringaraidpertainingtoan alleged multi-crore ration distribution scam. Meanwhile, the JMM convened a meeting of its legislators at Sorens residence. TheEDisquestioningthe CM.We are also holding our meeting. Any strategy about the future course of action will be made based on the outcome of the questioning, JMM General Secretary and spokesperson Supriyo Bhattacharya told PTI. Jamtara MLA Irfan Ansari, who met Soren before being quizzed by the ED officials, saidtheChief Minister asked party workers to be patient. The CM, after seeing me, turned emotional and asked us to have patience, Ansari said. Asked about the protest by tribals against the ED summons to Soren, Bhattacharya said it was spontaneous, and the JMM had not taken any call on that. JMM workers armed with bows and arrows were reportedly spotted around 100 metres from the CMs residence. CongressJharkhand president Rajesh Thakur said that party MLAs were also presenttoexpress solidaritywith Soren. Jharkhand Advocate General Rajiv Ranjan, DGP Ajay Kumar Singh, Deputy Commissioner, Ranchi, Rahul Kumar Sinha and SSP Chandan Kumar Sinha are also at Sorens residence in view of the ED questioning. The investigationpertains to a huge racket of illegal change of ownership of land by the mafia in Jharkhand, according to the central probe agency. It has so far arrested 14 people inthe case, including 2011-batchIASofficerChhavi Ranjan, who served as the Director of the States Social Welfare Department and deputy commissioner of Ranchi. JMM MLA Ramdas Soren claimed that this was an attempt to destabilise the Jharkhand Government. Nikhil Gupta can be extradited to US: Czech court PRAGUE : A CZECH High Court has ruled that Indian national Nikhil Gupta, detained in a prison here on murder-for-hire charges in an alleged assassination attempt on a Khalistani extremist on American soil, can be extradited to the US, according to local media reports. Gupta, 52, was charged by US federal prosecutors in an indictment unsealed in November last year with working with an Indian government employee in an alleged plot to kill Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who holds dual US and Canadian citizenships, on American soil. Gupta, arrested in the Czech Republic on June 30 last year, is currently held in Pragues Pankrak prison. The Prague HC confirmed in a closed session that Gupta canbe extradited to the US, theSeznam.Cz web portal reported onFriday. The Prague High Courtsorder came as it rejected Guptasappeal against a December decision by a lower court that ruledthat extradition was allowed. Pran Pratishtha Tight security in city Staff Reporter : Enhanced security measures have been implemented in the city for hundreds of programmes planned to mark the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla idol at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya scheduled for Monday. A contingent of 3,500 police personnel will be strategically deployed across Nagpur city with a focus on intensified patrolling. Commissioner of Police (CP) Amitesh Kumar stated that approximately 700 rallies and religious events are slated to take place in various parts of the city to mark the occasion. A dedicated meeting was convened to plan the security arrangements, with a focus on robust measures for the event day, he said. We have devised a comprehensive security plan to ensure the safety of the city during the event, the top cop asserted. According to the CP, various activities such as rallies, Maha Aarti, Shobhayatra, and live video events are scheduled across the city. Local police station-level officers have been assigned the responsibility of continuous patrolling in their respective jurisdictions. Officers in uniform and plain-clothes both will be strategically stationed throughout the city to respond quickly to address any instances of anti-social or violent behavior. From the Commissioner of Police to Police Constables, personnel will be actively present in the field throughout the day to uphold peace in the city. To bolster vigilance and expedite responses to any untoward incidents, mobile surveillance vehicles equipped with CCTV cameras will patrol the city streets. Security arrangements will also involve the collaboration of Traffic Police, Quick Response Teams (QRT), Riot Control Police (RCP), and personnel from all police stations. The City police also conducted a meeting of community members to maintain the peace during the event. The police officials have appealed to citizens to adhere to prescribed norms while participating in the consecration ceremony at the Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. R C Plasto Tanks & Pipes dealers meet held in Bali-Indonesia Business Reporter : The worlds largest tank manufacturing company RC Plasto Tanks and Pipes Pvt. Ltd. organised Dealers Meet in Bali-Indonesia. Top 100 dealers of the company participated in this dealers meet. In this event, an award ceremony was also organised on the basis of highest performance, in which Plasto dealers Om Sai Traders (Nagpur), Om Shree Hardware (Nagpur), Swaraj Traders (Nanded), PR Enterprises (Amrawati), Veer Traders (Nagpur) etc. were rewarded for their excellent performance. The award ceremony was organised to encourage the distributors as well as to appreciate the excellent work done by them and to give them new energy to do better work. All the dealers present at the Bali-Indonesia Dealers Meet appreciated the company management for organising this event by sharing their important experiences with the company on a single platform. In the event, company directors Nilesh Agarwal and Vishal Agarwal informed the dealers about the new future plans of the company and gave information about the upcoming new plants. Sparsh Aggarwal, Director of New Generation, told the participants about the upcoming faucets and took suggestions about the products from the dealers. Vedant Aggarwal also participated in this event, as the company is going to give him new responsibility soon. Team building games were also organized by the company which were conducted by the companys Senior Sales Managers Anurag Pandey and Narendra Dhole. All the dealers enjoyed very much, says a press release. TILL THE HISTORIC MOMENT Through the bylanes of memory... By KARTIK LOKHANDE : January 22, 2024, is going to be a momentous and monumental occasion in history for not only Ayodhya, but also the nation as a whole. But, the journey to this occasion has been tumultuous. There have been religious, legal, social, cultural, political dimensions to the story of Ramjanmabhoomi issue. But, for pious Hindus, it is the journey in spirituality, of faith thatsomeday there will be a grand ShriRamTemple atRamjanmabhoomi site. As someone who had seen the violent phase of the Ramjanmabhoomi agitation, demolition of Babri Masjid, and subsequent law and order situation that had erupted acrossthe country including the villages, Ramjanmabhoomi had always been a matter of curiosity. Finally, in 2013, after almost 21 years since the demolition of Babri Masjid at the site, the opportunity came... to visit Ayodhya. When we started from Lucknow by road, journalistic excitement started building up. Throughout the journey, the topic of discussion was, of course, Ramjanmabhoomi dispute and its various dimensions. As we reached the outskirts of Ayodhya, the first thing that struck us was the imposing entrance gate to the city. The lines from Ramayana painted in bold letters on the arch, welcomed the visitors to the temple-town of Ayodhya. Of course, being still a sensitive area, police barricades were placed at various locations. As our vehicle proceeded through the town, life looked as usual. In fact, irrespective of other goingson in the backdrop at a higher level, Hindus and Muslims both were seen mingling with each other, while buying daily need items or enjoying cup of tea together. After all, Ayodhya and Faizabad are now closely associated with each other. Taking a halt nearthe Post Office, one could see the remnants of the old city in the shape of stone-brickmortar structures and the dense add-on shops that had come up around the old structures as years got added to the life of Ayodhya. The marketplaces gave enough hint of local culture. There were shops, clinics, tea-stalls, clothes stores and what not! As the vehicle proceeded towards the narrow and crowded road that led to Hanuman Gadhi, Kanak Bhavan, and Ramjanmabhoomi, we had to stop at the security check-post. The cops passed several instructions like not carrying camera while going to the Ramjanmabhoomi site and not clicking pictures where it was not allowed. Moving ahead through the crowded road, one came acrossthe othershops giving way to smaller shops selling audio cassettees, CDs, booklets, flags, prasad, flowers, garlands, and offerings to devotees visiting Ramjanmabhoomi. Of course, as one went closer,security cover at the installations increased. Of course, visiting Hanuman Gadhi, and taking darshan at Kanak Bhavan, and other important sites on the way were important. But, the most important was the visit to Ramjanmabhoomi site. The security cordon was tighter. The visitors were frisked, and detectors were put to use before letting them inside the premises. There too, one had to stand in queue as people from across the country kept coming to take darshan of Ram Lalla. The security cover was never lax. Through the barricading, neatly monitored queue, and railings finally we were closer to the makeshift structure where the small but beautiful idols of Shri Ram, Laxman, Seeta were installed. Pooja was a regular feature but no one was allowed in the makeshift structure. People had to take darshan from behind the railings. The security personnel were continuously issuing instructions to regulate the crowd and not allowing anyone to stop for long for taking darshan. There was a little disappointmentthat one could not stay there longer. But, on coming to know that the author was a journalist, some security personnel said that tight security was necessary given the sensitivity of the matter and the place. Security was tightened and protocols were more firmed up since the terror attack in July 2005. A friendly security personnel showed to us the site where excavation was done to ascertain if there was temple at the site before the mosque was constructed. One could not resist the journalistic temptation of meeting over 90-years-old Mohd Hashim Ansari, the lone surviving original litigant of the title dispute. With the help of some locals and a journalist friend, we could locate his small house in Faizabad. The plaque on the door of his house read Mohd Hashim Ansari, Ayodhya. The wrinkles on his face indicated his journey through time. With the help of a hearing aid and his son Iqbal (who was invited to attend the bhoomipujan ceremony on August 5, 2020), he could listen to our questions and answered those, albeit in a scattered manner. Back then in 2013, the atmosphere was abuzz with Narendra Modi, the then Gujarat Chief Minister, emerging as a favourite forthe Prime Ministerial candidacy. Asked about Modis rise, Mohd Hashim Ansari had said, Let him become Prime Minister. Let there be change. On the dispute, he had said that he believed in the Constitutional mechanism. From there, one went to the Karyashala (workshop) where the stones were being sculpted for use in the proposed grand RamTemple wheneverit came up. That time, even the artisans working there had no idea when would the temple actually come up. An old artisan, whose name we could not record unfortunately, had said, The work we are doing is divine. We do not know when the temple comes up at this site. Whenever it comes up, I just wish that our prayers in the form of work are accepted by Shri Ram, and that people then at least remember us in mention. The others showed us around. The huge premises was full of sculpted and half-sculpted stone slabs. Artisans were still busy.The intricate and beautiful carvings on the stone slabs were being done by hands of devotion. A temple-like three-dome structure attracted our attention. Asked about it, the artisans there just asked us to move closer to the walls. A closerlook revealed that the domes were actually neatly arranged bricks. Some bricks were of stone, some of marble, some normal mud bricks. Each brick had the name of Shri Ram inscribed or painted on it, and the name of the organisation/unit it had come from. The bricks were collected from different parts of the country. Whenever the temple comes up, it will be a symbol of national unity, national culture, said a local, who used to serve tea for free on specific days to the artisans engaged in divine cause. There was a counter where one could donate money to help the cause of construction of the grand temple, and people coming from different parts of the country donated generously and religiously. Since the bhoomipujan of the temple in 2020, the atmosphere in the country has been filled with reverence to LordRam. However, it wasjust present-day blossoming of the seed that was planted generations ago in the Indian cultural psyche. Ram grew from being a deity to Bharats cultural identity. And, there were several indications of that -- in Ayodhya and elsewhere including the places like Indonesia where one can see cultural Bharat beyond geographical borders. As we moved out of Ayodhya, we were carrying memories. Then, like others, we too did not know when the title dispute would be decided and how. But, one wished that whenever it was decided, the resolution should be peaceful. Now, the dispute stands resolved throu g h Constitutional mechanism. The nation celebrated the historic bhoomipujan ceremony of a grand Ram Temple at Ramjanmabhoomi site on August 5, 2020, at thehands of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Since then,not only the site reclaimed by the Hindu side after aprotracted legal battle but also the entire city ofAyodhya has undergone a sea change. The new airport, new railway station, made over areas, landscaping and beautiful decoration of Ayodhya Dham (pilgrimage place), are all indicative of a fine blend of tradition and modernity, devotion and development,history and happiness. Ayodhya Dham, once again,stands at the pedestal of present, at the junction ofglorious past and bright future. Now, as Ram-Lalla is allset to occupy Hisseat at thenewly constructed grand and marvellous Shri RamTemple at Ayodhya, people who have seen the journeyof the Ramjanmabhoomi title dispute over the yearsincluding tumultuous period since 1992, have justone expression of sentiment on momentous occasion -- Jai Shri Ram! Key Insights The projected fair value for Compass Group is UK19.06 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity Current share price of UK21.70 suggests Compass Group is potentially trading close to its fair value Analyst price target for CPG is UK23.42, which is 23% above our fair value estimate In this article we are going to estimate the intrinsic value of Compass Group PLC (LON:CPG) by estimating the company's future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. Our analysis will employ the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Don't get put off by the jargon, the math behind it is actually quite straightforward. 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. View our latest analysis for Compass Group The Calculation We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. To start off with, we need to estimate the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. A DCF is all about the idea that a dollar in the future is less valuable than a dollar today, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value: 10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (, Millions) UK1.39b UK1.58b UK1.73b UK2.03b UK2.25b UK2.40b UK2.53b UK2.64b UK2.73b UK2.80b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x9 Analyst x9 Analyst x8 Analyst x1 Analyst x1 Est @ 6.98% Est @ 5.34% Est @ 4.19% Est @ 3.39% Est @ 2.83% Present Value (, Millions) Discounted @ 8.4% UK1.3k UK1.3k UK1.4k UK1.5k UK1.5k UK1.5k UK1.4k UK1.4k UK1.3k UK1.3k ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = UK14b Story continues We now need to calculate the Terminal Value, which accounts for all the future cash flows after this ten year period. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 1.5%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 8.4%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033 (1 + g) (r g) = UK2.8b (1 + 1.5%) (8.4% 1.5%) = UK42b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= UK42b ( 1 + 8.4%)10= UK19b The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is UK33b. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Relative to the current share price of UK21.7, the company appears around fair value at the time of writing. Remember though, that this is just an approximate valuation, and like any complex formula - garbage in, garbage out. LSE:CPG Discounted Cash Flow January 21st 2024 The Assumptions We would point out that the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate and of course the actual cash flows. Part of investing is coming up with your own evaluation of a company's future performance, so try the calculation yourself and check your own assumptions. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Compass Group as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 8.4%, which is based on a levered beta of 1.156. 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 Compass Group Strength Earnings growth over the past year exceeded the industry. Debt is well covered by earnings and cashflows. Dividends are covered by earnings and cash flows. Weakness Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Hospitality market. Opportunity Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the British market. Good value based on P/E ratio compared to estimated Fair P/E ratio. Threat Revenue is forecast to grow slower than 20% per year. 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. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. For example, changes in the company's cost of equity or the risk free rate can significantly impact the valuation. For Compass Group, we've put together three additional aspects you should look at: Risks: To that end, you should be aware of the 1 warning sign we've spotted with Compass Group . Future Earnings: How does CPG's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered! PS. Simply Wall St updates its DCF calculation for every British 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. Theresa Carson is owner/operator of ReZist Ohio Fitness Studio in Massillon. Theresa Carson, owner/operator of ReZist Ohio Fitness Studio in Massillon, has helped her clients get fit for over 10 years. Her gym serves around 200 members at any given time and has worked with more than 2,000 over the past decade. Most have been women, with a few men coming in to work out throughout the years. Carson lives in Massillon, is a single mother of four and has six grandchildren all under the age of 5. My current fitness 'why' is to be strong, healthy, and agile enough to play with my grandchildren like I'm their mom, not their gramma," she said. Carson is a NASM certified personal trainer and an ASFA certified group fitness instructor. She started her training in the park in the summer of 2014 working out with friends and it gradually grew into a business. ReZist Ohio serves primarily women ages 30 to 65, teaching them how to lift weights safely in a group environment. Carson said it became her passion because strength training is under-supported for females, but it is so necessary for them and their health and longevity. When I got divorced, I started taking cardio classes at the YMCA to kill time while my kids were with their dad, she said. I discovered I really liked it but after a few years still didn't see the results I thought I should. So I did some research, added weightlifting to my routine, and soon changed the shape of my body. Strength training is the missing link for women who want to look and feel fit." The ReZist brand is "resistance" training with every class utilizing some form of resistance to build strength and muscle mass, which is critical for middle-aged women. We run periodic challenges at the studio to keep engagement high," Carson said. "The members are very good at holding each other accountable so if you don't show up for class someone will be texting you after, Carson said. 5 questions with Cynthia Guest: Archivist with the Plain Township Historical Society Theresa Carson is owner/operator of ReZist Ohio Fitness Studio in Massillon. How did you get into the physical fitness business? Accidentally, really. I was helping friends get fit and they brought more friends and so on. Story continues What is your general philosophy when it comes to getting into shape and maintaining your health and fitness? Lift heavy weights!!! If you lift weights with very little rest, you will also work your heart and not need steady-state cardio. You recently went on a pilgrimage in Spain. Would you detail how that came about? Walking the Camino (the way of St. James) has been a dream and my boyfriend gifted me with this trip for my birthday. I learned how little humans need to survive and be happy. We walked through tiny villages each day where the inhabitants dressed simply, worked humbly, and relaxed liberally. Where is the next place on your travel bucket list? Stateside, Utah looks like it has a lot to explore. Abroad I would love to see Greece and island hop for a few days. What is the motivational message you repeat often to yourself? God is with me. I am not alone. ... I was made for this. Editor's note: Five questions with ... is a Sunday feature that showcases a member of the Stark County community. If you'd like to recommend someone to participate, send an email to newsroom@cantonrep.com. Theresa Carson is owner/operator of ReZist Ohio Fitness Studio in Massillon. This article originally appeared on The Repository: 5 questions with ReZist Ohio Fitness owner/operator Theresa Carson The closer retirement gets for some people, the more apprehensive they get about finances. It can be nerve-wracking to think about living off of a fixed income. Things can get even more anxiety-producing when considering how to invest your retirement savings. Fortunately, there are ways to invest that can provide income without a huge amount of risk. Are you nearing retirement? These stocks, listed in alphabetical order, are as safe as they come and are worth a look. 1. Johnson & Johnson Few stocks offer as long and successful of a track record as Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ). The company was founded in 1886 and has weathered lots of storms since then, growing into one of the biggest healthcare giants in the world. Johnson & Johnson will report its fourth-quarter and full-year 2023 results on Jan. 23 and is expected to post revenue of close to $84 billion. The company is highly profitable with sustained earnings growth. J&J also sits atop a hefty cash stockpile of around $23.5 billion. Retirees have long viewed the stock as a great source of income -- and for good reason. Johnson & Johnson is a Dividend King with 61 consecutive years of dividend increases. Its dividend yield currently stands a little under 3%. Like all drugmakers, J&J will face patent expirations for key products from time to time. However, the company invests heavily in research and development (nearly $15.6 billion over the last 12 months) to ensure that it has new products to fuel sustained growth. This is without question the kind of stock you can comfortably buy and hold for decades. 2. Lowe's Companies Lowe's Companies (NYSE: LOW) stands out as another well-run company that has survived and thrived for more than a century. It started in 1921 as a small hardware store in North Carolina. Today, Lowe's ranks as the second-largest home improvement retailer. The company hasn't reported its 2023 sales yet, but they are expected to be in the ballpark of $86 billion. Its net profit margin is a respectable 8.5%. Lowe's offers a level of financial stability that should be reassuring to retirees. Story continues Like Johnson & Johnson, Lowe's is a Dividend King. The company has increased its dividend for 51 consecutive years. Over the last 10 years, its dividend has grown by more than 6 times, with a current yield of 2%. Sure, Lowe's can face challenges when consumers reduce their spending. However, the long-term prospects for the home improvement industry remain strong. 3. Walmart You might say that Walmart (NYSE: WMT) is the baby of the group. The company was founded in Arkansas in 1962. However, this baby has grown to become the largest retailer in the world. The low end of Walmart's guidance for full-year sales for fiscal year 2024 is $641 billion. Although the discount retailer's profit margin is low, such a high level of revenue translates to huge profits. Walmart's dividend yield of 1.4% isn't anything to get excited about, however, you expect the dividend to grow quite a bit over time. The company joined the Dividend Kings in 2023 with its 50th consecutive year of dividend increases. Over the last five years, Walmart has grown its dividend by nearly 68%. Shoppers will always look for low prices. Walmart's scale gives it a big competitive advantage in giving customers what they want. The company has also positioned itself to compete effectively in the e-commerce market. Like Johnson & Johnson and Lowe's, Walmart appears to be one of the safest stocks around for retirees to buy and hold. Should you invest $1,000 in Walmart right now? Before you buy stock in Walmart, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now... and Walmart wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than tripled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*. See the 10 stocks *Stock Advisor returns as of January 16, 2024 Keith Speights has positions in Lowe's Companies. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Walmart. The Motley Fool recommends Johnson & Johnson and Lowe's Companies. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Nearing Retirement? These Stocks Are as Safe as They Come was originally published by The Motley Fool Key Insights Nestle's estimated fair value is CHF166 based on 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity Nestle's CHF97.43 share price signals that it might be 41% undervalued Analyst price target for NESN is CHF112 which is 32% below our fair value estimate Today we'll do a simple run through of a valuation method used to estimate the attractiveness of Nestle S.A. (VTX:NESN) as an investment opportunity by taking the expected future cash flows and discounting them to their present value. One way to achieve this is by employing the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model. Models like these may appear beyond the comprehension of a lay person, but they're fairly easy to follow. We would caution that there are many ways of valuing a company and, like the DCF, each technique has advantages and disadvantages in certain scenarios. For those who are keen learners of equity analysis, the Simply Wall St analysis model here may be something of interest to you. See our latest analysis for Nestle What's The Estimated Valuation? We use what is known as a 2-stage model, which simply means we have two different periods of growth rates for the company's cash flows. Generally the first stage is higher growth, and the second stage is a lower growth phase. In the first stage we need to estimate the cash flows to the business over the next ten years. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, so we need to discount the sum of these future cash flows to arrive at a present value estimate: Story continues 10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (CHF, Millions) CHF12.0b CHF12.4b CHF12.8b CHF15.7b CHF16.7b CHF17.4b CHF18.0b CHF18.4b CHF18.6b CHF18.8b Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x8 Analyst x8 Analyst x3 Analyst x1 Est @ 6.14% Est @ 4.32% Est @ 3.05% Est @ 2.16% Est @ 1.54% Est @ 1.10% Present Value (CHF, Millions) Discounted @ 4.1% CHF11.6k CHF11.5k CHF11.4k CHF13.4k CHF13.7k CHF13.7k CHF13.6k CHF13.3k CHF13.0k CHF12.6k ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = CHF128b The second stage is also known as Terminal Value, this is the business's cash flow after the first stage. The Gordon Growth formula is used to calculate Terminal Value at a future annual growth rate equal to the 5-year average of the 10-year government bond yield of 0.08%. We discount the terminal cash flows to today's value at a cost of equity of 4.1%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033 (1 + g) (r g) = CHF19b (1 + 0.08%) (4.1% 0.08%) = CHF471b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= CHF471b ( 1 + 4.1%)10= CHF316b The total value, or equity value, is then the sum of the present value of the future cash flows, which in this case is CHF444b. To get the intrinsic value per share, we divide this by the total number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of CHF97.4, the company appears quite undervalued at a 41% 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. SWX:NESN Discounted Cash Flow January 21st 2024 The Assumptions Now the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. You don't have to agree with these inputs, I recommend redoing the calculations yourself and playing with them. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Nestle as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 4.1%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.800. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business. SWOT Analysis for Nestle Strength Debt is well covered by earnings and cashflows. Weakness Earnings declined over the past year. Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Food market. Opportunity Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Swiss market. Good value based on P/E ratio and estimated fair value. Threat Dividends are not covered by cash flow. Annual revenue is forecast to grow slower than the Swiss market. Moving On: Whilst important, the DCF calculation 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. Preferably you'd apply different cases and assumptions and see how they would impact the company's valuation. If a company grows at a different rate, or if its cost of equity or risk free rate changes sharply, the output can look very different. What is the reason for the share price sitting below the intrinsic value? For Nestle, we've put together three important items you should further research: Risks: Be aware that Nestle is showing 3 warning signs in our investment analysis , you should know about... Future Earnings: How does NESN's growth rate compare to its peers and the wider market? Dig deeper into the analyst consensus number for the upcoming years by interacting with our free analyst growth expectation chart. Other Solid Businesses: Low debt, high returns on equity and good past performance are fundamental to a strong business. Why not explore our interactive list of stocks with solid business fundamentals to see if there are other companies you may not have considered! PS. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the SWX every day. If you want to find the calculation for other stocks just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Baby boomers may have had the best financial start of all the generations coming of age when salaries kept up with the cost of living and goods and services were affordable but that doesnt mean theyve stayed in the same financial class they started out in. Check Out: 5 Ways the Middle Class Can Build Wealth Over the Next 5 Years Learn: 3 Things You Must Do When Your Savings Reach $50,000 Everyone spends money differently, so income and assets alone may not always be a good indicator of your financial class. Experts explain how boomers can determine where, exactly, they fall between poor, middle class, upper middle class and rich. Also see the secrets of wealthy baby boomers. Sponsored: Owe the IRS $10K or more? Schedule a FREE consultation to see if you qualify for tax relief. Income Guidelines Income plays an important part in determining your net worth and socioeconomic class, though its far from the only factor. Heres an overview of the accepted average ranges of the major socioeconomic income classes to give you a baseline. However, note that net worth includes other assets, as experts explain below: Lower class: The bottom 20% of earners with household incomes not exceeding $28,007. Lower middle class: Those in the 20th to 40th percentile of household income, between $28,008 and $55,000. Middle class: Those in the 40th to 60th percentile of household income, ranging from $55,001 to $89,744. Upper middle class: Households in the 60th to 80th percentile, with incomes between $89,745 and $149,131. Upper class: The top 20% of earners, with household incomes of $149,132 or more. How Do You Determine Net Worth? The essential method for determining your net worth, according to Derek Mazzarella, CFP with Gateway Financial Partners, is assets minus liabilities. Another way to describe this, he said, is anything you own minus what you owe. What you own includes basic material objects plus things such as properties, income or retirement accounts, stocks and bonds, art, jewelry, stamp or coin collections, etc., he said. Dont forget to get current appraisals on everything, he urged. Story continues Anything youd put on your insurance youll want to claim as an asset, he said. Some areas people forget to include in their assets things like old pensions, old 401(k)s from previous jobs, inheritance, CDs, annuities and rental income from investment properties, Mazzarella said. Sometimes you may even have a life insurance policy that has cash value that you forgot you had, he added. Then, of course, you want to subtract what you owe, which can include mortgage loans, car loans, personal loans, credit card debt, money owed on a business bought or sold and back taxes, to name a few. Learn: 5 Life-Improving Things You Can Afford Once You Reach Upper Middle Class Financial Class May Vary By Geography While the number you arrive at after subtracting debts from assets will give you an idea of your class, the truth is that you may be able to live more or less richly based on where you live, Mazzarella said. Having money in New York is different than in Alabama, he pointed out. Your income might not be high for the national average but you may be well ahead for your state. What will matter most to boomers, since most of them are either already in retirement or approaching it, he said, is whether or not you can generate income to live comfortably in retirement. Net worth is more about your personal time, he said. Can you go on vacation without stressing about it? Can you do what you want to do? As long as youre in that realm, thats a better way to think about it rather than comparing yourself to peers. How To Tell Whether Youre Poor Lower class: The bottom 20% of earners with household incomes not exceeding $28,007. Quite simply, the poor are people that are struggling to meet basic needs, people forgoing a trip to the grocery store because they arent sure they have enough funds, said Andrew Van Alstyne, MBA and financial advisor with Fiduciary Financial Advisors. That is someone in a very bad position, he said. The younger you are, the worse that may be, with life expectancies extending and cost of living not dropping off. How To Tell Whether Youre Middle or Upper Middle Class Lower middle class: Those in the 20th to 40th percentile of household income, between $28,008 and $55,000. Middle class: Those in the 40th to 60th percentile of household income, ranging from $55,001 to $89,744. Upper middle class: Households in the 60th to 80th percentile, with incomes between $89,745 and $149,131. The line between middle class and upper middle class can be very fine, Van Alstyne said. These are both sets of people who go about their day-to-day lives similarly, Van Alstyne said. However, The main difference between them is that the upper middle class are the ones that can afford hobbies, to travel and have more of the experiential components of life that many of us strive for in retirement. Both sets of boomers tend to have a good amount of retirement savings, but the upper middle class is more likely to be taking vacations and have a bit more discretionary income. How To Tell Whether Youre Rich Upper class: The top 20% of earners, with household incomes of $149,132 or more. What sets the rich apart is that they arent worrying about whether they can afford a vacation, Van Alstyne said, theyre deciding on where to purchase a vacation home and can vacation in exotic locations for extended periods of time. Making ends meet and having conversations regarding weekly, monthly and annual lifestyle impacts isnt a concern for the rich, he said. The rich also rarely fully retire, Van Alstyne has found. Theyre not getting the Rolex and their final bonus check and sent out the door, he said. Theyre keeping a board seat or theyre the owner of the company and theyre still going to put their thumb on the scale on the operation even if theyre passing it off. He said rich boomers are people who, in retirement, take their foot off the gas pedal, but theyre not stopping. Can You Experience a Class Change? One thing that can happen to boomers in retirement, Van Alstyne warned, is a kind of class shift based on market conditions when you start drawing down from retirement accounts. This is most likely to happen to people in the middle to upper middle classes, if the market has dipped near retirement. For example, he said, for people who retired in 2022, which was the first real down year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, if you didnt have a proper strategy for your withdrawals, you could have had a class change just in what you had to take out in that year alone because your portfolio didnt have time to recover. You can think youre saving the right amount, he said, but if its not in the correct bucket when you go to access it, your portfolio may not be able to recoup the losses from a down year. Ideally, he said, its important to have a large enough emergency fund set aside that isnt tied up in other assets so you can pull money out of it to let retirement accounts recuperate some of their lost value. Dont Try To Keep Up With the Joneses While its easy to aspire to live a rich life, Van Alstyne said, We need to stop assuming people are rich just because of the lifestyle theyre living and just be comfortable with where you are. Striving for a comfortable life may be the best goal of all. More From GOBankingRates This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Net Worth for Baby Boomers: How To Tell Whether Youre Poor, Middle Class, Upper Middle Class or Rich Finnish telecoms equipment giant Nokia has found new buyers for its majority stake in a Beijing-based joint venture with Huawei Technologies, after a proposed deal fell through last year following strong protest by the Chinese partner. Under the latest agreement, wireless technology firm TD Tech will be jointly controlled by Huawei and a group of entities that include the government-owned Chengdu High-Tech Investment Group and Chengdu Gaoxin Jicui Technology Co, as well as venture capital firm Huagai, according to a disclosure published on Friday by the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR). The document did not reveal how much equity each of the new participants will hold. Before the sale, Nokia owned 51 per cent of TD Tech, while Huawei held 49 per cent. Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team. Regulators said they had no antitrust concerns on the deal and would solicit public feedback until January 28. Huawei and TD Tech together control no more than 10 per cent of China's smartphone market, according to the SAMR, which did not specify the time frame for that data. An advertisement for Huawei phones in Shanghai, China. Photo: Bloomberg alt=An advertisement for Huawei phones in Shanghai, China. Photo: Bloomberg> Huawei had a 14 per cent share in the Chinese smartphone market in the third quarter last year, putting it in fifth place behind its spin-off Honor and rivals Oppo, Vivo and Apple, data from market intelligence firm Counterpoint Research showed. TD Tech, founded in 2005, had been a joint venture between Huawei and German tech conglomerate Siemens until 2007, when Siemens sold half of its stake to Nokia. In 2013, Siemens divested all its shares, making Nokia the major shareholder. Known for its wireless communications equipment, including 4G and 5G networking gear, TD Tech has a presence in more than 100 countries serving 8 million industry customers, according to its website. Story continues While Nokia had been the majority owner of the joint venture, Huawei has been the de facto controller, according to industry observers. "The management are former Huawei employees, with product solutions based on Huawei products but fine-tuned for the industry market," Yang Guang, an analyst covering the telecoms sector at research firm Omdia, said last year. When Nokia last year tried to sell its majority stake to Shanghai-listed ink maker New East New Materials, Huawei threatened to stop licensing technology to TD Tech. That deal ultimately collapsed. Huawei likely did not want to lose control of TD Tech, which could help the Chinese tech giant circumvent some US sanctions and help it address certain market segments more efficiently, Yang said at the time. TD Tech in 2021 started selling what amounted to rebranded Huawei phones under its own brand. They included the M40 5G, which used a 7-nanometre chip from Taiwan-based MediaTek instead of Huawei's own Kirin processors. Sanctions imposed by Washington currently bar companies from selling to Huawei advanced chips made with US-origin technology, which includes MediaTek processors made by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co, the world's largest contract chip maker. Despite the US restrictions, Huawei last year launched its Mate 60 Pro, a handset equipped with an advanced, home-grown 5G processor. This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright 2024 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. Copyright (c) 2024. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. Usually, when one insider buys stock, it might not be a monumental event. But when multiple insiders are buying like they did in the case of Luca Mining Corp. (CVE:LUCA), that sends out a positive message to the company's shareholders. While insider transactions are not the most important thing when it comes to long-term investing, we would consider it foolish to ignore insider transactions altogether. View our latest analysis for Luca Mining The Last 12 Months Of Insider Transactions At Luca Mining The insider Ralph Shearing made the biggest insider purchase in the last 12 months. That single transaction was for CA$300k worth of shares at a price of CA$0.35 each. That means that even when the share price was higher than CA$0.29 (the recent price), an insider wanted to purchase shares. While their view may have changed since the purchase was made, this does at least suggest they have had confidence in the company's future. In our view, the price an insider pays for shares is very important. It is generally more encouraging if they paid above the current price, as it suggests they saw value, even at higher levels. While Luca Mining insiders bought shares during the last year, they didn't sell. The chart below shows insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year. If you want to know exactly who sold, for how much, and when, simply click on the graph below! TSXV:LUCA Insider Trading Volume January 21st 2024 Luca Mining is not the only stock insiders are buying. So take a peek at this free list of growing companies with insider buying. Insider Ownership Looking at the total insider shareholdings in a company can help to inform your view of whether they are well aligned with common shareholders. We usually like to see fairly high levels of insider ownership. Our information indicates that Luca Mining insiders own about CA$390k worth of shares. We do note, however, it is possible insiders have an indirect interest through a private company or other corporate structure. We might be missing something but that seems like very low insider ownership. Story continues What Might The Insider Transactions At Luca Mining Tell Us? It doesn't really mean much that no insider has traded Luca Mining shares in the last quarter. On a brighter note, the transactions over the last year are encouraging. While we have no worries about the insider transactions, we'd be more comfortable if they owned more Luca Mining stock. While we like knowing what's going on with the insider's ownership and transactions, we make sure to also consider what risks are facing a stock before making any investment decision. Case in point: We've spotted 2 warning signs for Luca Mining you should be aware of, and 1 of these is concerning. If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt. For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions of direct interests only, but not derivative transactions or indirect interests. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Im a 24 year old gal who only got into rock music in the last few years, so each time a rock band or artist comes to NZ, its usually my first opportunity to see them live. Thats why Id never seen Foo Fighters before - until last night - and me oh my its gotta be my favourite gig Ive ever been to. (I know I said that about Guns N Roses, but last night took the cake.) Illegal immigration and Manipur crisis | Emigration and immigration have always been associated with the evolvement of human societies. Emigration and immigration take place at different points of time in history at several places across the planet. The dual process of emigration and immigration is associated with the human history since the dawn of civilization and even before but it came under stringent regulations with the advent of the concept of Nation States. Now there is not a single place in any part of the world where emigration and immigration are allowed unhindered or unchecked. This does not mean the phenomena of emigration and immigration have been stopped totally. Even today, emigration and immigration take place at different places but all under established laws and norms. Migration of small groups of people from one country to another is generally accepted if the migration adheres to established rules and laws. The moment migration or more precisely immigration takes the form of exodus and is driven by an intention to settle permanently in the host country or state, it breeds serious socio-economic and political problems. Mass immigration is often not welcomed nor sanctioned by the laws of the host country/state, hence the term Illegal Immigration. There are very few places where mass and permanent illegal immigration is allowed unchecked and Manipur is one of them. For decades, Manipur has been a popular destination for mass and permanent illegal immigration from Myanmar. For any process of emigration and immigration, there are varied push and pull factors. One prominent push factor in the case of Myanmar and Manipur is the political persecution in Myanmar and one major pull factor is the economic opportunities available in Manipur. But the illegal immigrants from Myanmar are not satisfied with economic security, they want more which are political in nature. Taking undue advantage of their shared lineage with some communities of Manipur whose indigeneity is also under question, the illegal immigrants and their kindred tribes are now demanding a separate and exclusive political domain out of Manipur. Emboldened by the patronage received from some quarters, the illegal immigrants and their militant groups are now waging a war against the state of Manipur. This is the devastating effect of illegal immigration which went on unchecked for decades, and the challenge posed by mass illegal immigration is not restricted to a single community, it is, in fact, a grave threat to all the indigenous communities regardless of whether they are involved in the current conflict or not. The problem with illegal immigrants starts when they have little respect for the laws of the land. Perhaps, the Government of India has acknowledged the threats posed by illegal immigrants if Union Home Minister Amit Shahs announcement to fence Indo-Myanmar border and end free movement regime between the two countries is any indication. No doubt, free movement regime has its own merits. It facilitates people-to-people contact living in the border areas of the two countries in addition to boosting local trade and commerce. Given the fact that certain tribes living in the border areas share same ethnicity with those living across the international border, the objection raised by some quarters against ending free movement regime is understandable. At the same time, it is also a fact that the free movement regime is being exploited by illegal immigrants to make their way to Manipur and settle here permanently. One needs to weigh the merits and demerits of the free movement regime carefully. Anything that facilitates permanent exodus from across the border is detrimental to the collective interest of Manipur and her indigenous people. Another major factor which facilitates mass exodus or illegal immigration from Myanmar is the 400 Kms long open border Manipur shares with its eastern neighbour. If only the Government of India and Government of Manipur had checked illegal immigration from across the border in time, Manipur would not have been witnessing the current bloody turmoil. 404 Something's wrong here Sorry. We can't find the page you're looking for. RETURN HOME Shares of Eli Lilly (NYSE: LLY) can't seem to stop rallying. For investors thinking about whether to buy the stock, it can be both exciting and discouraging to see it rise. While it's encouraging to see the stock going in the right direction, it's also potentially discouraging to not see it dip in value, where there might be a potential buying opportunity. Given the stock's impressive gains -- it's up around 80% in just 12 months -- is it too late to invest in Eli Lilly right now? Should investors continue waiting for what may be an inevitable sell-off, or is today still a good time to invest in the healthcare giant? Why it might be too late to invest in Eli Lilly The biggest reason investors may be turned off rom Eli Lilly's stock is its valuation. These are some of its key value multiples today, and they look downright awful for any value-oriented investors: Trailing price-to-earnings ratio: 116 Forward price-to-earnings ratio: 53 Price-to-earnings-to-growth (PEG) ratio: 1.6 Price-to-sales ratio: 18 Price-to-book ratio: 54 There's no denying that Eli Lilly is an expensive stock to own. The risk is that investors are paying for a huge amount of future growth. Excitement around the company's recently approved weight-loss drug Zepbound is through the roof. According to analyst projections, peak sales for the drug could hit $68 billion. But when it comes to miracle weight-loss treatments, the healthcare industry has been here before. And the danger for investors is getting caught up in that hype and excitement. Zepbound has shown it can help people lose more than 26% of their body weight in clinical trials. However, it's also a glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonist, and there are growing concerns about GLP-1 drugs and their side effects, including serious gastrointestinal issues, some of which require hospitalization. It's too early to tell if this could derail Zepbound or other GLP-1 drugs, but it's a risk that investors should consider when investing in Eli Lilly given that the stock is priced for perfection. Any bad press surrounding Zepbound could make Eli Lilly vulnerable to a correction. Story continues Why it might not be too late to invest in the stock Weight loss is undoubtedly a big part of the hype around Eli Lilly's stock today, but it's by no means the entire business. The company is diverse, and while it has been expanding and investing more into weight loss, it has also been working on other growth opportunities. One of its most promising opportunities outside of weight loss is in Alzheimer's. The company has an early-stage Alzheimer's treatment, donanemab, which regulators are expected to make a decision on early this year. In clinical trials, donanemab performed similarly to Leqembi, which is a treatment from Biogen that regulators approved last year. Donanemab likely won't have as much potential as Zepbound, but it could bring in billions in sales for Eli Lilly. The company has also been expanding via acquisitions. Last year it acquired Sigilon Therapeutics, which has a cell therapy in the works as a possible treatment for type 1 diabetes. Eli Lilly also acquired Dice Therapeutics in an effort to bolster its portfolio of drugs that treat autoimmune diseases. Eli Lilly's operations are highly profitable, with the company earning a profit of just under $5 billion in the trailing 12 months on revenue of $32.1 billion, for a margin of 16%. The business is in good shape to continue to pursue more acquisitions to expand and grow its operations. While there's no doubt weight loss is its most promising opportunity today, there are still more growth opportunities on the horizon. For investors who are looking far beyond just this year and next year for an investment they are willing to hold for a decade or longer, Eli Lilly can still make for a great stock to buy. Should you buy Eli Lilly stock? Eli Lilly is a stock I expect will eventually hit the $1 trillion mark given its growth opportunities. Investors shouldn't be overly concerned about risks and side effects related to GLP-1 drugs, as it's far too early to tell if that will be a problem for Eli Lilly. No drug is perfect, and there will always be challenges along the way. And if there are, a company as diverse and financially strong as Eli Lilly will adapt, as it has over the past 140+ years it has been in existence. Eli Lilly has been a great stock to own for years, and I'm confident it will remain that way for the foreseeable future. Long-term investors shouldn't wait for a dip, because they may end up waiting a long time, and missing out on gains along the way. Should you invest $1,000 in Eli Lilly right now? Before you buy stock in Eli Lilly, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now... and Eli Lilly wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than tripled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*. See the 10 stocks *Stock Advisor returns as of January 8, 2024 David Jagielski has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Biogen. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Is It Too Late to Buy Eli Lilly Stock? was originally published by The Motley Fool In a delicious legal battle, the Delhi High Court is set to adjudicate the rightful claimant to the title of developing the beloved Indian culinary delights Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani. The courtroom drama unfolds between the Moti Mahal and the Daryaganj restaurants, as they lock horns over the usage of the tagline Inventors of Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani. Moti Mahal alleges that Daryaganj is engaging in misleading practices by suggesting a connection between the two restaurants. Advertisement The crux of the matter lies in Moti Mahals argument that the first branch of their restaurant was opened in the Daryaganj neighbourhood. They contend that this geographical association is being exploited by Daryaganj to imply a culinary relationship that doesnt exist. The case was heard by a bench of Justice Sanjeev Narula, who issued summons to the owners of Daryaganj, directing them to file a written response to the suit within a month. Additionally, he issued notice on Moti Mahals application for an interim injunction, scheduling a hearing for May 29. The heart of the dispute lies in the historical claim of each restaurant to the invention of Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani. Moti Mahal credits its founder, late Kundan Lal Gujral, with creating these iconic dishes that have become synonymous with Indian cuisine globally. According to Moti Mahal, Gujral not only invented the Tandoori Chicken but also the Butter Chicken and Dal Makhani, bringing them to India after the Partition. Moti Mahals suit reveals a culinary narrative where Gujral, concerned about the unsold leftovers of chicken drying out, ingeniously invented the makhani or butter sauce. This sauce, a concoction of tomatoes, butter, cream, and spices, became the foundation of the delectable Butter Chicken. Moti Mahal further contends that the invention of Dal Makhani is intricately linked to the invention of Butter Chicken, as the same recipe was applied with black lentils to create the beloved Dal Makhani. While Daryaganj is yet to file its official response, its senior counsel Amit Sibal vehemently rejected the allegations by senior advocate Sandeep Sethi, appearing for Moti Mahal, categorically labelling the entire suit baseless. He (Sibal) vehemently disputes Mr. Sethis contentions, labelling the entire suit as misconceived, baseless and lacking a cause of action. Mr. Sibal and Mr. Anand further argue that the defendants (Daryaganj owners) have not engaged in any false representation or claim, and the allegations made in the suit are far from truth, the court order said. They further underscored the joint establishment of the first Moti Mahal restaurant in Peshawar by predecessors of both parties Gujral of Moti Mahal and Jaggi of Daryaganj restaurant. Regarding the photograph of the Moti Mahal restaurant in Peshawar, Sibal elucidated that the said restaurant was established jointly by predecessors of both parties, thus invalidating any claims of exclusive rights over the image that the plaintiffs might claim. Mr. Sibal underscores that the defendants are equally entitled to use this photograph. He gives emphasis to the fact that the photograph on the defendants website has been cropped to exclude the term MOTI MAHAL, rendering the Plaintiffs grievance unfounded, the court noted. Senior advocate Sibal, along with advocates Pravin Anand, Dhruv Anand, among others appeared for the owners of Daryaganj restaurant, while senior advocate Sethi and Chander M. Lall, and more represented Moti Mahal. Alia Bhatt dazzled in an Ajrakh saree at a special award function held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on January 21. The actor was honored with the Honorary Award at the Joy Awards 2024 for her remarkable contributions to the field of cinema. Numerous pictures and videos capturing Alias presence at this years Joy Awards quickly became viral on social media. Adorned in an Ajrakh print saree paired with an off-the-shoulder top, the Jigra actor exuded elegance. Her loosely tied hair and golden earrings completed the stylish ensemble. Superstar Salman Khan also graced the international award ceremony in Riyadh, marking his second invitation to the Joy Awards. Social media was flooded with pictures and videos of Salman from the event, including a snapshot of him alongside Hannibal actor Anthony Hopkins. Advertisement Salman looked dapper in a lavender shirt paired with a violet-grey suit, sporting a moustache and beard. Additionally, a trending video featured Alia Bhatt delivering her acceptance speech, expressing her gratitude for the love of cinema and the warmth she felt in Riyadh. During her speech, Alia remarked, Its truly an extraordinary night. Im obsessed with movies, its all I know. Ive said this before, I think when I was born, I came out on Lights, camera, action. Thats how much cinema means to me. She continued, If we are talking about joy, one of the greatest things in our lives is love. So tonight when I go back home, I take back with me the love of the movies and the love that I felt here in Riyadh. So thank you so much, and heres to the magic of movies. Switching gears to her upcoming projects, Alia Bhatt will appear in director Vasan Balas next film, Jigra. Additionally, she has Jee Le Zaraa in her pipeline, a film helmed by Farhan Akhtar and featuring Katrina Kaif and Priyanka Chopra in lead roles. (ANI) In response to Prime Minister Narendra Modis call to clean temples across the country ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya, actor Kangana Ranaut swept the floor of Ayodhyas Hanuman Garhi Temple on Sunday. Kangana arrived in Ayodhya earlier to attend the Pran Pratishtha on Monday. Speaking to ANI, the actor expressed, I aim to inspire people to pick up the broom by actively participating in this cleanliness drive. The city has been beautified and has a festive look as we approach the inauguration day. Advertisement View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kangana Ranaut (@kanganaranaut) Several images and video clips of the actor wielding a broom to clean the temple floor went viral on social media. Kangana wore a red saree, tied her hair in a bun, and accessorized her look with heavy gold jewelry and a pair of black shades. The actor also offered prayers at the temple. The BJP launched the nationwide cleanliness drive at temples earlier this month, and it will continue until Monday, the day of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Ayodhya Ram temple. Recently, actor Jackie Shroff also participated in the cleanliness drive. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cleaned the premises of the Kalaram Temple in Maharashtras Nashik, taking the lead in the Swachchata Abhiyan. Visuals showed Prime Minister Modi with a mop and bucket, diligently mopping the temple floor. The drive gained momentum after Prime Minister Modi encouraged fellow citizens to cleanse temples leading up to the Pran Pratishtha event. Several Union ministers and BJP leaders across states have actively carried forward the campaign. Prime Minister Modi will perform the rituals around the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, which will be officiated by a select complement of seers on Monday. (ANI) On Sunday, actor Rhea Chakraborty paid tribute to her late ex-boyfriend, actor Sushant Singh Rajput, on his birth anniversary. Taking to Instagram, Rhea shared a picture of the Kai Po Che actor on her stories and accompanied it with a red heart emoticon. Rumored to be in a relationship with Sushant before his untimely demise in 2020, Rhea faced scrutiny from law enforcement after there was an FIR against her by the late actors father. The accusations included abetment to suicide and money laundering, with Sushants father seeking legal action against Rhea. Sushant was discovered dead at his Bandra apartment on June 14, 2020. Advertisement Following his passing, his Patna residence transformed into a memorial, housing the late actors telescope, books, guitar, and other personal belongings. Sushant Singh Rajput, known for his kind gestures and warm interactions with fans, made his Bollywood debut with Kai Po Che and gained significant popularity after the success of M.S Dhoni The Untold Story. His last major on-screen appearance was in the 2019 blockbuster Chhichhore. He last appeared in director Mukesh Chhabras Dil Bechara, opposite Sanjana Sanghi, an official remake of the novel The Fault in Our Stars, which had an OTT release. (ANI) Salman Khan graced an international award ceremony in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking his second appearance at the prestigious Joy Awards. Captivating images and videos from this years event flooded social media, showcasing Salman alongside the legendary actor Anthony Hopkins. In a photograph that garnered attention, the Kick actor exuded charm in a lavender shirt paired with a violet-grey suit, complemented by a distinctive mustache and beard. Another viral video captured Salman presenting an award to a senior Egyptian actor on the grand stage. Having received the Personality of the Year award in 2022, Salman has once again been accorded the honor of being a special guest from India at this years ceremony. The event also saw the presence of actor Alia Bhatt. Advertisement Meanwhile, Salman revels in the success of Tiger 3. Expressing gratitude for the overwhelming love from the audience, he remarked, The Tiger franchise has received unanimous love from the first film, whether in theaters, on satellite, or streaming! Reflecting on the films global success, Salman stated, Im in close contact with my audience through my social media, and I can see the outpouring of love now that Tiger 3 has dropped on OTT. Directed by Maneesh Sharma, Tiger 3 premiered in theaters on November 12, 2023, and is currently available on Prime Video. With a worldwide gross of over Rs 472 crore, the film features Katrina Kaif and Emraan Hashmi, along with cameo appearances by Shah Rukh Khan and a post-credit scene featuring Hrithik Roshan. As with its predecessors, Ek Tha Tiger and Tiger Zinda Hai, Tiger 3 revolves around a new mission involving RA&W agent Tiger (Salman) and ISI agent Zoya (Katrina). Looking ahead, Salmans upcoming projects remain undisclosed, but reports suggest he may lead in a film titled The Bull. Delhi Police announced the arrest of a 23-year-old B-Tech graduate, Eemani Naveen, hailing from Guntur, Andhra Pradesh for creating a deepfake video featuring popular actor Rashmika Mandanna. The motive behind this digital deception? An insatiable desire to boost the follower count on his Instagram fan page dedicated to the actress. The arrest comes in the wake of an FIR filed on November 10, invoking sections 465 and 469 of the Indian Penal Code, alongside sections 66C and 66E of the Information Technology Act. The case was initiated based on a complaint lodged by the Delhi Commission for Women (DCW), underlining the seriousness of the matter. Delving into the details, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Dr Hemant Tiwari of the Intelligence Fusion and Strategic Operations (IFSO) Unit revealed that Naveen utilized artificial intelligence techniques, courtesy of YouTube, to craft the deepfake video. Unveiled on October 13, the concoction quickly propelled Naveens fan page from 90,000 to a staggering 108,000 followers within a fortnight. Advertisement However, the joyride took a dark turn when the deepfake video gained national attention, triggering backlash from prominent film personalities on social media. Faced with mounting pressure, Naveen hastily deleted the controversial posts from his Instagram channel and even went so far as to alter the channels name in a bid to evade detection. Further complicating matters, Naveen wiped his digital trail clean, deleting pertinent data from his devices. The polices investigative efforts extended beyond borders, involving a meticulous analysis of over 500 social media accounts linked to the alleged deepfake videos. A British Indian girl had posted the original video on her Instagram account on October 9, 2023. Subsequently, the nefarious deepfake rendition gained traction across various platforms. The breakthrough in the case came with the dedicated efforts of a police team led by Inspector Hansraj Swami and Sub-Inspector Kapil Yaduvanshi, supervised by ACP Manoj Kumar. The team traversed the distance to Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, where they eventually tracked down Naveen at his residence. During questioning, Naveen admitted to being an ardent fan of Rashmika Mandanna, having created fan pages for her and two other film actors. Despite the substantial following of the other two pages, Mandannas fan base lagged, prompting Naveens ill-fated decision to resort to deepfake tactics. Expressing my heartfelt gratitude to @DCP_IFSO Thank you for apprehending those responsible. Feeling truly grateful for the community that embraces me with love, support and shields me. Girls and boys if your image is used or morphed anywhere without your consent. It Rashmika Mandanna (@iamRashmika) January 20, 2024 Following the arrest of the perpetrator, Rashmika took to Twitter and expressed her gratitude: Expressing my heartfelt gratitude to @DCP_IFSO Thank you for apprehending those responsible. Feeling truly grateful for the community that embraces me with love, support and shields me. Girls and boys if your image is used or morphed anywhere without your consent. It is wrong! And I hope this is a reminder that you are surrounded by people who will support you and action will be taken. An in-depth look into Naveens background revealed a trajectory into digital media, culminating in his return to his village in March 2023. From there, he began offering services in Photoshop, Instagram channel promotion, YouTube video creation, editing, and search engine optimization on a freelance basis. With a laptop and three mobile phones recovered from Naveen, the arrest serves as a stark reminder of the ethical challenges posed by the misuse of technology and the consequences it can entail. (With input from agencies) Generally speaking the aim of active stock picking is to find companies that provide returns that are superior to the market average. And in our experience, buying the right stocks can give your wealth a significant boost. To wit, the AstraZeneca share price has climbed 96% in five years, easily topping the market return of 0.9% (ignoring dividends). Since the long term performance has been good but there's been a recent pullback of 3.3%, let's check if the fundamentals match the share price. View our latest analysis for AstraZeneca While the efficient markets hypothesis continues to be taught by some, it has been proven that markets are over-reactive dynamic systems, and investors are not always rational. By comparing earnings per share (EPS) and share price changes over time, we can get a feel for how investor attitudes to a company have morphed over time. During five years of share price growth, AstraZeneca achieved compound earnings per share (EPS) growth of 15% per year. That makes the EPS growth particularly close to the yearly share price growth of 14%. That suggests that the market sentiment around the company hasn't changed much over that time. In fact, the share price seems to largely reflect the EPS growth. The company's earnings per share (over time) is depicted in the image below (click to see the exact numbers). LSE:AZN Earnings Per Share Growth January 21st 2024 It's good to see that there was some significant insider buying in the last three months. That's a positive. On the other hand, we think the revenue and earnings trends are much more meaningful measures of the business. Before buying or selling a stock, we always recommend a close examination of historic growth trends, available here.. 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 AstraZeneca, it has a TSR of 124% 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! Story continues A Different Perspective We regret to report that AstraZeneca shareholders are down 4.2% for the year (even including dividends). Unfortunately, that's worse than the broader market decline of 3.4%. However, it could simply be that the share price has been impacted by broader market jitters. It might be worth keeping an eye on the fundamentals, in case there's a good opportunity. On the bright side, long term shareholders have made money, with a gain of 17% per year over half a decade. If the fundamental data continues to indicate long term sustainable growth, the current sell-off could be an opportunity worth considering. It's always interesting to track share price performance over the longer term. But to understand AstraZeneca better, we need to consider many other factors. Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 2 warning signs with AstraZeneca , and understanding them should be part of your investment process. There are plenty of other companies that have insiders buying up shares. You probably do not want to miss this free list of growing companies that insiders are buying. Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on British 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. Anticipation is reaching a fever pitch among fans eagerly awaiting the release of Panchayat 3. As we eagerly await the next installment, lets take a stroll down memory lane to revisit Chandan Roys initial reservations about the acceptance of Panchayat from the audience. In the Amazon series Panchayat, Chandan Roy steps into the shoes of Vikas, the affable office assistant. When Roy first joined the cast, he harbored doubts about whether the narrative set in a small town would resonate with viewers. The comedy-drama, directed by Deepak Kumar Mishra and written by Chandan Kumar, unfolds the story of Abhishek Tripathi (Jitendra Kumar). He is an engineering graduate who reluctantly becomes the secretary of a panchayat office in the remote village of Phulera in Uttar Pradesh. Advertisement View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chandan Roy (@chandanroy.7) Premiering in April 2020, the eight-episode series defied expectations. It swiftly became a hit and prompted the production of a second season due to its overwhelming response. Roy, embodying the character of Vikas, the trusting assistant to Tripathi, expressed his surprise at the success of a slice-of-life series in an OTT space saturated with crime dramas. Roy is originally from the village of Mehnar in Bihar. He attributed his understanding of the character to his own upbringing in a small town. Belonging to a small town turned out to be a plus point to understand the character and play it in an honest way, as I have seen that life, he revealed. One of the standout elements of Panchayat is the chemistry between Roys character and Jitendra Kumars Tripathi. Roy emphasized that their on-screen bond only deepened over time. When I first worked with Jeetu sir (Kumar), I saw a lot of his past work. And then we did a workshop. It made things easier for us to create that bond between our characters. Our chemistry is really good today, Roy shared. As we eagerly await Panchayat 3, its heartening to reflect on the journey of the cast and the unexpected success of a series that dared to be different in a landscape dominated by crime dramas. In a poignant turn of events, Mary Weiss, the formidable leader of the iconic 1960s New York band Shangri-Las, has passed away at the age of 75. Miriam Linna, associated with the Norton Records label that released Marys sole solo album, Dangerous Game, in 2007, confirmed her demise. Linna paid a heartfelt tribute, describing Mary as an icon and a hero, resonating with generations of both men and women. The news of Mary Weiss departure prompted a touching response from the Instagram account of Ronnie Spector, co-founder of the renowned girl group, the Ronettes, who herself left us in January 2022. Alongside a poignant black-and-white photograph of Weiss, the caption expressed deep sorrow and acknowledged the kindred spirit shared by Mary and Ronnie during the rebellious era of the 60s. The Shangri-Las etched their place in music history, capturing the essence of the early 60s trend for teen tragedies. Weiss, along with Elizabeth Betty Weiss, Marguerite Marge Ganser, and Mary Ann Ganser, created a musical narrative of their melodramas with hits like Remember (Walking in the Sand), Give Him a Great Big Kiss, and the chart-topping 1964 anthem, Leader of the Pack. Last year, Rolling Stone acknowledged the latter as the 316th Greatest Song of All Time. Advertisement However, by 1968, the girl group disbanded due to legal complications, as detailed in a 2007 New York Magazine interview. Post-disbandment, Weiss relocated to San Francisco, where she eventually found herself working as a secretary at an architecture firm, as revealed in the same interview. Weiss musical resurgence occurred in 2007, a serendipitous event triggered by a chance encounter with Billy Miller, head of Brooklyn indie label Norton. This encounter marked the beginning of her final solo album, a blend of new and old, showcasing her refusal to confine herself to past musical ventures. Mary Weiss departure marks the end of an era, but her contributions to the music world, both as part of the Shangri-Las and in her solo endeavors, will forever resonate as a testament to her fearless spirit and musical prowess. As we bid farewell, let us join in spinning the timeless tunes of the Shangri-Las in Marys honor, celebrating the indelible mark she left on the world of music. President of the Assam Congress Bhupen Borah reportedly faced a physical assault by a group of individuals in the Jamugurihat area of the Sonitpur district in Assam on Sunday. He sustained injuries in the attack. Following three days in Assam, the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra entered Arunachal Pradesh on Saturday. The Yatra resumed its journey through Assam on Sunday, continuing in the state until January 25. The Congress alleged that the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra led by Rahul Gandhi, was denied permission to pass through Guwahati, with claims that Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma was creating obstacles. Sarma had advised the Congress to avoid entering Guwahati with the Yatra and issued warnings of legal actions. Advertisement During a press conference in Gobindapur, Lakhimpur district, Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh stated that the police claimed the request was under consideration, despite the Congress submitting proper route applications. Ramesh expressed his concern over the government authorities posing irrelevant questions to impede the Yatra, stating, Their aim is to stop us anyway. Ramesh further appealed to the Assam government to permit the Yatra to follow the same route used by BJP President JP Nadda during his recent visit to Guwahati. After the Arunachal Pradesh leg, the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra will resume its journey through Assam until January 25. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has on Sunday come out against the Enforcement Directorate (ED) over the Karuvannur Cooperative bank scam alleging that the Central agency protected the key accused in the scam by turning him into an approver in the case. Inaugurating the 9th Kerala Cooperative Congress conference here on Sunday, Pinarayi Vijayan said the ED has turned the prime accused into an approver to obtain material from him for political gains. What was the purpose behind protecting a person who engaged in destroying the institution? Culprits should face trial. But the probe agency tried to protect the culprit. Such acts should be avoided, he said. Advertisement The chief ministers comments came in the wake of the ED telling the Kerala High Court last week that the irregularities in the multi-crore scam hit Karuvannur Service Cooperative Bank were committed at the behest of the party leaders of the ruling CPI-M in the state. The ED, which is investigating the fraud, told the court that during its investigation it was found that many of the accused are office-bearers and members of the ruling political party CPI-M and there was a deep-rooted conspiracy to embezzle money from the public and make gains for the party as well as its leaders. The ED said the CPI-Ms parliamentary committee and sub-committee, formed to extra-constitutionally run Karuvannur cooperative society, often directed the board of directors to sanction illegal loans to ineligible people and then pocketed the commission. Meanwhile, an investor in the Karuvannur cooperative Bank has approached the state Chief Minister and the High Court Chief Justice with a request to allow euthanasia as he was unable to afford treatment and living expenses. Joshi (53), a native of Mapranam in Thrissur district, approached Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and the Kerala High Court Chief Justice, seeking permission for mercy killing, as his savings amounting to Rs.70 Lakh deposited in the Karuvannur cooperative bank could not be withdrawn for his treatment and living expenses. Joshi, in his petition said that he and his family members had deposited around Rs 90 lakh in the Karuvannur cooperative bank. Of this,only a small amount was received on several times, more than Rs 70 lakh remains to be received back from the cooperative bank. He said as he is a cancer patient, who had undergone 21 surgeries, he could not do any work to raise money for his treatment and basic needs. Himachal Pradesh government has declared a full public holiday on January 22 in view of the Ram Mandirs Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya. Himachal is the only Congress-ruled state to declare a holiday for the Ram Mandir event. All the government offices, schools and other educational institutions will remain closed on January 22 on the ocassion of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha. It is hereby notified that full day of 22nd January 2024, (Monday) shall be observed as a public holiday in all departments/boards/corporations/schools/colleges/universities/etc. of Himachal Pradesh government to enable employees on the occasion of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha at Ayodhy. The above holiday will be applicable to the daily wage employees, a notice issued by the state government said. Advertisement Almost all the BJP ruled states have declared either a half day off or a full day public holiday on January 22. Earlier on Saturday, Uttar Pradesh government announced state holiday on Monday, January 22 on the ocassion of the mega consecration ceremony of Ram Mandir. The Yogi Adityanath government has also banned sale of meat and fish across the state on January 22. Sale of liquor has been prohibited in UP on the day of Ram Mandirs Pran Pratishtha. A few other states, including Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Union Territory of Delhi have also announced half day off in view of the Ram temple ceremony. All the government offices and educational institutions in BJP ruled Tripura will remain closed until 2:30 pm. A similar proclamation was made by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai in order to allow government employees witness the event. The Union Territory of Delhi, which is ruled by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, has also declared half day off in government offices for the Ram Mandir event. A 13-year-old minor worker was killed while 4 others who sustained injuries were rescued after a portion of an under-construction building collapsed here on Saturday, an official said. A rescue team, assisted by the police, managed to pull out four workers from the debris at Shyam Kameshwar Heights, opposite the GST Building in Ambawadi, here. The deceased worker has been identified as Alkesh Pratap, 13. Advertisement The injured individuals Sukhram (30), Kailash, (35), another person aged 22; and Vikas (18), are undergoing treatment, the official said. One worker, however, remained trapped in the debris, and unfortunately, passed away. The rescued workers were provided medical attention and transported to a hospital in an ambulance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be staying in the Ram Nagri for around four hours on Monday to participate in the Ram Lalla consecration ceremony. Earlier, it was reported that the Prime Minister would reach Ayodhya a day in advance but he will arrive on the day of the consecration ceremony only, officials here said on Sunday. Prime Ministers special aircraft will land directly at Maharishi Valmiki International Airport at 10.25 am tomorrow. According to the itinerary released by the officials, the Prime Minister will reach Shri Ram Janmabhoomi site at 10.55 am by helicopter from the Valmiki Airport. He will stay here for about three hours. Advertisement Before the consecration of the temple, the Prime Minister may inaugurate the statue of Jatayu installed in the Ram temple complex, they said. However, according to the programme released by the government in this regard, Prime Ministers time is reserved from 11am to 12 Noon. After this, Modi will attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Shri Ram Lalla from 12.05 am to 12.55M. The cloth tied on the statue of Ram Lalla will be unveiled in front of the Prime Minister. The PM will apply kajal to Lord Ram with a gold needle and show Him in the mirror. After completing the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, the Prime Minister will reach the function venue at 1 pm to address a public meeting. The Prime Minister will leave at 2 pm and reach Kuber Tila at 2.10 pm, where he will pay obeisance at the Shiva temple. PM Modi is expected to leave for Delhi at 3.30 pm. Meanwhile, security at Shri Ram Temple has been increased. Men and women commandos of UPSSF trained by NSG have been deployed. The entire complex has been surrounded by an impenetrable security shield. About 1,450 security personnel of Uttar Pradesh Special Security Force are deployed for the security of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi. Additional Director General of Police LV Antony Dev Kumar himself is monitoring the arrangement. Uttar Pradesh special security force (UPSSF) personnel have been deployed for the security of Ramjanmabhoomi complex, sanctum sanctorum and red zone along with patrolling duty. The Congress on Sunday alleged that BJP workers with sticks tried to disrupt Rahul Gandhis Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra in Assams Sonitpur district. The Congress party claimed that people carrying BJP flags attacked its leaders and that media persons who were covering the Yatra were manhandled. A video shared by news agency ANI showed Rahul Gandhi being rescued and moved inside the Yatra bus by security personnel and party workers. Advertisement Narrating the incident, the Congress leader said that nearly two dozen BJP workers carrying sticks came in front of the Yatra bus but ran away after he came out. 20-25 BJP workers carrying sticks came in front of our bus, and when I came out from the bus, they ran awaythey think that Congress is scared of BJP and RSS, theyre dreaming. They can tear as many posters and placards as they want, we dont care. we are not scared of anybody, we are neither scared of PM Narendra Modi nor Assam CM, Gandhi said. Meanwhile, the Congress party has launched a scathing attack on Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma over the incident. Addressing a rally in Assams Nagaon, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said that CM Sarma working on directions from PM Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah. Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra will cross 15 statesThe Yatra before this was undertaken from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. At that time, no stone pelting occurred anywhere. No attempts were made to scare offWhy is this happening in Assam? Because he (Assam CM) is the chela of PM Modi. He listens to what Shah says. He scares the Dalits, minorities and backward class of the country. By scaring people, he is working on the next election, Kharge said. The Pushkar Singh Dhami Government in Uttarakhand has renamed Nainitals Pavalgarh Conservation Reserve Sitavani Conservation Reserve on the eve of the historic consecration of Lord Rama in Ayodhya on Monday. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said the decision was taken to honour Sita as a Sita Temple and Valmiki Ashram are located in the forest reserve. Lord Rama had a connect with the Dev Bhoomi Uttarakhand. Hence the name of Pawalgarh Conservation Reserve has now been changed to Sitavani coinciding with consecration of Lord Rama Temple in Ayodhya he said. Advertisement Dhami further informed that the decision to rename the Pawalgarh Conservation Reserve has been taken in view of the fact that it houses the mythological temple of Sita and maharshi Valmikis ashram. The two structures are mainitained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) but the permission to visit them is granted by the state forest department for is part of the reserve area. Pawalgarh Conservation Reserve has been renamed as Sitavani. A large number of children and others had written letters to me requesting for the same. Renaming of the reserve was also done to honour their wishes and feelings added Dhami. Its notable that Dhami government is the first government in India to name a protected forest cover after mother Sita said a statement of the state government. The renamed forest reserve is spread over 5.8 thousand hectares of Ramnagar forest division in Nainital district and known for it rich availability of wildlife including tigers, elephants and different varities of the birds and butterflies. It attracts huge flow of tourists every year. Forest Department officials in the state informed that they were getting letters and suggestions from public to rename the reserve especially after the date for consecration of Ram Temple was finalised. This resulted into CM Dhamis directive to the forest department following which a government order renaming the reserve was issued on Saturday. The recent departure from the Congress of Milind Deora, a former minister and a close friend Rahul Gandhi, has raised questions about the latters leadership. Deora was the most recent of Rahul Gandhis close friends to quit the party. Others, such as Sachin Pilot, are also said to be waiting for the right time to leave. Interestingly, most of them have found a place in the BJP. Over the past few years, why have Rahuls friends gradually distanced themselves from him and the Con- gress? Rahul Gandhi could have select- ed better advisors for his inner circle. It is important to remember that wise advisers are crucial for the success of any leader. Many Team Rahul mem- bers have left him, looking for greener pastures. They belonged to influential political dynasties. They were expect- ed to take over once the old guard faded away. Most of his handpicked team found places in parties like the BJP and the Samajwadi Party. This is reminiscent of his father, the late Rajiv Gandhi, who also faced a similar situation when his chosen aides left him one by one. Rajiv was vilified by his political opponents in an ugly campaign in the run-up to the 1989 election, which led to his fall. Some notable members who left Rajivs team included Arun Nehru, Arun Singh, V.P. Singh, and Amitabh Bachchan. Many of Rajivs friends were from Doon School, known as the Dosco team. Advertisement Jyotiraditya Scindia, a close friend of Rahul Gandhi, was disheart- ened with the Congresss leadership for not appointing him as the chief minister of Madhya Pradesh. Conse- quently, he helped bring down the Madhya Pradesh government and helped establish the BJP government two years ago. He was awarded a min- isterial post in the Centre in exchange for his support. Several Congress leaders have recently left the party to join other political groups for better opportuni- ties. Some notable names include Jitin Prasada, who joined the Yogi govern- ment in UP, Kapil Sibal, Alpesh Thakur, and R.P.N Singh. Ghulam Nabi Azad also ended his relationship with the Congress after five decades, citing Rahul Gandhis leadership as the reason for the partys demise. In Punjab, Captain Amarendra Singh quit the Congress and launched his party. Sunil Jakhar, a sober Con- gress leader, also left soon after. The list goes on. It is not surprising that Rahuls team has got dismantled. Leaders are disenchanted with both Rahul and the Congress party. This is despite Rahul having promoted members of his coterie by making them ministers in the Manmohan Singh government from 2009 to 2014 and later giving them positions in the party. Some were even made Congress Working Committee members, which usually takes years to achieve. It is easy to understand why they left Rahul. Congress lost power ten years ago, and they became restless as the Congress barely managed to win 52 seats. Worried about their future, they started exploring other options. They received tempting offers from the BJP. Supporters have pushed numer- ous Rahuls coming-of-age and Rahul 2.0 stories. His image makers have projected Rahul as a caring man with great ideas who can address religious, caste, and economic issues and lead India towards unity and prosperity. In contrast, the BJP portrays him as the pappu of Indian politics, a vision- less, entitled scion who cannot lead the country or bring good to its peo- ple. Though Rajiv and Rahul shared similar political and personal experi- ences and started well in politics, Rajiv learned on the job. Tragic cir- cumstances made him Prime Minister four years after entering politics. Rajiv learned his political lessons well while he was out of power. His misguided advisors and polit- ical inexperience marred Rajivs good intentions. The Sri Lanka Peace Accord failed, and the decision to send the IPKF was catastrophic. He was assassinated in Tamil Nadu as a result. Over the last two decades, Rahul has not shown any significant growth. He has been given positions of power without asking for them. With Con- gress President Mallikarjan Kharge acting as a mere figurehead and his mother, Sonia Gandhi, taking a back seat, Rahul has complete freedom to appoint critical personnel to key posi- tions within the Congress. To win the 2024 elections, Rahul Gandhi needs to review his strategy, select the right people to work with and build strong leaders in each state. His ongoing Bharat Nyay Yatra is an effective way to connect with voters, just like his previous yatra did. The most important thing is to get the vot- ers to the polling booth. Rahul must learn from past experiences, make necessary changes promptly, earn the trust of Congress workers and coali- tion partners, and, above all, find a new narrative. You are here: World Flash A passenger plane has crashed in north Afghanistan's Badakhshan province, local television channel Tolonews reported Sunday, citing Zabihullah Amiri, an official of provincial department of information and culture. The official added that a team has been sent to Topkhana area of Kuran-wa-Munjan district on the crashed plane. Key Insights Using the 2 Stage Free Cash Flow to Equity, Treasury Wine Estates fair value estimate is AU$19.82 Current share price of AU$10.48 suggests Treasury Wine Estates is potentially 47% undervalued Our fair value estimate is 51% higher than Treasury Wine Estates' analyst price target of AU$13.10 Does the January share price for Treasury Wine Estates Limited (ASX:TWE) reflect what it's really worth? Today, we will estimate the stock's intrinsic value by projecting its future cash flows and then discounting them to today's value. We will use the Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) model on this occasion. Don't get put off by the jargon, the math behind it is actually quite straightforward. We generally believe that a company's value is the present value of all of the cash it will generate in the future. However, a DCF is just one valuation metric among many, and it is not without flaws. If you want to learn more about discounted cash flow, the rationale behind this calculation can be read in detail in the Simply Wall St analysis model. See our latest analysis for Treasury Wine Estates Step By Step Through The Calculation We're using the 2-stage growth model, which simply means we take in account two stages of company's growth. In the initial period the company may have a higher growth rate and the second stage is usually assumed to have a stable growth rate. To begin with, we have to get estimates of the next ten years of cash flows. Where possible we use analyst estimates, but when these aren't available we extrapolate the previous free cash flow (FCF) from the last estimate or reported value. We assume companies with shrinking free cash flow will slow their rate of shrinkage, and that companies with growing free cash flow will see their growth rate slow, over this period. We do this to reflect that growth tends to slow more in the early years than it does in later years. Generally we assume that a dollar today is more valuable than a dollar in the future, and so the sum of these future cash flows is then discounted to today's value: Story continues 10-year free cash flow (FCF) forecast 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 Levered FCF (A$, Millions) -AU$479.6m AU$380.2m AU$491.5m AU$514.0m AU$624.9m AU$694.6m AU$753.2m AU$802.3m AU$844.0m AU$880.0m Growth Rate Estimate Source Analyst x6 Analyst x6 Analyst x6 Analyst x3 Analyst x2 Est @ 11.16% Est @ 8.44% Est @ 6.53% Est @ 5.19% Est @ 4.26% Present Value (A$, Millions) Discounted @ 6.1% -AU$452 AU$338 AU$412 AU$406 AU$465 AU$487 AU$498 AU$500 AU$496 AU$488 ("Est" = FCF growth rate estimated by Simply Wall St) Present Value of 10-year Cash Flow (PVCF) = AU$3.6b 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 (2.1%) to estimate future growth. In the same way as with the 10-year 'growth' period, we discount future cash flows to today's value, using a cost of equity of 6.1%. Terminal Value (TV)= FCF 2033 (1 + g) (r g) = AU$880m (1 + 2.1%) (6.1% 2.1%) = AU$22b Present Value of Terminal Value (PVTV)= TV / (1 + r)10= AU$22b ( 1 + 6.1%)10= AU$12b The total value is the sum of cash flows for the next ten years plus the discounted terminal value, which results in the Total Equity Value, which in this case is AU$16b. In the final step we divide the equity value by the number of shares outstanding. Compared to the current share price of AU$10.5, the company appears quite undervalued at a 47% 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. ASX:TWE Discounted Cash Flow January 20th 2024 The Assumptions Now the most important inputs to a discounted cash flow are the discount rate, and of course, the actual cash flows. You don't have to agree with these inputs, I recommend redoing the calculations yourself and playing with them. The DCF also does not consider the possible cyclicality of an industry, or a company's future capital requirements, so it does not give a full picture of a company's potential performance. Given that we are looking at Treasury Wine Estates as potential shareholders, the cost of equity is used as the discount rate, rather than the cost of capital (or weighted average cost of capital, WACC) which accounts for debt. In this calculation we've used 6.1%, which is based on a levered beta of 0.800. Beta is a measure of a stock's volatility, compared to the market as a whole. We get our beta from the industry average beta of globally comparable companies, with an imposed limit between 0.8 and 2.0, which is a reasonable range for a stable business. SWOT Analysis for Treasury Wine Estates Strength Debt is well covered by earnings. Weakness Earnings declined over the past year. Dividend is low compared to the top 25% of dividend payers in the Beverage market. Shareholders have been diluted in the past year. Opportunity Annual earnings are forecast to grow faster than the Australian market. Trading below our estimate of fair value by more than 20%. Significant insider buying over the past 3 months. Threat Debt is not well covered by operating cash flow. Dividends are not covered by earnings and cashflows. Revenue is forecast to grow slower than 20% per year. Looking Ahead: Although the valuation of a company is important, it is only one of many factors that you need to assess for a company. The DCF model is not a perfect stock valuation tool. 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 Treasury Wine Estates, we've compiled three relevant items you should assess: Risks: You should be aware of the 3 warning signs for Treasury Wine Estates (1 makes us a bit uncomfortable!) we've uncovered before considering an investment in the company. Future Earnings: How does TWE'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. The Simply Wall St app conducts a discounted cash flow valuation for every stock on the ASX every day. If you want to find the calculation for other stocks just search here. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. In the intricacies of geopolitics, the recent develop- ments in Russias relationship with North Korea raise eyebrows and prompt questions about the motiva- tions behind this seemingly strategic alliance. The Kremlins assertion that ties are flourishing in all areas, including sensitive ones, fuels speculation and invites scrutiny from global observers. The timing of these developments is noteworthy. As tensions between Rus- sia and the West escalate over the conflict in Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin appears to have found an unlikely partner in North Korea. Russias courting of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and the deepening of ties between Moscow and Pyongyang present a com- plex geopolitical manoeuvre. The historical context of the Russia-North Korea relationship cannot be over- looked. Formed in 1948 with the backing of the Soviet Union, the countrys recent emphasis on military ties underscores a revival of this historical connection. However, its the expansion into sensitive areas that piques interest and raises concerns. What lies beneath the surface of these diplomatic exchanges, and what is the true extent of collaboration in those sensitive domains? The statement from Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov highlights the importance of North Korea as a partner. The phrase including in sensitive areas is deliberately vague, leaving room for interpre- tation and speculation. Could this involve shared intel- ligence, technology transfer, or even collaboration on nuclear capabilities? The lack of transparency fuels uncertainty and adds a layer of intrigue to this geopo- litical tango. The international community has not been shy in expressing reservations about Pyongyangs involvement in the conflict in Ukraine. The accusations of signifi- cant North Korean missile deliveries to aid Russias war effort are met with staunch denial from both nations. Moscows dismissal, asserting its right to form partner- ships as it sees fit, adds a defiant tone to the narrative. For Mr Putin, the North Korean card serves multiple purposes. As he frames Russias stance in an existential battle with the West over Ukraine, aligning with Mr Kim allows him to needle Washington and its Asian allies. It is a strategic move to assert influence in a region where traditional alliances have been tested. The optics of President Putin being invited by President Kim Jong Un to visit North Korea are significant. Its a sym- bolic gesture that strengthens Russias position on the global stage, presenting an alternative narrative to the Western-dominated discourse. While the world watch- es the Ukraine conflict unfold, the Russia-North Korea alliance adds a layer of complexity to the geopolitical landscape. The evolving ties between Moscow and Pyongyang also have implications for regional stability. The Korean peninsula has long been a flashpoint, and any shift in alliances or power dynamics can have far- reaching consequences. The world must carefully mon- itor these developments and engage in diplomatic efforts to ensure that the pursuit of bilateral interests does not compromise global peace and security. Advertisement In the tumultuous sea of British politics, Prime Min- ister Rishi Sunak has emerged from the storm, bat- tered but victorious, after facing a rebellion within his own Conservative Party over a controversial asylum policy. The plan, aimed at sending asylum seekers to Rwanda, has become a litmus test for the delicate bal- ance between tough immigration measures and human rights concerns. The recent parliamentary vote marked a costly triumph for Mr Sunak, one that underscored the fragility of his political authority and the deepening divisions within his party. The fissures laid bare by this rebellion illuminate the struggle between right-wing conservatives, clamouring for a harder stance on immi- gration, and more centrist members, wary of potential human rights violations. Mr Sunaks tactical compro- mise, offering token concessions to dissenting voices within his party, showcased a leader attempting to navigate the treacherous waters of internal dissent. The fact that only 11 rebels out of nearly 60 voted against the legislation highlights the delicate equilibrium Mr Sunak must maintain to prevent an outright rupture within his party. The fundamental question at the heart of this debate revolves around the balance between curbing illegal immigration and upholding human rights. Mr Sunaks government argues that the plan to send asy- lum seekers to Rwanda, some 4,000 miles away from the UK, serves as a deterrent. However, critics within his party view this as a reckless disregard for human rights, a sentiment echoed by centrist lawmakers who fear breaching international legal norms. While Mr Sunak has succeeded in quelling the rebellion for now, the aftershocks are likely to reverber- ate within his party. The discontent among rebels, who feel their concerns were brushed aside, poses a chal- lenge to Mr Sunaks efforts to unite the party ahead of the impending elections. The Prime Ministers balanc- ing act may have secured a short-term victory, but the long-term consequences on party cohesion remain uncertain. The broader context of this political saga is the looming shadow of the upcoming elections, with the Conservatives trailing in opinion polls. The fear of alienating voters who view immigration as a critical issue compelled some lawmakers to reluctantly back Mr Sunaks plan. In this high-stakes political gamble, Mr Sunak has bet on the publics appetite for stringent immigration measures, potentially at the cost of party unity. The international dimension adds another layer of complexity to this already intricate political land- scape. The financial commitment to Rwanda, coupled with the absence of any actual asylum seekers sent there, raises questions about the feasibility and ethical implications of such a policy. As the bill heads to the House of Lords, the potential stumbling blocks suggest that the road ahead remains fraught with challenges. As the political tight-rope act continues, the fate of the asylum policy hangs in the balance, symbolising the delicate dance between pragmatic governance and the preservation of fundamental values in the UKs political landscape. Advertisement The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) on Sunday informed that the unfortunate plane crash that occurred in Afghanistan, claiming the lives of 7 Russsians, was neither an Indian Scheduled Aircraft nor a Non Scheduled (NSOP)/Charter aircraft. Confirming the plane crash in Afghanistans Badakhshan province in the early morning hours on Sunday, the Ministry said the aircraft was an air ambulance flying from Thailand to Moscow. As per available information, the crashed aircraft is a DF-10 (Dassault Falcon) small aircraft registered in Morocco. It is not an aircraft of Indian carriers. The aircraft was an air ambulance and was flying from Thailand to Moscow and refuelling at Gaya Airport, the Ministry said in a report of aircraft crashed in Afghanistan. Advertisement The DF-10 aircraft, registered in Morocco, crashed in the mountains of Topkhana along the districts of Kuran-Munjan and Zibak of the Badakhshan province today. Taliban on Sunday said the Russian business jet which crashed in Afghanistan in Badakhshan Province of Afghanistan had seven Russians on board. Taliban Spokesman Abdul Wahid Rayan said that the crash happened due to the engine failure. The plane crashed due to an engine failure. There were seven Russians on board. The aircraft belonged to a Moroccan firm, Abdul Wahid Rayan wrote on X. TOLOnews reported that the head of local Information and Culture Department Zabihullah Amiri said that a search team has been sent to the area. Afghanistan-based news portal TOLOnews had claimed earlier that the ill-fated aircraft was an Indian passenger flight. However, an official from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the top regulator for flight services in the country, confirmed that it was not an Indian plane. The plane that crashed in the mountains of Topkhana, alongside the districts of Kuran-Munjan and Zibak in Badakhshan province, was a Moroccan-registered DF-10 aircraft, the DGCA official said. We have got confirmation from the Air Traffic Control and other aviation bodies regarding the plane that was involved in the crash. It was identified as a Moroccan-registered DF-10 aircraft, the official added. The plane, according to TOLOnews, crashed in the mountains of Topkhana, alongside the districts of Kuran-Munjan and Zibak in Badakhshan. Citing the local residents, the Afghan portal reported that the plane crashed in the early hours of Sunday. The Russian Federal Air Transport Agency or Rosaviatsiya has said that the aircraft was a Falcon 10 corporate jet and registered with a Russian company. The plane was en route from Gaya in India to Moscows Zhukovsky Airport, via Uzbek capital Tashkent. The aircraft initially departed from Thailands Utapao Airport, Rosaviatsiya said. It said that there were four crew members and two passengers on board. Rosaviatsiya said that the plane was carrying out a medical evacuation from the Thai city of Pattaya of a Russian woman accompanied by her husband, according to the Russian Consulate in Bangkok. It said that the Falcon 10 is an early business jet from the French aircraft manufacturer Dassault Aviation. It was produced between 1971 and 1989, but remains popular on the secondary market. Several US personnel were wounded after Iran-backed militants in Western Iraq launched multiple rockets and ballistic missiles on Saturday (local time) targeting Washingtons al-Assad Airbase in Western Iraq, said US Central Command. CENTCOM said that several US personnel are undergoing evaluation for traumatic brain injuries and at least one Iraqi service member was wounded in the attack. At approximately 6:30 pm (Baghdad time) time Jan. 20, multiple ballistic missiles and rockets were launched by Iranian-backed militants in Western Iraq targeting al-Assad Airbase. Most of the missiles were intercepted by the bases air defense systems while others impacted on the base. Damage assessments are ongoing. A number of US personnel are undergoing evaluation for traumatic brain injuries. At least one Iraqi service member was wounded, the US Central Command informed on social media platform X. Advertisement Earlier on Saturday, the US conducted airstrikes against a Houthi anti-ship missile that was aimed into the Gulf of Aden and was prepared to launch, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said. Washington said its forces determined the missile presented a threat to merchant vessels and US Navy ships in the region and therefore struck and destroyed the missile in self-defence. Recently, the US carried out another round of attack against the Houthi rebels in Yemen, destroying three anti-ship missiles in the Red Sea. The White House confirmed in a statement that this was the fourth preemptive action taken by the US military amid boiling tensions in the Red Sea. Notably, the US redesignated the Yemeni group as a terrorist organisation in response to its continuing attacks and threats to shipping and imposed sanctions on it. The designation does not go into effect for 30 days. The Houthis said the designation will not affect its operations to prevent Israeli ships or vessels heading to Israel from crossing the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. The Houthis, who support the Palestinian armed group Hamas, launched their attacks in response to Israels war on Gaza. Their strikes have slowed trade between Asia and Europe and alarmed major world powers, Al Jazeera reported. remaining of Thank you for reading! On your next view you will be asked to log in to your subscriber account or create an account and subscribepurchase a subscription to continue reading. Key Insights Significantly high institutional ownership implies Trifast's stock price is sensitive to their trading actions 54% of the business is held by the top 5 shareholders Insiders have been buying lately To get a sense of who is truly in control of Trifast plc (LON:TRI), it is important to understand the ownership structure of the business. The group holding the most number of shares in the company, around 73% to be precise, is institutions. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn). Since institutional have access to huge amounts of capital, their market moves tend to receive a lot of scrutiny by retail or individual investors. As a result, a sizeable amount of institutional money invested in a firm is generally viewed as a positive attribute. In the chart below, we zoom in on the different ownership groups of Trifast. Check out our latest analysis for Trifast LSE:TRI Ownership Breakdown January 21st 2024 What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Trifast? Many institutions measure their performance against an index that approximates the local market. So they usually pay more attention to companies that are included in major indices. We can see that Trifast does have institutional investors; and they hold a good portion of the company's stock. This implies the analysts working for those institutions have looked at the stock and they like it. But just like anyone else, they could be wrong. When multiple institutions own a stock, there's always a risk that they are in a 'crowded trade'. When such a trade goes wrong, multiple parties may compete to sell stock fast. This risk is higher in a company without a history of growth. You can see Trifast's historic earnings and revenue below, but keep in mind there's always more to the story. LSE:TRI Earnings and Revenue Growth January 21st 2024 Institutional investors own over 50% of the company, so together than can probably strongly influence board decisions. It looks like hedge funds own 8.1% of Trifast shares. That catches my attention because hedge funds sometimes try to influence management, or bring about changes that will create near term value for shareholders. Slater Investments Limited is currently the largest shareholder, with 13% of shares outstanding. For context, the second largest shareholder holds about 13% of the shares outstanding, followed by an ownership of 12% by the third-largest shareholder. Story continues On looking further, we found that 54% of the shares are owned by the top 5 shareholders. In other words, these shareholders have a meaningful say in the decisions of the company. While studying institutional ownership for a company can add value to your research, it is also a good practice to research analyst recommendations to get a deeper understand of a stock's expected performance. There are a reasonable number of analysts covering the stock, so it might be useful to find out their aggregate view on the future. Insider Ownership Of Trifast 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. Most consider insider ownership a positive because it can indicate the board is well aligned with other shareholders. However, on some occasions too much power is concentrated within this group. We can see that insiders own shares in Trifast plc. In their own names, insiders own UK6.9m worth of stock in the UK125m company. This shows at least some alignment, but we usually like to see larger insider holdings. You can click here to see if those insiders have been buying or selling. General Public Ownership The general public-- including retail investors -- own 11% stake in the company, and hence can't easily be ignored. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies. Next Steps: While it is well worth considering the different groups that own a company, there are other factors that are even more important. For example, we've discovered 1 warning sign for Trifast that you should be aware of before investing here. But ultimately it is the future, not the past, that will determine how well the owners of this business will do. Therefore we think it advisable to take a look at this free report showing whether analysts are predicting a brighter future. NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. The literary festival season, which is in full swing nowadays, brings to mind an old anecdote. Somewhere in the mid-2010s, I was at the Jaipur Literature Festival, diligently pushing a new book. Coming out of the authors lounge and heading for the venue of my panel discussion, all duded up in my writerly finery (delegate lanyard round my neck, litfest jhola on shoulder, dastkar sari pleated just right) I got separated from my minders and had the distinct honour of being gratifyingly mobbed. Not a circle. Not a knot. Not a scrum. I was mobbed by a massive, crushing, writhing mass of people. Squashed, out of breath, and a little afraid (yet secretly thrilled) at my clearly evident fame, I surrendered myself to their tumultuous demands for selfies. And then, mortifyingly, one particular young man leaned in to ask me, even as we both smiled into his phone camera, Uh, whats your name? Basically one person (or, perhaps, two) had recognised me and stopped for a picture, and everybody else, fuelled by Fear of Missing Out (FoMO), had quickly piled on to what they thought was a celebrity sighting. The sad truth is that we are not a nation of readers. Illustration: Bhaskaran The figures for viewerships of films, TV, OTT, even Instagram and YouTube reels dwarf the figures for readership massively. Of course, I am biased and not fully informed, but it seems to me, that in India, perhaps, because literacy levels are low and books expensive and out of the common mans reach, the only way a writer gets full-on celebrity status is if their book gets made into a successful film/show. And even then, the writer remains a sort-of small appendage to the movie-monster, which gets promoted to the status of what in publishing is called canon and the actual writing fades away into obscurity. (If you think Im overstating the case, remind yourself of the cringe-inducing time when, during a television quiz show, Anil Kapoorstar of the Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire, forgot the name of writer Vikas Swarup, who wrote Q&A, the book on which the film is based.) Original writing doesnt get to wear the hallowed status of canon in India, simply because we do not read enough. Either because we are lazy, or busy or historically dependent on learned Brahmins curating and relating the highlights to us; we dont bother to actually consume a book cover to cover. And that is why when a Muslim character in the film Annapoorani quoted Valmikis Ramayan as proof of the fact that Ram, Lakshman and Sita ate meat in the jungles during their exile, the entire nation, which has been relying on Ramanand Sagar, B.R. Chopra, random godmen, politicians and WhatsApp university for its spiritual succour, instead of the actual original epic, had a collective, misinformed meltdown and roared for the film to be banned. If you havent been living under a rock recently, you would know that our prime minister has been urging all of us to light a Shree Ram Jyoti on the day of the new temples consecration. So if we want to be good Hindus and lead a life which is in tandem of our faiths teachings, how about lighting the flame of scriptural knowledge in our minds by ditching the middlemen and the films, going back to the original source material, reading good, reliable translations (the Upanishads and the epics are vast, wondrous, open-minded works that welcome new interpretations and delight in contradictions) and come to an understanding of our faith ourselves? How about celebrating the Ram Mandir and the litfest season by becoming genuine literature lovers instead of selfie-taking poseurs, open our holy books and actually read them? editor@theweek.in English is a shameless language; it borrows from any language to get its vocabulary bloated. Several dozen words have been looted from Indian tongues and paraded before the world as Englishchappal, pyjamas, ginger, jungle, juggernaut, loot, bandicoot, curry and mulagatawny, to name a few. Then there are phrases like koi hai, which was once heard in planters clubs and officers messes and got morphed into a noun, but has gone out of use along with the Somerset Light Infantry. Noun, yes; its mostly nouns that have been accepted into the kings tongue. When it comes to verbs, English purists act snooty. Why else are they still not accepting prepone, a fine verb we thought could be administered as an antidote to the postponing poison that has entered our babu-ruled lives? We developed the word in our great middle-class laboratory so to avoid the delays of our postponement culture in the government and the bureaucracy. We offered it free to the English-speaking world, but they have been spurning it as an ugly Indianism. Illustration: Bhaskaran Indeed, the Thiruvananthapuram MP, our knight in shining English armour, made a strong case for it four years ago. In the end, he was assured by the makers of the Oxford English Dictionary that the word had long been admitted into its hallowed portals. But it remains there, as an Indian artefact in the museum portal, and hardly used in Blighty or elsewhere in the English-speaking world. Why am I saying all this? Simple! Of late we have been hearing this Indian English word in our corridors of power and intriguethat, boosted by the tailwind that thrust the BJP to power in the recent three assembly polls, Narendra Modi may seek to prepone the elections to the 18th Lok Sabha. The last general election was notified on March 10, 2019, the polls held in seven phases from April 11 to May 19, and the results announced on May 23. That leaves another nearly two months for the whole rigmarole to start. But birds from Deendayal Upadhyay Marg say that Modi might advanceoops, preponethe whole process by a month. He would have the two houses summoned on January 31 and get the president to address the houses, the interim budget presented on February 1, get all of the stuff voted before February 9, and tell the MPs to go back to their seats. Look at the pluses of going a month early. The triumphal ride of the Modi chariot in the three Hindi-speaking states, from where the party has to win 65 seats, is still fresh in voter memory. Two, so is the Vishwa Guru image that he projected during the G20 jamboree. Three, J.P. Naddas party machinery is ready for battle with all systems in place, the pivot corps in the northern states ready to defend, and the strike corps in other theatres ready to shock and awe the enemy. Four, the Jai Shri Ram chants that are casting a spell of devotion across Bharatvarsh could be rendered into slogans for votes in the next few weeks. Five, the INDIAns are still haggling over seats and why should they get time to settle their bargains and firm up their seats? Six, and most importantthe principal enemy commander is still on a cross-country jodo drive from the distant marches. Last heard, the gent is planning to get back by March 20 by which time, the whole country would have gone half way into the campaign. But why should Modi do it at all, if he thinks he can win even one month later? As Harold Wilson said, a week is a long time in politics; a month is still longer. You never know, whether the tailwind could turn into a headwind in a month. prasannan@theweek.in Expressing satisfaction with the ongoing Ahmedabad-Mumbai bullet train project, the Chief Representative of JICA India, Saito Mitsunori, said that the PM Gati Shakti plan has accelerated public works in the country. In an interview with PTI, Mitsunori also expressed Japan's interest in enhancing India's border road networks and participating in the transnational power transmission project with Bhutan, Nepal and Bangladesh. "Once the project concept is in the pipeline, meaning the official preparatory route within the government, clarity is there, and everybody is able to assess and monitor progress . So, that has helped a lot in accelerating public works in this country," Mitsunori said. The JICA India chief mentioned that the situation has improved a bit, as earlier it took years to get clearance from the local authority, causing project delays and cost overruns. Japanese funding agency JICA has been the funding partner of India's several multi-billion infrastructure projects such as metro projects in Chennai, Ahmedabad and Delhi and several other projects across sectors such as rural development and education. The government launched the PM Gati Shakti Plan in 2021 to provide multimodal connectivity infrastructure to various economic zones. Speaking about the progress of the Ahmedabad-Mumbai High-Speed Corridor project, the Chief Representative of JICA said that the agency is excited to see work on all sections started. The Japanese official said that all uncertainties about the project have been removed. We are really excited to see the work on all sections, such as Ahmedabad to BKC in Mumbai. The big change was on July 22 when the Maharashtra government decided to start tendering works within the state The undersea tunnelling work between Mumbai and Thane has started. We are very much satisfied with the rapid and steady progress of the project, he said. The JICA India chief also mentioned that besides the northeastern region, the agency is keen to partner in building quality and resilient border roads in the Himalayan region. It was unfortunate that a tunnel accident happened in Uttarakhand (Uttarkashi) because the work started before we finalized our technical guidelines. I really hope that our knowledge transfer will expand to every corner of society so that India has a more resilient road and transport network, including border areas, Mitsunori said. JICA has also expressed keen interest in funding power transmission projects connecting Nepal and Bhutan with Bangladesh. "We are quite keen to get engaged with regional countries in developing infrastructure projects. We are very keen to see what we could possibly do for power connectivity networks. A quite intensive discussion is underway with Nepal and Bhutan. They have agreed to bring Nepal's power to Bangladesh and from Bhutan to Bangladesh. India should be an indispensable partner in these projects, Mitsunori said. However, the Japanese official expressed a little disappointment over the slow decision-making process in trilateral and multilateral frameworks for power projects. "When you look at the long perspective in the whole region, it will be much more wonderful if countries get connected and power is shared or utilized in a more efficient manner. So, we are very keen to start discussions with the Government of India for doing this kind of joint initiative, he emphasized. India and Nepal have officially signed an agreement for the export of 10,000 megawatts of electricity from Nepal to India over a span of 10 years during Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar's visit to Kathmandu in the first week of January. On Saturday, Kul Man Ghising, the Managing Director of the Nepal Electricity Authority, mentioned that Bangladesh has submitted a draft Request for Proposal to Nepal. Ghising said that the decision on the proposed tariff is anticipated to take 10 to 15 days. Once an agreement is reached on the tariff, Nepal, Bangladesh, and India are poised to sign a tripartite agreement, marking Nepal's inaugural power export to Bangladesh. Hollywood actor Ashley Park, best known for starring in "Emily in Paris" and "Beef", is recovering after experiencing a serious medical scare earlier this month. In an Instagram post on Friday, the 32-year-old actor said she suffered from a critical septic shock, a severe form of sepsis in which the body overreacts to an infection. Park was on vacation in the Maldives when the case of tonsillitis cascaded into a serious health crisis. "As I sit here processing and recovering from the first few weeks of 2024, the only word I can think of is grateful. While on holiday in December into New Years, what started as tonsillitis spiralled into critical septic shock, which infected and affected several of my organs. "I am grateful that my health has improved despite what we had initially been told," Park wrote. The actor said her health has improved despite what we had initially been told and thanked her Emily in Paris co-star and partner Paul Forman for being unconditionally by her side during the crisis. "You calmed my fears and held me through ambulances, three foreign hospitals, a week in the ICU, scary ERs, countless scans and tests and injections, excruciating pain, and so much confusion all while we were alone on the other side of the world far from those we know. I love you Paul. More than I can ever say," she wrote. Park also shared a series of photos and videos from the hospital. She further said that she is deeply grateful to the ICU nurses and doctors for their aid. "Infinite thanks to my personal team of heroes at home who were on calls with insurance, Paul, my parents, and doctors at all hours (you know who you are). I hesitated to share what's been happening as I'm still in the throes of recoverybut I now know I'm safely on the other side of the worst," she added. Launching a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said on Sunday that his party is not scared of Prime Minister Narendra Modi or Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. His remarks came after the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, led by him, was allegedly attacked by BJP workers in Assam. Addressing a public rally in Nagaon, Rahul alleged that around 20-25 BJP workers carrying sticks came in front of his bus, but they ran away when he came out of the bus. "They think that Congress is scared of the BJP and RSS. They are dreaming. They can tear as many posters and placards as they want. We don't care. We are not scared of anyone. We are neither scared of PM Narendra Modi nor Assam CM, he said. Addressing another rally in Biswanath Chariali, the headquarters of Biswanath district, Rahul accused the Assam government of threatening people against joining the Congress yatra. "They (government) think they can threaten the people and suppress them. But, they are not realising this is not Rahul Gandhi's yatra. It is a yatra for the voice of the people. Neither Rahul Gandhi nor people of the state are afraid of them," the former Congress chief said. Stepping up his attack on Sarma, Rahul termed him the most corrupt chief minister in the state. "Everyone knows that the CM and his entire family are the most corrupt. The Assam government is run for the benefit of one family, he said. The Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra is scheduled to travel through Assam till January 25, covering a total of 833 km across 17 districts. A day before the Pran Pratishta in Ayodhya Ram temple, Bihar police has arrested a 21-year-old man over threatening to blow up the temple during the ceremony. The accused pretended to be a close aide of Dawood Ibrahim. According to a senior police official, Intekhab Alam, the accused, called up the police station and threatened. Alam was arrested from his home at Balua Kaliyaganj in Palasi police station area late on Saturday, Superintendent of Police of Araria, Ashok Kumar Singh, said. "The man had on January 19 dialled 112, the number on which citizens can seek emergency help. He claimed his name was Chhota Shakeel and that he was a close aide of Dawood Ibrahim, Singh told PTI. Though Alam has no criminal record, he seems to be mentally unstable, said an official. His phone was seized by the police and a case has been registered at Palasi police station. Swift action was taken as soon as the call was received at the police station. The details were immediately shared to the cyber cell and they tracked the mobile number, said the official. Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (UPATS) had arrested three men in Ayodhya for alleged links to Gurpatwant Singh Pannun's Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) outfit. According to the police, the three arrested were visiting various sensitive locations and look suspicious. They were taken into custody and during interrogation they claimed that they were members of SFJ. Authorities has launched an investigation into the matter. The UPATS has heightened its surveillance and security control in the region. Around 10,000 CCTV cameras and drones equipped with artificial intelligence have been deployed in Ayodhya as the temple city is all set for the Ram Mandir consecration ceremony on Monday. Hundreds of police personnel with multi-lingual skills both in uniform and in plain clothes have been patrolling the streets round the clock. "Ayodhya is now under the watchful eye of drones equipped with artificial intelligence, alongside the utilisation of anti-mine drones, as part of the concerted efforts to enhance security in the temple town," a senior police official told PTI. The AI-supported drones are conducting aerial surveillance across Ayodhya while anti-mine drones are simultaneously inspecting the ground for mines or explosives, he said. Operating at a height of one metre above the ground, the anti-mine drones are equipped with advanced technology like spectrometer wavelength detection for detecting underground explosives. Technology is being used on a large scale to ensure better security arrangements at the programme venue in Ayodhya, Director General (DG), Law and Order, Prashant Kumar said. The security along the Saryu river has also been increased with the help of NDRF and SDRF teams, he said. The Pran Pratishtha ceremony will begin at 12.30 pm and is expected to end by 1 pm. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will then address a gathering of more than 7,000 people, including seers and prominent personalities, at the venue. The shrine will be opened to the public a day later. A team of priests led by Lakshmikant Dixit will lead the main rituals. Several celebrities and noted personalities have been invited to the ceremony. The new 51-inch idol of Ram Lalla, sculpted by Mysuru-based Arun Yogiraj, was placed in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple last Thursday. Fourteen couples will be the "yajmaans" for the "Pran Pratishtha Lakhs of people are expected to watch the live streaming of the event as the Centre and many other state governments have declared a half-day holiday for their employees on January 22. On Sunday, the idol of Lord Rama was bathed with sacred water from 114 Kalash (vases), containing medicated water and holy water from various pilgrimage sites from across the country. "All preparations have been made. We are waiting for PM Modi and the grand temple of Lord Ram is ready. Everyone is happy," Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak said. The Rajasthan High Court has declined a plea of a 11-year-old rape survivor to terminate her 31-week pregnancy. The High Court reportedly observed that the fully developed foetus has the right to life. According to reports, the child was allegedly raped by her father. The accused is an alcoholic while mother is mentally challenged. The girl's father had earlier this month left the daughter at the house of her maternal uncle who lodged the FIR on the survivor's behalf. The plea stated that the 11-year-old didn't want to give birth to a child which would be a constant reminder of the atrocities committed on her, reported PTI. However, Justice Anoop Kumar Dhand said that any attempt to terminate the pregnancy at this advanced stage is likely to lead to a premature delivery. The order further said the delay by the child in approaching the court further aggravated the said aspect of termination of pregnancy. "The medical board is in the opinion that abortion at such an advanced stage would endanger her life. The court observed that any attempt of termination of pregnancy at this advanced stage is likely to lead to a premature delivery and the same may affect the neurotic development of the unborn child. The fully developed foetus also has the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution of India to enter in this world and live a healthy life without any abnormalities," PTI quoted the court order said. The victim's lawyer Fatehchand Saini said the FIR was lodged by her maternal uncle against the child's father under sections of Indian Penal Code Section 376 (rape) and sections of POCSO Act. A case has been registered in the matter at the Shahpura police station in Jaipur Rural. The medical board stated that considering the girl's age and weight (34.2 kg) and her deranged liver function tests, she is at high risk with regard to her pregnancy. The court also cited a 2023 Supreme Court case involving a 28-week pregnant woman, as well as two matters before the Punjab and Haryana High Court where it turned down pleas to terminate pregnancy of minor rape survivors, stating that this court has no valid reason to take a different view. Considering the case, the court said the girl can stay at a home for girls till she attains adulthood and also issued direction to the state government, police and health staff to look after the girl's well being. The court directed the superintendent of Mahila Chikitsalya to ensure a safe delivery, to retain and preserve the tissues, cord and blood sample of foetus for the purpose of DNA test by forensic lab and hand over them to the investigating officer of the case when required. Upon birth, the child may be handed over to the Child Welfare Committee which may put him or her up for adoption in accordance with law. The court also directed the Rajasthan State Legal Services Authority (RSLSA) and the District Legal services Authority (DLSA), Jaipur, to provide compensation to the survivor under the provision of the Rajasthan Victim Compensation Scheme, 2011. - With PTI inputs Fugitive self-styled godman Nithyananda said he had been invited to the consecration ceremony of Ram temple in Ayodhya and that he would attend the event on January 22. "Don't miss this historic and extraordinary event! Lord Rama will be formally invoked in the temple's main deity during the traditional Prana Pratishtha and will be landing to grace the entire world!, Nithyananda wrote on X. "Having been formally invited, the Supreme Pontiff of Hinduism, Bhagavan Sri Nithyananda Paramashivam will be attending this grand event," the post added. Nithyananda is wanted in India on several charges of rape and sexual assault allegations. The godman reportedly fled the country in 2019 and claimed to have set up an island country named as Kailasa. The virtual island is said to be located off the coast of Ecuador. In 2022, a Karnataka court issued a non-bailable warrant against him. Indian officials suspect that he could be shuffling between Ecuador and Trinidad and Tobago, while some news suggested that he may have gone to Ecuador because the country does not have an extradition treaty with India. Ecuadorian government has denied his presence in the country. The much-awaited Ram temple consecration ceremony will be held on January 22 with the temple set to be open to the public on the following day. Congress MP and General Secretary (Communications) Jairam Ramesh said that his vehicle has been attacked, in Assam, during the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra and charged it was undoubtedly Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarmas doing. The Congress party and Assam CM are engaged in a war of words with Congress accusing the Assam CM of causing hurdles to the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra led by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Tweeting about the incident, Ramesh tweeted, My vehicle was attacked a few minutes ago at Jumugurihat, Sunitpur by an unruly BJP crowd who also tore off the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra stickers from the windshield. They threw water and shouted anti-BJNY slogans. But we kept our composure, waved to the hooligans and sped away. This is undoubtedly the Assam CM @himantabiswas doing. We are not intimidated and will soldier on. Congress leaders alleged that media persons accompanying the party were also attacked during the yatra. On Saturday, Ramesh tweeted, The Assam CM continues to deny permission to the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra to enter Guwahati on January 23rd. He is also refusing permission to @RahulGandhi to interact with the media at the Guwahati Press Club at the Club's invitation. Clearly, the Assam CM is very nervous and shaken by the tremendous response to the Yatra in Assam so far. My vehicle was attacked a few minutes ago at Jumugurihat, Sunitpur by an unruly BJP crowd who also tore off the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra stickers from the windshield. They threw water and shouted anti-BJNY slogans. But we kept our composure, waved to the hooligans and sped away. pic.twitter.com/IabpNa598P Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) January 21, 2024 Rahul Gandhi on Sunday attacked Sarma and charged, The entire country and Assam know that your chief minister (CM Himanta Biswa Sarma) and his entire family are the most corrupt people," ANI reported. Gandhi also said, BJP is afraid, the Assam CM is afraid, and he is a corrupt person. He added that the entire country and Assam knows that Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and his entire family are the most corrupt people. Responding to Rahul Gandhis charges in a press conference, Sarma said, Earlier, Rahul Gandhi was just afraid of me but now he is also afraid of my son. Ayodhya is bustling with religious fervour as thousands, including foreign devotees, have congregated in the temple town to attend the consecration ceremony, which will mark the culmination of rituals to inaugurate the temple. On Sunday, the bathing of the Ram Lalla idol with water from 114 Kalash (vases) will take place. "On Sunday, the daily puja of the deities with Havan will be done. After that, the bathing of the idol with various medicated water from 114 Kalash (vases) will take place. There will be 'Vyahati Hom', night vigil, with regular evening puja and aarti," Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth posted on X. The streets of Ayodhya too have been adorned with flowers and posters depicting the child-version of Lord Ram have come up at the entry gate to the temple. Hundreds are pouring into the temple premises, and to take a holy dip in river Sarayu. Makeshift tents housing devotees have sprung up all over the town and Raj Sadan, the grand residence of the erstwhile Raja of Ayodhya, various temples and other buildings here have been lit up. The ancient 'Ayodhya Nagari' has been tastefully decorated, especially the Ram Path and Dharm Path, the two street showpieces of what the government terms the 'Navya, Divya and Bhavya Ayodhya'. The streets are filled with strains of songs such as 'Ram Aayenge' and 'Awadh Mein Ram Aayen Hain' as saffron flags dot buildings. A lot of foreign devotees too have arrived in Ayodhya. A devotee from New York shared his excitement at the ceremony, calling Ayodhya a beautiful place. "I have come from New York, USA. I have come here as the temple of Lord Ram is being built. Ayodhya is a beautiful place..." the devotee, Chaitanya Swami told ANI. Another devotee, Prabhupad Jeevan Das, who arrived from Europe said he is very enthusiastic for the Pran Pratishtha as it is a glorious occasion which will change people's lives. Police officers patrol a street on horseback ahead of the opening of the temple of Hindu Lord Ram in Ayodhya | Reuters The ornate gateway -- 'Laxmidwar' -- has been illuminated with an image of Lord Ram holding his bow and arrow and chanting 'Jai Shri Ram'. Thousands are pouring into the spot to click pictures till late at night on Saturday. A chandelier has been mounted beneath the arches of the gateway and lights added on the two arched wings, making its embellished frontage glow with elegance. The illumination is drawing people passing by on Ram Path nearby, and even many security personnel stopped over to get clicked. In a stinging allegation, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday claimed that the DMK-led government in Tamil Nadu has banned the live streaming of the consecration ceremony of Ayodhya Ram temple on January 22. The BJP leader also alleged that no puja or bhajan is being allowed in the name of Shri Ram in temples managed by state's Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department. In TN, there are over 200 temples for Shri Ram. In HR&CE managed temples no puja/bhajan/prasadam/annadanam in the name of Shri Ram is allowed. Police are stopping privately held temples also from organising events. They are threatening organisers that they will rip off pandals. Strongly condemn this anti-Hindu, hateful action, Sitharaman wrote on X, tagging a local newspaper report. In a following post, the minister said people are being threatened for organising bhajans while cable TV operators have been told that there is a likely power outage during the live telecast. Heart-breaking scenes in several parts of TN. People are threatened for organising bhajans, feeding the poor, celebrating with sweets even as we wish to watch Hon. PM Narendra Modi participate in Ayodhya. Cable TV operators are told that there is a likely power-shut down during the live telecast. This is I.N.D.I Alliance partner DMKs anti-Hindu efforts, she said. Sitharaman further alleged that the state government was creating a false and fake narrative by citing law and order issues to justify the live telecast ban. False and fake narrative! There was no L&O issues on the day of Ayodhya verdict. Not even the day when PM Narendra Modi laid the foundation, in any part of the country. The groundswell and the voluntary participation of people to celebrate Shri Ram in TN has rattled the anti-Hindu DMK, she said. The state government, however, denied the media report and said it would take legal action against the newspaper. "The Hindu religious and Charitable Endowments department hasn't imposed any limitations of devotees' freedom to offer food, conduct poojas in the name of Shri Ram or provide prasad in Tamil Nadu temples," state minister P.K. Sekar Babu said in a post on X. "It is unfortunate that people in office, like Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and others, are purposefully propagating this erraneous information, he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will wind up his three-day Tamil Nadu visit on Sunday after prayers in Sri Kothandarama Swamy Temple at Dhanushkodi. The Prime Minister visited Arichalmunai, which is said to be the place from where the Ram Setu was built, on Sunday morning. After offering floral tributes at the seashore, the PM also did 'pranayama' (breathing exercise). He also offered prayers using the sea water. Modi, who stayed at Rameswaram overnight, drove to Arichalmunai, which is said to be the place from where the Ram Setu was built. He also laid flowers on the beach and paid floral tributes at a pillar erected there with the national emblem. #WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Prime Minister Narendra Modi performs puja and darshan at Sri Kothandarama Swamy temple in Dhanushkodi. The name Kothandarama means Rama with the bow. pic.twitter.com/BM0I7sqBNJ ANI (@ANI) January 21, 2024 #WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Arichal Munai point in Dhanushkodi, which is said to be the place from where the Ram Setu was built. pic.twitter.com/GGFRwdhwSH ANI (@ANI) January 21, 2024 According to officials, the Prime Minister will perform pooja and darshan at Sri Kothandarama Swamy temple, officials said. Heoffered prayers at the Sri Ranganathaswamy and Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy temples in Srirangam and Rameswaram on Saturday. Before that, Modi visited temples Andhra Pradesh's historic Veerabhadra temple, which has immense significance with its Jatayu episode and Thriprayar Sree Ramaswamy Temple in Kerala's Thrissur - part of a pilgrimage to the abodes of Lord Ram and his brothers. His visit to the Tamil Nadu temples with a Ramayana connection comes just ahead of the consecration of the grand Shri Ram temple at Ayodhya in Uttar Pradesh on Monday. PM's full iterinary for Monday Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive at Ayodhya to preside over the pran pratishtha ceremony on Monday. He will arrive at the Ayodhya Airport by 10:25 am. From the airport, he will take a chopper to the Ram Janambhoomi premises. The Prime Minister will explore the Ram Janambhoomi premises till 12 am. The Pran Pratishtha rituals will begin at 12:05 pm. PM Modi to leave the consecration ceremony venue at 1 pm for a public ceremony. After the public event, he will visit the Kuber Teela at 2:10 pm. Amid the India-Maldives row, a 13-year-old boy died in the island nation on Thursday evening, after an alleged delay in arranging an Indian Dornier air ambulance to medically evacuate him from his remote island of Gaaf Alif Villingili to the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital in the capital Male. Though the company operating the evacuations cited a last-minute "technical glitch" as the reason, speculations are rife that the officials, on President Mohammed Muizzu's orders, denied permission to use the Indian aircraft. However, the local media Adhadhu said the two Indian helicopters and Dornier aircraft have not been used since President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu assumed office. This comes as the Maldives ordered the Indian troops, numbering over 77, to leave the archipelago before March 15, triggering a diplomatic tiff between the nations. Of the 77 military members posted in Maldives, 12 are medical personnel from the Indian armed forces who aid in medical evacuations for the residents of the remote islands. India has given Male two helicopters and a Dornier aircraft, used for marine surveillance, search and rescue operations and medical evacuations. According to Adhadhu, the family of a child alleged authorities failed to arrange a medical evacuation. The child had a brain tumour and suffered a stroke on Wednesday night. "We called Island Aviation to get him to Male immediately after the stroke but they did not answer our calls. They answered the phone at 8:30 am on Thursday. The solution is to have an air ambulance for such cases," the father of the child told Adhadhu. The child was reportedly brought to Male 16 hours after the request for emergency evacuation was made but soon passed away. Media Statement: Regarding the Emergency Medical Evacuation Incident from GA Vilingili on January 18, 2024 pic.twitter.com/4weAjLEPPA Aasandha Company Ltd (@AasandhaLtd) January 20, 2024 Aasandha Company Limited, the company responsible for medical evacuations, issued a statement indicating that they had initiated the evacuation process promptly upon receiving the request but blamed it on a "technical glitch." The Maldivian Health Ministry has not yet responded to the reports. The incident led to a large scale protest in the Gaaf Alif Villingili island. "People shouldn't have to pay with their lives to satisfy the President's animosity towards India," Maldives MP Meekail Naseem posted on X. The Maldives government has said that it "was okay with" bringing non-military employees to replace the Indian troops operating two helicopters and a Dornier aircraft in the Maldives. President's Office Public Policy Secretary Abdulla Nazim told a press conference on January 14 that the government "is okay with" civil or non-military employees. The suggestion was made during the core group meeting of the high-level officials of the two countries at the Foreign Ministry. "If the military is involved in operating Dornier and such operations, the military people should leave the Maldives and we are ready to welcome civilians to do that job. That's how the discussions are ongoing. It is too early to say what will happen," he told reporters at the President's Office. Russia has captured the small village of Krakhmalnoye in the Kharkiv region of eastern Ukraine. The Russian defence ministry in its daily bulletin on operations in Ukraine said, "The village of Krakhmalnoye in the Kharkiv region was liberated." While a spokesperson for Ukrainian land forces, Volodymyr Fitio, said the capture of the village had no strategic importance. According to the Ukrainian military, it is only a "temporary phenomenon". We simply dont report on the repulse of 100-200 meters, and for Russian propagandists, any victory must be presented to explain why they lost 7,055 soldiers at the front in the Khortytsia zone of responsibility in January alone, Fitio said during the live televised broadcast. These are five houses, he said, adding that Ukrainian forces were still holding the frontline. Reportedly, around 45 people lived in the village before Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Many had left the region after evacuation orders were issued amid the ongoing war. Fitio also added that Ukrainian troops had been deployed to hold the defence and prevent Russia from further advancing. "Our main goal is to save the lives of our defenders and they were moved to pre-prepared positions where they are now holding defences to prevent the enemy from advancing further," Fitio said. Krakhmalnoye is about 30km (nearly 20 miles) kilometres south-east of the regional hub of Kupiansk. According to Ukraine's armed forces, Russia has lost approximately 3,76,030 troops in Ukraine so far. 25 people killed in Donetsk shelling Meanwhile, at least 25 people were killed after Ukrainian forces shelled the Russian-controlled Donetsk in eastern Ukraine. A further 20 people were injured in the strike on the suburb of Tekstilshchik, said Alexei Kulemzin, the citys Russian-installed mayor. He said that the shells had been fired by the Ukrainian military. Kyiv has not commented on the event. Fire at Russia's Novatek A fire broke out at Russia's largest liquefied natural gas producer Novatek on the Baltic Sea on early Sunday. "No casualties as a result of a fire at Novateks terminal in the port of Ust-Luga. Personnel were evacuated," said governor of the Leningrad region Alexander Drozdenko. He also added that a high alert has been issued in the Kingiseppsky district in the wake of the incident. However, it is not clear what exactly caused the fire. Reportedly, Ukrainian drone attack is suspected. Novatek terminal situates at the port of Ust-Luga in the Russian part of the Gulf of Finland. The aircraft, that crashed in the mountainous area near Zebak in Afghanistan's Badakhshan province was found in Kuf Ab district on Sunday. Reportedly, four people survived the plane crash and the condition of the rest two other people on board is being clarified. The Morocco-registered Dassault Falcon (DF-10) plane, operating as an air ambulance, was flying from Utapao airport in Thailand to Moscow. Reportedly, the plane had six passengers including crew members. The Moscow-bound plane only did refuelling at the Gaya airport en route to Moscow, said officials. Initially, reports emerged that it was an Indian plane that was involved in the crash. However, the civil aviation ministry clarified that the aircraft did not belong to any Indian carrier. "The aircraft was neither an Indian scheduled aircraft nor a non-scheduled (NSOP)/charter aircraft...It is a Moroccan registered small aircraft," the Civil Aviation Ministry posted on X. The plane departed the Gaya airport after refuelling at 4.02 pm on Saturday, an official told PTI. According to Russian civil aviation authorities, the plane went missing with four crew members and two passengers. The authorities lost the communication with the plane and it disappeared from radar screens. Abdul Wahid Rayan, a spokesman for the Taliban's Information and Culture Ministry was quoted in a report saying that there was an engine problem with the plane. Zebak is about 150 miles (250km) north-east of Afghanistan's capital, Kabul. The Taliban-run Afghan aviation ministry has launched an investigation into the plane crash. Russias investigative committee said it had opened a criminal case to determine whether safety rules had been violated. As the GOP primary heads from Iowa to New Hampshire, Republican candidate Nikki Haley, in her bid to stop the Donald Trump juggernaut, hit out at the former President, questioning his mental capacity to serve as President. Haley's volley came as Trump appeared to repeatedly confuse her with former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Trump, in his speech the night before, had mistakenly asserted that Haley was in charge of Capitol security on January 6, 2021, when a mob of Trump supporters stormed the building seeking to stop the certification of his loss to Democrat Joe Biden. Trump first said that Haley turned down security offered by his administration on Jan. 6 and then again mentioned Haley. By the way, they never report the crowd on January 6. You know, Nikki Haley, Nikki Haley, Nikki Haley did you know they destroyed all of the information, all of the evidence, everything, deleted and destroyed all of it? All of it, because of lots of things, like Nikki Haley is in charge of security, we offered her 10,000 people, soldiers, national guards, whatever they want. They turned it down. To this, Haley said: "They're saying he got confused, that he was talking about something else, he's talking about Nancy Pelosi." "He mentioned me multiple times in that scenario. The concern I have is I'm not saying anything derogatory but when you're dealing with the pressures of the presidency, we can't have someone else that we question whether they're mentally fit to do this, Haley said. Trump did not wait to hit back. Adding that he took a cognitive test and aced it, the former President said: "I'll let you know when I go bad. I really think I'll be able to tell you," he added. "I feel my mind is stronger now than it was 25 years ago. Is that possible?" For Haley, New Hampshire is one of the best chances to notch a victory over Trump, considering that poll figures show her winning almost 34% of the vote in the state, 13 points behind Trump. This, however, is quite a surge considering how she ended up third in Iowa, behind Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Republican voters in Hampshire too seemed to be considering someone other than Trump. Trump, on the other hand, has been ramping up personal attacks against Haley, comparing her to Hilary Clinton. He is also taking New Hampshire by storm conducting mammoth rallies in venues his rivals could only dream of filling. "We need big margins," Trump said at a rally in Manchester, "because we have to send real unity as a message." "Nikki Haley is using radical Democrat money to run the radical Democratic campaign operation shes running," Trump said, referencing Haley's support base which includes some centrist and anti-Trump political groups and donors. "What the hell kind of Republican candidate is that?" World leaders has expressed disappointment over Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's affirmation that he won't budge for a two-state solution. The United Kingdom's defence secretary Grant Shapps said that "it's disappointing to hear Benjamin Netanyahu saying he doesnt believe in a two-state solution. In fairness, hes said that all of his political career, as far as I can tell." "I don't think we get to a solution unless we have a two-state solution," Shapps told Sky News. Shapps also favoured the two-state solution and added that there "isn't another option." A statement from the Israeli prime minister's office said In his conversation with President Biden, prime minister Netanyahu reiterated his policy that, after Hamas is destroyed, Israel must retain security control over Gaza to ensure that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel, a requirement that contradicts the demand for Palestinian sovereignty." Biden had said that he is hopeful that Israel will agree to recognising Palestine state, which was denied by Netanyahu. Meanwhile, UN secretary general Antonio Guterres once again denounced Israel for the "heartbreaking" killings of Palestinian civilians in Gaza. While speaking at the G77+China summit in Kampala, Guterres said Israels military operations have spread mass destruction and killed civilians on a scale unprecedented during my time as secretary-general. This is heartbreaking and utterly unacceptable. The Middle East is a tinder-box, we must do all we can to prevent conflict from igniting across the region," he added. Israeli strikes have killed over 25,000 Palestinians since October 7 Hamas attack. Guterres also added that refusal of accepting a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians is totally unacceptable. Denying Palestinians the right to statehood would indefinitely prolong the conflict, he added. On Sunday, Israel's cabinet has approved a plan for frozen Palestinian tax funds to be held by a third party country, and reserved the right to decide when the money will be transferred to the Palestinian Authority (PA). Under the peace accords, Israel's finance ministry collects tax on behalf of PA and transfers the amount monthly. Though there were disagreements, the system was followed. According to Netanyahu, the cabinet decision was supported by Norway and the US. Amid the Palestinian statehood row, France's foreign minister, Stephane Sejourne said that "Palestinians have the right to sovereignty and statehood. Meanwhile, Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh has held talks with Turkish foreign minister Hakan Fidan. Reportedly, an establishment of a ceasefire as soon as possible and the release of hostages held by Hamas were the main topics of discussion. According to Israel, around 132 hostages are still being held captive by Hamas. People have staged a protest on Saturday outside Netanyahu's residence over taking steps for the immediate release of the hostages. Protesters gathered in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Caesarea and Kfar Saba demanding action. The US had repeatedly said that an independent Palestinian state is the only path to rebuilding Gaza and a solution to the ongoing tensions. However, with Netanyahu not in favour of the cited solution, the war is likely to prolong. Whitehall IT Imagine if four in every five bridges built in Britain fell down. There would be national outrage. The companies building those bridges, the civil servants who ordered them and the ministers in charge would all likely pay with their jobs or worse. Fortunately, the majority of bridges do not tend to fall over. But there is one area that suffers such rates of failure. Twenty years ago, researchers at Oxford calculated that 84pc of large IT projects in the UK failed in some form either by being cancelled, failing to deliver, arriving late, or going significantly over budget. Software and bridges are not the same. But growing anger about the Post Office Horizon scandal has shone a new light on the dismal record in building IT systems. Faulty software built by the Japanese tech giant Fujitsu led to hundreds of sub-postmasters lives being ruined after misguided prosecutions. We are becoming increasingly reliant on computer systems across our lives. Could another Horizon scandal be lurking in the code? In 2011, a committee of MPs called the Governments approach to IT a recipe for rip-offs while researchers have called Britain a world leader in ineffective IT schemes for government. Insiders describe a sclerotic approach to computer systems and a chronic shortage of skilled staff, with Westminster captured by an oligopoly of IT giants growing rich. Last year, Parliaments Public Accounts Committee warned that Britains IT infrastructure continued to be utterly reliant on ageing computer systems, with civil servants more likely to expensively prolong the lifespan of old programmes rather than risk starting afresh. This, critics say, has led to an embarrassing litany of failures in the computer systems that the country relies on for everything from pensions to stopping airliners from crashing into one another. The failures of Fujitsus Horizon system, in which transactions were often double-counted, leading to artificial deficits at Post Offices, have attracted enormous attention because of the miscarriages of justice it led to: sub-postmasters being prosecuted, jailed and committing suicide. Story continues Those cases emerged because the Post Office vigorously pursued private prosecutions aided by its own investigative branch. But it is only one of a series of notorious public computing projects that have failed to deliver. They include New Labours botched National Programme for IT in the NHS, which was abandoned more than a decade after it was announced and as it was billions over budget; and Fujitsus Libra, designed to provide a national system for magistrates, which was described as one of the worst IT projects ever seen and partly taken away from the Japanese giant after going hugely over budget. There are also the systems that did come into use and failed those who rely on them. In 2020, a botched Ofqual algorithm caused mayhem in schools when it was used to deliver A-level results while schools were shut. Last year, 2,000 flights were cancelled after a bespoke air traffic control software system crashed. An IT meltdown in air traffic control systems last August left passengers stranded - Carl Court/Getty Images Horizon is an extreme example of this but from a technical point of view there are other systems that are similarly parlous and poorly designed, says Mike Bracken, who ran the Government Digital Service and is a founding partner at the Public Digital consultancy. He adds that the Post Office scandal was made worse by inadequate technical knowledge and governance. The other key issue with Horizon is that the Post Office was judge and jury and could choose to prosecute. Britain was once a world leader in major IT systems. Colossus, the pioneering programmable computer used by the Bletchley Park codebreakers during the Second World War, was actually designed by a Post Office engineer. The Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency was credited with developing technical skills within government until it was wound down at the end of the century. Instead, in the Nineties, successive governments embarked on a series of giant IT projects, outsourced to a handful of large companies. In 1994, Inland Revenue awarded a 10-year 3bn contract to the US software giant EDS, founded by the two-time presidential candidate Ross Perot. As part of the deal, 1,900 IT staff at Inland Revenue moved to the company. The deal would eventually go wrong when EDSs system failed to handle new tax credits, but at first it was seen as enough of a success to be imitated across the public sector. Enormous contracts were awarded, almost exclusively to the major IT companies large enough to handle them: the likes of Capgemini, Accenture, IBM and Fujitsu. Helen Margetts, a professor of internet and society at the Oxford Institute and director of the Alan Turing Institutes Public Policy Programme, says this separated Britain from many other countries modernising their own systems. What was unique about the UK was the size and length of the contracts, these were really big contracts that fewer and fewer companies could bid for, we were outsourcing entire IT divisions, she says. All the expertise was stripped out. Contracts got bigger and bigger and people in government became less and less keen on being involved. The companies promised to take over all the misery and risk of these great big contracts. Very public failures such as the fiasco around the National Programme for IT at the NHS, combined with pressure on the public finances, led the Coalition government to declare in 2010 that the era of mega IT contracts had come to an end. Techies returned to Whitehall as part of a Government Digital Service division, which led to relative successes such as the unified gov.uk website. However, reversing the mistakes of the last three decades has been slow. Fujitsu has won 4.9bn of public contracts since a court found in 2019 that the Horizon system was at fault. Much of that has been spent on extending the life of existing systems, leaving services reliant on ageing technology. Last year, the Public Accounts Committee found that departments were continuing to use outdated legacy systems instead of building new ones fit for the 21st century, in part because of a lack of skills. These have resulted in services which, although they might look good on the surface, are costly and problematic to run, it said. In one case in 2014, Whitehall struck a 5.8m deal with Microsoft to support tens of thousands of computers still running Microsofts 13-year-old XP operating system, rather than upgrade to a modern version. Some systems such as those for paying pensions and managing borders date back to the 1970s. In a blog post last week, Bracken decried a yawning gap in knowledge and curiosity around technology [that] remains true across senior levels of government, the civil service, parliament, and the judiciary buttressed by a marriage of convenience between those leaders and large enterprise IT companies like Fujitsu. He added: When the alternative is for them to engage in wicked problems that are unglamorous, difficult to understand and do their careers little good, many are all [too] happy to hand over cash and control to the contractors. Margetts says a continued reliance on old computer systems, rather than replacing them with modern ones, has set us up poorly for advances in areas such as artificial intelligence. Both the Conservatives and Labour believe they can modernise the state using AI. Chancellor Jeremy Hunt last week said at Davos that he hoped to harness the technology to make public sector services more efficient. However, these systems rely on vast quantities of data that are inaccessible on our ageing computer systems. Margetts says: It makes it difficult for agencies to innovate when youre operating from a very old system that doesnt generate data. Outrage about the Post Office scandal has led to promises that the victims injustices will be resolved swiftly. Fixing Britains shaky IT systems will take far longer. 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. Exclusive Interview/ Himanta Biswa Sarma, chief minister, Assam Joyful chants of Mama, Mama filled the streets of Guwahati on January 10, as thousands of people lined up to cheer for Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who kept waving at them, smiling ear to ear, standing alongside BJP president J.P. Nadda and pleased to see the saffron wave sweeping the Brahmaputra valley. Once called dada for his strongman approach, Sarma is now the more endearing mama, a change that came about after he became the chief minister. If it is a fight between China and India, then the prime minister should come. But when two brothers are fighting (in Manipur), we have to resolve it by ourselves. Rahul is very arrogant. But he is arrogant without knowledge, education or political maturity. There will be some protests in Assam [on the caa issue], but I will talk to them. I have asked the people not to put the state in a situation where we disturb the progress. Nobody on the street discusses ULFA or Baruah, except when some reporters ask. The state is in pursuit of peace, development and tranquilLity. Sarma is leading the BJP in the northeast and in an election year there was no better start for him than facilitating Naddas visit to the Maa Kamakhya Temple. Later they huddled in the party office to strategise the great number game for the BJP. Sarma has promised to deliver 22 of 25 Lok Sabha seats from the northeast. After Nadda left for the airport the next day, Sarma settled down for an interview with THE WEEK. In a candid conversation at the secretariat, he shared his experience of handling politicians who rebelled, defected and changed the number games. When I was with the Congress, we were deputed to various states to manage resorts where such rebels were safeguarded, said Sarma. In 2022, he brought Eknath Shinde and company from Maharashtra to Guwahati after they rebelled against Uddhav Thackerays Shiv Sena. Sarma is emerging as a master strategist for the BJP after spending 22 years in Congress. He predicted another decade of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a new political spectrum in the country. Prime Minister Modi will cross 325 seats (in the Lok Sabha polls), he said. Excerpts from the interview: Q/ Assam has a long history of agitations. Do you think peace is settling in, finally? A/ A lot of reforms are taking place and there has been a turnaround. This is the best time for Assam and we are getting a lot of support from the Central government. We lost nearly 700 security personnel and around 20,000 men and young boys in the conflict over the years, but we have not lost a single one in the last three years. We have withdrawn the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act from the state, except for three districts. But for ULFA (Independent) leader Paresh Baruah, with whom there are only about 100 to 150 boys in Myanmar, others have surrendered. So I would definitely say that there has been a turnaround in the last three to four years, but it is not because I am the chief minister. Q/ Has the divide with Delhi been bridged? A/ I have been a minister for the last 22 years, I have seen the transformation under the BJP government. Earlier, governments were slow and distant. Now, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has come to Assam 60 times. We have taken various small steps which have reassured people that now our battle is being fought from Delhi, like the decision to implement the NRC (National Register of Citizens). It was a big healing touch. Nobody thought delimitation would happen this way, but it was done and people think it is a healing touch. During the Congress regime, we used to request the home minister to visit the border, but now it is a part of the routine visits of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. If there is a [militant] attack, the home ministry gives a prompt reply. In the last three or four years, outside support for militants has been neutralised and security forces have started gaining upper hand. On the right side: Prime Minister Narendra Modi being felicitated by Himanta Biswa Sarma during a 2022 rally at Loringthepi in Karbi Anglong district | PTI Q/ You said the prime minister visited the northeast, but people are talking about him not visiting Manipur. A/ I am the chief minister of Assam, so I cannot answer for Manipur. But as someone from the northeast, I dont want anybody, even you, to come here when we are fighting. I dont want (Congress leader) Rahul Gandhi to see us fighting and say, Look, the people of the northeast are fighting, and then go and advertise it. If it is a fight between China and India, then the prime minister should come. But when two brothers are fighting, we have to resolve it by ourselves. The Union home minister came and stayed for three days. The minister of state for home camped in Manipur for two months. Q/ As the face of the BJP in the northeast, how do you see the partys performance in the upcoming general elections? A/ In the northeast, there are 25 Lok Sabha seats, of which we are going to win 22. We will get 11 seats here in Assam (of 14). In Manipur, we are going to win both the seats. Although there is fighting between two communities, nobody has a problem with the prime minister and the BJP. Not a single Kuki minister or MLA resigned from the BJP, not a single MLA or minister from the Meiteis resigned from the BJP, and not any minister or MLA from the Nagas resigned from the BJP. So as a party, [we have not been brought] into their dispute. Their loyalty to the party and the prime minister is intact. So under the North East Democratic Alliance (the National Democratic Alliances coalition with regional parties in eight northeastern states), we will win 22 of 25 seats. Q/ Which are the three seats that you are doubtful about? A/ There are three seats in Assam predominantly inhabited by Muslims where we cannot think of contesting. Unfortunately, Assam is completely divided on religious lines when it comes to politics. There is social harmony and people live and work together, but when it comes to voting, we know that we have to secure our own political future. Muslims, up to 99 per cent, vote for the Congress. And Hindus, up to 99 per cent, vote for the BJP. Q/ Do you think voting on religious lines is limited to Assam or is it becoming a nationwide trend? A/ Assams history has nothing to do with the present political discourse of the nation. If I dont sit here, somebody like Badruddin Ajmal (chief of the All India United Democratic Front) will sit here. Assam has been like this from 1979. It is a very polarised state as far as politics is concerned. The Congress represents Muslims here. But we are together for festivals, literary works, in office and sports. So it has nothing to do with the present political dispensation, atmosphere or environment. Making a point: Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi at the swearing in ceremony of Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy | AFP Q/ In the Lok Sabha elections, how many seats will the BJP win? A/ I believe that the BJP will get anything between 325 and 400 seats. I believe Prime Minister Modi will cross 325 seats; he will go closer to 400. Q/ Who will be the challenger to Modi this time? A/ I dont see anybody in the next 10 years. Q/ What will happen to Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra? A/ I think this is their last election. I was in the Congress for 22 years. People have shown great loyalty towards the family. They will be made accountable for being out of power for 15 years. Congress workers have shown large-heartedness by not holding the family accountable. People will put up with one loss, two losses. But after this election, people will realise that the Gandhi surname has no political equity. They will realise that they won Telangana because of the equity of a local politician. If there is victory in Karnataka, it is not because of the Gandhi name. Q/ What happens to Congress as a national party? A/ After this election, at the national level, the Congress will disappear. There will be various regional Congress parties in various names. They say the NCP is a Congress party, but Ajit Pawar is aligning with the BJP. So you will see the emergence of a lot of regional parties with the name Congress. I see the Congress completely divided into regional parties like Keralas Congress, Karnataka Congress, Maharashtra Congress. Sometimes there may even be alliances with the BJP. And they might retain power in some states like this. So, there will be some scope for Congress politicians. But they will become autonomous, more liberated and will handle their own affairs. All fired up: Members of the All Assam Students Union protest against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act in Nagaon district of Assam in 2022 | PTI Q/ So there wont be any national party? A/ I do not see [one] on the horizon. The BJP will face challenges from other parties in the states, but there will be no national party other than the BJP. There will be strong regional parties, including the Congress. So my prediction is that from next October-November, the disintegration of the Congress will start. Congress workers will abandon Rahul Gandhi. They will wait for parliamentary polls and immediately after that the Maharashtra and Jharkhand elections. Once those are over, you will see a completely new realignment. Q/ Dont you think that having just one national party somehow impacts democracy? A/ That is for the citizens to decide. If democracy needs opposition, then people will create an opposition. You cannot expect Modi to create his opposition. Many people have even that demand from him. He cannot be responsible for building an opposition party. It is not the BJPs responsibility to create an opposition party. Q/ Do you see Prime Minister Modi outliving Pandit Nehrus legacy and becoming the longest serving prime minister? A/ I am not counting years and numbers. But in my view, Prime Minister Modi has already overtaken Nehrus legacy. Nehru was not known in parts of the country like the northeast. He did not travel across India so much. I will not blame Nehru for that; that time was different. But 75 years after independence, [you would find that] Modis era has been much more impactful than Nehrus. Modi has created a name for himself for the next hundred years; he has become an institution. He has left behind the legacy of every other prime minister to become the most impactful prime minister. Q/ Do you see one nation, one election becoming a reality soon? A/ I think Modi strongly believes that it should become a reality. He has constituted a committee and let us wait for its report. He has said on many platforms that he wants it as it will save unnecessary expenditure, bring stability and is good for the country. All smiles: ULFA chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa arrives at the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati after the signing of a peace accord between ULFA and the Central and Assam governments in Delhi in December 2023 | PTI Q/ When you talk of the BJP as the only national party and also about one nation, one election, dont you think it will be advantage BJP? A/ The BJP will still have competition in the states. So whether it will help us politically or not, we do not know. But it will certainly reduce costs. For the Lok Sabha elections, the expenditure for Assam comes to 0600 crore, excluding other costs like police mobilisation, political party expenditure and so on. If Assam elections were held simultaneously, we could save 0600 crore. We spend at least one lakh crore rupees for a national election and (as much) for state elections. If those are held simultaneously, it would be good. Q/ You indulged in what people call resort politics by bringing the Eknath Shinde faction [of the Shiv Sena] to Guwahati in 2022. A/ Whenever there is a (political) rebellion in a particular state, you cannot stay in that state. Because, obviously, the state machinery will be against you. So everybody has to go to a neutral place. In the past, Congress MLAs were taken from Karnataka to Hyderabad. If somebody wants to rebel against me, would they be so foolish as to stay in Assam? Obviously, someone like Mamata Banerjee will call and say, Come to my state. So this [resort politics] should not be a news event. Q/ Isnt resort politics something new? A/ When I was with the Congress, we were deputed to various states to manage resorts. Q/ How many have you managed? A/ In the 22 years I spent with the Congress, I must have done it eight or nine times. We used to bring MLAs before Rajya Sabha [elections], keep them in a Congress-ruled state, and, in the morning, take them to vote. These are normal things. So if Eknath Shinde decided to rebel against Uddhav Thackeray, then he has to be foolish to remain in Mumbai. But if he is not a fool, he will go to a state where Uddhavs writ does not run. So they came to Assam, stayed here for eight days, enjoyed Guwahati, and I collected GST (goods and services tax). Q/ Who paid their hotel bills? A/ [Money came] from their own party account, and I collected GST at 18 per cent. Additionally, they gave Rs50 lakh for the chief ministers relief fund because of the floods here. Similarly, if Rahul Gandhi is coming to Assam [for the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra], I am very happy. At least they would spend some money in Assam and my GST [revenue] will increase. So what I did for Eknath Shinde, I would do for Rahul Gandhi as well. Q/ What was that one moment when you took the final decision to quit the Congress? A/ I decided to quit the Congress in 2008 itself. Rahul Gandhi had come to Guwahati and we were at the same table. After talking to him, I told my friend that it seemed difficult for us to continue together. He is not a person who can handle statecraft. Finally, I took the decision in 2015. Q/ There was talk that Rahul Gandhi made a last phone call to stop you from leaving. A/ Well, I was at Amit Shahs residence [when] Rahul and [the late] Ahmed Patel (political secretary to Sonia Gandhi) called me and said, Please come, we will resolve [the issues]. But I was already in Amit Shahs official drawing room. Q/ What was Shahs response? A/ I did not tell him that I was getting a call. I was new at that time. Q/ Which other exits seem to have caused a big dent to the party? A/ The Congress lost many leaders and many people have retired. Many people have slowed down. Today, what you are seeing is not the same party when Sonia Gandhi was leading the Congress. It is purely Rahuls Congress. Those who were with Sonia Gandhi or Manmohan Singh have either taken a backseat or retired. And the remnants like Kamal Nath are also gone now. I think Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge got a lease of life for one or two years, but he will also fade away. Q/ What is the biggest factor that led to the Congresss downfall? A/ Rahul is very arrogant. But he is arrogant without knowledge, education or political maturity. When you are an intellectual or are popular, you have a right to be arrogant. When you are an iconic leader, you can be arrogant. But he is mediocre. Calling him mediocre is still a tribute. He doesnt know anything. And I will not blame him. Probably he could not undergo formal schooling or he had a traumatic childhood, or it is the society he lives in. He might be talking to you with respect [one moment], but he may not recognise you after one hour. Q/ Priyanka Gandhi had a similar childhood. How would you assess her? A/ I have seen both of them during my Congress period. Suddenly they are becoming socialists! There is not a single business leader of reckoning who has not visited or was not friendly with Congress leaders. Their access or relationship is evidence of how close the entire government was with industrialists. Now suddenly they talk about crony capitalism. Q/ Why is the Congress talking of crony capitalism now? A/ All these are blackmailing [tactics] to extract money during the election period. I will say that industrialists brought vibrancy to the economy and at least industrially we have become a strong nation. I see them as employment generators. I see them as movers and shakers of the Indian economy. They are creating millions of jobs. Who opened up the Indian economy? Isnt it Dr Manmohan Singh who brought foreign investment to India? So I wonder why the Congress, which created the infrastructure, is now denying that. If there was no Congress, whether any of the known industrialists would have been here or not, nobody knows. Now Priyanka and Rahul believe that they were paradropped from the moon and the sun. That is not the truth. Q/ What do you think of the Congress not attending the Ram Temple pran prathishthan? A/ They should have come. They could have said they would visit on another date, but they missed the bus in their attempt to please certain Muslim fundamentalists of Kerala and others. Q/ Do you think it is a blunder? A/ It is a blunder. The political connotation would have changed the minute Sonia Gandhi went to the Ram temple on January 23rd morning. Indian politics would have changed not just for them, but for the entire country. They made a historical blunder to adopt the image of being anti-Hindu. In India you can be pro-Christian, pro-Muslim, but you cannot be anti-Hindu. Q/ The Congress thinks the Ram Temple is being politicised. A/ If you visit the Ram Temple, then it will not be politicised. Your absence will make it politicised. If there are Muslim and Christian leaders who roam around in the name of secularism, why cant they sit together and celebrate Hindu triumph? When the Pakistan government restored a Hindu temple, senior BJP leader L.K. Advani was invited. Can it be more communal than Pakistan? But Sonia Gandhi was asked not to go, [because of the threat that] there will be problems in Rahul winning Wayanad. Rahul went to Baburs tomb in 2005, but he did not go to the Ram Temple. Doesnt the Hindu feel hurt? You cannot become secular by being anti-Hindu. It does not work. Q/ How do you analyse the word secular in the Indian Constitution? A/ The word secular was not ours. It was inserted by Indira Gandhi. The first generation of the Congress [leaders] never thought of [including] secular. They said Indias ethos is sarva dharma samabhav (respect for all religions). Gandhiji, Nehru and Sardar Patel never thought that the Constitution should have a word like secularism. The Constituent Assembly had debated and decided against the word and instead put Article 14 whose operative part talks about the state not discriminating against any religion, any sex or any individual. The word secular makes us defensive, as if we were not secular. It was included only in 1975 to please certain people and the word was stamped in the Preamble, as if we were not secular. Q/ But dont you think talking about it now creates fear and confusion? A/ That is why I always say that India never started from 1947. Many people mistake 1947 as our beginning. If Indias Constituent Assembly had 60 per cent Muslims or even 50 per cent Christians, we would not have been a secular country. You go through the entire world historywherever 50 per cent lawmakers are Christian or Muslim, it is either a Christian state or an Islamic state. Because the Indian Constituent Assembly was full of Hindus, we dared to make India a non-Hindu state. That is the strength of Hindus. I can immediately go to and eat at a Muslims home or visit a mosque, but a Muslim will never visit a temple. The point I am making is that secularism is imbibed in our body and soul. Q/ What is your take on INDIA bloc? People say it is a fight for ideology. A/ What is INDIA bloc? I want to ask if youexcept for Arvind Kejriwal (who is a new entrant)were confident, why would you change the name from UPA to INDIA. UPA has given you two solid governmentsUPA 1 and UPA 2. People of India know more about the UPA than INDIA, because [it ran] India for 10 years. So changing the name shows how much confidence they have lost. Q/ There is speculation that the name Bharat came as a retaliatory step because of the INDIA bloc? A/ Many people wanted Bharat, but the INDIA bloc gave us the trigger. Many people have gone to the Supreme Court [demanding] that Indias name should be Bharat. But I think there was no outpouring of that emotion. All along I thought Indias name should be Bharat, but I did not have the courage to say it. Within five minutes of the INDIA bloc being announced, I found the courage to ask why not call India as Bharat. Because the Congress opposed Ram Mandir, it gave me courage to support Ram Mandir. Sometimes it works in reverse. And I must thank INDIA bloc because you have taken the name of India, Bharat has become a household name. Q/ New BJP chief ministers have come up in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. Is it the BJP strategy to groom new leaders? A/ It is a very good practice they have started. A chief minister should be there only for a decent period. If a chief minister stays on too long, then the next generation gets killed. The party has to decide on the period of service. But at some point, everybody has to go. At least in the BJP, you should not come with the mindset that you will stay here. You should always be ready to go back to your original addressof being a karyakarta. I think thats the message. Q/ What would you say to Rahul Gandhis allegation that the BJP also follows dynasty politics? A/ Our party is not controlled by any dynasty. But suppose my son is meritorious and can contribute to my party, why will I waste the talent? I would say, Come and work, son, but you cannot take control of the party. It doesnt mean that he can be equated to the Gandhi family, Mulayam family or Lalu family. I often see them (opposition leaders) trying to draw a parallel between the Gandhi family and the Anurag Thakur family. That is an apples and oranges comparison. [Is there a] dynasty controlling the BJP? The BJP is a party where you just give a phone call and you become a member. So the sons and daughters of any leader can join the party and contribute, but the control button of the BJP will not go to any family. Too many systemic reforms have taken place to disturb that balance. Q/ There is worry that a nationwide delimitation can create a north-south divide. Will population be the criteria? A/ There are many states where the population has come down because of various factors. For instance, in Assam, the Hindus have been [observing] family [planning] norms. Among Muslims, for various reasons, that stabilisation has not come. Today, if delimitation happens in a straitjacket form, then we would lose. So the Election Commission came out with a good balance and gave a margin of 20 per cent and that is how the delimitation happened in Assam, taking into consideration several factors. For a nationwide delimitation, we have to wait for the Delimitation Act to be passed in Parliament after due consideration. Q/ So, population wont be the only criterion in delimitation? A/ It has never been. In India, population, geography, terrain, everything is considered and if you see the way delimitation was conducted in the past, the aspirations of the people were accounted for. There will be a lot of consultations before the act is drafted and we will get an opportunity to vent our grievances and expectations. I am sure it will be on the basis of consensus. Q/ When will the Uniform Civil Code be implemented? A/ On UCC, I have not heard the prime minister express his views elaborately. We know that Uttarakhand and Gujarat are preparing a draft and when the draft comes and the prime minister endorses it, then we will know his views. Personally, I support UCC because Muslim women need that emancipation. This is not a Hindu-Muslim issue, it is gender justice and this is a mandate of our Constitution. We cannot have a different view than Mahatma Gandhi. The UCC is not the BJPs creation. It is the directive principle of state policy. This line was inserted by B.R. Ambedkar, Nehru, Rajendra Prasad. The BJP was not there in that house. Now how it is done depends on statecraft. If Modi is the blessed son of this motherland to bring the UCC and implement the directive principle of state policy, we should be happy about it. Q/ How soon will the Citizenship (Amendment) Act be implemented? Will there be protests? A/ The CAA is already passed and the framing of the rules is a formality. But it has to be [notified] before it lapses. We are ideologically committed. There will be some protests in Assam, but I will talk to them. I have asked the people not to put the state in a situation where we disturb the progress. Q/ Do you think the anti-CAA protests were genuine or orchestrated in Assam? A/ No, these are genuine protests. When we talk of Assamese people, we do not mean Hindu Assamese. We mean Hindu, Muslim and Buddhist Assamese. So we take pride that we are not communal. Our ideology, our agitation against the foreigners was purely against any attack on our language and demography. So that generation cannot reconcile with the CAA easily. They are not aware of religious identity and what was happening on the other side of the border. Today in Assam, there are around seven lakh Bengali Hindus who have prima facie come from Bangladesh and have no rights, no citizenship. They cannot go back. So where will they go? Q/ And what about the detention centres? A/ Nobody in Assam believes in detention camps. It was the order of the Guwahati High Court for which we had to set up a detention camp. Now we have obtained an order from the Guwahati High Court that if a foreigner is declared a foreigner, then he will be debarred from certain privileges. Q/ Voting rights, for example? A/ Voting rights, yes. But we are very liberal in our thoughts. One crore 36 lakh people have entered Assam in different stages, right from 1951. How many people have we put in a detention camp? One hundred and seventy-two. Instead of putting them in a detention camp, I could have convinced the Bangladesh Rifles and pushed them back. But we did not do it. I cannot send back Hindus. That is why we need CAA. Q/ Do you see Islamic radicalisation rising in Assam? A/ Islamic radicalisation was on the rise in Assam. We busted some modules of the Popular Front of India. Under the guidance of Amit Shah, we have reinvented policing in Assam. From militancy, we are now focusing on tackling drugs, crime, fundamentalist activity. I have to stabilise Assam for Assamese people, including Hindus and Muslims. We have 4 per cent Assamese Muslims in the state. Recently, I sought views on an anti-polygamy bill and all Muslim organisations have submitted a memorandum expressing support. Q/ How are you dealing with the Rohingya threat? A/ Rohingyas keep coming, but the numbers are not in the thousands. We are working actively with the National Investigation Agency (NIA)and have busted a few modules. But I think we need to resolve the Rohingya issue, as there are bombs waiting in Bangladesh to enter India. So, if we can push them back to their original land, [there will be] some kind of a solution. But I think the international community has to address the issue. In 2023, we detected almost 250 to 300 Rohingyas and handed them over to the NIA, but 2,700 remain undetected. They dont stay in Assam, but travel to Haryana, Jammu and so on. Q/ How do you see the Chinese threat in the northeast? A/ Many Indian insurgent groups now have a confirmed settlement on the Chinese border. They are getting complete support from across the border. As long as the India-China relationship remains bumpy, the northeast cannot be stabilised permanently. But Assam is different as it does not face a direct threat from China. So Assam can be made completely peaceful. In Nagaland and Manipur, we have to factor in external influence, ethnic conflicts and internal governance. Today, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram are peaceful. The dialogue with NSCN(IM) is in the advanced stages. And I believe an accord will be signed sooner or later because neither the outfit nor the government wants to go back on it. So I think somehow Nagaland will be stabilised. In Manipur, the division is deep and we will have to be patient. Q/ But the hill-valley divide in Manipur has been there for long. What do you think went wrong this time? A/ What is wrong is that a conflict breaks out every five to ten years. Somehow the state leadership could not anticipate it, and once tribal people fight among themselves, reconciliation is not very easy. There has to be back channel negotiation and healing touch. The reason why Manipur has not recovered so far is beyond the comprehension of those who raise the issue of Manipur in Parliament. This world is very different from theirs. Q/ Have the hill people lost trust in Chief Minister Biren Singh? A/ I think the plains people have also lost trust in the people from the hills. It is both ways. Biren Singh individually has not had a problem with Kukis. The problem is between two communities. If Biren is removed, then other Biren will do the same. Similarly, in Kukis, if you remove one leader, the other leader will do the same. The best thing is to bring both the communities together. And that process is on. Q/ How do you see Mahua Moitras claims about mistreatment by Parliaments ethics committee? A/ Mahua speaks contradictorily. First of all, being a Parliamentarian, she should not have given her login ID to anybody who lives on foreign soil even for a bona fide purpose. If an Army general gives his login ID to a person who lives in Pakistan, even by default, is it acceptable? I think she should have accepted her mistake gracefully and owned up morally that she committed an error of judgment. She could have resigned and fought the byelection and won again. But she tried to defend the indefensible, again by blaming Modi. Modi did not tell you to give your login ID. Nobody is saying she took money. That is a matter of investigation. In politics, we are not talking about criminal culpability. But the opposition made it a political circus by backing her. If Trinamool Congress and Congress dont form an alliance, will Sonia support Mahua in this election? These are gimmicks. Q/ How important is it to bring ULFA(I)s Paresh Baruah back for lasting peace in Assam? A/ For me, Paresh Baruah is back. I talk to him every month. He has lived his life like many people who thought they were fighting for a cause. People of Assam now should not think too much about bringing him back because his era is over. He cannot disturb peace. He is just a symbol of certain causes and let us handle those causes. Q/ What kind of conversations do you have with Baruah? A/ I ask him, What did you eat today? What happened in the morning, in the evening? Dada, you blew a grenade today. If you attack us, we have the right to attack you. But that doesnt mean that he doesnt love Assam or I do not love Assam. I do not have a monopoly over Assam, neither does he. It is a constant persuasion. I will keep talking and if there is a meeting point, then it will come. But Assam has gone beyond Baruah now. Nobody on the street discusses ULFA or Baruah, except when some reporters ask. The state is in pursuit of peace, development and tranquillity. Q/ Do you see private industries coming to Assam? A/ Big private players will come next month. I am expecting a big announcement. Things are changing in Assam. Q/ We know Himanta Biswa Sarma as the chief minister of Assam. Whats next? A/ My lifelong ambition was to be the chief minister of Assam. It is my luck that I was given a chance to serve Assam. I want to be here for 10 years so that I can consolidate peace and development and be remembered in Assams history for the work I did. But the party is supreme and my future will be decided by my party only. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma prides himself as a son of the soil. In his office at the secretariat in Guwahati are the portraits of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and of Gopinath Bordoloi, the first chief minister of Assam who won the Bharat Ratna for his service to the nation and to the people of the state. It serves as a constant reminder of the two tasks clearly cut out for Sarma. To follow in Bordolois footsteps as an Assamese, a statesman, a humanitarian and as a follower of Mahatma Gandhi, and also to fulfill Modis dream of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. As I am from Assam and at the receiving end of a demographic change, I talk about religious identities like Hindu or Muslim, said Sarma. But when I go to Prime Minister Modi, I realise that for him, Bharat matters. Sarmas journey, from the students movement in Assam to becoming the tallest political leader of the state, mirrors the many struggles of the Assamese people. Groomed by his father, the late Kailash Nath Sarma, a schoolteacher, Sarma was in class five when he realised that he was destined for bigger things. I used to think why is it that we dont get to read anywhere that Assam is one of the top-ranking states of India. Holding those dreams close to my heart and not being mature enough to bear so much anguish, I joined the students agitation, Sarma wrote in his book, In Pursuit of a Dream. Those were the days of the anti-foreigners agitation and the entire state was struggling to preserve its identity. Many young Assamese lost their lives in the agitation that ended with the signing of the Assam Accord in 1985. But this was only the beginning of a cycle of violence that lasted three decades. The United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), which was formed in 1979 to fight for an independent state, recruited and trained Assamese youth to participate in an armed struggle. The support from insurgent groups in neighbouring states and from across the border poured in, and ULFA grew to become Assams deadliest insurgent group. Retaliatory operations plunged Assam and neighbouring states into the dark days of violent insurgency which successive governments could not resolve. Sarma is a product of this strife-torn society and he has been watched closely by citizens and outlaws alike since he entered electoral politics in 1996. He first contested assembly elections as a Congress candidate from Jalukbari where he was defeated. But that was the only time he lost. In 2001, he won the same seat with a thumping majority. The same year, he was inducted as a minister of state with important portfolios like finance, agriculture, planning and development. There has been no looking back since. He joined the BJP on August 23, 2015 and was appointed convenor of the election management committee for the 2016 assembly elections. He said he earned both critics and admirers along the way, and never lost a friend. I think my greatest strength is that I have never lost a personal friend, whether it is in the Congress or in the BJP, or in sports, in culture or in jobs, he said. I dont think personal and professional life or choices are in conflict. If everything goes well, there is harmony, said Sarma, who is an avid reader of history and philosophy. His rainbow vision for Assam from the Barak valley to the Brahmaputra valley and beyond prompted the BJP to appoint him convenor of the North East Democratic Alliance, a political front to unite non-Congress parties in the region. With the combination of a sharp political mind and a deep understanding of insurgency movements, Sarma has been able to shape the BJPs internal security approach in Assam, bringing dividends to the party and the state. He was troubled when he saw that of the 126 assembly constituencies of Assam, nearly 35 to 40 constituencies were dominated by suspected foreigners. The 2023 delimitation exercise is one of the many steps he has taken to stop the impact of illegal migration and threats from Islamic radicalisation coming from foreign shores. Assam is considered the gateway to the northeast because of its location. For historic reasons, events in Assam influence the entire region. Therefore, even though he is chief minister of only one state, his responsibility lies in delivering Lok Sabha seats from the entire northeast for the BJP. Sarma expects to win at least 22 of 25 Lok Sabha seats in the region. He said the three Muslim dominated seats in Assam would go to the Congress. Sarma has also emerged as the man-to-rely-upon for quick-fix solutions for Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah even for issues outside the northeast. Whether it is trouble with extremists in Punjab or politicking in Maharashtra, Sarma has played a crucial role in settling issues in the BJPs favour. For example, when trouble erupted in Punjab following the arrest of extremist Amritpal Singh last April, he was flown out to Dibrugarh on a chartered flight. He is now lodged in Dibrugarh central jail. A year before that, a Guwahati resort hosted Eknath Shinde and his supporting MLAs who rebelled against the Shiv Sena, which resulted in the toppling of the Uddhav Thackeray government in Maharashtra. Shindes supporters remained in Guwahati for eight days and ensured that their leader got installed as chief minister. Sarma also ensured that the BJP retained power in Tripura in the assembly polls held last year, notwithstanding the stiff challenge posed by the Tipra Motha, a party founded by Pradyot Kishore Manikya, the head of the Tripura royal family. As the opposition votes got divided, the left front, which used to be the biggest player in the state, was relegated to third position. The Tipra Motha won 13 of 20 seats reserved for Scheduled Tribes, and for the first time since 1978, the left parties failed to win a single seat in the tribal belt. Many in the northeast see Sarmas hand in propping up the Tipra Motha, and his friendship with Pradyot is no secret. Ever since he left the Congress, Sarma seems to be on a mission to demolish the grand old party in the northeast. He never forgets to tell how respected he feels in the BJP as a leader from Assam, who can call up anyone in Delhi, including the president and the prime minister. These were things unheard of in Assam, said Sarma. Appreciating Sarmas tactical prowess, the BJP did not hesitate in taking him in, and he ensured the BJPs victory in the 2016 assembly elections. But the chief ministers chair went to Sarbananda Sonowal, who joined the BJP in 2011, four years before Sarma. Five years later, Sarma fulfilled his dream of becoming the chief minister of Assam. It clearly showed his rising stature in the BJP that the party did not repeat the chief minister under whom it won the elections. Sonowal was inducted into the Union cabinet with a major portfolio. People with an ear to the corridors of power say Sarma gets along famously with the powerful Union home minister. In 2021, he translated a book on Shah, Amit Shah and the March of BJP, into Assamese. But Sarma remains grounded in more ways than one. I cannot be successful as a chief minister and fail as a father. I have to be a good father, a good son and a good statesman. Many people think that being a chief minister means that you will abandon your family. So, at least once a year, I take my wife out somewhere. And whom does he worship? We all ask sometimes, where is God? I think the closest resemblance of God is your parents. If you respect your parents hard work and value systems, somehow you will be secure, said Sarma. I have seen every kind of trouble in life. I have seen every kind of conspiracy. Be it politically or personally, my life has been full of struggles. But I feel what my father taught me, to be a simple human being, gives me a lot of strength. Clearly, there is still more to hear about Sarmathis seems to be just the beginning. Draping the traditional red and white Assamese gamcha around his neck, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma looked content as he stepped out of the North Block on the evening of December 29. The conference room in the British-era building, where he sat with United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa and general secretary Anup Chetia, has witnessed the resolution of many demands for sovereignty left unresolved by the British, especially in the northeast. After the meeting, Sarma, Chetia and Rajkhowa agreed to a solution to the rebellion waged by ULFA since 1979, marking the beginning of the end of one of the longest-running insurgencies since independence. Protracted dialogue between the government and... ULFA witnessed several ups and downs, but the chief ministers political acumen... helped clinch the final peace settlement. G.P. Singh, DGP, Assam As Union Home Minister Amit Shah joined the trio to sign the tripartite agreement, it was a symbolic Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat moment. For Sarma, it was also a triumph of his love for the Brahmaputra valley, which was very much at display when they all exchanged gamchas, an article of significance worn by the indigenous people of Assam. It cemented Sarmas position as the tallest leader from Assam. The northeast is geographically cut off from the rest of the country, but for the narrow Siliguri Corridor, known as the Chickens Neck. This region shares borders with Bhutan, Bangladesh, Nepal and China, and has historically been the playground for armed insurgent groups like ULFA. Lives of the people in the northeast have been split between cries for sovereignty by armed insurgent groups and their own desire to participate in the growth story of the rest of the country. The peace accord with ULFA is the ninth settlement with insurgent groups during the tenure of the Modi government. It is significant as it breaks the 44-year-long uncertainty in the lives of the common man. Sarmas interest in internal security and his assessments have been unmatched. In 2021, when he took charge as chief minister, he tweaked the internal security approach. He ordered tough police action against armed insurgents, prevented ULFA cadres from carrying out extortion, facilitated mass surrenders of key militants and doled out rehabilitation packages that proved an attractive proposition. Protracted dialogue between the government and the pro-talks ULFA faction witnessed several ups and downs, but the chief ministers political acumen and understanding of ground [realities] helped clinch the final peace settlement, said G.P. Singh, director-general of police, Assam. The clincher was the decision to conduct a delimitation exercise last year, which won the support of the ultras. The delimitation safeguards the rights of the indigenous people by making it near impossible for non-indigenous communities to contest in assembly elections. G.P. Singh | Salil Bera The 12-point tripartite agreement includes the promise to recommend to the Election Commission to follow the broad guidelines and methodology adopted for the delimitation exercise in future delimitations as well, the offer to create an error-free National Register of Citizens (on the basis of the decision by the Supreme Court), maintaining Assams territorial integrity, preventing illegal migration, taking measures to prevent the enrolment of illegal migrants in the voters lists and supporting exemption for Assam from the section 3 of the Citizenship Act 1955. ULFA is disbanding, said Singh, dismantling various camps inhabited by around 750 cadres. It will also share the list of members who are eligible for jobs. He said the militants outside the country were also being persuaded to return to Assam and work with the government. We recognise their love for the state of Assam, he said. But he also issued a warning against those who planned to indulge in violence again. Sarma made the accord possible by keeping a line of communication open with ULFA (Independent) chairman Paresh Baruah, who continues the armed struggle even after Rajkhowa was caught in Dhaka and was sent to India. Sarma is in regular touch with Baruah, who lives in China. But there are only around 200 cadres left with his group. While some of them are in camps on the India-Myanmar border, a few others like Drishti Rajkhowa, Baruahs close confidant, got a safe passage to Assam in 2019, a rare case when he permitted the surrender of an insider. The chief (Baruah) inquires about my life in Assam. I told him things have changed for the better and people no longer demand sovereignty. Today, they are very much part of the economic and sociocultural development of the state, said Drishti. Baruah is a hardliner and surrender would be his last option, but the government has made it clear that talks can happen only within the ambit of the Indian Constitution. The geopolitical situation still remains vulnerable, with the possibility of covert support from cross-border state and non-state actors, especially within China, and attempts to use Indian insurgent groups as mercenaries by inimical forces in Myanmar. On the other hand, friendly governments in Bhutan and Bangladesh are proving helpful by not allowing safe havens to fleeing militants. The next big challenge for Sarma would be to help stitch together the remaining peace agreements in the northeast, like the elusive Naga peace accord. When Naga political leaders who are in talks with the government rang up to congratulate Rajkhowa, he told them, We have been guerrilla fighters living in jungles and running from one country to another. But time has come to honour the will of the people who want peace and progress. Interview/ Arabinda Rajkhowa, chairman, ULFA IT IS A BITTERSWEET moment for ULFA chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa, who lost the battle for a sovereign Assam. After 44 years, he has decided to disband the organisation, signing the historic peace settlement with the Central government and the government of Assam. The guerrilla fighter is facing some criticism after he returns to Assam as a common citizen, committed to roll out the promises in the settlement. In an exclusive interview, Rajkhowa tells THE WEEK that ULFA has let go of its cause for the people of Assam. Excerpts: Q/ How does it feel to disband the ULFA faction that you have been leading? A/ I have been a guerrilla fighter for 44 yearsfrom April 7, 1979 till December 29, 2023fighting for a sovereign Assam. We have lived in jungles braving hunger, difficult weather and terrain, running from country to country. Over the years, our senior leaders got arrested and had to spend many years in jail. It has been a long struggle. The civil society and intellectuals gradually asked us to adopt peaceful means to resolve the India-Assam conflict. ULFAs demand has always been a sovereign and independent Assam. But the proposal for a peaceful political solution is the demand of the people of Assam. We were in discussion with the Indian government for the last 12 years and four months, honouring the agendas prepared by civil society organisations. The proposal for a peaceful political process was brought before the leaders of ULFA by 131 civil society organisations. It was then that we decided to honour and respect the will of the Assamese people. Therefore, we signed the agreement which resulted in disbanding the organisation. Q/ It has been a very long negotiation process. Are you happy with the outcome? A/ Happiness will come after the implementation of the agreement, when the original inhabitants will be satisfied. Many long discussionssome bitter, some sweethave taken place. We stuck to our demands and the government stuck to its stand under the federal structure of the Indian Constitution. Our mentality was that of fighters who were waging a battle of independence, while the government had to look at administrative, security, diplomatic and many other concerns. There was no meeting ground initially and it was a slow process. As individuals fighting a specific cause for which we have suffered for 44 years, it is natural for us to feel disheartened and sad at the loss of our battle for independence. We have let go of our cause for the benefit of the people of Assam. Q/ How do you see the peace deal with ULFA impacting people of Assam? A/ We do not call it peace talks or peace deal; instead we call it the peaceful political solution process. It is a positive development for the people of Assam as they have finally got a peaceful and democratic environment. The earlier allegation that the Central government adopted a step-motherly treatment towards Assam was true, but slowly, an amicable solution has been achieved. One of the points of the agreement is to constitute a committee to initiate and allot Scheduled Tribe status and assure reservation for OBCs (Other Backward Class)/MOBCs (More Other Backward Class) in urban local bodies and panchayats. The government will also consider recommending to the Election Commission to follow the broad guidelines and methodology adopted for delimitation in Assam in 2023 in future delimitations as well. The government has also promised to take effective measures to prevent enrolment of illegal migrants in the voters list. A lot of developmental measures will also be taken by the government. Many youngsters took up guerrilla life because of dissatisfaction with the state. We are happy there is scope for employment for them in the development of Assam. Q/ Do you think ULFA can integrate with the civil society? A/ We have been a banned organisation fighting security forces, Army and police, but now we are part of a peaceful, democratic process and will work towards building peace in Assam. The civil society asked us to join the peaceful political process in 2011 and brought us out of jail. They told us that if we came out of jail and went back to the jungle to restart the battle with security forces, then they would not support us. Hence, we assured them that we would keep the interests of the people of Assam before us. We fulfilled that commitment on December 29. Q/ But there may be some criticism from within ULFA and outside accusing you of settling for an economic package and giving up the fight for sovereignty. A/ Yes, people will ask us many questions and there will be analysis and criticism. It is the sign of a living and conscious society. The agreement cannot be implemented overnight and everybody needs to be patient and avoid any misunderstanding. Otherwise, it will all be in vain. Different political parties have different views as many people lost their families during the struggle in Assam. ULFA cadres who went to the jungles to fight for sovereign, independent Assam will definitely feel the pain as our beloved organisation has to be dissolved. But we have to convince ourselves to prioritise peace, prosperity and development of Assam. Q/ Is Paresh Baruah in touch with you? A/ No, but he is in touch with a few senior leaders. He is sticking to his demand for sovereignty and we have appealed to him to start a peaceful political solution process. In my opinion, if he joins the process, it will only strengthen our efforts for a lasting peace as he, too, is fighting for Assam. ULFA (Independent) is a separate organisation and it will take its own decision. Q/ What about Chinas support to ULFA? A/ I am the first ULFA leader who contacted the Chinese Communist Party in the mid-1980s. I spoke through an interpreter who was a lecturer at Yunnan University. I travelled by foot from Assam to China crossing rivers and mountains over several days. They talked about Mahatma Gandhis nonviolent struggle and expressed support only if we adopted peaceful political means. When we told them that we were armed revolutionaries, they did not support us, but directed us to the arms once given by the Chinese to the Burmese Communist Party. We picked up a few and formed networks and connections through individual links. But there was no state support from China. Interview/ Anup Chetia, general secretary, ULFA ON APRIL 7, 1979, six people gathered at Rang Ghara historical monument built by the Ahom kings in Rangpurand decided to take up arms to fight against the foreign influx threatening to devour the Assamese identity. The name United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) was coined at this meeting. It motivated a young Anup Chetia to get on a motorbike and travel across Assam to persuade young people to join ULFA. It grew quickly to become the deadliest insurgent group in Assam. The cycle of violence has been broken as ULFA leaders like Chetia have decided to disband the organisation. Speaking exclusively with THE WEEK, Chetia explains how he is trying to convince Paresh Baruah of ULFA (Independent), who is hiding in China, to honour the will of the people and join the peace process. Excerpts from the interview: Q/ It is said that you went around with Paresh Baruah in the 1980s on a motorbike spreading awareness about ULFAs goal. A/ Those days Baruah was in Burma and I was in Assam most of the time. I purchased a red motorbike in 1985 and travelled across Assam to tell people about ULFA and motivated them to participate. I organised most of the cadres in this manner. Q/ What was the need for an armed movement? A/ At that time, the Assam agitation was going on. The Indian government made blunders by not recognising that the problem of illegal migration from Bangladesh was not limited to Assam and could become a problem for the entire country. The All Assam Students Union and the All Assam Gana Sangram Parishad had begun a nonviolent struggle, but the government did not respect this democratic movement. Hence, we decided to go for an armed revolution. The people of Assam had lost faith in the government, which led them to support us. Q/ Can you tell us about your escape to Bangladesh? A/ In 1991, most of our leaders were in jail. After Operation Rhino (an Army operation in 1991 against ULFA), the ULFA setup was disrupted as most of our boys fled Assam. Our communication network collapsed and our vice chairman and chairman were caught. I was in custody in Kolkata. After that, our chairman decided to go for discussions with the Hiteswar Saikia government. We came out of jail in the name of negotiations. But when we reached Delhi, the Intelligence Bureau and other security personnel put pressure on us to surrender all arms. They were not interested in solving our issues. That was when we realised that they were not thinking of a solution. So we left the peace process. A general council meeting was held in Tezpur and then in Nagaon where we unanimously decided to discontinue discussions, and to strengthen our organisation. From Nagaon, most leaders, including myself, left for Bangladesh. At that time, Baruah was in Bangladesh. Q/ How were you caught in Dhaka in 1997? A/ Actually, I was in Europe. I went to Geneva to participate in the international human rights council meeting. At that time, the UN security personnel in Geneva wanted to arrest me. They even interrogated me and luckily at that time I was carrying a Bangladeshi passport. They asked me whether I was Anup Chetia, and I told them that I was not. I produced my Bangladeshi passport as proof and they could not arrest me. After that, I left Switzerland and lived in Europe for six months. From Paris, I returned to Dhaka in December 1997. I was caught in Dhaka as India got Interpol to issue a red corner notice against me. Q/ You spent 18 years at the Dhaka central jail, the maximum time spent by any northeast insurgent. A/ I was in Dhaka central jail for 17 years and 11 months and one month in Guwahati jail. In all, I spent 18 years and three days in prison. The conditions in Dhaka jail were pathetic. Its official capacity was 2,840 prisoners, but at that time there were 14,000 prisoners. There was no place for sleeping and eating, and there were not enough washrooms. The British era jail code was in force. However, I was determined to work for the people of Assam, which kept my spirits alive. My family was in Bangladesh, but I avoided meeting them during my time in jail. Q/ What do you think of the Sheikh Hasina government and its approach towards ULFA? A/ Bangladesh has no democracy and there is complete control by the government. Even the courts are controlled by the government. Sheikh Hasina has no sympathy or support for us. Baruahs wife has been living in Bangladesh alone for many years now. Q/ What kind of support did you get from Pakistan? A/ We got logistical support and training. I travelled to Pakistan twice in the 1990s. I went to Karachi and then to Rawalpindi onward to Peshawar and to the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. I have met some Afghan Mujahideen leaders, including Gulbuddin Hekmatyar. I met him over lunch. Later on, many ULFA leaders went to Pakistan for training. The military matters were looked after by Baruah and others. Q/ When and why did ULFA split? A/ In 2011, ULFA split into two. Baruah was in Burma and we (the pro-talks faction) were in India. We decided to participate in the peace talks and Baruah split with us to form ULFA (Independent). Q/ Are you in touch with Baruah and what message is he sending to ULFA in Assam? A/ He called me on December 17, 2023, and told me that we could go ahead with the peace agreement. Whatever we get from the Central government would be good for the people of Assam. He expressed interest in talks and said he would go next. He said whatever benefits the people of Assam could not get from the government, they would work for it whether it is their constitutional rights or protecting their identity and culture. Q/ Why did it take so long to sign the peace agreement? A/ It took so long because we changed our demands from sovereignty to peace talks in 2011. Once the discussions were held under the Indian Constitution, we demanded Scheduled Tribe status for six communities, but it did not succeed. Then we said there should be 88 per cent reservation for MP and MLA seats for the indigenous people which was not possible for the Government of India. The talks stopped for some time and after that we accepted the delimitation process. Q/ Why would Paresh Baurah give up the demand for sovereignty after carrying out an armed struggle for so long? A/ Things are different today. When the ULFA armed movement started, people were very supportive and the situation compelled them to struggle. But right now, the situation is different and people do not want violence. They want peace and economic development. In 2019, a genetic study on the population of the Lakshadweep islands was published in the peer-reviewed Scientific Reports. The findings indicated that the inhabitants of this 36-island archipelago share close genetic ties with people in the Maldives, Sri Lanka and India. Moreover, the researchers discovered a notable founder effect in both paternal and maternal lineages of the islanders, which means that the population had limited genetic mixing. This suggested that they are their own people, and have for hundreds of years inhabited the islands and formed a bond with their land. In the Maldives, there are reportedly 59,924 tourist beds. MP Mohammed Faizal Padippura said this number was close to 100 for Lakshadweep. Since assuming control in 2020, Administrator Praful Khoda Patel has made a series of controversial decisions, sparking mass protests in the islands. Following Prime Minister Narendra Modis recent visit to Lakshadweepand the ensuing controversy triggered by derogatory remarks by some Maldivian officialsa widespread campaign urged Indians to ditch the Maldives and head to Lakshadweep. The initial enthusiasm, however, faded as the people got a reality check; there are few places to stay on the archipelago and the ecosystem is not built for a massive influx of tourists. The islanders were measured in their response to the massive attention and the big talk of development. In fact, many of them are now gearing up for legal battles to counter any efforts that would ride roughshod over their rights in the name of tourism and development. An island of woes Najmudheen C.T., 47, a mukhtar (local law practitioner) hailing from Kalpeni287km from Kochi, and home to rare flora and faunasaid he could not bring his infants body back to the island when he died of a medical complication at a private hospital in Kochi in 2018. The boy had an infection and was airlifted to the mainland. This is not my fate alone. It is the fate of every ordinary person in Lakshadweep, he added. For every serious medical case, we still have to go to Kochi in an air ambulance. The air ambulancesoperated by the port department, not the health departmentdo not fly after 6pm. With only three or four helicopters for the entire population (around 68,000), the opportunity to fly is determined more by a patients influence than their medical condition. The move to Kochi becomes necessary because Indira Gandhi Hospital in Kavaratti, the only major hospital on the islands, is understaffed and ill-equipped to handle complicated cases. Lakshadweep MP Mohammed Faizal Padippura told THE WEEK that though he was happy that there was a lot of attention on Lakshadweep, there was a lot the administration had to do. Connectivity is the biggest part, he said. If you look for air connectivity, we have only one flight a day. Both tourists and islanders have to depend on the same flight. Vacation, vexation: Youngsters on a beach in Lakshadweep | Shutterstock Agattian inhabited island 459km from Kochi where fishing, coir and copra are the main industrieshas the only airstrip of the archipelago. While Maldives receives direct flights from 40 capitals, Alliance Air operates a solitary 72-seater aircraft between Kochi and Agatti every day. Post Modis visit, when THE WEEK last checked, no seats were available till the end of March. Fuel, said Najmudheen, was also a problem in most of the islands. Only four islandsKavaratti, Minicoy, Kalpeni and Androtthave fuel pumps; everywhere else, fuel is brought in barrels and is sold at exorbitant rates, he said. We pay more than Rs250 for a litre of petrol here. You need to be influential to get fuel also! We need to show our RC book to get it. Ship connectivity to the mainland is another nightmare. Though we have five ships, two will be under maintenance at any point of time, said Faizal. So, how do we connect with tourists? The ships take three to five days to make a round trip. In the Maldives, there are reportedly 59,924 tourist beds. Faizal said this number was close to 100 for Lakshadweep. So, we are not in a position to accept the demand we have now, he said. And even if someone wanted to come and build hotels and resorts, he added, the administration would have to take the people of Lakshadweep into confidence. And that hurdle is linked to land acquisition and compensation, and related legal fights. Happy, not happy! During his recent visit, Modi laid the foundation stone for a series of development projects worth Rs1,156 crore, including a submarine optical fibre cable connecting Kochi and Lakshadweep, the renovation of the primary health care facility at Kalpeni and the construction of model anganwadi centres. The prime minister announced these projects in the presence of both the Administrator Praful Khoda Patel and MP Faizal, who are not on the same page about development plans. One of the contentious issues they are divided on is the use of pandaram land to execute the development plans. The administration is apparently, contrary to convention, trying to acquire pandaram land from the islanders without compensating them for the land value. Misbah A., a former member of the Union home ministrys advisory committee for the archipelago, said the islanders were not against development and tourism. But what is the problem in making us stakeholders and partners in these developments? he asked, adding that the administrations recent moves were directed at grabbing land from the islanders. In Lakshadweep, 100 per cent of the land is owned by islanders, except for those that the government has acquired by paying compensation, he said. Pandaram land, he said, was created when the islands were under attack from Portuguese colonisers. The Arakkal [Cannanore] kingdomto which the islands belongedappropriated uninhabited land on the periphery of the islands to protect local residents. Later, under British rule, islanders were allowed to occupy pandaram land as cultivating tenants. Administrator Praful Khoda Patel at a meeting with residents of the islands | X@prafulkpatel On this land, people were not only allowed to farm, but also to build houses, said Misbah. And many did, given the rise in population over the years. Pandaram land on uninhabited islands have been farmed seasonally for more than a century now. Approximately 49.5 per cent of the total land holdings of islanders [in Minicoy, Kalpeni, Andrott, Kavaratti and Agatti, and the attached uninhabited islands] are pandaram land, said lawyer P. Deepak, who is currently representing the islanders in the Kerala High Court. In 1965, the Union government had introduced the Laccadive, Minicoy and Amindivi Islands Land Revenue and Tenancy Regulation, 1965. Section 83 of this regulation empowered the administrator to confer occupancy rights to the occupants of the pandaram land, said Misbah. All those who occupied pandaram land before this regulation were considered legal occupiers. But now, the current administrator is taking steps to take over land without giving us any compensation. A lot of the land, however, was not regularised according to the 1965 regulation, perhaps because of red tape. But administrators in Lakshadweep, traditionally, have given compensation while acquiring pandaram land, said Deepak. That is, until the current administrator showed up. Praful Khoda Patel is the first non-bureaucrat administrator in Lakshadweeps history. Since assuming control in 2020, he has made a series of controversial decisions, sparking mass protests in the islands in 2021. These decisionsincluding the introduction of an Act that allowed the administration to detain a person for up to one year without trial, the banning of cow slaughter on the archipelago, and the Lakshadweep Development Authority Regulation, which apparently grants arbitrary powers to the administrator to acquire landare awaiting the Union home ministrys approval. With the recent moves to acquire pandaram land, Patels administration is adopting a confrontational stand against the islanders. In June 2023, a Kerala High Court single bench made an observation (in a civil case) that said that the administration possesses the proprietary right to pandaram land, said Deepak. The court outlined that those lacking occupancy rights were not entitled to the lands value but only to the value of improvements (crops or buildings they might have grown or built on the land). The administration started using this as a basis to initiate steps for land takeover. Though not explicitly citing the judgment, they began identifying all pandaram landholders. The collector issued orders, declaring that, for reasons such as high-end tourism or other developmental activities, the administration was assuming control of the land. B. Abdul Jaleel, a former sub-divisional officer from Agatti, said that in 1971, H.S. Dubey, then deputy secretary to the Government of India, wrote a letter to the Lakshadweep administrator regarding the acquisition of land for government purposes. THE WEEK accessed the letter, which said: As regards pandaram land in the occupation of ex-cowleders (pandaram landholders) whose cowles have expired, but have been conferred with occupancy rights under Section 83 of the Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Islands Land Revenue and Tenancy Regulation, 1965, their rights as occupants would have to be recognized, and they would have to be paid compensation for the acquisition of their land under the Land Acquisition Act. However, in the wake of the Kerala High Courts observation and an amendment to the 1965 regulation in October 2023which removed a clause favouring pandaram land holders that a 2020 amendment had put inthe administration instructed deputy collectors to assess the value of improvements on these properties for the sanctioning of compensation. They have been explicitly telling the people that they are entitled only to a modest sum allocated for the number of coconut trees and other improvements, not for the value of the land, said Deepak. This prompted islanders to start filing writ petitions. We have filed nearly 200 petitions so far. Now we are progressing with cases, bringing together all those affected from one specific area under a single writ. The islanders have secured a stay from dispossession and are preparing for a protracted legal battle. Activists like Misbah alleged that the administrator was deliberately taking steps to harass the islanders. For instance, there was a proposal to establish a military and civil airport in the northern part of Minicoy, and we were ready for that, he said. But now the administrator has asked to move the location to south pandaram landa measure that would displace and affect more people. An official from the administration, who did not want to be named, told THE WEEK that an airport in south pandaram land would have a more significant social impact. In contrast to the northern strip of Minicoy [which is largely barren], south pandaram is broader, rich in flora, and houses a historic lighthouse [established in 1885]. I do not believe an airport will be built there. THE WEEK tried to contact the secretary and director of port shipping and aviation in Lakshadweep, but they are yet to respond to specific questions. Faizal said he had expected Modi to speak on the land acquisition issue when he visited Lakshadweep. This is an issue that has to be settled by speaking to the people. Their rights have to be protected, he said. Interestingly, former BJP Lakshadweep president, C. Abdul Khader Haji, said the administrator had assured him that the value of land will be compensated when the government takes over pandaram land. His family also holds pandaram land. THE WEEK contacted the administrators office for an interview, but he is yet to give an appointment. When the administrator is taking a stand that this land does not belong to people, things go in a different direction, said Faizal. Unless and until this is sorted, how will the investors come to Lakshadweep to invest in tourism? Forty years ago, I was doing a masters course at the University of Leeds. A couple of my good friends were from Pakistan. We noticed that almost every third person on Oxford Street and Piccadilly was a person of colour, with a preponderance of South Asians. A Pakistani frienda Pathan with a great sense of humourjoked about the few white men we saw, Humne Hindustan, Pakistan se inhe bhaga diya, ab englistan se bhi bhagayenge [We drove them out of Hindustan and Pakistan, now we shall drive them out of England]. We did not drive anyone out; instead, we assimilated, learnt from them and taught them. Former diplomat Bhaswati Mukherjee, in her fourth book, The Indentured and their Route: A Relentless Quest for Identity, tells the poignant story of indentured labour from India, forced to go to the West Indies, Mauritius, Suriname, Reunion and Fiji islands as a consequence of famine and poverty, a harsh foreign regime in India and alluring promises that never materialised. This story is a work of great scholarship, based on a study of multiple books and documents. From 1834 to 1917, 1.3 million Indians left as indentured labour. Only 21 per cent returned; the rest either died or settled in the lands of their forced exile. Two factors contributed to the growth of indentured labour. One, the end of the Mughal empire and the rise of British colonialism brought about a big change in the living conditions in the subcontinent. While the Mughals were conscious of the conditions of the peasantry, and adopted administrative systems that were sensitive to their needs, the British and other European colonial powers exploited their colony for the enrichment of their distant homeland. They raised revenue shares to about 60 per cent. Millions of famine deaths occurred, yet the exploitation continued relentlessly. Two, the movement against slavery threatened the supply of cheap labour to the plantations. The indenture system was a kind of agreement with the helpless and illiterate labour force, called girmit in its Indianised form, thus leading to the expression girmitiyas for indentured labour. Middlemen promised girmitiyas relief from abject poverty, and obtained their thumb impressions and herded them into ships, with paltry rations. On the way, many died of cholera and smallpox. The planters, however, found that their slaves had been replaced by even cheaper labour. One of the first planters to employ indenture confided in 1835 to an associate that their cost is half that of a slave, writes Mukherjee. While girmitiyas were initially men, women soon joined them. The arrival of women and the formation of families changed the character of indenture. They became productive workers, rather than exploited labour. A political movement against indenture also emerged, supported by Mahatma Gandhi and leaders of the Indian National Congress. Generations later, descendants of the girmitiyas were fully assimilated into the culture and politics of the foreign lands. Their influence and position in society varied from place to place, strong in Mauritius and weak in Fiji. Yet, they retained their affinity towards India, as did India with them. UNESCOs Indentured Labour Route Project, initiated by Africa and led by Mauritius, was strongly supported by India. The UNESCO recognised Aapravasi Ghat and Le Morne Cultural Landscape in Mauritius as world heritage sites. Overall, a tragic, compelling story with a happy ending, told with empathy and skill. Chandrasekhar is former Union cabinet secretary. THE INDENTURED AND THEIR ROUTE: A RELENTLESS QUEST FOR IDENTITY Author: Bhaswati Mukherjee Publisher: Rupa Publications India Pages: 232; price: Rs595 Johri is the former chairman of Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs Chandigarh, Jan 21 (PTI) Ludhiana's famous hosiery sector is staring at losses because of weak demand for winter garments this season, as many manufacturers say they faced lack of repeat orders as well as return of stocks from traders in many states. Hosiery goods manufacturers also blame dumping of China-made winter wear items, available at much lower prices, for adding to their woes. However, bone-chilling cold wave weather conditions prevailing in the northern region have given some sort of relief as they anticipate a pick up in demand which may lead to clearance of stocks. Ludhiana hosiery sector, which is one of the oldest industry verticals, is famous for winter garments like sweaters, jackets, thermals, cardigans, pullovers, innerwear, shawls etc. Several states like Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Bihar and Haryana are among key markets for the hosiery sector. The industry representatives said they started offering discounts to wholesalers in December when the demand was not picking up. "Because of the delayed winter, the manufacturers started giving discounts to wholesalers in December to push sales," said Shyam Bansal of Rage, a premium brand of women's wear. A hosiery goods manufacturer said a factory unit runs at an average margin of 10 per cent and if it had to give that much discount to wholesalers then it will not be in a position to earn anything except to clear its stocks. The manufacturer said there is a stiff competition in the market and no matter how good one's product is, wholesalers press for discounts. The industry representatives further said initially discounts at retail counters were offered at 20 per cent in December to increase sales. Later these were hiked to 30 per cent. "At present, several big brands are selling their winter wear items at 40 per cent discount at retail shops. Given this situation, how can a manufacturer earn with such heavy discounts," asked the industry representative. Bansal said China-made winter wear items are also hitting the local hosiery industry hard. "If an item costs us as Rs 1,000, a Chinese item is available at Rs 600-700," said Bansal pointing out the competition posed by the Chinese goods to the Ludhiana hosiery sector. Navin Sood, another hosiery goods manufacturer, said many manufacturers in Ludhiana are facing a lack of repeat orders from traders in many states like Bihar, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and West Bengal. Raja Dhir, president of Daal Bazaar Merchant Association, said many traders in Uttar Pradesh, Kolkata and some southern states returned hosiery items as there was slack demand for winter garments. "When we demand payment from a trader in other states they threaten to return goods," said Dhir. However, an industry representative said because of severe cold wave conditions prevailing in the northern region, the industry expects stocks at retail shops and factories may get cleared but it is difficult to say that it will lead to profits given the fact that heavy discounts were being offered. Intense cold wave conditions have been prevailing in many parts of Punjab and Haryana for the past many days. Washington, Jan 21 (PTI) The relationship between India and the US is very important and significant not only for the two countries but also for the global good, Indias outgoing ambassador to the US Taranjit Singh Sandhu has said in an address to the diaspora and told them that they have played and have an important role to play in further strengthening this partnership. Addressing the group of eminent Indian Americans from across the United States on Saturday, Sandhu urged them to ensure that the second generation remains connected to India, and they travel to India frequently. This relationship is very important and significant, not only for our two countries but for the global good, Sandhu told a group of some 200 eminent Indian Americans during a virtual farewell session on Saturday. Sandhu retires from the Indian Foreign Service at month-end after an illustrious 35-year. You must ensure that your children remain invested in India; they travel to India. Like so many other communities here in the United States, you can ensure through your associations, through your groups because all of you can afford them going to India, he said. If there's any issue regarding the security of the children, I can assure you the embassy and the consulates will help you out. We'll organise that so that it's foolproof. They have support when they go. But do send them because tomorrow they will be in a unique position. If they know India well, they will be hired by most of the international companies which will be moving into India, Sandhu said. The relationship between two countries, he said is destined to grow in the coming years. Whether it's affordable healthcare or it is energy or it is technology, startups, innovation, new emerging technologies, the US-India relationship is destined to grow big, he said. Sandhu has been instrumental in opening the Indian Consulate in Seattle, the sixth one after New York, Chicago, Houston, Atlanta and San Francisco. He also told the diaspora that two more Indian consulates would soon open in the US. The Indian American community has given us a lot of pride. We have two more consulates which have been promised and we hope that those two will also open quickly, he said. Sandhu said during his term as the ambassador, he has spoken to at least 44 governors of different States of the United States. Met so many of the mayors because having spent time here, I understand that a lot of authority is there in the States and the cities. A lot of business can be done there and that's why all of you have a very, very critical role to play. You have played it in the past but still, it's the tip of the iceberg, Sandhu said. In their remarks, during the virtual farewell reception that lasted for more than two hours, Indian Americans applauded the leadership of the ambassador and the progress made in the India-US relationship during his tenure. Smita Shah, president of Span Tech from Chicago said that this is the great relationship that Amb Sandhu has been able to help deepen in his time here. I'm personally so grateful because not always do people remember, not just the senior members of the community, but the women, the other young members, and you always make everyone feel connected, she said. His tenure has been characterised by diplomacy at its finest and a testament of his leadership and dedication to fostering international harmony. Ambassador Sandhu, you will be sincerely missed and your legacy of friendship and collaboration will endure. We extend our best wishes for your future endeavours, confident that your contributions will continue to shape relations between our two nations USA and India, said Indiana-based businessman Raju Chintala. In a simple one sentence, I can say that you defined us as an Indian American. You defined us as who we are. You defined us as where we stand as an Indian American. And when we walk in the USA, we can say that we get the respect we never used to get as an Indian American," said Dhaval Vaishnav, from Detroit. "I would also like to say that on behalf of the entire Michigan community and business leaders, we are extremely proud to have you and we'll miss you because your service was unparalleled and you have given us something and you have set your bar so high that it would be really really hard to fill, Vaishnav added. Ajay Jain Bhutoria from Silicon Valley in California said that Sandhu has been a stalwart diplomat whose leadership has been pivotal in elevating the US-India bilateral relationship to unprecedented heights. Ambassador Sandhu, you are not just a skilled diplomat; you are a visionary who has significantly shaped the trajectory of the 21st-century bilateral relationship between the United States and India, he said. Ambassador Sandhu, a 1988-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, undertook the challenging role of Ambassador to the United States in early 2020. Navigating a transformative period under two administrations, first led by Donald Trump and then by Joe Biden, he infused the relationship with a truly bipartisan flavour, showcasing his diplomatic skills, he said. His impact reverberates across various domains from fostering trade relations to strengthening defence partnerships, promoting educational exchanges, and contributing to the Quad partnership. Notably, his strategic vision played a key role in landmark events, such as Prime Minister Modi's state lunch, opening the doors for over 5,000 community members to partake in the historic welcome on the White House south lawn, Bhutoria said. Kathmandu, Jan 21 (PTI) Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda on Sunday expressed concern over the woes faced by Nepali youths in Russia after being recruited in the Russian Army to fight in Ukraine and asked Moscow to immediately stop the practice. Talking to reporters at the Tribhuvan International Airport upon returning home after attending the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) in Kampala, Prachanda said that he was trying his best to stop it since the government has no policy to allow Nepalis to join the military force in any other countries except India and the UK. "The government is very much concerned and serious regarding the reports that Nepali youths are recruited in the Russian forces and mobilised in the Russia-Ukraine war. We dont have such a policy on behalf of the government," Prachanda said. In Kampala, Nepalese Foreign Minister N P Saud told Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Vershinin Sergey Vasilievich not to recruit Nepalese nationals into the country's Army and to help repatriate those who have already joined the forces", according to the private secretariat of Saud. At least 200 Nepalese youths have joined the Russian Army through illegal channels and 12 of them have already lost their lives while fighting against Ukraine. The Prime Minister also informed that a diplomatic note has been sent to the Russian government on the issue and Foreign Minister Saud has repeatedly talked about this agenda. Prachanda said that talks were held regarding the youths killed in the war and the government has seriously taken the issue of compensation for them. "Everyone should disseminate awareness among people. We should spread awareness stating that our youths should not join the military service anywhere in the name of seeking jobs against the State's policy, the spirit of the Constitution and against the spirit of our national independence. Panaji, Jan 21 (PTI) The death of a 27-year-old woman in Goa, for which her husband has been arrested, was due to drowning in the shallow sand waters, which are cases of homicide and not suicide or accident, a forensic department official on Sunday said citing initial probe into the case. Gaurav Katiyar (29), the manager of a restaurant at a luxury hotel in South Goa, was arrested on Saturday and charged with murder for allegedly drowning his wife Diksha Gangwar on Friday at the Cabo de Rama beach, police said. The accused tried to pass off his wife's death as an accident after committing the crime, but a video shot by a man exposed his claim. The state forensic department official, attached to the South Goa District Hospital, told PTI that the initial investigation has revealed the woman died in the "shallow sand waters". Most of the times, deaths due to drowning in the shallow sand waters are cases of murder as no one can die in such low depth waters due to drowning, unless forced to, he said. The official said the deaths in the shallow sand waters are cases of "homicide and not suicide or accident". The postmortem on the woman's body would be conducted on Monday, the official said. He said the medical examination of the accused conducted on Saturday showed injury marks due to scratching on his chest. "There are marks on the chest, usually when there is a scuffle. There is a possibility that the deceased tried to save her and in the process scratched the chest of the accused," he said. Prima facie, Katiyar killed Gangwar, whom he married a year ago, over his extramarital affair, an official earlier said adding that injury marks were found on the body. Meanwhile, a Judicial Magistrate First Class at Margao remanded the accused to police custody for five days. Katiyar was working as the manager of a restaurant in a five-star hotel in South Goa. He and his wife hailed from Lucknow. The Cuncolim police have registered a case on charges of murder and destruction of evidence against Katiyar, a senior police official said. "We want to gather more evidence against the accused," he said. The police said the initial investigation revealed the accused killed his wife over his own extramarital affair. "But we need to get all the information together so that a strong chargesheet can be filed against the accused," the official said. As per the police, the incident took place at around 3.45 pm on Friday after the accused took his wife for a stroll on the beach, located not far from his workplace. He took her to a rocky area of the beach and allegedly drowned her in the sea, an official said on Saturday. After committing the crime, Katiyar created commotion and tried to pass it off as an accident, he said. However, a video clip shot by a local showed Katiyar coming out of the beach and returning again apparently to ensure whether his wife had really died, before raising alarm to create the entire drama, he added. Mumbai, Jan 21 (PTI) A fire broke out at a civic-run hospital in Mumbai in the wee hours on Sunday following which six patients were shifted from its Intensive Care Unit (ICU), a fire official said. The incident was reported at 1.47 am at the Dr Ambedkar Hospital at Tagore Nagar in suburban Vikhroli, he said. The fire was confined to the main cable of an air suction motor in the ICU on the ground floor of the three-storey hospital building, the official said. As a precautionary measure, six patients, including four senior citizens, were shifted from the ICU ward to the nearby casualty ward in the presence of doctors, he said. Two of those patients, who were already critical when admitted, were later shifted to the Rajawadi Hospital in Ghatkopar area, he said. management. The other four patients were stable and hence being provided medical care in the Ambedkar Hospital, the official said. The fire was extinguished by 2.25 am, he said. A probe was on into the cause of the blaze. Patna, Jan 21 (PTI) The Patna High Court has observed that the Vishnupad Temple, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Gaya, "is a religious public trust and not a private property of the 'Gayawal Brahmins' ", a clan of local priests. This judgement was delivered by Justice Sunil Dutta Mishra on Friday. "Considering the facts and circumstances particularly the origin of the temple, the right exercised by the devotee with regard to worship, nature and extent of gift/contribution made by the public and the dictum laid down, there is hardly any room for doubt that Vishnupad temple is a religious public trust and not a private property of the Gayawal Brahmins", said Justice Sunil Dutta Mishra, while dismissing the second appeal filed on behalf of a group of Gayawal Pandas. Referring to the judgment by the five-judge bench of the Supreme Court in the case of M Siddiq (Dead) Through Legal Representatives vs Mahant Suresh Das and Others (popularly known as Ayodhya Verdict) 'on faith and belief', the HC observed that the faith of Hindu followers is based on their ancient scriptures and corroborated by their centuries old practice of visiting Gaya Kshetra (Vishnupad) and performing Pinda (oblation) rituals for attaining salvation for their ancestors, are the evidence about the fact that general public at large are the beneficiaries of Vishnupad temple. The first appellate court also considered the material on record and held that the plaintiffs have miserably failed to prove their exclusive right, title and possession over the Vishnupad temple through cogent and reliable sources, the order said. "The first appellate Court also discussed the relevant provisions of the Bihar Hindu Religious Trust Act, 1950 and its applicability with respect to Vishnupad temple and concluded that the Vishnupad temple is a public trust and provision of the Bihar Hindu Religious Trust Act, 1950 would be automatically applicable and there is no valid reason to disagree with the conclusion in this second appeal". With this judgement of the Patna HC, the legal battle between local priests and the Bihar State Board of Religious Trust (BSBRT) for the control of Vishnupad temple has come to an end. In 1977, a civil suit was filed in the local Gaya court by the Gayawal Pandas seeking declaration that Vishnupad temple is a private trust and the priests have full control over its management as "ordained by Lord Brahma", according to the verses of Vayu Puran. The suit was decreed in favour of the plaintiff priests against which BSBRT went in appeal (first) in the court of the district judge, Gaya. The appellate court reversed the trial (civil) court judgment holding the temple to be public trust and amenable to the general superintending powers of the board. A group of Gayawal priests headed by Kanhaiya Lal Gurda, claiming as the next friend of 'Vishnupad Bhagwan', had preferred this second appeal before the Patna high court. The Board's counsel referred to documentary evidence, including Francis Buchanan's book 'Antiquities, Topography and Statistics of Eastern India' and Queen Ahilya Bai Holkar's (builder of present Vishnupad temple) texts and the 'History of Dharmasastra' by P V Kane. "Vishnupad temple is a public religious trust within the meaning of Section 2(1) and Section 3 of the Bihar Hindu Religious Trust Board Act, 1950 on the grounds that (i) The Vishnupad temple is one of the most sacred of all the Vaishnava temples in India. There is a sacred imprint of Sri Vishnu's foot in this temple. Hindus in lakhs visit the temple from all corners of India for offering pindas to their ancestors. In fact, this is the main importance of the temple", the HC has said. Hindus of India, wherever they reside, have an unrestricted right to access to the temple and worship the foot of lord Vishnu and offer pindas in the Vishnu temple. There has not been any restriction to any of the visitors for entering the temple and having a darshan, for the said footprint, it said. It was stated that the admitted construction of the temple by Rani Ahilya Bai was not for Gayawal Brahmins but in her own right as one of the devotees and for general Hindus, conclusively proves that the Vishnupad temple is a public property and not the exclusive property of Gayawal Brahmins. Every Hindu has his/her birthright to visit the temple and the same is not at the grace of the Gayawal, it added. Ranchi, Jan 21 (PTI) Jharkhand has declared a holiday for government schools on Monday, while its offices, other establishments and public sector banks will remain closed for half a day on the occasion of the Ram temple consecration. The decision was taken following a direction from Chief Minister Hemant Soren in this regard, an official said. All government offices in Jharkhand will be closed till 2.30 pm on Monday, and schools will remain shut for the whole day in view of the consecration ceremony in Ayodhya, according to a notification issued by the department of personnel and administrative reforms. The Jharkhand BJP had on January 18 urged the Hemant Soren-led government to declare January 22 as a state holiday to commemorate the occasion. In a letter to the chief minister, Leader of the Opposition in Jharkhand Assembly Amar Kumar Bauri had requested Soren to honour Lord Ram by declaring January 22 as a state holiday. New Delhi, Jan 21 (PTI) The Congress on Sunday attacked Prime Minister Narendra Modi after he greeted the people of Manipur on their statehood day, saying he has expressed his wishes through social media but "has not found time nor thought it necessary" to visit the state which has gone through so much pain and agony since May 3 last year. Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh also said violence persists and social harmony has been destroyed in the state, and alleged that the PM maintains his silence and refuses to meet political leaders and parties from the state. In a post on X, Ramesh said, "The Prime Minister tweets on Manipur Statehood Day but has not found time nor thought it necessary to visit the state which has gone through so much pain and agony since May 3rd, 2023." "The distress of the people of the state continues. Violence persists. Social harmony has been destroyed. But the PM maintains his silence and refuses to meet political leaders and parties from the state," the Congress general secretary in-charge communications said. "The good wishes he has expressed through social media are yet another demonstration of his hypocrisy," Ramesh said. The Congress leader's attack came after Modi, in a post in X, said, "On Manipur's Statehood Day, my best wishes to the people of the state. Manipur has made a strong contribution to India's progress." "We take pride in the culture and traditions of the state. I pray for the continued development of Manipur," he said. The violence, which claimed over 180 lives, erupted on May 3 last year after a 'Tribal Solidarity March' was organised in the hill districts to protest against the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Meiteis account for about 53 per cent of Manipur's population and live mostly in the Imphal Valley, while tribals, which include Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40 per cent and reside mainly in the hill districts. Thane, Jan 21 (PTI) A court in Maharashtra's Thane district has sentenced four persons to life imprisonment in a case of murder of a builder in 2015. District Judge and Additional Sessions Judge P R Ashturkar at Kalyan court, in the order passed on January 17, convicted the four persons for various offences, including Indian Penal Code sections 302 (murder), 120B (criminal conspiracy) and 201 (destruction of evidence). A copy of the order was made available on Saturday. The builder, Ganesh Mania Chavan (36), from Davdi village in Dombivli town here, had lent Rs 2 lakh to one of the accused - Santosh Chavan - and he was avoiding repayment of it. On September 26, 2015, while the builder was talking to his friends near a hospital in Davdi village, Santosh Chavan and other persons attacked him with weapons, resulting in his death, as per the prosecution. A total of seven persons were accused in the case. The court convicted four of them -- Santosh Bhimsingh Chavan (34), Kumar Bhimsingh Chavan (42) (both brothers), Ramesh alias Dattu Gopal Pawar (40) and Swapnil Uttam Padval (32) -- and also imposed a fine of Rs 14,000 each on them. An auto-rickshaw driver, who was also accused in the case, was acquitted as the court gave him the benefit of doubt. Out of the two other accused, one has been absconding since the incident while the other one, who was released on temporary bail, has been untraceable. Additional Public Prosecutor Kadambini Khandagale said 21 prosecution witnesses were examined to establish the charges against the accused. Westerly, RI (02891) Today A mix of clouds and sun. High near 50F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph.. Tonight Partly cloudy skies. Low 32F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. The Polish parliament has voted to lift the immunity from prosecution of lawmaker Grzegorz Braun, a member of the far-right Confederation party, for an incident in December where he extinguished a Chanukah menorah in the parliament an act that sparked international condemnation. The parliamentary decision paves the way for prosecutors to pursue charges against Braun for a series of actions carried out during 2022 and 2023, including the Menorah incident. Warsaw District Prosecutor Mariusz Dubowski, speaking to a parliamentary committee, outlined the charges Braun is expected to face. According to the state-run news agency PAP, these charges include the destruction of property, violation of bodily integrity, and insulting objects of religious worship. Brauns actions in the parliament on December 12 were not only controversial but also preceded inflammatory remarks from the lawmaker. After extinguishing the candles, he took to the podium, labeling Chanukah as satanic and asserting that he was restoring normality. When later questioned about his actions, Braun remained defiant, saying: Those who take part in acts of satanic worship should be ashamed. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley discussed her stance on the possibility of pardoning former President Donald Trump during an interview with CNN anchor Jake Tapper on Thursday. Haley emphasized the importance of allowing Trumps legal cases to proceed before considering a pardon if she were to be elected president and if Trump were to be convicted. Tapper asked, On accountability, if you become president and Donald Trumps trials are still ongoing, would you preemptively pardon him without waiting for a conviction the way that Gerald Ford did for Richard Nixon? Haley, who would have the authority to pardon Trump only for federal offenses if elected president, responded as follows: No. I think everything needs to play out. I think its important that that happens and I honestly think President Trump would want that to happen. If he wants to defend himself and prove that he has been treated, you know, the wrong way or whether its political, I think he would want to fight for that. You know, you only want to talk about a pardon after someone has been convicted, so I would assume that wed let that play out, and I would think he would want that to play out. Tapper further probed, asking, If he were convicted, would you then pardon him? Haley replied, I said I would pardon him with the simple reason of, you know, when you talk about a pardon, someones already been found guilty, but for me, the last thing we need is an 80-year-old president sitting in jail because thats just going to further divide our country. She argued, This is no longer about whether hes innocent or guilty, this is about the fact how do we bring the country back together, and I am determined to make sure all of this division, all of this chaos goes away, and I think a pardon for him would make all of that go away and I think it would be healing for the country. As of now, Donald Trump is facing four separate legal cases, including charges in New York related to allegedly falsifying business records, federal charges concerning the retention and handling of government documents, and two indictments, one federal and one state, linked to his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election. A recent poll conducted by the American Research Group revealed that Nikki Haley and Donald Trump are tied at 40% in New Hampshire, which will be holding its primary this coming Tuesday. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) A fire broke out in dorms at a boarding school for elementary students in central Henan province, and 13 students died in the blaze, Chinese state media reported Saturday. All of the dead were third grade students, a teacher told Zonglan news, a state-backed media outlet from Hebei province. One person rescued from the scene was being treated in the hospital, CCTV, Chinas state broadcaster said. Police set up a cordon around the school, a Xinhua news report showed, and the dorm where the fire had happened was charred black even on the outside of the building. The school had metal grilles covering the windows, as is common in buildings in China. The dormitory room housed approximately 30 students, according to Xinhua. The remaining 16 students were safely evacuated. The fire started Friday night and was put out just before midnight at Yingcai School in rural Fangcheng district in central Henan. The schools owner was detained, CCTV reported. State media reported that public records showed the owner of the school is a man called Li Jizhong. The AP could not reach Li. Local authorities said they were investigating the cause of the fire. Chinas central Emergency Management Ministry dispatched a team to the scene to do an investigation as well. Fire safety remains a concern across the country. Last April, a fire in a hospital in Beijing killed 29 people. Patients trapped in the multistory building apparently tied bedsheets into makeshift ropes and escaped by climbing out windows, as seen in videos circulating on social media. The Henan boarding school caters primarily to students in the elementary grades, though it has an attached kindergarten, according to the schools WeChat page. Many of the boarding students come from rural areas, the Beijing Youth Daily reported. The facility is in Dushu township and is one of the schools two branches. (AP) When Nikki Haley was a South Carolina legislator, she backed budgets boosted by federal aid. Running for governor, she criticized a bailout culture and dependence on Washington. She once called the Confederate battle flag a heritage symbol and sidestepped calls to remove it from statehouse grounds. After a racist massacre in Charleston, Haley moved to take it down. When Donald Trump ran for president in 2016, she opposed him before joining his administration as U.N. ambassador. Now, Haley is running against Trump for the 2024 Republican nomination saying he is an agent of chaos. For almost 20 years, Haley has worked to navigate Republicans rightward march, trying to cultivate both the GOP establishment and the firebrand conservative base that gave rise to Trump. She is seen as either a pragmatic unifier or a finger-to-the-wind politician, and as she seeks the Republican nomination, her political pivots have become her opponents most persistent line of attack. Maybe she can be a bit of a chameleon, said former state Rep. Doug Brannon, a fellow Republican. The governor and I did not get along, he said, but that doesnt mean that she isnt a brilliant politician. Shapeshifting is a long-practiced political art. Bill Clinton earned the nickname Slick Willie and won two terms in the White House. Trump went from being emphatically supportive of abortion rights to telling voters he alone was responsible for the Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade, winning over white evangelicals. In the 2024 campaign, Haley has leaned into her critics. Trump skipping debates has meant she and the former president have not confronted each other face to face but she has forcefully defended herself against his suggestions that she is out of step with todays Republican Party. For those reporting that Im a moderate, I will ask you or anybody, Trump or anybody in Fox (News) suits saying that Im not a conservative: Name one thing that I wasnt conservative about, she said Friday in New Hampshire. She offered a litany of measures she signed as governor to lower taxes, boost voter identification requirements and overhaul public employee pensions, among other matters. The difference is who is deciding whos conservative and whos moderate, she said. Rob Godfrey, who served in Haleys administration, said she has never been an angry candidate or angry in governing but relishes using the bully pulpit. She prides herself on being willing to call out people she thinks are not serving their constituents well, Godfrey said. He insisted his old boss is less concerned about positioning and ideology than achieving the most conservative, good government policy outcome possible. That approach rubs some people the wrong way, Godfrey said. It always has. Haley, 52, was first elected to the South Carolina legislature from a suburban Columbia district 20 years ago. The daughter of Indian immigrants, she defeated a 30-year legislative veteran in the Republican primary. She once told The New York Times that Hillary Clinton, the Democrats 2016 presidential nominee, had inspired her to run for office. Haley quickly rose to a leadership post but collided with colleagues over her push for more recorded votes instead of voice votes that spared lawmakers scrutiny. So she soon aimed for the executive branch. She joined a 2010 gubernatorial primary that included the lieutenant governor, attorney general and a sitting congressman. Haley nearly won the nomination outright, with 48.9% of the primary vote. Haley defeated U.S. Rep. Gresham Barrett in a runoff 65% to 35%. Whit Ayres, a national pollster who worked for Barrett, said the campaign previewed Haleys ability to cast a wide net. Those margins tell you something about her political skills, he said. In the legislature, Haley voted to take millions of dollars in federal aid during the financial crisis of 2008-09 to keep the American financial system from collapsing and sending the country into a possible depression. By 2010, though, there was rising anger about the impact that crisis had on Americans who lost their homes or saw their retirement accounts dwindle as Wall Street titans were rarely held responsible. That gave birth to the tea party, which stoked fires of populism that propelled Trump six years later. Gubernatorial candidate Haley railed against bailouts and trumpeted an endorsement from Sarah Palin, the 2008 vice presidential nominee and tea party favorite. When Sarah Palin showed up, that was a turning point, Ayres said. We knew then she was for real. Haley paired her Palin endorsement with another from the more moderate Mitt Romney as he geared up for his second presidential bid. She later endorsed Romney in the 2012 Republican presidential primary. In 2014, she expanded her first general election margin to win a second term with 56% of the vote. Shes managed to be all things to all people, said Kay Koonce, a Democratic National Committee member from South Carolina who acknowledged that Haleys success had frustrated her party. As governor, Haley had disputes with fellow Republicans that often seemed personal. She vetoed spending measures and threatened to campaign against party members in their primaries. Conservative opponents seized on disclosures that she worked during her time as a legislator for a Columbia-area hospital system that had regulatory requests before state government. She faced ethics charges that were dismissed by a committee dominated by House Republicans. She successfully courted business investment in the state, including some from China. To recruit firms, she backed subsidies some tea party adherents detested. But she reminds Republican primary voters that the deals were always for non-union shops. She also made a mark on social issues, signing a 2016 measure outlawing abortions at 20 weeks with exceptions. That would not satisfy many in the GOPs national base now. But Haley has argued against a stricter national ban and said the sound conservative position is to leave the issue to state governments. Haley burnished her conservative persona beyond policy debates. She told her Instagram followers in December 2013 that she got a handgun for Christmas. I must have been good Santa gave me a Beretta PX4 Storm, she posted. Godfrey, her longtime ally, said the best example of her approach came after a white supremacist in 2015 killed eight Black worshippers at a Charleston church. Haley had previously said removing the Confederate battle flag from Capitol grounds was not a priority. After the shooting, she quickly convened multiracial, bipartisan conversations that led to the Civil War banner finally being taken down. She was giving cover to white conservatives, Godfrey said, and building consensus. Koonce countered: She deserves some of the credit but that should not erase what she had said before it took all those people dying to do the right thing. As Haleys own ambitions broadened beyond South Carolina, she, like so many Republicans, had to figure out how to run against Trump. In 2016, she delivered the Republican response to President Barack Obamas last State of the Union address. Weighing her partys rightward push, Haley complimented Obama as a barrier breaker and communicator. She urged Republicans to accept shared responsibility for the nations problems. And she warned conservatives: During anxious times, it can be tempting to follow the siren call of the angriest voices. We must resist that temptation. She didnt name Trump but soon endorsed Florida Sen. Marco Rubio. After Trumps November victory, she was at Trump Tower in New York talking to the president-elect about jobs. Early in her 2024 campaign, Haley stepped lightly around Trump. But on the eve of the first contests, her criticisms have become more direct, on issues like Trumps role in the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol. I think what happened on Jan. 6 was a terrible day, and I think President Trump will have to answer for it, she said on a debate stage Wednesday in Iowa. It was perhaps as far as she has gone in criticizing Trump. Haley has separately confirmed that she will vote for the Republican nominee; she has not ruled out joining Trump on the ticket as his running mate. Ayres said Haleys approach is pragmatic, like much of her career. About half the partys voters, Ayres said, voted for Trump twice and would again but are open to someone else. Following Chris Christies lead would cap her at the small percentage of Never Trumpers, Ayres added, referring to the former New Jersey governor who hammered Trump before dropping out of the race. Christie was caught on a hot mic predicting Haley is going to get smoked by Trump. On that, even a Democrat sided with Haley. Chris Christie is exactly right about Trump, Koonce said. But Im sitting there listening to him criticize her again and Im thinking, Well, shes the one whos still on the stage. (AP) Two weeks of storms that have turned roads into icy death traps, frozen people to death from Oregon to Tennessee and caused power outages that could take weeks to fix continued to sock both coasts with another round of weather chaos on Friday. The rain, snow, wind and bitterly cold temperatures have been blamed for at least 55 deaths in the U.S. over the past two weeks as a series of storms moved across the country. Schools and roads have closed, and air traffic has been snarled There is hope. The forecast for next week calls for above average temperatures across almost the whole country, according to the National Weather Service. Heavier-than-forecast snow fell in New York City, Baltimore and Washington, D.C., on Friday and Michigan City, Indiana, received 17 inches (43 centimeters) of lake-effect snow. But the biggest problems remained in places hit hard by storms earlier in the week. On the West Coast, Oregons governor declared a statewide emergency Thursday night, nearly a week after the start of a crippling ice storm. Thousands have been without power since last weekend in parts of Oregons Willamette Valley because of the freezing rain. We lost power on Saturday, and we were told yesterday that it would be over two weeks before its back on, said Jamie Kenworthy, a real estate broker in Jasper in Lane County. About 90,000 customers remained without electricity Friday afternoon in the state after back-to-back storms, according to poweroutage.us. Portland Public Schools canceled classes for the fourth straight day amid concerns about icy roads and water damage to buildings, and state offices in the city were also ordered closed. Ice was also a problem in the South. Snow and freezing rain added another coat of ice in Tennessee on Thursday. More than 9 inches (22.8 centimeters) of snow has fallen around Nashville since Sunday, nearly twice the yearly average. Authorities blamed at least 17 deaths in Tennessee on the weather. Several were from traffic wrecks. In Washington County, a patient in an ambulance and a person in a pickup were killed in a head-on crash when the truck lost control on a snowy road. Exposure to cold was deadly, too. A 25-year-old man was found dead in a mobile home in Lewisburg after a space heater fell over and turned off. There was ice on the walls in there, Marshall County Chief Deputy Bob Johnson said. Kentucky reported five deaths from the freezing weather. A statement from Gov. Andy Beshear didnt provide details. The cold in Washington state was blamed for five deaths. The people most of them presumed homeless died from exposure to cold in just four days last week in Seattle as temperatures plummeted to well below freezing, the medical examiners office said. Two people died from exposure as far south as Louisiana, where temperatures in part of the state stayed below freezing for more than two days. The cold broke so many water mains in Memphis that the entire city was placed on a boil water notice because the pressure was so low, Memphis Light, Gas and Water said. Bottled water was being given out in at least two locations Friday. In Jackson, Mississippi, law enforcement agencies are investigating whether social media rumors about a potential water outage during the cold snap prompted people to fill bathtubs with tap water. The water system in Mississippis capital experienced a drop in pressure that temporarily made faucets run dry for thousands of customers Wednesday and Thursday, though service was restored by Friday. A significant drop in blood donations led Chattanooga, Tennessee-based Blood Assurance to recommend that more than 70 hospitals in five states halt elective surgeries until Wednesday to let the organization rebuild its inventory. In a news release Thursday, the group cited the weather and several massive blood transfusions in the previous 24 hours in its plea to the hospitals in Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina and Tennessee. Aaron Robison, 62, has been staying at one of Nashvilles warming centers and said the cold wouldnt have bothered him when he was younger. But now with arthritis in his hip and having to rely on two canes, he needed to get out of the cold. Thank God for people helping people on the streets. Thats a blessing, he said. On Friday, more bitterly cold air was spilling into the Midwest from Canada. Several states were under an advisory as forecasters warned of wind chills dipping to minus 30 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 34 degrees Celsius) could be common through Sunday morning. Since extreme cold weather set in last week, more than 60 oil spills and other environmental incidents have been reported in North Dakotas Bakken oil fields. Wind chills as low as minus 70 degrees F (minus 56.6 C) have strained workers and equipment, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Lake-enhanced snow finally moved out of Buffalo, New York, late Thursday after burying parts of the city and some suburbs in five feet of snow in five days. The Buffalo Bills renewed their call for snow shovelers Friday, offering $20 an hour for help digging out Highmark Stadium before Sundays divisional playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs. The West Virginia Legislature left after a brief session Friday because not enough lawmakers could get through snow-covered highways to the Capitol to vote on bills. In Washington, snow fell softly and the streets around the U.S. Capitol were silent. Schools closed again for the second time in a week, and the government was on a two-hour delay. President Joe Biden still planned to host mayors from around the country on Friday, though, and was heading to his Delaware beach home for the weekend. (AP) For years, Misaskim has been working with the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) educating, advocating, and establishing protocols concerning Jewish burial procedures. Last Thursday, Misaskim was invited to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in New York City. The Medical Examiners Office runs periodical meetings with their staff for training and updates, and this time, the topic was religious beliefs. Meyer Weill and Yitzchok Grossman of Misaskim attended the meeting. Mr. Weill gave a presentation explaining the Jewish customs related to death. He emphasized the importance of a timely burial and burying as much as possible. The role of the Medical Examiner is important in cases where the cause of death is unclear and an autopsy may be warranted, but not permitted by Jewish law. Working with Misaskim, medical examiners often engage in less invasive procedures in compliance with Jewish law. In addition, New York City medical examiners are sensitive to issues like Shabbos and the importance of a timely burial. Misaskim thanks Mayor Adams office for coordinating this meeting Joe Eisdorfer, Senior Advisor to Mayor Adams, Fred Kreizman, Commissioner of the Mayors Community Affairs Unit, and Moshe Davis, Senior Jewish Liaison to the Mayor. Misaskim extends a special thanks to the Medical Examiners Office for having them, and for their sensitivity and cooperation with Misaskim when needed Dr. Jason Graham, MD, Chief Medical Examiner of New York City, and Dr. Michele Slone, MD, Deputy Chief Medical Examiner. Misaskim is humbled by, and grateful for, the kindness and respect they continuously demonstrate for Jewish traditions. (YWN World Headquarters NYC) Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended his Republican presidential campaign Sunday just before the New Hampshire primary and endorsed Donald Trump, ending a White House bid that failed to meet expectations that he would emerge as a serious challenger to the former president. Its clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance, he said in a video posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. New Hampshires first-in-the-nation primary comes Tuesday. DeSantis derided former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, long his closest rival for second place in the primary race, saying Republicans cant go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear, a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents. The ambitious big-state governor entered the 2024 presidential contest with major advantages in his quest to take on Trump, and early primary polls suggested DeSantis was in a strong position to do just that. He and his allies amassed a political fortune well in excess of $100 million, and he boasted a significant legislative record on issues important to many conservatives, like abortion and the teaching of race and gender issues in schools. Such advantages did not survive the reality of presidential politics in 2024. From a high-profile announcement that was plagued by technical glitches to constant upheavals to his staff and campaign strategy, DeSantis struggled to find his footing in the primary. He lost the Iowa caucuses which he had vowed to win by 30 percentage points to Trump. And now, DeSantis political future is in question after suspending his presidential bid after just one voting contest. The 45-year-old is term limited as Florida governor. DeSantis was widely expected to be a serious Trump challenger. Acknowledging the threat, Trump went after the Florida governor viciously in the months leading up to DeSantis May announcement and continued to pound him on the campaign trail, on social media and in paid advertising in the months that followed. Yet many of DeSantis problems may have been his own doing. Fueled by his dominant Florida reelection in 2022, DeSantis sidestepped tradition by announcing his presidential campaign on X, in a conversation on the social media site with CEO Elon Musk. The site failed repeatedly during the conversation, making it all but impossible to hear his opening remarks as a presidential candidate. In the subsequent weeks and months, DeSantis struggled to connect with voters on a personal level under the unforgiving bright lights of the presidential stage. He irked some New Hampshire Republican officials in his campaigns inaugural visit to New Hampshire by declining to take questions from voters, as is tradition in the state. And later, uncomfortable interactions with voters in other states were caught on camera as well. More serious financial challenges emerged over the summer. By the end of July, DeSantis had laid off nearly 40 employees in a move designed to cut roughly one-third of his campaign payroll. The cuts came shortly after public filings revealed that he was burning through his substantial campaign coffers at an unsustainable rate. Some people looking for a Trump alternative backed Haley, the former diplomat and South Carolina governor who gained popularity among many Republican donors, independent voters and the so-called Never Trump crowd. DeSantis and Haley frequently attacked each other in debates and in advertising, often more directly than they went after Trump. As internal financial concerns mounted, DeSantis turned aggressively to an allied super PAC to handle basic campaign functions such as organizing campaign events, advertising and an expansive door-knocking operation. Federal law does not allow campaigns to coordinate directly with super PACs. In December, a nonpartisan government watchdog group filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission, citing reporting by The Associated Press and others, alleging that the degree of coordination and communication between DeSantis campaign and the Never Back Down super PAC crossed a legal line. DeSantis denied any wrongdoing and called the complaint a farce. Still, the steady stream of negative developments leading up to the opening primary contests undermined the confidence of DeSantis donor network, which was supposed to be a major strength, and would-be supporters at the ballot box. As his polling numbers stagnated, DeSantis and his allies pulled back on their multistate strategy and focused virtually all of his resources on Iowas opening caucuses. After leaving the 2024 presidential contest, DeSantis now refocuses his attention to the rest of his second and final term as Floridas governor, which ends in January 2027. (AP) by Rabbi Yair Hoffman A religious friend who works in an office in Manhattan related the following story: A formerly observant colleague came into my office and said, You are going to find what I did this past Shabbos pretty bizarre. I had a Slider at White Castle and they are the best burgers by the way before I took a trip. After I ate the burger, I bentched and said Tefilas haDerech. The incident is certainly quite sad and should motivate us all to double down our efforts in bringing our estranged brethren back to their Torah birthright. The episode, however, does bring up a halachic question. Should someone who has consumed a treif burger bentch afterward? A THIEF WHO BLESSES Many of us are familiar with the verse in Tehillin (10:3) Botzea beireich niaitz Hashem A thief who blesses blasphemes Hashem. The Gemorah uses this verse to describe someone who blesses on stolen food. The Mishna Brurah (196:3) rules that it is not only stolen food to which this verse can be applied but also to someone who purposefully eats non-kosher food. Why might this be so? An analogy might be in order here. When I was much younger, I recall speaking to a World War Two veteran, a D-Day plus three soldier, who cried when he saw young college kids burning the American flag in their protesting the Vietnam War. He remarked, They have no idea what that flag represents, not only to me but to the millions of Americans that fought and died on the beaches of Normandy and throughout Europe. Kosher food consumption as well is the flag of the Jewish people. It represents the ideals and spiritual qualities of the Jewish nation. It represents the idea that flouting the flag while at the same time reciting a blessing on having flouted it would, quite conceivably, be considered analogous to blaspheming Hashem. So it would seem, at first glance, that the Salisbury-Steak-consuming accountant should not bentch. ISNT THE BUN KOSHER? But wait lets not crunch our numbers too quickly here. From a statistical point of view, a good number of hamburger bun manufacturers produce their buns under kosher supervision, and even if not most bread manufacturers in the United States do not use non-kosher oil. From a technical point of view then, one would probably have to bentch over the bun. The bun would probably have been kosher. On the other hand, the White Castle hamburger was probably placed on the bun while it was still hot. Juices from the meat probably entered the bread rendering a good portion of the bread truly non-kosher. But what about the dry section of the bun? Was taste infused into it to render it non-kosher? And if the taste of the non-kosher meat is not infused into the bun, is there enough of the dry sections of the buns to create an obligation to bentch? TTAAH GVAR Let us first familiarize ourselves with the concept of Ttaah Gvar the bottom one wins (See Yore Deah SIman 91). Halacha distinguishes between the top layer and the bottom layer when a hot item comes in contact with a cold item. When hot non-kosher meat, for example, is placed on top of something cold that is kosher, the halacha states that the bottom one wins and aside from any oil or juices that mixed into the kosher meat a taste infusion has not taken place. If it happened the other way around, however, where the bottom piece was hot then we do assume that a taste infusion has taken place. Thus, getting back to our case, the top part of the bun would have infused the non-kosher taste of the hamburger paddy up to the thickness of something called Kdai klipah a peelable depth. One can assume that most breads or buns can remain intact when peeled to the depth of a Matzah (four millimeters thick). The bottom part of the bun would not have infused taste, because of the concept of Ttaah Gvar the bottom one wins. HOW MUCH IS A KZAYIS There is, of course, great debate as to the minimum size requirement that is necessary in order to recite an after-blessing. Although the Talmud teaches us that it is the shiur of a kzayis the volume of an olive, modern Poskim are unsure as to how large of a volume this is. Most Poskim who follow the Mishna Brurah hold that the shiur for a kzayis in order to recite Bentching is half of an average size egg about 28 cubic centimeters. A quick glance at a photo of a White Castle hamburger reveals that there is certainly a kezayis of bread both on the top bun even after we remove the peelable layer of bread. There is significantly more than 28 cubic centimeters on either the top bun or the bottom bun. There is one thing left to do, however. In case our Slider-loving former Yeshiva student might be reading this we should appeal that he come back to the glorious heritage of his forefathers. So we do so in the letter below: Dear Anonymous Manhattan Accountant (AMA), Ever since Mount Sinai, your forefathers have been keeping both the laws of kashrus and the laws of Shabbos. Your great-grandfather, your grandfather and your father did so as well. Judaism is not just about rituals, however. It is about a dynamic relationship with G-d. When we keep His laws and pray to him, including Bentching, we are furthering a relationship with Hashem cleaving to Him in all areas of life. Dear A.M.A., I invite you to a Yeshiva davening where a meaningful lecha dodi is sung on a Friday evening, or on a day of Rosh Chodesh where King Davids Hallel is so beautifully recited. Get yourself a Chevrusa-ship in a dynamic and powerful Beis Midrash on a Thursday night and learn Torah with the background noise of hundreds of other Jews studying G-ds Torah. We may not have Sliders, but the beauty of Torah will certainly outweigh any appeal of rehydrated meat and onions. We look forward to having you back, Hatzlacha. The author can be reached at [email protected] This spring marks the 150th anniversary of the founding of Colorado College in Colorado Springs in 1874. Few are aware that the initial motiva JOIN THE TENS OF THOUSANDS WHO ALREADY ARE ALERTED OF BREAKING NEWS LIKE THIS IN LIVE TIME: YWN WHATSAPP STATUS UPDATES: CLICK HERE to join the YWN WhatsApp Status. YWN WHATSAPP GROUPS: CLICK HERE to be added to an official YWN WhatsApp Group. MAKE SURE TO CHECK THIS PAGE FREQUENTLY AS UPDATES WILL BE PUBLISHED IN LIVE TIME THERE IS NO NEED TO REFRESH THIS PAGE AS UPDATES WILL APPEAR AUTOMATICALLY (YWN World Headquarters NYC) An Israeli strike on the Syrian capital on Saturday destroyed a building used by the Iranian paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, killing five members of Irans Revolutionary Guards, The Syrian army said the building in the tightly guarded western Damascus neighborhood of Mazzeh was entirely destroyed, adding that the Israeli air force fired the missiles while flying over the Golan Heights. The Israeli military did not comment. A few hours later, an Israeli drone strike on a car near the southern Lebanese port city of Tyre killed two Hezbollah members who were in the vehicle and two people who were in a nearby orchard, an official with the group and state news agency said. One of those killed was Ali Hudruj, a local Hezbollah commander, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity in line with regulations, without giving further details. 2 pic.twitter.com/p4Tp9xOHf2 news (@1717Bazz) January 20, 2024 Nour News, which is believed to be close to Irans intelligence apparatus, identified two of the dead in Damascus as Gen. Sadegh Omidzadeh, the intelligence deputy of the guards expeditionary Quds Force in Syria, and his deputy, who goes by the nom de guerre Hajj Gholam. The guard later issued a statement identifying the dead as Hojjatollah Omidvar, Ali Aghazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi and Saeed Karimi. It gave no ranks for them. The difference in information could not be immediately reconciled. An opposition war monitor, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, said at least six people five Iranians and a Syrian were killed in the missile attack that struck while officials from Iran-backed groups were holding a meeting. The Observatorys chief, Rami Abdurrahman, said three of the Iranians were commanders, adding that four other people are still missing under the rubble. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani condemned the Israeli strike in a statement saying that without any doubt, the blood of these high-ranking martyrs will not be wasted. He added that Tehran reserves its right to respond to the organized terrorism of the fake Zionist regime at the appropriate time and place. Iran also tried again to link Israel to the Islamic State group, something its leaders have been trying to do since a suicide bombing by the extremists in early January in Iran killed more than 90 people. Security forces deployed around the destroyed four-story building as ambulances and fire engines were seen in the area. A search for people trapped under the rubble was underway. Windows were also shattered in nearby buildings. A grocer near the scene of the strike said he heard five consecutive explosions at about 10:15 a.m., adding that he later witnessed the bodies of a man and a woman being taken away as well as three wounded people. The shop shook. I stayed inside for few seconds then went out and saw the smoke billowing from behind the mosque, the man, who asked that his name not be used for security reasons, told The Associated Press. What happened was terrifying. I collapsed, said Khaled Mawed, who lives nearby. Last month, an Israeli airstrike on a suburb of Damascus killed Iranian general Seyed Razi Mousavi, a longtime adviser of the Iranian paramilitary Revolutionary Guard in Syria. Israel has also targeted Palestinian and Lebanese operatives in Syria over the past years. Iranian and Syrian officials have long acknowledged Iran has advisers and military experts in Syria, but denied there were any ground troops. Thousands of fighters from Iran-backed groups took part in Syrias conflict that started in March 2011, helping tip the balance of power in favor of President Bashar Assad. Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes on targets inside government-controlled parts of war-torn Syria in recent years. Israel rarely acknowledges its actions in Syria, but it has said that it targets bases of Iran-allied terrorist groups, such as Lebanons Hezbollah, which has sent thousands of fighters to support Syrian President Bashar Assads forces. Earlier this month, a strike said to be carried out by Israel killed top Hamas commander Saleh Arouri in Beirut. Over the past weeks, rockets have been fired from Syria into northern Israel, adding to tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border and attacks on ships in the Red Sea by Yemens Iran-backed Houthi rebels. (AP & YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) The IDF on Motzei Shabbos denied a New York Times report published on Saturday that quoted senior IDF leaders as saying that Israels goals of eradicating Hamas and liberating the hostages in Gaza are mutually incompatible. A statement issued by the IDF said that the comments cited on behalf of senior IDF are unknown and do not reflect the IDFs position. The release of the hostages is one of the goals of the war and a supreme effort for the IDF. The New York Times reported: After more than 100 days of war, Israels limited progress in dismantling Hamas has raised doubts within the militarys high command about the near-term feasibility of achieving the countrys principal wartime objectives: eradicating Hamas and also liberating the Israeli hostages still in Gaza. The dual objectives of freeing the hostages and destroying Hamas are now mutually incompatible, according to interviews with four senior military leaders, speaking on the condition of anonymity because they were not permitted to speak publicly about their personal opinions. There is also a clash between how long Israel would need to fully eradicate Hamas a time-consuming slog fought in the groups warren of underground tunnels and the pressure, applied by Israels allies, to wrap up the war quickly amid a spiraling civilian death toll. The generals further said that a drawn-out battle intended to fully dismantle Hamas would most likely cost the lives of the Israeli hostages held in Gaza since Oct. 7th. The dual objectives of freeing the hostages and destroying Hamas are now mutually incompatible, according to interviews with four senior military leaders, speaking on the condition of anonymity because they were not permitted to speak publicly about their personal opinions. There is also a clash between how long Israel would need to fully eradicate Hamas a time-consuming slog fought in the groups warren of underground tunnels and the pressure, applied by Israels allies, to wrap up the war quickly amid a spiraling civilian death toll. The generals further said that a drawn-out battle intended to fully dismantle Hamas would most likely cost the lives of the Israeli hostages held in Gaza since Oct. 7th. Hamas freed more than 100 hostages in November, but has said it will not release the others unless Israel agrees to completely cease hostilities. Most of the remaining hostages are thought to be held by Hamas cells that are hiding within the subterranean fortress of tunnels that extends for hundreds of miles beneath the surface of Gaza. On Thursday, Gadi Eisenkot, a former army chief who is serving in the war cabinet, exposed a rift inside the government when he said in a television interview that it was an illusion to believe that the hostages could be rescued alive through military operations. The situation in Gaza is such that the war aims have yet to be achieved, said Mr. Eisenkot, adding: For me, theres no dilemma. The mission is to rescue civilians, ahead of killing an enemy. Mr. Netanyahu has yet to clarify how Gaza will be governed after the war and the commanders said that without a long-term vision for the territory, the army could not make short-term tactical decisions about how to capture the parts of Gaza that remain beyond Israeli control. Capturing the southernmost part of Gaza, which lines the Egyptian border, would require greater coordination with Egypt. But Egypt is unwilling to engage without guarantees from Israel over the postwar plan, three of the commanders said. By focusing its efforts on destroying the tunnels, the military risks mistakes that could cost the lives of more Israeli citizens. Three Israeli hostages were already killed by their own soldiers in December, despite waving a white flag and shouting in Hebrew. Basically, its a stalemate, said Andreas Krieg, a war expert at Kings College London. Its not an environment where you can free hostages, he added. If you go into the tunnels and you try to free them with special forces, or whatever, you will kill them, Dr. Krieg said. You either will kill them directly or indirectly, in booby traps or in a firefight. Many tunnels have been destroyed but if the remaining tunnels are left intact, Hamas will remain effectively undefeated, decreasing the likelihood that the group would release hostages under any circumstances short of a complete cease-fire. For some on the Israeli right, the wars limited progress is the result of the governments recent decision, following pressure from the United States and other allies, to slow the pace of the invasion. But military leaders say their campaign has been stymied by a Hamas infrastructure that was more sophisticated than Israeli intelligence officers previously assessed. Before the invasion, officials thought the tunnel network beneath Gaza was up to 100 miles in length; Hamass leader in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, had claimed in 2021 that it was closer to 300 miles. Military officials now believe there are up to 450 miles of tunnels underneath a territory that is just 25 miles at its longest point. Under Khan Younis alone, Israel estimates that there are at least 100 miles of passageways, spread across several levels. And across Gaza, there are an estimated 5,700 shafts leading to the network, making it so hard to disconnect the network from the surface that the army has stopped trying to destroy every shaft it finds. Locating and excavating each tunnel is time-consuming and dangerous. Many are rigged with booby traps, according to the Israeli military. Once inside, a highly trained Israeli commando loses most of the military advantage he holds above ground. The tunnels are narrow, often only wide enough to pass in single file. That means that any fighting within them is reduced to one-on-one close quarters combat. On the eve of Israels invasion, the military assessed that it would establish operational control over Gaza City, Khan Younis and Rafah Gazas three largest cities by late December, according to a military planning document reviewed by The Times. But by mid-January, Israel had yet to begin its advance into Rafah, Gazas southernmost city, and still had not forced Hamas from every part of Khan Younis, another major city in the south. After the army appeared to establish control over northern Gaza at the end of last year, it said that the war had entered a new, less intense phase. Generals withdrew roughly half of the 50,000 troops stationed in northern Gaza at the peak of the campaign in December, and more departures are expected by the end of January. That created a power vacuum in the north, allowing Hamas fighters and civilian officials to try to reassert their authority there, alarming many Israelis who hoped Hamas had been entirely vanquished in the area. On Tuesday, Hamas militants in northern Gaza fired a barrage of about 25 rockets into Israeli airspace, angering Israelis who had hoped that after months of war that Hamass rocket launching abilities had been destroyed. In recent days, police officers and welfare officers from the Hamas-run government have re-emerged from hiding in Gaza City and Beit Hanoun, two northern cities, and tried to maintain day-to-day order and restore some welfare services, according to a senior Israeli official who spoke anonymously in order to discuss a sensitive matter. And Hamass top leaders in Gaza including Mr. Sinwar, Mohammad Deif and Marwan Issa remain at large. Some Israeli politicians say that Israel could defeat Hamas faster, and rescue the hostages, by applying more force. They say that more aggression could also compel Hamas to release more hostages without a permanent cease-fire. We should apply much more pressure, said Danny Danon, a senior lawmaker from Mr. Netanyahus governing party, Likud. We made a mistake when we changed the way we were operating. But military analysts say that more force will achieve little. It is an unwinnable war, Dr. Krieg said. Most of the time when you are in an unwinnable war, you realize that at some point and you withdraw, he added. And they didnt. Mr. Netanyahu says it is still possible to achieve all of Israels goals and has dismissed the idea of stopping the war. Halting the war before the goals are achieved will broadcast a message of weakness, he said in his speech on Thursday. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) The IDF announced that a soldier was killed and three others were seriously injured amidst the fighting in the Gaza Strip. The slain soldier was identified as Sgt. First Class (res.) Uriel Aviad Silberman, 23, a soldier in the Kiryiti Brigades 7421st Battalion, killed in battle in southern Gaza. His death raises the IDFs ground operation death toll in Gaza to 195 and 531 since October 7th. The IDF said that two soldiers were seriously injured in southern Gaza. Another soldier was also seriously injured amidst clashes in central Gaza. All three soldiers were evacuated from Gaza to an Israeli hospital for further treatment. Since October 7th, 2,665 IDF soldiers have been wounded, according to IDF data. Of those, 1,207 were wounded in the Gaza ground operation. The Navy continues to assist the ground forces in Gaza by providing surveillance and carrying out strikes against terror targets. In the past day, Naval forces struck a building in the central Gaza Strip, where dozens of terrorists were preparing to ambush IDF soldiers, eliminating the threat. In the southern Gaza Strip, the battles in Khan Younis continue, with snipers of the Sayeret Matkal commando unit collaborating with the Air Force in eliminating numerous terrorists. In the Gaza City area in the northern part of the Strip, a gun battle took place between combat soldiers from the 401st Armored Brigade and Hamas terrorists, at the end of which about 15 terrorists were eliminated. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) A member of Israels War Cabinet confirmed that early in the war against Hamas in Gaza, an Israeli preemptive strike against Lebanons Hezbollah terror group was called off at the last minute. Gadi Eisenkot, a former army chief, said he was among those arguing against such a strike in what he described as a stormy Oct. 11 Cabinet meeting that left him hoarse from shouting. Such a preemptive attack would have been a strategic mistake and would likely have triggered a regional war, Eisenkot said in a wide-ranging interview broadcast late Thursday on Israels Channel 12 TV. The interview marked the first time Eisenkot spoke in public about disagreements among Israeli leaders over the handling of the war, which was triggered by Hamas deadly Oct. 7 attack on Israel. A month ago, The Wall Street Journal, reporting on the dramatic events of Oct. 11, said intervention by President Joe Biden was key to averting the strike. Israeli warplanes were in the air, awaiting orders, when Biden called Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and told him to stand down, the report said, citing people familiar with the call. Eisenkot said loud objections raised by him and others during the Cabinet session were key to calling off the strike. At the time, he and former Defense Minister Benny Gantz, both opposition lawmakers, had just joined Netanyahu to help lead the war. Asked if their presence prevented a bad decision, he said: Unequivocally. During the Oct. 11 meeting, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and senior army officials were reportedly pressing for a strike against Hezbollah, considered by Israel to be a much more formidable foe than Hamas. Hezbollah is believed to have tens of thousands of missiles that can reach any target in Israel. During the interview, Eisenkot also criticized Netanyahus approach to the ongoing war in Gaza, saying that the notion of achieving complete victory over Hamas is unrealistic. (AP & YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Israels political-security cabinet on Sunday morning approved a plan to transfer frozen Palestinian Authority tax funds allocated to Gaza to a third party, likely Norway, until the end of the war. The plan was presented to the cabinet at the request of the Biden administration. The agreement was reached following intensive negotiations between Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, senior U.S. officials led by Ambassador Jack Lew, and Finance Minister Betzalel Smotrich, who insisted that the funds, amounting to 275 million shekels per month, will not reach Gaza or any Palestinian Authority authorities in the Strip. It should be noted that despite the demands of the Biden administration that the funds are essential to the survival of the Palestinian Authority, Defense Minister Benny Gantz and Shin Bet head Ronen Bar did not agree to allow the transfer of the funds. Smotrich insisted that Hamas effectively controls all Palestinian Authority affairs in Gaza and therefore the transfer of the funds will sabotage the military campaign and aid Hamas. His position was accepted. A condition of the plan, to be guaranteed by the US, is that the third party will respect Israels decision and will not transfer equivalent sums from its own resources to the Palestinians to replace the funds Israel has frozen. The parties signed an additional deal stating that if the agreement is violated and the third party transfers another budget to the Palestinian Authority or Gaza, Smotrich has the right to immediately halt all fund transfers to the Palestinian Authority. Following the meeting, Smotrich tweeted: Not a single shekel will go to Gaza! And this time with American backing for the policy that I have been leading from day one and with my authorization in advance to stop all funds to the Palestinian Authority if one shekel goes to Gaza. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir was the only minister who opposed the decision, stating after the meeting: Unfortunately, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu keeps moving the red line. Sometimes, they transfer fuel [to the Gaza Strip], sometimes they concede on humanitarian aid in exchange for other humanitarian concessions. Last week, they started transferring trucks of flour, and now they reached a decision that does not ensure that the money will not reach the Nazis in Gaza. Unfortunately, even among the right-wing, some are still influenced by the misconception, and among other things, think that good solutions can come from Norway' [a reference to the Oslo Accords]. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Two Hezbollah terrorists were killed and several were injured in an Israeli-attributed drone strike on a car in southern Lebanon on Sunday, Lebanese media reported. The terrorists were reportedly part of the Hezbollahs leaders protection unit. According to reports, the strike was intended to eliminate the Hezbollah leader the terrorists were protecting but he escaped without harm. The strike took place in the village of Kafra in the Bint Jbeil region, a Hezbollah stronghold, in southern Lebanon. According to a Washington Post report on Friday, Israel will escalate its military response to Hezbollahs attacks on Israel if the terror group doesnt move its terrorists away from its border in the next ten days. Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lior Haiat said in a response to an inquiry by the Post: We prefer a diplomatic solution and if a diplomatic solution will not be possible, we will have to act on our own. (YWN Israel Desk Jerusalem) Tony Hetherington is the ace investigator of the Financial Mail on Sunday - This is Money's sister title. He is an expert at fighting readers corners, revealing the truth that lies behind closed doors and winning victories for those who have been left out-of-pocket. Find out how to contact him below. G.H writes: I was contacted in 2021 by art investment company Smith & Partner Limited, and after several calls I was persuaded to purchase a limited edition print. I paid for this and several later prints with my Halifax card. Eventually, an excited salesman from the company called to say a gallery wanted my prints and would pay almost double my investment. However, the gallery wanted a larger set of prints, so Smith & Partner suggested I buy 11 more for 25,600, taking my total investment to 49,250. The gallery would then pay me 96,750 for them. I paid, again with my Halifax card. Then Smith & Partner admitted the deal was unlikely to go ahead. I hoped I was protected by using my card, but Halifax's owner Lloyds says my payments were processed by a 'third party' which means all protection is lost. Protection?: Art work sold by Smith & Partner, whose payments went through a third party Tony Hetherington replies: I have reported over the past year or so on the art scam that was Smith & Partner Limited. It eventually collapsed last August. Preliminary figures from the liquidator show debts of around 1.26million, though these do not include claims that poured in from investors who only realised they had been ripped off after the company had already failed. The trick they played on you and other investors to get you to commit more money is a classic sign of a scam, and a number of figures involved in this fraud have since popped up at other firms marketing art and even whisky casks as investments. But what you have run up against is a bigger trap still, and it exposes the faults in a safety net that we have all taken for granted for the past 50 years. In a nutshell, Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974 makes credit card issuers jointly liable alongside retailers if a purchase involving 100 to 30,000 goes wrong. But there are strings attached. Firstly, the protection only applies to credit cards and not to debit cards. You used both for different purchases, so Section 75 does not cover the 19,600 spent with your Halifax debit card. And secondly, the card payment must be made to the retailer, and not to a third party. This is called the 'debtor-creditor-supplier' chain. Break it, and you lose the legal protection of Section 75. You might think this is straightforward. Who goes into a shop to buy something, but then gives their credit card to a completely different shop before collecting the goods from the first shop? Nobody. But there is a trap and it is a big one. What if you are buying over the phone or online? You give your card details to the retailer, but you have no way of knowing whether they have ever been authorised by the card companies. If they have never been allowed to accept credit cards, they might launder your payment through an authorised firm run by a pal who pockets a percentage. You get your goods, so you are none the wiser. But if you do not get the goods, or they are defective, you can face trouble claiming from the bank that issued your credit card, because without knowing it, you have broken the debtor-creditor-supplier chain. And this is what happened to you. Your card payment actually went to a firm called MMS.Payzoneonline London. Lloyds Bank, which owns Halifax, says that this put you outside the protection of Section 75. But hang on a minute you had never even heard of this firm, let alone paid them, so why does this not count as an unauthorised payment which should be refunded? Tough, replied the bank, you authorised the payment and it ended up with Smith & Partner, even if it took a detour along the way which cost you all your legal rights. Despite all this though, there is a happy ending. Halifax staff had clearly been reading The Mail on Sunday's investigations into Smith & Partner. They told me: 'Keeping our customers' money safe is our priority and we have a great deal of sympathy for Mr H as the victim of a scam. We have now given a full refund to reflect the fact that we didn't provide our usual high level of service when we first reviewed his claim.' So, well done to Halifax and Lloyds for refunding not just your credit card cash but your debit card losses as well. But the problem remains. UK Finance, the trade body that represents the banks, regards the whole issue as tricky and complicated, and suggested I speak to Visa and Mastercard. And Visa and Mastercard told me that decisions on Section 75 claims are up to each individual bank that issues their cards. This is no help. Consumers need clarity, not confusion. Treasury Ministers are reviewing the 1974 law, including Section 75, arguably the most successful piece of consumer protection in recent decades. Let's hope they close this nasty gap in the system that favours con artists and victimises cardholders. Where is my 188 refund from Boost? Issue: The cheque was uncashed B.B. writes: When I left my property, there was credit on my energy meter of an agreed 188. Boost, the renewable energy arm of Ovo, says I was sent a cheque for this amount months ago, but I have never received any such payment, despite repeated calls. Tony Hetherington replies: When you tried to claim the credit balance, Ovo told you: 'We have already sent you your Boost final statement of April 4, and your Boost final refund cheque for 188.56 on April 1; no credit is left on your meter.' That seems final enough, except that nobody at Ovo took the trouble to find out whether the cheque had been cashed. And it does not seem to have occurred to anyone to wonder whether the cheque might have been sent to your old address and never reached you. After I contacted them, officials at Ovo found their cheque had never been cashed. And they told me they did not have your new address though you have said that you did give it to them. Ovo has now sent the missing 188.56 straight to your bank account, plus 150 on top to make up for the long delay and for having to fight to get back your own money. I am glad to say you have checked and the cash really is there this time. If you believe you are the victim of financial wrongdoing, write to Tony Hetherington at Financial Mail, 9 Derry Street, London W8 5HY or email tony.hetherington@mailonsunday.co.uk. Because of the high volume of enquiries, personal replies cannot be given. Please send only copies of original documents, which we regret cannot be returned. Pioneering: Back in the 1990s, Mpac helped PG Tips owner Unilever to make the first pyramid teabags Insulin-monitoring patches are a boon for diabetics, allowing them to check their blood sugar regularly and alerting them if readings are too high or too low. The technology behind these devices is complex and accuracy is critical false readings or poor performance can be life-threatening. North Yorkshire-based Mpac makes the kit that ensures every patch goes into the right box with the right instructions for each user. The company is listed on AIM and valued at little more than 70million but it is known as an industrial pioneer. Back in the 1990s, Mpac helped PG Tips owner Unilever to make the first pyramid teabags, considered a defining moment for designers and tea lovers alike. Today, Mpac customers include multinational firms from drug giants GSK and AstraZeneca to food and drink producers Nestle, Mars and Diageo. Mpac specialises in the design, production and maintenance of automated packaging systems. Some are relatively simple putting Mars ice-cream bars into boxes at a rate of 12 per second. Some are more complicated packaging contact lenses or diabetic patches. Whatever the end-use, however, Mpac has built a reputation for reliability, technical prowess and after-care, working closely with customers to create and build exactly what they need. The business has had its challenges. During 2022, as supply chains were turned upside-down by a lack of semi-conductor chips, Mpac was forced to delay orders and profits plunged. Last year was much improved, however, with the company on course to reveal a 10 per cent increase in sales to 107million and a doubling in pre-tax profits to 7million, when results are announced in March. Midas recommended Mpac in 2019, when the shares were 2.03. They shot up to 6 in 2021 before last year's wobble sent them tumbling down to below 2. Now they are back on the rise at 3.38. Chief executive Adam Holland took the reins last spring and is determined to increase annual sales by at least 10 per cent over the next several years, creating a business with turnover of 200million and driving up profit margins. The target is ambitious but Mpac started this year with a record order book, including contracts from new and existing customers. Having focused on healthcare, food and drink, the firm is moving into a new category, working with companies such as US-listed Freyr, to package innovative lithium batteries, that are greener and simpler to make than conventional ones. A prototype factory is testing the product in northern Norway and a new site is expected to follow in the American state of Georgia. The automated packaging market is huge, with global sales of around 40billion, so Mpac is a small fish in a very large pond. Holland sees this as an opportunity. Mpac's engineers are renowned the world over, customers are appreciative and revenues are moving in the right direction. Midas verdict: At 3.38, Mpac shares have risen more than 66 per cent since Midas recommended them, but they are still cheaper than many peers and should increase considerably in price from here. Existing shareholders would do well to keep their stock. New investors might bag a few at current levels. Traded on: AIM Ticker: MPAC Contact: mpac-group.com or 024 7642 1100 Editors note: Almost two years into the war, Gazette Photo Editor Christian Murdock has traveled to Ukraine to capture the struggle of a generation. For the next couple of weeks, his images and stories aim to better connect us to the plight of a people not so far away. LVIV, Ukraine Valentyn Bordun was focusing on finishing medical school when the Russians invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022. The 24-year-old had one final exam left. Meanwhile, the Lviv railroad station was overflowing with refugees escaping the war in eastern Ukraine. More than 60,000 refugees traveled through the station every day in the early months. In the first couple days, I saw lots of people scared, trying to get help, money, Bordun said Monday, Dec. 18, 2023, from the railroad station. I asked myself what can I do? How can I be useful? Bordun and 15 other students from the Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University decided to volunteer at the station. The nonprofit Ptaha Bird of Ukraine was born. Within four months, the list of volunteers had grown from 16 to 2,000. Some came from as far away as Colorado, Bordun said. They provide medical help and crisis counseling, food and diapers along with assistance to refugees needing to replace lost documents. People were depressed, Bordun said. They didnt have a house, had to leave their pets behind. Everyone was fighting to survive. One of the survivors stories still haunts him. Sign Up for free: Military Brief Your weekly local update on local military news and events, sent straight to your inbox. Sign Up View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. Bordun found a 9-year-old girl waiting in the train station with her 16-year-old brother. She was crying and wouldnt speak to anyone. After two days of silence, he approached her again. She began to tell Bordun of her first memories of war. She was in a park near their Kyiv home. She was with her mother, friends and other children. She and her friends were playing in the playground when a rocket hit, decapitating one of her close friends. She was hysterically crying, Bordun said. The eyes of child seeing those pictures are too hard. Their mother had put them on the train in Kyiv to escape the war. Their father was joining the Ukrainian army and her mother had to stay behind. They planned to meet their grandmother in Poland. Bordun said he doesnt know if the children made it to Poland or found their grandmother. I feel Im doing something right, Bordun said. Feel empty when I cant do anything. I get the inner strength from other people. The war has changed him. When I compare myself to me before the war and now, Im two different people, Bordun said. Before I wanted to make money. Now I just want to be helpful. Now I just ask myself what can I do to help other? He added: Ill volunteer until the end of the war. Its a lifestyle and its a family. British Steel has been warned by its former auditor it may not be able to continue trading in the latest setback for the embattled sector. The news comes as the accountancy firm who raised the red flag about the Chinese-owned company's overdue accounts resigned last week. Minor audit firm Moore Kingston Smith said there was 'material uncertainty' about British Steel's ability to continue as a going concern as its owner Jingye had not made a legally binding commitment to plough more funds into the struggling steelmaker. Jingye rescued British Steel in March 2020. The Scunthorpe-based company operates two of the four remaining blast furnaces in the UK that make steel from scratch using raw materials. Tata Steel runs the other two. But Tata sent shockwaves through the British manufacturing industry last week when it confirmed plans to shut down the blast furnaces and set up green steelmaking facilities at the cost of 2,800 jobs. Setback: British Steel operates two of the four remaining blast furnaces in the UK that make steel from scratch using raw materials British Steel is also reportedly seeking state funding to shutter its blast furnaces for new electric-arc furnaces, which could affect 2,000 employees. This is dependent on Jingye committing to protect jobs and invest at least 1billion in the group by 2030, according to reports. British Steel's financial health has been under question since last October, when The Mail on Sunday reported it had told trade unions it was losing up to 30million a month. It is the second biggest steelmaker in the UK and employs 4,500 staff. The most recent accounts for British Steel Limited show that in 2021 it made a loss of 50million, down from a profit of 268million the year before. The auditors said that if the company continued to make losses, it would need more funding from Jingye. Directors said they were 'confident' it would have enough funding for at least 12 months. But the auditors said that the absence of 'legally binding' agreements in place to provide more cash made its prospects uncertain. The accounts were more than a year late they were only signed off in November 2023 and the company has given no guidance on when the 2022 documents will be released. British Steel owed 364million to Jingye by the end of 2021, though this was said to have 'increased significantly' since then, adding more financial strain. When Jingye was bidding for British Steel, it effectively pledged to write a blank cheque to keep the steelworks going. In a presentation delivered to officials at the time, the Chinese group said: 'Need funds? No problem. Jingye is here to invest.' Around 34,500 staff work in the UK's steel sector and it is seen as a critical industry. The sector produces 7 million tonnes of steel per year, but faces stiff competition from cheap imports, particularly from China. A British Steel spokesman said that Jingye has invested hundreds of millions of pounds in the business and is 'committed to investing in the long-term future of British Steel as we transition to net zero'. The spokesman said that it is not unusual for 'material uncertainty' disclosures to be made about a company's ability to continue as a going concern, as the auditors did in this case. The spokesman added: 'Our parent company has provided a support letter to British Steel to underpin our ongoing concern.' The spokesman said that these commitments are 'by their nature, not legally binding'. 'But our shareholder continues to provide all necessary financial support to underpin stable trading and strategic capital investment, and in the months ahead we will commission a new 50 million billet caster and a 26 million service centre,' he said. Charlotte Brumpton-Childs, National Officer for the GMB union, said it was 'impossible to have any meaningful discussion with British Steel about going green without transparency on the company's financial position. At the very least they must file up to date accounts and it's a dereliction of duty if they don't,' she said. Moore Kingston Smith has not audited British Steel for long. The company's last accountants, Mazars, quit in July 2022 citing issues with payment from the company. Collateral damage: Paul Turner at his home in Cambridgeshire When Paul Turner watched the hit ITV drama Mr Bates vs The Post Office he had an overwhelming sense of deja vu. 'The parallels are unbelievable,' he says. Like Alan Bates, Turner and his wife Nikki have campaigned for years on behalf of victims seeking redress for a major corporate scandal that has rumbled on for far too long. And like the heroic former subpostmaster Alan Bates, the Turners are still waiting for closure in the notorious HBoS Reading affair more than two decades later. So does he see himself in the same mould as Bates? 'Probably, yes,' he says with a rueful laugh before revealing that he is in advanced talks with the same production company behind the ITV programme. He says the working title of the proposed drama-documentary is Erin Brockovich Versus the Wolf of Wall Street, casting him as underdog lawyer Erin Brockovich and HBoS owner Lloyds as the rapacious Wolf of Wall Street. Perhaps it will be renamed The Mr Bates of Banking. The Turners' story begins in 2003 when the couple took out a 160,000 loan for their publishing company Zenith from the Reading branch of HBoS. A year later they were introduced to a business consultancy Quayside Corporate Services when senior HBoS manager Lynden Scourfield started managing their account. Little did they know, but they were about to fall victim to a 245million fraud organised by Scourfield and QCS that would wreck scores of small businesses like theirs, and ruin the lives and livelihoods of thousands more. The Turners were required to pay monthly fees to QCS running into thousands of pounds, causing huge damage to their business. In return, Scourfield received kickbacks from QCS, including lavish foreign holidays and romps with sex workers. By 2007 the Turners had smelt a rat and raised the alarm with the bank and later with the police. Despite mounting evidence of wrongdoing, the Turners say the bank continued to harass them, trying 22 times to evict them from their bungalow near Newmarket, Cambridgeshire, over a three-year period. It was not until a decade later that Scourfield and five associates were jailed for up to 12 years each for the massive scam. The charges had included conspiracy to corrupt, fraudulent trading and associated money laundering offences. Corrupt: Lynden Scourfield, right, with fellow financiers on a lavish holiday When sentencing Scourfield, the judge told him he had sold his 'soul for sex, for luxury trips with and without your wife, for bling and for swag', adding that he was an 'utterly corrupt bank manager'. Following the convictions a number of reviews were set up by Lloyds Banking Group, which had acquired HBoS in 2009 during the banking crisis. These included a review of all cases including that involving the Turners that might have been affected by criminal activities linked to the Reading branch scandal. Hit show: Toby Jones stars as Mr Bates in the ITV drama The affected bank customers were promised 'swift and fair' compensation. Lloyds later settled with the Turners for an undisclosed sum and apologised for the 'significant personal distress' they had faced. The bank also acknowledged the 'vital role over more than a decade' played by the couple and their efforts in 'campaigning tirelessly for justice for all the victims of the criminal conduct at HBoS Reading'. The Turners' story might have ended there but another bizarre chapter was about to begin. In 2019 Lloyds launched an independent review led by Sir Ross Cranston of its first redress scheme. Cranston found a number of failings. Lloyds also set up another review, this time chaired by former High Court judge Dame Linda Dobbs, into whether the bank covered up the fraud and what senior executives, including former boss Sir Antonio Horta-Osorio, knew about it. This review has yet to report or even set a publication date seven years after it was commissioned. And a re-review of the compensation scheme still has not seen the light of day either. 'I handed Dobbs hundreds of thousands of documents and emails way back in 2018,' says Turner, who continues to fight for other victims. Turner blames Lloyds for prevaricating and some individuals for refusing to give evidence. Dobbs has no power to compel witnesses and says she has experienced 'significant delays in concluding interviews with a number of important witnesses', which had a 'material impact' on the completion of her review. Turner says: 'It's been covered up for years at the highest level. We were considered collateral damage.' Lawyer Jonathan Coad told the Mail on Sunday: 'One of my clients for whom I am still fighting Lloyds is terminally ill with cancer and may not live to receive compensation.' Turner's wife Nikki is also seriously ill. She had a stroke which her husband says was brought on by the stress of the situation. The bank has offered each fraud victim 3million tax-free under a second compensation scheme but about 100 claimants have yet to agree to this offer or be paid the fixed award. Pressure is growing on Dobbs to publish her report. Mark Brown, general secretary of the BTU banking union, has written to Dobbs saying: 'People have been left mentally and physically scarred and financially ruined in the process.' Turner says: 'We don't give up. We'll get it over the line.' He says he still has 'faith' in the review by Dobbs and hopes she will complete her interviews 'in the next few weeks'. But Nikki insists: 'No, they won't.' Lloyds says it has paid out more than 100 million to victims. A spokesman said: 'We have publicly apologised to all the customers who were impacted... for the time it has taken to compensate them.' A spokesman for the Dobbs review was contacted for comment. BrewDog boss and serial corporate whinger James Watt took to social networking site LinkedIn last week to defend the craft beer giant's decision to stop paying staff the 'real' living wage, which is higher than the legal minimum. Not long after posting about how unfair the 'media storm' was and how 'incredibly difficult' the decision had been, Watt quickly received the support of (you guessed it) THG's Matt Moulding. The e-commerce entrepreneur, who is known for his own long-winded claims of oppression by media, encouraged Watt to 'keep smashing it' and said the UK 'needs more BrewDogs'. Serial whinger: BrewDog boss James Watt took to LinkedIn to defend the craft beer giant's decision to stop paying staff the 'real' living wage We also spotted that Watt may be considering legal action after he agreed with one supporter on social media that there was 'surely' a case 'for at least 2-3 libel claims'. We wonder if Watt who launched BrewDog in 2007 is exempting financial freesheet City AM, which Moulding owns, from his general moaning about the media. Oil giant keeping interim chief BP'S much-anticipated search for a new boss finally ended last week when it decided to, er, just keep on the interim chief executive. Murray Auchincloss stepped in after Bernard Looney quit abruptly in September for not being 'fully transparent' about his relationships with colleagues. Someone must also have nudged Looney, who until recently still listed himself as BP boss on LinkedIn despite his exit four months ago. Belgium sets up first Davos 'house' The annual World Economic Forum's gathering in Davos is known for its 'houses' properties in the Swiss ski town where countries will often set up shop to trumpet their credentials in a bid to lure investment. Attendees last week were treated to a new arrival. The Belgians opened their first-ever house at the meeting in a bid to showcase their 'technology and innovation'. Prime Minister Alexander De Croo hosted three events and the King and Queen made an appearance. Just in case you weren't convinced of their dedication, they even managed to rope in Microsoft founder Bill Gates for a panel on clean tech and net zero. The question is: how many turned up just for the moules and frites? Arix Bioscience investors urged to back merger Investors in a small firm previously backed by Neil Woodford have been urged to agree to a merger later this month. Arix Bioscience launched a strategic review last year due to the presence of activist Acacia and it began looking for a buyer. The bid from RTW was initially slammed for paying Acacia in cash and other investors in stock but things are looking better now that RTW's share price has risen. Proxy advisers ISS said the deal 'provides a reasonable outcome' for non-Acacia shareholders. It's a shame to lose another firm on the London market, but better that shareholders are left in a good place if we do. Contributor: Francesca Washtell The boss of Sainsbury's has spoken out for the first time about the epidemic of retail crime sweeping Britain. Simon Roberts, 51, chief executive of the UK's second-biggest supermarket chain, has backed The Mail on Sunday's campaign for the police to get tough with shoplifters. He also supports the demand for a change in the law to make abuse or violence towards retail staff a specific offence. Roberts said that, in common with other large retailers, there has been an increase in violence and verbal abuse against staff. He added: 'I see a report every day on the number of violent incidents and assaults on our people in our petrol stations, our convenience stores and in our shops. It definitely escalated through last year.' Roberts said he has been working with the Government and his fellow store bosses to clamp down on the problem. Speaking out: Simon Roberts has backed our campaign for the police to get tough with shoplifters 'Any situation where a human being feels threatened or not safe we need to put the strength of the law behind that,' he said. 'We have a responsibility and the government and police do as well.' He said that Sainsbury's was the first retailer to invest in body-worn cameras, which are offered to all of the company's 150,000 staff. When activated, the cameras send a signal to a support team, who will be able to watch the footage live. If necessary, they can ring the police and ask for officers to be sent to the store. 'We wanted to lead the industry. There were all kinds of issues around data protection but in the end you just have to take a position.' Retail crime has hit all of the major chains. The Mail on Sunday has led the way on exposing the scandal of abuse against store workers and shoplifting, revealing it has been costing 1bn a year, which ultimately comes out of customers' pockets. Roberts added: 'The key point is that this should not be in any way just be overlooked. This is a crime. Stealing is a crime.' Star of stage and screen, Julian Glover, has been plying his trade since the 1950s. He has won critical acclaim for performances including the king in Henry IV, for which he won a Laurence Olivier Award. On television, he's starred in everything from The Crown and Game Of Thrones to Waking The Dead and Silent Witness. Hollywood fame includes villainous roles in James Bond film, For Your Eyes Only; as General Veers in Star Wars: Episode V The Empire Strikes Back; and as Walter Donovan in Indiana Jones And The Last Crusade. Now 88, he and his wife actress Isla Blair live in South London and have one son, Jamie, also an actor, and two granddaughters, Evie, 17, and Ava, 15. How much did you get paid for your first job? I got a holiday job while at RADA and was an assistant stage manager at a theatre in Lancashire. It was a very good introduction to what happens backstage in a theatre and I was there as a dogsbody and found myself doing everything except anything creative. It was well paid though five pounds and ten shillings a week. Golden: Julian Glover as villain Walter Donovan, far left, in Indiana Jones And The Last Crusade After RADA, I got a leg-up when I joined the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford in 1957, earning eight pounds, ten shillings. Money went a lot further in those days and our first flat there was three pounds a week. And I managed to buy one pint at the Dirty Duck every Sunday. The next season I went up to 10 a week, which was fantastic. Did you think acting would be a lifelong career? Most definitely. I became enamoured with acting at school in Dulwich when I played Mark Antony. Thankfully, I'm still working all these years on because I can't afford to retire, apart from anything else. There's a myth that quite successful actors earn millions and millions of pounds and it's simply not true. Acting is rather different from most people's careers because the money is so spasmodic and you never know when the next job is going to come in. That's why some actors commit themselves to a series, like Coronation Street, for years and years. I never really had that opportunity. But my life's been jolly good, so I'm not complaining. What was your most successful year? The years when I made those big movies: Indiana Jones, Bond, and even Game Of Thrones for TV have been the most successful financially. But the best acting roles have been on the stage King Lear at The Globe, An Inspector Calls and Henry IV at Stratford-upon-Avon. One of my most creative roles was for Indiana Jones, when I had to find a backstory for myself. My most successful role, financially, was Troy. I had a comparatively small part, but it was a big Hollywood movie, which took us to Mexico. I couldn't believe the money I got, although the government took 75 per cent of it in taxes. Do you own property? We have a comfortable, but not luxurious, five-bed semi-detached house in South London, although one bedroom is my study and another one is my wife Isla's study. We've been there 44 years and we don't intend to move. We've made it our own, done various changes, such as knocking almost all of the ground floor into one big room, because being actors we need space to prance about, although not quite so much now. Financial team: Julian says that his actress wife Isla Blair is a great manager of money Are you a spender or a saver? Acting is such a precarious profession, which is why most of us worry about money all the time. If you make a good film and earn quite a lot of money you don't think: 'Great! Now I can spend it all on a new whatever.' You calculate your tax bill for the next year, and make sure you have enough money for it put away. Did you have a pension? Yes, I took out a pension off the back of some sound advice, and I'm damned glad I did it, plus I have the state pension, too. Isla was given bad advice early on. She was told to pay the married woman's allowance, which was at a lower rate, and means her pension is much less than it should have been. What has been your best financial decision? Marrying Isla Blair. Although by her own admission she can't add five to ten, she has a wonderful way of managing money. She keeps a close eye on it, and tells me when we should pay a little more into one account or closing one in favour of another. Another good decision is an early one. My father always told me to acknowledge a cheque. We don't use them much anymore, but even now, after all those years if I do get one, I'll immediately sit down and write a thank you note. You sold a lot of your movie memorabilia a few years back. Why? I talked to my family about it, and they told me to sell, as it clutters up the house, and there might be some money in it. Longevity: Julian Glover's book Cue To Cue: Episodes From My Career So, I flogged a lot of stuff: props, clothes and so on. I did miss a trick, though. On Indiana Jones I had rather a grisly death, my face all collapsing. In order to achieve this, I had a death mask made, which was gradually worked on to show my disintegration. At the end of the film, the props team asked if I wanted it, and I took it home as a trophy, in triumph. Isla hated it, said it was horrible and banished it to the garage, where it stayed until we had a clear-out and I rediscovered it. I was pleased to be reunited, but Isla was having none of it and told me to bin it which I did. Of course, I understood, as I really didn't look good. Anyway, a few years later I was at a convention in Atlanta, talking with a dealer in memorabilia and mentioned this. He said he'd have given me $35,000 for it, so the lesson is to never throw anything away. What is your financial priority? To stay working in order to keep our family safe and Isla happy. I want to know we have enough to cover the bills if we have to stop working, get dementia or must go into a home. I hope I'm helpful to my son, Jamie, who's a very fine actor and director. He has a family of his own with all the responsibilities and worries that come with that, so we try to help when we sense he needs it. I must add that I am a great supporter of Dignity In Dying, the charity that supports the individual's right to secure assisted dying if the time comes. Right now, you have to be able to afford to go to Switzerland, which excludes many. How do you treat yourself? You mean aside from a large Scotch? Getting another job, that's the far-reaching one, as I do enjoy having a good old party, chewing the fat with friends when I finish. Colorados judicial discipline commission on Friday told legislators it is actively investigating more than 70 cases, in which judges allegedly violated state law by not filing personal financial disclosure documents for public review. The commission told a joint hearing of the House and Senate judiciary committees those investigations 73 of them were a large part of a nearly 40% increase in the number of cases brought before it. The commission received 345 requests for investigation in 2023, up from from 249 the year before. Its been an incredibly active year, said Christopher Gregory, executive director of the Colorado Commission on Judicial Discipline. The investigations come on the heels of a Denver Gazette report last year that found one in six sitting judges in Colorado had not filed the disclosures, some of them for several years. It is a misdemeanor to knowingly not file the documents. In the worst examples, The Denver Gazette found nearly two dozen judges who sat on a Colorado district court or county court bench some of them the chief judge of their judicial district havent had a disclosure on file for several years, the only way the public could know if a judge might have a conflict of interest in the cases they oversee. The number with unfiled disclosures is even higher when the more than four dozen senior judges jurists who have technically retired but remain on the bench in a limited capacity are added. Although still deciding cases that run from felonies to family court, nearly all hadnt had a disclosure on file with the secretary of state since retiring one of them more than 16 years ago, The Denver Gazette reported. Gregory told legislators that their work investigating the cases is complicated by a prohibition against judges with any form of discipline from serving as a senior judge when they retire. Featured Local Savings The collateral consequences as we try to negotiate resolutions, with judges looking to avoid exclusion from the senior judge program, its become highly problematic, Gregory said. Gregory also said the commission is recommending legislators clarify the laws regarding financial disclosure filings, largely because of confusion about when to file and who should file. For instance, the law is not clear whether senior judges must file or not, and the deadline for any judge to file is in January, leaving some judges newly appointed after the deadline to work cases for nearly a year before filing their first disclosure. Gregory said the commission a 10-member board made up of lawyers, judges and citizens hopes legislators would consider removing the absolute prohibition against judges with even minor discipline from serving in the senior judge program. Some legislators balked at the idea that a judge with a history of discipline no matter how slight should be allowed to serve as a senior judge. I have concerns about that legislative priority, particularly of those judges with a history, Rep. Jennifer Bacon said. How do we do that? Many of the judges who failed to file financial disclosure reports with the Colorado Secretary of States office didnt bother to respond to efforts by The Denver Gazette to reach them. Others told the newspaper they simply forgot. The newspapers investigation laid bare a toothless law with little enforcement. The secretary of states office says its job is merely to compile the filings and make them available for public inspection, but not to remind anyone of a failure to submit them. The newspaper found 56 of the states 358 judges did not file the disclosures last year. A handful still hadnt after the newspapers report. Weeks after The Denver Gazette story published, the states Judicial Department began training its jurists in complying with the disclosure law. The memo released Monday detailing more than a decade of sexual harassment and discrimination allegations reaching into the top ranks of Colorados judiciary also described a tilted playing field that put women working for the judiciary at a disadvantage. And it documented the fight of a woman who long held hopes of becoming the state's top court administrator. Mindy Masias, whose travel reimbursement documents had been flagged for discrepancies, was battling to keep her job as chief of staff to the Colorado Supreme Court at the time the memo was prepared. The memo, drawn up in 2019 by Eric Brown, the judicial departments director of human resources, argued that Masias has a significant number of examples where tone at the top was not applied equally. The memo includes allegations against a Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, who was not identified, of destruction of evidence involving an anonymous complaint of sexism and harassment. It details a negotiated agreement between a law clerk and her Court of Appeals judge, who allegedly needed the agreement so he could keep secret harassment allegations so he could remain safe for potential selection to the Supreme Court. Other allegations involve lower court judges who engaged in physical sexual harassment and sent out pornographic videos using their judicial emails. The document has sparked outrage among legislators. Senate President Leroy Garcia, a Democrat from Pueblo, and House Speaker Alec Garnett, a Democrat from Denver, in a joint statement, said they were "shocked and dismayed by the recent accusations regarding pervasive misconduct in Colorado's judicial branch." They also said they found "deeply disturbing" the recent allegation that high-ranking officials in the judicial department, with the approval of former Chief Justice Nathan "Ben" Coats, gave Masias a sole source contract worth up to $2.72 million to prevent the allegations detailed in the memo from becoming public. "As more and more details are revealed, the questions around taxpayer funded contracts being awarded to cover up these allegations are deeply disturbing and point to a potential culture of abuse," Garcia and Garnett continued. "This is a time when it's more important than ever to reinforce faith in our democratic institutions and uphold integrity, transparency and accountability in our government. These allegations must be investigated in full view of the public until trust in our judiciary is no longer in question." The document detailing Masias allegations pointed out that Masias was the only female director at the judicial department out of seven, and it stressed that 73 percent of all employees fired from the judicial department were women. Masias had long sought to master that playing field, at one point telling Colorado Supreme Court Chief Justice Nancy Rice that she was used to being underestimated my whole life, citing her positive attitude as one reason she often was discounted, according to a recording of the conversation Masias made. At that time Masias had learned Christopher Ryan had been chosen as the acting Colorado State Court Administrator, dashing her plans to take that post, although the recording makes clear she still had hopes she would be selected for the post in the future. You know theres sexism out there still, and I think that to pretend there isnt in the government is so Rice said during the conversation, according to the recording, a copy of which was obtained by The Gazette from the judicial department. Yeah, youre crazy to think that there isnt, Masias replied. About the only way to make the sexism go away, Ive noticed, is to be the boss, Rice said. Featured Local Savings "You dont look the part, Rice further told Masias. You dont look like the women partners on 17th Street. When Masias asked whether she needed to change her hair, punctuating the question with nervous laughter, Rice said: You ought to think about it. I mean Im not kidding. You need to do something to make yourself not be underestimated. As the conversation concluded, Rice cautioned Masias to refrain from staying too helpful on clerical duties, such as ferrying documents from the chief justices office to their destination in the department. Masias said she liked to do so because it allowed her to keep in close contact with Rice and get to visit with her. The recording also shows that Masias had bold plans to change the judicial department. When Rice suggested that she consider becoming an administrator in one of the judicial districts in the state to burnish her credentials for the state job, Masias said shed want to change the typical duties that come with that job if she did so. I dont want to be the person who signs off on the bills, Masias said in the recording. I mean I want to be the person pushing the envelope to make things different. It was that effort to make things different that rubbed some in the judiciary the wrong way. The memo detailed an instance more than a decade ago when Masias claimed to have confronted the chief justice in Alamosa County that he should fire the chief court administrator in that judicial district for having sexual relations with staff. The memo claimed that then-District Chief Judge John Kuenhold, who has since retired, told Masias she needed to leave the courthouse and drive slowly out of town. Another judge, who asked to not be identified because of the sensitivity of the matters, said that incident stoked concerns of other judges throughout the state who believed Masias had overstepped. Eventually, all the chief district court judges in the state at one of their regular meetings approved a resolution requiring that Masias alert them if she was investigating alleged wrongdoing in their district, the judge recalled. It was all about ensuring that there would be local control over those matters, the judge said, adding that the chief judges in the districts felt uncomfortable with investigations occurring without them being informed. In instances when the chief judge was under investigation, the resolution required the top court administrator in the district to be informed instead of the chief district judge, the judge said. Masias, according to the memo detailing her allegations, maintained the new directive was given in order to suppress complaints. After questions surfaced about her expense reimbursements, with instances of large invoices without sufficient documentation, Masias fought back, according to statements that Ryan, the former Colorado State Court Administrator, made to The Denver Post. Ryan said Brown delivered the memo containing Masias allegations and told him she was threatening a tell-all lawsuit that would divulge long-held secrets involving misconduct in the judiciary, reaching all the way to the Colorado Supreme Court and the Colorado Court of Appeals. Ryan told The Post that he then scheduled a meeting with the chief justice of the Supreme Court at that time, Nathan Ben Coats. During that meeting, Coats agreed with Ryans assessment that they should give a contract worth up to $2.72 million to Masias firm, The Leadership Practice, as a way to provide her a soft landing if she would resign, according to Ryan. After controversies surrounding the award of that sole source contract surfaced, Ryan terminated the contract. In the ensuing public criticism, Ryan and Brown resigned. Both Brown and Masias have repeatedly declined efforts seeking comment. Coats, who retired in December, has declined to comment. The Colorado Supreme Court in an internal email sent to judges and judicial staff denied that Coats or his legal counsel Andrew Rottman would ever authorize the use of state resources to silence a blackmailer. Monday, when it made the memo public, the Supreme Court announced it had turned the document over to the office of Colorado State Auditor Dianne Ray and would take the additional step of calling in an outside investigation. We will ask the investigator to make recommendations as to any actions needed regarding the incidents alleged and to offer suggestions to support our ongoing efforts to improve our handling of personnel matters, the Supreme Court stated in an internal email sent to judicial staff and judges in the state. We believe that this is the correct course of action -- both to determine any actual wrongdoing and to clear those wrongly accused. Colorado ranked as the worst state for auto thefts in 2021 with 661.21 thefts per 100,000 residents. Now, following new legislation and prevention programs, the numbers have made a downturn, with approximately 21% fewer auto thefts statewide from 2022 to 2023, according to a report from the Colorado State Patrol. For the first half of 2023, Colorados ranking fell to sixth, with California taking the top spot. From 2011 to 2020, the rate of auto theft increased by 144% in Colorado, reaching 524.3 thefts per every 100,000 people, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. That rate more than double the national rate of 256. The numbers took a significant jump in 2021, continuing the fastest rise in the country. The Colorado Bureau of Investigation estimated that auto thefts continued to rise by 46% as of 2022. But CSP and the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority (CATPA) saw 8,000 fewer car thefts last year. The CSP credited the decrease at least in part to legislative changes, including SB23-097, which went into effect July 1, 2023. The new bill increased the severity of auto theft crimes. Before the bill, charges were tied to the value of the stolen vehicle. Theft of a car worth less than $2,000 was considered a misdemeanor. Now, theft in the first degree is a class 3 felony, motor vehicle theft in the second degree is a class 4 felony and motor vehicle theft in the third degree is a class 5 felony. CSP also points toward the passing of bill SB23-257 in July 2023, creating the Auto Theft Prevention Cash Fund. The fund included roughly $5 million, awarded to eligible entities for programs surrounding theft prevention, enforcement, prosecution, or offender rehabilitation. The funds can also be allocated to support victims who need help with secondary costs. While a reduction in auto theft is a welcome reprieve, it does not mean that Coloradoans are in the clear from being future auto theft victims, CSP said in the press release. Auto theft incidents remain at a high level, and vehicle owners should not become complacent. CATPA and the Colorado State Patrol advise all citizens that the best way to combat vehicle theft is through a dynamic approach to vehicle security, beginning with the basics, like locking your doors every time. Denver International Airport also sees decline Featured Local Savings More than 14 million vehicles parked in Denver International Airports lots last year. With over 51,000 parking spaces, thefts are inevitable. Through a combination of new HALO cameras, increased parking lot security and barriers, DIA has been able to reduce car thefts in the last two months of 2023. DIA had 11 car thefts in November 2023, down from the 39 in November 2022 and 61 in October2023, according to a press release from the airport. One auto theft at DEN is one too many. But through a focused and coordinated effort with our partners throughout 2023 to improve and increase security measures, surveillance and enforcement, we have finally begun to see thefts at DEN trending down, CEO Phil Washington said in the release. We will stay vigilant and continue our joint efforts to ensure vehicles are safe while parked at DEN. DIA teamed up with Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority, Denver Police Department, CATPA-Metropolitan Auto Theft Taskforce (C-MATT) and Colorado State Patrol to fight the ongoing thefts at the airport. New efforts included 15 HALO cameras across the three lots increasing security surveillance by 75%, along with concrete barriers at the exit of the lots to help reduce gate crashing, the release said. The release also notes the integration of cutting-edge technology that alerts security personnel when stolen vehicles enter key locations on airport property. July and September of 2023 saw over 100 cars stolen from DIA. Cale Gould at CATPA told The Denver Gazettes news partner, 9News, that the high numbers in the summer months attributes a large majority of those thefts to 13 individuals who were later indicted for alleged vehicle thefts and burglaries. He also noted that the numbers shown are based on actual numbers of vehicles stolen, not theft incidents or police reports. Stolen vehicle data come straight from the Auto Theft Intelligence Coordination Center, who maintains a real-time stolen vehicle database based on vehicle identification numbers (VIN). To find out more about auto theft, visit CAPTAs educational website lockdownyourcar.org. Denver Gazette partner 9News contributed to this report. Once again our progressive friends imagine a trend that might not really exist . . . In much the same way that the "Latino vote" didn't emerge to rescue Hillary Clinton . . . Here's another series of assumptions that might or might not hold true on election day . . . "By any standard Kunce is running an impressive campaign. He has united organized labor in Missouri, attracting support from the firefighters and construction trades that sometimes go Republican. And there is the fundraising and lots of it. $5.4 million in 2023 goes a long way in Missouri. Kunce also has strong support in the black community, attracting the endorsement of Kansas Citys Freedom Inc. and St. Louis Civil Rights icon Bill Clay, Sr." Again, for the record, Missouri Democratic Party faithful have said all these same things amid the defeat of a booze heiress, Claire McCaskill and a slew of statewide hopefuls who couldn't find the right formula for red state victory . . . This time around MO Dems hope a "progressive" war hawk will lure conservative voters away from what looks like the resurgence of the MAGA movement within the GOP. Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . York Regional Police are warning residents to be careful around frozen bodies of water, including Lake Simcoe. In a Jan. 20 tweet, the York police's marine unit said regardless of recent frigid temperatures, the ice on Lake Simcoe is unsafe in most areas. Police are advising residents to exercise extreme caution around Lake Simcoe and other bodies of water and for those venturing onto ice, to wear protective equipment. The warning comes after a recent cold snap which saw temperatures fall well below freezing for several days. The Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority is also warning residents to be careful around water bodies amid regular freeze and thaw conditions. Frequent freeze-thaw cycles can create hazardous conditions by increasing runoff and contributing to higher water levels and faster flows in local watercourses, the conservation authority said in a media release. They advise residents to stay on officials trails and to keep family members and pets away from the edges of all water bodies, including stormwater ponds. As of Sunday morning, Environment Canada is forecasting a few more days of below-zero temperatures in Markham, Vaughan and Newmarket before rising to 4 C by Wednesday through Friday. For most people, going on safari is a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime experience. And post-pandemic, demand for bucket-list travel remains very robust. So its not surprising that these trips are trending. Crunching data for its end-of-2023 global report, the adventure-booking platform TourRadar noted that the big growth story here is Africa, which is attracting North American and European visitors in record numbers, adding that theres been a huge appetite for safaris on the continent. Intrigued but uncertain exactly where to go? As a travel writer, Ive been to about 40 different safari camps (all on press trips). Here are six of my top recommendations in Africa, each offering a distinct experience. It is the biggest herd movement on Earth: Every year during the Great Migration, millions of animals wildebeests, accompanied by zebras, and pursued by predators like leopards and lions leave their calving grounds in the south. As they move northwest, in search of more water and grass, it is an almost indescribable spectacle, long lines of beasts, as far as the eye can see. And this camp? It moves with them, changing locations three times, to give guests the best chance to be right in the action. Going on a walking safari is a completely different experience than riding in a Land Rover or Jeep. On one hand, its slower and more placid you can hear the winged bee-eaters singing and see dung beetles doing their thing. And on the other, it can be a thrill, too, especially if you encounter elephants, leopards or lions. (It happens, a lot.) This remote, eco-friendly tented camp in Hwange National Park specializes in walking safaris, whether youre looking to take a simple nature stroll, or track the big cats on foot. For a safari with water sports: Kaya Mawa Island Lodge by Green Safaris, Malawi The name Kaya Mawa meaning maybe tomorrow in the local Chichewa/Nyanja language says it all. When you arrive at dreamy Likoma Island, your first instinct will be to just relax on its sandy beaches, leaving worries (and activities) for the next day. But the charms of Lake Malawi will eventually beckon. Canoe, kayak or paddle board on its warm waters. Or snorkel or SCUBA among 400 species of cichlids. Essentially colourful goldfish in the wild, theyll sometimes surround you, a rainbow cloud of tiny little swimmers just enveloping you. The natural wonders of Kenyas Maasai Mara are myriad. Linked to Tanzanias Serengeti and spread out at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro, the area teems with wildlife. And this luxury lodge invites you deeper into the rich human culture here, too. With the lodges relationships to the local Maasai communities, theyll take you to villages that remain, in many ways, traditional. Welcomed warmly, youll visit their homes, perhaps learn to dance or how to throw a spear like a warrior, and make cultural connections youll never forget. For a chance to see a greatly endangered species: Wilderness Bisate Lodge, Rwanda Its estimated that only about 1,000 mountain gorillas remain in the wild, making an encounter with the species a truly unforgettable experience. And Rwandas Volcanoes National Park is the best place in the world to have it. Trekking up the mountainside with a guide in the morning, youll have the chance to observe these superintelligent animals always staying a safe distance away, of course. At night, lay your head in luxury at the nearby Wilderness Bisate Lodge, where the forest villas are designed to emulate the homes of Rwandan royalty. For an incredibly chill experience: andBeyond Tengile River Lodge, South Africa While it may sound counterintuitive, its true: Going on safari can be hard work. In most cases, youll be up before dawn to drive for hours in a jeep, in search of wildlife, and youll do it all again in the evening, bumping around on dirt paths. But this superluxury lodge in the private Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, next to the famed Kruger National Park, offers an exceptional place to relax. Each of their nine suites is bigger than most peoples homes, with outdoor sunken living rooms and big lap pools, all overlooking the Sand River. Recline, recharge and get ready to see more wild wonders tomorrow. Russian President Vladimir Putin is using the Belarusian military to distract Ukrainian forces and create additional zones of tension. Thats according to Andriy Yusov, the spokesman for Ukraines defense intelligence, who spoke on the air of the national telethon, Ukrinform reports. In response to journalists request to assess the likelihood of Belarusian armed forces becoming directly involved in the Russo-Ukrainian war, the spokesman said: "Nothing has changed throughout this entire period. Indeed, Putin uses the Belarusian factor to distract Ukrainian forces, reserves, to create some additional zones of tension, but in fact, Putin never succeeded in directly involving the Belarusian army in his war of aggression against Ukraine, in operations on the ground. And now there is no such intel. But the situation is being monitored, tracked, and studied," Yusov said. As reported earlier with reference to the Belarusian Defense Ministry, Belarusian military will undergo training on Russian soil. As part of training, the Russians are set to share battlefield experience gained in Ukraine. The official report stopped short of specifying military branches expected to undergo training in Russia. Belarusian leader Aleksandr Lukashenko supported Russias aggression against Ukraine and allowed the use of his countrys military infrastructure and airspace for the Russian invasion of Ukraine and strikes targeting Ukrainian cities. Welcome to the Voters First 2024 Election Guide. Welcome to our 2024 Voters First guide to your New Hampshire first-in-the-nation primary. The next president will have no shortage of challenges to contend with worldwide and at home. We know New Hampshire voters will take their role seriously and, having done their research, will select the candidate they feel best capable of fulfilling this most important role. Hyperbole always surrounds elections. 2024 is no different. You have no doubt heard that Democracy is on the ballot. Well, democracy isnt on the ballot, democracy is the ballot. Every election gives us choices. Media, both mainstream and social, have been telling us for years now that the 2024 presidential matchup is a foregone conclusion. Dont believe them. 2024 is an open field with dozens of candidates across both major party ballots. If your chosen candidate is one of our last two presidents, then by all means cast your ballot for them. But dont think its a done deal. The New Hampshire primary has often been the beginning of major surprises and upsets. Take a look through the pages of this section, do your research, and cast the ballot of your choosing. Voting is one of our great rights and responsibilities. We know most Granite Staters take this responsibility seriously. Our readers certainly do. Brendan J. McQuaidPresident & Publisher LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Jan, 2024) A strong manufacturing industry enhances a country's position in global supply chains, attracts foreign investment and fosters economic partnerships. Promotion of manufacturing industry is need of the hour as it is a key driver of economic development and has a significant impact on the national economy. This industry also plays a key role in GDP growth, innovation and global competitiveness. Meher Kashif Younis, Coordinator to Minister of State and Federal Tax Ombudsman, expressed these views while addressing a conference on Impact of Manufacturing Industry on Economy held here on Sunday. Meher was of the view that a thriving manufacturing sector creates a ripple effect that stimulates overall economic health. He said the manufacturing industry significantly contributes to a countrys Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The production of goods domestically not only fulfills local demand but also opens avenues for export, ensuring the trade balance. This diversification of the economy helps mitigate risks associated with relying heavily on a single sector. The Coordinator added that manufacturing industry acts as a catalyst for innovation and process of designing, producing, and refining products often leads to technological advancements. "It also fosters a culture of innovation, creating a positive feedback loop where advancements in manufacturing processes drive overall economic progress." He said global competitiveness is another crucial aspect influenced by a robust manufacturing sector. He said countries with strong manufacturing capabilities compete effectively in the international market. Meher Kashif Younis said striking a balance between economic growth and environmental responsibility is essential for the long-term viability of the manufacturing sector. He said it plays a pivotal role in shaping the economic landscape of a nation. (@FahadShabbir) ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Jan, 2024) Indian forces personnel have further intensified checking, frisking, surveillance and patrolling in the name of security measures in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) ahead of its Republic Day on January 26. According to Kashmir Media Service report on Sunday, additional personnel have been deployed in Srinagar and surrounding localities to fortify key areas, including the venue for the main Republic Day function. Stringent checks and surveillance measures have been put in place to monitor and control the movement of people and vehicles. The strategic deployment of forces includes paramilitary personnel, police, and specialized units equipped to handle any contingencies. Checkpoints have been set up at key entry points, and forces personnel are conducting thorough inspections. In addition to the ground-level measures, technological advancements are being utilized to enhance surveillance capabilities. CCTV cameras have been installed to monitor public spaces and the intelligence network has also been activated to respond swiftly to any potential threats. The Indian military authorities have set up huge makeshift bunkers and deployed bullet proof armed vehicles everywhere to monitor the daily life of the Kashmiris. The forces personnel are also continuing their cordon and search operations (CASOs) in all cities, towns and villages of the territory, subjecting the residents to severe harassment. (@ChaudhryMAli88) BRASILIA, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Jan, 2024) Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Brazilian Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira co-chaired the fourth China-Brazil Foreign Ministerial-Level Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue here on Friday, vowing to strengthen the synergy of development strategies and expand cooperation in emerging fields. China-Brazil relations have withstood the test of an ever-evolving international landscape, said Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee. Since China and Brazil launched the comprehensive strategic dialogue 10 years ago, mutual trust has become stronger, communication between the two sides has been deeper, and bilateral cooperation in various fields has shown broader prospects, Wang said. The two sides understand and support each other on issues involving their respective core interests and major concerns, which provides a solid guarantee for the sound and steady growth of China-Brazil relations, he said. China has always given priority to its relations with Brazil in its overall diplomacy and in its diplomacy with Latin America, and supports Brazil in promoting national development and rejuvenation, he said. China stands ready to work with Brazil to take the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations as an opportunity to strengthen the synergy of development strategies, and crack open new areas and tap new potential for cooperation, so as to inject new impetus into and open up new prospects for the China-Brazil comprehensive strategic partnership, he added. Moscow, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Jan, 2024) A fire broke out early Sunday at a natural gas terminal in the Russian Baltic Sea port of Ust-Luga, the regional governor said. The terminal, 110 kilometres (70 miles) west of St Petersburg near the Estonian border, is operated by Novatek, Russia's largest independent natural gas producer. "No casualties as a result of a fire at Novatek's terminal in the port of Ust-Luga. Personnel were evacuated," Aleksandr Drozdenko, governor of Leningrad Oblast, posted on Telegram along with a short video showing a massive fire and smoke at a chemical complex. "A high alert regime has been introduced in the Kingiseppsky district (which includes the port)," he said, noting that the blaze was "localised". The Russian ministry of emergency situations and local fire service were involved in fighting the blaze, he added. Local official Yuri Zapalatski said the fire started just before 02:45 am local time. TASS news agency and other state media said the cause of the fire has not been announced. Russia's Defence Ministry announced Sunday that Ukrainian attacks overnight had been foiled but made no mention of any incident in the Leningrad region. The Ria-Novosti agency said a 100 cubic metre container was on fire. The Ust-Luga complex processes natural gas condensate into naphtha, jet fuel and ship fuel components, according to Novatek's website. The Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline leading to Germany, which has never entered into service after a sabotage raid in September 2022, starts from the town of Ust-Luga. bur-mtp/bp/rox NOVATEK Vierzon, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Jan, 2024) France's new Prime Minister Gabriel Attal paid tribute to the country's agriculture sector this weekend, responding to the growing discontent of farm workers angry at red tape and high costs. Another rising political star, Jordan Bardella of the far-right National Rally was also declaring his sympathy for the farmers, who he said were sick of the strictures imposed by "Macron's Europe". Attal, speaking at a public meeting in the central town of Saint-Laurent-d'Agny Saturday, insisted that agriculture was "an absolutely major subject... that I take very seriously". Praising the nation's farmers, he promised to work to make life easier for them by reducing unnecessary red tape. At virtually the same time, Bardella was visiting a dairy farm at Queyrac, in the southwest, denouncing the policies of President Emmanuel Macron. There is growing anger against "the European Union and the Europe of Macron", who wanted "the death of our agriculture", said Bardella, a member of the EU parliament. French farmers are exposed to unfair competition from products from around the world that do not respect the strict standards they have to observe, he added. Bardella will lead the National Rally into the European elections in June, where some political observers think it could pose a major challenge to France's mainstream parties. Across the country, France's farmers have been voicing their anger in recent weeks -- and they have a long list of grievances. They are unhappy about rising costs, bans on pesticides cleared for use in other parts of the world, a sense of being crushed by the strict standards imposed on them, and what they see as unfair competition from Ukrainian imports. The price of diesel is another sore point, an issue that helped sparked the yellow vest protests that caused Macron so many problems during his first presidential term. In the southern Occitanie region, one group of farm workers started a blockade of the A64 motorway late on Thursday at Carbonne, some 45 kilometres (28 miles) southwest of Toulouse. On Saturday, dozens of tractors were still blocking access, with about a hundred protesters gathered around braziers at their makeshift camp. "You get to a point when you can't take any more," said Benoit Fourcade, a 50-year-old cereal farmer. If France ever banned the controversial weedkiller glyphosate, he would leave his fields fallow and sign up at the nearest factory, he vowed. "We are not happy putting people out like this," said Nicolas Suspene, a 44-year-old farmer who is also the mayor of a nearby village. "But how else do we make ourselves heard?" President Macron's office instructed prefects across France to get out and meet farmers this weekend. And on Monday, Attal will meet leaders of the main farming unions. Later this week, the government is due to present its latest plans on how to help the next generation of farmers -- their average age at the moment is 51.4 years. But the plans have already been criticised by the sector as too timid. bur-myl/jj/pvh (@ChaudhryMAli88) KAMPALA, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 21st Jan, 2024) Saudi Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Eng. Waleed bin AbdulKarim El-Khereiji, met on Saturday with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bangladesh, Hasan Mahmud, on the sidelines of the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in Kampala, the capital of Uganda. Both sides reviewed cooperation between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh and ways to strengthen and develop it in various fields. They also discussed the most prominent regional and international developments and the efforts made regarding them. A thwarted Iranian plot to assassinate two journalists working for a Persian TV network in London has renewed focus on the ways hostile governments try to target critics outside their jurisdiction. Details of the plot, uncovered by the British news outlet ITV News late last year, included a plan to kill the journalists Sima Sabet and Fardad Farahzad. The details are a shocking reminder of the sinister lengths that the Iranian regime is willing to go to silence critical reporting from abroad, said Jessica White, who researches transnational repression at Freedom House. Reporters covering human rights violations by the Iranian authorities should not have to live and work in fear for themselves and their family members, White told VOA from London. Nor should the Iranian regime evade accountability for its actions. White is the author of a December report that found at least 26 governments had targeted reporters abroad in the past decade in a process known as transnational repression. The Iranian government is among the worst perpetrators of transnational repression, the report found. Among the cases Freedom House featured is that of Behrang Tajdin, a BBC Persian journalist who for years dealt with threats and harassment. Tajdin told the research group that the attacks have become so unbearable in the past few years and especially in the past year that we have no choice but to talk about it, to call it out. He added that he worries for relatives still in Iran, who can come under pressure over his reporting. In the more recent London case, Sabet, a former presenter at the Persian language news channel Iran International, and her colleague Farahzad, were first made aware of the plot against them by ITV News. The British broadcaster determined that Irans Revolutionary Guard Corps, which is the main branch of the Iranian Armed Forces, was behind the plot. During the fall of 2022, Iranian spies planned to strike Iran Internationals London studio with a car bomb. They initially wanted to kill five or six employees but later decided to target only Sabet and Farahzad in a knife attack. The spies codenamed Sabet the bride, and Farahzad was referred to as the groom. The assassination was codenamed the wedding. Irans Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not immediately reply to VOAs email requesting comment. But a spokesperson for the Iranian Embassy in London, Seyed Mehdi Hosseini Matin, rejected the report as "unfounded" in a post on the X platform, formerly Twitter. If I hadnt been influential, I wouldnt have been targeted. I already knew that we are standing against a regime that does not recognize neutrality, Sabet told VOA Persian. The plan was ultimately thwarted by the people-smuggler-turned-double-agent whom the spies offered $200,000 to carry out the killings. When British intelligence learned about the plot, they alerted Iran International, which prompted the outlet to begin broadcasting from the United States. Sabet said shes concerned that Iranian operatives were able to work on British soil in the first place. As a tax-paying British citizen who lives and works here, I am surprised that an outfit like the IRGC can operate freely and threaten the life of a British citizen for committing what seems to be the sin of journalism, she said. Freedom House has recommended that governments better support at-risk journalists and media outlets operating in exile by imposing coordinated sanctions on countries that use transnational repression, and to adopt safeguards against invasive surveillance technologies. The research group says making it easier for exiled journalists to have permanent legal status in host countries could also improve safety. This isnt the first time Tehran has been accused of trying to kill its critics abroad. VOA Persian host Masih 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. The Justice Department last year indicted three people in a separate case who allegedly plotted to kill Alinejad. Transnational repression is not just a threat for us, for dissidents. It's a threat to democracy, Alinejad told VOA in December. The threat facing Iranian critics around the world underscores the ever-present crackdown on independent media inside Iran. This month, the Committee to Protect Journalists ranked Iran as the sixth-worst jailer of reporters in the world, with 17 journalists behind bars. But for Sabet, the threat has not dampened her resolve. We have to stand against them [Tehran] and talk about what is happening, she said. I am a professional journalist, and my duty is to spread information, Sabet said. I am committed to my people, committed to the truth even at the cost of my life. This is what I want to do, and I stand by my commitment. VOA's Persian Service contributed to this report. At least eight people were killed in a factory explosion in eastern China's Jiangsu province early Saturday morning, state media reported. The blast occurred at 3:38 a.m. local time (1938 GMT on Friday) in the workshop of a metal product factory in Changzhou city, 180 kilometers (111 miles) northwest of Shanghai, according to the official Xinhua news agency. "A dust explosion occurred in the production workshop of Shenrong Metal Technology Limited, killing eight people and lightly injuring eight others," Xinhua said. A dust explosion occurs when flammable particles including metals in the air unexpectedly ignite. An investigation into the blast is under currently way, Xinhua reported. Deadly industrial accidents are common in China, where safety regulations are often poorly enforced or ignored. In May last year, nine people died in a blast at a factory used to produce hydrogen peroxide in Liaocheng, a city in China's eastern Shandong province. And in November 2022, more than 20 people were killed at a factory in central China's Henan province, with authorities blaming workers there of being engaged in illegal welding. A politically treacherous dynamic is taking hold as negotiators in the U.S. Congress work to strike a bipartisan deal on the border and immigration with vocal opposition from the hard right and former U.S. President Donald Trump threatening to topple the carefully negotiated compromise. Senators are closing in on the details of an agreement on border measures that could unlock Republican support for Ukraine aid. Though they hope to unveil it as soon as next week, the deal is already wobbling, as House Speaker Mike Johnson faces intense pressure from Trump and his House allies to demand more sweeping concessions from Democrats and the White House. "I do not think we should do a Border Deal, at all, unless we get EVERYTHING needed to shut down the INVASION of Millions & Millions of people," Trump posted on social media this week. It's a familiar political dynamic, one that has repeatedly thwarted attempts to reform U.S. immigration law, including in 2013 when House Republicans sought to pin illegal immigration on a Democratic president and in 2018 when Trump helped sink another bipartisan effort. The path for legislation this time around is further clouded by an election year in which Trump has once again made railing against illegal immigration a central focus of his campaign. Even though the terms of the policy negotiations have shifted significantly in the Republicans' direction, skepticism is running high among conservatives, creating a precarious moment that could determine not only the contours of U.S. immigration and border law for years, but the future of Ukraine as it faces dwindling U.S. supplies in its fight against Russia. U.S. President Joe Biden is pressing lawmakers to say "yes." During a White House meeting this week with congressional leaders that was meant to underscore how desperately Ukraine needs funding, the president said he was ready for a "big deal on the border." The president has reason to want an agreement. The historic number of migrants who have come to the U.S. border with Mexico during Biden's term is seen as one of the largest political vulnerabilities in his re-election campaign. During Iowa's Republican caucuses last week, which Trump won, immigration was a top issue. An AP VoteCast survey found about 9 in 10 caucus-goers backed building a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, with about 7 in 10 expressing strong support for the idea. As asylum seekers have made their way across the country, often by the busloads to Democratic-leaning cities as part of Texas Governor Greg Abbott's program, they have strained the resources and political tolerance of areas that will be vital to Biden's re-election chances. "It's gotten to the point where, in a way, everybody's back is against the wall," said Senator Michael Bennet, a Colorado Democrat. "I'm not talking about politically, I mean, substantively, these are challenges that the country can't ignore." Bennet was joined at the Capitol on Thursday by Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, a Democrat who told reporters that the recent influx of migrants has caused "a humanitarian crisis and a fiscal crisis unlike anything we've seen in the last 25 years." Democrats in Congress are split on the merits of the Senate package. Progressive and Hispanic lawmakers decry changes that would toughen the process for claiming asylum in the United States. Still, many Democrats say that Johnson's resistance to bipartisan compromise shows that Republicans aren't serious about solving the problems at the border. "They basically want to make sure that the situation is as chaotic as possible so that they can win elections in November," said Representative Joaquin Castro, a Democrat. "That is their strategy. It's not a sincere attempt to do something about what's going on at the border." Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, meanwhile, has been strongly making the case for the deal. He's told fellow Republicans that the border package, which he insisted be paired with Biden's $110 billion request for war aid for Ukraine, Israel and other national security priorities, is a rare opportunity to get stronger policies through Congress. The proposal crafted by the Senate would toughen the asylum process with a goal of cutting the number of migrants who come to the southern border to make an asylum claim. Negotiators have worked on some policies intended to aid immigrants. The plan could include a pathway to citizenship for Afghans who came during the U.S. withdrawal from their country, along with work permits for migrants who enter the asylum system, according to two people familiar with the talks who were granted anonymity to discuss the private negotiations. But the package will mostly leave out broad immigration changes such as protections for immigrants who entered the U.S. illegally as children that have been foundational in previous Senate bills. "It will be by far the most conservative border security bill in four decades," said Oklahoma Sen. James Lankford, the lead Republican negotiator. Lankford and other Senate Republicans have urged their House colleagues to remain open-minded. They argue that the changes would actually pave the way for Trump to implement his border agenda if he wins the election. Lankford has also said that the legislation would not dramatically reduce the number of migrants at the border for months a tacit signal that border security could remain a top issue through the election. Still, Johnson has argued that a hardline House bill, H.R. 2 which passed the chamber in May without a single Democratic vote, is the solution to America's border woes. It would create a sweeping system intended to bottle up illegal immigration. Johnson also has made clear that he has been speaking regularly with Trump. "We're not playing politics with this," Johnson said this week. "We're demanding real, transformative policy change." Even beyond Trump, Johnson is dealing with far-right House members who are furious over his willingness to work with Democrats to pass legislation. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, a close Trump ally, has threatened to trigger a motion to oust Johnson if he brings a border bill with Ukraine aid to the House floor. Greene this week said Trump is backing the House conservatives' plan because "it brings back all of his strong border policies." In December, she said that passing bipartisan border legislation would only give Biden an opportunity to tout the legislation on the campaign trail. "I've been telling everyone that President Trump is the leader of the Republican Party," Greene said. "That decisive victory in Iowa should be the shot across the bow to every single Republican that's elected." Despite the pressure, Johnson signaled some support for the legislative push after a meeting this week at the White House, calling the talks "productive." But what he does next remains to be seen. About 1,000 people from Gaza have been treated in a French field hospital aboard a ship off the coast of Egypt, its captain said, providing care for some as health infrastructure in the war-devastated enclave collapses. The Dixmude, a French helicopter carrier, has been docked in the Egyptian port of al-Arish, 50 kilometers (30 miles) west of the Gaza Strip, since November. The vessel is equipped with wards, operating theaters and 70 medical staff. Nearly 120 injured people have been hospitalized on board, while hundreds more have been seen for outpatient consultations, including follow-ups on injuries and psychiatric issues, said Captain Alexandre Blonce, calling it an "unprecedented mission." Israeli forces launched all-out war to eliminate Gaza's ruling Palestinian Islamist group Hamas after its militants burst across the border into southern Israeli towns and bases on Oct. 7, killing 1,200 people and taking 253 hostages back to the enclave. Over 25,000 Palestinians have been killed in the war. Palestinians have struggled to get medical care at home as tens of thousands have been wounded, with most of Gaza's 36 hospitals no longer functioning, and those remaining operating at far over capacity, the World Health Organization says. Israel has targeted the largest remaining hospitals, saying Hamas fighters are operating there, something Hamas denies. Those lucky enough to cross into Egypt, like 16-year-old Ahmed Abu Daqqa, who was injured on Nov. 1, faced long waits for medical care. Doctors in Gaza "took out the shrapnel and put in two rods, but a month later they discovered more shrapnel in my knee. They told me they'll handle it later because there were too many surgeries," he said on board the Dixmude. "I tried many times to get a transfer" before finally crossing into Egypt, he said. He was then able to undergo further surgery where the rods and shrapnel were removed and a resulting infection dealt with, as well as receiving physical therapy. He and others on board the French ship were awaiting further transfers to hospitals in Egypt or abroad. Italy sent a similar floating hospital to the Egyptian coast in December. North Korea said Sunday it has agreed to further strategic and tactical cooperation with Russia to establish a "new multi-polarized international order," as the two countries work to build a united front in the face of their separate, intensifying tensions with the United States. In describing North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui's meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minster Sergey Lavrov in Moscow last week, the North's Foreign Ministry said Putin also reaffirmed his willingness to visit Pyongyang and said that could come at an "early date." North Korea has been actively strengthening its ties with Russia, highlighted by leader Kim Jong Un's September visit to Russia for a summit with Putin. Kim is trying to break out of diplomatic isolation and strengthen his footing as he navigates a deepening nuclear standoff with Washington, Seoul and Tokyo. In a separate statement on Sunday, the North's Foreign Ministry condemned the U.N. Security Council for calling an emergency meeting over the country's latest ballistic test, which state media described as a new intermediate-range solid-fuel missile tipped with a hypersonic warhead. The ministry said the test-firing on January 14 was among the country's regular activities to improve its defense capabilities and that it didn't pose a threat to its neighbors. South Korea on Thursday urged the Security Council "to break the silence" over North Korea's escalating missile tests and threats. Russia and China, both permanent members of the council, have blocked U.S.-led efforts to increase sanctions on North Korea over its recent weapons tests, underscoring a divide deepened over Russia's war on Ukraine. The alignment between Pyongyang and Moscow has raised international concerns about alleged arms cooperation, in which the North provides Russia with munitions to help prolong its fighting in Ukraine, possibly in exchange for badly needed economic aid and military assistance to help upgrade Kim's forces. Both Pyongyang and Russia have denied accusations by Washington and Seoul about North Korean arms transfers to Russia. North Korea's Foreign Ministry, in comments published by state media, said Choe and the Russian officials in their meetings expressed a "strong will to further strengthen strategic and tactical cooperation in defending the core interests of the two countries and establishing a new multi-polarized international order." Russia expressed "deep thanks" to North Korea for its "full support" over its war on Ukraine, the North Korean ministry said. It said Choe and the Russian officials expressed "serious concern" over the United States' expanding military cooperation with its Asian allies that they blamed for worsening tensions in the region and threatening North Korea's sovereignty and security interests. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest point in years, after Kim in recent months used Russia's invasion of Ukraine as a distraction to ramp up his weapons tests and military demonstrations. The United States, South Korea and Japan have responded by strengthening their combined military exercises, which Kim portrays as invasion rehearsals, and sharpening their deterrence plans built around nuclear-capable U.S. assets. In the latest tit-for-tat, North Korea on Friday said it conducted a test of a purported nuclear-capable underwater attack drone in response to a combined naval exercise by the United States, South Korea and Japan last week, as it continued to blame its rivals for tensions in the region. Choe's visit to Moscow came as Kim continues to use domestic political events to issue provocative threats of nuclear conflict. At Pyongyang's rubber-stamp parliament last week, Kim declared that North Korea is abandoning its long-standing goal of a peaceful unification with war-divided rival South Korea and ordered the rewriting of the North's constitution to cement the South as its most hostile foreign adversary. He accused South Korea of acting as "top-class stooges" of the Americans and repeated a threat that he would use his nukes to annihilate the South if provoked. Analysts say North Korea could be aiming to diminish South Korea's voice in the regional nuclear standoff and eventually force direct dealings with Washington as it looks to cement its status as a nuclear weapons state. The Palestinian death toll from the more than three months of fighting between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has passed the 25,000 mark, the Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry said Sunday. The ministry said the death count is at 25,102, including civilians and Hamas fighters, with about 70% women and children. Health officials said 62,681 people have been injured in the conflict. In the past 24 hours, the ministry said that 178 Palestinians have been killed and 293 injured. British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps told Sky News Sunday that it is disappointing to hear of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus opposition to a Palestinian state at the end of the Israel-Hamas war. Unless you pursue a two-state solution, I really dont see that there is another solution, Shapps said. Netanyahu said Saturday that he will not compromise on full Israeli control over Gaza and stated that this is contrary to a Palestinian state, rebuffing U.S. President Joe Bidens comment that creative solutions could bridge wide gaps between the leaders' views on Palestinian statehood. Discussing his administration's position Friday, Biden said, There are a number of types of two-state solutions" when he was asked if a two-state solution was impossible with Netanyahu in office, Biden replied, No, its not. Biden said Friday he had spoken with Netanyahu, the first call the White House had in nearly a month with the Israeli leader, about possible solutions for creation of an independent Palestinian state, suggesting one path could involve a nonmilitarized government. "In his conversation with President Biden, Prime Minister Netanyahu reiterated his policy that after Hamas is destroyed Israel must retain security control over Gaza to ensure that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel, a requirement that contradicts the demand for Palestinian sovereignty," a statement from the Israeli prime minister's office said. Netanyahu is facing increasing conflicting pressures at home. Relatives of hostages held by Hamas militants in Gaza protested outside his home Saturday, demanding his government take decisive steps to secure the release of their family members. They say they fear that escalating military activity further endangers the captives' lives. Meanwhile, a divide over the direction of the war, now in its fourth month, is growing inside the Israeli Cabinet. Former Israeli army chief Gadi Eisenkot, a member of the War Cabinet has said a cease-fire is the only way to secure the hostages release, a comment that implied criticism of Israel's current strategy not to let up on Israels war on Hamas militants until their destruction. Netanyahu also is under heat from members of his right-wing governing coalition who want an all-out war against Hamas, while the U.S., Israels main ally, is calling for restraint in Gaza to protect civilian lives. The Israeli leader has said he will push for complete victory against Hamas but has not outlined how he would achieve it. Critics have accused him of preventing a Cabinet-level debate about a post-war scenario for Gaza. They say Netanyahu is stalling to prevent conflict within his coalition. Attack in Syria A strike on a residential building in Damascus, Syria, Saturday killed five members of Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Iran said, blaming Israel. Hours later the IRGC issued statements identifying the five dead as Hojjatollah Omidvar, Ali Aghazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi, Saeed Karimi and Mohammad Amin Samadi. Iran has vowed to carry out revenge attacks against Israel. Syrian state television said the building, which was destroyed in the midmorning strike, was in a neighborhood of the Syrian capital where several embassies are located. There was no immediate comment from Israel, which rarely acknowledges its actions in Syria. The strike came as Israel hit targets across Gaza Saturday. Israel said it targeted militants in northern Gaza who it said were trying to plant explosives and fire missiles at Israeli tanks. Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters. Four local police officers in Mexico were placed under investigation in connection with the shooting death of a man in the Gulf of Mexico state of Veracruz, after neighbors in the town surrounded the officers and attacked them. The Veracruz Public Security Department said in a statement the officers from Lerdo de Tejada, a coastal town in the south of the state, were detained late Friday. They were handed over to the prosecutor's office to investigate the death of 27-year-old Brando de Jesus Arellano Cruz, it said. The identities of the officers were not released. Arellano Cruz was shot Friday night while in his vehicle. His family speculated the police may have flagged Arellano Cruz down and he didn't stop out of fear of the local security forces, who are highly mistrusted by local residents. The victim phoned his father, Delfino Arellano Ramirez, and told him that the officers were following him and that he was on his way to his grandmother's house. Arellano Ramirez said that just after the call he went to the grandmother's house and that when he arrived, his son's vehicle was stopped and he heard two gunshots. "He stopped the car because he arrived at his grandmother's house ... and once the car was stopped there, they shot him with impunity," he said. When Arellano Ramirez approached the car, he saw the impact of the bullet in the glass and he looked through the window. "I saw that my son was on his face and was already dripping blood," he said. Arellano Cruz had been shot in the head. Arellano Cruz's father and mother who arrived at the scene shortly afterwards said they rebuked the officers, asking for explanations but the officers intimidated them and told them that they had nothing to do with what happened. Soon, dozens of neighbors surrounded the local police officers and began to beat them angrily. One policeman fled, the family said. The other four were rescued by state police and the National Guard and taken to a hospital. Apparently, those are the four officers who are under investigation. Residents said the crowd was furious and went on to set fire to the town hall. When an Associated Press journalist arrived, two patrol cars, a van and part of the town hall building had been burned and dozens of angry people were still there. Mayor Maria Esther Arroniz said on social media that she lamented Arellano Cruz's death but condemned people who used the event "to feed hatred, vandalism and social instability." Residents have repeatedly denounced abuses by security forces. Shopkeeper Julio Cesar Ramirez recounted Friday night how he was detained twice and falsely accused of carrying illegal substances. "Perhaps this is not the correct way the people should have acted, but we must also understand that the people are tired of abuses, tired of arbitrariness," he said. Impunity runs rampant in Mexico. Only 1% of all crimes committed were reported, investigated and resolved in 2022, according to a survey by the National Institute of Statistics and Geography. Veracruz has for years had high levels of violence linked to organized crime as it is located on the fastest highway route from Central America to the United States. Security forces from different agencies have been linked several times to cases of corruption and human rights abuses. Pope Francis on Sunday called for the release of hostages, including six nuns, who were kidnapped on a bus in Haiti on Friday, and said he was praying for social harmony in the country. Armed gunmen hijacked a bus in Haiti's capital Port-au-Prince with at least six nuns on board and drove off to an unknown destination taking all passengers hostage, Vatican News reported on Saturday, citing the Haitian Conference of Religious group. "I have learned with sorrow of the kidnapping, in Haiti, of a group of people, including six religious sisters," Pope Francis said after his weekly Angelus prayer. "In my heartfelt plea for their release, I pray for social concord in the country, and I invite everyone to bring an end to the violence, which is causing a great deal of suffering to that dear population," he added. Violence has been escalating for months in Haiti as gangs jockey for power and seek to put pressure on interim Prime Minister Ariel Henry, ahead of the Feb. 7 expiry of a political accord that consolidated his power. The violence comes ahead of a court decision expected on Jan. 26 on a Kenyan-led multinational force to address gang violence in the country, one of the poorest in the Western Hemisphere. Egypt's president said on Sunday it will not allow any threat to Somalia, after Ethiopia said it would consider recognizing an independence claim by Somaliland in a deal that would give it access to a seaport. The remarks by President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi were the strongest yet made on the issue by Egypt, which already has frosty relations with Ethiopia, and were a sign that Cairo may get involved in a dispute that has raised fresh tensions in the volatile Horn of Africa. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not won recognition from any country. The port lease deal, which was agreed earlier this month but not yet finalized, would be a boon to landlocked Ethiopia and has enraged Somalia. "Egypt will not allow anyone to threaten Somalia or affect its security," Sissi said, speaking at a news conference with visiting Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. "Do not try Egypt, or try to threaten its brothers especially if they ask it to intervene," he added. In a Jan. 1 memorandum of understanding, Ethiopia said it would consider recognizing Somaliland's independence in return for the port access. It would lease 20 km (12 miles) of coastland around the port of Berbera, on the Gulf of Aden, for 50 years for military and commercial purposes. Ethiopia's current main port for maritime exports is in the neighboring country of Djibouti. "My message to Ethiopia is that ... trying to seize a piece of land to control it is something no one will agree to," Sissi said, saying cooperation on development was a better strategy. Representatives for Ethiopia did not immediately respond to requests for comment on his statements. Egypt's foreign minister last week called Ethiopia a source of instability in the region, which the country's foreign ministry said was "irrelevant." Relations between Egypt and Ethiopia, which share use of the Nile River, have been tense for years over a major dam Ethiopia has built on the Blue Nile. Senegal's constitutional council on Saturday released a final list of 20 candidates for February's presidential election that excluded opposition leader Ousmane Sonko and Karim Wade, the son of former president Abdoulaye Wade. President Macky Sall will hand over power after ruling out a third term in July, ending lengthy speculation that helped fuel some of the deadliest violence in the normally stable West African nation's modern history. The council's list of approved candidates includes Sall's hand-picked successor, Prime Minister Amadou Ba, former Dakar mayor Khalifa Sall, and former prime minister Idrissa Seck. It said opposition firebrand Sonko's bid was ineligible due to a suspended sentence linked to a defamation case. Sonko, 49, has been battling various court cases since 2021 and the authorities deny his accusations that they are politically motivated, although public backlash to his treatment has fueled unrest. Fears that his exclusion could lead to more protests have waned since Sall's announcement he will not use a 2016 constitutional reform to reset his mandate - a tactic used by other rulers in the region to extend power. As a result, the February 25 contest is the first since Senegal's independence in which an incumbent president does not seek re-election after serving two terms. Another notable exclusion from the final list of candidates is Karim Wade. He and Khalifa Sall saw their hopes of running in the last presidential race thwarted by legal convictions. Both have since received presidential pardons, but Wade is allegedly ineligible this time due to being a dual citizen when he submitted his candidacy. With Sall and apparently Sonko out of the race, there is no clear frontrunner yet. Attention is focused on Sall's chosen successor Ba, as well as long-time Sall opponents Khalifa Sall and former premier Seck, who is running for the fourth time. The final list also includes Bassirou Diomaye Faye, whom members of Sonko's now-dissolved Pastef party in November nominated as a back-up candidate in the event of Sonko's disqualification. Like Sonko, Faye is in detention, but he remains eligible to run as there has been no ruling yet on the case against him. He faces charges including defamation and contempt of court. Before the list was released, Mamadou Sy Albert, a political analyst, told Reuters it seemed unlikely any of the candidates could secure over 50% of the vote, which is needed to avoid a second round. "Whether it's Amadou Ba or the opposition ... it's difficult to envisage a victory in the first round," he said. "It's very undecided." He flagged divisions within President Sall's party and concerns that Ba has never contested a presidential election, while most of his main opponents have. U.S. and Chinese officials have completed the third meeting of a working group established to cooperate on financial issues, in a step that continues the trend set by the two powers last November to ease tensions. Officials from the U.S. Treasury Department met with counterparts in the People's Bank of China to discuss issues ranging from financial stability to countering money laundering. The delegation also met with Vice Premier He Lifeng while they were in China, according to a statement Friday from the Treasury Department. The group also indicated that Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen would return to China for a visit at some point in the future. She was previously there in July. In November, Yellen met with He in San Francisco. Their two-day meeting was seen as paving the way for the later meeting between U.S. President Joe Biden and China's President Xi Jinping. The two sides had agreed to resume cooperation on issues such as curbing fentanyl's spread, as well as military-to-military communication. While the meeting kept the relationship from getting any worse, it failed to resolve any of the major differences between the two countries. There have been longstanding economic issues between China and the U.S. ever since former U.S. President Donald Trump launched a trade war, setting high taxes on a number of Chinese goods. U.S. Central Command forces struck a Houthi anti-ship missile prepared to launch and aimed at the Gulf of Aden on Saturday. In a statement on the social media platform X, formerly Twitter, the U.S. Central Command said its preemptive strike "will make international waters safer and more secure for U.S. Navy and merchant vessels." The incident the latest amid growing tensions in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden that have disrupted global trade and raised fears of supply bottlenecks took place in the early hours of Saturday local time, the U.S. Central Command said. It is the U.S. military's seventh strike against Houthi missile launchers in a week. The White House says the strikes are necessary to protect merchant ships and U.S. Navy vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby told reporters the United States launched three strikes Friday to destroy "Houthi missile launchers that were ready to launch attacks." Attacks show solidarity, say Houthis Attacks by the Iran-aligned Houthi militia on ships in and around the Red Sea for the past several weeks have bogged down trade between Asia and Europe and created fears of a widening war in the Middle East. The Houthis, who control most of Yemen, say their attacks are in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza under attack from Israel. U.S. defense officials say the Houthis have carried out at least 31 attacks on ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden since Nov. 19, 2023. Major shipping companies have responded by rerouting vessels on the longer and more expensive route around Africa. The Red Sea route is a vital shipping link between Europe and Asia, carrying about 15% of the world's maritime traffic. But a senior official of the Iranian-backed Houthi terrorist group said Friday that Chinese and Russian vessels will have safe passage through the Red Sea. Mohammed al-Bukhaiti, a member of the Houthi political leadership, said in an interview with the Russian outlet Izvestia that the shipping lanes around Yemen are safe to ships from China and Russia, as long as vessels are not connected with Israel, Agence France-Presse reported Friday, citing Izvestia. Commanders from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, or IRGC, and Lebanon's Hezbollah group are on the ground in Yemen helping to direct and oversee Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping, four regional and two Iranian sources told Reuters. Tehran has funneled money, training and advanced drones, anti-ship cruise missiles, precision-strike ballistic missiles and medium-range missiles to the Houthis, who started targeting commercial vessels in November in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, the sources said according to Reuters. IRGC commanders and advisers also are providing technological know-how, data and intelligence support to determine which of the dozens of vessels traveling through the Red Sea each day are destined for Israel and constitute Houthi targets, all the sources said. Washington also noted last month that Iran was deeply involved in planning operations against shipping in the Red Sea and that its intelligence was critical to enable the Houthis to target ships. Bradley Bowman, the senior director of the Foundation of Defense of Democracies' Center on Military and Political Power, criticized the U.S. administration's approach to the Houthi attacks, saying that knocking out existing missiles in Yemen without a comprehensive effort to counter Iranian weapons is "like cleaning up puddles in your home while ignoring the leak in the roof." Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani has repeatedly denied Tehran is involved in the Red Sea attacks by the Houthis. The IRGC public relations office did not respond to requests for comment. US forces attacked In addition to the dozens of Houthi attacks on international shipping lanes, there have been more than 140 attacks by Iranian-backed proxies against U.S. forces in Iraq and Syria since the October 7 Hamas terror attack, triggering fears of a widening war in the region. Missile attacks in Syria, Lebanon, Iraq and Yemen on Saturday exacerbated the crisis. Iran said five of its Revolutionary Guards commanders were killed in a missile strike on a house in Damascus that it blamed on Israel, and security sources in Lebanon said an Israeli strike there killed a member of Iran-backed Hezbollah. Israel has not commented on the Syria attack. Later Saturday,an American official said a missile or rocket attack had injured U.S. personnel at a base in Iraq, where Iran-backed groups have previously battled U.S. forces. Some information in this report was provided by Reuters and Agence France-Presse. President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are on track for a rematch in the presidential election on November 5. Polls show that Trump holds a commanding lead over all other Republican candidates, while no major Democratic figure is challenging Biden for his partys nomination. However, questions about Trumps legal difficulties and both candidates ages lurk in the background. Trump faces 91 felony charges, with at least one criminal trial expected this year. And health issues could affect either Trump, 77, or Biden, 81. What would happen should either of them be forced to drop out of the race because of health, legal or other reasons? The answer depends on when such a scenario occurs. Between January 15 and party conventions States hold caucuses and primary elections between January 15 and June 4, 2024. The two candidates who win the most delegates will officially become their parties' nominees during the conventions. The Republican National Convention will be July 15-18 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The Democratic National Convention will take place August 19-22 in Chicago, Illinois. Both Trump and Biden are expected to be nominated by their respective parties. But should one drop out between the start of the caucus-primary season and his party's convention, some states may extend candidate filing deadlines and primary dates to allow more people into the race, depending on when it occurs. Such extensions are more likely to happen with Democrats, as Biden has no significant competitor. His challengers, Representative Dean Phillips and author Marianne Williamson, lack name recognition and already do not qualify to be on the ballots of several states. They would want there to be a semblance of the primaries, said John C. Fortier, a research fellow focusing on elections and continuity of government at the American Enterprise Institute. It would be very short notice, but they would get to go before the people, he told VOA. Even with processes in place, there may not be time to change the names on the ballots, and primary voters may end up seeing the name of a deceased or incapacitated candidate when they vote. With early voting allowed by some states, a candidate who dropped out might already have collected votes. In that instance, states may enact emergency changes in laws to allow delegates to switch their votes to a new candidate during the convention. To win at the nomination, a Republican candidate needs at least 1,215 out of 2,429 delegates, and a Democratic candidate needs 1,969 out of 3,936. It may not be someone who is currently in the race, said Michael Thorning, director of structural democracy at the Bipartisan Policy Institute. It might be someone that the convention determines is the best standard bearer for the party and the person most likely to win in the general election, he told VOA. Between conventions and Election Day Each party has its own set of rules should its candidate drop out during this period, but in essence it would replace the candidate's name on the presidential ballot. Emergency changes to some state laws may be required. There is a technical process where not the whole convention but a smaller group of people who lead the party, people who are really not known to Americans, can make that decision to put someone else as the nominee, Fortier said. He added that the parties would likely need to make an appeal to the American people and explain to them why the new candidate has legitimacy. While Vice President Kamala Harris could be asked to be the top of the Democratic ticket, for example, its not required by law. The running-mate status at that point does not confer any guarantee that they would accede to the presidency, Thorning said. Again, there may not be time to replace the name of the former candidate on the ballots, and that candidate may already have votes because of early polling. Between Election Day and Electoral College meeting After questions or challenges about election results are settled, electors in each state will meet on December 17 to select the president-elect and vice president-elect. Should Trump or Biden die or become incapacitated during this time, his vice president-elect would not automatically be the replacement, as provisions of the presidential line of succession law do not yet apply. The replacement process during this period is essentially the same: Electors of the president-elect would vote for a new candidate. There is no federal guidance on the process, and some states have their own rules on how electors vote. The vice president-elect would be a logical choice but not one guaranteed by law. If the electors cannot agree on a new president-elect, under the 12th Amendment, the House of Representatives would elect the president, and the Senate would elect the vice president, in a procedure known as contingent election. Until Congress appoints a new president-elect, under the 20th Amendment, the vice president-elect becomes acting president on inauguration day. Between Electoral College meeting and congressional certification Its not clear what would happen if a candidate dies or becomes incapacitated between the December 17 meeting of electors and the January 6 counting and certification of electoral votes in Congress. Between congressional certification and Inauguration Day According to the 20th Amendment, the vice president-elect would be inaugurated as president on January 20, 2025, if the president-elect dies or is incapacitated after Congress certifies the election result. In each period, there is the potential for a legal and political crisis, particularly if the election result is contested as it was in 2020. With Democrats holding a slim majority in the Senate and Republicans in the House of Representatives, figuring out who will become the next president could become an extremely messy process that drags on in the courts. And as the country witnessed during the siege of the Capitol by Trump supporters on January 6, 2021, it could again turn bloody. The United States is taking "extremely seriously a weekend attack by Iran-backed militants on a base that hosts U.S. forces in Iraq, the White House said Sunday. "It was a very serious attack, using a capability of ballistic missiles that posed a genuine threat," White House deputy national security adviser Jon Finer said Sunday during an appearance on ABC's This Week. "We are going to respond... to establish deterrence in these situations, and to hold these groups accountable that continue to attack us," Finer added. "Multiple ballistic missiles and rockets" were fired by Iran-backed militants at Al-Asad Air Base in western Iraq late Saturday, the U.S. military said, leading to one Iraqi and possible American casualties. The Pentagon said most of the projectiles fired at the base were intercepted by air defense systems. The use of ballistic missiles marks an escalation in the attacks, which had previously been carried out with lower-tech rockets and drones. "You can be assured that we are taking this extremely seriously," Finer said. Since mid-October, there have been dozens of attacks on the approximately 2,500 U.S. troops in Iraq and the 900 troops in Syria, deployed there with other coalition forces to fight jihadis of the Islamic State group. Most incidents, including Saturday's attack, have been claimed by "Islamic Resistance in Iraq," a loose alliance of Iran-linked armed groups that oppose U.S. support for Israel in the Gaza conflict. Increasing missile attacks in Syria, Lebanon, Iraq and Yemen have increased fears of a widening Gaza war in the Middle East, pitting Iran and its allies against Israel and the United States. Iran said five of its Revolutionary Guards commanders were killed Saturday in a missile strike on a house in Damascus, blaming the attack on Israel, and security sources in Lebanon said an Israeli strike there killed a member of Iran-backed Hezbollah. Israel has not commented. Some information in this report came from Reuters, The Associated Press and Agence France-Presse. Strong magnitude 6.6 earthquake at 615 km depth 20 Jan 21:36 UTC: First to report: GFZ after 6 minutes. 20 Jan 21:37: Magnitude recalculated from 6.3 to 6.5. Epicenter location corrected by 3.3 km (2.1 mi) towards E. ... [show all] ... 20 Jan 21:43: Magnitude recalculated from 6.5 to 6.3. Hypocenter depth recalculated from 592.0 to 610.0 km (from 368 to 379 mi). Epicenter location corrected by 8.9 km (5.5 mi) towards W. 20 Jan 21:44: Magnitude recalculated from 6.3 to 6.5. Epicenter location corrected by 1.1 km (0.7 mi) towards E. 20 Jan 21:45: Now using data updates from USGS 21 Jan 00:04: Magnitude recalculated from 6.5 to 6.6. Hypocenter depth recalculated from 628.8 to 614.5 km (from 391 to 382 mi). Epicenter location corrected by 5.6 km (3.5 mi) towards NE. Update Sat, 20 Jan 2024, 21:39 Significant earthquake of magnitude 6.5 just reported 145 km northeast of Cruzeiro do Sul, Brazil 6.5 quake Ipixuna, Amazonas, Brazil, Jan 20, 2024 04:31 pm (Eirunepe time) According to the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ), the quake hit on Saturday, January 20th, 2024, at 4:31 pm local time at a great depth of 592 km. The strength of the earthquake may have been tempered by its relative great depth below the surface, which makes it feel weaker in absolute terms. The exact magnitude, epicenter, and depth of the quake might be revised within the next few hours or minutes as seismologists review data and refine their calculations, or as other agencies issue their report. Based on the preliminary seismic data, the quake should not have caused any significant damage, but was probably felt by many people as light vibration in the area of the epicenter. Weak shaking might have been felt in Tarauaca (pop. 16,500) located 122 km from the epicenter, Envira (pop. 10,000) 132 km away, Cruzeiro do Sul (pop. 79,800) 145 km away, and Feijo (pop. 13,000) 153 km away. VolcanoDiscovery will automatically update magnitude and depth if these change and follow up if other significant news about the quake become available. If you're in the area, please send us your experience through our reporting mechanism, either A very deep magnitude 6.5 earthquake was reported in the afternoon near Cruzeiro do Sul, Acre, Brazil.According to the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ), the quake hit on Saturday, January 20th, 2024, at 4:31 pm local time at a great depth of 592 km. The strength of the earthquake may have been tempered by its relative great depth below the surface, which makes it feel weaker in absolute terms. The exact magnitude, epicenter, and depth of the quake might be revised within the next few hours or minutes as seismologists review data and refine their calculations, or as other agencies issue their report.Based on the preliminary seismic data, the quake should not have caused any significant damage, but was probably felt by many people as light vibration in the area of the epicenter.Weak shaking might have been felt in Tarauaca (pop. 16,500) located 122 km from the epicenter, Envira (pop. 10,000) 132 km away, Cruzeiro do Sul (pop. 79,800) 145 km away, and Feijo (pop. 13,000) 153 km away.VolcanoDiscovery will automatically update magnitude and depth if these change and follow up if other significant news about the quake become available. If you're in the area, please send us your experience through our reporting mechanism, either online or via our mobile app . This will help us provide more first-hand updates to anyone around the globe who wants to know more about this quake. Download the Volcanoes & Earthquakes app and get one of the fastest seismic alerts online: Android | iOS and get one of the fastest seismic alerts online: Earthquake details Date & time Jan 20, 2024 21:31:05 UTC - Local time at epicenter Saturday, Jan 20, 2024, at 04:31 pm (America/Eirunepe GMT -5) Status Confirmed Magnitude 6.6 Depth 614.5 km Epicenter latitude / longitude 7.2812S / 71.4729W Ipixuna, Amazonas, Brazil Seismic antipode 7.2812N / 108.5271E Vietnam Shaking intensity Weak shaking near epicenter Felt 5 reports Primary data source USGS (United States Geological Survey) Nearest volcano ###NEARESTVOLCANO2### Weather at epicenter at time of quake Broken Clouds 29.7C (85 F), humidity: 71%, wind: 1 m/s (3 kts) from NE Estimated seismic energy released 5 x 1014 joules (139 gigawatt hours, equivalent to 1.2 x 105 tons of TNT or 7.5 atomic bombs!) | about seismic energy [ show map ] Interactive map [ smaller ] [ bigger ] Quake possibly felt by 320,000 people According to preliminary estimates from the US Geological Survey (USGS), the quake might have been felt by over 320,000 people across 2 countries: Brazil (310,000) and Peru (4,710). For most people (nearly 100%), the quake might only have felt as barely noticeable or weak shaking if at all (intensities I-III). MMI Level Shaking (320,200 in total) (320,200 in total) Possible damage I Not felt None II Very weak (99.79%) 319,500 None III Weak (0.21%) 673 Probably none IV Light None or minor only V Moderate Minor VI Strong Minor to Moderate VII Very strong Moderate VIII Severe Significant IX Violent Heavy X Extreme Catastrophic Estimated number of people exposed to shaking from the earthquake by intensity (data coverage corresponding to attached map) Map of expected ground shaking intensity according to the MMI scale (shakemap, source: USGS) Map with population density (from white to black) in the area around the quake's epicenter (source: USGS) Impact of this earthquake: Level GREEN Based on seismic and statistical models, USGS estimates that the risk of fatalities and damage from this earthquake is low. The main factors that contribute to this evaluation are: The maximum expected ground shaking from this quake was unlikely to reach dangerous levels over populated areas; it should not have surpassed intensity III ( Weak ) on the MMI scale significantly. ) on the MMI scale significantly. The quake appears to have occurred far from densely populated areas (far as in relation to its magnitude). The quake occurred relatively deep under the surface (615 km or 382 mi depth). This significantly weakened the shaking on the ground of this quake if compared to a magnitude 6.6 event at shallower depth. According to preliminary estimates from the US Geological Survey (USGS), the quake might have been felt by over 320,000 people across 2 countries:(310,000) and(4,710). For most people (nearly 100%), the quake might only have felt as barely noticeable or weak shaking if at all (intensities I-III).Based on seismic and statistical models, USGS estimates that. The main factors that contribute to this evaluation are: Comment Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are highly vulnerable to earthquake shaking, though some resistant structures exist. The predominant vulnerable building types are mud wall and reinforced/confined masonry construction. A magnitude 4.6 earthquake 339 km northwest of this event struck this region on February 12, 1974 (UTC), with estimated population exposures of 9,000 at intensity III and 5,000 at intensity IV, with no reported fatalities. Source: USGS Green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage. Expected fatalities The risk of fatalities from this quake is considered low and classified as Level The risk of fatalities from this quake is considered low and classified as Level GREEN , the lowest on a color scale from Green (low) to Red (very high). USGS estimates that there is a 65.3% chance that there are no direct fatalities as effect of shaking and a 30.2% chance that between 1 and 10 fatalities occurred. The likelihood that there are more than 100 fatalities is less than 1%. Expected economic damage The economic impact of this earthquake is expected to be minimal or small (Level , the lowest on a color scale from Green (low) to Red (very high). USGS estimates that there is a 65.3% chance that there areas effect of shaking and a 30.2% chance that between 1 and 10 fatalities occurred. The likelihood that there are more than 100 fatalities is less than 1%.The economic impact of this earthquake is expected to be minimal or small (Level GREEN ). Only light damage if any should have occurred. USGS calculates an 65.3% chance of total economic loss in the range of 0-1 million US Dollars and a 30.2% risk of losses between 1 and 10 million US Dollars. Total economic loss from this quake is not likely to surpass 10 million US Dollars (less than 1% chance). ). Only light damage if any should have occurred. USGS calculates an 65.3% chance of total economic loss in the range of 0-1 million US Dollars and a 30.2% risk of losses between 1 and 10 million US Dollars. Total economic loss from this quake is not likely to surpass 10 million US Dollars (less than 1% chance). User-reports for this quake (8) We received 8 reports for this quake from felt in up to approx. 1,450 km (901 mi) distance. Most reports came from Manizales (1 report), a city with more than 360,000 inhabitants in Caldas in 1,445 km (898 mi) distance north of the epicenter, Colombia, Leticia (1 report), a town with 30,000 inhabitants in Amazonas in 381 km (237 mi) distance northeast of the epicenter, Tarauaca (1 report) (125 km or 78 mi to the southeast), a town with 17,000 inhabitants in Acre, We received 8 reports for this quake from Colombia and Brazil . Out of these, 5 people indicated they felt it. The quake was reported to have beenMost reports came from, a city with more than 360,000 inhabitants in Caldas in 1,445 km (898 mi) distance north of the epicenter,, a town with 30,000 inhabitants in Amazonas in 381 km (237 mi) distance northeast of the epicenter, Colombia , and(125 km or 78 mi to the southeast), a town with 17,000 inhabitants in Acre, Brazil . Further below is a list of places where most people reported this quake . User reports estimate the perceived ground shaking intensity according to the MMI (Modified Mercalli Intensity) scale Contribute: Leave a comment if you find a particular report interesting or want to add to it. Flag as inappropriate. Mark as helpful or interesting. Send your own user report! Translate Manaus (1359.6 km ENE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) (reported through our app / Weak shaking (MMI III) Ipixuna, BR (34.8 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Moderate shaking (MMI V) / rattling, vibrating / 5-10 s Tarauaca, Acre (123.8 km SE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Very weak shaking (MMI II) (reported through our app / Very weak shaking (MMI II) Chapada dos Guimaraes, Mato Grosso (1939.3 km ESE of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt (reported through our app / not felt Leticia, Amazonas Colombia (380.5 km NNE of epicenter) [ Map ] / Weak shaking (MMI III) / complex motion difficult to describe / 2-5 s Villavicencio, Meta (1289 km N of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt (reported through our app / not felt Pasto, San Juan de Pasto, Narino (1145 km NW of epicenter) [ Map ] / not felt (reported through our app / not felt Manizales, Caldas (1443.6 km NNW of epicenter) [ Map ] / Light shaking (MMI IV) (reported through our app / Light shaking (MMI IV) List of cities/places with most reports Place Distance from epicenter Average reported Shaking Intensity Nr. of reports Manizales, Caldas, Colombia (Pop.: 357,814) 1,445 km (898 mi) N of epicenter IV: Light shaking 1 Leticia, Amazonas, Colombia (Pop.: 29,666) 381 km (237 mi) NE of epicenter III: Weak shaking 1 Tarauaca, Acre, Brazil (Pop.: 16,526) 125 km (78 mi) SE of epicenter II: Very weak shaking 1 Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil (Pop.: 1,598,210) 1,350 km (839 mi) E of epicenter III: Weak shaking 1 Note: Only reports with latitude/longitude coordinate positions given (8 in total) could be used for statistics. What is Intensity and the Mercalli Intensity Scale? The amount of shaking that occurs on the surface due to an earthquake is called the intensity. It is commonly measured on the so-called Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale (MMI) ranging from 1 (not felt) to 10 (extreme shaking), and given in Roman numerals as I,II,...IX, X, and often displayed with color codes ranging from light blue to dark red. Earthquake intensity depends mainly on the magnitude and depth of the quake as well as the distance from the epicenter: The further away, the less shaking intensity occurs. Read more about the MMI scale! The amount of shaking that occurs on the surface due to an earthquake is called the intensity. It is commonly measured on the so-called Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale (MMI) ranging from 1 (not felt) to 10 (extreme shaking), and given in Roman numerals as I,II,...IX, X, and often displayed with color codes ranging from light blue to dark red.Earthquake intensity depends mainly on the magnitude and depth of the quake as well as the distance from the epicenter: The further away, the less shaking intensity occurs. Number of reports by intensity Shaking intensity Number of reports Min-Max distance from epicenter (*) Average distance (*) I: Not felt 2 1,1441,288 km (711800 mi) 1,216 km (755 mi) II: Very weak shaking 1 124124 km (7777 mi) 124 km (77 mi) III: Weak shaking 2 3801,358 km (236844 mi) 869 km (540 mi) IV: Light shaking 1 1,4421,442 km (896896 mi) 1,442 km (896 mi) V: Moderate shaking 1 3535 km (2222 mi) 35 km (22 mi) Notes (*) Reports are filtered to exclude those that are likely highly inaccurate or esaggerated. Only reports with latitude/longitude coordinate positions given (8 in total) could be used for geographic statistics. Compare Quake Data Data for the same earthquake as reported by different agencies The more agencies report about the same quake and post similar data, the more confidence you can have in the data. It takes normally up to a few hours until earthquake parameters are calculated with near-optimum precision. Mag Depth Time GMT 2024-01-20 Epicenter Agency 6.6 615 km 382 mi 21:31:05 124 Km NW of Tarauaca, Brazil USGS (United States Geological Survey) 6.7 624 km 388 mi 21:31:06 Western Brazil 1.5 km (0.9 mi) epicenter difference with USGS GFZ (German Research Centre for Geosciences) 6.5 10 km 6.2 mi (*) 21:31:07 Western Brazil 5.6 km (3.5 mi) epicenter difference with USGS IRIS (Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology) 6.4 609 km 378 mi 21:31:05 Western Brazil [Land: Brazil] 9.5 km (5.9 mi) epicenter difference with USGS INGV (Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia) 6.1 607 km 377 mi 21:31:05 Near Iquitos 8.1 km (5 mi) epicenter difference with USGS RENASS (Reseau National de Surveillance Sismique (ReNaSS)) 6.7 613 km 381 mi 21:31:06 Western Brazil 6.5 km (4.1 mi) epicenter difference with USGS GeoAu (Geoscience Australia ) 6.7 615 km 382 mi 21:31:06 Amazonas, Brazil 4 km (2.5 mi) epicenter difference with USGS EMSC (European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre) 6.9 614 km 382 mi 21:31:05 0 km (0 mi) epicenter difference with USGS NNSN (Norwegian National Seismic Network) 6.5 668 km 415 mi 21:31:08 Western Brazil 17 km (10.4 mi) epicenter difference with USGS OBSIS (Observatorio Sismologico da Universidade de Brasilia) Notes: (*) A depth given as 10 km often means that the the depth of the quake could not determined with sufficient accuracy. Aftershocks for this quake No aftershocks have been recorded so far. When aftershocks are detected, we will update this section. What are aftershocks? Larger earthquakes (above magnitude 5 or so) such as this one are usually followed by smaller ones known as aftershocks that occur in the same area during the days, weeks, months or even years after the main shock. [More info] Aftershocks are typically at least one order of magnitude smaller than the main shock. Their size and frequency decreases with time. What about this quake? Based on its magnitude, the fault that was active during the quake likely ruptured beneath a surface of approx. 398 km2 (=154 sqare miles) as a first-order estimate. The length of the rupture zone thus was probably around 35 km (21 mi). [More info] Aftershocks for this quake can be expected to occur during the weeks and months following the quake at or near the same fault, at distances of up to approx. two times the length of the rupture zone, or in this case 69 km (43 mi). The often broadly linear arrangement of aftershock epicenters encompasses the rupture zone of the main shock ( Aftershocks for this quake can be expected to occur during the weeks and months following the quake at or near the same fault, at distances of up to approx. two times the length of the rupture zone, or in this case 69 km (43 mi). The often broadly linear arrangement of aftershock epicenters encompasses the rupture zone of the main shock ( see map below ). Larger earthquakes (above magnitude 5 or so) such as this one are usually followed by smaller ones known asthat occur in the same area during the days, weeks, months or even years after the main shock.Based on its magnitude, the fault that was active during the quake likelyas a first-order estimate. The length of the rupture zone thus was probably around 35 km (21 mi). Recorded aftershocks, latest first (0 quake) Date and Time GMT Mag Depth Distance Region Details Jan 20, 2024 04:31 pm (Eirunepe) 8 weeks ago - felt 6.6 615 km 0 km - This quake Ipixuna, Amazonas, Brazil, 138 km E of Cruzeiro do Sul, Cruzeiro do Sul, Acre Main Shock (this quake) More Map of aftershocks No aftershocks have been recorded so far. When aftershocks are detected, we will update this section. Map to embed or share Employee mental health services have become a billion-dollar industry. New hires, once they have found the restrooms and enrolled in pension plans, are presented with a panoply of digital wellness solutions, mindfulness seminars, massage classes, resilience workshops, coaching sessions and sleep apps. These programs are a point of pride for forward-thinking human resource departments evidence that employers care about their workers. But a British researcher who analysed survey responses from 46,336 workers at companies that offered such programs found that people who participated in them were no better off than colleagues who did not. None of the typical workplace offerings had any positive effect, the study found. Credit: Shutterstock The study, published this month in the Industrial Relations Journal, considered the outcomes of 90 different interventions and found a single notable exception: workers who were given the opportunity to do charity or volunteer work did seem to have improved wellbeing. Across the studys large population, none of the other offerings apps, coaching, relaxation classes, courses in time management or financial health had any positive effect. Trainings on resilience and stress management actually appeared to have a negative effect. Christian church groups have swung their support behind Labors proposed bans on extreme hate speech as part of a new federal religious discrimination act, in a move that adds pressure on the Coalition to back the measure. Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus has confirmed that Labor will include new measures to protect people from hate speech and vilification based on their faith when it seeks to legislate religious discrimination laws this year. Christian groups have swung their support behind hate speech protections being included in a federal religious discrimination act. This approach is looming as a potential hurdle to bipartisanship in landing a federal religious discrimination act, with the federal opposition signalling its reluctance to use civil discrimination laws to crack down on vilification. In a significant shift in their position, key Christian groups influential within Coalition circles say they are prepared to back Labors approach in a bid to build consensus among faith groups, providing the vilification provisions are drafted in a way that does not hamper their religious teachings. Seoul: North Korea said it has agreed to further strategic and tactical co-operation with Russia to establish a new multi-polarised international order, as the two countries work to build a united front in the face of their separate, intensifying tensions with the United States. In describing North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Huis meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Foreign Minster Sergey Lavrov in Moscow last week, the Norths Foreign Ministry said Putin also reaffirmed his willingness to visit Pyongyang and said that could come at an early date. North Koreas leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin shake hands in Russia last September. Credit: AP North Korea has been actively strengthening its ties with Russia, highlighted by leader Kim Jong-uns September visit to Russia for a summit with Putin. Kim is trying to break out of diplomatic isolation and strengthen his footing as he navigates a deepening nuclear standoff with Washington, Seoul and Tokyo. In a separate statement, also on Sunday, the Norths Foreign Ministry condemned the UN Security Council for calling an emergency meeting over the countrys latest ballistic test, which state media described as a new intermediate-range solid-fuel missile tipped with a hypersonic warhead. The ministry said the test firing on January 14 was among the countrys regular activities to improve its defence capabilities and that it didnt pose a threat to its neighbours. Washington: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has dropped his ambitious dream to become US president, announcing that he would suspend his campaign to endorse Donald Trump. Days after his poor performance in the Iowa caucuses, DeSantis, once regarded as the future of the Republican Party, has ended his bid for the nomination, making this weeks New Hampshire primaries a race between the former president and former UN ambassador Nikki Haley. Ron DeSantis in Iowa. Credit: Bloomberg Trump is superior to the current incumbent Joe Biden. That is clear, he said in a social media video posted on Monday (AEDT). I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee and I will honour that pledge as my endorsement because we cant go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear, a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents. Members of the Burrishoole community have launched a fundraising campaign to support the family of their beloved friend, Frank McHale, who suddenly passed away after falling ill on St Stephen's Day. They aim to provide financial assistance and support to his young family during this challenging time. As well as being a dedicated member of the community, he was also a loving husband and dad. Frank selflessly devoted countless hours to community, clubs and local fundraisers, and his impact and presence will always be felt throughout the Burrishoole area. He touched the lives of many with his kind heart, helping hands, and big smile. Frank was one of lifes good guys. Recognising the profound impact Frank had on club and community, the community have taken the initiative to launch a campaign, with the goal of providing support to Frank's family - Maria, Matthew, Finn, Joseph, Thomas and Maisie. The funds raised will assist with immediate expenses and will also help alleviate the pressures faced by the family as they navigate their new reality. You can donate here or by making direct donations via bank transfer at: ACCOUNT NAME: Remembering Frank McHale IBAN: IE20AIBK93716945405040 BIC: AIBKIE2D Artist Marie Wood will hold an exhibition of mixed media paintings/collage, entitled 'Solas Draiochta Mhaigh Eo', which translates as Mayos Magic Light, in Aras Inis Gluaire, Belmullet, from January 26th to March 8th. The exhibition will be opened on Friday, January 26th, at 7pm by Val Rogers, retired rector, Westport. Marie studied and trained in Birmingham, and then worked in art education in both Birmingham and Cumbria for nearly 20 years. She has been working as a professional artist for 23 years and has been living in Mayo for almost 10 years, having moved from the UK. Marie has exhibited widely in public and commercial galleries throughout Scotland, England and Ireland. Her first solo exhibition was in the National Gallery of Scotland, Duff House; and twice she has exhibited works at The Royal Scottish Academy in Edinburgh. Marie has works in private collections in Ireland, UK, America, Italy and France. "My work is a distillation of the spirit of the Mayo landscape, revealing a sense of the extraordinary, looking past the obvious and capturing the fleeting magical light. The land/seascape images are all mixed media painting/collage that cast a fresh eye on the visual riches of Mayo, in all its drama and moods, always spellbinding. Energy and passion are a constant presence throughout the works. "I delight in the pleasure of seeing; being totally in tune with my surroundings, and somehow trying to find the right alchemy between the medium, the subject and the moment. "My camera is my sketchbook, and the photographs I take are often the starting point for working, influencing the composition and colour of each new piece. I am not interested in portraying a likeness but want to create something which represents the total experience and excitement of that place, at that time." Marie is excited to be the first artist showing in the Aras Inis Gluaire Exhibition Programme for 2024. "This is a particular honour as 2024 also sees Belmullet celebrate its bicentenary," she said. Many of the works on view reference the area and are all rooted in Mayo. One of the highlights will be a recently completed painting of Blacksod Lighthouse which includes a portrait of D-Day heroine Maureen Sweeney, who passed away recently. Tony Christie stopped the world in its tracks by announcing he wouldnt let a dementia diagnosis in 2021 stop him from travelling to Nashville to record his first album in 12 years and to celebrate the launch he embarks on a tour that includes dates at Cork Opera House on Thursday, January 25th, and The Helix, Dublin, on Friday, January 26th. His hit, Is This The Way To Amarillo, is such a classic and has stood the test of time. It was first released in 1971 and was revived in 2002 when it was used in the TV comedy series Peter Kays Phoenix Nights, leading to a resurgence in Tonys popularity. The song was re-released on March 14th, 2005, to raise money for the Comic Relief Charity, and reached Number 1 in the UK Singles Chart. It also became the longest-running chart-topper since Chers Believe, almost seven years earlier. Following the songs success, Tony Christie was awarded the freedom of Amarillo, Texas and made a guest appearance on the Yorkshire-based TV soap opera Emmerdale. Tony has strong Mayo roots and is the latest celebrity to be inducted with the Cong Hands of Fame Award and the Freedom of Cong. His grandparents were originally from Co Mayo before emigrating to the UK. Tony Christie has recorded over 40 albums, 70 singles and toured all over the world. The legend Tony Christie continues to entertain audiences around the world with incredible showmanship, an unmistakable powerful voice that has captivated generation after generation and a set list that packs a punch. We Still Shine is his first new album since the critically acclaimed Nows The Time. He wants to show that living with dementia doesn't have to mean an end to creativity and exploration. Officials who responded to a possible water search and rescue in Berks County say it appears no one fell through the ice and everybody is safe. Emergency crews responded to Ontelaunee Lake after finding belongings around an ice fishing hole. "When I got up here, I saw the hole in the ice," said Officer Norman of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission. Officer Norman said when he saw the hole in the ice at Ontelaunee Lake in Maidencreek Township, he was worried someone might have gone through. "So I contacted Berks County dispatch and kind of got the efforts rolling here to make sure that there wasn't somebody in distress at the bottom of the lake," said Officer Norman. First responders were in the area of Lake Shore Drive and Calcium Road. He said there were a few possessions around the hole. "But obviously the auger and a pair of boots the guy must have kicked off into the lake, but luckily for him and for us and for everybody involved, everybody was safe today and nobody had any sort of problems that we know of," said Officer Norman. With warmer weather in the forecast for next week, he said the ice will probably be more unsafe than it is in its current state. "I do recommend everybody be very safe out on the ice, monitor the thicknesses and make sure they know what they're getting into when they do go out here and do these activities," said Officer Norman. Officer Norman said he has the items that were found. He said if anyone knows who they belong to, to contact the southeast region office of the Fish and Boat Commission. The Walnut Street Garage has been closed for less than three weeks, and so far, the Bethlehem Parking Authority has not seen any problems. "Although it's only been a few weeks, we've seen no disruptions to the downtown parking system," BPA Executive Director Steve Fernstrom said in an email statement Friday. The parking system has not been tested yet by a big tourist event, and deluges of rain, bitter cold and a couple snowfalls may have discouraged people from visiting Main Street. Still, spots have been available. The Walnut Street Garage was closed Jan. 3 in preparation for demolition. At its peak, it could handle 770 cars, though recently some parts were shut down because of structural problems. The garage opened in 1976 and served downtown parkers for 49 years. That is about as long as Easton's Pine Street deck lasted. That garage closed in 2022 after 50 years. In advance of the closing, the BPA prepared a displacement plan. "We continue to offer plenty of convenient parking options for visitors exploring Bethlehem," Fernstrom said. The backup plan includes the nearby North Street Garage and other sites, and is posted on the BPA website and promoted over social media. The North Street Garage is four blocks from the Walnut Street Garage. NASHVILLE, Tenn. Subfreezing conditions and treacherous roadways have contributed to dozens of deaths this month across the U.S., where states as far south as Texas and Florida remain gripped by deadly arctic weather Sunday. But the numbing cold is expected to ease up in the coming days. Nationally, winter storms have claimed at least 72 lives around the U.S. this January, many involving hypothermia or road accidents. On Sunday, crews in Memphis, Tennessee, continued to work around the clock to find and fix broken pipes that were causing low water pressure throughout the system. Memphis Light, Gas and Water President and CEO Doug McGowen told reporters Sunday afternoon that crews were making progress and he expects most of the 700,000 people the utility services to have water restored over the next 24 hours. If we remain on this very positive path, and we are on a positive path, I believe that by Wednesday we will have pressure sufficient for us to take samples of our water system, he said. Assuming good results, we think that means Thursday for lifting of the boil water advisory. McGowen also asked people to stop dripping their faucets to help build pressure in the system. Memphis Light, Gas and Water was repairing 10 water main breaks on Sunday afternoon, and McGowen said he expects to see more as the ground continues to thaw. The utility said it previously repaired 41 broken water mains and located more than 4,000 leaks at homes and businesses. Rhodes College, in Memphis, began sending students living there home on Saturday and moving those who could not return home to hotels. The school was planning virtual classes on Monday and Tuesday. We ask that you NOT come to campus either day due to the ongoing water situation and the hazards that creates, the school announcement said. Sam Roth is a junior majoring in politics, philosophy and economics who drove home to Nashville rather than staying in a hotel where he would still be required to boil water. Our faucets stopped working, and they said not to use any of the restrooms on our floor, and our showers were not working very well either, he said of the situation in his dormitory. Restaurants and bars were using bottled water to serve customers on Sunday. Some restaurants remained closed, citing the water problem, while others had a modified menu. Memphis was the largest, but not the only, water system in Tennessee to experience problems from the unusually cold weather. The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency said on Saturday night that 28 water systems have issued boil water notices. In Tipton County, the fire department in Mason warned residents on Saturday to be prepared for a multiday water outage. Fire officials said in a Facebook post that water crews were working at all hours to try to isolate and repair leaks. US: Cold Temperatures Freeze Backyard Pool In Oklahoma Cold weather swept through Oklahoma on Friday, January 19, freezing the backyard pool of a house in Edmond. RESTRICTIONS AND USAGE TERMS: Plea The mayor acknowledged in an interview with WMC-TV that the town has had water problems in the past due to a system that nobody took care of for a long time and is in need of updates. The whole town has been without water for five days, said exasperated Mason resident Christina Ray. The fire department is handing out water throughout the town of 1,300 residents, but is limiting it to one case per day, per household. Thats not enough for her family, which was collecting snow to flush the toilets. Its hard to cook. Its hard to flush toilets. Its hard to do dishes. We cant wash laundry, she said. With warmer temperatures predicted this week, Ray now says she's faced with another worry: the potential of bursting pipes. The continued cold weather is also responsible for at least 27 deaths in Tennessee, according to the Tennessee Department of Health. Just south in Mississippi, the state's Emergency Management Agency said Sunday that 11 people have died of causes related to frigid weather since Jan. 14. Elsewhere, freezing rain, sleet and high wind gusts later Sunday would make traveling in parts of Kansas and Oklahoma particularly treacherous, the National Weather Service said. Wind chills in Iowa made it feel like minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit in some parts. But the end of subzero temperatures which blasted into the U.S. on Friday was in sight for parts of the country. The daily high temperatures in Iowas capital of Des Moines, for example, were expected to stay above freezing starting Monday. With no additional replenishment of arctic air from Canada, a steady warm-up is in store for the mid-section of the country, the weather service said. In Vermont, temperatures in the single digits to low teens didnt stop ice anglers and snowmobilers from their sport, and young ski jumpers braved the cold as they competed in northern New Hampshire. But 23 skiers and snowboarders had to be rescued in frigid temperatures on Saturday after becoming lost in the backcountry in Killington, Vermont, police said. On the West Coast, more freezing rain was forecast in the Columbia River Gorge and the area was expected to remain near or below freezing through at least Sunday night. Trees and power lines already coated with ice could topple if they get more, the National Weather Service warned. Stay safe out there over the next several days as our region tries to thaw out, the weather service said. Chunks of falling ice will remain a hazard as well. CALS and R2P mark one year since Thulani Maseko's murder One year after Thulani Maseko was murdered in front of his family, his widow continues to face threats as calls for justice go ignored Today marks one year since the murder of Swazi human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko. The Centre for Applied Legal Studies (CALS) and the Right2Protest Project (R2P) at the University of the Witwatersrand note with deep concern that there has been no independent investigation into his death, despite numerous calls to do so. Instead, we are alarmed by reports that Mr Masekos widow, Tanele Maseko, is facing threats on her life following her calls for justice. One year ago, the southern African region was shocked by the news that Thulani Maseko had been assassinated in front of his family. Mr Maseko was a prominent human rights lawyer from Swaziland, who for many years faced intimidation for speaking out against government corruption and trying to promote democracy and a culture of social justice. Mr Maseko faced intimidation and arrest numerous times while advocating for his clients rights to access justice and freedom of expression. Following his murder, CALS and R2P joined the global call for an independent investigation into the murder of Thulani Maseko, with over fifty organisations signing our open letter. We further called upon the government of South Africa to co-ordinate a response to the attacks and killings of activists and human rights defenders in the SADC region more generally. Mr Masekos death is, unfortunately, not an isolated incident but rather part of a pattern where those who speak out to defend their communitys rights are under threat. More information on the nature of activist victimisation in the region is available in the second edition of Victimisation Experiences of Activists in South Africa. One year on, we are deeply concerned that there has been no independent investigation into Masekos murder and no progress made on protecting activists and human rights defenders on the continent. Instead, Mr Masekos widow, Tanele Maseko, has faced threats following her calls for a thorough and independent investigation into her husbands brutal murder. The Swazi government has publicly insisted that Ms Masekos calls should not be tolerated at [sic] any platform and accuses her of tampering with evidence. Ms Maseko has since been forced into hiding, a common pattern for activists and their families when under threat. The lack of an independent investigation does not only mean there is no justice or accountability for the murder of Thulani Maseko, says Busisiwe Kamolane-Kgadima, Deputy Director at CALS. It also means that all activists and human rights defenders are unprotected and thus more open to threats, intimidation and attack. We call on the South African government, once again, to lead a response to these attacks and ensure activists are able to express themselves without reprisal. We condemn the recent Swazi governments statement which seeks to intimidate Tanele Maseko and her family," says Omhle Ntshingila, project co-ordinator at R2P. "We call on the international community to continue showing their solidarity to all exiled Swazi activists and those who remain in the nation mobilising under harsh human rights conditions. For inquiries, please contact: From the Centre for Applied Legal Studies: Busisiwe Kamolane-Kgadima (Deputy Director) at busisiswe.kamolane@wits.ac.za Sithuthukile Mkhize (Head: Civil and Political Justice) at sithuthukile.mkhize@wits.ac.za From the Right2Protest Project: Weather Alert ...Elevated Fire Danger Today and Tuesday... ...Hard Freeze Expected Tonight... The combination of very dry air and northwest winds gusting up to 20 mph will create an elevated risk of uncontrolled fire spread this afternoon. Relative humidity values will fall to 20 to 35%, with the lowest humidity levels over the Ozark Foothills of southeast Missouri. A more substantial fire danger is expected Tuesday, as southwest winds increase significantly, with gusts of 25 to 40 mph forecast Tuesday afternoon. Relative humidity values Tuesday afternoon will fall to 25 to 35%. If you are planning outdoor burning today and Tuesday, use extra caution and have fire suppression equipment ready. Tonight, very cold and dry surface high pressure will allow temperatures to drop into the middle and upper 20s throughout the region. Although the growing season has not officially started, tender vegetation could be impacted by these cold temperatures. Please take necessary actions to protect any tender vegetation tonight. We are publishing here the tribute given by Keith Jones, national secretary of the Socialist Equality Party (Canada), to Halil Celik, founder and leader of the Sosyalist Esitlik Grubu which is the Turkish section of the International Committee of the Fourth International. Jones remarks were read at a memorial meeting for Halil on the fifth anniversary of his death held Sunday, January 14 in Istanbul. Halil Celik giving a lecture in Istanbul in 2016 on the crisis of capitalism and the revival of class struggle It is an honor to pay tribute to Comrade Halil Celik at the meeting the Sosyalist Esitlik Grubu, the Turkish section of the International Committee of the Fourth International, has convened to mark five years since his death on December 31, 2018 at the age of just 57. I had the privilege of meeting, discussing, and to a limited extent, due to distance and time, of working with Comrade Halil. He was a remarkable revolutionary leader. Halils modest demeanour belied his personal and political courage, determination to advance the liberation of the working class, and steadfastness in upholding political principle. Comrade Halils death at such a relatively young age was a cruel blow. All the more so because he was beginning to realize the aim that had animated his lifethe building of a genuine revolutionary party of the Turkish working class on the basis of the socialist internationalist program and principles that had animated the October Revolution. As you well know, in his four decades as a revolutionary fighter, Halil endured much, including repression, imprisonment, isolation and numerous frustrations and setbacks. Having broken with Stalinism, he and the group of comrades he led went through one bitter experience after another with various Pabloite counterfeit Trotskyist organizations. Organizations which, whatever their tactical disagreements, were united in their indifference and hostility to the program and principles that must animate the struggle for the political independence and hegemony of the working class. It is to his everlasting credit, that Halil turned to the International Committee of the Fourth International. Having made a painstaking review of its long struggle to defend and develop the program of world socialist revolution against Pabloism, Stalinism, Maoism and all manner of petty bourgeois nationalist forces, Halil recognized that the only viable and principled path forward for he and his supporters was to undertake the difficult task of laying the political-theoretical foundations for the building of a Turkish section of the ICFI. The importance of the work Comrade Halil accomplished in the last decade of his life in laying those foundations and in educating a cadre based on the history and perspectives of the ICFI, that is genuine Trotskyism, is demonstrated by the major strides the Sosyalist Esitlik Grubu has been able to make in the five years since his deathabove all, its further integration into the ICFI with its acceptance as its Turkish section in June 2022. Today, as the working class in Turkey enters alongside workers around the world into revolutionary struggle, it will find in Comrade Halils life and work a source of inspiration, but most of all a powerful Trotskyist political-theoretical compass. Keith Jones, National Secretary SEP (Canada) Protests were held in Britain and Ireland on Saturday against Israels genocide in Gaza. There was no national demonstration in London this weekend, with smaller protests being held around the capital. WSWS reporters spoke to some of those attending the protests and distributed leaflets for public meetings on How can the genocide in Gaza be stopped? London Around 300 people turned out to protest outside arms company BAEs London Offices in Southwark. Hannah, who works in events management, told our reporters, Were seeing heartbreak day after day, and its been going on for months now. Its unthinkable that were still here. But just to sit at home and watch it, and to think that theres nothing to be done, I cant live with that. Its better to get out on the streets. Hannah (right) holding a banners reading "Stop Bombing Children" Ive been protesting since October, but Ive certainly been conscious of the occupation of Palestine for a long time, desperately hoping that things would get better. I know the right-wing government of Benjamin Netanyahu doesnt speak for all Israelis, but its hard to be hopeful. I dont know what the future will hold, but its unbelievable that its got so catastrophically bad. From where we are now its really hard to see a way forward. I dont claim to be an expert, but obviously Palestinians need to be in control of their own lives, which they havent been for a very long time. Thats just a very basic thing. I know that theres been problems within Palestinian democracy, and when people have suffered so much anger rises to a degree that its hard for people to make decisions that are right for long-term peace. Asked about the role of British politicians and political parties in the genocide in Gaza, Hannah said, It is just shocking. Its unbelievable. Both our major parties were against a ceasefire. It just destroys my faith in our politicians, which was already low. How can I have any belief in people who wont vote for a ceasefire when thousands of people are dying? Speaking about the upcoming general election in the UK, Hannah said, There are other issues that are important to me of course, but this really undermines any faith that I had. She had been inspired by protests in the United States, saying The impression given of the American population is that they all support Israel, but actually there have been large demonstrations, even in Texas, in Washington. Aisha explained, Im here because theres an unprecedented genocide in plain sight with the complicity of Western leaders and firms like BAE, who are arming Israel and their war crimes and genocide and getting away with it. Aisha What I find extraordinary, and this is going on all over the Western world, is that its the people that are calling out the war crimes and genocide that are being criminalised and demonised and being told that were doing something wrong. Its an extraordinary dystopian horror that weve found ourselves in. I genuinely think that, historically, theres never been anything like it. I know, of course, historically there have been worse atrocities but weve never seen it livestreamed, against a blockaded, besieged civilian population who cannot move, who have already been under occupation for 75 years. Its relentless, day after day on our screens. And its not that theyre just not doing anything about it, and violating their obligations under international law, but then theyre aiding and abetting it and contributing to it. Selling arms and housing the arms companies. Elbit systems are in the UK, thats their headquarters, and nothings been done about it. And the people trying to do something about it are being criminalised. I think its a gamechanger, I really do, because I think theyre exposed. Things that precede my lifetime like Hiroshima, Nagasaki, Vietnamthese horrors that we know from historyyou used to think, Im so glad weve moved on from that, or we had a sense post the universal declaration of human rights, Never again and all of that bullshit. Nothing has changed. It was a great veneer, but now the gloves are off and were seeing true colours now. This colonialist, settler, racist, genocidal mindset hasnt gone anywhere actually, and now theyre quite brazen about it. Were looking at 30,000 dead in only 100 days in front of the world, and condoned, or endorsed. Weve gone backward. This whole notion of international humanitarian law, international human rights, the Geneva Convention, all of that is utterly discredited. I worked in human rights for 20 years, and its lost all credibility. You have this International Court of Justice ruling but, firstly, what are they going to rule? And secondly, how would they ever enforce it? For 50, 60, 70 years they had us all believing that this was a genuinely collaborative project for a better world. But its rubbish, all it has done is secure, as has the WTO, the World Bank, Western hegemony. Speaking about Labour leader Sir Keir Starmers backing for the genocide, Aisha said, Hes a disgrace isnt he? I mean how many people have left the Labour Party because of it? Just like we all joined; weve all left. She described the witch-hunt of anti-Zionists as antisemites begun in the Labour Party as a nonsense; its an absolute nonsense. Theres no legitimacy to it; theyve lost any legitimacy, any credibility. Aisha added, The only silver lining for me is that the entire world is mobilising for Palestine. Ive been involved in the Palestine issue for decades and Ive never seen anything like this. Speaking about the way forward for the movement against the genocide, she said, Its got to be grassroots hasnt it? Its got to be enough people. When WSWS reporters raised the prospect of strikes not only against companies like BAE, but political strikes against complicit governments she responded, Yes, yes, Id love to see more of that. Milton Keynes 20 people attended a protest in Milton Keynes. Sophia, a lawyer told the WSWS, Im protesting against a war, a genocide, thats going on in Gaza were seeing children dying, were seeing orphans, were seeing complete families being split up, were seeing Gaza destroyed. Manchester SEP members campaigned at the University of Manchester for the upcoming public meeting, speaking to students and workers. Two students, Ash, and his friend, also called Ash, spoke to the WSWS. Belfast In Belfast, a demonstration took place one day after a public sector strike in Northern Ireland involving 150,000 workers. The rally at Writers Square was organised by the Mothers for Gaza group and attended by around 1,500. Protesters wearing blue press vests outside the BBC headquarters Protesters marched through the city centre to protest outside BBC headquarters in Ormeau Avenue, with around 2,000 on the demo by this time. 120 workers and youth put on blue press vests and lined up at the wall of the BBC building, equivalent to the number of journalists killed by Israel in Gaza. They were protesting the failure of the BBC and other media to cover the opening day of the International Court of Justice in which South Africa's lawyers put forward its devastating case proving that Israeli was committing war crimes in Gaza. The media instead gave full coverage to Israels response. Yana Malyk looked out the train window into the darkness of eastern Poland, the faint lights of distant farmhouses illuminating the landscape on the cold December night. Malyk had boarded the eastbound train in Katowice, Poland, destined for the final stop in Prezmysl, 4 miles from the Ukraine border. She became more excited with each passing station. Her parents were waiting on the Ukrainian side. She hadnt seen her mother in 16 months. Her father in two years since before Russia invaded her homeland. The train arrived in Prezmysl after 10 p.m., an hour late. She worried there wouldnt be transportation to the border. She was relieved when she walked outside to find a shuttle bus waiting. Buses make her motion sick, and she'd hoped for a taxi, but a family reunion awaited. The bus drove though the winding roads from the eighth century Polish town to the border, the smell of diesel fumes in the cabin intense. Yana fought back nausea. Cars and semitrailers with their cargo lined the shoulder of the highway for miles, waiting to enter Ukraine. The bus drove past, stopping at a parking lot on the Polish side of the frontier. Malyk hurried off the bus and dragged her suitcase through the snow along a sidewalk lined by fencing with concertina wire. She entered the Polish customs building. No line, just one Ukrainian family ahead of her. An agent spoke to her in Polish and seconds later stamped her passport. Off she went. On the Ukraine side, one more customs agent stood between her and her parents. She held back her tears. I thought, 'dont cry,'" she would later say, "but I couldnt wait to see them. The Ukrainian customs agent stamped her passport and she burst through the door into the arms of her father and mother, waiting outside in the cold. Midnight had come and gone by the time they drove to her parents condo in Truskavets, 45 miles away. They feasted on a Ukrainian dinner including borscht, pickled fish, and cabbage and beet salad. Shots of vodka were raised in numerous toasts to the reunion that went on amid laughter and tears until 3 a.m. ukraine LEFT: Yana Malyk and her mother, Natalia, look at photos on a cellphone last month while catching up at her parents home in Truskavets, Ukrai ______ Before Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022, Malyk had lived a comfortable life in Svatove, in the Luhansk region of Ukraine, with her husband, Dmytro Malyk, and their two daughters, Liza, 16, and Vlia, 11. She owned a travel agency, a womens clinic and four other businesses. Her husband was a lawyer. They loved to travel. They had just remodeled their home and owned a second home, an apartment, in the city of Kharkiv where they escaped to enjoy the fine dining and shopping of the big city. Life was good. Everything changed on that February morning. Malyk woke to the explosions of rockets hitting their hometown. The Russians were attacking. She panicked at first, then woke her daughters. It's started, she told them. Malyk had a reason to worry. She was on a Russian security services execution list for her pro-Ukrainian activities in 2014 when Russia invaded Crimea, according to the former governor of Luhansk region, among others, who spoke of the matter. She helped provide humanitarian supplies to the people, military supplies to the resistance and even stole laptops from the Russians who had occupied her town. She was honored by the government of Luhansk for her actions. The family escaped Svatove in two cars with only their backpacks. They drove through the war zone with Russian fighter jets dropping bombs on nearby villages. Three days of detours and side roads to avoid destroyed bridges and heavy traffic and they arrived at her parents home in Truskavets. They shared the apartment with her family for 33 stressful days as the air raid sirens sent them to the basement for shelter every day. They watched as Russian collaborators marked targets on the top of adjacent apartments for the Russian fighter jets to attack. Very scary, Malyk said. Her oldest daughter, Liza, began to have panic attacks from the air raids. Patches of gray hair appeared on her scalp. Knew we couldnt stay here, Malyk said. We couldnt lose our daughter. She took her daughters to Poland, but that didn't last, either. Malyk said too many people and too busy with the thousands of other Ukrainian refugees. They returned to Truskavets. One day I understood we would never come back home, she said. Had to build a new life from zero. ______ Yana Malyk and her family found that new life in Colorado Springs with the help of the Luckett family. Marc and Whitney Luckett didnt have any ties to Ukraine before the war, but they wanted to do something to help the Ukrainian people when Russia invaded. They learned of a program through a college friend of Whitney Luckett's in which U.S. families could sponsor Ukrainian refugees. They signed up and received hundreds of emails a day from Ukrainians seeking a U.S. sponsor. Refugee families with six children and two grandparents, for example. The Lucketts didnt have that kind of room. Finally, an email from 16-year-old Liza Malyk, fluent in English, caught their eye. One FaceTime meeting later and the Lucketts and Malyks were matched. The sponsorship process was clunky and clumsy, Marc Luckett said, but the two families were united on July 21, 2022. Marc drove to Denver International Airport at midnight to pick up Yana and her two children. They had two suitcases among them, all other worldly possessions left behind. Marc welcomed us with yellow and blue balloons, Malyk said, the colors of the Ukrainian flag. Her husband, Dmytro, joined them a couple months later. After settling into life in the United States, Malyk wanted to help her countrymen back home. The winter was beginning to take hold in Ukraine and the people in the Luhansk region were without power. In Colorado Springs, Ukraine Power was born. Malyk and the Lucketts started the nonprofit in November 2022 to help the people back in Ukraine. Since then, Ukraine Power has raised close to $150,000, and works with the local governments in Ukraine to help provide aid via 25 hubs throughout country. The hubs provide meals, temporary shelter, generators, medical services, internet service, and laptops to children for remote learning. Perhaps most important, the hubs help the tens of thousands displaced Ukrainians with their documents and banking needs. We are in this for the long haul, Ukraine Power treasurer Marc Luckett said. Even if the war ended tomorrow, its going to take a decade to rebuild Ukraine and we plan to be here as long as we can to continue to support Ukraine and the people of Ukraine. Featured Local Savings _____ After a day of rest and time with her parents, Malyk left Truskavets for the 21-hour train ride to Dnipro to begin the mission that had brought her back home. For the next nine days she would visit the government refugee hubs. It's very important to make a report for (Ukraine Power) donors, Malyk said. I wanted to show people no corruption. The trains sleeping compartments were simple but comfortable. There were two benches on either side that served as single beds with a small table in the middle. An electric outlet above the door opposite the window served as a charging station for her cellphone. After snacking on the Polish donuts and other snacks she bought in Truskavets, she settled in for the overnight trip. The darkness was interrupted by the flash of anti-aircraft missiles firing at incoming Russian rockets and drones. I woke up because it was very loud and bright, Malyk said. Couldnt understand what it was at first. I looked out the window and saw lots of rockets. Thought it was something with my brain. The next morning, she learned it was real. The Russians had fired dozens of missiles in an attack on Kyiv. ______ The train arrived in Dnipro at 9:35 a.m. and Kolomijtsev Oleksandr, the head of the Department for Reconstruction and Development of Infrastructure in Dnepropetrovsk, met her at the station. He carried her bags and led her to a car with a driver who would take Malyk on a tour of hubs in Ukraines fourth largest city. Malyk was there to meet the people she works with directly from Colorado. A unique feature about Ukraine Power is that Malyk deals one on one with officials in the hubs, responding daily to requests. We let the Ukrainians determine where the donations go, Marc Luckett said. And there would be no Ukraine Power without Yana. She is our secret weapon. The first hub was downtown. Workers were unloading food bags from a van into the heated tent outside the building for the 50 refugees a day who visit for supplies. Olena Lytvyhivk, the administrator for the hub, leads Malyk inside the old stone building for a tour. They walk up the cement stairs to the second floor where people are working in a call center, helping refugees. If they cant help, they direct them to an agency that can. Malyk noticed one of the portable heaters Ukraine Power had purchased in the corner and walks over to warm her hands. Down the hall, counselors Diana Vladykina and Maryna Starovoitova help nine children make Christmas crafts with construction paper, markers, and glue. Their parents sit and watch from the edge of the room. The crafts are a diversion from the war. After talking to a group of administrators outside, Malyk is driven to the next hub inside the cultural center of an old Soviet factory. Refugees were sorting through piles of donated clothes in the lobby, with its 1950s Soviet design. In an office down a darkened hall, worker Yuliya Titova helps an elderly refugee start a new bank account on the internet. Next on the tour is an apartment building hit by a Russian missile in January of 2023. Also a Cold War era building, the nine-story apartment complex has a gaping hole in the middle. The attack killed 46 people, including six children, and injured 80 more. Eight are still missing from the attack. When I saw the building destroyed in Dnipro, I knew my soul was broken because I thought about how many people died in that building, Malyk said. Lots of them refugees who left their houses in the occupied territory, moved to Dnipro and died there. After Dnipro, Malyk caught a ride to Kharkiv, then a train to Kyiv and Lviv. She visited six hubs and two shelters that help the refugees from her Luhansk region of Ukraine. She knows Ukraine, the people, and their needs. Regional governors in Ukraine reach out to the Malyks. The Ukrainians greeting her on this trip expressed their appreciation for what she and her nonprofit and the donations from Colorado Springs have done. Viktor Zozulya, mayor of the town Nveske, population 136, drove the 121 miles to Kharkiv from his small town in the Russian occupied territory to thank Malyk for Ukraine Powers generosity. We are thankful for what the American nation has done, Zozulya said through an interpreter. After her work in Lviv, Malyk returned to Truskavets to spend more time with her parents. They shared more meals more precious time together. The night before leaving Ukraine, Malyk was torn. She worried about her parents, and her husbands parents who live in Kremena, in the Russian occupied territory on the eastern edge of Ukraine. Every day you think about they can die, Malyk said about the parents. Its very hard. She didnt want to leave her native country but knew her own familys future was elsewhere. When I left Ukraine again it was a very hard last night because I missed my children, my husband who were in America, Malyk said. But at the same time, I didnt want to leave my parents. My parents will never leave Ukraine. Note: Ukraine Power is an organization dedicated to providing power and light to Ukraine during dark days. The Ukraine faces an immediate need for electric generators. These generators provide heat and the ability to cook, making it possible to survive the harsh Ukrainian winter. To donate, visit their website at ukrainepower.org. Baldwin has been indicted by a New Mexico grand jury and charged with involuntary manslaughter, over two years after the October 2021 death of Halyna Hutchins Jason Mendez/Getty Hilaria Baldwin and Alec Baldwin attend the opening night of "Hangmen" on Broadway at Golden Theatre on April 21, 2022 The new charge that Alec Baldwin faces in connection with the fatal 2021 Rust shooting have been "frustrating" for the actor and his wife Hilaria Baldwin, a source tells PEOPLE exclusively. After Baldwin, 65, was indicted by a New Mexico grand jury and charged with involuntary manslaughter this week, a source close to the family says that the pair find the news "very stressful." They had a great Christmas and New Year. Hilaria also just turned 40. This is not how they wanted to start the new year," the source says, referencing the new charge, which come over two years after the October 2021 death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. "Its stressful for Hilaria. Its frustrating for them both that Alec is being recharged. They knew there was a possibility there would be a new indictment," they add. "The back and forth is hard. Its very stressful. Reps for the couple, as well as legal reps for Baldwin, did not respond to PEOPLE's request for comment. Mark Sagliocco/Getty Images Alec Baldwin attends the world premiere of 'The First Wave' Related: Alec Baldwin Charged Again with Involuntary Manslaughter in Fatal Rust Shooting Alex Spiro and Luke Nikas of Quinn Emanuel, Baldwin's lawyers, said in a statement Friday that they "look forward to our day in court." While filming Rust in October 2021 on a New Mexico set, a prop gun that Baldwin was holding was discharged, killing Hutchins and injuring Joel Souza, the director of the film. Baldwin has previously said that he did not pull the trigger and wasn't aware that the gun held a live bullet. Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, armorer for the film, previously pled not guilty after being charged with involuntary manslaughter and is expected to stand trial in February. Baldwin is now being charged with involuntary manslaughter (negligent use of a firearm) or alternatively, with involuntary manslaughter (without due caution or circumspection), months after involuntary manslaughter charges were initially dropped in April 2023. Per New Mexico law, he faces up to 18 months in prison given the new charge. Related: How Can Alec Baldwin Be Charged Again for the Shooting of Halyna Hutchins? A Legal Expert Explains Gloria Allred, an attorney for Hutchins' family, said in a statement that her clients "have always sought the truth about what happened on the day that Halyna Hutchins was tragically shot and killed." "They continue to seek the truth in our civil lawsuit for them and they also would like there to be accountability in the criminal justice system," she continued in response to Friday's indictment. "The grand jury has decided that there is sufficient evidence to indict Alec Baldwin on the charge of involuntary manslaughter," Allred added. "We are looking forward to the criminal trial which will determine if he should be convicted for the untimely death of Halyna." Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Baldwin was initially charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter last year. He was accused in a statement of probable cause filed in the First Judicial Court in New Mexico of not receiving required firearms training and not asking the armorer to show him that the gun did not contain live rounds. In the document, Baldwin was also alleged to have placed his finger on the trigger of a real firearm when a replica or rubber gun should have been used." Special prosecutors Kari Morrissey and Jason J. Lewis cited new facts in the case when Baldwin's charges were dropped in April, and revealed two months later that the gun was sent to an independent expert for additional testing. Expert Lucien C. Haag wrote in a forensic report obtained by PEOPLE in August that the prop gun's trigger must have been pulled sufficiently enough to cause the incident. But, according to The New York Times, "parts of the gun" were "damaged by the F.B.I. during its own analysis." The prosecutors announced in October their intention to present the case to a Santa Fe grand jury. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. More than two decades after assassins burst into Jam Master Jays Queens music studio and shot him in the head, two of the Run-DMC founders alleged killers will finally stand trial for murder. Jury selection starts Monday for the Brooklyn Federal Court trial of Karl Jordan Jr. and Ronald Tinard Washington a day after what would have been the hip-hop DJs 59th birthday. Opening arguments are slated for Jan. 29. The mystery of Jason Mizells 2002 murder frustrated his family and the New York hip-hop community with some wondering if the killing involved Mizells closest friends. On Oct. 30, 2002, Mizell was shot point-blank in the head with a .40-caliber gun and another man was shot in the leg by two gunmen who were buzzed into his second-floor Merrick Blvd. music studio in Queens. Its been a long time, said Mizells cousin, Doc Thompson. Its just been too long, and I just hope we get the facts together. In 2020, the arrests of Jordan and Washington brought some answers federal prosecutors say Mizell was dealing drugs and had cut the duo out of a 10-kilogram cocaine deal. But the arrests led to more frustration the trial was delayed for nearly a year to handle a late request for an anonymous jury. In the interim, prosecutors indicted a third suspect, Jay Bryant, who the feds say took part in the killing and bragged about pulling the trigger, even though they believe Jordan was the actual shooter. Bryants case has been severed from the others, with a second trial set for 2026. But his role in the shooting could factor into Jordan and Washingtons defense if they try to point the finger at him. And Washington pointed the finger at his co-defendant Jordan and his father, Darren Jordan, in a 2021 Playboy interview, telling the magazine, Im positive it was Little D (Karl Jordan). I looked him right in his face before he ran off. Little D told me, My pops wasnt supposed to shoot Jay. That wasnt supposed to happen.' Federal prosecutors havent fully tipped their hand to the public on what to expect out of the four-week trial, or whether any of the four witnesses inside the studio ex-con Randy Allen and his sister Lydia High; local resident Uriel Rincon and aspiring rapper Michael Mike B. Bonds will testify about what they saw. Rincon, who was shot in the leg, broke his silence in 2007 to tell the New York Daily News that Mizell was carrying a gun that night, but he trusted his killer enough to never reach for the weapon. He said at the time he never saw the shooters face. Thompson, Mizells cousin, slammed those witnesses for keeping quiet all these years. These are weak individuals, lets be honest, individuals that my cousin looked out for. And they werent really his friends at the end, he said. Court filings show that the feds plan to introduce evidence showing both men had access to .40-caliber guns, and that Jordan had asked Mizell to put him on and involve him in his drug-trafficking operation. They also expect to introduce witness testimony that a .40-caliber gun Jordan normally stashed in a van in Queens went missing around the time of Mizells murder. Several months after the killing, Jordan shot Mizells nephew in the leg with a .40-caliber gun, purportedly because the nephew accused him of the music icons murder in a rap song, prosecutors said in an October 2022 filing. Another witness is expected to testify that Jordan threatened to kill him just like he did to Mizell, prosecutors said. One thing the jury likely wont be hearing: a 2011 song from Jordans rap group Rich Fly Gee$, titled Aim 4 Da Head. Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall said during a 2020 bail hearing for Jordan that violent rap lyrics are encouraged by music executives, and she wouldnt penalize any individual for participating in that artistic form. Im not going to hold any individual accountable for the lyrics in a rap song that is consumed by our community; and in fact, its consumed by me, she said. At a status conference Wednesday, she echoed those statements when Assistant U.S. Attorney Artie McConnell raised the specter of song lyrics in his bid to get an interview video admitted into evidence. You know what the answers going to be? she asked, adding that she plans to put her position on music lyrics into a written opinion before the trial. Surprise, surprise, I think its important that I want to write about it, the judge said. _____ Ricardo Cardenas is a pastor and public librarian in Denver. He holds a master of divinity degree from Denver Seminary, and he is an associate fellow at the Kirby Laing Centre for Public Theology in Cambridge (UK), where he is researching the cultural and theological value of public libraries. Love Lies Bleeding is an intense, queer, unconventional love story between two unstable people. Directed and written by Rose Glass and Weronika Tofilska, and stars Kristen Stewart, Katy OBrian, Ed Harris, Dave Franco, Jena Malone and Anna Baryshinkov. The film explores the destructive nature of relationships, marked by strong performances and a visually arresting narrative. Lou (Stewart) meets Jackie (OBrian) at the gym her father owns and is instantly smitten. Jackie is charming, looks great, and isnt afraid to confront a man that gets in her space. This is something Lou witnesses first-hand, as Jackie whacks one of the gym patrons in the face when he gets a little too friendly. After their sex-filled rendezvous (yes, they moved that fast), Lou discovers her new girlfriend works at her father Lou Sr.s (Harris) gun range. More from Deadline Needing a place to stay, Jackie asks if she could stay with Lou until she makes enough money to move on to a bodybuilding competition in Las Vegas. The aspiring body builder discovers her new lovers family is a broken one. Lou Sr. is the towns most feared man, while Lous brother-in-law, JJ (Franco), and Lous sister Beth (Malone) have a marriage so volatile that it becomes the films reasoning for why all hell breaks loose. Filmed amidst the quintessential landscapes of New Mexico, a location that epitomizes the essence of Americana, the film employs the unseen to create an atmosphere rich in suspense. The story offers only fleeting insights into Lous history, presenting these revelations as breadcrumbs that infuse the narrative with intrigue and mystery. This approach is characteristic of Glass directorial style, which weaves elements of sporadic horror, creating a sense of unpredictability. The culmination of this technique is a moment of absolute carnage, captured in a rare, stationary shot that contrasts with the films otherwise dynamic visual tempo. When comparing Love Lies Bleeding to Saint Maud, there are similar themes explored here. Jackie is very much like Mauda woman who lives on the fringes of society, and, is an unreliable narrator obsessed with achieving something far out of reach. Both narratives delve into the theme of extreme devotion, examining how it can consume an individual and propel them towards something undeniably harmful. However, a key distinction in Love Lies Bleeding is the portrayal of every character as unreliable and unhinged, differing from the more focused perspective in Saint Maud. With a gritty and rustic aesthetic reminiscent of a neo-western, the film also embraces an 80s vibe akin to Paul Nicholas Chained Heat, yet it steers clear of exploitation. The way the camera captures Jackie is striking, focusing on the stages of her physical transformation and molding this into a visual arc that showcases Jackies beauty, her body horror and how she grows into her higher-self. The directors employ a unique lens to showcase Jackies muscular development, offering an intimate and detailed view rarely seen for actresses in Hollywood films. This approach feels like a breath of fresh air, as the director revels in portraying a womans strength and physicality in a way that is bold and innovative. RELATED: Kristen Stewart Says Rose Glass Film Love Lies Bleeding Has A Unique Sexual Fingerprint Sundance Studio Stewart and OBrian are electric as the toxic, uhaul duo of star-crossed psychos in love. Stewart, having tackled a diverse array of roles, demonstrates her expansive range, leaving no doubt about her acting ability. OBrian shines as an emerging talent, an actress who embraces and confidently portrays her full authentic self on screen. In Love Lies Bleeding, Glass takes a snapshot of America. Saturated with guns, marked by bloodshed and characterized by lawlessness. However, when you add in some sexy, campy queers sprinkled in for razzle dazzle, you get a film like this full of thrills and captivating energy. Title: Love Lies Bleeding Festival (Section): Sundance (Midnight) Director-screenwriter: Rose Glass Cast: Kristen Stewart, Katy OBrian, Ed Harris, Dave Franco, Jena Malone, Anna Baryshinkov Distributor: A24 Running time: 1 hr 44 mins Best of Deadline Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Carla Gutierrez, a Peruvian emigre to the United States who made her name as an editor of documentaries (RBG), transitions to director with Frida (Time Studios/Imagine Documentaries/Amazon/MGM), which debuted at the Sundance Film Festival on Thursday, January 18. Long obsessed with Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, Gutierrez was reading some of the books about her and realized there was enough material for Kahlo to narrate her own story. When I started looking at research material, I found that no one had truly focused on her voice and let Frida herself carry a narrative, said Gutierrez via a Zoom interview. More from IndieWire She went to her RBG and Julia directors Julie Cohen and Betsy West and pitched them the idea of digging deep into a third kick-ass woman, said Gutierrez. They became executive producers, but when they went out to find backing, some companies were afraid of a Spanish-language archive movie that might feel historically distant. We knew that we were coming in with a new approach, said Gutierrez, that was a lot more intimate than what had been done before. But Time and Imagine saw the films potential, and swiftly Amazon also joined as distributor. Early on, Gutierrez felt strongly that actors should portray all the voices in the film, from Frida to her husband Diego Rivera. She cast them sight unseen, looking for theater veterans who could transmit emotion. Relying on Fridas words was liberating, said Gutierrez. All her writings are in different parts of the world in different collections. And there is no one extensive interview with her. There are some interviews toward the end of her life. But its not like she was telling the story of her life. That opened up the possibility to lean into her emotions and offer more of an intimate perspective. It was important for me to make that connection between her life experiences and the development of her paintings. One key decision in bringing Kahlo to life was the subject of some debate, but Gutierrez felt strongly that animating Kahlos art would be visually additive. Cinema is a different art form, said Gutierrez. When you have interaction with Fridas art, a lot of times its either in a museum, if youre seeing an actual painting, or through books, and you have an opportunity to live with the painting and live with the art, and observe it and have an interaction with it. I found that wasnt possible through film. There was this distance that I felt. We did a lot of early, rough-cut editing of some segments where we only had the static paintings. And these paintings are full of details. A lot of them have different meanings. With the animation, I wanted the audience to key into specific details that highlighted the emotions that we were touching on in those specific segments. For me, going into the paintings this way was immersing myself in her mind. The filmmakers licensed high-resolution photos and then the animators used 2D techniques, cutting out different elements of the pictures. We never add any outside elements to her art, said Gutierrez. We do cut-outs and pay special attention to the movement and specific details of the paintings. The estate of Frida Kahlo wasnt an impediment. After her death at age 47 in 1954, her estate passed to her husband Diego Rivera, who was a Communist. He gave their estate to the Mexican government, which also supervises the Casa Azul Museum in Mexico City. Frida Kahlo. Other voices came from those who knew Kahlo very closely, from Rivera to a letter, diary, or a quick interview. At the beginning of the process, said Gutierrez, I thought we were going to rely on other voices more. Because again, we knew that Frida could give us the emotional content that we needed. But I was surprised to see, as we were putting the film together, that Frida could carry the story as much as she could. We used phrases from the friend in the United States who was present when Frida had her miscarriage. In her diary at the time, she described quite a bit of what was happening, and those descriptions were present and raw. Gutierrez also edited the film. What Ive done is to try to build the world, and present it to the audience as if the protagonist was walking you through it, she said. So youre holding the hand of Frida Kahlo, as shes walking through the world. Everything is dictated by her emotion or her presence there. Frida will stream March 15 around the world on Amazon Prime Video. Best of IndieWire Sign up for Indiewire's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Chimney cake may not sound too appetizing, but the name doesn't refer to its being charred and soot-blackened, but rather to its tall, cylindrical shape. The chimney cake, or Kurtoskalacs, is Hungary's take on the type of European pastry known as a spit cake again with the off-putting monikers, we know. The spit, or, if you prefer, spindle, involved in the cooking is a horizontal rotisserie, and some of the more elaborate versions of these cakes include Poland's infamously difficult sekacz, Lithuania's similar sakotis, and Germany's multi-layered baumkuchen ("tree cake"). Hungary's chimney cakes originated in Transylvania which is today part of Romania and aren't quite as complex as some of the above cakes, as these require constant attention from a baker who ladles batter over the cakes as they rotate. Kurtoskalacs, however, is made from a strip of yeast dough that is wrapped around a spindle and baked. Read more: 12 Popular Ice Cream Brands, Ranked Worst To Best The History Of Chimney Cake chimney cakes cooking over coals - Ion Sebastian/Shutterstock If we trace the history of chimney cake back as far as we can, the earliest known mention of such a dish is in a 15th-century German manuscript. The first recipe, however, wasn't published for another 300 years or so, as it appears in a 1784 cookbook attributed to Countess Maria Mikes of Zabola, which is located in Transylvania. At the time, the region was part of Hungary, but after some back-and-forthing subsequent to the First World War, Transylvania (including Zabola) officially became part of Romania in 1947. Despite Transylvania's 20th-century split, it seems that Hungary got custody of the chimney cake in the divorce proceedings. The original version of kurtoskalacs, or "kurtos kalats' a la Mrs. Porani," seems to have been a savory one because the recipe makes no mention of sugar. A different recipe that came out some 11 years later did offer the option of sweetening the cake after it was cooked, but it wasn't until the late 19th century that anyone suggested adding sugar before baking. As for the crushed nuts that are a typical kurtoskalacs coating today, these date back only as far as a 1980 cookbook called "Erdelyi Lakoma" authored by Pal Kovi (later republished in 1985 as "Paul Kovi's Transylvanian Cuisine." This Hungarian-born restaurateur not only left his stamp on chimney cakes but also helmed New York's Four Seasons restaurant for over 20 years. What Goes Into Chimney Cake chimney cake dipped in nuts - Angel L/Shutterstock The actual chimney cake itself is nothing too fancy, at least if the ingredients are anything to go by. The dough is made from what appears to be a pretty standard array of cake ingredients. Butter, eggs, flour, milk, salt, sugar yep, all of the usual suspects are present, although most recipes typically don't call for any spices, seasonings, or flavoring extracts like vanilla or almond. What sets the kurtoskalacs dough apart from most cake batters is the inclusion of yeast, so the texture and flavor are more akin to that of sweet bread, while some people have compared it to babka. Most of the flavor in a chimney cake comes from the coating. This may be plain sugar, which was the case with most chimney cakes baked in the 19th and early 20th centuries, although these days the sugar is often mixed with cinnamon, cocoa powder, or crushed walnuts. When the sugar melts, it provides the kurtoskalacs with a caramel taste and crispy coating, while any mix-ins will, of course, lend their influence, as well. How Chimney Cake Is Made chimney cakes on spindles - Lena Serditova/Shutterstock What makes the chimney cake so special not to mention, gives it its name isn't what goes into it, but how it's cooked. As the title implies, one of the methods of cooking the cake is over an open flame, although this is something you may be more likely to see at a Christmas market or other outdoor festival, and then, too, only if you should happen to be traveling in Hungary at the time. Commercial kurtoskalacs bakers, though, also have the indoor option of using a special rotisserie grill that bakes multiple cakes at a time on rotating spits. Home cooks, too, have multiple options for baking kurtoskalacs. While you could use a purpose-built mold made of metal or wood, you can also DIY such an implement by wrapping foil around a rolling pin or pint-sized aluminum can. Another even simpler, option involves rolling the dough strips up into spirals without using any kind of mold at all. These cakes are then baked standing on end in a standard oven, with no need to rotate them as the upright position should ensure even cooking. Chimney Cake Variations chimney cakes with savory fillings - Nada Bakkar/Shutterstock Even though using crushed walnuts as a kurtoskalacs coating didn't really kick off until the 1980s, these days they are considered to be fairly traditional, along with cinnamon sugar and cocoa powder. This leaves lots of room for bakeries to experiment with other, less-traditional toppings, though, including chocolate chips, coconut, poppy seeds, pistachios, almonds, hazelnuts, and colored sprinkles. Yet another way restaurants will change up a chimney cake is by using it as an extra-tall ice cream cone or filling it with whipped cream, Nutella, or fruit. Savory kurtoskalacs is also a thing, at least in Hungary where you may be able to find them stuffed with meatballs or even the tomato-pepper stew called lecso. Homemade chimney cakes could also be made into a main dish by omitting the sugar from the dough and filling the bread-like cones with sausage, pulled pork, shredded chicken, or chili. You could also do breakfast kurtoskalacs, too. One eatery in Australia is already offering eggs Benedict in a chimney cake, while chimney cake omelets, quiches, and huevos rancheros could all be pretty tasty, as well. Where To Try Chimney Cake chimney cake bakery - Blue Corner Studio/Shutterstock While one of the most enjoyable ways to experience kurtoskalacs may be to travel to Budapest during the holiday season and buy one fresh off a street vendor's grill, Hungary's capital city also has a number of bakeries and restaurants specializing in this cake. Among these are Vitez Kurtos, a bakery that sells not only chimney cakes but also kurtoskalacs layer cakes and fondues; Kato Neni's, where some chimney cakes come in rainbow colors; and Hoppacska, where each week brings three new savory kurtoskalacs that might include such options as a bacon cheeseburger served in a chimney cone. Outside of Hungary, a mini-chain called Merika Cafe brings its array of chimney cakes to outposts in the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and Australia. If you're looking to try kurtoskalacs without leaving the U.S., however, you can also find them at Kurtos Cakes in Sarasota, Florida, or Chimney Cake Island in Chicago (the latter appears to be a home baker with no outlet open to the public, so you may need to order via email or Facebook and then pick the cake up at their home). It does not look as if chimney cakes can be ordered online for nationwide delivery, although Amazon sells the similar baumkuchen in a box and a non-edible but adorable kurtoskalacs plushie was being offered on Etsy last we checked. Read the original article on Mashed. Supermarket tomato sauce has come a long way. I grew up in a proudly Southern Italian/Sicilian pocket of New York where seemingly everybodys family had their own passed-down recipe for tomato sauce. Contrary to what the domestic icon Ina Garten says, store-bought was not fine. Credit: Su-Jit Credit: Su-Jit Today, ready-to-heat sauces particularly by restaurants are all the rage, thanks, in part, to spots like Raos and Carbones in New York. But decades before the nation went wild over these internet-famous, critically acclaimed sauces, my native suburb was quietly buying up glass jars by another NYC original. Im talking about Vincents Clam Bar, first of Little Italy and now best known as a local gem in nearby Long Island. Credit: Su-Jit Credit: Su-Jit What You Should Know About Vincents Clam Bar Its greatness begins with a colorful back story. According to co-owner of the now-classic Long Island restaurant, Anthony Marisi, the original Vincents Clam Bar established in 1904 was a street cart selling clams, scungilli, mussels, and calamari with mild, medium, and hot [tomato] sauce. Thats all they did! he says. And boy did they do it exceptionally well. This simple menu was enough to convert the cart into a little corner space on Mott and Hester Streets; 10 locations followed, including a small one in Carle Place, NY. Decades later, Marisi (a server at the time), his brother, and a few fellow servers begged, borrowed, and stole to buy the restaurant from the interesting characters who owned it. That scrappy wiseguy-turned-gentleman braggadocio (they didnt have managers and continued to wait tables) is still the core of the business today. Its widely considered one of the most lauded and beloved Italian restaurants on the island, synonymous with celebration and huge family-style portions, enormous desserts, and LI accents heavier than a loaded lasagna. Credit: Su-Jit Credit: Su-Jit Whats So Great About Vincents Medium Tomato Sauce? Available for sale since the late 1970s, Vincents Clam Bar was one of the earliest restaurants to offer customers a jarred taste of its restaurant and, as Marisi puts it, way ahead of its time. The mild, medium, and hot tomato sauces are different from its or any other brands classic marinara and its own chunky (and even more outstanding) tomato basil sauce. Credit: Su-Jit Credit: Su-Jit Vincents Clam Bars signature sauces are more reddish orange than crimson, and because theyre tomato paste-based, have a smokier, sun-dried tomato sweetness to them. Theyre smooth, silky, and concentrated more like a taste bud-coating, satiny tomato gravy, Marisi confirms; the better to cover and cling to seafood, as they were intended to. You wont find chunks of tomatoes or visible herbs in the original trio as you will in Vincents other, more traditional plum tomato-based sauces. What you will find is a smooth, subtle heat that discreetly comes in at the back of the bite, thanks to a process where red pepper flakes are sauteed in oil and gradually layered in increments. Because of this, it has its own specific flavor profile and texture thats gained a loyal following for those in the know. Credit: Su-Jit Credit: Su-Jit Whats the Best Way to Use Vincents Medium Tomato Sauce? The most obvious way is to drench mussels, scungilli, clams, and calamari in it, whether individually or all together as a frutti di mare how Vincents originally intended. This can be with or without pasta, which is the second-most obvious way to use this sauce. (I suggest bronze-cut like Barillas ultra-textured Al Bronzo Mezzi Rigatoni.) Picky kids love the mild for its sweetness and lack of surprises. Credit: Su-Jit Credit: Su-Jit I also literally beef it up with Pound of Ground beef crumbles or use thin-skinned cheese-stuffed pastas like Woodstock Organic Four Cheese Tortellini for a no-thaw meal in minutes. (Bonus: It also brings out the umami in the sauce.) For something lighter, fresh egg-based pasta and zoodles or spaghetti squash work, too. Credit: Su-Jit Credit: Su-Jit I add it to soups and veggies, and spoon it over frozen pizzas to give them more oomph and up the tomato factor. Because of its consistency, I can also use it to dip mozzarella sticks, garlic bread, pizza rolls, or chicken tenders. Its also heavenly in an Eggs in Purgatory brunch. Buy: Vincents Medium Tomato Sauce, starting at $4.99 for 16 ounces at LaMonica Fine Foods, plus Uncle Giuseppes, North Shore Farms, King Kullen, Stop & Shop, ShopRite and other regional grocers; also available in bulk at Amazon and at Vincents Clam Bar Whats your favorite jarred tomato sauce brand? Tell us in the comments. King Ranch chicken casserole is named for a Texas ranch that covers over million acres, making it (the ranch, not the casserole) nearly twice the size of the one owned by Mr. Pioneer Woman. The recipe itself doesn't appear to have been created by a 19th-century analog of Ree Drummond but instead may have been concocted by some anonymous householder in the mid-20th century. Former FLOTUS Lady Bird Johnson was known to make this casserole, and a recipe of hers dating from the 1970s calls for the same blend of canned chicken and mushroom soups that developer Ting Dalton is using in her version. Dalton, however, says she eschews the condensed soups that most recipes (Johnson's included) call for, explaining, "I like to use normal soup so there is plenty of sauce." She also opts for a milder combo of sauteed bell peppers and diced tomatoes in place of the spicy Ro-Tel tomatoes favored by the Texan-born first lady. Dalton calls her King Ranch chicken casserole "comfort food at its finest" and describes the dish as "really delicious and very filling." So filling, in fact, that you're likely to have leftovers even if you do have multiple mouths to feed (the recipe makes six servings). That's no problem since Dalton assures us that, like most casseroles, her King Ranch chicken takes very well to freezing. Read more: Frozen Meatball Brands Ranked From Worst To Best How To Freeze And Reheat The Casserole casserole with green salad - Ting Dalton/Mashed To freeze your leftover King Ranch casserole, you should first let it come to room temperature since freezing food while it's still hot can lead to condensation forming, then freezing, and the resulting layer of ice inside the container won't add to the casserole's quality. Once the casserole has cooled, portion it out in individual serving sizes. Then package these in resealable tubs or bags. When you want to revisit the casserole, the frozen leftovers can be thawed and reheated in the oven or go directly into the microwave without thawing. Whichever method you choose, Dalton advises, "Make sure you reheat [the casserole] thoroughly." So how long do you have to polish off your frozen casserole? Dalton feels that it will be best if eaten within three months, but you're in no danger if you let it stay in the freezer for longer than that. The truth of the matter, according to the USDA, is that few, if any, frozen foods actually expire, at least if by "expire" you mean become unsafe to consume. Still, it's best to plan on eating the leftovers before they become buried in ice crystals from your not-as-frost-free-as-advertised appliance or a freak storm knocks out the power long enough for your frozen food to start thawing out. Read the original article on Mashed. The British royal family isnt the only royal family with drama, and, on the heels of Netflixs The Crown ending last month, we have a new royal show to look forward to, this time about the royal family of Denmark. Its appropriate timing for an announcement like this to be made, as Queen Margrethethe worlds last reigning queen regnantjust abdicated the throne last week after 52 years on the throne. Her abdication followed rumors of a scandal involving her eldest son and heir, now King Frederik, and in 2022 Margrethe made headlines for unexpectedly stripping the titles of the children of her younger son, Prince Joachim. So, yes, theres plenty there for a reimagined, Danish version of The Crown. Queen Margrethe The Netflix series ran from 2016 to the end of 2023 and was centered on the life of Queen Elizabeth. Deadline reports that Margrethes life will be brought to screen in the television show Af Guds nade (translated to By the Grace of God), and that the show is being developed by the makers of the hit Danish political drama Borgen. The story will follow Margrethes life from her birth in 1940 and will be set at Amalienborg Palace in Denmarks capital city of Copenhagen. The Guardian further reports that the shows producers will tell the story from the perspective of members of the royal family and also royal court employees. The show has been in development for the past 18 months and is expected to be released in 2025. Of Margrethethe longest-serving monarch in Denmarks history before her surprise abdication at the age of 83the shows executive producer Meta Louise Foldager Srensen said that she has been part of the history of all Danes. It was not on the cards for the little princess to be queen, but times changed, and she became a great queen. Now is the time to tell the magnificent story which can give us an insight we have not had before. Queen Margrethe Royal family of Denmark Royal family of Denmark There is no news yet as to how the show will be distributed internationally, but Netflix? We miss The Crown already. Just saying. Panera is continuing to face legal woes due to its caffeine-packed Charged Lemonade. The national bakery and cafe chain has been hit with its third lawsuit connected to Charged Lemonade. The first two were prompted by the deaths of 21-year-old Sarah Katz in 2022 and 46-year-old Dennis Brown in 2023. According to a report by NBC News, both had health conditions that required them to avoid caffeine and energy drinks, but an attorney for the families claimed the company presented the lemonade in a way that made it look harmless. Now, yet another lawsuit has been filed, this one by a Rhode Island woman who claims she experienced health issues after consuming the beverage. According to 28-year-old Lauren Skerritt, the lemonade left her with "permanent cardiac injuries." Per the filing, Skerritt was an athlete who didn't have health problems before drinking 2.5 servings of the lemonade last April. After consuming the beverage, she had palpitations and dizziness. Skerritt went to the emergency room and discovered she had atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib. Characterized by a fast and irregular heart rhythm, the condition raises the risk of having a stroke, heart failure, and other difficulties. In Skerritt's case, a series of symptoms has allegedly persisted, including an irregularly rapid heartbeat, brain fog, and weakness. Read more: 15 Boba Flavors, Ranked Worst To Best The Beverage's Caffeine Content Has Been Criticized Panera Charged Lemonade and bag - Bloomberg/Getty Images Although the company appears to have lowered the caffeine content in its Charged Lemonades to a maximum of 236 milligrams of caffeine following the controversy, at the time of all three incidents, the sip featured up to 390 milligrams per large, 30-ounce serving. That's the equivalent of about six shots of espresso, which contains around 64 milligrams of caffeine per ounce (per the USDA), or nearly five cans of Red Bull, which contain 80 milligrams of caffeine per 8.4-ounce can. The Food and Drug Administration has indicated that many "healthy adults" might drink as much as 400 milligrams of caffeine without suffering negative side effects. Legal filings allege that part of the lemonade's danger lies in the fact that Panera advertised its Charged Lemonade as containing "as much caffeine as [its] dark roast coffee." However, a 30-ounce cup of Panera's dark roast iced coffee contains 137 milligrams less caffeine than a large order of the Charged Lemonade did at the time. The lemonade was also available as a self-serve option alongside less caffeinated beverages. Panera's Charged Lemonades now sit behind the counter to be served by employees, and the company issued a disclaimer stating that the items are "not recommended for children, people sensitive to caffeine, pregnant or nursing women." It also advises consumers to drink the beverages in moderation. Read the original article on Tasting Table. "Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." After True Detectives third season hit the small screen five years ago, the crime anthology series is back for a fourth installment. The six-episode seasonstarring Jodie Foster and Kali Reisis set in the fictional town of Ennis, Alaska. The chilling destination is a stark contrast to previous seasons, which were filmed in Louisiana, California, and Arkansas. Unlike its predecessors, the latest seasonaptly named True Detective: Night Countrywasn't filmed where it's set. In reality, the Alaskan town is portrayed by various locations in Iceland. If youre eager to know more about the icy atmosphere, dig into everything we know belowfrom why filming took place in Iceland instead of Alaska to the frigid Nordic nation areas that provided backdrops. Michele K. Short/HBO Where Was True Detective: Night Country Filmed? The fourth season follows detectives Liz Danvers (Foster) and Evangeline Navarro (Reis) as they investigate the disappearance of eight men who operate a research station in the fictional town of Ennis, Alaska. Showrunner Issa Lopez landed on Alaska as the setting after pondering how to recapture the success of the award-winning first season, which starred Woody Harrelson and Matthew McConaughey as Louisiana detectives and was led by the original True Detective creator Nic Pizzolatto. (The second and third seasons were less critically admired.) Lopez told Total Film that a big part of what made the first season a hit was its sweltering, southern setting. So, the filmmaker went in the complete opposite direction. Where True Detective is male and its sweaty, Night Country is cold and its dark and its female, Lopez revealed at an HBO event per Vanity Fair . Michele K. Short / HBO Filming in Alaska wasnt practical thanks to the areas rough conditions. "As much as we would have liked to be true to the elements of the story, the part of Alaska where we needed to shoot thiswhich is above the Arctic Circle where the night expands into monthsdoesnt have the infrastructure," Lopez told Total Film. The filmmaker added that the temperatures wouldve been so low in the months they planned to shoot that the cameras wouldnt even work. Instead, they took the grueling 120-day shoot to Iceland. The country makes an excellent Alaska stand-in and has been tapped for many productions, including the newly released A Murder at the End of the World. Filming took place in and around Reykjavik as well as in the towns of Akureyri and Dalvik, where the production team built the whole fictional village of Ennis, according to Icelandair . Store facades, including a liquor store and gas station, along with traffic signs and specifically styled holiday decor give the Icelandic environments an American feel. Michele K. Short/HBO But the fictional Ennis wasn't completely dreamt up out of thin air. The sparsely populated place was inspired by the real area of North Slope Borough, Alaska, Today reports. While larger than the state of Utah, the region is estimated to have just over 11,000 residents. It boasts spectacular landscapes across nearly 95,000 square miles of northern Alaska. Whether you tune in for the mystery or setting, Night Country already seems to be fostering a True Detective renaissance. Bundle up and tune in as episodes continue to air on Sunday nights on HBO and simultaneously drop on Max. You love filming locations. So do we. Lets obsess over them together. Follow House Beautiful on Instagram and TikTok. You Might Also Like Ancient zombie viruses frozen in melting Arctic permafrost could fuel a new pandemic if unleashed by climate change, scientists have warned. Global heating is enabling increased human activity in the Earths northernmost reaches, as melting sea ice opens up shipping and industrial possibilities, including mining deep into the permafrost which covers a fifth of the northern hemisphere, mainly in Canada, Siberia and Alaska. But scientists have reportedly started to plan an Arctic monitoring network to watch out for any early cases of a disease sparked by ancient viruses, also known as Methuselah microbes. A cemetery sits on melting permafrost tundra at the Yupik Eskimo village of Quinhagak in Alaska (Mark Ralston/AFP via Getty) Ancient viruses have already been found in Siberian permafrost, including one sample which was 48,500 years old. A team led by geneticist Jean-Michel Claverie has revived several such viruses, capable of infecting only single-cell organisms. But the scientists fear viruses capable of infecting humans likely also lurk in the permafrost. We see the traces of many, many, many other viruses, Professor Claverie told CNN in March, adding: If the amoeba viruses are still alive, there is no reason why the other viruses will not be still alive, and capable of infecting their own hosts. As a result, Prof Claverie is among scientists working with the University of the Arctic network on plans to establish quarantine facilities and provide medical expertise that could pinpoint and attempt to treat any early cases without them leaving the region, according to The Observer. At the moment, analyses of pandemic threats focus on diseases that might emerge in southern regions and then spread north, Prof Claverie, of Aix-Marseille University in France, told the paper. By contrast, little attention has been given to an outbreak that might emerge in the far north and then travel south and that is an oversight, I believe. There are viruses up there that have the potential to infect humans and start a new disease outbreak. Among the genomic traces of human pathogens identified already by the team in Siberian permafrost are pox viruses and herpes viruses, he said. According to scientists, Alaska has been warming twice as fast as the global average (Mark Ralston/AFP via Getty) Virologist Marion Koopmans agreed, telling the paper: We dont know what viruses are lying out there in the permafrost but I think there is a real risk that there might be one capable of triggering a disease outbreak say of an ancient form of polio. We have to assume that something like this could happen. With forecasts suggesting the Arctic Sea will be ice-free as early as 2040 due to climate breakdown, it is the prospect of increased human activity in the Arctic, as opposed to melting permafrost, which most concerns Prof Claverie. Huge mining operations are being planned, and are going to drive vast holes into the deep permafrost to extract oil and ores, he said. Those operations will release vast amounts of pathogens that still thrive there. Miners will walk in and breathe the viruses. The effects could be calamitous. Our immune systems may have never been in contact with some of those microbes, and that is another worry, said Prof Claverie. The scenario of an unknown virus once infecting a Neanderthal coming back at us, although unlikely, has become a real possibility. Prof Koopmans added: If you look at the history of epidemic outbreaks, one of the key drivers has been change in land use. Nipah virus was spread by fruit bats who were driven from their habitats by humans. Similarly, monkeypox has been linked to the spread of urbanisation in Africa. And that is what we are about to witness in the Arctic: a complete change in land use, and that could be dangerous, as we have seen elsewhere. NASHUA, NH (NEXSTAR) The New Hampshire presidential primaries are on Tuesday. A long-shot candidate is trying to get his name out there. Rep. Dean Phillips (D-Minn) is trying to make his message heard. Phillips held a rally in front of a crowd in Nashua, New Hampshire, on Saturday. Phillips asked the crowd, Are you ready to send a message to Republicans and Democrats and all Americans that you all matter? And Democracy matters? The congressman is running in the Democratic primary. He said its time for a new generation of leadership. I called on the president to pass the torch, Phillips told voters at the afternoon rally. Phillips also took shots at President Joe Biden for not campaigning in New Hampshire. I cant believe it, but the President of the United States is not on the ballot, said Phillips. If he wrote you off, why would you write him in? Phillips touted his plans for universal health insurance and helping Americans get more financial stability. Voters are fond of his campaign promises. I cant believe how aligned I am with him, said Donna Leroy, a resident of Dorry, NH. His message embodies everything that I believe we need in going forward with politics, said Molly Campbell of North Conway, NH. I really liked what he had to say, said Paul Leroy of Dorry, NH. President Biden is not on the ballot here in New Hampshire. His campaign pushed for South Carolina to get the first primary. New Hampshire officials were not pleased with that request, and they are now going forward with keeping the primary to be the first in the nation. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Defence secretary Grant Shapps has denied that a collision between two Royal Navy ships in the Middle East shows incompetence but admitted something clearly went wrong. The Royal Navy is investigating after on warships was filmed reversing and crashing into the other at a harbour in Bahrain. Mr Shapps told Sky News on Sunday that accidents do happen as he sought to defend the military over the incident. Just as in aviation or many other walks of life sometimes accidents and incidents happen, he said, when asked if it showed incompetence. The minister added: We dont say its incompetence when we see an aircraft come down its right to leave the investigators some time to work out exactly whats gone wrong. Something clearly did and we need to see what it is. The Royal Navy said there had been no casualties after HMS Chiddingfold was filmed reversing into fellow minehunter HMS Bangor. The Chiddingfold is said to remain operational having sustained only minor damage. However, it is unclear for how long Bangor will be out of action. Grant Shapps defended UK military spending at time of global crises (AP) Meanwhile, Mr Shapps also played down growing concerns about the capabilities of the British military as he appeared to be at odds with his cabinet colleague Penny Mordaunt. Ms Mordaunt, the Tory Commons leader, warned that the Royal Navy and its partners must keep pace with other nations or Britains interests cannot be secured. Asked about her warnings, Mr Shapps said: There are a lot of people with opinions and a lot of people whove been in the military and armed forces will often express them. The defence secretary also insisted that the size of the British Army will not dip below 73,000, rejecting recent projections in the press that it could eventually sink to 50,000. Its not projected to go down to 50,000. Its actually, specifically, to 73,000 plus the reserves, said Mr Shapps. Two Royal Navy minehunters collide in Bahrain. H.M.S. Chiddingfold managed to reverse into H.M.S. Bangor in Bahrain, ripping a huge hole in Bangors hull. #MineCounterMeasureVessels pic.twitter.com/MGcnvW5Bv8 Ian Fraser (@Ian_Fraser) January 20, 2024 The defence secretary accepted that the UKs defence spending was currently below the target of 2.5 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP). We are committed to spending more when conditions allow. Mr Shapps also said chancellor Jeremy Hunts focus on tax cuts rather than upping defence spending at a time of huge international tension saying his colleague had been incredibly generous with a nearly 10 per cent pay rise for the armed forces. He also called for EU countries to step up and spend more in providing greater funding for Ukraine as it continues to fight the Russian invasion. Not just America, but Europe needs to step up and do their part to make sure that Ukraine can continue to defend herself, he told the BBCs Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg, saying Britain had led the way. Commons leader Penny Mordaunt warned Navy risks falling behind (PA Archive) Mr Shapps grilling on defence spending came as a report in the Sunday Times raised concerned that the Royal Navy was falling behind other nations. Ms Mordaunt, the cabinet minister who was a Royal Naval Reserve, told the newspaper: We must not just ask ourselves by how much Russia and China are increasing their fleets, but why. The senior Tory, who represents Portsmouth North seat with naval links, later tweeted: The Royal Navy and its partners must keep pace with the growing capabilities of other nations. If not Britains interests cannot be secured. Meanwhile, Labours shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper would not commit to a Labour government spending 3 per cent of GDP a year on defence if elected. On Sky News, she said: Decisions for future spending if Labour wins the election would be for a Labour chancellor... But we have been clear about the importance of our national security. National security is the bedrock on which everything else in the country and everybodys wellbeing is built. Queen Margrethe of Denmark announced that she will abdicate the throne, making her son the new monarch and his wife, Mary, the new queen consort Carlos Alvarez/Getty Crown Princess Mary of Denmark in 2023 Crown Princess Mary of Denmark is about to make royal history. Queen Margrethe of Denmark shockingly announced on New Year's Eve that she will step down as monarch on Jan. 14. Her eldest son, Crown Prince Frederik, will become King Frederik X, making his wife, Crown Princess Mary, his queen consort who will be known as Queen Mary. While there have been famous Queen Marys in the past, this one will have a distinct first as the only queen consort to have been born in Australia. Born Mary Donaldson, the soon-to-be Danish queen was an Australian advertising executive before a chance encounter changed her life. She found herself chatting to Prince Frederik, although he introduced himself simply as "Fred," at the Slip Inn on Sydney's Darling Harbor in September 2000. The pub was filled with people from around the world who were in town for the Olympics. "Something clicked," Crown Princess Mary said in a 2005 interview. "It wasn't the fireworks in the sky or anything like that, but there was a sense of excitement." MADS CLAUS RASMUSSEN/Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty Crown Princess Mary and Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark in 2023 Related: Why the New King Frederik and Queen Mary of Denmark Won't Have a Coronation Like King Charles Shortly into their conversation, Mary found out that she was talking to the Crown Prince of Denmark, heir to the 1,000-year-old Danish throne. "The first time we met, we shook hands," she said of their introduction. "I didn't know he was the prince of Denmark. Half an hour later, someone came up to me and said, 'Do you know who these people are?' " For a year, the pair got to know each other through a long-distance relationship that flew under the radar of the media. "She got to know and love Frederik as the man he is, not as the Crown Prince," Mary's friend Chris Meehan later told the authors of Mary, Crown Princess of Denmark. In 2002, Mary moved to Copenhagen, converted to the Lutheran Church and learned Danish, a notoriously tricky language to master. The couple announced their engagement in 2003 and married the following year at Copenhagen Cathedral. Crown Princess Mary's father, John, walked her down the aisle in a Scottish kilt. Mary's parents were Scottish but moved to Australia before her birth and while she spent most of her life in Australia, she also lived in Texas for a short time during her childhood! Crown Princess Mary, 51, and Crown Prince Frederik, 55, now have four children. Sean Gallup/Getty John Donaldson and Princess Mary on her wedding day in 2004 Related: Queen Margrethe, Prince Frederik and Princess Mary Step Out Together Following Change of Reign News Unlike King Charles last year, King Frederik and Queen Mary will not be crowned in a coronation service. Instead, a proclamation of the new reign will be made at Christiansborg Palace on Jan. 14. According to Royal Central, the prime minister has proclaimed each new monarch on the balcony of the Danish palace since the early 1900s. Queen Margrethe, 83, was announced as monarch in a similar proclamation on Jan. 14, 1972, following the death of her father, King Frederik IX. This month's change of reign will come on the 52nd anniversary of her accession. But since Queen Margrethe abdicated and the change of reign didn't come as a result of a death, it will be a much happier occasion. Queen Margrethe cited health concerns in her New Year's speech where she announced her abdication. "In February this year, I underwent extensive back surgery. Everything went well, thanks to the competent health personnel, who took care of me. Inevitably, the operation gave cause to thoughts about the future whether now would be an appropriate time to pass on the responsibility to the next generation," she said, per an English translation of the official speech transcription. "I have decided that now is the right time. On 14 January 2024, 52 years after I succeeded my beloved father, I will step down as Queen of Denmark. I leave the throne to my son Crown Prince Frederik." IDA MARIE ODGAARD/Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty Images Queen Margrethe, Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary on Jan. 3, 2024 There is speculation that the unexpected move came to bolster Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Marys bond amid gossip of an affair. In November 2023, reports swirled that Frederik was having an affair with Mexican-born socialite Geneveva Casanova after they were photographed together in Madrid. Casanova denied allegations of a romantic relationship with Frederik, and the royal couple continued to display a united front in recent months. Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more! Author and royal commentator Phil Dampier spoke to The Telegraph about Queen Margrethe's surprise decision. Its possible that the Queen took this action because she would have been terrified of the marriage breaking up and the royal family losing Mary. It would have caused major problems. The Queen has always seen Mary as a tremendous asset, Dampier said. Patrick van Katwijk/Getty Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary of Denmark in 2018 It just seems an extraordinary coincidence that she should make this unexpected announcement just a couple of months after stories emerged of the Crown Prince supposedly having an affair, the author added. In two weeks time, the prince and princess will be pitched together as king and queen and they will have to get on with it. The Queen may be thinking that they will patch up their differences and it will save their marriage. For more People news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on People. Sir Ephraim Mirvis, the Chief Rabbi, has denounced the use of the word 'genocide' to describe Israel's actions in Gaza - JAMIE LORRIMAN Campaigners have hijacked the term genocide to demonise Israel, in a moral inversion designed to tear open the still gaping wound of the Holocaust, the Chief Rabbi has said. In an article for The Telegraph ahead of Holocaust Memorial Day on Saturday Jan 27, Sir Ephraim Mirvis says the spurious allegation that Israel was perpetrating a genocide in Gaza was the ultimate demonisation of the Jewish state. He added that the misappropriation of the word genocide was an affront to the victims and the survivors of the Holocaust, and also to those of more recent genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur. It is a term deployed not only to eradicate any notion that Israel has a responsibility to protect its citizens, but also to tear open the still gaping wound of the Holocaust, knowing that it will inflict more pain than any other accusation, Sir Ephraim writes. It is a moral inversion, which undermines the memory of the worst crimes in human history. Sir Ephraim, who was born and educated in South Africa, cited the attempt by that countrys African National Congress government to bring a genocide case against Israel in the International Court of Justice as an example of increasingly frequent, disingenuous misappropriation of the term. His warning came amid fears that some bodies were coming under pressure to cite claims of a genocide in Gaza during their commemoration of Holocaust Memorial Day next Saturday. Protesters at a march in London carry banners accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza - HESTHER NG/STORY PICTURE AGENCY Last week, the Jewish Chronicle reported that an east London librarys display of books relating to the Holocaust appeared under a banner stating say no more genocide this Holocaust Memorial Day. The display was removed after a local resident complained. Meanwhile, activists disrupted a speech by David Lammy, the shadow foreign secretary, on Saturday, accusing the Labour frontbencher and his audience of supporting genocide because of the partys stance on Israel. Sir Ephraim said: We have watched in horror as people have rushed to invoke the crime of genocide some within days of Oct 7. Fringe academics and their partisan cheerleaders have selectively quoted Israeli politicians to paint a picture of a country bent on annihilation. The enthusiastic clamour by some to declare it as something which belongs in a different moral category to the many other just wars with horrific humanitarian consequences, represents a moral failure built upon a foundation of hatred and disinformation. Sir Ephraim cited the legal definition of a genocide as acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial or religious group. He added: It should be obvious that if Israels objectives were genocidal, it could have used its military strength to level Gaza in a matter of days. Instead, it is placing the lives of its own soldiers at risk in its ground operations, securing humanitarian corridors and providing civilians with advance notice of its operations, even to the detriment of its military objectives. 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. Recently, Taiwan conducted an election among three parties: the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), the Nationalist or Kuomintang Party (KMT), and the Taiwan Peoples Party (TPP). Lai Ching-te, of the DPP, won the presidency. China lobbied hard against Lai, the Vice President and a Harvard-educated medical doctor, close to the United States (U.S.), advocating the status quo and democracy, which means a de facto independence from China. What effect will this victory have? I hope, not much. James W. Pfister The other major player was Hou Yu-in, of the KMT, who advocated closer relations with China. The third player was Ko Wen-je of the TPP, who also has been described as China-friendly. Lai received 40 percent of the vote, Hou 33 percent, and Ko 26 percent. Thus, even though the independence-oriented Lai won the presidency, 59 percent of the vote was China-friendly. Also, Lais party lost its majority in the legislature. His agenda will be hamstrung by the DPP losing its majority in the legislature. The Kuomintangs ability to block Lai will make him look fragile to Beijing Lai, in his post-election comments, emphasized democracy saying the election was writing a new chapter in our democracy. We have shown the world how much we cherish our democracyTaiwan will continue to walk side by side with democracies from around the world. ... The Taiwanese people have successfully resisted efforts from external forces (i.e., China) to influence this election. These words by Lai were provocative regarding an authoritarian China and tracked nicely with U.S. foreign policy as being a democratic versus authoritarian approach to the world. Lai was challenging China and siding with the U.S. He went too far, I believe. We cannot let the tail wag the dog in the relationships among Taiwan, the U.S., and China. A vote in Taiwan cannot determine the future of Taiwan. It is a matter of international law and geopolitics. The U.S. recognizes Chinas sovereignty over Taiwan in the One-China policy. This is based on sound history. Chinas claim goes back to at least the 17th century. The U.S. fiction, after the Communist Party took over authority in 1949, that Taiwan (known then as Republic of China) was the government of all of China and Mongolia, with the Republic of China being the representative of China in the UN, was the reason Taiwan is not a part of China today. This fiction cannot be allowed to divert our perception of legal reality. Moreover, once President Carter recognized China in 1979, with Taiwan as part of it as a result of the Shanghai Communique by Nixon of 1972, the U.S. tried to have it both ways by passing the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979, whereby it arranged to provide Taiwan with military aid to defend itself. This was done under the leadership of the conservative Senator Barry Goldwater. But for the U.S. fictions and interference, Taiwan would no doubt be unified with China today. From a geopolitical perspective, Taiwan is a mere 100 miles off Chinas coast. As we move to a multipolar world, with China as a great power, the U.S. has no business operating right off of Chinas coast. Perhaps, China could agree not to operate in Cuba off the U.S. coast if the U.S. agrees to not operate in Taiwan. Regional balance of power may be the formula for peace in the coming multipolar world order. Taiwan is an attractive polity. According to Nicholas Kristof, who lived in Taiwan in the 1980s studying the Chinese language, and who has visited frequently, Taiwan is today a thriving democracy with a free press and excellent quality of life ... a first-rate national health system, legalized same-sex marriage and greatly expanded opportunities for women and girls, longer life expectancy than the United States, minimal homelessness, safe from crime ... with some of the best food in the world. It will be hard for the U.S. accept Taiwan becoming a physical part of authoritarian China, as has Hong Kong. But this is reality under the rule of law and as part of a multipolar world. The U.S. cannot control the whole world, and we do not need to risk a nuclear war to try. James W. Pfister, J.D. University of Toledo, Ph.D. University of Michigan (political science), retired after 46 years in the Political Science Department at Eastern Michigan University. He lives at Devils Lake and can be reached at jpfister@emich.edu. This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: James Pfister: Taiwans election, international law, and geopolitics During his travels from Pennsylvania to Indiana, John Chapman passed through many places and influenced many people. Better known as Johnny Appleseed, he spent significant time in Mansfield, living in and around here for about 20 years, between 1810 and 1830. Mark Bodanza has written a biography called "Johnny Appleseed: The Man Behind the Folklore." Readers can learn a lot more about the enigmatic figure in the book "Johnny Appleseed: The Man Behind the Folklore," by Mark Bodanza. Bodanza and Appleseed share the same hometown, Leominster, Massachusetts. Bodanza is a lawyer, author and city councilor. "Johnny Appleseed" is his 13th nonfiction book. "As a Leominster native, I felt a certain obligation to tell John Chapman's story," Bodanza said. "I have had a keen interest in history since grade school and have been vigorously pursuing that with writing and research over the last two decades." Bodanza said Appleseed's time in Mansfield coincided with the War of 1812. "He interacted with the natives," Bodanza said. "In at least a couple of cases, he warned the settlers of impending native attacks." Mansfield references included in biography of Johnny Appleseed Bodanza relayed a couple of Mansfield-centric anecdotes about Appleseed. When asked if people would have the same professions in heaven, Appleseed replied they would. A lawyer asked about his profession. "You guys don't go to heaven," Appleseed said. "You are mired in mud and get to sling it at each other for eternity." In another case, a traveling preacher asked for the location of the "barefoot Christian traveling to heaven." Appleseed, who was laying on a piece of timber, lifted his foot in acknowledgement. While Appleseed was considered a local hero, he was also a bit of an enigma, Bodanza said, adding nearly half of the nation doesn't even believe he existed. Appleseed was born on the eve of the American Revolution and was a man who heeded the westward call of the frontier. He set out on a mission that not only included propagating apple seedlings but also spreading deep-seated religious beliefs along with his mindful way of life. "Everything about Johnny Appleseed is not entirely clear," Bodanza said. "He's an enigmatic figure." The author said a 1948 Disney film popularized Appleseed. "I don't think he would have gotten as much publicity in modern times if not for that film," Bodanza said. Next year will mark the 250th anniversary of Appleseed's birth. Known for going barefoot, Appleseed lived the "simplest of lives." "He was the ultimate minimalist before the term was invented," Bodanza said. He said he didn't realize what a thoughtful and purposeful life Appleseed led. "It was difficult to capture in words," Bodanza said of trying to define Appleseed. "He can't been contained to one place. It's almost like he was a spirit." Johnny Appleseed Monument - South Park Appleseed recognized throughout area Appleseed has a historical marker in Mansfield at the intersection of Brinkerhoff Avenue and Summit Street. He is recognized in other area towns. In Wayne County, the village of Apple Creek holds a Johnny Appleseed Festival, scheduled this year for July 26-27. In Mifflin, just off Ohio 603 in Ashland County, sits the now-closed Johnny Appleseed Amphitheater. It opened in 2004 but closed the next year, in part, because of poor attendance for a play documenting Appleseed's life. "I'm truly happy I finally took on an examination of Chapman's life," Bodanza said. "It has a great deal of relevance to the times we live in and life generally. At the very least, Johnny Appleseed will always speak to us about introspection and the world around us." Bodanza's biography is available on Amazon and the Barnes & Noble website by searching the author's name. "Johnny Appleseed: The Man Behind the Folklore" is also available at bodanza.com. mcaudill@gannett.com 419-521-7219 X (formerly Twitter): @MarkCau32059251 This article originally appeared on Mansfield News Journal: Johnny Appleseed biography reveals folk hero's ties to Mansfield OH Its a big year for Angelina Jolie and estranged ex Brad Pitts daughter Shiloh! She turns 18 on May 27, 2024, and sources say she has a big decision to make. According to Hello! US, per MSN, Shiloh will likely be deciding to go to college this year! Her older sibling Maddox, 22, studied at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea, and her sister Zahara, 19, attends Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia. (In November 2023, Jolie and Pitts daughter Zahara was inducted in the HBCUs Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority!) Does this mean Shiloh will choose somewhere far from home to further her education? Only time will tell! More from SheKnows LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA OCTOBER 18: (L-R) Maddox Jolie-Pitt, Vivienne Jolie-Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Zahara Jolie-Pitt, Shiloh Jolie-Pitt and Knox Jolie-Pitt attend the Los Angeles Premiere of Marvel Studios Eternals on October 18, 2021 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic) Of course, she may decide to forgo college to focus on her career instead. Shes already made her mark as a dancer, and insiders told Us Weekly, [Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt] have no issue if she wants to turn pro, but theyre not pushing it on her by any means. Shes also had cameos in her parents film, including an uncredited role in Curious Care of Benjamin Button. But it seems like acting is not her calling, as Jolie once shared her daughters reaction when she asked her to play the child role of Aurora in Maleficent in an interview with Elle, I asked Shiloh about being Aurora, and she laughed in my face. She said shed be a horned creature. She has her own personality, and shes not going to do anything she doesnt want to do! LONDON, ENGLAND OCTOBER 27: (L to R) Shiloh Jolie-Pitt, Zahara Jolie-Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Vivienne Jolie-Pitt, Maddox Jolie-Pitt and Knox Jolie-Pitt attend the Eternals UK Premiere at the BFI IMAX Waterloo on October 27, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Tim P. Whitby/Getty Images) Jolie and Pitt also share kids Pax, 19, and twins Knox and Vivienne, 15. The duo started dating in 2005 and got married in 2014, splitting two years later. Since then, they have been in an ongoing, messy legal battle over custody of their kids and their properties. The Salt star seems focused on her kids. She told PEOPLE in 2021, Theyre pretty great people. And because theres so many of them, I think theyve had a very significant effect on each other. Its not like Im the head of anything. Im very honest with my kids. And Im very human with my kids. Angelina Jolie's kids gave her the sweetest sign of support! https://t.co/7171hgRlaF SheKnows (@SheKnows) October 21, 2023 She continued, I have six very individual human beings in my home. I am so excited about all the different stages and feelings and curiosities that they go through. Why wouldnt you be? Were supposed to help them figure out who they are. And you cant figure out who they are if you dont enthusiastically develop with them. Something tells us, no matter what Shiloh decides to do, her parents will be her biggest supporters. Angelina Jolie is a mom of six and the way she dotes on her kids is adorable! Best of SheKnows Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended his presidential campaign on Sunday, posting a video on X saying he could not ask his campaign staffers to give their time "without a clear path to victory." "It's clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance," DeSantis said. He added that he had signed a pledge to support the eventual nominee. As he left the race, DeSantis took a parting shot at opponent Nikki Haley. Trump, he said in his video, "has my endorsement because we can't go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents." Who's running for president? Soon after DeSantis announced he was dropping out of the race, Haley told reporters, "He's been a good governor and we wish him well," and noting that the race is now down to "one fella and one lady," she added, "May the best woman win." Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis greets supporters at his caucus night event on January 15, 2024 in West Des Moines, Iowa. / Credit: Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images After placing a distant second in Iowa, losing to former President Donald Trump by 30 points, DeSantis has failed to articulate his path to the nomination and what states he would be able to win against Trump, dropping out of the race two days before the New Hampshire primary. He had invested large amounts of time and money in trying to win Iowa, as he and his super PAC bet that an aggressive approach of retail politics and building a ground game operation would result in an upset or a closer race. On the campaign trail, DeSantis, 45, pitched himself as a more effective figure to implement some of Trump's policies on immigration or curbing government spending, and that Trump's legal cases could cost Republicans the White House in a general election. DeSantis' record in Florida was an anchor of his candidacy, often pointing to his response during the COVID-19 pandemic and legislative record on taxes, his handling of the state's budget taxes and his six-week abortion ban. He pointed to his 20-point re-election win in Florida as a data point of electoral success he'd have as the Republican nominee. But since his glitchy launch on X (formerly Twitter) "spaces" in May 2023, DeSantis' campaign had struggled to create a convincing argument for voters to pick him over Trump. He saw his polling gap with Trump in the early states widen as the former president went on the attack against him, claiming he was disloyal and disparaging him "DeSanctimonious." Trump's campaign and allies spent millions on anti-DeSantis ads and trolled him on his personality, his footwear and internal dysfunction with his campaign. His campaign appeared to be overspending early on, straining its financial resources and cutting staff heading into fall of last year. The campaign struggled to generate high fundraising numbers throughout the campaign especially as Haley won support from GOP donors looking for a non-Trump candidate. Throughout his run, a pro-DeSantis super PAC, "Never Back Down," had an outsized role not traditionally seen in presidential campaigns, running the grassroots operations and door knocking in the early states. The super PAC hosted DeSantis as a "special guest" for a majority of his campaign events because his presidential campaign was low on funds. Never Back Down saw a high-profile turnover of leadership in November and December, after conflicts over advertising strategy, increased involvement on the PAC's board from DeSantis loyalists from Tallahassee, and overall frustration with the governor's position in the polls. Legally, campaigns and super PACs cannot coordinate because super PACs are not subject to any fundraising limits. The heavy involvement by Never Back Down prompted a formal complaint to be filed by the Campaign Legal Center. While DeSantis argued that he could whittle the race down to a two-person matchup against Trump, DeSantis failed to establish himself as the clear Trump alternative, especially as Haley saw a rise in the polls in Iowa and New Hampshire after her strong debate performances in the late summer and fall. Asked in January on New Hampshire radio whether he believes he should have waited until 2028 when he likely wouldn't be facing Trump to launch a run, DeSantis replied, "I don't know what [20]28 is gonna look like. I may not have the calling then. I had the calling now. I think the party supporting me would lead to great results over an eight year period." "Obviously with Trump in, it's more difficult," he added. Nidia Cavazos contributed to this report. Bishop Gene Robinson: "God called me out of the closet" How Ozempic, other weight-loss drugs are "changing medicine" Basketball coach's exuberant celebration of son's scoring shot goes viral Russia's elite paratroopers and marines are refusing orders to launch 'human wave attacks,' Ukraine official says Elite Russian troops are refusing to launch "human-wave attacks," a Ukrainian official said. Nataliya Humenyuk said marines and paratroopers are concerned over huge losses in the assaults. She said former prisoners and poorly trained reservists typically carry out costly frontal assaults. Russian marines and paratroopers are refusing to launch certain types of assaults due to concerns over the huge losses other troops are suffering, a Ukrainian official said, the Kyiv Post reported . Nataliya Humenyuk, a press secretary for the Armed Forces of Ukraine's Joint Command South, said that the soldiers considered "themselves 'elite troops'" and did not "want to go into frontal assaults" that former felons and reservists typically carry out, the outlet reported. Throughout the Russian invasion, Russia has become increasingly reliant on high-risk frontal assaults involving waves of attacks that probe Ukrainian positions and seize small portions of territory at the cost of substantial casualties. The leader of the mercenary Wagner Group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, who died in a plane crash last August after leading a failed mutiny in June, described the tactic as a "meat grinder." Humenyuk cited Russian attacks on Krynky in the Kherson Oblast in southern Ukraine, saying that Russian troops assaulting Ukrainian marine positions there were being hit with losses of more than 50%. "At present in our sector the number of units of the type 'Shtorm-Z' [low-grade Russian units made of up older reservists and former felons, often committed to carry out human wave attacks] is falling and we are seeing more naval infantry and paratroopers," Humenyuk said. "But they consider themselves 'elite troops,' and they don't want to go into frontal assaults like that," she added. One of Russia's newly formed paratrooper units, the 104th Guards Airborne Division, appeared to be hit particularly hard in its combat debut in the Kherson region late last year, the UK Ministry of Defence said in an update on the conflict in December. It said the unit "highly likely suffered exceptionally heavy losses and failed to achieve its objectives during its combat debut in Kherson Oblast," aimed at dislodging Ukrainian positions near Krynky. Krynky has been the scene of heavy fighting over the past few months as Ukrainian forces have attempted to recapture ground across the Dnipro River. A group of Ukrainian marines sail from the riverbank of Dnipro at the frontline near Kherson, Ukraine, in 2023. AP Photo/Alex Babenko Conditions in the region have made fighting difficult for both sides, with marshes, water-filled bomb craters, and mud making it almost impossible for troops to dig in, The New York Times reported. Despite Ukrainian officials' claims that the country's marines had gained ground on the eastern side of the river, soldiers and marines told The Times that this was an exaggeration. "There are no positions. There is no such thing as an observation post or position," Oleksiy, a soldier who fought in Krynky and only gave his first name, said. "It is impossible to gain a foothold there. It's impossible to move equipment there." "It's not even a fight for survival," he added. "It's a suicide mission." But its success in the skies above the Dnipro bolstered Ukraine's difficult position on the ground. Russia appears to be struggling to defend against Ukraine's drone attacks because of a shortage of electronic-warfare capability in the area, the UK's Ministry of Defence said. Ukraine's forces have been using first-person-view drones to strike Russian vehicles, the UK Ministry of Defence said in an intelligence update . The ministry said that a Russian military blogger estimated that 90% of Russian military equipment deployed around Krynky has been destroyed. Read the original article on Business Insider The Duchess of York's skin cancer diagnosis comes just six months after she underwent a mastectomy - Violeta Sofia Sarah, Duchess of York has been treated for an aggressive form of skin cancer, just six months after she was diagnosed with breast cancer. The Duchess, 64, underwent a single mastectomy and breast reconstruction surgery last summer. But when she had further reconstruction surgery last month, medics removed several moles, one of which was found to be a malignant melanoma. Despite the double health shock, the resilient Duchess is said to be in good spirits and determined to plough on. She is undergoing further tests to check that the cancer was caught in the early stages and has not spread to other parts of her body. The news comes as the King prepares to undergo treatment for an enlarged prostate and the Princess of Wales recovers from major abdominal surgery. A spokesman for the Duchess said: Following her diagnosis with an early form of breast cancer this summer, Sarah, Duchess of York has now been diagnosed with malignant melanoma. Her dermatologist asked that several moles were removed and analysed at the same time as the Duchess was undergoing reconstructive surgery following her mastectomy, and one of these has been identified as cancerous. Recuperation The Duchess received the diagnosis just days after Christmas. Since then, she has spent time recuperating at the MAYRLIFE clinic, a medical spa in Austria. The clinic, which is nestled on the shores of Lake Altaussee, offers various health programmes and attracts wealthy A-list stars. Major Ronald Ferguson, the Duchesss father, had been diagnosed with skin cancer just months before his death in March 2003 and had planned to undergo chemotherapy. He also had prostate cancer although he died of a heart attack. The Duchess on her wedding day with her late father - PA Four years earlier, in October 1999, Carolyn Cotterell, the Duchesss closest friend and flatmate, died from skin cancer. Princess Beatrice, the Duchesss eldest daughter, is patron of the British Skin Foundation and has worked with skin cancer patients. The Duchesss spokesman said: She is undergoing further investigations to ensure that this has been caught in the early stages. Clearly, another diagnosis so soon after treatment for breast cancer has been distressing but the Duchess remains in good spirits. The Duchess wants to thank the entire medical team which has supported her, particularly her dermatologist whose vigilance ensured the illness was detected when it was. She believes her experience underlines the importance of checking the size, shape, colour and texture and emergence of new moles that can be a sign of melanoma. The Duchess Of York with her late friend Carolyn Cotterell, who died of skin cancer - Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images The spokesman told The Telegraph that the Duchess was very resilient and determined to carry on, despite everything that had been thrown at her. She is being treated by Dr Andrew Furness, consultant medical oncologist at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London, and Catherine Borysiewicz, consultant dermatologist at the King Edward VII Hospital in London. The cancer news comes as the Duchess has enjoyed something of a public comeback in recent months, having won plaudits for speaking openly about her breast cancer diagnosis and encouraging other women to get themselves checked. The Duchess admitted during an appearance on ITVs Loose Women in November that she still sometimes woke in a panic during the night believing that she might develop cancer somewhere else. Im getting over that but its only been a few months since Ive had the operation, so Im just beginning to sit up straight, she said of her original surgery. Your mind goes into, Oh my god Ive got to have a mastectomy, and you look it up and its all so terrifying and this is whats going to happen and then Im not going to see my grandchildren grow up. Thats what goes through your head its that feeling of demise. Princess Beatrice is patron of the British Skin Foundation and has worked with skin cancer patients. - REUTERS/Hollie Adams That month, she is also said to have impressed ITV bosses after co-hosting and guest-editing an episode of This Morning. The Duchess appeared on the daytime show as an agony aunt, telling viewers she was there to answer any questions about love and relationships and having hard times. Speaking to two callers during the segment, she suggested they reignite their spark by spicing things up in the bedroom with some lovely saucy underwear. Last month, she was permitted to join the Royal family on the traditional Christmas Day walk to church at Sandringham. It was the first time in more than 30 years that the Duchess had been allowed to join the high-profile outing and was considered a clear sign that she had been welcomed back into the fold by the King. The monarch, 75, is said to appreciate the loyalty she has shown to her ex-husband, the Duke of York, with whom she still lives at Royal Lodge in Windsor. She continued to champion him throughout the fallout from the Jeffrey Epstein scandal as he faced a civil lawsuit from victim Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual assault, and was stripped of his honorary military titles and patronages. 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. Likely Republican nominee has vowed 'retribution' for his political enemies, and Colorado may top the list The findings come amid calls in Britain to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill adults from politicians and celebrities such as Dame Esther Rantzen (pictured) - ViacomCBS / Photographer Dave King Euthanasia deaths in Europe and Canada have leapt by almost a quarter in just 12 months, raising fears that legalising assisted dying in the UK will become a slippery slope leading to more and more people choosing to die. Once the taboo is broken, regulations are often later relaxed further to allow patients with mental health issues, autism, and even children, to choose to die, campaigners have warned. The 23 per cent hike is part of a trend of rising popularity in the three countries since it was legalised, according to the Sunday Telegraphs analysis of the latest available data. Deaths doubled over past 5 years in Canada Deaths doubled over the past five years in Canada, which legalised in 2016, Belgium, and the Netherlands, which both legalised in 2002. 24,927 people died by euthanasia in 2022 in Canada, Belgium and the Netherlands which is a 113 per cent increase from 2017 when 11,729 deaths were recorded. The findings come amid calls in Britain to legalise assisted dying for terminally ill adults from politicians and celebrities such as Dame Esther Rantzen, who has revealed she has joined Dignitas. Assisted dying involves giving patients the means to kill themselves, usually lethal drugs, while euthanasia is carried out by a doctor, usually by lethal injection. In Canada, which legalised euthanasia in 2016, cases jumped by an astonishing 30 per cent last year and have more than quadrupled since 2017. Some 13,241 people were killed by doctors in 2022, the equivalent of 4.1 per cent of all deaths in Canada for that year. In 2021, the law was widened to include serious and chronic physical conditions, even if they were not life threatening, after being initially offered only to the terminally ill. Chef Tracey Thompson, 55, applied to be euthanised after being left unemployed, and bedridden by long Covid in December last year. Netherlands first country to legalise euthanasia The Netherlands was the first country to legalise euthanasia in 2002. Euthanasia is only legal under certain conditions, including having an incurable illness causing unbearable physical or mental suffering. In April last year, the Dutch government announced it would widen its right to die laws to include terminally ill children between one and 12 years old. But numbers rose by almost 14 per cent in 2022, equivalent to one in 20 deaths in the Netherlands. Twenty-nine couples were killed together among the 8,720 people killed, usually by lethal injection. 115 people with severe psychiatric illness were helped to die. In recent years five people younger than 30 with autism were euthanised. Belgian law dictates that a patient must experience unbearable suffering as the result of an incurable illness and make repeated and considered requests for euthanasia before it is granted. 2.5 per cent of deaths in Belgium last year involved euthanasia, with almost 3,000 people undergoing the deadly procedure, an increase of almost 10 per cent compared to 2021 and 28 per cent since 2017. Among them was a 23-year-old woman who survived the 2016 terror attacks on Brussels who was euthanised after years suffering from PTSD and depression. Shanti De Corte was 17 when Islamic State terrorists detonated bombs at Zaventem airport. Although she escaped physically unharmed, she suffered from anxiety and panic attacks and twice tried to take her own life. Colombia and Luxembourg legal for over half decade Colombia and Luxembourg have also had legal euthanasia for more than half a decade. 133 people died in the two countries, an increase of 12 per cent on 2021. Euthanasia is also legal in Spain, where 180 people died in 2022 during the first year the law came into force. Portugal has legalised euthanasia, which is also now allowed in some Australian states, but the law has not yet entered into force. In the United States, euthanasia is not legal but assisted dying, when patients are provided with the means, usually lethal drugs, to kill themselves, is in five states. Assisted dying is also legal in Switzerland, home to the Dignitas clinic, which now has record numbers of British members, and New Zealand after a referendum in 2020. Across Oregon, California and Washington, assisted suicides have increased by at least 57 per cent. In California, they more than doubled from 423 in 2018 to 853 in 2022. When it comes to euthanasia, the slippery slope is not hypothetical, said Robert Clarke, who was lead counsel on the landmark Mortier case against Belgiums euthanasia laws at the European Court of Human Rights, which ended with a ruling that they violated the right to life. We see two things happen in every jurisdiction that has gone down this road. The numbers go up almost every single year. And there is pressure to expand the qualifying conditions, the director at legal advocacy organisation ADF International said. Warning to those pushing for change of law in UK Dr Gordon Macdonald, CEO of Care Not Killing, said the massive increase in the numbers of people who are being euthanised should be a warning to those pushing for a change in the law in the UK. Dignity in Dying campaigns for assisted dying in the UK, which would only be open to terminally ill adults with the mental capacity to make the choice and be alongside access to high quality end of life care. Chief executive Sarah Wooten said it was expected that numbers would increase as more people became aware of assisted dying and more clinicians were trained. Even so, the percentage of overall deaths that are assisted in these countries remains low; under 1 per cent in many areas of the US and Australia, she said. Ms Wootton said What we cannot lose sight of is the devastating reality of the UKs own outdated laws. Every year thousands suffer as they die despite end of life care and hundreds of terminally ill people take their own lives, often alone, using violent methods. She added, The next Government must allow a free vote and make time for assisted dying. Assisted dying is a movement whose time has come. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer. A Ukrainian rescuer stands next to a residential building partially destroyed as a result of a missile attack in Kharkiv on Wednesday. At least 17 people were wounded in Russian strikes on residential buildings in the city center on Tuesday, the regional governor said. Our directory features more than 18 million business listings from across the entire US. However, if we're missing your business, add your business by clicking on Add Your Business. SEWARD Sen. Jana Hughes recently sat down with the News-Times over coffee in Seward to discuss some of her goals for the Unicamerals 60-day legislative session, which started on Jan. 3 and will last until mid April. Hughes said that after a historically tense session last year, in which debates about access to abortion and health care for transgender youth took up much of the 90 days, she said that she hoped that they will be able to start off and get in a rhythm. Weve never had the experience of what its supposed to be like, said Hughes, a sophomore senator from District 24, which includes York, Seward and Polk counties, as well as parts of Butler. One bill that Hughes is considering making her priority bill has received bipartisan support. Her bill to adopt the Prescription Drug Donation Program Act, for instance, has around 30 co-sponsors, drawing senators from both parties. The bill would make it legal for pharmacies in Nebraska to receive recycled medication from the Iowa-based nonprofit SafeNEtRX and distribute the medication to patients facing financial barriers. Currently, Nebraskans can donate unused medication to SafeNetRx, but pharmacies in Nebraska cannot receive the medication back after SafeNetRx has inspected it. Its definitely a bipartisan issue, Hughes said. Hughes pointed to other bipartisan moves. She has co-sponsored LB 952, a bill that would require Nebraska to enroll in the Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer program in Nebraska, which would use federal funds to provide meals in the summer to children in Nebraska. The bill would provide $18 million in benefits to children in Nebraska and cost the state about $300,000. Gov. Jim Pillen decided not to enroll Nebraska in the program in December, pointing to existing food programs for children in Nebraska and saying, I dont believe in welfare. To me its a no-brainer, Hughes said. She said that she is one of two Republican co-sponsors of LB 952. Weve already paid our federal taxes, she said. Plus, Hughes said, while existing in-person food programs may help children in Lincoln or Omaha, rural communities like the ones she represents in Seward and York do not have those same options for children in need of food. That does not work for rural, she said. Those programs are not out here. *** Hughes said that she is excited about some other bills to help children in Nebraska, such as LB 1178, a bill introduced by Sen. Anna Wishart of Lincoln, which would establish child care facilities at senior living homes. Hughes had floated this idea at a town hall meeting she hosted in York in October, when she said that Nebraska needed to pursue creative solutions to solve the lack of childcare availability. Another bill related to childcare, LB 856, introduced by Sen. John Frederickson of Omaha, would try to solve the need for more childcare workers by helping to pay for the childcare costs of childcare workers own children. Hughes said that she is in support of this bill and LB 889, which would create funding for rural workforce housing, arguing that both would benefit rural workforce development. Hughes has also introduced LB 899, which would allow all schools outside the Lincoln and Omaha Public School systems to suspend students in pre-kindergarten through second grade. While elementary schools were historically able to suspend students in those grades, last year the legislature passed a bill which prohibited all elementary schools in Nebraska from doing so. These little schools dont have the staff and support that these bigger schools have, Hughes said, saying that there have been cases in York and Milford Public Schools of very young students acting violently and having to be removed from the school buildings. I just dont want to handicap our teaching staff from not having the tools necessary to figure out a plan to bring that kid back into schools safely for other students and for staff, Hughes said. York Public Schools Superintendent Mitch Bartholomew said that York Elementary School has a positive behavior intervention system in place and suspension was a last resort in the past, when it was allowed. Still, Bartholomew said, if the behavior was violent or extreme, York Elementary has suspended students in the past. Bartholomew said that in 2022-2023, before the prohibition came in place, three students out of around 362 students in pre-kindergarten to second grade were suspended. In most cases this is a half day to two days, Bartholomew said. As of now, YPS supports Hughes suspension bill, Bartholomew said, though they would continue to monitor it in case any amendments are added. Hughes has also introduced other legislation aimed at children in Nebraska. Hughes LB 1296 would ban the sale of vapes in Nebraska that have not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The bill would also ban all online sales of vapes regardless of FDA approval in Nebraska. Weve got a huge problem with kids vaping, she said. Hughes said that according to the Attorney Generals office, about 20% of vape sales in Nebraska are done online. Hughes could not provide data showing the rate of online vape sales among children. *** Hughes is also currently a co-signer of Sen. Kathleen Kauth of Omahas controversial LB 575, which would require transgender students to use locker rooms according to their biological sex and participate in school teams based on biological sex, overriding the Nebraska School Activities Associations current policy regarding transgender student-athletes and removing control over bathroom policies from school districts. Last year, Hughes signaled that she was distancing herself from the bill, telling the Nebraska Examiner in June, 2023 that she supported local control of the issue, which would mean leaving it up to the schools to decide on bathroom policies and letting NSAA decide policies about student-athletes. But on Monday, although Hughes reiterated that she was in favor of local control, she declined to say whether or not she planned to withdraw her co-sponsorship of the bill. I dont know where Im at with it, Hughes said, adding that she was still learning about the issue. Last year, Hughes voted in favor of LB 574, which was the subject of a filibuster, and ultimately put in place a 12-week abortion ban and restricted access to gender-affirming surgery for transgender youth. Among other topics, Hughes also discussed ongoing complaints from incarcerated individuals about the water at Nebraskas only womens prison. The complaints about the water and its health effects stretch back nearly a decade. Hughes said that she did not plan to bring any legislation about the womens prison, which is in her district, but emphasized that we do need safe drinking water for all Nebraskans and that includes anyone that is in our prisons. In response to a question about whether or not she planned to support Sen. Loren Lippincott of Central Citys recent proposal to execute individuals on death row by asphyxiating them with nitrogen gas, Hughes said she had no plans to support it, adding, I am pro life and that means I dont believe in the death penalty either. Hughes, who voted in favor of a 12-week abortion ban last year, said that she would consider supporting a bill from Sen. Merv Riepe of Omaha, which would allow abortions after 12 weeks in cases of fatal fetal anomalies. LINCOLN Lawyers for several Nebraska state agencies contended Friday that Governor Jim Pillen's administration did not violate an order by terminating remote work arrangements for employees. A Lancaster County District Court judge heard arguments from the state and Nebraska's largest state employee union in a case involving Gov. Jim Pillen's return-to-office directive. The state Commission on Industrial Relations had ordered a pause in Pillen's directive while the matter was litigated, but the state's Revenue and Health and Human Services departments still sent emails to employees requiring them to work from the office. The Nebraska Association of Public Employees then went to court and asked that the state be held in contempt for a "willful violation" of the CIR order. Judge Andrew Jacobsen did not issue a decision Friday. The dispute began with Pillens Nov. 13 executive order requiring state employees to return to working in their offices, effective Jan. 2. The order called for employees to work in their offices from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, with some exceptions. After attempting to bargain over the issue, the union asked the state labor commission last month to put Pillen's executive order on hold temporarily. The CIR is designed to resolve labor disputes involving state and local government employees. Nebraska law bars such employees from going on strike. The commission granted the delay in a Dec. 29 order, calling on state agencies to maintain the status quo for now. That meant the current mix of in-office, at-home and hybrid work arrangements was to continue for the more than 8,000 state employees covered by the NAPE contract. Instead, HHS and Revenue officials told workers that their remote or hybrid work agreements were terminated and they had to work from the office. NAPE Executive Director Justin Hubly said this affected dozens of state employees and caused problems during the winter storms over the last two weeks. Despite hazardous travel conditions, Hubly said, employee were forced to decide between going into work or taking vacation time. CIR officials have said the state violated their order when the departments ordered workers return to the office, saying the order left "no doubt" that the remote work status of union members "was not to be altered during the pendency of this case." Attorney Mark Fahleson, who represented the state in Friday's hearing, disputed this. He argued that the CIR order only paused Pillen's executive order, but did not apply to any remote work policies in place prior to the order. He claimed those policies give agency leaders the authority to decide where state employees work. "Those policies generally are pretty clear that (remote work) is a privilege, not a right," Fahleson said. Jason Jackson, Pillen's chief human resources officer, said Friday in court that this was his interpretation of the CIR order and said it was always the state's intent to follow the order. He said he relayed this interpretation to agency heads in various meetings in December and January, although he did not specifically advise them on how to implement the order in their respective offices. Hubly said the state's interpretation ignores a crucial part of the CIR order which mandated that the application of work policies must be maintained. "Just because you follow an order 98% doesn't mean you're 100% in compliance," Hubly said. World-Herald staff writer Martha Stoddard contributed to this report. New Delhi: CEO Sanjay Shah of U.S.-based software firm Vistex lost his life during a mishap at the Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad. The incident occurred during the company's Silver Jubilee program, where Shah and President Raju Datala were involved in an accident, resulting in severe injuries. The tragic incident has left the other executive in critical condition. Here are the details of the unfortunate incident. (Also Read: Donations For Ram Mandir Now Eligible For Income Tax Deduction) Accident Details During the Silver Jubilee program, CEO Sanjay Shah and Chairman Raju Datala were standing in a metal cage that was supposed to be lowered from a height. (Also Read: LIC Unveils Jeevan Dhara II: Check Benefits, Features, And More) While the cage was descending, a supporting chain broke, causing both individuals to fall from a height of over 15 feet onto a concrete stage. Shah lost his life in the incident, and Datala sustained serious injuries. About Sanjay Shah Sanjay Shah, the founder, CEO, and Chief Architect of Vistex, originally from Mumbai, played a crucial role in establishing the company as a leader in the industry. Under his leadership, Vistex experienced significant growth. Shah was also actively involved in charitable activities through the Vistex Foundation, focusing on health, education, and basic needs. About Raju Datala Raju Datala, Chairman of Vistex, has been associated with the company since 2000. He is credited with shaping and expanding the firm's solution delivery capabilities. Vistex: A Brief Overview Vistex, headquartered in Illinois, specializes in revenue management solutions and services. With over 20 offices worldwide and 2,000 employees, the company serves major brands such as GM, Barilla, and Bayer. The mishap took place in the presence of approximately 700 employees during the Silver Jubilee program. New Delhi: The resonance of the Pran Pratishtha Ceremony, marking the inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has transcended national boundaries captivating the hearts of people around the world. As the ceremony unfolds, the global community has eagerly joined in the celebration demonstrating a remarkable display of cross-cultural unity and shared enthusiasm. The globe is on the verge of witnessing a significant event on January 22, 2024, signaling the inauguration of the Ram Mandir. Devotees of Lord Ram globally are preparing to celebrate a momentous occasion following a 500-year struggle as the cherished dream of constructing the Rama temple is on the brink of realization. Here is a list of the most captivating events around the world: -Paris: Ram Rath Yatra In Paris, the celebration of the Ram Mandir inauguration includes a special event known as the "Ram Rath Yatra." Organized by a Hindu group in the country, this yatra is a procession that aims to celebrate the glory of Shri Rama. Scheduled for January 21st, the yatra is set to commence at 12:30 pm from Place de La Chapelle and will conclude at Place de Trocadero around 3 pm. -USA: Car Rally In USA, the Hindu American community organized a large-scale car rally in Houston making stops at 11 temples along the way. Nearly 500 enthusiastic riders carrying saffron banners covered the distance while singing bhajans and chanting 'Jai Shri Ram.' They displayed an image of the Ram temple, along with the Indian and US flags. The procession, consisting of 216 cars formed a 3-mile-long line escorted by eight police officers on bikes. -New York: Live Telecast At Times Square The consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla is eagerly anticipated, and reports indicate that it will be livestreamed not only in Indian embassies worldwide but also at New York's Times Square. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address devotees of Bhagwan Ram both within India and abroad during this significant event. -Mauritius: To Light 'Diyas' In Mauritius, High Commissioner Haymandoyal Dillum has outlined exciting plans for the local community's participation in the Ram Mandir's inauguration. Mauritians are preparing to illuminate all the temples across the island with 'diyas,' or earthen lamps. Temple corridors will resonate with verses from the Ramayan during special 'Ramayan Path' sessions. High Commissioner Dillum shared that each temple will light a single 'diya,' and the 'Ramayan Path' will be recited throughout the day as part of the ceremonial activities. He further mentioned that this symbolic act not only enhances the spiritual ambiance but also underscores the cultural significance of the consecration ceremony for both India and the people of Mauritius. Taiwan: Ram Bhajan The Indian community in Taiwan is commemorating the pranpratishtha of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, scheduled for tomorrow on January 22, 2024. On the eve of this significant occasion, two events were arranged, one by the Indian diaspora in Taiwan and another by ISKCON Taiwan. Pran Pratishtha Celebrations In Various Nations Media reports and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) indicate that the consecration ceremony will be livestreamed in over 50 countries. In the United States, the livestream will be available at 300 locations, while in the UK, Australia, Canada, and Mauritius, it will be accessible at 25, 30, 30, and 100 locations. Representatives from fifty countries, such as the US, Canada, Germany, and Fiji, have received invitations to attend the grand occasion in Ayodhya. The Bihar School Examination Board (BSEB) has made available the download link for the BSEB 12th admit card 2024. This admit card is specifically for the Theory exams of Class 12th. School heads are directed by the Bihar board to download the admit cards and subsequently provide them to the students after signing and stamping the necessary details. The process for obtaining the BSEB 12th admit card 2024 involves school heads accessing the official website at seniorsecondary.biharboardonline.com. Schools are required to input their designated school login ID and password to enter the portal for the download. For students set to participate in the Bihar Board Inter exam 2024, it is essential to carry their admit cards to the examination center. Additionally, the BSEB instructs candidates to obtain their signed and stamped admit cards from the respective educational institutions and attend the examination as per the specified date and shift mentioned in the admit card. Importantly, the admit cards are issued exclusively for appearing in the theory subjects' examination, as clarified by the BSEB. BSEB Class 12 Admit Card 2024: Steps To Download Step 1: Visit the official website of the BSEB at seniorsecondary.biharboardonline.com Step 2: On the homepage, click on the Inter Admit Card 2024 link Step 3: A new page will open, enter the registration details of the students Step 4: Your BSEB Inter admit card will be displayed on the screen Step 5: Download and take a printout of the hall ticket for future reference The Inter exam admit cards for all streams have been released on January 20, and schools have been granted access to download them until January 31, as per the provided instructions. It is crucial for candidates to be aware that the admit cards are final, and no further modifications will be made. They have been issued based on corrections made on the dummy admit cards provided by the educational institution after the completion of the application process. The BSEB emphasizes that the validity of the admit card is restricted to candidates who have successfully cleared the screening examination, and those who did not pass the screening or sent-up examination will not receive the admit card under any circumstances. SBI Clerk 2024: The State Bank of India (SBI) is anticipated to release the SBI Clerk Prelims Result 2024 soon. The Prelims examination for SBI Clerks or Junior Associates was conducted on January 05, 06, 11, and 12, 2024. Aspirants can check their results on the official website, sbi.co.in, and access details such as SBI Clerk Prelims 2024 cut-off and expected result date. This recruitment drive by SBI advertised 8773 clerk vacancies. Successful candidates from the Prelims stage will proceed to the SBI Clerk Mains exam in 2023. The result announcement will also include cut-off marks, determining the passing status for candidates based on their respective categories. SBI Clerk Result 2024: Steps To Check Scorecard - Go to the official website of the State Bank of India (SBI) at www.sbi.co.in/web/careers. - On the homepage, link for the link that reads, Download SBI Clerk Result 2024. - Enter the login credentials such as registration number/Roll Number, and date of birth if required. - Your SBI Clerk Prelims Result 2024 will be displayed on the screen. - Download it and take a printout of it for future reference. SBI Clerk Result 2024: Marking Scheme Although SBI has not officially specified a date, the release of the Prelims result is anticipated this week, considering the expected Mains exam in February. SBI is likely to unveil both the Mains exam date and Prelims result simultaneously. Following the SBI Clerk marking scheme, candidates receive one mark for each correct answer, while there is a deduction of 1/4 marks for every incorrect response. New Delhi: With a few hours remaining in Ram Lalla's Pran Pratishtha ceremony, Ayodhya is all set to host Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is scheduled to perform rituals at the Ram Mandir on Monday. PM Modi will arrive in Ayodhya at 10:25 am to take part in the consecration ceremony of Ram Lalla's idol at the Ram Temple, which was installed at the sanctum sanctorum a few days ago. After reaching Ayodhya, the PM will arrive at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi at 10:55 am, and one hour from 11 am to 12 pm is reserved for him. At 12:05 pm, the consecration ceremony will commence, where PM Modi will perform rituals to mark the 'Pran Pratishtha'; a team of priests led by Lakshmikant Dixit will lead the main rituals. After the Pran Pratishtha ceremony concludes, the PM will depart from the temple premises to attend a public meeting in Ayodhya at 1 pm, following which he will visit Kuber ka Tila at 2:10 pm. Meanwhile, on Sunday the rituals prior to the grand consecration ceremony entered the sixth day, marking another significant step in the auspicious Pran Pratishtha event. The day commenced with the daily puja of the deities, a practice central to the ongoing Pran Pratishtha rituals. "Today's puja ritual started with the havan and the idol of Ram Lalla was kept in Madhyadhivas today. Night Jagran Adhivas will also start today itself. The worship of the old idol of Ram Lalla is also going on in the Yagyashala. The rituals of worship are being performed with various flowers procured from many places, including Chennai and Pune," the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra stated. New Delhi: As the nation eagerly awaits the momentous occasion of the 'pran-pratishtha' of the Lord Ram idol in Ayodhya on January 22, the excitement has taken hold across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the grand consecration ceremony of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir. Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Construction Cost The historic event will witness the participation of thousands of devotees. The construction of the Ram Mandir, estimated at Rs 1,800 crore, has been entrusted to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, created by the BJP-led Central government in February 2020. (Also Read: Ram Mandir: Top Business Tycoons Attending Pran Pratishtha In Ayodhya) Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Collection Of Funds Following the announcement of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust, its primary responsibility became the construction and management of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir. The trust initiated the collection of funds from pilgrims, individuals, and various organizations nationwide. (Also Read: Donations For Ram Mandir Now Eligible For Income Tax Deduction) Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Funding Details In October last year, the Central government granted permission to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust to receive funds from abroad to construct the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. The trust has since been actively gathering contributions. As of January 19, 2024, the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has amassed an impressive sum of over Rs 3500 crore in donations. Ayodhya Ram Mandir: Other Important Details The trust is responsible for both building and taking care of the temple. Prime Minister Narendra Modi started the big project by placing the first stone of the temple on August 5, 2020. Gratitude, a nonalcoholic bar set to open on Colorado Springs west side this spring, will offer an array of zero-proof drinks from beer and wine to specialty beverages such as Kava and handcrafted cocktails. Business partners Michele Garrett and Rob Templin IIIs personal recoveries from alcoholism and more than 40 years of combined work experience in the service industry spurred their desire to build a place that offers camaraderie in a nightlife atmosphere without alcohol. That place, soon to be the home of Gratitude, can be found at 2752 W. Colorado Ave., inside The Sluice, a multipurpose building in Old Colorado City that features a coffee shop, office/meeting space and art gallery. Husband and wife Ryan and Valerie Lloyd revamped what they named The Sluice in 2022, but a 1,400-square-foot portion of the buildings southwest corner remained mostly untouched. Garrett, 35, and Templin, 42, found the spot through a web of mutual connections after a deal at another location fell through. The two began leasing the space in July, but permit approvals took over five months to obtain before they could lay a finger on the structure. In the meantime, the business partners dreamed, planned and prepared how to transform the vacant venue into what Garrett defines as art-deco meets nature style bar. Its just been so well maintained and the people that own it are just fantastic, Garrett said. So, I mean you couldnt have asked for a better place for it to be. Christmas gifts arrived early in the form of permit approvals. For Garrett and Templin, that meant diving into hours of hard work tearing out plaster to uncover the buildings original stone wall. This wall is the oldest wall in the county, which has been really cool to work on, Garrett said, pointing to across the barren room. The bones of this place are very old. The buildings history goes back to the 1800s. However, instead of concealing underground tunnels thought to have been used for bootlegging, the space will be repurposed in hopes of hosting nonalcoholic revelry. Garrett envisions ornate glassware, curbside food trucks and rolling garage doors that open to the street patio at Gratitude and intends for it to be a meetup point, date spot or event venue for those who want to celebrate without booze. I wish that there was a place like Gratitude when I was getting sober, Garrett said. Because I didnt know anyone sober. In April 2020, as COVID-19 lockdowns gripped the country and the world, Garrett went into a lockdown of her own. She relegated herself to the walls of her bedroom, severing herself from alcohol and the life she had known along with it living in Denver and working at Our Mutual Friend Brewery. I went through, like the withdrawals and everything like that and came out ... on the other side, Garrett said, and my life is tremendously better. It wasnt until Garrett started down the road of alcohol recovery, which she has traveled for more than three years, that she started to realize how many other people were struggling with alcohol addiction or simply trying to cut it out of their life. And Garrett isnt the only one noticing it. Consumer research firm Nielsen IQ reported nonalcoholic beer, wine and spirits sales grew 31% in the U.S. during 2023 compared with 2022. Colorado was one of the top five states that account for 30% of the countrys nonalcoholic beer, wine and spirits sales. Denise Mickelsen, communication director at the Colorado Restaurant Association & Foundation, said establishments like Gratitude offer a unique experience to underserved community. Nonalcoholic cocktails are becoming more sophisticated and craft-oriented, Mickelsen said. With bartenders using as much creativity, effort and care in these sober offerings as possible. Emily Gradisar, founder and managing partner of Ethos, a community hub in Pueblo, strives for the same sort of thing at Ethos nonalcoholic Abstract Bar. Gradisar said Ethos has grown month-over-month since it opened in September. Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. We want to make things that people take a drink of, and they go, Oh, wow, thats wonderful, Gradisar said. At Gratitude, Garrett intends to focus on what she calls apothecary elixirs that include ingredients from cayenne pepper and blue lotus flower to rosemary and ginger. Most people will call them mocktails, Garrett said. I personally hate that word because mock tends to (mean) that its wanting to be something else ... we work really hard to handcraft these beverages. Among the drinks Gratitude plans to offer is kava, a perennial shrub native to the South Pacific islands, that when soaked in water and filtered can be drunk. While Colorado Springs is home to several Kava bars including Ohana Kava Bar, where Garrett and Templin met working together, their bar will feature Kava, but not focus on it. Classified as a food supplement in the U.S., according to federal law, Kava can produce the effects of mild euphoria and muscle relaxation. Thats why we consider ourselves a zero-proof bar, not a sober bar, Garrett said, Because we dont have alcohol in here but Kava to some people is not sobriety. CBD to some people is not sobriety. The discussion of what sober means is a question former nonalcoholic bar owner Billy Wynne ran into while operating Awake in Denver. Wynnes temporary closure of Awake in August 2022 became permanent because of the stress load. But Wynne said he learned a lot from the experience. There were lots of people in our customers audience who only wanted the 0.0 products that ... never had alcohol be a part of their production process, Wynne said. And we learned over time that we needed to be increasingly clear about which products were which. To label a product as nonalcoholic, in the U.S. food or beverages must contain only trace amounts of alcohol or less than 0.5% alcohol by volume. Since items such as ripe fruit, yogurt or vinegar can contain trace amounts, only food that contains no detectable alcohol can be labeled as alcohol-free, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Whatever menu options customers choose to order, Garrett wants those who walk in to feel comfortable gathering at Gratitude. Theres not very many places for people who dont drink to go to, Garrett said. And so my hope is that it is great for people who dont drink, for people who have partners or family members that dont drink, people who are curious ... anyone and everyone. With employees and customers being Gratitudes prime focus, Garrett said she and Templin made sure they could be the primary decision-makers for the bar by not seeking outside financial investors. For Garrett, that meant spending much of her personal savings on the project and Templin took out a loan against his house. It just feels like this is the accumulation of everything that Ive worked on, Garrett said. Working in the industry for so long its kind of like you never know what youre doing. Youre just like, well, I can make a lot of money bartending, or I can serve or whatever, and I finally feel like everything that Ive learned and have gone through has led me to this point where I can hopefully pass it on to someone else. Garrett and Templin intend to be the main operators of Gratitude, scaling employment as traffic ramps up. They also intend to sell items at Gratitude from local artisans including products made by Templins fiancee and Garretts mother, host movie nights and guest speakers in The Sluices community area and grow partnerships with other local organizations. Even though Gratitude will not open for at least several months, Garrett is hatching ideas for catering, pop-up events and nonalcoholic drink passports where customers can get discounts ordering nonalcoholic drinks at other Colorado Springs restaurants and bars. It might be an acquired taste, but Garrett believes Gratitude will be worth the wait. New Delhi: Delhi govt schools in the morning and general shifts will be shut and state government offices will be closed till 2.30 pm on the Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha day tomorrow. The Delhi government's Directorate of Education has issued an order to this effect, stating that the closure would enable the employees to participate in the celebrations of Ram Lalla 'Pran Pratishtha'. The Directorate of Education in the circular said, "In accordance with the Office Memorandum dated January 20, 2004 issued by the Services Department of GNCTD declaring Half Day Closure (upto 02:30 pm) of all Delhi Govt. establishments on January 22, 2024, to enable the employees to participate in the celebrations of Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha being held at Ayodhya, all Government and Government Aided Schools of Delhi running in General and Morning Shift are ordered to remain closed on January 22, 2024." The notice further said that however, all government and government-aided schools running in the Evening Shift shall start at 2:30 p.m. on January 22, 2024 and will be off as per their usual timings but not later than 05.30 p.m. Aam Aadmi Party will organise Shobha Yatra, Bhandaras, and Sunderkand recitals, among others, in the national capital on Monday to mark Pran Pratishtha of Ram Lalla, Delhi minister Saurabh Bharadwaj has said. The AAP MLA from Greater Kailash said that party legislators and workers will organise religious programmes at various places according to their personal capacity. "Delhi government has already announced a holiday for half day tomorrow. Several programmes are also being organised at temples. AAP MLAs will organise Bhandara (community fests), Shobha Yatra, Sunderkand tomorrow," Bharadwaj said. As per Dilip Pandey, AAP Delhi Vice President, on Monday, the party will organise Bhandaras in 44 out of 70 Assembly constituencies, Shobha Yatra to be taken out in four constituencies and Sunderkand recital programmes to be held in three constituencies. Meanwhile, the AAP government is also organising a three-day Ramlila event at Pearey Lal Bhawan in ITO that commenced on Saturday. "A very beautiful grand Ramlila programme has been organised at ITO. I was there yesterday. People are liking it very much, especially the elderly and women. Today, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will go there in the evening. Many of our party MLAs will also come (today)," the Delhi Tourism Minister said. The 'Pran Pratishtha' of Shri Ram Lalla at Ayodhya's temple will take place on Monday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will perform rituals to mark the 'Pran Pratishtha'; a team of priests led by Lakshmikant Dixit will lead the main rituals. Several celebrities and noted personalities have also been invited to the ceremony. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has advised Rahul Gandhi against undertaking his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra to Morigaon, Jagiroad on January 22. He said that the region comprises 60% Muslim and 40% Hindu population and is considered sensitive, especially on the day of the consecration ceremony of Lord Rama. CM Sarma emphasized the need for caution, citing the Nellie Massacre of 1983, and urged Gandhi to reconsider his travel plans. While assuring that the intention is not to obstruct Gandhi's journey, Sarma stated that if he still chose to visit the area, stringent security measures would be enforced commando deployment along the entire route which doesn't seem correct. The Chief Minister expressed concern about the potential repercussions, hinting that the Central Government may question why permission was granted for Rahul Gandhi's journey on a day significant for the sanctity of Lord Rama. "We will request Rahul Gandhi not to visit Batadrava on Monday during the consecration ceremony of the Ram Temple as it will reflect Assam in the wrong light," the chief minister said. Srimanta Sankardeva is an Assamese saint-scholar, social-religious reformer, poet, playwright and a towering figure in the cultural and religious history of Assam from the 15th-16th century. Live: Addressing Press Conference at Media Centre, Lok Sewa Bhawan, Dispur https://t.co/NQrec8k4WC Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) January 21, 2024 As Rahul Gandhi expressed his desire to visit the birthplace of Mahapurush Shrimant Shankar Dev Ji in Botodroba on January 22, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also urged him to differentiate between the sanctity of Lord Rama and Shrimant Shankar Dev Ji. Sarma advised Gandhi to visit the place either in the morning or evening and not at the time of the Ram Temple consecration event. He also said that while no official invitation has been extended to Rahul Gandhi for Shankar Dev Ji's birthplace, the decision to visit remains at Gandhi's discretion. Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi made allegations against the BJP-led government in Assam. He claimed that the government has been employing intimidation tactics to dissuade people from participating in the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra. Furthermore, Gandhi asserted that the authorities have been denying permissions for events along the yatra route. Addressing a large public gathering, Gandhi confidently declared that the people of Assam are not fearful of the BJP. Additionally, he expressed strong conviction that the Congress party is poised to secure substantial victories over the BJP in the upcoming elections, foreseeing a significant margin of success. In anticipation of events on January 22, the Assam government has announced the closure of all government educational institutions and liquor stores in the state. Additionally, a restriction has been imposed on the sale of fish and meat in stores until 4 p.m. on that day. Kerala Lottery Results Sunday 21-01-2024 Live: The Kerala lottery "AKSHAYA AK-635" Result, on behalf of the Kerala government, will be announced today, January 21, 2024, at Gorky Bhavan Near Bakery Junction in Thiruvananthapuram. The Kerala State Lotteries department, which releases the lottery in 12 series (subject to change), will draw the result. Each week, 108 lakh tickets are made available for purchase, and the series may vary. The first-place winner stands to receive a substantial 70 Lakh Rupees as the bumper prize. For those eagerly awaiting today's draw, the AKSHAYA AK-635 outcome for January 21, 2024, can be checked on this website. Stay tuned to ensure you don't miss the live results of Kerala Lottery AKSHAYA AK-635. Kerala Lottery Result 21-01-2024 Jan: FULL LIST OF WINNING NUMBERS FOR AKSHAYA AK-635 LOTTERY LUCKY NUMBER FOR 1ST PRIZE OF RS 70 LAKHS IS: AC 463774 LUCKY NUMBER FOR 2ND PRIZE OF RS 5 LAKHS IS: AB 228278 LUCKY NUMBERS FOR 3RD PRIZE OF RS 1 Lakh ARE: AA 669636 AB 918861 AC 614958 AD 855058 AE 310882 AF 190781 AG 608673 AH 492898 AJ 620875 AK 389147 AL 258756 AM 610009 LUCKY NUMBERS FOR CONSOLATION PRIZE OF RS 8,000 ARE: AA 463774 AB 463774 AD 463774 AE 463774 AF 463774 AG 463774 AH 463774 AJ 463774 AK 463774 AL 463774 AM 463774 (For The Tickets Ending with The Following Numbers below) LUCKY NUMBERS FOR 4TH PRIZE OF RS 5,000 ARE: 0798 1560 1681 1773 2541 2757 2906 3173 3908 4297 5867 6149 7125 7955 8288 8406 8645 9344 LUCKY NUMBERS FOR 5TH PRIZE OF RS 2,000 ARE: 0536 2820 4032 4091 4293 5022 9623 LUCKY NUMBERS FOR 6TH PRIZE OF RS 1,000 ARE: 0325 0522 0643 0914 1354 1704 1722 1757 2092 2391 2973 3348 3394 3901 3971 4358 5290 5541 5754 6043 6485 7164 8039 8623 8912 9113 LUCKY NUMBERS FOR 7TH PRIZE OF RS 500 ARE: 0022 0193 0294 0297 0513 0564 0697 0702 0708 1004 1019 1350 1359 1756 2001 2116 2464 2889 2896 2904 3042 3077 3133 3349 3551 3884 3983 3996 4589 4913 4987 5030 5041 5088 5295 5563 5572 5589 5831 5880 5998 6050 6201 6318 6360 6391 6519 6525 6826 6894 6992 7323 7690 7780 7905 7931 8011 8092 8268 8331 8549 8674 8742 8808 8963 8997 9097 9142 9214 9257 9350 9925 LUCKY NUMBERS FOR 8TH PRIZE OF RS 100 ARE: 0130 0146 0343 0481 0511 0652 0730 0807 0861 0998 1220 1291 1393 1451 1499 1562 1598 1628 1684 1763 1828 1921 1927 1988 2083 2227 2289 2290 2320 2494 2539 2618 2638 2646 2855 2933 2981 3019 3021 3159 3189 3335 3371 3406 3506 3575 3603 3844 3935 3954 3995 4126 4130 4311 4537 4569 4617 4628 4631 4721 4847 4864 4931 5162 5219 5246 5615 5873 5899 5945 5959 6038 6182 6209 6455 6463 6492 6575 6657 6816 6837 6915 7215 7273 7292 7332 7384 7396 7419 7429 7467 7479 7713 7718 7819 7916 7929 7935 7964 7985 7998 8047 8225 8272 8478 8657 8665 8681 8731 8833 8991 9004 9077 9162 9281 9288 9332 9464 9489 9653 9707 9738 9964 KERALA LOTTERY RESULT 21-01-2024 January TODAY: AKSHAYA AK-635 LOTTERY PRIZE DETAILS 1st Prize: Rs 70 Lakhs 2nd Prize: Rs. 5 lakhs 3rd Prize: Rs. 1 Lakh 4th Prize: Rs. 5,000 5th Prize: Rs. 2,000 6th Prize: Rs. 1,000 7th Prize: Rs. 500 8th Prize: Rs. 100 Consolation Prize: Rs. 8,000 (NOTE: Lottery can be addictive and should be played responsibly. The data provided on this page is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as advice or encouragement. Zee News does not promote lottery in anyway.) New Delhi: The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) stands as one of the most challenging examinations in India, demanding considerable dedication and perseverance for successful completion. Illustrating this tenacity is Kriti Agarwal, who, after three attempts, emerged triumphant in the NEET exam. Here's a glimpse into her journey to success. Kriti Agarwal's unwavering commitment and resilience paved the way for her achievements. Successfully clearing the medical entrance exam on her third try, she initially attempted the AIPMT in 2012, followed by NEET in 2013 and 2014. Despite qualifying in her first attempt, she fell short in the final round. Undeterred, Kriti persisted in her pursuit of success. Following a hiatus to refocus, Kriti took deliberate steps to eliminate distractions, such as disconnecting from social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp. She even intentionally severed ties with school friends on her mobile phone to maintain concentration. Kriti meticulously addressed her weaknesses, commencing with Physics and Chemistry. Devoting herself to daily practice of Physics questions and comprehensive test-taking, she exhibited an unwavering commitment. Her dedication extended to utilizing every available moment, studying while waiting for the bus or on the local train platform. Supported by understanding and encouraging parents, Kriti received the space she needed to concentrate on her studies. Recognizing her hard work, her parents refrained from disturbing her, allowing her the freedom to pursue her academic goals. A day ahead of the Pran Pratishta puja at Ayodhya Ram Temple, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will conclude his temple visits today in Tamil Nadu. PM Modi has been visiting temples linked to Lord Ram for the past few days. He started off from Maharashtra's Nashik and has visited Kerala and Andhra Pradesh as well. Today, Prime Minister Modi visited the Arichal Munai point, the point from where the Ram Setu was built. #WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Prime Minister Narendra Modi visits Arichal Munai point in Dhanushkodi, which is said to be the place from where the Ram Setu was built. pic.twitter.com/pj0yc5t6Fg ANI (@ANI) January 21, 2024 PM Modi also performed puja at Sri Kothandarama Swamy temple. The name Kothandarama means Rama with the bow. It is located in Dhanushkodi. It is said that this is where Ravana's brother Vibhishana first met Lord Ram and asked him for refuge. Some legends also say that this is the place where Lord Ram conducted the coronation of Vibhishana. Earlier yesterday, the Prime Minister visited Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple in Tiruchirappalli and Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram in the southern state. Blessed moments at the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. pic.twitter.com/0o0vrlOXUn Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 20, 2024 The idol of Lord Ram has been placed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple in Ayodhya. The idol of 'Ram Lalla' is carved by Mysuru-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj. The idol is 51 inches tall and weighs 1.5 tonnes. The idol portrays Lord Ram as a five-year-old child standing on a lotus also crafted from the same stone. Listening to verses of the Kamba Ramayan at the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is an experience I will cherish for my entire life. The fact that this is the very Temple where the great Kamban first publically presented his Ramayan makes it more noteworthy. pic.twitter.com/4Flcq5FlsH Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 20, 2024 Ahead of the much-anticipated 'Pran Pratishta' event in Ayodhya tomorrow, which is expected to draw nearly 8,000 VIP guests, the Uttar Pradesh police force has significantly enhanced security measures in the temple town. Additional Director General (ADG) Lucknow Zone, Piyush Mordia, stated that security patrols along the Saryu River are being conducted using boats, and aerial surveillance is being carried out through high-flying drones. Honoured to have got the opportunity to pray at the Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple. Prabhu Sri Rams connection with this Temple is long-standing. I feel blessed to have been blessed by the God whom Prabhu Sri Ram also worshipped. pic.twitter.com/0dLqTW3FeR Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 20, 2024 "Our police force has arrived in Ayodhya for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. Our Police force, which was to come to Ayodhya, has arrived and has also been deployed. The entire police force was briefed together again today. Briefing and debriefing sessions are being conducted daily with officers. Drones which have been deployed in the entire district are also being used for aerial surveillance. Patrolling on the Saryu River is being undertaken through boats," the senior police officer said. (With ANI inputs) Chandigarh: The political landscape in Punjab is witnessing a whirlwind of changes as the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Indian National Congress consider an unprecedented collaboration amidst the state's escalating political crisis. This potential alliance is stirring up a mix of optimism, scepticism, and outright opposition across the political spectrum. Backdrop Of Political Turbulence Punjab's political scene has been in a state of flux following a series of controversies and internal conflicts within major parties. The AAP, which made a significant impact in the last state elections, has been facing internal disagreements and leadership challenges. On the other hand, the Congress party, a longstanding political force in Punjab, has been grappling with its own set of leadership woes and factionalism. AAP-Congress Collaboration: A Strategic Move? The idea of AAP collaborating with Congress comes at a time when both parties are looking to consolidate their positions in Punjab. AAP's focus on anti-corruption and governance reforms resonates with a section of Punjab's electorate, while Congress, with its deep-rooted presence in the state, brings in a wealth of experience and a strong voter base. Political analysts suggest that this alliance could be a strategic move to counter the rising influence of other political entities in the state, particularly the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). By combining forces, AAP and Congress could present a formidable front in the upcoming elections. The potential for a coalition between political parties exists, yet it remains uncertain whether such an alliance will resonate with the electorate expressed Prof Jagroop Sekhon posits that a union of these two parties could significantly bolster the opposition's strength. He emphasizes that voters are not obligated to any party, suggesting a shift in their allegiance is possible. Sekhon notes a change in perception towards Kejriwal and Bhagwant Mann; they no longer hold the same esteemed status among voters as they once did. He also observes that the Aam Aadmi Party garnered a substantial portion of its votes from farmers following the Kisan Morcha (farmers' protest). It is now intriguing to speculate which direction the farmers' support will sway, especially considering their numerous protests against the Punjab government during its current term. Mixed Reactions The public opinion is equally divided. While some voters see this as a positive step towards a more stable and effective governance model, others are concerned about the ideological differences between the two parties. Conversely, opposition parties have criticized the move. A senior BJP leader Rajinder Mohan Chhina commented, "This would-be alliance is nothing but a desperate attempt to cling to power by compromising ideological stances." Challenges And Implications The road ahead for this alliance is fraught with challenges. The foremost concern is the blending of differing ideologies and political cultures. Furthermore, the decision-making process within this alliance will be under scrutiny, especially regarding candidate selections and policy formulations. How the two parties negotiate their power dynamics will be critical for the alliance's stability, is an unanswered question. Looking Ahead The coming weeks are crucial as both parties engage in deeper discussions and negotiations, potentially altering the state's political landscape in significant ways, especially in the wake of the forthcoming Lok Sabha Elections. New Delhi: Amid preparations for the grand inauguration of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya tomorrow, Monday, January 22, the entire nation finds itself caught up in various celebrations welcoming Lord Ram in diverse ways. However, amidst the festive atmosphere, social media platforms are abuzz with a viral claim that has turned out to be nothing more than a hoax. What Is The Viral Message/Claim? A WhatsApp user, shared a link, making a bold assertion. The message claimed, "Ram Mandir Offer: In celebration of the establishment of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on January 22, Modi and Yogi are offering a free recharge of Rs 749 to the entire nation. Click on the link below in the blue color and recharge your number now." (Also Read: Ayodhya Ram Mandir Inauguration: Check If Your Bank Is Open On January 22) Despite the enticing offer, our investigation revealed that the claim of free recharge was indeed fake. (Also Read: Small Savings, Big Return: You Can Make Upto Rs 1 Crore Fund With Just Rs 170 Daily Savings -- Here's How) Verifying Facts To ascertain the truth behind this viral post, we conducted keyword searches on Google. However, no information related to the promised free recharge was found. Further checks on the official website and social media accounts of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) yielded no results related to the claimed offer. Even on the official websites of Jio, there was no indication of such an offer being launched. It became evident that the viral link circulating on social media was nothing more than a fraudulent claim. New Delhi: It can be quite frustrating when our online life becomes chaotic because of an overflow of unwanted emails. Finding the unsubscribe button can be tricky, as it's usually hidden at the bottom of the email. To address users' frustration, Google has tackled this issue for Gmail users. Google is now making it easier for Gmail users to unsubscribe to unwanted emails on both mobile and web versions of Gmail. Additionally, the company is separating the "Report spam and unsubscribe" category into two distinct options: "Report spam" and "Unsubscribe." (Also Read: Apple Could Launch New iPad Lineup In 2024; Check Expected Specs) The company has communicated these changes through a Google Workspace update. They mentioned, "We understand that managing unwanted emails is a source of frustration for many users. That's why we introduced new guidelines for bulk senders a few months ago to help users stay safe. Now, we're introducing new ways to make it even easier to unsubscribe from unwanted emails in Gmail on the web and mobile." An interesting feature of this update is that users can now unsubscribe without opening unwanted emails. Once the user clicks the unsubscribe button, Gmail sends an HTTP request or an email to the sender, requesting the removal of the user's address from the mailing list. Starting February 2024, well require bulk senders to authenticate their emails, allowing for easy unsubscription and a less spammy inbox for users Learn more https://t.co/Mw5WwbnIHZ Gmail (@gmail) January 16, 2024 According to reports, the tech giant Google will require bulk senders (those sending over 5,000 emails) to implement a single-click unsubscribe link by February 2024. The single-click unsubscribe button will be clearly visible in the message body, and commercial senders will be required to process these requests within a two-day timeframe. (Also Read: Vivo G2 With Powerful 5,000mAh Battery And Camera Launched; Check Price) Notably, the unsubscribe option is now displayed immediately upon opening an email, eliminating the need to navigate through multiple steps in the three-dotted menu for Android and iOS users. Afghanistan's provincial regime and local police have claimed that a plane originating from India en route to Moscow crashed in the Wakhan region of Badakhshan. The head of information and culture for the Taliban in Badakhshan said that the passenger plane went down in Topkhaneh Mountain, spanning the districts of Karan, Manjan, and Zibak within the province. The Taliban's police command in Badakhshan has stated that the plane, which vanished from radar the night before, crashed in the high mountains of the Topkhana area. This region encompasses the Zibak and Keran o Munjan districts of the province, reported Afghan's AMU TV. However, now the Indian government sources have issued a clarification on the issue. They said that the route is never taken by the Indian aircrafts and thus the plane is not Indian. "This is not an Indian plane. A plane that crashed in the mountains of Topkhana alongside the districts of Kuran-Munjan and Zibak of Badakhshan province, was Moroccan registered DF 10 aircraft," said a senior Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) official. The Indian government had earlier dispatched a team to verify the details. Reports suggest that there may be casualties. While the aircraft is said to be a passenger carrier, the number of passengers onboard remain unknown at this time. The Middle East countries including some from Asia have now been exposed amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. After Israel's counter-offensive in Gaza, Lebanon's Hezbollah opened a front against Jerusalem as well. Now, countries like Syria, Iraq, Iran, and Yemen have become a direct or indirect party of the conflict. The Red Sea has also become a conflict zone with the Yemen-based Houthi rebels attacking cargo ships in solidarity with Palestine and the US forces hitting back at the Houthis in response to ensure free and safe trade movement. The US recently also attacked Houthis inside Yemen. The Houthis, who support the Palestinian armed group Hamas, launched their attacks in response to Israel's war on Gaza. According to reports, commanders from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and Lebanon's Hezbollah group are reportedly present in Yemen, actively involved in directing and overseeing Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea. Just yesterday, Iran-backed militants launched a strike on US bases in Iraq injuring several soldiers. The US Central Command said that several personnel are undergoing evaluation for "traumatic brain injuries" and at least one Iraqi service member was wounded in the attack. "At approximately 6:30 pm (Baghdad time) time Jan. 20, multiple ballistic missiles and rockets were launched by Iranian-backed militants in Western Iraq targeting al-Assad Airbase. Most of the missiles were intercepted by the base's air defence systems while others impacted the base. Damage assessments are ongoing. A number of US personnel are undergoing evaluation for traumatic brain injuries. At least one Iraqi service member was wounded," the US Central Command informed on social media platform X. In yet another turn of events, Israel attacked a building in the Syrian Capital Damascus on Saturday in which at least five military advisers of Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) were killed. Another Israeli operation in southern Lebanon yesterday resulted in the death of two individuals, with at least one confirmed as a member of Hezbollah. Previous similar actions have targeted both Hezbollah members and members of the Palestinian group Hamas. Jordanian foreign minister Ayman Safadi has warned that Israel's provoking confrontation of multiple fronts has created a risk that the war on Gaza may spill over to the rest of the region. On Monday, Iran launched 24 missiles at a purported Israeli intelligence center in Erbil, located in Kurdish northern Iraq. Simultaneously, they targeted Islamic State sites in Idlib, northern Syria. By Tuesday, Iran made a significant move by conducting strikes against Jaish al-Adl, a Sunni separatist group active in Pakistan near the Iranian border. Pakistan also retaliated by carrying out similar strike in Iran governed area. The situation in the Middle East is such that organisations like the Taliban are calling for restraints, defying irony. Not every aspect of the Middle East can be interconnected. The conflicts in the region don't all have direct ties or originate exclusively from Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel, and some may eventually subside. However, they do exhibit a certain cohesion, partially reflecting a shared decline in self-restraint and adherence to the rule of law. After a blockbuster winter last year fended off tough decisions for the Colorado River basin, a Colorado River commissioner warned last week high snowpack levels may not bless the West again and states need to prepare. Becky Mitchell, the state of Colorado's commissioner to the Upper Colorado River Commission, said the seven basin states of the Colorado River must adapt to a drier climate and must more equitably reduce water use from the river. "The bottom line is (climate) variability," Mitchell told the Colorado Springs Utilities Board of Directors during a presentation at the board's regular meeting Wednesday. "We have to build in flexibility and have the ability to adapt to (environmental) conditions. Some years are going to be dry. Some are going to be great for snowpack. We should use that to build storage in our reservoirs." After more than 20 years of drought across the West, the Colorado River is facing a crisis exacerbated by overuse. The amount of water available for the 40 million people relying on the river, including about 5 million users on Colorado's Front Range, has dropped significantly in recent years. Critically low water levels at Lake Powell, on the border of Arizona and Utah, and Lake Mead, on the border of Nevada and Arizona, have threatened hydropower and agriculture that generates billions of dollars for the economy. Representatives from the seven states Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming in the Upper Basin; and Arizona, California and Nevada in the Lower Basin alongside federal officials from the Bureau of Reclamation that operates reservoirs and dams on the Colorado River, are negotiating how to manage the river after 2026. Operating guidelines for the river, Lake Mead and Lake Powell expire at the end of that year. High volumes of snowpack in the 2022-2023 winter season staved off the worst, water officials said last spring. The snowpack melts and streams down Colorado River tributaries, eventually flowing into Lake Powell. Under current operating guidelines, when water is drawn for use from Lake Mead, water is then drawn from Lake Powell into Lake Mead. A map from the National Water and Climate Center shows snowpack in various Colorado River basins reached more than 125% of average as of May 17. Snowpack is not as plentiful so far in the 2023-2024 winter season, but the more than three feet of snow that fell across Colorado's mountains over the last week brought levels closer to seasonal averages. As of Thursday, the San Miguel, Dolores, Animas and San Juan basin is at 84% of average; the Gunnison basin at 95%; Colorado Headwaters at 104%; and the Yampa, White, Little Snake basin at 101% of average. That's compared with levels on Jan. 1, when snow water equivalents in the San Miguel, Dolores, Animas and San Juan basin were at 62% of average; the Gunnison basin at 71%; Colorado Headwaters at 74%; and the Yampa, White, Little Snake basin at 71% of average. While there is still time for snowpack to catch up to average levels, Colorado water users are bound to using only what's available, while users downstream consistently overuse supplies. The Colorado River Compact, which went into effect in 1922, apportioned in perpetuity the usage of 7.5 million acre-feet of water a year to both the Upper Basin and Lower Basin. An acre-foot of water can serve about four families for a year in Colorado Springs. In 2020, 2021 and 2022 Lower Basin states used 10.5 million acre-feet, 10.8 million acre-feet and 10.4 million acre-feet of water, respectively, according to Mitchell's presentation. That's compared with the Upper Basin states, which used 4.5 million acre-feet, 3.5 million acre-feet and 4 million acre-feet those respective years, she said. "That doesn't really look equal to me," Mitchell said, adding that Upper Basin states have already grappled with climate change that has led to less water in the Colorado River. Sign up for free: News Alerts Stay in the know on the stories that affect you the most. Sign Up For Free View all of our newsletters. Success! Thank you for subscribing to our newsletter. View all of our newsletters. John Berggren, a regional water policy manager with Western Resource Advocates, said Friday those numbers "don't compare apples to apples." "It provides a reasonable approximation of how much water the Upper Basin is drawing from the Colorado River, but it does not properly show what the Lower Basin states are consumptively using under the Law of the River," he said. Mitchell's data included reservoir evaporation and system losses, which aren't accounted for in the Lower Basin's allocation, Berggren said. It also included nearly 20-year-old consumptive use data from Lower Basin tributaries. The compact allocates an additional 1 million acre-feet of water from Colorado River tributaries to Lower Basin states. Data Berggren provided from the Bureau of Reclamation show the Lower Basin used 6.66 million acre-feet of water in 2022, less than its annual allocation granted by the compact. "It's also important to note that the Lower Basin states recently expressed a willingness to 'own' the structural deficit going forward, which is roughly 1.5 million acre-feet. The Lower Basin still needs to do more, but the water use data presented by Colorado is misleading," he said. Mitchell told the Utilities board the Upper Basin has shown it can adapt to actual Colorado River water levels. "So while this is only a part of the Colorado River system, we should absolutely focus on rebuilding the storage in our country's largest reservoirs, because storage is what will get us through the rough times. Storage is what gets us through the dry times. Storage is what provides the certainty," she said. Most of the water 70% across the Colorado River basin serves about 4.5 million acres of farmland, including farms in Arizona and California that provide most of America's winter vegetables. In December, on the opening day of the three-day annual Colorado River Water Users Association conference in Las Vegas, Lower Basin states signed an agreement to conserve 1.6 million acre-feet of water over the next three years. Representatives from California and Arizona told Colorado Politics last month that action was no small feat. Berggren agreed with Mitchell's statements this week that all seven basin states need to contribute to solutions for the Colorado River in the era of climate change and diminishing flows. A recent poll of Colorado voters found 80% of respondents wanted the state to cooperatively work with neighboring states in the endeavor, he said. Colorado and other Upper Basin states can continue taking measures to use less water, such as limiting water intensive turf and landscaping in favor of more conservative, native landscaping, he added. "We can put our money where our mouth is and work with water users to find out how to use less. Then we can not only deal with emergencies and crashing reservoirs, but we can actually thrive. The river can stabilize and become a healthy flowing river," Berggren said. Colorado River basin negotiators are working with limited time to develop new alternatives for its use. According to a Jan. 6 report from The New York Times, the seven basin states hope to agree on the new plan by the end of the year. The states are worried a change in presidential administrations after November's election could hinder negotiations. "It's imperative that we stay focused on Colorado River issues and we stay focused together," Mitchell said. In a terse ruling this week, a district court judge denied a repeated effort to negate guilty verdicts for a man accused of stealing trees from the state. An attorney for Jason Levant Ferguson, 41, of Rolfe, argues that a jury erred in November when it convicted him of felony theft and 50 timber violations. In separate requests for a new trial and for an arrest of judgment, attorney Kevin Fors of Harcourt has insisted in recent weeks that Ferguson is entitled to cut firewood and timber from public land to be used for heat and shelter. Fors has used Englands Charter of the Forest which established the rights of commoners to use public lands about 800 years ago to justify Fergusons takings from the Stoddard Wildlife Management Area in northwest Iowa. Ferguson was accused of stealing more than 100 trees from the public area, including a bur oak that was about six feet wide at its base. In December, District Court Judge Derek Johnson rejected the motion for a new trial because he said the English charter does not apply to forests of the United States. Earlier this month, the judge rejected a recent request to not impose the jurys unanimous guilty verdicts. For the reasons stated in the Courts ruling of December 19, 2023, the Defendants motion in arrest of judgment is DENIED, Johnson wrote. Ferguson is set to be sentenced during a court hearing on Jan. 26. He faces up to five years in prison for the theft charge and one year for each of the 50 timber violations. Ferguson had also faced numerous felony drug charges and decades in prison when searches of his rural property uncovered evidence of marijuana and methamphetamine production, but the judge decided the evidence was obtained with improperly approved search warrants. Those charges were dismissed. Danville has formed a climate task force to come up with ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The city is partnering with the George Mason University Institute for a Sustainable Earth on the project to come up with a climate action plan for Danville. The climate action plan is helping us plan for the future, a more sustainable future with a greater quality of life, Danville Planning Director Renee Burton told the Register & Bee during an interview in her office Wednesday afternoon. It would become an appendix to the citys overall comprehensive plan and would be revised every several years. George Mason University is working with municipalities in the West Piedmont region of Virginia including Danville, Martinsville and Henry County to improve energy efficiency, lower energy costs and enhance community resiliency for all, Burton said. The school approached the city and asked local officials to participate in the program, Burton said. The schools researchers will collaborate with local government staff and community members on three core initiatives: model greenhouse gas emissions and risk factors for the community; develop an energy resilience action plan; and implement actions through applied learning for students. According to a 2022 Danville greenhouse gas inventory, the city produced just more than 650,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide that year. Carbon dioxide absorbs and radiates heat, and adding more to the atmosphere causes global temperatures to increase. The nine-member task force will meet every Friday in February, Burton said. The task force will look at goals and objectives for the climate action plan and look at implementation and strategies, she said. Included in the group are city staff, a professor each from Averett University and Danville Community College, a representative from the Dan River Basin Association, a representative from Intertape Polymer Group and a Danville city councilman. Students from George Mason University will conduct research and help put strategies into effect this coming summer, Burton said. The task force will develop the strategies, goals and objectives for the plan, she said. The climate plan is expected to be complete in April, she said. Strategies for reducing CO2 emissions can include using solar panels, alternative transportation such as bicycles, public transit and electric vehicles and finding ways to make Danville more walkable, Burton said. However, Burton does not expect the undertaking to result in environmental regulations imposed in the city any time soon. I dont foresee any regulations at this point, she said. We have more research to complete. City Councilman Larry Campbell, who has been pushing for the city to address climate change, is on the task force. Addressing the matter is extremely important, he said. All of us can see and feel changes in the atmosphere, Campbell said Thursday. We want to be the first city in the state of Virginia to be a climate change city. Globally, 2023 was the warmest year since global records began in 1850, at 1.18 degree Celsius (or 2.12 degrees Fahrenheit) above the 20th-century average of 13.9 degrees Celsius (or 57 degrees Fahrenheit), according to the 2023 Global Climate Report from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The 10 warmest years since 1850 have all occurred in the last decade, according to the report. Every citizen can participate in the task forces efforts, Campbell said. The meetings next month will take place at the PLAN Danville office at 206 N. Union St. We just want to enhance the quality of life in the city of Danville, Campbell said. From businesses to local governments to individuals, everyone can do their part to reduce their carbon footprint, Burton said. The goal is to focus on how this applies to everyone, Burton said. What can we all do? Everyone can have a part in that. It was widely reported at the time 1832 that on his death bed Goethes last words were, Light, light, more light. He may have meant nothing more than, Pull back the curtains and let some light into the room, but many people, including the Spanish philosopher Miguel Unamuno, thought he was saying something more profound, perhaps offering a clue to the nature of ultimate reality or an insight into the human condition. Unamuno challenged Goethes dying declaration: No, warmth, warmth, more warmth! for we die of cold and not of darkness. It is not the night (that) kills, but the frost. In The Tragic Sense of Life, Unamuno argued that human beings are not defined by their capacity to reason but by their capacity to feel. Given the current state of our shared, increasingly dystopian American life, which is our greater need: more light or more warmth? In the aftermath of the brutal surprise attack by Hamas-led terrorists on Israeli communities on Oct. 7 and Israels assault on Gaza, some students in our leading universities engaged in blatant, sometimes crude, antisemitic acts while others shouted obscenities at Muslims. The scenes on college campuses shocked Americans who did not expect such behavior from our brightest and best. But the public reaction was as hypocritical as it was understandable. For the actions of the students, as offensive as they were, were not different in kind than behavior that was erupting across the country. According to the Anti-Defamation League, more than 400 Jewish temples and synagogues received bomb threats in a single weekend in December. The Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University reported that hate crimes defined by the FBI as criminal offenses which are motivated, in whole or in part, by the offenders bias(es) against a race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender or gender identity in the nations 25 largest cities rose 17% in 2023. Los Angeles saw a 40% increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes last year, and Chicago saw an astonishing 300% increase, according to the centers preliminary study. So, as a people, which is our greater need: More light or more warmth? The case can be made that we are in need we are always in need of a better, deeper understanding of the complexities of the forces that impinge on our lives. If more light is what we need, education is the way to achieve it. But what if humanity is more likely to die of cold than of darkness, as Miguel Unamuno said? What if our greater need is not for more light, and thus more programs, more research, more seminars; what if our greater need is for more warmth, more empathy, more mercy, more grace? What if our greater need is not to know more about each other but to care more for each other? How can that be taught? Recently, I listened to Krista Tippetts interview of the late U.S. Rep. and civil rights icon John Lewis (D-Ga.), on her podcast On Being. She was particularly interested in his seeming lack of bitterness toward the state troopers who attacked him on the Edmund Pettus Bridge. Lewis was one of the leaders of the march from Selma to Montgomery and the first to be attacked. Lewis asked Tippett, and by extension her listeners, to imagine the state trooper who attacked Lewis and left him unconscious on the pavement I thought I was going to die, Lewis said later not as he appeared on Bloody Sunday, astride a charging horse, wielding a billy club, but as he might have been as a child. Years ago, Lewis said, that person was an innocent. What happened? Did someone teach that person to hate, to abuse others? His response was surprising because it was unpremeditated and uncalculated, revealing a genuine concern for the man who almost killed him. Love in action, which is the way John Lewis described the Civil Rights Movement, could be an apt description of his life as well. Love, like hate, can be taught only by example. SPRINGFIELD The Illinois General Assembly is expected to take it easy, legislatively, in 2024. But agriculture proponents still have their eyes on some issues that could affect farmers and rural communities. I anticipate well see interesting things from our side, said Kevin Semlow, director of governmental affairs and commodities with Illinois Farm Bureau. Among them is the status of the estate tax, which can impact farm transition. Illinois grants an exemption of $4 million while the federal governments tax exemption stands at $12 million. We really want to make sure that is adequately addressed so we can keep on with generational farming by not having to sell off a part of your farm just to pay off your estate tax, Semlow said. Wed like to see the exemption level increased at a minimum to something similar to where the federal level is. That would be ideal. State Rep. Charlie Meier, R-Okawville, doesnt believe lawmakers will be looking to rock the boat too much in an election year. The session, which began Jan. 16, will likely extend to fewer than 60 days, he believes. Its an election year, so I think they will want to get in and out of there pretty fast, said Meier, a farmer who is the ranking minority member of the Illinois House Agriculture & Conservation Committee. Meier agrees that change in the estate tax will be a focus of agriculture. He emphasizes the unique stature of farm property. A farmer looks at the farm like a family member, he said. Another hot topic involves property rights, specifically concerning private waterways. Under existing state law, landowners have claim to use of rivers and streams on their farms, with navigable waters such as the Illinois River and other major waterways being exceptions. The status quo is being challenged. There has been a push by several members of the General Assembly to strip our landowners of those property rights, Semlow said. There is a movement to allow that access to everyone for sightseeing or whatever. You would still be liable for any damages or harm to anyone on your property, and you didnt invite them. The topic gained steam during the COVID pandemic when members of a kayak club planned for a trip down the DuPage River, which is not considered a public waterway. The club was successful in receiving permission from most landowners along their route. But one declined. This would reverse that, Semlow said. The way the bill was written originally, you would still be liable. Anyone could land off the bank and wander off. Peoples backyards and property are not an open park. Meanwhile, actions taken by the legislature in 2023 are poised to factor into the rural landscape. One is a measure that provides for the creation of ambulance districts spanning multiple counties. House Bill 1740, sponsored by Meier, addresses the needs of rural communities regarding emergency services. It allows towns, townships and counties the ability to create taxing districts for ambulance service, Meier said. The federal government doesnt give near enough back in reimbursement with Medicare and Medicaid. A lot of private ambulance services are going broke, leaving our communities in a desperate situation. With this bill, you can go across townships and even county lines to create an ambulance district that voters would vote on. Another change that took effect this year could affect rural areas disproportionately, Meier believes. That is the increase in the state minimum wage from $13 to $14. It is set to increase another dollar in 2025. He sees it as problematic for working young people because it could result in job losses. I believe its harmful, he said. Were hurting that high school kid who is wanting the first job. Its not designed to support a family. He also pointed to a bill that would require workshops employing developmentally disabled residents to also pay the minimum wage. ABINGDON, Va. An author, humorist, and motivational speaker with ties to the region will serve as host of the 75th anniversary of Rotary Frolics, a comedy show presented each year by the Abingdon Rotary Club. Ron Culberson of Nellysford, Virginia, is following the footsteps of his late father G. C. Connie Culberson, a Rotarian who participated in 52 of the comedy shows, serving as emcee for 25 of those years. The 2024 Rotary Frolics a crowd-pleasing event will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, Jan. 26 and 27 at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center in Abingdon, providing an evening of a frolicking good time when members of the Abingdon Rotary Club get to act silly on stage while raising thousands of dollars for worthy charities and scholarships. Ron Culbertson first appeared in the Frolics while attending Patrick Henry High School. In 1979, the young Culberson was featured as The Raving Magician, which concluded with Ron trying out a new magic act on his father, who was serving as master of ceremonies. When Connie was unable to break free of ropes that tied him down, Ron took the index cards from his dads pocket, as planned, and concluded the show. Its always a treat for me to participate in the Rotary Frolics, Ron said in an email from his home in Northern Virginia. In high school, I loved comedy and was a huge fan of Steve Martin. It was a thrill to be onstage making people laugh. After appearing in the Rotary Frolics, Ron discovered he had the ability to make people laugh and to make every day events funny. Because of my fathers involvement, Ive always felt that the Abingdon club was an extension of family, said Ron, who is a member of a Rotary Club in Northern Virginia and a former member of the Abingdon Rotary Club. Were Not Done Yet Rotary Frolics at 75 Years: Were Not Done Yet is the theme for this years show, an event that raises substantial funds each year. According to Mark Graham, director of the Rotary Frolics, the fundraiser usually garners anywhere from $25,000 to $30,000 each year. Proceeds from the show help support scholarships at local schools and many other community youth programs. The annual comedy and music performance has been a staple in the community for 75 years. I doubt there are few if any civic organizations in the country that have put on a show like this one for as many as 75 years, said Graham. Its amazing how the community has supported the show all these years. Graham said organizers of the event like to keep the content as local as possible. I think thats why people look forward to the show every year. Its a lot of humor about local politicians and public figures, he said. This years show will offer audience members much of the same shenanigans, all done at the expense of Rotarian community leaders who give their time and talents annually for the cause. The show will be divided into two parts, focusing on popular old acts along with new materials. The Fat Hats, a popular act, will make a return, said Graham. The Rotary Band will begin performing before the show at 6:45 p.m. While people are being seated, a slide show of old and newer shows will be shown on the venues big screens. Popular signature acts include ROTN News and the comedic team Bert and Bart, played by Rotarians Fred Parker and Wayne Austin. Special musical guests are Dr. Mark Handy and Leftover Biscuits. The show will include one of the clubs oldest members, Neel Rich, 90, of Emory marking the 52nd time hes participated in the annual event. Its the first time in 52 years that Ed Damer whos been described by members as a spiritual leader will not be in the show because of illness. Based on calculations, during Eds 44 years as Frolics director, he helped raise an estimated three-quarters of a million dollars, said Graham. If not for Ed, there would be no Rotary Frolics. 100th Anniversary Chartered on Nov. 23, 1923, the Abingdon Rotary Club is also celebrating its 100th anniversary. Were using this milestone as a good opportunity to present a retrospective show, looking back at some of the most popular acts weve performed over the years as well as looking forward as we enter our second century of community service in the area, said Joy Scruggs, president of the Abingdon Rotary Club. To honor the Rotary motto Service Above Self, members have organized different service projects each month. In conjunction with the Rotary Frolics, a Sock It ToThe Frolics fund raiser asks patrons to donate new socks, underwear and undershirts to Care Closets, an initiative of United Way of Southwest Virginia, benefitting students in Washington County Schools. The closets are designated physical spaces within the school building where all students and families can go to obtain any items they may need but are unable to access themselves. Tickets to the 2024 Rotary Frolics are $25 each and can be purchased from any member of the Abingdon Rotary Club, by visiting online at www.eventsbrite.com, or calling (276) 492-2062. RALEIGH When it comes to regulating nurses, North Carolina is in an increasingly exclusive club. Unfortunately, the cost of our club membership far exceeds any benefits. In most states, nurse practitioners and other advanced-practice nurses have significant authority to treat patients without being subject to the authority of a physician. In Virginia, for example, they enjoy what is called full-practice authority thanks to a 2018 reform bill. In other states, nurse autonomy is a bit more limited. Consider Kentucky. While nurses there dont yet have full-practice authority, they can administer certain drugs on their own after four years of collaboration with a doctor. Only 15 states satisfy neither condition. Their advanced-practice nurses have little autonomy. North Carolina is one of them. During last years debate about Medicaid expansion, the original position of Senate leader Phil Berger and his colleagues was to give nurses more freedom to treat their patients without the costly supervision of physicians. Along with reducing the power of hospital monopolies, scope-of-practice reform was intended to increase the supply of medical care and reduce prices. Gov. Roy Cooper and the state House agreed to relax some state constraints on hospital competition. They rebuffed the Senate on scope-of-practice reform. Thats why our state continues to be one of the few that unwisely denies nurses full-practice authority. In this case, the majority has it right. When nurses are fully empowered to provide all the services for which they are trained, costs go down and patients receive either equivalent or better care than they did before. A 2021 study published in the journal Health Economics concluded that allowing nurse practitioners to operate without physician oversight could reduce health care spending without harming patients. For a 2019 study in the Journal of Nursing Regulation, scholars from Columbia University, St. Francis University and the University of Pittsburgh looked specifically at the effects of the policy on Medicaid recipients. They found that outpatient costs were 17% lower and prescription costs 11% lower in states where nurses enjoy full-practice authority. What about effects on the caregivers themselves? A recent study in Nursing Outlook focuses on New York States adoption of full-practice authority in 2015. The authors found significantly better work environments for nurse practitioners after the policy change. There is a growing body of evidence about the impact of nurse practitioner work environment on the quality of care and patient outcomes, they wrote. Thus, removing scope-of-practice restrictions on nurse practitioners may also lead to better care and patient outcomes. Physician organizations and other opponents of reform argue that without doctor supervision, advanced-practice nurses will make too many mistakes and misdiagnose serious conditions. In theory, this is possible. In practice, its not a persuasive objection. While tragic cases certainly occur regardless of whether a physician owns or takes a financial cut of a nurses practice the medical and financial benefits of reform appear to far outweigh the downsides. Otherwise, the relevant research would find scope-of-practice reform was followed by marked declines in patient outcomes. Theyd find the short-term savings from providing primary care in independent nursing practices were overwhelmed by the long-term costs of treating misdiagnosed patients, including expensive hospital stays and lifelong disabilities. Thats not what a preponderance of the studies show, however. Scope-of-practice reform confers net benefits. Thats why New York lawmakers adopted the policy in 2015. Thats why Virginia lawmakers adopted it in 2018. Thats why 35 states have less restrictive nursing regulations than North Carolina does. When the General Assembly reconvenes this spring, lawmakers ought to rectify last years mistake of leaving scope-of-practice reform out of the Medicaid deal. By expanding taxpayer-funded health care, they set the stage for a surge in demand for medical services. Unless they take additional steps to free up supply so it can meet that demand, prices will soar. Singaporean telecommunications conglomerate Singtel announced it will leverage Starlinks satellites to drive the digital solutions usage of ship owners and operators, allowing them to tap artificial intelligence, 5G, edge, and computing, improving safety, operations, and their crews well-being. Singtel said the connectivity provided by Starlink will help them analyse data in real-time, reduce costs of fuel consumption and operational maintenance. Starlink has 5,000 satellites in its constellation. It can provide maritime coverage for all sizes, delivering up to 200Mbps download speeds. It can withstand harsh conditions, operating temperatures from -30C to 50C. Starlink is the first low Earth orbit (LEO) broadband service to be added to iSHIP, Singtels digital smart solutions for vessels portfolio. The portfolio includes Paragon, Singtels orchestration platform for 5G edge computing and cloud services. Paragon will manage and automate the smart switching between satellite communication services to ensure connection in ships as they travel remains uninterrupted. The connection will allow ships to leverage edge computing, host mission critical applications either on-premises or at shore. The addition of Starlink to our existing suite of satellite communications solutions, orchestrated by our patented Paragon platform, is part of our multi-orbit strategy to increase the resilience of satellite connectivity in the industry and to enable the rapid adoption of digital technologies and solutions, said Singtel Digital InfraCo CEO Bill Chang. Telstra global arm Telstra International has extended its network capabilities into Latin America by establishing a point-of-presence (PoP) at Stemmons Towers in Dallas, Texas in collaboration with Mexican telecommunication providers Axtel and Vivaro. The new PoP will allow worldwide customers (including throughout Latin America) to be integrated into Telstras connectivity network. The location of Latin America, which Telstra describes as strategic, enables Mexican multinational corporations seeking to connect to other regions to plug into the network to reach Asia Pacific and Europe. In turn, APAC multinationals can now reach Mexico through the same gateway. Telstra International claimed its expansion is driven by the increasing demand for connectivity solutions in the region. Telstra cited Telegeography, which estimates that on average, 84% of the total internet traffic from and to Latin America currently goes through the United States and Canada. This is expected to grow as international bandwidth demand steadily increases in Latin America. Internet traffic will also surge as international bandwidth markets in Mexico continue to rely on connectivity into the US to reach Asia Pacific and Europe. Our official expansion and continued investments in digital infrastructure position us well to offer customers simple and secure options to connect to this dynamic region and leverage our global network, said Telstra International CEO Roary Stasko. Looking ahead, Telstra International will continue to innovate on our network infrastructure through additional PoPs and collaborate with our industry partners to provide critical connectivity and capacity to more Latin American countries such as Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and Colombia. Telstra International offers internet, IP transit, and virtual private networks throughout Mexico. It provides access to more than 10 carrier-neutral data centres in cities such as Mexico City, Monterrey, Queretaro, and Guadalajara. It delivers endpoint termination services for ethernet private lines and MPLS in all of Mexicos major data centres, enterprise buildings, and business parks. The Mexican Stock Exchange, leverages these enhancements, which is vital for serving financial services industry customers. 100 years ago, Jan 21, 1924 MATTOON Building a bonfire under a small truck is assigned by firemen as the cause of their being called at 8:15 a.m. this morning to 2105 Marshall Ave. to extinguish the flames attacking a motor truck driven by N.C. Brown. The fire was built to thaw out the engine, the firemen said they were told. The damage was slight...MATTOON Fourteen degrees below zero at three a.m. this morning was the lowest temperature in the city today, but at Paradise lake it was fifteen degrees below zero at 7 a.m. this morning, C.L. James, supervisor of the water works stated. Good sleighing prevailed from Saturday night, and country people who had old cutters stored in their barns appeared on the highways and streets with their sleighs drawn by trusty farm horses, while sleigh bells jingled merrily. Sunday there were old fashioned farm slides, upon which had been sideboards, and these bore crowds of young people who had the times of their lives. 50 years ago, 1974 MATTOON Federal approval of a $381,175 grant for Mattoon's sewer project was announced today. Approval of the grant clears the way for construction work to begin "hopefully around the middle of February," George Wedel told the JG. The cost of the undertaking is expected to total $7,455,000, up almost $1.5 million from the original estimated cost...MATTOON Clem Phipps, a member of the Lake Land College Board of Trustees since its inception, announced today he will not seek re-election to that post. Phipps has served on the board for eight years and was president of the board for several years. Floyd Curl of Neoga, a member of the board for seven years, also up for re-election, said today he will seek another term...CHARLESTON A two-day old strike of Union employees at Charleston's Trailmobile plant continued today. Members of the Allied Industrial Workers, Local 591, rejected a contract proposal Saturday afternoon by a vote of 228 to 64. The original contract between Trailmobile and the union ended at midnight Wednesday, but was extended for 48 hours...MATTOON An apparent attempted burglary was reported to police today by Ruby Bevil of 1301 Wabash. Mrs. Bevil told police that someone entered her basement through a window at approximately 12:57 a.m. today. She said she heard noises in her basement and when she went to investigate she found a light on. 25 years ago, 1999 CHARLESTON Several residents spoke up Wednesday during the public meeting that was held to get input on how the downtown business district can be improved for the city's comprehensive plan. Bob Kincade, owner of What's Cookin, said many county employees park on the courthouse square even though they have parking spaces reserved for them off the square. "I think some people don't know where the (public) parking lots are," said local artist Becky Spoon on the parking problems on the square. "There better be competitive parking downtown or you're not going to get the business," said Waldo Born, an accounting and finance instructor at EIU on the easy accessibility customers have to businesses on Lincoln Ave. "This town has proven since I've been here that it can't support retail establishments downtown," said Tom Maruna of Practical Management, Inc., noting that parking problems might not be the only thing hurting downtown businesses. "We have to be realistic with what we're competing with in Mattoon or what's going up in the (Route 16) corridor." Tonya Wood, owner of the Lincoln Book Shop, said the city might want to consider building a community center downtown instead of on the edge of Charleston because the most economical decision is not always what is best for the whole community. A controversy over a car swap meet drew an unusually large crowd to the last Lancaster County Agricultural Society election and highlighted an interesting fact about the tax-supported entity: it isnt subject to state election law. In past years, that may have been unclear to voters greeted by the Lancaster County Election Commissioner or one of his staff, who had been helping the Ag Society run its elections as a courtesy for the past 24 years. And initially it was unclear to at least some of the estimated 260 people who showed up to vote Dec. 14 at the Ag Societys annual meeting, even though the election commissioner was not there this year. The Agricultural Society runs the county fair and oversees the Sandhills Global Event Center, which hosts many events. Lancaster County Commissioner Matt Schulte was among those who attended the meeting and raised concerns that the Ag Society violated electioneering rules set out in state statute and did so in a way that favored incumbents over write-in candidates. Ag Society officials say thats not true, and that they followed the same procedures they have in past years when the Election Commission was assisting them including posting the declared candidates statements for voters to review on the tables where votes were cast. This year, because event center officials had raised the prospect of not continuing to host a car swap meet that had been held at the event center for 50 years, members of the club rallied support for several write-in candidates. Jason Kruger, who ran for the County Board in 2022 on a conservative Republican ticket and is the car council president, said the issues were broader than just the car show, and they had write-in candidates they wanted to see elected. That meant turnout to the annual meeting ballooned from the 26 who voted in 2022 to about 260 who voted in December. Schulte contended the candidate statements constituted electioneering in violation of state law, despite signs posted at the meeting saying electioneering was prohibited. Gene Summerlin, the attorney representing the event center, said the Ag Society followed the same procedures it has for many years, including posting statements from those who declared their candidacies by the mid-November deadline and having signs prohibiting electioneering. The write-in candidates, he said, had not declared their candidacies by the deadline. But heres the thing: Whether that conforms with state election law doesnt matter. Lancaster County Election Commissioner Todd Wiltgen said he checked with the county attorney and state election officials after Amy Dickerson, event center managing director, posed a couple of questions to him about the election. The counsel from the state and the county attorney to Wiltgen was that he shouldnt be advising Dickerson on election protocol, nor should he help with the election because those elections arent subject to the Nebraska Election Act. They also expressed concerns that his office was helping the Ag Society but not rural fire districts, which have a similar election structure. Wiltgen said he apologized to Dickerson because he got that advice a day before their elections, but felt he had to follow it. In an email to Schulte, Summerlin said that because of the short notice, they followed the same process as in previous years, which included the candidate statements and signs prohibiting electioneering. Agricultural societies, like other tax-supported entities such as rural fire districts, are covered by separate laws regarding their elections and arent subject to state election laws even though theyre tax-supported. Alan Wood, an attorney who works with agricultural societies, said many of the agricultural societies formed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. They had direct taxing authority and paying members elected the board. In the 1990s, the Legislature revised how agricultural societies operated, giving them the authority to form as nonprofits, Wood said. They had the power of eminent domain, had to follow the open meetings law and could indirectly levy a tax. As with rural fire districts, which operate under a different statute, as well as the Railroad Transportation Safety District, the County Board sets aside a portion of its levy authority for those entities and determines their levies. Thats how the majority of agricultural societies in the state operate, Wood said, though a few operate as a fair board, which means they fall under the authority of county boards like other county departments. Schulte said hes asked whether the county has the authority to convert the agricultural society here to a fair board but hasnt gotten an answer. He said he still thinks the Ag Society needs to have clear policies on its election procedures. Dickerson said they had just a 24-hour notice about the election commissioner not coming, so they used staff with no familial connections to any candidates to administer the election, had their attorney there to answer questions and be a witness and followed procedures as closely as possible to the way theyd done it in the past. In the end, the incumbents were re-elected. And the car council and Ag Society staff are working together to come to a resolution on safety and financial issues with the hope the swap meet can continue past this year, she said. Skate park open house The Parks and Recreation Department is holding a Jan. 30 open house to answer questions and gather input on a skate park being planned for the new South Haymarket park near Seventh and N streets. The open house is from 5-7 p.m. at The Bay, 2005 Y St. An online survey will be available from Jan. 31 to Feb. 14 at lincoln.ne.gov/HaymarketSkatepark. Parks and recreation staff will be at the meeting as well as representatives from Olsson Studio, which is designing the park, and from Spohn Ranch, which is designing the skate park. Paper copies of the survey will be available at the Lincoln Parks and Recreation offices, 313 O St., Suite 300; The Bay, and Precision Skateboards, 1622 O St. Top Journal Star photos for January 2024 WASHINGTON Democrats hoping to hold their slim Senate majority after November are looking for upsets in two unlikely places, Texas and Florida, to help neutralize potential setbacks elsewhere. But that means the top opportunities for President Joe Biden's party to play political offense in Senate races are coming in Americas largest reliably red state and a onetime quintessential battleground that has moved decidedly to the right in recent years. Still, with West Virginia Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin not seeking reelection, his seat is likely to flip Republican. Retaining their 51-49 Senate advantage likely means Democrats must defend their other 22 seats on the 2024 ballot including party incumbents and independents who caucus with them while also gaining seats, and they say Texas and Florida are their best shot. Democrats nationwide have championed abortion rights and are looking to build on gains among suburban women and other key swing voters since the Supreme Court's overturning of the Roe v. Wade decision in 2022. The party thinks many Texas and Florida voters are with them in believing Republicans have gone too far in restricting reproductive freedom. Dallas mother Kate Cox made national headlines when she was recently forced to leave Texas to terminate a non-viable pregnancy after Republican officials argued she didn't qualify for an exception to its near total abortion ban. In Florida, activists secured enough signatures to put on Novembers ballot a referendum cementing access to abortion in the state constitution following statewide votes defending abortion access in Republican-leaning Ohio and even more solidly red Kansas and Kentucky. Democrats are also encouraged by Texas Republican Sen. Ted Cruz eking out reelection in 2018 by less than 3 percentage points over Democrat Beto O'Rourke. In Florida, meanwhile, Republican Sen. Rick Scott won his seat that year by around 10,000 votes out of 8.1-plus million cast. I think they are winnable states with the right Democratic candidate and the right Republican candidate," said Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. And I think were going to have both. Running for Senate in Florida is Democratic former congresswoman Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, who upset two-term Republican Rep. Carlos Curbelo in 2018 but lost her seat representing part of Miami and the Florida keys in 2020. In Texas, Democratic Rep. Colin Allred of Dallas will have to overcome primary challenger Roland Gutierrez, a state senator from San Antonio, before he can take on Cruz. Texas last voted Democratic for president in 1976. The party hasn't won any of the 28 statewide offices there for 30 years. O'Rourke, after nearly toppling Cruz and unsuccessfully running for president in 2020, lost the 2022 governor's race. Florida voted twice for Donald Trump, and Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis romped to reelection in 2022, as did Republican Sen. Marco Rubio. Just cause theyre the best options they have doesnt mean they're winnable, doesn't mean they're competitive, said Texas Republican strategist Matt Mackowiak. Peters, though, points to the most recent midterms, when Democrats defied Biden's low approval ratings and historical precedent by gaining a Senate seat and only narrowly losing the House majority. Having folks say, Well, the deck is stacked against you going into the election, its the exact same thing that happened last cycle," he said. Republicans have to defend only 10 seats and are looking to flip as many as eight held by Democrats, including West Virginia. Montana Sen. Steve Daines, chair of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, the partys campaign arm, said the Democrats, we know, are going to dump millions of dollars (in) out-of-state money to buy those two seats" in Florida and Texas, but he believes Scott and Cruz are strong incumbents. National Republicans are eying Ohio, where Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown was first elected in 2006, and Montana's Jon Tester, also a three-term Democratic incumbent. Both states are expected to vote Republican for president. This team is not overconfident," Daines said. We know we also have a great map, but you cant fall in love with the map. He said strong candidates and messaging will make the difference, as well as a renewed push to encourage early voting and mail-balloting after Trump discouraged them in 2020. Biden's approval ratings remain soft, which could hurt Democrats in Senate races, though Trump also appears to be his party's likely presidential nominee and would bring his own top-of-the-GOP-ticket negatives. Only three of the six Senate candidates Trump endorsed won in 2022. Still, Daines said his party was learning from 22, and that he speaks with Trump and his team frequently" while working closely with the president to make sure that we are gonna be behind candidates that can win both the general election as well as the primary. Democrats have tried to characterize Republicans who are both allied with Trump and more moderate as extreme on abortion, arguing that the GOP is looking to take away access. We dont like government telling us what to do. Thats part of our personality, said Mucarsel-Powell, who helped collect signatures for Florida's abortion referendum. The 10 Senate seats most likely to flip in 2024 1. West Virginia 2. Montana 3. Ohio 4. Pennsylvania 5. Arizona 6. Nevada 7. Wisconsin 8. Michigan 9. Texas Analysis: Pennsylvania moves up list of contested Senate seats in 2024 10. Florida JERUSALEM Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Saturday that he "will not compromise on full Israeli control" over Gaza and that "this is contrary to a Palestinian state," rejecting U.S. President Joe Biden's suggestion that creative solutions could bridge wide gaps between the leaders' views on Palestinian statehood. In a sign of the pressures Netanyahu's government faces at home, thousands of Israelis protested in Tel Aviv calling for new elections, and others demonstrated outside the prime minister's house, joining families of the more than 100 remaining hostages held by Hamas and other militants. They fear that Israel's military activity further endangers hostages' lives. Netanyahu is also under heat to appease members of his right-wing ruling coalition by intensifying the war against Hamas, which governs Gaza, while contending with calls for restraint from the United States, its closest ally. Netanyahu posted his statement on social media a day after his first conversation with Biden in nearly a month. Discussing his administration's position Friday, Biden said "there are a number of types of two-state solutions" and, asked if a two-state solution was impossible with Netanyahu in office, Biden replied, "No, it's not." After Netanyahu's statement, a spokesman for Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called for the United States to go further. "It is time for the United States to recognize the state of Palestine, not just talk about a two-state solution," Nabil Abu Rudeineh said in a statement. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said "the refusal to accept the two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians, and the denial of the right to statehood for the Palestinian people, are unacceptable." He said the refusal would "indefinitely prolong" the conflict. He spoke in Uganda, where heads of states from the 120 countries that are members of the Non-Aligned Movement on Saturday called Israel's military campaign in the Gaza Strip "illegal" and strongly condemned indiscriminate attacks against Palestinian civilians, civilian infrastructure and the forced displacement of the Palestinian population. While calling for a cease-fire desperately needed for humanitarian aid to access the Gaza Strip, the movement in a joint statement called for a two-state solution on the basis of the borders before 1967, when Israel seized Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem in a brief war with neighboring Arab states. The group also reiterated support for a Palestinian state to be admitted as a member of the United Nations. Netanyahu has said Israel must fight until it achieves "complete victory" and Hamas no longer poses a threat but has not outlined how this will be accomplished. But a member of Israel's War Cabinet, former Israeli army chief Gadi Eisenkot, has called a cease-fire the only way to secure the hostages' release, implying criticism of Israel's current strategy. Critics accused Netanyahu of preventing a Cabinet-level debate about a post-war scenario for Gaza. They say he is stalling to prevent conflict within his coalition. Netanyahu's office called the claim that he was unnecessarily prolonging the war "utter nonsense." Israel launched its war against Hamas after the militant group's unprecedented Oct. 7 attack that killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, in Israel and saw about 250 others taken hostage, according to Israel. Health authorities in Hamas-ruled Gaza say Israel's offensive so far killed nearly 25,000 Palestinians, most of them women and children. The offensive, one of the most destructive military campaigns in recent history, pulverized much of the territory and displaced more than 80% of its 2.3 million residents. An Israeli blockade that allows only a trickle of aid into Gaza has led to a humanitarian crisis, United Nations officials have said. Netanyahu has insisted that the only way to secure the hostages' return is by crushing Hamas through military means. More than 100 hostages, mostly women and children, were released during a brief November cease-fire in exchange for the release of Palestinian women and minors imprisoned by Israel. Israel has said that more than 130 hostages remain in Gaza, but only about 100 are believed to be alive. The protest outside Netanyahu's home in the coastal town of Caesarea grew, with police pushing a few attendees away, sparking arguments. "We can't take it anymore. We've been told to sit quiet, let the government do its job. Well, it's not bringing us any result for the last two months," said Yuval Bar On, whose father-in-law, Keith Siegel, is among the hostages. The Israeli military spokesman, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, said the military was not carrying out attacks in areas where it knows or assumes there are hostages and the army works "in all possible ways to bring them home." Israel's military dropped leaflets, with photos of dozens of hostages and a message suggesting benefits for anyone who spoke up, on Gaza's southernmost town of Rafah. Hours later, Al-Majd al-Amni, a media outlet linked to the Hamas internal security force, warned Palestinians against supplying any information about Israeli soldiers held hostage in Gaza. In Gaza, residents reached by phone after a dayslong communications blackout reported heavy bombardment and fighting between militants and Israeli troops in and around the southern city of Khan Younis and the urban refugee camp of Jabaliya in the north. Israel-Hamas war at 100 days WASHINGTON It's been nearly two years since the United States and its allies froze hundreds of billions of dollars in Russian foreign holdings in retaliation for Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. That roughly $300 billion in Russian Central Bank money has been sitting untapped as the war grinds on, while officials from multiple countries have debated the legality of sending the money to Ukraine. The idea of using Russia's frozen assets is gaining new traction lately as continued allied funding for Ukraine becomes more uncertain and the U.S. Congress is in a stalemate over providing more support. But there are tradeoffs since the weaponization of global finance could harm the U.S. dollar's standing as the world's dominant currency. At the World Economic Forum meetings in Davos held this past week, Switzerland, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for a strong decision this year for the frozen assets in Western banks to be directed towards defense against the Russian war and for reconstruction of Ukraine. Putin loves money above all, he said. The more billions he and his oligarchs, friends and accomplices lose, the more likely he will regret starting this war. Biden administration officials who previously dismissed the idea as legally cumbersome are showing growing openness to the idea. Penny Pritzker, the U.S. special representative for Ukraines economic recovery, said at the Davos forum that the U.S. and Group of Seven allies are still looking for an adequate legal framework to pursue the plan. Get all the lawyers and all the various governments and all the parties really to come together to sort that through, she said. Its hard, its complicated, its difficult, and we need to work. Administration officials caution that even if a legal way can be found to transfer the frozen dollars to Ukraine, the war-torn nation has immediate needs for funds that must be met by other means since U.S. assistance to Ukraine's military has ground to a halt. Bipartisan legislation circulating in Washington called the Rebuilding Economic Prosperity and Opportunity for Ukrainians Act would use assets confiscated from the Russian Central Bank and other sovereign assets for Ukraine. A senior official who spoke on condition of anonymity to relay internal discussions said the administration was generally supportive of legislation to give the U.S. more flexibility in making sure Russia pays for the damage it has caused and is in active conversations with allies on how best to do that. But even if legislation were enacted, Nicholas Mulder, a sanctions expert at Cornell University, cautioned that seizing frozen assets could have the unintended effect of undermining efforts to ensure longer-term funding for Ukraine. Right now it is being advanced by Washington as a substitute rather than a complement to long-term Western support for Ukraine, he said. If the assets are transferred, these funds too will run out sooner or later. But by that time Western leaders will have ceased to make any political case for supporting Ukraine, and getting support back up will be much harder." The U.S. announced at the start of Russias invasion that America and its allies had blocked access to more than $600 billion that Russia held outside its borders including roughly $300 billion in funds belonging to Russia's Central Bank. Since then, the U.S and its allies have continued to impose rounds of targeted sanctions against companies and the wealthy elite with ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The World Banks latest damage assessment of Ukraine, released in March 2023, estimates that costs for reconstruction and recovery of the nation stand at $411 billion over the next 10 years, which includes needs for public and private funds. Since the war began in February 2022, the United States has given Ukraine roughly $111 billion in weapons, equipment, humanitarian assistance and other aid. Other countries also have provided Ukraine with substantial support the U.K. announced a $3 billion assistance package on Friday. At the White House, Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young this month told a group of reporters that while the possibility of seizing Russian assets is being studied, it would not have an immediate impact on Ukraine's financial needs. That does not absolve the need to provide funding now, Young said. That is a future benefit to Kyiv I think we should look at and take seriously. Sergey Aleksashenko, a former Russian Central Banker who is now a member of the Russian Antiwar Committee with other dissidents, said that while he strongly believes Russia should be forced to compensate Ukraine, "I do not believe that there is any way to confiscate assets of the Russian Central Bank without a court deciding on the matter. Because if there is no legal basis to confiscate Russian assets, and if it is done by the decision of the administration, that means that there is no rule of law in the U.S. and there is no protection of private property. In Nebraskas days as a territory the legislature spent considerable time incorporating institutions. Every community, it seemed, wanted a bank and a college. In 1856 alone, five banks were chartered, all vetoed by Governor Izard, with two passed over his veto. The Territorial Legislatures also created 25 colleges, universities and academies, only one of which survives today, in Peru. The frenzy continued well into statehood with one college beginning as an academy, becoming a college, reverting to an academy, and later combining with another college, todays Doane University. In the spring of 1881, a group of Nebraska Congregational churches met at Oakdale and proposed establishment of a college at whatever community pledged the largest grant of money and land. Neligh won with their offer of $8,000 and 40 acres of land. The school was named Gates College in honor of Congregational Superintendent H. N. Gates of Boone County Seminary, often erroneously called Boone College. Gates College was incorporated on Sept. 29, 1881, and a $6,000 building planned on a hilltop adjacent to Neligh. The plan was to open as an academy, then with a second building, operate as a college. On Jan. 7, 1882, it was announced that the building, which contained a bell donated by railroad and town builder John Blair, would be completed by June with classes to begin that fall. The local newspaper stated that 150 students had enrolled for the first term though another source says 92 and that December the actual number proved to be 66. 2,000 circulars were printed and mailed, noting tuition would be $5 per term, to be paid in advance and spoke of the beautiful view from the observatory atop the buildings roof. It was suggested that board and room would be available for $2.50 to $3 per week. To that end the local newspaper encouraged citizens to provide lodging and urged private entrepreneurs to consider building dormitories. Another 1882 article explained that students should bring a pencil and a few sheets of Legal Cap writing paper for the entrance exam to be held Sept. 5 at 9 a.m. Gates second term expected 75 to 80 students but registered about 90. By 1885 the General Association was still wary of endorsing a second college, feeling it was unwise and inexpedient and ended up encouraging Doane and fell short of moving Gates to college status. Gates plugged on as an academy, building Gaylord Hall, a boarding hall, in 1886. In 1889 Gates claimed to have four buildings and a 5,000-book library. In 1892 Gates completed the extant gymnasium, and though an Omaha meeting encouraged a union of some sort between Gates and Doane in Crete, Gates emerged as a college instead of a mere academy. As a financial deficit developed in 1895, Gates reluctantly agreed to relocate to Norfolk if sufficient funding and land were proffered. Arguments held the floor and strangely, Norfolk College was born as a separate and third Congregational college but three years later, Norfolk closed. In September of 1899, Gates, still struggling financially, reverted to becoming an academy, ending advanced work saying a first-class academy was preferable to being a third-class college. 1902 saw the establishment of a Conservatory of Music while a penmanship department was added to the business department. The following year Gates published a report saying its future appeared the brightest in the history of the school while reporting 171 students had enrolled. In 1904 the Congregationalists continued concentrating on its college at Crete but supported five academies at Crete, Franklin, Chadron, Neligh and Weeping Water. Even though Gates admitted struggling, they felt they were at least coming into their own in 1913. Then, almost suddenly, they announced that June 1914 would be the last commencement and Gates quietly closed, merging into Doane College in Crete. Doane agreed to issue a diploma from Doane to any Gates graduate noting they had graduated from Doane. Gaylor Hall or Reception Hall, the original building with cupola and observation deck was considered as a possible hospital for Neligh but was ultimately razed furnishing materials for four cottages on the college site. The college library was given to the Neligh library which discovered books signed by Harriet Beecher Stowe and John Greenleaf Whittier in the transfer. Today the John Blair-donated three-ton bell still exits at the Neligh Congregational Church UCC while the gym, which served as the Antelope County Jail, a county museum and antique store is on the National Register of Historic Places. Top Journal Star photos for January 2024 Drought conditions that persisted for much of the year across the Plains and Midwest, including in Nebraska, failed to hamper the nation's corn crop. Nationwide, 2023's crop turned out to be a big one, as farmers saw a record harvest of 177.3 bushels per acre, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture report released earlier this month. Total bushels harvested also hit a record high of 15.3 billion, up 12% from 2022. In Nebraska, the USDA estimates the 2023 corn crop at 1.73 billion bushels, up 19% from 2022, but lower than 2021 and nowhere near a record. Nebraska corn farmers' yield of 182 bushels per acre was up 17 bushels from 2022, while the 9.5 million harvested acres was up 8% from the previous year. However, both of those numbers were down from 2021. Drought was largely responsible for a huge plunge in the corn crop in 2022, and while conditions improved over much of Nebraska last year, extreme drought remains in some of the state's eastern counties, including three of its top corn-producing counties: Hamilton, Fillmore and York. Drought receded in the western half of the state, leading to some pretty good yields for corn farmers there, said Kelly Brunkhorst, executive director of the Nebraska Corn Board. In eastern Nebraska, however, "It was a tough year," he said. While irrigated crop acres did OK, dryland corn farmers in eastern Nebraska generally struggled. "We did see a number of producers with crop insurance claims," Brunkhorst said. Overall, though, he called 2023 a "solid year" for corn farmers. Brunkhorst said corn farmers are "eternal optimists" and are hoping for a strong 2024, which could largely depend on whether drought recedes in eastern Nebraska. "Hopefully we'll get the beneficial moisture we need," he said. Thanks to lower commodity prices, farm income is forecast to drop nationally in 2023. USDA's November farm forecast projects total income of $151.1 billion, which would be a 17.4% decline from 2022. Commodity prices were softer in 2023 than those years in and immediately following the pandemic. While corn farmers across the country averaged more than $6 a bushel on corn in 2022, they got less than $5 on average in 2023. Nebraska, on the other hand, is likely to see higher farm income in 2023, although that prediction comes with a caveat. Estimates released last fall by the Center for Agricultural Profitability at the University of Nebraska and the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center at the University of Missouri put 2023 net farm income in the state at $7.8 billion, which would be 18% higher than 2022. That increase was largely driven by higher livestock prices. But while farm income is projected to be higher for the full year, the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City recently noted that lower commodity prices, combined with elevated production costs and other factors, "has likely reduced farm income in 2023." A majority of bankers in Kansas and Nebraska noted that farm income had declined in the third quarter compared with a year ago. Most valuable crops grown in Nebraska Most valuable crops grown in Nebraska #9. Oats #8. Sunflower #7. Millet #6. Sorghum #5. Potatoes #4. Wheat #3. Hay & haylage #2. Soybeans #1. Corn Like some character in "Alice in Wonderland," were well beyond the looking glass when the presumptive presidential candidate of the political party that prides itself as being fiscally conservative asks farmers, Look, did I get you $28 billion ? Yes, that was Donald Trump on the stump in Iowa a week before smashing his Republican opponents in the states presidential caucuses last Monday. And, no, he didnt stop with that question, according to the Politico report filed after the Sioux Center gathering where the former president spoke. Who the hell else would get you $28 billion from China? he asked. Well, Politico suggested, at least two others. The first was the actual source of the billions in trade aid: The $28 billion Trump mentioned didnt actually come from China, however. It was paid out by the U.S. government to compensate farmers harmed by Trumps trade war with Beijing. And, As for his question the (second) answer is: the Biden administration. In fact, the story continued, ... over the first three years of their presidencies, Biden and Trumps payments to farmers are virtually identical (as) both men authorized nearly $57 billion in direct federal payments to farmers over that time span. Wow. Thats $114 billion in farm program aid between the two of them in just six years, or a whopping $19 billion a year. Explain this to me again: Why is this something to brag about? While fourth-year ag spending by the Biden White House has yet to occur, it will have to be huge to beat the Trump Administration's fourth-year total of $52 billion, the largest one-year amount since USDA began recording farm payment data in 1933. Most of the spending for Trumps final year and Bidens first two years was tied to the trillions in COVID-19 aid passed by Congress to keep the U.S. economy afloat while markets, swamped by the deadly pandemic, searched for solid ground. Even though Trumps question about how he delivered billions in aid to farmers and ranchers was wildly inaccurate, it wasnt without effect. On Monday, he destroyed his two closest Iowa opponents by a decisive 30 percentage points. While votes might be the ultimate measure of political success, they are not an accurate measure of farm policy success. Net farm income the collective national farm income after expenses serves that purpose far better. By that widely accepted yardstick, the Biden Administration is outperforming the Trump White House, noted Politico: ... Biden has been better for farmers than Trump: Net farm income has actually gone up since the Democrat entered the White House. And not just up, but way up. On average, net farm income has totaled $165 billion between 2021 and 2023, during the first three Biden years compared to $94 billion between 2017 and 2019 of the Trump White House years. Moreover, Farm income reached a record high of nearly $189 billion in 2022. Despite that glowing, three-year record of net farm income while all but matching Trumps $57 billion in disaster assistance during that period most political handicappers rate Bidens 2024 reelection chances among farmers, ranchers, and other rural voters somewhere between dismal and abysmal. That worries Joe Glauber, USDAs chief economist during the Obama years, because of Trumps export tariff record especially with China, the cause of the $28 billion in taxpayer-funded disaster payments the former president touted in Iowa. (S)hould Trump be reelected, Glauber told Politico, the former presidents plan to aggressively expand tariffs risks triggering another trade war that would really hurt U.S. agriculture. Of course, none of this really matters if todays national candidates adopt the slogan, Elect me because Ill send you more federal money than the other guy when campaigning in rural America. Nebraska communities eager to have their own racetrack casinos will have to hold their horses a bit longer. Dissatisfied with a consultants report on the statewide racing and gaming market, a state panel decided Friday it needs more data to comply with a state law before considering new license applications. Members of the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission voted 7-0 to form a committee to work with staff to obtain a supplemental study. Seven proposals have come forward so far for new racetrack casinos, in addition to the original six racetracks already eligible. The $48,000 report by The Innovation Group has been met with some praise but also criticism from those who say it falls short of what state lawmakers wanted. The Legislature directed the commission to have statewide market analyses of the current casino gaming and horseracing markets by Jan. 1, 2025. Lawmakers also asked for a study of the socioeconomic impact of horseracing and casino gambling across the state. Lawmakers created a long, detailed laundry list of data they wanted studied before the commission could consider new applications. The December report addressed many of the items on that list, including providing detailed estimates of how proposed new racetrack casinos might financially impact the six original licensed racetrack casinos. Its clear, though, that gambling interests hurt by the reports conclusions are not happy with it, while those whose fortunes it aided are just fine with it. Several commissioners Friday pointed out what they considered missing elements, such as estimates for the future expansion of the horseracing industry, including the impact on agriculture. The report concluded that there was no need for additional horse racing tracks beyond the ones already licensed. It said there is more than sufficient capacity with the states existing six racing licenses to allow for a tripling or quadrupling of racing in Nebraska. Voters in 2020 approved a ballot initiative linking casino development to racing licenses. That means that anyone who wants to build a casino in Nebraska, other than the six existing racing license holders, must win state approval for a racetrack. Tom Zitt, representing The Innovation Group, defended the report Friday. He said Nebraskas racetrack casinos are so new that its difficult to do more than just provide a baseline of figures for future reference. Fonner Park in Grand Island is the states only truly active racetrack, he said, and theres not much else to analyze. He said it will be years before all six original racetrack casinos are open and stabilized. But he said the findings in the report are based on reliable industry estimates. On the casino side, we stand by our numbers, he said. Commissioner Jeff Galyen said the panel will obtain what lawmakers want. He said, however, that commissioners would rely their own expertise and experience to make licensing decisions after that. I think theres sometimes a presumption that the study is the be-all and end-all, he said. The studys important. The Legislature required it. And were going to do it right. But we will also comply with our duties after thats back and review applications in the future accordingly. Commission Chairman Denny Lee expressed concern that its simply too early to get any useful information to help guide decisions. For now, he said, the state has no permanent state-sanctioned casinos in operation. The three casinos that are operating are temporary casinos, he said. While the figures in the report are based on reasonable industry expectations, he said, Im not sure theres enough data to really allow the commission to make a good judgment as to any expansion of gaming and racetracks other than our current facilities. The commission received letters this month from Nebraska Horsemens Benevolent Protective Association President Garald Wollesen and WarHorse Gaming Chief Executive Officer Lance Morgan calling for the report to be shelved and a new report ordered. I think it should be thrown out, and you should start again, said Lynne McNally, chief executive officer of the horsemens group Friday. She said the report contained inaccuracies and The Innovation Group should have consulted the horsemen as a resource. Commissioners declined to give final approval for the transfer of the racing license from FairPlay Park in Hastings to Ogallala, citing the need for additional data. Representatives of a proposed Fremont racetrack casino were similarly told they would have to wait for consideration. Top Journal Star photos for January 2024 The social and community impacts of Nebraskas fledgling casino gambling cant be gauged yet because the industry is too new, a consultants report says. The industry is concentrated in the more populated eastern portion of the state, where Iowa casinos have been available for 30 years, making it impossible to measure the impact of new gambling options, the report by The Innovation Group says. The firm was tasked by the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission with analyzing the socioeconomic impact of expanded gambling as well as doing market analyses on racetracks and casinos. The firm devotes much of the report to establishing benchmark data that would be used as a measure in the future. The report says that because tribal casinos and lottery gambling are already prevalent in Nebraska and adjacent states, it is reasonable to assume a problem gambling population currently exists. In other words, the report says, those with a propensity for problem gambling already have ready access to gambling products, so this expansion of gaming is likely to impact the population of problem gamblers only marginally. Nebraska law requires the commission to track the number of people who have voluntarily self-excluded from casinos. Self-exclusion would be a sign of someone having problems. As of last month, 97 people had self-excluded using these voluntary bans since the inception of Nebraska casinos, according to the commission. The report touches on a number of potential impacts, noting studies in other states or nationally, but some of the data cited is from the 1990s. The report states that, generally across the country, the perception that casinos breed crime is not supported by the evidence. While the number of reported crimes can increase, as with any commercial development that attracts visitors, casino gambling has not been shown to lead to an increase in crime rates, the report says. Host communities should expect impacts similar in kind to other commercial development of similar scope and visitor potential, it says. The projected increase in visitor population should be expected to lead to increases in public safety services and judicial system caseload, it says. Pat Loontjer, executive director of Gambling with the Good Life, said the state should put the brakes on approving new racetrack casinos until it has good data on the impact of existing ones. Its way too soon to start expanding, Loontjer said. Voters in 2020 approved a ballot initiative linking casino development to racing licenses. That means that anyone who wants to build a casino in Nebraska, other than the six existing racing license holders, must win state approval for a racetrack. Earlier this month, Bellevue Mayor Rusty Hike declared his backing for a proposed racetrack casino in his city, saying that Bellevue and Sarpy County shouldnt be denied the benefits. Currently, there are six licensed racetracks eligible for casinos. Three temporary casinos are open at the tracks in Lincoln, Grand Island and Columbus, all of which plan to open permanent casinos. In Omaha, WarHorse is building a casino at Horsemens Park that is slated to open in September. Photos: Opening of the Lincoln Warhorse Casino RACINE The Downtown Racine Corp. held its annual State of the Downtown and Achievement Award Presentation on Thursday, celebrating the successes of the district in 2023 and offering a preview of what the public can look forward to in 2024. More than 125 business owners and community members attended the event at The Red Onion Cafe, 555 Main St. Kelly Kruse, executive director of DRC, announced new initiatives, goals and events, and highlighted the areas accomplishments from the past year. Highlights of 2023 Although downtown comprises only 2% of land in the city, it represents 9.1% of all businesses, Kruse said. The district welcomed 11 new businesses in 2023, including Divine Melanin Beauty Supply; The Perfection Place; Hotel Verdant and its bar and restaurant, Eave and Marguerite; Vero International Cuisine; Level Up; Chartroom at Rivers End; Realty ONE Group Boardwalk; Kings Kitchen & Cocktails; and Nemo & Fogg. During 2023, the DRC hosted more than 80 events, a significant increase compared to 39 events in 2019. Events such as First Fridays, Music on the Monument, the Holiday Parade and Party on the Pavement are put on by the DRC. Honored with a first-place state award for Best Event from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, Party on the Pavement had 15,500 attendees and more than 150 vendors participate in 2023. What to expect in 2024 Breakwater 233, a 203-unit apartment building with market-rate prices, is scheduled to open in August and is expected to bring more than 500 residents downtown, Kruse said. After a change in management from VenuWorks to 5Kevents, the community can expect large events to return to Festival and Memorial Hall. As part of a five-year agreement with Festival Hall, Salmon-A-Rama, celebrating its 50th anniversary, will return this season with a 10-day festival. With a few new businesses joining Sixth Street, the DRC has branded it as the Racine Artisan District or the RAD District on Sixth St. Some of the new businesses expected to move into the RAD District this year include a tavern, an art gallery, a coffee shop, a restaurant and an event venue. To celebrate its 23rd year of public art, the DRC will debut a butterfly art project with 25 displays downtown. And starting in May, the DRC will host a new event called Feast on the Streets, which will act as a sort of wine walk, but for food. Downtown Achievement Awards Several awards were presented to businesses and individuals for their contributions to downtown during Thursdays event. Christopher Sklba received the Downtown Champion Award, which is given to a business or organization that is the ultimate citizen, supporting downtown through employment, facilities and sponsorship. Dan Dumont was received the Corporate Citizenship Award, which honors an individual who has been a catalyst for improving downtown. I just want you all to know that I did retire, but I am not done fighting the fight for our downtown and for our city, Dumont said. The CPR Award highlights the redevelopment of a building or property that has revitalized the downtown neighborhood. Taking home the award was the Rivers End District, which includes Chartroom Restaurant, Rivers End Marina, the Coast Guard station and the future BridgeTenders, which is scheduled to open this spring. Eave, Hotel Verdants rooftop bar, received Best New Business, which honors a retail shop, gallery or restaurant that has captivated marketplace attention and played a crucial role in enhancing the downtown experience. The Showcase Award, which celebrates an exhilarating event, person or organization that has not only attracted visitors and residents but also has contributed to transforming downtown, was presented to The Red Onion Cafe. An Honorable Mention Award was given VERO International Cuisine, 211 Sixth St. RACINE Severe winter weather earlier this month will impact the schedules of area school districts. Most districts canceled classes Tuesday, Jan. 9, and Friday, Jan. 12, when winter storms hit Southeast Wisconsin. At the Racine Unified School district, Jan. 9 and 12 were the first two cancellation days the district has had this school year. To make up for the Jan. 9 cancellation, RUSD will have school on Monday, Feb. 19. That is one of two makeup school days built into RUSDs calendar to account for weather cancellation. RUSD has one other makeup day on Friday, April 26, if needed. Regarding last Fridays snow day, Stacy Tapp, RUSD chief of communication and community engagement, wrote in an email that the district has enough instructional minutes built in to accommodate the cancellation. The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction requires at least 437 hours of direct instruction for kindergartners, at least 1,050 hours for first through sixth grade and at least 1,137 hours for seventh through 12th grade. June 11 is still scheduled to be the last day of class at RUSD for the 2023-24 school year. Siena Catholic Schools of Racine adjusted its schedules depending on grade level. To make up for lost instructional time after class was canceled Jan. 9, St. Catherines High School eliminated five early release days scheduled for later in the school year. The high school did not have virtual classes on Jan. 9, but it did Jan. 12. Any additional cancellations this year will again require high school students to go virtual, Kimberly Gardner, Siena chief advancement officer, wrote in an email. Siena seventh and eighth grade students have enough instructional hours scheduled to accommodate five weather cancellation days, according to Gardner. Two of those days have been used so far. If there are more than five weather cancellation days, seventh and eighthgrade students and faculty will be required to switch to virtual learning, Gardner wrote. Siena first through sixth grade students have more than 18 cancellation days available and have used two, according to Gardner. May 31 is still scheduled to be the last day of class at Siena in the 2023-24 school year. Union Grove High School did not have class on Jan. 9 and Jan. 12, but that will not impact the school calendar as of now. Tom Johnson, UGHS superintendent, said the high school has four-and-a-half built-in days to deal with cancellations and has used two. May 31 is still scheduled to be the last day of class at UGHS. The Burlington Area School District has three built-in makeup days on its calendar to account for weather cancellations. The district has so far used two days after not having class on Jan. 9 and 12. If the district runs out of makeup days, we would then engage in a virtual learning day, which would then allow us to keep the same school calendar without needing to add days or minutes to the school year, BASD Superintendent Jill Oelslager wrote in an email. Oelslager said she appreciates the collaboration between school district superintendents and the National Weather Service regarding potential inclement weather days. She said area superintendents listen to information from the NWS on a Zoom call. The NWS does a great job explaining the information and sharing their expertise with school districts to ensure our number one focus is on the safety of our students, Oelslager wrote. The superintendents then talk on a separate Zoom call to develop consensus for the area in regards to decisions for school closings, Oelslager wrote. It is a very collaborative process with student safety at the center of all conversations. June 7 is still scheduled to be the last day of class at BASD for the 2023-24 school year. Close David Recupero works his snowblower Friday morning near the intersection of North Street and Eighth Avenue in Racine. Roberto Hernandez shovels snow Friday morning on Jean Avenue in Racine. Cars are parked on Eighth Avenue in Racine on Jan. 12. David Recupero works his snowblower Friday morning near the intersection of North Street and Eighth Avenue in Racine. Roberto Hernandez shovels snow Friday morning on Jean Avenue in Racine. Five photos of the snowstorm on Friday, Jan. 12, 2024 David Recupero works his snowblower Friday morning near the intersection of North Street and Eighth Avenue in Racine. Roberto Hernandez shovels snow Friday morning on Jean Avenue in Racine. Cars are parked on Eighth Avenue in Racine on Jan. 12. David Recupero works his snowblower Friday morning near the intersection of North Street and Eighth Avenue in Racine. Roberto Hernandez shovels snow Friday morning on Jean Avenue in Racine. RACINE The Racine Unified School District Board during its business meeting Monday will consider closing West Ridge Elementary at the end of this school year. As part of the districts long-term plans, West Ridge, 1347 S. Emmertsen Road, Mount Pleasant, was scheduled to close in June 2025. However, Soren Gajewski, RUSD interim superintendent, said during the RUSD Board work session Jan. 8 that district officials spoke to West Ridge students and families in fall 2023 and asked if students wanted to attend West Ridge, their neighborhood boundary schools or the soon-to-be expanded Starbuck IB K-8 School in the 2024-25 school year. Just about all of the students elected to move onto either Starbuck IB or to their neighborhood school, leaving 30 students remaining who planned to attend West Ridge next school year, Gajewski said. The idea of functioning a building for 30 students, which may end up even being less than that, is obviously not realistic or good for the students in any way. If the School Board approves West Ridge closing this June, Gajewski said RUSD will work with those 30 families on where the students will go next school year. Options include attending Starbuck, the students boundary schools including Knapp Elementary, Mitchell K-8 School and Schulte school or entering the districts school choice lottery. We feel like this is not a closure in the same sense that you may have experienced in previous closures but something that is actually kind of a good thing, in that our families said, Hey, we really want to go to Starbuck for the most part, and were happy with the choices that are ahead of us, Gajewski said during the work session. If West Ridge closes this June, the district would save about $2 million, according to Gajewski. Referendum-funded work The RUSD Board on Monday also will consider the financing of and construction work at five schools funded by capital referendum money. Board members will consider authorizing a maximum of $37.5 million for construction at Case High School. Renovation work at Case is estimated to cost $33.6 million and be done by August 2027. The board will consider authorizing a maximum of $25 million for construction work at Wadewitz Elementary. Renovation work at Wadewitz is estimated to cost $21.98 million and be done by August 2026. The board will consider authorizing a maximum of $22.75 million for construction work at Walden III Middle and High School. Renovation work at Walden is estimated to cost $19.8 million and be done by August 2027. The board will consider authorizing a maximum of $19 million for construction work at Gifford K-8 School. Renovation work at Gifford is estimated to cost $16.1 million and be done by August 2026. Members will consider authorizing a maximum of $19 million for construction work at Goodland Montessori School. Work to expand Goodland Montessori from an elementary school into a K-8 building is estimated to cost $15.9 million and be done by August 2026. The business meeting is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Mygatts Room at the RUSD Administrative Service Campus Building 1, 3109 Mount Pleasant St. Close Second grader Nakarii Williams smiles with the school mascot Tuesday on the first day of class at Wadewitz Elementary School, 2700 Yout St. Kim Krause, physical education teacher, hugs two students Tuesday on the first day of class at Wadewitz Elementary School, 2700 Yout St. Breonna Paton, from left, second grader Delantiy Campbell and Emily Etchison get ready Tuesday on the first day of class at Wadewitz Elementary School, 2700 Yout St. Kim Krause, physical education teacher, welcomes a student Tuesday on the first day of class at Wadewitz Elementary School, 2700 Yout St. Aleisha Baugh takes a photo of kindergartener Kelex Jackson on the first day of class at Wadewitz Elementary School, 2700 Yout St. A student high-fives the school bear Tuesday on the first day of class at Wadewitz Elementary School, 2700 Yout St. Kindergartener Ky-ree Jones gets ready to walk into school Tuesday on the first day of class at Wadewitz Elementary School, 2700 Yout St. Students line up Tuesday on the first day of class at Wadewitz Elementary School, 2700 Yout St. Eight photos of Racine Unified's first day of school at Wadewitz Elementary Tuesday was the first day of the Racine Unified 2023-24 school year. Second grader Nakarii Williams smiles with the school mascot Tuesday on the first day of class at Wadewitz Elementary School, 2700 Yout St. Kim Krause, physical education teacher, hugs two students Tuesday on the first day of class at Wadewitz Elementary School, 2700 Yout St. Breonna Paton, from left, second grader Delantiy Campbell and Emily Etchison get ready Tuesday on the first day of class at Wadewitz Elementary School, 2700 Yout St. Kim Krause, physical education teacher, welcomes a student Tuesday on the first day of class at Wadewitz Elementary School, 2700 Yout St. Aleisha Baugh takes a photo of kindergartener Kelex Jackson on the first day of class at Wadewitz Elementary School, 2700 Yout St. A student high-fives the school bear Tuesday on the first day of class at Wadewitz Elementary School, 2700 Yout St. Kindergartener Ky-ree Jones gets ready to walk into school Tuesday on the first day of class at Wadewitz Elementary School, 2700 Yout St. Students line up Tuesday on the first day of class at Wadewitz Elementary School, 2700 Yout St. A highly decorated Kenosha County sheriffs deputy and his K-9 partner were honored at the state Capital this past week as Hometown Hero recipients. Deputy Terry Tifft and K-9 Riggs were presented with the award Tuesday by state Rep. Amanda Nedweski, R-Pleasant Prairie, in a ceremony before the State Assembly. Nedweski introduced Tifft and Riggs with a synopsis of their heroic actions the morning in October 2021, when they helped apprehend an Illinois murder suspect in Kenosha County. The suspect fired at sheriffs deputies and shot Riggs in the head while attempting to flee. Last year, a Kenosha County jury found Allan Brown, 36, guilty of numerous felonies committed here. They included three counts of first-degree recklessly endangering safety with a dangerous weapon, possession of a firearm by an out-of-state felon, firing at an animal with a dangerous weapon and causing injury, and mistreatment of a law enforcement animal with a dangerous weapon, among others. He was sentenced to 57 years in prison. On the morning of Oct. 21, 2021, Brown fired at deputies and wounded Riggs. Deputies confronted Brown outside a Bristol convenience store as they tried to take him into custody on behalf of Chicago police. Authorities had been alerted earlier that morning that Brown was being sought in connection with two homicides in Chicago. Assistant District Attorney Alexandra Smathers called Brown truly evil and dangerous during his sentencing, adding but the for grace of God that K-9 Riggs is here today. Brown, of Countryside, Ill., a Cook County suburb, still faces two homicide charges against him in Illinois. He is accused of, in the very early morning hours of Oct. 21, 2021, fatally shooting a 25-year-old man he had argued with at a bus stop in Chicago and then shooting and killing a 41-year-old man and stealing his vehicle before fleeing over the state border to Kenosha County. The stolen vehicle Brown was driving was eventually tracked to Bristol via a GPS device. While in Bristol, Brown fled on foot and fired at three responding deputies, striking Riggs in the head, before being taken into custody. Riggs has since returned to active duty with Tifft. My heart broke for Deputy Tifft when I heard the news of Riggs injury on that fateful October day in 2021, Nedweski said in a prepared statement at Tuesdays awards ceremony. One of the first bills I signed onto as a new legislator in 2023 is AB 75, with Deputy Tifft and Riggs in the forefront of my thoughts. In September of 2022, I was proud to present Officer Jeff Comp and K9 Jaxx of the Twin Lakes Police Department with the Assemblys First Responder of the Year Award. We are so fortunate to have dedicated K9 officers and their amazing partners protecting the people of Kenosha County. With every opportunity, I will do my best to support law enforcement K-9 units in Wisconsin. She urged her colleagues to pass Assembly Bill 75, of which she is a co-author, to increase penalties for intentional harm against law enforcement dogs. Following a standing ovation from the Assembly, Tifft acknowledged the support from the Kenosha County community and those who made the trip to Madison to join in celebrating this honor, including his wife, Gwen Tifft, Sheriff David Zoerner, Chief Deputy Justin Miller and several additional deputies. Tifft and Riggs were presented with an award and citation signed by Nedweski, state Sen. Van Wanggaard, Majority Leader Rep. Tyler August and Assembly Speaker Robin Vos. It isnt the first honor Riggs has received. In December 2021, Riggs was honored with both a Purple Heart and a Silver Star, which are the fourth- and second-highest awards, respectively, presented by the Sheriffs Department. IN PHOTOS: Hero K-9 Riggs is released from the veterinary hospital Riggs Riggs Riggs Riggs Riggs Riggs Deputy Terry Tifft and K9 Riggs 1. Yes. It will be convenient and the fares are cheap. I plan to use the transit system often. 2. Yes. I have a vehicle, but I may still use the service now and then, especially in bad weather. 3. No. I dont use the current bus service, and I dont plan to use the micro-transit service either. 4. No. It may be fine in town, but it still involves a transfer for longer trips. That wont work. 5. Unsure. Its hard to say. It depends on how well the service works once its in place. Vote View Results Thank you for reading! Please purchase a subscription to read our premium content. If you have a subscription, please log in or sign up for an account on our website to continue. At about 6 p.m., the Vernon County Sheriffs Office 911 Dispatch Center was notified of the collision in the town of Hamburg. According to a press release from the sheriffs office, the driver, Jayme M. Flaig, 34, reported minor injuries and was transported to Gundersen Health System in La Crosse by Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance. NEW YORK Sixty years ago, the U.S. surgeon general released a report that settled a longstanding public debate about the dangers of cigarettes and led to huge changes in smoking in America. Today, some public health experts say a similar report could help clear the air about vaping. Many U.S. adults believe nicotine vaping is as harmful as or more dangerous than cigarette smoking. Thats wrong. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and most scientists agree that, based on available evidence, electronic cigarettes are far less dangerous than traditional cigarettes. But that doesnt mean e-cigarettes are harmless. And public health experts disagree about exactly how harmful, or helpful, the devices are. Clarifying information is urgently needed, said Lawrence Gostin, a public health law expert at Georgetown University. There have been so many confusing messages about vaping, Gostin said. A surgeon generals report could clear that all up. One major obstacle: E-cigarettes havent been around long enough for scientists to see if vapers develop problems like lung cancer and heart disease. Theres a remarkable lack of evidence, said Dr. Kelly Henning, who leads the public health program at Bloomberg Philanthropies. Cigarette smoking has long been described as the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention puts the annual toll at 480,000 lives. That count should start to fall around 2030, according to a study published last year by the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, thanks in part to a decline in smoking rates that began in the 1960s. Back then, ashtrays were everywhere and more than 42% of U.S. adults smoked. On Jan. 11, 1964, U.S. Surgeon General Luther Terry released an authoritative report that said smoking causes illness and death and the government should do something about it. The report is considered a watershed moment: In the decades that followed, warning labels were put on cigarette packs, cigarette commercials were banned, governments raised tobacco taxes and new restrictions were placed on where people could light up. By 2022, the adult smoking rate was 11%. Some experts believe e-cigarettes deserve some of the credit. The devices were billed as a way to help smokers quit, and the FDA has authorized a handful of e-cigarettes as less-harmful alternatives for adult smokers. Vapings popularity exploded in the 2010s, among both adults and teens. In 2014, e-cigarettes surpassed combustible cigarettes as the tobacco product that youth used the most. By 2019, 28% of high schoolers were vaping. U.S. health officials sounded alarms, fearing that kids hooked on nicotine would rediscover cigarettes. That hasnt happened. Last year, the high school smoking rate was less than 2% far lower than the 35% rate seen about 25 years ago. Thats a great public health triumph. Its an almost unbelievable one, said Kenneth Warner, who studies tobacco-control policies at the University of Michigan. If it werent for e-cigarettes, I think we would be hearing the public health community shouting at the top of their lungs about the success of getting kids not to smoke, he said. Cigarettes have been called the deadliest consumer product ever invented. Their smoke contains thousands of chemicals, at least 69 of which can cause cancer. The vapor from e-cigarettes has been estimated to contain far fewer chemicals, and fewer carcinogens. Some toxic substances are present in both, but show up in much lower concentrations in e-cigarette vapor than in cigarette smoke. Studies have shown that smokers who completely switch to vaping have better lung function and see other health improvements. I would much rather see someone vaping than smoking a Marlboro. There is no question in my mind that vaping is safer, said Donald Shopland, who was a clerk for the committee that generated the 1964 report and is co-author of a forthcoming book on it. But what about the dangers to people who have never smoked? There have been 100 to 200 studies looking at vaping, and they are a mixed bag, said Dr. Neal Benowitz, of the University of California, San Francisco, a leading academic voice on nicotine and tobacco addiction. The studies used varying techniques, and many were limited in their ability to separate the effects of vaping from former cigarettes smoking, he said. If you look at the research, its all over the map, Warner said. Studies have detected bronchitis symptoms and aggravation of asthma in young people who vape. Research also indicates vaping also can affect the cells that line the blood vessels and heart, leading to looks for a link to heart disease. Perhaps the most cited concern is nicotine, the stimulant that makes cigarettes and vapes addictive. Animal studies suggest nicotine exposure in adolescents can affect development of the area of the brain responsible for attention, learning and impulse control. Some research in people suggests a link between vaping and ADHD symptoms, depression and feelings of stress. But experts say that the research is very limited and more work needs to be done. Vaping is finally on a downward trend in schools Vaping is finally on a downward trend in schools The record number of immigrants entering the United States illegally has resulted in 3 million cases awaiting judgement in immigration courts around the country. The city of Miami, Florida, is at the center of the immigration wave. There, 261,000 removal proceedings are awaiting a hearing. Just 12 years ago, that number would have covered the whole country, said Austin Kocher. He is a professor at Syracuse University in New York who researches federal immigration detention. The Associated Press (AP) reports that Miami has the longest list, or docket, of these cases. The backlog includes immigrants who have been in the United States for many years but were arrested on charges not related to their entry into the country. Most, however, are asylum seekers. They have told border security officials that they fear they will be in danger if they return to their home country. The AP reports that the number of people being apprehended for illegally crossing the southern U.S. border has reached record levels. As a result, the court backlog of cases grew by more than 1 million in the last fiscal year. Information from Syracuse Universitys Transactional Records Access Clearing house says the case backlog is three times larger than it was in 2019. Judges, lawyers and migrant activists say they are worried the system no longer works. It often takes several years to either grant people asylum or deport those who have no right to remain in the country. The courts are administered by the Department of Justice. The backlogged courts have received limited attention. What happens at the border? When U.S. officials apprehend migrants at the border, a record is made of their detention. Most are then released into the U.S. and are told to appear in court in the city where they are headed. The information is passed from the Department of Homeland Security to the Justice Department, where the Executive Office for Immigration Review operates the courts. Randy McGrorty is executive director of Catholic Legal Services for the Archdiocese of Miami, which has hundreds of thousands of migrants in its communities. He said, Theyre just being released without any idea of what comes next. Many immigrants come to the Catholic Legal Services for advice. It is now teaching them how to represent themselves before judges. Miguel Mora is a Catholic Legal Services lawyer in Miami. He said, We help them understand what judges want, and we help judges When immigrants go to court Aaron Rodriguez and Cindy Baneza are in their 20s. They recently appeared in an immigration court in Miami with three children. They are not married. They communicated with the judge with the help of an interpreter. It had been eight months since they crossed the Rio Grande River and entered the U.S. illegally. They asked the judge to give them more time to find a lawyer so they could file an asylum claim. Rodriguez, who is 23, told Judge Christina Martyak that he had no money for a lawyer. He had already received an extension for not having a lawyer. Rodriguez and Baneza said they fled Honduras after a gang threatened them. The violent group had killed the father of Banezas oldest child. The gang threatened them with more violence unless they paid them money they earned from their tortilla business. Rodriguez told the AP: We were left with no other option than get out of the country. Judge Martyak agreed to give Rodriguez and Baneza an additional three months. She told them to seek free legal assistance from the Catholic Archdiocese of Miami. The backlog keeps growing Time does not reduce the backlog, however. Government records show that judges completed far more cases in the last year than ever before. But their dockets keep growing. Mimi Tsankov is president of the National Association of Immigration Judges. Tsankov said the average number of cases per judge is now 5,000. She said if the number of judges doubled to about 1,400, the current backlog would be solved by 2032. In the latest budget request, the Executive Office for Immigration Review said it is requesting that Congress provide money for 150 new judges and support workers, the AP reports. Paul Schmidt is a retired immigration government lawyer. He was working when the last major system reform took place nearly 40 years ago. He said the system can only be fixed with major policy changes. One example of such a change would be to permit most asylum cases to be solved through an administrative process instead of through a court of law. Im Caty Weaver. And I'm Mario Ritter, Jr. Giovanna DellOrto reported this story for the Associated Press. Mario Ritter, Jr. adapted it for VOA Learning English. ________________________________________________ Words in This Story proceedings n.(pl.) the process of appearing before a court of law in a legal case backlog n. the number of tasks that are waiting to be finished apprehend v. to be caught or to be arrested fiscal year n. a 12-month period for financial purposes grant v. to give legal permission for something in an official way deport v. to be removed from a country by a legal process file v. to submit documents to meet legal or financial requirements; to put paperwork in organized storage We want to hear from you. Our comment policy is here. Developers of a proposed new city in northern California have begun presenting their plans to voters. Jan Sramek leads the project, called California Forever. Sramek is a former trader with American financial services company Goldman Sachs. He recently started a campaign to seek community support in Solano County for the new city. The project needs the support because current community rules bar development of some agricultural land. California Forever needs the written support of 13,000 Solano County voters to propose the building project on a ballot in November elections. Leaders of the project have already spent more than $800 million on land purchases in an area between San Francisco and Sacramento. Planners say they aim to create an environment friendly and walkable city with affordable housing and good jobs. Among billionaire backers of the project are philanthropist Laurene Powell Jobs, LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman and investor and Netscape co-founder Marc Andreessen. Planners want to build about 20,000 homes for 50,000 residents. The city will sit between Travis Air Force Base and the small city of Rio Vista. The housing is to be built within walking distance to jobs, schools, restaurants and stores. Developers have suggested the citys population could one day reach 400,000. Since it was formed in 2017, California Forever has bought more than 202 square kilometers of farmland in Solano County. The plan calls for $400 million to help Solano County residents buy homes in the proposed community. Sramek has already held a series of community meetings around the county. But the efforts have not quieted critics who have been opposed to the project since the start of land-buying began in the area years ago. The land California Forever is targeting sits in the heart of the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, which serves as home to many fish and wildlife species. The Delta is also a source for the areas already limited water supply. Critics of the project worry that adding more development will further harm an already threatened ecosystem. But supporters say Solano County is a smart place to build because the area has a big need for additional housing. There is especially a great need for affordable homes for teachers, firefighters, police and other public workers. Gabriel Metcalf is head of planning for California Forever. He told The Associated Press he thinks Solano County is a good place because it will appeal to military contractors, as well as technology and construction companies seeking a new project. Metcalf said, if we can provide companies with a pathway to growth, we think well get some major employers creating jobs here that would otherwise go out of state, to places like Texas. Im Bryan Lynn. The Associated Press reported this story. Bryan Lynn adapted the report for VOA Learning English. ____________________________________________ Words in This Story affordable adj. having a low price philanthropist n. someone who gives money to people who need help ecosystem n. all the living things in a particular area, as well as the ways the things affect each other and the environment SOS thought it had helped solve the problem of Dave Petersons prematurely corroding batteries. It was wrong, and despite weeks of additional effort, his and a few other readers travails have resulted in that occasional brand of SOS column it pains SOS to write. The one calling out the unresponsive, the unhelpful and the uninterested in explaining themselves. Peterson, 69, of Madison, took advantage of the savings in buying in bulk by purchasing a 48-pack of AA Rayovac batteries in 2018 for about $10. Four years later, some of the batteries had started to leak both unused ones still in their package and ones that had been installed in a clock and in a flashlight, the latter of which no longer worked as a result. Peterson had been stymied over email by Rayovac Consumer Services which he suspected was a bot and so had turned to SOS, which in relatively short order was able to secure for him $30 worth of coupons from Rayovac parent Energizer Holdings so that he could buy some batteries and replace his flashlight. That turned out to be easier promised than done. Peterson said he took the coupons to the Far West Side Madison Target on Dec. 9, when he found the replacement flashlight for $21.99, but he couldnt purchase it because Energizer restricts coupon purchases to one item per coupon and the coupons hed been sent were for $20 and $10. He also couldnt buy batteries with the coupons because, as he found out when he got to the register at Target, Target didnt actually take the coupons, despite Energizers assertion that it did, he said. Ultimately, he said, he ended up buying just a replacement flashlight at Menards, where he said an employee told him that store doesnt take Energizer coupons because my boss says that they are more trouble than they are worth. SOS Dec. 4 column on Petersons plight brought a Dec. 13 email from a reader who had a similar problem but who has since given up the struggle and whom SOS is therefore not naming. He said he tried to exercise the warranty on some Rayovac batteries still in their packaging, but that because they had expired in November, Energizer refused. The mans argument was that the photos he sent Energizer of said batteries pretty clearly showed they had been corroding since long before November. SOS returned for a second swing at Energizer Holdings but this time got nothing in the way of a named response. Company communications manager John Leiby, who had been responsive to Petersons earlier concerns, did not respond to multiple requests for comment over several weeks. Neither did Energizer vice president Jon Poldan. Rayovac Consumer Services emailed on Jan. 12 to say we have escalated your case to the concerned team but has since gone silent. Meanwhile, Rayovac Consumer Support, using a different email address from that of Rayovac Consumer Services, on Jan. 9 offered Peterson a check for $45 to cover his troubles. Peterson refused, saying the time, travel and money hed spent dealing with the defective batteries and the problems they caused was worth considerably more than that. The bulldog in me simply wants to know why they did not just send me a replacement flashlight and some batteries out of their inventory, he said. Or, if they really like the coupon approach, why restrict use to one coupon per item. ... Why make this difficult? Meta mute Speaking of going silent, while Elon Musks social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, had been responding to reporters emails with a poop emoji, Facebook, and its parent company Meta, cant even muster that. In line with SOS past experience, Facebook/Meta didnt respond to multiple emails (trying to reach Facebook/Meta by phone is a fools errand) on behalf of two readers, Marcia Weisensel and Marje Murray, whod failed in their attempts to get Facebook to restore or delete their hacked accounts. Of particular concern for Murray, according to her husband, Dennis Sullivan, is that whoever had hacked her account was trying to sell things in her name. We have been unable to reach a person at (Facebook) to find out what else can be done to stop the fraud on people who think they are buying things from my wife, he said on Dec. 16. On Friday, Weisensel confirmed that she remains locked out of her account, and while Sullivan thought Murrays account might have been deleted, a check Saturday showed it still existed. Its most recent post, from Jan. 1, is clearly a scam: a photo of a U.S. Small Business Administration web page, with the comment: NEW GRANT IS OUT NOW FUNDING WITH $26,000. NOT NECESSARY TO HAVE A LLC OR EIN ,NO PAY BACK HITTING FAST. ASK FOR INFO PRIVATELY ON MY DM @EVERYONE. SOS sent Murrays hacker a friend request and a message politely asking the person to reveal themselves and stop running scams in Murrays name. It cant hurt, and in any case, it appears to be more than Facebook is willing to do. Send us an SOS Since September 2007, SOS has helped save Wisconsin State Journal readers more than $236,927.09 and solved hundreds of problems. You can send an SOS using any of these methods: Email: sos@madison.com Online form: http://go.madison.com/sendSOS Phone: 608-252-6198 Mail: SOS, Wisconsin State Journal, P.O. Box 8058, Madison, WI 53708 Two people were injured in a fire that caused significant damage and displaced all residents at an eight-unit apartment building on the East Side early Saturday morning, the Madison Fire Department said. Madison firefighters were dispatched to the 3000 block of Commercial Avenue for a structure fire at 4:54 a.m. and arrived on the scene within seven minutes, finding flames and heavy smoke coming from the front door and windows of the building, the department said. Firefighters attacked the blaze from the exterior and worked their way inside, the department said. The fire was knocked down about 10 minutes later and searches were made to ensure all occupants were out. Crews used fans to remove smoke from the building and opened up walls and ceilings to make sure the fire was completely extinguished. One resident was rescued from a second-floor balcony by firefighters while other occupants of the building escaped on their own, the department said. Two occupants of the building were transported to a hospital. The nature of their injuries was not available. Madison Gas and Electric responded to turn off the electricity and natural gas service for the building, the department said. A Metro Transit bus provided a warm place for the tenants and firefighters to escape cold temperatures. The Red Cross was called to assist displaced residents. The cause of the fire is under investigation. A damage estimate was not yet available, the department said. This State Journal editorial ran on Jan. 21, 1999: Business leaders and state officials have been saying since last summer that Wisconsins low unemployment rate has created a sellers market for skilled workers. For the sake of 300 workers at Janesvilles Parker Pen plant, lets hope they are right. Parker Pen, a 111-year-old company that was a symbol of Wisconsin craftsmanship, will close its factory by the end of the year. About 300 of the 415 jobs at the plant will be eliminated as Gillette, Parkers parent company, moves to cut 4,700 of its 43,000 jobs. The loss will be felt in many ways. Parker Pen has been a part of the civic fabric in Janesville and Wisconsin for years, producing leaders who contributed to politics, charity and economic development. Over 40 years, the Janesville Foundation started by the Parker family has contributed about $50 million to worthy causes and projects. The most immediate effect, of course, will be the loss of jobs in Janesville. According to a union spokesman, the workers who will lose their jobs earn an average of $13 to $14 per hour. They have skills ranging from tool-and-die making to assembly and packaging, which may be transferable to other jobs. The No. 1 attribute these employees have, however, is a tradition of good work habits and producing quality merchandise. Those are skills that can be hard to come by. ... With some retraining, the Parker Pen workers should be able to find jobs elsewhere, though salaries may vary greatly. There are companies looking to expand in Janesville, Rock County and elsewhere in southern Wisconsin that may want to hire these workers. Theres talk of a community job fair in Janesville to help match displaced workers to new jobs. Retraining programs will be a part of the mix, too. Companies are saying theres a shortage of workers with good skills and attitudes to match. The Parker Pen closing will test how true that is. Donald Trump is the last major Republican presidential candidate after former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley's exit from the race. The former president dominated the early-state contests and romped through elections held on Super Tuesday. On the Democratic side, President Joe Biden has easily won his party's opening contests. And on Wednesday, U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips of Minnesota ended his long-shot White House bid and endorsed Biden. A look at the major candidates competing for the Republican and Democratic nominations, as well as the third-party contenders: REPUBLICAN PRIMARY FIELD The former president announced his third campaign for the White House on Nov. 15, 2022, at his Mar-a-Lago resort, forcing the party to decide whether to embrace a candidate whose refusal to accept defeat in 2020 sparked the U.S. Capitol attack and still dominates his speeches. The GOP front-runner remains hugely popular in the Republican Party, despite making history as the first president to be impeached twice and inciting the Capitol insurrection on Jan. 6, 2021. Referring to himself as America's most pro-life president," Trump nominated three conservative judges to the Supreme Court, paving the way for the reversal of Roe v. Wade, which had legalized abortion nationwide for nearly 50 years. Sweeping criminal justice reforms he signed into law in 2019 eased mandatory minimum sentences and gave judges more discretion in sentencing. In March, Trump became the first former U.S. president to be criminally charged, facing 34 felony counts of falsifying business records as part of a hush-money scheme. Since then, he has been charged with 57 more felonies in three other criminal cases, accused of mishandling and unlawfully retaining classified documents and trying to illegally overturn the results of the 2020 election. His overwhelming win in the lead-off Iowa caucuses signaled his dominant position in the race for the GOP nomination. He went on to win New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina. DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY FIELD President Joe Biden formally announced his reelection campaign on April 25 in a video, asking voters for time to finish this job." Biden, the oldest president in American history, would be 86 at the end of a second term, and his age has prompted some of his critics to question whether he can serve effectively. A notable number of Democratic voters indicated they would prefer he not run, though he is expected to easily win the Democratic nomination. Biden, who has vowed to restore the soul of America, plans to run on his record. He spent his first two years as president combating the coronavirus pandemic and pushing through major bills such as the bipartisan infrastructure package and legislation to promote high-tech manufacturing and climate measures. He easily won the party's earliest contests, in South Carolina and Nevada. INDEPENDENT BIDS The bestselling author and environmental lawyer announced on Oct. 9 that he was ending his Democratic presidential bid and instead launching an independent run. A nephew of President John F. Kennedy and son of Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, he initially launched a long-shot bid to challenge Biden for the Democratic nomination on April 19 in Boston. He said in announcing his party switch that he intended to be a spoiler candidate for both Biden and Trump. Kennedy has emerged as one of the leading voices of the anti-vaccine movement, with public health experts and even members of his own family describing his work as misleading and dangerous. He has also been linked to far-right figures in recent years. The environmental activist, whose 2016 third-party presidential bid was blamed by Democrats for helping Trump win the White House, says she is making another run for the nation's highest office. Stein announced Nov. 9 that she will again run under the Green Party banner. "I'm running for president to offer that choice for the people outside of the failed two-party system, she said. She ran against Trump and Democrat Hillary Clinton in 2016 as a Green Party candidate and received about 1% of the vote. Some Democrats said her candidacy siphoned votes away from Clinton, particularly in swing states like Wisconsin. The progressive activist and scholar announced Oct. 5 that he was ending his bid for the presidency under the Green Party banner and was instead running as an independent. West wrote on X that he was running as an independent to end the iron grip of the ruling class and ensure true democracy! He added, "We need to break the grip of the duopoly and give power to the people. He initially announced in June that he would be running as a member of The Peoples Party before soon switching to the Green Party. WHO'S DROPPED OUT Democrats: U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips, D-Minn., and self-help author Marianne Williamson. Meg Kinnard can be reached at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP. An Article V Convention of States is a terrible idea, and I agree with Dorothy Moon in her recent op-ed. Revolution does not guarantee that a stable government will quickly emerge. Articles of Confederacy governed the United States for five and a half years until we ratified our present Constitution on March 4, 1789. After the French Revolution in 1789, it took until 1875 to establish the French Republic, which lasted until WWII. Our stable government currently shows signs of crisis. Government stability is why our currency is considered the worlds standard. Russia and China are trying to use the BRICS intergovernmental organization to establish a competing currency. Initially, Brazil, Russia, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE intended to highlight investment opportunities in their countries. Their proposed currency competition is a serious strategic threat to our democratic alliances. It gives added weight to Dorothy Moons argument against an unmanageable convention. Her assertion that our country is not what it was at our founding is incomprehensible. How could it be? Thirteen closely located states ratified the Constitution. We now have 50 states and fourteen territories. James Madison expected the various opinions in the states to balance the countrys direction. However, he did not believe they were sovereign (as Moon states). We have a government of united states, not sovereign states. Using the term sovereign, Dorothy Moon is adding a misleading adjective to the constitutional guarantee of the rights of the individual states. The phrase supports an exaggerated narrative about Federal Government overreach. She asserts that states and, by extension, the people living in them are bound to the Federal bureaucracy. Did she really mean to indicate that the American people are slaves to the administrators of our federal laws? What about the will of the elected Congress? What about the oversite of the Supreme Court? What about the matters the Constitution says are reserved to the states for determination? Her opinion that our government doesnt follow the Constitution we have is only partially true. Each of the three branches of government is having trouble staying on the tracks, but they havent completely derailed. The administrative branch of government has become unwieldy. The cabinet secretaries preside over a vast array of domestic and international affairs. Besides established policy, there is the responsibility of not going beyond Congresss intent of statutory law. There is also the responsibility for spending government revenue with reasonable restraint. Many members of Congress have abandoned their duty to debate and find common ground. If public statements are an example, Congressional leadership is concerned with holding onto the financial support to guarantee voting power in each chamber. The President and vice-president must contend with political maneuvers to move the country in the direction they laid out in the past election. Aside from the current ethics debate, the Supreme Court has become politicized because the legislative branch has failed to adequately pass broadly acceptable legislation. The federal and state courts often face an avalanche of lawsuits because a law did not give minority interests enough consideration. My reading of many opinions since John Roberts took the bench indicates exasperation at the lack of adequate congressional action. An example of government dysfunction is the need for executive orders. Congress is not reliably considering legislation proposed by the Administration, and the Supreme Court must resolve partisan divides. The Constitution did not intend the court to be involved in the current partisan divides driven by the need for financial power. The Federal Government and many lesser governments have not focused on governing with our Constitutional protection for the minority. After all, governing is dull compared to the emotional rollercoaster of arguing over social and cultural norms. Governance begins with an essential truth. You get what you inspect, not what you expect. The constitutional foundation of our government is solid, but we are failing to do maintenance on it. We have abandoned the duty to examine both the structure and the outcomes of all three branches of democratic rule. The marketplace of ideas influences the governments directions, but we must be mindful to keep any government structurally sound. Moon speaks about cleaning house, but many legislative actions indicate that she means eliminating unwanted thoughts. We need to govern, not dictate. - Advertisement - The Philippines net external liability position widened in the second quarter of 2023, driven by increased borrowing by non-financial corporations and the government, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said Sunday. The countrys net external liabilities rose 4.8 percent quarter-on-quarter to P2.4 trillion ($45.2 billion) in the second quarter, from P2.3 trillion ($43.3 billion) in the first quarter, the central bank said. However, the increase was partly offset by a decrease in the net external liabilities of other financial corporations. By sector, non-financial corporations remained the largest net debtor, with their net financial liabilities increasing 3.8% to P8.8 trillion ($165.1 billion) in the second quarter. This stemmed from the increase in other financial corporations holdings of equity and investment fund shares and debt securities issued by non-financial corporations, the BSP said. - Advertisement - Loans from non-residents and other depository corporations also rose for this sector. Year-on-year, the sectors net financial liabilities widened due to higher bank loans and greater holdings of its equity and debt securities by other financial corporations. The general governments net financial liabilities increased 2.7% in the second quarter to P8.7 trillion ($164.2 billion) as its deposits with other depository corporations decreased and those corporations and other financial corporations increased their holdings of government securities. However, this was countered by higher government deposits with the central bank. Year-on-year, the governments net financial liabilities widened due to increased holdings of its securities by non-residents, other financial corporations and other depository corporations, as well as higher loans from non-residents. Households net financial assets grew 1.2 percent in the second quarter to P12.4 trillion ($232.6 billion), supported by their increased holdings of equity and investment fund shares issued by other financial corporations. Other depository corporations net financial assets rose 7.3 percent to P1.9 trillion ($35.7 billion) in the second quarter, driven by a decline in government deposits and an increase in their holdings of government securities. Bank loans to non-financial enterprises also increased. The central banks net financial assets rose 5.9 percent in the second quarter to P836.5 billion ($157.5 billion) as deposits from other depository corporations declined. This was partially offset by an increase in deposits from the general government. Year-on-year, the central banks net creditor position strengthened due to a decline in deposits from the national government. - Advertisement - Business name registrations increased 5 percent in 2023 to a record 984,332 from 937,431 in 2022, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said over the weekend. Data from the DTIs Business Name Registration Division (BNRD) showed that 88 percent or 864,200 accounted for new business registrations, while the balance of 12 percent or 120,132 were business renewals. The DTI said majority of the applicants applied for and/or renewed the business applications online based on the payment collections received. Sari-sari store registrations constituted the bulk of the BNRs top business activity, with 172,905 total registrations in 2023. Following closely are other restaurants and mobile food services activities with 78,174 registrations, and real estate buying, selling, renting, leasing and operating of self-owned/leased apartment buildings, non-residential and dwellings with 41,165 registrations. Registrations at the barangay-level territorial comprised 60 percent of the total business names registered with 588,118, while 221,620 applications were under the city/municipality territorial scope. - Advertisement - The DTI initiated the full-scale implementation of 100-percent online business name registration in August 2023, to streamline business processes and foster digitalization for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) nationwide. Walk-in applicants at Negosyo Centers were also encouraged to use either their devices or designated computer units at the DTI offices to independently file and process BN registration applications through the BNRS website. Other initiatives of the DTI to promote business name registration include the system integration of BNRS with local government units (LGUs) that have their own business permit and licensing systems. Trade Secretary Alfredo Pascual expressed the departments unwavering commitment to sustaining its partnership with the LGUs. We at the DTI recognize the significant role of our collaborative partnership with the LGUs in simplifying registration procedures and requirements for the benefit of Filipino entrepreneurs, particularly micro, small and medium enterprises, he said. - Advertisement - President Marcos encouraged the people of Cebu City, who are currently celebrating the annual Sinulog Festival, to translate their faith into action so they may spread the messages of hope, love, and joy to others. Malacanang released his message Sunday morning, Jan. 21, as the Catholic faithful in Cebu City joined weekend processions to show their devotion to the Holy Child, Senor Santo Nino, in one of the grandest and most colorful festivities in the Philippines. Through this occasion, we see patrons from all walks of life express their profound gratitude for the miracles, blessings, and countless deliverances bestowed upon them over the past year and pray for good health, protection, and prosperity in the year ahead, President Marcos told the Cebuanos. As you revel with pride and joy on this special day, I hope that you will remain ever united in spurring the socioeconomic growth of your city and in further developing the thriving industries of Cebu, he added. President Marcos also urged the Santo Nino devotees to always pray for spiritual strength and fortitude to overcome whatever challenges and difficulties that may lie ahead. He also asked them to work together with his administration in maximizing opportunities this new year. - Advertisement - Guided by our faith and inspired by the bayanihan spirit, let us remain ever conscious of the responsibilities we all bear as Catholics and citizens of our country, so that we may reach our shared destiny of a Bagong Pilipinas that opens a better and more abundant life for all Filipinos, his message concluded. - Advertisement - Lima, Peru A protester violently grabbed Peruvian President Dina Boluarte last weekend during an event in the southern Ayacucho region, where 10 people were killed in mass anti-government demonstrations more than a year ago. TV footage of the assault showed Boluarte in traditional clothing surrounded by a crowd of people as she throws out candy, when a shouting woman approaches and grabs the president. A chaotic scene ensues as police intervene to separate the woman, with Boluarte seemingly uninjured and rejoining the event. The woman said she held Boluarte responsible for the death of her husband during the December 2022 protests in Ayacucho. Boluarte, 61, came to power that month after former leftist president Pedro Castillo tried to dissolve Congress and rule by decree, leading to his quick ouster and arrest. - Advertisement - Violent protests demanding Boluarte step down and fresh elections be held followed across the country. The ensuing crackdown by security forces left almost 50 people dead, according to an estimate by Human Rights Watch, which accused the authorities of extrajudicial and arbitrary killings. Multiple legal proceedings accusing Boluarte of responsibility for the deaths were launched after the crackdown. Interior Minister Victor Torres said after Saturdays event that drastic disciplinary measures would be taken against members in charge of the presidents security and that bodyguards would be dismissed. Prime Minister Alberto Otarola condemned the attack, saying: This unfortunate event endangered the safety of the head of state and is extremely serious. With violence, we all lose as a country, he said on X, formerly Twitter. Boluarte is Perus sixth president since March 2018 and the first woman to hold the role. AFP - Advertisement - Kampla, Uganda The right of the Palestinian people to build their own state must be recognized by all, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told the Non-Aligned Movement summit in Uganda last weekend. The refusal to accept a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians, and the denial of the right to statehood for the Palestinian people, are unacceptable, the UN leader insisted in the Ugandan capital Kampala. Such a stance would indefinitely prolong a conflict that has become a major threat to global peace and security; exacerbate polarisation; and embolden extremists everywhere, Guterres warned. The right of the Palestinian people to build their own state must be recognised by all. The ongoing bloodshed in the Palestinian Gaza territory was prompted by the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas fighters. - Advertisement - That attack resulted in the deaths of about 1,140 people, most of them Israeli civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures. Israels relentless bombardment and ground offensive since then have killed at least 24,927 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas governments health ministry. In its final summit communique, the Non-Aligned Movement on Saturday strongly condemned the illegal Israeli military aggression against the Gaza Strip, and called for a lasting humanitarian ceasefire. The assembled leaders in Kampala also called for the independence and sovereignty of the State of Palestine, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in order to achieve a two-state solution. The Non-Aligned Movement is a forum of 120 countries that arent formally aligned to any major power bloc. Its members include India, Iran, Iraq and South Africa. The World Health Organization (WHO) has deplored the inhuman living conditions in the small coastal territory of 2.4 million inhabitants, many of whom have been displaced by the Israeli action. On Monday, Guterres appealed for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza. The United States, Israels main ally and key supporter in its war against Hamas, has also recently reiterated its support for the creation of a Palestinian state. In recent days, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reaffirmed his opposition to the creation of a viable Palestinian state, drawing criticism from his American ally. AFP - Advertisement - Seoul North Koreas top diplomat said her country is ready to greet Russian President Vladimir Putin, state media reported Sunday, in the latest sign of deepening ties between the two authoritarian states. Traditional allies Russia and North Korea have recently boosted ties, with Pyongyangs leader Kim Jong Un making a rare overseas trip to meet Putin in Russias Far East last September. The West has accused Moscow and Pyongyang of working together to support Russias invasion of Ukraine, with North Korea believed to have sent hundreds of thousands of artillery shells and weapons to its ally. North Korean foreign minister Choe Son Hui was in Moscow last week for meetings with Putin and her Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov. The North Korean government warmly welcomes President Putin to visit Pyongyang and is ready to greet the Korean peoples closest friend with the greatest sincerity, Choe told Putin, according to a statement from the foreign ministers assistant office, carried by the Korean Central News Agency. - Advertisement - Putin expressed his willingness to visit the DPRK at an early date, the statement said, referring to the Norths official name, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea. The statement added that Russia had expressed deep thanks for extending full support and solidarity to the stand of the Russian government and people on the special military operation in Ukraine. Increasing military and economic cooperation between Russia and North Korea has triggered concerns in Washington and Seoul. Top Russian officials, including Moscows defense and foreign ministers, visited North Korea last year, fanning concern among Kyivs allies over a potential arms deal. This month, the White House accused Pyongyang of sending ballistic missiles and launchers to Russia in what it called a significant and concerning escalation of support for Moscows war effort. South Korea has accused Pyongyang of having provided more than one million artillery rounds to Moscow in exchange for advice on military satellite technology. North Korea succeeded in putting a spy satellite into orbit last year, with Seoul saying it received Russian help. AFP - Advertisement - The Political Officers League of the Philippines (POLPhil) said it will support peace talks between the government and communist rebels to achieve lasting peace. The POLPhil recently held the National Peace Advocates Summit (NPAS) at the Hive Hotel Convention Place in Quezon City, where POLPhil members pronounced their commitment to peace. About 200 people attended the summit representing various sectors including transport, labor, academe, and government. Former rebels and soldiers, solo parents; and urban poor leaders, also attended the said event. Former Chief Justice Reynato Puno, in a video message during the event, cited the efforts of the POLPhil to hear the voice of the people on issues affecting their lives, which must be part of the opening dialogue between the government and leftist groups including the CPP/NDF. Puno also recognized representatives from the government and rebel groups to engage in dialogue, which, unfortunately, did not yield results. - Advertisement - Puno also urged the group to keep up the great work. Take the vantage point of the people and hear their voices, Puno stated, adding that in order to have meaningful peace talks, the intervention of the people is needed, their participation and the inclusion of their agenda that affects the marginal sector of society. Rudy Caneda, president of POLPhil Rudy, said the event was a political gathering of various personalities and leaders of each sector who participate in a dialogue centered on transformation. - Advertisement - Senate seeks chambers integrity as it tackles Cha-cha Congress is set to resume its sessions today, with the House of Representatives close to passing all of the priority bills identified by President Marcos, his Cabinet, and lawmakers through the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC). We are almost done with the priority bills agreed upon by Congress and the executive branch. We have approved on final reading all butfour of the 57 measures in the LEDAC list, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez said. Another measure in the list, aimed at the development of a national defense industry, is expected to be passed on third and final reading, leaving only three awaiting final approval, he added. We have accomplished our mission as lawmakers by acting promptly on the legislative agenda of President Marcos, which is focused on sustaining economic growth, helping the poor and vulnerable sectors, creating jobs and income opportunities, and in general, making life better for every Filipino, he said. The three LEDAC measures awaiting final approval are the amendments tothe Electric Power Industry Reform Act that is still with the technical working group, the budget modernization bill, and the National Defense Act under committee consideration. - Advertisement - Another proposed law, which is a House priority, is scheduled to be finally passed HB No. 9571 titled An Act prohibiting the development, production, stockpiling, and use of chemical weapons, providing for their destruction and imposing penalties for violations thereof. At least 11 other bills, which Congress has considered as among its priorities, are in various stages of plenary and committee deliberation. We will await Senate action on proposed laws that we have approved onthird and final reading, and we will be ready to sit with senators inbicameral conferences to come up with the final versions, Romualdez said. He said the P5.768-trillion 2024 national budget was among the priority measures the President has signed into law. The national budget is the most important piece of legislation Congress passes and the President signs each year, he added. It is our tool and guidepost for the nations progress and development. It is the source of funds for roads, bridges, expressways, school buildings, airports, seaports, hospitals and other medical facilities, and other infrastructure, he said. Meanwhile, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel III said the Charter change proposal to be tackled when Congress resumes today is aimed at preserving the Senate as an institution. He noted that the authors of the Resolution of Both Houses (RBH) No.6, which seeks to amend only three specific provisions of the 1987 Constitution, feel that the Senate is under threat. Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri said he filed RBH 6 to avoid a constitutional crisis and to preserve bicameralism. The Senate president said he would not allow anybody to tinker with the Charters political provisions and said he would risk his leadership on that. But Pimentel said there are other issues other than Cha-cha that should concern Congress as sessions reopen. When Congress adjourned in December, he said, Cha-cha was not even on the radar. What we should talk about are the military and uniformed personnel (MUP) pension fund and the maritime zones law. [Those] should be the priorities, he said. - Advertisement - An exhibit showcasing the health and wellness tourism products and services available in the market today including beauty and anti-aging offerings from the countrys leading dermatology clinics and boutiques is one of the main attractions of the Health & Wellness CONFEX 2024. The exhibition will be held on Jan. 26 to 28 at the SMX Convention Center at the Mall of Asia Complex in Pasay City. The three-day event will allow visitors to experience several health and wellness services of the exhibitors for free. For instance, the DOT booth will have trained hilot who can apply this age-old Filipino healing technique on visitors on a first-come, first-served basis. The event is co-presented by the Department of Tourism (DOT), in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA), Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), and the Philippine Gaming and Amusement Corporation. The event is likewise supported by the Department of Agriculture, Department of Migrant Workers, Tourism Promotions Board, and Duty Free Philippines. - Advertisement - Meanwhile, the DOH, which will have a five-section pavilion on the exhibition floor, will offer various consultation services. Section 1 will focus on dermatology and geriatrics, while Section 2 will provide nutrition and weight counseling. Healthcare professionals will man Section 3 which will offer HIV testing and counseling. Vaccination against flu will be available at Section 4, but this service will be limited to the first 115 visitors only per day. Section 5 will be for general consultations and for the monitoring of vital signs. Free medications may also be given to some visitors who need them. This global initiative that aims to promote the Philippines as a health and wellness tourism destination will gather under one roof the stakeholders of the multi-trillion-dollar health and wellness industry. These include award-winning wellness resorts to globally accredited hospitals that provide medical tourism packages, all the way to organic farms and specialty shops that offer a wide range of innovative, sustainable, and eco-friendly health and wellness products and services. With the theme Go & Get Better, this regenerative tourism-focused event will also feature a conference, business matching session, and various experiential activities. It is the centerpiece of a global multimedia campaign that is designed to promote the countrys many health and wellness destinations, as well as its extensive array of health and wellness offerings. - Advertisement - Theres no doubt we are on the right track in aspiring for a credible defense posture. But this entails substantial spending by the national government for the acquisition of modern air, naval and land-based assets as well as the training for military personnel that can easily run into hundreds of billions perhaps even trillions of pesos. The reality is we have other prioritiesinfrastructure, education, and health, among others, that also require big budgets. It makes eminent sense therefore to tap other countries with whom we can boost cooperation for our defense and security needs. The latest good news along this line is the Philippines and Canada will soon sign a new memorandum of understanding to boost military ties, according to Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. - Advertisement - This would allow closer collaboration like training and exercises between the militaries of both countries. Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines David Hartman has also confirmed the imminent signing of the MOU: We are waiting, we have colleagues coming from Canada this week, and we are waiting to receive a little bit of a final direction from our Ministry of National Defense but we hope to have the news to update you very soon. Our Defense Secretary has insisted strengthening Philippines-Canada military relations has nothing to do with prevailing tensions in the West Philippine Sea, noting Canadas stand on the matter is already clear. No, and they have already been straightforward about that anyway, they support our stand with the arbitral award and in the West Philippine Sea, he said. The defense relationship between the Philippines and Canada suffered a decline during the previous Duterte administration. In 2018, then President Duterte canceled a P12-billion contract for the purchase of 16 helicopters from Canada because Ottawa raised concerns the aircraft might be used in the administrations counterinsurgency campaign. Last year, our Department of National Defense also moved to forge closer cooperation with Canada on cybersecurity, citing the need to secure confidential computer data systems from unauthorized access, data leakage, and malware. This year, with our two countries in the final stages of negotiations for an MOU on defense cooperation that would serve as a framework for both defense and military establishments in enhancing interoperability and developing necessary capabilities in addressing the security challenges in the region, we move one step closer to our goal of attaining a credible defense posture to uphold national sovereignty and territorial integrity as mandated by our Constitution. - Advertisement - The Philippines must not succumb to the shadows cast by Chinas maritime imperialism In the dark and treacherous waters of geopolitical strife, the Philippines finds itself entangled in the sinister web spun by China, as its voracious maritime ambitions threaten the peace and stability of the South China Sea. Huang Xilian, Chinas Ambassador to the Philippines, recently urged the Philippines to meet China halfway on the West Philippine Sea issue, a twisted narrative of compromise amid unabated Chinese harassment. As shadows cast by Chinese Coast Guard and military militia vessels loom large over Philippine ships in the WPS, Huangs call for compromise rings hollow. The looming threat is a harbinger of chaos orchestrated by a nation that disregards international norms, exploits power dynamics, and attempts to strong-arm its neighbors into submission. The recent diplomatic altercation over President Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr.s congratulatory message to Taiwans President Lai Ching-te exposes Chinas insidious tactics. - Advertisement - Huang, with a poker face concealing the true intentions of his regime, berates the Philippines for violating the so-called One China principle, conveniently ignoring their relentless assault on Philippine sovereignty in the WPS. Chinas playbook involves gaslighting the Philippines on the world stage, painting itself as a benevolent force while systematically undermining its maritime integrity. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemns Marcos for offering congratulations to Taiwans democratically elected leader, revealing a blatant disregard for the Philippines right to engage in friendly relations with whomever it chooses. Its audacious suggestion that Marcos should read more books reeks of arrogance and dismissiveness, further highlighting Chinas contemptuous approach. The Philippines, an intelligent and sovereign nation, does not need a condescending tutor to comprehend its diplomatic choices. Chinas attempt to muzzle the Philippines on the world stage is a grotesque violation of international courtesy. It is essential to expose the hypocrisy in Huangs call for the Philippines to uphold the One China Policy while China tramples upon the rights and territorial integrity of its neighbors. The South China Sea is not an imperial chessboard for China to manipulate at will. The Philippines must reject this false compromise and stand firm against the encroachment of its maritime sovereignty. The looming threat from China appears like a dark force trying to engulf the Philippines. Filipinos must confront this malevolent adversary to safeguard their autonomy and peace. The Philippines, much like a determined hero, must resist Chinas coercive tactics and unveil the villainous plot. For harmony to prevail, both nations must engage in sincere dialogue and uphold the principles of international law. The Philippines should rally its allies, ensuring a united front against Chinas maritime aggression. International bodies must scrutinize and condemn Chinas actions, reinforcing the importance of respecting the sovereignty of smaller nations. In this ominous narrative, the denouement requires China to retreat from its aggressive stance, recognizing the rights of the Philippines in the WPS. Only through diplomacy, backed by the unwavering support of the international community, can the Philippines exorcise the specter of Chinese maritime aggression. The Philippines must not succumb to the shadows cast by Chinas maritime imperialism. Instead, it must wield the sword of diplomacy, exposing the adversarys machinations and safeguarding its maritime heritage. The world watches as the Philippines valiantly faces the ominous threat from the East, determined to emerge victorious in the pursuit of peace and autonomy. - Advertisement - A new climate change adaptation initiative is due to get underway in southern Iraq, after the Basrah Gas Company (BGC) and the UN World Food Program (WFP) signed an agreement last week in support of local farmers in the Al Zubair district of the regional capital. The initiative is designed to increase incomes and boost agricultural production. The project will introduce tested solutions to combat desertification and support water conservation in the farming sector. WFP and BGC will collaborate closely with the Directorate of Agriculture, the Farmers Association, and local farmers in the implementation phase, the UN agency said in a press release. The initiative will train farmers on applying smart agriculture techniques, modern farming methods such as so-called soilless farming and water-saving irrigation systems. The project will also focus on empowering female farmers by building capacity and self-employment in cooperation with the designated local authorities in the district. - Advertisement - This collaboration, which was finalized during the COP28 climate change conference in Dubai last month, comes at a critical moment for global transformative climate action. Our strategic approach in Al-Zubair aligns with the urgent need to combat the effects of climate change in southern Iraq. Al-Zubair district is one of the regions in Basrah most affected by climate change. There are frequent sandstorms, heatwaves, water scarcity, pollution, and salinity, said WFP Country Director and Representative for Iraq Ally-Raza Qureshi. This project underscores our joint commitment to promoting sustainable livelihoods, community cohesion, and effective adaptation strategies for the evolving agricultural landscape in Basrah. UN News - Advertisement - CONCLUSION Africa Climate Week September UNEP and partners organized Africa Climate Week alongside the first Africa Climate Summit, which brought more than 10,000 people, including 20 heads of state, to Nairobi, Kenya. The gathering, which took place against the backdrop of some of the worst droughts and floods ever to hit the continent, emphasized that Africa can drive solutions to the climate crisis. It was also a chance for leaders to form a consensus around key issues ahead of COP28. We aim to weave a single, resounding African voice that will carry the outcomes to COP28 and beyond, said Kenyan President William Ruto. Mercury pollution October October marked the 10th anniversary of the adoption of the Minamata Convention, a deal that has been hailed as a triumph of international diplomacy. Some 147 parties have ratified the agreement, which calls for countries to phase out mercury use in products, ban the opening of new mercury mines and limit the emission of mercury into the environment. - Advertisement - Every year, as much as 9,000 tons of mercurya toxic substance often used in small-scale gold miningare released into the atmosphere, in water and on land. As the Minamata Convention enters its second decade, experts are buoyed by the progress of recent years. The trade in mercury has slowed, manufacturers have begun finding alternatives to mercury in a range of products and public awareness about the dangers of mercury has grown. Environmental award October UNEP announced the five winners of the 2023 Champions of the Earth award, the UNs highest environmental honor. This years awards honored innovators and initiatives for their cutting-edge work in tackling plastic pollution. This followed the 2022 historic resolution at the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-5) in Nairobi to End Plastic Pollution and forge an international legally binding agreement by 2024. The Champions of the Earth award recognizes outstanding leaders from government, civil society and the private sector for their transformative impact on the environment in four categories: Policy Leadership, Inspiration and Action, Entrepreneurial Vision and Science and Innovation. Depths of climate crisis November A trio of UNEP-supported reports brought into sharp focus the scale of the climate crisis and offered policymakers a suite of potential solutions. UNEPs Adaptation Gap Report found developing countries alone need to devote $215 billion to $387 billion a year to contend with extreme weather, rising seas and other climatic upheaval. Spending now is just a fraction of that. Meanwhile, UNEPs Emissions Gap Report revealed that based on current climate-related pledges by governments, the Earth is on pace to warm by between 2.5C and 2.9C this century, well above the goals of the Paris Agreement. To keep warming below 1.5C, a key Paris target, the world will need to slash its greenhouse gas emissions by 42 per cent by 2030. As well, the Production Gap Report, produced by UNEP and partners, found states were planning to produce more than twice as much fossil fuel as would be consistent with limiting warming to 1.5C. Biodiversity Framework December It has been a year since the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) was successfully adopted in Montreal, Canada in December 2022. The framework included concrete actions to halt and reverse the loss of nature, including protecting 30 percent of the planet and restoring 30 per cent of degraded ecosystems. To improve governance and accountability for nature, UNEP and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) supported 138 countries to align their national biodiversity policies, targets and monitoring frameworks with the GBF. This is a critical step to the agreements success. In September, UNEP and partners launched the National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans Accelerator Partnership, which provides technical support to accelerate implementation of the framework. UNEP also trained officials from 50 countries to use a data reporting tool, which helps streamline reporting to biodiversity-related conventions. End of the fossil fuel era December On December 12, the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) came to a close with a historic declaration as negotiators from nearly 200 Parties came together with a decision to ratchet up climate action before the end of the decade with the overarching aim to keep the global temperature limit of 1.5C within reach while rapidly ramping up production of renewable energy. UNEP News A Martinsville Police officer was taken to the hospital with minor injuries on Sunday after his vehicle was struck head-on while he was responding to a domestic call. Shortly after 1 p.m. the 911 Communications Center dispatched officers to a domestic situation involving a mother and her juvenile son. The juvenile allegedly rammed a Martinsville Police vehicle with a four-door passenger vehicle head-on near Jefferson Circle and Finley Street. Martinsville Police Chief Rob Fincher said the juvenile fled after the crash and was captured by another officer after a brief struggle. The officer driving the police vehicle was transported to the hospital where he was examined and treated for minor injuries. The Virginia State Police have been asked to investigate the crash in order to provide an impartial review, said Fincher. Jefferson Circle was blocked off by police while the scene was cleared. Airbags were deployed on the police vehicle and both vehicles involved in the crash had significant frontend damage. No other details were available. COTABATO CITY A measure has been filed in the Bangsamoro Parliament seeking to rename the municipality of Sultan Mastura to Subpangen in M... Grant Helps U of Providence Support Student Vets The University of Providence in Great Falls recently reopened its Veterans Student Center in Sullivan Hall following a complete renovation of the space. The university received a $7,000 grant in August from the Town Pump Charitable Foundation to help fund the refurbishment. The new Veterans Student Center now has a more welcoming environment for active and retired military to gather and study. As the coordinator of University-Military Relations, it was truly my honor to work on this endeavor, said Dr. Deanna Koepke, who also is an associate professor of sociology at the university. We owe thanks to the Town Pump Charitable Foundation for the grant, Chet Pietrykowski and the Physical Plant for their hard work on the project, and Southwest Contracting for giving us a discount on the new furniture. It is our hope that the refreshed space will welcome veterans and military family members for years to come, she added. It will make a huge difference for our campus. Located minutes away from Malmstrom Air Force Base, the University of Providence finds value in supporting active military and veterans by offering educational and financial aid opportunities, accepting military benefits, and establishing a renewed space to gather, Koepke added. The Veterans Center is a space designated for use by our veteran students and military family members, she said. It provides them with the opportunity to be surrounded by others who understand what the military members and their families have sacrificed due to their service. Having the center allows UP to demonstrate how much we value their presence on campus and in the classroom, and how much we appreciate their service to our country. The Veterans Student Center enjoyed its grand reopening Nov. 10 in conjunction with Veterans Day that weekend. 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: Asked how to describe Lucky Pennys upcoming production of Almost, Maine, director Alexander Gomez kept coming back to one word: love. In essence for me (the play) is about love and all of its capacities: good, bad, new, young, old, he said standing before his cast at the Industrial Way theater. The show, which opens Friday, Jan. 26 in Napa, has been a favorite for many years because it speaks to real human feelings, Lucky Penny Artistic Director Taylor Bartolucci said in a press release. Its heartfelt and sincere and creates the magic that only comes with live theatre. Despite having over a dozen roles to choose from, Lucky Pennys production of Almost, Maine will feature the expertise of four brilliantly talented actors, Gomez said. Julianne Bradbury, Mark Bradbury, Max Geide and Jenny Veilleux have divided up the parts between them, each taking on four or five different characters throughout the romantic comedy. This multi-casting approach is quite normal for this production, which is broken up into nine different vignettes focusing on the connections between two people. For those who have seen the 2003 film Love Actually, the structuring is similar, but that is where the comparisons end, Gomez and cast indicated. Each heartfelt moment is happening simultaneously in the fictional town of Almost, Maine. Gomez who is making his directorial debut said the show was a good one to dip his toe into the director role. Previously, Gomez has worked with Lucky Penny as an actor and choreographer. I am an actor first, and I understand both sides of it, Gomez said, noting a director has to strike a balance between micromanaging the actors and giving them too much freedom. Gomez worked with his actors to create a path within the play that works for everyone. With each character, he asks what feels honest for that character you are developing? This creative back-and-forth is par for the course at Lucky Penny. We are always having that conversation here, Veilleux said. It is really nice and collaborative. One challenge of playing multiple parts is physical several costume changes will take place between scenes. But another, perhaps more important aspect is the mental shift that happens between characters. It helps that the pairings are not always the same, so if Veilleux is acting with Geide for example, that clues her into what story they are telling. While the relationships between the characters vary, love is the central focus, and each scene has its own magical element that adds whimsy to the complicated emotion, Julianne Bradbury explained. These moments in the play are signified by the appearance of the northern lights: a challenge for lighting designer April George. Luckily, George was familiar with the concept, having worked on a production of Almost, Maine previously. Julianne Bradbury and her husband, Mark, travel to Lucky Penny from Santa Rosa. The pair met through theater and continue to act in shows both together and independently. They have appeared in productions at Lucky Penny for over a decade. The Napa theater remains in the couples playhouse rotation due in part to the leadership of Bartolucci and Barry Martin, who are hands-on and highly communicative with cast and crew, according to the Bradburys. Mark noted that some theaters have leaders who remain in the shadows. Mark said he was also impressed by Bartolucci and Martins courage to take chances with their production selections. Almost, Maine, written by John Cariani and premiering in 2004, is not as popular on the community theater circuit as other productions. For example, "The Addams Family Musical, which Lucky Penny produced in September, popped up on stages across the region. This happens a lot in community theater, the cast agreed. Mark would like to see more theaters trying out plays that are more experimental. Almost, Maine fits the bill both in subject matter and in its flexibility. Upon writing the play, Cariani left many different options or avenues for theaters to take. Not only can the cast size feature as few as four people, but theater companies are invited to take different routes within each of the plays vignettes. Notably, one of the vignettes features a same-sex couple played by either two men or two women. This scene, called They Fell, has been met with controversy in some parts of the country, sometimes canceling a production altogether or altering it to feature a man and a woman. At Lucky Penny, both versions will be included with cast members switching off each night. Gomez and the cast pointed out that Cariani continues to update the play to assure it reflects modern day tales of love in all its forms. It is nice to see the play itself preserved, but with a new understanding, Julianne Bradbury explained. (The play) is written really honestly, Veilleux said. It feels real authentic. Performances for Almost, Maine are at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday from Jan. 26 through Feb. 11 at the Lucky Penny Community Arts Center, 1758 Industrial Way in Napa. Thursday performances are Pay-What-You-Can. Groups of 10 or more receive a 10% discount email info@luckypennynapa.com to arrange a group purchase. Reserved seats are available at luckypennynapa.com or by calling 707-266-6305. Throwback Thursday: Napa Lighted Art Festival sparkles in downtown Napa Napa Lighted Art Festival 2023 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2023 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2023 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2023 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2023 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2022 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2022 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2020 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2020 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2020 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2020 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2020 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2020 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2019 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2019 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2019 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2019 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2019 Napa Lighted Art Festival 2017 - Duette: Shared Vision Clear Water Napa Lighted Art Festival 2017 - Line Its quite an accomplishment for any high school senior to earn admission to a U.S. military academy. There are only five such schools in the nation. A congressperson, the president, or the vice president of the United States must nominate each applicant. Acceptance rates are quite low about 8% to 17%. Napas Notaro family has bested those odds twice over. Siblings Anthony and Sophia Notaro are both attending U.S. military academies. Anthony, 20, is in his second (or yearling) year at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York. Sophia, 18, is a freshman (or plebe) at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Both graduated from Vintage High School in Napa. I didnt want to take the traditional college route, said Anthony Notaro. I wanted to do something with my life right away, (and) West Point is an opportunity to do that. The military has always appealed to her, said Sophia Notaro. I just really like that idea of giving back and protecting people, she said. In her mind, military college and the Naval Academy was a really clear path to get a great education. The United States service academies are federal academies for the undergraduate education and training of commissioned officers for the armed forces. Notably, U.S. military academy students do not pay for tuition, room or board. They receive a stipend for living expenses. In return, they typically agree to give five years, or more, of their lives to the military. Anthony said that his first year at West Point was challenging in many different ways. You dont really have a lot of freedom, he admitted. You have to follow a lot of rules, including training, schedules, dress codes and conduct. And that kind of bugged me a little bit, but its just something you have to go through. Id say first year is more challenging in terms of disciplinary things; theres a lot more ways that you can get in trouble your first year than in your second year. So far his second year is a lot more challenging academically, said Anthony, whose major is computer science. Theres less hand-holding and a much bigger course load, and the classes are certainly harder, Anthony said. But at the same time, academics (are) a lot more interesting because you start your major classes in your second year. Its also a challenge to stick to a repetitive, all-encompassing schedule day after day. Having so much stuff on your plate every single day, that takes a toll on you a little bit, he said. Unlike other college students, West Point students dont have jobs off campus. Anthony said the best part about being at West Point is his friends and peers. I have a very, very good friend group, probably better friends than Ive ever had in my entire life, he said. Theres something about a shared experience that I think helps bring friend groups a lot closer than being in high school. When it came time for Sophia to apply to military colleges, Anthony said he encouraged his sister to apply to West Point as well as other schools. With both enrolled in such academies, I think its easier for us to understand what were both going through, he said. But although she didnt go to West Point, Im very proud of her. I think she made a good decision. Sophia Notaro said she was admitted to both West Point and the Naval Academy. She knew if she chose West Point she could rely on her brother for advice and support. Yet in the end, she chose Navy, in part for its track program but also because its located in a more populated area. Not surprisingly, her first year at the Naval Academy has been really busy, said Sophia. Theres always something to do both before and after classes, including track practice and meets, attending lectures called briefs and other first-year tasks. For example, shes required to memorize the names of more than 100 people in her company. Time management has been the most challenging part of her first year, said Sophia. Im a big procrastinator, and Ive had many late nights finishing homework. I get distracted pretty easily, wanting to talk to people instead of do my homework, she admitted. And the academics are definitely a challenge, she noted. Shes currently studying engineering. Ultimately, Sophia would like to become a naval aviator. The best part of being at the U.S. Naval Academy is also her friends, especially those on the track team, according to Sophia. Theyre genuinely good people to be around, the Napa native said. Not surprisingly, Anthony and Sophias parents Marcus and Liz Notaro are quite proud that the siblings are attending service academies. Growing up they both worked hard to be the best they could as students and athletes, doing so while upholding high character values and maintaining humility, wrote Marcus Notaro in an email. Although its hard as parents to have them on the other side of the country we see it as a continuation of the path they started as youths and couldnt be happier to see them pursuing their dreams. There are many things we are proud of, for sure the fact that they are continuing to challenge themselves, arent afraid and prefer to work hard, have chosen a path to help others, and have such high moral character while maintaining a sense of humility. As parents, Notaro said initially their biggest fear of having the kids attend military academies was Are they going to be OK? Is there support for them? In both cases these initial fears were quickly eased, said Notaro. They both quickly developed close friendships with their fellow cadets and midshipmen, and have had local sponsors to help them and provide support. Their advice to parents and students who wish to pursue this route is to do it, said Notaro. It is a long and very difficult process but for those who really want it, dont give up, he said. The actual application process is extensive. Be aware of the deadlines beginning with your congressional nomination. In the end, if appointed, the sense of honor and joy that you feel, is beyond comprehension and worth every sacrifice that youve ever made. There are three children in the Notaro family, but youngest sister Sienna likely wont be heading down the same path as her siblings, said Marcus Notaro. Sienna survived a rare case of bacterial meningitis she contracted as an infant that left her with significant brain injuries and developmental issues, he explained. Growing up with a special-needs sister taught Anthony and Sophia unique lessons in patience, care and compassion most kids dont experience, he said. Both kids have a drive to succeed while having a sense of humility, which I mentioned, but also a desire to help and serve others above themselves which is a trait we as parents are very proud of and a trait I think Sienna helped develop. The five U.S. military service academies The U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York. The U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. The U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut. The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York. At the Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, scientists are eager to explore whether a psychedelic chemical found in a toad could help people whose depression has not eased with typical treatments. Patients regularly call or send emails about joining clinical trials to test that and other compounds, but the research center is turning them away. "We have to tell them we don't have any studies enrolling right now," said Dr. Keith Heinzerling, director of the institute's TRIP Center, which focuses on treatment and research on psychedelics. "We've been put on hold by the state." Across California, dozens of such studies are in limbo thanks to a little-known government panel that monitors research on federally restricted drugs and addiction treatment. The holdup, tied to a state law requiring government meetings to be held in public, has dragged on since the fall and galvanized some scientists to push for the panel to be dissolved. Lawmakers in Sacramento established the Research Advisory Panel of California more than half a century ago to vet studies involving cannabis, hallucinogens and treatments for "abuse of controlled substances," according to the state's health and safety code. The panel, which includes representatives of state agencies and universities, has the power to reject studies if they are poorly conceived, would produce little of scientific value, or would expose Californians who sign on as research subjects to excessive risk. It also monitors ongoing research and can revoke its approval if studies veer from what it approved. Getting the panel's blessing is a crucial hurdle for researchers working in the state to find better ways to treat drug addiction, a crisis leading to more than 100,000 overdose deaths across the country each year. The panel also has oversight over research in the burgeoning field of psychedelics, which is developing potential treatments for depression, substance use disorder and other conditions. The panel typically meets every other month, but gatherings scheduled for October and December were canceled with little explanation. Scientists waiting for the go-ahead to launch their studies say they've received no information about when meetings will resume. Among those frustrated by the standstill is David, a 50-year-old grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder. The Los Angeles resident, who asked not to be identified by his full name to protect his medical privacy, reached out to the Pacific Neuroscience Institute to ask about upcoming clinical trials. "I've been in search of a treatment that will alleviate symptoms of PTSD for a long time," David said. Some existing treatments "have worked pretty well, but there are still times where there's challenges and episodes that can be pretty destabilizing," including prolonged bouts of insomnia. The potential of a psychedelic compound like psilocybin is appealing, but since he's in recovery for alcohol use, David only wants to try it if it's administered by medical professionals in a therapeutic environment. The Santa Monica center told him their next possible trial was being held up indefinitely. "It just seems like the gears of bureaucracy conspire against meaningful solutions," he said. At UC San Francisco, Dr. Josh Woolley said two of his planned studies on psilocybin are on indefinite hold. One of them is for young adults with anorexia, a disorder that can significantly ramp up the risk of death if left untreated. Now "we don't know when it will be approved," said Woolley, director of the Translational Psychedelic Research Program at UCSF. The holdup has also interrupted plans for Dr. Charles Grob, a psychiatrist doing research with the Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center to examine whether psilocybin could help patients suffering existential anxiety and demoralization near the end of life. "Just when things are ready to take off with more research, the field is frozen," Grob said. Several current or former members of the panel declined to comment or did not respond to messages. Dr. Tanveer Khan, the panel's executive officer, referred questions to the California attorney general's office. In a statement, the office said the panel was created to ensure that research involving addiction or certain controlled substances is tracked by the state and proceeds safely in line with "best medical practices and California law." It attributed the interruption in its meetings to concerns about how a state law requiring public meetings might apply to the panel, but declined to clarify whether those concerns were prompted by recent changes to the Bagley-Keene Open Meetings Act or a new interpretation of existing rules. Before it stopped meeting altogether, the Research Advisory Panel routinely convened behind closed doors. Scientists argued that meeting in public would be a nonstarter with funders who wanted to protect their intellectual property. "Realistically, the pharmaceutical companies are not going to allow their stuff to be reviewed in public, unless there's a very well-thought-out process that protects their interests," Heinzerling said. The backlog of studies awaiting review and approval has ballooned since the panel last met in August. By December, 33 new proposals were on ice, as were 13 amendments to existing research projects, according to the attorney general's office. The attorney general's office said it was working with lawmakers and the governor's office on a legislative solution to resolve the problem but declined to give specifics. The impasse, first reported in the newsletter Psychedelic Alpha, has deepened longtime frustrations among scientists who argue that even when the panel is meeting normally, it is an outdated and unnecessary entity that slows down vital research. Dozens of researchers in a newly formed consortium are now calling for the panel to be eliminated. They argue that studies involving controlled substances and addiction treatment are vetted by other oversight boards and that the California panel often rehashes issues that were already decided by other regulators. Psychologist Steven Shoptaw, director of the Center for Behavioral and Addiction Medicine at UCLA, said there was a time when such experiments were conducted on people in jails and other settings who could not freely consent. But the rigorous scrutiny from institutional review boards, the Food and Drug Administration, the National Institutes of Health and others now make the California panel obsolete, he said. "I've never understood why this was not dismantled decades ago," said Shoptaw, who has studied possible treatments for people who use methamphetamine. Stanford University clinical psychologist Keith Humphreys said he was asked to join the panel years ago by then-Gov. Jerry Brown, but he declined "because I could see no purpose to it." "I just thought, 'We have an FDA. We have an NIH. Why is the state doing this?'" Humphreys said. Even without hiccups, undergoing the state review can delay a study for upward of five months, researchers complained. That means wasting $100,000 or more on "unnecessary staff expenditures" during that time, they argued in a letter sent Thursday to Gov. Gavin Newsom and other decisionmakers. Such delays can also shut Californians out of multi-state trials of emerging treatments, scientists argue. The lag time now looms larger as medication studies are expected to be run more quickly within as little as a year instead of five, they said. "If you're competing against other states where they don't have this delay, the industry is going other places," said Woolley of UCSF. Dr. Phillip Coffin, director of the Center on Substance Use and Health at the San Francisco Department of Public Health, wanted to join a federally funded study on whether ketamine could help people struggling with methamphetamine addiction. But he said his site and others in California were excluded because of the panel's delays. Losing out on the ketamine study and other research opportunities means that "I won't be able to hire or I will have to let go of staff," Coffin said. Compass Pathways, a London-based biotech firm developing psilocybin treatments, decided not to establish a new "centre of excellence" in San Diego. In an email sent in 2019 to a San Diego researcher, company co-founder George Goldsmith cited the "incredibly slow" state panel as a reason. (A Compass representative reached this week said the company's clinical trials for depression treatments underway in California had not encountered any delays.) Many researchers are frustrated that the panel has been reviewing trials for addiction treatment even if they involve ordinary medications. For instance, the panel vetted a study Coffin undertook on mirtazapine an FDA-approved antidepressant as a treatment for people who use meth. In 2022, the panel reviewed 52 new applications plus two submitted the previous year, according to its most recent available annual report. Among those 54 applications, three were either not approved or withdrawn. The reasons weren't given in the report. By the end of that year, the panel was monitoring 132 ongoing research projects, including studies on whether cannabis use affects antiretroviral therapy and how psilocybin helps people suffering from phantom limb pain. Michiel van Elk, who studies altered states of consciousness at Leiden University in the Netherlands, said he wasn't familiar with the California panel, but could understand the need for a specialized review board because assessing research procedures for psychedelics poses some unique challenges. "It is really difficult to evaluate the risks of the drug itself, because it always interacts with the mindset of the person and also with the setting in which it's administered," Van Elk said. In general, "our current system is not set up for dealing with those type of challenges." Not all researchers who interact with the panel are joining the calls to eliminate it. Grob said going through the panel is "extra work, but it's been positive," praising its members as astute and helpful. "California has this extra layer of regulatory oversight, but the problem is not the committee itself," he said. "It's that the committee is unable to do its job." Indias tea exports to Bangladesh have stumbled after Dhaka raised import duties, sparking concerns within the industry. UK Singh, chairman of the Assam Branch of the Tea Association of India (TAI), addressed these concerns at the associations recent General Meeting in Tezpur. Duty Hike Impacts Trade Dynamics: The increased import duties in Bangladesh have disrupted trade, impacting Indian tea exports despite Bangladeshs crucial role as both a major tea producer and consumer. This comes at a critical juncture when Bangladeshs impending LDC graduation may further restrict duty-free access for Indian tea under SAFTA. Proposed Solutions for Trade Boost: To navigate these challenges, Singh proposed exploring trade agreements like a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) or a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA). These agreements could liberalize trade, reduce tariffs, and foster investment between India and Bangladesh. Additionally, India has proposed measures like increased trans-shipment via its ports and importing tea from its northeastern states bordering Bangladesh, aiming to streamline logistics and boost connectivity. Barak Valley Holds Potential: Singh highlighted the potential of Barak Valley tea, whose characteristics resonate with Bangladeshi preferences. However, he emphasized the need for a roadmap addressing trade-related issues and infrastructure upgrades at Land Customs Stations to facilitate smoother tea export. Industry Challenges: Price Stagnation and Imbalance: Despite commendable production growth, tea prices have remained stagnant, except for a brief pandemic surge. This mismatch between rising input costs and stagnant prices poses a major challenge for producers. Furthermore, an imbalance between tea production and demand puts downward pressure on prices. Market Concentration and Solutions: The tea markets concentration among a few major players raises concerns about the well-being of smaller producers. To address this, strategies aimed at creating long-term demand for tea and potentially implementing short-term supply adjustments could help achieve sustainable price growth for the entire industry. Climate Change Resilience: Singh also emphasized the tea industrys vulnerability to climate change and the need for research on how tea yield responds to climatic variations. This understanding can help assess the industrys resilience and inform adaptation strategies. 14:47 The old idol of Ram Lalla, kept in a makeshift shrine, will be placed in front of the new idol which will be consecrated at the temple here on January 22, said Govind Dev Giri, the treasurer of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. He also said that more than Rs 1,100 crore has so far been spent in constructing the Ram Temple and another Rs 300 crore might be needed to complete the work. A 51-inch Ram Lalla idol was placed in the sanctum sanctorum of the Ram temple last week. Three idols of Lord Ram were built from which the one sculpted by Mysuru-based sculptor Arun Yogiraj has been selected for 'Pran Prathistha'. When asked what would happen to the other two idols, the treasurer of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust said, "We shall place them in the temple with all honour and respect. One of the idols will be kept with us since we will need it to measure the clothes and ornaments of Prabhu Shri Ram." About the original Ram Lalla idol, Giri said, "It will be placed in front of Ram Lalla. The original idol is very important. It is five to six inches in height and cannot be seen from a distance of 25 to 30 feet. That is why we needed a bigger idol." When asked about the cost incurred in constructing the Ram temple he said, "More than Rs 1,100 crore have been spent and it is likely that Rs 300 crore more will be needed since the construction is not complete yet. One storey is completed and we are going to build one more storey." On the selection of the Ram Lalla idol sculpted by Arun Yogiraj, Giri said, "It was very difficult for us to choose one idol out of three. All of them are very beautiful all followed the criteria provided by us." "The first criterion was that the face should be child-like with a divine glow. Lord Ram was "ajaanbaahu" (a person whose arms reach near the knees). So the arms should be of that length." The one chosen for the consecration ceremony was 'stout and had a good personality'. The limbs were in the correct proportion, the treasurer of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust said. "The delicate nature of the child was also visible to us while the ornaments were also very nicely and delicately engraved. It increased the beauty of the idol," he said. Asked how much time the trust members took to select the best among the three idols, Giri said, "I went to Ayodhya every month and visited the places where the idols were being carved. Those sites were barred from the public. The sculptors took around four to five months to build the idols. After those were finished, we took a look at the idols for a day and took a decision." After 500 years, a special event is being organised in India, and 'we see it as Deepavali', he said. "We celebrate Diwali each year, but this is a historic one. After so much struggle, Lord Ram will be seated in his original place with love and respect. This is the feeling which is prevailing in the country." Giri said that the youths of the country are tilting towards spiritualism. "They are intellectuals. They think logically and need scientific proof. Yet they are engrossed in spiritual and nationalistic emotions." Taking a jibe at those making snide comments on Sanatan Dharma, he said people must understand what Dharma means. "It is neither religion nor is it the way of worship. Dharma is the underlying laws that govern nature and faith. You may or may not believe in science but scientific principles exist. In the same way, the principles of Dharma are eternal. People who understand and follow them benefit while those who ignore them don't gain any benefit," Giri added. -- Arunav Sinha/PTI Actor Vivek Oberoi was spotted at the Mumbai airport to leave for Ayodhya to attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar also left from Mumbai to Ayodhya to attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony tomorrow. He said, "I am visiting Ayodhya. We are really excited to have a darshan of Ram Lalla. We have been waiting for this day for several years." Actor Anupam Kher also left for Ayodhya from Mumabi. He said "It is a very good feeling. We all have waited for this day for a very long time. Jai Shree Ram." https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1748953859312243162?s=20 Notably, the ceremonial journey leading up to the Pran Pratishtha commenced on January 16, 2024, Tuesday.Earlier, on Thursday, January 19, the idol of Shri Ram Lalla, carved by renowned Mysuru sculptor Arun Yogiraj, was placed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. Covered with a veil, the first photo of the idol was revealed during the placement ceremony in the sanctum sanctorum. The grand occasion will witness the participation of dignitaries and people from all walks of life. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the 'Pran Pratishtha' of the idol of Ram Lalla at the grand temple on January 22.Laxmikant Dixit, a priest from Varanasi will lead the team of priests performing the main rituals. (ANI) The celebs were seen coming out from a private airport in Mumbai. Salman looked dapper as he donned a black jacket over a grey t-shirt and grey lower. Alia, on the other hand, was seen leaving waving at the paps as she sat inside her car. She wore a white outfit and accessorized her look with big black shades. Several pictures and videos of Salman from this year's Joy Awards in Riyadh went viral on social media. In one of the pics, Salman could be seen posing with the 'Hannibal' actor Anthony Hopkins. The 'Kick' actor looked handsome as he donned lavender shirt with a violet-grey suit and sported a moustache and beard. In another viral video, the 'Dabangg' actor is seen presenting an award to a senior Egyptian actor on stage. In the year 2022, Salman was honoured with 'Personality of the Year' award at the event. This year too, he has been invited by the dignitaries to be a special guest from India at the award function. Alia, on the other hand, turned up at the event in a red, blue and golden saree which she teamed with an off-shoulder blouse. Meanwhile, on the work front, Salman is currently basking in the success of his recently released action thriller film 'Tiger 3'. Helmed by Maneesh Sharma, 'Tiger 3' was released in theatres on November 12, 2023. It is now streaming on Prime Video. The film also starred Katrina Kaif and Emraan Hashmi in the lead roles. Alia, on the other hand, will be next seen in director Vasan Bala's 'Jigra'. (ANI) Rajinikanth wore a olive green shirt with black pants for the travel. Dhanush, on the other hand, was spotted in casual outfits. He wore a white T-shirt with blue trousers and matching jacket. He completed his look with a white cap and a black sling bag. Meanwhile, a heavy security cordon has been thrown around the Ayodhya city, the state police informed on Sunday. Earlier, on Thursday, the idol of Shri Ram Lalla, carved by renowned Mysuru sculptor Arun Yogiraj, was placed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. Covered with a veil, the first photo of the idol was revealed during the placement ceremony. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Ram Lalla at the grand temple on January 22. The grand occasion will witness the participation of dignitaries and people from all walks of life. Laxmikant Dixit, a priest from Varanasi will lead the team of priests performing the main rituals. In the coming months, megastar Rajinikanth will be seen sharing screen space with Amitabh Bachchan in 'Thalaivar 170'. It is being directed by TJ Gnanavel. Bachchan and Rajinikanth last worked together in the 1991 film 'Hum', directed by Mukul Anand. Dhanush is basking in the success of his receltly released film, 'Captain Miller.' He is all set to come up with his untitled third directorial venture. Actor Nagarjuna Akkineni has come on board for Dhanush's film. The film is being directed by Sekhar Kammula and Rashmika Mandanna is also a part of it. (ANI) The entire country is gearing up for the grand occasion of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Ram Temple on January 22. Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar shared a video showing the excitement of people to be part of the most-awaited moment. Taking to X, he shared a video of himself seated inside an aeroplane while the passengers recited the Hanuman Chalisa. He demonstrated his passion and delight by participating in it. Bhandarkar captioned it with, "Euphoria inside the plane Enroute #Ayodhya for the historic #RamMandir the excitement is palpable.#JaiShriRam" https://twitter.com/imbhandarkar/status/1748991584782483767 Several Bollywood celebrities have started leaving for Ayodhya from Mumbai on Sunday. Earlier, actor Vivek Oberoi was spotted at the Mumbai airport, leaving for Ayodhya to attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar also left from Mumbai for Ayodhya to attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony tomorrow. He said, "I am visiting Ayodhya. We are really excited to have a darshan of Ram Lalla. We have been waiting for this day for several years." Actor Anupam Kher also left for Ayodhya from Mumabi. He said, "It is a very good feeling. We have all waited for this day for a very long time. Jai Shree Ram." Kangana Ranaut also arrived in Ayodhya earlier to attend the 'Pran Pratishtha' on Monday. Speaking to ANI, the actor said, "I wish to motivate people to pick up the broom by participating in this cleanliness drive. The city has been beautified and has a festive look about it going into the inauguration day." Several images and video clips of the actor picking up the broom to clean the temple floor went viral on social media. Kangana wore a red saree, tied her hair in a bun as she participated in the cleanliness drive. She accessorised her look with heavy gold jewellery and a pair of black shades. The actor also offered prayers at the temple. The nationwide initiative of cleanliness drives at temples was launched by the BJP earlier this month and will continue until Monday, the day of the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony at the Ayodhya Ram temple. Recently, actor Jackie Shroff also took part in the cleanliness drive. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cleaned the premises of the Kalaram Temple in Maharashtra's Nashik, taking the lead in the Swachchata Abhiyan. Visuals showed Prime Minister Modi with a mop and bucket, mopping the floor of the temple. The drive gathered momentum after Prime Minister Modi exhorted fellow citizens to cleanse temples going into the 'Pran Pratishtha' event. The campaign has since been carried forward by several Union ministers and BJP leaders across states. Prime Minister Modi will perform the rituals around the Pran Pratishtha ceremony, which are to be officiated by a select complement of seers on Monday. (ANI) Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Vijay Kumar on Saturday issued directions on security ahead of the Ram Temple 'Pran Pratishtha' at Ayodhya on January 22. DGP Vijay Kumar said, "A large number of devotees are already present in Ayodhya, who are staying in religious places, Dharamshalas, and Ashrams. The managers of those ashrams should be urged that all the devotees should not go for darshan together. After January 22, arrangements for darshan should be made in order." He issued a directive that an intensive checking campaign should be conducted at all check posts. Vijay Kumar said, "Intensive checking should be done on the Indo-Nepal border, the interstate border, and the border of Ayodhya and its adjoining districts." He said that the services of vehicles related to the supply of essential commodities should not be disrupted. He directed police officials to behave politely with the devotees visiting Ayodhya. Police deployed for security in the Saryu River should be kept active. There should be no carelessness in checking vehicles at the border, he said. "Suspicious vehicle or person should be thoroughly searched and interrogated. Strict action should be taken immediately against those who post objectionable posts on social media, he said. The state government has sprung into action to deal with the growing concern over a surge in cybercriminal activity related to the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Lord Shri Ram Lalla in Ayodhya Dham. As false messages claiming to collect donations for Ram Janmabhoomi, along with deceptive promises of providing free Prasad, VIP passes and entry passes, are circulating, the Yogi government is taking proactive measures to address and counteract these malicious activities. Instructions have been issued to the entire state police, particularly the Ayodhya Police, to maintain heightened vigilance. In a recent incident, Ayodhya Police acted swiftly, arresting an Indian American citizen involved in similar activities and putting him in jail under relevant sections. The Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust is also alerting all devotees about these deceptive practices. (ANI) After Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray received an invitation for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla at Ram Temple in Ayodhya on Saturday, the party's spokesperson Anand Dubey said that it is very sad that their party chief was invited at the last moment through speed post. "...Our party chief received an invitation through speed post at his office. We have seen that those who are being invited for the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha event are being personally invited by the leader of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad or RSS Swayamsevak. And our party chief is being invited through speed post at the last moment, 48 hours before the event. This is very sad," said Dubey while speaking to ANI on Saturday. The Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson said that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) should not have invited them if they had not intended to. He added that the party already has a puja program scheduled on that day at Nashik. "If you have not intended to invite us you should not have done so. But why this betrayal? Everyone knows that we have a program at Nashik at Panchvati. Puja will be offered to Ram Lalla and there will be an aarti by the Godavari. When all of these are fixed why are you inviting us?" Dubey said. He said that had the party received the invitation 10-15 days in advance, it would have gone to Ayodhya with their group. He even added that the BJP is inviting them at the last moment only to get rid of their guilt of not inviting them (Thackeray). "If you had invited us 10-15 days in advance, we would have gone there with our group. Our workers would have reached out to welcome their leader. Now that only a few hours are left for the event, you are inviting us so that you can be freed of the guilt of not inviting the Thackerays," Dubey said. The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader said that the BJP has betrayed them as well as Balasaheb Thackeray. "You have betrayed us and Balasaheb Thackeray. After this Bharatiya Janata Party has no right to take the name of Balasaheb Thackeray. Indians will never forgive the Bharatiya Janata Party and those supporters who are playing this game with them," Dubey said. Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray received an invitation for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla at Ram Temple in Ayodhya through speed post on Saturday. (ANI) According to officials, the two miscreants, identified as Anuj and Nitin, were injured during an encounter around 5:00 a.m. at Noida Sector 49. The accused, Anuj and Nitin, were wanted for stabbing a man identified as Mehndi Hasan to death at Baraula village in Noida on Saturday. The victim was stabbed and sustained severe injuries. He was admitted to a hospital nearby, where he died during the treatment, police said, adding that the reason behind the attack seemed to be an old enmity. On Sunday, police were trying to chase both the accused, Anuj and Nitin, in order to arrest them. The miscreants tried to escape and fired at the police. Police claimed to have fired in retaliation after the accused, allegedly opened fire while trying to excape. "The duo sustained injuries in the firing and have been taken to district hospital for treatment," police said. Further investigation into the case is underway, they added. More details on the matter are awaited. (ANI) Union Minister Giriraj Singh on Sunday urged Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to declare a full-day holiday in Bihar on January 22 in view of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ram Temple in Ayodhya, adding that it is time for a 'renaissance of religion'. Singh emphasized that Bihar, being a Hindu-majority state, should consider a full-day holiday in alignment with the sentiments of the Hindu community. In addition to calling for an extended holiday, the Union Minister proposed the prohibition of alcohol and meat sales during the significant ceremony. "It is time for a renaissance of religion. The central government has declared a half-day holiday. I would like to tell the CM Nitish Kumar, that Bihar is also a Hindu-majority state. And seeing the sentiments of Hindus, a full-day holiday should be declared in Bihar. In addition to this, the sale of alcohol and meat should be banned," Singh said while speaking to ANI. Singh also criticized the Congress party, highlighting instances from the past in connection with the Ram temple construction. He further accused the grand old party of prioritizing the reconstruction of the Masjid over the temple in 1992. The Union Minister acknowledged the BJP's persistent efforts in ensuring the construction of the Ram temple. "Congress has always had a problem with the Ram temple. They had two chances to reconstruct the temple, once in 1947 and the second, when Kalyan Singh was suspended after the demolition of Babri Masjid in 1992, they immediately announced that they would reconstruct the Masjid. BJP has fought a hard battle to get the temple constructed," the Union Minister said. The 'Pran Pratishtha' of Shri Ram Lalla at Ayodhya's temple will take place on Monday, January 22. The Centre on Thursday, January 18, announced that all central government offices will be closed for half-day on January 22 in view of the 'Pran Pratishtha'. The grand occasion will witness the participation of dignitaries and people from all walks of life. Various activities have been planned by organizations and groups of people across India and abroad to coincide with the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the installation of the idol of Ram Lalla at the grand temple on January 22. (ANI) Ahead of the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22, Baba Gopal Puri Maharaj from Madhya Pradesh's Damoh completes six years of his strange resolution. Baba Gopal Puri Maharaj, who lives in Siddha Shani Ashram in the Patharia area of Damoh district, took a resolution to keep one hand raised for 14 years, six years ago. This is a form of Hatha Yoga. Baba Gopal Puri Maharaj keeps one hand raised even when he sleeps, eats, walks or sits. His hand has grown thin over the years but his passion to complete his resolution is intact. Baba Gopal Puri Maharaj said, "Six years of my resolution are over. This is a form of Hatha Yoga I am performing. I do nothing with this hand. I only use a single hand for all the tasks." Baba Kush Puri, Sadhu Siddh Shani Dham Patharia, said, "Lord Shri Ram spent 14 years in exile, endured hardships in his lifetime and ultimately truth prevailed. That is why Baba Gopal Puri Ji Maharaj also took a resolution of 14 years." Baba Kush Puri, Sadhu Siddh Shani Dham Patharia, stated that the other reason behind such a vow was a resolution on Ram Mandir construction. "It was a resolution taken over Ram Mandir construction and the Pran Prathishtha ceremony is going to happen, whereas temples in Kashi and Mathura are still pending." Baba Kush Puri, Sadhu Siddh Shani Dham Patharia, emphasised Baba Gopal Puri Maharaj's belief that disputes in Mathura and Kashi will resolve within eight years until his resolution is completed. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the ceremonial installation of the idol of Shri Ram Lalla inside the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple on January 22. A host of leaders and dignitaries from all walks of life have been invited to the grand temple opening in Ayodhya. Vedic rituals for the Pran-Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya began on January 16, a week before the main ceremony. The idol of Ram Lalla was placed in the 'Garbha Griha' of the Ram Temple on Friday amid joyous chants of 'Jai Shri Ram.'Varanasi priest Lakshmi Kant Dixit will officiate the main rituals during the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony, while PM Modi will also perform rituals at the ceremony. (ANI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami held a virtual interaction with the beneficiaries of Udham Singh Nagar district on Sunday under the Vikasit Bharat Sankalp Yatra. During the conversation with the Chief Minister, Kamala a beneficiary, associated with the National Livelihood Mission, said that under NRLM, she first took a Cash Credit Limit (CCL) of Rs 1 lakh and then Rs 2 lakh. "10 women are associated with their group, during the Corona the group was given a sum of Rs 6 thousand each by the government twice," she said. Kamla said that she saves Rs 20 to 25 thousand every month. Vicky Singh, a beneficiary of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin, told that earlier he used to live in a dilapidated hut. He got the benefits of PM Awas Yojana and also got Rs 5 thousand from the state government to buy utensils for the house. Apart from this, he has taken benefit of many schemes of Central and State Government. Tapan Majumdar said that he got the benefit of the Nazul policy. To avail of this benefit he did not have to visit any office. All its formalities were completed soon. Kavita Tiwari said that she bought agricultural equipment worth Rs 10 lakh, for which she got a subsidy of Rs 8 lakh. She said that she got the benefit of a subsidy very quickly after starting the process. Salman and Hina of Udham Singh Nagar expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister for providing free treatment to their child. The beneficiaries of various schemes of the Central and State Governments also expressed their gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said that being the state chief servant, he constantly takes feedback from the people on various schemes. Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 15 on Tribal Pride Day. To realize his resolve of a developed India, the Vikas Bharat Sankalp Yatra is being taken out across the country. In just a few days, this journey has covered lakhs of villages, which is a record in itself. Through this yatra, the schemes of the Central and State Governments are being made available to the people. He said, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi has benefited every section of the society with his important decisions, visionary thinking and plans in the last 9 and a half years. The schemes of the Central Government and State Government have proved to be very helpful for the people." He said that today no one needs to run behind the government, the government itself is moving forward and working. The Chief Minister said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, work is being done to take every person forward. He appealed to the people availing the benefits of various schemes of the Central and State Government that other people should also be made aware so that all the eligible people get the full benefits of the schemes. "We all have to contribute to making India a developed nation by 2047," he said. The Chief Minister said that the state government is moving forward with the resolve to make Uttarakhand the best state in the country. "Under the guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the state is developing rapidly in every field. Road, rail, ropeway and air connectivity has expanded rapidly in the state," he added. (ANI) During the review, he directed Ranveer Singh Chauhan, the Managing Director of Uttarakhand Drinking Water Corporation, to ensure that the project is concluded by February 2024. The Chief Minister said that Uttarakhand is a military-dominated state. In this context, the military base being built in Guniyal village, Dehradun, is an important plan for Uttarakhand. The Chief Minister said that Uttarakhand is a very important state from the point of view of soldiers. The Chief Minister instructed the Sainik Welfare Department that the scheme should be completed by the month of February 2024, for which the necessary funds should be made available to the executing agency, Uttarakhand Drinking Water Corporation, as soon as possible. (ANI) As the country awaits the grand 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Shri Ram Lalla at Ayodhya's Ram Temple, Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak on Sunday informed that all preparations have been made for the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Lord Ram Lalla in Ayodhya. The 'Pran Pratishtha' of Shri Ram Lalla at Ayodhya Temple will be held on Monday at 12:30 pm. "All preparations have been made. We are waiting for PM Modi and the grand temple of Lord Ram is ready. Everyone is happy," Uttar Pradesh Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak told ANI. Meanwhile, Uttar Pradesh's other Deputy Chief Minister, Keshav Prasad Maurya, while speaking on the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Lord Ram Lalla, told ANI that "every second feels like a complete year as we wait for January 22. "Every 'Ram Bhakt', whether in the form of Mata Shabri or brother Bharat, is eagerly waiting for Lord Ram. It is such a historic moment for all," he added. "We are waiting for the arrival of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Tomorrow's event will be a grand and glorious one. All the arrangements have been made. The state government is also ensuring proper arrangements for all the dignitaries," he added. Earlier on Thursday, the new idol, sculpted by Arun Yogiraj, was placed inside the sanctum santorum of the temple. The idol is 51 inches tall and weighs 1.5 tonnes. The idol portrays Lord Ram as a five-year-old child standing on a lotus also crafted from the same stone. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will perform rituals marking the 'Pran Pratishtha'. A team of priests led by Lakshmikant Dixit will lead the main rituals. Several celebrities and noted personalities have been invited to the ceremony. (ANI) The grand finale of the National School Band Competition, jointly organised by the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Education as part of Republic Day celebrations, will take place on January 21 and 22. A total of 16 band teams--four from each zone (East, West, South and North)--are vieing for musical supremacy during the two-day event, which has been organised to popularise Indian music and tunes as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The competition is being held in four categories (Boys Brass Band, Girls Brass Band, Boys Pipe Band and Girls Pipe Band). The top three teams in each category will be given a cash prize (1st: Rs 21,000, 2nd: Rs 16,000, 3rd: Rs 11,000), a trophy, as well as certificates. A consolation cash prize of Rs 3,000 each will be given to the remaining team in each category. The jury for the grand finale will be appointed by the Ministry of Defence, including members from each wing of the Armed Forces. The competition was organised at three levels, viz., state and zonal, and conducted by all the states and union territories for all schools (CBSE, ICSE, KVS, NVS, and Sainik schools, etc.). 486 teams comprising 12,857 children participated in the state-level competition, while at the zonal level, 73 teams comprising 2,002 children took part. This initiative aims to rejuvenate the spirit of patriotism and unity amongst children in schools throughout the country and motivate them on the path of holistic education. (ANI) With just a day left for the grand opening of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, traders in Gujarat's Surat are sending special boxes of Lord Ram's kit to his devotees across the nation. The Ram kit consists of the Ram flag, two types of khes, photo of Lord Ram and the lamp. This kit is being sent to Ram devotees from all over Gujarat and other states including Sura. Each trader is sending one kit with every order received by their customers. A total of 400 places have received parcels until now and it is expected that the orders will be delivered to 1000 places. The textile merchants appointed separate employees to send parcels so that they could prepare the kit on time. The traders stated, "This work will cost lakhs of rupees but it is not a cause for concern because no matter how much is done for Lord Ram, it is less." Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the ceremonial installation of the idol of Shri Ram Lalla inside the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple on January 22. A host of leaders and dignitaries from all walks of life have been invited to the grand temple opening in Ayodhya. Vedic rituals for the Pran-Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya began on January 16, a week before the main ceremony. The idol of Ram Lalla was placed in the 'Garbha Griha' of the Ram Temple on Friday amid joyous chants of 'Jai Shri Ram.' Varanasi priest Lakshmi Kant Dixit will officiate the main rituals during the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony, while PM Modi will also perform rituals at the ceremony. (ANI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday asserted that the MLA is the link between the government, opposition and the public adding that opposition MLAs should also work hard to convey the government's schemes to the public and should also build their party's machinery. Addressing a event in Raipur, Shah said that the "MLAs who belong to the ruling government need to work on implementing govt's schemes and also must contribute to forming such new schemes. This 2-way system helps in making a perfect administration." He further said that that there is no age for learning and neither does time end for it. To keep learning till the end of life is the basic mantra of success. He said that people who get elected as MLAs should keep in mind that they are the bearers of a tradition. Shah said that in the 75 years of independence, the entire country and all parties together deepened the roots of democracy and gave a message to the whole world that we are a successful democracy. We have not only successfully assimilated the three-tier democratic system but have also conveyed its positive results to the public. The Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that in our country the MLAs have three types of responsibilities - responsibility towards the constituency, the ideology of the party and the progress of the entire state. Shah said that to achieve success in these three areas, there is a need to systematically allocate time and energy. He said that it is also the responsibility of the MLAs to work for the fulfillment of the policies, procedures and objectives of the party. He said that to become effective, all public representatives should have sensitivity towards the public and the area and readiness, skill and eagerness to discharge public responsibilities. He said that we should always remain happy in public relations, public gathering, discharge of legislative responsibilities and implementing the policies and objectives of the party on the ground. "Opposition MLAs should help in implementing the govt's scheme on the ground and also schemes don't belong to any particular govt, for people, who take a scheme to them on the ground, that scheme belongs to that party. When Congress was in power at the Centre, there was Indira Awas Yojana, the name was of Indira Gandhi but as an MLA, I used to be very active. So, people used to say that, 'our MLA helped us to get the benefits of the scheme," he added. Amit Shah said that we should develop the habit of understanding the administration and giving in writing, this will get the work done quickly. He said that we should evolve our methodology of working with officials. He said that only when the public representative is capable and accountable, good administration in his area supports him. He said that there are many ways to solve the problems and the most appropriate way is to write a concrete letter as per the rules and give it to the administration and fix the responsibility. A letter written after understanding the problem meaningfully is more effective than any movement and it does not take away the rights of the movement. Shah said that to solve the problems of the people and to discharge our responsibilities, it is important to first understand the problem. He said that our basic job is to consider the problem holistically and provide solutions, not to seek fame. He added that the public representatives should also become a watchdog of public interest schemes. The Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that public representatives also have a legislative responsibility. He said that very few people study the Bill, its consequences and objectives. He said that it is the responsibility of the MLAs to understand any Bill and Budget as a responsive MLA. Shah said that the MLA is the link between the government, opposition and the public. He said that opposition MLAs should also work hard to convey the government's schemes to the public and should also build their party's machinery. Amit Shah said that after the re-formation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government in 2019, Article 370 was abolished, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) came and Triple Talaq ended. He said that in the last 75 years, not less than 50 private members' bills have come on these three subjects. He said that unless MLAs study the language and procedure of law, they cannot become good MLAs. He said that sometimes it is sad that when the speeches given on public platforms are given in the House, it lowers the dignity of the House and also degrades its credibility for the sake of temporary fame. He said that MLAs should understand the legislative process very well and according to its rules, they should maintain their language, behavior and correspondence with the Assembly Secretariat. Shah said that MLAs should bring some good bills as private members, which may become law after a decade or two. He said that when you put forward your views, sooner or later they will take the form of a good law. The Union Home Minister said that if you want to enter the politics of the region, state and country, then connection, communication and hard work only can be useful and all these three can transform you from a public servant to a public leader. He said that in a democratic system, the party can give you a ticket, but you will get the public mandate only when you communicate with the public and work hard for the area. He said that communication regarding problems is arranged through your office and the implementation of small schemes is also done by your office. For this, the office should be designed in such a scientific and modern manner that information about even the smallest incidents in every village of our area reaches us. Shah said that teachers, women, youth, litterateurs, journalists and underprivileged beneficiaries are also opinion makers. He said that through public dialogue and connecting with different sections of the society, you get the details of the entire area and also get information about the problems. He said that our workers cannot tell us what the public thinks about us, only the public can tell this and for this we should also learn the art of public relations. Amit Shah said that we should not have any misconception about the public and we should not consider the workers as the public. He said that we should be involved with the legislative process and should also have the skills to bring the party's policies to the floor through the rules of the assembly. Shah said that one should never seek development in one's constituency after seeing the election results; there will never be a bigger sin and political loss than this. He said that if votes are not received from any booth then step motherly attitude should not be maintained for this. Shah said that when we contest elections, we happen to be a candidate of one party and when we win the elections, we become MLA of the entire constituency and then the problems of the entire constituency become ours. Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah addressed the orientation programme of newly elected Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) of Chhattisgarh in Raipur on Sunday. On this occasion, many dignitaries including Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai were present. (ANI) As per the BJP leader, the live telecast will be screened on an 80 by 30 feet mega screen from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM. "Most people cannot participate in the Lord Ram Lallas 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony. Therefore, I felt it was my duty to organise a live screening on a megascreen, 80 by 30 feet, in Hyderabad for the devoted followers here," K Laxman told ANI. Starting from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM, a live screening of the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of Lord Ram in Ayodhya, featuring devotion, hymns, and lectures, is being organised on this mega screen," BJP leader added. The 'Pran Pratishtha' of Shri Ram Lalla at Ayodhya Temple will be held on Monday at 12:30 pm. Earlier, the new idol, sculpted by Arun Yogiraj, was placed inside the sanctum santorum of the temple. The idol is 51 inches tall and weighs 1.5 tonnes. The idol portrays Lord Ram as a five-year-old child standing on a lotus also crafted from the same stone. A host of leaders and dignitaries from all walks of life have been invited to the grand temple opening in Ayodhya. Vedic rituals for the Pran-Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya began on January 16, a week before the main ceremony. Varanasi priest Lakshmi Kant Dixit will officiate the main rituals during the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also perform rituals at the ceremony. (ANI) Indian American leader and Republican leader Nikki Haley attacked former US President Donald Trump while raising concerns over his 'mental fitness' after the former President confused her with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, The Hill reported. In a video message of X, Haley said, "Last night, Trump is at a rally...and he's going on and on, mentioning me multiple times as to why I didn't take security during the Capitol riots, why I didn't handle January 6 better. I wasn't even in DC on January 6. I wasn't in office then." "They're saying he got confused, that he was talking about something else, he's talking about Nancy Pelosi, he mentioned me multiple times in that scenario," she added. The former UN Ambassador said that someone at the position of the US President dealing with so much pressure has to be 'mentally fit' for the job. "The concern I have is, I'm not saying anything derogatory, but when you're dealing with the pressures of a presidency, we can't have someone else that we question whether they're mentally fit to do this," she further stated. This comes after Trump appeared to make the gaffe about the former South Carolina Governor Haley and the former House Speaker Pelosi at a rally on Friday while talking about the January 6 riots at the US Capitol, according to The Hill. "By the way, they never report the crowd on Jan 6. You know Nikki Haley, Nikki Haley, Nikki Haley, you know, they -- do you know they destroyed all of the information, all of the evidence, everything, deleted and destroyed all of it. All of it," Trump said. "Because of lots of things ... like Nikki Haley is in charge of security -- we offered her 10,000 people, soldiers, National Guards, whatever they want. They turned it down. They don't want to talk about that. These are very dishonest people," he added. Meanwhile, Trump and Haley will go head to head on January 23 in the New Hampshire primary, the next stop in the battle for the GOP presidential nomination. This comes after Trump registered a comprehensive victory at the Iowa caucuses this week winning 20 of the 40 delegates. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis came a distant second with eight delegates and former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley finishing not much behind with seven delegates. According to a poll average from Decision Desk HQ and The Hill, Trump is currently 10.6 points ahead of Haley in the race in the Granite State. Earlier on Friday, Haley hit back at Trump over his remarks questioning the former UN Ambassador's eligibility to run as president. "I know Trump well. He gets into name calling when he feels threatened and insecure. I'm not going to waste any energy on that," she posted on X (formerly Twitter). This came after Trump launched a new series of attacks on Haley on his social media platform Truth Social. Trump misspelt Haley's first name, 'Nimarata' as 'Nimrada' and also questioned her eligibility to run for president due to her parents' citizenship status at the time of her birth. (ANI) JAKARTA, Jan. 21 (Xinhua) -- At least two people died and 16 others were injured after the bus they were on rolled five meters down a highway in Central Java on Sunday, according to local police. The crash took place in Pemalang Regency at around 12:30 p.m. local time. There were a total of 26 people on the bus traveling from Jakarta to Semarang, according to Pemalang Police's deputy chief Gunawan Wibisono. No other vehicles were involved in the accident and the weather was sunny when the crash occurred, he added. Wibisono also said that the two dead and those injured were already transported to a nearby hospital. The bus has been evacuated by the highway officers. The police will continue their investigation on the cause of the accident. As the countdown for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Mandir has begun, along with Ayodhya, the Janakpurdham in Nepal, the maternal home of Goddess Sita is now brimming with happiness and enthusiasm, waiting for the occasion with high fanfare and gaiety, organising a slew of events. Hymns of Lord Ram and Sita are echoing in the city around the clock. The Janaki Temple is decked up with lights, and enthusiasm can be seen on the faces of every Janakpurdham resident. "The January 22 event of Pran Pratishtha of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya has also brought a wave of happiness for us. We have planned a series of events on that day, which will start in the morning and last until the end of the day. We will make Rangoli's out of vermillion powder and Lord Ram's picture from flowers. We will also observe Deepawali in our home. We are all happy with the construction of the temple in Ayodhya; the whole of Janakpur is happy with it," Bharat Kumar Sah, a resident of Janakpur, told ANI. The ceremony scheduled for January 22 will witness the installation of the idol of Ram Lalla at the grand temple. It is expected to be attended by hundreds of officials, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The trust has also invited 4,000 saints of all sects for the ceremony. "I personally am really happy and excited about it (Pran Pratishtha ceremony). I will celebrate Deepawali in the evening (January 22) and also light lamps at the temple. I am also asking my friends and others to hold Deepawali on January 22," Sanjay Mandal, another resident of Janakpur, told ANI as he visited the Janaki Temple on Saturday evening. India, on January 22, is holding the grand Pran Pratishtha ceremony at the Ram temple in the holy city of Ayodhya. According to the Ram Janmabhoomi temple trust, Varanasi priest Lakshmi Kant Dixit will officiate the main rituals during the consecration ceremony. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the event, thousands of other people including politicians, saints, and celebrities, have been invited to the ceremony. From Nepal's Janakpur, the Chief Mahanth along with the Chotte Mahanth have been invited for the ceremony and have already set off for Ayodhya. Earlier, Janakpur sent offerings locally called "Bhaar" to Ayodhya as a part of the ritual, which included ornaments, cuisines, clothes and other daily essentials. Amid celebrations across the maternal home of Goddess Sita, the loud speakers over the city are echoing with the chant of 'Jai Shree Ram' as well as the public screening of songs dedicated to 'Ram Lala'. The Mahabir Mandir next to the railway station in Janakpur started "Astajaam" on Saturday, chanting Ram hymns around the clock. Devotees draped their heads with scarves inscribed with Ram slogans. "Without Lord Hanuman, Lord Ram won't go anywhere; that's why we have started the three-day programme of Astajaam, which goes on round the clock. We started it today and will continue until tomorrow. On January 22, we will do Hanuman Aradhana, recite Hanuman Chalisa 12 times and later in the evening we will light oil-fed clay lamps," Kamal Hathi, one of the devotees and organisers of Astajaam in Janakpur, told ANI. Scores of devotees have continued to take part and throng to various Astajaam's being held in Janakpur. Those taking part in these mass religious sermons and chanting ceremonies now wait for the railway link to be established between the two cities to facilitate their travel. "After the Pran Pratistha ceremony, we are excited to go to Ayodhya. We obviously would go there, pay a visit to Lord Ram, seek blessings; this comes as good news for Nepal," Kamlesh Kumar Mandal, a resident of Janakpur said as the crowd surrounding him chanted "Jai Shree Ram." Kamlesh, another devotee and resident of Janakpur, is expecting the two historic places to be connected with railway links in the coming days. "I hope that a railway link will be established between Mithila (Janakpur) and Ayodhya through a rail operating at least twice a month. I hope it starts soon and residents here don't have to struggle to reach Ayodhya and Ayodhya residents to come to Mithila," said Anuj Kapar, a resident of Janakpur. According to the belief, Janakpur, also known as Mithila, was the kingdom of King Janak. He organised a 'Swayamvar' ceremony where his daughter Sita chose a groom among the princes of different kingdoms present there. However, there was a condition for being eligible for the marriage. The prince had to string the Shiva Dhanus (bow of Lord Shiva). But no one other than Lord Ram was able to lift it. After he tried to string it, the bow broke in two halves, qualifying him as the perfect groom for Goddess Sita. (ANI) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has refuted reports that claimed he told US President Joe Biden that he has not ruled out the creation of a Palestinian state, the Times of Israel reported. This comes after a report claimed that Netanyahu told Biden that the public comments he made a day earlier -- in which he appeared to reject the idea of creating a Palestinian state -- were not meant to foreclose that outcome in any form. "In his conversation last night with President Biden, Prime Minister Netanyahu repeated his consistent position for years, which he also expressed at a press conference the day before: after the elimination of Hamas, Israel must remain in full security control of the Gaza Strip to ensure that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel, and this conflicts with the demand for Palestinian sovereignty," the Israel PM Office said in a statement. The CNN report follows similar comments from Biden himself, who said that the creation of an independent state for Palestinians is not impossible while Netanyahu is still in office and that the two leaders discussed the issue during their phone call on Friday. On being asked if whether a two-state solution was impossible with Netanyahu still in office, Biden told reporters on Friday, "No it's not." On being asked about the recent statement by Netanyahu. Biden said, "I think we'll be able to work something out." President Biden further elaborated that there might be "types" of two-state solutions that Netanyahu may not be opposed to. "There are a number of types of two-state solutions. There's a number of countries that are members of the UN that are still -- don't have their own militaries. Number of states that have limitations...and so I think there's ways in which this could work," Biden further said. Earlier on Thursday, Netanyahu said in a press conference, that "in any future arrangement, or in the absence of an arrangement," Israel must maintain "security control" of all territory west of the Jordan River -- meaning, Israel, the West Bank and Gaza. "That is a vital condition," the Times of Israel reported. He added that this "contradicts the idea of sovereignty [for the Palestinians]. What can you do? I tell this truth to our American friends." On Friday, US President Joe Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu after nearly a month and reiterated his vision of a 'two-state solution' while guaranteeing Israel's security. The US President also discussed the ongoing efforts to secure the release of all remaining hostages under Hamas captivity and reviewed the situation in Gaza. "The President discussed Israel's responsibility even as it maintains military pressure on Hamas and its leaders to reduce civilian harm and protect the innocent. The President also discussed his vision for a more durable peace and security for Israel fully integrated within the region and a two-state solution with Israel's security guaranteed," the White House statement added. (ANI) Several US personnel were wounded after Iran-backed militants in Western Iraq launched multiple rockets and ballistic missiles on Saturday (local time) targeting Washington's al-Assad Airbase in Western Iraq, said US Central Command. CENTCOM said that several US personnel are undergoing evaluation for "traumatic brain injuries" and at least one Iraqi service member was wounded in the attack. "At approximately 6:30 pm (Baghdad time) time Jan. 20, multiple ballistic missiles and rockets were launched by Iranian-backed militants in Western Iraq targeting al-Assad Airbase. Most of the missiles were intercepted by the base's air defense systems while others impacted on the base. Damage assessments are ongoing. A number of US personnel are undergoing evaluation for traumatic brain injuries. At least one Iraqi service member was wounded," the US Central Command informed on social media platform X. https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/1748831942299246640?s=20 Earlier on Saturday, the US conducted airstrikes against a Houthi anti-ship missile that was aimed into the Gulf of Aden and was prepared to launch, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said. Washington said its forces determined the missile presented a threat to merchant vessels and US Navy ships in the region and therefore struck and destroyed the missile in 'self-defence'. Recently, the US carried out another round of attack against the Houthi rebels in Yemen, destroying three anti-ship missiles in the Red Sea. The White House confirmed in a statement that this was the fourth preemptive action taken by the US military amid boiling tensions in the Red Sea. Notably, the US redesignated the Yemeni group as a "terrorist" organisation in response to its continuing attacks and threats to shipping and imposed sanctions on it. The designation does not go into effect for 30 days. The Houthis said the designation will not affect its operations to prevent Israeli ships or vessels heading to Israel from crossing the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. The Houthis, who support the Palestinian armed group Hamas, launched their attacks in response to Israel's war on Gaza. Their strikes have slowed trade between Asia and Europe and alarmed major world powers, Al Jazeera reported. (ANI) "Confirmed: Live metrics show a nation-scale disruption to social media platforms across Pakistan, including X/Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube," the internet tracking agency said at 7:12 pm (local time). It added that "the incident comes as persecuted opposition leader Imran Khan's political party, PTI, launches its second virtual gathering." PTI slammed the caretaker government over the disruption stating, "Shame on the caretakers that are causing damage to Pakistanis only." The users also reported experiencing difficulties accessing social media platforms across Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad, according to Dawn. A similar disruption occurred previously also on January 7, as the PTI held a virtual fundraising telethon. The PTI has urged the Supreme Court to take notice of the suspension of internet service and blockage of social media websites during the party's fundraising telethon. In a statement, the PTI spokesperson had alleged that 240 million people were deprived of their basic rights by the suspension, which also resulted in financial losses for the country. Telecom operators had also expressed concern over frequent internet outages "on political grounds". Earlier in December 17 last year, the internet services in Pakistan again faced nationwide disruption amid a virtual power show organised by Imran Khan's PTI, Dawn reported. On May 9, when violent protests broke out after Imran Khan's arrest, the PTA confirmed that it had suspended mobile broadband across the country on the interior ministry's instructions. Netblocks had said access to Twitter, Facebook and YouTube was restricted across Pakistan amid PTI chief Imran Khan's arrest on that day from the Islamabad High Court's premises in the Al-Qadir Trust case. Earlier in July, Pakistan was ranked third in the world over the imposition of internet restrictions in the first half of 2023, Dawn reported. It further cited a report by Surfshark, a virtual private network company headquartered in Lithuania, and stated that a half-year analysis of internet shutdowns based on the Internet Shutdown Tracker revealed that Pakistan was responsible for three of the 42 new restrictions worldwide that were imposed following Imran's arrest. At the time, access to Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube was restricted in the country. At the same time, several temporary cellular network disruptions were also witnessed across the country for several days afterwards, Dawn reported. (ANI) As a pristine and gilded Ayodhya awaited Lord Ram to return to his birthplace and take his throne on Monday, several sitting ministers in New Zealand sent out congratulatory messages to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, saying it was his leadership that made the construction of the Ram Temple possible after a prolonged wait of 500 years. Speaking to ANI, New Zealand's Minister for Regulation, David Seymour, said, "Jai Shri Ram...I wish to congratulate everyone in India, including PM Modi, as it was his leadership that made this construction (Ram Temple) possible after 500 years. The temple is majestic and built to last another 1000 years." Saying he would be 'delighted' to pay a visit to the Ram Temple, Seymour said, "I wish PM Modi courage and wisdom as he helps over a billion people in India navigate the challenges of the world today." "I hope that he will have strength and faith," the minister added. Echoing the refrain, New Zealand's Minister for Ethnic Communities, Melissa Lee, said the Ram Mandir is the result of PM Modi's leadership and work. Speaking to ANI ahead of the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony on Monday, the minister said, "I wish the Indian diaspora around the world for the celebration of the inauguration of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Congratulations to PM Modi and the people of Bharat on the inauguration of Ram Mandir after 500 years." "Ram Mandir is the result of PM Modi's work and his championing of resurrecting this Mandir. He has been elected so many times as the Prime Minister. It (the public support and mandates in favour of PM Modi) shows his desire to take India forward and take the economy to new heights. PM Modi is respected around the world and he is putting in some very good work for the people of India," she said. As the grand 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya draws near, celebrations among the Indian diaspora beyond Indian shores have been unbridled. In the latest demonstration of the festive fervour among natives across the world, members of the Indian diaspora in Sydney celebrated the lead-up to the Ram Temple inauguration by holding a car rally on Saturday. In the event, more than 100 cars participated, attracting hundreds of 'Ram Bhakts' and passersby in the neighbourhood. In visuals captured by ANI, cars were seen lined up on roads, with members of the diaspora dancing and holding flags embossed with images of Lord Ram. There were similar celebratory events featuring fireworks display and the waving of saffron flags with images of Lord Ram. Amid the growing excitement and anticipation back home around the 'Pran Pratishtha' ceremony in Ayodhya, more celebrations have been planned across hundreds of temples in Australia over the next couple of days. Earlier, in the US, hundreds of Indians organised a car rally in Edison, New Jersey. More than 350 cars participated in the rally. Visuals accessed by ANI showed people from the Hindu community holding flags inscribed with images of Lord Ram and cars lining up on the streets. Earlier, the president of the Mauritius Sanatan Dharm Temples Federation, Bhojraj Ghoorbin, said all temples in the island country will organise the chanting of verses from the epic 'Ramayan' on January 22, as a mark of celebration of the 'Pran Pratishtha' of Lord Ram in Ayodhya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the ceremonial enthronement of the idol of Shri Ram Lalla inside the sanctum sanctorum of the grand temple on January 22. A host of leaders and dignitaries from all walks of life have been invited to the grand temple opening in Ayodhya. Vedic rituals for the Pran-Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya began on January 16, a week before the main ceremony. (ANI) Devotees offered prayers at Maa Janaki Mandir in Nepal's Janakpur ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Ram temple in Ayodhya on Sunday. Meanwhile, devotees from Nepal have also reached Ayodhya to witness the historic Pran Pratishtha Ceremony of Shree Ram Lalla. The ceremony will take place on January 22. On Shri Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha Ceremony, Manoj Kumar Sah, mayor of Nepal's Janakpurdham, told ANI, "I congratulate the people of India, as well as those in Ayodhya, on this auspicious occasion. As India and Nepal share civilizational ties, and as the time of Pran Pratishtha of Shri Ram Lalla is coming closer, people are very excited in Janakpur of Nepal where Lord Ram's in-laws house is... People are coming for worship..!" He said, "So, for the Pran Pratishtha which will take place on January 22, all of us here in Janakapurdham will light diyas as a part of Deepotsav to celebrate this special occasion with great fervour." "I congratulate the Indian government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion," the mayor said, as he extended his wishes to New Delhi. As the Ram temple Pran Pratishtha ceremony draws near, devotees from Nepal reached Ayodhya from Nepal to witness the historic occasion. On being able to attend the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya Ram temple tomorrow, the devotees from Nepal, who arrived in Ayodhya on January 19, said that they are very happy to be here. While speaking to ANI, one of the devotees said, "We are from Nepal. We are six people, and we came here the day before yesterday. We feel so good to be here. It was 30 years ago when I came here; it was very complicated back then. But now that the temple is constructed, we are very happy." "We are all bestowed with the blessings of Lord Ram. We are extremely happy," he added. As the countdown for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Mandir has begun, along with Ayodhya, the Janakpurdham in Nepal, the maternal home of Goddess Sita is also brimming with happiness and enthusiasm, waiting for the occasion with high fanfare and gaiety, organising a slew of events. Hymns of Lord Ram and Sita are echoing in the city around the clock. The Janaki Temple is decked up with lights, and enthusiasm can be seen on the faces of every Janakpurdham residents. The ceremony scheduled for January 22 will witness the installation of the idol of Ram Lalla at the grand temple. It is expected to be attended by hundreds of officials, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The trust has also invited 4,000 saints of all sects for the ceremony. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi will preside over the event, thousands of other people including politicians, saints, and celebrities, have been invited to the ceremony. The ceremonial journey leading up to the Pran Pratishtha commenced on January 16, 2024, Tuesday. Earlier, on Thursday, January 19, the idol of Shri Ram Lalla, carved by renowned Mysuru sculptor Arun Yogiraj, was placed inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. Covered with a veil, the first photo of the idol was revealed during the placement ceremony in the sanctum sanctorum on Thursday. (ANI) The Israeli Navy struck a building in the central Gaza Strip where a number of Hamas terrorists were preparing to ambush soldiers, The Times of Israel reported, citing Israeli military. The IDF said the Navy identified the threat and together with the 179th Reserve Armoured Brigade, hit the terrorists. In southern Gaza, the IDF said that the Air Force and snipers of the Command in a joint operation, killed numerous Hamas terrorists. In the Daraj and Tuffah areas of Gaza, the IDF said that the 401st Armoured Brigade fought against Hamas terrorists, killing some 15, and raiding a building used by the terror group, where soldiers found weapons. Meanwhile, the IDF has released a video showing the tunnel's inner part in Gaza's Khan Younis, where Israeli hostages are being held by Hamas, according to The Times of Israel report. According to the Israeli military, the tunnel is approximately 830 meters and was dug 20 meters below the ground. The IDF said the troops fought a number of Hamas terrorists when they entered the tunnel. However, there were no hostages there. On Saturday night, the Israeli military said that soldiers had recently uncovered the tunnel where hostages were held in "harsh and inhumane conditions." The objects found in the tunnel were drawings by five-year-old Emilia Aloni, who was freed in November during a temporary ceasefire. The IDF said that the death of a soldier killed during fighting in the Gaza Strip over the weekend, taking the total number of killed soldiers in the ground offensive against Hamas to 195, according to The Times of Israel report. The deceased soldier has been identified as Sgt First Class (reserved) Uriel Aviad Silberman (23) of the Kiryati Brigade's 7421st Battalion from Nehalim. According to IDF, another officer and soldier of the same battalion were seriously injured in the same building. Meanwhile, the Hamas-controlled Ministry of Health said more than 25,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since October 7, CNN reported. The latest toll includes 178 people killed and 293 injured in the past 24 hours. The total number of people who have been killed in Gaza since the war between Hamas and Israel started on October 7 has reached 25,105. Furthermore, 62,681 people have been injured in the Gaza Strip during the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, according to CNN report. (ANI) On the eve of the highly anticipated Pran Pratishtha ceremony of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the Indian community in Taiwan came together in a joyous celebration, embracing the significant occasion. The festivities, held on January 21, witnessed two distinct events organised by the vibrant Indian community in Taiwan, as well as the dedicated efforts of ISKON Taiwan. The gatherings were filled with spiritual fervour as attendees engaged in Keertan and Bhajan, creating an atmosphere of reverence and cultural unity. These events were not only a testament to the deep-rooted cultural ties maintained by the Indian diaspora in Taiwan but also an expression of collective joy over the monumental inauguration. https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1749040602178802018 Adding to the spirit of unity, the Indian Association of Taiwan is set to organise another event, offering a live stream of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony. This initiative allows members of the community to participate remotely, ensuring a broader reach and involvement in the auspicious proceedings. Highlighting the significance of these celebrations, Manhar Singh Yadav, DG of ITA (India-Taiwan Association), actively participated in the community events. In expressing gratitude, he thanked the Indian diaspora in Taiwan for their unwavering efforts to stay connected with their roots and wholeheartedly engage in various Indian celebrations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the ceremonial installation of the idol of Shri Ram Lalla on January 22. The ceremony will include Vedic rituals for the Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya. Earlier, the new idol, sculpted by Arun Yogiraj, was placed inside the sanctum santorum of the temple. The idol is 51 inches tall and weighs 1.5 tonnes. The idol portrays Lord Ram as a five-year-old child standing on a lotus also crafted from the same stone. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will perform rituals marking the 'Pran Pratishtha'. A team of priests led by Lakshmikant Dixit will lead the main rituals.(ANI) Representatives of various press clubs, unions and associations of journalists and media workers have formed an alliance -- Coalition for Free Media -- to jointly resist media restrictions through pressure tactics and trolling on social media and to ensure freedom of expression, Pakistan-based Dawn reported. Almost all groups and factions of media organisations, including Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), Council of Pakistan Newspapers Editors (CPNE), All Pakistan Newspapers Employees Confederation (Apnec), press clubs of four provincial capitals and the National Press Club, participated in the meeting. During the meeting, the initiative by the Association of Electronic Media Editors & News Directors (AMEND) to form the 'Coalition for Free Media' was supported by the participants. The participants in the joint meeting also decided to form a 'steering committee' of the coalition to resist the continuous degradation of the freedom of information in Pakistan. The participants in the joint meeting decided to seek cooperation from human rights activists and lawyers and create deterrence over the safety of journalists and 'shrinking space' for free speech in the media, Dawn reported. AMEND President Azhar Abbas, who moderated the meeting, announced that freedom of speech did not mean unregulated and unethical media practices. The participants stressed that character assassination of journalists on social and mainstream media had become a norm in recent years. PFUJ (Barna) President Afzal Butt said many countries had imposed restrictions on media. However, it appeared too obvious and blatant in Pakistan. He stated that regressive policies were being followed, even by political parties, against media freedom. According to a statement issued by the coalition, successive governments, political parties and some state institutions have adopted the policy to defame independent journalists and damage their image through a sustained campaign. It said that some media and journalists have also started taking part in this campaign. The statement said some TV channels and newspapers allegedly attempted to justify such defamatory campaigns, accusing the media organisations and professional journalists of committing treason and even blasphemy, according to Dawn report. It was agreed that media organisations and journalists could have different editorial policies and report the same stories differently. However, there could be fair and justified criticism of these stories and opinions. The coalition said, "But if media organisations start to run campaigns against journalists, they themselves are likely to become a threat to media freedom in this county," Dawn reported. The coalition has called for several demands including 'ensuring free speech and freedom of media' as no society can progress without free media. Freedom of speech generates dialogue and debate which is important in every democratic society, recalling that media organisations have been campaigning for this constitutional right. Members of the coalition held discussions on the issue of safety and protection of journalists. It noted scores of journalists have been killed and several abducted or incarcerated by state and non-state actors, during the past many years. The coalition decided to jointly resist any attack on media organisations from state or non-state actors. The participants agreed that there was undue pressure and demand to not publish columns and articles of certain writers or sack journalists and it had become the order of the day. The participants said that those resisting such undue pressures from the government and state institutions had been subjected to different types of persecution, including stoppage of government advertisements and blocking of TV channel transmission. (ANI) Hundreds of devotees from different age groups on Sunday marched through the East-West Highway, with some dressed as Hanuman and others as Ram and Sita, while taking part in the Sobha Yatra ahead of the Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya. The Jaleshwar Municipality, which lies at aflat distance of about 18 kilometres, took out a religious procession on Sunday to celebrate the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Devotees taking part in the religious procession touring through the stretch of the main city square chanted "Jai Shree Ram" and danced to the music of a DJ. "It was organised by the youth club, in which about 7,000 people took part. In the mass tableau, Lord Ram and Sita, as well as Hanuman, were presented. Women, children, elderlies, everyone took part in it enthusiastically," Santosh Kumar Sah, one of the participants of the Sobha Yatra, told ANI. Waving the saffron-coloured flag high and chanting the slogans of Ram, the devotees marched through the roads and walkways, gathering a large mass of bystanders. The enthusiasm in the adjoining district has remained unmatched, as the in-law of Mithila is going to have a home of his own. "The celebratory event in which I participated is very happy. Lord Ram is our in-law, as he got married to Goddess Sita, which makes us her family members. We have tremendous respect for Lord Ram and the celebration that is taking place in Ayodhya and the celebration is already underway there. The main event of Pran Pratishtha is scheduled for January 22; we, the residents of Janakpur and Jaleshwar, as well as the whole of Nepal, are celebrating it," Binu Jha, one of the residents of Mahottari, told ANI. The Janaki Temple in Janakpurdham is surrounded by various forms of Shiva on four sides. Lord Shiva is believed to have protected Sita from all sides until someone mighty to protect her doesn't arrive. The Janakpurdham, birthplace of Janaki or Sita, daughter of King Janak, got married to Lord Ram after breaking the divine bow of Shiva at a tournament organised by King Janak. Dhanushadham, near Janakpurdham, possesses a fossilised fragment of that broken bow. Lord Ram had broken Shiva's divine into three pieces, a condition for winning the hand of Sita in marriage. Every Sunday in the month of Magh (January/February), a Makar Mela (fair) takes place, a tradition that has not been broken since Vedic times. Devotees from Nepal and India flock here in tens of thousands to pay homage to this place. (ANI) Pakistans leading human rights and religious freedom advocate, Peter Jacob, is among eight individuals from different countries who were awarded with the US Secretary of States International Religious Freedom Award in recognition of their courage and commitment to promoting and defending religious freedom globally. Apart from Jacob who is mentioned as the winner for his tireless advocacy for Pakistans marginalised religious minority communities, the other winners are Farid Ahmed (New Zealand), Kola Alapinni (Nigeria), Mirza Dinnayi (Iraq), Martha Patricia Molina Montenegro (Nicaragua), Tali Nates (South Africa), and a group of nine Orthodox clergy from Lithuania represented by Gintaras Sungaila. A State Department media note issued after the January 18 award ceremony in Washington DC said, These advocates had focused on promoting human rights and mutual respect for all in countries including Nigeria, Iraq, Pakistan, New Zealand, South Africa, and Nicaragua, as well as protecting the rights of Orthodox Christians, Tibetan Buddhists, and members of other religious communities around the world. Jacob heads the Lahore-based research and advocacy organisation, Center for Social Justice (CSJ), as its executive director. He has lectured, written columns and books, and carried out other forms of public and private advocacy on behalf of members of religious minority groups for more than 35 years, seeking to secure their constitutionally guaranteed rights to equal treatment and freedom of religion. He has called publicly for the repeal or reform of Pakistans blasphemy laws, which can carry punishments up to the death penalty and have been used extensively and abusively to imprison thousands of Pakistani Muslims, Christians, Hindus, and Sikhs. Under his leadership, the Centre for Social Justice has compiled the only comprehensive database of blasphemy arrests and prosecutions in Pakistan, documenting more than 2,000 cases since 1987. CSJ has also catalogued vigilante violence and targeted killings of blasphemy suspects and religious minorities. Congratulating its member Peter Jacob, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) in a tweet on X (formerly Twitter) said the veteran rights activist is one of the foremost authorities on freedom of religion or belief in Pakistan. HRCP extends its warmest congratulations to rights activist and veteran HRCP member Peter Jacob, who has been awarded the prestigious International Religious Freedom Award in recognition of his tireless efforts to uphold the rights of minorities. One of the foremost authorities Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (@HRCP87) January 19, 2024 His commitment to speaking truth to power is a testament to his courage and strength of character, and a credit to all human rights defenders, the tweet said. The US embassy in Islamabad also congratulated Jacob on winning the prestigious award. We congratulate Peter Jacob on receiving the Department of State's International Religious Freedom Award in recognition of his commitment to promoting and defending religious freedom and human rights in Pakistan, the embassy said in a tweet. He asserted in a post on X, "The refusal to accept the two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians and the denial of the right to statehood for the Palestinian people are unacceptable." Guterres emphasised that the international community must recognise "the right of the Palestinian people to build their own state." In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a statement, expressed his desire for security control over all territory west of the Jordan River, directly conflicting with the existence of a Palestinian state. Israel's National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir reiterated this stance, declaring, "I do deny a Palestinian state. Always!" Amid the diplomatic tensions, the Hamas-controlled Ministry of Health reported a devastating toll in Gaza since October 7. More than 25,000 Palestinians have lost their lives, with the latest figures including 178 people killed and 293 injured in the past 24 hours. The total stands at 25,105 killed and 62,681 injured across the strip during the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. CNN, however, cannot independently verify these numbers due to reporting challenges in the war zone. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed the continuation of military activities in the Gaza Strip on Sunday. The IDF reported the elimination of "dozens of terrorists" and the discovery of large quantities of weapons. Operational updates highlighted IDF snipers' collaboration with the Israeli Air Force (IAF) in eliminating terrorists in Khan Younis and Daraj Tuffah. An update on Sunday morning revealed the loss of one additional soldier in combat, bringing Israel's military death toll to 195 since the commencement of Israel's ground invasion of Gaza, CNN reported (ANI) Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu on Saturday said that Taiwan has shown its democratic resilience to the world despite China's attempts to intervene in the national elections, Focus Taiwan reported. In his address at the 2024 Democratic Resilience Forum in Taipei, Wu stated that Taiwan successfully held legislative and presidential polls last week despite China's attempts to manipulate the election results, according to Focus Taiwan report. He further said Taiwan's mature response to Chinese methods showcased the country's democratic resilience. Joseph Wu stressed that with the development of informational technologies, cognitive warfare is no longer just news content, but what people face in their daily lives. He stated that the techniques used will further be upgraded in the future, noting that authoritarian regimes and their local collaborators will use more tools of intimidation. Taiwan Information Environment Research Center (IORG), a civil data science research organization that seeks to spread public awareness of information manipulation, hosted the event on Saturday. While addressing the forum, IORG co-director Yu Chih-hao said that information manipulation in Taiwan has characteristics including sabotaging democratic operations, denying democratic values, and negating Taiwan's sovereignty, according to Focus Taiwan report. He further said information manipulation tried to target more "professional and classified" topics, like vaccines, semiconductors and national defence. Yu stressed that much of this misinformation is disseminated in video format or generated by artificial intelligence, making research more difficult. Yu Chih-hao said in the months prior to the elections, even polls became a manipulative tool, including outright fake poll numbers, street surveys claiming to showcase the majority view, or politicians and online opinion leaders citing questionable surveys to frame their narratives among the supporters. He said that vote-rigging rumours could "seriously harm Taiwanese people's trust toward the democratic system." Citing IORG research, Yu said seven days prior to the polls and after the election day, there were 15.6 million views on YouTube and 16.6 million views on TikTok on videos where vote rigging was mentioned. According to Yu, the top 10 most viewed YouTube videos were about different opinions on the alleged vote-rigging, while the top 10 TikTok channels that had the most viewed videos on the topic were making accusations about vote-rigging, Yu said. Yu added that the TikTok account with the most viewed videos on vote-rigging was set up only two weeks prior to the polls, Focus Taiwan reported. Yu said eight of the 10 most viewed videos have been removed from these platforms after the Central Election Commission on Wednesday announced that it had gathered related materials as evidence and handed them over to the Taiwan High Prosecutors Office and the Criminal Investigation Bureau. Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te has won the much-anticipated Taiwanese presidential polls and is set to be the next president amid concerns about escalating tensions with China. This marks the historic third-straight victory for the DPP after Tsai Ing-wen completed her two terms as Taiwan's President since 2016. In its first official reaction to the Presidential elections in neighbouring Taiwan, the Chinese Foreign Ministry on January 13 reiterated its claim on the breakaway territory as part of its own, saying that any changes in the island nation would not change the status of Taiwan as 'part of China.' On the election result in Taiwan, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated, "The Taiwan question is China's internal affair. Whatever changes take place in Taiwan, the basic fact that there is only one China in the world and Taiwan is part of China will not change; the Chinese government's position of upholding the one-China principle and opposing "Taiwan independence" separatism, "two Chinas" and "one China, one Taiwan" will not change; and the international community's prevailing consensus on upholding the one-China principle and long-standing and overwhelming adherence to this principle will not change." The statement further reads, "The one-China principle is the solid anchor for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. We believe that the international community will continue to adhere to the one-China principle, and understand and support the Chinese people's just cause of opposing "Taiwan independence" separatist activities and striving to achieve national reunification." (ANI) Attendees march at March for Life Utah at the Utah Capitol in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024. | Megan Nielsen, Deseret News Around 1,200 people came to the Utah Capitol in Salt Lake City Saturday morning to participate in the Utah March for Life. Utah Rep. John Curtis, Bishop Oscar Solis of the Catholic Diocese of Salt Lake City, the Respect for Life ministry, the Knights of Columbus, Latter-day Saints for Life and other notable figures and organizations sponsored and attended the event. Curtis commented on the importance of compassion within the pro-life movement in Utah and said he appreciates the renewed focus on empowering every human life. He added lifting and caring for mothers helps communities and saves lives. At the event, keynote speaker and director of development at Pro-Life Utah, Merrilee Boyack, said, I cannot even begin to tell you what it feels like to see these little babies born and think, I contributed a little bit to that little baby being alive today. It is the best investment you will ever make. Related Boyack gives Utah abortion stats Since Roe v. Wade was enacted in 1973, 180,000 abortions have been performed in Utah, Boyack said. Over 4,800 abortions have been performed in the state since it was overturned in June 2022. I encounter so many people who think we dont have elective abortion in the state of Utah at all. How wrong, Boyack said. Approximately nine babies are killed in the state of Utah day after relentless day. She continued, It is time to stop the slaughter. It is time to stop being nice and accepting this issue. It is time for outrage. Boyack compared the number of lives lost to abortion to the number of U.S. soldiers lost in the Vietnam War, saying, Weve lost triple that number in the state of Utah to elective abortion, and yet people in Utah continue to accept it, and baby deaths continue. Boyack encouraged Utahns to draw a line in the sand and commit to the pro-life cause in the form of time or donations. Merrilee Boyack, director of development for Pro-Life Utah, speaks at March for Life Utah at the Utah Capitol in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024. | Megan Nielsen, Deseret News What do you do for women? Boyack has been involved with Pro-Life Utah for the past three years. She told the Deseret News a common question she is asked as a pro-life advocate is, What do pro-life organizations do for women? Pro-Life Utah parked their mobile clinic on the steps of the Capitol during the event. Before the program began, workers welcomed the public to sit inside the vehicle and learn about resources they offer abortion-minded mothers, as Boyack described. LeeAnn Evans works in this van three days a week. She explained the van is typically parked outside abortion clinics and workers greet women entering the buildings, offering free ultrasounds, free pregnancy tests and counseling options. They also hand out care packages that include a pair of socks, candy, chapstick and various brochures with information ranging from the Life Grant Program to post-abortion healing. She said the mothers shes met in the mobile clinic come from all walks of life. She continued, A lot of time, they feel like their only option is to abort because of their circumstances, but in reality with all of the resources that are in our community, there are lots of options. Were not there to judge; were there to support. Evans said. We are there to just meet them in the circumstance theyre in and find out how we can support them and help them Robert Jacob plays a bagpipe memorial at the March for Life Utah rally at the Utah Capitol in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024. | Megan Nielsen, Deseret News Pro-Life Utah President Mary Taylor said her work takes compassion. She told the Deseret News, I had one volunteer drive 5 1/2 hours in a blizzard and 5 1/2 back to get a woman away from a boyfriend who was trying to force her to have an abortion. She added, Theyll literally do anything to help our clients, and its just so heart-warming to watch. The shift in the pro-life movement Taylor told the Deseret News when she was a young adult, the pro-life community was justifiably angry, but their anger was not beneficial to the movement. Since then, the movement has become more about uplifting the moms, she said. She added, when Utah held its first March for Life eight years ago, 35 people attended. This year attendance estimates ranged from 1,200 to 1,500 people. In 2023, Pro-Life Utah saved 70 babies, Boyack said, adding that since the beginning of 2024 theyve saved 14 babies. Many women seeking an abortion feel as though they have no other option, Boyack said. When they come (to the mobile clinic), we tell them the things wed help them with: financial support, baby supplies, safe housing, etc. Of the women intercepted by workers in mobile clinics or online, 82% change their minds and choose life, she said. Abortion-related legislation in Utah In 2020, the Utah Legislature passed a trigger bill making elective abortion illegal, with some exceptions, if Roe v. Wade was overturned. On Friday, June 24, 2022, Roe was overturned, but by Monday morning, the law was enjoined by District Court Judge Andrew Stone. Currently, Utah bans abortion after 18 weeks. At the federal level, Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah, recently announced four bills to protect the unborn, including the Abortion is not Health Care Act, the Protecting Life in Health Savings Accounts, the Protecting Life in Foreign Assistance Act and the Guaranteeing the Unborn Access to Respect and Dignity (GUARD) Act, as the Deseret News previously reported. Mary Taylor, president of Pro-Life Utah, speaks at March for Life Utah at the Utah Capitol in Salt Lake City on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024. | Megan Nielsen, Deseret News MEMPHIS, Tenn. A man is dead, and two others are injured after two shootings in Parkway Village Saturday night and one Sunday morning, all less than one mile apart. According to reports, the Memphis Police Department responded to the first shooting in the 2700 block of Getwell Road at 9:37 p.m. A man was found on the scene suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. He was transported to Regional One Hospital in critical condition. 93-year-old woman killed, 2 others injured in shooting Reports say officers responded to the second shooting in the 3800 block of American Way at 9:54 p.m. A man was located with an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead on the scene. Police say the two shootings are connected, but there is no additional information available at this time. This is an ongoing investigation. MPD responded to a third shooting in the 2700 block of Getwell Road at 10:18 a.m. Sunday. Officers say they located a man on the scene suffering from a gunshot wound. He was transported to Regional One Hospital in critical condition. Police have not said if the Sunday morning shooting is connected to the first two shootings in the area. This is an ongoing investigation. If you have any information regarding this incident, call Memphis CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. Russian forces attacked the city of Kurakhove with Grad rockets, killing one civilian and injuring another, Donetsk Oblast Governor Vadym Filashkin reported on Jan. 21. Residential buildings were targeted in the attack, according to Filashkin. A 31-year-old man was killed at the site of the rocket impact. A kindergarten and several houses were also damaged by the strikes, causing a fire to break out. While the fire has been extinguished, authorities are assessing its aftermath, the governor said. Kurakhove is located around 12 kilometers west of the front line running near the destroyed town of Mariinka, which Russian forces took the last streets of in December. It was home to over 18,000 people prior to the full-scale invasion. Filashkin urged all residents remaining in Donetsk Oblast to evacuate the region. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) One person was injured in a shooting early Sunday morning, Jan. 21, in far East El Paso, El Paso Police said. The shooting happened a little after 2 a.m. along the 12600 block of Azulejos St, police said. That is near Pellicano Drive and Mission Ridge Boulevard. Police said an unidentified male, no age given, was taken to a local hospital with injuries. The Crimes Against Persons Unit is investigating the incident. Police have not said what led up to the shooting or if anyone has been arrested. This is a developing story and we will update it as soon as we learn more. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. When thinking of Kentucky, bourbon, horses and bluegrass are sure to come to mind, but the commonwealth is also a major player in the manufacturing sector across the country. "Manufacturing is a vital part of our states record economic success, and the industry is a significant part of our plans for continued growth statewide," said Jeff Noel, secretary for the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development. Across the state, some 259,000 workers are employed in the manufacturing sector at some 6,000 facilities including at global brands like Ford Motor Co., GE Appliances, and Tyson Foods Inc. This means roughly 13% of workers in the state are employed in the manufacturing sector, besting the national count by more than 4%. The greater Louisville area alone "is home to 2,400 manufacturing companies employing more than 82,500 in the areas of automotive, food and beverage, plastics, appliances, and electrical components," according to Greater Louisville Inc., the metro chamber of commerce's website. On top of providing lots of jobs for Kentuckians, the manufacturing industry helped contribute more than $45 billion to the state's gross domestic product, the monetary measure of all goods and services produced in this sector, according to Noel. Kentucky-made products can be found around the world, with $34.4 billion in products having been exported outside the U.S. in 2022. Workers in manufacturing also stand to make an average of $71,000 annually, according to data from JobsEQ that Noel shared. Since 2020, the Beshear administration has emphasized supporting manufacturing, Noel said, creating $24 billion in new investments and 32,100 full-time jobs. "A robust manufacturing sector means great jobs for Kentucky families in every corner of the state," said Noel. "Success in manufacturing means growth in numerous other areas as well. Distribution and logistics, automotive, metals, food & beverage, and so on. All of these industries are directly connected to or thriving thanks to our incredible manufacturing growth." One advantage lending to Kentucky being an ideal place for manufacturing-related businesses is its central geographic location, putting each company within 600 miles of roughly two-thirds of the U.S. population. Kentucky is also home to two major shipping and logistics facilities, UPS Worldport in Louisville and DHL Express in Northern Kentucky, allowing companies ease in getting products from assembly lines to customers. "Kentucky is perfectly located and has the distribution presence needed to serve the supply chain of numerous key industries in the Eastern United States," Noel said. "And we have leadership in Gov. Andy Beshear and the legislature that understand the importance of manufacturing to our state and want to see it become an even greater strength in the years ahead." So, what are some of the largest manufacturing businesses in Kentucky and what do they make? Here's what we found. 1. Ford Motor Company Employees: 13,120 Ford Super Duty trucks rolled off the assembly line at the Ford Truck Plant on Chamberlain Ln. in Louisville, Ky. May 24, 2023 Products: Ford F-Series Super Duty trucks (F-250 to F-450), Ford Expedition, Ford Escape, Lincoln Corsair and Lincoln Navigator 2. Toyota Motor Corp. Employees: 11,977 A Toyota car is driven through the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, Inc. ahead of a visit by Ivanka Trump, presidential advisor, in Georgetown, Ky. on Thursday, March 28, 2019. Products: Toyota Camry, Toyota Camry Hybrid, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES 350 and this plant also produces vehicle parts including four-cylinder and V-6 engines, axels, steering components, and more 3. Haier US Appliances Solutions Inc. (GE Appliances) Employees: 6,910 GE Appliances have completed their state-of-the-art dishwasher line and are giving a tour of the plant for the unveiling of the new line. Sept. 27, 2023 Products: Washers, dryers, dishwashers and refrigerators 4. Grupo Proeza SA de CV (Metalsa) Employees: 2,762 Products: Automotive components such as chassis structures for light and commercial vehicles 5. Magna International Inc. Employees: 2,455 Products: Automotive components such as body structures, seating, powertrain and more 6. Toyota Tsusho Corporation Employees: 2,418 Products: A member of the Toyota Group that produces auto parts for Toyota brand vehicles as well as other metals, machinery, chemicals, agribusiness tools, electronics and energy products 7. Tyson Foods Inc. Employees: 2,417 A Tyson food product is seen in Montpelier, Vt., Nov. 18, 2011. Tyson Foods Inc. (TSN) on Monday reported a loss of $417 million in its fiscal third quarter. (AP Photo/Toby Talbot, File) Products: Tyson, Jimmy Dean, Hillshire Farm, BallPark, Wright, Aidell's and State Fair brands food items 8. JBS Foods Employees: 2,280 JBS Foods is a global, diversified protein company creating products in Butchertown in Louisville. July 26, 2023 Products: Pork products for the company, which includes brands such as Swift, Primo, Adaptable Meats and others 9. Suntory Employees: 2,002 Bourbon tasting in the limestone cellar at the Maker's Mark distillery in Loretto, Ky. on Aug. 10, 2023. Products: Makers Mark, Jim Beam, Knob Creek, Basil Hayden, Baker's Bourbon, Booker's Bourbon, Legent 10. Nucor Corporation Employees: 1,871 Products: Steel and related products Note: All data on companies was provided by the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development. Contact business reporter Olivia Evans at oevans@courier-journal.com or on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter at @oliviamevans_. This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky's largest manufacturing companies: GE Appliances, Ford Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales speaks Friday, Jan. 19, 2024, as he announces a grant to assist St. Joseph County elections alongside county Clerk Amy Rolfes, right, and county election officials at the County-City Building in South Bend. SOUTH BEND The St. Joseph County Clerks office is receiving $110,260 through the state to tighten up security for more than 1,000 pieces of election equipment and to buy a high-speed scanner for a 2024 election that, as Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales said Friday, will see massive turnout. Morales stopped at the clerks office Friday to announce the grant, part of $2 million his office is awarding to 64 counties to improve their election processes. We need to be ready, he said, referring to presidential elections that likely will spur heavy voting in addition to county, state and school board elections. We want as many eligible voters to be part of the process. The states $2 million comes from the federal Help America Vote Act of 2002, which aimed to make improvements to voting systems and voter access after issues were identified in the 2000 elections. St. Joseph County Clerk Amy Rolfes is seen Friday, Jan. 19, 2024 in South Bend. County Clerk Amy Rolfes wasnt specific about the security measures that would be added, to avoid risking that security. But she said that it has to do with their storage, including in a warehouse that Morales had toured on a prior visit when the county was applying for the grant. She said there is good security now, but she noted that there were some issues with storage that needed improving. She said her office worked collaboratively with other election-oriented organizations for input on the security. That included a visit she and her staff made to a program at Ball State University that advises the Secretary of State and the Indiana Election Commission on the certification of voting machines and electronic poll books in Indiana. Its known as the Voting System Technical Oversight Program. Rolfes emphasized that, when she campaigned for office in 2022, she vowed to improve election security. To be clear, Rolfes said, the new measures dont have anything to do with the controversial investigation into a ballot storage room and keys after the 2022 primary elections, where no criminal wrongdoing was found. The countys funding will also purchase a new high-speed scanner that will be used on election night to count ballots in a more timely manner, she said. The county already has two scanners, but she expects the number of ballots to almost double this year. Indiana Secretary of State Diego Morales speaks Friday, Jan. 19, 2024, as he announces a grant to assist St. Joseph County elections at the County-City Building in South Bend. Morales said the HAVA money has been used for different purposes in the past, including for advertising, but he wanted it to support counties in whatever they needed to improve their election processes. It was offered to all of Indianas 92 counties, though only 64 applied, all of which are receiving grants. Other counties, Morales said, asked instead for his appearance or show of support at council or commissioner meetings. He said there was a baseline amount of funding that was pegged per county, based on the numbers of voters, but the grants were also based on the costs of what each county was seeking. The grants range from $1,080 to $123,501. They fill a range of needs, Morales said, from iPads used to register voters to signage. St. Joseph Countys grant pays for the exact costs of the security and scanner, Rolfes said. The security measures didnt fit into the Secretary of States funding categories of voting process and voting outreach and education. But, she said, Morales and the grant were flexible to make it happen. In Marshall County, too Morales also stopped in Plymouth on Friday to announce that the Marshall County Clerks Office will receive $21,777 through the grant. It couldnt come at a better time, County Clerk Jenny Bennitt said. We really needed to replace our equipment. The grant, Bennitt said, will cover the full cost of several pieces of equipment. An encoder will assign a number to each voter, which, she said, is more efficient and accurate than doing it manually. High-speed printers will replace outdated ones, used for printing a tally at the start and end of a day of voting. Portable folding partitions will replace the cubicles of various sizes where voters fill their ballots at the clerks office during early voting. And she said a trolley will help to transport certain heavy, cumbersome pieces of voting equipment. South Bend Tribune reporter Joseph Dits can be reached at 574-235-6158 or jdits@sbtinfo.com. This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: St. Joseph Marshall County get HAVA grant for elections Diego Morales VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) A 16-year-old girl was shot on S. Military Highway on Jan. 20, police said. Police responded to a call for a gunshot wound victim on the 700 block of S. Military Highway. The call came in around 5:30 p.m. The girl was transported to the hospital for treatment of her injuries, and is in stable condition, according to police. There are no suspects in custody at this time, and this is an active investigation. If you have any information about this case, you can submit an anonymous tip by calling 1-888-LOCK-U-UP, downloading the P3 tips app to a mobile device, or visiting www.P3tips.com and submitting a tip. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com. Palestinians youth inspect the damage to homes caused by Israeli air strikes in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip on Wednesday, January 17, 2024. File Photo by Ismael Mohamad/UPI Jan. 21 (UPI) -- An American-Palestinian teenager was shot dead by Israeli forces in the West Bank, the U.S. State Department has confirmed. Tawfiq Hafiz Ajjaq, 17, was fatally shot by Israeli forces this evening near the town of Al-Mazraa Al-Sharqiya, east of the city of Ramallah in the occupied West Bank, the Palestinian official news agency WAFA reported. Ajjaq, a native of Louisiana, moved to the West Bank almost a year and a half ago to complete his high school education and had plans to return to New Orleans to study business in college, according to family members. His family said that Ajjaq was shot while he was driving back from the mountains near their village, according to News Nation Now. He was shot by the Israeli military and succumbed to his injuries shortly after being transported to a nearby hospital. "I woke up from a phone call saying that my cousin was murdered. And I was just in disbelief," Maher Abdul Jabbar, Tawfiq's cousin, said. "The good always die(s) young. And that's a prime example of what happened to my cousin." Israeli authorities have initiated an investigation into the incident and other family members are still working out the details surrounding the incident. "The sadness is covering us from all over," Mohammad Salen, Tawfiq's great uncle, said upon learning of the death. IDF forces reported that an off-duty police officer and a civilian fired at a person suspected of throwing rocks in the area. The IDF soldier present at the scene allegedly fired at the Palestinian victim. The claim is currently under review. The U.S. State Department is also investigating the incident. National security spokesman John Kirby expressed concern and said the investigation would yield more details. "It's definitely deeply concerning, but I'm afraid I don't have more information than that right now," Kirby said. A vigil was held in the New Orleans area Saturday, where he was a member of a local mosque. 369 Palestinians have been killed in the West Bank since Oct. 7, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry, the day Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, kicking off the latest spasm of violence in Gaza. More than 25,000 people have died in Gaza in the fighting so far. A driver was seriously injured after a head-on crash in Indiana Sunday morning. Indiana State Police are investigating after a deputy with Elkhart County Sheriffs Office was hit head-on when another driver crossed the centerline, according to a spokesperson for ISP. Preliminary investigation indicated that at approximately 1:00 a.m., Patrolman Richard Jasinski was traveling southbound on SR 15 near CR 146 in his marked 2020 Dodge Durango. Just south of the intersection, a silver 2012 Chevrolet Impala traveling northbound allegedly crossed the center line, crashing into Jasinski head-on. >> Indiana State Trooper hospitalized after crash Jasinski was transported to Goshen Hospital where he was treated and released. The driver of the Chevrolet, an 18-year-old male, had to be removed from his vehicle and was transported to Elkhart General Hospital with injuries that were serious but not believed to be life-threatening, the spokesperson said. Alcohol is believed to be a factor in the crash, according to ISP. Toxicology results are pending for the driver of the Chevrolet. The crash remains under investigation at this time. Two men were injured in a shooting Saturday night in the Chatham neighborhood, according to Chicago police. An unknown gunman fired shots at 7:19 p.m. at a 29-year-old man and a 24-year-old man standing on the sidewalk in the 200 block of West 80th Street, police said. The 29-year-old was shot multiple times, and was transported to St. Bernard Hospital in critical condition, police said. The 24-year-old was shot in the left ankle and was transported to St. Bernard in good condition. Police said no suspects are in custody, and they are investigating the shooting. rjohnson@chicagotribune.com A chaotic shooting at a Houston-area house party early Sunday left three people dead and others wounded, officials said. At least one shooter opened fire around 2 a.m. local time at a Katy, Texas, residence authorities believe had been contracted as a short-term rental, according to the Harris County Sheriffs Office. We believe this was a small gathering that turned deadly, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said at a news briefing. It appears there were a number of people inside the residence possibly, just guessing, between 10 and 20 people. A man and a woman died at the scene, while another man died at a nearby hospital, Gonzalez said. At least two people were hospitalized and their conditions are unknown. Its possible others were wounded as well, according to the sheriff. None of the victims have been identified, though authorities say the guests were believed to be in their 20s. Investigators are now working to identify any suspects and to determine how many people opened fire. A motive has not been determined but officials believe many rounds were fired, with early evidence suggesting shots were discharged inside and outside of the residence, Gonzalez said. We dont know if there was some type of disturbance that broke out amongst the invited guests or the people that were already inside, or if its somebody that showed up unannounced, some type of targeted attack, Gonzalez said. That will be part of our investigation. While authorities initially said the house has possibly been rented out through Airbnb, the company released a statement saying that was not the case. A deputy arrived at the scene on the 4600 block of Russet Leaf Trace within minutes of being notified and observed at least one person already dead, according to the sheriff. It was a very active scene, Gonzalez said. It was very chaotic upon the deputys arrival. Katy is about 30 miles west of Houston. The families of three Missouri men who were found dead outside a friends rental home earlier this year are demanding answers into their loved ones mysterious deaths. Clayton McGeeney, 36, Ricky Johnson, 38, and David Harrington, 37, were found dead outside another friends home in the Northland neighborhood of Kansas City, by McGeeneys fiancee on Jan. 9, local news station WDAF reported. As of Saturday, medical examiners had not made a ruling on causes of death, a Kansas City police spokesperson told HuffPost in an email. The spokesperson added that there were no apparent signs of foul play. Harringtons mother, Jennifer Marquez, told WDAF that her son went to the house to watch the Kansas City Chiefs game, and she never heard from either him or his two friends after that. Clayton McGeeney, Ricky Johnson, and David Harrington via Facebook Clayton McGeeney, Ricky Johnson, and David Harrington via Facebook I was at work, and I just never thought Id be one of those people that would respond the way I did. I collapsed, I think. I dont remember, Marquez said. The tenant did not answer calls from friends and family, prompting McGeeneys fiancee to break into the home after no one answered the door. They found one of the men deceased on the back porch. Police later found two more bodies in the backyard, according to the outlet. John Picerno, the attorney representing the tenant, said in an interview with NewsNations Dan Abrams that his client had no idea the bodies were there. They were in the backyard. He doesnt use that particular door. He goes out in the front. And so, he had no knowledge that they were out there until, you know, Tuesday, when he was told that they were out there, Picerno told NewsNation. Kansas City Police have ruled out foul play, and the tenant has not been charged with any crimes.Picerno told Abrams that the tenant had no reason to harm his friends. They were his friends. They were at his house socializing. If he had found them there, or if they were in danger, he would have called the police and tried to help them, the lawyer said. Alan McGeeney, Claytons cousin, told KCTV the incident seemed strange and said the families are looking for answers. Im not looking for anyones head or anything, but my cousin was frozen to the dirt for two days, McGeeney told the outlet. Related... Keeping New Year's resolutions for a full 12 months can prove difficult. Entrepreneur Mimi Ikonn shared six valuable insights about making goals with Business Insider. Some unusual tips include making mood boards, sharing goals on social media, and having an accountability buddy. Making New Year's resolutions is an age-old tradition that sees people around the world sit down and reflect on their big goals for the coming year only to abandon them a few weeks later. A recent Forbes Health survey of 1,000 adults in the US found that the average New Year's Resolution lasts just 3.74 months with only 6% of respondents sticking to their goals until December. Meanwhile, the series of dates celebrating the failure of New Year's resolutions such as "Quitter's Day" on the second Friday of January and "Ditch New Year's Resolutions Day" on January 17 suggests there's a gap between making goals and actually turning them into lifelong changes. Mimi Ikonn, the cofounder of wellness brand Intelligent Change and a social media influencer, told Business Insider that making lasting changes requires a holistic approach. "We have to keep in mind that unless we make these fundamental subconscious changes, nothing is going to change in our life because we are guided every day to make decisions based on our subconscious mind," Ikonn said in an interview. "It literally makes more than 95% of all the decisions we make. So unless we change certain habits day to day and rewire the way the brain works, nothing is going to change in our lives because we go back to our old habits." Ikonn offered six valuable insights about keeping New Year's resolutions. Your goals should encompass your identity Ikonn said that Intelligent Change launched tools that were based on the founders' personal lives to help users develop goals based on all of the different facets of their identity. Ikonn said you have to look at "your whole life as a system." "So you are not just somebody who works, you're somebody who has relationships, you're somebody who has a relationship to self, and has spiritual practises." She suggests viewing goals like slices of a pie or even an umbrella and slotting them into each section like it's a different facet of your life. But she warned against making too many goals and instead to narrow it down to three to five ultimate goals for the year. "I think the reason people fail is because we can be a little bit over ambitious about our capabilities and we set out too many goals and then we quickly disappoint ourselves and the moment we disappoint ourselves, we feel deflated and then we just stop trying," Ikonn explained. Your goals should align with your values The most important thing to consider when setting a goal is the "why" factor which can help you determine the motivation behind achieving the goal. "If you have a strong 'why,' you will find a way to get there, and if you don't, most likely you won't," Ikonn said. An exercise that can help you determine your "why" could be creating a list of values before you write down your goals for the year. "Once you create the values, when you create the goals, it's so much easier to see if your goals are aligned with your values and then that allows you to create a bigger vision of your life." Find an 'accountability partner' The saying "moving in silence" is a popular sentiment meaning working on your goals in private is more rewarding because you're cutting out external judgment. However, according to Ikonn, this isn't necessarily true, and can be a mistake. In fact, sharing your goals with others is actually a worthwhile pursuit because it will encourage you to not give up. "I think one thing that people miss out on is having accountability partners," she said. "The more people you tell about your goals and dreams, the more chances you're going to actually do it." An accountability buddy can be a friend or family member who you can check in with every week. "Accountability is huge when it comes to forming any new habits," Ikonn said. "Sometimes we need a little bit of support from our community and it can make a world of a difference." Share your goals on social media Similar to having an accountability buddy, sharing your resolutions on social media can actually put gentle pressure on you to achieve them. Ikonn said that one of her goals in 2024 was to do more public speaking and she decided to share this on social media. People started inviting her to more events and giving her the opportunities to do so as a result. "So it is fascinating what happens once you put it out there into the world, whether you do it on your social media, whether you do it in person with your friends in your community, where people will hear what you're doing, and they will connect you with the right person. They will tell you about a workout program or maybe a new job opportunity." Mood boards do actually work The hashtag #newyearmoodboard has almost a million views on TikTok with users putting together aesthetic collages of images and quotes that often represent their dream life. Although it may just look like a fun activity, Ikonn says there's a deeper reason behind why it can work. "There's a part of our brain called the reticular activating system, which helps us filter through all the information that we are faced with every single day because we're overwhelmed by all this information. "So when you focus on something specific, it allows your brain to filter for opportunities and people and ways to get to those opportunities." However, it's not just about creating the vision board, you actually have to do the work and take actions to bring the dreams to life but it's "extremely helpful to visualize where you're going." Keep track of your goals You've created your list of goals, found yourself an accountability buddy, and ensured that it aligns with your values and long-term vision for your life. Now, how do you make sure it actually sticks? Ikonn says your goals have to be "very clear and actionable and something you can measure." You should also avoid being vague. "For example, instead of saying, 'Oh I want to be healthier' you can say, 'I want to start running three times a week' or 'I'm going to take three yoga classes a week' or 'I'm going to do this workout program on an app and I'm going to commit to it five times a week.'" The next step is breaking those goals down into actionable steps to schedule into our months and weeks because "things we don't schedule will never get done." Ikonn emphasized that it's not always possible to do something everyday. "In real life, there will be times when we feel unwell, when our family needs us, when work needs us more than usual, and we'll be unable to actually keep the habit going. But the truth is we can always pick up where we left off and restart the habit at any point in time." Read the original article on Business Insider This file photo shows a memorial for Jonathan Lewis Jr. set up in an alleyway near Rancho High School in eastern Las Vegas in November 2023. Four high school students in Las Vegas were indicted Jan. 19 as adults on second-degree murder charges in the deadly beating of their schoolmate in November, a fight that was captured on cellphone video and had been widely shared across social media. LAS VEGAS Four high school students in Las Vegas were indicted Friday as adults on second-degree murder charges in the deadly beating of their schoolmate in November, a fight that was captured on cellphone video and had been widely shared across social media. Chief Deputy District Attorney John Giordani said in court that the indictment also charges the teenagers with conspiracy to commit battery, a gross misdemeanor. The Associated Press is not naming the students because they were juveniles at the time of the Nov. 1 beating. Nine students have so far been arrested in connection with the attack that left 17-year-old Jonathan Lewis Jr. dead. Giordani said the other students are awaiting separate hearings. According to Las Vegas police, 10 students between the ages of 13 and 17 participated in the beating that unfolded after school in an alleyway just around the corner from Rancho High School. The police department said Friday that investigators are still searching for the 10th suspect. In the aftermath, students, teachers and staff were left to grapple with how a conflict over a stolen vape pen and a pair of wireless headphones escalated. Police said that Lewis walked to the alley with his friend after school but dont believe he was the target. Lt. Jason Johansson said the cellphone video showed Lewis taking off his shirt to prepare for the fight, then the 10 students immediately swarm him, pull him to the ground and begin kicking, punching and stomping on him. After the fight, according to Johannson, a person in the area found Lewis badly beaten and unconscious and carried him back to campus, where school staff called 911 and tried to help him. In Nevada, a teenager facing a murder charge can be charged as an adult if they were 13 or older at the time of the alleged crime. This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: 4 Las Vegas high school students indicted on murder charges Four young women were injured after their car was struck by a CSX freight train just outside Chicago in the early hours of Saturday, authorities said. The crash happened at a railroad intersection in Harvey, a suburb 20 miles south of Chicago, a CSX spokesperson confirmed to the Daily News. At approximately 1:50 am CT this morning, a CSX train came into contact with a vehicle at the Wood St. crossing intersecting W 147 St. in Harvey, Illinois, the spokesperson said. The incident did not result in any injuries to the train crew; however, several occupants of the vehicle were injured. The women, said to be in their teens or early 20s, were attempting to go around the barrier when their vehicle was hit by the freight train, Harvey Fire Department Captain Steve Gorman told CBS Chicago. Two of the women were trapped within the wreckage, forcing emergency crews to use a hydraulic rescuing tool known as the jaws of life to extricate them. Three victims were taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center, in neighboring Oak Lawn, Illinois. At least one of them is listed in critical condition, Gorman told ABC Chicago. The fourth victim refused treatment. Authorities have not released the identities of the victims. The incident remains under investigation. CSX Transportation is one of the nations leading transportation suppliers, operating 20,000 route miles of track in 23 states, the District of Columbia, and Canada. GALLATIN, Tenn. (WKRN) Nearly 50 dogs have been taken to a rescue center in Gallatin after authorities found them confined to crates, exhibiting signs of chronic neglect, and living amongst animals who had frozen to death. On Sunday, Jan. 14, law enforcement in Casey County, Kentucky reached out to Animal Rescue Corps (ARC) a national animal protection nonprofit to assist in the rescue of 44 large dogs who were found living in deplorable conditions. Authorities said the rescue, named Operation Frozen Sorrows, occurred at a home in Liberty, Kentucky that claimed to be a self-described rescue. 8 dogs seized from Erin home Courtesy: Animal Rescue Corps Courtesy: Animal Corps Rescue Courtesy: Animal Rescue Corps Courtesy: Animal Rescue Corps Responders said the deplorable conditions were discovered after the tenant was unexpectedly hospitalized. Upon arrival at the property, rescuers found 44 dogs inside and outside the home. Several were running loose while others were confined to crates, said the ARC. In addition to the discovery, three deceased dogs were also located on the property. According to the ARC, two of the dogs had frozen to death. Belgian Malinois, Great Danes, St. Bernards, German Shepherds, pit bulls, border collies, and cattledogs were just a few of the breeds rescued. MACC responds to hundreds of calls during winter storm The ARC said most dogs showed signs of chronic neglect and had many health issues. Many of the dogs exhibit signs of obvious and chronic neglect including eye injuries, fur loss, internal and external parasites, anemia, gastrointestinal issues, bite wounds, and matting, stated the ARC. Some of the dogs are emaciated and the majority of the dogs are underweight. Before becoming hospitalized, the tenant was allegedly running a self-described rescue out of the home called Everythings Going to be Alright Rescue & Rehabilitation. The alleged rescue operated by the tenant stands as a stark reminder that good intentions must be backed by responsible actions. The suffering of these dogs underscores the ethical responsibility that comes with operating an animal rescue; neglect has no place in the realm of animal rescue and sheltering. This is a very sad situation and a tremendous amount of suffering has ended. said ARC Executive Director, Tim Woodward. Im glad we could assist. Read todays top stories on wkrn.com Each dog rescued in Operation Frozen Sorrows was taken to ARCs rescue center in Gallatin. They are receiving thorough exams, vaccinations, and any necessary medical treatments before they will be matched and transported to a shelter or rescue partner organization that will adopt them into loving homes. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. Once viewed as the strongest contender to former President Donald Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis aborted his stumbling presidential campaign on Sunday, acknowledging that he had no path to the Republican nomination. His announcement, by video, ended a campaign that was marred from the jump, beginning with a glitch-plagued announcement on the platform formerly known as Twitter and lasting another eight months, despite in-fighting and missteps. Here are five of the biggest reasons his campaign collapsed: His Iowa strategy didnt pay off DeSantis campaign and an allied super PAC, Never Back Down, went all-in on Iowa, betting that a strong showing in the first nominating contest would undercut Trump and project him forward. They assembed a massive door-knocking and voter outreach operation that was unrivaled in modern politics. DeSantis himself campaigned in each of the states 99 counties and went on to lose every one of them. READ MORE: Republicans see narrow path for DeSantis through early primary states: Iowa is crucial He tailored his message to the political appetites of an Iowa electorate, deploying anti-abortion rights rhetoric and a populist tone that cast him as a political outsider who could use the force of government to accomplish conservative policy priorities. His focus appeared to hobble his campaign in other important early-voting states, like libertarian-leaning New Hampshire. Polling in the Granite State showed DeSantis performing notably worse than in Iowa prior to ending his campaign on Sunday. Persistent fractures in his political operation From the outset, DeSantis campaign showed signs of internal struggles. Many of his top staffers had never worked on a presidential operation before, including his first campaign manager Genera Peck, who was removed from the post after less than two months on the job. RELATED: Dont know DeSantis campaign manager? Generra Peck would like to keep it that way A tour bus belonging to the Never Back Down super PAC is seen outside of The District Venue before the start of a Ron DeSantis rally on Sunday, Jan. 14, 2023, in Ankeny, Iowa. DeSantis is hoping for a strong performance in the Iowa caucuses. MATIAS J. OCNER/mocner@miamiherald.com But instead of replacing her with an experienced campaign veteran, he instead elevated his chief of staff from the Florida governors office, James Uthmeier, who also lacked presidential campaign experience. To fill gaps in his formal campaign operation, DeSantis leaned heavily on Never Back Down to handle key functions typically reserved for a candidates campaign. The super PAC was staffed by longtime political operatives like Republican strategists Jeff Roe and David Polyansky, a veteran of Iowa campaigns. Polyansky was eventually brought onto DeSantis team as deputy campaign manager. The reliance on Never Back Down led to its own set of problems. Many of the groups experienced operatives found themselves at loggerheads with members of DeSantis inner circle and sometimes even the governor himself over messaging strategies. Late last year, a group of DeSantis loyalists formed a new super PAC called Fight Right to handle TV ad spending. Never Back Down also struggled with internal strife. Several of the groups leaders and high-profile staffers either resigned or were fired in the weeks before the Iowa caucuses, including CEO Chris Jankowski and Roe. Voters didnt want to Make America Florida DeSantis put his governing record in Florida front and center on the campaign trail, preaching what he called the Florida blueprint to voters nationwide. He boasted about his decision to reopen Floridas economy early on during the COVID-19 pandemic, bragged about reducing the state debt and rallied supporters over his ongoing fight with Walt Disney World over the companys special tax district in Central Florida. Voters shrugged. Steve Long, 60, of Ogden, Iowa said that he liked what he had heard about DeSantis record on education in Florida, but raised an issue that has been a persistent political headache in the Sunshine State. I heard that insurance is getting pretty expensive down there, said Long, who was supporting entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamys presidential campaign. Jackie Sapp, 68, a retired school teacher from Kelly, Iowa said that she had considered supporting DeSantis, but ultimately decided to back former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley. Sapp said that DeSantis wasnt real concrete on his main policies. It seems like he attacks. But what are your ideas? How are you going to approach it? Its always about me, me, me. And I dont want someone whos me, me, me. Former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley signs autographs during a meet and greet at the Robie Country Store on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024, in Hooksett, New Hampshire. Polls show Haley trouncing Ron DeSantis for second place in Tuesdays upcoming primary vote. MATIAS J. OCNER/mocner@miamiherald.com The Trump factor From the outset, the biggest challenge facing DeSantis campaign and those of virtually every 2024 Republican candidate was how to loosen Trumps vise-like grip over the GOP voter base. Former President Donald Trump speaks to supporters during a rally at the Grappone Conference Center on Friday, Jan. 19, 2024, in Concord, New Hampshire. MATIAS J. OCNER/mocner@miamiherald.com Despite losing reelection in 2020 and facing numerous legal problems, Trump has consistently polled double-digits ahead of his nearest Republican rivals, prompting him to treat the primary, in some ways, as more of a coronation than a contest. Ultimately, convincing Republicans that it was time to move on from Trump proved too tall an order for DeSantis. Throughout much of his campaign, he treaded lightly when it came to contrasting himself with the former president, who was once a key political ally of the governor. DeSantis argument hinged on the notion that he could accomplish the promises that went unfulfilled during Trumps tenure in the White House. In the final weeks of his campaign, DeSantis began to sharpen his criticism of Trump. He notably insisted that the former president is not pro-life during a nationally televised CNN town hall. On the trail, he repeatedly deployed the line that Trump was campaigning for president on his issues, while DeSantis was focused on voters issues. David Kochel, a veteran Republican strategist in Iowa, said that part of the challenge for DeSantis and the other candidates was that Trumps supporters have stood firm with the former president and arent likely to abandon him. That means that the GOP nominating contest has simply been a race to determine who will run one-on-one against Trump, he said. The Trump vote is already there, Kochel said. The job of Iowa and New Hampshire is to answer the question of which candidate earns the right to take on Trump. And if that doesnt get resolved, then Trump runs away as the nominee. DeSantis media strategy failed DeSantis and his campaign bet that he could ascend nationally the same way he did in the state: by attacking reporters and stiff-arming most of the press, preferring interviews with friendly, conservative outlets. Last week, he admitted that he should have done more corporate shows. Police charged a 66-year-old woman with first-degree murder Saturday after detectives found a body inside a large storage box at a Gulfport home this week. Jerri Lynn Isreal, 66, was arrested Saturday. She had previously been convicted of a murder charge in Florida around 1995, according to a news release from Gulfport Police. Her arrest came days after detectives searched a home at 16th Avenue and 22nd Street in Gulfport for a missing person and found a body inside a large box, police said. Harrison County Coroner Brian Switzer identified the body Friday as John Gaither, 42, of Gulfport. Gaither and Isreal shared the home, police said. Gaither was first reported missing Dec. 22, Gulfport police Sgt. Jason Ducre said Friday. Police first responded to the home on the evening of Dec. 22, the release said. Detectives started to notice discrepancies in what Isreal told them, the release said. Some stuff just didnt add up, Ducre said Friday. Police said Isreal had become increasingly uncooperative. They said she changed her statements multiple times. Police searched the home with a warrant about 10 a.m. Thursday, the release said, and found Gaithers body in a wooden box. The box was so large that police cut out part of the wall Thursday to extract it from the home, authorities said. It was filled with junk and found on the ground, as Switzer put it, like a coffin. Isreal was sent to a hospital at that time for medical treatment, according to the release. Isreal was being held Saturday at the Harrison County jail in lieu of bond. Gaithers full autopsy is scheduled for Monday. An 85-year-old woman was found dead after officials say she wandered outside in the cold. Emergency crews in Indiana were called around 7 a.m. Jan. 18 in Trafalgar, the Daily Journal reported. The woman was found two blocks away in a driveway by a man and his wife, according to WTHR. It was just immediate action. It was, like, we have to figure out whats going on here, Damien Lutz told the news outlet. Officials are awaiting a toxicology report but say foul play is not suspected and the cold temperature was a contributing factor, WXIN reported. Officials dont know why the woman left her home, or how long she was outside but say when they found her she was barefoot in a nightgown, WTHR reported. It was 24 degrees that morning, Weather Underground reports. Laura Forbes, the communication director for the Greater Indiana Chapter of the Alzheimers Association told WXIN that wandering is a sign of dementia. And if it happens at this time of year in frigid temperatures, that can certainly be very dangerous, she said. The Alzheimers Society lists tips to help prevent a loved one from wandering out in the cold. Sticking to a regular routine and staying active are recommended. Just really meeting them where they are is so important, Forbes told WXIN. Having as much structure as possible, people with dementia respond really well to routines. The Alzheimers Association also lists ways to reduce risks of wandering and ways to prepare your home. Petrified hiker clings to small tree after falling hundreds of feet on NY mountain Missing 7-year-old boy with autism found dead in pond near his home, Texas cops say Son finds 79-year-old mother dead in bayou with mysterious bite marks, Texas cops say Nine new around-the-world cruises have already set sail in 2024. These ships joined Royal Caribbean's nine-month Ultimate World Cruise at sea. Oceania said its 2024 world cruise sold out in 30 minutes. The Seven Seas just got a bit more crowded: Nine new world cruises have recently set sail, joining Royal Caribbean's ongoing Ultimate World Cruise in a quest to travel around the world in 2024. TikTok has developed an obsession with Royal Caribbean's nine-month vacation. But it's not the only one of its kind nor was it the most in-demand. In 2021 and 2022, other operators also announced their global cruises, with one selling out 30 minutes after it was offered. Since the start of the new year, nine of these have already embarked. Take a look at which ones. Oceania Cruises the premium $48,500 six-month option The 180-day, five-continent cruise is set to conclude on July 12 in New York City after sailing to cities like Sydney, Australia. Oceania Cruises Oceania's 2024 world cruise was so hot that it sold out 30 minutes after reservations opened in March 2022, the premium cruise line said at the time. After almost two years of waiting, these travelers finally set sail from Los Angeles on January 14. For the next 180 days, the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings subsidiary says the Insignia is set to sail to 96 ports in 34 countries. The vessel is now on its way to Hawaii, the Pacific Islands, Australia and New Zealand, Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Canada, according to its world cruise itinerary . This includes 24 expected overnight stays in destinations like Yangon, Myanmar, and Reykjavik, Iceland. Oceania's cabins started at $48,500 per person. Regent Seven Seas Seas Cruises NCLH's $73,500 ultra-luxury 4 -month cruise The Seven Seas Mariner in Kotor, Montenegro. Regent Seven Seas On January 6, the Seven Seas Mariner departed Miami on a roundtrip 132-night global expedition . Through May 17, the ship is set to stop at 66 ports in 31 countries sailing to expected destinations in Central America, Hawaii, the Pacific Islands, New Zealand and Australia, Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Bermuda. Fares started at $73,500 per person for Regent Seven Seas' basic suite. Too cheap? The most luxurious 2,000-square-foot accommodation had a $200,000-per-person price tag. Like Oceania, these fares didn't stop travelers from flocking to the luxury cruise . The ship was fully reserved in less than three hours when bookings opened in July 2021, Regent Seven Seas said at the time. Azamara a private equity-owned $39,000, five-month sailing Guests on Azamara's 2024 world cruise could book excursions to destinations like the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Taj Mahal. Azamara Azamara's sold-out 2024 world cruise departed on January 5 from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Over the next 155 nights, the Azamara Onward plans to stop in 40 countries across Central and South America, the Pacific islands, New Zealand and Australia, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe before concluding in Barcelona. There are 22 overnights scheduled throughout this world tour . The private equity-owned cruise line's 2024 global adventure started at $39,000 per person for the windowless interior cabin. Travelers who prefer to cruise in luxury would've paid $157,000 per person for the highest-end suite. Silversea Cruises Royal Caribbean Group's $66,000 4 -month world cruise Silver Shadow cruise ship. Leo Caldas/AFP via Getty Images Ultra-luxury Silversea's 2024 global vacation set sail on January 15 from San Francisco. Through May 26, the Silver Shadow is scheduled to see 65 ports in 14 countries. Unlike most world cruise itineraries, this one is scheduled to spend most of its 132 nights traversing the Pacific Ocean, sailing to the Pacific Islands, New Zealand and Australia, Southeast and East Asia, Alaska, and Canada before returning to San Francisco. Silversea's fares started at $66,000 per person for the least expensive vista suite, cheaper than Regent Seven Seas' cruise of the same length. Princess Cruises Carnival Corp's almost four-month $21,100 vacation Princess Cruises says its 2024 world cruise guests will have an overnight in Dubai and the opportunity to see 25 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Princess Cruises On January 4, the Island Princess embarked on its 111-day world cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with a second pickup scheduled in Los Angeles on Thursday. From there, travelers are expected to get to see 51 destinations in 27 countries across Africa, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Europe, and the Americas, according to the Carnival Corp brand. Fares started at almost $21,100 per person. Regret not going on Princess' world cruise? There's another chance: The cruise line's second 2024 global itinerary is sailing in late April. Seabourn Cruise Line Carnival Corp's almost 5-month $74,300 itinerary The Seabourn Sojourn. Seabourn Cruise Line It seems like every major cruise giant has an ultra-luxury brand. Carnival Corp's is Seabourn and on January 11, the Seabourn Sojourn departed Los Angeles on a 145-day, 72-port, 28-country cruise. The sailing is set to conclude in Piraeus, Greece, near Athens, on June 5. Along the way, the itinerary shows the Seabourn Sojourn traveling east to destinations like Hawaii, Australia, China, Japan, Sri Lanka, Egypt, and Jordan. The Sojourn is scheduled for 20 overnights in destinations like Cairns, Australia, and Honolulu. Fares started at $74,300 per person. Cunard A 3 - and four-month cruise from Carnival Corp's UK-based operator Queen Mary 2. Cunard Luxury operator Cunard has two 2024 "world voyage" itineraries: 123 nights on the Queen Mary 2 and 107 nights on the Queen Victoria. Queen Mary 2's four-month roundtrip New York City voyage departed on January 3, sailing east to 32 ports in the UK, Europe, Africa, Australia, Asia, and the Middle East, according to its itinerary. Eight days later, the Queen Victoria also began its 3 -month roundtrip Southhampton, UK journey. According to the UK-based operator, the ocean liner is set to sail west to 29 ports in Bermuda, Aruba, Central and North America, the Pacific Islands, New Zealand and Australia, Asia, Africa, and Europe. Cunard did not immediately respond to Business Insider's inquiry about its fares. Holland America Line the four-month roundtrip Florida cruise The Zuiderdam's world cruise itinerary includes overnights in places like Tokyo and Aqaba, Jordan. Jennifer Gauthier/Reuters On January 3, Holland America Line's world cruise guests would've moved onto the Zuiderdam to spend the next 127 nights circumnavigating the globe, according to the operator's itinerary. This roundtrip Fort Lauderdale, Florida cruise is scheduled for 46 ports in the Caribbean, Central and South America, the Pacific Islands, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Holland America did not immediately respond to Business Insider's inquiry about the itinerary's fares. Are you traveling on a world cruise? We're interested in hearing your experience. Reach out to this reporter at bchang@businessinsdier.com. Read the original article on Business Insider Mykhailo Podoliak, adviser to the head of the Ukrainian President's Office, believes that Ukraine may negotiate with Russia if the latter suffers a tactical defeat on the battlefield, voluntarily gives up nuclear weapons and experiences internal riots. Source: Podoliak during the national joint 24/7 newscast Details: Answering the question about possible preconditions for negotiations, Podoliak stressed that Russia is only ready to negotiate on ultimatum positions and seeks the absolute destruction of Ukraine. The official believes that unless Russia has suffered significant tactical defeats on the battlefield, it will use any truce to prepare for the next stage of the war. Quote: "If the negotiations start at a time when Russia has suffered certain tactical defeats, the processes mentioned by Mr Danilov [Oleksii Danilov, Secretary of Ukraines National Security and Defence Council - ed.] take place, and we see certain social tensions, certain internal riots then yes, of course, negotiations are possible. And at the same time, to say talks are possible and Russia should voluntarily give up nuclear weapons. This is similarly possible only when Russia suffers a global defeat.. What is a global defeat? The Russian Federation will no longer be able to dominate not only Europe but the international political process in general; it will not have the resources to do so and will not be able to use its veto power, for example, in the UN Security Council, and will not have the support of a range of other totalitarian states, as it will be seen as a country that has lost the war. Then conditions on nuclear weapons, on the number of nuclear weapons carriers, including missiles of a specific range, on transboundary buffer zones, etc., are possible. But this will only be possible if three processes take place: the first is Russia's tactical defeat in Ukraine; the second is the sanctions' effective operation, when European companies finally leave the Russian markets; and the third component is when based on all this, the processes we saw in the summer of 2023 when Prigozhin [Yevgeny Prigozhin, the deceased Chief of the Wagner Private Military Company ed.] marched on Moscow through Rostov and Voronezh, will begin in Russia, and after that we will see a significant internal social conflict in Russia." Support UP or become our patron! Abbott Elementary stars Chris Perfetti as Jacob, Quinta Brunson as Janine, Lisa Ann Walter as Melissa, Sheryl Lee Ralph as Barbara, William Stanford Davis as Mr. Johnson, Tyler James Williams as Gregory and Janelle James as Ava. | Matt Sayles, ABC Quinta Brunson just won an Emmy for her role as an earnest elementary school teacher in the ABC sitcom Abbott Elementary. Her colleagues Tyler James Williams (who plays a fellow teacher and Janines love interest) and Janelle James (who plays the self-absorbed principal) were also nominees, as well as Sheryl Lee Ralph, nominated for her role as a wise kindergarten teacher. Abbott Elementary was also nominated for the outstanding comedy award. It was the only network program nominated in the category. There has been much hand-wringing in the past few years over the future of network television as consumers increasingly move to streaming platforms, where many programs are original series that are produced by the platforms and have never aired on legacy networks. For example, The Bear which won the Emmy for outstanding comedy series is exclusive to Hulu. I know many people who watch that show, as well as Barry, Jury Duty, Only Murders In The Building, Ted Lasso, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Wednesday, all nominees in the outstanding comedy category, and all exclusive to their given platforms. However, I dont know anyone who is watching sitcoms on network television right now other than Abbott Elementary. Abbott Elementary seems to be the only network comedy currently airing that is finding any success, both critically and in ratings. In its second season, the series averaged 9.1 million viewers an episode, according to Nielsen ratings up 12% percent over its first season and up 30% for viewers ages 18-49. It leads one to wonder what Brunson the creator, producer and star of Abbott Elementary and her team are doing differently than their network peers. These things are hard to pinpoint exactly. If every showrunner knew the secret to success, every pilot would be a hit. As with most things, there is no perfect formula for creating a comedy series, and there is no telling what the public will respond to. But Abbott Elementary does have a few notable things going for it. Related The faux-documentary format that Abbott Elementary employs is well-trod territory with shows like The Office and Parks and Recreation, but not so well-trod as to feel stale. Its a formula that works well for exploring a characters inner dialogues, which in the case of Abbott Elementary adds to the deadpan delivery of many of its best jokes. And the story of a group of teachers in an underfunded inner-city school is not one Ive seen before. The show pokes plenty of fun at the cliches surrounding public education in major cities but is never too sharp-elbowed. It addresses the challenges of public education but does so with a lot of hope, humor and heart. At its center is a group of teachers who are committed to their profession and to the success of their students. Even the most incompetent and selfish character Ava does whats best for her school and students whenever she can. The show manages to highlight the hard work of the people in one of societys most undervalued and underappreciated professions without being patronizing. Its refreshingly optimistic in a media landscape often populated with messages of despair and nihilism. The series is also accessible and appropriate for almost anyone. My parents watch Abbott Elementary. My daughter watches Abbott Elementary. I feel comfortable watching the show with them. And I feel comfortable recommending the show to anyone of any age. Perhaps most importantly, the show is deeply funny. Each of the main characters has their own delightful quirks. A young, white teacher named Jacob is the walking embodiment of an antiracist Instagram infographic. Melissa, played by Lisa Ann Walter, often alludes to her familys possible criminal activity. Barbara cant keep celebrities names straight. Ava knows nothing about education and everything about TikTok trends. The third season premieres on Feb. 7 after a delay due to the writers strike. Its worth noting that last season, most viewers of the show watched it through streaming. The future of network sitcoms as a whole remains unclear. But the success of Abbott Elementary shows that great comedy is great comedy, whether it airs on legacy television, Hulu or elsewhere, and that theres always an audience for a show with hope, humor and heart. The first season of Abbott Elementary can be seen on Hulu or Max; the second season is only on Hulu. People with cable subscriptions can also check streaming options through their cable provider. The series has a TV-PG rating and contains some adult language. The U.S. Supreme Court on January 22, 2023, enshrined the right to abortion in Roe v. Wade, which was overturned in 2022 As the 51st anniversary of the Roe v. Wade decision approaches, reproductive rights advocates continue to fight on behalf of marginalized communities impacted by the U.S. Supreme Courts decision to overturn the landmark ruling. Rachel OLeary Carmona, executive director of the Womens March, on Saturday led one of several marches that took place across the country as she and others continue to fight for abortion rights. She told theGrio that she was marching in Phoenix as a commemoration and as a promise of the work that we intend to do over the next year. In the 90s, Black women and women of color moved forward with the framework of reproductive justice understanding that this fight is bigger than just about abortion, she said. This is about criminalization. But, its also about the conditions necessary for women to be able to have families when and how they choose, she continued. And to not have the state intervene with you making the right choice for you and your family. Pro-choice activists protest during a rally in front of the U.S. Supreme Court in response to the leaked Supreme Court draft decision to overturn Roe v. Wade May 3, 2022 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images) Since the 1973 ruling was overturned, nearly 24 states, including Florida, Texas, Ohio, Oklahoma and Louisiana, have implemented some variation of an abortion ban. The laws disproportionately impacted Black women and other marginalized groups. This was the first time in United States history that the Supreme Court has taken away a fundamental right that generations of people depended on, Elisabeth Smith, director of state policy and advocacy with the Center for Reproductive Rights, told theGrio. In 2022, abortion was legal in every state in the country and today there are 14 states that have criminalized abortion. This means that nearly a quarter of the U.S. population is living in a state where reproductive autonomy is a crime, she continued. The U.S. Supreme Court is seen, with a carving of Justice in the foreground, April 19, 2023, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File) Black people, indigenous people, people of color, young people and the like, we know, that those communities bear the brunt, Smith said. Weve known for a really long time that abortion bans hit communities that have been the target of discrimination and face discriminatory barriers to health care. Smith stated that, in those cases where marginalized people live in states that penalize abortion, they have very few options and are forced to travel to nearby states that permit them to obtain one. If its possible, people can try to overcome financial and logistical hurdles, take days off and find childcare, to try to leave those states to access care, she said. Some are ordering abortion medication and using that at home because their options for abortion care is really limited and really difficult to obtain, she said. A small group, including Stephanie Batchelor, left, sits on the steps of the Georgia state Capitol protesting the overturning of Roe v. Wade on June 26, 2022. (AP Photo/Ben Gray, File) OLeary Carmona said that the heaviest attacks on abortion are in states like Texas that have the highest cases of maternal mortality, particularly with Black women. Black and Latinx women are heavily impacted in Texas as it pertains to the number of people who are being prevented from accessing abortion care, she said. Following the Dobbs v. Jackson Womens Health decision that overturned Roe v. Wade, Texas implemented one of the strictest abortion bans in the country. The state law prohibits abortions if a fetal heartbeat has been detected. Recommended Stories White House lectern Politics Alice Dunnigan and Ethel L. Payne, first Black female White House reporters, honored with eponymous lectern TheGrio Staff Politics Judge blocks tighter rule on same-day registration in North Carolina elections Associated Press Soccer goal, theGrio.com News Guinea soccer team appeals to fans to celebrate carefully following supporter deaths Associated Press 93rd Annual Academy Awards - Press Room Featured Complete list of 2024 Oscar nominees Associated Press Alzheimer Lifestyle Study finds new blood test could be key to earlier Alzheimers detection TheGrio Lifestyle Featured Hear me out, post-sex goodie bags are a great idea Monique Judge News Cameroon starts worlds first malaria vaccine program for children Associated Press News Former gang leader charged with killing Tupac Shakur gets new lawyer who points to historic trial Associated Press Matters were made worse for women when a federal appeals court rendered a decision earlier this year that permitted the state of Texas to ban emergency abortions. The three-judge panel prohibited the Biden-Harris administration enforcing the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act of 1986 in the state. The law makes it mandatory for doctors to perform abortions if a womans life is in danger due to the pregnancy. Anna Rupani, executive director of Fund Texas Choice, told theGrio that Doctors and emergency room staff already have the enormous burden of providing lifesaving care at critical moments; this is no different. Demonstrators hold signs during a rally to defend abortion access and codify Roe v Wade into law, in Foley Square in New York City on October 8, 2022. (Photo by Bryan R. Smith / AFP) (Photo by BRYAN R. SMITH/AFP via Getty Images) They should not be encumbered by harmful laws that are being interpreted by non-medical professionals who do not understand the need for life-saving care and are possibly preventing or delaying this care with horrific consequences to the pregnant person, she said. Because of this ruling, it is literally dangerous for people to be pregnant in this state because they cannot count on medical professionals to provide lifesaving care in grave emergencies, she continued. OLeary Carmona also told theGrio that Black and brown women are more likely to be criminalized as it pertains to abortions. In December 2023, Brittany Watts, a Black woman who had a miscarriage at her Ohio home, was charged with felony corpse abuse after investigators found the fetus lodged in the toilet in her home. Abortion rights advocates rally outside the US Supreme Court on April 14, 2023, in Washington, DC, speaking out against abortion pill restrictions. (Photo by OLIVIER DOULIERY / AFP) (Photo by OLIVIER DOULIERY/AFP via Getty Images) Warren Assistant Prosecutor Guarnieri informed the Municipal court judge that how the child died was not the issue, however it was the fact the baby was put into a toilet, was large enough to clog up the toilet, left in the toilet, and she went on (with) her day. Despite the prosecutors efforts to have Watts indicted, a grand jury declined to do so. Luckily this case did not move forward, but it easily could have, OLeary Carmona told theGrio. We know that Black and brown communities are the most at risk in terms of criminalization. Never miss a beat: Get our daily stories straight to your inbox with theGrios newsletter. The post Abortion rights advocates rally for reproductive rights ahead of Roe v. Wade anniversary appeared first on TheGrio. People hold up their cell phones as they protest against the AfD party and right-wing extremism in front of the Reichstag building in Berlin, Germany, Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024. (AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi) BERLIN (AP) A protest against the far right in the German city of Munich Sunday afternoon ended early due to safety concerns after approximately 100,000 people showed up, police said. The demonstration was one of dozens around the country this weekend that drew hundreds of thousands of people in total. The demonstrations came in the wake of a report that right-wing extremists recently met to discuss the deportation of millions of immigrants, including some with German citizenship. Some members of the far-right Alternative for Germany party, or AfD, were present at the meeting. In the western city of Cologne, police confirmed tens of thousands of people showed up to protest on Sunday, and organizers spoke of around 70,000 people. A protest Sunday afternoon in Berlin drew at least 60,000 people and potentially up to 100,000, police said, according to the German news agency dpa. A similar demonstration Friday in Hamburg, Germanys second-largest city, drew what police said was a crowd of 50,000 and had to be ended early because of safety concerns. And Saturday protests in other German cities like Stuttgart, Nuremberg and Hannover drew tens of thousands of people. Although Germany has seen other protests against the far right in past years, the size and scope of protests being held this weekend not just in major cities, but also in dozens of smaller cities across the country are notable. The large turnout around Germany showed how these protests are galvanizing popular opposition to the AfD in a new way. The AfD is riding high in opinion polls: recent surveys put it in second place nationally with around 23%, far above the 10.3% it won during the last federal election in 2021. In its eastern German strongholds of Brandenburg, Saxony and Thuringia, the AfD is leading the polls ahead of elections this fall. The catalyst for the protests was a report from the media outlet Correctiv last week on an alleged far-right meeting in November, which it said was attended by figures from the extremist Identitarian Movement and from the AfD. A prominent member of the Identitarian Movement, Austrian citizen Martin Sellner, presented his remigration vision for deportations, the report said. The AfD has sought to distance itself from the extremist meeting, saying it had no organizational or financial links to the event, that it wasnt responsible for what was discussed there and members who attended did so in a purely personal capacity. Still, one of the AfDs co-leaders, Alice Weidel, has parted ways with an adviser who was there, while also decrying the reporting itself. Prominent German politicians and elected officials voiced support for the protests Sunday, joining leaders from major parties across the spectrum who had already spoken out. The future of our democracy does not depend on the volume of its opponents, but on the strength of those who defend democracy, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said in a video statement. Those turning out to protest, he added, defend our republic and our constitution against its enemies. Misusing alcohol around a surgery is associated with higher infection rates, longer hospital stays and other surgical complications. (Jacob Wackerhausen via Getty Images) Alcohol can cause risky surgical complications for patients who drink in the days leading up to a procedure, but signs of dangerous alcohol use arent always obvious on a patients chart. Artificial intelligence could help bring such problems to light, a new analysis suggests. The study, published in the journal Alcohol: Clinical & Experimental Research, used a natural language processing model to assess the medical records of 53,811 patients who underwent surgery between 2012 and 2019. Subscribe to The Post Most newsletter for the most important and interesting stories from The Washington Post. Patients electronic medical records contain diagnostic codes, but they can also include information such as notes, test results or billing data that may hint at risky alcohol use. To pick up on contextual clues, the researchers programmed a natural language processing model to identify both diagnostic codes and other indicators of risky alcohol use, such as drinks per week exceeding recommended thresholds or a history of medical issues associated with alcohol misuse. Misusing alcohol around a surgery is associated with higher infection rates, longer hospital stays and other surgical complications. Among the patients studied, 4.8 percent had charts that included a diagnosis code related to alcohol use. With the help of contextual clues, the model classified three times as many as being at risk, for a total of 14.5 percent. The model did about as well as a panel of human alcohol-use experts, matching their classifications for a subset of records 87 percent of the time. The findings point to AI as a potential partner for clinicians looking to identify patients who need intervention or postoperative supports, the researchers concluded. The analysis could lay the groundwork for efforts to identify other risks in primary care and beyond, with appropriate validation, V.G. Vinod Vydiswaran, an associate professor of learning health sciences at the University of Michigan Medical School and the papers lead author, said in a news release. Essentially, this is a way of highlighting for a provider what is already contained in the notes made by other providers, without them having to read the entire record. The researchers say they plan to eventually make the model public, but note that it will have to be trained on medical records from individual facilities. Related Content As carjackings rise, food delivery drivers navigate harrowing risks Gen Z is bringing back the part-time job All across Detroit, solidarity through football The Shcheglovsky Val defence industry company in Russias Tula has been damaged as a result of a drone strike. Source: Russian Telegram channel Astra; Suspilne Details: Earlier, the Russian Defence Ministry reported that it had shot down drones over Tula. However, the media and local residents have reported a powerful explosion and fire in the city's Proletarsky district, where the Shcheglovsky Val plant is located. This plant manufactures the Pantsir-S air-defence system, among other things. Suspilne sources in Ukraine's special services confirmed the UAV attack on the Shcheglovsky Val defence plant in Tula. Earlier: On the night of 20-21 January, a fire broke out in one of the Commercial Sea Port terminals in Leningrad Oblast, Russia. Support UP or become our patron! Surely Thomas C. Barnwell Jr. wasnt surprised to hear a local health care statistic that hushed the crowd at Hilton Head Islands Martin Luther King Jr. Day ceremony on Monday. Hes 88 now, and his decades of activism trace the long and often slow march of progress on his native island. His mother, Hannah White Barnwell, was the islands first nurse long before there was a bridge, bringing her training from a nursing school for African Americans in Columbia back to her sandy, remote home with no doctors, no hospital. David Lauderdale Then, Barnwell was the first director of Beaufort Jasper Comprehensive Health Services, one of Americas earliest community health centers. It was established in 1970 to address children of Beaufort and Jasper counties infected with intestinal worms and other problems linked to poverty. Barnwell testified on the jarring local conditions before a U.S. Senate subcommittee in 1968. And he met his wife, Susan, when she came to the Lowcountry to help fight the worm problem caused by shallow wells, a lack of plumbing, scant health care and poor hygiene. So surely, Barnwell could feel each bump along this long march as he and Susan listened to the ceremonys keynote speaker, Dr. Faith Polkey who is chief executive of the Beaufort-Jasper-Hampton Comprehensive Health Services. Shes the one who laid the jaw-dropping statistic on the audience, as stunning today as the thought of local children with worms. Martin Luther King Jr. said, Of all the forms of inequality, injustice in health is the most shocking and the most inhuman because it often results in physical death, she said. That was in 1966, and soon thereafter a small group of people from Hilton Head, Bluffton and St. Helena Island got together to solve a problem infections from Ascaris worms in children in the community. She credited Barnwell, Emory Campbell and Roland Gardner for getting a clinic started in Chelsea, with the credo Health is a right, not a privilege. With the support of the community, as well as federal, state and county funding, BJHCHS has been able to expand over the past 54 years to include 10 locations, 10 school-based health centers, and three mobile units, Polkey said. Services include adult medicine, pediatrics, OB-GYN, dental, pharmacy, nutrition, behavioral health and many other supportive services. We have been able to serve over 17,000 people every year in the three counties and beyond. Today, she said, Beaufort County is called the healthiest county in South Carolina. But she shared data about Beaufort and Jasper counties from the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control that show current health disparities often depend on race, ethnicity, gender, ZIP code or socioeconomic status. Life expectancy can vary by four years on Hilton Head Island, depending on where you live. Life expectancy for Black people on the island is a decade shorter than for white people, she said. Then there was this. Most alarming to me was the median age of death among Hispanic men and women, Polkey said of the 2023 data. For men it was age 53 and worse still, Hispanic women in Jasper County died at the median age of 44! That is exactly what MLK was talking about, Polkey said. She added: You cant just let that sit there on a piece of paper. Causes for health disparities are varied and complex, Polkey said, and must be addressed by various entities including government, private citizens, businesses and health care providers. It will take all of us working in different ways to make a difference, Polkey said, but if BJHCHS is any example of a few people making a difference, I know that we all can. Many things change, but one thing is the same today as when Hannah Barnwell went off to study nursing and when her son went off to rattle the cages in Congress. Somebody has to see something and do something. So I call upon you all to think about that thing that you can do to change our community, Polkey said. What issue has been bothering you for a while? Who can you partner with to make it happen? David Lauderdale may be reached at LauderdaleColumn@gmail.com. A prominent conservative writer railed against what she saw as the alarming spread of nannies of color on New York Citys wealthy Upper East Side. In a lengthy investigation on a loosely connected anti-woke networks backdoor scheming against diversity and inclusion efforts, the New York Times published an email by Manhattan Institute fellow Heather Mac Donald, who lamented the bizarreness of females who chose to work in demanding fields and outsourced their childcare to someone from the low IQ 3rd world. Mac Donald tore into women who traded personal childcare to pursue competitive career goals, such as making partner at a law firm, as yet another curse of feminism. Read it at The New York Times Read more at The Daily Beast. A deadly arctic blast is impacting people across the U.S. Here, snow blankets the Washington, D.C. region on Jan. 19, 2024. Credit - Carolyn Van HoutenThe Washington Post/Getty Images Winter snow storms have continued to bring dangerous conditions to swaths of the U.S. over the weekend, after a barrage of extreme weather already left some Americans with no water or power. Storms and icy conditions over the past few weeks have proved fatal, with at least 67 weather-related deaths reported across the U.S., per the Associated Press. In Oregon, where the governor declared an emergency on Thursday, the treacherous wintry conditions killed at least 10 people. The victims include a pregnant woman, her boyfriend, and her brother, who were electrocuted while trying to get away on slick concrete from a power line that fell on their car. A neighbor saved the couples nine-month-old baby, with both miraculously escaping unscathed, the AP reported. The National Weather Service issued multiple extreme winter weather warnings across the country. While this weekends arctic outbreak was not expected to be as cold as the previous one, the agency predicted Sunday morning would start with a deep freeze engulfing much of the eastern two-thirds of the country with sub-freezing temperatures reaching as far south as central Texas and northern Florida and sub-zero temperatures across the northern Midwest. An ice storm warning was in place in Oregon until 4 p.m. Sunday. The number of customers in the state without powerwhich had stood at more than 31,000 midday Saturdayhad dropped to under 9,000 by Sunday mid-morning, according to PowerOutage.us. Freezing rain and sleet were expected to hit Oklahoma and Kansas Sunday evening and then move into the Midwest on Monday, the National Weather Service said. Most of the South, normally used to mild winters, experienced a freeze alert over Saturday night. In Alabama, some residents were marooned at home all week as ice coated roadways, making them impassable. In Tennessee, at least 25 people died because of the weather as of Sunday, authorities told the AP. Frozen pipes burst and significantly dropped water pressure in Memphis, leading to Memphis Light, Gas and Water issuing a boil notice to customers as a precaution. Temperatures are expected to warm up in the middle of the country throughout Sunday, with the arctic blast shifting eastward and to the mid-Atlantic region by Monday, the National Weather Service said. Contact us at letters@time.com. SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) A woman is facing felony charges after fleeing law enforcement in a stolen vehicle on Thursday, according to Salt Lake City Police. Jessica Lynn Jacobs, 47, was arrested Thursday for aggravated assault, a second-degree felony; possession with intent to distribute controlled substance, a second-degree felony; purchase, transfer, possess, use of a firearm by restricted person, a third-degree felony; and failure to stop at command of law enforcement, a class A misdemeanor. Womans body found near dumpster in Millcreek On Thursday, SLCPD officers were following a stolen vehicle in unmarked police vehicles, according to court documents. A helicopter with the Utah Department of Public Safety helped with the pursuit, maintaining a visual of the stolen vehicle from the air. Those inside the helicopter told officers on the ground that the vehicle they were following had stopped and that the occupants were bailing on foot in different directions. Officers reportedly made contact with Jacobs, a passenger in the vehicle, as she began to run away through an alleyway despite commands to stop. An officer said as he closed the distance to stop Jacobs, he saw her trip and fall to the ground. As she fell, a handgun reportedly fell out of her right hand and slid on the ground away from them. The weapon had a loaded magazine but no round was in the chamber, court documents state. At the time of the arrest, police said Jacobs had a backpack with her, where officers found more than 200 loose fentanyl pills. Jacobs said she does not use fentanyl, but was going to sell them, court documents state. Jacobs also admitted to using methamphetamine and said she last used four days ago, police said. Jacobs reportedly told police she got the firearm from a neighbor for protection. Jacobs was booked into the Salt Lake County Jail on the previously mentioned charges. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. UPDATE (March 1, 2024): Lawmakers introduced a revised version of the domestic terrorism bill in February. A House committee was split on advancing the bill on Friday, March 1. After two tied votes, the bill will not be sent to the House floor. Idaho lawmakers have introduced bills that civil rights organizations say weaken state laws aimed at combating homegrown, organized violence and extremist groups. The two bills would remove Idahos ban on private armed militias and institute a definition of domestic terrorism that excludes most American groups conducting organized violence. Senate Bill 1220, from Senate Majority Leader Kelly Anthon, R-Burley, would add a definition for domestic terrorism but would require such activities to be done in cooperation with any foreign terrorist organization, according to the bill. The legislation would also add a similar requirement for the definition of terrorism. Anthon told lawmakers that his motivation for introducing the bill, which has failed to pass in three prior years, is to prevent Americans exercising their rights from being labeled as domestic terrorists. Anthon noted a controversy in 2021, when the National School Boards Association sent a letter to President Joe Biden asking him to look into threats and intimidation of school board members. Threats against local elected officials rose in prevalence amid fierce debates about school curricula and COVID-19 policies. The association said at the time that some of the threats could be classified as domestic terrorism, and the U.S. attorney general later issued a memorandum that federal law enforcement would investigate criminal behavior directed at school staff members. Anthon said the bill would prevent federal authorities from telling a local sheriff that a person who has not been charged or gone to trial is a domestic terrorist, and you need to go round him up. Anthon did not provide examples of Americans being labeled domestic terrorists and arrested without cause, but told the Idaho Statesman you dont have to be put in prison to have your life ruined by a label of domestic terrorism. I think there have been policy decisions, particularly on the part of the federal government, that threaten our rights as American citizens, Anthon told a legislative committee. Civil rights groups: Bill erases meaning of domestic terrorism Amy Marshak, legal director of the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection at Georgetown Law, said that the altered definition of domestic terrorism flips the federal definition entirely on its head. While federal law can punish people for providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization, there is no comparable crime for domestic terrorism. But federal law nonetheless defines domestic terrorism, and the term can be used to increase the sentence of a person convicted of a related crime. The federal definition of domestic terrorism includes acts that are dangerous to human life and appear to intimidate or coerce a civilian population, influence the policy of a government by intimidation or coercion, affect the conduct of a government by mass destruction, assassination, or kidnapping and occur primarily within the U.S. Homegrown extremist groups could still potentially be penalized under Idahos Terrorist Control Act for conspiring to injure or threaten other citizens, Marshak said. But the proposed changes would make organized violence from groups like the Ku Klux Klan or the neo-Nazi group Aryan Nations, which was based out of North Idaho, subject to the statutes lowest penalties up to 10 years in prison versus up to life in prison because they would no longer meet the definition of domestic terrorism. Only if the violence were in coordination with a foreign extremist group would the laws harshest penalties apply. It would really fundamentally alter that law and turn it into the opposite definition from what it is generally understood as, she said. In doing so, it would restrict the prohibitions on dangerous, violent behavior that have been prohibited in Idaho for a long time now. The bill would also rescind a provision in the law aimed at combating civil disorder through organized violence that has been a part of Idaho law since the 1980s. Twenty-six states have laws on the books that prohibit such civil disorder, which the Anti-Defamation League, an organization founded in the early 1900s to combat antisemitism, pushed for to combat extremist violence. Idaho passed its own law in the late 1980s, when state officials were hoping to restrict the Aryan Nations. A splinter group later assassinated a Jewish radio host in Denver and bombed a synagogue. Its stunning to me that were 40 years away and our memory is so short, Stephen Paolini, the ADLs associate regional director for the Pacific Northwest, told the Statesman. This statute was designed to address groups like the Aryan Nations. He added that the ADL has tracked a rise in extremist violence in recent years. He said the altered definition would not only be inconsistent with federal law but also other law enforcement entities nationwide, which acknowledge terrorism grown in the U.S. Youre really just saying there is only one kind of terrorism, and its foreign terrorism, he said. Anthon specified that, in cases where extremist organizations like white supremacist groups commit organized violence, other state laws already criminalize that behavior. Paolini argued that terrorism statutes are designed to bring additional penalties to bear on efforts to dismantle the government, or to terrorize minority groups, which the law change would undo. Republican lawmakers Friday voted to recommend the bills passage and moved it to the Senate floor. Sen. Melissa Wintrow, D-Boise, opposed the recommendation, while Senate Minority Leader James Ruchti, D-Pocatello, supported it with some reluctance. Idaho bill would allow private militias At the same committee meeting, Sen. Dan Foreman, R-Viola, introduced a bill to repeal Idahos prohibition on private militias. The law forbids a body of men outside of the government from associating together as a military company or organization, or parade in public with firearms in any city or town of this state, but the law is currently not enforced, according to previous Statesman reporting. Foreman, who introduced a similar bill last year that failed, said he thinks the law infringes on Americans constitutional rights to bear arms and peacefully assemble. Freedom of assembly is a right that is not predicated on the citizens agreement to refrain from carrying firearms, he said. If we try to limit constitutional rights for anybody to enhance safety, we take the first step down the road where someday none of us will have constitutional rights, Foreman said. Senate Pro Tem Chuck Winder, R-Boise, said he wants to explore ways of implementing an enhanced crime when gun-toting bands intimidate groups of peaceful protesters. Ruchti said he thinks that First Amendment rights of free speech and assembly can be threatened by guns and therefore can conflict with the Second Amendment. Thats what concerns me, is were somehow equating them, he said. Were somehow saying that they can be used simultaneously when I dont think thats accurate. I just dont think they mix well. Wintrow was the lone no vote on introducing the bill to the Senate. Paolini, of the ADL, said his organization also had serious concerns about repealing the militia prohibition and pointed to an instance in 2022 when members of a far-right organization called the Patriot Front were arrested after descending on a Pride parade, many with shields and shin guards, according to The Lewiston Tribune. Some of those arrested have been convicted of conspiracy to riot. When groups are acting that way, particularly when they have these kinds of long-term, violent movements behind them, it really runs the risk of creating conditions for really serious violence in our communities, he said. The aftermath of the attack on the market in Donetsk. Photo: Russian occupiers' social media Civilians have been killed and injured as a result of an attack on a market in Donetsk on Sunday, and the Tavriia Operational Strategic Group states that their forces did not use any weapons. Source: Donbas News; Denis Pushilin, Kremlin-appointed puppet leader of the so-called Donetsk Peoples Republic RIA Novosti propaganda agency; Joint Press Centre of the Defence Forces of Ukraine on the Tavriia front Details: On Sunday morning, the Donbas News media outlet, citing eyewitnesses, reported that a market in the Tekstylnyk microdistrict in occupied Donetsk came under fire, with "a large amount of dead and wounded". Denis Pushilin, the leader of the so-called Donetsk Peoples Republic, claimed 27 dead and 25 wounded as a result of the attack. (DPR is a self-proclaimed and non-recognised republic in Donetsk Oblast ed.) Dmitry Polyansky, First Deputy Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the UN, said that the strike on Donetsk would be one of the central topics of the UN Security Council meeting on Ukraine requested by Russia on Monday, RIA Novosti reports. The Russian Foreign Ministry accused Ukraine of a "terrorist act" and stated that this allegedly proves that the aggressor must achieve all the goals of the so-called "special operation" against the Ukrainian state, because "security threats and acts of terrorism should not emanate from the territory of Ukraine". However, on Sunday evening, the Joint Press Centre of the Ukrainian Defence Forces on the Tavriia front stated that it was not involved in the matter. Quote from the Defence Forces on the Tavriia front: "Russians are spreading information about a strike on the market in Donetsk. We responsibly declare that the forces subordinate to the Tavriia Operational Strategic Group did not engage in combat operations with weapons of destruction in this case. Donetsk is Ukraine! Russia will have to take responsibility for the lives of Ukrainians that have been taken." Support UP or become our patron! The News MANCHESTER, N.H. Donald Trump is 77 years old. After he repeatedly mixed her up with Nancy Pelosi during his speech last night, Nikki Haley wants voters to know that. Im not saying anything derogatory, but when youre dealing with the pressures of the presidency, we cant have someone else that we question whether theyre mentally fit to do this, she said Saturday in Keene. We cant. On Fox News, she continued that focus: These are people making decisions on the future of our economy. Do we really want them throwing out names and getting things wrong when theyre 80 and having to deal with Putin and Xi and Kim and North Korea? We cant do that. And at a stop in Petersborough, she mentioned Trumps prior habit of describing Barack Obama as if hes the current president, a recurring story that drew enough attention late last year for Trump to address it on Truth Social, claiming it was deliberate. He got confused and said he was running against Obama he never ran against Obama! she said. Dont put our country at risk like this. Lines like these have been a long time coming: Haley launched her presidential bid calling for politicians over 75 to be required to take a mental competency test, a proposal she continues to tout in speeches. But since coming in third in Iowa last week, the attack has sharpened. On the campaign trail this week, the former South Carolina governor has repeatedly mentioned Trumps age, tying him in with President Joe Biden for good measure: The majority of Americans think that having two 80-year-olds running for president is not what they want, she told voters on Tuesday. And on Saturday, she noted how he got confused when discussing her culpability in security failures on January 6th as if she were speaker even though I wasnt even in D.C. on Jan. 6. I wasnt in office then. Shes not alone either: DeSantis has argued for months that Trump has lost a step. If you put a side by side between him in 2016 riffing and really at the top of his game versus now in 2024, I mean, its just a different guy that youre seeing there, he told Iowa radio host Steve Deace earlier this month. Shelby and Dave's View Theres little sign attacks on Trumps age, let alone his cognitive fitness, have swayed Republican voters and its pretty late for this angle to start working now. But Democrats are watching closely as well for signs they may be able to neutralize Bidens vulnerabilities on the issue in a general election. Trump is all about projecting, New Hampshire Democratic Party chairman Ray Buckley said. Trumps a crook so he calls Hillary a crook. Trump is feeble minded, so he calls Biden feeble. Last year, the Biden campaign, frustrated with the ongoing narrative about Bidens own age and health, began trying to flip the script or at least bring Trump into the conversation by highlighting Trumps gaffes while out on the campaign trail. Their campaign accounts have continuously shared every little example they can find of Trump stumbling on his words or going off on an odd tangent. The Haley/Pelosi mixup, under the glare of peak primary campaign coverage, may be the most traction this angle has gotten, and Democrats now have clips of Republicans validating the attack. On Saturday, the Biden campaign even shared Haleys comments on the episode, writing on X: Haley reacts to Trumps delusional and confused rant last night where he suggested that she was Speaker of the House on January 6: He got confused. I question if hes mentally fit. (Left out: The part where she directly compared him to Biden). Making Biden look younger is a tough task. But a critical part of his re-election hinges on convincing some Democratic-leaning voters worried about his age that it should not be a decisive concern relative to the alternative. An encouraging Marist poll this week showed him leading Trump in New Hampshire, thanks to solid support from people who somewhat disapprove of his job as president an example of what a winning map around the country might look like. The View From Donald Trump The former president is (once again) starting to brag about his cognitive abilities on the campaign trail this week. During a speech in New Hampshire on Wednesday, Trump declared that he feels like Im about 35 years old. I actually feel better now than I did 30 years ago, Trump said. Tell me, is that crazy? I feel better now, and I think cognitively Im better than I was 20 years ago. Room for Disagreement After a house party in Concord organized by the Write In Biden campaign, California Rep. Ro Khanna said that Democrats didnt need to pile on Trump for a moment of confusion. I think there are plenty of reasons to campaign against Donald Trump January 6, his two impeachments, Khanna said. This is sort of gotcha politics. Anyone whos spoken a long time makes mistakes. This is the type of politics they do to Biden, and I dont think we have to reciprocate. Notable At The Atlantic, McKay Coppins recommended Americans of political stripes visit a Trump rally, which are rarely carried live and unedited this election cycle. One of the biggest changes from 2016 he noticed at a recent event: Trump often turned rambly, and the crowd seemed to lose interest. A protester wearing a mask in the colours of the Palestinian flag outside the Royal Courts of Justice on Saturday, Jan 13 - MIKE RUANE /STORY PICTURE AGENCY Police should have powers to ban face masks at protests, the Prime Ministers official adviser on political violence has recommended. Lord Walney has submitted a report to Rishi Sunak setting out new measures on policing protests amid growing concern at the way masked activists have chanted anti-Jewish slogans, waved pro-Hamas material and clashed with officers at recent pro-Palestinian demonstrations. There are fears over the spread of the US-style tactic adopted by black bloc anarchist protesters intent on violence who wear dark clothing, ski masks, scarves, sunglasses and motorcycle helmets to hide their identities. The new powers proposed in the review by Lord Walney, the former Labour MP John Woodcock, would give police powers to make a ban on masks an explicit condition before a march could go ahead. The same condition would apply to fireworks and flares. If the organisers refused to agree, police would be able to ban the march - and bar future demonstrations if they failed to abide by the conditions. Beyond current powers The move goes beyond current police powers in the 1994 Criminal Justice and Public Order Act where police officers can demand the removal of masks by protesters. Section 60 of the Act enables police to issue an order allowing them to demand the removal of masks in a specific area where they believe there is a threat of violence or disorder. The move is backed by former Home Office ministers Robert Jenrick and Dame Priti Patel. Face coverings are being deliberately used by law-breakers to disguise themselves and intimidate the public. The impunity for extremists on our streets must end, Mr Jenrick told The Sun. Ms Patel said the public was incensed by the selfish and disruptive actions of these groups. The review is also understood to recommend that Pro-Palestine march organisers should be charged to help cover the costs of policing. Lord Walney believes there is a case for charging because of the great amount of police resource being absorbed by the protests. Protests have cost police 20m Since the October 7 attack by Hamas and Israels military response in Gaza, London and many other UK cities have been convulsed by pro-Palestine marches. The total cost of policing the protests is estimated to have reached more than 20 million. Appearing before MPs in December, Matt Twist, the assistant commissioner for the Metropolitan Police, said that between Oct 7 and Dec 8 his force had spent 17 million on the protests. Describing it as the greatest period of sustained pressure on the Met since the Olympics in 2012, he said the Met had used 28,000 officer shifts to deal with the protests along with 1,600 shifts provided by other police forces. He also revealed that 5,500 rest days had been cancelled and that over 6,000 hours of officer time was being used to investigate 800 open hate crimes. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer. A barking dog alerted passersby to a missing hiker who fell over 150 feet down the slope of a Hawaii mountain The Honolulu Fire Department said rescuers saved a 35-year-old hiker who fell nearly 200 feet. Passing hikers noticed the woman's dog stuck on a steep slope, barking. Rescuers saved the dog, then launched a search for its missing owner. Rescuers in Honolulu saved a 35-year-old woman who had fallen roughly 170 feet down the side of a mountain thanks to her dog, who barked incessantly and alerted passersby. The Honolulu Fire Department said in a statement that a group of hikers called 911 on January 15 to report a barking dog on a steep mountain slope, who was apparently without a handler. A rescuer rappelled some 20 feet down the slope and airlifted the dog to safety but the pilot noticed an object roughly 70 feet below where the dog has been found. The same rescuer rappelled down to the object and discovered that it was a bag filled with personal items. The fire department said rescuers noticed the dog's collar had its owner's name and phone number but when they called the number, no one answered. They said the Honolulu Police Department performed a wellness check at the owner's address, but found no one home. Ultimately, rescuers realized the dog's owner had parked her car at the trailhead and they launched "an extensive and coordinated search by air and ground" for the missing owner. Rescuers located the woman shortly after, and found her underneath some "thick foliage" roughly 100 feet below the spot where her bag was found. Rescuers put her on a stretcher and airlifted her off the mountain and brought her to the hospital. The woman's condition remains unclear. Read the original article on Business Insider MARTINSBURG, W.Va. Berkeley County Magistrate Larry Thompson filed his candidacy for a second term recently. The nonpartisan position will be selected by the voters in the May 14 primary. "Berkeley County Magistrate Court is one of the busiest in the state. I know from experience that the problems our county has with drugs, domestic violence and other crimes is severe and I want to continue to work to resolve these issues," said Thompson, who was first elected in 2020. Berkeley County currently has six magistrates and a seventh will be added with the May election. Berkeley County Magistrate Larry Thompson filed his candidacy for a second term recently. The nonpartisan position will be selected by the voters in the May 14 primary. When he ran for his first term in the office, Thompson said he was doing so for his three grandchildren, so that they could grow up in a community where they and other families are safe, can thrive and make Berkeley County their permanent home. He said Monday that motivation has not changed. A graduate of South Dakota State University, Thompson has been a resident of Berkeley County for more than 30 years. He worked in politics at the local, county, state and federal level for many years, including serving as District Director for former U.S. House of Representative Harley O. Staggers Jr. of West Virginia. Moore's new budget plan: Moore's Maryland budget boosts child care, education, without raising taxes. What to know. Snow scenes in Hagerstown: Snow scenes Friday in Hagerstown He also worked for the Jefferson County Sheriffs Department for four years as a bailiff and special deputy before running for magistrate. He and his wife, Liz, have been married for 32 years. I came to West Virginia for a job opportunity. I met my wife here and Berkeley County became my home, he said. As a Berkeley County Magistrate, I am trying to do my part to keep Berkeley County safe for all our families. This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Berkeley County Magistrate Larry Thompson files for second term The Biden campaign dismissed concerns that Rep. Dean Phillips (D-Minn.) could end his Democratic primary challenge to President Biden and make a third-party bid with No Labels, claiming that Phillipss campaign doesnt even matter. At the end of the day, theres only going to be two parties that have an ability to get to 270 electoral votes, and thats going to be Joe Biden as a Democratic nominee and whoever emerges from the extreme Republican primary thats going on right now, deputy campaign manager Quintin Fulks said on ABCs This Week on Sunday. Phillipss long-shot challenge to Biden has gained no momentum, and questions swirl over whether the congressman will continue his campaign after the New Hampshire primary. Biden will not be on the ballot in New Hampshire, but a write-in campaign is seeking to defeat Phillips anyway. Were going to stay focused on the issues and make this about freedom and democracy, Fulks continued. The Americans that have the most at stake understand that, and theyre not going to be fooled by anything else. The Biden campaign has effectively ignored Phillips since he launched his candidacy in October. There are only two options of whos going to be the President of the United States, and thats either Joe Biden or whoever the Republicans put forth, and our campaign is going to continue to make sure that were delivering a message to draw that contrast about what this election is all about, and thats restoring democracy and protecting freedoms from millions of Americans across this country, Fulks added. No Labels, a third-party effort that has vowed to put forward a bipartisan presidential unity ticket, is actively recruiting figures to place on the ballot. Former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan (R) has been floated as an option, as has Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.). Both have teased that they could make White House runs, but neither has made a public decision. Phillips first signaled interest in No Labels on Saturday, saying he would be interested in running on the groups ballot line if Trump was the GOP nominee. It would have to be a Joe Biden-Donald Trump rematch that shows Joe Biden is almost certain to lose, Phillips told The New York Times. That is the only condition in which I would even entertain a conversation with any alternative. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Biden campaign on Sunday defended the dip in support of President Biden from Black voters, arguing the Biden administration has done the most for the African American community. Pressed by ABC This Week co-anchor Martha Raddatz on the dip in support among Black voters, Quentin Fulks, the principal deputy campaign manager for the Biden campaign, said, Well, I think what a lot of people are expressing is urgency. They sense a sense of urgency because of the threat that Republicans pose to, you know, America right now, and thats precisely why the president and the vice president are running for reelection to make sure that that doesnt happen, Folks continued. When it comes to African American voters, I want to be very clear about this, that no administration has done as much for the African American community as President Biden and Vice President Harris. Fulks pointed to the increase in the Black wealth gap and claimed the racial wealth gap is the lowest its ever been in recorded history. Multiple polls in recent months have shown Biden struggling with Black voters. A November poll by The New York Times and Siena College found that 22 percent of voters in six battleground states said they would support former President Trump in this years election. While 71 percent of Black voters said they would support Biden, the numbers for Trump are the highest percentage a Republican presidential candidate has seen in a half-century. One in five Black voters said they would vote for someone else rather than Biden or Trump in the 2024 presidential election, according to a GenForward survey released last month. Fulks on Sunday touted a series of actions taken for the African American community and claimed the campaign has attempted to send a clear signal to these voters that they understand the importance of their vote. Weve come out of the gate with very large buys targeted at African American voters, organizing in their communities to send a clear signal that one, we dont take them for granted; two, we recognize that we need to earn their support in this campaign, and communicate with them all the way that whats this administration has all the work that this administration has done to make their lives better, and that has to also be in juxtaposition to the contrast of what, you know, the Republicans are putting forward, Fulks said. Fulks argued Republicans have ripp[ed] away health care, and he reminded viewers of Republicans vow to repeal the Affordable Care Act. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. By Steve Holland NASHUA, New Hampshire (Reuters) -U.S. Representative Dean Phillips, attempting a longshot bid for the Democratic nomination, assailed Joe Biden as "unelectable and weak" on Saturday as he tried to take advantage of the president's absence from New Hampshire's primary. Biden did not register for the New Hampshire after national Democrats opted to move their first primary to South Carolina, which offers a more diverse population. But Biden's supporters are mounting a write-in campaign in New Hampshire to ensure a win in the state on Tuesday, and a CNN/University of New Hampshire poll released on Sunday showed Biden drawing 63% of the primary vote in that state, with Phillips at 10%. The Democratic National Committee has ruled that the New Hampshire election effectively wont count and the winner won't amass New Hampshire's 23 delegates in the march to the party's nomination. Phillips, a wealthy Democrat from Minnesota, said during a campaign event in Nashua, New Hampshire, that he hoped to do well in Tuesday's voting. Phillips said a strong showing by him would be getting upwards of 20% or more of the vote - "going from zero to somewhere in the 20s would be pretty awesome, I think." "Sadly it's going to demonstrate that our incumbent president is unelectable and weak and I think it's going to show this country that there's a candidate here who can actually do here what has been promised for generations," Phillips told reporters after addressing dozens of people at a senior citizen activity center. He also noted Biden's age, 81. "If you listen to the voters, people feel he's at a stage of life that makes it incompatible to leading the free world. And the same is true of Donald Trump," said Phillips, 55. Trump, 77, is the leading Republican candidate. The former president was defeated by Biden in his bid for a second term in 2020. The White House has repeatedly dismissed concerns about Biden's age, though polls show voters are concerned about it. "Our perspective is that it's not about age, it's about the president's experience," White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said on Biden's 81st birthday. "We have to judge him by what he's done, not by his numbers." The Biden re-election campaign did not respond to a request for comment and has avoided commenting directly on Phillips's challenge. When the congressman launched his challenge in October, it issued a statement saying Biden's "campaign is hard at work mobilizing the winning coalition that President Biden can uniquely bring together to once again beat the MAGA Republicans next November." Minnesota's Democratic Governor, Tim Walz, in a fundraising email at the time said: "You know, I have to say this about Minnesota: its a great state, full of great people. And sometimes they do crazy things." The New Hampshire primary on Jan. 23 offers the first at-the-polls gauge of Bidens political strength this election cycle, and the unprecedented situation will be closely watched amid polls showing him tied with Trump. A poor showing by Biden against Phillips and self-help author Marianne Williamson would likely fuel concerns that Biden is weak heading into the general election. Both Phillips and Williamson appeared to have little chance of defeating Biden. Backers of the write-in campaign are staging events throughout the weekend to educate voters on how to write in Biden's name and generate support for him. Williamson told several dozen people at an event in Manchester that she also felt Biden was weak and questioned the wisdom of nominating him for a second term just because he beat Trump in 2020. "To say he beat Trump once and therefore he'll beat him again - for me it's like saying to an actor who's nominated for an Oscar twice. 'He won last time so it's only reasonable to think he'll win this time. Well, it's a different movie," she said. (Reporting by Steve Holland; Editing by Sandra Maler and Deepa Babington) The Biden administration is reportedly crafting plans for a sustained campaign against the Houthis - Shutterstock The Biden administration is reportedly drawing up plans for sustained military action in Yemen against the Houthis after US strikes failed to stop rebel attacks on ships. American fighter jets have repeatedly struck Houthi sites in Yemen over the past ten days, with the latest on Saturday taking out an anti-ship missile that was preparing to fire, according to the US military. Despite the operations to destroy their radars, missiles and drones, the Iran-backed group which has almost a decade of experience hiding its weapons from western-backed Saudi air strikes - has vowed to fight on, framing their attacks as an act of solidarity with Palestinians under Israeli attack in Gaza. Sustained campaign against Houthis On Saturday the Washington Post reported that the Biden administration was crafting plans for a sustained campaign against the Houthis. The US officials interviewed by the Post said that they do not expect the campaign to stretch on for years - via REUTERS The newspaper said the White House had convened senior officials on Wednesday to discuss ways it could evolve its response to the attacks. No further details have been released on what they may look like though earlier this week Mr Biden conceded the attacks would continue despite failing to deter the Houthis from their campaign. Are they stopping the Houthis? No, Mr Biden told reporters this week. Are they going to continue? Yes. The US officials interviewed by the Post said that they do not expect the campaign to stretch on for years, as in Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan, but could not estimate when it might end. Open-ended Middle Eastern conflict However, others in the administration fear the US will end up entangled in yet another open-ended Middle Eastern conflict without an exit strategy. Others in the administration fear the US will end up entangled in yet another open-ended Middle Eastern conflict without an exit strategy - Anadolu In its latest assault, the US on Saturday struck a Houthi anti-ship missile that was aimed into the Gulf of Aden and about to be launched, according to the US military. That round of strikes came just hours after the US struck three other Houthi anti-ship missiles. Britain joined the US in carrying out reprisal attacks on Houthi targets earlier this month. Though it has struck a more cautious tone since on its approach to future strikes, it has not ruled out further action. Defence secretary Grant Shapps said the UK will not accept the Red Sea being permanently closed. 405 million pounds to upgrade missile system On Sunday the Ministry of Defence said it would spend 405 million pounds to upgrade a missile system now being used by the Royal Navy to shoot down hostile drones over the Red Sea. The Houthis have framed their attacks in the Red Sea as a tactic to pressure the US into ceasing its unfettered support for Israels military campaign against Hamas - AFP The Houthis have framed their attacks in the Red Sea as a tactic to pressure the US into ceasing its unfettered support for Israels military campaign against Hamas. The group, which controls most of Yemen, has carried out more than 30 missile and drone attacks against commercial and naval vessels since mid-November. Iran is believed to have stepped up its arms deliveries to the Houthis in the wake of the October 7 attacks, with commanders from Irans Revolutionary Guards Corps and Lebanons Hezbollah reportedly on the ground in Yemen helping the Houthis coordinate the attacks. UK and US intelligence also indicates that Houthis are seeking more weapons from Tehran, Politico reported. The fear among some US lawmakers is that Washington has miscalculated to what extent it can involve itself in the conflict with the Houthis. 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. President Biden and Democrats want to make abortion a signature issue of the 2024 election, but the White House is exhausting its already limited powers on reproductive rights. With few tools to protect abortion access at the federal level, Biden and his party are ramping up warnings about a national abortion ban if Republicans return to the White House and win control of the House and Senate. On Friday, the Biden-Harris campaign doubled down on abortion as a key election issue, tying the end of Roe v. Wade directly to former President Trump, the likely GOP nominee. When Americans go to the polls on Election Day this November, they will go knowing that the fate of every American womans freedom to make her own health care decisions is on the line, campaign manager Julie Chavez Rodriguez said in a memo. They will also know that the horrific alternative the chaos, confusion, and uncertainty women whose rights have been ripped away are experiencing right now falls squarely at the feet of Donald J. Trump. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra spoke with reporters this week about the administrations efforts on abortion, ahead of the 50th anniversary of the Supreme Courts ruling that effectively guaranteed abortion rights. He highlighted recent administration efforts to confront the countrys maternal health crisis, which disproportionately impacts Black women, but avoided specifics when asked what other avenues the White House was looking at to expand abortion access. We continue to work on any opportunities we have through the existing authorities that Congress has given us, Becerra said, noting recent efforts to support maternal health in the U.S. But in terms of any additional regulatory authorities, we continue to explore that, and we continue to defend all that we currently have, he added. Experts said the perception that Biden is running low in his arsenal of new actions could be partly due to the barrage of actions after the Dobbs decision in 2022. I think that they have done what they can to kind of keep this issue central to the work across HHS and other agencies as well, said Alina Salganicoff, KFF senior vice president and the director of the Womens Health Policy Program. With the current restrictions, to do a very broad, meaningful change in terms of abortion access, its extremely challenging on the federal level, Salganicoff said. However, Amy Friedrich-Karnik, director of federal policy at the Guttmacher Institute, told The Hill that more can always be done to support abortion access. One step is finalizing the many proposed rules that federal agencies have put forth. Among the proposed rules she believes should be finalized is an HHS-proposed rule to modify HIPAA standards regarding protected health information on reproductive health care. These rules, however, have faced intense legal pushback from anti-abortion groups and legislatures. The Biden administration has also taken on the fight in courts, trying to exert federal authority to protect access to abortion pills and lifesaving abortion care at the state level. The federal government is currently engaged in a legal battle to uphold the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA), which protects doctors who provide emergency, lifesaving abortion care. The Supreme Court recently ruled that Idaho could continue enforcing its abortion ban, though the government argues it violates EMTALA. The Department of Justice has also asked the Supreme Court to end a challenge that could limit access to the abortion pill mifepristone, which has been used widely for decades. Outside of rules and legal battles, Friedrich-Karnik said the presidents annual budget was another opportunity to send a strong signal in support of abortion access though the GOP majority in the House would block any provisions. Republicans have regularly used spending bills to send the opposite message, such as adding abortion restrictions to must-pass spending bills such as the annual National Defense Authorization Act. Friedrich-Karnik warned of a treasure trove of methods that the anti-abortion movement could use in attempt to further restrict reproductive health access. Salganicoff said the Comstock Act of 1873 could become a focus of future efforts, since it makes it illegal to send immoral or indecent items through the mail, which originally included items having to do with contraception or abortion. Roe prevented the Comstock Act from being used to block contraception and abortion materials from being mailed, but now that Roes been overturned, Salganicoff said the old law is back in play. If we were to have a different administration its possible that they could decide to use whatever. Even a law thats so antiquated could be revived and enforced, said Salganicoff. As the calendar turns to 2024, Vice President Harris has taken a leading role in sounding the alarm over the future of abortion access if voters dont elect Democrats. During an appearance on The View this week, she said she was scared as heck about a second Trump term in the White House and sounded a dire warning about abortion. Many of us often think about the future of our country in the context of our children, and so they talk about their concern that if their daughter is going to college, will she go to a state where she will have access to the health care she might need including reproductive health, Harris said. So many of us actually grew up when Roe was intact, and we would absolutely say, We must protect it, a womans right to choose. But we kind of believed it was always going to be there. And look what happened, she said. And I say that in the context of this democracy also. Dont take anything for granted. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Supporters of President Joe Biden held Write-In Biden events across New Hampshire Saturday. They were described as small grassroots efforts. Boston Mayor Michelle Wu (Democrat) joined the efforts in Nashua and Manchester. The President does not appear on the New Hampshire primary ballot due to a disagreement between the local and national party. The National Democratic Party is recognizing South Carolinas primary as its first in the national primary. Those who are encouraging voters to write in the Presidents name on Tuesday said it was important to continue their first in the nation status. They also said it was important to make sure voters understand that the President is running for a second term. Mayor Wu said, We are heading to a dangerous rematch of 2020. She went on to say, Having been in city government under President Obama and Trump and now President Biden, it makes such a difference on the local level. I remember after that time (President Trumps election) the unleashing of hate and fear....We are not going back there The Mayor spoke at a rally at Soel Sistas in Nashua before heading out to hold signs at polling locations in Nashua and then Manchester. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW By Steve Holland and Jarrett Renshaw WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Democrats are trying to temper expectations for U.S. President Joe Biden in next week's Democratic primary election in New Hampshire, as supporters scramble to gin up write-in support for him since his name is not on the ballot. The primary on Jan. 23 offers the first at-the-polls gauge of Bidens political strength this election cycle, and the unprecedented situation will be closely watched amid polls showing him tied with likely Republican challenger Donald Trump . A poor showing against Democratic longshots Dean Phillips, a Minnesota congressman, and self-help author Marianne Williamson is likely to fuel concerns that Biden is weak heading into the general election. Biden did not register for the New Hampshire contest after the state refused his demand that it cede its top spot in the presidential primary calendar to the more diverse South Carolina. But his New Hampshire supporters can still vote for him because many U,S, states allow voters to write the name on a ballot paper of a candidate who is not officially running. That candidate wins if they receive more votes than the registered candidates. Andy Smith, director of the University of New Hampshire Survey Center, said Biden should achieve "a fairly significant win," but added that he didn't really know what that looks like. "What is a big enough win to count? Right now we see Biden with upwards of 70% of the vote. Is that enough? Does that mean the Democratic Party is behind him, or does it show division in the party?" Smith told Reuters. Supporters say the unpredictable race should not be viewed as some type of national litmus test, because turnout will be low, write-in campaigns are notoriously hard and Biden angered Democrats there by booting the state from its historical role as the party first-in-the-nation primary. Jim Demers, one of the organizers of the shoe-string Biden write-in campaign said hes seen polls that range from less than 50% to 60% of the vote for Biden. State officials expect to declare a Democratic winner on Tuesday after tallying write-in votes. Biden allies say the benchmark should be the 2010 write-in campaign of Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski, the first U.S. senator to win that way in 50 years, taking about 40% of the vote and besting a Tea Party favorite. "She won with 39% of the vote as a candidate in a write-in effort she led and Joe Biden and his campaign arent even participating in an effort to write his name in for this one," said Jim Messina, who was then-President Barack Obama's campaign manager in 2012. The Democratic National Committee ruled that the New Hampshire election effectively wont count and the winner won't amass New Hampshire's 23 delegates in the march to the party's nomination. Some New Hampshire Democrats are definitely upset. "When it comes down to it, were in the Democratic primary and Biden has chosen to take his name off of the New Hampshire ballot," said state representative Jonah Wheeler, a Democrat who supports Williamson. Biden's high-profile supporters including California Representative Ro Khanna, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Boston Mayor Michelle Wu have been helping rally the faithful, and organizers have a shoe-string budget to teach voters how to write in a candidate. A CNN poll conducted by the University of New Hampshire Survey Center in mid-November showed 65% of likely Democratic primary voters in New Hampshire plan to write in Bidens name, with 10% going for Phillips and 9% for Williamson. In 2020, Biden finished a disappointing fifth in a crowded Democratic primary that saw some 300,000 votes cast. State officials expect less than 100,000 votes this year. Lyndon B. Johnson, then the Democratic incumbent, shunned the New Hampshire primary in 1968 due to over-confidence, only to see an insurgent campaign from Minnesota, U.S. Senator Eugene McCarthy and his anti-Vietnam War platform. Johnson supporters mounted a barely successful write-campaign, but a weakened Johnson dropped out of the race weeks later. David Watters, a write-in advocate and Democratic state senator in New Hampshire, said the best way right now to register rejection of former President Donald Trump, his likely Republican challenger, is to write-in Biden on Tuesday. "We've got to stand up for Joe Biden," Watters said. Elliot and Edith Smith, a married couple, attended a Dean Phillips campaign event in Nashua earlier this month. Like many U.S. voters, they are dissatisfied by a choice between of Biden and Trump, but they dont see any other viable options. The were both planning to vote for Biden in the states primary, but not enthusiastically, over deep concerns about Bidens vigor and whether the 81-year-old president can withstand a second term. I am disgusted with both parties, but we cant elect Trump, said Elliot Smith, 72. Im a Democrat, but would consider other Republicans like Haley or Christie in the general election, but theres no chance they can beat Trump. (Reporting by Steve Holland and Jarrett Renshaw; Editing by Heather Timmons and Alistair Bell) As Florida legislators work on hundreds of bills in the 2024 session, they ought to ask themselves some threshold questions every time they debate a bill. Is this really a problem happening all over Florida? Are we dealing with something worthy of a grown-ups attention, or am I just posturing for the voters back home? The 60-day lawmaking session that convened January 9 has plenty of serious business to discuss. There are matters of homeowners insurance, education, health care and public safety, to name just a few. These require varying degrees of hard work and expenditure of tax money, and theyre often not glamorous. But there are also some feel-good bills and cheap shots that require no courage to vote for and bring the political bonus of being difficult for an opponent to argue against this summer when most legislators will be back home running for re-election. And no topic makes for easier demagoguery than sex, specifically any activity that makes strait-laced Republicans a little squeamish. After the last two sessions with passage of the dont say gay law, tightened abortion restrictions, a crackdown on drag performances and the purge of school library shelves youd think Florida has little left to attract chanting demonstrators, rainbow banners and colorful picket signs to the Capitol. More than 100 people gathered in front of the Westcott Building on Florida State University's campus to protest the DeSantis administration's "attack" on the LGBTQ+ and Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) communities on Thursday, Feb. 23, 2023. But theres a dozen or so proposals pending to provoke the LGBTQ activists and their Democratic allies who mainly speak out, offer doomed amendments, and cast futile votes against bills being rushed to Gov. Ron DeSantis desk. Consider, for instance, House Bill 1233, which says the sex listed on your drivers license or state identification card must be the same as the anatomy you were born with. The real-world effect of this is just to needlessly insult trans people. If a man decides to live as a woman, or the other way around, its a free country and he or she has a right to do so. If a cop is puzzled by the information on a license, a couple of questions can straighten it out Yeah, thats an old picture, and that was my name when I was a guy. Do we have thousands of drivers, or people showing identity cards for other reasons, who cause massive confusion all over Florida? Or is this just a cheap, easy way for lawmakers to cast a vote for traditional family values and potentially to upstage an opponent with TV ads and mass mailings saying this guy might be soft on trans people. Some transgender teachers are challenging the constitutionality of a law restricting use of personal pronouns in schools. A bill pending for this session expands that law, forbidding government agencies and contractors from using the he or she or they as desired by a trans or non-binary person. That one also says non-profit organizations and companies receiving state payments may not require their employees to undergo training on sexual orientation, sexual identity, or gender expression. Never mind if some of those companies, or individual employees, think such instruction is useful in creating a harmonious work environment. In this regard, the conservative Republican Legislature will make an exception to its usual hands-off approach to private enterprise and tell employers how to deal with a small number of staffers. But do we need a law? If your official identification says John Smith and you live your life as Jane Smith, what harm is done? Anyone observant enough to be a traffic cop, or a school registrar or some other kind of official functionary can probably clear up any confusion pretty quickly. Its hard to imagine some necessary government function, licensing requirement or official verification that requires retaining a persons original genitalia. The real purpose of these bills is not to meet any real needs of the state, or solve any pressing problems of the people. It doesnt even matter much if the bills pass or fail. Introducing them and advocating these ideas in the House and Senate gives their sponsors bragging rights. To tell voters back home they stood up to that very loud and highly visible LGBTQ crowd. Thats a lot easier, and gets more TV publicity, than dealing with rising hurricane insurance rates on Floridas coasts or sinking reading and math scores in our schools. Bill Cotterell Bill Cotterell is a retired Capitol reporter for United Press International and the Tallahassee Democrat. He writes a weekly column for The News Service of Florida and City & State Florida. He can be reached at bcotterell@cityandstatefl.com. JOIN THE CONVERSATION Send letters to the editor (up to 200 words) or Your Turn columns (about 500 words) to letters@tallahassee.com. Please include your address for verification purposes only, and if you send a Your Turn, also include a photo and 1-2 line bio of yourself. You can also submit anonymous Zing!s at Tallahassee.com/Zing. Submissions are published on a space-available basis. All submissions may be edited for content, clarity and length, and may also be published by any part of the USA TODAY NETWORK. This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Bill Cotterell: Florida legislators should stop the LGBTQ cheap shots As the Chief Rabbi writes in his Comment piece today, truth is often the first casualty in conflict. Sadly, when the worlds only Jewish state finds itself at war, Israel is too often also the first to be blamed. So it has proved in the current struggle between Israel and Hamas. Now, in the latest topsy-turvy framing, Israel is being accused of standing in the way of Palestinian statehood. Yet the indiscriminate savagery of October 7, which the Hamas leadership has vowed to repeat again and again, made clear what the terror group thinks about living alongside the regions Jews. Its founding charter declares Palestine an Islamic land, rejects peace deals and says that Islam will obliterate Israel. Similarly, the Houthis in Yemen, currently celebrated by anti-war protesters for their attacks on Red Sea shipping, chant Death to Israel! and mean it. Behind both groups stands the implacable anti-Semitism of the Islamic Republic of Iran, a state on the verge of nuclear capability which is dedicated to wiping both Israel and its inhabitants from the map. Even the so-called peace marchers, who are eager to denounce Israel week after week, do so under banners reading From the River to the Sea, a call for Israels erasure. A two-state solution remains the obvious and ultimate answer to the tragedy of the Israeli and Palestinian peoples. Yet for more than seventy years, every offer to make a deal of this kind has been rejected by the Palestinians representatives. It is not Israel that is intransigent, but Palestinian elites and their misguided Western supporters. Even the PLO, seen by some as a more tractable partner than Hamas, was founded on an eliminationist agenda. It refuses to condemn Hamass massacre, and the Palestinian Authority continues to pay bonuses to the families of martyrs. The recent breakthrough of the Abraham Accords, which saw a number of Arab states belatedly accepting Israels right to exist, brought fresh hope. October 7 sought to bury that hope, and was launched by fanatics who refuse to accept any terms short of Israels annihilation. It is the fault of Hamas, and their Iranian paymasters, that peaceful coexistence is now further off than ever. The path to mutual peace cannot be reached without defeating Hamas. Blaming Israel is an outrageous inversion of reality. 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. MIAMI A witness saw sparks shooting from a cargo plane as it made an emergency landing at Miami International Airport shortly after takeoff. The aircraft landed safely Thursday night after experiencing an engine malfunction soon after departure," a spokesperson for Atlas Air said in a statement Friday. The crew followed all standard procedures and safely returned to MIA." The airplane was shooting sparks" as it flew overhead, said Melanie Adaros, who was out for a walk with her mother and was about to turn into her home, when she heard and saw an approaching plane. Theres always planes flying overhead, but theyre little planes, she said. But this didnt sound like a little plane. It sounded very low, so I turned ... You always see a plane going up or going down. This one was just at a steady level and it was shooting sparks. It was very surreal. This image taken from video provided by Melanie Adaros shows sparks shooting from a cargo plane before making an emergency landing at Miami International Airport on Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024 in Miami. She recorded it with her phone, wondering "is it falling? Is it going to explode? she said. It seemed to do a big, wide, swerving turn in the direction of Miami International Airport, she said. The Boeing 747 was on its way to Luis Munoz Marin International Airport in Puerto Rico when the crew reported an engine failure, the Federal Aviation Administration said in a statement Friday. Atlas Air Flight 95 then returned safely to Miami International Airport, the agency said. Atlas will conduct an inspection to determine the cause, the spokesperson said. Nearly 1,100 flights canceled Friday: Here's what you're owed. Unverified videos on social media platform X showed flames shooting out of the wing of a plane near the airport while in flight. Atlas Air hauls everything from machinery to perishable food and pharmaceuticals, and also provides charter services for passengers, according to its website. The company's parent firm, Atlas Air Worldwide, recently announced that it planned to move its headquarters from Purchase, New York, to White Plains, New York, this month. Adaros, who lives near Miami Executive Airport about 15 miles southwest of Miami, said she shared her video with that airport, which confirmed a few minutes later that it had landed safely at Miami International. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Boeing 747 makes emergency landing in Miami after engine malfunction A Dorchester woman has been held on $1,000 bail after being arraigned for beating her sister in December after the two had been out drinking, Suffolk District Attorney Kevin Hayden announced. Dream Gillenwater, 19 was charged with one count of assault and battery and two counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon (shod foot, sidewalk) for the brutal assault on her sister back on December 8, said officials. Boston Police responded to a call for an unconscious person at 174 Ipswich Street and located the 24-year-old victim on the ground and seemingly out of breath. Officials said Gillenwater, also on the scene, appeared intoxicated and was verbally abusive toward the officers. Gillenwater told the officers she and her sister, who has not been identified, had been out drinking, according to District Attorney Hayden. A witness told police that he saw two arguing at a bus story and then saw Gillenwater slugging her sister in the back of the head as the sister attempted to walk away. Police said the witness intervened to stop the altercation while calling 911. Video surveillance obtained from a nearby school by Boston detectives showed Gillenwater stomping on the victims head several times. Video also showed Gillenwater standing with both feet on the victims head, and then grabbing the victims head and slamming it against the sidewalk about four times, according to Hayden. The brutality of this assault is evident from the facts, but that it was an attack on a sibling gives it an added dimension of tragedy. Its fortunate for the victim that the witness called 911 and police responded so quickly, Hayden said. Gillenwater was ordered to stay away from her sister, refrain from alcohol and drug use, and be fitted with a GPS tracking device if released, according to Hayden. Gillenwater will return to court on February 8 for a pre-trial hearing. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW A juvenile was taken to the Fresno hospital early Sunday after he was shot. Officers with the Clovis Police Department responded just after midnight to the 2600 block of Sierra Madre Avenue for a possible shooting, spokesman Ty Wood said. A witness told police that the boy was on the ground and then jumped into a dark-colored SUV, with the driver taking off with another person inside. An officer saw a vehicle that matched the description and pulled the driver over at Shaw and Clovis avenues in the parking lot by a Baskin-Robbins, Wood said. The officer saw three people inside, with one person intoxicated and a juvenile with a gunshot wound. The boy was shot in the upper body but had non-life threatening injuries, Wood said. A second person an 18-year-old was taken to the hospital for intoxication. Officers are investigating the shooting and said a gun was found in the back seat. A shell casing was found along Sierra Madre Avenue. The 18-year-old was charged with assault with a deadly weapon using a firearm, public intoxication and carrying a concealed weapon. Wood said that it appears a disturbance took place between the pair, who appear to know each other. Detectives were canvassing for surveillance video in the neighborhood. The driver was released. Anyone with information is asked to call Clovis police at 559-324-2800. Muhammad Hassam Ali, 17, who died from his injuries after he was stabbed in Victoria Square, Birmingham, on Saturday - West Midlands Police/PA A teenage boy who was stabbed to death in broad daylight in Birmingham may have been killed in a case of mistaken identity, police believe. Muhammad Hassam Ali, 17, was attacked in the city centre on Saturday afternoon. West Midlands Police said its officers were called to Victoria Square after the teenager was found seriously injured. He was rushed to hospital, but later died. A murder investigation is under way, but no arrests have yet been made. Victoria Square, Birmingham, where the stabbing took place - Stop Press Media / Alamy Live News/Alamy Detective Inspector Michelle Thurgood, from the West Midlands Police homicide team, said: This is a tragic case of a young man being killed in what appears to be a case of mistaken identity. We are still trying to establish the motive and are keen to speak to anyone who was in the area just before 3.30pm yesterday. We are especially looking for any photos or video footage from the surrounding area which may help us identify those responsible. If you were walking through the area at the time, or a visitor who may have been taking pictures by The River statue near the Council House, we would like to hear from you as you may have vital information or evidence. A cordon put in place around the crime scene has now been lifted, but the force said a highly visible police presence will remain in the area. Chief Inspector James Spencer said: The life of a 17-year-old boy has tragically been taken away and all our thoughts are with his family and friends at this awful time. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer. Q. What do you think about the efforts by geneticists to re-create mammoths and mastodons and let them live in Siberia or northern Canada where they once thrived? A. The project youre asking about involves woolly mammoths rather than mastodons. Mastodons, like woolly mammoths, were relatives of elephants, but they were more distantly related genetically to modern elephants than the woolly mammoths were. Representatives of both, however, were alive as recently as 10,000 to 12,000 years ago. One reliable report states that in the Arctic Ocean on Wrangel Island, within 300 miles of Alaska, an isolated population of woolly mammoths persisted up to 4,000 years ago. More: Martin Luther King Jr. Day brings an environmental lesson | ECOVIEWS Cloning presents practical and ethical dilemmas to be sure. First is the question of whether such a project is feasible at the genetic level. Can it even be done? In the simplest terms, the plan is to use DNA from frozen mammoths and implant embryos in Asian elephants (the closest living relatives of mammoths) as surrogate mothers. The genetic challenges are incredibly complex, and the scientists involved in the effort are to be commended for working through the intricate details. We learned from "Jurassic Park" that such plans are technically possible. Although "Jurassic Park" was fiction (I hope), the genetic concept is believable, and some brilliant minds are working to make it happen. Whit Gibbons is professor of zoology and senior biologist at the University of Georgias Savannah River Ecology Laboratory. Also on the practical side, consider that the last time woolly mammoths and mastodons shared a large part of Earth with humans, they did not fare so well (though it may not have been entirely peoples fault). Today, many species face dwindling population sizes, with some even headed toward extinction. Why would we think a new set of giant creatures roaming around would meet a better fate? Woolly mammoths, one of several extinct species of elephant-like creatures, roamed the northern tier of the globe for more than 2 million years including the most recent Ice Age. For the last few centuries of their existence, woolly mammoths overlapped with humans. A hunting party successfully bagging a full-grown mammoth would presumably be clan heroes, as everyone could dine on steaks for weeks. Living in a refrigerator-cold environment would make preservation an easy task. Scientists debate the reasons for the ultimate extinction of woolly mammoths, with hypotheses ranging from overhunting to a meteoritic impact that caused climate and habitat changes. Whatever the explanation for the wooly mammoths demise, carcasses with viable DNA have been found in Siberia. During the last Ice Age, woolly mammoths and early humans roamed the northern regions of North America and Eurasia. Navigating the maze of genetics and successful incubation of woolly mammoth embryos seems possible within the realm of modern scientific knowledge. However, what to do with a herd of gigantic herbivores requiring an arctic climate pushes the envelope of practicality. Do we just release them into Siberia, northern Canada and Alaska to let them fend for themselves? Not a chance that would happen. Todays approach to wildlife management is to keep close tabs on every individual if possible. And anyone who thinks international politics would not come into play does not follow the same news programs the rest of us do. Who would be held responsible when a rogue woolly mammoth charges out of Kazakhstan and crushes a Mongolian family in their yurt? Furthermore, what about the economic aspects, which are nearly limitless. I feel certain some enterprising wildlife conservation society is already developing their Adopt a Woolly Mammoth program. The ethical implications may be more complex. They involve various perspectives and opinions, including this idea: just because we can do it doesnt mean we should. How much ought we tamper with the creation of life simply because we know how to manipulate genetic codes? In fact, might the possession of such a wealth of genetic knowledge make society more complacent about standing by while todays animals go extinct? Are we comparable to spoiled children who destroy the toys they have with no compunction because their indulgent parents will buy them new toys whenever they want? Whit Gibbons is professor of zoology and senior biologist at the University of Georgias Savannah River Ecology Laboratory. If you have an environmental question or comment, email ecoviews@gmail.com. This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Should we bring wooly mammoths back to life? | ECOVIEWS British intelligence has released new photos showing the World War II era "Colossus" computer. It marked the 80th anniversary of the code-breaking computer's invention. The device's existence was largely kept secret until the early 2000s. British intelligence has released "rare and never-before-seen images" of the World War II era "Colossus" code-breaking computer. GCHQ, the UK's intelligence, security and cyber agency, said in a press release that the new photos were released to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the computer's invention. Colossus. GCHQ/Crown Copyright Colossus, which was shrouded in secrecy until the early 2000s, was designed by engineer Tommy Flowers to decipher coded messages between some of Nazi Germany's most senior officers. It played a key role in helping the Allies win World War II. It provided critical intelligence that German leader Adolf Hitler had been duped into believing the Allies would invade occupied France via Pas-de-Calais rather than Normandy, where they would carry out the famous and pivotal D-Day landings on June 6, 1944 codenamed Operation Overlord. The huge machine was at the cutting edge of technology for its time, contained 2,500 valves, and was a precursor to the computer age. GCHQ said the images shed "new light on the genesis and workings of Colossus, which was over two meters tall and considered by many to be the first-ever digital computer." Soldiers from the Women's Royal Naval Service (Wrens) were recruited to the large teams of operators and technicians needed to run and maintain Colossus' spy operation against Nazi Germany. GCHQ/Crown Copyright Bill Marshall, a former GCHQ engineer who worked on the computer during the 1960s, said he had to sign the "Official Secrets Act" and "was told very little" about the machine he was working on, per GCHQ. "What the machine was actually doing was not for me to know," he added. "It wasn't until much later that I found out that the several of the systems and detailed design information were supposedly destroyed at the end of WWII." US soldiers march up a hill after the D-Day landings in 1944 Reuters Andrew Herbert, a computer scientist who has served as the chairman of Microsoft Research and is the chairman of trustees at The National Museum of Computing, said: "Colossus was perhaps the most important of the wartime code breaking machines because it enabled the Allies to read strategic messages passing between the main German headquarters across Europe." Housed at the UK's code-breaking center, Bletchley Park, 10 Colossus computers helped 550 people decrypt "63 million characters of high-grade German communications" by the end of World War II, according to The National Museum of Computing. Read the original article on Business Insider North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, who endorsed Donald Trump after suspending his own Republican presidential campaign, on Sunday tried to downplay the former president's inflammatory new attacks on former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley's name and heritage. When pressed by ABC News "This Week" co-anchor Martha Raddatz on Trump's intentional mispronunciations of Haley's first name -- Nimarata -- and elevation of a false conspiracy theory that she is unable to be president because her Indian immigrant parents weren't citizens when she was born in South Carolina, Burgum initially did not give a direct answer. But Raddatz followed up: "Please answer the question, sir. Answer the question about why you think Donald Trump is doing that." Trump has repeatedly misstated or mispronounced Haley's first name, more often in social media posts. She goes by her middle name and took her husband's last name after they married. Trump has a history of racist attacks on some non-white opponents -- including infamously questioning whether Barack Obama was born in the U.S. (he was) and singling out Obama's middle name, Hussein. Burgum on "This Week" chalked the comments up to more routine sharp exchanges in a campaign, pointing to how President Joe Biden has gone after Trump rather than, he argued, focusing more on key issues like crime, immigration and inflation. "I think it's politics," Burgum said, adding, "That's politics around the world, and it's politics in America." "So, do you think that's the kind of politics that Donald Trump is using, going after Nikki Haley's heritage, that will bring the country together?" Raddatz asked. "You could ask me the question about, you know, what did Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders and Kamala Harris say? The vicious things they said about Joe Biden, even during debates nationally televised within that party," Burgum said, referencing some of Biden's 2020 primary opponents. "This is all in the norm for politics in our country. But once we agree as parties, we get behind candidates. The Democrats got behind Biden in 2020. I'm confident Republicans are gonna get behind President Trump." Haley has also responded to Trump's attacks. "I know President Trump well. That's what he does when he feels threatened. That's what he does when he feels insecure," she said during a CNN town hall on Thursday. PHOTO: In this Nov. 4, 2023, file photo, Republican presidential candidate North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum speaks during the Florida Freedom Summit in Kissimmee, Fla. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images) Burgum, who suspended his campaign in December after failing to gain traction, endorsed Trump earlier this month, one day before the Iowa caucuses that began the 2024 race. On "This Week," Burgum was asked about several areas in which he seemingly diverges from Trump, including a self-declared mission to pull the country together -- while Trump has vowed "retribution" -- and reaffirming that Biden won the 2020 race. Burgum said he was endorsing Trump because he was "confident that President Trump is going to be right on the economy, right on energy policy and right on national security." "During the time that President Trump was in office, I mean, we had peace and prosperity in America. And under President Biden, weve got chaos around the world," he said. When Raddatz pressed Burgum over Trump's repeated and unfounded claims that the 2020 election was "stolen," a stance Burgum has opposed in the past, including an interview with ABC News anchor George Stephanopoulos, Burgum initially pivoted to past instances of other candidates raising questions about the election process. He then cited "irregularities" regarding 2020, though there has never been any evidence of widespread fraud. "Do you think the election was stolen now, sir?" Raddatz followed up. "No, I'm not saying that," Burgum responded. "I'm saying that I think that we have to ... make sure that Americans have confidence in these elections," he said. Burgum also swatted away a recent gaffe by Trump in which he repeatedly confused Haley with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi while discussing the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. Trump and other Republicans have made repeated attacks on Biden's age and fitness, which many voters also feel is poor, polls show -- as Biden says his work speaks for itself. Haley seized on Trump's slip in a recent campaign appearance, suggesting he, too, might not be mentally strong enough. "I've been on the campaign trail, and I know when you're going around the clock, it's possible to ... use words that don't fit in sentences," Burgum told Raddatz. "But I would say having been with the president last week in Iowa and in New Hampshire and watching him go for 20 hours a day, I know that he's got the strength, he's got the experience to lead."any Burgum downplays Trump attacks on Haley's name and conspiracy about her heritage originally appeared on abcnews.go.com St. Johns County wants its residents to help encourage the State to locate the proposed Florida Black History Museum in St. Augustine. The public survey is available online through February 29, 2024. Respond here: https://bit.ly/3NYE9Yq Read: JSO: Person shot to death in San Marco, several people detained In December 2023, Florida Secretary of State Cord Byrd announced the release of a public survey to gather input for the legislatively created Florida Museum of Black History Task Force. Read: Man survives gunshot to the head after dispute, JSO says Responses received from the public will be included in the Task Forces report to the Florida Legislature to be completed before July 1, 2024. The survey is a vital component of the Task Forces report and is an opportunity for the public to participate in the process of planning for the future museum. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] Read: Groundbreaking project Villages of Hope to provide sanctuary for survivors of human trafficking [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. Ron Parker looks Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, in his San Marcos home through a box of SpaceX Starship heat shield tiles he collected in Mexico as other tiles sit on the table in front of him. Parker has made multiple trips to Mexican beaches to collect the tiles which float from various explosions of Elon MuskOs Starship and Super Heavy rocket systems. William Luther/San Antonio Express-News Some of Ron ParkerOs mostly-stainless steel SpaceX fragments he has collected are seen Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, in his San Marcos home. William Luther/San Antonio Express-News Ron Parker holds Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, in San Marcos a SpaceX Starship heat shield tile he collected in Mexico. Parker has made multiple trips to Mexican beaches to collect the tiles which float and sells the best pieces to collectors. William Luther/San Antonio Express-News Mike Bese, right, of Uvalde, watches as Ron Parker of San Marcos shows a piece of Starship debris from Starship SN11 he'd collected earlier near the launch site at Boca Chica Beach. Parker started collecting SpaceX debris in February 2021. Marvin Pfeiffer/Staff Photographer Two of of Ron ParkerOs SpaceX Starship Debis ragments he has collected are seen Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, in his San Marcos home. William Luther/San Antonio Express-News Ron Parker points Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, in San Marcos to some of the SpaceX Starship debris pieces he has collected after various launch-pad explosions of Elon MuskOs Starship and Super Heavy rocket systems. William Luther/San Antonio Express-News Ron Parker holds Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, at his San Marcos home one of the large stainless steel SpaceX Starship fragments he has collected around the companyOs Boca Chica Starbase launch facility. William Luther/San Antonio Express-News Ron Parker holds Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, in his San Marcos home a bag of small SpaceX Starship heat shield tile fragments he collected in Mexico. Parker has made multiple trips to Mexican beaches to collect the tiles which float from various explosions of Elon MuskOs Starship and Super Heavy rocket systems. William Luther/San Antonio Express-News Ron Parker holds Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, at his San Marcos home one of the uncleaned stainless steel SpaceX Starship fragments he has collected around the companyOs Boca Chica Starbase launch facility. William Luther/San Antonio Express-News Ron Parker holds Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, in San Marcos a SpaceX Starship heat shield tile he collected in Mexico. Parker has made multiple trips to Mexican beaches to collect the tiles which float from various explosions of Elon MuskOs Starship and Super Heavy rocket systems. William Luther/San Antonio Express-News A SpaceX Starship prototype lands in March 2021 near Boca Chica. The rocket successfully landed, but stood briefly at an angle before catching fire and exploding. William Luther/Staff file photo A sheet of metal that landed in a mudflat three-quarters of a mile northwest of the SpaceX launch pad after an April 2023 launch. The Starship and its booster both blew up over the Gulf of Mexico, but the liftoff obliterated the launch platform, sending chunks of concrete and steel in the mudflats nearby. Coastal Bend Bays & Estuaries Pr SpaceX's Starship spacecraft and Super Heavy booster rocket explode after an April launch from Starbase in South Texas. The Washington Post via Getty Im SAN MARCOS Ron Parker keeps the small pieces on his coffee table. The mishmash of stainless-steel shards, frayed wires, washers and heat tiles recovered after explosions and crashes of SpaceX Starships and prototypes fill the low wooden table, giving his living room the feel of a museum exhibit. On his porch, jagged hunks of shiny steel with razor-sharp edges catch the sun like an outdoor sculpture display. The 4-millimeter thick metal looks as if it was torn as simply as a piece of paper. Advertisement Article continues below this ad He calls one section about the size of a car door Texas because of its shape. Another rectangular piece thats 10 feet long he calls the question mark. Theres a length of silver pipe with flanges sheared off by an explosion. It was buried so deep the private space companys workers tried to cut it to retrieve it and gave up. Parker didnt. Now the relic sits on his porch rail. Equal parts treasure hunter, space fan, mechanic and adventurer, Parker may have the largest collection of Starship relics outside SpaceX. His expeditions have taken him across the tidal flats and dunes around Boca Chica Beach and more than 200 miles into Mexico. It turned into obsession, he says. Treasure hunting is a lot of fun, especially when youre finding treasures. His finds have led to deals with fishermen in cartel territory, troubles with customs at the Southern border and cooperation with SpaceX. Hes made money selling Starship wreckage on Ebay and the side hustle is gaining the semi-retired backhoe operator notoriety among space fans and influencers. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The Starship relic market is another business SpaceXs presence in South Texas has launched, and Ron Hardrock Parker is at the forefront. Blown away He first heard about SpaceXs Starship project in December 2020 from his sister, Carol Starewich of Canyon Lake. She told him he could watch the launch of SN8, an early prototype, online. I was just blown away, he said. It was so, so cool and, you know, its not that far, so like okay, we gotta go see Starship 9. Advertisement Article continues below this ad After delays and scrubs, Parker and his sister saw SN9 fly Feb. 2, 2021. While at Isla Blanca park on South Padre Island, he met a man who had a box of debris from early launch attempts. I was just Wow, look at this, Parker recalled. So, I tried to buy a piece from the guy, and he goes Nah, here, Ill give you this piece. The fragment captured his imagination. It was my most valuable possession, he said. I was so jacked by that thing to have a little piece of something that flew, you know. The next time Parker visited Starbase, he walked around to find fragments of past Starships and decided to return with a metal detector. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Parker calls himself a collector and the truth of that is obvious across the land where he resides in the Hill Country outside San Marcos. Old cars and boats line his unpaved road. Several bicycles and fire hydrants rust on his lawn. Yard art, he calls them. Fossils line his porch rail and arrowheads fill his countertop. Whenever Im out in the Hill Country working on these houses, I look for arrowheads, he said of his work on the backhoe. Get off the machine, take a break, you know? I hardly ever find one, but I spend hours and hours looking. Starship parts are easier to find than ancient arrowheads. After years of tests and explosions in South Texas and now higher-altitude disassemblies of rockets as prototypes continue aiming for orbit, an ever-wider swath of the world is littered with SpaceX debris. The Starship debris game is much more rewarding because youre out there and suddenly you find something really good, he said. So, it just progressed from there. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Texas and beyond In heavy fog on March 30, 2021, Starship SN11 blasted off. The craft disappeared into the murk, flew to more than 6 miles and began its descent to attempt a landing near its launch pad. Something went wrong and the craft exploded thousands of feet over the wetlands. Tons of stainless steel, carbon fiber, wiring, Teflon, insulation and other debris pelted the area around the launch pad. Slabs of Starship propelled by the explosive forces and gravity speared their way deep into the mud and sand. Some shards that appeared on the surface to be the size of a soda can were actually 5- or 10-foot-wide pieces with their mass buried. When Parker found his first big chunk of a Starship hull, it took him and a friend an hour-and-a-half to drag it out. Another piece buried in the mud and water took him and several others three hours to unearth. Parker also found small pieces of heat tiles the foam-like material to shield the craft from extreme heat in the flotsam line. Since those days, the hunt territory has gotten larger. During the maiden launch of Starship and its Super Heavy booster in April, the crafts engines obliterated the launch pad and flung concrete chunks and debris across the wetlands as it lumbered skyward. Parker said he began to think about how to find the thousands of heat tiles that surely fluttered into the Gulf of Mexico when the spacecraft exploded minutes into its flight. He knew the tiles floated and that they could wash up somewhere along the coast. Two weeks after the launch, he drove the beach from Port Aransas to Starbase and didnt find any. So he went to Mexico. In Mexico He found his first intact tile near La Pesca, more than 155 miles from Starbase as the crow flies. Since then, Ive made 11 trips to Mexico and drove thousands of miles on the beaches, he said. Number 12 is coming up. Each Starship has about 18,000 heat tiles and hes found about 120 whole tiles and hundreds of pieces. He figures only a fraction of the tiles have been found. Wheres the rest of them? Thats my question, he said. I dont think they went down with the ship because theyre really poorly attached It could be that somewhere out in the Gulf of Mexico, theres a big wad of these things just going around a circle. Beside heat tiles, he also found a 12-foot-long Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessel, or COPV, that was part of Starship. When word got out that some treasure hunter from Texas would pay for the carbon fiber tanks floating in the Gulf, the local fishermen became interested. They found five more. Parker bought the tanks from the fishermen and prepared to bring them back into the U.S. The deals involved handshakes, cash and several trips. On the fourth trip back, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol officials seized one of the tanks. At the time, the Discovery Channel was filming a show about contraband seized at the border. The seizure and notoriety led to communications between Parker and SpaceX about potentially returning the six tanks. After weeks of correspondence, he returned them to the private space company on Jan. 11, the day before Elon Musk, SpaceX CEO, conducted a company town hall at Starbase. Ups and downs Parker has sold his Starship wares on eBay for two and a half years. On Thursday, the online auction house showed 27 entries for Starship heat tiles from several sellers. They ranged in price from less than a dollar for a triangle shaped fragment to $650 for one of Parkers intact tiles. He also has a piece of Starship SN 11 stainless steel with wiring and a still legible suborbital tag listed for $500. Hes sold to astronauts and space fans and estimates hes made several thousand dollars so far. The market is soft right now. It depends, the market goes up and goes down, you know, like anything else, Parker said. But if it completely falls flat, thats okay because I think in the long term people are going to look back on the early days of Starship like they look back on the Wright brothers. He figures the market is set to spike when a future Starship lands on the moon or Mars. Starship debris hunting is more than a business for Parker, its also a way to stay connected with his sister who introduced him to futuristic spacecraft. She died Dec. 14, 2022, and never got to see the fully-stacked Starship and Super Heavy booster on its orbital attempts. She was with me when I got some of these pieces, he said. She wouldve loved to see the fully-stacked Starship fly. Parker said hes thankful for the bond they shared over Starship, and he appreciates each relic hes found. Hispanic is widely considered an ethnicity, defined by the U.S. Census Bureau as a person of Cuban, Mexican, Puerto Rican, South or Central American, or other Spanish culture or origin. Its a multi-faceted and even shifting identity that can be held by Americans of all races. But the Massachusetts traffic citation the source of statewide data used in court proceedings and public policy research on racial profiling doesnt have a field for officers to mark both a drivers race and ethnicity. For more than two decades, the citation has only included a field labeled race. Hispanic is one of six categories from which officers are instructed to choose when filling in the driver race field on the ticket. One police training manual defines Hispanic similarly to the Census. Still, several experts and advocates said that even if Hispanic is one of the options given to officers filling out tickets, the lack of a separate ethnicity field contributes to the erasure of Hispanic drivers from traffic stop data by increasing the likelihood officers will mark them as white whether by mistake, because of inadequate training or intentionally. Hispanic and Latino people make up 13.1% of the Massachusetts population, according to the 2020 U.S. Census, second only to people who identify as white. A USA TODAY Network investigation by the Cape Cod Times, Worcester Telegram & Gazette and USA TODAY revealed that in nearly 60 communities, police marked the majority of men with Hispanic surnames as white on citations issued from 2014 to 2020. Experts said the practice skews studies of racial disparities in traffic enforcement by inflating the number of white drivers cited and deflating the number of drivers of color cited. The data is used by researchers probing inequities in traffic enforcement, the most common police-public interaction, and is also the foundation of legal defenses involving allegations of racial profiling. The state public safety agency, led by Secretary Terrence Reidy, has yet to respond to the USA TODAY Network findings. District Court Chief Justice Stacey Fortes, citing the need for traffic stop data in profiling probes and the states new data equity law, said in a statement to the Times that the court is now considering the addition of a separate ethnicity box to the states citation. But the categories used by Massachusetts police to collect driver demographics since 2000 might soon become close to the national standard. The U.S. Census Bureau has proposed asking about Americans' race and ethnicity in one question, rather than in two separate questions, a change that would result in the nation adopting similar categories to those now used by Massachusetts police when ticketing drivers. "Number one, they (Massachusetts) should collect all stops. Number two, every department in the state should do an annual audit, not for nefarious reasons, but just to know what the hell is going on. Alexis Piquero former director of the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics The looming federal change, which isnt final but seems likely, according to government officials, might make it more complicated for the state to address the miscoding of Hispanic drivers in state traffic stop data. It's a problem that experts including Alexis Piquero, a former director of the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics, said underlines the need to audit traffic stop data collected by police. Piquero, now a University of Miami professor of sociology and criminology, said the Census proposal presents a unique occasion for Massachusetts to overhaul its traffic stop data collection systems, most of which dont track driver demographics on stops that end with verbal warnings an estimated 40% of all stops let alone other data points experts say give necessary context to traffic stops. Number one, they should collect all stops, Piquero said of Massachusetts police departments. Number two, every department in the state should do an annual audit, not for nefarious reasons, but just to know what the hell is going on. How does Census change relate to racial profiling data? Proposed changes to the U.S. Census would essentially add Hispanic or Latino as a possible answer to a question about respondents race or ethnicity, rather than race alone, bringing Census categories closer in line with those already used by Massachusetts officers ticketing drivers. The proposal, which is subject to change, would ask Census respondents to identify as White, Hispanic or Latino, Black or African American, Asian, American Indian or Alaska Native, Middle Eastern or North African, or Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander. "The proposal for a combined race/ethnicity question encourages the self-identification of race and/or ethnicity, and multiple responses are permitted," Rachel Marks, Chief of Racial Statistics for the Census Bureau, said in a statement. Under the new Census proposal, a respondent could check Black and Hispanic, for example. Thats not an option for Massachusetts police filling out traffic tickets, who must pick one category denoting their perception of the driver's race. The proposed Census changes are intended to better reflect the way the countrys Hispanic and Latino residents see themselves today, Piquero said. The federal Office of Management and Budget, which sets the categories used by the Census, cited research showing that a combined race and ethnicity question results in more complete and accurate data, and many researchers agree a single question about race and ethnicity will lead to a better count of the nations Latino residents. When asked about Hispanic origin separately from race, a significant number of 2020 Census respondents who identified as Hispanic or Latino chose some other race on the race question or left it blank because they did not see themselves as white or Black, for example. People who identify as Hispanic or Latino made up 19% of the U.S. population in 2020, according to the Pew Research Center. Lorna Rivera, Director of the University of Massachusetts Bostons Mauricio Gaston Institute for Latino Community Development and Public Policy, is concerned the wording on the combined question will lead to an undercount of the nations Afro-Latinos, who she noted experience some of the states worst disparities in areas including health and housing. Having the question be what is your race or ethnicity is going to undercount the number of Black Latinos, and this is a very serious problem, Rivera said. Both Rivera and Piquero think the Census should ultimately move toward questions that better allow people to describe themselves, but for now, the federal government seems likely to adopt the changes as proposed. The Office of Management and Budget is on track to finalize the plan by summer 2024, according to an agency official. New race and ethnicity categories would likely begin appearing on government forms soon after, though full implementation could take years. How should Massachusetts classify drivers given proposed Census change? Piquero, echoing other researchers who said consistency among datasets is key, recommended the state traffic citation mirror the Census, and change when it changes. Adding an ethnicity box to denote a drivers Hispanic or Latino origin now, and then changing the citation again to match the new Census categories once implemented would show how percentages change or dont change, he said. In my mind, this is a really good opportunity for Massachusetts to do something very quick, very simple, Piquero said. Because even if the Census makes a decision, it may be still years down the road before everything gets changed on the forms. A change in demographic categories available to officers filling out traffic tickets would also be a good occasion for Massachusetts to provide statewide officer training that could reduce the number of Hispanic drivers being wrongly coded as white, he said. If they're miscoding for non-nefarious reasons, then this is a way to correct it, said Piquero, who co-chaired a federal interagency working group that authored a 2023 report about transparency in law enforcement data commissioned by President Joe Biden while leading the Bureau of Justice Statistics. The USA TODAY Network analysis of traffic citations showed the practice has a significant effect on traffic stop data, especially in some communities. In Holyoke, for example, police citation data indicates about a quarter of stops of the citys adult male residents from 2014 to 2020 were of Hispanic men. If those with Hispanic last names had been identified as Hispanic instead of white, their share of stops would have risen threefold to nearly three-quarters. Piquero said that training should be followed by regular audits of officers traffic stop data. That type of supervision would help police chiefs identify officers who miscode drivers as well as officers who stop drivers of color disproportionately, and allow supervisors to provide timely supplementary guidance, training, or, if necessary, discipline. Few Massachusetts departments would be able to conduct those types of audits because the demographics of the estimated 40% of drivers given verbal warnings remain largely unavailable even for internal review. Driver data is collected only for stops that end with a citation or written warning. Police need data on all stops to conduct meaningful supervision Though police chief association leaders lobbied state lawmakers against requiring municipal police to track all stops in 2019, some chiefs say collecting a complete dataset is necessary. Both the Massachusetts State Police and Boston Police Department already track data on all stops because of internal policies, as all police in neighboring Connecticut have for more than a decade. It doesn't matter what the outcome is, whether it's a verbal warning or a citation or written warning or a criminal complaint, the data should be collected, Northampton Police Chief Jody Kasper said during a phone interview last year. Without tracking stops ending in verbal warnings, any analysis of traffic stop disparities is seriously flawed, experts including Piquero said. The fact that (verbal warnings) are not even coded is just mind-boggling in this day and age, he said. How you would not want to have an understanding of what police do is mind-boggling. The U.S. Department of Justice, which is investigating the Worcester Police Department, criticized the Minneapolis Police Department for failing to supervise officers traffic stops in its June 2023 investigatory report, which found stark racial disparities (in traffic stops) that violate the law and yielded few gains to public safety. Without clear, complete, consistent documentation, supervisors cannot meaningfully review police actions, federal investigators wrote in their report on Minneapolis. The result is that supervisors cannot identify and address trends or problematic conduct, such as unlawful or improper stops, racial profiling, harassment, theft, and sexual misconduct. Mass. RMV and District Court have authority to change traffic citation Authority to require the collection of data on all traffic stops lies with the state Legislature, but the authority to alter the Massachusetts traffic citation lies jointly with the Registrar of Motor Vehicles and the Administrative Justice of the District Court, according to state spokespeople from multiple agencies. Motor Vehicles Registrar Colleen Ogilvie declined to comment on whether she would support adding a driver ethnicity field to the states traffic citation, according to Registry of Motor Vehicles spokesperson Jacquelyn Goddard. While current law does not require the collection of data concerning ethnicity on the Massachusetts Uniform Citation the Chief Justice of the District Court appreciates the importance of this information to help inform possible patterns of racial and ethnic disparities during traffic stops. Jennifer Donahue, Trial Court Spokesperson But District Court Chief Justice Stacey Fortes, acknowledging the need for demographic traffic stop data to probe racial inequities on the road, is considering the addition, Trial Court spokesperson Jennifer Donahue told the Times in a statement. While current law does not require the collection of data concerning ethnicity on the Massachusetts Uniform Citation the Chief Justice of the District Court appreciates the importance of this information to help inform possible patterns of racial and ethnic disparities during traffic stops, Donahue said in the statement. The Chief Justice of the District Court is committed to beginning a dialogue with the leadership of the Registry of Motor Vehicles and other Executive Branch agencies, which are subject to the recent provisions of the Data Equity legislation, about how to best use the Massachusetts Uniform Citation to collect ethnicity data, the statement concluded. How could data equity legislation affect traffic stop data collection? In August, Gov. Maura Healey signed data equity legislation that requires state agencies already collecting figures on race or ethnicity to capture much more detailed demographic data than is currently recorded. But it is unclear how the law would apply to the states traffic citation, which is filled out by officers instructed to use their best judgment when recording driver demographics on the ticket a method of data collection maligned by many Massachusetts police chiefs who would prefer drivers self-identify to the RMV when getting or renewing a license. Gov. Maura Healey signed "data equity" legislation in August, which requires all state agencies that collect race and ethnicity data to capture much more detailed demographic data than is currently recorded. In response to the data equity law, the Executive Office for Administration and Finance is now reviewing existing data collection processes across state government, including data collection processes related to traffic tickets, according to an agency spokesperson. The next step in implementing Massachusetts' data equity legislation is for the agency to issue draft regulations by Jan. 1, 2025. The agency will then hold a public hearing to gather comments from the public. The law is scheduled to go into effect the following year, after which the Executive Office for Administration and Finance will hold annual public hearings on implementation. Census change opportunity for Mass. to lead on traffic stop research Piquero said the looming Census change offers a chance for Massachusetts to overhaul its stop data collection and analysis practices not only to bring the state in line with others including Connecticut, but to become a national leader in a foundational area of policing where most advances are made at the state level. USA TODAY Networks reporting about the erasure of Hispanic drivers from traffic stop data illuminated a problem that Piquero said he has no doubt is happening nationwide. But without federal guidelines about traffic stop data collection guidelines Piquero thinks are overdue ferreting out and fixing traffic stop data problems such as widespread miscoding of Hispanic drivers as white will remain a state-by-state project. Given the current condition of its traffic stop data, Massachusetts has work to do, Piquero said. Massachusetts leads in so many really good ways, he said. Here's a chance where you can now be once again leading an effort where people will say, Look at what Massachusetts is doing. Let's take a plane, let's go to Logan, let's find out what they're doing and let's take it back to our community because we trust what they're doing and we trust why they are doing it. Jeannette Hinkle is a staff writer for the Cape Cod Times. Contact her at jhinkle@capecodonline.com. Thanks to our subscribers, who help make this coverage possible. If you are not a subscriber, please consider supporting quality local journalism with a Cape Cod Times subscription. Here are our subscription plans. This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: Census change complicates racial profiling data issue in Massachusetts The Indian CEO of an Illinois-based tech company died in a freak accident last week, and the terrifying incident was caught on video. Sanjay Shah, 56, the CEO of Vistex, a revenue management services company, was celebrating the companys 25th anniversary at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, India with an elaborate stage performance on Thursday. 15 suspects caught on video ramming government vehicle into storefront, stealing merchandise The performance consisted of an iron cage contraption carrying Shah and the companys president, Raju Datla, according to the Times of India. Footage posted on social media shows the moment the cable holding the cage snapped, sending the two executives tumbling 15 feet to the ground. CEO of U.S. technology company dies in stage mishap in India Both Shah and Datla were rushed to a nearby hospital, where Shah was pronounced deceased. Datla is battling for his life, the Times of India said. The two were being lowered from a cage onto the dais below as part of a planned event to kickstart the festivities, a Vistex official told the Times. Crypto.com Arena, Peacock Theater certified as safe spaces for LGBTQ+ community Vistex, which has 20 global offices and more than 2,000 employees, had arranged for the anniversary celebrations to take place over two days. The company was founded by Shah in 1999. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Charlotte Latvala Now that the holidays are over and the hubbub has died down, I can get back to my lifes work. That is, catching up on all the PBS, BBC and assorted Brit Box mysteries that Ive missed out on or deserve a re-watch. Inspector Morse, Jimmy Perez and Adam Dalgleish are my constant companions these days. Because theres nothing like a violent death in a windswept locale to make you feel warm and snuggly on a cold winters eve. And no one does it better than the Brits. Oh sure, we Americans have contributed a host of quirky detectives to the genre: Columbo, Monk and the ever-resourceful MacGyver. But I blame my mother for my current obsession, because 9 p.m. Thursday was the sacred hour that Mystery! aired on PBS in northeast Ohio. My formative years were filled with Lord Peter Wimsey, Sherlock Holmes (the excellent Jeremy Brett version) and Helen Mirrens incredible turn in Prime Suspect." I feel the same way about British mysteries that some of my friends do about Hallmark movies. You dont mind that its a formula. And if you watch just a few, you start to get the gist. First, start with an enviable location, such as: A). A stylish London flat. B). Oxford or Cambridge. C). A quaint village in Yorkshire. D). The rugged coastlines of the Shetland Islands. Next, toss in a former or current occupation (because the sleuth is often a brilliant amateur) seemingly at odds with the ghastly business of solving murders. Your detective should be: A). Independently wealthy, or from minor nobility. B). A vicar, curate, priest or nun. C). A writer. D). A professor of some obscure subject. Then, give your detective a passion or hobby unrelated to sleuthing. It spices things up, rounds out their character and provides comic relief. Your crime-solver may be into: A). Opera. B). Writing poetry. C). Jazz. D). Solving crossword puzzles. Finally, introduce a flaw, foible or past tragedy that makes it difficult or impossible for said detective to begin or maintain normal human relationships. He or she must be: A). A confirmed bachelor, ideally curmudgeonly. B). Widowed. C). Alcoholic. D). Widowed and alcoholic. And one more thing. Your detective must have a quirky/amusing sidekick to play off. Said sidekick should be the complete opposite in temperament, socioeconomic background or gender possibly all three. They might be: A). A gay curate whos still in the closet because its the 1950s. B). Your dead wifes ex-husband. C). Your official police partner, who is considerably younger (or older), more strait-laced (or rough around the edges), or (gasp) a woman. D). A winsome dog. And the murders? Well, they are secondary in the scheme of things. But they should be a bit creative, not too bloody, and generally happen to people we dont care much about. Otherwise, it would be too much like real life. And thats not what Thursdays at 9 p.m. are all about. Charlotte is a columnist for The Times. You can reach her at charlottelatvala@gmail.com. This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Charlotte Latvala: The satisfying formula of British mysteries Florida Republican U.S. Rep. Anna Paulina Luna has been working to get better recognition of parental support in Congress after she was told she couldn't vote if she wasn't present to do so that's even though she was pregnant and would need time off after giving birth. She and California Democratic Rep Sara Jacobs have even co-sponsored legislation that would allow women lawmakers who have given birth the option to vote by proxy something that was allowed under Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi due to COVID but was stopped when former Rep. Kevin McCarthy became speaker. Luna's push for this legislation has been supported by members of both political parties. In a tweet on Friday, Luna expressed her frustration over being unable to vote in the House following the birth of her son and subsequent medical problems, attempting to contrast her situation with U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg's, who took leave to care for his newborn twins during his parental leave. Pete Buttigieg got maternity leave and I didnt. And hes a dude. Its time Congress gets with the times, Luna wrote on X, formerly Twitter. In response to Lunas remarks, Chasten Buttigieg, Pete Buttigiegs husband, criticized Luna and said all parents should have parental leave. Every parent deserves parental leave. Those first weeks are so crucial for parents and newborns, Chasten Buttigieg wrote. What a shame to see Representative Luna tarnish this bipartisan effort with unnecessary homophobia. Getting with the times would serve you well, Congresswoman. Every parent deserves parental leave. Those first weeks are so crucial for parents and newborns. What a shame to see Representative Luna tarnish this bipartisan effort with unnecessary homophobia. "Getting with the times" would serve you well, Congresswoman. (@) Im a big proponent of parental leave. Its an extremely important time for parents and their newborn, or, as was in our case, newborns. I am glad to see members of both parties come together and agree that equitable parental leave is deserved by all, Chasten Buttigieg told The Advocate in an interview following his criticism. He added that he saw the comment as a direct dig at his family. My kids remind me, daily, of what really matters in this world. The best thing I can do for them is to continue to show up for them and be the best dad that I can be, Chasten Buttigieg said. I know one day they will judge us for what we did to make the world a better place, so Ill focus on that work and try my best to stay out of the petty fights some online or in Congress are so eager to pick. That doesnt mean Ill be silent when someone goes after my family, though. Ill always stick up for my kids. Contrary to Lunas claim of not receiving maternity leave, members of Congress and other eligible employees in the legislative branch have been entitled to paid parental leave since the enactment of the Federal Employee Paid Leave Act in December 2019. It amended the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to provide up to 12 weeks of paid leave for the birth of an employees child or for the placement of a child with an employee for adoption or foster care, as overseen by the Office of Congressional Workplace Rights. Lunas proposed bill allows new mothers in Congress to designate a proxy voter for six weeks post-childbirth. The bill, however, only allows this for women who have given birth, which means other types of new parents would not be allowed. Some Democrats have voiced plans to expand legislation. Rishi Sunak is facing opposition in the Lords to his new legislation - Shutterstock The Church of England is set to back demands on Monday to delay the ratification of the Rwanda Treaty as Rishi Sunak faces the first test of the strength of the opposition in the Lords to his new legislation. For the first time in modern history, peers have exercised powers to lay a motion in the Lords seeking to halt the ratification of the Treaty until the Government can show that Rwanda is safe for asylum seekers. They have set out a ten-point plan for new laws and judicial measures which they say ministers and Rwanda must put in place before they say the Treaty can be endorsed. The motion has been put down by Lord Goldsmith, who was Sir Tony Blairs attorney general during the Iraq War, in his capacity as chair of the international agreements committee which plays a critical role in the scrutiny and ratification of Britains new treaties. Any vote in favour of the motion will not be binding but could be used by asylum seekers in future court challenges to deportation as evidence that Parliament did not regard Rwanda as safe. If it is backed by peers, ministers will have to decide whether to ignore it and push ahead with ratification due within the next two weeks or accept a delay which could last months and jeopardise the plans to get flights off this Spring. Twenty four peers including Rachel Treweek, the Bishop of Gloucester, have been listed to speak in the debate which will provide the first public indication of the scale of opposition that the Prime Minister will face in the Lords. She was one of the original bishops who signed a letter warning that the Rwanda plan was an immoral policy that shames Britain. Among others expected to support the calls for a delay is Lord Kerr, a former permanent secretary at the Foreign Office and ambassador to the US, who said the legislation would struggle to get through the Lords in its current form. I am a former diplomat and I take international law and our tradition of respecting it seriously. It is completely incompatible with the refugee convention and a number of other international laws, he said. It suggests that this bill will have a long, tortuous passage in the Lords. The motion to delay ratification is also likely to be backed by two former independent reviewers of terrorism legislation Lord Carlile and Lord Anderson. Lord Carlile said that it was not just treaty ratification but also the progress of the Bill through the Lords that should be delayed. It is premature at best for the actual Bill to proceed until the Treaty said of it has been sorted out, he said. The motion states that Her Majestys Government should not ratify the UK-Rwanda Agreement on an asylum partnership until the protections it provides have been fully implemented. The ten-point plan includes a new asylum law in Rwanda which is expected to pass in two months time, a system to ensure migrants cannot be returned to their home countries to face persecution, the appointment and training of international judges and the creation of monitoring committees and appeal bodies. 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. Churchill's plot succeeded and paved the way for him to return to government - Bettmann/Bettmann Winston Churchill plotted from the trenches on the Western Front to oust Herbert Asquith, the First World War prime minister, from power, unpublished letters show. The future British premier served as an Army officer in 1916 when he was frozen out of government following the fiasco of the Gallipoli campaign he had spearheaded. However, he conspired in politics, sending a series of letters to a prominent minister urging the removal and replacement at the head of government of Herbert Asquith. His intrigues worked and the eventual toppling of Asquith paved the way for the premiership of David Lloyd George, and Churchills own return to government. The unpublished correspondence from Britains wartime leader to Sir Edward Carson, the Irish unionist minister and power-broker, is to be sold for an estimated 60,000. In a letter sent in 1916, Churchill complains of the ill-starred coalition governing the country and managing the war, adding: Shall we ever make a comprehensive plan? Asquiths failure is not lack of decision, but lack of design. On that all turns, and the helplessness of gallant effort at the front is pathetic. Win war at any expense He insisted, foreshadowing his own determination in the Second World War, that Britain needed a government ready to win the war at any expense, and urged the removal of Asquith. In one letter, he writes: Any arrangement [that] succeeded the Asquith regime must be between you & Lloyd George. I trust you will keep in touch with me. Churchill had recently resigned from his position as First Lord of the Admiralty following the failure of the Gallipoli campaign, and sought to atone by joining the ranks on the Western Front. He was given command of a battalion of the 6th Royal Scots Fusiliers and often ventured into no mans land wearing his preferred French-issue helmet. It was while in France that he corresponded with Sir Edward, whose Unionists were the effective opposition to Liberal Asquiths wartime coalition. His efforts at the end of 1916, the year in which he wrote to Churchill, helped topple Asquith and bring about the leadership of Lloyd George, who promptly brought him and Churchill back into government. Churchill book fetched 600,000 The First World War letters of Churchill are being sold by Peter Harrington Rare Books in New York, in a rare sale of Churchillain treasures, which has already seen proofs of the Churchills literary work The Second World War sell for 600,000. Along with largely unpublished letters, the writing desk Churchill used to pen his historically significant memoir of the Second World War, and his Nobel Prize winning History of the English-Speaking Peoples, is being offered for sale. Experts have noted what they believe to be cigar burns on the desks leather surface. The desk was installed at his home at Hyde Park Gate, and was kept in a converted downstairs office Churchill used as a bedroom, and in which he died in 1965. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer. A climate protester is stopped by security at a rally held by Republican presidential candidate former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024, in Nashua, N.H. (AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty) NASHUA, N.H. (NEXSTAR) Nikki Haleys rally was interrupted by climate protesters from the Sunrise Movement in the audience Saturday night at her rally at the Courtyard Hotel. It started when a young girl emerged from the crowd and shouted out Haleys name before continuing: Why are you letting our homes be destroyed in climate disasters., Shes taking millions of dollars from the fossil fuel industry. Haley took a moment after the initial protest to let security search the crowd for any more protesters. After the incident, Haley addressed the crowd. Dont boo someone like that, Haley said. My husband and other military men and women sacrifice for us every day for her to do that. We are blessed to live in a country with free speech. But she did not speak for much longer before another young girl rose from her seat and started yelling. My community is suffering through asthma and cancer from the fossil fuel money that you are seeking, the second protester shouted. How can you look at me in the eyes? How can you look at my generation? Again, Haleys security quickly removed the protester and escorted them directly out of the building. Haley supporters were quick to stand behind the former governor and started chanting USA and Nikki to drown out the voices of the protester as they were leaving and continuing to shout. However, over the course of the next minutes, five to six fellow protestors stood up from the crowd and shouted similar accusations before being escorted out of the rally by police. Each drew out a yellow banner with CLIMATE CRIMINAL emblazoned on the front. One of the protesters was shoved by an audience member and fell down while being escorted from the rally. After each protester was escorted out, Haley said: Anyone else? For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Officers with the Kannapolis Police Department say they have arrested a man they believe is connected to a homicide that happened earlier in the month. PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Police: 1 dead, 1 hurt in Kannapolis shooting The department says on Jan. 7, around 2 a.m., police went to S&M E-Juice on South Cannon Boulevard and found two people shot. MEDIC took both victims to the hospital where 23-year-old Shovontae Shikim Byers, passed away from his injuries. After their investigation, detectives got warrants for Mark Marion Herron, 34, for first-degree murder and assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury. On Saturday, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Violent Criminal Apprehension Team (VCAT) found and arrested Herron at a hotel in Charlotte. Herron was taken to Cabarrus County Jail and is being held without bond. Anyone with information is asked to call the Kannapolis Police Department. (WATCH BELOW: 1 critically hurt in north Charlotte shooting) Before the old Kronk Recreation Center on Detroits west side became known worldwide for churning out amateur and professional champions in boxing a sport known as the sweet science by boxing devotees a little girl from the neighborhood witnessed another activity that left a sweet and lasting impression on her. I was mesmerized, recalls Debra White-Hunt, who came to the rec center at 5555 McGraw that day in 1961 to play softball, but afterward found her 10-year-old eyes glued to a group of dancers that were putting on an exhibition at Kronk. My dad was an athlete and the recreation centers in Detroit were very prevalent at that time, so he got us involved in the activities and my cousins and I would all be together. But that day, I just remember seeing the dancers. It could be said that the proud daughter of Jean and Sylvester White has never stopped seeing dancers. And White-Hunts connection to dancers has included co-founding and serving as the artistic director of the nonprofit Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy (DWDA), the oldest and largest dance institution of its kind in the city of Detroit, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary throughout 2024. Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy artistic director Debra White-Hunt is all smiles whenever she spends time with young dancers in her program. Today, DWDA operates a 10,000-square-foot dance studio located on the second level of New Center One, 3031 W. Grand Blvd. Like the venerable Detroit recreation centers of White-Hunts childhood, DWDA has enriched Detroit by serving up dance and life lessons to more than 15,000 students ranging in age from 2 to 95 since its creation. As a result, White-Hunt has received numerous accolades for making significant contributions to the community, including induction into the Michigan Womens Hall of Fame in 2021. However, as White-Hunt explained while speaking from her northwest Detroit home on Jan. 16, being a community leader or even an inspiration to others was not exactly her intention when she began her journey with dance that has now extended more than 60 years. I never looked at it like that (as something that would lift my community), White-Hunt, who has helped to shape the lives of dancers that have performed on five continents, said. I just knew that dance was on my heart and on my spirit. The smile on the then Debra Whites face in her 1968 high school senior yearbook reflects the joy she experienced as a Mumford Mustang, but also speaks to a period of time when she recalls stellar dance programs within individual Detroit schools. The Dance Theatre of Harlem came to campus and I had never seen anything like that in my life, remembers White-Hunt, who, while pursuing a bachelors degree in theater education at Michigan State with a minor in dance, also began making trips to New York for further dance training. To see Black dancers doing ballet something they said we couldnt do was outside of my head until that moment. Then it became a dream that I knew I had to follow. White-Hunts first experience watching the dancers at Kronk immediately led to her being signed up for dance classes at the rec center. Also working in White-Hunts favor as she was discovering a new passion was a Detroit Public Schools system, which offered what White-Hunt described as the best-kept secret in the form of vibrant dance programs during the time she attended Detroit schools, including Sill Elementary, Condon Middle School and Mumford High School, where White-Hunt graduated in 1968 at the tender age of 16. But it was an experience outside of Detroit, which took place roughly 90 miles west of her hometown on the campus of Michigan State University, where White-Hunt says she began to think about dance in a more expansive way. When Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy (DWDA) students saw the Dance Theatre of Harlem at the Fisher Theater, they replicated an experience that DWDA artistic director Debra White-Hunt had as a student at Michigan State University, which turned out to be life-changing. By pursuing her dream, White-Hunt says she also discovered that dance was in sync with another passion she had as a young girl that had yet to be extinguished science. In school, I had been interested in studying the sciences I wanted to do something to save the world, explained White-Hunt, who seemed to be having a brief flashback to one of her earlier science classes in school as she enthusiastically identified rainforests and curing diseases as topics and challenges that she once wanted to tackle. But through dance, I began to experience a clear sense of the divinity and I said to myself: Thats it! I was able to see that movement and dancing and exercise was a way to save the world. As an artist, dancer, choreographer, writer, artistic director and educator, White-Hunt has tried her best to use her multiple talents for the betterment of her community and the world. However, out of all of the hats that she has worn so well, there is something about being an educator that has caused White-Hunt to go the extra mile. In fact, it was the educator in White-Hunt that led her and her husband, Bruce Hunt, to launch DWDA in 1984 inside a small studio space in the Harmonie Park neighborhood, because White-Hunt had been teaching a group of inspired students during the summer who wanted to continue, and the dedicated teacher refused to let her pupils down. Ive seen dance bring out the best in our students, said White-Hunt, whose students have gone on to experience success in a broad spectrum of careers, including Broadway performers, doctors, entrepreneurs, government officials, lawyers, movie and television actors, television news anchors and more. We strive for perfection, but we accept excellence. And we do that by providing a space where our students can evolve, grow, learn, make mistakes and be challenged. When the weather gets warm, Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy summer campers have been known to set up camp outside in the New Center Area near the DWDA studio in New Center One. When White-Hunt speaks softly but passionately about how DWDA has transformed thousands of lives, and how her life has been transformed by her loving family, friends and community members that have embraced her dream during the past 40 years to make DWDA successful, it is a little hard to believe other words she has spoken to those who know her best about she and Bruce wanting to pass the torch of leading the organization to the next generation. And on Jan. 16, moments before she reeled off a host of wonderful plans that DWDA has in store for the community during 2024, including a Black History Month Concert; Crystal Ball in April; Annual Concert in June; collaborations with Detroit artists; and even a spelling bee to complement DWDAs vast menu of dance classes White-Hunt confirmed that she and Bruce are indeed looking forward to handing over the leadership reins. But for that to happen, White-Hunt says that any future leaders of DWDA must embrace the values and integrity of an organization that has literally withstood some of the coldest days Michigan has dished out, as she described in a story about Bruce from DWDAs early days. We had classes in places with no heat, but a couple of hours before class Bruce would come in with heaters to heat the place up and class would go on, recalls White-Hunt, who was reliving that moment on a frigid morning that matched the scene she was describing. White said that act on a cold day, and the countless other heroic deeds that have been performed to keep DWDA going for 40 years, represents what the community has felt about her organization. But also the immense importance of dance as an art form. Dance frees us; liberates us; heals us! It gives us a reason to live, White said with a smile that could be felt through the phone. Scott Talley is a native Detroiter, a proud product of Detroit Public Schools and lifelong lover of Detroit culture in all of its diverse forms. In his second tour with the Free Press, which he grew up reading as a child, he is excited and humbled to cover the citys neighborhoods and the many interesting people who define its various communities. Contact him at: stalley@freepress.com or follow him on Twitter @STalleyfreep. Read more of Scott's stories at www.freep.com/mosaic/detroit-is/. Please help us grow great community-focused journalism by becoming a subscriber Celebrating 40 years of providing 'multilevel training in excellence through dance' What: Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy Co-founders: Debra White Hunt, artistic director; and, Bruce Hunt, executive director Location: New Center One, 3031 W. Grand Blvd., 2nd floor in Suite 260 Classes: Multiple forms of dance are taught on a basic, intermediate and advanced level including: ballet, acro, tap, modern, hip-hop, jazz/funk, liturgical, jit and belly. Origins and history: The nonprofit Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy (DWDA) was founded in 1984 by artistic director Debra White-Hunt, a renowned dancer, choreographer and master teacher; and executive director Bruce Hunt. Since its creation, DWDA has touched the lives of more than 15,000 students amateur and professional ranging in age from 2 to 95. In addition to a broad menu of classes taught by dance instructors with 10 or more years of experience, DWDA presents and participates in events for the community throughout the year including a ball, concerts, collaborations with Detroit artists and other activities. Learn more: For additional information, go to detroitwindsordance.org This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Debra White-Hunt co-founded Detroit-Windsor Dance Academy 40 years ago Belinda Mora Gavallos, a businesswoman descended from a founding San Antonio family, is the first Latina chair of the Bexar County Historical Commission. Jessica Phelps Belinda Mora Gavallos, a businesswoman, 11th-generation San Antonian and now the first Latina to lead the Bexar County Historical Commission, wants to reenergize the panel and get children and young adults excited about local heritage. We need to get them curious about who they are, said Gavallos, who was appointed to the role last month by County Judge Peter Sakai and presided over her first meeting Jan. 8. Born on the Fourth of July, she wants to highlight undertold stories, including Indigenous and African American perspectives, as part of the Bexar County, Texas and American experience. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Youve got to have the enthusiasm to push folks forward. It has to come from within, Gavallos said. What are you interested in? Bring it forward. This isnt just Tejano Bexar County. Belinda Mora Gavallos, a businesswoman and descendant of 1830s Tejano leader Jose Antonio Navarro and one of the founding San Antonio families from the Canary Islands, has been appointed the first Latina chair of the Bexar County Historical Commission. Gavallos, whose parents were educators in the Harlandale area on the South Side, wants the commission to be active and engaging in the community, sharing knowledge about lesser known narratives and partnering with historical commissions in neighboring counties. Jessica Phelps Belinda Mora Gavallos, an 11th-generation San Antonian, is the first Latina chair of the Bexar County Historical Commission. Jessica Phelps Belinda Mora Gavallos plays catch with her dog, Ramon. Her parents were educators in Harlandale ISD on the South Side and she wants the county historical commission to be active and engaged, telling lesser known stories and partnering with historians in neighboring counties. Jessica Phelps The panel, created in 1967 to preserve, protect and promote the countys history, has subcommittees dealing with historical marker applications, historic cemeteries, sites and structures, oral histories and history appreciation. Its 15 members are appointed by Bexar County Commissioners Court. Sakai said Gavallos brings a wealth of expertise that will benefit this important community board. Advertisement Article continues below this ad There is an educational and economic value in promoting Bexar Countys three-plus centuries of rich, diverse heritage, Sakai said, referring to the 1718 founding of a Spanish mission and presidio in what now is downtown San Antonio. Gavallos, 62, holds a bachelors degree in business administration and is a fine arts professional and, since July, the interim director of the San Antonio Womens Chamber of Commerce. She succeeds Tim Draves, who had served on the commission since 2007 and was chair in 2017-18 and 2021-23. Draves, a professor at the University of the Incarnate Word, said hes taken on more academic work and could no longer devote the time required. Gavallos now leads a terrific team, he added. They really are the most important county historical commission in the state, since no other county has the history and the cultural resources this community has, Draves said. They will continue to improve the communitys No. 1 ranking for heritage tourism. In a Dec. 6 letter to the commission, Sakai recommended the panel review and update its bylaws, change its meeting date to avoid conflicts with the citys Historic and Design Review Commission and develop a strategic plan to meet the commissions mission. He predicted the commission will do great things in 2024 to develop dynamic programming and partnerships to educate our community and preserve its heritage and culture. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The panel now holds its public meetings at 2 p.m. on the first Monday of each month at 211 S. Flores St., beneath the Bexar County parking garage. In years past, the commission generally has worked out of the spotlight, though it has weathered occasional controversies. Perhaps its biggest fracas in memory was in the mid-1990s, when a marker honoring the heralded Angel of the Alamo, Adina De Zavala, was proposed. At the time, Clara Driscoll had long been credited as the Savior of the Alamo. She had funded purchase of the Long Barrack in 1903 but had feuded with De Zavala over its historic value and wanted it razed to highlight the Alamo Church. Members of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas who served on the county historical commission objected to the De Zavala marker, arguing it would set a precedent that could crowd the plaza with markers. The city, county and state approved the marker in 1993, but it took a few more years of haggling over where to place it before it was finally dedicated in 1997. Gavallos is a descendant of two iconic figures in San Antonio history: Maria Robaina de Bethencourt, who came to what is now San Antonio from the Canary Islands to help establish the Villa de San Fernando in the 1730s, and Jose Antonio Navarro, a signer of the 1836 Texas Declaration of Independence. Bethencourt arrived in Mexico, then part of New Spain, in 1730, pregnant and with four children, and continued on to Texas after her husband became ill and died in Veracruz. She remarried, lived with her family in a stone house by the San Fernando church which eventually would become the Archdiocese of San Antonios cathedral and died at about age 76. Advertisement Article continues below this ad She had the kind of stamina and the fortitude that she walked with her fellow Canary Islanders up through what is now Mexico, crossed up the Rio Grande to get to San Antonio, Gavallos said. When you have an ancestor like that, you cant help but to want to share that information. Navarro is her fourth-great uncle whose original 1850s adobe-and-limestone home is preserved at Casa Navarro State Historic Site. (Gavallos is president of the nonprofit Friends of Casa Navarro.) Her third-great grandmother, Maria Gertrudis Navarro, survived the 1836 siege and battle of the Alamo from the inside. It was through her parents, the late Bart Mora and his wife, Blanche, who were both educators and school principals in the Harlandale Independent School District, that Gavallos absorbed her family history. Her parents had a commitment to serving the youth of the South Side, especially to those who are underprivileged and who dont get to see things and get to travel and get to expand their minds and their horizons, Gavallos said. I guess because I am the product of two educators, Im a lifelong learner, she added. In October 2005, Stephen Colbert invented a new word: truthiness. In a short monologue for The Colbert Report, a satirical show where the comedian played a caricature of a conservative blowhard cable news anchor, he took issue with an approach to news that relied on facts and credible sources. "I don't trust books," Colbert said. "They're all fact, no heart. And that's exactly what's pulling our country apart today." Truthiness emanated from feeling rather than hard evidence, affirming beliefs backed by strong emotions. This was during the George W. Bush administration, in the post-9/11 era, so inevitably Colbert brought up the war in Iraq. "Maybe there are a few missing pieces to the rationale for war. But doesn't taking Saddam out feel like the right thing? Right here," he said, pointing to his belly, "right here in the gut. Because that's where the truth comes fromthe gut." In closing, Colbert promised to maintain a posture of truthiness as he conveyed the news to his viewers. "Anyone can read the news to you," he said, deadpan. "I promise to feel the news at you." Truthiness entered the popular lexicon. Today, multiple dictionaries include the word. The general concept, sometimes but not always attached to the word, has become a prominent and recurring criticism of right-wing politics and journalism. Broadly speaking, the argument was that the Republican Party and the American right consistently ignored fact-based rigor when such rigor would prove inconvenient. As political discussion migrated to social media, the critique followed, with Democrats increasingly prone to warning about misinformation and disinformation online. Colbert transitioned to a new role as a conventional late-night talk-show host, playing himself rather than a comic caricature. But he continued to emphasize that the right wing was prone to exaggerations, telling omissions, conspiracy theories, and outright falsehoods. In early 2022, he released a fictional Spotify playlist for vaccine misinformation, in response to what he said were harmful inaccuracies spread on the service by popular podcaster Joe Rogan. A gag ad for the playlist that aired on his late night show pronounced: "We hit shuffle on your understanding of basic facts." Lol. *** One wonders what Colbert feels, in his gut, about Hasan Minhaj. Like Colbert, Minhaj is a comedian by tradehe has two Netflix specials to his credit. And like Colbert, Minhaj often wields his comedy to political ends. Minhaj is Indian-American, and his stand-up specials tell personal stories of racism and mistreatment. He frequently criticizes former President Donald Trump and the post-9/11 domestic security apparatus. From 2018 through 2020, Minhaj hosted Patriot Act, a left-leaning news-and-comedy Netflix series. Patriot Act was reminiscent of The Daily Show, Comedy Central's longrunning pseudo-newscast, which from 1997 through 2005 featured Colbert as a "correspondent." After Daily Show host Trevor Noah announced in late 2022 he was leaving the show, Minhaj was widely reported as a top contender for the slot. The Daily Show is a comedy program, with jokes and snark and play-acted absurdities. But it is also a current affairs program designed to inform its viewers. During the peak of its cultural influencein the mid-'00s, when it was hosted by Jon Stewartpundits occasionally grumbled that too many young people were getting their news from Stewart. The show faded in relevance after Stewart left, but it spawned several imitators, including HBO's Last Week Tonight, hosted by John Oliver (another Daily Show alum), and even another Jon Stewart series, The Problem with Jon Stewart, on the Apple TV+ streaming service (recently canceled). Liberal comics weren't just mocking the news. They were delivering it and explaining it, with clarity and moral forcefulness. Minhaj seemed to fit into this tradition. So it was notable that when Clare Malone profiled him for The New Yorker in September, she reported that she could not verify multiple stories that Minhaj had told during his stand-up specials. Invariably, these were personal stories designed to make a political point, generally about state or personal mistreatment of people like Minhaj. One story from the Netflix specials revolves around a man who became close with Minhaj, his family, and their mosque in 2002. The man, dubbed "Brother Eric," was white; he claimed to be a Muslim convert. After insinuating himself into their lives, Minhaj said, Brother Eric tried to coax some of the young men at the mosque into talking about jihad. Minhaj recounts believing that Eric was a law enforcement informant; as a sort of gag, Minhaj says he told Brother Eric that he hoped to get a pilot's license. This resulted in a visit from the police, as Minhaj told it, who knocked his head into the hood of a police car. Years later, Minhaj says his family watched a news account in which a man resembling Brother Eric was revealed to be an FBI informant. The young Minhaj, it seems, had seen through the ruse. Almost none of this is true. There was a man resembling Brother Eric who acted as an FBI informant. But as Malone reported, he was in prison in 2002 and didn't begin working with the feds until 2006. He did no work in the area Minhaj's story was said to have taken place. In other words, the time, the place, and specifics of Minhaj's personal experiencehis eyewitness account, leading to a supposed violent encounter with policewere totally fabricated. In another anecdote from the special, Minhaj recalls receiving an envelope of white powder at his home. In Minhaj's telling, the suspicious white powder came into contact with his young daughter, who was rushed to the hospital. But Malone found no police account that matched this event. In an interview with Minhaj, the comedian "admitted that his daughter had never been exposed to a white powder, and that she hadn't been hospitalized." Instead, he'd received a powder in the mail and joked to his wife it might have been anthrax. Minhaj, confronted with reported evidence that many of his stories have been false or heavily exaggerated, defended his work. "Every story in my style is built around a seed of truth," he told Malone. "My comedy Arnold Palmer is seventy percent emotional truththis happenedand then thirty percent hyperbole, exaggeration, fiction." Emotional truth. Put another way, Minhaj's argument was that his stories didn't need to be actually true because they felt true. Minhaj was defending truthiness as good and righteous, so long as it was in service of the proper sort of political narrative. He wasn't just reporting the news to you; he was feeling the news at you. *** Malone's profile chronicled other purported gaps in Minhaj's stories. In one anecdote, Minhaj recounts being rejected by a prom date. She was white, he was not, and although she initially accepted his invitation, Minhaj says that at the moment he arrived at her home to pick her up, she backed out in humiliating fashion: There was another boy at her door placing a corsage. In the special, Minhaj says the reason she backed out was because her parents didn't want her taking photos with a person of color. After Malone interviewed the woman from the story, whose name has not been made public, she reported a different version of the events. She told Malone the rejection happened, but not on prom night; it occurred days prior. "Minhaj acknowledged that this was correct," Malone wrote, "but he said that the two of them had long carried different understandings of her rejection." In the following sentence, she quotes him saying that as a "brown kid" in California, he'd been conditioned to "just take it." "The 'emotional truth' of the story he told onstage was resonant and justified the fabrication of details," Malone wrote. According to the reporter, the woman also said she'd been invited to a performance of a stand-up routine in which Minhaj told the prom night story. "She had initially interpreted the invitation as an attempt to rekindle an old friendship, but she now believes the move was meant to humiliate her." Weeks after Malone's story appeared, the comedian released a video response. The video runs a little more than 20 minutes, and in it Minhaj claims Malone excised important portions of his quotes and distorted their meaning. In it, Minhaj argues that the New Yorker story was "needlessly misleading." The largest portion of his response is focused on the prom night story. He shows emails between himself and the woman in the story appearing to show that she requested an invite to his performance. He also takes issue with Malone's use of the "different understandings of her rejection" quote, arguing that Malone's presentation lacked context and that it implied he had made up the racial motivation for the rejection. He delivers a fuller version of the quote that more clearly makes his point: that the woman didn't understand how much he'd been hurt by the incident. The video then addresses the Brother Eric and anthrax stories. In both cases, he admits the stories didn't happen the way he told them onstage. Although he says he had interactions with undercover law enforcement, "it didn't go down exactly like this, so I understand why people are upset." Introducing the anthrax story, he recounts some details from the comedy special, then says, "This, as you know, is not how it went down." He apologized for embellishing the stories, but he defends his embellishments as necessary to spotlight some larger truth. Over the course of the video, he argues that his falsehoods (though he does not use that word) were necessary to make his stories clearer, more accessible, more relatable to his audience. Was there a bit of truthiness in The New Yorker's expose? Or was Minhaj's defense itself an exercise in obfuscation? A Slate review of Minhaj's defense concluded that "almost everything the New Yorker article alleges appears to line up with Minhaj's version of the facts, except for some of the details of the prom date story." After Minhaj posted his video, Malone tweeted: "Hasan Minhaj confirms in this video that he selectively presents information and embellishes to make a point: exactly what we reported." The New Yorker stood by the story. *** One might argue that comedy specials do not have a journalistic responsibility to hew to the truth. Minhaj has indicated that he draws a line between his stand-up work and his more journalistic output on Patriot Act. Certainly, Minhaj is far from the first comedian to exaggerate, embellish, or outright lie for laughs. Indeed, there is a long and noble tradition of lying for laughter. If a silly story makes you guffaw in amusement, there is no need for it to be true. But Minhaj's stand-up fabrications weren't just jokes. In some cases they weren't even jokes at all, and weren't presented as tall tales: They were presented as clear-eyed truths about American prejudice. In that New Yorker story, Minhaj explicitly defended the use of falsehoods to make a point more powerful. "The punch line," he told Malone, "is worth the fictionalized premise." In his defense video, he says he "made artistic choices to express myself and drive home larger issues affecting me and my community." Moreover, although Patriot Act had a research department with fact checkers, Minhaj reportedly found them frustrating. "In one instance," Malone wrote, "Minhaj grew frustrated that fact-checking was stymying the creative flow during a final rewrite, and a pair of female researchers were asked to leave the writers' room." Minhaj's work on Patriot Act was what made him a potential successor to Stewart and Noah on The Daily Show. But in late October, online news outlet Puck reported that although Minhaj had nearly closed a deal to take the reins at The Daily Show, he would not be getting the gig. When Stewart left The Daily Show in 2015, he used his final monologue to issue a warning about the world of news and commentary. "Bullshit is everywhere," he said. "There is very little in life that has not been, in some ways, infused with bullshit." While some minor exaggeration was innocuous and even necessary to function socially, he said, viewers needed to be on the lookout for "the more pernicious bullshit. Your premeditated, institutional bullshit, designed to obscure and distract. Designed by who? The bullshitocracy." He had some good news, though. "Bullshitters have gotten pretty lazy," Stewart said. "And their work is easily detected." The post Comedy's Truthiness Problem appeared first on Reason.com. Viktor Klimov, the commanding officer of a Russian Il-22M airborne command post hit by Ukrainian forces on 14 January, was killed in that attack. Source: Krymsky Veter (Crimean Wind), a local Telegram-based news outlet Details: Russian social media communities reported that Klimov had been killed in the attack. The co-pilot, also wounded, managed to land the aircraft. Background: Reports of the downing of a Russian A-50 reconnaissance aircraft and damage to an Il-22M appeared on Russian and Ukrainian Telegram channels on the evening of 14 January. They were partially confirmed on 15 January by Lieutenant General Mykola Oleshchuk, Commander of the Ukrainian Air Force, and Ukrainska Pravdas sources in the Ukrainian government. On the morning of 15 January, General Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, confirmed that the Ukrainian Air Force had downed two important Russian planes: an airborne early warning system (AWACS) aircraft and an airborne command post. The Ukrainian Air Force reported that the Russian Il-22 air control centre survived the attack but is beyond repair. Support UP or become our patron! Hearing screams inside a Texas home, officers burst through the front door and opened fire after being confronted by a knife-wielding man holding onto a wounded woman, according to police. Officers made their way to the home on Austins northeast side after a man called 911 for help, saying hed been stabbed in the stomach and was bleeding a lot, Austin Police Department officials said at a Jan. 21 news briefing. The attacker was still at the home, the man told police. Three officers arrived at the scene and found a group of people gathered outside the house, including a person with stab wounds, police said. As officers moved toward the home they could hear screaming from inside, police said, so they decided to force their way in through the front door. As soon as they did, they were met by a man clutching a knife in one hand and an injured woman in the other, officials said. All three officers opened fire, shooting the man, police said. Several other people were rescued from the house, including three children, according to police. A woman was found dead on the floor of a bedroom with stab wounds, police said, and two other people were stabbed and are hospitalized in stable condition. Officials say the man shot by police was also taken to a hospital and is in stable condition. Police said they did not know what relationship, if any, there is between the accused attacker and the victims, but an investigation is underway. Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact investigators at 512-974-6840. Dad runs from crash that killed daughter and injured his family, Oklahoma cops say Dominos driver shot, left to die in street as teens run off with pizza, WI cops say Son kills former judge and wife, sending shockwaves through Texas community, cops say Thought I was dead. Teen beats janitor who wont let him into school, TX officials say Many concerned Texas parents wanted a way to label inappropriate books in their kids school libraries or classrooms. To this parent of four, this makes sense. The Legislature devised a bill that would create such a system, but a federal appeals court just blocked Texas from enforcing it. This also makes sense. The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals on Wednesday blocked the Texas Education Agency from enforcing the READER Act, a state law that would have required booksellers to rate books sexually explicit content before selling them to schools. This decision is particularly interesting because it comes from one of the most conservative courts in the country. Several booksellers in Houston and Austin originally sued the state, saying the law violated their First Amendment rights. The appellate court was affirming a lower courts decision. While the Legislature may have meant well, the law was drafted poorly and really had no chance of being properly implemented. It would have required vendors to sift through every book to rate them based on explicit material, a subjective concept to be sure. Then, booksellers would have had to send those to the Texas Education Agency to be reviewed where those officials would correct them based on more subjective measures and post them online. The booksellers argued that the rating system violates free speech protections and is tantamount to the government compelling speech, a no-no in First Amendment law. Parents and conservatives in Texas may not like this, but First Amendment protections apply to everyone, including people with opposing viewpoints. A controversial Supreme Court case demonstrates this well. In 2019, Jack Phillips, a baker who creates custom cakes, won a Supreme Court case. The court found that it was unconstitutional for the state of Colorado to compel Phillips to create a specific kind of cake (which the court viewed as speech) honoring a specific kind of wedding because of his religious convictions about celebrating same-sex weddings. Conservatives lauded this case and similar ones with similar conclusions for years because they cemented the right against compelled speech and protections of religious conviction. The appellate courts decision on book ratings is similar: Even though Texans want a way to identify explicit books in schools for kids, creating an undue burden on booksellers and forcing them to label their books by content does violate their First Amendment rights. Such protections for some but not all regardless of ideology, party, or persuasion, are no rights at all. So, its good that even a more conservative court recognizes this. It means that everybodys First Amendment rights are intact and that our laws are working this time they dont always, which is why the Supreme Court exists. However, it does leave parents wondering how to handle the issue of books with explicit content in schools. Legislators need to continue listening to their constituents and working with school leaders to come to a solution that is both constitutional and practical. They can start with a renewed resolution not to make a big deal passing laws that arent functional or constitutional in the first place. For the past few years, theres been an ongoing debate about whether and how schools should police inappropriate content. Its led to parents voicing concerns in school meetings and sexually explicit books being removed from school libraries. Its even led to national media outlets saying Texas just bans all the good books. (I hate to disappoint folks, but a book is not really banned if its available on Amazon.) For now, until a legislative solution if there is one is crafted, parents and kids might have to do things the old-fashioned way: Parents need to remain involved in their kids education and ask children, librarians and school administrators whats available at school, what their kids are reading and why. Do you have an opinion on this topic? Tell us! We love to hear from Texans with opinions on the news and to publish those views in the Opinion section. Letters should be no more than 150 words. Writers should submit letters only once every 30 days. Include your name, address (including city of residence), phone number and email address, so we can contact you if we have questions. You can submit a letter to the editor two ways: Email letters@star-telegram.com (preferred). Fill out this online form. Please note: Letters will be edited for style and clarity. Publication is not guaranteed. The best letters are focused on one topic. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) The Culinary Union announced Saturday that it reached a tentative agreement on a new 5-year contract with the Westgate for over 1,000 Las Vegas hospitality workers. The Culinary Union congratulated its workers on winning the best contract ever in a post on the platform X. Negotiations for a contract continue with 18 remaining Strip independent and Downtown Las Vegas casino properties for about 6,000 workers before the February 2 strike deadline. Culinary Union workers picket as contract negotiations continue with 19 Las Vegas casino properties The Culinary Union held demonstrations on the Las Vegas Strip Friday as workers continue to fight for new five-year contracts. Culinary Union Secretary-Treasurer Tedd Pappageorge told 8 News Now these current negotiations are similar, citing demands for higher pay, better workplace safety, and protection against advanced technology at properties. The union said a contract ratification vote will be scheduled soon. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. From second left, Denmark's King Frederik X, Queen Mary, Prince Vincent, Crown Prince Christian, Princess Isabella and Princess Josephine and greet the crowd after a service on the occasion of the change of throne in Denmark, in Aarhus Cathedral, Aarhus, Denmark, Sunday Jan. 21, 2024. Its the first public appearance in Jutland by Denmark's new King and Queen since the change of throne last Sunday. (Mikkel Berg Pederson/Ritzau Scanpix via AP) AARHUS, Denmark (AP) Denmarks royal family on Sunday participated in a special celebratory church service at Aarhus Cathedral as the new King Frederik X, accompanied by wife Queen Mary and mother Queen Margrethe, waved to crowds gathered outside the 12th-century building that is the tallest church in the country. The royal family drove 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) through Aarhus, Denmarks second-largest city, from royal residence Marselisborg Castle to Aarhus Cathedral. The church service came exactly a week after Frederik, 55, was proclaimed king after his 83-year-old mother Margrethe signed her abdication during a meeting with the government. Aarhus resident Christina Elmstroem said she expects Frederik and Queen Mary to change the Danish monarchy in their way. She brought her children to experience the big, major event. So, it was an opportunity to go and see the new king and my kids are very excited about it, she said. Henrik Wigh-Poulsen, bishop of the Diocese of Aarhus, told The Associated Press they had just a few weeks to plan the service, and Frederik had a hand in planning it. Normally, you would spend three months planning this, but we (had) two and a half weeks, something like that. So we have been very busy, I tell you, he said. I chose some of the hymns were going to sing, and the king said, I would like to sing these hymns. The hour-long service marked Frederiks first official visit as king outside the Danish capital Copenhagen. Police expected around 70,000 people to line the royal route. I think hes going to be a king of the people, said Aarhus resident Charlotte Houman. I think hes gonna embrace the people ... hes going to be different in is his way of ruling. I think hes going to be not too much top down, but hes gonna be embracing the people, different kinds of people. And also being there not on this high pedestal somewhere. An Israeli soldier adjusts a weapon on top of a vehicle, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, near Israel's border with Gaza An Israeli soldier adjusts a weapon on top of a vehicle, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, near Israel's border with Gaza By Nidal al-Mughrabi and Ibraheem Abu Mustafa DOHA/GAZA (Reuters) -Israeli attacks and street battles raged across the Gaza Strip on Sunday as Palestinian health officials said the death toll from Israeli strikes since war broke out in October had passed 25,000. Gaza's health ministry said 178 Palestinians had been killed in the past 24 hours, one of the deadliest days of the war so far. Israel's military said a soldier was killed in fighting. Israeli forces and Hamas fighters clashed in several places, from Jabalia in the north to Khan Younis in the south, the focus of recent Israeli operations. Israeli planes resumed heavy bombing on Khan Younis in the south of the Gaza Strip and explosions echoed throughout the city. Explosions lit the skies in parts of the Khan Younis refugee camp, and Palestinian health officials said one Palestinian was killed and seven wounded in one air strike as night fell. Israel said its troops had cleared much of northern Gaza of Hamas' military network and more than 1 million residents of that enclave have moved south to flee the bombardments. Fighting, however, has continued in the Jabalia refugee camp and other areas around Gaza City. Israel unleashed its campaign to eliminate Iran-backed Hamas after the militants burst into Israel on Oct. 7 and rampaged through southern towns and bases, killing 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and taking 253 hostages back to Gaza. Israel says it is fighting a threat to its very existence. The Hamas-run Gaza health ministry said 25,105 Palestinians - many of them women and children - had been killed and 62,681 have been wounded in Israeli strikes since Oct. 7. It does not differentiate between civilian and militant deaths, but says most of those killed have been civilians. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday denounced Israel for what he called the "heartbreaking" deaths of Palestinian civilians in Gaza. "Israel's military operations have spread mass destruction and killed civilians on a scale unprecedented during my time as secretary-general," Guterres said. Israel says it takes steps to avoid civilian casualties, but accuses Hamas of operating in densely populated areas and using civilians as human shields, a charge the Islamist group denies. Guterres also said it was unacceptable for Israel to resist statehood for Palestinians and such a stance would indefinitely prolong a conflict. HAMAS CONDITIONS REJECTED His comments followed remarks by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that appeared to rule out the so-called two-state solution to the decades-long Israel-Palestinian conflict - as urged by the U.S. and other governments. Netanyahu's office said that in talks with U.S. President Joe Biden on Friday, he "reiterated his policy that after Hamas is destroyed Israel must retain security control over Gaza to ensure that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel, a requirement that contradicts the demand for Palestinian sovereignty." On Sunday, Netanyahu rejected conditions presented by Hamas to end the war and release hostages that would include Israel's complete withdrawal and leaving Hamas, an Islamist group dedicated to Israel's destruction, in power in Gaza. On Monday, the Israeli and Palestinian foreign ministers are to meet their European Union counterparts in Brussels as the EU considers potential steps toward a comprehensive peace. Hamas said Washington was ignoring Palestinian suffering and deaths while supporting Israeli actions financially and militarily. Hamas called its Oct. 7 assault a "necessary step". "It was a defensive act in the frame of getting rid of the Israeli occupation, reclaiming the Palestinian rights and on the way for liberation and independence," Hamas said in a statement. The Oct. 7 attacks, in which many women and children were murdered and bodies mutilated, drew worldwide revulsion and condemnation. Most of the Gaza Strip's 2.3 million people have since been displaced from their homes. With large areas razed to the ground and hospitals and humanitarian agencies struggling to cope, Palestinians described dire conditions. "We struggle to survive bombs, but frankly we try to survive hunger more," Amer, 32, a father of three from northern Gaza, told Reuters. "Finding food for the family, for the children, has become a more challenging adventure than surviving war." Israel's military said soldiers had killed 15 Palestinian gunmen in the north while snipers, backed by air support, had killed a number of militants in Khan Younis. Hamas dismissed this account. Palestinians said fighting has raged in Jabalia for the past three days. Some buildings caught fire and smoke rose where bombs had fallen. Along Gaza's southern coast, witnesses said Israeli warships shelled the beach. In the southern city of Rafah, where more than 1 million displaced people are concentrated, three Palestinians were killed in an Israeli air strike on a car. Another car was hit in Gaza City, killing three people, health officials said. Violence has also surged in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, where Hamas' rival, the Palestinian Authority, has limited self-rule. The Palestinian Health Ministry there said Israeli forces have killed 360 Palestinians since Oct. 7. (Reporting and writing by Nidal al-Mughrabi and David Brunnstrom; Additional reporting by Ali Sawafta in Ramallah and Ari Rabinovitch in Jerusalem; Editing by Leslie Adler and Stephen Coates) San Antonio Police say a man was killed after he was ejected from his vehicle early Sunday. A woman is also in critical condition after she was struck while helping another driver on the side of the highway. kali9/Getty Images/iStockphoto One person is dead and another is in critical condition after two separate vehicle accidents overnight. The first occurred Saturday around 8:20 p.m. in the 2900 block of Interstate 35 on the Northeast Side. Police said a 55-year-old woman was injured after a vehicle crashed into her Jeep while she was helping a stranded motorist. The woman's vehicle was parked on the side of the highway when a Nissan pickup crashed into the back of her Jeep, police said. Her vehicle then hit the woman and the stranded motorist. Advertisement Article continues below this ad READ MORE: Driver shot by San Antonio police this week once accused of aggravated kidnapping The woman was flung onto the highway pavement and the motorist was pushed into a nearby guardrail. Both were taken to a local hospital where the woman remains in critical condition, police said. The other person was in stable condition. At about 3:10 a.m., a 24-year-old man was killed in a single vehicle accident in the 11000 block of Interstate 10 on the Northwest Side. Police said the man was driving a Lincoln pickup when he struck the barrier that divided the main lanes of the interstate and the exit ramp for De Zavala Road. The pickup careened across the main lanes and crashed into a concrete barrier. The man was ejected from the vehicle, police said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The father of Masa Shoman carries the body of his daughter during her funeral in Rafah, on the southern Gaza Strip, after an Israeli bombardment on houses on Wednesday, January 17, 2024. At least 27 Palestinians were killed in Khan Younis and Rafah within 24 hours as Israeli attacks levelled dozens of residential homes and damaged the Nasser and Al-Amal hospitals, medical sources said. Photo by Ismael Mohamad/UPI Jan. 21 (UPI) -- The death toll in Gaza has risen to more than 25,000 people as Israel's war against the Palestinian militant group Hamas continues in the enclave. The Gaza Health Ministry said Sunday that 25,105 people have been killed and 62,681 have been injured since Israel began the war, retaliating for the Oct. 7 attacks by the Iran-backed Hamas. Palestinian health officials said 178 people were killed by U.S.-backed Israeli troops in the last 24 hours alone. The death toll had approached 23,000 by Jan. 7, meaning more than 2,000 people had been killed in just two weeks of the war. Hamas has stated that its attack last year came after raids on the Al-Aqsa Mosque, one of Islam's holiest sites, by Israeli Police and violence perpetrated by Israeli settlers, leading to the deaths of hundreds of Palestinians last year alone in a decades-long conflict. At least 237 Palestinians were killed by Israelis before the Oct. 7 attack and the Palestine Red Crescent Society reported last year that its healthcare workers experienced 193 separate attacks from Israeli forces in the first six months of the year, a 310% increase compared to the same period in 2022. Relatives mourn over the shrouded body of child Masa Shoman, who was killed during Israeli bombardment outside Najjar hospital in Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip on Wednesday, January 17, 2024. At least 27 Palestinians were killed in Khan Younis and Rafah within 24 hours as Israeli attacks levelled dozens of residential homes and damaged the Nasser and Al-Amal hospitals, medical sources said. Photo by Ismael Mohamad/UPI Some 1,200 Israelis were killed on Oct. 7 with more than 240 others taken Hostage. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres chastised Israel over the level of destruction Israel's war in Gaza has caused, including the deaths of more than 150 U.N. staff. Israeli and American flags hang near portraits of Israelis taken captive or killed by Hamas militants during the October 7 attacks, at the site of the Supernova Music Festival in Reim on Saturday, January 20, 2024. Families of the hostages still held in Gaza are increasing their demand for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to make a deal to bring the 136 hostages home. Photo by Debbie Hill/ UPI "Israel's military operations have spread massive destruction and killed civilians on a scale unprecedented during my time as secretary general," he said Sunday during a U.N. summit. "This is heart breaking and utterly unacceptable." People walk by national flags and portraits of Israelis taken captive or killed by Hamas militants during the October 7 attacks, at the site of the Supernova Music Festival in Reim on Saturday, January 20, 2024. Families of the hostages still held in Gaza are increasing their demand for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to make a deal to bring the 136 hostages home. Photo by Debbie Hill/ UPI The U.N. head also reiterated his disapproval of Israel's recent repeated rejections of a two-state solution. "The denial of the right to statehood for the Palestinian people would indefinitely prolong a conflict that has become a major threat to global peace and security, exacerbate polarization and embolden extremists everywhere," he said. The Israeli Defense Forces said Sunday that it had killed 15 "terrorists" in Daraj Tuffah. Israel and the United States consider Hamas to be a terrorist organization. And in Khan Yunis, Israeli officials said its snipers had "eliminated a number of terrorists." Hamas has not said how many of its fighters have been killed, though Israel claims that number is in the thousands. In December, an IDF spokesperson told CNN that it was "tremendously positive" that Israel had killed a Hamas militant for ever two Palestinian civilians it has killed in Gaza. But, as reported by The Wall Street Journal, the death toll of Hamas fighters alone has fallen short of Israel's goal to eliminate the group, which governs the Gaza enclave. "We have completed the dismantling of Hamas' military framework in the northern Gaza Strip and will continue to deepen the achievement, strengthening the barrier and the defense components along the security fence," Daniel Hagari, the spokesperson for Israel's military, said earlier this month. "Now, we are focusing on dismantling Hamas in the central and southern Gaza Strip. We will do this differently, thoroughly, based on the lessons we have learned from the fighting so far." Thousands demonstrate against right-wing extremism on the market square in Bremen. The demonstrations are a reaction to research by the media collective "Correctiv", which uncovered that radical right-wing circles had met with AfD officials and a leading head of the far-right Identitarian Movement in Potsdam in November 2023. Carmen Jaspersen/dpa German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has thanked the hundreds of thousands of people who have joined protests against right-wing extremism in cities across Germany over the weekend for their commitment to democracy. "These people give us all courage. They are defending our republic and our constitution against its enemies. They are defending our humanity," he said in a video message from Berlin on Sunday. Steinmeier, who holds a largely symbolic role as the German head of state, noted that various groups of people had taken to the streets. "But they all have one thing in common: They are now standing up against misanthropy and right-wing extremism. They want to live together freely and peacefully in the future." What Germany needs now is an alliance of all democrats, Steinmeier said. "Regardless of whether they live in the country or in the city, young or old, with or without a history of migration," Steinmeier said. "The future of our democracy does not depend on the volume of its opponents - but on the strength of those who defend democracy. Let us show that we are stronger together." German cities have been swept by large protests for over a week after the release of an investigative report which revealed that several far-right politicians had attended a meeting alongside far-right extremists where plans to forcibly deport millions of immigrants from Germany were discussed. Protests were continuing on Sunday after more than 300,000 people took to the streets of Hamburg, Frankfurt and other German cities on Saturday to voice their opposition to the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party and to support democracy. Thousands demonstrate against right-wing extremism on the market square in Bremen. The demonstrations are a reaction to research by the media collective "Correctiv", which uncovered that radical right-wing circles had met with AfD officials and a leading head of the far-right Identitarian Movement in Potsdam in November 2023. Carmen Jaspersen/dpa Over a thousand people gather for a rally against right-wing extremism in front of the town hall. An alliance of trade unions, political parties and other organizations called for the demonstration under the slogan "Demo against the right - No footing for fascism". Andreas Arnold/dpa Participants in a demonstration against right-wing extremism march through the city center. Birgitta von Gyldenfeldt/dpa A woman holds a sign that reads "Captivity is hell. My dad is still there" over a child's head. Photo: Ukrinform Relatives of Ukrainian prisoners of war (PoWs) have been holding demonstrations in support of them in cities across Ukraine as part of an initiative called Dont be silent! Captivity kills! Source: Ukrinform news agency Details: In Kyiv, the demonstrators gathered in Kontraktova Square. Around 100 people held signs that read "Give them back their freedom! Dont be silent! Free Azov!", "Fight for them like they fought for you!", "We are free thanks to those who are now in captivity" and "Ukraine is waiting for its captive heroes to come back home". Men in military uniforms holding signs that read "Give them back their freedom! Dont be silent! Free Azov!" Photo: Ukrinform Demonstrations in support of Ukrainian PoWs were held in 12 Ukrainian cities, including Odesa, Vinnytsia, Khmelnytskyi, Kharkiv, Pavlohrad, Dnipro, Chernivtsi and Kremenchuk, on 19-21 January. Demonstrators holding signs and flags. Photo: Ukrinform Support UP or become our patron! kinjavideo-196238 House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) officially endorsed Representative Summer Lee (D-PA) who is facing an onslaught of spending from pro-Israel groups to unseat her in 2024. The move solidifies the party leaders support of some of his most embattled members whose outspoken support of a ceasefire in Gaza has made them a target of groups like the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. AIPAC is poised to spend roughly $100 million to unseat Representatives Cori Bush (D-MO), Jamaal Bowman (D-NY), Lee, Ilhan Omar (D-MN), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), and others. Read more I will continue to support every single member within the House Democratic Caucus family, from the most progressive to the most centrist, to the most moderate, Congressman Jeffries told The Root. Thats been my position and perspective even prior to serving in this role in the previous four years as chair of the House Democratic Caucus. Its unclear if Jeffries plans to join these members on the trail and provide additional protection as they face millions in outside spending and the fight of their political lives. More from The Root Sign up for The Root's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Kitsap County deputies are looking for the man who broke into an apartment building leasing office in Silverdale and stole eight deposit checks, along with packages. All of it was caught on video: The Kitsap County Sheriffs Office said the man broke into the Signature Apartments in the 2000 block of Northwest Bobwhite Lane in Silverdale on Thursday. He started looking around the area and then tried to break through a locked door. He eventually forced the door open and broke into a lockbox filled with eight deposit checks. KCSO said the man stole $2,500 in total. Deputies said the man then left wearing a makeshift mask and carrying a bag with packages that were delivered to the office. KCSO said the burglar could be the same man who broke into an office at the Reserve Apartments on Monday. If you have any tips email kcso@kitsap.gov with case number K24-000546. A driver accused of dragging a North Carolina deputy along the pavement has been captured after a search that lasted through the night in Mecklenburg County, investigators say. The deputy fired his gun during the struggle, but missed 33-year-old Corey Allen Leazer, the Iredell County Sheriffs Office said in a news release. Leazer was captured in the early morning hours Sunday, Jan. 21, and treated for exposure to the cold, officials said. Investigators have not released the deputys identity or details of any injuries. The traffic stop happened Saturday, Jan. 20, at a gas station in the 800 block of Oakridge Farm Highway near Mooresville, the sheriffs office said. During the stop, the driver of the vehicle ... attempted to get away from the deputy by pulling away from the deputy and getting back into his vehicle, officials said. As the deputy tried to pull Leazer out of the vehicle, Leazer placed the vehicle in drive, dragging the deputy about 15-20 feet. The deputy fired his weapon but did not appear to hit the suspect. The deputy was able to get back in his patrol car and chase the vehicle, but ended the pursuit in Rowan County when the suspect began to endanger other drivers, officials said. Leazers vehicle was found a short time later inside Mecklenburg County and a perimeter was established to track him down. Iredell County and Mecklenburg County deputies searched through the night and Leazer was captured in the early morning, officials said. Due to exposure to the weather conditions, Leazer was treated by EMS and taken to a local medical facility, officials said. Temperatures fell into the teens during the search. Leazer has been charged with felony assault with a deadly weapon on a law enforcement officer, felony flee to elude, resisting arrest, obstructing and delaying a law enforcement officer and several driving-related charges, officials said. He is being held without bond due to Leazer being out on bond for prior charges, officials said. Car wash employee dies after getting trapped in machinery in North Carolina, cops say Wrong-way driver intentionally tried to ram oncoming cars, North Carolina cops say Missing persons case ends tragically when body found in Charlotte creek, CMPD says Ron DeSantis is backing down and getting behind former President Donald Trump. The Florida governor, who bet everything on the Iowa caucuses and lost, ended his 2024 presidential campaign on Sunday, less than 48 hours before the New Hampshire primary, a contest that he had virtually no chance of winning. In a video posted online just two hours before a scheduled campaign stop in Manchester, DeSantis acknowledged that he had no path forward in the race for the 2024 Republican nomination for president. If there was anything I could do to produce a favorable outcome more campaign stops, more interviews I would do it, DeSantis said. But I cant ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources if we dont have a clear path to victory. Accordingly, I am today suspending my campaign. Getting behind Trump DeSantis decision to drop out of the presidential contest left the primary a two-candidate race between Trump and former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley. DeSantis, in his video, said he was endorsing Trump releasing people whod previously backed the governor to announce their support for the former president. Florida lawmakers, including state Sen. Blaise Ingoglia, House Speaker Paul Renner and House Speaker Designate Daniel Perez, were among those who threw their endorsements behind Trump. I am proud to endorse Donald J. Trump to be the next President of the United States, Perez, R-Miami, said in a statement. Floridians have delivered for President Trump twice before, and we will work nonstop to do so again this November. Florida U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, whod previously endorsed Trump, said on the social media site X that Republicans were one step closer to getting everyone focused on saving our country by helping Trump beat Biden. It was a swift about-face for DeSantis, who had ramped up his attacks on Trump in recent weeks. In his closing pitch to voters in Iowa, he said that, with Trump, you can be the most worthless Republican in America, but if you kiss the ring, hell say youre wonderful. DeSantis explained his reversal, saying in his video announcement that while he has had disagreements with the former president, Trump is superior to the current incumbent Joe Biden. Trump welcomed DeSantis endorsement on Sunday, signaling that he is willing to put their rivalry behind them. With only a few days left until President Donald J. Trumps victory in New Hampshire, we are honored by the endorsement from Governor Ron DeSantis and so many other former presidential candidates, Trumps campaign said in a statement. It is now time for all Republicans to rally behind President Trump to defeat Crooked Joe Biden and end his disastrous presidency. When a reporter asked Sunday how DeSantis could get back in Trumps good graces, the former presidents response was short: Well see. Back to Florida With his White House campaign now behind him, and the states legislative session underway, the governor will return to Florida to finish out the final three years of his last term in the governors mansion. His agenda isnt entirely clear; he spent his time on the campaign trail saying hed already accomplished everything hed promised to do as governor. Hes going to settle back into the governors mansion and act like its business as usual; like nothing happened, said Rick Wilson, a former Republican consultant and a co-founder of the anti-Trump group, the Lincoln Project. He wont admit he failed. READ MORE: DeSantis offered to Make America Florida. Voters in Iowa and N.H. shrugged DeSantis had insisted all week after his second-place Iowa finish that he would not drop out, and that he had a shot to win the nomination. As long as Im in the hunt, that tells me that Im seeing a pathway, he told reporters Friday outside an ice arena at Saint Anselm College. The minute I dont, Im not just going to do this for my health. But there were signs before the Sunday announcement that DeSantis campaign was nearing the end of the line. DeSantis campaign appeared directionless as Tuesdays primary approached. He bounced back and forth between New Hampshire and South Carolina. Then he canceled two planned TV appearances on Sunday morning after saying just days earlier that he regretted not engaging with mainstream media more readily. His campaign also scheduled a last-minute stop in New Hampshire on Sunday, explaining that hed canceled the TV interviews because he had a scheduling conflict. He never made it to Manchester. Herald/Times Staff Writer Ana Ceballos contributed to this report. Gov. Ron DeSantis canceled his scheduled Sunday appearances on NBC and CNN. Hours later, he dropped out of the race and endorsed former President Donald Trump. The Florida governor had fallen behind both Nikki Haley and Trump. GOP presidential candidate Gov. Ron DeSantis canceled planned appearances on cable news channels Sunday morning, hours before officially ending his campaign and endorsing former President Donald Trump The Florida governor was scheduled to appear on both CNN and NBC ahead of the New Hampshire primary on Tuesday but canceled both, citing a "last-minute schedule change," according to NBC's Kristen Welker. "Gov. Ron DeSantis has pulled out of his #MTP appearance tomorrow morning due to what a person familiar says is a last-minute schedule change. Per his campaign, he will now hold an event in New Hampshire tomorrow evening. He is currently campaigning in South Carolina," Welker posted on X on Saturday evening. But later Sunday, DeSantis announced he was suspending his campaign and endorsing Trump. "I can't ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources if we don't have a clear path to victory," DeSantis said in a message to supporters . "It's clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance." DeSantis also used a fake Churchhill quote in his speech. CNN reports that Trump's campaign has been prepping for the announcement since Saturday. The New Hampshire primaries will take place on Tuesday. The Republican primary in South Carolina will occur in late February. CNN previously reported the latter would likely be the "last stand" for the DeSantis campaign. "I'm asking for your support as we get into this primary next month," DeSantis told voters in a restaurant in Florence, South Carolina on Saturday, according to CNN. "I'll be a candidate that will be able to bring our party together up and down the ballot, just like I did in Florida." Once considered a leading Republican presidential contender, DeSantis had fallen slightly behind candidate Nikki Haley and well behind the GOP frontrunner, former President Donald Trump, despite his multiple indictments. The Florida governor's performance at the Iowa caucus was disappointing and has fueled speculation that his days on the campaign trail are numbered. "What we did in Iowa, we did make an impression," DeSantis said after the Iowa caucus. "I had people come up to me saying, 'I love you, man. I'm gonna do Trump this time and do you next time.'" Read the original article on Business Insider Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) dropped out of the Republican presidential primary Sunday, marking the end of a stunning rise and fall for a candidate once seen as the most formidable rival to former President Trump. Following our second-place finish in Iowa, weve prayed and deliberated on our way forward, DeSantis said in a video message posted on X, a few hours ahead of an event he had scheduled in New Hampshire. If there was anything I could do to produce a favorable outcome, more campaign stops, more interviews, I would do it. But I cant ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources if we dont have a clear path to victory. Accordingly, I am today suspending my campaign. Its clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance, the governor continued. While I have had disagreements with Donald Trump such as on the coronavirus pandemic and his elevation of Anthony Fauci, Trump is superior to the current incumbent Joe Biden. That is clear. DeSantis went on to signal his support for Trump while hitting former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley. I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee and I will honor that pledge. He has my endorsement because we cant go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear. A repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents. DeSantis had been seen as the most viable Trump alternative after sweeping to reelection as Florida governor during last years midterm elections. His victory was in sharp contrast to how other Republicans performed around the country, including many who had been endorsed by Trump. The Florida governor launched his official bid in May with the support of a number of GOP campaign veterans in his campaign apparatus and super PAC. But DeSantis was not able to gain traction against Trump, his one-time political ally. DeSantiss campaign got off to a rocky start when its Twitter Spaces launch was plagued with technical glitches. And the governor faced criticism over his personality on the campaign trail, with critics labeling him as awkward. Though he placed second in the Iowa caucuses on Monday, he still fell well short of Trump, winning just 21 percent to Trumps 51 percent. He was widely expected to fare poorly in New Hampshire, where former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley (R) is seen as the most competitive rival to the former president. Ahead of his exit from the GOP primary on Sunday, The Hills Decision Desk HQ average showed DeSantis coming in third place in New Hampshire with 7.2 percent and in South Carolina with 8.3 percent. DeSantiss exit from the race is likely to benefit Trump, who shares a base with the Florida governor. At a campaign event at Trump campaign headquarters in Manchester, N.H. on Sunday prior to DeSantis dropping out, Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) said he would welcome DeSantis back into the Trump orbit. I remember the good old days when I was Ron DeSantiss transition chairman and he and President Trump worked so well together, Gatez, a top surrogate to Trump, told supporters. I hate when mom and dad fight, he continued, receiving laughs from the crowd. It turns out we might get Ron DeSantis back on side pretty soon and I would welcome that, he said to applause. Updated 3:55 p.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. First-year teacher Lizeth Parra talks through a problem with her 3rd grade student, Matthew Garza Jr., while Mattilynn Taylor listens at Olmos Elementary School on Thursday. Jessica Phelps Neylin Santos and Rodolfo Velasco work on essays in their third grade duel language class at Olmos Elementary School. Jessica Phelps Lizeth Parra, a first-year dual language teacher at Olmos Elementary School, talks through a problem with student Rodolfo Velasco as Neylin Santos works on her own essay Thursday. Jessica Phelps Neylin Santos works on her essay in her third grade duel language class at Olmos Elementary School on Thursday. The school was awarded a gold ribbon in the 2022-23 school rankings of the nonprofit Children at Risk. Jessica Phelps Lizeth Parra, a first-year teacher at Olmos Elementary School, talks through a problem with third-grader Rodolfo Velasco in a dual language class Thursday. Jessica Phelps Teacher Veronica Lopez works with her third grade class at Olmos Elementary School on Thursday. The school was awarded a gold ribbon in the 2022-23 school rankings of the nonprofit Children at Risk. Jessica Phelps A dozen third-graders in a San Antonio classroom alternated between typing on their laptops and scribbling in their notebooks to complete their Thursday morning assignment. Like all classes at Olmos Elementary School, the students had been grouped together based on their academic performance. The learning pods or buckets in the campus lingo align with different STAAR performance standards. Students might change buckets during the year depending on how they do on the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness. These students, in the green bird bucket, were expected to pass their first STAAR exams with flying colors. Advertisement Article continues below this ad You want to fly to your next bucket, Principal Gaila Booth explained. You dont want to fall out of the nest. The system has worked well so well, the North East Independent School District campus received a gold ribbon in the annual school rankings released Sunday by the Houston-based think tank and advocacy group Children at Risk. Nine San Antonio-area schools received that distinction, which recognizes academic achievement at campuses with high levels of student poverty. But only one area school, BASIS Shavano Campus, a charter school, landed among the top 20 statewide at any grade level, at No. 7 on the middle school list. Several were assigned a failing score and a spot near the very bottom of statewide lists that showed an overall decline in the performance of Texas schools compared to a year earlier. Its nothing new for San Antonio schools to lag in the Children at Risk ranking system, developed in 2006 to measure the success and shortcomings of Texas public education by examining academic performance, student achievement, growth and, at the high school level, college readiness. Advertisement Article continues below this ad More than a decade later, when the state mandated its own A-F grading system to replace a much simpler pass-fail rating, the Texas Education Agency incorporated some of the same metrics. But this year, Children at Risk has the spotlight all to itself. Its 2022-2023 rankings come after more than 100 school districts sued the TEA over updates to its accountability system. The school grades were widely predicted to drop, but the TEA postponed their release in August. And the lawsuit, which argues that the agency failed to give required notice of its changing standards, delayed them indefinitely. READ MORE: Southwest ISD joins growing revolt of school districts against Texas Education Agency report card Children at Risks standards are tougher than the states. Both ranking systems use STAAR scores as a measurement of academic achievement and growth, and Children at Risk puts more weight on socioeconomic factors such as comparing schools by poverty level. Over the years, weve seen progress with the majority of our low-income kids in how we can make sure that group of kids become successful, said the nonprofits CEO, Bob Sanborn. But this year, for the first time, we saw a setback. I think the pandemic is sort of catching up. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Besides the residual effects of pandemic-era disruptions to classroom learning, schools were tripped up by a redesign of the STAAR and a critical lack of school funding, he said. But none of these issues are unique to San Antonio, which had the states lowest combined performance the share of students who met grade level expectations on the math and reading STAAR exams last year, compared with other metro areas. Instead, Sanborn said, San Antonios lower school rankings show a failure to react to data. Ive heard superintendents in the greater San Antonio area say things like, Our poverty is too high, our parents are not as engaged, while superintendents in other parts of the state say, Well, this is the reality, now lets deal with it, he said. Gold ribbons More than 89% of Olmos Elementary Schools 526 students are considered economically disadvantaged, but Children at Risk gave the campus a B+ and ranked it 23rd in the area. It was the only NEISD campus to receive a gold ribbon. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Booth, the schools principal, says it has benefited from high retention of teachers and support staff, something she has tried to boost over the past decade. You want to make a new teacher or even a seasoned teacher that youve taken on feel comfortable and take the stress off of them, because that first year makes or breaks whether a teacher is going to come back. And if you dont make it a good experience, youre going to lose them, Booth said. Recent college graduate Lizeth Parra is the schools newest hire and started her role as a dual-language teacher this month. A veteran dual-language teacher accompanied her in the classroom Thursday, walking from desk to desk and helping to answer questions. Thats the culture of the school, Booth said, making sure no teacher feels alone, whether it is with behavior, academics or taking things off their plate. Booth is hesitant about anyones ability to sum up the quality of a school by slapping a letter grade on it, especially for disadvantaged children who are expected to perform like kids who had every advantage in the world, she said. Advertisement Article continues below this ad None of the San Antonio area's top five elementaries in the Children at Risk rankings are gold ribbon schools. Hoffman Lane Elementary in Comal ISD was No. 1, followed by Blattman Elementary in Northside ISD, Wilderness Oak and Castle Hills elementary schools, both in NEISD, and Kinder Ranch Elementary in Comal ISD. When it comes to high-poverty schools, the successful ones had higher percentages of students who received prekindergarten instruction, Sanborn said. The city-funded Pre-K for SA is centralized and sends its students to different elementary schools in districts that vary in providing their own pre-K, so its hit or miss whether all the kids in one classroom have the same learning foundation. If youre a teacher and you have a class of 20 and only two of them went to Pre-K for SA, youre now teaching to the 18 and the other two are just tagging along, he said. Area schools that received gold ribbons in the 2022-2023 rankings also include San Antonio ISDs Green, Mission Academy and Highland Park elementary schools and Somerset ISDs Barrera Veterans Elementary. Earning the recognition takes leaders who not only respond to the data but are unafraid of taking risks, Sanborn said. You almost have to be doing everything right, he noted. You need to have these activist superintendents, activist principals who are ready to shake things up and change things. Challenges ahead The lowest-scoring area high school was Kennedy in Edgewood ISD, which received F's across the board. Out of 1,282 high schools in the state, Kennedy was ranked 1,281. Deputy Superintendent Phillip Chavez said the score isnt an accurate reflection of the schools performance over the past year. The evaluation of our campuses is a critical matter, and we defer solely to the TEA, Chavez said, noting that the top-rated schools on Children at Risks rankings are often specialty schools with admission requirements. Kennedy also received a failing grade from the state for the 2021-2022 school year, but Chavez said the district expects improvement if, or when, the new TEA grades are released. The West Side campus has seen major growth over the past year and made significant gains in the College, Career and Military Readiness domain, he said. Absenteeism is still a challenge, Chavez acknowledged. Its on the rise statewide but especially hurts low-income schools like those in Edgewood by reducing their state funding. The one struggle we do have is making sure our students come to school, he said. South San Antonio High School had the second-lowest rank in the region, followed by another Edgewood campus, Memorial High School, and San Antonio ISDs Edison and Highlands high schools. The lowest-ranked elementary school in the San Antonio area was a local charter school, Bexar County Academy, followed by the Jubilee charter networks Lake View University Prep campus. Of the three San Antonio ISD campuses in the bottom five, the lowest-ranked, Storm Elementary School, is slated to close next year. Edgewood, South San and San Antonio ISDs have decided this year to close schools because of falling enrollment. Instead of contributing to the cycle of reduced state funding and vulnerability to charter competition, Sanborn said, he hopes Children at Risks latest rankings inspire parents to advocate for their childrens education and push school districts to react and ask themselves if they are doing enough to attract and retain students. Ron DeSantis dropped out of the 2024 race on Sunday. At one time, it would have been considered an unexpected ending for a promising candidate. Now, DeSantis will go in history as one of the worst candidates in recent memory. Turns out, Mickey Mouse is stronger than you thought. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis ended his presidential campaign on Sunday, succumbing to the final realization of defeat in a candidacy that once held such promise. The epitaph of his campaign is and will be intensely debated. Perhaps, any politician trying to be a replica of Trump when the original was readily available was doomed to fail. And yet, it doesn't explain the glitchy rollout. The weird, definitely too online videos. And how the governor of one of America's largest states, just seemed well, odd on the campaign trail. It's true that as DeSantis himself complained, Trump's unprecedented criminal indictments upended the race. Still, it seemed like one man in America who could have humbled Trump just couldn't stop tripping over himself. DeSantis was one of the most intimidating candidates to enter the presidential arena in ages It's worth remembering as pundits, foes, and anyone else kick the Florida man while he's down that they remember DeSantis once cut a much different figure. After all, there's a reason the Biden White House once made it a point to tangle with him regularly. DeSantis cut his teeth after narrowly winning a general election over then-Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum, a candidate who was virtually anointed as the future of the Democratic Party but who now looks at best like a deeply flawed challenger. And yes, it was then-President Donald Trump whose endorsement powered DeSantis to that very general election in the first place. You know how the story goes. DeSantis pivoted away from his early governorship to becoming a pandemic-era culture warrior willing to take on Trump or anyone else who stands his way. He later added Disney, one of his state's largest employers, to his enemy list. After pundits point out this a bold strategy for a historic swing state, DeSantis pulls off a historic reelection rout. Front pages proclaimed him the man of the moment. Very early polling showed DeSantis leading Trump in national polling. The Wall Street Journal had him up by double digits over Trump in a 2022 poll. Of course, it didn't last. His collapse is among the most significant ever in Republican politics. It might be our fault too, more specifically the media. To juice early interest in the presidential race, the national media often declares frontrunners that age more poorly than a mid-2000s sitcom: just ask Rudy Giuliani, Scott Walker, and Kamala Harris (briefly). Some, namely Joe Biden, campaign long enough to go from frontrunner to also-ran back to winning the race again. But for the rest, they drop out before the Iowa caucuses or live on long enough to be humbled by roughly a couple hundred thousand Americans. While DeSantis may often be compared to former Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, the Floridian's disappointing performance might be so bad that he has now risen close to the level occupied by Giuliani. As America's (former) Mayor, Giuliani dominated early polling in the 2008 Republican primaries. But Giuliani was ultimately doomed by cultural issues (evangelical conservatives couldn't stomach his then-pro-choice views) and his curious decision to skip the early states in favor of focusing on the delegate battle. He ultimately staked his campaign on Florida. After finishing third, he quickly dropped out. Walker's failed candidacy is similar in that the Wisconsin Republican expanded his operation quickly to match the early hype for his bid. Just like DeSantis, Walker ended up being doomed by the sheer rate at which his campaign burned through contributions. Maybe there's a different ending in another multiverse. But in this reality, a week ago DeSantis lashed out at "worthless" Republicans who back Trump. "You can be the most worthless Republican in America, but if you kiss the ring, he'll say: 'You're wonderful," DeSantis told Iowans just a day before he finished the caucuses without carrying a single county. DeSantis can only hope he'll return to a wonderful world as Florida's governor. It sure won't be Disney's. Read the original article on Business Insider A new poll of likely New Hampshire GOP primary voters shows Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis trailing behind former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and former President Trump with only 6 percent of support ahead of the states key primary on Tuesday. The CNN/University of New Hampshire (UNH) poll shows Haley with 39 percent support and Trump once again leading his opponents by double digits with 50 percent support. Trump increased his lead in New Hampshire compared with a CNN poll in January that showed him with 39 percent support and Haley with 32 percent. The pool of likely GOP primary voters in New Hampshire includes non-Republican affiliated voters, unlike other primaries. Among those who identify as Republicans in the Granite State, 63 percent support Trump, 25 percent support Haley and 8 percent support DeSantis. Overwhelmingly, Haley won the backing of self-described liberal/progressive/socialists, with 91 percent supporting her and 71 percent of self-described moderates backing her as well. Haley also wins among likely GOP primary voters who identify as Independent/Democrat, winning 73 percent of the vote to Trumps 20 percent. When looking at party registration, similarly, 58 percent of registered undeclared/not registered voters support Haley, while 30 percent support Trump and 4 percent support DeSantis. Among registered Republicans, 67 percent support Trump, 23 percent support Haley and 4 percent support DeSantis. The New Hampshire primary is set to take place this Tuesday, marking the second major presidential nominating contest after Iowa, which Trump won in a rout. Haley has risen to double-digit support ahead of DeSantis in recent polls. DeSantis, once seen as Trumps most formidable contender, has seen his support drop among Republican primary voters in recent weeks. Nationally, Trump is leading by 50 percentage points, according to Decision Desk HQs latest national polling average. The CNN/UNH poll was conducted online between Jan. 16 and Jan. 19 and included 2,348 respondents, including 1,242 likely 2024 Republican primary voters. The CNN poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 2.8 percentage points among likely GOP primary voters in New Hampshire. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Supporters of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis are more likely to support former President Trump as their second-choice candidate in New Hampshire than former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, according to a new poll. The poll from CNN/University of New Hampshire (UNH) was released just hours before DeSantis announced he would be dropping out of the 2024 presidential primary and endorsing Trump on Sunday. The poll found that 62 percent of likely GOP New Hampshire voters who selected DeSantis as their first-choice candidate chose Trump as their second-choice candidate, while 30 percent chose Haley as their alternate candidate. The poll comes just days before New Hampshire voters cast their ballots in the GOP primary election on Tuesday, where Haley is hoping to pull off an upset in the Granite State. Haley has gained on Trump in the state in recent weeks and is now trailing the former president by 11 percentage points, according to the CNN poll. The CNN poll showed Trump with 50 percent support and Haley with 39 percent as DeSantis polled significantly behind. The results of this poll suggest DeSantiss supporters in New Hampshire may help boost Trump in the state. However, the poll also found that just 6 percent of voters selected the Florida governor as their first-choice candidate. DeSantis endorsed Trump for the nomination in a video message Sunday. I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee and I will honor that pledge. He has my endorsement because we cant go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear: a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents, DeSantis said. The CNN/UNH poll was conducted between Jan. 16 and Jan. 19 among 2,348 respondents, including 1,242 likely 2024 Republican primary voters. The poll has a margin of error of 2.8 percentage points among likely New Hampshire GOP primary voters. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis didnt save the Republican Party after all, or America for that matter. Two days before the New Hampshire primary election, DeSantis suspended his campaign for president on Sunday. As he exited, he endorsed former President Donald J. Trump. Of course, he had no choice. The Florida governor tried to sell voters the idea that hes just like Trump, but more electable, more reasonable but also more conservative. That didnt work because, in the end, DeSantis brand wouldnt exist without MAGA. DeSantis departure from the Republican primary, which now leaves only Nikki Haley as a serious contender against Trump, marks the end of a political nosedive for our governor, once viewed as the strongest candidate who could end the Republican Partys addiction to Trump. He failed. His trademark culture wars, anti-COVID vaccine stance and opposition to government-mandated school closures werent enough to persuade voters in other parts of the country to back him. With his presidential pitch gone, and Trumps reemergence after his 91 criminal charges, DeSantis became a candidate without a cause. It was clear he couldnt survive much longer but DeSantis had vowed to stay in the race until Super Tuesday. His deflating 30-point loss to Trump in the Iowa caucuses last Monday had seemingly closed his path to the White House. And we all wondered: What was the point in staying in a losing race? In the video his campaign released announcing his decision he fell in line with the party of Trump: Trump is superior to the current incumbent, Joe Biden. That is clear. I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee, and I will honor that pledge. He has my endorsement because we cant go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear. Its not just that he was steamrolled by Donald Trump. DeSantis never appeared to want to save the GOP. He was more interested in making it a more ravenous, angrier and intolerant party. That worked for Trump, but didnt work for the governor with all the charisma of burned toast. DeSantis Florida Blueprint So now DeSantis presidential campaign has ended. But the damage of the laws he has pushed through in Florida, as he landed more appearances on Fox News, will live on. Without his political ambitions, there likely wouldnt be Dont say gay, woke wars and the waste of state resources to fight meaningless battles against drag queen bars. These were efforts to appeal to Trumps base but his supporters refused to leave the former president, especially after he was indicted. DeSantis hard-right stances on issues like abortion and the Ukraine war which he once called a territorial dispute before walking that comment back alienated moderate voters. In the end, DeSantis became a candidate without a lane. What an outcome for a Florida governor who established himself as the dominant figure in state politics and who had the Legislature under his thumb. In the past two years, lawmakers have given DeSantis most of his priorities, often with little vetting, resulting in laws that are ambiguous and confusing, perhaps by design. With his White House aspirations over at least for now, because he could try again in 2028 DeSantis returns to the Sunshine State to finish the final three years of his second term. In hindsight, it is now clear the young governor, whos only 45, was a man in a hurry too much of a hurry. Glorified by the media as Trumps heir apparent and buoyed by his legislative successes, DeSantis soon proved he wasnt ready for prime time. He refused to engage with mainstream media, a strategy that worked for him as governor, until he felt forced to give more attention to outlets like CNN and network news. But that was too late. There was also a barrage of negative news coverage of his imploding campaign, rumors about whether he wore hidden height boosters in his cowboy boots and, more than anything, his struggle to connect with voters. DeSantis could have pitched a kinder form of conservatism or at least a more reasonable version. Instead, he banked on exploiting divisions in our country. As he bows out, DeSantis leaves the Republican Party exactly as he found it, under Trumps dominance. Click here to send the letter. Donald Trumps campaign said he was honoured to be endorsed by Ron DeSantis, after the Florida governor dropped out of the Republican primary race on Sunday and admitted he did not have a clear path forward to victory. In a surprise move, Mr DeSantis suspended his campaign two days before the New Hampshire primary vote, where he was expected to suffer heavy losses to both Mr Trump and Nikki Haley. In a statement posted on X on Sunday afternoon, Mr DeSantis gave Mr Trump his endorsement for the presidency, referencing his earlier promise to support any Republican nominee in the general election. Its clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance, he said, adding that while he had disagreements with the former president, he was a better choice than Joe Biden. He criticised Ms Haley, who polls show is currently in second place in the state, declaring that her corporatism would make her a poor president. Mr DeSantis thanked his family and campaign staff, and repeated the themes of his campaign. We launched this campaign to bring accountability to government, regain sovereignty at our border and restore sanity to our society, he said. We cannot succeed as a country if we allow our nation to be invaded, our currency to be debased, our cities to crumble and our kids to be indoctrinated. The DC elites who facilitated this mess, do not care about you, and they do not work for you. Nikki Haley gestures to indicate a two person race during a campaign event at Exeter High School - Al Drago Welcoming the endorsement, Mr Trumps campaign said: With only a few days left until President Donald J. Trumps victory in New Hampshire, we are honored by the endorsement from Governor Ron DeSantis and so many other former presidential candidates. It is now time for all Republicans to rally behind President Trump to defeat Crooked Joe Biden and end his disastrous presidency. Mr Trump himself added that his derogatory nickname for his rival - Ron DeSanctimonius - was officially retired. Ms Haley said Mr DeSantis has run a great race and repeated her campaign message that the primary was now a contest between her and Mr Trump. She said: All the fellas are out, and this comes down to: What do you want? Do you want more of the same? Or do you want something different? Read all the updates below to see how the news unfolded 11:46 PM GMT A summary of tonight's news Were closing this blog now, but here is a reminder of what has happened this evening. 11:24 PM GMT Ron DeSantis on wokery and Britain - in The Telegraph As Ron DeSantiss presidential dream comes to an end (for now), its a good time to share this interview from last year, with Allister Heath. In the piece, the Florida governor talks wokery, Disney and why Britain feels like a second home to him. You can read it here. 11:07 PM GMT What happens to DeSantis supporters now? Ron DeSantis was seen as a distant third-place finisher in New Hampshire even before ending his campaign today. The Florida governor visited the state for the first time as a major 2024 primary candidate in June. After his 30-point drubbing in Iowa, where he had committed most of his time and resources, he surrendered New Hampshire before a single vote was cast. Mr DeSantis actually spent the weekend campaigning in South Carolina, which hosts its primary election in five weeks. But dismal poll numbers dont mean DeSantis had no support at all in New Hampshire. With him having aimed for the most conservative factions in the GOP coalition and then endorsing Donald Trump, its possible his formal departure adds votes to the former presidents vote totals. Could that be the difference between Trump managing a narrow victory over Haley or garnering a clear majority that he then uses to declare the nomination a done deal before Haley gets her home-state shot at him? 10:05 PM GMT Ron DeSantis reckoned Republicans had tired of Trump he was wrong Ron DeSantis had reckoned on a Republican Party that had tired of the 77-year-old, criminally indicted Mr Trump, but it took just one state to vote in the partys nomination contest to shatter that illusion. He staked all on Iowa, a state where evangelical Christians decide its victors. He championed family values with his central casting wife and children in tow, and a dedication to service as he stressed his military career. Read Rozina Saburs take on how the Florida governor went from chief Trump challenger to yesterdays man in one vote. 09:49 PM GMT Republican hardliner leader endorses Donald Trump minutes after DeSantis withdraws Bob Good, the chairman of the hard-right House Freedom Caucus, has issued a statement endorsing Donald Trump just minutes after Ron DeSantis suspended his campaign. I want to thank Ron DeSantis for the outstanding campaign that he ran, and for being such a tremendous conservative leader. We all owe him our appreciation for putting the country first, and recognizing that it is time to rally behind President Trump as our 2024 nominee. Bob Good for Congress (@GoodForCongress) January 21, 2024 09:43 PM GMT Trump: I'm retiring 'Ron DeSanctimonius' nickname Heres a video from the campaign trail in New Hampshire, where Donald Trump tells a reporter he will no longer call Ron DeSantis by his favourite nickname - Ron DeSanctimonius. NEW - Trump says Ron DeSantis nickname is officially retired. pic.twitter.com/OjvNfnRgw1 Townhall.com (@townhallcom) January 21, 2024 09:37 PM GMT Trump posts poll showing he would beat Biden and Haley would lose In his only direct reaction to the news - other than a statement from his campaign - Donald Trump has posted a poll showing he would be more likely to beat Joe Biden in a head-to-head race. The graphic is designed to dispel one of Mr Haleys main campaign lines - that she would beat Mr Biden by a landslide, while Mr Trump and Mr Biden are even and within the margin of error. Donald Trump's post on Truth Social on Sunday 09:32 PM GMT Trump campaign: We are honoured to have DeSantis endorsement Here is the full statement released by the Trump campaign just now: With only a few days left until President Donald J. Trumps victory in New Hampshire, we are honoured by the endorsement from Governor Ron DeSantis and so many other former presidential candidates. It is now time for all Republicans to rally behind President Trump to defeat Crooked Joe Biden and end his disastrous presidency. Nikki Haley is the candidate of the globalists and Democrats who will do everything to stop the America First movement. From higher taxes, to decimating Social Security and Medicare, and to open borders, she represents the views of Democrats more than the views of Republicans. Its time to choose wisely. 09:15 PM GMT Nikki Haley reacts: 'He ran a great race' Nikki Haley has said Ron DeSantis ran a great race as she told a crowd in New Hampshire: Theres now one fella, and one lady left. Speaking to supporters on a campaign stop, she said: He ran a great race, he was a good governor, and we wish him well. Having said that, there were fourteen people in this race. There were a lot of fellas. All the fellas are out, and this comes down to: What do you want? Do you want more of the same? Or do you want something different? 09:00 PM GMT Trump campaign reacts by attacking Nikki Haley The Trump campaign swiftly turned its fire onto Nikki Haley and what it described as her dopy chief surrogate, New Hampshire governor Chris Sununu, writes David Millward. If Nikki Haley loses in New Hampshire - there are only two options, the campaign said in an email to supporters. Option A: Nikki Haley drops out, unites behind President Trump, and commits to defeating Joe Biden (where, in the latest Harvard-Harris poll, Trump bests Biden by double the margin a now-fictional Haley vs. Biden match-up would be). Option B: Nikki Haley prepares to be absolutely DEMOLISHED and EMBARASSED in her home state of South Carolina after she gets zippo votes or delegates in Nevada, because Haley entered the Nevada Primary, rather than the Nevada Caucus, where 100% of the states delegates are actually awarded. 08:59 PM GMT Never Back Down backs down Never Back Down - the Super PAC supporting Ron DeSantiss presidential bid - has released a statement on his withdrawal from the race. Like him, they note that he had promised to support the successful Republican nominee, and appear to suggest this is the only reason he is now backing Donald Trump. The group also refers to Mr DeSantis as THE conservative candidate, in a swipe at the former president. Ron DeSantis continues to do for Republicans across America what he has done for everyone in Florida - keep his promises. Governor DeSantis kept every promise he made to Florida voters, and as THE conservative candidate for President, he promised to support the #GOP nominee. https://t.co/IHrooB6ikG Never Back Down (@NvrBackDown24) January 21, 2024 08:53 PM GMT Expert reaction: DeSantis had everything and threw it away It is kind of amazing how poorly the DeSantis 2024 campaign went, Christopher Galdieri, professor of politics at Saint Anselm College in New Hampshire, told my colleague David Millward. He spent from the start of Covid into his second term as the one true Trump alternative, he would offer everything people liked about Trump without the chaos, but it just didnt come together. A lot of the hard core culture war stuff he was doing was not appealing to mainstream Americans. It gave Trump the opportunity to appear more reasonable. 08:51 PM GMT Ron DeSantis channels Churchill - or does he? DeSantis drops out of the race on Sunday evening - REUTERS This afternoons video on X came with a short message from the Florida governor, apparently quoting Winston Churchill. Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts, he wrote. While the campaign is obviously not continuing, the quote may be a nod at a possible run for Mr DeSantis in the 2028 presidential race. There are already Republican strategists who believe he wasted his campaign this time, and should have waited until Donald Trump was out of the frame. Alas, the quote appears to be apocryphal. The International Churchill Society says on its website that the former prime minister never said those words, after careful research in the canon of fifty million words by and about Churchill, including all of his books, articles, speeches and papers. 08:42 PM GMT What does this mean for Nikki Haley? Cheers: Nikki Haley in New Hampshire today, before the exit of Ron DeSantis from the primary - Getty Images North America/Joe Raedle The surprise exit of Ron DeSantis, two days before the Republican primary, is a boost for Nikki Haley. For days she has been telling audiences that the primary is a two-horse race between her and Donald Trump - but now that is actually true. However, there is unlikely to be much crossover between her supporters and his, and this result is more likely to entrench Mr Trumps lead even further. The battle for her campaign will now be to convince Trump sceptics in the Republican Party, and maybe even some of his supporters, that she would do a better job. 08:38 PM GMT DeSantis's exit statement was as full of slogans as his campaign Ron DeSantis had become known for his love of aggressive slogans about woke culture and the Washington elite, and his video withdrawing from the Republican primary race provided a few more of them. He took some time to tell his supporters that he was dropping out - first delivering a short speech about what he believed he achieved and the purpose of his campaign. We launched this campaign to bring accountability to government, regain sovereignty at our border and restore sanity to our society, he said. We cannot succeed as a country if we allow our nation to be invaded, our currency to be debased, our cities to crumble and our kids to be indoctrinated. The DC elites who facilitated this mess, do not care about you, and they do not work for you, he continued. They work for themselves. They seek to accumulate power at your expense, to pursue an agenda that is harmful to the American people. Citizens do not serve politicians. It is the duty of politicians to serve you. 08:35 PM GMT Ron DeSantis didn't stand a chance in New Hampshire The latest polling from New Hampshire was not looking good for Ron DeSantis. Although he came second in Iowa -- by a whisker -- his campaign had dedicated almost all of its resources to the first state in the hope of gaining some momentum. The dominance of Donald Trump in Iowa and his poor polling numbers in later states has clearly forced the Florida governors hand. Here is how the polls looked as of this morning: 08:29 PM GMT Ron DeSantis's video in full Here is Ron DeSantiss full video, in which he announces he is withdrawing from the Republican primary race. Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts. - Winston Churchill pic.twitter.com/ECoR8YeiMm Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantis) January 21, 2024 08:28 PM GMT DeSantis gives lukewarm endorsement of Trump Ron DeSantiss statement supporting Donald Trump is hardly a ringing endorsement of his old rival. While Ive had disagreements with Donald Trump, such as on the coronavirus pandemic and his elevation of Anthony Fauci, Trump is superior to the current incumbent Joe Biden, he said. I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee and I will honour that pledge. He has my endorsement because we cant go back to the old Republican Guard of yesteryear, or repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents. The days of putting Americans last, of kowtowing to large corporations, of caving to woke ideology, are over. 08:16 PM GMT 'The end is near' The first sign that Mr DeSantis was planning to withdraw came on Saturday night, when he cancelled two scheduled media interviews on CNN and NBC, while Never Back Down, his Super PAC, cancelled events in New Hampshire, citing scheduling issues. Mr Trumps campaign seized on the apparent turmoil in Mr DeSantiss camp, with staff posting online that the end is near. 08:15 PM GMT Set for just six per cent of vote in New Hampshire Mr DeSantiss decision came as polls showed he was expected to receive around six per cent of votes in the New Hampshire primary, where Mr Trump and Ms Haley are competing for first place. His campaign has suffered in recent days following a disappointing performance in the Iowa caucuses last Tuesday, where he secured 21 per cent of the vote and only narrowly beat Ms Haley. Mr DeSantis had poured significant resources into Iowa, hoping to be in contention to win the vote or close that gap between himself and Mr Trump, who won a landslide. 08:14 PM GMT DeSantis quits and backs Trump Ron DeSantis has withdrawn from the Republican primary race, leaving just Donald Trump and Nikki Haley battling for the nomination ahead of New Hampshires primary on Tuesday. The Florida governor said he did not have a clear path to victory and was suspending his campaign to endorse Donald Trump. In a video posted on X, he said that while he had had disagreements with Donald Trump, he was superior to the current incumbent, Joe Biden. He has my endorsement because we cant go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear, he said. Following our second place finish in Iowa, weve prayed and deliberated on the way forward, he said. If there was anything I could do to produce a more favourable outcome more campaign stops, more interviews I would do it. But I cant ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources if we dont have a clear path to victory. Accordingly, I am now suspending my campaign. 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. Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that he is dropping out of the presidential race Sunday, ending the long-held ambitions of the man whom his backers previously deemed Americas Governor and who had positioned himself as the torchbearer for the next generation of Republican leadership. DeSantis made the announcement in a video posted to the social media site X just before 3 p.m. Following our second-place finish in Iowa, weve prayed and deliberated on the way forward. If there was anything I could do to produce a favorable outcome ... I would do it, he said. But I cant ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources if we dont have a clear path to victory. Accordingly, I am, today, suspending my campaign. In the video, DeSantis threw his support behind former President Donald Trump, despite ramping up his attacks against Trump on the campaign trail. While Ive had disagreements with Donald Trump, such as on the coronavirus pandemic and his elevation of Anthony Fauci, Trump is superior to the current incumbent, Joe Biden. That is clear, DeSantis said. I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee, and I will honor that pledge. He has my endorsement because we cant go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear, a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism that (former South Carolina Gov.) Nikki Haley represents. The move suggests his team saw no viable path forward after placing a distant second behind Trump in the Iowa caucuses on Jan. 15, a state on which DeSantis had staked his campaign. It was an unceremonious end to a campaign that previously had soaring expectations following DeSantis landslide 2022 reelection victory, a win that prompted many observers to predict that DeSantis could be the front-runner for the 2024 Republican nomination. Some early polls in late 2022 and early 2023 showed DeSantis leading Trump, in some cases by double digits. But the reality was quite different. Even after DeSantis campaign and supportive super PACs spent more than $100 million including money spent to promote DeSantis in states that will now vote after he has dropped out Floridas governor could not pry Republican primary voters from Trump. DeSantis was not expected to fare well in New Hampshires primary on Tuesday. DeSantis had consistently fallen into fourth place in that state in publicly available polls, behind Trump, Haley and ex-New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, before the latter dropped out. DeSantis departure highlights how difficult the path may be for Haley in trying to loosen Trumps grip on the party, even as the former president faces unprecedented criminal indictments. Haley was stumping in Seabrook, New Hampshire, on Sunday when she learned DeSantis had dropped out. Haley and DeSantis had been locked in a political brawl for months as it became clear they were in a heated battle for second place. I want to say to Ron, he ran a great race, hes been a good governor, and we wish him well, Haley said to the voters at her event, according to a video posted to social media. Having said that, its now one fella and one lady left, she said to cheers. In a statement, Trumps campaign bashed Haley and called for all Republicans to rally behind President Trump to defeat Crooked Joe Biden and end his disastrous presidency. Speaking at his campaigns Manchester, New Hampshire, office, Trump on Sunday told reporters that his favorite nickname for DeSantis, Ron DeSanctimonious, was officially retired. Less than 24 hours before he dropped out, DeSantis had packed a town hall in Lexington, South Carolina his third Palmetto State stop of the day where he reiterated his stance that he would not accept the role of Trumps vice president. He also addressed the prospect of endorsing the former president. (Trump) expects everyone to endorse him, DeSantis told supporters. And if you dont, you could be the most conservative, successful elected official in America, and he will trash you. Within hours of DeSantis campaign suspension, several state lawmakers who had endorsed DeSantis for president announced they were switching their support to Trump. Nobody will work harder than I will in making sure we return President Donald J. Trump to the White House, state Sen. Blaise Ingoglia posted on X, days after hed flown to frigid Iowa to campaign for DeSantis. Lets gooooooo!!!! Just earlier in the day on Sunday, DeSantis campaign sent out a text to supporters asking them to make your voice heard with Ron DeSantis. And DeSantis had several events lined up in New Hampshire leading up to Tuesdays primary, as well as Sunday appearances on NBCs Meet the Press and CNNs State of the Union. When he pulled out of those interviews Saturday evening, spokesperson Bryan Griffin posted on X that it was because of a scheduling issue and that DeSantis would be traveling to New Hampshire Sunday morning for public events scheduled Sunday evening through Tuesday. Once news broke that DeSantis was suspending his campaign, Griffin wrote that his Saturday post was true at the time, and that DeSantis decision was made today after rerouted travel to Florida to make it at home with family. While his bid for president may be over, DeSantis will still be the chief executive of Florida through 2026. What was less clear, though, is how DeSantis once-enormous clout in Tallahassee could be impacted by this loss in the national arena. His ridiculous obsession with the presidency has had real consequences here, from his refusal to address our property insurance and affordability crises to the effects of his made-up culture wars, said Nikki Fried, the chairperson of the Florida Democratic Party. His lack of people skills and political instincts not to mention complete inability to surround himself with a competent team finally brought him to the most predictable place we could imagine: a whimper of an ending almost as embarrassing as his failure to launch in May. At his final campaign stop Saturday night, DeSantis took questions from the audience for about an hour before shaking hands and posing for photos with supporters near the stage. He left with a wave, saying thank you as Fleetwood Macs Dont Stop played overhead. Times/Herald Tallahassee bureau reporter Romy Ellenbogen contributed to this report. The first lady: Casey DeSantis: The X-factor in Florida governors inner circle Tampa Bay governor: Ron DeSantis Tampa Bay hometown has evolved. Does it still claim him? Running for the White House while running the state: DeSantis faces a tough road to be president. Just ask other governors. Looking back: For DeSantis, 2023 didnt go as planned. He still left his mark on Florida. Ukrainian troops have withdrawn from the village of Krokhmalne in Kharkiv Oblast to pre-prepared positions where they are holding the line, Volodymyr Fitio, public relations head of the Ukrainian Ground Forces, announced during the national telethon program on Jan. 21. The seizure of the village has no strategic value, he said. About 45 people lived in Krokhmalne before the full-scale invasion. During the fighting, Russia destroyed the residential buildings in the village. Read also: Russia intensifies attacks in Kupyansk sector, over 550 shells fired at villages and Ukrainian military positions in 24 hours "A few hundred meters do not matter at all. It is temporary. The defenders have withdrawn to prepared fortifications," he stated. Fighting along the front continues and Ukrainian Defense Forces are prioritizing saving the lives of Ukrainian soldiers. Read also: Russian forces continue offensive despite decreased attacks in Kupyansk sector Ground Forces also noted that Russian propaganda loudly celebrates the capture of every meter, in order to demonstrate their "victories" and justify huge losses at the front. Since the beginning of January alone, Russia has lost more than 7,000 troops in the Khortytsia area alone, said Fitio. The village of Krokhmalne in the Kupyansk district of Kharkiv Oblast was occupied by Russians at the beginning of the invasion in 2022. During the Kharkiv offensive, the Defense Forces recaptured the village. The U.S.-based Institute for the Study of War published a new report on Jan. 21 stating that Russian forces had indeed advanced along the Kupyansk-Svatove-Kreminna line and captured Krokhmalne. Geolocation footage also indicates that Russian troops have slightly advanced east of Ivanivka and east of Zolotarivka. Russian troops have also advanced southwest of Bakhmut and on the southern outskirts of Avdiivka, ISW wrote. The General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces reported on Jan. 21 that 80 clashes took place on the frontline over the day, most of them in the Kupyansk and Avdiivka sectors. OpenStreetMap 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 TERREBONNE PARISH, La. (WGNO) The Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux has announced the death of Bishop Mario Dorsonville. Officials with the diocese made the announcement Saturday, saying Dorsonville died on Friday, Jan. 19, after ongoing health complications related to liver disease. Months after I-55 pileup in St. John the Baptist Parish, crash victim gifts plaque to man who saved her life According to the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux website, Dorsonville was appointed as the Fifth Bishop of the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux in February of 2023 and was installed in March 2023. Diocesan leaders said the College of Consultors will hold a meeting on Monday, Jan. 22, to choose a Diocesan Administrator to lead the diocese until a new bishop is selected by Pope Francis. Officials said funeral arrangements are being made with a date expected later in January. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO. Kia Pulford Stone only became a full-time officer with Merseyside Police the same month that the offences occurred A disgraced police officer who admitted assault by beating and criminal damage left her force before she could be sacked. Kia Pulford Stone, who was a police constable based in Merseyside, was charged following separate incidents which took place in Wigan, Greater Manchester, on March 4 and March 16, 2023. She assaulted a woman and in the second incident damaged the same victims Vauxhall Adam car. Pulford Stone, from Wigan, pleaded guilty to both offences at Manchester Magistrates Court during October 2023. She only became a full-time officer with Merseyside Police the same month that the offences had occurred, according to her LinkedIn profile. Pulford Stone has been blocked from taking on a policing role in Britain by being added to the College of Policing Barred List. During Merseyside Polices Professional Standards Department hearing, chaired by Chief Constable Serena Kennedy earlier this month, it was concluded that Pulford Stone would have been sacked for gross misconduct had she remained with the force. Ms Kennedy, in a decision notice posted by the force, wrote: The evidence in this case is incontrovertible and the former officer entered a guilty plea and was convicted by a court on October 26 2023. Blocked from policing roles in Britain I also note that this was not a one-off occasion - the victim was subjected to an assault and then damage was caused to her car. As a result, I am satisfied that former officer Pulford Stone has breached the standards of professional behaviour, namely discreditable conduct. The communities of Merseyside should quite rightly be able to have trust and confidence that the officers and staff working for Merseyside Police not only uphold the law but also abide by the law. The former officer has completely disregarded the standards expected both by the force and the communities of Merseyside by committing and being convicted of a criminal offence. Pulford Stone has been blocked from taking on a policing role in Britain by being added to the College of Policing Barred List. Det Supt Cheryl Rhodes, from Merseysides Professional Standards Department, said: Merseyside Police is committed to ensuring that everyone meets the high expectations of the public and when they dont we will take robust action. Our officers are the public face of Merseyside Police and it is vital that our communities feel confident that we will hold officers and staff to account when required. Merseyside Police rightly takes a zero-tolerance approach to anyone who commits assault or causes criminal damage. The unacceptable action of individuals will not be allowed to damage the good name built up by the vast majority of our officers and staff who do an exemplary job and work day in, day out to ensure that all of our communities are protected. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer. San Antonio ISD Superintendent Jaime Aquino said "there will be warm and appropriate learning spaces for our staff and students" when the district reopens on Monday. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News The San Antonio Independent School District will welcome back students Monday after a disastrous week of heating failures, cancelled classes and executive resignations. The 98 campuses that were closed last week due to malfunctioning heat systems will reopen on Monday, according to a message posted on the districts website. As of Saturday, every school had received multiple visits and temperature analyses by technicians. We are extremely grateful to the many contractors, city entities and other school districts who joined our staff to restore our heating system, Superintendent Jaime Aquino said in the statement. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The announcement comes after a rapid response effort that involved as many as 50 technicians a day, including district staff, contractors, government agencies and volunteers from other school districts, according to a news release. Organizations that offered assistance include North East ISD, Lackland ISD, TDIndustries, Brandt, M-Tech, Gillette, Columbia Contracting, Maximum AC and Mueller & Wilson. The district said it also procured portable climate-control units to prevent any future shutdowns. The crisis began Tuesday when complaints about frigid classrooms circulated on social media when classes resumed amid an arctic blast following the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. In a statement released that evening, Aquino apologized for the districts inadequate preparations for the citys coldest weather since February 2021. Todays return to the classroom during this cold weather was not as successful as we had planned, he wrote. Our preparations fell short today, and I am deeply sorry. District officials closed nearly a third of its campuses the next day due to heating failures, with some of the closures being announced in the early hours of the morning and others after classes had already started. All SAISD schools were closed Thursday and Friday to check heating systems and address water problems related to burst pipes. Advertisement Article continues below this ad During a press conference on Wednesday, Aquino said about 70 percent of the district had experienced failures of heating systems, with anywhere from 20 percent to 100 percent of those buildings unable to receive appropriate heat. On Friday, he announced the resignation of two high-ranking SAISD executives: Deputy Superintendent of Operations Ken Thompson and Chief of Operations Mike Eaton. In a video posted on the district's website, Aquino ensured families that a safe reopening of schools is the districts priority and that, while there may be some areas that require further attention, students and staff will be in areas with adequate temperature. The Biden administration has warned that a key nutrition assistance program will face a significant funding shortfall this year, potentially preventing millions of low-income women and children from receiving necessary benefits. Unless Congress provides an additional $1 billion, participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, also known as WIC, may be pushed onto waiting lists, or could lose their benefits altogether. On Thursday, Congress passed a stopgap funding measure to keep the government funded through March; however, it did not include additional funding for WIC. Its still unclear whether Congress will be able to finalize the appropriations bill for the U.S. Department of Agriculture before the new deadline of March 1or whether that measure will include the $1 billion needed to make up for WICs funding shortfall. Senator Patty Murray, the chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, indicated that keeping WIC funded would be a priority as lawmakers continue to finalize spending bills in the coming weeks. As Ive said repeatedly: Failing to fully fund WIC for the first time ever is not acceptable to meand as we continue working to negotiate and pass full-year spending bills, I am fighting to ensure WIC has the resources it needs to keep serving eligible families and help kids thrive, just as it has for decades, Murray said in a statement. The program, which is celebrating its fiftieth anniversary this year, has historically been a bipartisan priority. Because it is not an entitlement program, WIC needs to be funded annually. Congress has passed sufficient WIC funding on a bipartisan basis every year since 1997, meaning that the current struggle over the program is unprecedented in the twenty-first century. For the first time in this millennium, WIC is in danger of having to turn families away from the program, said Nell Menefee-Libey, the senior public policy manager at the National WIC Association. Congress kicking the can down the road twice now means that there would be a much smaller portion of the fiscal year left to make up a funding shortfall. The previous short-term government funding measures passed in the fall of last year granted USDA additional flexibilities to ensure WIC remained fully funded; this came after USDA told Congress that more funding was needed. As the agency and states are spending money at a faster rate to keep the program afloat through March, USDA has warned the shocks will be even greater at the end of the fiscal year when those resources are expended. The $1 billion shortfall would be equivalent to around a month and a half of benefits for all WIC recipients, and six months of benefits for all pregnant women and infants. Without the funds to keep up with current demand, many states will likely implement waiting lists. The move would have a staggered impact on different populations of recipients: It will initially affect postpartum mothers who are not breastfeeding, followed by children ages 1 through 5 who dont have serious health issues, and finally pregnant and breastfeeding women and their infants. But even these cost-reduction measures may not be enough to close the funding gap; certain participants could see their benefits suspended or even discontinued. The Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, a left-leaning policy research organization, estimates that roughly two million eligible parents and children could be turned away from the program by September if the current funding levels for WIC are not extended. The seeming lack of bipartisan urgency on keeping WIC fully funded could be attributed in part to larger struggles over government funding. Many hard-line conservative Republicans in the House have complained that the continuing resolutions keeping the government funded have not made more dramatic cuts to non-defense programs. Additional funding for WIC has now also been entwined in the public consciousness with pandemic relief spending, said Kelly Horton, the chief program officer at the Food Research and Action Center. As coronavirus relief measures approved by Congress included flexibilities to streamline WIC enrollment and an increase in cash voucher amounts, politicians may associate new funds for WIC with continuing emergency pandemic fundinga particularly unpopular prospect on the right, which believes there should be a return to pre-pandemic spending. The vital nutrients that are provided with WIC, particularly through the fruits and veggie voucher program, theyre really essential, and they make the program palatable and of interest to moms and their kids, said Horton. Unfortunately, thats gotten caught up in the rollback of everything that was happening during the pandemic. And I think folks have lost sight of the fact that were talking about hunger with moms and kids. WIC is a critical program for the nations low-income mothers and young children; in 2022, nearly 40 percent of all infants in the United States received WIC benefits. Research has found that maternal WIC participation is associated with a lower risk of preterm delivery and infant mortality, increased preventive care and better cognitive development for children, and purchasing of healthier foods for mothers and children. The program helps participants buy certain food items, and provides vouchers for pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding parents to purchase fruits and vegetables. It also offers breastfeeding support and health care screenings and referrals. Emily Church, a mother living in Millfield, Ohio, has relied on WIC in the infancy and early childhood of both of her children: her son Kayson, now 19, and her 3-year-old daughter, Myles Mae. The package includes $26 in cash [vouchers], fruits and vegetables, eggs, milk, cheese, and peanut butterI often say, its close to probably at least an $80 value, if not more, when all is said and done, Church said. But Church, who is employed at a local creamery and is currently working on her bachelors degree, relies on WIC for more than financial assistance. It provides resources such as recipes and health and wellness tips, and tracks her daughters milestones. When her son was born, WIC specialists taught her how to breastfeed. As she is no longer breastfeeding, Church worries that her family would be first on the chopping block if WIC is not fully funded. It makes me feel fearful. It makes me feel angry, Church said. Im already working and doing everything I can to make ends meet, and trying to better myself along the way. And you know, thats a lot for my budget to be gone. Despite its importance, WIC is often underutilized by the population that needs it most. A recent report by USDA found that WIC served just over 51 percent of those eligible in 2021. (However, preliminary data shows an increase in WIC participation in 2023.) There are already some challenges to participating in WIC, including the inability to buy WIC-approved items online, although some states have launched pilot programs to allow for electronic purchase. There are also stringent requirements for stores to participate in WIC, including some larger stores, which may not carry WIC-approved brands or meet program criteria. Moreover, nine statesincluding Ohioare offline states, meaning that participants must physically visit a WIC office to load their benefits onto their cards. (Those states also tend to have a lower participation rate compared to the national average.) There are efforts in Congress to improve access to WIC, including bipartisan legislation that would allow participants to certify their eligibility for the program online. Representative Brian Fitzpatrick, the bills Republican lead co-sponsor in the House, said that he hoped the bill could be attached to a larger legislative vehicle in the future. Its the right thing to do, but also it makes sense from an economic standpoint as well, because its the most efficient way to take care of this problem, Fitzpatrick said about the efficacy of WIC in serving low-income families. However, while advocates outside of Congress would like to expand and streamline WIC to make it easier to access, keeping the program afloat is the first priority. As long as the house is on fire, we cant really think about renovating, Menefee-Libey said. The states that have the highest participation rates could run out of resources more quickly. In North Carolina, for example, where more than 60 percent of those eligible participated in WIC in 2021, state Health and Human Services Secretary Kody H. Kinsley said, federal funding has already forced us to implement cost-saving measures to manage the WIC program under continuing resolutions. If funding for this program continues to be starved, implementation of additional cost-savings measures may be necessary, including the possibility of a waitlist for some participants or making immediate program cuts, Kinsley said in a statement. WIC services are critical for ensuring a healthy start for North Carolina children, and not fully funding it would have long-term fiscal impacts to the program and long-term consequences for families and children that will not be able to access healthy food. Horton also noted that many WIC agencies were still understaffed in the wake of the pandemic, which has contributed to an increased waiting time for applications to be processed. Weve heard of various states where people are waiting for hours on the telephone line to get an appointment to get in to get their benefits, said Horton. Lack of funding could also contribute to lower rates of participation in the WIC: If mothers knew they could be placed on a waiting list, it may further discourage eligible people from enrolling. However, while the threat of being pushed onto a waiting list may discourage some enrollment, it could also push many families into relying ever more on food banks while they wait to obtain benefits. We think when somebody is trying to feed their family, theyre going to do everything they can. So they may get on the waitlist, and then theyre going to do what they can to get their family food, and its just going to be more frustrating for them, Horton continued. Church, the WIC participant in Ohio, speaks publicly about what the program means to her family because she wants lawmakers to understand its importanceand encourage them to take the impending shortfall seriously. I would just implore them to look at why WIC exists, and the impact that it makes in so many peoples lives, she said. AUSTIN (KXAN) The nearly 600-page report released by the Department of Justice on the handling of the Robb Elementary School mass shooting in Uvalde included information KXAN revealed about the Texas Department of Public Safety. The report was a critical-incident review of the shooting that left 19 students and two teachers dead. Themes throughout that report included leadership failures as well as a lack of communication and collaboration related to the investigation as it unfolded. The report cited two KXAN reports in its bibliography. The first was from KXAN Investigator Kelly Wiley that published four months after the shooting. It covered emails from the Texas Department of Public Safety director showing the agency changed its active shooter policy following the school shooting in Uvalde where 19 kids and two teachers were killed. KXAN Uvalde School Shooting coverage KXAN Capitol Correspondent Monica Maddens article from February 2023, revealing No More DPS Officers Will Be Disciplined for Uvalde Shooting Response, Director Says, was also cited in the DOJs report. Maddens reporting covered how only two Texas Department of Public Safety employees were disciplined for their response to the shooting. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. Three teenagers are accused of ambushing and killing a Dominos pizza delivery driver, Wisconsin officials say. Officers found 33-year-old Antoine Gee Jr. lying dead on Milwaukees northwest side on the night of Jan. 10, police told WITI. He was wearing a Dominos jacket, investigators said, and they found a paper receipt near his body which led police to the store location hed been sent from moments earlier. Gee was unknowingly walking into a trap set by three 17-year-old boys, according to a criminal complaint filed Jan. 19 in Milwaukee County. Surveillance video shows Gee walking toward three figures dressed in black clothing when a struggle breaks out, officials said. One of the figures pulls out a gun and fires six shots, then the group of three runs away, leaving Gee lying motionless on a median, according to investigators. A witness told police he heard the boys talking to each other earlier in the night while gathered in a basement. One mentioned they wanted a pizza and that they were going to snatch it, officials said. After ordering the pizza, the group left and later returned to the home in a frenzied state, running around like wild animals and (turning) off all of the lights, according to investigators. The witness said one of the teens had a pizza delivery bag, documents read. Video of the shooting showed one of Gees attackers running away with his pizza bag, officials said. Gees family called his death senseless, WISN reported. These are kids that did this. And you took away a good one for nothing, Jerome Avery Sr., Gees uncle, told the outlet. When you took him, you didnt just ruin his life, you ruined a community. The three teens, whom McClatchy News is not naming because they are minors, are all charged with murder, officials say. Thought I was dead. Teen beats janitor who wont let him into school, TX officials say Dad runs from crash that killed daughter and injured his family, Oklahoma cops say Man accused of killing missing mom who was witness in murder case, Texas cops say Employee accused of raping job applicant in bathroom keeps job, Texas lawsuit says The cellist who performed at the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has said Rule, Britannia! should be axed from the Last Night of the Proms. Sheku Kanneh-Mason, who became a household name at just 19 after performing at the royal event, said that some dont realise how uncomfortable a song like that can make a lot of people feel. His comments are likely to reignite the long-running debate over the singing of the patriotic anthem, which critics say has uncomfortable associations with slavery and Britains colonial past. In 2020 the BBC provoked an outcry when it revealed a plan to perform the song without lyrics, a decision that was reversed one day after Tim Davie took over as the corporations director general. The performance of Rule Britannia is always accompanied by vociferous flag waving. Speaking to Lauren Laverne on BBC Radio 4s Desert Island Discs, Kanneh-Mason said: I dont think it should be included and I didnt stay for that. Thats just my opinion. I think, maybe, some people dont realise how uncomfortable a song like that can make a lot of people feel, even if it makes them feel good. I think thats somehow a big misunderstanding about it. He has previously suggested that the Last Night instead focus on folk tunes, although he conceded it would be probably not as popular. Kanneh-Mason said he did not feel overly nervous playing at the royal wedding despite it being broadcast to millions Kanneh-Mason performed at 2023s Last Night alongside conductor Marin Alsop, who made history in 2013 as the first woman to lead the occasion. He performed Maz Bruchs Kol Nidrei, and a Samuel Coleridge-Taylor arrangement of Deep River. The cellist also spoke about his experience as a young black classical music artist and said there were occasions he had not been taken seriously. Very often, in the spaces that I was in within classical music, myself and my family were very often the only black people in those places, he said. Most of the time it was fine in the sense I felt comfortable and all good but there was certainly occasions where my being black meant that I wasnt necessarily taken seriously in some situations. He said he was able to deal with prejudice from the example of black role models, such as Muhammad Ali. No nerves What gave me the strength in those situations is, we would spend a lot of time as children watching documentaries of real black heroes succeeding and being challenged and overcoming. The 24-year-old from Nottingham, who won the BBC Young Musician 2016 award, has said he was not affected by nerves when his performance at the 2018 royal wedding in St Georges Chapel, Windsor was broadcast around the world. I think at the time of performing, it felt like very much just playing to the people in the room, he said. He added: I think in terms of nervousness, Im more nervous for my cello lesson, because I know that my teacher listens in (a) certain way. I guess what Im saying is, the audience, yeah, Im grateful for them being there, but I dont think who is there necessarily puts ... more pressure. The Last Night of the Proms has become a political and cultural battleground in recent years. Last year the BBC faced calls for an inquiry into its coverage of the event after it showed a sea of European Union Flags being waved. It was announced in November that David Pickard, the Proms director, would step down later this year, having led the music festival since 2015. During his time in post he also oversaw the Ukrainian Freedom Orchestra play in 2022 and the 100th anniversary of womens suffrage and the end of the First World War in 2018. 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. From the Crane Creek promenade in Melbourne, the flashing yellow and white of the Brightline train appears as a blur, a totem of the future and of progress whipping onward as it carries passengers to their destinations in South Florida and Orlando. But for some, the passenger rail hurtling northbound and southbound through Brevard County crossings at upwards of 90 mph is also a symbol of something more dangerous. Five local fatalities since Brightline's debut between Orlando and Miami last September have prompted concerns about safety, and the three most recent deaths, in two crashes just two days apart at the same crossing, have put some in the community on edge. Caleb Hortner fishes at the Crane Creek park often. It's a place of respite where he brings his grandson to chance upon a snook or, if they're lucky, a redfish. A longtime resident of the county, he sees Brightline as a way to push transportation forward. But like many, he has concerns about the safety of the passenger rail system. "I know it's something that can be good, but right now I'm a little worried," Hortner said from the water's edge, less than a mile from where the latest deaths took place. More: Melbourne police investigate second fatal Brightline train collision in three days Along with fishing in the area, he takes regular constitutionals along Strawbridge Avenue, often crossing the rails that have proven fatal since Brightline's inception. Brightline has made efforts to increase safety, including the installation of "quad gates" or raised medians at crossings in Brevard where trains pass at speeds of more than 79 mph, encompassing 40 of the 50 crossings Brightline trains pass within Brevard, according Katie Mitzner, director of public affairs at Brightline. Vehicle debris from previous collisions at WH Jackson Street railroad crossing in Melbourne. The quad gates also known as four-quadrant gates span all the lanes of traffic in each direction, rather than only the traffic lanes a vehicle would approach the tracks from. These measures act as safeguards against motorists trying to maneuver around the crossings when the gates are down and the train is approaching. Those gates were not present at the intersections where recent crashes took place because Brightline was not going over 79 mph through those areas. And according to initial police reports, in the Jan. 10 and Jan. 12 crashes, drivers attempted to drive around the barrier gates blocking the crossing, attempts that proved fatal. More: 4 fatal Brightline crashes happened in Melbourne, with 2 in 3 days. Here's what we know "The community is sort of shocked that this could happen. Obviously people going around the gates is unacceptable but people in the city still want something done," Melbourne Mayor Paul Alfrey said. Alfrey said he and other city leaders had a meeting scheduled with Brightline in order to discuss possible solutions going forward. Melbourne police officers, members of the Brightline safety and security team and Florida East Coast Railway Society members were out on New Haven Avenue in downtown Melbourne Friday afternoon, passing out safety information on train crossings. Whether that could look like improved gates, more driver awareness, slower trains, or other solutions, he couldn't say. The topic will come up for discussion at the Melbourne City Council meeting Tuesday. On Friday, members of the Brightline Safety and Security team handed out train crossing safety information on New Haven Avenue in downtown Melbourne. Police officers and Florida East Coast Railway Society members were part of the informational effort. Countywide concerns In the city of Cocoa, councilwoman Lorraine Koss said certain things may need to be done to ameliorate the crashes and ensure Brightline's arrival is a positive for the community. "Brightline is here to stay," Koss said. "I think it can be a good thing for all of this but theres definitely adapting to be done. Its a wakeup call. We have to shift into high gear with education and awareness. What weve already done isnt reaching folks. More: L3Harris wins $919 million military satellite contract for tracking enemy missiles Koss said she and others on Cocoa City Council have been in talks with Brightline on what, if any, measures can be taken, whether it's education and awareness, improved mechanisms at crossings or some other option. "We need to do a concerted education effort. I spoke to Brightline earlier this week. I know they are looking into other measures to make it even more prohibitive to enter the tracks," Koss said. Alfrey, like Koss, said he hopes Brightline listens to the concerns of people in Melbourne and Brevard County on what can be done. Vehicle debris from previous collisions at WH Jackson Street railroad crossing in Melbourne. Brevard County Commissioner Rob Feltner, whose Commission District 4 includes a section of Melbourne where Brightline trains go through, said he would like to see installation of more safety features at rail crossings, including having both the quad gates and raised medians at crossings, rather than only one or the other. Feltner said he is seeking to have discussions between Brevard County and city of Melbourne officials about ways to improve the safety at crossings, and how to pay for them. Additionally, Feltner said the county plans to have a representative of the Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization make a presentation about the issue at an upcoming County Commission meeting. Wary and watchful Although the issue of drivers circumventing safety measures can't necessarily be fixed overnight, some have concerns that the problem is the result of larger issues. Melbourne resident Bonnie Ida said she recently witnessed a malfunctioning gate arm at Aurora Road, where two pedestrians, one on Oct. 19 and on Christmas Eve, were struck and killed by Brightline trains. In Ida's case, the arm began to go up and down even after a train had finished passing, and after a long wait behind the arm, drivers including her decided to turn around rather than take their chances. "I have been in situations in the past when cars proceeded around a stuck crossing gate, and I thought how tempting it might be that day if the wait got long enough for people who needed to proceed," Ida said. Right now, Horton said, "it's just something I'm being extra careful about." "I've always been wary of train tracks but now, especially when I've got my grandson with me, we take an extra second or two before crossing," he said. A Brightline train passes the railroad crossing at Creel Street in Melbourne. Jake McMurphy takes his car for servicing near where the Jan. 12 collision came to a stop. In that case, the train dragged an SUV around a quarter-mile before the train was able to complete braking. He said it's "terrifying" to think about, but he's not worried for himself or his family. "I wouldn't try to go around the gates. No way. I don't know what people are thinking," McMurphy said. Still, he voiced concerns. "I do think maybe they should do something," he said. "I'm not sure what they can do but there's gotta be something." Tyler Vazquez is the North Brevard and Brevard County Government Watchdog Reporter at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Vazquez at 321-480-0854 or tvazquez@floridatoday.com. This article originally appeared on Florida Today: 'Terrifying': Brightline crashes in Brevard stoke residents' fears KALAMAZOO, Mich. (WOOD) Downtown Kalamazoo will be hosting its 19th Annual Chili Cook-Off next weekend. The spicy event will begin at 11 a.m. and run until 2 p.m. next Saturday, January 27. Participants will meet at the Kalamazoo Valley Community College Center for New Media at 100 east Michigan Avenue to get a bingo card and spoons (the commemorative spoon will cost $6.) From there chili seekers will head to participating businesses to taste food and scan QR codes to vote and rate the meals. The winners will be picked and given a trophy at 2:30 p.m. There are four trophies that will be given out: Best Retail, Best Restaurant, Peoples Choice and Judges Choice. For more information visit downtownkalamazoocookoff.com. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com. **Related Video Above: The 10 most dangerous highways in Ohio.** GENEVA TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WJW) A person was found dead inside a vehicle that had been engulfed in flames early Sunday morning in Ashtabula County, Ohio State Highway Patrol reported. Troopers were called to the area of Lake Road not far from Countyline Road just after 1 a.m. and witnessed a Chevy Cruze up in flames. After putting out the fire, authorities found a body in the drivers side seat. OSHP: Man dies after driving off SR-2 into field, paintball range and trees The car was reportedly disabled partially in the roadway when troopers believe the fire broke out. OSHP did not identify who the driver was and said an investigation into the fire is continuing. Anyone who may have any information regarding the case is asked to call OSHPs Ashtabula post at 440-969-1155. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. Despite near-freezing temperatures, several hundred people showed up to the steps of the Idaho State Capitol building Saturday morning for the annual Womens March to protest Idahos strict abortion ban. Three hours later, a few hundred joined the Boise March for Life parade from Julia Davis Park to the steps of the Capitol in support of the abortion policy that bans nearly every rationale for the procedure. The dueling protests come about a year and a half after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and allowed states to determine their own abortion policies. Idaho has taken one of the hardest stances against abortion in the nation banning nearly every case aside from when a pregnant person is at risk of death or in cases of rape or incest that have first been reported to police. The U.S. Department of Justice sued the state in August 2022, saying that its policy violated the federal Emergency Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA). EMTALA is a federal law that requires hospitals to treat patients if they are experiencing an emergency medical condition, or transfer them to a different hospital if they dont have the capability to treat them, according to the National Institutes of Health. The law allows doctors to carry out abortions if the pregnant persons health is at risk. Idahos policy bans abortion even in emergency medical situations. Physicians who perform an abortion and are not exempt under Idahos law can face up to five years in prison, according to prior Idaho Statesman reporting. The legal case has stalled and resumed the states abortion policy several times and has since made its way to the U.S. Supreme Court. On Jan. 5, the Supreme Court allowed the states abortion ban to stand. March for Life attendees held signs on the steps of the Idaho State Capitol during speeches against abortion. Since then, Sen. Dan Foreman, R-Viola, introduced a bill to ban abortion even in cases of incest or rape and allow the procedure only if it was certain the pregnant person would die without it, according to prior Statesman reporting. We have the most extreme abortion ban in the nation with absolutely no exception for womens health or for a non-viable fetus, said House Minority Leader Ilana Rubel, D-Boise, during the Womens March. Were in a crisis situation. Rubel said Republicans in the Idaho Legislature blocked proposed bills that would have helped women, such as expanding Medicaid that would have allowed free contraception to low-income women. She added that Idaho is one of four states in the country that has no public pre-K. We had an opportunity to get that pre-K using federal money that wouldnt have cost us any state dollars, Rubel said. But they turned down that money. In March, the Legislature passed a budget that excluded $36 million for an ongoing child care stabilization grant funded through federal dollars, according to prior Statesman reporting. Attendees of the annual Womens March marched through the streets of downtown Boise in protest of the states strict abortion ban. Catherine Glenn Foster, a lawyer and former president of anti-abortion group Americans United for Life, argued for bolstering childcare quality and making it affordable in the state during the March for Life, despite the Legislatures actions. We have to figure out how to articulate what we as a pro-life movement are for because we are pro-life, not anti-child, Foster said. Foster said they needed to serve women, babies, refugees and vulnerable and disenfranchised populations through pregnancy resource centers. Were here to talk about the total whole life viewpoint, which includes workforce development, adult education, care for immigrants and refugees and people with diagnoses and elder care, Foster said. All of that is pro-life. March for Life attendees prayed before and after listening to speeches from local and national advocates against abortion. Multiple health systems in Idaho, such as Bonner General Health in Sandpoint, have ceased delivering babies over fears that doctors could be prosecuted, according to prior Statesman reporting. Our healthcare system is getting hollowed out, said Dr. Cynthia Brooke, a speaker at the Womens March and an obstetrician-gynecologist in Meridian. Idaho is like a rudderless ship. Foster argued the opposite saying doctors were leaving the state because they were forced to perform abortions by the Biden administration. In response to a surge in cases both locally and statewide, the 4th Judicial Circuit and the Duval County Clerk issued a warning to the public regarding heightened fraudulent activity related to missed jury duty. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< The scam involves callers posing as law enforcement officers, state attorneys, court officials, or deputy clerks, claiming that individuals failed to appear for jury duty or other court obligations. Often, the scammers go to great lengths, using the names of actual judges or public officials to deceive their targets. The caller typically asserts that a fine has been imposed and issues a warning of an arrest warrant if the fine is not promptly paid. To settle the matter, they may request sensitive information such as bank account details, suggest purchasing a prepaid debit card, or even propose payment in cryptocurrency. In response to these scams, the 4th Judicial Circuit, the Clerks Office, and law enforcement officers emphasize that legitimate entities will never call or email residents to demand payment for missed jury duty or other court obligations. Communication from these offices regarding legal matters will always be in writing, and no request for payment via prepaid debit card or cryptocurrency will be made. Duval County Clerk Jody Phillips advises the public to remain vigilant, stating, While this scam has unfortunately been around for years, the recent increase in cases around Florida made it a good time to remind the public that they should remain vigilant. When in doubt, you can always contact our office directly, and we would be glad to assist you. Residents are encouraged to verify the legitimacy of any such calls by contacting the Clerks Office at (904) 255-2000. Additionally, suspicious calls can be reported to the Jacksonville Sheriffs Offices non-emergency line at (904) 630-0500. The collaboration between legal authorities and public awareness plays a crucial role in preventing individuals from falling victim to these scams. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. Kimberly Mata-Rubio, mother of Robb Elementary shooting victim Alexandria Lexi Rubio, stands outside of Herby Ham Activity Center with other Uvalde familes Thursday after U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland delivered remarks about the Department of Justices report on the May 24, 2022, massacre. I hope that the failures end today, and that local officials do what wasnt done that day to do right by the victims and survivors of Robb Elementary terminations and criminal prosecutions, she said. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland, center, delivers remarks about the Department of Justices report on the Robb Elementary massacre Thursday. Had law enforcement followed generally accepted practices in an active-shooter situation and gone right after the shooter to stop him, lives would have been saved, and people would have survived, he said. Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News The Department of Justices long-awaited 575-page report on the Robb Elementary School massacre is not a groundbreaking document. It offers few new insights or details about the killing of 19 children and two teachers on May 24, 2022, in Uvalde. The publics general understanding of the second-deadliest school shooting in the United States has long been comprehensive and established. So, too, has been the publics contempt for law enforcements cowardice and confusion. They will always be the officers who waited in the hall. Any new report, thorough as it may be, would hardly add to this understanding. But this is not the point of the DOJs report. Its purpose is not to offer new insights into the slaughter of children and teachers at school, incredibly made worse by law enforcements failure to intervene. Its purpose is to memorialize the massacre and the failed law enforcement response. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This is why it begins before the table of contents with the names of the children and teachers killed at Robb Elementary School: Nevaeh Alyssa Bravo, 10; Jacklyn Jackie Cazares, 9; Makenna Lee Elrod, 10; Jose Flores Jr., 10; Eliahna Ellie Amyah Garcia, 9; Irma Linda Garcia, 48; Uziyah Sergio Garcia, 10; Amerie Jo Garza, 10; Xavier James Lopez, 10; Jayce Carmelo Luevanos, 10; Tess Marie Mata, 10; Maranda Mathis, 11; Eva Mireles, 44; Alithia Haven Ramirez, 10; Annabell Guadalupe Rodriguez, 10; Maite Yuleana Rodriguez, 10; Alexandria Lexi Aniyah Rubio, 10; Layla Marie Salazar, 11; Jailah Nicole Silguero, 10; Eliahna Cruz Torres, 10; Rojelio Fernandez Torres, 10. It is not merely a report but an official record of tragedy and failure, and it should be featured prominently on the websites of the city of Uvalde and the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District. Copies should be made available for review and checkout at El Progreso Memorial Library on Main Street. The reports value is in how, with the weight of the federal government, it honors the dead while holding the living accountable for their actions through a comprehensive record of what happened. It is hardly news that chaos undermined the police response. As the report says, there were cascading failures of leadership, decision-making, tactics, policy, and training that contributed to those failures and breakdowns. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Nor is it news that police officers waited 77 minutes before entering classrooms 111 and 112 to engage the mass shooter, leaving grieving families to wonder just what might have been. As Attorney General Merrick Garland said at a news conference Thursday at Uvaldes Herby Ham Activity Center: Had law enforcement followed generally accepted practices in an active-shooter situation and gone right after the shooter to stop him, lives would have been saved and people would have survived. Nor is it groundbreaking that confused law enforcement failed to identify the gunman as an active shooter or preserve the crime scene. But it is still newsworthy to show how the tension of grief and a lack of accountability will loom over Uvalde for generations. It will be present in discussions about memorials. It will be felt at weddings and graduations of survivors and family members of the dead. It will return to the community, again and again, for generations. The report is imbued with this tension. There were many who hoped it would call for criminal charges against some of the officers who fumbled the police response. After all, Garland concluded lives would have been saved with an immediate response based on training and best practices. But while the report certainly lays the groundwork for such charges, it was not a criminal investigation. That falls to Uvalde District Attorney Christina Mitchell. On Friday, at long last, Mitchell said a grand jury has been convened to review evidence and consider charges. In response to the DOJ report, Kimberly Mata-Rubio, whose 10-year-old daughter, Lexi, was killed at Robb, renewed a call for accountability. Advertisement Article continues below this ad I hope that the failures end today, and that local officials do what wasnt done that day to do right by the victims and survivors of Robb Elementary terminations and criminal prosecutions, she said. We agree. If the delayed response contributed to the loss of life, as the DOJ has concluded, then prosecutions are necessary. But accountability can take many forms, and done right, it can also foster reconciliation. Many of the law enforcement officers who failed to enter classrooms 111 and 112 must share a community with family members of the children and teachers who died in the massacre. A truth and reconciliation commission is not the same as a prosecution, but it is one way to hold people accountable for their actions while offering the space for them to apologize (and for families to accept those apologies, if they choose). Such a commission could build on the record established first through revelatory media reports, and now cemented with this DOJ report. Advertisement Article continues below this ad In 2002, Edgar Naranjo was a 26-year-old drug addict desperate for money. He hatched a plan to rob a flea market vendor he figured had a large supply of cologne he could unload for cash. His haphazard scheme went badly awry. After Naranjo and a teenage accomplice broke into their targets Northwest Side home, the vendors son, a Chicago police officer, shot and killed the younger intruder and wounded Naranjo, who was later arrested after seeking treatment. For his role in the home invasion, Naranjo wound up with a 40-year prison sentence under Illinois felony murder rule, a controversial law that allows murder charges to be filed against a person committing certain felonies if someone is killed during the commission of those crimes. But Naranjo caught a break. Halfway into his lengthy prison term, Naranjo was released in late October after being granted clemency by Gov. J.B. Pritzker. Under changes made in the sweeping 2021 criminal justice reform bill known as the SAFE-T Act, Naranjo likely would no longer be eligible for a felony murder charge. Beyond that, Naranjos clemency petition highlighted issues related to the 2002 shooting detailed in a 2021 investigation by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel that pointed to problems in the case that include conflicting narratives of the fatal shooting and also questioned the fairness of Naranjos sentence. The petition noted that Rafael Balbontin, the off-duty police officer who shot Naranjo and his accomplice, was later convicted of stabbing his wife to death. Balbontin was sentenced to 25 years in prison, far less than the term handed to Naranjo. In his clemency petition, Naranjo admitted wrongdoing and expressed remorse for putting his friend, 14-year-old Juan Johnny Salazar, in a situation that got him killed. But Naranjos lawyers argued in the petition that his punishment went beyond his role in the events that led to Salazars death. Yeah, you look at the facts. They tell you its not fair. We see all these things. But its not nothing new, Naranjo, now 47, said in an interview with the Tribune earlier this month. But at the same time, Im OK with it. I dont have no bitterness, no resentment, because it was just time that I used to better myself. Naranjo wasnt the only person imprisoned in a felony murder conviction to be granted clemency last year. Pritzker also granted clemency to Gerald Berry, who was serving natural life in prison after being convicted of felony murder for his role as a lookout in a 2001 home invasion that led to the shooting deaths of one of his co-conspirators as well as a man they were seeking to rob. Berry, who was 20 at the time of the crime, will now be eligible for parole after serving 27 years. A spokesperson for Pritzker, who has aligned himself with progressives on criminal justice issues, would not discuss the governors position on the felony murder rule, saying only that decisions to grant clemency are decided on a case-by-case basis. The clemency process involves a very careful review of the individual facts of each petition and the recommendation of the Prisoner Review Board, Pritzker spokesperson Alex Gough said in a statement. The Governor takes this responsibility very seriously and will continue his efforts to ensure that criminal justice lives up to the principles of atonement and rehabilitation. Naranjos case highlights issues critics point to in their opposition to the felony murder rule, versions of which are on the books in many states several of which, like Illinois, have put curbs on the charge in recent years. Steven Drizin, the co-director for Northwestern Universitys Center on Wrongful Convictions and one of Naranjos attorneys in his bid for clemency, said the felony murder rule results in dozens of others who are serving murder time at 100% for crimes that shouldnt be charged as murder. And Edgars case is probably the most extreme case of injustice in that a third party intervened in the crime and killed his friend, his accomplice. That cant happen anymore in Illinois, Drizin said. Jonathan Masur, a law professor at the University of Chicago, said one impetus for the felony murder rule is the need to provide an outlet for public outrage when someone is killed during the commission of a serious crime, even if that anger is directed at someone who played a peripheral role in the victims death. Masur, whose specialties include criminal law, argues felony murder calls for punishment that is out of proportion to a persons actual crime. You should be responsible for what you do and your own actions, and you shouldnt be responsible for other actions over which you had very little control and very little involvement, Masur said. It just completely divorces an individuals own culpability and moral responsibility from the punishment that they receive. On the other side of the argument, David Crump, a law professor at the University of Houston Law Center, said a felony murder statute is, in general, appropriate and can remove an incentive for criminal suspects to perjure themselves or minimize their role in a crime in situations where they might try to avoid responsibility for someones death. A robbery where somebody dies is not just a robbery, Crump said. Its more serious. In his clemency petition, Naranjo said he came up with the idea to rob a man who sold cologne from a flea market where Naranjos family worked as food vendors. On Oct. 4, 2002, Naranjo and Salazar drove to the vendors home in the 3000 block of North New England Avenue in the Montclare neighborhood. They wore bright yellow rain ponchos and face masks. Salazar carried an unloaded BB gun purchased by Naranjo. The two forced their way inside the mans house after his wife answered the door when Salazar knocked. The mans wife began screaming and Naranjo told her to shut up while Salazar pointed the BB gun at her. The man who Naranjo and Salazar sought to rob came to his wifes aid, striking Naranjo with a mop wringer. His wife yelled, They have a gun, in Spanish. Balbontin, a rookie police officer at the time and the couples son, was in the basement. Hearing the commotion, he grabbed his service gun and ran upstairs. Naranjo and Salazar ran from the home. Balbontin followed them outside and yelled, Chicago Police, freeze, before opening fire eight times in their direction. Salazar was shot in the back while Naranjos right hand was hit, the petition said. Balbontin also accidentally shot his father, the target of the robbery, in the right shoulder. Naranjo picked Salazar up, helped him back to their car and took off, throwing the BB gun and yellow ponchos out of the car window. He drove to an industrial area and dumped Salazars body on a curb. Naranjo went to an area hospital for treatment. Staff called police, and after initially making up a story about his wounds, Naranjo eventually confessed to the attempted robbery. In his bid for clemency, Naranjo expressed regret, mostly for Salazars death. I am constantly overcome with guilt, shame and remorse over the pain that decision caused, Naranjo said in his petition. I will forever live with the pain I caused. Johnny was only 14 years old; he never got to live his life. He was a good friend to me, and I should never have agreed to take him with me. Reached by the Tribune, Salazars mother declined to comment. But she told the Journal Sentinel in 2021 that Naranjo should remain incarcerated and that she couldnt forgive him. We all make mistakes, she told the newspaper. But she said her son was treated like an animal by Naranjo, noting that he dumped his body instead of taking him to a hospital, or, hell, bringing him home to me. Chicago police, prosecutors and Balbontin offered varying narratives of the incident, according to the clemency petition, which is partly based on testimony in a lawsuit filed by Salazars family. The Chicago Police Departments former longtime spokesperson, Pat Camden, initially called Balbontins actions heroic and said both Naranjo and Salazar had guns, and that a law enforcement panel concluded that the officer was in fear of his life. A prosecutor at Naranjos bond hearing alleged that one of the intruders turned and pulled the trigger several times, but the gun did not fire, according to the petition. At a later date, Camden slightly changed the departments narrative saying Balbontin saw one of the two with a gun. Balbontin testified in his deposition for the lawsuit that he never saw either of them holding a weapon and that he could not see their hands or arms because of the yellow ponchos they were wearing. He also testified that Salazar jerked real quick and made a furtive movement when he told him to freeze and then opened fire. Naranjos legal team contended in his clemency petition theres no evidence to back any of these narratives. For instance, Salazars autopsy showed that he was shot in the back, which the legal team argued is inconsistent with Balbontins account in one legal proceeding about the case that the 14-year-old turned toward him and was crouching a little. This new evidence not only demonstrates that the narratives of law enforcement kept changing, but it also raises questions about the Chicago Police Departments quick decision to clear Balbontin and find that the shooting was justified, the clemency petition states. In the late 2000s, the city settled the Salazar familys lawsuit for $2.25 million. In addition to outlining the conflicting narratives of the shooting, Naranjos lawyers cited two changes within the SAFE-T Act, sweeping criminal justice reforms passed by the legislature in 2021, that they believed were pertinent to their clients case. One of the changes prevents prosecutors from using the felony murder rule in cases where third parties, such as police officers, intervene in certain crimes and kill co-conspirators. This change was not retroactive. Naranjos lawyers argued in his petition that if it were, felony murder likely would not have been an option. The other change prohibits police officers from using deadly force against suspects fleeing from their felony crimes unless officers have reason to believe that they cant be arrested later and that theyre likely to do harm to another person. Neither of these circumstances existed in Edgars case and today, Officer Balbontins shooting of Salazar and Edgar would be given much greater scrutiny and likely would not have been deemed justified, the petition states. Additionally, Naranjos lawyers argued in the clemency petition that his 40-year sentence was especially unfair considering Balbontin was sentenced to 25 years in prison after being convicted in the fatal stabbing of his wife. In January 2005, Balbontin was out to dinner with his parents when he told them he was going home to kill himself, Naranjos petition says. When he left the restaurant, his parents called his wife and warned her of his threat, and suggested she hide all the guns at home. But when he got there, the petition says, Balbontin got into a dispute with his wife and stabbed her repeatedly, killing her. He also stabbed his mother-in-law in the arm when she tried to intervene, but she survived. Edgar should not be required to serve more time for his less serious crime of an attempted home invasion than Officer Balbontin is currently serving for his brutal and senseless murder, Naranjos petition says. Naranjo was released from prison on Oct. 31 and spent the holidays getting to know cousins and nephews hed never met. Thanksgiving was a big family celebration, about 20 people, in a relatives living room. On Christmas Day, he and his parents, brother, sister-in-law and a nephew had Chinese food. Flanked by Marissa Jackson, one of his lawyers, Naranjo said he wants people to understand that the person he was in 2002 no longer exists. That guy passed away, Naranjo said. I think the 21 years of spending time and just really paying attention to myself, I think that was the goal. You know, to really understand who I was ... as a person. My goals. My identity. Trying really to find an identity and a purpose. That purpose, he said, is finding a way to speak up for people who are still incarcerated but would be freed if sentencing reforms, like the change to felony murder, that have been passed by state lawmakers in recent years were retroactive. Efforts toward that end in recent years have been unsuccessful in Springfield. I think that we need a fair system, Naranjo said. I want to make it known that Im still thinking about the brothers, the acquaintances, the people that were left behind in the same situation that I am. I think about them every day. jgorner@chicagotribune.com When Chicago elected Brandon Johnson mayor last year, most knew they were taking a chance on one of the least experienced candidates ever to lead the city. They also knew which special interest was most responsible for his unlikely victory. In bankrolling the Johnson campaign and putting its formidable organizing muscle to work, the Chicago Teachers Union could be described as the citys most potent political force today. The new Machine, you might say. Having propelled a former member and former CTU lobbyist into the citys highest office, the timing couldnt be better for the union. The teachers contract expires at the end of this school year. One of the biggest jobs of 2024 for Johnson and his team will be the negotiation of a new pact that recognizes the fiscal realities facing CPS and Chicago. The mayor doesnt represent CTU anymore. He represents the citys beleaguered taxpayers. Does he understand that? It wont be long before we find out. More than half of the property tax bill residents and businesses pay goes to Chicago Public Schools. CPS consistently raises its tax levy by the maximum amount allowed every year. And, still, the school system faces a daunting monetary cliff beginning next fiscal year, which starts July 1, as federal pandemic-related assistance runs its course. The deficit that will have to be plugged in the next fiscal year will approach $400 million and thats before any increased expenses stemming from the new contract. We believe that, given Johnsons extraordinarily close ties to the union and CTU President Stacy Davis Gates personally, he ought to fully recuse himself from this coming negotiation. Good governance demands nothing less. Any reasonable person can see that Johnson has an irrefutable conflict of interest. He shows no signs of doing so. Well assume he takes a leadership role in the talks and ends up the final decision-maker on any proposed contract. Before we go on, a reminder of why this is so problematic. Prior to becoming mayor, Johnson was a lobbyist for CTU in addition to serving as a Cook County commissioner. The union paid him tens of thousands each year. Davis Gates remains one of Johnsons closest political allies. Shes part of his inner circle and a regular political adviser. In what universe would any taxpayer be comfortable being represented at the bargaining table by someone so compromised? That said, we think this contract represents an opportunity for the mayor. The mayors administration thus far has struggled to gain its footing on a host of issues (e.g., migrant crisis) and shown questionable decision-making skills (e.g., the now-abandoned migrant tent camp on toxic land, barring the public from City Council chambers before reversing course). He certainly hasnt reassured those who voted against him, or even voted reluctantly for him, that he can be a mayor for the entire city rather than just the interests who financed his run. What better way to turn around that narrative than to tell his friends in CTU the city must live within its means and theres not a bottomless well of resources to finance their wish list? Among urban public school teachers, Chicagos are among the best compensated in the country. The CPS budget over the past five years has increased 28% to $9.4 billion from $7.4 billion. Total outlays for salaries have climbed about a third in that time. Few private sector professionals have been so lucky. This is despite sharply falling enrollment. CPS students numbered just over 400,000 a decade ago. The total in fiscal 2023 was less than 322,000, a 20% decline. Thats even as the overall population in Chicago was more or less stable over that period. Yes, the influx of migrants is adding to demand for public schools. But the overarching trends are strikingly and dismayingly clear. More parents with choices are opting to educate their kids outside of CPS. They include Davis Gates herself, who sends one of her children to a Catholic school and had the audacity when that bombshell news broke in September to disparage essentially all of the CPS high school options on the South Side. That was just two weeks after she responded this way to South Side Weekly in response to a question about whether she was concerned about school-choice and privatization supporters running for seats on the Chicago School Board: Yes, we are concerned about the encroachment of fascists in Chicago. If the union had its way and did away with selective enrollment and charter schools, only parents like Davis Gates, who could afford it, would have a choice other than traditional CPS. We wouldnt call that fascist because that term shouldnt be thrown around. We would call it overly prescriptive and hypocritical for the leader of the citys most politically potent union. The CPS budgetary and enrollment trend lines scream for better allocation of resources. Like it or not, they cry out, too, for a more efficient and likely scaled-down physical footprint. No one wants their neighborhood school closed. But, until CPS provides a more attractive option for parents, those are the hard realities it has to face. Recent changes to state law will give the union the legal right to bargain over a wider array of issues than before, including class sizes and the hiring of nurses and other adjunct staff. Johnson will be handed a long list of demands, no doubt. Hed better get comfortable quickly with telling his friends they cant have everything on that list or even a majority of it. Unfortunately, the tea leaves are there for everyone to read. Johnsons deal last year with the Chicago police union included pay raises that doubled what the union already agreed to previously for 2024 and 2025. If Johnson was so generous with the police union, which endorsed his opponent in the election, how will he treat his CTU besties? 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. Egypt's President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi looks on during a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Cairo, Egypt, Thursday Jan. 11, 2024. (Evelyn Hockstein/Pool via AP) CAIRO (AP) Egypts leader said Sunday his country stands shoulder to shoulder with Somalia in its dispute with landlocked Ethiopia, which struck a deal with Somaliland to obtain access to the sea and establish a marine force base. President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi slammed Ethiopias agreement with the breakaway region. He called on Ethiopia to seek benefits from seaports in Somalia and Djibouti through transitional means, rather than through attempts to control another (countrys) territory. We will not allow anyone to threaten Somalia or infringe upon its territory, el-Sissi told a joint news conference in Cairo with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mahmoud. No one should attempt to threaten Egypts brothers, especially if our brothers asked us to stand with them. Somaliland, a region strategically located by the Gulf of Aden, broke away from Somalia in 1991 as the country collapsed into a warlord-led conflict. The region has maintained its own government despite its lack of international recognition. Somaliland leader Muse Bihi Abdi signed a memorandum of understanding with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed earlier this month to allow Ethiopia to lease a 20-kilometer (12.4-mile) stretch of coastline to establish a marine force base. Sheikh Mohamud, the Somali president, rejected the deal as a violation of international law, saying: We will not stand idly by and watch our sovereignty being compromised. He arrived in Egypt this weekend to rally support for his government. He met with the Arab League chief Ahmed Aboul Gheit and Al-Azhar mosque's Grand Imam, Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb. Egypt is at odds with Ethiopia over a controversial hydroelectric dam Ethiopia has built on the Nile river's main tributary. The two countries along with Sudan have been trying for over a decade to reach a negotiated agreement on the filling and operation of the $4 billion Grand Ethiopian Renaissance dam. The latest round of talks last month ended without a deal and Cairo and Addis Ababa traded blame for the failure. Negotiators have said key questions remain about how much water Ethiopia will release downstream if a multi-year drought occurs, and how the countries will resolve any future disputes. Ethiopia rejects binding arbitration at the final stage. The dam is on the Blue Nile near the Sudan border and Egypt fears it will have a devastating effect on its water and irrigation supply downstream unless Ethiopia takes its needs into account. The dam began producing power last year and Ethiopia said it had completed the final phase of filling the dams reservoir in September. Elevated levels of black carbon, a factor in cancer risk and climate change, were found in several towns and cities in Mississippi, according to a recently released study. Jackson had the highest levels, with Hattiesburg coming in at a close second. University of Mississippi faculty members Courtney Roper, assistant professor of environmental toxicology, and Hang Nguyen, postdoctoral research associate, conducted the study. Their research concluded that black carbon concentrations in several Mississippi towns and cities exceed health recommendations set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. What is black carbon? Black carbon particles are small air pollutants and is better known as soot. The particles are often visible and derive from common activities including driving a car and burning wood. They can also come from manufacturing processes and burning fossil fuels. "A good example would be a construction vehicle or a large truck that emits black smoke," Roper said. "A large part of that would be classified as soot. It is one of thousands of different parts of air pollution." Black carbon is released from incomplete combustion during those processes. High rates in Mississippi cities Here are the cities, in order from highest to lowest concentration, in which the black carbon levels were above the cancer risk threshold: Jackson Hattiesburg Pascagoula Gulfport Hernando Grenada A recent University of Mississippi study shows elevated black carbon concentrations in several Mississippi cities. What does this all mean? Black carbon is a potential cancer risk and can easily get into the respiratory system. It is a component of PM 2.5 air pollution. Prolonged exposure to PM 2.5 air pollution is linked with approximately 4 million deaths around the globe yearly. Mississippians are already at a high risk for cancer. It is the second leading cause of death in the state. One in every five deaths in Mississippi is attributed to cancer. Mississippi on average reports 16,000 new cancer cases each year and an average of 6,500 people die of cancer yearly, according to the Mississippi State Department of Health. Black carbon also contributes to climate change. Because black carbon is made of black particles, they absorb solar radiation, increasing heating in the atmosphere. Idea for the study Nguyen and Roper wanted to investigate the potential human health effects of black carbon. There have been studies in the past on its potential health implications, but there is still a long way to go, Roper said. Black carbon data is not regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency and most states do not consistently report black carbon concentrations. Until more data and studies come out, it is difficult to tell just how extreme the levels are in Mississippi compared to other states. However, Nguyen and Roper did find that even in Mississippi's rural areas, the black carbon levels matched large urban cities such as Atlanta. Those finding went against Nguyen and Roper's predictions that they would find significant drops in rural communities. One reason for the elevated rural concentrations may be due to the mobile nature of air pollution. Courtney Roper, assistant professor of environmental toxicology at the University of Mississippi. "Even though air pollution may be emitted in an urban area, that doesn't preclude those pollutants from traveling to less populated areas," Roper said. Roper said she hopes to conduct more studies in the near future to collect more data. Nguyen and Roper's study uses data from 2013 and 2014. The delayed data is due to several factors. The filters that collect the particles for study come from the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, which often has a six-year lag between collecting and releasing data. Roper said it's hard to say for sure whether more recent samples will have the same black carbon levels as the old samples, but she expects they will still contain elevated concentrations. What you can do So, what can the average Mississippian going about their day do with the information? The main recommendation, Roper said, is to understand the risks of black carbon and other air pollutants, especially in vulnerable populations. "Like anything in the environment, there are potential risks that something may be harmful," Roper said. "On a day-in, day-out basis, there may not be a health risk, but there are times where air pollutants are elevated." If you are in a vulnerable population, Roper recommended checking the air quality index for your area before going out. Vulnerable populations include children, pregnant women, elderly adults and individuals with heart and lung diseases, according to the EPA. The air quality index can easily be found on most smartphones. On an iPhone, the index is included on the Apple weather app under the 10 day forecast. Got a news tip? Contact Mary Boyte at mboyte@jackson.gannett.com This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Elevated black carbon levels found in several MS cities George Gascon was elected Los Angeles County district attorney in 2020, a convulsive year in which Americans lives were upended by the pandemic and public confidence in the criminal justice system was shaken by the murder of George Floyd. The latter led to a reckoning over racial inequity in arrests, prosecutions and punishment. Voters wanted Gascon to set a corrective course in the nations largest local jurisdiction while keeping people safe. He is doing what he promised, and doing it well, despite intense and dishonest backlash from opponents inside his office and among right-wing politicians and pundits across the nation. L.A. County voters would be wise to reject the nonsense and keep Gascon on the job and criminal justice reform in place. Read more: L.A. Times electoral endorsements for 2024 March primary Falsehoods about his policies, and about the apocalyptic landscape that Los Angeles has supposedly become because of them, are widespread so much so that voters who supported him 3 ago may have forgotten why. So lets remember who he is, and why he was the right choice then and now. Read more: Editorial: Gascons reform vision comes to the Supreme Court Gascon is a former police officer who rose through the ranks to become LAPD assistant chief under William Bratton. He then became the chief of police in Mesa, Ariz., a conservative city adjacent to Phoenix and Arizonas third most populous municipality. From there he became chief of San Franciscos Police Department, and then San Franciscos district attorney. This background gives him firsthand knowledge of the criminal justice system from the ground level. Gascon knows what cops face on the street, how they think, how they can sometimes go wrong, and how police and prosecutors together serve and occasionally distort justice. He is the only Los Angeles County district attorney in the last century, and perhaps ever, to step into the job after learning the ropes in a parallel post in another county. Other prosecutors may know the courtroom; Gascon knows the system. Read more: Editorial: Anti-Gascon drive extends era of destructive, distracting recall mania L.A. voters picked him because he correctly saw the self-defeating nature of a system that does not know when to stop punishing. Studying the data, Gascon realized that punishment must be properly dosed, like medicine. Too much for too long, the numbers show, and the imprisoned offender is broken instead of corrected, loses the ability to responsibly reenter society and becomes more likely to reoffend. That phenomenon has endangered all of us for far too long and it has perpetuated multigenerational racial inequities by disproportionately locking up Black and Latino Angelenos and leaving too many families without two parents present. Gascons policies seek the most fitting rather than the longest possible sentences. This smart approach was such a departure from older, failed strategies that the MAGA right promptly distorted it into the false narrative that Gascon refuses to prosecute misdemeanors at all, and generally avoids prosecuting felonies. Read more: Editorial: Now that a second recall effort has failed, let George Gascon do the work he was elected to do This fairy tale is so entrenched that several of his challengers repeated it on the campaign trail and one of them, former Assistant U.S. Atty. Nathan Hochman, told it to the Times editorial board. When asked to show evidence, he couldnt because there is no such policy. This is particularly troubling because the ex-Republican has attracted support from GOP donors across the country. Besides, jurisdiction over prosecution of misdemeanors in more than half the county including the cities of L.A., Pasadena and Santa Monica lies with city attorneys, not Gascons office. As for felonies, the number of cases filed during his tenure is on par with that of earlier administrations. The argument that Gascon is lax or lenient on crime simply does not hold up to the facts. The various crime surges in the last few years wrongly attributed to Gascon occurred nationwide and have largely abated. Prosecutorial policies have no short-term effect on crime. Read more: Endorsement: George Gascon for L.A. County district attorney Seven of Gascon 11 challengers in the March primary are current or former L.A. deputy district attorneys who adamantly oppose the offices direction and the voters 2020 decision. They promise to bring back archaic and unjust sentencing policies, and most want to roll back key provisions of the voter-approved Proposition 47, which among other things made drug possession a misdemeanor. Eric Siddall was the vice president of the prosecutors labor union, which has led the charge against Gascon from the start. John McKinney and Jon Hatami were likewise vocal Gascon critics. Maria Ramirez said she tried to give her new boss a chance but soon gave up. Craig Mitchell, Debra Archuleta and David Milton are former deputy D.A.s who became judges. Also running are San Bernardino County deputy D.A. Lloyd Bobcat Masson and Dan Kapelovitz, a criminal defense attorney. Read more: Editorial: L.A. County voters elected George Gascon to change the criminal justice system. Let him do it Jeff Chemerinsky, a former federal prosecutor, has won the backing of some L.A. liberals and local Democratic clubs that have been swayed by the accounts that Gascon's policies have stoked crime or that his office is in chaos. They may be comforted by his name his father, Erwin Chemerinsky, is the renowned dean of UC Berkeley law school and a constitutional scholar who strongly supports defendant rights. But Jeff Chemerinsky would be as much an outsider in the D.A.'s office as Gascon, and would be just as unpopular with reform critics unless he backed away from necessary changes. Nor does he have Gascon's police perspective and experience. Gascon is the right D.A. in the right place at the right time. Voters were right to pick him in 2020. They ought to keep him in place for another term. 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. By Dawit Endeshaw ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) - Thousands of Ethiopian Orthodox followers gathered in the capital Addis Ababa on Friday and Saturday to celebrate Epiphany, also called Timket, a religious festival commemorating Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River. The annual festival is recognised by UNESCO as an important intangible cultural heritage. Followers marched from churches to Jan Meda, an open field in the capital, while priests carried tents called tabots, replicas of the Ark of the Covenant that are sacred in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, one of the world's oldest churches. Students sung hymns as youth ran ahead of the tabots to cover a street with red carpets to show their respects as priests spread incense and sprinkled holy water. The faithful wearing white traditional fabrics chanted, sang and bowed down before the tabots. At the gathering on Saturday, Abune Mathias, patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, underscored the significance and symbolism of the day and called for peace, unity and forgiveness. He also urged Ethiopia's leaders to work and advocate for peace. "At the moment our fellow citizens: children, elderly, mothers and sisters are waiting to die because of hunger. Our Christian faith will be in question if we keep quiet," he said. A two-year conflict in Ethiopia's northern Tigray region that ended in November 2022 drove people from their homes, destroyed harvests, leaving widespread hunger in the area. Although the religious festival was celebrated across the country, in some areas it was disrupted by conflict in the Amhara region. Gondar, Amhara region's second-biggest city, usually attracts many people during the Timket festival. But a few days prior to the festival clashes broke out between government forces and Fano, a local militia. "Many who planned to attend Timket in Gondar have already cancelled their plan," a resident of Gondar told Reuters. Fano has been battling the army since late July, leading the government to declare a state of emergency in the region. (Writing by Elias Biryabarema; Editing by Angus MacSwan) An explosion has rung out in the city of Kropyvnytskyi in Kirovohrad Oblast after the military warned that a missile was flying towards the city. Source: Ukrainian Air Force, Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne Details: The Armed Forces of Ukraine warned the public of the threat of ballistic weapons being used by the Russians, and an air-raid warning was issued in Kharkiv, Poltava, Dnipropetrovsk, Mykolaiv, Kherson and Kirovohrad oblasts. Later the Air Force reported that a missile was flying towards Kropyvnytskyi, and right away the media reported explosions in the city. The authorities have not yet reported any strikes. Updated: Head of the Kirovohrad Oblast Military Administration confirmed that Kirovohrad Oblast was attacked, but stressed that there were no casualties. Quote from Raikovych: "Kirovohrad Oblast was under enemy attack again. Fortunately, there were no casualties. Civilian facilities were not damaged." Support UP or become our patron! Former President Donald Trump and ex-presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy stirred speculations about the vice presidency during a campaign rally in New Hampshire on Tuesday. At the rally in Atkinson, New Hampshire, Trump expressed admiration for Ramaswamy, who recently withdrew from the presidential race and endorsed Trump instead, as per The Independent. Trump Praises Vivek Ramaswamy The former president referred to Ramaswamy as a "fantastic guy" with something "very special," acknowledging the honor of receiving his endorsement. After Ramaswamy officially announced his exit from the presidential bid, he joined Trump on stage, where the Indian-American leader was publicly thanked for his endorsement. Trump emphasized the significance of Ramaswamy's support and hinted at a prolonged collaboration between them. The move comes following Trump's substantial victory in the Iowa caucuses, where he secured 20 out of the 40 delegates with a commanding lead of 56,250 votes. Ramaswamy, in endorsing Trump, urged Republican voters to prioritize an "America First patriot" in the upcoming elections. Despite a brief setback earlier in the week when Trump criticized Ramaswamy's campaign as "deceitful," the two leaders have consistently praised each other throughout the election season. Trump even floated the idea of Ramaswamy serving as his running mate, indicating the businessman's potential impact on the campaign. Ramaswamy, a vocal defender of Trump against legal challenges, has been steadfast in his support, hailing the former president as the "greatest President" of the 21st century. In a recent development, Trump thanked Ramaswamy for his endorsement, assuring that the Indian-American leader would be part of the team for a "long time," according to Milt. Read Also: British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak Facing Opposition to Controversial Rwanda Bill Trump's Critique and Ramaswamy's Resolve The only glitch in their alliance occurred when Trump abruptly criticized Ramaswamy's campaign earlier in the week, urging supporters not to waste their votes on him. Despite this, Ramaswamy maintained his stance, refraining from criticizing Trump and reiterating his belief in Trump's greatness as a leader. As the GOP race shifts to New Hampshire for the upcoming primary on January 23, the collaboration between Trump and Ramaswamy has become a focal point of attention. Ramaswamy, who dropped out of the race after the Iowa caucuses, publicly urged voters to support Trump in the New Hampshire primaries during the Atkinson rally. While Trump acknowledged Ramaswamy's contribution and impressive performance in the campaign, supporters in the crowd were heard chanting "VP, VP," suggesting a growing interest in Ramaswamy as a potential vice presidential nominee. Ramaswamy, a charismatic multi-millionaire, brought youthful energy to the Republican race, though he finished fourth in the Iowa caucuses behind Trump, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, and former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley. Despite this, Trump lauded Ramaswamy for his efforts, describing his journey from "zero" to a significant impact as "amazing." As the campaign progresses, the Trump-Ramaswamy alliance remains a dynamic force within the Republican landscape, with speculation intensifying about the potential role Ramaswamy could play in Trump's pursuit of the presidency in 2024. The rally in New Hampshire serves as a testament to the evolving dynamics between the two leaders and their shared commitment to the "America First" agenda, Daily Mail reported. Related Article: Vivek Ramaswamy Suspends 2024 Presidential Bid, Endorses Trump After Iowa Caucus Explosions and large fires were reported in several Russian cities overnight on Jan. 21, in a possible coordinated effort by Ukraine to strike key targets deep inside Russian territory. The terminal of Russia's Novatek natural gas company caught fire in the port of Ust-Luga in Leningrad Oblast near St Petersburg, Governor Alexander Drozdenko reported on Telegram. No casualties were reported by local authorities but other Russian media sources suggested that 150 people had to be evacuated. Novatek is the largest independent natural gas producer in Russia. The fire was still ongoing as of 9 a.m. local time, according to Drozdenko. The explosions in Ust-Luga were a result of a planned operation by the Security Service of Ukraine, according to an unnamed source in the agency cited by Ukrainska Pravda. Other attacks were reported overnight on Jan. 21 in Russia's Tula, Smolensk, and Oryol oblasts, targeting infrastructure critical to the Russian military. The Russian Defense Ministry accused Ukraine of launching multiple drone attacks and claimed that one drone was shot down over Tula, four over Smolensk, and one over Oryol. Citing its sources in Ukraine's special services, news outlet Suspilne reported that the Shcheglovskiy Val plant in Tula, where Pantsir mobile air defense systems for the Russian military are produced, was one of the targets. The Smolensk Aviation Plant, which produces Kh-59 cruise missiles used to frequently target Ukraine was hit in the overnight attack, Hromadske reported, citing its source in Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR). Smolensk Oblast Governor Vasily Anokhin denied that there were casualties or property damage during the drone attack. The plant was previously hit in October and November 2023. A source from HUR confirmed to Ukrainska Pravda that the agency was also behind the attacks in Oryol and Tula. Since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, multiple attacks have been reported across Russian territory. Ukraine does not always claim responsibility for these attacks. An overnight drone attack that hit an oil depot near St Petersburg was carried out by Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR), Ukrainska Pravda reported on Jan. 18, citing a source in intelligence. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Local media and Russian occupation authorities reported several explosions in the port city of Sevastopol in occupied Crimea on Jan. 21. Around three explosions were heard in the early afternoon, according to a local correspondent for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty's Crimean service. Soon after, the head of the Russian-installed city authorities Mikhail Rozvozhaev reported that an airborne target had been shot down over the sea nearby. Later in the day, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed that two Ukrainian missiles had been shot down over the western coast of Crimea. As the full-scale war has developed, military facilities and infrastructure in Russian-occupied Crimea has become increasingly vulnerable to long-range Ukrainian drone and missile strikes. Most spectactularly, separate Ukrainian strikes in September 2023, reportedly with British-made Storm Shadow missiles, destroyed a Russian landing ship, submarine, and the headquarters of the Russian Black Sea Fleet in Sevastopol. Read also: Inside occupied Ukraines most effective resistance movements Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Explosions were reported in the Russian-occupied city of Sevastopol on the afternoon of 21 January. Source: Krym.Realii (Crimea.Realities), a Crimea-related project of Radio Liberty; Mikhail Razvozhayev, Russian-appointed sham "governor of Sevastopol", on Telegram Details: Media reports indicated that several explosions had taken place in Crimea. Razvozhayev claimed that the Russian forces were "repelling a Ukrainian attack" and had supposedly shot down something over the sea. All the Russian services have been put on high alert. Support UP or become our patron! Claim: A video posted to TikTok and Instagram during the January 2024 polar vortex shows a woman in Canada making a helix out of ice by pouring it on the ground in a spiral pattern. Rating: Rating: Fake Every few years, when the cold, arctic air of the polar vortex plunges south, internet users around the globe are treated to viral videos about the cold snap. Examples include frozen sculptures made of ramen and clothes as stiff as a board. You can even throw hot water into the air and watch it turn into a white cloud of steam and ice. TikTok user QueenChelsea wanted to take it a step further in January 2024, posting a video to her TikTok and Instagram page showing her pouring water on the ground and creating a helix out of ice. The video quickly went viral, with over 13 million likes on TikTok (with 191 million views) and over 5 million likes on Instagram. The frozen sculpture looked real enough to fool many commenters, and Snopes received emails inquiring if the video was real. Unfortunately, Canada being cold was the only real part of the video. Sorry to burst anyone's bubble (another great thing to play with in sub-zero temperatures), although it is certainly a testament to QueenChelsea's editing prowess that some people believed the ice sculpture was real. QueenChelsea, whose real name is Chelsea Laufer, is a Canadian content creator who makes short viral videos using clever editing tricks and incredible visual effects. She included the VFX hashtag in the captions on both the TikTok and Instagram posts, and her bio on both platforms includes the sentence, "I like making impossible things." Snopes reached out to Laufer for comment, and she replied via email. "Im a visual effects content creator so all of the videos I post are edited with a sort of magical realism in mind," she wrote. "I'll also add that the response to this video has been absolutely astounding! I made this video as a way to practice working with 3D CGI, and I never expected so many people to see it." On Jan. 18, she posted a video to TikTok breaking down how she made the effect. Sources: Frozen Pants in the 2019 Minnesota Polar Vortex. www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/shorts/uWvSr9KW-ms. Accessed 18 Jan. 2024. Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/p/C18A_UJMKRC/. Accessed 18 Jan. 2024. Polar Vortex: Soap Bubble Freezes and Breaks in Arctic Chicago Cold. www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LG5nSxgd9SI. Accessed 18 Jan. 2024. The Science behind the Polar Vortex: You Might Want to Put on a Sweater | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. 29 Jan. 2019, https://www.noaa.gov/multimedia/infographic/science-behind-polar-vortex-you-might-want-to-put-on-sweater. TikTok - Make Your Day. https://www.tiktok.com/@laneyroux76/video/7323351891100896518?q=frozen%20ramen&t=1705604090676. Accessed 18 Jan. 2024. ---. https://www.tiktok.com/@queenchelsea/video/7322611233415531782. Accessed 18 Jan. 2024. ---. https://www.tiktok.com/@queenchelsea. Accessed 18 Jan. 2024. Wisconsins Polar Vortex Causes Boiling Water to Freeze Midair in the Cold. www.youtube.com, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvgefs7J1rY. Accessed 18 Jan. 2024. Police officers patrol a street on horseback ahead of the opening of the temple of Hindu Lord Ram in Ayodhya Police officers patrol a street on horseback ahead of the opening of the temple of Hindu Lord Ram in Ayodhya By Krishn Kaushik (Reuters) -Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the consecration on Monday of a grand temple to the Hindu god-king Ram on a site believed to be his birthplace, in a historic event for the Hindu majority of the world's most populous nation. Coming months before Modi seeks a rare third term in general elections due by May, the event delivers on a campaign promise his political party made more than three decades ago, but also calls to mind some of India's worst sectarian strife. WHY DOES IT MATTER? The idol represents Ram as a five-year-old child, as many Hindus consider the temple site to have been the deitys birthplace and where he spent his childhood. As the temple replaces a 16th-century Mughal-era mosque razed by radical Hindu groups in 1992, many Indians hail it as a sign of Hindu reawakening from centuries of foreign subjugation, including rule by Muslim dynasties such as the Mughals. Analysts say Modi's leadership of the ceremony symbolises for supporters of his Hindu nationalist party that India is finally ready to end what they call appeasement of minorities and move towards their goal of building a Hindu-first nation. WHAT ARE THE FEATURES OF THE NEW TEMPLE? Construction began in 2020, with Modi laying the foundation stone of the temple to one of Hinduism's principal deities on a 2.7-acre (one-hectare) plot within a complex that sprawls over 70 acres (28 hectares). Supervised by a panel headed by Modi's former chief of staff Nripendra Misra, construction cost an estimated 15 billion rupees ($181 million), funded by contributions amounting to more than twice that from 40 million people in India. WHAT WAS THE RELIGIOUS DISPUTE ABOUT? The Indian epic, the Ramayana, mentions Ayodhya, a town in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh nearly 700 km (435 miles) east of New Delhi, as the birthplace of Ram, whom Hindus believe to be a physical incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The razed mosque dating from 1528, during the rule of Babur, India's first Mughal emperor, is believed by many Hindus to have been built on the spot where Ram was born, following the demolition of an earlier temple there. In Dec. 1949, authorities seized the mosque after Hindu activists placed idols of Ram inside the disputed structure. Court orders barred removal of the idols, and use as a mosque effectively ceased. Hindu and Muslim groups filed separate claims over the site and the structure. In 1989, a high court ordered the maintenance of status quo. HOW WAS THE MOSQUE RAZED? Hindu and Muslim groups tried unsuccessfully to resolve the dispute through talks, before Modi's Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched a nationwide campaign in 1990 to build the temple. Lal Krishna Advani, the president of the party at the time, embarked on a cross-country journey on a truck fitted out to resemble an ancient chariot. It whipped up Hindu fervour, deepening rifts with Muslims but also catapulting the party to national prominence. The BJP campaign climaxed in a rally in Ayodhya on Dec. 6, 1992, when a mob climbed the mosque and smashed its domes with axes and hammers, levelling the entire structure. The event triggered sectarian riots in several parts of India, killing about 2,000 people, mostly Muslims. Muslims are a minority in mainly Hindu India, making up about 14% of its 1.42 billion people. As a foot soldier of the party at the time, Modi helped organise the chariot's journey, which began in his home state of Gujarat. He rode to the office of prime minister in 2014 on a Hindu nationalist platform that included the promise to build the temple. Temple construction began after the Supreme Court permitted it in 2019 on condition that Muslims received another plot for a mosque. (Reporting by Krishn Kaushik and Krishna Das; Editing by YP Rajesh and Clarence Fernandez.) Grieving families are running out of time to claim thousands in government payouts Grieving families are at risk of missing out on thousands of pounds in bereavement benefit payments as the Governments deadline for backdated payouts approaches on February 9. The benefits, known as Bereavement Support Payment (BSP) and Widowed Parents Allowance (WPA), are designed to help those who have lost their partner, and can be worth thousands of pounds but you need to fulfil certain eligibility criteria to claim. Previously, only those whod lost their spouse or civil partner could claim, but last year the Government opened this out to those who had been cohabiting with their partner. For a limited time, these bereaved partners can backdate claims for the benefit theyd missed out on. Why are bereavement payments being backdated? Bereaved parents who lost their partner between April 9, 2001 and February 8, 2023 may be eligible for a backdated payment even if they no longer have dependent children. The decision to open up the payments to unmarried couples came on February 8, 2023, following a Supreme Court ruling, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) opened a 12-month application window for unmarried, cohabiting parents. In November, DWP minister Lord Younger said he would urge anyone who thinks they may be eligible to claim as soon as possible. The Governments decision to extend the benefit could affect as many as 21,000 families, according to the Childhood Bereavement Network which has called the benefit a lifeline for grieving families. But thousands are still yet to claim, with just three weeks to go. Alison Penny, director of the Childhood Bereavement Network, said only around a quarter of the 21,000 families potentially eligible had claimed as of October last year. Ms Penny added: It would be helpful if the window for claiming could be extended but in the meantime its crucial that everyone continues to share news of the deadline. There is still time to claim, but the clock is ticking on being eligible for a full backdated payment. Who is eligible to claim BSP? The BSP is for spouses, civil partners and partners who are living together as though they are married. It is not means tested, so you can claim regardless of how much you earn, or have saved. The payments were launched in 2017 by DWP to support surviving spouses who lost their partners on or after April 6, 2017. Its for those who were below the state pension age when their partner died, and the deceased must have either died as a result of an accident or disease caused by their job. They also must have made National Insurance contributions for at least 25 weeks in one tax year since April 6, 1975. For married couples, you can claim regardless of whether you have children. For cohabiting couples, you must have either been pregnant, receiving child benefit or entitled to child benefit at the time of death. Usually, to get the full payment youll need to make a claim within three months of your partners death. Youll receive a one-off lump sum, followed by up to 18 smaller monthly payments. These depend on your circumstances. The rules are different if you want to backdate your claim. Firstly, its only for those who werent married when their partner died. How much you get depends on when they died. If it was on or after August 30 2018, you might get both the usual one-off payment and monthly payments; if they died before, you wont get the one-off sum, but might be able to get up to 18 monthly payments. To get the full amount, you must apply by February 9. Its still possible to make claims until November 8 2024, but your claim will be reduced. Who can claim WPA? Widowed Parents Allowance is the predecessor to BSP, and covers those whose partners died before April 6, 2017. It can also be claimed by those who were married, in a civil partnership or cohabiting at the time of the death, and there are the same rules as BSP about the deceased either paying NI contributions or dying as a result of their job. Regardless of whether or not you were married, you must have been eligible to receive child benefit for at least one child at the time of death. It may also be possible to claim if you were pregnant, or fell pregnant after fertility treatment at the time of the death. Backdated payments are only for those who were not married to their partner when they died. Usually, those claiming WPA get up to 139.10 per week, but this can vary depending on your partners NI contributions. The backdated amount may be less if youre receiving certain other benefits, such as Universal Credit, Income Support or Jobseekers Allowance. How much can you get? Theres a standard and higher rate for BSP. For most people, it includes a one-off payment of 2,500 and a monthly payment of 100 for 18 months (1,800). Thats a total of 4,300. If you receive child benefit or are pregnant, the one-off payment is 3,500 and the monthly payment 350 equating to 9,800. WPA payments work differently. The amount a partner gets is based on how much their partner paid in National Insurance contributions. The maximum is 139.10 a week. But note, if they died because of an accident at work or a disease due to work, National Insurance contributions may not come into it. Payments for both the old and new bereavement benefits can only be backdated to August 2018, even if a parents partner died before this date. Vicky Anning, of charity Widowed and Young, said the backdated payouts have allowed one parent she was working to take her child on holiday for the first time in 10 years. Elsewhere, one mother of two has already reportedly received as much as 22,000 in backdated Widowed Parents Allowance after the unexpected death of her partner in 2016, according to MoneySavingExperts Martin Lewis. She had been living with her partner for 27 years. Its important to note that as a claimant, you dont have to be living in the UK. Most of Europe, as well as a handful of countries outside the continent, also offer these types of benefits. How to claim You can claim BSP online, and also check the Governments full list of eligibility criteria on gov.uk. For WPA, youll need to download a paper form, print it, fill in the details, and send it to this address: Dover Benefit Centre, Post Handling Site B, Wolverhampton, WV99 1LA. You can also request paper forms to be sent to you via the Bereavement Service helpline: 0800 151 2012. Melanie Hodson, of charity Hospice UK, said it is important that grieving families previously cut off from the benefit dont miss out for a second time. She added: When someone dies, thinking about finances can be just one more thing to worry about at an incredibly difficult time. If there is more support available, we want as many people as possible to know about it. Recommended What is probate? How it works and how to execute a loved ones will Read more Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer. Adir Tahar, an IDF soldier, was killed during Hamas' October 7 attacks on Israel. A militant decapitated him and tried to sell his head for $10,000, his father has claimed. He said his head was found by Israeli forces in an ice cream store's freezer. The head of an IDF soldier who was killed during Hamas' October 7 attacks on Israel was found in an ice cream store's freezer, his father said in an interview on Israel's Channel 14 news station. Adir Tahar, 19, was killed as Hamas militants threw grenades during their assault on Israeli territory, The Times of Israel reported. He was then beheaded, and his head was taken into the Gaza Strip, his father, David, told Channel 14, per the report. Following the news, David Tahar told CNN he searched Telegram for signs of his son, watching "every video" he could find. "I happened to find this video where I could see my son," he said. "I can clearly say that the soldier without a head that you can see in that video is my son." During an interrogation by Shin Bet, Israel's domestic security service, a Hamas militant also claimed that he had attempted to sell the head for $10,000, David Tahar said. In an email to Business Insider, the IDF said it had "no information that can confirm the report about the selling of the head." An IDF spokesperson confirmed all of the details in the story, other than the selling of the head, to CNN. Tahar said he was later told that his son's head had been placed in a black bag and left in an "ice cream fridge" in Palestine Square, Gaza. Tahar's head was found by elite Israeli troops supported by tanks, per The Times of Israel. The Israeli Foreign Ministry also shared the story in a post on X, formerly Twitter. "Half an hour before I buried my child, his body arrived at Mount Herzl, I opened the coffin when I was alone," he said. "He was unrecognizable. I identified him by dog tags and a DNA test and things he had in his pants." Tahar told CNN that it was "important the people understand that what happened on 7th October, it can't happen again. Not to Israel, the Israeli people, and not to anyone else. Israeli officials would not confirm previous claims of beheadings A home in Kibbutz Be'eri near the Gaza border after Hamas militants attacked on October 7. Alexi J. Rosenfeld/Getty Images In the days following the Hamas attacks, unverified reports emerged of other instances of beheadings carried out by the group, including claims that the group had decapitated babies. The IDF received widespread criticism, alleging it had spread the rumor without evidence. Responding to the backlash, a spokesperson for the force, Major Nir Dinar, said the IDF would not investigate its claims as it was "disrespectful for the dead" to do so. No Israeli officials have confirmed the story. "We cannot confirm any numbers. What happened in Kibbutz Kfar Aza is a massacre in which women, children and toddlers, and elderly were brutally butchered in an ISIS way of action," the IDF said in a statement to Sky News at the time. President Joe Biden even mentioned the alleged findings in a speech. "I never really thought that I would see and have confirmed pictures of terrorists beheading children," Biden said. But the White House later said that the president had not independently verified the claims. Around 1,200 people were killed in Israel during Hamas' October 7 attacks. Reports have since emerged of the brutal tactics used by the Palestinian militant group on the day, including horrific stories of widespread sexual violence and mutilation. Smoke rises following Israeli strikes in Gaza, October 7, 2023. REUTERS/Mohammed Salem Israel responded to the attacks with weeks of deadly airstrikes and a ground invasion of Gaza, leading to the deaths of more than 26,000 Palestinians so far. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected the proposal of a Palestinian state once the conflict concludes, saying that "the war is continuing and it will continue until the end, until we achieve all of its goals." Read the original article on Business Insider The Chairman of NATO's Military Committee, issued a stark warning to civilians and governments alike, urging them to brace for a potential conflict with Russia within the next 20 years. While armed forces within the NATO alliance are on high alert and well-prepared for the outbreak of war, Admiral Rob Bauer emphasized the critical need for private citizens to ready themselves for a conflict that could necessitate significant lifestyle changes, as per The Telegraph. NATO Chief Urges Civilian Mobilization Admiral Bauer, speaking after a meeting of NATO defense chiefs in Brussels, stressed the importance of mobilizing large numbers of civilians in the event of a global war. He called on governments to establish systems to manage the mobilization process effectively. "We have to realize it's not a given that we are in peace. That's why NATO forces have plans, and that's why we are preparing for a conflict with Russia," stated Admiral Bauer during the press briefing. He further highlighted the broader scope of the discussion, emphasizing the pivotal role of both the industrial base and the general populace. "It is also the industrial base and also the people that have to understand they play a role," added Admiral Bauer. In preparation for potential hostilities, Admiral Bauer urged both public and private entities to shift their mindset from an era of predictability and control to an era where unforeseen events can occur at any time. He emphasized the necessity of expecting the unexpected and having an industrial base capable of rapidly producing weapons and ammunition. Commending Sweden for its proactive approach in urging citizens to prepare for war, Admiral Bauer acknowledged the surge in volunteers for Sweden's civil defense organization. The warning comes as NATO announces its intention to mobilize 90,000 troops in the largest military exercise since the Cold War. Dubbed 'Steadfast Defender,' the war games aim to deter any aggression from Russia and demonstrate the alliance's commitment to defending all member nations, according to Daily Mail. Read Also: Ohio Trans Candidate Overcomes Disqualification Vote for Omitting Deadname NATO's Massive Exercise The exercise, set to begin next week and run until late May, involves units from all 31 NATO member countries and candidate-member Sweden. UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps announced the deployment of 20,000 troops, along with the Royal Navy's aircraft carriers, warships, and the RAF's F-35 Lightning attack aircraft. Germany is set to contribute 12,000 soldiers, 3,000 vehicles, and 30 aircraft to simulate a Russian attack scenario triggering Article 5, which mandates collective defense in case of an attack on any NATO member. Amid the escalating tensions, Admiral Bauer reiterated NATO's long-term support for Ukraine, asserting that the conflict's outcome would shape the world's destiny. He stated that Russia's fear of democracy was at the core of the conflict, emphasizing NATO's commitment to defending democratic values. With increasing tensions globally, including Pakistan's airstrikes in Iran and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, the global community prepares for a potentially turbulent period in the near future. The recent disclosure of classified German Ministry of Defence documents detailing a comprehensive plan for a potential escalation of conflict with Russia serves as a stark reminder of the seriousness of the situation. In the face of these developments, NATO's 'Steadfast Defender 2024' is not only a military exercise but a clear demonstration of unity, strength, and determination to protect the alliance's values and the rules-based international order, according to US Army General Christopher Cavoli, NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Europe, Newsweek reported. Related Article: Judge Threatens Trump With Expulsion From Court Firefighters extinguish a fire in the western town of Pullman City. A fire broke out at the Pullman City western theme park in Eging am See in Bavaria on 21 January. Several wooden buildings such as saloons are on fire along the so-called Main Street, as the police announced. According to initial estimates, the police expect the damage to run into millions. Helmut Degenhart/zema-medien.de/dpa A fire broke out at a Wild West-themed amusement park in southern Germany, with police estimating the damage running into the millions of euros. Several wooden buildings, including saloons, went up in flames on Main Street at the Pullman City amusement park in Eging am See, in Bavaria, police said on Sunday. The cause of the fire was not immediately known, and no injuries were reported. The guests of a nearby hotel were taken to a safer location. Pullman City, which fashions itself on the horseback-riding cowboys of the 19th-century American West, covers around 200,000 square metres in Eging am See. "The fire was discovered by employees at around 6 am," said a police spokeswoman. "They tried to put it out with a fire extinguisher. But that didn't work." As of 9 am (0800 GMT), the fire was still burning. According to the website, a family day was planned on Sunday featuring magic and light shows. Depending on the weather, pony rides were also supposed to be on offer. The police spokeswoman did not think Pullman City would open on Sunday. Park officials were unable to be reached by telephone. Firefighters extinguish a fire in the western town of Pullman City. A fire broke out at the Pullman City western theme park in Eging am See in Bavaria on 21 January. Several wooden buildings such as saloons are on fire along the so-called Main Street, as the police announced. According to initial estimates, the police expect the damage to run into millions. Helmut Degenhart/zema-medien.de/dpa Firefighters had to deal with bitter, biting cold when they responded to a fire in Worcester Saturday night. Firefighters could be seen dousing 98 Canterbury Street with water as flames erupted from the roof of the multi-story residential building. Due to the harsh conditions, the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services sent a Rehab Unit to help support the crews. Tonights bitter cold poses a risk to their health and safety, and the Rehab truck provides them with a place to warm up, dry off, rehydrate, and have a bite to eat, a spokesperson with the State Fire Marshals office said. Boston 25 News is working to learn more info. DFS Rehab 7 is supporting @WorcesterFD firefighters at their two-alarm fire in tonights bitter cold pic.twitter.com/8qpeFsUps7 Massachusetts Department of Fire Services (@MassDFS) January 21, 2024 This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW A British Airways flight from London to Prague has been forced to return to Heathrow due to a technical issue, with unverified reports of fumes being observed in the cockpit. Flight BA854 took off from Heathrow Airport just before 7:40am on Sunday, and had been due to land in the Czech capital at 10:05am. But the Airbus A320 plane was turned around over the Channel and forced to return to Heathrow, where it touched down again less than an hour after taking off, flight tracking websites showed. Going places? British Airways Airbus A320 aircraft at London Heathrow (British Airways) The aircraft returned to Heathrow due to a technical issue and landed safely after the pilots chose to return in order to prioritise passengers safety, The Independent understands. British Airways said in a statement: Were sorry for the delay in our customers' journey after the aircraft returned to Heathrow as a precaution. Our teams looked after them whilst they waited to board a replacement aircraft to continue their journey. Reports of fumes being observed in the cockpit could not be verified. Footage captured by livestreaming services showed that several fire engines rushed to help the plane when it landed at Heathrow, the Mail Online reported. It comes as the airline cancelled more than three dozen flights from Heathrow on Sunday, as forecasters warn that Storm Isha will bring winds of up to 90mph. The Met Office has issued seven weather alerts for wind and rain on Sunday alone, with warnings set to remain in force across much of the UK until midday on Wednesday. Millions of people travelling by air, rail and sea are set to face disruption, as forecasters warn powerful winds will bring a danger to life and could damage properties, tearing roofs from homes and downing power lines. TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) A man with a lengthy criminal history was arrested for stealing a cash register from Walmart in Florida, according to the Flagler County Sheriffs Office. Deputies said during the theft at a Palm Coast Walmart on Dec. 10, 43-year-old John Michael Wakefield, of Wellington, was confronted by an employee, who he then shoved out of the way. Get him: Florida woman accused of ordering pit bull attack on ex-boyfriend, report says Detectives used facial recognition, his grey Hyundai SUV and his distinct red Key West T-shirt to eventually track and apprehend him in Ocoee. Inside his vehicle was that same Key West shirt, along with methamphetamine, a ski mask, and a realistic looking airsoft pellet gun. This dirtbag made the mistake of coming to Flagler County to commit his crime not knowing we have extensive technology, and an amazing RTCC and investigative team, Sheriff Rick Staly said. He didnt learn from his previous time behind bars and hopefully the courts will send him back to prison. I commend our investigative team, our Real Time Crime Center team, and the Florida Highway Patrol for bringing him to justice and ending his crime spree. Wakefield is a convicted felon who spent 10 years behind bars for armed robbery. He was released in 2021. He has a history of trafficking and possessing narcotics, grand theft, and robbery. Wakefield is being held at the Orange County Corrections Facility and once transferred to a Flagler County detention facility, he will be held on a $60,000 bond. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who entered the 2024 presidential race with a bankroll rivaling that of coup-attempting former President Donald Trump, dropped his bid for the GOP nomination on Sunday and endorsed Trump on his way out. Nobody worked harder and we left it all out on the field, DeSantis said in a video posted on X, formerly Twitter, before going on to say, If there was anything I could do to produce a favorable outcome more campaign stops, more interviews I would do it. But I cant ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources if we dont have a clear path to victory. Accordingly, I am today suspending my campaign. DeSantis then added that he was backing Trump over former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, the remaining major candidate in the race. Its clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance, he said, adding, He has my endorsement because we cant go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear, a repackaged form of warmed over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents. At a campaign stop in Seabrook, New Hampshire, Haley acknowledged DeSantis announcement. I want to say to Ron, he ran a great race. Hes been a good governor, and we wish him well. Having said that, its now one fella and one lady left, she said. Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts. - Winston Churchill pic.twitter.com/ECoR8YeiMm Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantis) January 21, 2024 The announcement comes just days after DeSantis claimed he had gotten his ticket punched to continue his campaign despite finishing a distant second to Trump in the Iowa caucuses. Late polls in that state showed that DeSantis could finish third behind Haley. When DeSantis ultimately finished just two points ahead of her, he tried to spin it as a victory even though he had previously said he had to win Iowa to win the nomination. DeSantis was polling even worse in New Hampshire and South Carolina than he had been in Iowa, and his campaign seemed uncertain of a strategy going forward. His first stop after Iowa was a campaign visit to South Carolina, a contest that is a full month after New Hampshires first-in-the-nation primary on Tuesday. He was to return to New Hampshire on Friday, but then was planning to head back to South Carolina on Saturday. Republicans who feared Trump could not win a general election, particularly wealthy party donors, had initially lined up behind DeSantis after his nearly 20-point reelection as governor in November 2022. That star power allowed him to continue collecting donations of unlimited size in a state account and eventually transfer more than $80 million into a federal super PAC created to support him. But DeSantis high point in the campaign turned out to be just after that reelection victory, when some polls showed him actually ahead of Trump for the 2024 nomination. However, that began to change quickly. Trump entered the race just weeks after those midterm elections and soon began attacking DeSantis in speeches, online and even in television ads. DeSantis chose not to enter the race himself until the end of Floridas legislative session in May, by which point he was polling only in the 20s both nationally and in Iowa and New Hampshire. The poor polling resulted in weaker fundraising, which resulted in two rounds of staff layoffs and shakeups even though much of the logistical work of the campaign was effectively outsourced to the relatively flush Never Back Down super PAC. An even bigger problem for DeSantis, though, may have been something even the best fundraising could do nothing about: his personality. Longtime Florida Republicans told HuffPost a year ago that DeSantis has never seemed to enjoy interacting with people. That trait, as it turns out, became a major liability in a primary race that still places a high value on personal interactions with primary voters in the early voting states. His problem is that the more people see him, the less they like him, said one influential New Hampshire Republican, speaking on condition of anonymity. Related... After a meteoric rise that made him one of the most prominent Republicans in the country and led many to believe he was the GOP leader best positioned to move the Republican party past former President Donald Trump, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Sunday ended a presidential campaign that had been on a downward slide for months. DeSantis immediately backed former President Donald Trump's campaign despite months of criticizing his performance in office, saying "he has my endorsement because we can't go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear." DeSantis entered the race last May with sky high expectations after a dominating reelection victory in Florida vaulted him to the top of the list of presidential prospects. Polls in early 2023 showed him competitive with Trump. Yet his campaign never came close to delivering on that early hype, and end up losing badly in Iowa last week. Polls showed DeSantis trailing by large margins in other early states, and he dropped out before what was likely to be a big loss in New Hampshire Tuesday. "Nobody worked harder, and we left it all out on the field," DeSantis said in a video posted on X Sunday. "Now following our second place finish in Iowa we've prayed and deliberated on the way forward. If there was anything I could do to produce a favorable outcome more campaign stops, more interviews I would do it but I can't ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources if we don't have a clear path to victory. Accordingly, I am today suspending my campaign." DeSantis added that he believes most GOP primary votes want "to give Donald Trump another chance." Trump's campaign said in a statement Sunday that "we are honored by the endorsement of Governor Ron DeSantis" and "it is now time for all Republicans to rally behind President Trump to defeat" President Joe Biden. The comments mark an abrupt change in tone after more than a year of Trump mercilessly mocking DeSantis. How a series of missteps doomed his campaign Once dubbed "DeFuture" of the GOP, DeSantis is now facing an uncertain political future after a bruising campaign marred by dysfunction and marked by GOP voters overwhelmingly rejecting him in favor of the former president. DeSantis pledged to continue showing "the country how to lead" through his work "down here in Florida." He will be governor for nearly three more years and hinted that he may still harbor national political ambitions, quoting a line he attributed to Winston Churchill but that the International Churchill Society says the former United Kingdom prime minister never spoke that "success is not final, failure is not fatal it is the courage to continue that counts." Yet the ineptitude his presidential campaign displayed from the beginning left many political observers marveling at how badly things went wrong. DeSantis ran a hard right campaign that courted Trump's MAGA base, arguing he could deliver conservative policy victories that Trump failed to achieve and without the chaos and drama. The pitch boiled down to Trump without the baggage, or "Trump Lite." It didn't work. Polls show most Republicans like DeSantis, but they like Trump more and the governor didn't offer them a good enough reason to move on from the former president. DeSantis also found himself fighting against the powerful effect produced by Trump's four indictments, which led many Republicans to view him as a victim and rally around him. DeSantis' poll numbers began to sharply decline in April when the Manhattan district attorney issued the first indictment. Trump's emotional hold on the GOP base always was going to be tough for DeSantis to break, but he made it more difficult by running a campaign plagued by frequent missteps. Republican presidential candidate Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis looks into the crowd after speaking as supporters of former President Donald Trump hold up signs during the Ashley's BBQ Bash fundraiser, Sunday, Aug. 6, 2023, at Hawkeye Downs in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. There were problems right from the start. Technical glitches turned DeSantis' campaign launch on social media site X into a disaster. It proved to be a sign of things to come. By July, DeSantis was laying off staff after burning through cash too quickly, and in August he switched campaign managers. A decision to outsource much of his campaign to a super PAC, Never Back Down, also proved problematic. The PAC imploded amid friction with campaign staffers; top PAC leaders were fired or left. Team DeSantis' troubles mastering the mechanics of running a presidential campaign were matched by the candidate's own struggles. Widely viewed as stiff and somewhat awkward when he started out, DeSantis took months to warm up and become more comfortable in the spotlight. DeSantis later said he regretted shunning the mainstream media in the early part of the campaign and not making himself more available. That decision limited his reach early on, and may have stunted his growth as a candidate. The question of how best to take on Trump also proved problematic for DeSantis, who for months before launching his campaign allowed the former president to routinely mock him and define him in the public eye without responding. Even after getting in the race, DeSantis was careful about how he attacked Trump, leading some supporters to express frustration that he was going easy on him. Trump, meanwhile, savaged DeSantis in highly personal terms, branding him "DeSanctimonious." Before the fall came DeSantis' rise to Republican rock star status Trump's aggressive criticism of DeSantis before he even announced his campaign is a sign that he once viewed him as a major threat. Indeed, by the end of 2022 DeSantis had emerged as the most prominent Republican in the country other than Trump. A little-known former congressman who eked out a narrow win in his first race for governor in 2018, DeSantis' rise to rock star status nationally in the GOP began during the COVID-19 pandemic when he fought to keep schools and businesses open. The governor's strident stance against many COVID restrictions, including mask and vaccine mandates, thrilled conservatives and vaulted him into the national spotlight. Subsequent culture war battles centered around race and LGBTQ issues only increased DeSantis' national standing within the GOP. His record in Florida became the touchstone for DeSantis' presidential campaign. Battling with Disney, removing left-wing prosecutors and flying migrants to Martha's Vineyard became part of his presidential pitch as he sought to "Make America Florida." Yet while Republican voters in interviews often said they liked DeSantis' record in Florida, it wasn't enough to sway them from Trump. That become clear in Iowa last week. Humbled in Iowa DeSantis launched his presidential bid with ambitions to run a national campaign, but recalibrated after a series of setbacks and instead focused heavily on Iowa, traveling the state relentlessly across all 99 counties and scoring key endorsements. Fueled by $82.5 million DeSantis raised for his re-election bid and transferred over from a state committee, the Never Back Down super PAC flooded Iowa with door knockers as part of the most robust ground game mounted by any candidate. DeSantis also spent much of the $35 million he raised in his campaign account in Iowa. DeSantis predicted he would win Iowa but ended up losing to Trump by 30 points. He initially said the second place finish meant his campaign got our ticket punched out of Iowa, and vowed to continue in the race, but many viewed the results as a resounding rejection. Fundraising would have been be difficult going forward, and he faced the likelihood of trying to compete with significantly fewer resources. 'Bye bye': DeSantis' future uncertain after bruising campaign At just 45, and with a broad network of supporters from his time as governor and running for president, DeSantis may still have a future in national politics. A Des Moines Register/NBC News/Mediacom Iowa Poll from earlier this month show that 58% of GOP voters in that state view him favorably. But that's a decrease from his 66% favorability rating from just a month ago. The campaign took a toll on DeSantis' popularity, including in Florida where just 50% of voters in November down from 54% four months earlier said they approve of the job he is doing as governor, according to a Florida Atlantic University Survey. With his eyes on winning a GOP presidential primary, DeSantis pushed through a series of highly controversial bills, such as a ban on abortions after six weeks of pregnancy. The FAU poll shows that nearly 60% of independents now disapprove of his job performance. A prolonged battle with Trump was likely to erode DeSantis' standing with the GOP base and his hopes of running for another office. Exiting now and endorsing Trump could help preserve some of that political capital, even if it marks a jarring turnabout after months of fighting between the GOP heavyweights. DeSantis took a shot at Trump's remaining primary challenger, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, in his remarks Sunday, saying she represents "a repackaged form of warmed-over corporatism." "The days of putting Americans last, of kowtowing to large corporations, of caving to woke ideology, are over," DeSantis said in remarks that may indicate he still hopes to inherit the MAGA wing of the party from Trump someday. Haley, meanwhile, said that DeSantis "ran a good race... he's been a good governor and he added a lot to the campaign." Democratic National Committee Press Secretary Sarafina Chitika said in a statement that DeSantis "pinned his entire campaigns hopes on the same extreme MAGA agenda that both Donald Trump and Nikki Haley are still running on, and now he is the latest member of the GOP to fall in line behind the original MAGA brand." DeSantis endorsed Trump a week after declaring in Iowa during one of his final rallies that you can be the most worthless Republican in America but if you kiss the ring, hell say youre wonderful. Even as DeSantis backed Trump Sunday, it was clear that the acrimony between the two campaigns has been intense, and often personal. Trump campaign manager Susie Wiles, who once worked for DeSantis before being pushed out of his orbit, responded Sunday to a post on X foreshadowing his departure from the race with two words: "Bye, bye." This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Ron DeSantis drops out of race for president, endorses Trump (Bloomberg) -- Ron DeSantis dropped out of the 2024 US presidential race on Sunday and endorsed frontrunner Donald Trump, narrowing the Republican field to two major candidates ahead of the closely watched New Hampshire primary on Tuesday. Most Read from Bloomberg He has my endorsement because we cant go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear, DeSantis said in a video released Sunday on X, formerly Twitter. The Florida governor described Trump as the preferable alternative to President Joe Biden or Nikki Haley, the last remaining rival to Trump in the GOP primaries. His exit from the race is a stunning blow to the political fortunes of a candidate who just two years ago won a second term as governor in a landslide election and stepped onto the national stage heralded by big-dollar Republican donors as the future of the party. New polling from CNN and the University of New Hampshire showed DeSantis earning just 6% of the states Republican vote, with Trump at 50% and Haley, the former South Carolina governor, at 39%. I cant ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources if we dont have a clear path to victory, DeSantis said in the video. Trump said he was honored by the endorsement, urging all Republicans to rally behind his candidacy and help defeat Biden in November. Nikki Haley is the candidate of the globalists and Democrats who will do everything to stop the America First movement, Trump said in a statement. Its time to choose wisely. Haley addressed DeSantis exit during a campaign stop shortly after his announcement. I want to say to Ron, you ran a great race, Haley said to cheering crowds. Its now one fella and one lady left. Some donors wanted DeSantis to preserve political capital so he could potentially run for president again in 2028. The Florida governor is only 45 years old, and donors see potential for him to seek higher office again when Trump is no longer on the ballot. Once flush with cash and projecting bravado, DeSantis was considered the heir apparent to Trump and the former presidents most formidable challenger when he joined the race in May. DeSantis has expressed regret over his early campaign media strategy where he avoided mainstream media, preferring instead to speak to conservative outlets. I should have just been blanketing. I should have gone on all the corporate shows. I should have gone on everything, he told radio host, Hugh Hewitt, on a recent show. Money Woes DeSantis operation was wracked by internal turmoil, including fights over messaging and strategy between the campaign based out of Tallahassee and the main super political action committee backing him, Never Back Down. It also became mired in leadership shakeups and a cash crunch. Donors were rattled as DeSantis teams burned through cash even as he began losing ground in the polls, leading him to lay off staff, reshuffle top aides and focus his strategy on early voting states, in particular Iowa. Many of his donors moved to back other candidates in the GOP field. In the weeks before the Iowa caucuses, two newer super PACs, Fight Right and Good Fight, booked millions of dollars in advertisements in the state, highlighting the clash between the campaign and Never Back Down. DeSantis and aides insisted they had money to stay in the race until at least early March but the Iowa loss raised fresh doubts among donors. In the days following the caucuses, DeSantis moved most of his team to South Carolina, largely ceding the New Hampshire contest to Trump and Haley. (Updates with Trump response. An earlier version corrected the year in the lede.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. FILE - Republican presidential candidate former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson speaks in Des Moines, Iowa, July 28, 2023. Hutchinson is dropping out of the race for the Republican presidential nomination after finishing sixth in Iowa's leadoff caucuses. The former Arkansas governor said Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024, that his poor performance in Iowa showed him that he has no path to the Republican nomination. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File) WASHINGTON (AP) Former Republican presidential candidate and ex-Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson endorsed Nikki Haley on Saturday, days before she tries to take on frontrunner Donald Trump in the New Hampshire primary. Hutchinson is a conservative whose opposition to Trump became central in his longshot bid for the GOP primary before he dropped out Tuesday. In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Hutchinson said: Anyone who believes Donald Trump will unite this country has been asleep over the last 8 years. Trump intentionally tries to divide America and will continue to do so. Hutchinson added: Go @NikkiHaley in New Hampshire. Haley's campaign did not immediately return a message seeking comment. After finishing third in the leadoff contest in Iowa earlier this month, Haley has been looking to appeal to independent and unaffiliated voters in New Hampshire's Jan. 23 primary to garner a strong finish and turn the race against Trump into a two-person contest. Hutchinson dropped out after finishing sixth in the caucuses. His backing comes a day after another of their former rivals in the GOP presidential contest, South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, endorsed Trump. Another former candidate, biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy has also backed Trump. Haley last weekend won the support of former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, a Republican who had fueled speculation that he was preparing for his own third-party bid. Trump's campaign did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment. TOWN AND COUNTRY, Mo. A former officer with the Town and Country Police Department was charged with seven felonies and two misdemeanors in a child sex crimes investigation. The Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorneys Office has charged Jordan C. Fowle, 57, with seven counts of child molestation, one count of sodomy, and one count of sexual abuse. Prosecutors filed charges on Jan. 16 and authorities have requested a warrant for Fowles arrest. Missouri court records did not indicate Saturday whether Fowle is behind bars. MoDOT prepares for icy conditions, St. Louis drivers urged to exercise caution The Town and Country Police Department confirmed via Facebook that Fowle was a former officer and is facing charges. The department adds its been in contact with the Jefferson County Sheriffs Office and has no reason at the present time to believe any alleged incidents occurred while Jordan Fowle was on duty, or otherwise acting in the official capacity of a Town and Country Police Officer. According to court documents obtained from FOX 2, Fowle is linked to several sex crimes between August 2012 and July 2023 with two victims. Per court documents, Fowle caused emotional distress to both victims, and one had several long term stays at mental health facilities after the reported crimes. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily News A separate Facebook post from the Town and Country Police Department noted that Fowle first started working for the department in 1995 and was promoted to sergeant in 2020. Court records indicate that Fowle will be held without bond, though an attorney has filed a motion for a bond reduction. The next scheduled court appearance in Fowles case ins Jan. 29, per Missouri court records. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 2. In an interesting development in the upcoming Presidential Election, it was reported by USNews that Tim Scott will be endorsing former President Donald Trump. This news comes as a shock as it comes just before the New Hampshire Republican Primary and, thus dealing a heavy blow to former UN ambassador Nikki Haley. The Source A source familiar with Scott's plan confirmed the decision to the Associated Press on Friday. However, they only spoke with the press on the condition that they remain anonymous. The news of the endorsement was first picked up by The New York Times newspaper. Last May Scott began forging his plan to challenge the former President but his efforts fell short after the following six months after his bid as he ran into some trouble gaining footing in the polls despite strong investments from high-profile donors such as Goldman Sachs and Capital Group. As for the former President has been running along the campaign trail he's been spotted with many former rivals who have gone on to endorse him. These rivals include North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum and the biotech entrepreneur Vivek Ramsey. There have also been speculations that Scott might be a running mate for the former President. An interesting take on this comes from Olivia Perez-Cubas "Interesting that Trump's lining up with all the Washington insiders when he claimed he wanted to drain the swamp. But the fellas are gonna do what the fellas are gonna do." Cubas currently works with Bullpen Strategy Group. A firm that is an "insights-focused public affairs advocacy and strategic advisory firm specializing in analysis, communications strategy, and project management to help clients solve problems, grow, and manage risk." However, it is still unclear how or if Trump's ongoing saga in the courts will play a role in his campaign. It was reported that the former President might be forced to $370 million in his ongoing fraud case in New York. In addition, the former President's name has been removed from Colorado ballots. Rutan Cosy III built in 1993 is pictured at Kemble Airfield in Gloucestershire, England. Photo by Adrian Pingstone/Wikimedia Commons Jan. 21 (UPI) -- Officials have announced the name of the fourth victim of the crash of a homemade airplane in California, including the son of a Zoom executive, officials said. Isaac Zimmern, 27, and long-time girlfriend Emma Wilmer-Shiles climbed aboard a kit-built aircraft that was piloted by their friend, Lochie Ferrier, the New York Post reported. Ferrier and his fiance, Cassidy Petit, also died in the crash last week. Zimmern was the son of Johann Zimmern, 59, the head of Global Education Marketing at Zoom, who lives in San Francisco, according to International Business Times. Isaac Zimmern was also living in San Francisco with Wilmer-Shiles, 27. The couple had been together for a decade. Zimmern spent the last three years working in New York City as a senior operations associate for Burrow, a Brooklyn-based furniture manufacturing company, according to his LinkedIn profile. The plane was identified as a Cozy Mark IV, a single-engine, four-seater kit plane. It crashed last Sunday around 4 p.m. off the coast of Half Moon Bay. A witness told a 911 operator that the plane was hurtling toward the water after hearing "the engine sputter," according to Sgt. Philip Hallworth of the San Mateo County Sheriff's Office. The National Transportation Safety Board said the cause of the accident is under investigation and a preliminary report would be filed in a week or two. The cause could take as long as two years to fully investigate, however, the NTSB said. The Federal Aviation Administration is also part of the investigation. The U.S. Coast Guard called off the search-and-rescue operation less than a day in, saying it was unlikely that any of the victims survived the crash, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. Only Wilmer-Shiles' body has been found so far. The San Mateo County Sheriff's Office will continue to look for the bodies of Zimmern, Petit and Ferrier. Ferrier, an Australian, was well-known in the experimental aircraft community. He graduated MIT with a degree in aerospace engineering. Fire at the oil depot in Klintsy A fire at an oil depot in Klintsy, Bryansk Oblast, which occurred after a drone attack on Jan. 19, was extinguished only on the second day, after midnight on Jan. 21, the Russian Telegram news channel Astra reported. Four fuel tanks, with a total weight of more than 3,100 tons, caught fire during the attack. Read also: Drone attacks reported in Russias Bryansk and Rostov oblasts The oil depot reportedly belongs to petroleum refineries company, Rosneft. There were no victims as a result of the fire, but 30 locals who lived nearby had to be evacuated. The governor of Bryansk Oblast, Aleksandr Bogomaz, claimed on Jan. 19 that the oil depot in Klintsy was attacked by a "Ukrainian drone." Read also: Russian Defense Ministry claims to down five drones over Bryansk Oblast, Crimea During the neutralization of the UAV, "ammunition was dropped," after which a fire broke out. 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 Manchester, N.H. Rep. Matt Gatez (R-Fla.) said on Sunday that he would welcome Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R ) back into the Trump campaign fold if the governor dropped out of the presidential primary. I remember the good old days when I was Ron DeSantiss transition chairman and he and President Trump worked so well together, Gatez, a top surrogate to former President Trump, told a crowd of Trump supporters at the campaigns headquarters in Manchester. I hate when mom and dad fight, he continued, receiving laughs from the crowd. It turns out we might get Ron DeSantis back on side pretty soon and I would welcome that, he said to applause. Gaetzs comments come after DeSantis canceled his scheduled appearances on NBCs Meet the Press and CNNs State of the Union on Sunday. The governors presidential campaign said the decision to cancel the interviews was the result of a scheduling issue and that they would be rescheduled. DeSantiss campaign also said that the governor has public events scheduled Sunday evening through Tuesday in New Hampshire ahead of the states primary. However, the scheduling claim did not stop Gatez and the Trump campaign from questioning the future of the governors primary bid. I guess I would ask what are his plans then? Gatez told reporters at the same event. If his plans arent to drop out, and he doesnt have any advertisements running and he wont achieve earned media by turning down two Sunday shows, a reasonable person might ask what is the DeSantis plan or path? Think about the stages of griefweve had denial with the DeSantis campaign. Weve had a good amount of anger, this last week on television you saw the bargaining, he continued. After that, we ultimately get to acceptance. Jason Miller, a senior adviser to Trump, further dug into DeSantiss move to cancel the television appearances. You dont do that if youre coming from a position of strength, Miller said. After coming in a distant second to Trump in Iowa, polls show DeSantis trailing Trump and former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley in New Hampshire and South Carolina. The Hills Decision Desk HQ average shows DeSantis coming in third place in New Hampshire with 7.2 percent and in South Carolina with 8.3 percent. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Internet users have turned to the web for years to find the past tense of "gaslight." A linguist TikToker went viral when he joked "gaslighted" and "gaslit" were both wrong. An expert said this isn't the case, but there isn't exactly one right answer either. People have been trying to agree on the past tense of "gaslight" for years, and a viral video has just added more confusion to the mix. Was someone "gaslighted" or "gaslit"? Or something else entirely? Gaslighting is a term originally associated with psychological abuse. It stems from the 1938 play "Gas Light" (and its multiple movie adaptations) about a woman who is manipulated by her husband into thinking she is losing her sanity. Throughout the story, her husband causes the gas lights in their home to dim but attempts to convince his wife that she is imagining it. Victims of real-life gaslighting can find themselves questioning their own mind, as a perpetrator "screws with your sense of reality to manipulate you, causing you to distrust yourself and trust them instead," psychologist Perpetua Neo previously told Business Insider. But the popularity of the phrase has skyrocketed in recent years, especially online, where it's sometimes used to describe behavior that likely wouldn't be categorized as abusive, such as someone disagreeing with you on a topic or issue. In 2022, Merriam-Webster reported they'd seen a 1,740% increase in searches for the term as it became "the favored word for the perception of deception," and "gaslighting" was named their word of the year . With the rise in the term's popularity has also come confusion about its past tense. If a light was "lit," one would assume a victim of gaslighting was "gaslit," yet it's often used interchangeably with "gaslighted." Multiple people have turned to Reddit and X , formerly Twitter, in search of answers. In 2017, one user asked Meriam-Webster directly , which responded that the correct form of the verb was "gaslighted." 'Gaslit' is an adjective: "illuminated by gaslight." The past tense of the verb is 'gaslighted'. https://t.co/HlYngiif94 https://t.co/OLZYQ1Vq5y Merriam-Webster (@MerriamWebster) May 9, 2017 But a language enthusiast recently went viral when he insisted both were incorrect. Enter: 'Gaslated' Adam Aleksic is a 23-year-old TikToker who studied linguistics at Harvard University and shares videos on etymology, which examines the origin of words. He's has gained 295,000 followers explaining linguistics to his audience, but told BI he likes to play around with the medium, which can range "from serious, well-researched content to silly stuff like making animal languages or explanations of language in pop culture." On December 16, he decided to get playful, when he told his viewers to stop using "gaslighted" and "gaslit," as he said they were both incorrect. "You're wrong, you've always been wrong," Aleksic said in the video as he jabbed his finger at the camera. As the background lights slowly dimmed throughout the course of the TikTok, he insisted the correct past tense was, in fact, "gaslated." He falsely claimed that the root of the word "light" also led to the past tenses "illuminated" and "elucidated," suggesting -ated is the correct suffix for all light-related words. (In fact, "illuminate" and "elucidate" come from Latin, while "light" has Germanic origins, and of course the past tense of "to light" is undoubtedly "lit.") Aleksic told Business Insider he thought the whole explanation was "a pretty obvious bit," but not everyone picked up on the joke. The upload received 1.3 million views and over 2,200 comments. Many joked that Aleksic was trying to gaslight them into using the wrong word but others appeared fully convinced that "gaslated" was correct. "I guess that's what happens when you build up credibility for a while only to bait and switch with a manipulative meme video," Aleksic told BI. It turns out none of the options are exactly wrong Dr. Laura Bailey, a senior lecturer in English language and linguistics at the University of Kent, England, confirmed to BI that Aleksic's video was recognizably a joke but couldn't quite settle the issue of what the right answer is. The English language doesn't have an official body that governs its "correct" use, although dictionaries are often used as the arbiter of what is right and wrong. According to the Linguistic Society of America, "English is now changing in exactly the same ways that have contributed to making it the rich, flexible, and adaptable language so popular throughout the world today. Living languages must change, must adapt, must grow." Bailey agreed with Merriam-Webster that the word you're looking for is probably "gaslighted," treating it as a regular verb that would take the suffix -ed for the past tense. But she said "gaslit" also works for her. "Linguists don't tell people what's correct, only what people actually do," she said. Aleksic echoed this sentiment. "Don't ever trust a linguist who tells you how language is supposed to be used," he told BI. "We're only here to observe, not to tell you what to say. But that doesn't mean I can't goof around with it." So if Aleksic's "gaslated" is your preferred option, no need to let the fact that it's made up put you off using it even if you do get some confused looks. Read the original article on Business Insider Palestinian children inspect a wrecked civilian car, after it was targeted by an Israeli aircraft. Abed Rahim Khatib/dpa The number of Palestinians killed in the Gaza Strip since the war between Israel and Hamas erupted on October 7 has passed 25,000, the health officials in the territory said on Sunday. The number killed now stands at 25,105 and the number of injured at more than 62,680, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said. Within 24 hours, 178 people had been killed in Israeli ground and air attacks on the coastal strip. The figures make no distinction between civilians and fighters. Around 70% of those killed in Gaza are women and children, the ministry said. The figures cannot be independently verified. The war was triggered when around 1,200 people were killed by militants from Hamas and other extremist Palestinian organizations on October 7 in southern Israel. Israel is vowing to keep fighting in Gaza until Hamas is completely crushed - but that goal could be a long way off. The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday that, according to an estimate by the US intelligence services, Israel has so far only succeeded in killing 20% to 30% of Hamas fighters in Gaza. Washington believes that Hamas still has enough ammunition to continue attacking Israel and Israeli troops in Gaza for months to come, the report said. According to US estimates, Hamas had between 25,000 and 30,000 fighters before the war, not including thousands of police officers. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has categorically ruled out the release of Israeli hostages on the terms of the Islamist Hamas. In a video message published on Sunday, the Israeli leader said that he was working "around the clock" to free the more than 130 hostages still held by Hamas. "But let's be clear: I reject in the strongest possible terms the terms of surrender of the Hamas monsters," he added. "Hamas is demanding, in exchange for the release of our hostages, the end of the war, the withdrawal of our forces from Gaza, the release of the murders and rapists of the Nukhba [Hamas forces] and leaving Hamas in place," Netanyahu explained. "Were we to agree to this our soldiers would have fallen in vain. Were we to agree to this we would not be able to ensure the security of our citizens. We would be unable to safely restore the evacuees to their homes and the next October 7 would be only a question of time." "I am not prepared to accept such a mortal blow to the security of Israel; therefore, we will not agree to this," Netanyahu added. Thousands of people demonstrated in Israel on Saturday against Netanyahu's governmemnt. Participants at a rally in Tel Aviv demanded an immediate end to the war in Gaza in order to free the more than 100 hostages still held by Hamas. "Stop the fighting, pay the price!" Israeli media quoted one of the speakers, whose cousin is among the hostages, as saying. Following an initial exchange of 105 hostages for 240 Palestinian prisoners at the end of November, Hamas has said it won't release the remaining hostages abducted from southern Israel on October 7 until Israel's military withdraws from the Gaza Strip. The Israel Defense Forces said on Sunday it had killed dozens of terrorists and found a large quantity of weapons during various operations in the Gaza Strip over the previous day. At least two people were killed in southern Lebanon on Sunday in an attack by what was suspected to be an Israeli drone. Security sources in Beirut told dpa that the object hit a vehicle in the village of Kafra, near the Israeli border. According to the Lebanese television station Al-Arabija, those killed were members of the Shiite militant group Hezbollah. One of those killed is said to have been the bodyguard of a senior Hezbollah leader, who may have been the target of the attack. The Israeli military did not initially comment on the incident. Palestinian children inspect a wrecked civilian car, after it was targeted by an Israeli aircraft. Abed Rahim Khatib/dpa Palestinian children inspect a wrecked civilian car, after it was targeted by an Israeli aircraft. Abed Rahim Khatib/dpa Palestinian children inspect a wrecked civilian car, after it was targeted by an Israeli aircraft. Abed Rahim Khatib/dpa University of Pennsylvania doctors hooked a genetically-modified pig liver up to a brain-dead patient and were able to have the organ successfully filter the man's blood for 72 hours, according to the university, making the technique a potential bridge for patients as they wait for a human liver transplant. Doctors performed the procedure in December 2023 with a pig liver developed by biotech outfit eGenesis, the university reports. Scientists modified the pig liver so that it would not be rejected by the human immune system. Unlike previous procedures where doctors transplanted pig organs directly into the human body, doctors in Pennsylvania chose to perform an "extracorporeal perfusion," in which the pig liver is hooked up outside the human body. In the case of this experiment, doctors had the pig liver stored in a mini-fridge sized device that is usually used to keep human organs alive and perfused with blood for eventual transplant into a patient. They then hooked up the pig liver device to the brain-dead patient and were able to have the unique Rube Goldberg contraption filter blood successfully with no sign of inflammation in the pig organ. The researchers see this experiment being used clinically as a critical bridge for very ill patients as they wait for a human transplant. Unlike a transplant that's implanted inside a person's body and which is meant to stay put for years, the doctors see the pig livers for this procedure being used temporarily for a way shorter period of time. The researchers also see this kind of procedure being used for patients who suffer from an acute liver injury and who need time to recover normal liver function. In that case, the pig liver device combo could serve as high tech crutches until the patient's own liver fully heals. "Any time a patient dies while waiting for a transplant, it is a tragedy, and we are always working to develop new ways to extend their lives," said the presiding surgeon Abraham Shaked in a statement. "The success of the first part of our study is significant for those facing liver failure, offering a glimpse into a future where innovative solutions can bring hope to patients who might otherwise be destined to die while waiting for a transplant." More on pig organs: Man is Doing Well With Implanted Pig Heart, Doctors Say Georgia, a capital for electric vehicle production, needs to increase its supply of electricity produced without burning fossil fuels in order to meet industries demand for clean energy, Gov. Brian Kemp told world business leaders Thursday. Speaking as part of a panel focused on electric vehicles at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, the Republican governor highlighted the construction of the Georgia Powers two new nuclear reactors at Plant Vogtle, near Augusta the countrys first new reactors in decades. Weve done as much as anybody in the country ... but were going to have to have more, Kemp said, although he did not call for closing any current power plants that burn coal, natural gas or oil [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Its Kemps second year in a row to visit the forum of world business and political leaders. He told The Associated Press on Thursday in Davos that the trip is aimed at really just selling the state from an economic development standpoint. That includes touting the electricity produced at Plant Vogtle. One of the reactors in the $31 billion project is generating power, while the other is expected to reach commercial operation in coming months. Were letting people know that we got a great airport, great seaport, got a great energy supply with our two nuclear reactors that are online and coming online, Kemp said. The fellow members of Kemps panel said that electric vehicles need to be made with electricity that isnt produced by burning coal, oil or natural gas that emits world-warming carbon dioxide. Zeng Yuqun, founder and chairman of Chinese battery manufacturer Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., or CATL, said a dirty battery, or one produced with lots of carbon emissions, is big trouble. Thats why Im looking for sustainability in all of this very quickly, said Zeng, one of Chinas richest people. Kemp, who said Georgia is well on our way to achieving his goal of being the e-mobility capital of the world, said he hears the need for clean energy from firms such as Hyundai Motor Group and Rivian Automotive. Talking to the companies that were recruiting, people that are looking to the state, they obviously want to produce with clean energy, Kemp said. Its another instance of how Kemp has shied away from tackling climate change directly, but has welcomed some changes in the name of business recruitment. TRENDING STORIES: The governor said he would look to electric utility Georgia Power Co. and its Atlanta-based parent, Southern Co., to meet those clean energy needs. But environmentalists have panned a current request from Georgia Power to increase its generating capacity largely using fossil fuels. Kemp told the AP that he remains confident in his push to recruit electric vehicle makers, despite a slowdown in electric vehicle sales in the United States. He blamed a law backed by President Joe Biden that included big incentives for buying American-made electric vehicles, saying it tried to push the market too quick. I think the markets resetting a little bit now, Kemp said. But I do not think thats going to affect the Georgia suppliers everybodys still very bullish on whats going on in Georgia. And I am too. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] Kemp told the panel the biggest challenge in Georgias electric vehicle push is making sure manufacturers and their suppliers can hire enough employees. Thats the big thing for us, is making sure we have the workforce, Kemp said. IN OTHER NEWS: A Fort Moore soldier has been accused of child exploitation after officials say he engaged in inappropriate behavior online with someone he believed to be underage. Gordon County sheriff officials said 36-year-old Andrew James Papest of Fort Moore was arrested last week by military police. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] Officials confirmed that Papest was an active-duty soldier in the Army at the time of his arrest. According to the investigation, Papest was chatting with an officer posing as a 14-year-old girl online. During that time, officials said Papest made improper and unlawful solicitation in a chat room and sent a pornographic image. TRENDING STORIES: Officials did not release any other details regarding the investigation. Papest was arrested and charged with six counts of computer/electronic pornography, seven counts of enticing a child for indecent purposes, and one count of solicitation of sodomy under 18 years of age. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: Read the full story on The Auto Wire Germans Cheer With Glee As Supercars Are Impounded An incident in Berlin involving a red Ferrari 488 Spyder and turquoise Lamborghini Huracan being loaded onto wreckers on the same day caused quite the stir on social media. Berlin police posted images of both supercars suspended mid-air by the wreckers crane before the Italian beauties were finally loaded. Plenty of Germans and others flooded the comments section to let everyone know their disdain for anyone who owned such machines. Check out a grandmas secret supercar stash here. Ah, class warfare, one of the most universal things about human existence. In todays society, few things bring it out quite like a supercar owner getting nabbed for breaking the law. While fans of such automotive beauties might watch in horror as careless tow truck drivers load up vehicles which are worth more than most houses, those who are envious of such trappings mock, jeer, and applaud. According to police, these two drivers violated the law in Berlin twice over. A bicycle patrol noticed both were parked in restricted areas. They were also parked within give meters of an intersection, a big no-no since that obstructs others view of cross traffic. Undoubtedly, police posted the photos to Twitter to act as a warning against any other scofflaws who might seek to violate parking laws in Berlin. They knew seeing two expensive supercars dangling in the air like a bovines being airlifted from one location to another would pique interest, although from the comments it seems people werent talking about the law. For what its worth, the owners of the Ferrari and Lamborghini no doubt got their supercars back quickly and with relatively little financial discomfort. This is probably why the rabble on Twitter took to mocking the unnamed owners so viciously while they could. After all, they might work for these people, rent an apartment from them, or otherwise be beholden to the anonymous parking violators. The Twitter mocking might have been their only chance to feel like they had an upper hand in life so they took it and did so with glee. https://twitter.com/polizeiberlin/status/1631736716376637447?s=20 (Bloomberg) -- Hundreds of thousands of Germans flooded the streets over the weekend, including in front of the national parliament, to protest against far-right extremism and the rise of the anti-immigrant AfD party. Most Read from Bloomberg The protests follow the recent revelation of a meeting at which senior Alternative for Germany, or AfD, politicians and members of the main opposition Christian Democrats discussed a re-migration scheme that echoed Nazi policies of the 1930s. A demonstration in Munich on Sunday drew more than 100,000 people, according to local police; organizers estimated the turnout at over 250,000. In Cologne an estimated 70,000 people took part, and a large crowd gathered in front of Germanys parliament, the Bundestag, in Berlin. Protesters in Berlin waved European Union flags and rainbow banners. Some were holding placards with slogans saying Germany remains colorful, Voting AfD is so 1933 or Ban the AfD. The protests followed turnout of more than 250,000 on Saturday, including Frankfurt and Hanover, where more than 70,000 people amassed. More than 50,000 people in Hamburg joined a protest on Friday. Read more: Germany on Alert After Extremist Re-Migration Plot Uncovered Discussions at the meeting in November, which was exposed by investigative journalists, included a proposal for mass deportations of asylum seekers, other foreigners with the right to reside in Germany, and German nationals whom the participants deemed insufficiently assimilated. Right-wing extremists are attacking our democracy. They want to destroy our social cohesion, Chancellor Olaf Scholz said in his weekly video podcast on Friday. At a secret conference, these extremists discussed how they could kick millions of people out of our country. Scholz called on all citizens to take a stand and defend Germanys open and pluralistic society against the threat of right-wing extremism. The AfD has risen from the fringes of German politics to be second in national opinion polls, while support for Scholzs three-party coalition has sagged. Scholzs Social Democratic party lost 2 percentage points of public support in a weekly poll published by Bild on Sunday with AfD party holding steady at 22%. The right-wing party is projected to win three regional elections in eastern Germany in September. The growing appeal of AfD has been driven by years of high energy and food costs, a jump in new arrivals of asylum seekers, and infighting among Scholzs coalition. Following the report about the deportation plans, though, a growing number of business executives have expressed concern about the rise of the far-right and warned against the threat it poses to Germany as an open society and attractive location to do business. Read more: Infineon CEO Joins German Business Leaders to Warn of Far Right Scholzs government has opted for a two-pronged approach to tackle the migration challenge by speeding up deportation of rejected asylum seekers and facilitating the integration of those allowed to stay. Parliament last week approved legislation which gives local authorities more powers to arrest and deport undocumented migrants. At the same time, the coalition parties passed a law that makes it easier for foreigners to become German citizens, or obtain dual citizenship. (Updates with Sunday turnout from third paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Novatek, Russia's leading liquefied natural gas producer, was forced to cease certain operations at a Baltic Sea facility when a fire broke out after what the firm believes to have been a drone strike by the Ukrainian government. On the Gulf of Finland, about 170 km (110 miles) west of St. Petersburg, is the Ust-Luga complex. This complex, according to Novatek's website, processes stable gas condensate into jet fuel, heavy and light naphtha, fuel oil, and gasoil. Shipments of processed goods to foreign markets pass via the port. Strike Carried Out by Ukraine? In a report by Reuters citing Interfax-Ukraine news agency, anonymous sources said the fire was caused by a special operation conducted by Ukraine's security forces. Located in the Leningrad area, the Ust-Luga Oil terminal is a crucial asset for the enemy. There is a refinery for fuel, which is provided to the Russian military and others, as per one source. "A successful attack on such a terminal not only causes economic damage to the enemy, depriving the occupiers of the opportunity to earn money to wage war in Ukraine, but also significantly complicates the logistics of fuel for the Russian military," the insider added. Reportedly, a number of explosions followed the sound of a drone taking flight in the area. The claim that the fire was started by a drone assault by the Ukrainians could still not be verified. Operations at Novatek Temporarily Suspended The governor of the Leningrad area, Alexander Drozdenko, confirmed via the messaging app Telegram that no one had been hurt and that all employees had been rescued without issue. Two storage tanks and a pumping station were destroyed in the incident, as reported by Russian news sources, but the situation has been brought under control. In a statement, Novatek said it had temporarily halted operations after the fire, attributed to "external influence." It continued: "The technological process at Novatek-Ust-Luga has been stopped, and an operational headquarters has been established to eliminate the consequences. Damage assessment will be carried out later." See Also: Ukraine Claims Russian Paratroopers Have Refused Human Wave Attack Order-Here's What Kyiv Official Revealed Ongoing Conflict Between Russia and Ukraine The almost two-year-old conflict between Russia and Ukraine shows no signs of ending. Both sides have resorted to attacks on each other's energy infrastructure in an effort to demoralize the other and disrupt supply lines and logistics. Moscow has placed the blame on Kyiv after a drone assault on Friday, January 19, on an oil station in Bryansk, a province in western Russia that borders Ukraine. This occurred only one day after what Russian authorities said was a fruitless assault on an oil port located in the Baltic Sea. See Also: Amidst The Ongoing Conflict, Ukraine Initiates The Reconstruction Of Towns And Cities Fighting crime Two Jan. 12 Observer articles about Vice President Harris announcing gun violence funding and the NC GOP previewing anti-crime solutions demonstrate the difference between Democrats and Republicans on gun violence, mental health and juvenile justice. North Carolina became the last state to raise the age when juveniles are charged as an adult. N.C. House Speaker Tim Moore wants to revisit this. Decades of research shows lower recidivism rates in the juvenile justice system and that sending youth to the adult system generally increases rates of violent future offenses. If the goal is public safety, invest now in mental health support, conflict resolution and coping skills for youth. Amy Lefkof, Charlotte Wells Fargo sign Wells Fargo shouldnt put its signage on the former Duke Energy building. This advertisement covering one of the tallest buildings in Charlotte would be a giant eyesore. The Truist building has words on it, but theyre smaller and the building doesnt draw as much focus in our skyline. The proposed Wells Fargo sign is very big and would drastically change the beauty of the very recognizable building. Dylan Reikowski, Charlotte UNC interference Pat Ryans Jan. 14 Opinion piece lost all credibility for me when he brought up UNC-Chapel Hills interim chancellor, Lee Roberts. A university chancellor with absolutely no experience in education? Colleges in the U.S. have been providing quality education for centuries without political interference. Its a shame they cant go on doing that in North Carolina. Lisa Baucom, Kannapolis Hard choices Regarding Three reasons we cant seem to step off of the government-shutdown merry-go-round, (Jan. 18 Opinion Extra): There are more than three reasons we are unable to break the cycle of budget dysfunction. Leading the way? Courage. Members of Congress know that doing the right thing and making the hard decisions means slashing the federal budget, reducing the non-Defense federal employment headcount, eliminating departments that are relics, and modifying the social safety net to ensure it remains sustainable long term all of which will upset the status quo and put their reelection in jeopardy. Primaries are not always a bad thing not if they put the republic on stable financial footing. Daniel Barry, Weddington Trump and Jesus? Evangelical pastors are fostering comparisons of Donald Trump with Jesus. I understand that anything goes in politics, but ministers should be expected to stay within the vicinity of truth and accuracy. Unlike Trump, Jesus never committed fraud, sexually abused a woman, lied constantly, sought revenge or retribution, or demeaned the weak, disabled or immigrants. It is disheartening to see Christians on TV earnestly make these comparisons. They honestly feel they represent true Christian understanding and values. The question is, whose Christianity? It seems some people are making it up as they go. David Gilliam, Matthews Student debt Regarding For some, student debt forgiveness starts in February, (Jan. 14): Joe Biden should never have made a campaign promise to forgive student debt in the first place. It was a ploy to buy votes. The U.S. Supreme Court should declare the SAVE plan illegal. Parents and students knew what they were doing when they took out these loans. They should be held responsible for paying them back. Get a job, two or three jobs if necessary, and earn the living they need to pay their bills just as we did. Michele Komendat, Concord Newspapers matter If anyone needs to be reminded of the importance of local newspapers, The Observers Jan. 16 front page should do the trick. A Kannapolis City Council member resigning in order to accept $3 million and then being reappointed to council is shocking. Without local newspaper coverage, we might never know about it. Im always sorry to see unfavorable news about the Charlotte region, but Im grateful for the local newspaper that reports it. Anita Strauss-LaRowe, Charlotte Tate Reeves may be trying to have his cake and eat it, too. The Republican governor for years has proclaimed that the state should eliminate the personal income tax to entice people to move to Mississippi. But during his push this week to land legislative funding for a plant to manufacture electric vehicle batteries in north Mississippi, Reeves is now saying that residents of Tennessee, where there is no income tax, will come to Mississippi to work at the plant and decide to move here. He said nothing about the state income tax being a hinderance to their moving to Mississippi from a no-income tax state. There is a possibility that some of the employees may come from the state of Tennessee, Reeves said during a press conference this week. My expectation is they are going to come down to work for this particular company and see how great it is to live in Mississippi. I think you will see population growth because I do think you will see people moving from all over the country and in fact all over the world to work at this particular company. The Legislature did, in fact, approve the at least $350 million incentive package in a one-day special session. Mississippi Republican Gov. Tate Reeves, center, stands with House Speaker Jason White, R-West, left, and Republican Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann, right, as well as the legislators behind him, as he praises the passing of a state incentives package for a Mississippi factory that will manufacture batteries for electric vehicles. The plant will be located a stones throw from the Tennessee state line. There are multiple reasons, including the states generous incentive package, for the battery manufacturer to locate in Marshall County. The transportation outlets available for the plant will be important. The plant will be located on the intersections of U.S. Highway 72 and state Highway 302, both which were four-laned years ago thanks to the forethought of the historic 1987 highway program. There also is a nearby railroad and major airport in Memphis that will be attractive to the companies building the battery plant. In addition, the plant location is near population centers in adjacent DeSoto County in northwest Mississippi and the rest of the Memphis metropolitan area in, yes, Tennessee. People could actually continue to live in Tennessee, where there is no state income tax, and work at the plant, which means they would be required to pay a Mississippi income tax. While Reeves is touting eliminating the state income tax, Bill Cork, the governors executive director of the Mississippi Development Authority, told legislators one of the many reasons the plant is a good investment for Mississippi is that the workers would be paying state income taxes an estimated $160 million over 30 years, according to projections shared with lawmakers this week. If the income tax is eliminated, as Reeves wants to do, the state no longer would receive that tax revenue from the workers at the plant. A matter of fact, if Mississippi eliminates the income tax, theoretically Tennessee residents could travel the short distance to Marshall County to work at the plant, collect a paycheck, return home and never spend a dime in the Magnolia State. Since the plant is located near (very near) the state line and is expected to employ Tennessee residents, the income tax is one of the most effective ways for the state to recoup some of its investment. More Tennesseans than Mississippians live within driving distance of the plant. Republican House members rejected Democrats efforts this week to ensure a majority of the workers at the new plant would be Mississippians. Mississippi Republican Gov. Tate Reeves thanks lawmakers for passing a state incentives package for a Mississippi factory that will manufacture batteries for electric vehicles. The plant actually will be located in an area of the state that has repeatedly dispelled Reeves claim that eliminating the income tax would attract people to Mississippi. That might be true in some instances, but it should be noted that DeSoto County for years has been by far the states fastest growing county primarily because people have been moving from Memphis in Tennessee, where there is no income tax, to Mississippi, where there is an income tax albeit one of the lowest in the country. People have moved across the state line from Tennessee to Mississippi for a number of reasons. But Mississippis modest state income tax has not prevented tens of thousands of people from moving here from a state that, again, does not have an income tax. As the governor said himself during the news conference, people will move to Mississippi because it not only is an affordable place to live, but the quality of life is extremely high. And Reeves said that if Tennesseans who work at the green energy plant do not move to Mississippi, they at least will be paying the payroll tax to the state unless, of course, he is successful in eliminating it later this year. This analysis was produced by Mississippi Today, a nonprofit news organization that covers state government, public policy, politics and culture. Bobby Harrison is Mississippi Todays senior Capitol reporter. A super PAC with deep ties to OpenAI CEO Sam Altman launched an AI chatbot this week in a bid to deny President Joe Biden from winning a second term in office, The Washington Post reports. The group, We Deserve Better, launched the Dean.Bot as an AI stand-in for Dean Phillips, a Minnesota congressman who's running a quixotic campaign to challenge Biden in the Democratic primary. Phillips has attracted the attention of Altman and other Silicon Valley elites, who say they're concerned about Biden's recent low poll numbers and his chances against former President Donald Trump, the likely winner of the Republican primary. But tellingly, the formation of the super PAC to support Phillips occurred in early December, soon after Biden signed a sweeping executive order that seeks to regulate AI tech. Altman and other AI proponents have said in the past that they want regulation and safeguards on AI, but that stance often changes when proposals become reality. For example, Altman earlier threatened that OpenAI would quit operating in Europe if certain AI regulations came to pass, and has also lobbied hard to water down those same regulations. So it's interesting that a group with deep ties to Altman would launch an AI-powered chatbot to try to unseat Biden, who wants to curb AI technology. One of the founders of the super PAC, Matt Krisiloff, used to be an employee of OpenAI and apparently dated Altman. Strikingly, OpenAI's ChatGPT once powered the chatbot, but now it relies on open source models, according to WaPo. The Dean.Bot is clearly labeled as an AI chatbot and has disclaimers such as: "Feel free to ask it anything, but please take answers with a grain of salt!" If you ask him about any recent campaign controversy, the Dean.Bot, like any seasoned politician, passes the buck. For example, the Phillips campaign quietly changed a header on its website that once read "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion," The New York Times reports. It now reads instead "Equity and Restorative Justice." This change comes after the Phillips campaign received an infusion of $1 million from Bill Ackman, the billionaire hedge fund manager who's mounted a recent assault on DEI initiatives. When you ask the Dean.Bot about the recent removal of DEI from the Phillips campaign website, the chatbot says that "I must clarify that as a digital clone, I don't control the content of websites or make decisions about what is posted or removed." "However, I can tell you that my commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is unwavering," the chatbot continues. "My actions and policies consistently reflect the importance of these principles in creating a fair and just society for all. If there have been changes to my website, they would be made with the intent to best represent my current focus and priorities in serving the people." As it stands, the Biden campaign probably shouldn't worry too much about the chatbot, because it's still pretty clunky when compared to dealing with a real flesh and blood human being, more an election year curiosity than anything else. Beyond the chatbot being an avatar for a monied class who want to influence elections, though, it does feel like a prototype of how AI and tech may change politics going into the future. Late last year, the campaign of Pennsylvania Democrat politician Shamaine Daniels ran a chatbot called Ashley to help in her phone banking efforts. Both Dean.Bot and Ashley have been clearly labeled as AI chatbots, but they could be laying the groundwork for a reality in which bad actors can release chatbots that can lie or obfuscate rival politicians' policy platforms. "I see this as a Pandoras box problem," New York University Stern Center for Business and Human Rights' deputy director Paul Barrett told WaPo. "Once we have AI versions of candidates chatting up voters, its a short step to bots used by political opponents to fool voters into thinking that politicians are saying things they never said. And soon, everyone gets so cynical about all of this fake communication that no one believes anything anyone is saying." More on political AI: Pennsylvania Politician Using Talking AI Chatbot to Call Thousands of Voters Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haleys campaign will be running an ad featuring supportive words from the mother of the student who died after being detained in North Korea in 2017, in an effort to highlight the candidates foreign policy prowess. The three-minute ad, scheduled to run a day ahead of the first-in-the-nation New Hampshire primary on Tuesday, shows Cindy Warmbier, Otto Warmbiers mother, speaking during the launch of Haleys campaign in Charleston, S.C. Otto Warmbier was a University of Virginia student who was imprisoned after visiting North Korea on an organized tour. My son, Otto, was invited to North Korea on an organized tour. He was taken hostage, tortured, and murdered by the government of North Korea, Ottos mother said in the ad, confirmed to The Hill by Haleys campaign. When we were begging the Obama administration for help, they told us to be quiet and be patient. Nikki told us the opposite. She told me its OK to be afraid, like I am now, but I had to push through the fear. While serving as the U.N. Ambassador, Haley built a strong bond with Cindy Warmbier. In the ad, Warmbier touted Haleys strength and compassion during the difficult time for the family. She told us to be loud and fight back, the ad says. To fight for justice. To fight for ourselves. And to fight for Otto. We passed laws in Ottos name, seized North Korean assets, and helped close down illegal businesses run by the North Koreans. The ad seeks to differentiate Haleys stance on North Korea from that of former President Trump, who has boasted about exchanging letters with dictator Kim Jong Un. Trump did criticize the dictator after Otto Warmbiers death but later mentioned that he did not believe Kim knew about Warmbiers mistreatment. He tells me that he didnt know about it, and I will take him at his word, Trump said. I dont believe that he would have allowed that to happen, it just wasnt to his advantage to allow that to happen. The ad is part of an advertising effort by Haleys campaign and allied PACs who have doubled the amount spent on those expenditures compared to Trumps political network. The former presidents network has intensified ad spending in the Granite State, hoping to secure the win in the state where he is polling 11.4 percent higher than second-placed Haley, according to the latest The Hill and Decision Desk HQ aggregate of polls. Trump sits at 46.7 percent, while Haley is at 35.3 percent. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. (Bloomberg) -- Nikki Haley can sustain her presidential campaign into the next round of Republican primaries even without a win in Tuesdays contest in New Hampshire, the states Governor Chris Sununu said. Most Read from Bloomberg Sununu, New Hampshires popular chief executive, endorsed Haley for the GOP nomination and has campaigned extensively with her across the Granite State. Haley needs a strong showing there after finishing third in Iowas Jan. 15 Republican caucus, behind former President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Just showing a stronger performance than was in Iowa, thats the most important piece right now and having less candidates in the race and defining it as a one-on-one race, Sununu said in an interview on Sunday with Bloomberg Television. New Hampshire so far presents the strongest opportunity for Haley a former US ambassador to the UN to upset Trump owing to the states more moderate electorate and the ability of undeclared voters to participate in the GOP primary. Even so, a CNN poll released Sunday showed Trump with 50% support among likely Republican primary voters versus 39% for Haley. Both candidates have seen an increase in support since a previous survey earlier this month, when Trump had the backing of 39% of voters and Haley registered at 32%. DeSantis was at 6%, the CNN poll found. Sununu dismissed characterizations that early contests in New Hampshire and Haleys home state of South Carolina were make or break for her presidential bid, but said that she must notch wins in the Super Tuesday round of primaries on March 5. He said Trump has sought to frame the early primaries as must-win contests because the former president wants to end the nomination race early. I dont think any of these early states are must wins for Haley, Sununu said. When you get to Super Tuesday, OK, now you really have to start winning states obviously. But as long as she keeps building on that momentum, I think theres a lot of opportunity. Sununu has long been a staunch critic of Trump. In the Bloomberg Television interview, he cited Trumps loss in 2020 to Joe Biden and said that the former president has hurt the Republicans ability to win congressional races. Because of that Trump brand, weve lost in 2018 and 2020 and 2022, he said. Were just tired of that brand that just drags the rest of the Republican Party down. Trump has begun to look ahead to the Feb. 24 primary in South Carolina. On Saturday, in a jab at Haley, Trump was joined at a New Hampshire rally by current South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and several state lawmakers, a day after announcing the endorsement of South Carolina US Senator Tim Scott. Sununu criticized Scott for endorsing the former president over Haley, who appointed Scott to the chamber in 2012, when she was South Carolina governor. Tim Scott wouldnt be a senator without Nikki Haley, he said. Thats why what he did was so disrespectful. --With assistance from Stephanie Lai. (Updates throughout with more comments from interview) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. New Hampshire's Union Leader newspaper on Sunday endorsed former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley in Tuesday's New Hampshire Republican presidential primary. "If you can select a Republican ballot on Tuesday," it wrote Sunday, "we urge you to select Nikki Haley as your next president. New Hampshire is ready for a change. America is ready for a change. The world is ready for a change. We want a better option than we have had for the past eight years, and Nikki Haley is that option." The endorsement did not mention either former President Donald Trump or Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who are running against her, instead touting her character and her accomplishments. "She is easily the most qualified candidate on either ballot," it said. "Nikki Haley is an accountant by career and training. Nikki Haley is a mother. Nikki Haley is a military spouse. Nikki Haley is the child of immigrants. Nikki Haley has experience as a successful governor and a diplomat." Polling indicates that Trump, who won the Iowa Caucuses on Monday, is in the lead in the Republican race, with Haley second. "New Hampshire can prove that the independent-minded voters of the Granite State will not be told the election is a done deal," the endorsement said. "New Hampshire can prove that nothing is inevitable and send Nikki Haley home to South Carolina with a head of steam." The Union Leader, which is based in Manchester, has long been influential in New Hampshire politics and, by extension because of New Hampshire's first-in-the-nation primary status, nationally. However, its endorsements in contested Republican primaries have not fared all that well in recent years: Both former House Speaker Newt Gingrich (2012) and then-New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (2016) lost. In 2020, when Trump was basically unopposed on the Republican side, it urged independents or Democrats in its state to back Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), who also lost. MANCHESTER, N.H. Former President Trump easily won the Iowa caucuses last week and is leading nearly every New Hampshire poll gearing up to Tuesdays primary, but in an arena filled with fired-up loyalists in the Granite State on Saturday, all he wanted to discuss was his GOP rival, Nikki Haley. Nikki Haley, I know well. Sadly, shes made an unholy alliance with the RHINOS, the never-Trumpers the globalists, the radical left communists, Trump said, slamming the former U.N. ambassador while he was surrounded by roughly 5,000 supporters who stood outside in 14-degree weather to see him. In recent days, Trump has been hurling insults at Haley, who has been steadily closing the gap in New Hampshire. In the past two months, she cut Trumps lead in the state by half. Trump has an 11 percent lead in the Granite State, according to The Hill and Decision Desk HQs polling average. Two months ago, he had a 22-point lead. Nikki Haley is using radical Democrat money to fund the radical Democrat campaign operation that shes running, Trump told supporters during the Saturday rally. In an effort to especially irk Haley, Trump invited several politicians from her home state, including Gov. Henry McMaster (R), to join him on stage. Almost every politician from the state of South Carolina is endorsing me, Trump said as a slight to Haley, who is a former governor of the state. South Carolina is also next major contest after New Hampshires first-in-the-nation primary. In addition to the Palmetto State politicians on stage, Trump also secured the endorsement of her home states senator, Tim Scott (R-S.C.), on Friday. Haley nominated Scott to the Senate when she was governor and lobbied for his endorsement when he dropped out of the 2024 GOP presidential race. These attacks havent been one-sided. Haley has dropped her reluctance to criticize her former boss and has ramped up attacks on the former president in recent days. The reality is who lost the House for us? Who lost the Senate? Who lost the White House? Donald Trump, Donald Trump, Donald Trump, Haley said Thursday. Tuesdays primary is a critical moment for both Haley and Trump. If Haley can pull off a win or a close second-place finish in the Granite State, it could threaten Trumps front-runner status for the GOP presidential nomination. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. (Bloomberg) -- Nikki Haley pressed her attack on Donald Trumps age and mental fitness over the weekend as she seeks an upset win in the New Hampshire Republican primary. Most Read from Bloomberg Hes just not at the same level he was in 2016, the former South Carolina governor said Sunday of Trump on CBSs Face the Nation. I think were seeing some of that decline. Haley, 52, has mostly steered clear of strong attacks on the 77-year-old former president, whom she served as United Nations ambassador. But she seized on Trumps mental acuity after he repeatedly appeared to confuse her with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi at a rally on Friday night. Her shift in tone comes as the critical vote looms Tuesday, with a new CNN poll showing Trump holds 50% of support among likely Republican primary voters in New Hampshire versus 39% for Haley. Read more: Trump Widens Lead Over Haley in CNNs Latest New Hampshire Poll On CBS, Haley ticked off multiple examples of Trump possibly being confused. He claimed that Joe Biden was going to get us into World War II. Im assuming he meant World War III, she said. He said that he ran against President Obama. He never ran against President Obama. He says that Im the one that kept security from the Capitol on January 6th, I was nowhere near the Capitol on January 6th. Dont be surprised if you have someone thats 80 in office, their mental stability is going to continue to decline, Haley said. It should be enough to send us a warning sign, she said. Joe Biden, hes very different than he was two years ago. Biden, 81, added his voice to the tumult over Trumps repeated assertions Haley was responsible for security on Jan. 6. I dont agree with Nikki Haley on everything, but we agree on this much: She is not Nancy Pelosi, Biden said on X, formerly Twitter. New Hampshire so far presents the strongest opportunity for Haley to upset Trump, owing to the states more moderate electorate and the ability of undeclared voters to participate in the GOP primary. Read more: Haley Doesnt Need Tuesday Win to Sustain Bid, Sununu Says But even if she defies the polls and wins in New Hampshire, Haley faces a steep climb toward the GOP nomination. Other polls show Trump dominating around the nation, including in her home state of South Carolina. That primary is on Feb. 24. (Adds Bidens post on social media starting in ninth paragraph.) Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, reportedly sent messages to King Charles III and Princess Catherine after their respective households announced their scheduled hospitalizations. The Princess of Wales was first reported to be recovering after what Kensington Palace called an "abdominal operation" at The London Clinic and was expected to stay in hospital for two weeks before spending the rest of her recovery period at Windsor Castle. Meanwhile, Charles is currently in preparation for his "corrective procedure" to treat an enlarged prostate this week. The Daily Mail cited a royal source when it said that Prince Harry - who has since been officially stripped of his Counsellor of State roles alongside his uncle, Prince Andrew and his wife Meghan sent their support to both royals in what was being seen as an olive branch to repair their fractured relationship. "The Duke and Duchess contacted both parties in different ways to pass on their concern and best wishes," the source told The Mirror. Read Also: Buckingham Palace: King Charles to be Hospitalized Next Week-Here's Why Windsor's Working Royals Down by 3 Last week, Prince William was also spotted visiting Kate at the hospital before apparently picking up their children from school. Another source told The Times that the future King and queen were trying to maintain a sense of "normality" for their children, including 10-year-old Prince George, who is currently second in line for the British throne. William was also reported to clear off his schedule to be with his wife's side as she recovers. The Prince of Wales's in-laws, the Middletons, were also expected to help his family care for Catherine. This meant that Queen Camilla and the remaining working members of the slimmed-down House of Windsor would have to compensate for the absence of the King, his son, and his daughter-in-law. However, Majesty magazine's Joe Little indicated that Charles was said to return after his procedure to continue royal engagement work, among other duties. Related Article: Prince William Spotted Visiting Kate in Hospital DERRY, N.H. Two days before the New Hampshire primary, GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley is leaning into criticism of her rivals ages. Do we really want to have two presidential candidates in their 80s? she rhetorically asked a crowd of New Hampshire voters in Derry. No! a few people in the crowd yelled back. A woman in the crowd interrupted Haleys references to age, critical of Haleys snipes. The former South Carolina governor quickly clarified that mental competency is important at any age, suggesting again that mental competency tests in Congress should be considered. This is the most pressured job in the country. You cant make a mistake, she said. Haley then leaned into former President Trumps recent gaffe, where he appeared to mix her up with former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) in reference to security issues on Jan. 6, suggesting that it was Haley who was in charge instead of Pelosi. Trump goes on and on, multiple times, saying that I prevented the security on January 6 at the Capitol. I wasnt even anywhere near the Capitol. I wasnt in office, Haley said. The reality is that he was confused. He was confused the same way that Joe Biden was going to start World War II. He was confused the same way that he said he ran against President Obama. In the past few days, the former U.N. ambassador has dropped any reluctance toward criticizing her former boss on the campaign trail. She is now leaning into attacking Trump, especially on his age and his spending in office. She also referenced a recent poll showing that 70 percent of Americans dont want a rematch between Biden and Trump, a poll that she has mentioned at least twice in the past few days. Haley has cut Trumps lead in half in New Hampshire in the past two months. Trump is currently leading Granite State polls by 11 points, according to The Hill and Decision Desk HQs polling average. Two months ago, that lead was 22 points. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley took aim at former president and GOP frontrunner Donald Trump in Keene, N.H., on Saturday, questioning his mental fitness after confusing her with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Photo by CJ Gunther/EPA-EFE Jan. 20 (UPI) -- Republican presidential hopeful Nikki Haley questioned Donald Trump's mental fitness at a rally in Keene, New Hampshire, on Saturday, four days before the crucial GOP primary election in the state. Haley's jabs were in response to the former president appearing to confuse her with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi during a Friday rally in Concord, N.H. During the speech, Trump incorrectly said Haley was in charge of Capitol security during the Jan. 6, 2021, riot. "They're saying he got confused, that he was talking about something else, he's talking about Nancy Pelosi," Haley said. "He mentioned me multiple times in that scenario. The concern I have is -- I'm not saying anything derogatory -- but when you're dealing with the pressures of the presidency, we can't have someone else that we question whether they're mentally fit to do this. We can't." Neither Haley nor Pelosi would have been in charge of Capitol security, but Trump regardless accused Haley of turning down 10,000 soldiers to protect the Capitol. "By the way, they never report the crowd on January 6," Trump told supporters. "You know, Nikki Haley, Nikki Haley, Nikki Haley ... did you know they destroyed all of the information, all of the evidence, everything, deleted and destroyed all of it? All of it, because of lots of things, like Nikki Haley is in charge of security, we offered her 10,000 people, soldiers, national guards, whatever they want. They turned it down." Haley, 52, has called for term limits and mental competency tests for politicians over 75. The former South Carolina governor has criticized both Trump and President Joe Biden's mental fitness and argued Americans shouldn't "leave our kids two presidential candidates who are in their 80s." She doubled down on her condemnations in Keene Saturday, telling voters "Congress is now the most privileged nursing home in the country." Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley on Sunday took aim at former President Trumps recent mix-ups, suggesting that his mental fitness is not at the same level as it was the first time he won the White House. Trump last week appeared mix up Haley, a former United Nations ambassador who served in his Cabinet, and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) while speaking about the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection. Asked by CBS Face The Nation anchor Margaret Brennan if the apparent gaffe is the first time shes questioned Trumps mental fitness, Haley listed off a series of recent incidents where the former president appeared to mix up names or events. He claimed Joe Biden was going to get us into World War II, Im assuming he meant World War III. He said that he ran against President Obama, he never ran against President Obama. He says that Im the one that kept security from the Capitol on Jan. 6, I was nowhere near the Capitol on Jan. 6, Haley said. Dont be surprised if you [have] someone thats 80 in office, their mental stability is going to continue to decline, thats just human nature. We know that. Haley then pointed to the likely Democratic presidential nominee, President Biden, who at 81 is the oldest sitting U.S. president, and argued he is very different than he was two years ago when he first took office. The White House hopeful said Biden should serve as a warning sign for 2024. Brennan then asked Haley if she ever questioned Trumps mental fitness when working in his Cabinet. I called him out if he was doing something wrong. I mean, I would show up, pick up the phone and say, You cant do this. Instead you could X, Y, or Z, you know. So I always told him what I thought was in the best interest of the country when I was in his Cabinet, Haley said. But this is different. I mean, were seeing hes just not at the same level he was at 2016. I think were seeing some of that decline. Trump on Saturday pushed back on claims of mental missteps after he appeared to mix up Haley and Pelosi in reference to Jan. 6, telling a crowd in New Hampshire that he often relies on sarcasm during speeches. A lot of times Ill say that President Obama is doing a lousy job, meaning that Obama is running the show, Trump said during his rally. Theyll say, Donald Trump doesnt know who our president is. No, no. A few months ago I took a cognitive test my doctor gave me, I said give me a cognitive test and I aced it. I also took one when I was in the White House. Despite the former presidents age and his opponents doubts about his ability to serve as president, Trump, who is 77, continues to lead in GOP primary polling. He easily won during last weeks Iowa caucuses and has a 11.1 point lead over Haley in New Hampshire, which will hold its primary on Tuesday, according to The Hill and Decision Desk HQs polling index. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. MANCHESTER, N.H. - Former President Donald Trump is looking for a Republican campaign knockout punch. Former United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley is trying to keep her 2024 campaign alive - something Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was unable to do during the New Hampshire campaign. Given the stakes, the New Hampshire primary on Tuesday will be a big turning point in the Republican presidential race. And perhaps end it altogether. "We have to win by a lot," Trump told backers Saturday in a chilly hockey arena in Manchester, later adding: "Now's the time for the Republican Party to unify." The night before, in Concord, Trump said of the New Hampshire primary: "This could end it." DeSantis accommodated Trump early, announcing Sunday he was suspending his campaign and endorsing the former president. This despite the fact that Trump faces up to four criminal trials in months ahead, that he is in the middle of a civil damages trial in which he is accused of sexual abuse, and that he's made shaky statements on the stump, including mixing up Haley and former Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Donald Trump in New Hampshire in November Haley's strategy: Win over independent voters Haley, the former South Carolina governor, has surged in New Hampshire polls and put herself in position for a possible upset. After finishing third in Iowa, is banking on a unique feature of the New Hampshire primary: Independents can vote in party primaries. While Haley is pursuing these independent voters, Trump remains the favorite in New Hampshire. As of Sunday, the average of polls compiled by the Real Clear Politics website puts Trump at 50.3%, Haley at 35.3%, and DeSantis at 6.3%. Haley and her supporters, including New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu, said that even a strong second place will propel her into her home state primary in South Carolina on Feb. 24. At the present time, Trump also enjoys a huge lead in South Carolina. Haley hits at Trump's 'toxic' baggage Haley has said little about Trump's legal troubles, preferring instead to emphasize his political baggage. All the "drama" surrounding Trump would make him unelectable in a fall race against President Joe Biden, Haley has said. She holds Trump responsible for Republican election reversals in 2018, 2020 and 2022. "The problem with Joe Biden and Donald Trump is we've seen they take all of politics personal," Haley told Fox News. "That's what's gotten us into this situation with the country where we are, where it's divided and it's toxic." Former president derides Haley on many levels Coming off a convincing win in the Iowa caucuses last week, Trump has repeatedly said he would pressure rivals to get out of the race if he takes a "big vote" in New Hampshire. While Trump has spent most of the campaign going after DeSantis, he has recently intensified his attacks on Haley as she displaced the Florida governor as the biggest electoral threat to the former president. The Trump attacks have been called racist, toxic and in some cases just plain strange. During his rally in Concord, Trump confused Haley with then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi when discussing Trump supporters' attack on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Trump has also made references to Haley's Indian heritage. He has repeatedly mangled Haley's given first name Nimarata as Nimbra." He has re-posted a "birther" hit piece questioning whether Haley is eligible for the presidency (she is, having been born in the United States). Haley said Trump's attacks show he is "scared" of her rise in the nomination race. Amid the campaign, Trump's trials play out In addition to asking for votes, Trump is defending himself against many legal accusations by claiming that accusers are using the legal system to play politics. Trump's future trials include two cases in which he is accused of trying to steal the 2020 election, triggering the violence of Jan. 6, 2021. The New Hampshire primary is taking place in the middle of a civil defamation trial in which Trump is accused of sexual assault. Writer E. Jean Carroll testified that Trump lied about her and about he assaulted her in a department store in the 1990s. On two days last week, Trump attended the Carroll trial in the morning and then flew to New Hampshire for campaign rallies in the evening. The former president may testify in the Carroll trial as soon as Monday, the day before the New Hampshire primary. Throughout the campaign, Trump has claimed that the indictments are politically motivated. Polls indicate that many Republicans agree with him, while moderates and independent voters are more concerned about Trump's behavior. DeSantis bows out DeSantis, the governor of Florida, had insisted he was in the race to stay right before announcing by video Sunday that he was withdrawing. It wasn't a total shock. Since finishing a distant second in Iowa, DeSantis has split his campaign time between New Hampshire and South Carolina, for some reason. DeSantis was in single digits in New Hampshire polling and canceled a pair of national television interviews on Sunday, ratcheting up questions about his political future. All this after saying he planned to live up to the New Hampshire state slogan. "Live free or die is the motto I have led by in Florida, and its the mindset Ill bring to the White House as president," DeSantis said on the social media site X (formerly Twitter). A history of New Hampshire surprises As they head to the polls Tuesday, New Hampshire voters have been known to deliver surprises, a quality that Haley is counting on. In the Democratic primary of 2008, Illinois Sen. Barack Obama was coming off a big win in Iowa and was heavily favored to defeat New York Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton. Clinton won. In 2000, Arizona Sen. John McCain defeated Republican frontrunner George W. Bush in New Hampshire, a surprise blowout fueled by the kinds of independent voters being wooed by Haley. 'Low energy' around the 'whole' NH campaign Many New Hampshire Republicans forecast a Trump win after a relatively lifeless campaign conducted recently in cold January weather. "There's low energy around the whole race," said Fergus Cullen, a former chairman of the New Hampshire Republican Party who is backing Haley. One reason, he said, is the sense that New Hampshire and the rest of the country are headed "for something nobody wants: A rematch between Biden and Trump." Nationwide, many Republicans said Haley will need at least a very close loss in New Hampshire in order to be competitive down the line. "If Trump beat her in New Hampshire by a very narrow margin say 1 point she might be able to make a last stand in South Carolina,' said Liz Mair, a Republican political strategist who opposes Trump. The problem, she said, is that "Trump is extremely popular in South Carolina, so she needs a lot of momentum going into the state. Its hard to see how she gets that without a win" in New Hampshire. Trump backers who saw him in Manchester expressed total confidence, though they said Haley and/or DeSantis will stay in the race for a while if anti-Trump activists keep giving them money. Roger Sylvester, 71, a retired farmer from Clarksville, N.H., said that, one way or another, a big New Hampshire win would be eventually fatal to any stop-Trump effort. "It'll be the beginning of the death knell," he said. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Donald Trump hopes New Hampshire knocks out Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley on Sunday picked up an endorsement from New Hampshires Union Leader newspaper, less than two days out from the Granite States primary. If you can select a Republican ballot on Tuesday, we urge you to select Nikki Haley as your next president. New Hampshire is ready for a change, the op-ed from Union Leader said. America is ready for a change. The world is ready for a change. We want a better option than we have had for the past eight years, and Nikki Haley is that option. The op-ed, published Sunday, described the two most recent presidents without naming them directly as dinosaurs who had their shot and nature selected them for extinction. The dinosaurs from the last two administrations have indeed had their shot and Nikki Haley is the fireball from the heavens to wipe them out, the op-ed wrote. Putting forward a rematch of the last election means putting an octogenarian in the White House and putting a less-than-capable vice president in the on-deck circle, the op-ed continued. Haley has not been shy with the fact that she has at least a quarter-century age advantage on those candidates and she has a good point. Nikki Haley is in her prime and selflessly willing to give that prime to the country her parents chose to raise their family in. The op-ed argued voting for Haley is a vote for a candidate, rather than just against President Biden and former President Trump, both of whom maintain comfortable leads in their respective party races. The op-ed did not name GOP rivals Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis or Trump, who holds a 11.1 point lead over Haley in New Hampshire, according to a polling index maintained by The Hill and Decision Desk HQ. While notable, Trumps lead in recent weeks was narrowed as Haley climbed in the polls in the Granite State. DeSantis has support in the single digits, the polling index showed. DeSantis announced Sunday that he was dropping out of the race. Trump easily won the Iowa caucuses last week, beating DeSantis by nearly 30 points while Haley came in third, close behind the Florida governor. New Hampshire can prove that the independent-minded voters of the Granite State will not be told the election is a done deal, the op-ed wrote. New Hampshire can prove that nothing is inevitable and send Nikki Haley home to South Carolina with a head of steam and nothing weighing her down as she sets her sights on defeating the inevitable, but very vulnerable, Democratic nominee, the piece continued, making a likely reference to Biden. The Union Leader, based in Manchester, N.H., also did not endorse Trump in the previous two election cycles. In the 2016 Republican primary, it endorsed former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, but later retracted the endorsement after Christie dropped out. In the 2016 general election, the paper endorsed libertarian candidate Gary Johnson, choosing a non-Republican nominee for the first time in 100 years. The Union Leader endorsed Bidens White House run in 2020, calling Trump at the time 100 percent wrong for America. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Guardian reported in its exclusive report that staff of the UK's National Archives have allegedly censored documents showing how the late Queen Elizabeth II concealed details of a relative's wealth from the public by withdrawing the papers from the public domain to remove parts of them before re-publishing. In 2022, staff at the National Archives in Kew removed a file chronicling official discussions about the royal wills between 1957 and 1970. The file was previously opened to the public in 2018. The publication further revealed that the details being redacted contained a request from the late monarch to keep the will of one of her relatives classified, a practice that has become a contentious issue for the British monarchy and the House of Windsor, which has spanned decades. The documents revealed that the relative in question was Princess Mary, Countess of Harewood, sister of Kings Edward VIII and George VI, and Elizabeth's aunt. The National Archives said that the documents had been removed in consultation with the British Ministry of Justice as they purportedly contained information relating to communication with the monarch, which was kept secret under a section of the Freedom of Information Act. Redactions Contain Elizabeth's Request to Hide Aunt's Will It was said that the royal family was able to score a concession from a British law requiring citizens to make their wills public where they could be allowed to prevent the public from finding out the assets acquired by the Windsor family and how these were distributed to relatives, friends, or staff. In its latest estimates, The Guardian estimated that Elizabeth's eldest son, King Charles III, had a personal fortune of 1.8 billion ($2.29 billion) The censored documents contained a direct request from Elizabeth to keep one of such wills over 50 years ago. Read Also: UK Develops, Test-Fires Advanced Laser Cannon That Blasts Drones Out of the Sky Challenging Legal Loopholes One of the ways the Windsors have kept details of their wealth secret was by exploiting an obscure legal procedure to obtain court orders to keep wills of family members - including remote ones like Danish prince George Valdemar Carl Axel, a relative of Elizabeth's husband and Charles's father, Prince Philip - secret beyond their death. The wills of Philip, as well as that of Elizabeth's mother and sister, Queen Mary and Princess Margaret, have also been kept confidential since 2002. However, the secrecy of the practice has been recently challenged amid controversy that the procedure gave the Windsors a right not granted to ordinary British citizens. Criticisms have also been thrown at the royal family, namely that their wills were being kept secret to conceal how much they had accumulated from public funds. Buckingham Palace declined to respond to The Guardian's question on whether Elizabeth requested other wills to be hidden from the public. Related Article: Sussexes Send King Charles, Princess Kate 'Get Well Messages' After News of Hospitalization The Hartford Fire Department has been struggling financially for months, and now officials say the money appropriated for staff salaries will run out Jan. 28. The Hartford Fire Department has been struggling financially for months. Now Bennington Township, which the department has covered for decades, has contracted with another department for fire and emergency medical coverage because of what one official called Hartford's lack of "prudent fiscal management." Bennington Township Trustees unanimously voted Jan. 8 to switch from Hartford's department, which has served Bennington since shortly after the department's 1949 inception, to the Homer Fire Department, Bennington Township Trustee Cindy Powell said in an interview Wednesday. "Our top priority is making sure that Bennington Township residents have access to 24/7/365 EMS and fire service coverage," Powell said. "Because there was and still is no guarantee that Hartford will stay open, the Homer Fire (Department) started providing coverage to Bennington Township on Jan. 11." Hartford Township Fiscal Officer Adam Lanthorn said Tuesday the department has money to routine expenses, such as utility bills and insurance, but the salary appropriations run out Jan. 28. Hartford Township Trustee Tim Debolt said the township is working to ensure the area has fire and EMS protection, but there are no solidified plans for how it pay employee salaries. In 2023, Lanthorn said the department had a $1.059 million budget, and nearly half of that money came from Bennington Township. "Obviously, our budget is different than what it would have been had Bennington been in with us on this, but regardless we have to move forward with what we have and look at it from a way that's going to be fiscally responsible and show that we can be fiscally responsible with the funds that we have coming in while still providing the service," Debolt said in a Thursday interview. Debolt said the township is pulling together an advisory panel with residents to look at potential solutions. Hartford's department has a full-time chief, three full-time firefighters and about a dozen part-time employees. When asked if the Hartford department would have to lay off staff members or reduce hours, Debolt said said he did not know. "There are all sorts of possibilities of what we might have to do. We're just trying to find the best solution," he said. Debolt, who was elected to his first term in November, said the the township will need a special meeting before Jan. 28 to decide what happens with the department moving forward. As of Friday afternoon, that special meeting had not been scheduled. The department, which switched from a volunteer to paid department two years ago, has served Hartford and Bennington townships in Licking County's northwest corner along the lines of Delaware and Knox counties. Last year, days ahead of the Hartford Independent Fair, the fire department only had $2.82 remaining after paying payroll in early August. Typically, townships don't get the first half of the year's property tax payment until late March. Lanthorn said the Hartford trustees passed a resolution asking the Licking County Auditor's Office provide the tax revenue as early as possible, and he hopes the township can receive it in early March. Hartford has a 2.5-mil fire and EMS levy on the March 19 primary ballot, but even if it's approved, that money wouldn't be collected until next year. Debolt said he's more focused on the short term and looking at what the department does Jan. 29, once salary appropriations are exhausted. "I'm living in the here and now, and we have to deal with what we're looking at now and how we move forward with what we have now," he said. As a result of Bennington switching to the Homer department, Bennington Township's 8-mil fire levy funds are no longer going to Hartford Township. Bennington residents pay $183.67 annually per $100,000 home value, Powell said. Bennington paid the department $442,728.25 in 2023, in two installments after receiving property taxes from the county in the spring and fall. The second payment, Powell said, was supposed to last the department until March when the first half of 2024 property taxes come in. Bennington trustees also approved providing up to $20,000 to Hartford to be used solely for fire and EMS salaries for the pay period ending Jan. 28, but it was contingent on the department paying the Jan. 18 payroll, Powell said. Powell said in late 2022 the Bennington trustees became concerned about how Hartford was using the township's fire and EMS levy funds. She said it was an extremely difficult decision to switch fire and EMS coverage to Homer's department, located in Burlington Township, but it was done because of a "lack of prudent fiscal management" by the Hartford department. She said the trustees tried to work with Hartford officials on a solution, but the financial situation continued to deteriorate rapidly. Powell, a two-term trustee, said the Bennington trustees don't question the dedication and skills of the Hartford Fire personnel, but they needed to ensure their residents had fire and EMS coverage. Bennington's agreement with Homer is temporary and only goes through March 31. It pays the Homer department $25,000 per month a total of $62,5000 for the duration of the temporary agreement, Powell said. Bennington is working toward a long-term agreement with Homer and Monroe Township Fire Department for coverage, she said. As of now, Powell wasn't sure if that longer-term agreement will be for just the rest of 2024 or beyond. "We're going to have to just look at everything and see where we're at coverage wise," she said. "We're just going to be working with both townships to make sure that Bennington Township residents have the best coverage as possible, based on EMS and fire response times." The possibility of increased responses times is one of the main concerns of residents, said Samantha Martin, a two-year resident of Bennington Township. She said the Homer department is 13 minutes from her home while the Hartford station is only five minutes away, and every second is critical during a medical emergency or house fire. While she is sure the Homer firefighters and paramedics are fantastic at their jobs, the station is just too far away for her comfort. Martin said she was at the Jan. 8 meeting and felt the Bennington trustees weren't listening to concerns about responses times and other issues brought up by her and other residents. She wants to see Bennington and Hartford officials work together on a solution, possibly a joint fire district where each township could have equal say in how the department operates. "I just feel like there's a better way, rather than just pulling the plug and we just have to deal with that as residents," she said in a Friday interview. mdevito@gannett.com 740-607-2175 Twitter: @MariaDeVito13 This article originally appeared on Newark Advocate: Hartford Fire to run out of salary cash Jan. 28, officials say MEMPHIS, Tenn. The Shelby County Health Department released a list of guidelines for public establishments to follow during the boil water advisory. These establishments include schools, daycares, tattoo parlors, restaurants, and other businesses that provide services to the public. MLGW expands precautionary boil water advisory to all customers The Health Department provided the following list of guidelines: Identify a person in charge to be responsible for an operating plan and ongoing management of water-related issues and activities during the boil water advisory and to ensure compliance with health and safety protocols for your facility. Secure a supply of drinkable water. Store disinfected water in a clean, sanitized container with a cover. Shut off drinking fountains. Post signs at drinking fountains in kitchens and bathrooms to advise people not to drink the water. Discontinue using tap water for indoor and outdoor play and all recreational activities. SCHD also included a list of guidelines for schools and childcare facilities during the boil water advisory: Limit menus to items that do not require water to prepare, such as microwaveable foods. Use bottles, boiled, or disinfected water for food and beverage preparation activities, washing of fruits and vegetables, and mixing beverages. Use disposable plates, cups, and utensils if possible. Wash hands with soap and water to reduce the number of germs on them. The SCHD says that all public establishments not adhering to the boil water advisory pose a significant threat to public health and are subject to closure. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com. Highgate Cemetery will reveal the connections to empire and colonialism of its illustrious dead in a new drive for inclusivity and diversity. The popular tourist attraction and cemetery in North London is the final resting place of around 170,000 people, many of them famous. Highgate is planning research into which graves are occupied by figures with links to the legacy of empire, and to establish tours of the cemeterys colonial links. Plans for the 37-acre site form part of the Unlocking Highgate project backed by a 100,000 National Lottery Heritage Fund grant. The announcement of the project comes against a backdrop of decolonising in the museum and heritage sector, in which institutions address their own links to empire. Ian Dungavell, chief executive of the cemetery, told the Telegraph that lots of people are interested in the complex legacy of empire now, and the cemetery needs to embrace the complexity of the past. Diverse backgrounds The project will also aim to tell the stories of the dead from more diverse backgrounds. Mr Dungavell said: Overall, were looking at how to ensure that the diversity of those who are buried at Highgate Cemetery is reflected in the stories which are told about it, and that those stories are told in a way which reflects a variety of perspectives rather than a single incomplete narrative. The cemetery is the final resting place of many illustrious Britons, including George Michael, George Eliot, Douglas Adams, Michael Faraday, and the German philosopher Karl Marx, whose tomb dominates the eastern half of the site. Also interred at the site are less well-known figures with connections to empire, including soldier Anthony Home, who earned a Victoria Cross for his service during the Indian Mutiny, colonial businessman and founder of HSBC Douglas Lapraik, the premier of New South Wales Sir Charles Cowper, and 19th-century secretary of war Viscount Cardwell. Mr Dungavell also pointed to the grave of lion-baiter and menagerie operator George Wombwell, whose supply of exotic animals would have depended on European colonial connections in Africa and South America and would have raised questions around colonialism and links to empire. Lottery funding will be used to support a new Head of Programmes and a Learning Officer design to consult the local community in north London and devise ways to make Highgate an inclusive attraction. Highgate has found that a lack of accessible interpretation prevents us from connecting with new communities, and its grant-funded project will aim to solve this problem by re-focusing stories, embedding accessibility training and inviting diverse experts to curate special tours. Mr Dungavell also suggested that one focus could be Claudia Jones, a socialist campaigner from Trinidad who was instrumental in founding what became the Notting Hill carnival. Alongside the work to identify potential connection to empire on the site, and to highlight these stories, Highgate will also look to introduce LGBT-focussed tours of the cemetery following further consultation with relevant local groups. George Michael may be an obvious focus for future tours, but the site is also the final resting place of Radclyffe Hall, whose scandalous 1928 novel, The Well of Loneliness, was about lesbianism. Future work at Highgate will include conserving monuments, clearing trees plagued by ash dieback, and, ironically, making room for new 25,000 graves near Marxs tomb, on ground which is particularly coveted by communists. The former leaders in the Iraqi and South African communist parties are buried near the final resting place of the German philosopher, whose left-wing mystique could help maintain the cemeterys income stream. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer. At one time, in the mid-19th century, Exeter had 14 public school buildings. You wont be able to find most of them today, but its an interesting exercise tracking down where they once stood. Charles Bell, author of The History of the Town of Exeter, New Hampshire, tells us that there were a few early schoolteachers in town as early as the mid-1600s, although there are no clear records as to where the classes were held. The records of the town contain no information in regard to the earliest schools, as they were probably maintained, not at the public charge, but by the parents of the children who attended them. The Kingston Road school of District 6 as taken by Alfred Buzzel about 1890. The one-room school was built sometime before 1802 and served students until 1902. A schoolhouse was erected opposite the meeting house around 1707. Children who lived on the outskirts of town were too far away to attend classes. They would learn basic reading and arithmetic at a dame school near where they lived generally run by someones busy mother. Over time, small schoolhouses were erected all over town. The 1802 map of Exeter, by Phineas Merrill, places a small schoolhouse at the corner of Kingston and Pickpocket Road. The school has been called by many names over the years Pickpocket School, Kings Falls District School, Haverhill Road School, Kingston Road School, and District 6 School. The state of New Hampshire required the town to create school districts in 1807. Most of Exeter was dominated by District 1, which had up to six schools clustered in the downtown village area. The little schools on the outskirts of town, Epping Road, Newmarket Road, Hampton Road, and Kingston Road, were ungraded one-room affairs. Historically Speaking: How Exeter experienced the roaring twenties in 1923 The first account we have of the school in District 6 is a notice in the Exeter News-Letter, published in 1832. It must have been a lonely existence for the teacher in one of these small schools. They had no other adults present unless the supervisory committee popped in for an unannounced visit and the number of students was staggering. In 1832, the school was taught by Mr. Peavey, who seems to have been a replacement for a previous teacher loathed by the school committee. The appearance of this school in the hands of its present master, as compared with it under its last, was truly cheering. The committee found perfect order, a judicious classification, a full circle of studies, and such visible proficiency in them all, as fully satisfied them that the instruction given had been systematic, definite, and thorough. The attainments of the scholars, especially in arithmetic, deserve great praise. Mr. Peavey was teaching 46 students of varying ages in a single classroom. The following year, the number increased to 56 students. Even with the increase in student numbers, the committee could only fault Peavey in one subject, with the exception of penmanship, of which there was but little apparent improvement. Its not certain when the small building was erected, only that it existed in 1802. Students on the far side of town attended classes there for over 100 years. Several times repairs were made to the schoolhouse. Clifton Towle, in a paper presented to the Exeter Historical Society in 1938, noted it was small, and had sharply sloping floors which were removed in 1850. Many repairs were made from 1850 to 1885 in response to such hints from the superintending school committee as in 1855, Getting old and leaky. Hope the district will build a new one, in 1860, Not large enough. He also noted that the building was the oldest existing schoolhouse in the town. Exeter school reports could be brutally honest. Published for the town, they rarely held back in their assessments of the teachers. In 1852, the Kingston Road School had two teachers: Sarah Locke taught the summer term and John Sanborn taught the winter term. Miss Lockes intellectual qualifications were very good; Mr. Sanborns were by no means deficient. Miss Locke was gentle and at the same time firm; Mr. Sanborn, so far from being tyrannous in his exactions of obedience, was as easy as an antiquated slipper. Miss Locke was careful to keep the room neat and clean; Mr. Sanborn was content to let it go dirty. With Miss Locke, the scholars studied hard most of the time; with Mr. Sanborn, they whispered hard all the time. Miss Lockes children made rapid progress up the hill of science. Mr. Sanborns slid down the same hill. In a word, as Cicero hath it, Miss Locke kept a good school; Mr. Sanborn kept no school at all. Oof. Historically Speaking: How a portrait of a naval hero found its way back to Exeter As time went on, the school served fewer and fewer students. By the time the district system was abandoned in 1885, there were usually under 20 children attending the Kingston Road school. Even then, it was considered far too small. However, it was maintained into the 20th century because it served the needs of the farm families who lived too far away to have their children walk to the nearest schools on Lincoln Street. It was the demise of another small school that led to the end of the Kingston Road Schoolhouse. The school on the Plains, overlooking Park Street Commons, was considered the most miserable school to attend. It was dark, cramped and considered wholly inadequate for the needs of students who would need higher standards to attend public grammar schools or the Robinson Female Seminary. In 1902 it was decided to raze the old Plains school and build a new four-room schoolhouse at Winter Street. The new school could easily absorb the 16 or 17 students still attending the school on Kingston Road. The building itself was sold in 1912. Barbara Rimkunas is the curator of the Exeter Historical Society. Support the Exeter Historical Society by becoming a member! Join online at: www.exeterhistory.org. This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Historically Speaking: The lost schools of Exeter Migrants are brought ashore after being picked up in the English Channel by a Border Force vessel on January 17 - Dan Kitwood/Getty James Cleverly, the Home Secretary, will face demands on Monday to scrap the right of asylum seekers, including Channel migrants, to work. Two former Cabinet ministers and the New Conservatives group of MPs are calling for an end to the scheme under which asylum seekers can work in shortage occupation sectors including care, construction and agriculture if they have been waiting for their claims to be processed for more than a year. They say it is providing a pull factor to encourage migrants to come to the UK, while also undercutting British workers as they are paid 80 per cent of the going rate. It follows the disclosure by The Telegraph on Saturday that nearly 16,000 asylum seekers, including those who crossed the Channel in small boats, have been allowed to work in a single year, according to data obtained under Freedom of Information (FoI) laws. David Davis, a former Brexit secretary and a former shadow home secretary, said: It converts illegal migration - the worst sort of migration - into the second worst, which is migration that undercuts the pay of workers. It acts as an incentive for people to come here illegally. Its clear that at least some of the individuals will send money home. That is as strong a telegraph for others to do the same as anything that I can think of. Home Secretary James Cleverly and the Prime Minister are under pressure to scrap the right for asylum seekers to work - Stefan Rousseau/PA Robert Jenrick, the former immigration minister, said he believed the policy was wrong. I dont agree that asylum seekers should work, he said. There is a very long-standing policy that dates back to the Labour government in 2005 to allow people whove been here for years to work in certain occupations where there are supposedly shortages, but it just creates a pull factor to the UK. And almost everyone who comes here is either an economic migrant or a sort of asylum shopper, because theyre coming from safe countries like France and choosing to come to the UK because they think life is better here or a softer touch. And so I dont think thats the right approach. The New Conservatives group of about 20 MPs is writing to Mr Cleverly on Monday asking how the Home Office can justify such a pull factor for illegal migration and whether asylum seekers taking up jobs affects the likelihood of their asylum claim being successful. We cannot solve the significant problems associated with irregular migration unless we deter people from crossing to the UK illegally, and this is the opposite of a deterrent, said Miriam Cates, co-chair of the group. The FoI data show that 19,231 migrants applied for work permits in 2022 and 15,706 applications were granted. That represented nearly one-third of all the 51,000 asylum seekers in the one-year backlog of claims in 2022. Fewer than 5,000 were waiting more than a year in 2016. The scheme allowing asylum seekers to take jobs after a year is a legacy of an EU law from 2005, which reversed a measure introduced by Sir Tony Blair in 2002 barring illegal migrants from any right to work. The then-Labour leader instituted the crackdown to tackle a migration crisis similar to that being faced by the current Government. Some ministers and immigration advisers have argued that the Government should consider going further in the opposite direction and follow some other European countries that allow asylum seekers to work after six months. They have cited the potential economic benefits in boosting growth and savings from migrants no longer receiving state benefits and free accommodation and instead paying income tax on their earnings. Peter Walsh, a senior researcher with the Migration Observatory at Oxford University, said he was surprised at the numbers granted, but suggested it could be linked to the widening of the shortage occupation list to include care workers, where there was acute demand for staff. He said there were economic benefits in that it would reduce the cost of accommodation and asylum support as well as generating money for the Exchequer via taxes. There are psychological positives because it is not very good for people to be out of the labour market, he said. The longer people are out of the labour market, the harder it is for them to get back into the labour market. There is also another practical advantage that if you allow people to work legally, they are less likely to work illegally. It is potentially protecting against that. Government sources claimed there was no evidence that the prospect of working in a shortage occupation after a year in the UK was a pull factor. They said in the past year the Government had cleared the legacy backlog of asylum cases pre-dating June 2022, apart from 4,500 complex applications, which would have reduced the number eligible to work. A Home Office source also noted that the scheme had been introduced under Labour, but tightened by the coalition government, under Lord Cameron, to limit it to shortage occupations. A Home Office spokesperson said: Allowing individuals who have an asylum claim outstanding for more than a year to apply for jobs limited to the Shortage Occupation List strikes the balance between protecting taxpayer money and ensuring people are not incentivised to come to the UK illegally. Once employed the individual may have their taxpayer support withdrawn, whilst boosting the economy by addressing skills shortages. 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. This article contains some details that readers may find disturbing It has been over three months since Hamass attack on Israel, during which terrorists moved through a music festival and 20 villages and towns, murdering men, women and children. Unequivocal evidence has since shown how entire families were burned, people were beheaded, how there was the systematic raping and mutilation of girls and women, along with the dragging away of 240 hostages. Hamas filmed in real time and streamed it on social media. The death toll currently stands at 1,200. When the news flashes appeared on Israeli television on Oct 7, 40-year-old Dr Cochav Elkayam-Levy was at the hospital bedside of her 69-year-old father, who was deteriorating with Alzeimhers. She was just back from a family holiday in Egypt with her husband and children, two boys and two girls, aged two through to 13. She had read and swam, practised yoga and meditated, a last break before her new semester at the Davis Institute for International Relations at Hebrew University, Jerusalem, where she teaches international law, gender and the protection of human rights. But with Oct 7, her life was to change overnight. We couldnt understand what was going on at first, Elkayam-Levy remembers, but within those first three days [afterwards] I took it upon myself to get as much information as I could. I often say now that I knew too much too soon. International media was showing much more of the horror than Israeli media. She watched everything. [Then] I wasnt thinking about an international community [response], I was thinking about this existential threat for my family, my friends. I lived in such fear. I said to my husband I need to get a weapon. As a feminist scholar, that is against everything that I believe in. Its against not only everything that I believe in, but everything that I teach, everything that I know. They blockaded the back of their home. Within eight days of Oct 7, she was propelled onto the global stage in response to what she and 160 other peers, all specialists in gender politics and part of a WhatsApp group created in response to the attack saw as silence from the United Nations (UN) and other international agencies who, despite video evidence of gender-based violence as a weapon of war, asked questions such as what is your proof?, delaying their condemnation of Hamas. I was so naive, says Elkayam-Levy. She had not questioned the fact that agencies such as the UN might not issue immediate statements honouring the murdered women and children. I rise at 5am and I go to bed at midnight, but I cant sleep On Oct 15, Elkayam-Levy stepped into what she and her WhatsApp group perceived as the void by establishing Crimes by Hamas against Women and Children, an independent civil commission of which she is the chairman. Its aim is to gather information and meticulously log for posterity the war crimes committed against women and children. In many ways, it was born out of the desperation and anger of those WhatsApp members, many prominent feminists, principally at UN Women and the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW). The commission was and is a human rights response to rape as genocide, explains Elkayam-Levy. The silence, she has pointed out, is an echo of the way similar war crimes against women in Bosnia were ignored. We have a historical mission, Elkayam-Levy explains to me. We are not a prosecution [vehicle]. We are not an investigation. We have a different role. We are keeping all accounts, even the smallest piece of information, just a sentence perhaps that comes in about a young woman, [logged on a form] for historical purposes, to make sure that the voices of women will be heard, that this information will be kept diligently, in the most dedicated way. [The aim] is to establish an archive under the [strictest] international standard. It is not beholden on the commission to prove anything in a court of law, as is the case with the international war crimes tribunal. Its remit is confined to logging and verifying testimonies. This mission to build such an archive of crimes against humanity in a country founded after the Holocaust echoes a similar collective responsibility never to forget. Dr Cochav Elkayam-Levy stands near posters of Israeli hostages captured by Hamas, in Modi'in, Israel - Debbie Hill Elkayam-Levy, who completed her PhD at the University of Pennsylvania, is impeccably qualified for such a task: she had already founded her own independent think tank, the Institute for Gender and Sustainability Studies, established to promote the inclusion of women in national security decision-making processes and peace-making negotiations (the civil commission is under the auspices of this institute). She was the co-author, too, of a ground-breaking report for the Israeli National Security Council that had examined the consequences of national crises and extreme events on women. Elkayam-Levy and I speak as the commission is about to release its first preliminary report: a summary, she says, of the most important things that we know at the moment. Its not going to expose something new. That might take months, years. She never wanted the limelight. Its ironic that when she set up her think tank, she stipulated that she was not to be its public figurehead. Still, in the last three months since Oct 7, she has been to the White House, spoken at the UN alongside Sheryl Sandberg and Hillary Clinton and travelled the world, taking the commissions commitment to remember the lost women and children to new audiences: [in the early stages] I never realised it was going to get such international attention. She is a mother of four, her youngest child only two-years-old. Her father is sick, her job in academia is high-level on its own terms, and she has a husband who works in the field of cyber security. Today, Elkayam-Levy is palpably exhausted. At one point, as we talk, she is overcome with emotion. Im sorry, she says, Im sorry. There can be no doubt that it is taking its toll. I rise at 5am and I go to bed at midnight, but I cant sleep. I havent exercised since it happened. I dont really see my children anymore. She has received death threats from pro-Palestinian individuals and organisations. There have been threats to the lives of her children. I live in fear. But still she carries on: I have so many meetings, so many people who feel this is important. I need to find a balance and at some point, I will find a balance, not to completely drain my powers but I feel things are so important and [I worry] that in a few months people might not be as interested as they are now. I feel like I need to do this, I feel obligated. You wake up with these images in the morning and go to sleep with them at night The commissions work is built on oral, video and written accounts; trawling through evidence, every video, every Hamas live stream, every detail of reported torture, eyewitness accounts, second-hand pieces of information, the recollections of first responders, morgue workers and forensic pathologists handling the bodies. Some report crushed pelvic bones from multiple rapes, genitals mutilated with nails and bullets, breasts cut off, legs broken, limbs charred. In the months and years to come, the commissions information-gathering will move towards interviewing surviving victims although it is far too early for that, explains Elkayam-Levy. The trauma is too deep. The most difficult part is when people start sending photographs of girls to my phone saying, This is a picture of the girl before she died. There is a difference between pieces of information coming in [about an atrocity] and then we start to get names [and identities] of those women and girls. We started to get pictures coming in of 21-year-old Girl Scout leader, and my daughter is in the Girl Scouts, Elkayam-Levy says. Journalists ask me, Should we tell the families [of victims] what we know? and I really hope, I really hope that families will not find out [the horror] of what was inflicted on their loved ones unless they want to know. We do not recommend anybody approaching families. Friends and family mourn British-Israelis killed during the Hamas infiltration, October 25 2023 - Reuters There are plans to move beyond just documentation. We are going to have a research unit that is able to communicate what we have in our archives and a global policy unit, because we already have 1,600 requests from academic institutions and human rights institutions wanting to support us and learn from us. Fundraising is vital. Financial support is coming in from a variety of human rights organisations. On a very basic level, Elkayam-Levy needs to know her small children will be cared for in the coming months. Since its inception, the commission has evolved into an official non-profit organisation with a small number of employed staff as well as a core team of dedicated volunteers in the fields of human rights and gender policy. In the commissions very early days, Elkayam-Levy understood that its non-partisan status was vital, even though not accepting government-backing made the workload heavier. Establishing the full picture will be a slow process; months, years, she says. Any survivors of the attack are deeply traumatised. Material collected by the commission, vital in establishing what happened, carries in its re-telling necessary trigger warnings. There are eyewitness accounts of people hiding in bushes while girls and women were raped and shot in the head. There is evidence of a dead woman at the festival with rigor mortis, stripped from the waist down, legs spread apart, her body partly burned. There has been testimony from a crying grandmother, a Holocaust survivor, who watched her granddaughter abused and murdered; testimonies of those retrieving victims with their heads cut off, teenagers found in puddles of blood, legs spread out, semen on their back with gun shot wounds to the back of their heads. A couple tied together, clothes down, the woman clearly the victim of rape. And information emerging too from the Israel Defence Force interrogations of captured Hamas terrorists, who revealed they had manuals about how to rape, that the capture of children and babies was to rape them and of the women to whore them, rape them, hurt them and interrogate them. The footage I have seen is something I can never unsee, says Elkayam-Levy. Any human who has seen these images will wake up with them in the morning and go to sleep with them at night. Some Hamas live videos were sent to the families of the victims using the victims own phones. I feel this huge weight of responsibility on my shoulders. Not only do I want to represent the voices of the victims in the most respectful way possible, in ways that does them honour and brings justice for what they have suffered, but also that they will be our pledge for a really radical transformation in the international systems and one that ensures our children have the most functioning human rights system. I want to leave the next generation with a system that is able to protect human rights. I have lost control of my life in many ways On Nov 12, Elkayam-Levy gave her own testimony to the Maimonides Society, the Jewish Student Association of Harvards medicine and dental schools: What weve seen in Israel were rape and gender-based crimes under clear orders and under full control. It was rape until death, rape as massacre, rape and crimes made to kill and torture women, using them and their bodies as an instrument to force exile of those communities in Israel. It was rape to be seen and heard by others womens and girls bodies used as spectacles of victory, trophies of war Hamas might be now denying these war crimes, but during the attack and immediately after, Hamas and its terrorists released horrific visuals. Do you still teach? I ask her. She seems astounded by the question. Wow. Wow. Thank you. Thank you for asking. Yesterday, I gave the first class of the semester, she says. She pauses. It was like going back to myself. It is such a basic question, but in Elkyam-Levys mission, in her total immersion in the horror in order to bring honour and some future change, there has been loss too: I have lost control of my life in many ways, she says quietly. Secondary trauma has been identified as a risk, for those seeing the images, those dealing with the corpses. Some of the young female dentists volunteering in the morgues, for example, are handling the shards of teeth of women their own age. Many are like Elkayam-Levy, propelled by a calling, setting aside their own feelings, to be dealt with at a later date. Rabbi Haim Weisberg, working to identify the bodies, told the commission: We see evidence of torture and savagery. We have babies with their heads cut off, bodies without hands, without legs, without genitals. The commission has ongoing challenges. A substantial one, Elkayam-Levy explains, is the use of artificial intelligence to create deep fake images. Such unstable evidence might then be used to undermine the commissions work by a subsequent revelation. The commission has already been contacted by people posing as being from the UN, needing help, wanting to get information from us. We are always super cautious with people approaching us with information. I am currently meeting with tech companies that have the ability to authenticate information and to help us in the process of checking, by establishing whether a video was AI modified. Its such a complex task. Elakayam Levy: 'I want to leave the next generation with a system that is able to protect human rights' - Debbie Hill The flow of information into the commission with its attendant need to be verified and the also very urgent need to provide an easy route for survivors to reach them is much on Elkayam-Levys mind. I will find a way, she says. The death threats have prevented her from making the commissions email address public. Information flows in, some very stable, some not. Sometimes information comes in, like a young womans identity, that completes the picture of a body in the morgue. Other times, new information complicates. By way of example, she explains how the commission came to hear of the story, first through foreign media, of a pregnant woman, butchered, her baby cut from her stomach. How can this be true? Elkayam-Levy had thought. And then we had a [testimony] from first responders who said they had found a slaughtered pregnant woman. And now we have been sent another piece of information that we [now] need to authenticate. It was a video of the slaughter. It was the last piece of information. Elkayam-Levy could not watch it. She asked an academic colleague to do it for her, and to make a written account. The woman was bound and gagged while she was alive, her stomach cut open, her male foetus removed and stabbed, her breast cut off while she was beaten. Within a few days we found out that this video might be from another place. So we have people saying, This is fake. This is not true. And I want to say I hope, with everybody else, that it is not true. It is an example of how cautious we are trying to be in dealing with this information. [But] its also important to make sure that people understand that even if one piece of information is not true, it does not mean that this did not happen. Usually, the more information we get, the truer it is. Its not the other way round, unfortunately. But people are traumatised. Usually, with war trauma, the first six months are the worst. And after that there is a transition. We will see much more coming to the surface in the coming months. Specifically with sexually violent crimes, it could take decades. But I will not lose hope. I am committed to [documenting] the voices of all women in Israel. 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. This isnt something that used to be that complicated. We used to be able to pass continuing resolutions on a regular basis, said U.S. Rep. Glenn Ivey, D-Md. Democratic U.S. House members have voiced frustrations with passing short-term funding bills after Congress last week again pushed through legislation that quelled fears of a partial government coming to fruition. Congress on Thursday sent the stopgap funding bill to President Joe Biden, who signed it on Friday. The Republican-led House approved it on a 314-108 vote, much of the support coming from Democrats as Republicans were split. The measure, which funds federal agencies until March, easily passed the Senate, which is led by Democrats. Rep. Glenn Ivey, D-Md. called the trend of passing continuing resolutions every couple of months is dysfunctional and irrational. This isnt something that used to be that complicated, he told theGrio. The U.S. Capitol Building is seen on Jan. 19, 2023 in Washington, D.C. (Photo: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) Issues may pop up here and there but, we werent creating scenarios where retirees or people who received government benefits or rely on government services had to worry about whether there would be some kind of discontinuation, break or delay, in getting paid or receiving benefits, he added. Rep. Shontel Brown, D-Ohio, told theGrio that passing so many short-term funding bills sends a message that the Republican majority is incapable of governing. When it comes to governing and keeping the government from shutting down, that is the most basic responsibility that we have, she said. Hopefully people do recognize that the Democrats are the ones stepping up to make sure that these bills pass, Brown added. Republicans are simply creating chaos and confusion and uncertainty for peoples lives. Biden signed the short-term government bill into law on Friday, funding some federal government agencies until March 1 and the remaining programs until March 8. This is the third continuing resolution that the federal government has passed since September, leaving Americans who depend on the federal government for their salaries or benefits unsure of what the long-term future holds. U.S. President Joe Biden speaks during a campaign event at Montgomery County Community College January 5, 2024 in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images) With the House Republicans in this Congress, its become kind of a Groundhog Day scenario, Ivey said. Its disappointing. At least we didnt actually shut down the government, so Ill give House Speaker Mike Johnson credit for that but, they need to figure out what theyre going to do over there, he added. The House passed the continuing resolution with 107 Republicans and 207 Democrats. Meanwhile, 106 House Republicans voted against the measure. The vote for House Republicans was almost an exact split down the middle and then there were House Republicans who expressly called for the government to shut down, Ivey said. Recommended Stories Soccer goal, theGrio.com News Guinea soccer team appeals to fans to celebrate carefully following supporter deaths Associated Press 93rd Annual Academy Awards - Press Room Featured Complete list of 2024 Oscar nominees Associated Press Alzheimer Lifestyle Study finds new blood test could be key to earlier Alzheimers detection TheGrio Lifestyle Featured Hear me out, post-sex goodie bags are a great idea Monique Judge News Cameroon starts worlds first malaria vaccine program for children Associated Press News Former gang leader charged with killing Tupac Shakur gets new lawyer who points to historic trial Associated Press News Plagiarism probe finds some problems with former Harvard president Claudine Gays work Associated Press News Judge orders the unsealing of divorce case of Trump special prosecutor in Georgia accused of affair Associated Press I cant figure it out. We should be able to keep the government open and pay our debtsHouse Democrats have had to rescue House Republicans from blowing it, he added. Brown told theGrio that if the government does not reach agreement to fund the government past March, a shutdown would be catastrophic particularly for constituents who rely on Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, better known as WIC, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as SNAP. Rep. Shontel Brown (D-OH) speaks during a press conference on new legislation to support Holocaust education nationwide at the U.S. Capitol Building on January 27, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) A prolonged shutdown could impact the most vulnerable people and increase food insecurity and financial hardship for some, she said. Ivey told theGrio that U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers would also be impacted and see payment delays, perhaps depending on what their role is in the agency, they may not get paid at all. Many of them live paycheck to paycheck just like everybody else. So, youre really putting them in a bad situation, he said. Retirees and veterans are worried about what kind of services theyll be able to continue to get, he continued. As for government contractors, I dont think theres any provision in place for them to get compensated. Brown told theGrio that its important that Americans understand how dangerous, divisive and destructive the Republicans are with their antics. She stated, that House Republicans really want to advance their own personal agendas over people. Never miss a beat: Get our daily stories straight to your inbox with theGrios newsletter. The post House Democrats grow frustrated passing short-term bills to fund government appeared first on TheGrio. House Freedom Caucus Chair Bob Good (R-Va.) formally endorsed former President Trumps campaign for president in 2024, just minutes after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) ended his presidential bid. It is my privilege to provide my complete and total endorsement for Donald J. Trump as the 47th President of the United States. President Trump was the greatest President of my lifetime, and we need him to reinstate the policies that were working so well for America, Good wrote in a post on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. Goods endorsement comes just after DeSantis announced he was withdrawing from the presidential race. Good had initially endorsed DeSantis a decision that initially drew anger from some high-profile figures in the conference. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), who was ousted from the Freedom Caucus, recently railed against Good, calling him a disloyal MAGA traitor and saying, President Trump is going to win in 24, and he needs loyal America First warriors NOT Congressmen on a power trip who will stab him in the back. Good said in his endorsement that he would do whatever he could to get Trump elected and encouraged others to do the same. I am committed to doing everything I can to help ensure he is reelected President, Good said. I call on all Republicans, independents, and Democrats who love America and are concerned about her current direction, to join me in supporting Donald J. Trump! DeSantiss withdrawal sets up an essentially two-person race for the GOP nomination between former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley and Trump. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Shelling at a market on the outer limits of the Moscow-occupied city of Donetsk in Ukraine on Sunday, January 21, killed at least 25 individuals, according to local authorities. The attack on Tekstilshchik neighborhood injured 20 more, including two children, as per Donetsk's head of the Russian-installed authorities, Denis Pushilin. The Ukrainian military, he alleged, was responsible for the tragedy, which The Associated Press was unable to confirm independently. Artillery munitions of 155 mm and 152 mm caliber were fired into the region from the west, towards Kurakhove and Krasnohorivka, according to Pushilin. On top of that, he verified that rescue workers were still on the site. Following the incident, Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement describing it as a terrorist attack, blaming it on Ukraine. It claimed that the terrorist assaults by the Kyiv administration show that they are not committed to ending the conflict via diplomatic methods and establishing peace. Another Ukrainian Attack Earlier, local authorities reported that two explosions had caused a fire to break out at a chemical shipping terminal at the Ust-Luga port in Russia. An explosion in a gas tank was reportedly caused by a strike on the port by Ukrainian drones. Situated 165 kilometers southwest of St. Petersburg, the fire broke out at a Novatek facility, a major natural gas producer in Russia. Novatek issued a statement explaining that operations had been temporarily suspended after the incident, which was caused by "external influence." It added: "The technological process at Novatek-Ust-Luga has been stopped, and an operational headquarters has been established to eliminate the consequences. Damage assessment will be carried out later," as reported by Reuters. The head of Russia's Kingisepp district, Yuri Zapalatsky, issued a statement stating that no casualties had occurred but that the region had been put on high alert. According to news outlet Fontanka, two drones were seen en route to St. Petersburg on Sunday morning, but they were subsequently rerouted to the Kingisepp neighborhood. Nevertheless, Russian defense officials did not mention any drone activity near Kingisepp in their daily briefing. Two further drones were reportedly shot down in the Tula and Oryol districts, while four were shot down in the Smolensk region of Russia. See Also: Drone Attack Causes Explosion, Fire at Seaport Terminal in Russia-Is Ukraine Involved? Bombarding Targets Recent Russian strikes on Ukraine have seemed to target air defense systems in an apparent attempt to overwhelm them by launching a barrage of missiles of different sorts in an apparent search for vulnerabilities. The armament stockpiles of Ukraine are being depleted as a result of the enormous bombardments. In fact, more than 500 missiles and drones were launched between December 29, 2023, and Jan. 2, as reported by The Associated Press, citing the authorities in Kyiv. See Also: Attack on Iraq's Air Base Injures US Troops: Report Recent intelligence gathered by the U.S. and other Western countries indicates Iran-backed Houthi rebels are seeking more weapons from Tehran, raising concerns that the militant group is determined to continue attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and threatening a wider conflict in the Middle East. U.S. officials have for at least a month analyzed information on the Houthis planning for the stepped-up attacks, including their attempts to procure additional weapons needed to launch missiles at freighters, according to a readout of the intelligence obtained by POLITICO and a U.S. official familiar with the matter. The intelligence also indicated that the group may try to attack Western forces in the region. Yet it is not clear if the recent strikes by the U.S. in Yemen have shifted the Houthis planning for those types of attacks. The developments come days after President Joe Biden acknowledged that U.S.-led strikes against the group have failed to stop attacks from the militants on commercial shipping, while also vowing to continue hitting sites in Yemen to sap the Houthis capabilities and break their will. Navy SEALs intercepted one weapons shipment bound for the Houthis this month in a daring nighttime raid, seizing a small boat carrying Iranian-made cruise and ballistic missile components. The mission came at a high cost: two Navy SEALs went missing while attempting to board the boat. The military called off its search for them on Sunday. Iran has long supported the Houthis one of a network of proxy groups across the Middle East, along with Hamas and Lebanese Hezbollah with weapons, training and funding. Fresh weapons from Iran could replace the ones the Houthis have lost in the half-dozen rounds of U.S. and allied strikes since they began on Jan. 11. The shipments are a sign that Tehran is playing a direct role in fueling the crisis in the Red Sea, according to the U.S. official and a DOD official. They, along with others, were granted anonymity to discuss a sensitive national security issue. The Central Intelligence Agency declined to comment. The Houthis have framed their attacks on international shipping as a show of support for Gaza and as a way to pressure Israel to stop its bombing campaign targeting Hamas militants. Additional attacks by the Houthis threaten to draw the U.S. even deeper into the widening Middle East conflict something Biden has actively tried to avoid during his time in office. Biden has said the U.S. and Iran, which has long engaged in a shadow war with Israel, do not want to directly fight each other. But more Houthi strikes, especially possible attacks on Western troops, would also bring Washington and Tehran closer to a direct conflict. Some experts believe Irans weapons shipments and its broader support for the Houthis is an attempt to exploit the current regional turmoil to evict U.S. troops from the Middle East. In addition to escalating against America in Iraq and Syria via militia groups to put pressure on America to end Israel's war against Hamas, Iran also has a more localized logic at play, said Behnam Ben Taleblu, with the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. It is trying to create a cycle of violence that leads to the eviction of U.S. forces from the region, beginning with Iraq. Stopping future weapons transfers is critical for the administration as it continues to carry out strikes against the group in Yemen to degrade its ability to launch further attacks on vessels navigating the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. But intercepting Iranian weapons as theyre being shipped to Yemen is exceedingly difficult. Commando operations like the one this month are complex, involving special operators in combat boats, snipers, drones and helicopters for overwatch, as well as Navy SEALs, said a second DOD official. This is our specialty, really being able to operate in the maritime clandestinely, going after difficult targets with some stealth, the second DOD official said. For now, the Biden administration insists that it is not at war with the Houthis, despite more than a week of near daily strikes on the groups positions in Yemen. We don't seek war. We don't think that we are at war. We don't want to see a regional war, Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh told reporters on Thursday. What we are doing with our partners is self-defense. The intent of the strikes both the multinational, pre-planned strikes on Jan. 11 and the smaller-scale U.S. attacks on anti-ship missiles being prepared for launch last week is to erode the Houthis will and ability to launch further attacks, U.S. officials said. We are taking things off the table for them, said a second U.S. official. The capabilities that they had on Thursday morning last week, they dont have those anymore. Thats the calculus: is this going to continue to be worth it to them? Irans support for its proxies is fueling attacks on U.S. forces and others elsewhere in the region. As of Friday, Iran-backed militia groups had attacked U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria 140 times since October, according to the Pentagon. The attacks have typically been small-scale, using a combination of drones and rockets and causing little damage to infrastructure. But on Saturday, militants in Western Iraq launched a major attack on al Asad airbase, injuring a number of U.S. personnel. Initially after Hamas Oct. 7 attack on Israel, Iran refrained from getting directly involved in the conflict. But Tehran has become bolder in recent days, launching missiles toward Iraq, Syria and Pakistan. In the latest sign that Iran is getting drawn more deeply in the conflict, Tehran accused Israel on Saturday of launching an airstrike that killed four Iranian military advisers, including the chief of intelligence in Syria for Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, in Damascus, Syria. The impact of Irans malign support on the region is often underappreciated, said the first DOD official. Its a persistent effort from Iran that is underestimated, the official said. Still, officials and experts maintain that Iran does not seek open war with the West. Its significant that neither Iran nor Lebanese Hezbollah, a more sophisticated militant group than the Houthis also funded by Tehran, has gotten more involved in the fight in Gaza, said retired Gen. Frank McKenzie, the head of all U.S. forces in the Middle East until 2022. Tehrans three objectives are: preservation of the regime, destruction of Israel, and ending the U.S. presence in the region, McKenzie said. Based on that, they do not seek large-scale war with the United States because they know the regime would be threatened by it, he said. Ultimately, U.S. officials are hoping Iran will decide the Houthi attacks are no longer worth the economic cost to the region, the second U.S. official said. The calculation that they have to make is that they are impacting trade in their own region, commercial companies, the official said. Goods, services that flow to the region are being impacted by what the Houthis are doing. So at what point are countries in the region already saying enough is enough? Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders (R) on Sunday suggested she is not interested in being vetted as former President Trumps vice presidential pick. In an interview on CBS Newss Face the Nation, Sanders said she preferred to stay in her current role. Look, I absolutely love the job I have. I think its one of the best jobs I could ever ask for, and I am honored to serve as governor, and I hope I get to do it for the next seven years, Sanders said, suggesting she would not want to leave the job early to run with Trump. Sanders served as Trumps press secretary and has been a consistent backer of the former president, praising his time in office and defending him against criticism. She endorsed Trumps current bid in November 2023. Some in Trumps inner orbit have predicted Trump is likely to pick a woman to serve as vice president, and Sanderss name has come up as a possibility. Trump more recently has signaled hes already decided whom he would pick but has so far refrained from providing detail into who they might be. Trump has recently garnered support from many prominent GOP politicians. On Friday, he secured an endorsement from Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), who suspended his own presidential campaign, which had emphasized a message of hope and positivity. Scott on Sunday left the door open to being Trumps vice presidential pick when asked in an interview on CNNs State of the Union, saying, The only thing I want is four more years of Donald Trump and a Republican majority in the Senate, a majority in the House and the White House. Thats what I really want, Scott continued. And if I can help achieve that through my endorsement by being on the campaign trail in my home state of South Carolina for the next four or five weeks, and then beyond, thats the goal. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Firefighters extinguish a fire in the western town of Pullman City. A fire broke out at the Pullman City western theme park in Eging am See in Bavaria on 21 January. Several wooden buildings such as saloons are on fire along the so-called Main Street, as the police announced. According to initial estimates, the police expect the damage to run into millions. Helmut Degenhart/zema-medien.de/dpa A major fire broke out at a Wild West-themed amusement park in southern Germany on Sunday, injuring two people and causing millions of euros worth of damage, police said. Several wooden buildings went up in flames on the so-called Main Street of Pullman City amusement park in the southern state of Bavaria, police said. The cause of the early morning fire was not immediately known. About 200 people, including around 180 overnight guests, were able to escape to safety from the park, which pulls in hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. Pullman City, which fashions itself on the horseback-riding cowboys of the 19th-century American West, covers around 200,000 square metres near the city of Passau, close to the Austrian border. Firefighters battled the flames for hours on the park's Wild West-styled street, which features a replica saloon, steakhouse and a music hall. By midday Sunday only the skeletons of some of the buildings remained as smoke continued to rise from the remains. A police spokeswoman said one park employee was slightly injured in the shoulder while trying to extinguish the blaze, and a firefighter was injured in the leg. "The fire was discovered by employees at around 6 am," said a police spokeswoman. "They tried to put it out with a fire extinguisher. But that didn't work." According to the website, a free admission family day had been planned on Sunday featuring magic and light shows. Pony rides were also supposed to be on offer, among other activities. "I could cry for an hour. But that doesn't help. We now have to look forward," the theme park's managing director, Claus Six, told dpa. The employees who noticed the fire reacted with presence of mind and brought the guests to safety, he said. The Pullman City park opened in 1997 and employs 500 permanent and freelance staff members. Six said he believes the park will have to remain closed until at least March but hopes to rebuild as much as possible. "We'll start planning tomorrow," Six said. Although the buildings that burned make up only a small portion of the park itself, Six said the facilities are particularly important for providing services like catering to guests. Firefighters extinguish a fire in the western town of Pullman City. A fire broke out at the Pullman City western theme park in Eging am See in Bavaria on 21 January. Several wooden buildings such as saloons are on fire along the so-called Main Street, as the police announced. According to initial estimates, the police expect the damage to run into millions. Helmut Degenhart/zema-medien.de/dpa Firefighters extinguish a fire in the western town of Pullman City. A fire broke out at the Pullman City western theme park in Eging am See in Bavaria on 21 January. Several wooden buildings such as saloons are on fire along the so-called Main Street, as the police announced. According to initial estimates, the police expect the damage to run into millions. Helmut Degenhart/zema-medien.de/dpa A major fire broke out at a Wild West-themed amusement park in southern Germany, injuring two people and causing millions of euros worth of damage, police said. Several wooden buildings went up in flames on Main Street at the Pullman City amusement park in Eging am See, in Bavaria, police said on Sunday. The cause of the early morning fire was not immediately known. About 200 people, including around 180 overnight guests, were able to escape to safety. Pullman City, which fashions itself on the horseback-riding cowboys of the 19th-century American West, covers around 200,000 square metres in Eging am See. Firefighters battled the flames for hours on the park's Main Street, which features a replica saloon, steakhouse and a music hall. By midday Sunday only the skeletons of some of the buildings remained as smoke continued to rise from the rubble. A police spokeswoman said one park employee was slightly injured in the shoulder while trying to extinguish the blaze, and a firefighter was injured in the leg. "The fire was discovered by employees at around 6 am," said a police spokeswoman. "They tried to put it out with a fire extinguisher. But that didn't work." According to the website, a free admission family day had been planned on Sunday featuring magic and light shows. Pony rides were also supposed to be on offer, among other activities. "I could cry for an hour. But that doesn't help. We now have to look forward," the theme park's managing director, Claus Six, told dpa. The employees who noticed the fire reacted with presence of mind and brought the guests to safety, he said. Hundreds of thousands of people visit Pullman City every year. The park opened in 1997 and employs 500 permanent and freelance staff members. Firefighters extinguish a fire in the western town of Pullman City. A fire broke out at the Pullman City western theme park in Eging am See in Bavaria on 21 January. Several wooden buildings such as saloons are on fire along the so-called Main Street, as the police announced. According to initial estimates, the police expect the damage to run into millions. Helmut Degenhart/zema-medien.de/dpa Firefighters extinguish a fire in the western town of Pullman City. A fire broke out at the Pullman City western theme park in Eging am See in Bavaria on 21 January. Several wooden buildings such as saloons are on fire along the so-called Main Street, as the police announced. According to initial estimates, the police expect the damage to run into millions. Helmut Degenhart/zema-medien.de/dpa Mr Yousaf wants to persuade independence supporters they can vote SNP in this years general election and still get a Labour government - Andrew Milligan/PA Humza Yousaf has invited Sir Keir Starmer for talks so they can put aside their political differences and work together if the latter becomes prime minister this year. The First Minister wrote to the UK Labour leader, inviting him to his Bute House residence in Edinburgh so we can establish a working relationship in the interests of the people we represent. Among the issues he said he wanted to discuss with Sir Keir were the UK rejoining the EUs single market and the SNPs democratic mandate for a referendum on independence, which should be respected. Mr Yousaf made the invitation as he attempted to persuade independence supporters they could vote SNP in this years general election and still get a Labour government at Westminster. With polls showing the SNP is on course to lose more than 20 seats to Labour, he argued that Sir Keirs party was so far ahead in the polls that it did not need Scotland to triumph. But Labour has pointed out that in 2019 the party suffered its worst election defeat since 1935 and needs a swing larger than that achieved by Tony Blair to win power. Anas Sarwar, the Scottish Labour leader, attacked the SNPs completely chaotic messaging on voting in the upcoming election and argued that the polls would narrow. Raging debate on independence In an effort to woo independence supporters disillusioned with the SNP, he denied that a Labour victory in Scotland in the election would kill off Scottish separation. Mr Sarwar said there was a raging debate around the country on independence that would continue but argued he wanted to show nationalists that we can make Scotland work within a devolved settlement. Mr Yousaf told the BBCs Laura Kuenssberg that accepting his invitation for talks would be the grown-up and responsible thing for the Labour leader to do. The First Minister said: It will hardly be a surprise that when I speak to Keir Starmer I will advocate for a second independence referendum. Mr Yousaf complained that his partys mandate has been ignored over the years, adding: I hope [Sir Keir] will take a respectful approach to listening to Scotlands voice. The SNP winning the most seats in Scotland at the general election will send a really strong message to Westminster that Scotland will not be ignored, he argued. In his letter to Sir Keir, he said he also wished to discuss removing the two-child benefit cap and helping deliver Labours 28 billion Green Prosperity Plan. He argued: UK membership of at least the European single market has to be back on the agenda. Mr Yousaf concluded: We may have political differences, but I do not think these should prevent us being able to work together, now and after the next UK general election. Not about independence Mr Sarwar told BBC Scotlands Sunday Show the election was not about independence, adding: Ive been really clear that Im not going to turn my back, close my eyes, or shut my ears to any voter in the country, whether they voted yes or no. Asked whether his party would use a Labour win to endorse the Union, Mr Sarwar said: No, because I want to persuade people that we can make Scotland work within a devolved settlement. Meanwhile, one of Scotlands most eminent businessmen said the SNP had been in power too long and argued Scotland having six income tax bands from April compared to Englands three was ridiculous. Sir Tom Hunter told Ms Kuenssberg that the SNP Government believes they know best, but the facts are not with them. He said business leaders in Scotland dont believe this Government has their back and that is a very bad situation. 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. Ukrainian counteroffensive in 2023 cannot be called a "catastrophe," said Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraine's HUR military intelligence services chief in an interview with the Financial Times on Jan. 21. "To say that everything is fine is not true, Budanov said, responding to assessments that the counter-offensive fell short of its objectives. To say that there is a catastrophe is also not true. Although the original plans suggested something different, we kept our promise. This summer, our units repeatedly entered Crimea." Ukraine will be able to keep Russian dictator Vladimir Putin at bay and has already proved that the whole legend of [Russias] power is a soap bubble, Budanov said. Thanks to weapons from North Korea, Russia was able to "breathe a little," and without this help "the situation would have been catastrophic" for Moscow, he said. Read also: Russian forces intensify attacks amidst freezing conditions, suffer sharp increase in losses UK intelligence Budanov also commented on mobilization in Ukraine, saying that it is hard to imagine that it is possible to continue the war effort without recruiting additional people. "The shortage [of manpower] is palpable," he said. The Ukrainian counter-offensive, announced in spring 2023 alongside the formation of a Western tank coalition and the delivery of Western-style tanks, faced various setbacks. The Defense Ministry declared the transition to offensive operations in early June 2023, reporting success in the Zaporizhzhya sector. Western media then stated that Ukraine had begun a counter-offensive, reporting attacks by the AFU on the frontlines in the southeastern part of the country, as well as "significant" equipment losses. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed on June 10 the start of the counter-offensive. The Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) successfully liberated several villages on the border of Zaporizhzhya and Donetsk oblasts in June. The Defense Ministry reported that Ukrainian troops were engaged in a preparatory formative operation, saying that the main offensive was yet to come. Read also: North Korea now aiding overstretched Russia, stepping into role as top weapons provider intel head Western media publications later began to suggest that the AFU's progress was lagging, a situation that can partly be attributed to extensively reinforced Russian defense lines. President Zelenskyy acknowledged that the counter-offensive was falling short of its desired pace. In late June, Western media began to note that Ukraine had begun to change tactics after failures in the first stage. The Washington Post later said that Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi abandoned the original plan after four days. Ukraine has been disappointed that some of its allies seem to have underestimated the scale of the battlefield and the strength of Russian defenses, possibly causing them to deliver military aid more slowly and hindering the counter-offensives progress, said Bloomberg. President Zelenskyy has nevertheless asserted that Ukraine "remains strong" and emphasized that Ukraine achieved a number of remarkable successes in the Black Sea and in Russia-occupied Crimea. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine (Bloomberg) -- One of three front-runners to become Indonesias vice president attacked Joko Widodos policy of forcing foreign companies to invest in mineral processing through export bans, stepping up criticism of the outgoing head of states economic record. Most Read from Bloomberg Muhaimin Iskandar, the running mate of presidential candidate Anies Baswedan, said the goverments so called downstreaming policy had caused major environmental damage without significantly benefiting local people. While the measures helped create much needed jobs in outlying islands, in particular on Sulawesi, foreign workers have dominated the new roles, Iskandar said. We saw in our mining business downstreaming is done recklessly, Iskandar said at a debate with other vice presidential candidates on Sunday, ahead of the countrys election next month. Downstreaming development is not significantly affecting peoples welfare. The comments are the fiercest criticism yet of the flagship industrial policy of Widodo better known as Jokowi which all three leading presidential candidates had until recently said they would uphold. The outgoing head of state banned the export of raw nickel ore in 2020, drawing in billions of dollars worth of investment in plants to process it into more valuable products, spearheaded by Chinese firms including Tsingshan Holding Group. The move fueled a nickel mining and processing boom which upended the global market, causing the metals price to plunge and forcing miners in other countries to cut their output. The sectors explosive growth has also driven large-scale deforestation, while predominantly coal-fueled smelters have led to massive carbon emissions. Nickel is needed to create high-performing batteries for electric vehicles. Iskandar also criticized the deadly accidents that have occurred at industrial facilities run by foreign firms, the most recent of which claimed 21 lives. He also attacked the proliferation of illegal nickel mining, which is particularly environmentally destructive. What kind of downstreaming do we want to continue while illegal mining is still widespread, he said. Meanwhile, Mohammad Mahfud Mahmodin, running mate of presidential hopeful Ganjar Pranowo, pointed to the slow pace with which regulators had cracked down on illegal mining. Gibran Rakabuming Raka, the vice presidential pick of poll-leader Prabowo Subianto and Widowos son, said those breaching the rules should have their mining permits revoked. Indonesias heads to the polls next month. The next leader will take over from Jokowi after nearly a decade in power. Though the President has not officially endorsed a candidate, Subianto is widely seen as his favored pick after the former-general picked his son as running mate. Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. The salmonella outbreak previously linked to charcuterie meats sold at Sams Club also has been connected to meats from the same company sold at Costco. And, the CDC says, the outbreaks reached 22 states. Heres some facts you might want to know. READ MORE: Sams Clubs in 26 states got food linked to salmonella outbreak Whats the Costco-sold meat product now involved? Costco posted Fratelli Berettas announcement that in an abundance of caution, Fratelli Beretta USA issued a voluntary market withdrawal of Fratelli Beretta Antipasto Gran Beretta. The voluntary market withdrawal a recall by any other name involves item No. 1074880, twin 12-ounce trays of dry salami, dry coppa and prosciutto sold at Costcos from Nov. 16 through Jan. 9 with a best by date of June 13, 2024. Busseto Charcuterie Sampler was sold at Sams Club. Fratelli Beretta Antipasto Gran Beretta was sold at Costco. Previously, Fratelli Beretta recalled lot No. 075330300 of twin 9-ounce trays of Busseto Charcuterie Sampler with dry coppa, sweet soppressata and prosciutto that were sold at Sams Club. The best by date on this lot is April 27, 2024. If you have questions about either recall, phone Fratelli Beretta USA at 866-552-4916, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. READ MORE: Capn Crunch cereals, granola bars, protein bars added to big Quaker salmonella recall How widespread is the salmonella outbreak? The official infection count is 47 people in 22 states with no hospitalizations or deaths. Salmonella outbreaks often wind up undercounted because most people get sick and recover without hospitalization or needing to see a medical professional. Of the 47 people, the CDC said 26 have been interviewed about what theyve eaten recently and 19 said theyd eaten charcuterie meats. Ten people could identify what meats by memory or purchase tracking. Four were Costco customers who bought the Fratelli Beretta brand Antipasto Gran Beretta and one bought a different Fratelli charcuterie product. Five bought charcuterie meats at Sams Club. Three of them bought the Busseto sampler, but the other two couldnt remember the brand. As for where the sick people are, Ohio leads with 11. Washington has five. New York has four. Texas, Nebraska and Pennsylvania have three each. Wisconsin and Arizona each have two. One person has been counted in each of these states: Kentucky, Missouri, Illinois, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, Oregon, Utah, Vermont and Virginia. What is salmonella? About 1.35 million people in the United States each year spend four to seven days with diarrhea, fever and stomachaches from salmonella. Check with a medical professional if fever exceeds 102 degrees and is accompanied by diarrhea; the diarrhea lasts more than three days or is bloody; you vomit up even liquids, rarely urinate, have a dry mouth and throat or get dizzy when rising. Those could be signs of dehydration. Regular high tides in Venice, Italy, have flooded the city for centuries. Now, MOSE, a system of 78 hinged steel floodgates along the seafloor, is offering protection, but experts question whether it can stand up to a warming planet, as the Economist reports. After nearly two decades of construction, MOSE known formally as the Experimental Electromechanical Module is now in operation. Its system of floodgates runs for about a mile along the seafloor beneath the three inlets to the Venetian lagoon, per the Economist. When high tide rolls in, machines compress air that is blasted into the floodgates. Seawater is forced out, and the floodgates rise. This creates a barrier that keeps the city dry until the tide retreats. Thats not to say that the system doesnt come with challenges. First off, its expensive each raising of the barrier costs about 150,000 (around $165,000 as of mid-January). Plus, the barrier disrupts water traffic, which can cost maritime workers like fishermen money. According to geologist Luigi Tosi, sealing the lagoon off too often could also result in water that is first a bathtub, then a sewer, per the Economist. Thats because most of Venices sewage runs into the citys canal system. Plus, it may not be able to keep up with the rising sea levels that accompany a heating planet. In fact, some researchers are predicting a water level rise between 32 and 110 centimeters (about 13 to 43 inches) in the lagoon by 2100, the Economist reports. Not to mention that the city itself is sinking because of the extraction of groundwater. Thats why experts say the system must be updated to contend with these environmental changes. Tosi is a proponent of pumping seawater underground to actually raise the city back up, reports the Economist. Though it comes with obstacles, MOSE offers a unique solution to flooding that could be applied in certain other flood-prone areas across the globe as the planet continues to warm. In the United States alone, 40% of the population lives in coastal areas, and more than $1 trillion worth of property is located within 700 feet of the coast, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports. People and properties situated near the ocean may be at greater risk for the extreme weather events that come with a heating planet, including hurricanes, rising sea levels, and high tide flooding like that in Venice. Its not just coastal communities at risk of flooding, however. Heavy rain around Milan caused major flooding in the city in late 2023. Meanwhile, Venice survived the same storm system thanks to MOSE. Of course, MOSE isnt the only innovative solution to flooding. A team in Vancouver, Canada, is hoping to revamp the citys waterfront area to take advantage of floodwaters. The plan includes vertical extensions of flood-adaptive townhouses with community terraces and mid-rise buildings with public spaces that allow for flooding without permanent damage, as well as floating habitat islands and mixed-use spaces on stilts. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the coolest innovations improving our lives and saving our planet. The final major festival of the Christmas season in the Philippines was held on Sunday, Jan. 21, as several places in the archipelago celebrate the feast of the Santo Nino, or of Jesus depicted as a child. In a message to the Filipino people, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on those who were devoted to the Christ Child to "translate [their] faith into action" in order to "spread the message of hope, love and joy to others." "Most importantly, always pray for spiritual strength and fortitude to overcome whatever challenges and difficulties that may lie ahead," he added. Marcos also particularly greeted the people of Cebu for its celebration of the Sinulog Festival. Read Also: [VIRAL] PSG Defends Marcos's Use of Presidential Helicopter to Attend Coldplay Concert; Filipinos Not Having It Cebu Police Estimates 3 Million Flocking Sinulog Festival Parade The city of Cebu is fiesta central as police estimate millions of people attending the Sinulog Festival, culminating with the peculiar Filipino Catholic feast every third Sunday of January. Several places in the nation also spread the celebration throughout this month. During the principal Mass on Sunday, Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma urged the congregation to equally focus on enriching the family and the importance of education both at school and at home. Philippine National Police (PNP) Cebu chief Col. Ireneo Dalogdog told SunStar that an estimated 2.5 million to 3 million people attended the grand parade alone on Sunday afternoon, local time (morning UTC). An additional 1.1 million walked the city streets on the eve of the feast on Saturday, Jan. 20, local broadcaster GMA reported. Meanwhile, Cebu Mayor Michael Rama said he was delighted to notice that Sinulog attendees behaved more than in previous years. Manila's Santo Nino Festivities On the other hand, Manila matched the festivities of Cebu by hosting its own Santo Nino festivities in at least two of its districts. Festivities in the Philippine capital began last week with the district of Pandacan and its Buling-Buling Festival. Nearer to the city's center, the ancient district of Tondo culminated the city's festivities, with local media outlet ABS-CBN reporting at least 6,000 people joining the pre-dawn procession across its streets. Festivities in honor of the Santo Nino were also held in the Bago Bantay district of the nearby suburb of Quezon City. Related Article: Manila's Nazareno Procession Ends Within 15 Hours The News The pressure campaign for Ron DeSantis to drop out of the presidential race reached a fever pitch both publicly and internally as he prepared his exit. He made it official Sunday afternoon in a post on X, and endorsed Donald Trump. Clearly the base is not ready to move past Trump, said a DeSantis supporter close to his campaign, who noted even his staunchest Florida-based backers wanted him to drop out sooner rather than later. Iowa was critical for DeSantis and he did everything right in the state, but he couldnt pull off a win in even one county. Its bad for America. DeSantis would have been an outstanding president, but unfortunately it is the current state of this primary. Bloomberg first reported Sunday that the Florida governors team was beginning exit discussions, trying to figure out the best time and place to drop out. While he endorsed Trump immediately in his video, it doesnt appear that there was coordination with Trumps team on that announcement. Once seen as the conservative darling who could take on Donald Trump, the Florida governors supporters have widely recognized the bitter reality over the past few weeks: That it just might not be Desantiss time. The seeds of doubt among his allies and some donors began months ago, when Nikki Haley began gaining momentum in the race. Even back then, DeSantis began facing quiet pressure to drop out, sources say. But after a second place finish in Iowa (30 points behind Trump) and seemingly no path to win New Hampshire or South Carolina, the push for him to suspend his campaign reached its height. Publicly, top conservative pundits like Laura Ingraham and The Wall Street Journals editorial board have called on him to suspend his campaign. Meanwhile, he also faced a barrage of internal pressure, with donors and top Floridians who want him to be viable in 2028 quietly urging his campaign to give up. Know More Trumps team has said theyd welcome DeSantis dropping out and his endorsement despite the bitter rivalry between the two over the last year. I think we should welcome Gov. DeSantis and all of his supporters into the warm embrace of MAGA, Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz told Semafor on Saturday. Hes got a lot of successful years ahead in Florida. Weve got to pull together and win this thing. Joe Bidens the enemy, not each other. Trumps team saw DeSantiss remaining voters as likely converts conservatives who disagreed with Haley on foreign policy, and whod been told by their candidate and conservative media that Haley was a corporate shill. The majority of his voters come to us, Trump campaign manager Chris LaCivita told Semafor. Polling from CNN and the University of New Hampshire released Sunday morning found Trump hitting 50% for the first time, as supporters of Vivek Ramaswamy came over en masse. Notable Tim Scott, another Trump rival, endorsed the former president ahead of the New Hampshire primary. Even before his victory in Iowa, the overwhelming majority of House and Senate endorsements were for Trump. Foreign students are learning our language from internationally broadcast US series such as Friends, pictured - CHANNEL 4 Foreign students learning English are now being taught modern phrases and slang words such as beef, bare and fam at schools and colleges, new research reveals. But it is not just overseas youngsters who are learning modern jargon, including salty and drip; the teachers themselves are also having to get to grips with it. A study by Trinity College London - an international English language exam board - found 71 per cent of overseas students learning English are asking teachers and lecturers to explain slang terms they have seen on social media, TV or elsewhere. Trinity surveyed 505 academics who teach EFL (English as a foreign language) to students in the Generation Z age group, which covers those aged from 12 to their mid-20s. Among those expressions most queried by the learners are beef (an argument), NPC (non-player character, ie a boring person) and to pop-off (go crazy) while others on the list include rizz (good at chatting-up or flirting), recently declared Word of the Year by Oxford University Press. The survey found 80 per cent of foreign students arrive knowing multicultural English (MCE) slang terms, having picked them up through social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, but do not always know their meaning. Gritty British TV series such as Top Boy also have an international audience thanks to Netflix and other streaming services, which is also influencing the English being picked up by younger overseas students arriving in the UK. However, they are also learning our language from other internationally broadcast US series such as Friends, Greys Anatomy and Stranger Things and 45 per cent speak English with what is called a GenAm (general American) accent. EFL teachers also recommend typically British series such as Downton Abbey, pictured - JAAP BUITENDIJK/FOCUS FEATURES As a result, more than two thirds of EFL teachers (67 per cent) now include MCE in their lessons whether it is bruv for close friend or bare (a lot, many, very) but also recommend typically British series such as Bridgerton, Sherlock and Downton Abbey. Dr Ben Beaumont, head of English language teacher education at Trinity, said: The findings highlight the evolving nature of language in a connected world and the growing impact of social media and popular culture on language acquisition among Generation Z. The rise of streaming TV services and the popularity of specific shows have turned language learning into a dynamic, multimedia experience for Gen Z. British TV series such as Top Boy have an international audience - CHANNEL 4/TELEVISION STILLS While new words are being incorporated into classrooms, outdated expressions from broken record to dialling a number are confusing to the youngsters, as are idioms such as neck of the woods and best thing since sliced bread. Dr Beaumont added: Our study highlights the nature of language learning in todays interconnected world, where social media and popular culture play pivotal roles. Its essential to keep pace with Gen Zs language journey and offer engaging ways for learning to blend seamlessly with their multimedia experiences. The research was commissioned by Trinity College London when developing its new Skill Up learning app which helps foreign students learn English. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer. At least five Iranian military advisors and a number of Syrian forces were killed in an Israeli missile strike on a building in Damascus on Saturday, Irans semi-official Tasnim news agency reported, in another sign of building hostilities in the Middle East as Israels war with Hamas enters its fourth month. The alleged strike targeted the Mazzeh neighborhood in Syrias capital, home to several diplomatic missions including the Iranian embassy, according to Syrian authorities. Israel launched an air attack from the Golan Heights at 10:20 a.m. local time that targeted a residential building in the Mazzeh neighborhood, the Syrian Ministry of Defense alleged, adding that some missiles were shot down by national defense forces. A number of buildings and nearby vehicles around the targeted building were damaged in the blast, Syrias state broadcaster reported, with civil defense teams still searching for victims trapped under the rubble. The Israel Defense Forces declined to comment on the incident, telling CNN, We do not comment on foreign reports. One of the dead, Hojjatollah Omidvar, was described by Irans semi-official Student News Network as a deputy chief of the Quds Force intelligence unit in Syria one of five branches of the Revolutionary Guards unit in charge of foreign operations. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) identified the four others killed as military advisors Ali Aghazadeh, Hossein Mohammadi, Saeed Karimi and Mohammad Amin Samadi. Their presence in Syria had been at the official invitation of the Syrian government, Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson, Nasser Kanaani, noted in a statement on social media. Security and emergency personnel search the rubble of a building destroyed in Damascus on January 20, 2024. - Louai Beshara/AFP/Getty Images Regional spillover fears The attack in Damascus comes amid concerns that Israels war with Hamas in Gaza is spiraling into a regional war. In northern Iraq, an Iranian missile attack last week targeted what Tehran claimed to be a spy base for Israeli intelligence agency Mossad. in Lebanon, militant group Hezbollah has engaged in near-daily confrontations with Israeli forces across the border. And from Yemen, Houthi rebels have launched a series of attacks on commercial ships and Western military vessels in the Red Sea. Attacks by Iranian-backed groups in the Middle East wont stop until Israels war on Hamas in Gaza ends, Tehrans top diplomat warned on Wednesday, echoing comments by several groups in Irans network of influence. If the genocide in Gaza stops, then it will lead to the end of other crises and attacks in the region, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian told CNNs Fareed Zakaria in an interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Wednesday. Since Israel launched its ground and air campaign in Gaza, in response to Hamas bloody October 7 terror attacks, nearly 25,000 people have been killed in the blockaded Palestinian enclave the majority of them women and children according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Ramallah. The US, a key Israel ally, has also stepped in militarily, launching strikes in Yemen with the aim of degrading Houthi capabilities to harm the vital Red Sea shipping lane. In comments on Wednesday, State Department spokesperson Matt Miller emphasized that a larger conflagration could be avoided and highlighted a flurry of US diplomatic activity in the Middle East. We continue to engage in diplomatic efforts to try to make clear to everyone in the region that we dont want to see the conflict escalated, that we dont think its in any countrys interest to see the conflict escalated, Miller said Wednesday. But the path to de-escalation will be hard to find. Iranian president Ebrahim Raisi on Saturday vowed to punish Israel for the Damascus missile strike. The killing was another stain on the record of all governments who claim to be the advocates of human rights because it violated Syrias airspace and trampled on human and international laws, he said, in comments reported by Iranian state media. Reporting contributed by CNNs Kareem Khadder. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com US personnel in Iraq are undergoing traumatic brain injury evaluations. The evaluations follow a missile barrage launched by Iran-back militias on the Al-Asad airbase. Regional tensions have been escalating, with this militia's actions mirroring the Houthis' aggression. US personnel in Iraq are undergoing traumatic brain injury evaluations after Iranian-backed militias launched a barrage of ballistic missiles and rockets at the Al-Asad airbase in western Iraq on Saturday, according to a statement from the US Central Command (CENTCOM). The press release stated that multiple ballistic missiles and rockets were launched at about 6:30 p.m. Baghdad time on January 20. "Most of the missiles were intercepted by the base's air defense systems while others impacted on the base," per CENTCOM. CENTCOM said that damage assessments are ongoing, and several US personnel are undergoing evaluation for traumatic brain injuries. At least one Iraqi service member was reportedly wounded. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an Iran-backed militia group, claimed responsibility for firing the missiles that were launched from inside the country. The attack is believed to be the largest among more than 140 incidents since mid-October, signifies a pattern of Iranian-backed militia groups targeting US forces in Iraq and Syria, ABC News reports. The attacks are seen by some as acts of solidarity with Palestinians amid the Israel-Hamas conflict, mirroring similar actions by Houthi militants in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden against commercial shipping. Unlike previous attacks primarily using Iranian-made drones and rockets, Saturday's assault involved more powerful ballistic missiles and repesents an escalatory move, per ABC News. The Pentagon says strikes on Houthi rebels are 'defensive' measures Missiles in a military parade held by the Houthis to mark the anniversary of their takeover in Sanaa, Yemen, September 21, 2023. REUTERS/Khaled Abdullah Iran also backs the Houthis and have triggered retaliatory strikes from the US. The Pentagon has labeled its strikes on Houthi missiles as "defensive" measures. The Houthis rebels' attacks on Red Sea shipping sought to support a ceasefire in Gaza. The heightened tensions between Iran-backed militias and the US in Iraq follow a US military drone strike in Baghdad on January 4, which targeted a senior leader of one such militia, the Guardian reports. There are 2,500 US troops still stationed in Iraq, part of the ongoing mission to counter the Islamic State terror group. Another 900 US troops are deployed to Syria to prevent a resurgence by the Islamic State, the Pentagon reports. Read the original article on Business Insider Protest to call for the immediate release of hostages kidnapped during the deadly attack October 7 by Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Jerusalem Protest to call for the immediate release of hostages kidnapped during the deadly attack October 7 by Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, in Jerusalem By Emily Rose JERUSALEM (Reuters) -Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected conditions presented by Hamas to end the war and release hostages that would include Israel's complete withdrawal and leaving Hamas in power in Gaza. As Israeli planes resumed bombing Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri told Reuters the Israeli leader's refusal to end the military offensive in Gaza "means there is no chance for the return of the (Israeli) captives." "In exchange for the release of our hostages, Hamas demands the end of the war, the withdrawal of our forces from Gaza, the release of all the murderers and rapists," Netanyahu said in a statement. "And leaving Hamas intact." "I reject outright the terms of surrender of the monsters of Hamas," Netanyahu said. Under a deal brokered in late November by the United States, Qatar and Egypt, more than 100 of the estimated 240 hostages taken captive to Gaza during an attack by Hamas militants on Oct. 7 were freed in exchange for the release of 240 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons. Since then, Netanyahu has faced mounting pressure to secure the release the 136 hostages who remain in captivity. The Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum demanded in a statement that Netanyahu "clearly state that we will not abandon civilians, soldiers, and others kidnapped in the October debacle." "We must advance the deal now," it said. "If the prime minister decides to sacrifice the hostages, he should show leadership and honestly share his position with the Israeli public." Relatives of the hostages at a protest outside Netanyahu's residence demanded action. "We need the government to now fix the problem that they have created and get these hostages home immediately, said Jon Polin, father of Hersh Goldberg-Polin. Netanyahu also took a stronger line on the issue of Palestinian statehood than before. "I will not compromise on full Israeli security control of all territory west of the Jordan River," he said. U.S. President Joe Biden said on Friday he spoke with Netanyahu about possible solutions for creation of an independent Palestinian state, suggesting one path could involve a non-militarized government. Netanyahu appeared on Saturday to push back against Biden's remarks about Palestinian statehood after the war against Hamas in Gaza ends as the two men do not see eye-to-eye on Palestinians having a state, a solution Biden has advocated to achieve long-term peace. In the statement on Sunday, Netanyahu repeated that he would insist upon "full Israeli security control over all the territory west of Jordan." Netanyahu said he had firmly stood up to "international and internal pressures" to change this position and would continue to do so. "My insistence is what prevented for years the establishment of a Palestinian state that would have posed an existential danger to Israel," he said. (Reporting by Emily Rose; additional reporting by Reuters TV and David Brunnstrom in Washington; editing by Giles Elgood and Richard Chang) United States District Judge Marcia Morales Howard sentenced Keith Allen Dixon, a 46-year-old resident of Jacksonville, to 10 years in federal prison. The conviction stems from charges related to the distribution of 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine and the possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< Dixon entered a guilty plea on October 4, 2023. According to court documents, the incident took place on January 6, 2023, when Dixon engaged in the sale of methamphetamine to a confidential informant outside a hotel off Lane Avenue in Jacksonville. Alongside the narcotics transaction, Dixon also sold two 20-gauge shotguns. As a convicted felon, Dixon is legally prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. Notably, Dixon was on probation at the time, following a previous conviction in Duval County for the possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The total amount of pure methamphetamine involved in the case was at least 146 grams. The investigation into this case was conducted jointly by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office. The prosecution was led by Assistant United States Attorney John Cannizzaro. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a comprehensive program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by fostering collaboration among law enforcement at all levels and the communities they serve. The strategy, launched by the Department on May 26, 2021, focuses on building trust in communities, supporting violence prevention through community-based organizations, setting strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring outcomes. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. Japan landed its Smart Lander for Investigating the Moon, or SLIM, craft on the surface of the Moon on Jan. 20, 2024. Despite a power issue with the lander, the event holds both political and technical importance. Its Japans first lunar landing making it only the fifth country in the world to successfully land on the Moon. This is a significant achievement and solidifies Japans position as a leader in space technology. While the craft landed successfully on the lunar surface and deployed its rovers, SLIMs solar cells were not functioning properly meaning that the craft could likely only operate for a few hours. Im a scholar of international affairs who studies space. Like NASA and other space agencies, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, or JAXA, wants to advance research and technology by demonstrating new techniques and collecting scientific data. The landing is also a part of something bigger a growing global interest in lunar activity. Precision technology Japans achievement isnt only symbolic Japan is demonstrating a number of new technologies with the lander. The name, Smart Lander for Investigating the Moon, refers to the spacecrafts new precision-landing technology. This technology could assist future landings by allowing spacecraft to land in relatively small areas amid rocky or uneven terrain, rather than having to find large clearings. This ability will be particularly important in the future as countries focus on very specific areas of interest at the lunar south pole. The lander also carried two small rovers, each of which will demonstrate a new technology for moving on the Moon. Lunar Excursion Vehicle 1 includes a camera, as well as scientific equipment, and uses a hopping mechanism to maneuver on the Moon. An illustration of the SLIM lander touching down. JAXA/ISAS Lunar Excursion Vehicle 2, developed in a partnership among government, industry, and academia, is a sphere small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. Once on the surface, its two halves separate slightly, allowing it to roll around. SLIM is designed to land within a 328-foot (100-meter) zone, far smaller than previous lunar landers which have had landing zones spanning multiple kilometers. SLIM used a vision-based navigation system that took images of the lunar surface. Its system rapidly compared these images to crater patterns on lunar maps that JAXA developed with data from previous missions. As countries identify areas that are most likely to hold useful resources, such as water in the form of ice, precision landing technology will allow agencies to avoid nearby hazards and reach these areas without incident. International relations back on Earth There is a geopolitical element to these activities. China, India and Japan the three nations that have successfully landed on the Moon since 2000 engage in regional competition across a number of areas, including space. In addition to regional considerations, these accomplishments help to establish nations as leaders on a global scale capable of something that few nations have ever done. Japans launch comes only six months after Indias Moon landing and just weeks after a failed attempt by a U.S. company, Astrobotic. Both Russia and the private company iSpace made unsuccessful landing attempts in 2023. Japans success in landing on the Moon even with solar panel issues shortening the timeline for the mission demonstrates that JAXA is a major player in this global endeavor. Despite recent setbacks, such as NASA announcing delays to its next Artemis mission, the U.S. is still a clear leader in space and lunar exploration. NASA has multiple spacecraft orbiting the Moon right now, and its already successfully launched the SLS rocket, which is capable of taking humans back to the Moon. NASA is developing very large and complex systems internally like the Gateway space station, planned to orbit near the Moon, and the infrastructure for the Artemis human Moon missions. Its not uncommon for these large and complex efforts to experience some delays. NASA has also turned many smaller-scale efforts over to commercial entities lately like in the Commercial Lunar Payload Services program that supported Astrobotics attempt. This is a new approach that involves some risk, but provides the opportunity for commercial innovation and growth of the lunar economy while giving NASA the ability to focus on big, complex aspects of the mission. With regard to the Moon, JAXA has partnered with the U.S. and taken on a very important component of the Artemis missions the development of a pressurized lunar rover. This is a new and complex technology that will be critical to human missions on the Moon in coming years. 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: Mariel Borowitz, Georgia Institute of Technology. Read more: Mariel Borowitz receives funding from the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration and the U.S. Department of Defense. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has decided to suspend his Republican US presidential campaign right before the New Hampshire primary. He has chosen to endorse Donald Trump, bringing an end to his White House bid. Unfortunately, his campaign did not live up to the expectations of him becoming a strong contender against the former president. Ron DeSantis Suspends Presidential Campaign "It's clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance," he said in a video posted on X on Sunday. The New Hampshire primary, which is the first in the United States, is scheduled for Tuesday. DeSantis criticized former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, who has been his main competitor for second place in the primary race. He believes that Republicans should not revert to the previous generation of Republican leaders, which he sees Haley as representing, according to USA Today. DeSantis joined the 2024 presidential race with significant advantages in his bid to challenge Trump, and early primary polls indicated that he was in a favorable position to accomplish his goal. He and his supporters accumulated a substantial political fortune, surpassing $100 million. He proudly showcased a notable legislative track record, particularly on topics that resonate with conservative values, such as abortion and the inclusion of race and gender issues in school curricula. However, these benefits were short-lived in the world of presidential politics in 2024. Throughout the primary, DeSantis faced numerous challenges, including technical glitches during a high-profile announcement and frequent changes to his staff and campaign strategy. These obstacles made it difficult for him to establish a strong foundation. He suffered a significant defeat in the Iowa caucuses, falling short of his goal to secure a victory, as Trump emerged as the clear winner with a 30 percentage point lead. And now, DeSantis's political future is uncertain as he has decided to suspend his presidential campaign after participating in only one voting contest. The 45-year-old is serving his final term as Florida's governor.DeSantis was widely anticipated to pose a significant challenge to Trump. Recognizing the potential risk, Trump aggressively targeted the Florida governor in the months leading up to DeSantis's announcement of his candidacy in May. He continued to criticize him on the campaign trail, through social media, and with paid advertising in the subsequent months. However, it appears that DeSantis may have contributed to many of his own problems. In a surprising move, DeSantis broke with tradition and officially launched his presidential campaign on X. The announcement came during a conversation on a popular social media platform with CEO Elon Musk, further fueling speculation about his political ambitions. The website experienced multiple failures throughout the conversation, greatly hindering the ability to hear his initial remarks as a presidential candidate. In the following weeks and months, DeSantis faced challenges in establishing a personal connection with voters. Read Also: Tim Scott Set To Endorse Former President Donald Trump DeSantis' Campaign Struggles During his campaign's first visit to the state, he frustrated certain New Hampshire Republican officials by choosing not to engage with voters and answer their questions, going against the customary practice in New Hampshire. Furthermore, there were instances where the candidate had awkward encounters with voters in different states, which were captured on camera. Additional financial difficulties arose during the summer. By the end of July, DeSantis had made the decision to reduce his campaign payroll by approximately one-third, resulting in the layoff of nearly 40 employees. The cuts were implemented soon after it was revealed in public filings that he was depleting his campaign funds at an unsustainable pace. Many individuals seeking an alternative to Trump supported Haley, a former diplomat and South Carolina governor who garnered favor among Republican donors, independent voters, and those who oppose Trump. DeSantis and Haley engaged in frequent confrontations during debates and in advertising, often directing their attacks at each other with more intensity than towards Trump. Amid growing internal financial concerns, DeSantis took a proactive approach by enlisting the help of an allied super PAC to handle essential campaign tasks, including organizing campaign events, advertising, and conducting an extensive door-knocking operation. According to federal law, campaigns are prohibited from directly coordinating with super PACs. In December, a non-partisan government watchdog group filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission, citing reports from The Associated Press and other sources. The complaint alleged that there was an excessive level of coordination and communication between DeSantis's campaign and the Never Back Down super PAC, potentially crossing a legal boundary. DeSantis vehemently denied any wrongdoing and dismissed the complaint as "a complete farce." However, the continuous flow of unfavorable events prior to the primary contests eroded the trust of DeSantis's donor network and potential supporters at the ballot box, which was expected to be a significant advantage. As his polling numbers remained stagnant, DeSantis and his allies shifted their strategy, directing the majority of their resources towards Iowa's opening caucuses. Following his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race, DeSantis is now shifting his focus back to the remaining period of his second and final term as the governor of Florida, set to conclude in January 2027, Reuters reported. Related Article: Haley Aims to Win Over NH's Independents to Win GOP Primary Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) made the case Sunday that former President Trump is a more electable candidate than former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, citing the former presidents resiliency after years of media criticism and controversy. In an interview on Fox News Sunday, the Trump campaign surrogate was asked to respond to concerns from voters who say Trump brings chaos an argument Haley makes frequently on the campaign trail. My response to that voter would be, Nikki does have baggage. She just hasnt faced the onslaught of years of media attacks, of super PAC attacks that Donald Trump has faced, Vance told host Shannon Bream. And, frankly, the fact that Trump is still standing and is still leading in the polls against Joe Biden suggests he has real political resilience, Vance said. Vance continued making the argument that Haley has simply not faced the same barrage of attacks that Trump has, and he claimed she might not be prepared for whats coming if she wins the partys nomination. I know a lot of people who are choosing Nikki Haley think shes the low-baggage candidate. In reality, shes the candidate the Democrats havent teed off on, but they will tee off on her if shes the nominee, he said. She wont be [the nominee], but if she is, she will face exactly what Donald Trump has faced for the past six years. And I dont think shell survive, and I certainly dont think shell win the presidency through it. Thats why we need to elect the guy whos shown some resilience. Thats why we need to nominate Donald Trump, Vance added. On Tuesday, New Hampshire voters will head to the polls for the first primary election of the 2024 presidential cycle. According to The Hill/Decision Desk HQs New Hampshire primary polling average, Trump leads by 11.4 percentage points, with 46.7 percent support compared with Haleys 35.3 percent support. Nationally, the polling average puts Trump ahead by 50.7 percentage points, with 63.3 percent support, followed by Haleys 12.6 percent and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantiss 10.6 percent support. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. President Joe Biden is skipping the New Hampshire primary. Sort of. Bidens name will not appear on the states Democratic ballot because of a dispute over the date of the contest. However, many New Hampshire Democrats are planning to vote for the president anyway. A ragtag group of state party leaders have worked for months to organize a write-in campaign to ensure that Biden wins the first-in-the-nation primary. A loss by Biden even after he decided not to compete in the state could create an embarrassing narrative and lead to broad unease over his 2024 reelection chances. Heres a look at how the Biden write-in effort started and why it matters. Why isnt Biden on the ballot in New Hampshire? Last year, under Bidens guidance, the Democratic National Committee reshuffled the primary calendar and put South Carolina at the front of the order. It said the goal was to elevate diverse voices early in the presidential nominating contest. However, New Hampshire is required by law to hold the first primary in the country and its Republican-run legislature declined to accommodate the DNCs rule change. Secretary of State David Scanlan waited to set the date of the primary until the candidate filing deadline ended last fall to leave the door open for Biden. WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 19: U.S. President Joe Biden speaks during an event with bipartisan mayors attending the U.S. Conference of Mayors Winter Meeting, in the East Room of the White House January 19, 2024 in Washington, DC. More than 300 U.S. mayors are in Washington, DC for the U.S. Conference of Mayors Winter Meeting. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images) ORG XMIT: 776092487 ORIG FILE ID: 1938433524 The president declined to participate in the states election, citing concerns that the national party would take away delegates from any candidate who participated in an unsanctioned contest. Scanlan later set the date of the race for Jan. 23 a week and a half ahead of South Carolinas Democratic primary. When did the write-in campaign begin? When the DNC officially changed its primary calendar last February, seasoned New Hampshire Democrats knew there would be trouble because of the state's election law. Many were frustrated at Bidens decision to strip the state of its historic place in presidential politics. As it became clear over the summer that Biden would not engage with the primary, party leaders in the state began floating the idea of a write-in campaign. At the time, Robert F. Kennedy was still running as a Democrat. Kathy Sullivan, former chair of the New Hampshire Democratic Party, remembered thinking that Democrats could not let him win in the state. To have Robert F. Kennedy Jr. win the New Hampshire primary, it would have been a bad day for President Biden, Sullivan said. Kennedy later decided to run as a third-party candidate. What does the write-in effort entail? There are two main groups supporting the Biden write-in effort. A grassroots group called Granite State Write-In has informally organized over 1,200 volunteers to vote for the president and convince their friends, family and acquaintances to do the same. With only two paid staffers, and roughly $50,000 in its war chest, the group has mainly focused on putting up yard signs and deploying volunteers to spread the word at local Democratic town committee meetings. The group also has organized a number of visibility events featuring national Democrats, such as Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, to spread the word the weekend before the primary. Sullivan also kick-started a super PAC, called Granite for America, in mid-November. The organization has sent seven mailers to likely Democratic voters encouraging them to vote for Biden and explaining how to do so. While it has run some digital ads, television spots havent been in the cards. How do you vote for Biden in New Hampshire? The actual process of voting for Biden in New Hampshire is fairly easy. The Democratic ballot will have 21 names on it, including the presidents leading challengers Rep. Dean Phillips, D-Minn., and self-help author Marianne Williamson. Below those names, there is an empty line that says write-in. Voters must fill in the oval on the line and legibly print Bidens full name. The secretary of states office has said that as long as the intent of the name listed is clear, the vote will likely count for Biden. What are Bidens chances? Biden is widely expected to win the New Hampshire primary. An overwhelming 64% of likely Democratic primary voters in a recent USA TODAY/Suffolk University/Boston Globe survey said they planned to back the president on Jan. 23, compared to 6% who said they supported Phillips and 2% who supported Williamson. But organizers of the write-in effort are setting low expectations for his margin of victory. Write-in efforts of this scale are not without precedent in American politics. Alaska Sen. Lisa Murkowski won a similar effort in the 2010 general election after she was defeated in the Republican primary. As I keep reminding folks, this is not easy, Sullivan previously said. It's not the typical election and so it becomes a bit of a heavy lift, because you are having to encourage people to get out and that when they go to vote, his name will not be on the ballot. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Write-in campaign seeks win for Joe Biden in NH: What to know Jonny Lee Miller said 'the more I read about Sir John, the more I liked him' - Netflix/PA Jonny Lee Miller may not have been the most obvious choice to play former prime minister Sir John Major in The Crown. The Trainspotting star, who was once married to Angelina Jolie, was raised by socialist parents and has described himself as pretty leftie. But he has revealed that being cast as the former Tory leader in the popular Netflix drama had 100 per cent changed his perspective on the politician. I was raised in a very, very socialist household, but the more I read about Sir John, the more I liked him, he said. Hes one of the most misunderstood politicians ever: he was very magnetic and had a great sense of humour. Miller told The Observer: Thats actually how Peter Morgan [the creator of The Crown] described him to me. He said: Hes George f------ Clooney! Oh right, what am I doing here then? The actor won plaudits for his portrayal of Sir John as he skilfully navigated the fallout from the breakdown of the marriage between Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales, acting as something of an intermediary. He has previously described how he discovered, while researching the role, that he and Sir John had many similarities. They were both raised in south-west London Kingston and Worcester Park respectively and went to state grammar schools. Both also had theatrical parents. I had all these things in common, and then the more you learn about the work that he did my respect for him grew massively, he has said. In the fifth and penultimate series, broadcast in late 2022, Prince Charles, played by Dominic West, is shown agitating for modernisation and trying to recruit Sir John to his cause, insisting that the monarchy is in need of a revamp. He summons the Prime Minister to a secret meeting at Highgrove in 1991, hinting that he could replace his mother just as the Conservative party had ousted Margaret Thatcher the previous year. What makes the Conservative party successful? Its instinct for renewal and its willingness to make way for someone younger, he says. Sir John described the plotlines as malicious nonsense. He said that utterly untrue storylines presented as fact so soon after the death of Elizabeth II would be devastating for the Royal family. He wrote in a letter to The Telegraph that such scenes will be profoundly hurtful to a family who are still grieving for the very person on whose life the entire drama was founded. 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. El Paso Independent School District trustee Josh Acevedo will take a seat on the El Paso City Council after his victory in a low-turnout election in the Central and Northeast core of the city. Though only 5.7% showed up to cast ballots, voters in West-Central District 2 elected Acevedo to serve out the remainder of city Rep. Alexsandra Annello's term, which expires at the end of the year. Elections 2024: Democrat El Paso district attorney candidates call for sweeping changes in DA's office Despite the constant lament from residents that their neighborhoods have languished amid inaction at City Hall, an abysmally low voter turnout defined every step of the special election only 4.6% showed up to cast ballots in December and only about 600 more turned out for the runoff. Josh Acevedo won the runoff election for El Paso city representative District 2. In this photo, Acevedo speaks to voters during a candidate forum at the Memorial Senior Center on Nov. 28. And taxpayers will likely be on the hook for more than $500,000 to pay for the two elections. Still, Acevedo ended Election Night more than 300 votes ahead of opponent Veronica Carbajal and will take his seat at the dais alongside the rest of the City Council. "I am thrilled and I am so thankful to the voters of District 2 for placing their trust in me," Acevedo said as the final numbers rolled in on Election Night. "I'm so excited to get to work on our issues and make sure District 2 has a strong voice on City Council." For Carbajal, an activist at her core, the Election Night defeat did little to stifle her resolve to enact change in the city, most notably in the form of campaign finance reform. El Paso City Council District 2 candidate Veronica Carbajal addresses supporters during an Election Night watch party at Old Sheep Dog Brewery in Central El Paso on Saturday. Carbajal was defeated by Josh Acevedo in the District 2 special election. "This little race for a one-year term in City Council was so important that those who continue to colonize El Paso ... who expect our property taxes to pay for their riches, it was so important to them that they decided to pour crazy amounts of money into it," she said during a tear-filled speech before supporters during an Election Night watch party at Old Sheepdog Brewery. "They raised a lot of money, but we're going to raise even more hell." Josh Acevedo ready to get to work The road to the District 2 seat began after Annello announced her resignation from City Council last October to pursue a seat in the Texas House of representatives, leading to a December special election between four candidates. Carbajal and Acevedo ended the night with only tenths of a point separating them, leading to the January runoff. Despite the razor-thin margins, Acevedo enters City Council with a laundry list of priorities. "I have a very long list of many different concerns that many of my constituents have told me at the door," Acevedo said. "So, I look forward to starting the work on that list." Josh Acevedo won a special election to represent West-Central District 2 on the El Paso City Council. He is seen arranging one of his political signs outside a polling place during early voting on Jan. 5. District 2 covers a swath in the middle of El Paso on the east side of the Franklin Mountains, bordered by Hondo Pass Drive in the north and running south to the Ascarate Park area and the U.S.-Mexico border. District 2 concerns are myriad, Acevedo said, from miles of unpaved alleys, stray animals and code enforcement issues that have gone unresolved a big part of resolving those issues, he said, lies in the hunt for a new city manager. Elections 2024: Pete Faraone faces primary contest against Jackie Arroyo Butler for El Paso County Commissioner "I want to make sure the search firm that has been hired for the city manager is not going to be an impediment to getting a final candidate for that position," he said. "I also want to understand how we can reimagine the budget. As we start looking at the budget in the next few months, I want to know why all these departments are understaffed and we can do to try to find a solution for that." Additionally, Acevedo wants to make sure the next city manager is treated like any other city employee, which means a contract void of many of the lavish benefits afforded the previous city manager. "A salary, retirement and healthcare," he said. "I think that's all that belongs in a contract." While he's already eying what he can accomplish before the end of the year, Acevedo is also planning a bid for reelection to a full term in November, something he said that residents will need if they hope to see significant change. "I will be running for reelection in November," he said, "and I'm hoping to get that reassurance from voters for a full four-year term." Veronica Carbajal vows to 'keep fighting' Carbajal trailed Acevedo the whole night, but the mood was far from somber at her Election Night watch party in the heart of Central El Paso. She praised the more than 60 volunteers that made up her ground game during the campaign and vowed to keep pushing for accountability at City Hall. District 2 candidate Veronica Carbajal speaks with a supporter during an Election Night watch party at Old Sheepdog Brewery on Saturday. Carbajal lost the race to Josh Acevedo by just over 300 votes. "We have listened to complaints that date back 10, 12, 15 years ago," she said of her time campaigning. "We have stood on corners where people have been runover, have died, because no one cared to put in a speed bump. We have listened to so many folks who wonder when somebody's going to do something about the abandoned school next door." Carbajal asserted that the influx of big money into such a small race, which saw Acevedo collect nearly $8,000 from the Texas Association of Realtors PAC, the El Paso Electric Company Employee PAC and the El Paso Association of Contractors, means the fight for campaign finance reform is more important than ever. "This time around, we're not just calling out those who donated to my opposition, we're calling out the politicians who stood against us," Carbajal said. "Those who claimed to be progressive, those who claim to be grassroots ... and yet stood against us." For his part, Acevedo rebuffed that criticism and asserted that donors have never had an impact on his decision-making process and "that's not going to change." "I think my campaign speaks for itself," he said. "I have run a very community-oriented campaign and I have a public service record as an employee of many government entities throughout my career and the last four years on the school board." Even though she fell short in the District 2 contest, Carbajal vowed to keep pushing for progressive change in El Paso. "I am so proud of what we've done," she added. "Tomorrow's a new day and we're going to keep fighting." This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: Josh Acevedo topples Veronica Carbajal in El Paso City Council contest The police claim to have identified five men who broke into Nikolov's apartment The police have identified five men who broke into the apartment of Yuriy Nikolov, a journalist with the Nashi Hroshi project, the Kyiv police reported on Facebook on Jan. 21. Residents of Kyiv, Zhytomyr, and Cherkasy oblasts are involved in the crime, according to the investigation. Law enforcement officers conducted searches at the suspects' residences, and investigative actions are ongoing. The police noted that on Jan. 14, the men arrived in Kyiv and visited the apartment where Nikolov lives. They stuck leaflets on his door and demanded that he come outside. The perpetrators recorded their actions on their cell phones. /Facebook Law enforcement officers identified the perpetrators and conducted a "series of investigative actions" on Jan. 20. The police also seized material evidence, including computer equipment and the cell phones used by the men to film the offense. Read also: Ukrainian journalist on price for exposing government corruption interview "As part of the pre-trial investigation, law enforcement officers are carrying out a set of investigative and operational measures to conduct a comprehensive and impartial investigation," Kyiv police said. The Darnytska District Prosecutor's Office in Kyiv earlier opened a case of obstruction of journalist Yuriy Nikolov's work. Unidentified suspects attempted to break into the apartment of journalist Yuriy Nikolov in Kyiv on Jan. 15. Nikolov is the author of a high-profile investigation into inflated food prices for the Defense Ministry, which led to the resignation of its head, Oleksii Reznikov, and the passage of a bill in the Verkhovna Rada regarding the creation of a transparent defense procurement system. According to Nikolov, he was visiting a friend at the time of the attempted break-in, but his mother was at home. Read also: Media union urges Zelenskyy to condemn intimidation of journalists through harassment, surveillance 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 Jacksonville Sheriffs Office responded to a shooting on 1800 River Road. When officers arrived they found a man suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. According to JSO, the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department arrived and transported the victim to a local hospital where tragically he was pronounced dead. JSO says they are very early into the investigation but they do know there was an altercation at a residence between several people. Read: Man survives gunshot to the head after dispute, JSO says At some point, an individual produced a firearm and the victim was shot. Several people have been detained and have been transported to the Police Memorial Building to be interviewed. Read: Groundbreaking project Villages of Hope to provide sanctuary for survivors of human trafficking Detectives are also canvassing the area for video and other evidence. JSO believes this was an isolated incident and there is no threat to the community. Read: Clay County Sheriffs Office K9 discovered car with rifle and methamphetamine Police are asking anyone with information to reach out to the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office by phone at 904-630-0500, by email at JSOcrimetips@jacksheriff.org, or via Crimestoppers at 866-845-TIPS. [DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks] [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. (AP) A judge on Friday dismissed a juror in the trial of a Connecticut woman accused of helping her boyfriend cover up the murder of his estranged wife, after the panelist likened the case to the novel and movie Gone Girl. Judge Kevin Randolph received an unsigned note from a juror in the trial of Michelle Troconis Friday morning, accusing another member of the panel of making the comment in the presence of other jurors. Missing 85-year-old man found dead in lake in Palm Harbor: PCSO The juror discussed something about the case and it was all over social media, Randolph said the note read. Said it was like Gone Girl a brief mention. Several other jurors said, Dont discuss this. Randolph then cleared the courtroom to question jurors about the comment. He ultimately dismissed the juror, identified only as Juror 186, who acknowledged making the Gone Girl comment, the judge said. Michelle Troconis listens to arguments at the start of her trial, Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, in Stamford, Conn. The trial of Troconis, charged in the 2019 killing of mother-of-five Jennifer Dulos, has begun in Stamford Superior Court with a six-person jury hearing the case.(Richard Harbus/Dailly Mail via AP, Pool) Every (other) juror indicated that they would be able to afford the state and defense a fair and impartial trial, Randolph said after reconvening the trial. Gone Girl, a 2012 novel by Gillian Flynn that was turned into a 2014 film starring Ben Affleck, is about a woman who fakes her own disappearance and her husband, who becomes a suspect. Troconis, 49, is charged with conspiracy to commit murder and other crimes on allegations that she helped her then-boyfriend, Fotis Dulos, cover up the killing of his wife, Jennifer Dulos, in 2019. Troconis has pleaded not guilty and denied any involvement. Adam Harrison, a son of Pawn Stars celebrity Rick Harrison, has died in Las Vegas at age 39 Police believe Fotis Dulos attacked his wife in the garage of her home in New Canaan, Connecticut, in May 2019, after she dropped off the children at school. Then, authorities said, he drove off in her own SUV with her body, which has never been found. Fotis Dulos denied having anything to do with her disappearance. He died by suicide in early 2020, shortly after being charged with murder. Testimony on Friday focused on the patterns of what police said appeared to be blood stains that had been cleaned from the garage of Jennifer Dulos home. FILE Michelle Troconis listens to arguments at the start of her trial, Jan. 11, 2024, in Stamford, Conn. A nanny, Lauren Almeida, who cares for five children whose mother went missing in Connecticut in 2019, recalled in court on Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, in the trial of Troconis, the frantic day Jennifer Dulos vanished, kicking off a search that eventually turned into a murder investigation. (Richard Harbus/Dailly Mail via AP, Pool, File) At the time she vanished, Jennifer and Fotis Dulos were going through a contentious divorce and child custody proceedings that had limited his time with the children. Jennifer Dulos had moved out of the family home in Farmington, Connecticut, and Fotis Dulos was living there with Troconis and her daughter. The case drew widespread attention and was itself the subject of a made-for-TV movie, titled Gone Mom. Jennifer Dulos, 50, was a member of a wealthy New York family whose father, the late Hilliard Farber, founded his own brokerage firm. She also was a niece by marriage of fashion designer Liz Claiborne. Fotis Dulos was a luxury home builder originally from Greece. This is the second case of alleged juror misconduct in the trial. On Wednesday afternoon, Randolph dismissed an alternate juror who reportedly said We love you to two prosecutors, both involved in the case, outside the courtroom during a lunch break. Randolph said the comment gave the appearance of favoring the prosecution. The trial now has three alternates remaining, along with six regular jurors. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. SYRACUSE, Utah (ABC4) A male under the age of 18 was shot at a party in Syracuse on Saturday, according to Syracuse Police. On Jan. 20, police received reports of a shooting in the area of 1175 South 1950 West. Police were told a party was being held near this location. Upon arrival, officers found a juvenile male with a gunshot wound to his leg. Medical personnel responded to the scene and took the male to the hospital. He is reportedly in stable condition at this time. Fight the good fight: Activists gather at Utah State Capitol, fight for Great Salt Lake Through the initial investigation, police believe that an altercation took place between several juvenile males, a release states. Multiple shots were fired, police said, and those involved fled the area after the shooting. Police believe this was an isolated incident, stating there is no reason to believe that there is a public safety concern. No further information is available at this time. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. Pizzitola's Bar-B-Cue pitmaster Eudel Hernandez serves "The Contender," a smoked beef shank (weighing about 3 1/2 to 4 pounds including bone before pit smoking). To mark its 88th anniversary, the iconic Houston barbecue joint is introducing the beef shank on the menu. Limited to about six daily, the shank must be pre-ordered. Greg Morago Pizzitola's Bar-B-Cue is now serving "The Contender," a smoked beef shank (weighing about 3 1/2 to 4 pounds including bone before pit smoking). To mark its 88th anniversary, the iconic Houston barbecue joint has introduced the beef shank, limited to about six daily by advance order. Greg Morago Pizzitola's Bar-B-Cue is now serving "The Contender," a smoked beef shank (weighing about 3 1/2 to 4 pounds including bone before pit smoking). To mark its 88th anniversary, the iconic Houston barbecue joint has introduced the beef shank, limited to about six daily by advance order. J.R. Cohen Pizzitola's Bar-B-Cue, 1703 Shepherd, is marking its 88th anniversary this year. Greg Morago Pizzitola's Bar-B-Cue, 1703 Shepherd, is marking its 88th anniversary this year. Greg Morago Mayor Sylvester Turner holds a proclamation declaring July 26, 2023 as Pizzitola's Bar-B-Cue Day in Houston. He is joined by family members, former owners, and current operators of the iconic barbecue restaurant. J.R. Cohen Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner helped celebrate the 88th anniversary of Pizzitola's Bar-B-Cue on Wednesday, July 26. Families who have owned and operated the iconic pit barbecue restaurant gathered together to celebrate the milestone. Greg Morago It's not every day that a local barbecue restaurant receives a city proclamation recognizing its historic place in Houstons dining history. Nor is it common for a barbecue joint to introduce an entirely new cut to the smoked meat lineup. But both happened this week at Pizzitolas Bar-B-Cue, the much beloved pit barbecue restaurant at 1703 Shepherd. On Wednesday Mayor Sylvester Turner surrounded by family members of the original owner as well as previous and current owners presented a proclamation declaring July 26, 2023, Pizzitolas Bar-B-Cue Day in Houston. The proclamation comes as the legacy barbecue restaurant marks its 88th anniversary in Houston, making it one of the citys oldest restaurants and the oldest continuously operated barbecue joint. Advertisement Article continues below this ad That honor also comes with a recognition by the Texas Historical Commissions designation of Pizzitolas as a Texas Treasure Business for its historical legacy and contributions to the state of Texas. But for barbecue fans, the real excitement is something new on the menu. To mark its 88th anniversary, Pizzitolas has introduced an entree it is calling The Contender a hefty, bone-in smoked beef shank that comes to the table in dark, burnished glory with an impressive bone towering over a weighty fist of meat. The beef shank is a cut not familiar within the traditional brisket/ribs/sausage format often called the Texas Trinity. While Texas barbecue is enjoying new menu options thanks to multicultural influences, a smoked beef shank is something different. Pizzitolas general manager Tim Taylor, who has enjoyed a long association with the legacy barbecue joint, said the restaurant was looking for something exciting to mark the anniversary. While Pizzitolas is known for its pit-smoked brisket and pork spareribs, Taylor wanted to showcase its status as a legacy smokehouse while also presenting itself as a player within the growing field of buzzy barbecue practitioners. Working with pitmaster Eudel Hernandez, he found it with the new beef shank. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Taylor said he scouted the internet for new beef products and was intrigued by something he saw in London called a beef shin. He searched locally for a butcher who could fabricate the cut. That was B&W Meat Company in Houston. While Pizzitolas now sources the shank from its distributor Ruffino Meats in Bryan, Taylor was happy that B&W could provide the shank that Pizzitolas used to begin testing on the smoker. After weeks of experimentation, The Contender was ready for its place on the menu. Introduced this week, it weighs in at about 2 pounds of meat after 12 hour of smoke. Dominated by a massive central bone, it arrives at the table in head-turning fashion, served with fresh flour tortillas and a trio of sauces, enough to feed two to four. Pizzitolas makes only about five or six a day; The Contender must be ordered in advance. TOP 25: Our critics picks for the best barbecue joints in the Houston area The goal is that this becomes a signature item for the restaurant, Taylor said. The barbecue world has veered in new and different directions, and we wanted to remain relevant and appeal to a younger demographic. Barbecue fans, young or old, have reason to be intrigued by The Contender, a game-changer for Pizzitolas which saw its corporate catering business decline during the pandemic. The new beef shank is among the new directions Pizzitolas has forged in the past several years after Willie Madden acquired the restaurant from previous owner Jerry Pizzitola in 2019 (Pizzitola took over the restaurant from original owners, the Davis family, and renamed it in 1983). Madden died unexpectedly in 2021 and his partner James Maida is the current owner. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Pizzitolas has been generating buzz recently with new menu items overseen by Hernandez including smoked brisket enchiladas on Fridays as well as Saturday specials such as scratch biscuits with chopped brisket. Other Pizzitolas revamps include upgrading select meats and bringing recipes and preparations back in-house including salad dressings and desserts. Its a total rebirth, Taylor said. A screenshot of a past Wisconsin highway safety message sign. Starting in 2026 messages like that won't be allowed by the Federal Highway Administration. Highway safety messages seem to be funny every once in a while. Maybe a joke displayed on a sign above your head made you laugh and think, "Did I just read that?" Savor your laughs while you can because the writers of those electronic messages will be required to stick to a serious tone starting in 2026, according to a new federal rule. Puns with references to internet memes, movie quotes and song lyrics are included in the ban. The Federal Highway Administration stated in a manual released in December that it wants the text of the signs to be "simple, direct, brief, legible and clear." An electronic highway sign is seen on Interstate 93 in Boston, Friday, May 9, 2014. The Massachusetts Dept. of Transportation posted the message "Changing Lanes? Use Yah Blinkah" on the signs around the city. "Blinkah" is how Bostonians pronounce "blinker". (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer) In its explanation of the rule change, the highway administration stated that "messages with obscure meaning, references to popular culture, that are intended to be humorous" should not be displayed because they may confuse and distract drivers. When coming up with an idea for a sign, states were advised to limit their messaging to information on inclement weather updates and traffic reports, and reminders to wear seat belts, drive sober and follow speed limits. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and other state transportation agencies sometimes share some humor to promote safe driving. In response to the rule change, the department said it will be reviewing the messages it plans to display to ensure the new federal standard is met. An electronic sign on Brownsboro Road encourages motorists to stop the spread of COVID-19. March 21, 2020. "Improving highway safety is a priority of the administration," KYTC spokesperson Naitore Djigbenou said in a statement. "The messages on the digital signs are intended to encourage safe driving behaviors and currently feature short, concise messages that coincide with state and national campaigns." State officials know fatal vehicle collisions are no joke. The Kentucky State Police estimated the state's economy lost $3.2 billion because of fatal crashes in 2022, according to a report released in September 2023. In 2023, Kentucky reported 805 crash deaths, a 1% increase from the prior year, when there were 762 fatalities. Kentucky ranked 20th in the nation in vehicle fatalities in 2022, according to USA TODAY. Reach reporter Leo Bertucci at lbertucci@gannett.com or @leober2chee on X, formerly known as Twitter This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Funny highway sign ban begins in 2026 This is a presidential election year. Our GOP presidential primary is our election in the Heart of Dixie. We are a one-party state, especially in presidential races. Alabama is one of a group of states that will hold its primary early, March 5 to be exact. Therefore, we will be going to the polls in less than two months to vote for a presidential nominee. The presidential contest will more than likely be a rematch between Joe Biden, the sitting Democratic president, and Donald Trump, the Republican former president. Americans are not too enthused to see this rematch. I have never seen such a weird presidential matchup or unusual scenario in my lifetime. More: These Alabama leaders are poised to make a mark in 2024 | INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE The old political truism, more people vote against someone than for someone, will definitely come into play in this presidential race. More people would rather vote for anyone than Trump or Biden. I have never seen two candidates for president with this high negative polling numbers. Indeed, if Republicans were to nominate anyone besides Trump, they would beat Biden. By the same token, if the Democrats were to nominate anyone besides Biden, they would beat Trump. If indeed Biden and Trump are the nominees, you will see a low voter turnout come November. As I remind you every four years, we do not elect our president by direct vote. You vote for electors who go to an Electoral College and cast their votes. Under the winner-take-all Electoral College System, if a candidate wins a state by one vote, they get all of that state's electoral votes. We have become such a polarized partisan electorate there are fewer than 10 of our 50 states that matter in a presidential contest. The race for president will be determined in Arizona, Nevada, Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa and Georgia. The few truly independent voters left in these pivotal swing states will decide the presidency. Both parties will concentrate their efforts and resources in these states. The straight party lockstep voting mentality of American voters has become so entrenched that in at least 40 states the race for president has been predetermined. As I have often said, If Mickey Mouse were the Republican nominee, he would carry Alabama. By the same token, if Donald Duck were the Democratic nominee, he would carry California. It will be fun to watch. Steve Flowers We do not have many good races to watch in Alabama. We have four seats on our state Supreme Court up for election this year. However, popular Republican Justices Will Sellers, Jay Mitchell and Tommy Bryan are all running unopposed and will be back for six more years. Justice Sarah Stewart is opting to run for chief justice, leaving her seat open. It will be filled by Republican Court of Criminal Appeals Judge Chris McCool, who like Sellers, Mitchell and Bryan garnered no opponent, Democrat or Republican. The chief justice race is the only contested Supreme Court Seat. Sarah Stewart has two opponents, Bryan Taylor and Jerry Michael Blevins. The Democrats have fielded a candidate in the chief Justice race. Montgomery Circuit Judge Greg Griffin will be on the ballot. However, winning a statewide race in the Heart of Dixie as a Democrat is difficult, to say the least, and not only improbable, but maybe impossible. There are 29 elected statewide positions in Alabama; all 29 are held by a Republican. There are two Republican assistant attorney generals, Thomas Govan and Rich Anderson, running for Chris McCools seat on the Court of Criminal Appeals. Both are well-qualified for this appellate post. Under the federal courts decision to realign Alabama's congressional district lines to try to create a new minority Democratic district in the state, all of our powerful incumbent congressmen have altered districts. However, our veteran seniority members districts have probably been enhanced to their benefit. Republican congressmen Robert Aderholt, Mike Rogers, and freshman Republican Dale Strong have no or token opposition. Democratic congresswoman Terri Sewell is also getting a free ride. This is not the case in the newly drawn 1st District. Two incumbent Republican congressmen, Jerry Carl (Mobile/Baldwin) and Wiregrass Republican Barry Moore were placed into the same district. They will be pitted against each other in a March 5 primary contest that will be decided that day, since it is a super-Republican district. By far the biggest race in Alabama this year will be for the newly drawn open 2nd Congressional District in Montgomery to Mobile. We will discuss that race next week. Steve Flowers is Alabamas leading political columnist. His weekly column appears in over 60 Alabama newspapers. He served 16 years in the state legislature. Steve can be reached at www.steveflowers.us. This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: What you need to know about this election year | INSIDE THE STATEHOUSE During a meeting with Choe Son Hui, North Korean Foreign Minister, Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced his readiness to visit North Korea shortly. Source: North Korean state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) Details: Putin expressed his deep gratitude for the invitation by Kim Jong Un, Head of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), to visit Pyongyang and indicated his readiness to visit North Korea in the near future. The last time Putin visited North Korea was in July 2000. Quote: "The DPRK government warmly welcomes President Putin to visit Pyongyang and is ready to greet the Korean people's closest friend with the greatest sincerity." Background: North Korea recently announced that it had tested an underwater drone capable of carrying nuclear weapons. The White House believes that the nature of the threat posed by North Korea may "change dramatically" in the next decade as a result of its cooperation with Russia. Support UP or become our patron! Larry Sabato, director of the University of Virginia Center for Politics, said that former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haleys (R) attacks on former President Trump came too late for it to potentially make a difference in the GOP primary. During his appearance on CNN Saturday night, Sabato said that Haleys diggs against Trump were long overdue and noted that the only other candidate in the Republican field who took on Trump directly was former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who dropped out of the race two weeks ago. It is definitely too little too late, Sabato said, referencing Haleys recent digs at Trump, including her questioning Trumps mental fitness when he appeared to mix her up with former House Speaker Nanci Pelosi (D-Calif.) when talking about the Jan. 6 attack during a rally Friday. Chris Christie is the only Republican candidate running for president, no longer running now, but in the campaign, he was the only one who really took out after Trump, Sabato said. He noted that even with Christies approach, all other Republican candidates, including Haley, have a difficult job distinguishing themselves from the former president while still being able to gather enough support to secure the partys nomination. Of course, hes no longer in the campaign, which tells you the very difficult situation that all of these candidates, including Nikki Haley, found themselves in, Sabato said. This is the MAGA party. This is the Donald Trump party and so to get the nomination against Donald Trump, you have to somehow convince people that Trump is no longer up to the job or cant win in November, but not offended so much that they wont vote for you. And its a near impossibility. Sabatos analysis comes after Trump won the Iowa Caucuses by over 50 points and is bringing that momentum to New Hampshire, where he is looking to win the first-in-the-nation primary on Jan. 23. The editor-in-chief of the Crystal Ball, a nonpartisan political analysis newsletter, cautioned that New Hampshire is different and that it might be one place where Haley, who has slowly climbed up in the polls, might be able to pull an upset victory. We know New Hampshire is very different, Sabato said. Its the one place where someone like Haley might be able to pull an upset might but it isnt looking like it yet, he added. Trump is currently leading in the Granite State with 46.7 percent, outpacing second-placed Haley by 11.4 percent. The former South Carolina governor has 35.3 percent, far ahead of Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) who is at 5.8 percent, according to The Hill/Decision Desk HQ aggregate of polls. There are times when they [New Hampshire voters] will shock everybody, you never know for sure until you see the votes coming in there, Sabato concluded. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The Georgia legislative session for 2024 is underway and Gov. Brian Kemp is aiming to give state residents relief on taxes. While Kemps plan, according to his remarks at the State of the State address, were focused on lowering state income taxes, some lawmakers have an extra plan in mind. A group of 21 state senators filed legislation on Jan. 11 to make guns, gun safes, accessories and ammunition tax free for 11 days each year. According to the legislative text of Senate Bill 344, the bill would make firearms, ammunition, gun safes and related accessories exempt from state sales and use taxes from the second Friday of October to the fourth Monday of October each year. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] TRENDING STORIES: The tax free holiday for gun buying would include stocks, barrels, scopes and magazines, in addition to ammo and the guns themselves. A fiscal note on file with the Georgia legislature from Jan. 8 by State Auditor Greg S. Griffin said the bill would impact state revenues from $1.31 to $3.27 in the 2025 fiscal year while hitting local revenues between $1.1 to $2.73 million. However, the fiscal note said the lower estimates were based on sales remaining evenly distributed during the 11-day proposed tax holiday, while the higher estimate assumes purchases are higher during the period. In 2023, the analysis estimates gun sales accounted for roughly $1.06 billion in Georgia, based on national sales of federally registered firearms reported by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: The shelling of a market in a part of Russian-occupied Ukraine killed at least 25 people on Sunday, The Associated Press reported. Denis Pushilin, head of the Russian-installed authorities in the city of Donetsk, said another 20 people, including two children, were wounded in the strike on the outskirts of the city, the AP reported. He claimed shells were fired by the Ukrainian military. Pushilin claimed the area was hit with a 155 mm caliber and 152 mm caliber artillery, with shells being fired from the direction of Ukrainian cities Kurakhove and Krasnohorivka, per the news wire. Kyiv did not comment on the event and the claims could not be independently verified, the news wire noted. The Russian Foreign Ministry, in a translated statement, called the incident a barbaric terrorist act against the civilian population of Russia. The terrorist attacks of the Kiev regime clearly indicate its lack of political will for peace and the settlement of the conflict by diplomatic means, the statement said. The need to achieve all the goals and objectives of a special military operation is obvious. Security threats and acts of terrorism should not come from the territory of Ukraine. A fire also broke out at a chemical transport terminal at Russias Ust-Luga port after two explosions, the AP said, citing local media reports. Local media reported the port was attacked by Ukrainian drones and a gas tank exploded. Yuri Zapalatsky, who heads Russias Kingisepp district, where the port is based, reported no causalities and that the area was on high alert, the AP reported. Russias Ministry of Defense also announced Sunday that Moscows forces took control of the village Krokhmalne in Ukraines Kharkiv region, the news wire added. Ukrainian forces confirmed the settlement was occupied, describing the incident as a temporary phenomenon. The war between Ukraine and Russia is approaching its two-year mark next month, with thousands of troops killed on each side. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Tenants and their supporters call on L.A. city leaders to cancel rent and mortgage payments during the COVID-19 crisis on April 30, 2020. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) To the editor: When I read Joshua Kamali's article on the plight of small L.A. landlords, I wanted to stand and applaud and cry too. We too are mom-and-pop landlords, and we own four units. We take our responsibilities as housing providers very seriously, but we and people such as Kamali have been completely abandoned and actually targeted by the Los Angeles City Council and L.A. County Board of Supervisors. Phone companies, grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, pharmacies were any of these businesses expected to continue providing their service for free during the COVID-19 pandemic? Small landlords were, and we are still are being shackled. We have glowing letters of thanks from tenants from 20 years in this business, but an experience we recently had with one squatter soured us. As Kamali stated, if policies such as rent freezes and free lawyers for tenants facing eviction become the norm, small landlords like us will leave Los Angeles. But maybe that's what the City Council and County Board of Supervisors want. Kathy McGrath, Sherman Oaks .. To the editor: Kamali gave an excellent and accurate analysis of the eviction defense fund now available to rent-defaulting tenants. The only defense for non-payment of rent is the unit's lack of habitability. The funds for this program should be used instead to help re-establish these people as paying renters. This would avoid many evictions and justify the use of public funds. Defense attorneys merely delay the inevitable. In doing so, they obtain free rent for their clients while denying the housing provider their right to repossess and re-rent the apartment, a form of legalized theft. Julia Araiza, Tustin .. To the editor: Kamali owns "only"12 units. And he wants us to believe he's a meager blue-collar worker scraping his pennies together to get by. Twelve units is a lot of property, Mr. Landlord. And Kamali has the answer to all our problems. Let's have the city run all housing proposals by him first for his input. Really? Give me a break. Michael Harold, West Los Angeles .. To the editor: In his plea to protect small landlords against excessive legal charges incurred by tenants resisting eviction, Kamali misses one key point. The more small landlords sell their local properties, the more likely large corporations will buy these properties with the intent of constructing luxury apartments and condominiums in their place, further depleting the availability of affordable housing. As those most likely to rent out decent affordable housing, small landlords deserve protection against unscrupulous tenants. Jonathan Kaunitz, Santa Monica This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda has met with his Polish counterpart Andrzej Duda in Vilnius. Source: European Pravda, citing Delfi, a news website in Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia Details: The presidents discussed cooperation issues between Lithuania and Poland, as well as regional security and support for Ukraine. "We will step up cooperation, conduct joint exercises, and strengthen military mobility," Nauseda told reporters after his meeting with Duda. The Lithuanian president stressed that the unity of Lithuania and Poland in supporting Ukraine is crucial and expressed hope that a meeting between representatives of the Lublin Triangle countries together with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy could be organised shortly [the Lublin Triangle is a trilateral regional alliance for political, economic, cultural and social cooperation between Lithuania, Poland and Ukraine, which aims, in particular, to strengthen dialogue between the countries, support Ukraine's integration into the European Union and NATO and jointly counter Russian aggression against Ukraine ed.]. The Lithuanian president said that supporting Ukrainian people through political, financial and military means is necessary. Nauseda emphasised the importance of military support in order to ensure Ukraine's quicker victory over the aggressor. Background: Duda stated that he believes it is impossible for Ukraine to join NATO until the war with Russia is over, but he believes that the process might be initiated even at this stage. In addition, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz recently had a telephone conversation to discuss further assistance to Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! Hana Ikramuddin is a Hearst Fellow for the Houston Chronicle. Raised in the Twin Cities, Hana majored in journalism and political science at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. She has held internships with the Star Tribune, APM Reports and Sahan Journal. In her free time, she loves to cook, make chai and take care of her houseplants. Community activist and pastor Rob Johnson (second from the left) stands beside his nephew, Sheldon Johnson; area youth organizer, Sissie Lynn Carter and local artist Nala at Kum & Go, 1300 Keo Way in Des Moines. Rob Johnson held his second annual free gas giveaway on his birthday, Jan. 21. Giving away free gasoline has become a yearly event for Rob Johnson, a community activist and Des Moines pastor. This year, the free petrol starts pumping at 1 p.m. Sunday. While supplies lasts, residents can pull up at the Kwik Star at 4105 Hubbell Ave. in Des Moines to celebrate Johnson's birthday. Johnson's goal was to raise $40,000 with the "I Got 5 On It Campaign." That amount could fill 800 tanks for Iowans who need it, according to a news release. More: This Iowan wants to celebrate his birthday by filling your gas tank for free. Here's how Last year, "The Kelly Clarkson Show" recognized Johnson for spending his birthday by giving away free gas to hundreds of Iowans and this year, he's upping his game for his 36th birthday. "We are committed to making a meaningful impact and enhancing the lives of our community members, transcending factors such as race, religion, gender, political affiliations, income, or orientation," the website for the giveaway stated. Participants will also received one of 1,000 swag bags with information on local businesses, public libraries, childcare assistance and more. The campaign has partnered with Back 2 School Iowa, an education-based nonprofit organization that aims to "to inspire youth to continue in their educational endeavors and build upon their future careers," through educational services, scholarship and other resources. The origin of Rob Johnson's Gas Giveaway In December 2021, just days after Christmas, Johnson said he was filling up his tank when he noticed a woman at a pump nearby was unable to pay for her gas. He said her credit card was declined, and without hesitation, he went over and paid for it. Later, Johnson thought: Why stop there? Why not help others, too? So, he picked up the phone, called his friends, some of whom led community groups and churches or were business owners, and asked them to lend a hand in his project. With their support, Johnson celebrated his 34th birthday with volunteers, pumping nearly $5,000 worth of gas at the Hy-Vee on Southeast 14th Street and Park Avenue in Des Moines. Since, Johnson has partnered with community leaders and organizations to make an impact every year for his birthday. Kyle Werner and F. Amanda Tugade contributed to this article. Noelle Alviz-Gransee is a breaking news reporter at the Des Moines Register. Follow her on Twitter @NoelleHannika or email her at NAlvizGransee@registermedia.com. This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: A Des Moines pastor is giving out gas today; here's where Scientists may be on the path to understanding long COVID after identifying a change in blood proteins found in people with extended symptoms from the virus. A study published by the journal Science on Thursday found that patients experiencing long COVID symptoms had proteins that indicated part of their immune systems remained active after an infection. According to experts, this discovery could lead to diagnostic tests and treatment for long COVID, which has left people with persistent fatigue, brain fog, chest pain, stomach issues, and a broad range of other symptoms. The study focused on 113 COVID patients and 39 healthy controls. After six months, 40 patients had developed characteristics of long COVID. Blood samples for those patients contained a group of proteins which showed the bodys complement system, a part of the immune system, continued to be on high alert long after the COVID virus. As the complement system remains active without COVID to fight, it starts damaging healthy cells, according to Dr. Onur Boyman, a professor of immunology at the University of Zurich in Switzerland and one of the studys authors. Blood samples from long COVID patients revealed a common group of proteins which indicated a heightened immune system response. Blood samples from long COVID patients revealed a common group of proteins which indicated a heightened immune system response. According to experts, any resulting tissue damage and microclots in the blood could reduce the level of oxygen and nutrients delivered to different organs, leading to long COVID symptoms. If your brain, for example, isnt getting enough oxygen, obviously there will be a lot of issues with memory, brain fog and fatigue, Akiko Iwasaki, a professor of immunobiology, and molecular, cellular and developmental biology at the Yale School of Medicine, told NBC News. Dr. Monica Verduzco-Gutierrez, chair of rehabilitation medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and head of its long COVID clinic, told NBC News that the study was a huge advance in the study of the virus. Understanding the mechanisms of long COVID is how were going to figure out treatments, she said. Around 14% of adults report experiencing long COVID, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureaus Household Pulse Survey. Read the full study at Science here. Related... AL-MAZRAA AL-SHARQIYA, West Bank Tawfic Hafeth Abdel Jabbar was born and raised in Louisiana, in the city of Gretna, across the Mississippi River from New Orleans. Its a long way from the mountains of the occupied West Bank, but when Tawfic, 17, arrived in May, he was excited to properly explore the landscape of the village where his dad grew up, and to learn more about his roots as a Palestinian American. He loved the outdoors, his father, Hafeth Abdel Jabbar, told NBC News and Tawfic was eager to spend more time in Al-Mazraa Al-Sharqiya, about 10 miles northeast of Ramallah, and to enjoy all the reasons Palestinians love their homeland, he said. He never imagined he would end up burying his son on that very same land. Tawfic is gone, said Abdel Jabbar, 40. He was killed in cold blood. Women console the mother (C) of 17-year-old Palestinian Tawfeek Ajaq, who holds a US citizenship was killed a day earlier in the village of Al-Mazraa Al-Sharqiya in the West Bank, before his funeral procession on Jan. 20, 2024. (Marco Longari / AFP via Getty Images) Tawfics family says he was a victim of mounting settler violence in the territory, which has been on the rise since the war began. As an American, Abdel Jabbar said, he would have expected the U.S. to seek justice for his son. But he says the Biden administrations support of Israel, including with weapons, and what he sees as a tepid response from the White House to Tawfics death make him doubt that his government will act in his sons interest. They took the best of us In video from his funeral shared by his father, Tawfic's head is wrapped in a keffiyeh, the traditional Palestinian scarf. There are cuts and bruises on his face. Flowers surround him as his family says their final farewells. Tawfic Hafeth Abdel Jabbar, 17, right. They all say they took the best of us, Abdel Jabbar said, describing his son as a lovely and outgoing teen who was very loved. He hoped to study engineering in college and was considering pursuing his degree in the West Bank. Abdel Jabbar said Tawfic had gone out for a picnic with friends on Friday when he was shot by a person witnesses told Abdel Jabbar appeared to be an Israeli settler, who initially opened fire, followed by someone wearing a uniform for the Israel Defense Forces. The IDF said it had received a report regarding an off-duty police officer and a civilian who fired toward a Palestinian individual suspected of hurling rocks in the area. It confirmed an IDF soldier was also in the area and said it was investigating a claim that the soldier fired at the Palestinian. The Israel Police said it was also investigating the incident. Asked to confirm whether the civilian was an Israeli settler, the IDF referred NBC News to the Israel Police, which did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the civilians identity. Abdel Jabbar dismissed the suggestion his son might have been hurling rocks as a lie. But, he said, even if rocks were thrown in the area, so what? If they were throwing rocks 150 meters to the street, what is it going to do to a tank? Or to a jeep? Or to a car full of soldiers? Youre gonna shoot the car 10 times because a guy threw a rock? he said. Speaking with NBC News shortly after his sons funeral, Abdel Jabbar described racing to the scene when he heard his son had been shot. He found him bleeding in a truck with two gunshot wounds one to the head and another in the chest. I took him with my bare hands out of the car, he said. The truck in which Tawfic Hafeth Abdel Jabbar was shot dead sits over Highway 60 in the occupied West Bank on Saturday. (Chantal Da Silva) The grieving father said people in IDF uniforms were already on the scene when he arrived and he said they pointed their guns at us, warning, We will shoot you, if he and others did not leave the area. We didnt care. We went to the car and we grabbed him, he said. The IDF did not immediately respond to a question about that specific claim. Hafeth Abdel Jabbar, 40. (Chantal Da Silva) Blood could be seen on the shattered windshield and seats of the truck Tawfic was shot in. Shards of glass were strewn along the terrain where his family says the vehicle rolled over before coming to a halt over a section of Highway 60. The incident comes as human rights groups have documented a rise in settler violence in the occupied West Bank since the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza began. Since Oct. 7, at the start of the war in Gaza, 344 Palestinians, including 88 children, have been killed by security forces and settlers across the West Bank, according to data from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Blood smeared on the broken windshield of the car Tawfic Hafeth Abdel Jabbar was in when he was shot. (Chantal Da Silva) Dror Sadot, a spokesperson for BTselem, an organization that documents human rights violations against Palestinians, told NBC News in a phone interview on Sunday that cases of reported settler violence are rarely thoroughly investigated by Israeli authorities and even more rarely prosecuted. Settlements, which are considered illegal under international law, are Jewish communities that have formed in the West Bank after it was occupied by Israel in 1967. Israel maintains that only settlements built without permits or on state land should be considered illegal. Grief in Louisiana Even as settler attacks in the West Bank increased, Abdel Jabbar thought the small village he grew up in would remain far from the violence. He repeatedly assured friends and family in the U.S. that Al-Mazraa Al-Sharqiya was safe when they expressed mounting concerns over violence in the territory. Karim Taha, a board member of the mosque Tawfic belonged to in Louisiana, Masjid Omar, said the 17-year-old's community was devastated by his death. "We are like brothers and sisters. We all lived here in the 'West Bank'," he said, referring to the West Bank of the Mississippi River. "We all share happiness and sadness. Were just like a family here." "Everybody's sad and I guess there's nowhere safe in Palestine now," he said. "Either you get hit by a soldier or the settlers." Abdel Jabbar said his own anger and despair is deepened by his shock over what he sees as the U.S. governments indifference to his sons killing. 'My son is an American On Friday, the U.S. State Department confirmed that a U.S. citizen had died in the West Bank and offered condolences to the family. It said U.S. officials were still working to understand the circumstances and had asked the Israeli government for more information. Hours before, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said in a briefing that while U.S. officials didnt have perfect context about exactly what happened, the White House was seriously concerned about it. Tawfic and a friend stand this month on the vehicle in the location where he would later be shot. (Supplied by the Abdel Jabbar family.) The response, Abdel Jabbar said, was humiliating for his family. He didnt say a child he didnt say who was the killer. Abdel Jabbar also questioned the U.S. governments allegiances, should it conduct an investigation into his sons death, when my government is supporting Israel, including in its offensive in Gaza, which has killed more than 25,000 people since the war began, with more than 62,000 injured and thousands more missing and considered dead, according to Palestinian health authorities. Israel launched its offensive in Gaza after the Oct. 7 attacks that killed about 1,200 people in Israel and saw more than 260 taken hostage into the enclave, where more than 100 people remain captive, according to Israeli officials. Wheres your concern there? Abdel Jabbar said, addressing the White House. Wheres the weapons that you send them to kill all these children? he said, referring to the billions of dollars Israel receives from the U.S. in military assistance annually, including emergency arms transfers to further bolster Israels war chest last month. Americans, us, our government backs it up, Abdel Jabbar said. Takes our money to give it to them, he said, referring to Israel. Since the start of the war, President Joe Biden has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to minimize civilian casualties in Gaza, but the death toll has continued to skyrocket in the months since. And Bidens administration has expressed mounting concerns over settler violence in the West Bank. Tawfic, farthest right, on a trip to Florida as a child. Abdel Jabbar said his family had been contacted by U.S. officials about his sons case and was expecting a visit from them. As an American citizen, he said, he expected the U.S. to seek justice over his sons death. [I] work hard, built myself, pay taxes ... I married there, had all my children there. Im a part of the community there. Im an American citizen, he said. I live that American dream. But wheres the humanity? My son is an American before Palestinian. He was born in the U.S., he said. On his passport, [it] says We will protect you. ... We will protect you and bring you justice. Wheres my sons justice? he said. CORRECTION (Jan. 22, 2024, 1:00 p.m. ET): A previous version of this article misstated the position of Tawfic Hafeth Abdel Jabbar in a photo with three other men. He is at right, not at left. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com These Americans may be college-educated, but it looks like theyd score an F on a general knowledge test. A British man studying at an unidentified US university has revealed the three stupidest things hes heard his classmates say, prompting disbelief about the seemingly poor state of education in America. The English student, who has not disclosed his real name, took to TikTok to list the moronic remarks in a viral video that has been viewed more than 1.7 million views. First, the TikTokker claimed hed had an American peer say to him: Considering youre European, your English is really good. When the Brit tried to explain that it was because he hailed from England, the classmate appeared confused as to whether or not England was considered a part of Europe. Additionally, it appears some US students seem to think Australia and England are the same place. A lot of Americans get the Australian and English accent mixed up, the TikTokker stated, saying it was fair enough if they werent used to hearing either dialect. But the Brit claimed that someone once asked him: Oh, youre from the UK? Thats like Australia, right?' When I said No, thats like the UK, she said: Are those two things [England and Australia] not the same thing?' he recalled. The English student, who has not disclosed his real name, took to TikTok to list the moronic remarks in a viral video that has been viewed more than 1.7 million views. ptwpage/Tiktok Thirdly, the TikTokker said he had once spent an hour trying to convince an American friend that English villages still exist and arent just a fictional concept that appear in the computer game Minecraft. Thousands of viewers flocked to the comments section to shame the American students for their uneducated remarks. You have to remember college in the US is like elementary school in England, one snarked. Going to the US from the UK is a real step down, another savagely stated. Im convinced they learn nothing about the rest of the world at school, a British viewer sassily said of US citizens. NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) A man described by authorities as a serial shoplifter is facing a number of charges following an incident at a department store in the Mall at Green Hills Saturday. According to the Metro Nashville Police Department, 56-year-old Donzel Watson tried to steal a $1,495 pair of sunglasses from Nordstrom in Green Hills on Saturday, Jan. 20. CRIME TRACKER | Read the latest crime news from Middle Tennessee Officials said he was booked on that charge, as well as nearly 20 others related to thefts from Louis Vuitton, Home Depot, and Lowes stores over several months. In addition, Watson is charged with violating his parole on robbery and aggravated burglary convictions. No additional details have been released about the circumstances surrounding Watsons arrest. Download the News 2 app to stay updated on the go. Sign up for WKRN email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox. Find todays top stories on WKRN.com for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee. This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2. SAN MARCOS, Texas (KXAN) Stewart Thomas Mettz, a man found guilty of capital murder Jan. 11 related to the death of a San Marcos police officer in 2017, filed an appeal related to the prison sentence he received. The Hays County District Attorneys Office said Mettz was sentenced to life in prison with no possibility of parole in connection with the death of 58-year-old Kenneth Copeland. Copeland was the first officer to be killed while on patrol in the San Marcos Police Departments history. RELATED | Man sentenced to life in prison in San Marcos officers death According to court documents, Mettz has until Jan. 29 to submit a docketing statement, which would be used as a primary source of important information about the appeal, as well as a challenge to constitutionality of a state statute form. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. A Mississippi woman is charged with first-degree murder after police say they found a missing mans body hidden in her home. On Dec. 22, Gulfport police were called to a home to do a welfare check on a possible missing person, according to a Facebook post by the police department. Detectives questioned 66-year-old Jerri Lynn Isreal at the time. Five days later, on Dec. 27, detectives followed up with Isreal but say they began to notice some discrepancies. Throughout the course of the investigation, Isreal became increasingly uncooperative and changed her statements multiple times, police said. Investigators discovered that Isreal was convicted of murder in 1995 in Florida and made several attempts to dump the deceased subject at different locations throughout Florida. After learning this, they obtained a search warrant for the residence. On Jan. 18, detectives searched the home and found a wooden box behind a false wall. Inside the box, police say they found the body of John Allen Gaither. Gaither, 42, was Isreals son, according to WLOX. The box was described as a military locker-style container, according to Magnolia State Live. At the time police searched the home, they said Isreal was taken to a hospital for medical treatment. She was then taken to the Harrison County Adult Detention Center to be held in lieu of her bond. Isreal was charged with first-degree murder on Jan. 20, police say. Woman found dead after sister hears gunshots over the phone, Colorado police say Man kills co-worker with hammer because he messed with his stuff, Utah officials say Mom accused of killing 2-month-old son because he wouldnt stop crying, Utah cops say A Colorado man has been cited after allegedly stealing more than 200 newspapers in Ouray County after a story about a reported sexual assault at the local police chiefs house was published, according to area law enforcement and the Ouray County Plaindealer. The newspapers were returned to the publisher hours after being stolen from nearly all the racks across town, the newspaper notes. The incident took place after the weekly edition of the Ouray County Plaindealer was published this week. The paper featured a front-page story about the arrest of three individuals in connection to an alleged May 2023 sexual assault at the home of Ouray Police Chief Jeff Wood. CNN has reached out to Chief Wood and the Ouray Police Department for comment. On Thursday morning, more than 200 copies of that newspaper were missing from vending racks around the town, according to the Plaindealer. Im sorry that most of you locals who like to get your papers from the racks were not able to put your quarters in and receive your weekly news today, co-publisher Erin McIntyre said in a statement to readers Thursday afternoon. Ouray County Plaindealer co-publisher Mike Wiggins stocks newspaper racks with reprinted copies. - Ouray County Plaindealer Its pretty clear that someone didnt want the community to read the news this week, McIntyre added in the statement. The newspaper said they worked to get another round of the newspaper printed and redistributed around town. By Thursday evening, the newspaper announced an individual confessed to taking the papers and returned them all in garbage bags to the newspapers office. The suspect is not a member or relative of local law enforcement and not associated with the defendants in the recent reported sexual assault, according to the Ouray County Sheriffs Office. The newspaper reported Saturday the suspect was cited on suspicion of petty theft. The newspapers were returned in a garbage bag on Thursday evening. - Mike Wiggins/Ouray County Plaindealer The Colorado Bureau of Investigation continues to investigate the sexual assault case. According to a statement from the city of Ouray, no personnel investigations are being conducted in the Ouray Police Department regarding this (sexual assault) case. Thank you for the outpouring of support we have received to help pay us to reprint the paper, and to those who also support our message that you cant kill the publics right to know by stealing a few hundred newspapers, publishers of the Plaindealer said in a Friday update. The Plaindealer announced it received more than $2,000 in donations since the theft was announced. Ouray County is in southwest Colorado, about 160 miles south of Aspen. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Craig Muse and Chelsea Hansen pose for a photo. Courtesy of Chelsea Hansen Chelsea Hansen has had her eyes on a lace wedding dress from the online boutique Chic Soul for a long time. So when she and her fiance, Craig Muse, started planning their wedding, she knew exactly what she wanted to wear when she walks down the aisle. She's hoping she'll get the chance next Saturday. Ordered a month-and-a-half ago and shipped about 10 days ago, Hansen's wedding dress hasn't arrived at her Pasadena home. Like many around the Houston area, she is dealing with late packages due to issues within the USPS system. Advertisement Article continues below this ad "It's frustrating; it's stressful; I'm nervous I'm not going to be able to find something," Hansen said. "I definitely can't order anything, I wouldn't think, at this point. So I have to find something somewhere around here, and that'll be difficult to do.". According to Hansen's USPS tracking information, her dress was accepted at a USPS facility in Auburn, Ala., Jan. 10 at 5:08 p.m. and arrived at the North Houston facility Jan. 12 at 8:26 a.m. There had been six other tracking updates between those two stops. But since arriving in Houston, there has been only one update. On Jan. 16, the package was marked "in transit to next facility, arriving late." There has been no update since then. Hansen said the package was scheduled to arrive a week ago on Jan. 13. She has reached out online and over the phone to USPS and didn't receive a response until the afternoon of Jan. 20. The email, which appears to be a generic form email, was incorrectly dated as Feb. 20, 2024 and didn't include Hansen's tracking number. Advertisement Article continues below this ad People all across the area have been dealing with delays from the postal service for weeks. USPS said the delays are caused because of system changes that have recently begun in the Houston area. WHAT IS HAPPENING: USPS addresses delivery delays stemming from system changes at Missouri City facility The postal system is implementing a new process across the country that they hope will modernize the system. As part of this change, the Missouri City facility has been established as a local processing center while the North Houston Processing and Distribution Center is being converted to a regional processing and distribution center. "This process, as with any such transition, takes time," USPS said in a statement last week. "As with any transition, some unintended and temporary disruptions may occur. We are taking steps to ensure packages are processed as quickly and efficiently as possible and apologize to any customers who may be experiencing issues with delivery of their items." Hansen is running out of time before next Saturday when Hansen and Muse will get married at a small gathering in League City. Advertisement Article continues below this ad She has three children and doesn't know when she will have the time to go look for a new dress. Hansen said friends have offered her their wedding dresses for her to use but she has no idea if they'd be able to get any alterations potentially needed done in time. But without knowing if the dress is going to come in time, she has to start making backup plans. A man injured after being shot by police in Anderson County last month was released from the hospital Saturday and is now facing multiple charges in connection with the incident. The situation unfolded at the Lawrenceburg McDonalds at 203 West Park Drive Dec. 23, when officers with the Lawrenceburg Police Department were called because of a verbal altercation inside the restaurant, Kentucky State Police said in a news release Saturday night. As Lawrenceburg officer David Goodlett pulled into the parking lot, state police said he was fired on by Daejon Rucker, 24. Goodlett and the other responding officer, John Myles, returned fire, hitting Rucker, according to state police. Officers administered life saving measures until Anderson County EMS arrived on scene, state police said. Rucker sustained life-threatening injuries and was taken to Frankfort Regional Hospital before being transferred to the University of Kentuckys Albert B. Chandler Hospital, according to the news release. Upon his release from the hospital Saturday, Rucker was arrested and taken to the Shelby County Detention Center, according to KSP Trooper Josh Satterly. Hes charged with attempted Murder of a police officer, attempted murder, first-degree wanton endangerment of a police officer, wanton endangerment and violation of an emergency protective order. Goodlett and Myles were both placed on two-week paid administrative leave in accordance with the policies of the Lawrenceburg Police Department, state police said. Kentucky State Police investigated the shooting. Goodlett has been with the Lawrenceburg Police Department 18 years, and Myles has one year of service with the department, state police said. MOORESVILLE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) A man is in custody after fleeing a traffic stop and dragging a deputy with a vehicle in Iredell County, according to Davidson Officials. Corey Allen Leazer, 33, was charged with: Felony assault with a deadly weapon with a law enforcement officer Felony flee to elude Various driving charges. Authorities say a deputy stopped a car at a gas station at 896 Oakridge Farm Highway on the outskirts of Mooresville on Saturday night. The driver of the stopped car, Cory Allen Leazer, tried to get away from the deputy and Leazer got back into his car. Queen City News is tracking CRIME in your area >> Latest stories here According to officials, the deputy tried to pull Leazer out of the vehicle, but Leazer drove off dragging the deputy about 15-20 feet. The deputy shot his gun, but it does not look like Leazer was hit. The deputy got back to his vehicle and tried to stop Leazer again, but a chase ensued. The pursuit stopped when they got to Rowan County due to how fast Leazer was driving, the amount of traffic and concern for public safety, authorities say. Officials say Leazers vehicle was found soon after in Mecklenburg County. Second person arrested in connection to human remains found in Lowell Around 8 a.m. Sunday, Davidson officials reported Leazer was near Halle Marrie and was being tracked by K-9 units. Shortly after, around 8:20 a.m., he was in custody. Officials say Leazer was treated by EMS before being released to the Iredell County Sheriffs Office due to the cold weather conditions. A judge issued no bond for Leazer due to being out on bond for prior charges such as felony larceny, which he was on probation for at the time of the incident. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News. The easiest way for local government to make a potentially controversial decision is to do it without notice. Better: Do it without notice in the last minutes of a long meeting. Better still: Do it without notice in the last minutes of the last meeting of the year as the holidays approach. Which was how the Volusia County Council decided to advocate for opening Tiger Bay State Forest to all-terrain vehicles. Enjoy your Christmas gift, tree-huggers! Councilman Danny Robins, District 3, was particularly contemptuous when later, at the first meeting of the year, environmental advocates complained about being left in the dark. We vote on things that arent on the agenda possibly all the time, he said. Which is true. Its an arrogant practice that erodes public trust every time it happens. It shouldnt be the norm, but it happens all the time. Mark Lane The last time the County Council wanted to turn the state forest into an ATV track, it also did so without putting anything on the agenda. In 2019, the council took a surprise vote to support ATV traffic in the protected area. The backlash was immediate, and the council reversed itself. Previously, when this issue came up in 2013, the council had made the mistake of telling people it would vote on the matter. That prompted 27 people to show up to debate the measure. This went on for hours before the council voted it down. Another way to get around public outcry over a policy change is to go over the heads of local government. Thats what happened in 2015 when ATV supporters persuaded then-state Rep. Dwayne Taylor to introduce a local bill in the Florida Legislature that would have set aside up to 10% of the forest for ATVs. But because of objections by the Florida Forest Service and local environmentalists, the late Sen. Dorothy Hukill said she would not introduce a Senate companion bill. That effectively killed the measure. Political memory in Florida is goldfish-bowl short, so perhaps current council members did not realize they were jumping into a long-running hot issue. Related: Despite opposition, Volusia councilman pushes for ATV access to Tiger Bay State Forest Related: Tiger Bay draws non-motorized outdoor lovers, too Previously: Volusia's call to open roads to ATVs at Tiger Bay kicks up controversy Forest managers have continually warned of serious environmental harm, increased maintenance costs, and conflicts with other trail users if the forest allowed ATVs. Parks, forests and conservation areas that allow ATVs constantly contend with ATVs roaring off established trails and tearing up vegetation. Hikers, mountain bike riders, hunters, anglers, birders and horse riders complain of noise, pollution, trail damage, and ATV riders pushing them off their customary trails. Although Robins pointed to Big Cypress National Preserve as a place that successfully allows ATVs, the practice is controversial there as well. Its been the subject of persistent complaints about habitat destruction as well as multiple lawsuits. Tiger Bay is a lightly staffed state forest where it would be difficult to police ATV activity with the result that rogue ATVers could turn the place into a high-decibel sand pit. I don't know why local politicians are so eager to privilege people gunning their motors in protected areas over those who like to walk and ride horses in them. This isnt about extreme environmentalists wanting to close the area to humans; its about the best way to manage the forest to preserve it for future non-destructive public enjoyment. The council needs to reconsider this issue, and when they do so, they should allow the public to know what its doing beforehand. And it should take a minute to listen to the professionals responsible for managing the forest. The Forest Service opposed opening the area to ATVs in 2013, 2015 and 2019 and reiterated that opposition this time around. Fortunately, it is up to the state, not the County Council, to allow ATVs in the forest. But even if the countys letter in support doesnt decide anything in the long run, its lack of concern for the environmental consequences and its attempt to blindside environmentalists should concern voters. Mark Lane is a News-Journal columnist. His email is mlanewrites@gmail.com. This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Mark Lane: Start your engines! County Council wants ATVs in state forest ABC This Week co-anchor Martha Raddatz pressed North Dakota Gov. and former Republican presidential candidate Doug Burgum over his endorsement of former President Trump in the wake of his false election claims and mockery of Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haleys name. Asked in a Sunday interview how he could support someone who falsely claims that the election was stolen over and over and over again, Burgum said, As you and I would both agree, free and fair elections are the foundation of our democracy and in states like North Dakota, weve got 100 percent confidence in that happening. But whether its 1960, the year 2000, 2016, there was concern raised by the Hillary Clinton campaign. In 2020.. This is something, as a country, that weve got to work hard to face..and I think were slowly Burgum continued. Raddatz interjected, pointing out Burgum had said the election wasnt stolen, yet was supporting a candidate who repeatedly asserted it was. Well, I I know that weve got certainly weve got irregularities. When we went through COVID, and we had these mail-out ballots, that creates all kinds of opportunities for mischief, Burgum responded. When youre bailing out more ballots to a in a state than there are registered voters, you know, I think we have thats a problem. Raddatz shot back and asked, Do you think the election was stolen now? Now when you look back. Burgum said he was not saying that, but rather the country needs to look forward, and ensure Americans confidence in elections. We know that the social media companies and the media companies have admitted that they suppressed stories leading into the the November 2020 election, that theyve admitted to all that. And so Americans lack confidence in this, and thats why thats why weve got to make sure going forward that we have confidence, Burgum continued. Burgum endorsed Trump for president last week after dropping out of the presidential race last month. He has touted Trump for his policies on the economy, border, and energy, arguing the former president can make a difference. The conversation between Burgum and Raddatz then shifted to Trumps recent barrage of attacks on Haley. Trump has come under fire for sharing a conspiracy theory on social media that Haley was ineligible to run for president and referred to her birth name, Nimrata. The former South Carolina governor, whose parents are from India, has noted she was born in Bamberg, S.C., and eligible for the White House. Asked by Raddatz why Trump is doing this, Burgum said, Well, I justall I know is that I believe this election, the primary election is going to be over after Tuesday. President Trump is leading in all 50 states. Well be talking tonight. I think thats the time Raddatz interrupted, No, please answer the question, sir. Answer the question about why you think Donald Trump is doing that. Burgum said he thinks its politics, and pointed to attacks against Trump from the Biden campaign. He [Joe Biden] didnt talk about the open border, where weve got a massive invasion and now weve had more fentanyl deaths than four Vietnams in our country under Joe Biden the last three years. No, he talked about attacking his opponent. Thats politics around the world and its politics in America, Burgum said. Raddatz then asked if Burgum believes this is the kind of politics Trump is using, to which Burgum referenced the vicious things previous White House hopefuls said about President Biden. This is all in the norm inside of for north for politics in our country. But once we agree as parties, we get behind candidates. The Democrats got behind Biden in 2020, Burgum said. Im confident Republicans are going to get behind President Trump because theyre concerned about the direction that this the world the world is going and the direction the United States is going. Trump, Haley and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis will go head-to-head in New Hampshire this week as polling shows Trump with a lead over both the candidates. A polling index by The Hill and Decision Desk HQ shows Trump with a 11.1 point lead over Haley in the Granite State, while DeSantis trails far behind. Trump easily won in Iowa last week, with DeSantis trailing behind him by nearly 30 points and Haley close behind. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. When Gov. Wes Moore packed up and moved from his North Baltimore home to the governors mansion in Annapolis this time last year, he left with a promise to his adopted hometown. The health of Marylands future was contingent on the success of its largest city, and after eight years of Baltimoreans often feeling cast aside by his predecessor hed be investing heavily in everything from the citys lagging public transportation system and under-resourced law enforcement to its vacant homes and struggling businesses. The Democrats latest $63 billion state budget plan the first his administration has crafted solely would make strides in each of those areas while leaving some essential questions for future years up in the air, Baltimore-area lawmakers said this week. Some of the highlights, they said, are $50 million to demolish or rehabilitate vacant structures, $4 million for a Department of Juvenile Services program that launched in Baltimore City and Baltimore County last year, $27 million for the Baltimore Regional Neighborhoods Initiative fund, $30 million toward remaking the Inner Harbor promenade and $5 million to plan for the demolition and repurposing of the State Center complex where state offices have been located but desperately needed repair for decades. Almost all of those are increases or new funds compared to prior years, though the final budget is subject to change as members of the General Assembly tweak the plan in the coming months. A planned boost to the citys outsized share of highway user revenues, which go toward improving local and state roads, is also still on the agenda after local leaders pushed back on a proposed cut that was designed to help reduce $3.3 billion in future transportation spending that the state cant afford. Gov. Moore is showing that hes ready to invest and continue to build Baltimores renaissance, Democratic Mayor Brandon Scott said in an interview. Theres conversations to be had but if you look at the message theyre sending, theyre saying Baltimore is a priority. The unresolved conversations have focused so far on the transportation funds. A 2022 state law scheduled to go into effect starting in the 2025 fiscal year will increase Baltimores share of the highway user revenue by tens of millions of dollars potentially up to $100 million more than current funding by the 2026 budget year, according to projections. The city maintains all roads within its borders, unlike other local governments that rely on the state, so it collects most of the share going to local disbursement, which the new law would increase from 15.6% to roughly 18%. Moores administration had proposed pausing that planned increase as a cost-saving measure, provoking fierce opposition from area lawmakers. Within hours of Moore announcing Tuesday that he would backtrack for next years budget but not beyond Scott and Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski Jr. both sat before lawmakers in Annapolis saying that decision helps but is far from enough. One-time funding means that were back at square one again next year, Olszewski, a Democrat, told members of the House Appropriations Committee. Olszewski and others put the cuts in the context of the last time highway user revenues were slashed, in 2009 during the Great Recession. The prior levels never were recovered, which meant Baltimore County losing out on about $450 million and Baltimore City losing $900 million over the last 15 years, Olszewski and Scott said. The countys lost revenue, Olszewski said, is about the same amount that a recent county analysis showed is needed to get all of its roadways back to just average condition. The truth is many of us need not only the restoration but could use additional support, Olszewski said. Scott said three times in six minutes of testimony that he appreciated the move and understands the governors budget constraints which, beyond the transportation budget, include a $761 million structural deficit in the general fund and billions of dollars owed for other policies. But, to be very blunt, he said, Baltimore shouldnt carry the burden after years of under-investment under former Republican Gov. Larry Hogan. He rattled off a list of city projects that are at risk if the cuts are maintained in future years: resurfacing 170 lane miles of roads, rehabilitating the Hanover Street Bridge, addressing a seven-year backlog of sidewalk repairs and planning for the Red Line, the east-west public transit project that Moore revived last year. The Red Line in particular had been a sore spot between Democratic officials in the city and Hogan, who scrapped what was a $2.9 billion light rail plan in 2015. The stakes couldnt be more high, Scott told lawmakers, who are looking for alternative revenue options for the states transportation system like potentially new registration fees for electric vehicles or increasing tolls. In an interview later, Scott said he would continue to focus on the issue. He also praised Moore for the noticeable influx in state funds for other high-priority issues like housing, public safety and economic development. The mayor announced a sweeping $3 billion plan last month to demolish or refurbish the citys thousands of vacant properties. A mix of public and private financing included a $900 million request from the state over 15 years. Moores new budget would include $50 million for that effort through Project C.O.R.E., or Creating Opportunities for Revitalization and Equity. Thats an increase from $20 million in the current 2024 budget and it puts us well on our way to fulfilling the 50-year plan, Scott said. It could certainly get us to that $900 million or perhaps even more, said Scott, adding that there already are conversations about making that $50 million an annual investment. Another step toward a long-term project is $30 million going toward the Inner Harbor promenade to boost the redevelopment of Harborplace. Lawmakers previously authorized that funding, along with $37.5 million in the current years budget, to begin the project. But developer P. David Bramble has also estimated $400 million in public money will be needed for the promenade, parks, infrastructure and proposed road changes, and officials have not outlined a plan to reach that figure. Scott said he was thankful for the initial state investments but did not specify how much will be needed in future years. He said the state contributed to the original construction of Harborplace more than four decades ago and our hope is for the same thing as we rebuild it. The promenade is critical, said Del. Mark Edelson, a Baltimore Democrat who represents the Inner Harbor. Edelson and other members of the Baltimore delegation were pleased with additional areas of the governors budget that deal with improving services for juvenile offenders and incentivizing technology company investments in the region. That includes $4 million to expand the Thrive Academy, a Department of Juvenile Services gun violence prevention program that is serving 190 young people in the city and Baltimore County during its first year. And it includes $6.4 million to support the citys tech hub and compete for up to $70 million in federal funding, according to budget documents. The tech funding includes $500,000 to establish a grant program named after Pava LaPere, a 26-year-old Baltimore entrepreneur who was killed in September. The program will provide $50,000 grants to local technology-focused startups. Nearly doubling the states assistance for the Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative, to $27 million, is among other economic development efforts reflected in the budget plan. The program is designed to aid local businesses and neighborhood development in the city as well as in Anne Arundel and Baltimore counties. Sen. Mary Washington, a Democrat who represents parts of North Baltimore and Baltimore County, said the boost could help areas like the York Road corridor in her district, where state aid has remained static for years but revitalization costs only have increased. Across the city there are commercial corridors that need to be reactivated, Washington said. Neighborhoods are what make Baltimore what it is. _____ Whenever its suggested that Britain could manage without importing 1.2 million people every year, out come the usual voices with the usual lines. The NHS would collapse overnight, care homes would go unstaffed, our best universities would implode into a financial black hole, the ravens would leave the Tower of London and the last trumpet would sound as Britain sank slowly, gracelessly into the frigid waters of the North Sea. This is scaremongering. Britain would be fine with massively reduced immigration; the only thing standing in the way is the Government. Lets start with the NHS. 2022, it hired some 12,148 foreign doctors. Over the 2022-23 financial year, they were joined by an additional 24,000 nurses. You could cut the numbers arriving by over a million before touching this tiny group. The health service is not a barrier to reform. Even if it was, we could work around it. Every year, hundreds of qualified students are turned away from medical school due to the Government capping places. This has left Britain significantly more reliant on overseas staff than its peers, and hasnt necessarily increased quality, either. Doctors trained overseas are significantly more likely to face serious complaints than their domestic counterparts, and it is notable that the countries providing the most Nigeria, Pakistan, and India have two universities in the top 500 worldwide between them, compared to 54 in Britain. We might find it worth looking at whats obstructing supply at home. The university sector, on the other hand, does rely on funding from overseas students. Its not hard to work out why; frozen domestic tuition fees have seen their real value fall 3,000 per student. Fees for foreign students, meanwhile, are uncapped. The result has been an explosion in student visas, driven by huge numbers from poor countries attending the least selective, cheapest universities. These institutions are not selling education; theyre selling the right to work on the post-study visa. Nobody is suggesting that the likes of Oxford, Cambridge or Imperial should be forced to turn away talented students. But at the lower end of the scale, we should either raise fee caps, or let failed institutions fail. Allowing what amounts to a backdoor work visa fee is absurd. The social care sector, too, could probably function without massive immigration. Its true that large numbers are recruited from overseas - 101,000 last year. But this isnt because British workers arent capable of doing the job. Its because it doesnt pay enough. The median care home worker earned just 10.11 an hour in March. Aldi and Lidl pay 11.40, and Amazon warehouses around 13. Its no wonder people are leaving. The primary issue, again, is the government. Local authorities are responsible for publicly funded care; their real terms budgets have fallen 29 per cent between 2010 and 2022. The Treasury could dig into its pockets, and let wages rise. It wouldnt cost that much; the full time equivalent social care workforce is about 1.2 million people, so giving every single worker a 2/hour pay rise would cost about 5 billion. The net cost would be even less if we could shift some of the 5 million on out of work benefits into employment. Rather than do this, the Government is bringing in people willing to work for less. This looks great in the short run; the Chancellor can stand at the despatch box and promise tax cuts, with the OBR dutifully plugging in fancifully low spending assumptions for the larger population. The problem is that its a ponzi scheme. People on care visas are eventually eligible for permanent residency, and free to work elsewhere, requiring more migrants to replace them. Meanwhile, studies have shown time and time again that these low skilled, non-EU workers almost inevitably turn out to be a long run fiscal drain. But by the time those costs show up, the politicians have moved on and the mess is someone elses to fix. Its a pattern repeated from sector to sector. Britain deserves better than this reliance on immigration to cover the governments incompetence. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer. The Mecklenburg County Sheriffs Office is helping out a police department in Catawba County. ALSO READ: Sheriffs office warns residents of scam jury duty calls in Union County The county commissioners authorized the sheriffs office to donate two Dodge Charges and five radios to the Brookford Police Department. The county says the two chargers have more than 100,000 miles on them, and the five radios are nearing the end of their lives. State law allows government agencies to donate equipment to each other when it is obsolete, surplus, or unused. (WATCH BELOW: School district, sheriff in Chester County discuss safety after recent events) Russian dictator Vladimir Putin announced his willingness to visit Pyongyang in the near future during a visit with North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui in Russia last week, North Korea's state news agency, KCNA, reported on Jan. 21. Putin also reportedly thanked the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for his invitation to visit the country and his continued support of Russian military efforts in Ukraine. According to Reuters, KCNA's Korean-language report suggested Putin planned to visit soon, but its later English report said he was "willing" to do so at an early date. An exact date for the visit has not been established. Moscow and Pyongyang have significantly increased their military ties since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Russia's newfound pariah status that followed the outbreak of full-scale war has forced the country to seek new allies, and as a major producer of military hardware and a similarly isolated country, North Korea has allegedly used the partnership to further its own military goals. The nature of the relationship is increasingly becoming a two-way street, said U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in which Russia provides North Korea with advanced military technology and long-range attack capacity, potentially including ballistic missiles and nuclear capabilities in exchange for the shells and missiles. In the short term, this cooperation has already been felt in Ukraine, where Russia has allegedly used North Korean-supplied ballistic missiles in attacks on the country. Read also: Military intelligence: North Korea supplying 122 mm, 152 mm shells to Russia Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Three fatal crashes involving motorcycles occurred in Harris County Saturday, Jan. 6. Houston Chronicle Residents in Pearland, Pasadena, Deer Park and other cities in the Houston area woke up Saturday with a strong smell wafting throughout the air and no idea from where it was originating. The smell was described by people online as chemical-like odor. Pearland Police Department spokesman Chad Rogers said the department didnt know the origin of the smell but that it was blowing in from the ship channel. Advertisement Article continues below this ad The smell was so distinguished that it affected the Lubrizol DP facility in Deer Park. The terminal of the Russian Novatek natural gas company caught on fire in the port of Ust-Luga in the Leningrad region, regional governor Alexander Drozdenko announced on Telegram. Novatek is the largest independent natural gas producer in Russia. The governor stated that no casualties have been reported but other Russian media sources suggested that 150 people were evacuated. A high-alert regime was introduced in the Kingiseppsky district. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Novatek is Russia's largest producer of liquified natural gas. The U.S. introduced sanctions against one of Novatek's major production entities, the Arctic LNG-2 (liquified natural gas) project, for which it has a 60% share. Reuters reported last month that Novatek itself issued force majeure declarations to multiple clients after the U.S. imposed sanctions against Russian LNG in November 2023. Businesses may declare force majeure if they cannot supply promised goods or services due to circumstances beyond their control. Earlier this month, a huge fire broke out at a warehouse in St. Petersburg belonging to one of Russia's biggest online stores, Wildberries, affecting at least 70,000 square meters of the property. Read also: Reuters: Russia has become Chinas largest oil supplier Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Through open source research, Mediazona, a Russian independent media outlet, together with BBC Russia, confirmed the names of 42,284 Russian soldiers who had been killed since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Since Mediazona's last update on Dec. 29, the names of 1,685 Russian soldiers have been added to the list of casualties. The journalists specify that the actual figures are likely considerably higher since the information they have verified so far comes from public sources, including obituaries, posts by relatives, news in regional media, and reports by local authorities. Among the Russian casualties in the most recent update, Mediazona confirmed the names of four military personnel who were killed by a Ukrainian missile strike on the Russian landing ship Novocherkassk on Dec. 26. The attacked allegedly killed 74 and injured 27 Russian soldiers, according to a Ukrainian hacker group that claimed it had intercepted an email from the Russian Black Sea Fleets press service. Since Russia's full-scale invasion began, over 3,000 officers, with 349 holding the rank of Lieutenant Colonel or higher have been killed in combat in Ukraine. In contrast, there have been nearly 5,089 casualties among newly recruited Russian soldiers. A majority of those killed in action come from Krasnodar, Sverdlovsk, Bashkiria, Chelyabinsk, and Moscow regions, as well as the Buryatia republic. Total estimates of Russia's casualties since the full-scale invasion vary widely. As of Jan. 21, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces says that Russia lost 376,030 troops in Ukraine since the beginning of its full-scale invasion on Feb. 24, 2022 - although that number is likely to be both those killed an injured during the war. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Akron's new administration features a couple of new roles and several new faces. Mayor Shammas Malik has restructured his Cabinet, consolidating some functions, creating new ones and discontinuing others. As one example, Malik reclassified the police and fire chiefs into Cabinet-level positions reporting directly to the chief of staff, eliminating the deputy mayor for public safety job. "This is a structure that's designed to be a more proactive city government," Malik said. Here's an introduction to some of the main players in his administration: Chief of Staff Brittany Grimes Zaehringer Chief of Staff Brittany Grimes Zaehringer As chief of staff, Brittany Grimes Zaehringer will be responsible for innovative and effective planning, organizing, managing, directing and overseeing of the day-to-day operations of the mayor's office and director level staff while also providing strategic counsel to the mayor and other city leaders. Zaehringer will also coordinate city responses to crisis and emergency matters. Salary: $179,000. Chief of Strategy Nannette Pitt Chief of Strategy Nanette Pitt In the newly created chief of strategy role, Nanette Pitt will lead implementation of strategic initiatives from Maliks Together For Akron vision, including violence intervention, youth opportunity, universal preschool and more. Pitt will oversee a team of strategists and serve as a key liaison with intergovernmental offices and community stakeholders. This new role will shoulder some of the responsibilities previously fielded by the deputy mayor of intergovernmental affairs, a position held by Marco Sommerville during Mayor Dan Horrigan's administration. Salary: $179,000. Director of Public Service Chris Ludle Director of Public Service Chris Ludle Chris Ludle remains as director of public service after filling that role during Horrigan's administration. He oversees the Engineering Bureau, the Public Works Bureau, the Sewer Bureau and the Water Bureau. Under Ludles leadership, Akron has tackled numerous consent decree projects, including the Ohio Canal Interceptor Tunnel; paved hundreds of roadways; revamped the citys snow and ice response plan; and helped manage the citys extensive watershed and water infrastructure network. Salary: $165,154. Director of Law Deborah Matz Director of Law Deborah Matz Director of Law Deborah Matz serves as the legal advisor and attorney for the city of Akron and all of its officers, departments, boards and commissions in matters relating to their official duties. Matz serves as the prosecuting attorney in Akron Municipal Court. She prosecutes and defends all legal proceedings on behalf of the city at the local, state and federal levels. She drafts and prepares all legal filings, contracts, bonds and other written instruments in which the city has an interest. Salary: $165,154. Director of DEI Esther Thomas Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Esther Thomas As director of diversity, equity and inclusion, Esther Thomas's job is to make sure the DEI office fosters an inclusive, equitable culture in Akron by creating a welcoming environment for all community members. According to the city website, the DEI office strives to make sure that everyone in Akron has "equal access to the opportunities and resources they need to thrive." Salary: $137,547. Director of Communications Stephanie Marsh Director of Communications Stephanie Marsh Stephanie Marsh another Horrigan holdover oversees the city's professional communications, event coordination and press relations originating from the mayor's office. Marsh also leads marketing strategy and creation and execution of city communication initiatives, community engagement and events. Salary: $137,547. Acting Police Chief Brian Harding Acting Akron Police Chief Brian Harding Brian Harding is serving as the head of the Akron Police Department as the city conducts a nationwide search for former chief Steve Mylett's replacement. Including the police chief in the mayor's cabinet is a new organizational choice made by Malik. Salary: $161,304. Fire and EMS Chief Joseph Natko Akron Fire and EMS Chief Joseph Natko Akron Fire and EMS Chief Joseph Natko oversees the city fire department and emergency medical response. Including the fire chief in the mayor's cabinet is a new organizational choice made by Malik. Salary: $152,110. Director of Planning Kyle Julien Director of Planning Kyle Julien Director of Planning Kyle Julien heads the Department of Planning and Urban Development. Julien will work with the director of economic development to lead the Office of Integrated Development. He'll provide professional and technical expertise to help with land use decisions of public officials, residents and the development community. Salary: $165,154. Director of Economic Development Suzie Graham Moore Director of Economic Development Suzie Graham Moore In her new role as director of economic development, Suzie Graham Moore establishes and maintains cooperative relationships with local, state and federal leaders and public officials to foster programs, projects and opportunities that will drive economic development, build healthy and equitable communities, and promote transparency, efficiency and trust in government operations. Graham Moore provides advice, strategic counsel and staff assistance to the mayor, City Council and various city staff, boards and commissions of the city. Salary: $165,154. Director of Finance Steve Fricker Director of Finance Steve Fricker Steve Fricker, returning from the Horrigan administration, oversees the Finance Department's seven divisions, which include accounting, budget, information technology, purchasing, income tax, treasury and the Utilities Business Office. Salary: $165,154. Director of Sustainability and Resiliency Casey Shevlin Director of Sustainability and Resiliency Casey Shevlin Casey Shevlin, Akron's first director of sustainability and resiliency, is responsible for coordinating and expanding the city's focus on environmental issues. Salary: $137,547. Director of Labor Relations Frank Williams Director of Labor Relations Frank Williams As director of labor relations, Frank Williams represents the city in contract negotiations. Salary: $165,154. Contact reporter Derek Kreider at DKreider@Gannett.com 330-541-9413 The downtown Akron skyline is seen from Rand Avenue. New Mayor Shammas Malik says the Cabinet that he has formed to serve Akron represents a "more proactive city government," A view of downtown Akron from the Goodyear blimp. Akron's new administration features a couple of new roles and several new faces to lead the city. This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Who are some of the key players in Akron's new mayoral administration? This is a joint project between Nexstar Media Group and Syracuse University. AMHERST, NH (NEXSTAR) In New Hampshire, Nikki Haley has hosted events across the state to meet local residents. Events like these could potentially increase her chances of getting ahead in the polls. On Friday, January 19, the former South Carolina governor joined voters in Amherst, New Hampshire for some casual conversation and pictures. This event was hosted at Mary Anns Diner and was one of many Haley held across the state to engage with voters on a personal level. Michelle Rogers, a supporter of Haley, appreciated the connection she felt she was able to form with the politician. She goes around. She talks to you as a person. She doesnt talk to you as much as shes 25,000 levels above you. She talks to you very genuine, Rogers said. Other residents, like Al Lacey, were happy to be able to meet the potential Presidential nominee. I was just excited that she was going to be here. You know, a buddy of mine called me and told me and we only live two minutes down the road. So, I said, lets go over. Me and my wife came, and I like her. I think shes very nice, Lacey commented. On Friday, polls indicated that Haley was still trailing former President Donald Trump by 17 points. Many of the Haley supporters were former Trump voters who say they are supporting the former governor over the former president. She is truthful. She is knowledgeable. She does not lie. She is truthful! Rogers expressed. Other candidates, like Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Trump, are only holding rallies in New Hampshire leading up to primary day. However, Haleys decision to meet face-to-face with voters in a casual setting made many supporters at the event feel comfortable with her and made them see her as a real person, not just a politician. I think its really good to see that theyre just human, normal people, right? said a member of the Casalegno and Haslam families, And to bring it back to real life level, especially for the kids to see that and what a better way than in a place where youre eating lunch. These personal interactions with voters could be what Haley needs to secure a win this Tuesday. Blythe Reis is a senior at Syracuse University studying Broadcast Journalism and Political Science and has reported for WAER. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. SAN DIEGO A methamphetamine distribution conspiracy that operated in San Diego jails has since lost two contributing members. Marquella Marshall, 41, and Marsha Delacruz, 47, were sentenced in federal court Tuesday for their role in the illegal operation, announced U.S. attorney Tara McGraths office. Marshall was given a 180-month prison stay, while Delacruz will spend 48 months behind bars, U.S. District Judge Larry Alan Burns decided. El Chapo-linked narcotrafficker sentenced for moving millions of dollars worth of cocaine According to court records, Marshall, a Texas resident who previously lived in San Diego, is an Eastside San Diego street gang member and a facilitator and secretary for the Mexican Mafia.+ As explained by the attorneys office, Marshall was tasked by high-ranking Mexican Mafia members to communicate on their behalf, collect and launder money, handle drug transactions, and direct street operations on the gangs behalf. During Tuesdays hearing, Judge Burns described Marshall as a conduit for the Mexican Mafia and further described the distribution conspiracy as an assault on the integrity of the prison system. Drug smuggling and use in prisons result in overdose, violence, and power struggles, said U.S. attorney McGrath. These significant sentences are a strike against the prison drug culture which puts guards and staff at risk and exists in large part because of dangerous gangs like the Mexican Mafia. Delacruz, whos from Lemon Grove, was also an Eastside San Diego street gang member, court documents show. Delacruz was reported to have worked at the direction of Marshall, the attorneys office explained. As part of the conspiracy, Marshall, Delacruz and others mailed methamphetamine to various locations, including jails and prisons in Southern California. According to court documents, Marshall and Delacruz disguised some of the narcotics-laden packages as legal mail to avoid detection by law enforcement. Several Mexican Mafia associates, including the pair sentenced Tuesday, were apprehended after an investigation by the FBI Violent Crimes Task Force/ Gang Group. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. Miles below Big Cypress National Preserve, land of elegant cypress trees festooned with air plants, there is oil. Not a ton of it, but enough to spark a small domestic drilling industry that continues today, decades after the land became the nations first national preserve and the federal government bought it all up. The environmental effects of the drilling, ranging from thousands of gallons of spilled oil to threats to the local water supply, have long prompted buyout offers from the state and federal government. But a new plan, hatched by the Miccosukee tribe and a nonprofit, might mean the end of future prospecting and drilling on hundreds of thousands of acres of land within Big Cypress, a crucial part of Floridas Everglades. The deal, which has been quietly in the works for nearly two years, includes an inked agreement with the politically powerful family that holds all the rights to hunt for oil and gas within the preserves boundaries. And this time, the Miccosukee feel like success is in sight. The Collier family, descendants of the land baron who owned much of the real estate in the county that bears his name, has agreed to sell much of its vast holdings of mineral rights within the preserve to the federal government for the right price. Talbert Cypress, chairman of the Miccosukee Tribe, speaks about their plan to buy out the mineral rights for Big Cypress and halt oil drilling during a meeting at the Miccosukee Administration Building in Miami on Tuesday, November 21, 2023. That would protect nearly 420,000 acres of land the Miccosukees consider sacred. Its what sustained and protected the tribe when soldiers chased and harassed them a century ago. Its where many make their living, and its the final resting place for some tribal members, including modern ones, in traditional burials. A lot of these areas have cultural significance for us. And the more we see that damaged, the more it hurts the tribe culturally, said Talbert Cypress, chairman of the Miccosukee tribe. Its important for us to keep it as intact as possible. A history of buyout offers Oil drilling in the Everglades has been a longstanding problem in Florida. The Sunshine States oil rush kicked off in the 1940s and peaked in the 1970s, right as the federal government was snapping up acres for Big Cypress National Preserve. The Collier family owned much of the land, and when they sold it off to the National Park Service, they kept the rights to the oil and gas resources underground. Over the last half-century, theyve leased the right to prospect and drill to several companies, including two within the last few years. Talbert Cypress, chairman of the Miccosukee Tribe, speaks about their plan to buy out the mineral rights for Big Cypress and halt oil drilling during a meeting at the Miccosukee Administration Building in Miami on Tuesday, November 21, 2023. In 2020, Gov. Ron DeSantis ordered the state to buy a 20,000-acre swath of land near Broward County where the owners had recently won the right to drill for oil over state objection. This will permanently save the land from oil production, DeSantis said at the time. But efforts to buy out swaths of Big Cypress, which covers far more land, have been less successful. In the 2000s, then-Gov. Jeb Bush tried to orchestrate a buyout to protect the Everglades, right around the time the Colliers started seismic testing to look for new potential wells. The Colliers signed an agreement with the federal government in 2002 to sell their mineral rights for $120 million and suspend plans for 26 new exploratory wells, but it fell through over bickering over the price. Previous quotes for those mineral rights have been all over the map; various government estimates ranged from $5 million to $235 million. A 1999 file photo of the Raccoon Point Oil field separation tanks, where up to 2000 barrels of oil a day are pumped from two miles below the preserve. This time, though, the deal makers are determined to land on a number to which everyone can agree. Enter David Houghton, director of WildLandscapes International. His nonprofit is helping the Miccosukee tribe seal the deal with the Colliers, as well as the federal government. Were the real estate geeks in the back making it all happen, he said. His team worked for years with the Colliers to hammer out an agreement that now covers 420,000 acres, including the spots where Texas-based Burnett Oil has been hunting for new wells. Crucially, that involved arriving at a price everyone was happy with. The Colliers are officially on the hook to sell those mineral rights if the price is above or at the number they agreed to. If it ends up lower, they still have the option to sell but arent obligated to. Houghton wouldnt share the exact figure the Colliers agreed to but said they negotiated the deal when oil was going for far less per barrel than it is now, so he has high hopes. This map of oil and gas wells in Florida shows the cluster of exploratory wells, active wells and abandoned or sealed wells within Big Cypress National Preserve. The primary oil drilling locations are Raccoon Point to the east and Bear Island to the north. The next step is for an accounting firm to complete an appraisal, which is due in April. The firm, hired by WildLandscapes and approved by the Department of the Interior, will hand over its estimate for what the mineral rights are worth. If its within the range the Colliers agreed to, then its up to the federal government to scrape together the cash and complete the sale. Houghton said hes hopeful that, if they get that far, Florida legislators bipartisan skill at finding federal money for Everglades restoration will apply here, too. Right now we know that there is significant interest by the Florida delegation to pursue this. We would not be running around spending huge amounts of money trying to figure this out if there wasnt interest, he said. And there are promising signs the agreement could pan out. This summer, the Collier family sold more than 11,000 acres of its land near Everglades City, including the mineral rights, to the state for just under $30 million. Houghton said this was the first time the Colliers have outright sold their mineral rights. An aerial photo shows one of the existing oil drilling operations in the Big Cypress National Preserve. But for all the big ideals of this plan, what it wont do is stop the relatively small oil industry that still operates within the boundaries of the preserve. Within Big Cypress alone there are 11 producing wells five at the Raccoon Point drill site to the east and six at the Bear Island site to the north. Cypress, of the Miccosukee tribe, said the plan is to come back for those mineral rights next, in future phases of the buyout plan. That could put at least a decade between the end of current drill operations in the preserve, but Cypress said the tribe is willing to be patient. Its obvious that this area has been changed forever. And that happens a lot out here with the Everglades, he said. We talk about restoration, and trying to get back to things that are where they were. And that almost may not be possible. But you know, we got to do the best we can to get as close to it as we can. Why are we still drilling? According to state data, those two sites within Big Cypress have collectively produced about 36 million barrels of oil since they were first drilled in the 1970s. Thats peanuts compared to any of the gushers in Louisiana and Texas, the heart of the nations oil industry, and its even dwarfed by the states other oil resources in the Panhandle, where about three-fourths of the states oil is produced. In 2022, Texas produced nearly two billion barrels of oil double what all of Florida has produced in nearly a century. The industry directly employs about 700 people statewide, according to a 2022 report on oil drilling in Big Cypress. Oil drilling brought in about $25 million to Floridas economy in 2020. As that report put it: Broadly speaking, oil production does not matter to the Florida economy, and Florida does not matter to oil production. Beyond the economics, scientists around the globe have made excruciatingly clear that the world needs to stop burning fossil fuels as fast as possible to avert the worst impacts of climate change. Those effects, like hotter days, rising tides and more powerful hurricanes, are already disproportionately harming Floridians. So why keep drilling? To me, the juice is not worth the squeeze, said Edward Glab, director of the global energy forum at Florida International University and a former longtime executive at ExxonMobil. If you look at a risk-reward equation, youd have to come to the conclusion that we have no business drilling for oil in the Everglades, anywhere. We dont need it. Its not the sort of oil thats really in demand or commands a premium price, but I think more importantly theres always that risk of contamination and some sort of spill, he said. Glab said the oil found in the area is thicker and more expensive to process. That might be why big companies, like Exxon, have sold off the wells they originally drilled to smaller companies, he added. Breitburn, the Texas-based company that runs the wells within Big Cypress, did not respond to multiple requests for comment. A 1999 file photo of the Raccoon Point oil drilling pad within Big Cypress preserve. Evan Hjerpe, executive director of the nonprofit Conservation Economics Institute and author of the report on oil drilling within the preserve, said the math must still make sense for companies like Breitburn, or they would have exited the business long ago. Some companies like to hold on to low-performing wells like these so they have extra resources to ramp up production when oil prices skyrocket. Plus, he said, properly closing a well can be an expensive and tedious process. A lot of the times its cheaper to keep a marginal well in production than it is to do a full closure and reclamation of the well, Hjerpe said. And yet, companies are still asking the state for permission to drill more than two miles into the earth for their own shot at black gold. Unhealed wounds remain Texas-based Burnett Oil won the right to start exploring for oil in Big Cypress in 2017. That meant big, heavy trucks grinding through trees, sinking into the mud and pounding the ground in search of the telltale vibration signal that theres oil down below. But in 2022, Burnett withdrew its request for a permit. Environmental groups called it a victory. An aerial image of legacy oil and gas fields in eastern Big Cypress National Preserve. And now, seven years later, the scars of those prospecting efforts remain. A report from the National Park Conservation Association found that more than 500 of the preserves namesake cypress trees were felled, and in their absence, invasive species like Gulf Coast spikebrush and old-world climbing fern took over. In other places, the tracks left in the soft mud by 33-ton vehicles are still visible. Were talking about zero regeneration in those damaged areas, said Melissa Abdo, author of the report and Sun Coast regional director for NPCA. According to Burnetts permit, they were supposed to restore the area after they finished looking for oil by replanting 1,500 cypress trees. So far, the NPCA report found, it hasnt replanted any. Thats why Abdo said she supports a permanent end to oil exploration and drilling in the preserve through the Miccosukee-led buyout. This 2023 image shows a persisting lack of regrowth of cypress trees (i.e. persisting denuded/damaged areas) over six years after seismic vehicles impacted these areas. Florida is heavily reliant on our environment for our economy. If were looking forward, it just doesnt really make economic sense to permit one companys private economic gain to be had at the cost of all the environmental restoration gains weve made or all those eco-tourism dollars Florida relies upon, she said. Why risk all of our environmental progress in Everglades restoration for what is, in effect, a few drops of oil? Miami Herald Staff Writer Clara-Sophia Daly contributed to this story. Elizabeth Michalski holds up the birth certificate for her brother Gilbert Leroy Fournier. He was born in 1973 at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. Michalski met him once when he was two years old. Finding him represented the last piece in the puzzle that is her family, she said. LANSING Elizabeth Michalski can remember countless times over the last two decades when she nearly gave up looking for her younger brother Gilbert, who was given up for adoption as a child. "There were times I just wanted to just say, 'I'm done. You know, I'm never going to find him.' I was ready to accept that," Michalski said. But her family wouldn't let her, she said; they knew Michalski wouldn't be whole until she found Gilbert. Michalski, 60, who lives in Sault Ste. Marie, finally found Gilbert last year living in Minnesota. She hopes to meet him later this year. Troubled family history split family When Michalski was little, her family lived near Laingsburg. Her father, Merlin Fournier, was a merchant marine often away from home working aboard a ship. The family moved to to Sault Ste. Marie in the early 1970s. Michalski, the oldest of all her siblings, was 7 when her mother, who was bipolar and schizophrenic, and struggled with alcohol and drug use, left their home in the middle of the night, leaving behind a husband and five children. Before Loretta died in 2001, she had four more children, including Gilbert. Michalski's four half-siblings were scattered around the country. Michalski's relationship with her mother, whose last name was Fournier when she was married to Michalski's father and when Gilbert was born, was strained, and almost nonexistent in the two decades before Loretta's death. Over the years, Michalski searched for and found all of her other siblings born to her mother, including her younger sister Christina, who lives in Florida. But finding her brother proved to be more difficult and frustrating. She started looking for him in 2001, after Loretta's death from a heart attack. Her late mother left her a photo album filled with photographs, records and keepsakes from Gilbert's birth on Aug. 26, 1973, at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. Michalski believed Loretta lost custody of her brother and that Gilbert was in Lansing when he was adopted but it would take years, a DNA search and some help from a stranger who's made a hobby out of helping people find their relatives to connect with her long-lost brother. "I'm just glad that my husband and everybody just kept pushing me," she said. "I feel whole." A DNA kit and help from a stranger One of the only photos Elizabeth Michalski has of her brother Gilbert Leroy Fournier, who was born at Sparrow Hospital in 1973. He was later adopted. Two years ago, when Michalski first talked with the State Journal about Gilbert, she was hoping his birth certificate and spreading the word about her search for him would lead her in the right direction. The story prompted interest, she said, but no real leads about Gilbert's whereabouts. Her only memory of Gilbert dates to when she was 11. Loretta visited her and her siblings at their home in Sault Ste. Marie in 1975. Gilbert was 2 then, a little boy with curly hair. By the time Michalski saw her mother again five years later, Gilbert was no longer with her. Michalski said there were times when the search became overwhelming and felt nearly impossible. Elizabeth Michalski, left, with her younger sister Christina, who lives in Florida. "When it got too overwhelming, I put it on the back burner for a little bit, then started back up with it," she said. Her first breakthrough came in the form of a gift from her sister-in-law, an Ancestry.com DNA kit she received in March 2023. The second was meeting Denise Donnelly through an online group that helps people find their families. Donnelly, who lives in Illinois, has been helping others find their relatives since the mid-1990s. Offering to help people like Michalski is second nature now, she said. Searching for people is a skill she learned "as I went. I'm nosy by nature so that helps a lot," Donnelly said. "I know how to look for clues, so to speak. I also have an extreme amount of patience, where I can sit and look through documents, yearbooks, make phone calls." Today, DNA helps immensely, Donnelly said. She used Ancestry.com to find Gilbert less than a month after she started to look. "She found a Gilbert that was born in Lansing and was adopted and she had a gut feeling that was him," Michalski said. Donnelly sent Michalski his name, Gilbert Jordan, and contact information for people she believed knew him. '...I knew then, that was my brother' The birth certificate for Elizabeth Michalski's brother Gilbert Leroy Fournier. He was born in 1973 at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing. Michalski met him once when he was two years old. Finding him represented the last piece in the puzzle that is her family, she said. Along with the information Donnelly gave to Michalski, there was a photograph of Gilbert, now 50. That was all the proof Michalski felt like she needed. "Just looking at him, his picture, he looks just like my brothers," she said. "He looks just like my relatives on my birth mother's side. Yeah. And I knew then, that was my brother." Michalski reached out to the mother of Gilbert's 12-year-old son. They talked for an hour about Gilbert's life and his desire to find his birth family. The phone call eventually led to a text conversation with Gilbert, who is recuperating from an injury suffered just before Christmas and was unavailable to speak. "I was honest with him," Michalski said. "I told him everything that I know about our mother and what happened." She's hopeful the two will meet one another in person later this year. "God answered my prayers," Michalski said. "After I talked to Gilbert people asked me, 'What do you want for Christmas?' I told them, 'I got it. I got everything I ever wanted. I found my brother. I found all my siblings.'" Contact Reporter Rachel Greco at rgreco@lsj.com. Follow her on Twitter @GrecoatLSJ . READ MORE: Sneak peek: New restaurant to open in historic former Clara's location in Lansing Restaurant, retail space proposed for Lake Lansing Road site in East Lansing This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Michigan woman's brother, given up for adoption, located in Minnesota United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the continued success of the Middle District of Floridas relentless fight against fraud related to COVID-19. >>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<< The collaborative efforts of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and the United States Attorneys Offices (USAO-MDFL) Criminal, Asset Recovery, Appellate, and Civil Divisions have successfully identified, investigated, and prosecuted fraud schemes. The Middle District of Florida United States Attorneys Office continues to pursue, investigate, prosecute, and recover money from those who were engaged in major or sophisticated fraud schemes designed to steal benefits intended for Americans coping with the myriad impacts of the pandemic, said U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg. Since March 2020, the Middle District of Florida COVID-19 Fraud Task Force has actively prosecuted 77 defendants involved in fraud schemes exploiting federal programs, including the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), Unemployment Insurance (UI), Main Street Lending Program (MSLP), Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP), and government Healthcare programs like Medicare (HCF). The collective aim was to defraud the United States of over $85 million, with 56 defendants already found guilty and 21 awaiting prosecution. In fiscal year 2023, the Task Force indicted 26 COVID-19 fraud-related cases seeking more than $15 million from various federal programs. Notable convictions include Denis Casseus, sentenced to two years for bank fraud, and Vitalii Chychasov, sentenced to eight years for conspiracy to commit access device fraud and trafficking in unauthorized access devices. The Asset Recovery Division and federal seizing agencies have completed the forfeiture of over $20 million in fraudulently obtained EIDL, UI, and PPP funds, recovering proceeds for victims. An additional $18 million in pandemic fraud proceeds are pending civil or criminal forfeiture. The U.S. Attorney General has established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to enhance efforts in combatting and preventing pandemic-related fraud. For more information on the departments response to the pandemic, visit justice.gov/coronavirus. The Middle District of Florida COVID-19 Fraud Task Force investigations have been conducted by various law enforcement agencies, with cases prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys throughout the Middle District of Florida. The public is urged to report suspected fraudulent activity to the National Center for Disaster Fraud at (866) 720-5721 or file an online complaint. Complaints will be reviewed and referred for investigation by appropriate authorities. [SIGN UP: Action News Jax Daily Headlines Newsletter] Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live. NEW YORK (AP) A New York midwife who gave nearly 1,500 children homeopathic pellets instead of required vaccinations has been fined $300,000, the states health department announced this week. Jeanette Breen, who operates Baldwin Midwifery on Long Island, administered the pellets as an alternative to vaccinations and then falsified their immunization records, the agency said Wednesday. Missing 85-year-old man found dead in lake in Palm Harbor: PCSO The scheme, which goes back least to the 2019-2020 school year, involved families throughout the state, but the majority reside on suburban Long Island. In 2019, New York ended a religious exemption to vaccine requirements for schoolchildren. The health department said immunization records of the children who received the falsified records have been voided, and their families must now prove the students are up-to-date with their required shots or at least in the process of getting them before they can return to school. Misrepresenting or falsifying vaccine records puts lives in jeopardy and undermines the system that exists to protect public health, State Health Commissioner James McDonald said in a statement. Breen, a state-licensed healthcare provider, supplied patients with the Real Immunity Homeoprophylaxis Program, a series of oral pellets that are marketed as an alternative to vaccination but are not recognized or approved by state or federal regulators as valid immunizations, according to the health department. She administered 12,449 of the fake immunizations to roughly 1,500 school-aged patients before submitting information to the states immunization database claiming the children had received their required vaccinations against measles, mumps, rubella, polio, chickenpox, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis B and a host of other diseases, the department said. FBI raids multiple locations in Pasco County Breens lawyer said Thursday that his client cooperated with investigators, paid her fine and intends to comply with all other requirements of her agreement with health officials. Suffice it to say, Ms. Breen has provided excellent midwifery services for many years to many families, especially on Long Island. She is now toward the end of her career, David Eskew wrote in an emailed statement. From her perspective, this matter is over, done with, and closed and she is now moving on with her life. As part of the settlement, Breen has paid $150,000 of the $300,000 penalty, with the remainder suspended contingent upon her complying with state health laws and never again administering any immunization that must be reported to the state, according to the health department. Shes also permanently banned from accessing the states immunization records system. Erin Clary, a health department spokesperson, said Thursday that while parents and legal guardians had sought out and paid Breen for her services, they werent the focus of the agencys investigation. State health officials say theyre now in the process of notifying hundreds of affected school districts. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. Russia's capture of Krokhmalne, a village in Kharkiv Oblast, is a temporary phenomenon, the Ukrainian Ground Forces Command spokesperson Volodymyr Fityo said, as quoted by Hromadske on Jan. 21. In its morning summary, Russias Defense wrote that the village had been taken over by Russian forces. Fityo noted that Ukrainian troops had been moved to prepared reserve positions to hold the defense and prevent Russia from advancing further. "We simply don't report on the repulse of 100-200 meters, and for Russian propagandists, any victory must be presented to explain why they lost 7,055 soldiers at the front in the Khortytsia zone of responsibility in January alone," Fityo said during the live televised broadcast. He added that the front lines shift daily and that the loss of the small village, which had a pre-war population of 45, is a temporary phenomenon. Ukraine managed to repel 21 attacks near Synkivka, Petropavlivka, Kharkiv Oblast, and Stelmakhivka, Luhansk Oblast, the Armed Forces General Staff reported earlier in the day. 80 clashes took place on Jan. 20. Read also: General Staff: Russia has lost 376,030 troops in Ukraine Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. (PORTLAND TRIBUNE) Six years of reaching for the top, and Allison Burke made the Miss America competition. The journey was worth the work. Burke, 28, recently returned from Miss America feeling grateful and satisfied. The biggest thing is this overwhelming sense of I made it there, said Burke, the reigning Miss Oregon, reflecting on her experience in the competition at Orlando, Florida, Jan. 6-14. I have so much gratitude for people pouring their love and support into me. Tina Fey, Amy Poehler PDX show rescheduled for April after winter storm cancellation Ill be old some day, 80 years old, thinking about what a special time in my life it was. Thinking of all the people who helped get me there made it special. Burke, a 2013 Tigard High graduate, became Miss Oregon on her sixth attempt in 2023. The lesson learned: Have some grit and gumption, and you never know how things play out in life. Burke attended Portland State University (studying public health) and works as operations manager for Sen. Jeff Merkley in Portland. Its a job that keeps her busy, but she has dedicated much of the past six years to being part of the Miss Oregon and Miss America programs. To be on the stage in Orlando, then, was the thrill of a lifetime. Read more at PortlandTribune.com The Portland Tribune and its parent company Pamplin Media Group are KOIN 6 News media partners For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. Mr Martin was convinced the slippers were encrusted with real rubies and kept them at a trailer next to his home - TCD/VP/LMKMEDIA In The Wizard of Oz, Dorothy clicks the heels of her ruby red slippers together three times to get whisked straight home to Kansas. Ahead of his sentencing next week for stealing the famous shoes, an ageing mobster has appealed to a US court not to transport him to prison. Terry Jon Martin, 76, who broke into the Judy Garland Museum in 2005, was lured into one last score by an associate who told him the shoes must have been festooned with real jewels to be worth the $1 million they were insured for. Martin was convinced the slippers were encrusted with real rubies and kept them at a trailer next to his home, his lawyer said in a statement ahead of his clients sentencing on Jan 29. His hopes of seeing out his final days on the proceeds were thwarted when a fence said the rubies were, in fact, glass. The mobster gave the slippers away within two days of stealing them. They were recovered by the FBI in 2018 and Martin was charged with stealing them last year. Dane DeKrey, defending, told the court Martin had not committed a crime since being released from prison nearly a decade before the theft of the slippers. At first, Terry declined the invitation to participate in the heist. But old habits die hard, and the thought of a final score kept him up at night. After much contemplation, Terry had a criminal relapse and decided to participate in the theft. He had never seen The Wizard of Oz and had no idea of the significance of the slippers, Mr DeKrey added. Mr Martin has a life expectancy of less than six months - DAN KRAKER/MINNESOTA PUBLIC RADIO Now wheelchair-bound, requiring oxygen at all times and living in a hospice, Martin has a life expectancy of less than six months. I think when someone is at the end of their life, they are making decisions that are right for their affairs, and this short answer is because hes guilty, he added. I think he wanted to take responsibility and move on with his life the little life he has left. Both Mr DeKrey and prosecutors are recommending that Martin be sentenced to time served, rather than being returned to prison. In any case, they argue, his poor health might be grounds for release on compassionate grounds. Martins life had been difficult, his lawyer added, having been mistreated in childhood by a cruel stepmother and his three brothers. Leaving home at 16, he embarked on a life of crime, being convicted of a string of offences including burglary and receiving stolen goods. When Martin left prison in 1996 he turned his back on crime and became a contributing member of society. But tragedy struck when his month-old twins were killed when his girlfriends car was hit by a train after a prison visit. It drove him back to his old ways. Martin had never sought to claim a share of the $200,000 reward offered for the slippers. It was claimed by an associate who approached the insurers in 2017 and the slippers were recovered following an FBI sting operation the following year. They were in pristine condition. The slippers had been loaned to the Garland Museum by Michael Shaw, a collector of Hollywood memorabilia. They were one of four pairs worn by Judy Garland in the 1939 classic, which won five Oscars including Best Film. Their authenticity was confirmed by comparing them to another pair which was held at the Smithsonians Museum of American History in Washington. The slippers are instantly recognisable, Colin Gardner, distinguished professor emeritus of critical theory at the University of California Santa Barbara, told The Telegraph The Wizard of Oz is absolutely central to the history of American cinema, much like Star Wars for the next generation. America in 1939 was Roosevelts New Deal-era and there was a lot of money being pumped into the arts. The film was trying to give Americans a picture of optimism at the end of the depression just as Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers movies were about raising peoples spirits during the 1930s. The disappearance of the slippers was a tragedy. But they have been been recovered. This is a really sad story. But given how sick the culprit is now, they shouldnt jail him. 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. As someone who was born and raised in Khmelnytskyi one of Modestos seven sister cities throughout the world I would like to express my sincere and heartfelt gratitude on behalf of all Ukrainians. Last year, our sister city of Modesto raised $70,0000 for Khmelnitsky. That money went to purchase generators for the Childrens Hospital, allowing them to keep the hospital running and patients warm when Russias genocidal forces attacked and destroyed 50% of Ukraines power grid. Donations from many Modestans also helped buy skylights to protect the city from Russian drone attacks at night, food delivered to the front of the war effort prepared by local volunteers as well as tourniquets and other life-saving necessities. Donations from Modesto residents have gone toward life-saving medical necessities. The sister city agreement of cooperation and friendship was signed in 1987, four years before Ukraine gained its independence from the Soviet Union. All my relatives, friends, former colleagues and numerous acquaintances thank you for your unwavering support since Russias full-scale and aggressive invasion of Ukraine, which began on February 24, 2022. Opinion After almost two full years of this devastating war, Ukrainian children have been hit especially hard. According to the United Nations, nearly two-thirds of Ukrainian youth have been forced to leave their home. Forced to leave their homes and relocate within the country or go abroad, this war has separated children from their parents who either wanted to stay and defend Ukraine or could not seek shelter with their children abroad. Those inside the country are in constant danger due to massive Russian attacks which have damaged energy systems, ruined water supply, caused a loss of heating, destroyed schools and hospitals and riddled cities with explosive devices. An estimated 5 million Ukrainian children have been dislocated from their homes since the war began. Due to Russian artillery and air attacks, approximately 575 children have died and at least 1,148 children total have been injured in the war. The number of total Ukrainian civilians killed has now reached more than 10,200. Stolen children On the Russian occupied territories of Ukraine, thousands of Ukrainian children have been kidnapped by Russian forces forcefully stolen and carried off to all parts of Russia. Hundreds have been returned, hundreds are in Russian foster care, but many more are still missing, the Guardian reported last October. Last March, following an investigation of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian Commissioner for Childrens Rights for the alleged war crime of unlawful deportation of children and the unlawful transfer of children from occupied areas of Ukraine to the Russian Federation. Just three months later, in June, the Secretary General of the United Nations added Russias armed forces to a list of parties that have committed grave violations affecting children in situations of armed conflict for reportedly killing and maiming hundreds of Ukraines children, using them as human shields and attacking schools and hospitals, according to the U.S. Department of State. Putin, who has been nicknamed Put-ler in Ukraine because of his treacherous crimes, has since limited his rare visits abroad. Could this be because he fears being arrested? The fiendish purpose of abducting children? To brainwash them and turn them against Ukraine so that Russia effectively erases their Ukrainian identity, culture and family. The majority of Russian camps that house stolen Ukrainian children engage in pro-Russia re-education efforts, according to the U.S. State Department. Ukraines students Meanwhile, in Western Ukraine, my cousin Oksanas first grade class was meeting in the basement of their school which had been turned into a bomb shelter. It was bitterly cold in the bomb shelter not to mention very dark and dreary. A local priest saw photos of the young children studying in heavy coats and mittens and volunteered his churchs 19th Century seminary which has walls that are 5-feet thick. The class was subsequently moved from the dark, freezing bomb shelter and allowed to meet above ground. This last December 6, the children got a visit from St. Nicholas. The class made reindeer pillows for Ukrainian soldiers at the front of the war effort. However, in a diabolical move, Russian forces sent drones and missiles to disrupt their joyful celebration, forcing the children to don their coats and go back down into the bomb shelters. A first grade class in Ukraine made reindeer pillows for soldiers at the front of the war effort. Of course, it was not by accident that the celebration was disrupted. The Russians have a plan to not only disrupt St. Nicholas celebrations, but to prevent all education from happening in Ukraine. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, more than 3,000 education institutions have been damaged or destroyed. Ukrainian schools that do not have equipped bomb shelters or basements work online. In wartime, Ukraines children are maturing very fast. Even the small ones understand what is happening around them. My grand-nephews and grand-nieces spend many hours both during the day and at night in bathrooms without windows to avoid injuries from shattered glass. The other day, I asked 8-year-old Artem what he did on the night of December 13 when Russian forces attacked Kyiv with 10 Shahed drones and 10 ballistic missiles. I finished reading (a) book in the bathroom, he said. I had three hours. Artem started stuttering 15 months ago and is undergoing psychological treatment now. Patriotic civility One of Russias favorite times to sadistically send drones is when school children are having their daily nap time. While lying on their rugs, small children must listen to bombs exploding all around them. Despite this, Ukraines education efforts have not stopped. Donations from Modesto residents have gone toward food delivered to the front of the war effort. My cousin, Oksana, told me that one of her six-year-old students has a father missing in action. He was wounded in the war effort, and his family hasnt been able to locate his body. The student, Ostap, and his 4-year-old sister live with only their mother as their sole caretaker. I wanted to send the family money, so I wired it to my cousin. She gave Ostap the money, telling him he and his family could use it anyway they wanted to. Two days later, my cousin called to tell me what the boy had decided: He had Oksana take him to the local military post where he distributed money to the soldiers for food and supplies. My cousin was surprised. She thought he would get something for himself. But the boy told her that the soldiers needed the money to find his father and defend his country. What a lesson for us all in patriotic civility. Dr. Serhiy Samborskyi is a lecturer at California State University Stanislaus. He was born, raised and educated in Khmelnytskyi and Kyiv, Ukraine. He can be reached at serhiys@me.com Rocklin police arrested a mother in connection with the death of a 4-month-old girl, the department said in a Saturday news release. Police said they were called for a welfare check to an apartment on the 3000 block of Parkside Drive around 2:10 a.m. Saturday. Officers said they found the baby unresponsive. After attempts to resuscitate the infant, police say, she was later pronounced dead. The babys mother, 30-year-old Jazmin Johnson, was arrested by the officers. She was booked into South Placer County Jail on suspicion of voluntary manslaughter and assault of a child. Police say they are in early stages of investigating the incident. LAS VEGAS (KLAS) A man was killed in a hit-and-run crash in the east Las Vegas valley late Friday night, according to Metro police. Around 11:55 p.m., police responded to a report of a hit-and-run on East Flamingo Road west of the intersection of South Pecos Road. Evidence at the scene and witness statements showed that a Ford F150 was driving eastbound on Flamingo Road approaching the intersection behind a moped. The crash occurred when the Ford failed to slow down when approaching the intersection and crashed into the back of the moped. The 66-year-old moped rider was thrown from the moped and the Ford continued east on Flamingo Road, police said. The moped rider was pronounced dead at the scene. Detectives canvassed the area and located a truck the matched the description of the vehicle. The truck was determined to be the one from the crash and the driver, identified as 68-year-old Kenneth Frank, was taken into custody. Frank faces charges of reckless driving resulting in death and failure to stop at the scene of an accident, records show. Frank is scheduled to appear in court Sunday. Police said the driver did not show any signs of impairment. This death marks the 11th traffic-related fatality in LVMPDs jurisdiction for 2024. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS. EV drivers, like everyone else, are creatures of habit. They have their go-to charging stations where they can plug in, use the bathroom, maybe grab a sandwich. Lately, though, some of the most convenient fast-charging stations mostly those located off major highways have become gridlocked, especially on busy weekends. Drivers are reporting waits of half an hour or more sometimes much more. One driver who posted on Reddit waited three hours to charge in Kettleman City on Thanksgiving weekend, turning a five-and-a-half-hour trip into a 10-and-a-half-hour ordeal. Ugh. Look, its one thing to spend 30 or 40 minutes charging a battery, which is a given when you take an EV on a road trip. But having to wait in a long line just to get to an open charging bay? Whats happening now is potentially a nightmare for drivers as more EVs hit the road, described GreenBiz transportation writer Vartan Badalian. Good for the environment, not so good for drivers In California, more than 20% of new cars purchased in 2023 were EVs, according to the California New Car Dealers Association, and that number will only grow as the state gets closer to phasing out sales of new, gasoline-powered cars. Thats good for the environment, but not so swell for the drivers competing for a limited number of chargers. The logical answer is to add more chargers. The state of California says its doing that. The California Energy Commission (CEC) is focused on rapidly deploying funds to meet the surge in demand and ensure an accessible, reliable, convenient charging network, wrote CECs director of communication. But throwing money at a problem is no guarantee it will be resolved in short order. So while were waiting for that convenient charging network to appear, what should we do? Badalian, the transportation writer, has an idea on how to deal with gridlock: As you approach a full charging location, your EV (of any make) connects to the charging location and enters itself into a virtual queue, with entry to the queue dependent upon close geographical proximity. Drivers then park in an available normal parking spot, and only when prompted, proceed to plug in and charge. If a driver attempted to charge before their turn, the chargers would simply not communicate with the vehicle.. A haphazard honor system If only that would work. Unfortunately, plug-in chargers have a tough enough time fulfilling their basic task of delivering electricity. Heres how bad it is: A survey of non-Tesla chargers conducted in the Bay Area in 2022 found that 27% of chargers were not working. This would be a good time to point out that Tesla superchargers have a much better performance record than other types of chargers, and that Tesla is opening select supercharger stations to other types of vehicles. Also, efforts are being made to increase the reliability of public chargers; the U.S. Department of Transportation just awarded $149 million in grants for the repair and replacement of broken chargers. The biggest share, $64 million, is going to California. In other words, hope is on the horizon. For now, though, we seem to be relying on a haphazard honor system. Foiled in little Los Alamos Heres how the honor system played out during a recent stop in Los Alamos, a sweet little town in Santa Barbara County along the 101. Its a dot-on-the-map kind of place population 1,275 but its been discovered thanks to its tasting rooms, boutique hotels and gourmet restaurants, including one with a Michelin star. Its also blessed with a non-Tesla, fast-charging station a rarity for a town of that size thats made it popular with EV drivers. When I pulled in, hoping to get a quick charge, I was immediately warned off by a stern-faced man wagging a finger at me. Turns out, one charger was out of service, the other spaces were filled some with cars whose drivers were nowhere to be seen, meaning who knows when they might be back. Only one driver appeared close to being finished, and the self-appointed line monitor was first up for that one, with another person waiting behind him. I moved on to Buellton, where I wound up charging at a tiny, hidden-away station near an alley behind City Hall. How about a special waiting lane? Theres got to be a better way to keep order. Heck, restaurants do a better job keeping order by just asking customers to scrawl their names on a waiting list. How hard would it be to use some orange cones to designate a waiting lane? That way drivers pulling in could get an immediate read on how long they might have to wait. No finger wagging required. Also, limit drivers to an 80% charge, and require them to drive away within, say, five minutes after the charger has stopped. That might be hard to enforce, but peer pressure can be a powerful incentive. The point is, somebody has to step up and make charging stations more driver-friendly, and the obvious choice is whoever is in charge of the chargers. Otherwise, there will be even more disgruntled EV drivers out there like the guy who waited three hours in Kettleman City who will scare off folks who are contemplating an EV purchase. For the sake of the environment, we dont want that to happen. So get this fixed, please. If you are thinking of buying an EV, dont let the scare stories stop you. Just avoid Kettleman City and Los Alamos on busy weekends. And be sure to pack some reading material. Over the past two months, 2,000 more residents have returned from evacuation to Donetsk Oblast than were evacuated during the same period. Source: Ukrinform news agency, citing Dmytro Petlin, head of the department of operational duty service, communication, alerting and informing the population of the department for civil protection, mobilisation and defence work of the Donetsk Oblast Military Administration, at a briefing. Quote: "From 26 February [2022] to the present day, about 1,357,000 people have been evacuated from the oblast. Among them are 163,520 children and about 42,650 people with disabilities. During this time, about 223,000 people have also returned. And this trend has been growing recently. Over the past two months, about 2,000 more people have returned than evacuated." Details: Petlin noted that currently, about 524,000 people remain in Donetsk oblast, and the evacuation continues. "We send evacuation trains daily from Pokrovsk to Lviv and every eight days to Berdychiv, Zhytomyr Oblast, where people are engaged in reception, accommodation, and assistance. A one-time cash allowance and a monthly accommodation allowance are paid," he reiterated. Support UP or become our patron! Donald Trump's campaign said it was "honored" to be endorsed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who suspended his campaign Sunday, as the former president said he would no longer call the governor by the mocking nickname "Ron DeSanctimonious." The brief note Sunday followed in the the governor's announcement. The statement read: "With only a few days left until President Donald J. Trumps victory in New Hampshire, we are honored by the endorsement from Governor Ron DeSantis and so many other former presidential candidates." Trump's campaign added that "it is now time for all Republicans to rally behind President Trump." At the moment, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley remains the only one of the initial close-to-a-dozen Republicans who sought the GOP nomination remaining as a challenger to Trump. Later, while speaking in Rochester, N.H., Trump "congratulated" the governor and complimented Florida first lady Casey DeSantis. "He ran a really good campaign. I will tell you it's not easy," Trump told those attending his rally. "But as you know, he left the campaign trail today, at 3 p.m., and in so doing he was very gracious and he endorsed me. I appreciate that. And I also look forward with Ron and everybody else to defeat Crooked Joe Biden." Earlier, Trump told a crowd that the derisive nickname "DeSanctimonious" was now "officially retired" to loud cheers. Former president Donald J. Trump's campaign said it was honored to receive Ron DeSantis' endrosement. DeSantis' fake Churchill quote: Did he quote a Budweiser ad when he dropped out of the race? One Florida ally of DeSantis immediately called for unity around Trump's candidacy. "As Republicans we must all rally behind President Donald J. Trump. Lets stop the infighting and unite behind a strong leader that will turn this country around!" wrote a post by state Sen. Blaise Ingoglia, a Spring Hill Republican and former chairman of the Florida Republican GOP. Commentary from Trump's supporters ranged from appreciative to gracious to taunting. U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, who endorsed Trump last November, posted: "Florida is all in for President Trump!" U.S. Rep. Matt Gaetz, a Pensacola Republican who is one of Trump's most vocal backers on Capitol Hill, shared on social media a photo of himself with DeSantis and simply the words "thank you." Taylor Budowich, CEO of Make America Great Again Inc., praised DeSantis saying he "made the right decision today to drop out and get behind President Donald Trump." Trump campaign manager Susie Wiles, a former DeSantis campaign aide, responded to a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, foreshadowing his departure from the race saying "Bye, bye." With DeSantis out, Trump campaign zeroes in on Nikki Haley Trump's campaign took aim at Haley, who served as U.N. ambassador in Trump's administration in its statement saying "Nikki Haley is the candidate of the globalists and Democrats who will do everything to stop the America First movement." The muted response to DeSantis' exit from the 2024 race was a sharp contrast to more than a year's worth of savaging of the governor by the former president. Trump dubbed DeSantis as "DeSanctimonious" in November 2022, just days before that year's midterm elections and as Trump readied to announce his 2024 presidential comeback campaign. Trump took on blowback for ridiculing his one-time political ally, who won a decisive reelection that fall, and the former president shelved his attacks until early 2023. It was then that Trump began unleashing fierce salvos singularly aimed at DeSantis, who did not officially enter the race until May, despite what by the spring of last year was a broad field of other suitors for the Republican nomination. Trump attacked DeSantis mercilessly for "disloyalty" in a seemingly personal fashion In a speech in West Palm Beach last February, Trump rolled out an early attack strategy in vowing that "under no circumstances will we allow anyone to cut Medicare or Social Security for our nation." In April, Trump's team fired off an ad ridiculing the governor, this one mocking DeSantis' purported habit of scooping pudding with his fingers. In West Palm Beach, Trump spoke at the Turning Point USA summit and repeated what by then was a stump speech staple, claiming credit for DeSantis' initial gubernatorial win in 2018. As DeSantis' standing in the polls eroded precipitously, Trump raised the intensity of the withering attacks. Speaking to the Club 47, a Trump fan club, the former president issued this warning last fall to the governor about his political future. "I think he blew it for in four years. You never know what's going to happen, but in '28, I don't see it happening," Trump said to a crowd of supporters. "I can never forget because that's such great disloyalty." After winning the Iowa caucus Jan. 15, Trump seemed to give both DeSantis and Haley an off-ramp by congratulating them in what was a seemingly uncharacteristic call for reconciliation and unity. When DeSantis didn't drop out after Trump decisively won the caucus, the former president again turned up the heat. In a post last week on his social media platform, Trump called DeSantis "very flawed" and said he is "out of money" and "out of hope." Reporting by Zac Anderson of the USA Today Florida Network was used in this story. This is a developing story. Please check back for updates. Antonio Fins is a politics and business editor at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at afins@pbpost.com. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today. This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Donald Trump's campaign said it was "honored" by DeSantis endorsement NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) Subfreezing conditions and treacherous roadways have contributed to dozens of deaths this month across the U.S., where states as far south as Texas and Florida remain gripped by deadly arctic weather Sunday. But the numbing cold is expected to ease up in the coming days. Nationally, winter storms have claimed at least 72 lives around the U.S. this January, many involving hypothermia or road accidents. On Sunday, crews in Memphis, Tennessee, continued to work around the clock to find and fix broken pipes that were causing low water pressure throughout the system. Memphis Light, Gas and Water President and CEO Doug McGowen told reporters Sunday afternoon that crews are making progress and he expects most of the 700,000 people the utility services to have water restored over the next 24 hours. If we remain on this very positive path, and we are on a positive path, I believe that by Wednesday we will have pressure sufficient for us to take samples of our water system, he said. Assuming good results, we think that means a Thursday for lifting of the boil water advisory. McGowen also asked people to stop dripping their faucets to help build pressure in the system. Memphis Light, Gas and Water was repairing 10 water main breaks on Sunday afternoon, and McGowen said he expects to see more as the ground continues to thaw. The utility said it previously repaired 41 broken water mains and located more than 4,000 leaks at homes and businesses. Rhodes College, in Memphis, began sending students living there home on Saturday and moving those who could not return home to hotels. The school was planning virtual classes on Monday and Tuesday. We ask that you NOT come to campus either day due to the ongoing water situation and the hazards that creates, the school announcement said. Sam Roth is a junior majoring in politics, philosophy and economics who drove back home to Nashville rather than staying in a hotel where he would still be required to boil water. Our faucets stopped working, and they said not to use any of the restrooms on our floor, and our showers were not working very well either, he said of the situation in his dormitory. Restaurants and bars were using bottled water to serve customers on Sunday. Some restaurants remained closed, citing the water issue, while others had a modified menu. Memphis was the largest, but not the only, water system in Tennessee to experience problems from the unusually cold weather. The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency said on Saturday night that 28 water systems have issued boil water notices. In Tipton County, the fire department in Mason warned residents on Saturday to be prepared for a multiday water outage. Fire officials said in a Facebook post that water crews were working at all hours to try to isolate and repair leaks. The mayor acknowledged in an interview with WMC-TV that the town has had water issues in the past due to a system that nobody took care of for a long time and is need of updates. The whole town has been without water for five days, said exasperated Mason resident Christina Ray. The fire department is handing out water throughout the town of 1,300 residents, but is limiting it to one case per day, per household. Thats not enough for her family, which was collecting snow to flush the toilets. Its hard to cook. Its hard to flush toilets. Its hard to do dishes. We cant wash laundry, she said. With warmer temperatures predicted this week, Ray now says she's faced with another worry: the potential of bursting pipes. The continued cold weather is also responsible for at least 27 deaths in Tennessee, according to the Tennessee Department of Health. Just south in Mississippi, the state's Emergency Management Agency said Sunday that 11 people have died of causes related to frigid weather since Jan. 14. Elsewhere, freezing rain, sleet and high wind gusts later Sunday would make traveling in parts of Kansas and Oklahoma particularly treacherous, the National Weather Service said. Wind chills in Iowa made it feel like minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 7 degrees Celsius) in some parts. But the end of subzero temperatures which blasted into the U.S. on Friday was in sight for parts of the country. The daily high temperatures in Iowas capital of Des Moines, for example, were expected to stay above freezing starting Monday. With no additional replenishment of arctic air from Canada, a steady warm-up is in store for the mid-section of the country, the weather service said. In western New York, Buffalo Bills fans were getting ready for another home playoff game Sunday evening against the Kansas City Chiefs, with temperatures forecast around 20 degrees Fahrenheit (minus 7 degrees Celsius), winds around 10 mph (16 kph) and a slight chance of snow showers. On Friday and Saturday, hundreds of people showed up at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park to help shovel snow out of the stands for the second week in a row, earning $20 an hour. The Erie County Sheriffs Office was urging fans Sunday to not throw snowballs in the stadium or trespass on the new stadium construction site. In Vermont, temperatures in the single digits to low teens didnt stop ice anglers and snowmobilers from their sport, and young ski jumpers braved the cold as they competed in northern New Hampshire. But 23 skiers and snowboarders had to be rescued in frigid temperatures on Saturday after becoming lost in the backcountry in Killington, Vermont, police said. On the West Coast, more freezing rain was forecast in the Columbia River Gorge and the area was expected to remain near or below freezing through at least Sunday night. Trees and power lines already coated with ice could topple if they get more, the National Weather Service warned. Stay safe out there over the next several days as our region tries to thaw out, the weather service said. Chunks of falling ice will remain a hazard as well. Heavy rain forecast for Southern California on Sunday and Monday prompted the Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management to issue an evacuation warning near Topanga Canyon effective through Tuesday morning due to possible mud or debris flows. The Los Angeles office of the National Weather Service reported possible rain totals up to 1.5 inches (3.8 centimeters) and up to 2.5 inches (6.3 centimeters) across the area's foothills through Monday night. ___ Associated Press writers David Collins in Hartford, Connecticut, Lisa Rathke in Danville, Vermont, Emily Wagster Pettus in Jackson, Mississippi, and Curt Anderson in St. Petersburg, Florida, contributed to this story. Korea's trade commission said Sunday it has decided to lift the anti-dumping tariff imposed since 2004 on Japanese stainless steel bars this week. The decision came as domestic producers of stainless steel bars, including Seah Changwon Integrated Special Steel, did not request the extension of the 15.39 percent tariff, according to the Korea Trade Commission. Stainless steel bars are used in various areas of industries, including aviation parts, medical instruments and construction materials. "(Since 2004), imports of Japanese stainless steel bars have significantly decreased on the back of the anti-dumping tariff," the commission said in a statement, noting that the competitiveness of the local industry also has been recovering. Korea's imports of Japanese stainless steel bars, which came to 9,269 tons in 2003, more than halved to 4,303 tons in 2021, the government data showed. The anti-dumping tariffs on Indian and Spanish stainless steel bars will also be lifted this week, it added. Separate anti-dumping tariffs, ranging from 9.47 percent to 18.56 percent, imposed on Taiwanese and Italian stainless steel bars will be removed on May 16 as well. (Yonhap) The best school in the country, measured by the progress made by its pupils, is not what many would expect. It does not select by ability or by postcode. It serves a deprived community in Wembley, London. It is unapologetically strict and rigorous in its teaching. Michaela, founded by Katharine Birbalsingh, is loathed by many on the Left, who despise its methods and resent its success. But the news that a pupil is suing the school over restrictions on ritual prayer has shocked many on the Right. How could this happen? ask immigration liberals and advocates of multiculturalism, with a naivety that is difficult to believe. The answer is plain. In many respects, and compared to other countries, Britain has succeeded in managing its newly multiracial identity. But in other obvious and very visible ways, it is failing. There is widespread self-segregation along ethnic and religious lines in British towns and cities. In many schools, segregation is more pronounced than in the communities they serve. Meanwhile, backed by ideological academics and lawyers, and encouraged or appeased by politicians and public bodies, activists peddling grievance harry individuals and organisations to win favour, special treatment and institutional power. They can do so thanks to the structures, laws and norms we ourselves have created. And the Michaela example is a case in point. The school is a sort of Singapore of the British education system. Just as Lee Kuan Yew concluded that his multiracial city state could only maintain peace through uncompromisingly tough justice, so Birbalsingh ensures her pupils are treated equally under a tough school disciplinary policy. Everyone eats vegetarian meals to avoid religious segregation at lunchtimes. There is no prayer room for any religion. Birbalsingh says she asks pupils from all backgrounds to make sacrifices so all can live in harmony. Our school must be a place, she explains, where children of all races and religions buy into something they all share and is bigger than ourselves: our country. But this vision is rejected by activists and their facilitators, who demand exceptionalism, not equality. It is no longer enough, in their worldview, to treat people equally. They argue we must treat people differently, in order to respect their beliefs and achieve equality not of opportunity but of outcome. Some go further still: they are more interested in turning invented hierarchies of oppression upside down which is why so many of them tolerate discrimination against whites and Jews. At Michaela, half its 700 pupils are Muslim. When around 30 started public prayer rituals in the shared playground, the governing body intervened. Birbalsingh explains that the decision was taken against a backdrop of events including violence, intimidation and appalling racial harassment of our teachers. Staff received death threats and were told the school would be bombed. Now, an unnamed pupil is suing Michaela, backed by over 100,000 in legal aid, and likely much more to come. The student had already been in trouble after being accused of intimidating other Muslim pupils who did not fast during Ramadan, and was suspended last year for allegedly threatening to stab another child (which the pupil denied). They are supported by a law firm in receipt of huge sums in public funding. They have instructed a barrister from Matrix Chambers, the legal practice specialising in human rights co-founded by Cherie Blair. Even though the school policy applies to all faiths, the Matrix argument is that it is a de facto Muslim prayer ban, because Islamic prayer is ritualised and not internal. Christian children, they say, are still allowed to pray personally and quietly. This all appears to come from the extremist playbook. As Ed Husain explains in The Islamist, the total Islamization of the public space at college (open prayers, Islamist posters, women in hijab) is an expression of power and intimidation of staff, other pupils and other Muslims. At Michaela, when the playground prayers began, more aggressive behaviour followed. A girl was pressured to wear a hijab. Another left the choir because she was told music was haram. Others were pressured to pray in public. It is no coincidence that MEND, described by the Shawcross review of Prevent as having a well-established track record of working alongside extremists, and the Muslim Council of Britain, subject to a no-engagement policy by ministers over extremism concerns, have both campaigned for school spaces to be given over to Muslim prayer sessions. This all matters, because our failure is shaping the kind of society we are fast becoming. This case ought to be a wake-up call, but it is not an isolated example. In east London, Barclay Primary School has police officers stationed on-site after receiving threats following the headteachers decision to prohibit political symbols, including the Palestinian flag. Another east London school, St Stephens, was intimidated into dropping its ban on primary-age children wearing the hijab. There were Islamist protests against sex education outside schools in Birmingham, and the Trojan horse plot, when activists attempted to take over state schools and impose a hardline Islamic ethos. There is the Batley teacher, still in hiding after showing a depiction of Muhammed in a religious education class, and the kangaroo court held in a Wakefield mosque after a boy lightly scuffed a copy of the Quran. Extremists are turning our schools and other public institutions into a battleground. But instead of confronting them, the authorities are appeasing and encouraging them. Our laws, especially equality and human rights laws, allow extremists and activists to play the state and society like a fiddle, while workplaces and public services have succumbed to political correctness and American critical race theory. Instead of letting ideologues destroy them, we need to build more institutions like Michaela resilient, unifying, and focused entirely on excellence. In Wembley and elsewhere, this is the choice we face. It could not be more serious. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer. "The event has been terminated by the organizer" is written on a display board mounted on a police vehicle. The organizer of an anti-right-wing demonstration with at least 80,000 people in Munich has called off the event due to overcrowding. A police spokesman told the German Press Agency on 21 January. The safety of the participants could no longer be guaranteed. The police were expecting at least 80,000 demonstrators, while the organizer was talking about 250,000. Sven Hoppe/dpa Organizers of a Munich demonstration against right-wing extremism have called off the event due to overcrowding, a police spokesman has told dpa. Police said the safety of the estimated 80,000 participants could no longer be guaranteed. Police had initially planned to accompany the demonstration with around 400 officers. Authorities had expected a crowd of about 25,000 at the Munich rally on Sunday. German cities have been swept by large protests for over a week after the release of an investigative report which revealed that several far-right politicians had attended a meeting alongside far-right extremists where plans to forcibly deport millions of immigrants from Germany were discussed. The overcrowding in Munich comes just a day after more than 300,000 people took to the streets of Hamburg, Frankfurt and other German cities to voice their opposition to the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party and to support democracy. LIMA (Reuters) - Peruvian President Dina Boluarte faced fierce backlash on Saturday from residents during a visit to the southern Andean region of Ayacucho, where 10 people were reported killed during anti-government protests in December 2022. Unverified videos shared on social media show people pushing up against security officials shouting "Dina is a murderer!" One woman, who said her husband had been killed in mid-December 2022 in protests that would go on for months, managed to evade security and shake up the president. Local media reported that she was taken away by police but not detained. The woman identified herself to reporters as Ruth Barcena and said her late husband, Leonardo Hancco, had been fatally shot during protests in December 2022. "My husband was murdered here. They killed my husband, and they want me to calm down?" Barcena shouted in the crowd. The December 2022 protests broke out after former President Pedro Castillo was ousted and arrested while illegally trying to close Congress. His vice-president, Boluarte, was rapidly sworn in but dozens died in ensuing protests, mostly in southern Peru. Boluarte has faced a constitutional complaint and probe on charges of "genocide, qualified homicide and serious injuries," charges she denies. Prime Minister Jorge Otarola condemned Saturday's protest as a "lamentable" act on X, saying it had "put in danger the head of state's integrity and this is very serious. With violence, we all lose as a country." Peru's interior ministry said it would carry out investigations to identify those responsible. (Reporting by Raul Cortes and Sarah Morland in Mexico City and Marco Aquino in Lima; Editing by Sandra Maler) Picture the scene. A cafe in a prosperous part of a city. Three men are enjoying coffee and pastries. They know each other well, enjoying the company. Then one of them starts talking about The Jews, telling his friends about their malign influence on the local area. He speaks loudly, he is uninhibited. Lots of people hear him. No one intervenes. Across the city, two young women are chatting on a crowded bus. They are 19 or 20 years of age. They discuss shopping for a while and then move on to their next topic. Dont the Jews make you feel sick? People are finally seeing them for what they are They are getting their comeuppance The women are not whispering. They are not quietly conspiratorial. They are brazen in their racism. They clearly feel it is OK to express these views loudly, clearly and in public. That same week, two men are walking down a busy street, talking loudly within earshot of passers-by. The conversation is led by a smartly dressed man in his late 40s. He too is talking about The Jews. He is unabashed. The Jews, the Jews its because the Jews . The city where all of these incidents took place is not Berlin in 1936. It is London in 2024. The conversations were heard by Jewish people I know. Something is shifting in our country. The open abuse of Jews is being normalised. This hatred is not just to be found at the pro-Palestine marches that dominate central London on Saturdays. It is finding its way more widely into life in Britains towns and cities, our schools and universities, our places of work, and it is increasingly taking place without challenge, without consequence. This change has taken place since the pogrom in Israel on October 7. Despite the fact that it was Jewish people who were the victims of a racist, genocidal attack, it is Jews who are facing a level of racism in the UK that many of us have not experienced in our lifetimes. It is the openness of this anti-Jewish racism that feels new, and that tells us something significant and troubling. It is becoming increasingly permissible to express anti-Semitic sentiments in public spaces. It is becoming increasingly frequent for young Jewish students to feel unsafe on university campuses. It is becoming increasingly common for Jewish employees to feel ostracised in the workplace. Doubtless, Jew-hatred existed in the UK before October 7 but it tended to be more the occupation of the far-Right, of anti-Semitic Islamists, of Left-wing academics and Corbyn outriders. Now, its seeping into the soil of everyday life, what you hear on the train, what you pass by on the street, the conversation in the cafe. It is as dangerous if not more dangerous than those marches with their genocidal chants and calls for the destruction of Israel. The question is what can be done about it. This should matter to all of us. What begins as hatred of Jews does not end there. The prejudice spreads, the discord grows, our social cohesion comes under ever more pressure. Liberal democracy begins to fray. I believe very strongly that there is a silent majority in Britain of all ethnicities and backgrounds who do not subscribe to these anti-Jewish prejudices. They deplore the racism and hatred they have seen on the marches. They are horrified by the massacre in Israel in October and understand that the genocidal terrorists of Hamas must be defeated. They know that the Jews of Britain small community that it is are typically hard-working, committed citizens who contribute a great deal to public life. So, I respectfully call today for the often quieter voices of tolerance, reason and respect to become louder. If you see anti-Jewish prejudice being experienced by your colleagues at work, speak up. If you are a university lecturer who can see that Jewish students do not feel safe, do something about it. If you are a police officer, take Jew-hatred as seriously as any other form of racism. If you are a politician, make it clear where you stand on anti-Semitism. And, whoever you are, if you have a friend or acquaintance who starts talking about The Jews, make sure they know that their prejudice will not be tolerated. It simply has no place in our country. Danny Cohen is a former director of BBC Television Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer. Former president Donald Trump said countries must be prepared to spend on defence if they want protection. (AP) Vladimir Putin has issued a stark warning to Nato, suggesting any potential conflict with Russia would put the world one step away from World War 3. The Russian president's comments came amid a landslide victory in an election that was branded a sham by leaders in the west. Putin's win with 87% of the vote puts him ahead of Joseph Stalin as Russia's longest serving leader in the past 200 years. Asked about the potential for conflict with Nato, Putin said: "everything is possible in the modern world." It is clear to everyone, that this will be one step away from a full-scale World War Three. I think hardly anyone is interested in this, Speaking about his election win, and subsequent negative reaction from western leaders, Putin added: No matter who or how much they want to intimidate us, no matter who or how much they want to suppress us, our will, our consciousness no one has ever succeeded in anything like this in history. It has not worked now and will not work in the future. Never. His comments came after a Nato military official warned in January that the West should prepare for war with Russia in the next 20 years, and should "expect the unexpected". Speaking at a meeting in Brussels, the chair of Nato's military committee of national chiefs, Admiral Rob Bauer, said: "We have to realise its not a given that we are in peace. And thats why we [Nato forces] are preparing for a conflict with Russia. But the discussion is much wider. It is also the industrial base and also the people that have to understand they play a role... the realisation that not everything is plannable and not everything is going to be hunky dory in the next 20 years. He added: We need to be readier across the whole spectrum. You have to have a system in place to find more people if it comes to war, whether it does or not. Then you talk mobilisation, reservists or conscription. You need to be able to fall back on an industrial base that is able to produce weapons and ammunition fast enough to be able to continue a conflict if you are in it. Chair of the NATO Military Committee Admiral Rob Bauer said Western armies and political leaders must anticipate conflict with Russia in the next 20 years. (AP Photo/Virginia Mayo) Germanys defence minister Boris Pistorius told news outlet Der Tagesspiegel that the country's experts were looking at a 5-8 year period in which they could see the possibility of Russia attacking a Nato country. "We hear threats from the Kremlin almost every day... so we have to take into account that Vladimir Putin might even attack a Nato country one day," Pistorius said, stressing that the threat was not expected now. "Our experts expect a period of five to eight years in which this could be possible." His comments came as the Russia-Ukraine conflict marked its 695th day, and as Russian forces said they had taken control of the Vesele settlement in the eastern Donetsk region of Ukraine. "Not only has their counteroffensive failed, but the initiative is entirely in the hands of the Russian Armed Forces," Russia's president Vladimir Putin said this week, despite Ukraine ramping up air strikes in the region. "If this continues, Ukraine's statehood could be dealt an irreparable, very serious blow," Read more: What is Nato? The North Atlantic Treaty Organization is a political and military alliance of 30 countries. Nato was set up in 1949 to protect members against the Soviet Union, with 12 nations initially signing up to the North Atlantic Treaty in Washington DC. These countries were the US, Canada, the UK, Belgium, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway and Portugal. Nato's stated political objectives are to "promote democratic values", "enable members to consult and cooperate on defence and security-related issues", and to "prevent conflict". The organisation says it "is committed to the peaceful resolution of disputes", but if diplomacy fails it will use its military power "to undertake crisis-management operations". What happens if a Nato country is attacked? The collective defence clause of Nato's founding treaty Article 5 of the Washington Treaty is a provision that means an attack against one member is considered an attack against all of them. This is a fundamental part of Nato and why it says it is a defensive alliance. Nato says military operations are carried out under Article 5 or a United Nations mandate, alone or in co-operation with other countries and international organisations. Last month, in direct response to the conflict in Ukraine, Nato said: "Allies are committed to deploying robust and combat-ready forces on the Alliances eastern flank. The eight battlegroups demonstrate the strength of the transatlantic bond and the Alliances solidarity, determination and ability to respond to any aggression. "Many activities undertaken by Allies nationally also contribute to increased Allied activity in the eastern part of the Alliance. In response to Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Allies have sent additional ships, planes and troops to NATO territory in eastern Europe, further reinforcing the Alliances deterrence and defence posture." Crucially, Ukraine is not a member of Nato and therefore the alliance is not treaty-bound to defend it, while US president Joe Biden has said he will not send American or allied troops to fight Russia in Ukraine. US president Joe Biden has said he will not send American troops to fight Russia in Ukraine. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta) However, Kyiv is a close partner and was promised eventual membership of the alliance. The 30-member Nato works with Ukraine to modernise its armed forces. Sweden has applied to join Nato along with Finland which shares a border with Russia with Nato hoping the expansion will boost its eastern Europe defences. However, alliance members Hungary and Turkey are currently blocking the accession. Which countries are in Nato, and what date did they join? 1949: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the UK, the US. 1952: Greece, Turkey 1955: Germany 1982: Spain 1999: Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland 2004: Bulgaria, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia 2009: Albania, Croatia 2017: Montenegro 2020: North Macedonia Why does Putin see Nato as a threat? Since the Cold War ended, Nato has expanded eastwards by taking in 14 new countries, including the states of the former Warsaw Pact and the three Baltic nations that were once in the Soviet Union. Russia sees this as a threatening encroachment towards its borders and continues to say it was a betrayal of Western promises at the start of the 1990s something Nato denies. Ukraine is not a Nato member but has a promise dating from 2008 that it will eventually get to join. Since toppling a pro-Russian president in 2014, Ukraine has become closer politically to the West, staged joint military exercises with Nato and taken delivery of weapons. Kyiv and Washington saw these as legitimate moves to bolster Ukraine's defence after Russia seized the Crimea region in 2014 and provided backing to separatists in eastern Ukraine. Putin believes Ukraine's growing ties with the alliance could make it a launchpad for Nato missiles targeted at Russia. He said Russia needs to lay down "red lines" to prevent that. Last year, Putin said Nato troops on the ground fighting the Russian army would be "a very dangerous step that could lead to a global catastrophe". In a recent address, Putin also said: "In Nato documents, our country is officially and directly declared the main threat to North Atlantic security. And Ukraine will serve as a forward springboard for the strike." But his demands that Ukraine drop its long-term goal of joining the Atlantic military alliance have been repeatedly rebuffed by Kyiv and Nato states. Charter schools I support the State Board of Educations new policy of requiring increased accountability for charter schools. (Jan. 14) The state policy makers who pushed for charter schools hoped to induce higher levels of learning and life skills through innovations in curriculum and instructional methods. Unfortunately, there is little evidence those laudable intentions are being achieved. In fact , the most notable achievement seems to be the unintentional (or maybe not ) increase in segregation. The fact that a majority of charters do not score significantly above their local district brings into question their purpose. It suggests better accountability and oversight are much needed. After all, if charter schools are unable to perform at high levels of expectation, why have them at all? Norman Overstreet, Raleigh Regarding Friend, donor of insurance commissioner paid as his driver, (Jan. 17): In regards to North Carolina Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey being chauffeured around, I just want to remind everyone that weve seen this movie before. It reminds me of Driving Miss Daisy the main differences being that the driving was not at taxpayers expense and the movie was enjoyable to watch. This version? Not so much! Donald Trull, Sanford Raleigh and Gaza Regarding Should Triangle governments take a stand on Gaza? Hundreds speak out in Raleigh. (Jan. 17): The job of the Raleigh City Council is to take care of the needs of Raleigh citizens not fix the greater worlds problems. At any given time, 70 million refugees live in horrid conditions worldwide caused by ongoing conflicts. Should our city pick favorite conflicts? Is a life more important in Gaza than in Kibbutz Reim, or in Darfur or Myanmar or Yemen? Anyone with a minimum of human feeling has been heartbroken by the last 100 days and feels for victims families on all sides. But individual feelings need not interfere with the governance of a Southern town, a speck on a world map, that has no way of fixing humanitys hubris and intolerance. Roland Menestres, Raleigh Take a stand In the distant past, the idea of a city taking a position on wider world issues would have been dismissed (wrongly) as irrelevant to city affairs. But to refuse to address an issue that people want addressed by claiming insufficient authority doesnt apply to a resolution on a moral issue. Towns, cities and states have taken positions on immigration, abortion and environmental issues. Certainly, the 15 cities that have passed such resolutions dont see a barrier to action. Our world is more connected today and global events have local impacts. Ignoring them will not alleviate their effects or mitigate their consequences. Knowledge of injustice demands a response from all of us. Wayne Turner, Pittsboro Transparency Regarding the reluctance of some N.C. legislators to share their emails with the public, I must be missing something. I thought these legislators were elected by we the people, paid from the public purse, doing their official business in the peoples house and on the peoples dime. I guess Article I, Section 2, of our state doesnt mean what it says, when it says: All political power is vested in and derived from the people...is founded upon their will only, and is instituted solely for the good of the whole. It sure doesnt seem to say that government is for legislators to keep well hidden or direct to their own good. David Hopp, Durham Barry Goldwater Remember Barry Goldwater? Republicans ran the outspoken Arizona senator for president in 1964. At the GOP convention he said: Extremism in the defense of liberty is no viceand moderation in the pursuit of justice is no virtue. The crowd went wild for a full minute. Shockm sockm diplomacy. Then, as now, Republicans were drunk on putting up a candidate with no couth, no restraint. Goldwaters hair on fire was supposed to sway the electorate but he lost to Lyndon Johnson in a landslide. Gob-smacked Republicans slunk off wondering how they could have misjudged the contest so. History is repeating itself and itll soon be too late to find somebody else. Andrew Leager, Haw River Donald Trumps name appears only a couple of times in Late Fascism, the dense, concise and intellectually ambitious new book from Italian philosopher and political theorist Alberto Toscano. Thats obviously a considered decision, and there are more than enough not-very-veiled references to Trump and the MAGA movement to make clear that Toscano understands the symbolic importance of Americas homegrown would-be dictator to the phenomenon hes trying to delineate. For that matter, the notorious European political leaders of the 1930s with whom Trump is frequently compared you know who I mean, the strutting Italian peacock and the little Austrian with the stache dont play starring roles in Late Fascism either. Thats partly because Toscano is more concerned with political and philosophical theories of fascism and anti-fascism, with the backstage machinery, so to speak, rather than the actors facing the crowd. But beyond that, its because Toscanos central argument as I read this admittedly challenging work is that fascism should be understood as a dynamic or a process unfolding throughout recent history, not as a singular event associated with charismatic leaders, mass rallies and fashion-forward uniforms that emerged during a global economic crisis and then was defeated, only to resurface unexpectedly in the 21st century. Toscano writes in his preface that he does not intend late fascism to operate like an academic brand, meaning a trendy label embraced as an all-purpose explanation, a la neoliberalism, late capitalism or globalization. He may protest too much: Late Fascism is so loaded with moments of insight and illumination into the tormented historical, political and psychological roots of our current crisis that such an outcome may be inevitable. Although Toscano never provides a single straightforward definition of what fascism is or isnt, his thought and language are so precise and specific that he cant be accused of flinging the term at every right-of-center political formation that contains elements of nostalgia. Until recently he was primarily known as a translator and scholar steeped in the work of European leftist titans like Alain Badiou, Georges Bataille and Antonio Negri. But with this book he stakes a claim as a major voice in the 21st-century renovation of Marxism, especially alert to the ways that the collision of racism, antisemitism and corporate capitalism have fueled a global mood of crisis and opened the door for a late fascist renaissance. Toscanos entire book can be read as a taxonomy of fascism, but he comes closest to a working definition in his discussion of German philosopher Ernst Blochs Heritage of Our Times, a protean, fascinating and unsettling work first published in 1935 but not available in English until 1991, which seems startlingly germane to the contemporary moment. Writing near the beginning of the Nazi regime, Bloch understood fascism as a perverted utopian promise, in Toscanos phrase, with a strange relationship to time and history. That promise appeals most strongly to social groups who find themselves somehow out of sync with the rationalizing present of capitalism, offering them a fraudulent reactivation of unfulfilled pasts and unrealized presents. That strikes me as an almost perfect description of Trumps most loyal supporters: As reams of social-science research have confirmed, they are not necessarily poor or unemployed or economically struggling in any objective sense but they clearly perceive themselves as out of sync with the dominant social order, and feel enraged or cheated out of something they cannot define but believe they deserve. The problem for leftist opponents of fascism, as Bloch sees it (and as Toscano seems to agree), is that fascist ideology is not purely or entirely deceptive; it also contains fragments of an old and romantic antagonism to capitalism, derived from deprivations in contemporary life, with a longing for a vague other. To put that in more familiar terms, fascism is driven by mythic yearning whether for an imaginary premodern Aryan folk culture or for Americas ahistorical lost greatness and the rationalist counternarratives about economic progress or class conflict variously put forward by socialism and liberalism have a tough time competing with that. There is an ironic contradiction within the MAGA version of fascist mythology, however, which few mainstream commentators have noticed. As Toscano writes, Trumps movement is conspicuously driven by nostalgia for Americas postwar affluence, for the Fordist heyday of Big Capital and Big Labor (generally coded as male and white) for a racialized and gendered image of the socially recognized patriotic industrial worker. Yet that era of rising if unequal prosperity was fueled by progressive taxation, widespread union membership and an unprecedented explosion of government spending and social welfare programs, all of which are not just anathema to the MAGA creed but unimaginable under current political conditions. The Trumpian false utopia promises the benefits of social democracy, in other words, without compelling the ruling class to pay for them. Blochs book is only one of the numerous little-known or underappreciated works that Toscano draws upon, although usual suspects like Hannah Arendt, Antonio Gramsci and Theodor Adorno certainly appear as well. He offers a powerful re-reading of 1970s work by Black radicals Angela Davis and George Jackson, arguing that they offer a prophetic understanding of fascism as a differential process, in which some groups effectively live in a police state while others experience a reasonably functional democracy. In a later chapter, Toscano resurrects another 70s radical, the Italian literary critic Furio Jesi, whose extraordinary insights into the religion and mythology of death in right-wing culture were entirely new to me. Toscanos understanding of fascism as a kind of mythic current both in the liquid and the electrical sense that runs below the surface of postwar society but is never entirely absent, leads to one of his most compelling and, no doubt, most controversial points: It is a comforting but dangerous delusion, he argues, to view liberal democracy and fascism as polar opposites, or to assume that we know where one stops and the other begins. He attacks this question in a number of ways throughout the book, beginning with the observation that our knee-jerk identification of fascism with a monolithic, bureaucratic state and its opposition to liberalism in all its forms is misguided. Contrary to Arendts oft-quoted assertion that totalitarianism aims at abolishing freedom, even at eliminating human spontaneity in general, Toscano offers ample evidence that both German and Italian fascism defined themselves as forces of liberation, offering a project of racial imperialism based on a masculine-identified notion of freedom drawn from all those vague myths about the past and linked to the authoritarian rebel personality described by Erich Fromm, who, on the basis of their inner strength and integrity, fight those forces that block their freedom and independence. Its impossible to read that quotation without recognizing an early version of the MAGA conception of liberty from so-called medical totalitarianism, for and of property ownership, or as a marker of civilizational difference from migrants and their religions, as Toscano puts it. When Italian fascism first came to power just over a century ago, he writes, it was not as a totalitarian fusion of political and economic forces but as a particularly virulent strain of state-led anti-statism, which is about as pithy a summary of the federal government during Trumps (first) term as one could offer. Toscanos deeper point, although he doesnt exactly put it this way, is that democracy and fascism exist on a continuum. They share the same fundamental conception of individual or bourgeois liberty, ultimately drawn from the likes of John Locke, Adam Smith and Edmund Burke (all of whom would no doubt be horrified by every aspect of 21st-century politics). Its self-flattering nonsense to treat them as binary states of light and darkness, or to resort to idiotic metaphors about Americas sacred democracy teetering on the edge of a bottomless abyss. Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter, Crash Course. I think many of us understand this on a basic level Ive written about it a couple of times myself and feel more than a little squidgy about the relentless torrent of political and journalistic sermons urging us to embrace the last chance to save democracy from the red-hatted barbarians who will storm the gates if they can actually get off the sofa. (Which is exactly what we were told about the last election, not to mention the one before that, and also what we will be told about the next one.) You dont have to be an acknowledged Marxist like Toscano to look at the political reality created by Citizens United, the Federalist Society and the Electoral College (none of which can be blamed on Trump or his followers) and ask what democracy Joe Biden and his party claim to be defending. Fewer than one in five American voters live in a state likely to be contested in this years presidential election, and the widely dreaded rematch between Trump and Biden will probably be decided by the whims and grievances of 100,000 or so swing voters scattered across those states. Furthermore, both Mussolini and Hitler first gained power through electoral victories, and only gradually subsumed the state apparatus to their purposes. Toscano points out that the Nazis never bothered to replace the constitution of the Weimar Republic, which theoretically remained in force right through 1945. Thats one of many occasions when he observes that the fascist reputation for ruthless efficiency and administrative competence is completely undeserved. (He also argues that the pop-culture presentation of Nazis as stylish, sophisticated and erotic is ludicrous projection.) Donald Trumps attempted coup of 2021, lets remember, was scripted by lawyers who meant to contain it within the purported constitutional guardrails of democracy. In many respects they hoped to emulate the notorious Compromise of 1877, when a presidential election that was ultimately decided in Congress brought an end to Reconstruction, set democracy back by many decades and launched the Jim Crow era, in what could fairly be described as a capitulation to proto-fascist forces in the white South. Whether the Capitol attack of Jan. 6 was part of that original script or was (more likely) an improvised response to its failure, that became the moment when it was acceptable for mainstream voices to label Trumps movement as fascist. Toscano would argue that they were finally, and reluctantly, naming a tendency that was present in our politics long before Trump, and will be there long after hes gone. The ongoing strike by Newton educators will continue after the two sides could not reach a deal despite a full session of bargaining on Saturday, the mayors office says. The two sides met with a mediator at the Newton Education Center at 10:00 a.m. Saturday morning and continued to negotiate past 7:00 p.m., Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller updated Saturday evening. The mayor says both sides hope to get students back in the classroom on Monday. In Newton, we deeply value our teachers. That is and will always be the case. And, we want them in their classrooms, the mayors office said in a statement. The current impasse in contract negations is not a referendum on our respect for teachers nor on the vital role schools play in our City. On Friday, a Middlesex Superior Court judge filed a preliminary injunction against the Newton teachers, ordering an immediate cease and desist of the ongoing strike and an immediate return to the classroom. The Newton Teachers Association has until Sunday by 3 p.m. to cancel the strike or they will be breaking the law, according to a ruling by Judge Christopher Barry-Smith. This is a difficult time for children, families and caregivers, and teachers in Newton. I understand that. The School Committee negotiating team will work hard on Sunday to settle. Thats our goal., Mayor Ruthanne stated. If that doesnt happen, I urge the union to end their strike which is illegal and teachers to be with students on Monday while the NTA continues to bargain. The teachers contract expired at the end of August and the two sides have been negotiating a three-year contract. The educators are calling for a cost-of-living pay increase to more adequately compare to peers in comparable districts. In addition, to pay the other concerns brought by the union include large class sizes in the high school and more staff in the elementary schools. The teachers current contracts have step increases each year (annual bumps and raises with each year of experience). The union claims the mayors offer lumps those annual bumps in, which they say makes the offer less valuable than it appears. Newton schools were closed Friday due to the strike. A spokesperson for the Newton Teachers Association told Boston 25 News Friday that they recognize the strike causes inconvenience but believe it will be worth the effort. The NTA realizes that strikes come with disruption, but we believe the short term disruption is worth it to secure continued educational excellence for the students of Newton, the NTA stated. We are dedicated to securing a contract that the students, parents, and educates of Newton need and deserve. Mayor Fuller can end the strike immediately by fairly addressing the issues we have been raising for years. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW Opinion editor's note: Star Tribune Opinion publishes a mix of national and local commentaries online and in print each day. To contribute, click here. Pretend with me for a few sentences, please, that you're a DFL member of the Minnesota House. You are thinking more likely obsessing about your bid for re-election this year. You're worried that weak enthusiasm for your party's president, Sen. Amy Klobuchar's non-contest for a fourth term, and the absence of any other high-profile statewide races will translate to low DFL turnout. You fear that poor turnout may land you back in the minority in 2025. Are your thoughts turning to constitutional amendments? You're thinking like a legislator already! The notion of ginning up turnout by turning crowd-animating issues into proposed amendments to the Minnesota Constitution is not a new one. Republicans tried that very thing and failed spectacularly with their same-sex marriage ban and voter ID amendments in 2012. With their trifecta control of the State Capitol, DFLers have a ripe opportunity in the session that convenes on Feb. 12 to try their hands at this game. Not that DFLers need a trifecta to put constitutional amendments on the 2024 ballot, mind you. The Legislature is empowered to do that all by itself, without a governor's say-so or signature. Gov. Tim Walz can only offer encouragement, which he did at an event on Jan. 8. That day's venue was Planned Parenthood headquarters in St. Paul, leaving no doubt about which issue the DFL governor has in mind. It's "important that we keep [abortion] at the forefront of people's minds," Walz said that day. "We need to make sure the public is active" in efforts to protect reproductive rights from future changes in state political tides. That's the argument for adding protection for abortion rights to the state Constitution. It's not that the legality of abortion is at risk under current state law. Minnesota's statutory foundation for abortion rights was strengthened by the Legislature and Walz just a year ago, in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court's 2022 Dobbs decision. Rather, it's that statutes can be changed with relative ease by future governors and Legislatures. Constitutional provisions are harder to dislodge. The obliging folks at ERA-MN are preparing just what Walz ordered. They've been revising the language of their long-sought state Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) to explicitly include protection for reproductive rights, including abortion. There's some irony in that move. For decades, advocates for federal and state bans on gender-based discrimination have rejected the charge that the ERA is really a stalking horse for abortion. They are separate issues, the pro-ERA forces insisted, pointing to the fact that the U.S. Supreme Court found ample justification in 1973 to make abortion legal without an ERA in the federal Constitution. Now that SCOTUS has changed its tune about abortion, so has ERA-MN, acknowledged its founder, former state Rep. Betty Folliard. "The ERA question is much bigger than abortion. It says discrimination is not OK, and we want protections for all people, especially in the workplace," Folliard told me. But "after Dobbs, we've seen that rights can be given and rights can be taken away unless they are embedded in our constitution." Those rights include bodily autonomy, she said, and she'll be at the Capitol pushing to put on the 2024 ballot a version of the ERA that says so. ERA-MN won't be alone in an amendment quest. In fact, one amendment has already landed on this November's ballot. Last session, legislators agreed to ask voters to give the state's lottery-funded Environmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund, due to expire in 2025, another 25-year lease on life. Joining the ERA advocates in hot amendment pursuit will be a housing coalition called Our Future Starts at Home. Composed of more than 50 nonprofit organizations, the coalition will be asking for a 3/8ths percent increase in the state sales tax, to be dedicated to housing assistance for low-income Minnesotans. The request is modeled after the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment that led the ballot in 2008. Anne Mavity, executive director of the Minnesota Housing Partnership, says the data are clear: The state's housing market for lower-income people is broken, and other societal ills can't be remedied unless housing needs are met. Inconsistent funding, one legislative session at a time, can't solve the problem, she added. "One and done is not how housing development works. We need funding in an ongoing way." Mavity and Folliard both say their organizations are ready to run robust Vote Yes campaigns this year. Both will argue that the constitutional changes they favor have wide support and can boost turnout, particularly among the progressive voters that DFL legislators want to attract to the polls. Both plan rallies at the Capitol early in the new session the ERA on Feb. 12, the housing coalition on Feb. 20 to punctuate that point. Are you still thinking like a DFL legislator? If you are, you can hear both Mavity and Folliard singing sweet music in your ear. Lori Sturdevant is a retired Star Tribune editorial writer. She is at lsturdevant@startribune.com. Nicola Sturgeon is facing a criminal investigation over deleting her WhatsApp messages from the pandemic after bereaved families instructed lawyers to prepare a police complaint. Aamer Anwar, lead solicitor of the Scottish Covid Bereaved group, said he had been instructed to make a complaint to Police Scotland. He said he would also ask the Information Commissioners Office to investigate any potential breaches of the law after the UK Covid Inquiry heard on Friday that no messages whatsoever had been handed over by Ms Sturgeon. Mr Anwar told the Sunday Mail there were severe consequences for those in power who choose to delete information with the intention of preventing its disclosure to a public inquiry. Three relatives who formed a campaign group after their mothers died in 2020 at Almond Court care home in Glasgow said they were also considering a police complaint. The UK Government wrote to all devolved governments in June 2021, February 2022 and October 2022 asking for material of potential relevance to be kept and not destroyed. Under the Inquiries Act 2005, it is a criminal offence if someone intentionally suppresses, conceals, alters or destroys a relevant document. Offenders face a large fine or even prison. Deeply concerning WhatsApp messages may also need to be retained to comply with Freedom of Information laws. David Hamilton, the Scottish Information Commissioner, said on Saturday: Some of the material presented at the inquiry is deeply concerning, and will be considered further by my office. Following months of obfuscation by Ms Sturgeon, Jamie Dawson, KC, counsel to the inquiry, confirmed on Friday that no messages whatsoever or notebooks were handed over by the former first minister. John Swinney, who was deputy first minister during the pandemic, erased his messages using an auto-delete function. It also emerged that Prof Jason Leitch, Scotlands national clinical director, told his colleagues that WhatsApp deletion is a pre-bed ritual less than 24 hours after the UK inquiry was unveiled. But Ms Sturgeon made an unequivocal promise during a Covid press conference in August 2021 that her WhatsApps would be handed over to a future public inquiry. The disclosure they had been deleted caused uproar on Friday, at the end of the first week of the UK public inquiry sitting in Edinburgh to take evidence about the Scottish Governments handling of the pandemic. Chaired by Lady Hallett, it is scheduled to hear testimony this week from Prof Leitch, Liz Lloyd, Ms Sturgeons former chief of staff, and First Minister Humza Yousaf. Ms Sturgeon and Mr Swinney will give evidence next week. Mr Anwar said it was now a matter of public record that Ms Sturgeon, Mr Swinney and Prof Leitch had wilfully deleted their messages. He said: The deletion of WhatsApps can only be seen as a cynical, premeditated decision and of course Ms Sturgeon and others must answer as to their motivation for deleting messages. He added: The trust that my clients had in the Scottish Government being transparent and accountable is left shattered. We are now instructed to prepare a criminal complaint to Police Scotland and to ask the Information Commissioners Office to investigate any potential breaches of the law. Relatives disquiet Jackie Marlow, George Hillhouse and Tracy MacMillan of the Almond Court group of relatives told the Scottish Mail on Sunday: We are disgusted officials deleted messages during the pandemic, indicative of them having something to hide. Knowing what we know now, that clearing this correspondence when they knew there was to be an inquiry may be criminal, we are considering reporting this to the police. In a lengthy statement published on social media on Saturday, Ms Sturgeon admitted that her messages had not been retained on my own device. She said she had been able to obtain copies of some between me and those I most regularly communicated with through informal means. The inquiry has received messages from Ms Sturgeon extracted from other peoples mobile devices. The former first minister also said she conducted her Covid response through formal processes, was not a member of a WhatsApp group and only used informal messaging systems to communicate with a limited number of people. However, evidence shown to the inquiry on Friday showed she used WhatsApp for discussions with Ms Lloyd and Mr Yousaf, who was health secretary before he became first minister. A schedule of her communication methods also said she would exchange information or views with colleagues by text or WhatsApp. However, it said that messages were not retained, they were deleted in routine tidying up of inboxes or changing of phones. It said she was unable to retrieve messages and had nothing to return. Ms Sturgeon argued that she acted in line with Scottish Government policy, which gave ministers discretion to decide what should be kept and what deleted. A spokeswoman for Ms Sturgeon and Mr Swinney referred to the statements they have previously issued and said they would not comment further. His spokesman said on Friday: Mr Swinney is committed to full transparency. He has engaged fully with the Covid inquiry and will continue to do so. All messages were handled in line with Scottish Government policies. Police Scotland said it was not aware of any complaints having been made. 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. By Lee Yeon-woo The asset tokenization market in Korea has resumed, yet is showing underwhelming performance. This raises questions about the success of trading token securities fractions of traditional assets like art expected to start at the Korea Exchange within the first half of the year. According to industry sources, Sunday, Seoul Auction Blue recently concluded its investment offering for shares of Andy Warhol's "Dollar Sign" Series 8, with a subscription rate of 86.9 percent. The target for the offering was 700 million won ($523,364). Despite the publisher covering 10 percent of this target, the offering failed to sell out. Seoul Auction Blue will absorb the remaining amount and proceed with issuing the planned security tokens. Earlier, Yeolmae Company undertook 17.9 percent of the shares following its investment offering for Yayoi Kusama's "Pumpkin." As the first operator to resume asset tokenization, it attracted significant attention, evidenced by a competitive subscription rate of 6.53:1. However, many investors ultimately chose to relinquish their rights on the payment day. Despite Warhol and Kusama's prominence in the art market, the overall market downturn is seen as a reason behind the undersubscriptions of these offerings. Additional fees associated with art dealing, such as carrying and appraisal charges, also present barriers. Delving into the details of Warhol's artwork, approximately 626 million won of the total 700 million won offering was allocated to the art pieces themselves. The remaining 73 million won, or 10 percent of the price, was set aside for additional fees required for purchase. As investors face another 10 percent in fees during the sale, they would only see profits if the price of the art increases by at least 20 percent. This news might be concerning to firms that have sought to enter the market this year following its formalization by financial authorities. The Korea Exchange is gearing up to allow the trading of security tokens on the stock market. However, some believe it's too early to hold a negative outlook on the overall security token market. The cases highlighted so far have focused exclusively on art, but tokenized assets in other categories could attract more interest. Reportedly, dozens of corporations in Korea are planning to issue security tokens based on a variety of assets, including Korean beef, real estate and intellectual property rights. Despite his repeated bragging that he aced a cognitive test while in office, many have questioned Trumps mental fitness to be president in recent days. His opponent, former Trump cabinet member Nikki Haley, is making political hay out of his recent flub where he confused her with former House speaker Nancy Pelosi. Dont be surprised if you have someone that is 80 in office, their mental stability is going to continue to decline. Thats just human nature, the former South Carolina governor said Sunday on Face the Nation. (Trump is 77 years-old and would be 78 on inauguration day 2025). She added, I dont know if he was confused, I dont know what happened, but its enough to send us a warning sign. Did @NikkiHaley ever question Donald Trumps mental fitness when she served in his cabinet? I called him out if he was doing something wrong, but she says that Trump is now just not at the same level he was at 2016. I think we're seeing some of that decline. pic.twitter.com/D5coEaehEs Face The Nation (@FaceTheNation) January 21, 2024 Trump during a Friday campaign speech said that Nikki Haley was in charge of security at the Capitol on Jan. 6, repeating Haleys name four times where he almost certainly meant to say Pelosis. Not only did Trump confuse Haley and Pelosi, he also repeated a claim that he offered to send 10,000 troops, which has been fully debunked by the Jan. 6 committee. Nikki Haley, you know they, do you know they destroyed all of the information, all of the evidence, everything, deleted and destroyed all of it. All of it, because of lots of things like Nikki Haley is in charge of security, Trump told the rally crowd, although its unclear what exactly he claims Haley (or Pelosi) deleted. We offered her 10,000 people, soldiers, National Guard, whatever they want. They turned it down. They dont want to talk about that. These are very dishonest people. When Margaret Brennan incredulously asked Haley if this was the first time she ever questioned Trumps mental fitness, Haley listed a number of his recent flubs, but she conveniently skirted around Brennans question about whether she questioned Trumps cognitive abilities while she served in his cabinet. [Trump] claimed that Joe Biden was going to get us into World War II. Im assuming he meant World War III, Haley said. He said that he ran against President Obama. He never ran against President Obama. He says that Im the one that kept security from the Capitol on Jan. 6. I was nowhere near the Capitol on Jan. 6. Trump has defended his switching Biden and Obamas names last November by claiming he did it sarcastically. When you worked in his cabinet, did you ever question his mental fitness? Brennan asked Haley. When I worked in his cabinet, I called him out if he was doing something wrong, Haley said, dodging the question. I would show up, Id pick up the phone and say, You cant do this, instead you could do X, Y, or Z but this is different. Were seeing hes just not at the level he was in 2016. I think were seeing some of that decline. But more than that, what Ill say is, focus on the fact that no matter what it is, chaos follows him. Rightly or wrongly, chaos follows him, and America is tired. Does he cause it? Brennan interjected. In some cases he causes it. In some cases he doesnt, but regardless, hes like a magnet to it, Haley said. Voters have demonstrated concern for both Biden and Trumps mental fitness, although Biden hasnt made Trumps cognitive abilities a campaign issue the way Trump has done to Biden. And that may be reflected in the polls. An NBC News poll from Sept. 2023 found that 74 percent of respondents had major or moderate concerns about Biden not having the necessary mental and physical health to be president for a second term, while only 47 percent said the same of Trumps mental and physical health. Trump is currently leading over Haley in New Hampshire polls by eleven points. The Granite State heads to the polls for the primary on Tuesday. More from Rolling Stone Best of Rolling Stone Washington Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, heading into a major test as she takes on Donald Trump in the New Hampshire primary this week, criticized the former president, in whose Cabinet she served, on Sunday for his relationship with "dictators that want to kill us." "You can't have someone who's trying to buddy up with dictators that want to kill us," Haley told "Face the Nation." "Instead, you have to let them know what we expect of them. That's the difference." The comments came as Haley has attempted to draw a line between her foreign policy chops and the former president's throughout her campaign, in recent days releasing a new advertisement about American college student Otto Warmbier, who was taken hostage by North Korea in 2016 and died soon after his release, that she said shows "the contrast," while pointing to Trump's approach to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Haley said Sunday that Trump's engagement with the North Korean leader "goes back to a pattern," referencing Trump's positive statements about Chinese President Xi Jinping and what she called a "bromance" with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Nikki Haley on "When you've got wars all over the world now and the instability that we have, our goal is to prevent war and we can't do that by trying to buddy up with them," she said. The moves come ahead of the New Hampshire primary, where Haley has staked much of her White House ambitions hoping to make inroads with independents and moderates, especially after her third-place showing in Iowa. Polls suggest that the Granite State could be much friendlier to Haley, and she received the coveted endorsement of New Hampshire's largest newspaper, the Manchester Union-Leader. A storng finish could set Haley up for a possible boost in momentum heading into other early states like her home state of South Carolina. Accordingly, Trump has ramped up his Haley opposition in recent days, fresh off of a decisive victory in Iowa, claiming that she's busing in Democrats for the primary. Haley fired back at the claim in a social media post on Friday, noting that Democrats can't vote in the New Hampshire primary and haven't been able to change their registration for months. "Another reason we need to move on from Trump: too many lies," she wrote. Haley reiterated her pitch on Sunday that Americans don't want a Biden-Trump rematch in 2024, emphasizing that a Trump presidency would result in "chaos." "No matter what it is, chaos follows him, rightly or wrongly, chaos follows him," she said. "And so what happens is that puts the rest of America in chaos." Bishop Gene Robinson: "God called me out of the closet" How Ozempic, other weight-loss drugs are "changing medicine" Basketball coach's exuberant celebration of son's scoring shot goes viral Nikki Haley questioned Donald Trumps mental fitness while campaigning in New Hampshire on Saturday, where she suggested the 77-year-old former president is not as sharp as he used to be. Haley asked Republican voters to consider Trumps age after he appeared to mix her up with Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) during a campaign speech in Concord, New Hampshire, on Friday. Trump blamed his former ambassador to the United Nations for the Jan. 6 attacks, an accusation hes repeatedly aimed at Pelosi, who was then speaker of the House. I wasnt in D.C. on Jan. 6th, said Haley, who left the Trump administration at the end of 2018. I had nothing to do with the Capitol. Nikki Haley speaks to reporters after a campaign stop at the Monadnock Center for History & Culture on Saturday. Nikki Haley speaks to reporters after a campaign stop at the Monadnock Center for History & Culture on Saturday. Its things like that, she continued in footage from USA Today. He said multiple times that he ran against President Obama. He didnt run against President Obama. These things happen because, guess what? When youre 80, thats what happens. Youre just not as sharp as you used to be. New Hampshire governor and Haley supporter Chris Sununu echoed her concerns on Meet the Press Sunday, telling host Kristin Welker, I mean, look, the point is you have two nearly 80-year-olds fighting this thing out. Thats not what America wants. That is a great example of, this is not Donald Trump, the disruptor of 2016. This guy has lost his fastball. President Joe Biden broadcasted Haleys remarks in a post on X on Sunday. I dont agree with Nikki Haley on everything, but we agree on this much: She is not Nancy Pelosi, Bidens account posted along with video of Haleys criticism intertwined with multiple Trump blunders. Haley and allies attacks on Trumps age comes as she aims for an upset in the New Hampshire primaries, which will be held on Tuesday. On Sunday, CNN released a poll that showed Haley still trailing behind Trump in the Granite State. According to research conducted by the University of New Hampshire, Trump has the support of 50% of likely Republican primary voters while Haley holds 39%. Related... Danielle Brown voted for John McCain in the 2000 New Hampshire Republican primary and for Barack Obama in the Democratic primary eight years later. On Tuesday, she intends to back former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley to send a clear message to both parties. We need to have some new ideas and a new, younger generation coming in, Brown, an undeclared voter, said as she clutched a Haley 2024 yard sign freshly autographed by the candidate. Haley is energized. I think she can do a lot for our country. Brown is a voter stuck in the middle, one of thousands of undeclared and independent residents who make up a plurality of the Granite States electorate and a critical part of Haleys coalition. Her chances in New Hampshire and by extension, the fate of her campaign likely hinge on how many independents vote for her in the states primary Tuesday. As of Friday, 344,335 voters in New Hampshire were registered as undeclared, making up nearly 40% of the electorate. Haleys campaign is targeting Republicans and undeclared voters from the suburbs to the seacoast, advisers said, particularly in precincts where Trump underperformed other Republicans, such as Gov. Chris Sununu. Though former President Donald Trump won the 2016 New Hampshire GOP primary, he lost the state in the general election in both 2016 and 2020. A CNN/UNH poll released Sunday found that 50% of likely GOP primary voters support Trump, compared to 39% who back Haley. Haley is backed by a majority 58% of registered undeclared voters, but the former president has the support of 67% of registered Republicans. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who ended his campaign on Sunday afternoon, was backed by just 6% of New Hampshire GOP voters in the poll, below the 10% minimum support he would have needed to win delegates there per the Republican Partys rules. A win in New Hampshire could offer Haleys campaign the momentum, and donor money, necessary to compete in South Carolina on February 24 and the Super Tuesday states voting on March 5. A loss, however, might hasten the speed at which the Republican Party coalesces around Trump. Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, who ended his own presidential bid in November, became the latest former candidate to endorse Trump at a rally in Concord on Friday. Haley dismissed the endorsement, saying in a statement that Trump was lining up Washington insiders despite vowing to drain the swamp. But the fellas are gonna do what the fellas are gonna do, Haley said. Trump seeks to maintain hold on conservatives As Trump campaigns in New Hampshire, the former president is trying to keep Republicans in line and out of reach for Haley. Nikki Haley in particular is counting on the Democrats and liberals to infiltrate your Republican primary, Trump told supporters at a rally in Portsmouth on Wednesday. His rallying cry is false. Democrats are not allowed to vote in the Republican primary, and the deadline for registering as a Republican or undeclared voter was October. Undeclared voters have the option to choose either a Democratic or Republican primary ballot on Election Day. Greg Moore, a senior adviser for AFP Action, the political network backed by conservative billionaire Charles Koch that has thrown its resources behind Haley, said Friday that the groups data shows the former governors base includes conservative voters. AFP Action, which endorsed Haley in November, has contacted more than 210,000 people in New Hampshire, Moore said. I think some of the narrative is that its all moderates for Haley and all conservatives for Trump, Moore said. I know thats not true. What the former president may not know is that Haleys rallies and town hall meetings in New Hampshire last week were filled with voters like Susan Rice of Rochester, who twice voted for Trump. Rice, who owns a yarn business in New Hampshire and Maine, was invited to the White House in 2018 during the Trump administration for an event to showcase small-business leaders. She said she believed it was time for the country to move on. Im a staunch Republican and I have been my entire life, Rice said. I think its time to have a woman as a president. I like her foreign policies and I like the fact that she has a good understanding of our southern border and what she wants to do for that. She said she was exhausted by Trump and excited by Haleys potential to rebuild the Republican Party. I dont necessarily worry about the court cases, Rice said. But its the baggage, and honestly, sometimes what comes out of his mouth and how do I put this diplomatically the name-calling, the putting other people down. Michael Lewis, a Hollis resident, said he supported the way Trump approached the economy, the border and Americas relationship with NATO, but he couldnt vote for a presidential candidate whose age is past life expectancy. He also expressed doubts that Trump will still be eligible to run for president in the general election. I think the sequence is theres campaigning, then theres the [Republican National] Convention, then theres going to be the conviction of Donald Trump, Lewis said. Theres going to have to be an alternative. I think shes the answer. Still, while some former Trump voters are open, even eager, to vote for Haley, the former presidents base in New Hampshire remains strong. MAGA is not going to be with her, Trump told Fox News on Thursday. That was the sentiment at the Saddle Up Saloon in Kingston on Friday afternoon, where GOP Sen. J.D. Vance of Ohio rallied a few dozen Trump supporters. In interviews, attendees mentioned several criticisms Haleys rivals have leveled against her foreign policy views and her conservatism. Sylvia, a Nashua voter at the event who declined to give her last name, said she would sit out the general election if Trump made Haley his running mate. Shes a RINO, shes a war monger, she said, using the acronym for Republican in name only. Im not for her at all. Bill Jackson, an 86-year-old from Hampton who plans to vote for Trump, said he believed Haley has support only among elitists and echoed the former presidents comments about Democratic crossover votes. Shes pro-war. Shes also pro-immigration, illegal immigration, he said. I mean, she said weve got to treat these people as equals. No, we dont, theyre illegally coming into this country. Trumps campaign and allied super PACs have tried to paint Haley as weak on border security. Haley has responded by saying securing the border would be a top priority of her administration. She has characterized herself as a conservative and said her advocacy for a strong US foreign policy is meant to prevent war. An alternative to Trump and Biden On the trail, Haley has expanded on the pitch she started making on the night of the Iowa caucuses that she is the best chance voters have of preventing both Trump and President Joe Biden from winning a second term. She has highlighted polls that show her beating Biden in a general election by a wider margin than the GOP front-runner, and argued that she would help Republicans down ballot win House, Senate and gubernatorial races. A Marist poll released Friday found Haley running near-even with Biden, 47% to 44%, in a New Hampshire general election matchup, while Trump trailed Biden by 7 points. Haley has also sought to draw comparisons between Trump and Biden, from their ages to the amount of government spending they approved in office, and said both presidents come with baggage. Her revamped stump speech also pushes back more aggressively against the Trump campaigns characterization of parts of her record, including her position that the retirement age needs to be raised for people in their 20s and 30s. In a recent ad, Trumps campaign incorrectly claimed Haley wants to limit Social Security for current beneficiaries. Haley noted that Trump supported raising the Social Security age to 70. Trump supported raising the Social Security age in his 2000 book, The America We Deserve, but wavered on whether to cut entitlements since running for president in 2016, CNNs KFile reported last year. If hes going to lie about me, were going to tell the truth about him, Haley said in Hollis on Thursday. Youre going to see a lot of things said, but at the end of the day its the drama, and vengeance, and the vindictiveness that we want to get out of the way. The message resonated with Nancy Protzmann, an undeclared voter who attended the Hollis event and said shes long been looking for a candidate to back against Trump. As she left the venue, she said she plans to request a Republican ballot and vote for Haley. I will do anything in my power to make sure that Trump does not become our next president, Protzmann said. But I liked what she said and I dont want Biden either. Asked whether her decision was intended to be more of an affirmative vote for Haley or a roadblock for Trump, she said ideally both. I hope it will be a launching pad for her, because I do think she would be a good president, Protzmann said. And I certainly hope it will help block him. This story has been updated with new reporting. CNNs Ebony Davis and Ali Main contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com OCEANSIDE, Calif. In Oceanside, the North County San Diego Womxns March held their annual rally for reproductive rights on Saturday. The event featured speakers and musical performances, focusing on the importance of involving the community in understanding and advocating for reproductive justice. San Diego vocalist revives ancient Indian song as anthem to womens rights Supporters of the trans community also spoke to the community to remind them their community stands with women and reproductive justice. Leaders in the trans community told FOX 5 they are also running into barriers accessing the same services. Organizers said the topic of reproductive justice has been their focus since the beginning, with the first march held in 2017. Now they only host the rally. Leaders and organizers said the reminder on this topic is prevalent as reproductive rights is front and center during this election year. Democrats look to abortion politics to draw voters to polls When we frame it in terms of choice, we are looking at I choose to kill somebody. No I choose to live my life, because I believe in life. And I believe that I have the human right to determine as best I can my life. We have kind of been stuck in that argument, are you pro-life, are you pro-choice, said Sue Alderson, the North County Womxns March Chair. This reproductive justice movement has the backing of the trans community. Its like a mutual aid sort of situation for us, where we need the feminist community, and we need the womens rights community to be showing up for us in trans spaces, because we are going to keep showing up in womens rights spaces, and reproductive justice spaces as well, said Evan Johnson, one of the North County Womxns Rally speakers. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego. North Korea is the largest supplier of weapons to Russia, chief of Ukraines Defense Intelligence Kyrylo Budanov said in an interview with the Financial Times published on Jan. 21. "They have transferred a significant amount of artillery ammunition," the spy chief said. This allowed Russia to breathe a little bit. Without their help, the situation would have been catastrophic. Read also: North Korean FM to visit Russia at Lavrovs invitation The Russian Federation expends far more weapons and ammunition than it can produce, while also struggling with quality control. "This is precisely what motivates Russias search for weapons in other countries," said Budanov. Read also: North Korea crossed red line by supplying missiles to Russia Zelenskyy Russia would of course prefer to avoid relying on external assistance as "this has always been considered beneath them, its an indignity." Another problem Russia faces is manpower. According to Budanov, Moscow is losing as many, or even more, troops than it can recruit. According to Defense Express, Moscow may have received KN-23 ballistic missiles, which are similar to the Russian Iskander-M, from Pyongyang. U.S. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said that Russia struck Ukraine with North Korean ballistic missiles on Dec. 30, 2023, and Jan. 2 and 6, 2024. During the first attack, a missile sourced from the DPRK fell in Zaporizhzhya Oblast. More North Korean missiles were fired by Russia on Jan. 2. According to the White House, Russia again fired several North Korean missiles at Ukraine on Jan. 6. South Korea's representative to the UN, Hwang Joon-kook, said that North Korea is using Ukraine as a "testing ground" for ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads. North Korea called the U.S. accusations of transferring ballistic missiles to Russia for the war against Ukraine "groundless." 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 FILE - North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui arrives to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024. North Korea said Sunday it has agreed to further strategic and tactical cooperation with Russia to establish a new multi-polarized international order, as the two countries work to build a united front in the face of their separate, intensifying tensions with the United States. (Artyom Geodakyan/Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP, File) SEOUL, South Korea (AP) North Korea said Sunday that Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his willingness to visit the North at an unspecified early date as the countries continue to align in the face of their separate, intensifying confrontations with the United States. The North Korean Foreign Ministry highlighted Putins intent for a visit following North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Huis meetings with Putin and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Moscow last week. The ministry said in a statement published by state media that the two countries agreed to further strategic and tactical cooperation with Russia to establish a new multi-polarized international order, a reference to their efforts to build a united front against Washington. Putin had already confirmed his willingness to visit the capital, Pyongyang, at a convenient time during his meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Russias Far East in September. One of the few world leaders openly supporting Putin's war on Ukraine, Kim has been actively boosting the visibility of his ties with Russia in an attempt to break out of diplomatic isolation and strengthen his footing, as he navigates a deepening nuclear standoff with Washington, Seoul and Tokyo. In a separate statement on Sunday, the Norths Foreign Ministry condemned the U.N. Security Council for calling an emergency meeting over the countrys latest ballistic test, which state media described as a new intermediate-range solid-fuel missile tipped with a hypersonic warhead. The ministry said the test-firing on Jan. 14 was among the countrys regular activities to improve its defense capabilities and that it didnt pose a threat to its neighbors. South Korea on Thursday urged the Security Council to break the silence over North Koreas escalating missile tests and threats. Russia and China, both permanent members of the council, have blocked U.S.-led efforts to increase sanctions on North Korea over its recent weapons tests, underscoring a divide deepened over Russias war on Ukraine. The alignment between Pyongyang and Moscow has raised international concerns about alleged arms cooperation, in which the North provides Russia with munitions to help prolong its fighting in Ukraine, possibly in exchange for badly needed economic aid and military assistance to help upgrade Kims forces. Both Pyongyang and Russia have denied accusations by Washington and Seoul about North Korean arms transfers to Russia. North Koreas Foreign Ministry, in comments published by state media, said Choe and the Russian officials in their meetings expressed a strong will to further strengthen strategic and tactical cooperation in defending the core interests of the two countries and establishing a new multi-polarized international order. Russia expressed deep thanks to North Korea for its full support over its war on Ukraine, the North Korean ministry said. It said Choe and the Russian officials expressed serious concern over the United States expanding military cooperation with its Asian allies that they blamed for worsening tensions in the region and threatening North Koreas sovereignty and security interests. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula are at their highest point in years, after Kim in recent months used Russias invasion of Ukraine as a distraction to ramp up his weapons tests and military demonstrations. The United States, South Korea and Japan have responded by strengthening their combined military exercises, which Kim portrays as invasion rehearsals, and sharpening their deterrence plans built around nuclear-capable U.S. assets. In the latest tit-for-tat, North Korea on Friday said it conducted a test of a purported nuclear-capable underwater attack drone in response to a combined naval exercise by the United States, South Korea and Japan last week, as it continued to blame its rivals for tensions in the region. Choes visit to Moscow came as Kim continues to use domestic political events to issue provocative threats of nuclear conflict. At Pyongyangs rubber-stamp parliament last week, Kim declared that North Korea is abandoning its long-standing goal of a peaceful unification with war-divided rival South Korea and ordered the rewriting of the Norths constitution to cement the South as its most hostile foreign adversary. He accused South Korea of acting as top-class stooges of the Americans and repeated a threat that he would use his nukes to annihilate the South if provoked. Analysts say North Korea could be aiming to diminish South Koreas voice in the regional nuclear standoff and eventually force direct dealings with Washington as it looks to cement its status as a nuclear weapons state. The National Weather Service renewed an indefinite flood warning Sunday morning along the Kankakee River in Will and Grundy counties as historic ice jams continue in the region. NWS meteorologists warned that streets and roads in low-lying areas could remain inundated with water and ice. Flooding levels hovered at 9.9 feet Sunday morning but had previously hit more than 13 feet. Were not necessarily seeing water levels significantly drop or recede right now, said meteorologist David King. On Wednesday, officials announced a disaster declaration in unincorporated Will County and Wilmington. Water levels exceeded previous extreme flooding events in 2021, 2019 and 1985, according to a news release. Our team will remain on the ground with local officials to monitor conditions until the ice fully melts, Allison Anderson, the director of the countys Emergency Management Agency, said in a statement. Will County officials also said Thursday that Dresden Energy Center, a nuclear power plant in Morris, would activate siphons to release warm water into the river. The siphons could help accelerate the melting process and alleviate flooding. By opening all three lines of warm water into the river, we can begin melting the historic levels of ice that has created a public safety risk for nearby residents, County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant said in a statement. This is a crucial step to safeguard lives and protect property in communities along the river. The most significant ice jam appeared to be located upstream of the Grundy-Will county line near Wilmington, according to the weather service. An additional ice jam is located in Kankakee County near the village of Sun River Terrace, King said. Residents along the river, particularly in low-lying areas, are advised to be prepared to evacuate until the ice jams fully clear. Its still unclear how long the flood warnings and ice jams will remain in place, especially because its difficult to estimate the depth of ice, King said. Through the course of the week, we might have high temperatures in the low 40s which will help it, King said. But for the foreseeable future, we expect it to remain in place. karmanini@chicagotribune.com In this photo released by Telegram Channel of Leningrad Region Governor Alexander Drozdenko fire fighters extinguish the blaze at Russia's second-largest natural gas producer, Novatek in Ust-Luga, 165 kilometers southwest of St. Petersburg, Russia, Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024. Fire broke out at a chemical transport terminal at Russia's Ust-Luga port Sunday following two explosions, regional officials reported. Local media reported that the port had been attacked by Ukrainian drones, causing a gas tank to explode. (Telegram Channel of Leningrad Region Governor Alexander Drozdenko via AP) KYIV, Ukraine (AP) Moscow-installed officials said Ukrainian shelling killed at least 27 people and wounded 25 on Sunday at a market on the outskirts of Donetsk, a Russian-occupied city in the eastern part of the country. Among the injured in the suburb of Tekstilshchik were two children, said Denis Pushilin, the local leader. Ukrainian officials in Kyiv did not comment on the incident, and the claims could not be independently verified by The Associated Press. Both sides have increasingly relied on longer-range attacks this winter amid largely unchanged positions on the 1,500-kilometer (930-mile) front line in the nearly 2-year-old war. The artillery shells that hit the area had been fired from the area of Kurakhove and Krasnohorivka to the west, Pushilin said, adding that emergency services responded to the scene. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres strongly condemns all attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, including todays shelling of the city of Donetsk in Ukraine, according to a U.N. spokesperson, adding that all such attacks are prohibited under international humanitarian law. Donetsk is one of four regions in Ukraine that Russia annexed illegally in 2022, months after Moscow launched its full-scale invasion. Russia's Foreign Ministry also blamed Ukraine and described the strike as a terrorist attack. Also on Sunday, a fire broke out at a chemical transport terminal at Russias Ust-Luga port following two explosions, regional officials said. Local media said the Baltic Sea port, 165 kilometers (about 100 miles) southwest of St. Petersburg, had been attacked by Ukrainian drones, causing a gas tank to explode. The blaze was at a site run by Russias second-largest natural gas producer, Novatek. In a statement to Russian media outlet RBC, the company blamed the fire on an external influence, saying operations at the port were paused. Yuri Zapalatsky, the head of the Kingisepp district on the Gulf of Finland where the port is located, said there were no casualties but the area was on high alert. News outlet Fontanka reported that two drones had been detected flying toward St. Petersburg on Sunday morning, but were redirected toward the Kingisepp district. AP could not independently verify the reports. Russia's Defense Ministry did not report any drone activity in the Kingisepp area in its daily briefing. It said that four Ukrainian drones had been downed in Russias Smolensk region, and that two more were shot down in the Oryol and Tula regions. Russian officials previously confirmed a Ukrainian drone had been downed on the outskirts of St. Petersburg on Thursday. In fighting on the front line, Russias Defense Ministry said Moscows forces had taken control of the village of Krokhmalne in Ukraines Kharkiv region. Ukrainian forces confirmed the settlement had been occupied, but described its capture as temporary. Ukrainian Ground Forces Command spokesman Volodymyr Fityo said Kyivs troops had been pulled back to reserve positions from the village, which had a population of about 45 people before the start of the war. Thats five houses, probably, he was quoted as saying by Ukrainian news outlet Hromadske. Our main goal is to save the lives of Ukraines defenders. Recent Russian attacks have tried to find gaps in Ukraines defenses by using large numbers of missiles and drones in an apparent effort to saturate air defense systems. The massive barrages more than 500 drones and missiles were fired between Dec. 29 and Jan. 2, according to officials in Kyiv are also using up Ukraines weapons stockpiles. ___ Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine: https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine By Lee Yeon-woo The short selling ban in Korea might be prolonged, as President Yoon Suk Yeol emphasized that the ban is not merely a "temporary measure for the general elections." Previously, financial authorities stated that they would put their utmost efforts into improving the system by this June, and then decide whether to resume short selling afterward. During a town hall meeting held at the Korea Exchange last week, Yoon said that he has no intention "to lift the short selling ban unless effective measures to prevent the adverse side effects are established," adding that it is not a temporary measure just for the general elections. His remarks have increased uncertainty over when short selling might resume. Adding to this decision is the recent series of illegal short selling activities detected among foreign investment banks (IBs). Following the exposure of significant illegal short selling by global IBs, including BNP Paribas and HSBC last October, two more global IBs have been recently implicated in illegal short selling, involving sums of around 50 billion won ($37.8 million). As Yoon mentioned the need for measures to prevent "adverse side effects" before any resumption of short selling, a key issue now appears to be the effectiveness of the real-time surveillance system demanded by individual investors. "We are demanding the implementation of a system that allows for a real-time monitoring of stock balances, even if it can not completely block naked short selling," said Jung Eui-jung, head of the Korean Stockholders' Alliance, during a public hearing held at the Korea Exchange (KRX) last December. However, relevant institutions have raised concerns, stating that it is difficult for third parties, such as brokerage firms or stock exchanges, to ascertain the respective available balances of foreign and institutional investors for selling in real time. As a practical alternative, a task force, which was launched last November to combat naked short selling, has proposed mandating foreign and institutional investors to establish their own internal balance management systems. Brokerage firms would then be required to regularly inspect the implementation of these systems. Twenty-one foreign and 78 domestic institutional investors are targeted for the establishment of this system. Their combined transactions in short selling account for more than 90 percent of the total. The team is preparing to make an interim announcement soon regarding the establishment of the monitoring system. "Given the president's request for effective measures, I assume that the task force team is feeling mounting pressure. They will have to include something meaningful in their announcement," an industry official said. However, some anticipate that prolonging the short selling ban might prove difficult. International media have already expressed negative views, and the likelihood of foreign investors exiting the domestic stock market is increasing. "Amid a downward trend in domestic stock indices resulting from the withdrawal of foreign investors, the ongoing short selling ban might further adversely affect their investment sentiments," another industry official said. While investigating the death of an Ohio man, a Sheriff discovered a womans remains in an RV, according to media outlets WOIO-19 TV and WFMJ-21. Columbiana County Sheriffs deputies found the owner of Nettle Creek Farm & Nursery Robert Rea, 70, of Salem Township, dead in the RV. Upon further investigation, Sheriff Brian McLaughlin and other deputies found the body of a dead female, wrapped in a blanket, surrounded by herbs, and unusually well-preserved, WFMJ-21 reported. >> Fear didnt come; Neighbors detail scene of water main break in Montgomery County Before deputies began the investigation, Roberts son 29-year-old John Rea, went to the sheriffs office and told deputies about his fathers death. He also told deputies that his mother, Peggy Rea, was also dead in an RV on the property and had been for six years, both stations reported. John said his father had been living inside the RV taking care of Peggys remains, both stations reported. According to a police report obtained by WFMJ-21, John knew of his mothers death but told officers his parents were devout Quakers who wanted to be buried at the same time. The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiners Office determined Robert died from natural causes on Dec. 31 and confirmed Peggy died six years ago. The Sheriffs department is still investigating the case and hasnt determined if any charges will be filed. Every year I ask the college students in the course I teach about the 14th-century Black Death to imagine they are farmers or nuns or nobles in the Middle Ages. What would their lives have been like in the face of this terrifying disease that killed millions of people in just a few years? Setting aside how they envision what it would be like to confront the plague, these undergrads often figure that during the medieval period they would already be considered middle-aged or elderly at the age of 20. Rather than being in the prime of life, they think theyd soon be decrepit and dead. Theyre reflecting a common misperception that long life spans in humans are very recent, and that no one in the past lived much beyond their 30s. But thats just not true. I am a bioarchaeologist, which means that I study human skeletons excavated from archaeological sites to understand what life was like in the past. Im especially interested in demography mortality (deaths), fertility (births) and migration and how it was linked with health conditions and diseases such as the Black Death hundreds or thousands of years ago. Theres physical evidence that plenty of people in the past lived long lives just as long as some people do today. Bones record the length of a life One of the first steps in research about demography in the past is to estimate how old people were when they died. Bioarchaeologists do this using information about how your bones and teeth change as you get older. For example, I look for changes to joints in the pelvis that are common at older ages. Observations of these joints in people today whose ages we know allow us to estimate ages for people from archaeological sites with joints that look similar. A researcher can count the layers within a tooth that were added over time to determine how old a person lived to be. Benoitbertrand1974/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA Another way to estimate age is to use a microscope to count the yearly additions of a mineralized tissue called cementum on teeth. Its similar to counting a trees rings to see how many years it lived. Using approaches like these, many studies have documented the existence of people who lived long lives in the past. For example, by examining skeletal remains, anthropologist Meggan Bullock and colleagues found that in the city of Cholula, Mexico, between 900 and 1531, most people who made it to adulthood lived past the age of 50. And of course there are many examples from historical records of people who lived very long lives in the past. For example, the sixth-century Roman Emperor Justinian I reportedly died at the age of 83. Analysis of the tooth development of an ancient anatomically modern Homo sapiens individual from Morocco suggests that our species has experienced long life spans for at least the past 160,000 years. Clearing up a math misunderstanding Given physical and historical evidence that many people did live long lives in the past, why does the misperception that everyone was dead by the age of 30 or 40 persist? It stems from confusion about the difference between individual life spans and life expectancy. Life expectancy is the average number of years of life remaining for people of a particular age. For example, life expectancy at birth (age 0) is the average length of life for newborns. Life expectancy at age 25 is how much longer people live on average given theyve survived to age 25. In medieval England, life expectancy at birth for boys born to families that owned land was a mere 31.3 years. However, life expectancy at age 25 for landowners in medieval England was 25.7. This means that people in that era who celebrated their 25th birthday could expect to live until they were 50.7, on average 25.7 more years. While 50 might not seem old by todays standards, remember that this is an average, so many people would have lived much longer, into their 70s, 80s and even older. Life expectancy is a population-level statistic that reflects the conditions and experiences of a huge variety of people with very different health conditions and behaviors, some who die at very young ages, some who live to be over 100 years old, and lots whose life spans fall somewhere in between. Life expectancy is not a promise (or a threat!) about the life span of any single person. What some people dont realize is that low life expectancy at birth for any population usually reflects very high rates of infant mortality. Thats a measure of deaths in the first year of life. Given that life expectancies reflect averages for a population, a high number of deaths at very young ages will skew calculations of life expectancy at birth toward younger ages. But typically, many people in those populations who make it past the vulnerable infant and early childhood years can expect to live relatively long lives. Advances in modern sanitation which reduce the spread of diarrheal diseases that are a major killer of infants and vaccinations can greatly increase life expectancies. Consider the effect of infant mortality on overall age patterns in two contemporary populations with dramatically different life expectancies at birth. In Afghanistan, life expectancy at birth is low, at just over 53 years, and infant mortality is high, at almost 105 deaths for every 1,000 children born. In Singapore, life expectancy at birth is much higher, at over 86 years, and infant mortality is very low fewer than two infants die for every 1,000 who are born. In both countries, people do survive to very old ages. But in Afghanistan, because so many more people die at very young ages, proportionally fewer people survive to old age. Living a long life has long been possible Its incorrect to view long lives as a remarkable and unique characteristic of the modern era. Knowing that people often did have long lives in the past might help you feel more connected with the past. For example, you can imagine multigenerational households and gatherings, with grandparents in Neolithic China or Medieval England bouncing their grandchildren on their knees and telling them stories about their own childhoods decades before. You might have more in common with people who lived long ago than you had realized. 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. It was written by: Sharon DeWitte, University of South Carolina Read more: Sharon DeWitte receives funding from the National Science Foundation. A 29-year-old man has died in Lexingtons first homicide this year, according to the Lexington Police Department and the Fayette County Coroners Office. Lexington police say they were called to the 1000 block of McClain Drive just before 3:30 a.m. Sunday for a shooting with a victim. Officers found a victim who had been shot and he was taken to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The victim was identified as Quante Johnson, according to the coroners office. He was pronounced dead at University of Kentucky Chandler Hospital at 5 a.m. Detectives from the Personal Crimes Section are continuing to investigate, Detective Kristyn Klingshirn said in a news release Sunday. No suspect information was provided by police. Investigators have asked anyone with information about the incident to contact them. Lexington police can be reached at (859) 258-3600. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Bluegrass Crime Stoppers by calling (859) 253-2020, online at www.bluegrasscrimestoppers.com, or through the P3 Tips app at www.p3tips.com. Lexington had reported five non-fatal shootings prior to the citys first homicide this year, according to Lexington police data. The citys first homicide in 2023 didnt occur until February. Lexington reported 24 murders last year, its fewest in several years. Brandy Vegas daughter was 14 when she sat beside her, not knowing if her daughter was going to survive. I remember being in the hospital and looking at her lifeless body and praying to God, Please save her. Telling him that I would do absolutely anything in the world if he would just give me a second chance, Vega said. And by the way, this was our second chance. Vegas daughter had previously tried to take her own life at the age of 12. By a miracle, her daughter survived, but the Utah mom knew she wouldnt get another chance. As a mother, Vega realized she had to change the way she approached the conversation of suicide to help her daughter. After her daughters first attempt, We didnt talk about it. Because of the pain and shame, or fear and all the things, all the reasons we dont talk about mental health and suicide and addiction, and sexual abuse and trauma, she said. On Thursday, Vega shared her familys journey with mental health in front of a crowd, along with a four-person panel who shared their expertise and tools regarding mental health, at the Mental Health Promise2Live Silicon Slopes Town Hall event. Vega started Promise2Live as her call to action following her daughter's attempt to take her own life. The event was a way to unite Utah business leaders, supporters and collaborators to discover practical and effective strategies for approaching mental health in the workplace. Mental health in the workplace Our mission is to increase awareness in the business sector regarding mental health because people arent leaving their mental health issues at home, panelist Dave Morgan, a licensed psychologist and director of mental health awareness for Silicon Slopes, said in the event Thursday. Morgan emphasized that mental health struggles are not something people just leave at the door of their businesses when they clock in each day and then pick right back up when they clock out. According to the latest statistics by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, in 2021, there were an average of 132 suicides per day with 48,183 total deaths by suicide, but an estimated 1.7 million attempts. Men died by suicide 3.90 times more than women, and white males accounted for 69.68% of suicide deaths in 2021, the statistics found. Morgan shared that because mental health is so complex, there are a number of strategies to help a person find solutions to their pain. There are five aspects of a persons life that he said, although they are separate when you make a change to one, it improves other parts of the brain: Mental. Social. Emotional. Physical. Spiritual. If you have someone thats struggling with suicidal behavior, and youre trying to help them, and maybe spiritual isnt their thing, but they love to run, (then) physically they can start there, (and) thats going to have an effect on their system, Morgan explained. And maybe theyre not a runner, but they love to connect with someone emotionally. So thats where they start and begin going to therapy, and that helps. Anything that can be done is a good place to start. Related Suicide prevention in the U.S. Utah Sen. Daniel Thatcher initiated the idea for a three-digit crisis line in Utah, and it resulted in a national hotline, per the Utah Senate. In July 2022, the United States launched the 988 crisis hotline for mental health. In its first six months, more than 2 million people in crisis have availed themselves of the service, using phone calls, chats and text messages which funnel to local mental health crisis centers. The line is free, confidential and operates all the time, the Deseret News previously reported. However, since the launch of 988, Vega stressed that nearly 80% of Americans dont know it exists. To bring awareness, Vega gave each guest a small medallion that she called pocket hugs. When times are tough and you dont know what to do, here is a hug from me to you, the Promise2Live token reads with the 988 crisis hotline information on it as well. Having open and honest communication with your loved ones can be pivotal in saving a person's life; Vega said, Honest questions, get honest answers. Vega encouraged the audience to go home and ask their loved ones if they are okay, if they are struggling or having thoughts of suicide. You will not plant the idea. You will open the conversation for real love and support and a genuine connection, she added. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988 or chatting online at 988lifeline.org. Last year, the landscape of K-12 education transformed as a record-breaking 20 states expanded school choice options. However, that is not the only school choice story to come out of 2023. As the nation steps into 2024, a fresh emphasis on innovation has emerged, along with new options for families. This is particularly true within the realm of microschooling. Microschooling is an education model that is small by design typically with 15 or fewer students of varying ages per class. It fosters a personalized and community-centric approach to learning that is especially effective in addressing the unique educational needs of diverse student populations. Programs like Education Savings Accounts are helping to fuel these microschools. ESAs are instrumental in democratizing education. By providing direct funding to parents, they empower families with the financial means to make educational decisions that best suit their children while helping schools outside the conventional system truly flourish. Get stories like these delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter For example Black Mothers Forum Microschools, a growing network in Arizona that focuses on culturally nuanced and inclusive education, is thriving in large part because of the states ESA program. It serves over 70,000 students statewide in nearly 400 learning environments and makes innovative schools like Black Mothers Forum Microschools far more accessible to families, while inspiring parents to explore the full breadth of education options available for their children. Opening doors for such exploration is at the heart of the school choice ethos. Whether for a microschool, traditional public school, public magnet school, public charter school, private school, online school or home school, the more options a family can pursue, the better. These will be on full display during National School Choice Week, an annual nationwide celebration hosted by the National School Choice Awareness Foundation in collaboration with Navigate The National School Choice Resource Center. For National School Choice Week, our team is partnering with microschools and organizations across the country to celebrate these new options. For example, Positively Arts Microschool will host a school fair in Nevada to showcase microschools and other choice options. Meanwhile, Microschool Florida will host a fun-filled microschool/hybrid/homeschool showcase event with guest speakers, vendors and activities. And in Georgia, Black Microschools ATL will recognize the work parents and volunteers do to make these options possible. National School Choice Week is, however, far more than just a packed calendar of unique events and activities. The week serves a vital dual purpose: raising awareness about the critical need for increased educational options and providing practical, jargon-free online resources for parents. With 57% of families saying they will likely be searching for new schools for their children in 2024 and 64% wanting more information about how to exercise their choices, the week acts as a crucial juncture for empowering parents with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions. A fundamental shift is taking place in education, and National School Choice Week is shining light on every possible option. As more than 27,000 schools and organizations celebrate all that has been accomplished in school choice this past year and embrace this new era of educational innovation in microschooling, ESAs and other school choice programs, the future beams bright with promise. Everyone who supports greater opportunity in education from parents to grandparents, educators, advocates, organizational and community leaders to state policymakers should recommit to doing all they can to keep this momentum going in 2024 so that, one day, all families will have the full breadth of educational freedom they so rightfully deserve. Theres been a lot of talk lately about North Carolinas insurance rates and how theyre set, especially since the insurance companies have asked for an average 42.2 percent increase in homeowners insurance rates. North Carolina is unique in how it sets insurance rates for the most common types of consumer insurance, including homeowners and automobile insurance policies. The General Assembly, decades ago, chose not to have individual companies file with the Department of Insurance their own rates for these common types of insurance. Instead, lawmakers opted to set up the N.C. Rate Bureau, which is not a part of the Department of Insurance, to represent the interests of all insurance companies writing such common types of policies in the state, with the Rate Bureau collectively filing proposed rates based on information from its members. The Rate Bureaus filings are then subject to the Commissioners review. Some have advocated for change in the Rate Bureau system, suggesting that making such a change could result in lower insurance premiums for North Carolinians. For example, a majority of states permit homeowners and automobile insurers to file new rates with the insurance regulators and then begin charging those new rates immediately, without the regulators prior approval. More: Sticker shock: NC's insurance companies want to raise rates for coastal homeowners by 99% Im always looking for ways to make things better, to help North Carolina consumers get value for their insurance premium dollar. I just want to make sure any modifications to the way insurance rates are set accomplishes at least these two things: 1. Provides a fair premium for North Carolina consumers. 2. Provides a robust insurance market so North Carolinians can have choices of insurance products. I believe that our current Rate Bureau system achieves these goals and provides better protection for consumers than those states where insurers can simply file and use their new rates without prior approval. As set out in our state law, once the Department of Insurance receives the filing from the Rate Bureau, the process of reviewing the request and making an eventual decision on the filing begins. The Department sends out a news release statewide announcing the Rate Bureaus filing and informing residents how they can comment on the proposal. This allows consumers to email comments or send them through the Postal Service. In the case of homeowners rate requests, there is also an in-person public hearing which, in recent years, has included a Webex option for consumers to participate virtually. Within 50 days of the filing, the Commissioner must decide to either allow the Rate Bureaus proposed increases to take effect, or to reject them and set a hearing date on proposed rates. Thus far, I have rejected the Rate Bureaus homeowners insurance rate increase filing every time. In the meantime, my team of actuaries, lawyers, accountants and other insurance experts pore over thousands of pages of data provided by the Rate Bureau to see what increases may be justified and what increases are not justified. Once we get a clear understanding of the data, we can then enter negotiations with the Rate Bureau and work to settle on a rate that is significantly lower than the proposed increase. However, if no negotiation is possible, I will proceed with the scheduled hearing, where the departments experts and attorneys argue before a hearing officer for rates lower than those the Rate Bureau has requested. While I like to avoid protracted legal proceedings if I can, I wont hesitate to hold a hearing if thats necessary to make sure consumers get a fair price. Mike Causey is North Carolina Commissioner of Insurance. This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: OPINION: The NC insurance rate system is different, but it works In 2015, I directed the American premiere of an Israeli play that grapples with Gaza a play I could never direct today. Gilad Evrons Ulysses on Bottles centers on Izakov, a Jewish Israeli lawyer representing two clients: a Palestinian teacher, nicknamed Ulysses, arrested by Israel for trying to reach Gaza on a raft made of plastic bottles in hopes of bringing Russian literature to the strip, and an Israeli defense official, Seinfeld, seeking advice about whether Israels blockade of Gaza could implicate the country in crimes against humanity. Read more: Opinion: What does it feel like to be dehumanized? Just ask any Palestinian The world premiere of the play in Israel in 2012 wasnt easy to produce. A Jewish actor declined the title role, fearing hed be blacklisted from commercial work. Eventually the role went to a Palestinian citizen of Israel. Still, the production ran for more than 80 performances and won Israels top theater prize for best original play that year. When I directed Ulysses three years later in Boston, in a translation by Evan Fallenberg, I knew it would shake up audiences. I too was challenged by what the play brought up: Israelis daily indifference to the Gaza siege, which their government hoped would weaken Hamas rule but instead became a cruel policy of collective punishment. My own discomfort is exactly why I wanted to do the play. Theater allows us to confront hard facts in a way that is provocative but ambiguous. It can make big issues intimate, and it doesnt force you to make up your mind, only to watch and wrestle. Reaction to the Boston production could be summed up in one comment: great art but unsettling. Tickets sold out for the majority of the run, but my theater company, Israeli Stage, lost funders and audiences. The head of Bostons Jewish federation never came to another of our productions, and his organization reduced its sponsorship of our work. The consul general of Israel in Boston summoned me to his office and told me to put on other plays instead. Read more: Granderson: When it comes to Gaza, the U.S. has decided whose suffering counts more The morning of Hamas attack on Oct. 7, feeling helpless and scared, I reread the play. Here is an excerpt from the most difficult scene in the play, in which Seinfeld confesses his deepest fears to Izakov: that the population in Gaza will boom, diseases and misery will multiply and the blockade will explode in Israelis faces: Seinfeld: Imagine 10 million people who cant get out, who can barely move, who are infected and starved and scorched. The fear no longer stops anyone. To live or to die they dont see the difference. And they come and overtake us. And then what, lawyer Izakov? I shoot them at the border and I shoot them as they continue to advance and rise up; they grow in numbers and I keep shooting. Thousands? Millions? How many? Till when? The play seems prophetic today. Fear of death didnt stop Hamas from flooding into Israel and killing 1,200 people and taking more than 200 people hostage. Now as nearly 2 million Palestinians are displaced inside Gaza, fleeing Israeli bombardment, disease is rampant and famine looms. And as Seinfeld predicts, we continue shooting. Gaza health officials say more than 24,000 Palestinians have been killed by Israels military, 10,000 of whom are children. Who knows how many more will be killed. Thousands? Millions? How many? Read more: I am half Israeli and half Palestinian. This war feels as if it's killing me twice As a director, I want to speak in the way I know best, to ask people to come to the theater and see what a play like Ulysses on Bottles has to say. But where could it be staged today? I couldnt put it on in Germany. There, it would be attacked as antisemitic. A week into the Israel-Hamas war, Berlins leading theater, the Maxim Gorki Theatre, postponed performances of The Situation, a play by Israeli director-playwright Yael Ronen that explores the third generation of Germans, Israelis and Palestinians whose families survived the Holocaust and Nakba. I couldnt put it on in the U.S. Theaters there would certainly fear the loss of support from Jewish audiences and benefactors. And for those who want to hear about Palestinian suffering, what an Israeli playwright has to say about Gaza would never do. In November, I asked a producer at a university theater company in Boston if hed put on a reading of the play. He said the university president had forbidden productions or statements about Gaza on stage. And Israel? No Israeli theater would dare put on this play now. I was texting with someone at the theater that originally produced it, and I asked whether theyd mount it now. The conversation ended; there was no response. Read more: Opinion: How the International Court of Justice can hold Israel accountable in Gaza In fact, Gaza disappeared from the Israeli theater a long time ago. Ulysses on Bottles was the last major Israeli play to reckon with Gaza, and that was 12 years ago. Israeli theater, attended by a staggering 40% of the population, is harnessed by the state: Many actors come up through the militarys performing troupes, and all theaters rely on public funding. When theaters criticize Israeli policy, or explore taboo topics such as the occupation or the Nakba, their funding may be cut or conditioned by the ministry of culture. During the last two decades of Israels rightward drift, theater professionals have self-censored to survive, a situation made worse now. I know an actress who was suspended from teaching at an acting studio because she posted about Palestinian suffering that predated Oct. 7. In November, Jerusalems municipal theater dropped a play by an Afghan-British playwright about his familys exile from Afghanistan because he tweeted about the Gaza genocide. We cannot celebrate the work of this writer, the theaters manager said in a news release. Theres a scene in Ulysses on Bottles where Izakov tries to convince Ulysses to sign an agreement that he wont set sail for Gaza ever again, in exchange for his freedom from jail: Izakov: Sign the agreement and thats that! Enough throwing your life away on something so insubstantial, so completely groundless. Stop being some parody, some extinct species that nobody is interested in or knows anything about. Your anonymity is complete. The theater is empty. There are no protest movements, theres no echo, the square is empty. Go home! The squares in Israel do feel empty. Antiwar protests are made up of a hundred protesters at best. The theaters are full but with plays that serve as distractions from war. Theres no place where an Israeli director can put Gaza center stage and ask audiences to come to terms with their inaction in the face of an endless cycle of violence. As things stand, Ulysses cant even dream of setting sail. Guy Ben-Aharon is an Israeli American theater director who divides his time between Boston and Jaffa, Israel. For nine years, he ran Israeli Stage based in Boston. He is also the founder and executive director of the Jar in Boston, an organization that uses the arts to create diverse communities. If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. Editors Note: Sign up to get this weekly column as a newsletter. Were looking back at the strongest, smartest opinion takes of the week from CNN and other outlets. On August 9, 1974, the only unelected vice president in American history took the presidential oath of office at a White House ceremony. It was the day after President Richard Nixon resigned in disgrace. My fellow Americans, our long national nightmare is over, President Gerald Ford said. Our Constitution works; our great Republic is a government of laws and not of men. Here the people rule. In words that sound almost foreign to our ears in the 21st century, Ford added, As we bind up the internal wounds of Watergate, more painful and more poisonous than those of foreign wars, let us restore the golden rule to our political process, and let brotherly love purge our hearts of suspicion and of hate. Last week the true-crime docuseries that shot to the top of the list of Netflix shows in the US was American Nightmare. But it wasnt that kind of nightmare, or Gerald Fords one, that presidential candidate Nikki Haley invoked Monday after her third-place finish in the Iowa caucuses. Our campaign is the last best hope of stopping the Trump-Biden nightmare, the former UN ambassador said. She was referring to polls showing that the majority of Americans dont want a rematch between President Joe Biden and the president he defeated in 2020, Donald Trump. Clay Jones/CNN When the results of the New Hampshire primary are reported Tuesday, well have a better sense of whether anyone can stand in the way of that dreaded rematch. If not, it wont be as protracted a national nightmare as the two-year-long Watergate scandal that put Gerald Ford in the Oval Office. This years election is on November 5 and the inauguration is only one year away. Though, depending on your point of view, the real nightmare could begin after the swearing-in. Haley is walking a tightrope, trying to challenge Trumps frontrunner status among Republicans without alienating his MAGA base. Theres an outside chance she can pull off an upset win, carry New Hampshire and pierce Trumps perceived cloak of invincibility, changing the course of the race, wrote Frida Ghitis. But theres another way Haley can emerge victorious. That way has more to do with forces outside her control If Trump is disqualified, somehow unable to run or perhaps convicted and made too toxic even for his supporters, the space could clear for the GOPs second-place finisher to step in and become the nominee. Call it the banana peel path. Haley has been wary of directly going after the former presidents many vulnerabilities, while obliquely arguing that the nation cant risk having a president in or nearing his 80s and that chaos follows Trump, whether or not it is his fault. Her ability to build momentum over the course of the primary showcases her political talent and ability to attract college-educated Republicans tired of having to explain away their support for a president whose hair-trigger social media posts verge into the unhinged, wrote Patrick T. Brown. Daniel McCarthy isnt buying into the idea that Haley has momentum: Former President Donald Trumps easy win in Iowa on Monday confirms that there really is no race for the Republican nomination this year. With a deep freeze discouraging turnout, the caucuses provided a hard test of voter enthusiasm. Trumps rivals failed it. A measure of the former presidents insurmountable strength within the party is that he not only beat Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and Vivek Ramaswamy, he also overcame all of the institutional powers backing them some of the most formidable interests in the GOP. Nick Anderson/RA News On the Democratic side, Biden isnt even on the ballot Tuesday and isnt campaigning in New Hampshire, due to a dispute between state and national party officials over the primarys timing. Rep. Dean Phillips, a low-profile 54-year-old legislator from Minnesota, is running in New Hampshire, SE Cupp noted, and is polling more strongly there than around the nation. Its a longshot, Cupp noted, but if Bidens poll numbers keep going in the wrong direction, if voters feel taken for granted or even overlooked by Democrats, if a symbolic win in New Hampshire gives voters a reason to look more closely at Dean Phillips, well he might give Biden a run for his money. Dana Summers/Tribune Content Agency Civil war echoes Karen Finney is the great-great-great-great niece of Confederate General Robert E. Lee and great-great-great granddaughter of a freed slave from Virginia. Walking through the door of my grandmothers home in North Carolina, Finney wrote, it was impossible to miss a portrait of Lee proudly displayed on the wall. At mealtimes, during what occasionally felt like indoctrination, she would admiringly describe our famous ancestor, the General, as a benevolent slave owner and noble warrior. As she explained it, Lee valiantly fought an unjust War of Northern Aggression in defense of states rights, often referred to as The Lost Cause. The South had been defeated, my grandmother insisted, only because the Northern army had more resources and slavery really wasnt so bad. In Finneys view, the Lost Cause is the backdrop for Trumps suggestion that the Civil War could have been negotiated, the rewriting of history in school curriculums under Florida Gov. DeSantis administration and Haleys struggle over the question of whether America is, or ever was, a racist country. Beyond absurdly omitting slavery as the root cause of the War, she made matters worse while trying to clean up her comments during a recent CNN Town Hall, saying she just assumed that slavery was a given since all children learn about it in school in the South. For more: Keith Magee: Origin brilliantly exposes Americas caste system. Heres how we tear it down Julian Zelizer: Whats working for Trump Samuel L. Adams: Trump supporters know exactly what theyre doing when they compare him to King David Border crisis Trumps remark that immigrants are poisoning the blood of Americans evokes the words of Adolf Hitler in Mein Kampf, author Paul Moses pointed out. But he added that the concept goes further back to the eugenics movement of the early 20th century. In 1914, the year Edward Alsworth Ross became president of the American Sociological Association, he published a book warning that immigrants, Moses wrote, would act on Americans standards for cleanliness, morality and education like a slow poison. A nation that relies on immigration to maintain its population deserves the extinction that surely awaits it, he wroteThe prejudice beneath Ross opinions was obvious, but his ideas were mainstream and respectable he was considered a progressive reformer But Ross came to regret the implications of his ideas about supposedly superior and inferior races, writing shortly after World War II that we never imagined the theory being made a hinge for German aggression to turn on. Thats what the phony claims of eugenics led to Hitlers Final Solution, which resulted in the murder of 6 million Jews. Its certainly worth having vigorous debates about immigration laws, but those whove been indifferent to or even supportive of Trumps increasingly clear turn toward racist, eugenic ideas should confront what theyve enabled. Republicans describe the immigration surge at the US southern border as an invasion that presents a national security threat. Yet, John Avlon wrote, Trump and some members of the House GOP, want to tank an emerging compromise in the Senate that would couple border security measures with aid to Ukraine. Scott Stantis/Tribune Content Agency Speaker Mike Johnson is facing more threats from his far-right flank, who have been signaling that they will balk at any border security bill until a Republican is president. Right-wing resistance is entirely consistent with a Trump-ified GOP that is more willing to demagogue an issue than actually deal with it. For more: Alice Driver: Texas Gov. Greg Abbotts heartless war against migrants Bill Bramhall/New York Dailiy News Trump sat in a Manhattan courtroom Wednesday while E. Jean Carroll testified in support of her defamation case against the former president. Last May, she was awarded $5 million for battery and defamation when a jury found Trump liable for sexually assaulting her. Now Carroll is seeking at least $10 million in additional damages for Trumps 2019 comments about her allegation. As Danielle Campoamor wrote, Carroll found herself facing down not only a man found liable for assaulting her, but also a former president and current presidential frontrunner an unprecedented example of the power dynamics survivors face. While a victim of sexual assault receives death threats, her assailant receives endorsements and secures the Iowa caucus. During Carrolls testimony, Trump repeatedly shook his head, according to CNN reporters inside the courtroom, and could be heard loudly saying things such as its false, shes gotten her memory back, and, according to Carrolls lawyer Shawn Crowley, that the lawsuit is a witch hunt and a con job. When the judge threatened to oust Trump from the courtroom, the former president said, I would love it. The chaotic court proceeding is just one example of why the Supreme Court should clear the way for allowing television cameras at Trumps forthcoming election subversion trial, argued Robert C. Gottlieb. Whether or not cameras are permitted, we know that Trump will continue to impugn the integrity of the proceedings, prosecutor and judge, twist the testimony and repeat his debunked conspiracy theories. His disturbing behavior that was on full display during Wednesdays court proceedings will undoubtedly continue during his upcoming criminal trial. The American people are entitled to see and hear for themselves what goes on in the courtroom so that they can draw their own conclusions from the evidence. Jack Ohman/Tribune Content Agency Inequality debate The narrative of fast-worsening inequality over the past half century has been challenged in a new study by economists Gerald Auten and David Splinter. They used data to show that, compared to the 1960s, the pre-tax income of the top 1% has increased only by 2.6% and after accounting for taxes, the share of income going to the super-rich hasnt budged at all, wrote Jordan McGillis. The study disputes a 2018 finding by Thomas Piketty, Emmanuel Saez and Gabriel Zucman that the top 1% has seen its share of national pre-tax income go from 12% to 20% since the 1980s. McGillis says theres something else going on that tends to exacerbate inequality. Among rich Americans, marriage rates remain high, but theyve plummeted for less affluent people, creating more single-person households with lower levels of income. This cleavage makes possible what the Brookings Institutions Melissa Kearney describes as two-parent privilege, an emerging phenomenon through which well-off couples transmit educational and economic advantages to their children. Viewed from this angle, it should not surprise us that many Americans think the rich are galloping ever further ahead. Elise Gould and Josh Bivens have a different take. Using Social Security Administration data, they found that the share of earnings for the bottom 90% fell 9.7 percentage points between 1979 and 2022, while the share of earnings for the top 5% grew 8.8 percentage points. The very top the top 0.1% of wage earners nearly tripled its share of total earnings from 1.6% in 1979 to 4.6% in 2022 All of this straightforward data on earnings clearly shows a huge rise in inequality of pay in the US economy. Mideast war The US and the UK struck back at the Houthis, the Yemeni insurgent group that is targeting commercial shipping in the Red Sea, but the lingering question was about how effective such a series of strikes can be. We think of war as a last resort, Elisabeth Kendall, head of Cambridge Universitys Girton College told Peter Bergen. The Houthis think of it as a way of life. The Houthis have this massive advantage, which is that they dont care about casualties, and they also dont have to be accurate, as we have to be accurate when were operating in these theatres because we dont want to kill civilians. All they have to do is lob missiles and drones into the Red Sea to have the effect that they want, which is to disrupt global shipping, rattle financial markets, create fear and look heroic at the same time. So, by taking out some of their launch sites, we have probably taken out some of their capability, but they will have expected that. They will have hidden some of their military assets, Kendall said. CNN Opinion senior editor Sheena McKenzie interviewed Dr. Izzeldin Abuelaish, known as the first Palestinian doctor to hold a staff position at an Israeli hospital, and asked him about the future for Palestinian children amid the war in Gaza. There is no future for them, he said. How can we give them hope to stop this bloodshed? How can we start to give them a future, not to be an extremist or be a fanatic? The cost of this war is not just what is happening now. The cost of war is the invisible ghost. Its the post-war. The physical, social, spiritual and mental wounds that lasts generations. (Hear more from Sheena McKenzie on the Tug of War podcast.) There is a lot of talk but very little real debate about the Israel-Hamas conflict on US college campuses, wrote Peter Rutland, a professor of government at Wesleyan University. Instead, we see two parallel sets of conversations, some more civil than others, organized by those who Stand with Israel and those seeking Justice for Palestine. Many college students are taught that American society is the product of settler colonialism a history of conquest and exploitation. In this simplistic framing, the plight of the Palestinians is just one more example of the familiar evils of settler colonialism. For those who see the conflict through this lens, the founding of Israel is treated as the equivalent of the European colonization of the Americas. The Gaza war is better understood as a conflict between two competing nationalist projects than as a case of settler colonialism. There are a number of inconvenient historical truths that complicate the settler colonialism narrative. It is a conflict in which each side with good reason sees itself as an embattled and threatened minority. For more: Nafees Hamid: Psychology explains why the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is so intractable. Dont miss Walt Handelsman/The Times Picayune/The Advocate Sara Stewart: Katherine Heigl deserves a little justice Jill Filipovic: Why censor pictures of FKA twigs and not those of Jeremy Allen White? Lanhee J. Chen: The repercussions from Taiwans election will continue for years Suzanne Nossel: DEl and free speech can go hand in hand Jade McGlynn: The real story behind Russias new Stalin Centers AND Teen skin care craze When Holly Thomas was 12, she received a large unsolicited Estee Lauder makeup sampler for Christmas. The box felt like a totem of my impending maturity, recognition that I would soon be allowed access to an as-yet out-of-reach club. I gave it pride of place on my bedroom table (swiftly rebranded as a dresser with the help of a soon-to-be filthy sarong), and before too long I was regularly being sent out of class, cheeks burning, to wash my contraband mascara off. It wasnt a particularly edifying phase, but neither was it very consequential. Today however, skin care is a far more serious business. Gone are the days of teens aimlessly browsing random drugstores by day and smudging their pillows with iridescent bronzer by night. Now, kids dont just know how to cleanse properly, theyve taken to beauty products with unprecedented zeal. Absurd though it sounds, that fervor is acutely ominous, Thomas wrote. Dermatologists report children as young as nine, many of whom already maintain elaborate at-home skin care regimes coming to their offices for cosmetic consultations. Teens whove barely exited puberty are obsessing over the alleged preventative anti-aging properties of Botox, and the internet is teeming with youngsters pleading for solutions to their wrinkles. The fretting and groupthink involved bear all the hallmarks of a classic youthful infatuation. But this one comes with sinister undercurrents less familiar to the adults who went before them. The most worrying thing about todays skin care craze isnt just that the financial and emotional buy-in are completely out of proportion to the need being addressed. They may set kids up for lasting damage. And thanks to the misinformation soup of social media, the gnarly, anxiety-provoking call is coming from inside the house. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com When Arizona Sen. Barry Goldwater contemplated a run for president in the 1964 election, he introduced himself to a national audience by releasing a photo of himself dressed in a buckskin jacket, cowboy hat and jeans, holding an antique rifle on his knee. He looked every inch the frontiersman except for the swimming pool in the background. Those who knew Goldwater might have chuckled at another detail. Although his family had genuine 19th century Arizona roots, they had made their fortune in department stores, not ranching. One of Barrys only contributions to the business before he left to chase a political career was designing a line of blouses and drapes featuring cattle brands. Read more: How Sedona, an epicenter of spiritual energy and Arizona tourism mecca, came to fear and loathe tourists The use of retail cowboy duds to project a conservative image of toughness, independence and suspicion of government is an Arizona tradition at least as old as Goldwaters failed presidential campaign. But even as the real trade of cowboying has virtually disappeared in modern Arizona direct cattle sales make up less than 0.0014% of the states GDP the strategic use of Western attire to broadcast right-leaning ideology has only increased and seems to be getting even stronger. Read more: Opinion: Why is Arizona poised to give away groundwater to mining when it faces a devastating water crisis? As big as Arizona has grown, it is in our political DNA, Republican political consultant Stan Barnes said of cowboy iconography. When you come to Arizona, youre subject to the culture, and if youre in political life, you see that culture distilled. Of the 90 members of the 2024 Arizona Legislature, five are wearing cowboy hats in their official state portraits. All of them are Republicans. But only one is an actual rancher with cattle. It means someone who rides for the brand, said that lawmaker, Rep. David Cook, known at the Capitol as a down-to-earth deal maker. He compares his governing philosophy to moving livestock. You get them all together and move them together, he said. Read more: Opinion: Reality deniers like Kari Lake fit right in with Arizona's history of wishful thinking The politician-cowpoke theme comes drenched in several ironies, not least of which is that when Arizona was run by a Democratic Party machine for most of the 20th century, there were far more ranchers serving in public office and their livery was both more common and less partisan. Gov. Jack Williams declared the bolo tie Arizonas official neckwear in 1971, and when Tom Prezelski, a Democrat from Tucson, wore his own ornamental leather cravat on the floor of the Legislature 15 years ago, nobody blinked. Now he gets a different question when he wears it: Have you turned into a Republican? You now adopt the fashion to make a political statement, Prezelski complained. Its all code. It didnt used to be that way. Now you get all these Republicans looking like norteno musicians. Anyone who wants a front row to Deep Arizona should go to the state Capitol whenever the states 15 county sheriffs arrive to lobby for something. Nearly all of them wear cowboy hats, looking like a family reunion out of Wyatt Earp days. Here lies another irony. As a profession, cowboying flourished only for a brief period, roughly from 1865 to 1895, when it was a low-paid agricultural job, often taken up by Mexican immigrants and African Americans not the core of todays Republican base, to say the least. The equestrian tradition of Western cattle raising is derivative not of anything Anglos brought to conquered Indigenous land but of the northern Mexican vaquero tradition. The cowboy hat is a modified sombrero. Even the core lingo comes from the Spanish language: lariat, corral, chaps. But historical details dont seem to matter. The aesthetics are used to conjure up a politics of frontier individualism they go hand in hand. One does affect the other, said Barnes. They feed off each other. These signifiers work because voters embrace them too. Its a common story for newcomers to Arizona to lean into the fantasy Western lifestyle by decorating their homes with oil paintings of shootouts and roundups. Even interior design carries political influences these days. A lot of people respond to it, said Jim West, a longtime Phoenix country disc jockey. It boils down to looking out for yourself, taking care of your people, and small government. But not every politician can pull off the look. Mark Finchem, a former police officer from Michigan, ran a heavily MAGA conspiracy-oriented campaign for secretary of state in 2022. On the campaign trail, he sported an unconvincing combination of string tie and cowboy hat. That earned him the nickname Kalamazoo cosplay cowboy. Some see a darker message in the aesthetic. J. Gray Sweeney, a professor emeritus of art history at Arizona State University, wrote in an article, Racism, Nationalism, and Nostalgia in Cowboy Art, that the supporters of western art are willing to do everything in their power to protect the cherished fantasy of America's 'winning of the West, which is premised on nationalistic and conservative values. That impulse has gotten only stronger in recent years, especially in the Trump era, Sweeney explained to me. I can tell you without any reservations whatsoever that the people who collected this kind of nostalgia-ridden art are uniformly conservative politically, as the art is about preserving some values that are regressive and largely of a white supremacist type. Of course, the supposed golden age of the Arizona rangelands in the late 19th century was also a time when Anglo settlement depended on government largesse in the form of land giveaways to the railroads, loose mining concessions and military supply contracts. A later generation of ranchers would never have stayed in business if it werent for generous public grazing leases, plus federal dams for all that water. So when Arizona politicians take to dressing up Western-style, theyre paying homage to an era not of rugged individualism but of a Washington-driven economy subsidized by taxpayers. Giddyup! Tom Zoellner is the author of Rim to River: Looking into the Heart of Arizona. 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. ERIE TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WJW) State troopers are investigating a one-vehicle crash that left a man dead in Ottawa County Friday. Ohio State Highway Patrol, and other nearby emergency responders, was called to the area of SR-2 in Erie Township not far from West Camp Perry Western Road after a Ford truck was found near some trees. Winter weather heat safety tips: What to know So far, investigators said they do not know what time the incident took place, but they believe the driver lost control of the vehicle while driving east on SR-2, only to end up in a field, going through a paintball range and into a tree line. Troopers said the truck hit multiple obstacles, including some trees before coming to a stop. The driver, who was identified as 59-year-old Jeff Bauer of Castalia, Ohio, died as a result of the crash, OSHP said. Number of ODOT snow plows struck keeps rising Bauer was reportedly not wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash. Investigators said they do not suspect alcohol or drug use was a factor. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW. North Korea on Sunday strongly condemned a recent meeting of the U.N. Security Council convened to discuss Pyongyang's recent test-fire of a hypersonic missile and other issues. The council held the closed-door meeting Thursday, days after the North launched what it claims was a solid-fuel intermediate-range ballistic missile tipped with a hypersonic warhead last Sunday. "The U.N. Security Council, at the brigandish demand of the U.S. and its vassal states, convened a closed-door negotiation to discuss the hypersonic missile test-fire, which was conducted as a part of the DPRK's regular efforts for bolstering up its defense capability," the North's foreign ministry said. The North also said in the statement, carried by the official Korean Central News Agency, that the test-fire "gave no harmful affect to the security of neighboring countries and it had nothing to do with the present regional situation." The North also claimed the launch was "part of regular and legitimate activities of sovereign state." "This is a wanton violation of the sovereignty of the DPRK, an unpardonable provocation and an irresponsible act of deliberately escalating the critical situation on the Korean peninsula," the statement said. "We deeply regret that the UNSC has brought the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's sovereign right to the discussion without any expression of concern, far from detention and restraining of the grave military threat of the U.S. and its vassal states that breaks peace and stability on the Korean peninsula, and strongly denounce it." (Yonhap) AUSTIN, Texas (WCMH) Ohio State Universitys mens volleyball team continued its season-long unbeaten streak with a 3-2 win over the USC Trojans Saturday, its third win over a top 20 California school. Coming off a 5-set win over No. 1-ranked UCLA on Friday, the Buckeyes fought off a game Trojans team who came back in the third and fourth sets to tie it up before the fifth set. Buckeye swimming and diving make history against Michigan Shane Wetzel led the Buckeyes with 17 kills with Jacob Pasteur adding 13. Starting setter Noah Platfoot led the Buckeyes with 27 assists while Wetzel and Pasteur led with a team-high five digs each. The UCLA and USC wins came as Ohio State competed in the First Point Collegiate Challenge in Austin, Texas. The Buckeyes will face Penn State this Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Covelli Center. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV. Israeli soldiers overlook the Gaza Strip from a tank, as seen from southern Israel, Friday, Jan. 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo) Israeli soldiers overlook the Gaza Strip from a tank, as seen from southern Israel, Friday, Jan. 19, 2024. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo) RAFAH, Gaza Strip (AP) The Palestinian death toll from the war between Israel and Hamas has soared past 25,000, the Health Ministry in the Gaza Strip said Sunday, while the Israeli government appeared far from achieving its goals of crushing the militant group and freeing more than 100 hostages. The level of death, destruction and displacement from the war already is without precedent in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Yet Israeli officials say the fighting is likely to continue for several more months. The slow progress and the plight of the hostages held in Gaza has divided ordinary Israelis and their leaders even as the offensive threatens to ignite a wider war involving Iran-backed groups in Lebanon, Syria, Iraq and Yemen that support the Palestinians. The United States, which has provided essential diplomatic and military support for the offensive, has had limited success in persuading Israel to adopt military tactics that put civilians at less risk and to facilitate the delivery of more humanitarian aid. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also has rejected U.S. and international calls for postwar plans that would include a path to Palestinian statehood. GAZA DEATH TOLL CLIMBS AMID BLISTERING OFFENSIVE The war began with Hamas surprise attack in southern Israel on Oct. 7, during which Palestinian militants killed some 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took around 250 hostages back to Gaza. Israel responded with a blistering three-week air campaign and then a ground invasion into northern Gaza that laid waste to entire neighborhoods. Ground operations are now focused on the southern city of Khan Younis and built-up refugee camps in central Gaza dating back to the 1948 war surrounding Israels creation. Israel continues to carry out airstrikes throughout the besieged territory, including areas in the south where it told civilians to seek refuge. Many Palestinians have ignored evacuation orders, saying nowhere feels safe. RAFAH, GAZA - JANUARY 21: A view of a wrecked vehicle is seen after Israeli drones conduct airstrike over Rafah, Gaza on January 21, 2024. (Photo by Abed Rahim Khatib/Anadolu via Getty Images) RAFAH, GAZA - JANUARY 21: A view of a wrecked vehicle is seen after Israeli drones conduct airstrike over Rafah, Gaza on January 21, 2024. (Photo by Abed Rahim Khatib/Anadolu via Getty Images) Since the war started, a total of 25,105 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, while another 62,681 have been wounded, the Health Ministry reported Sunday. The death toll included the 178 bodies brought to Gazas hospitals since Saturday, Health Ministry spokesperson Ashraf al-Qidra said. Another 300 people were wounded in the past day, he said. The overall toll is thought to be even higher because many casualties remain buried under the rubble from Israeli strikes or in areas where medics cannot reach them, Al-Qidra said. The Health Ministry does not differentiate between civilians and combatants in its figures but says around two-thirds of the people killed in Gaza were women and minors. The ministry is part of the Hamas-run government, but its casualty figures from previous wars were largely consistent with those of U.N. agencies and even the Israeli military. The Israeli military says it has killed around 9,000 militants, without providing evidence, and blames the high civilian death toll on Hamas because it positions fighters, tunnels and other militant infrastructure in dense neighborhoods, often near homes, schools or mosques. The military says 195 of its soldiers have been killed since the start of the Gaza offensive. The war has displaced some 85% of Gazas residents from their homes, with hundreds of thousands packing into U.N.-run shelters and tent camps in the southern part of the tiny coastal enclave. U.N. officials say a quarter of the population of 2.3 million is starving as only a trickle of humanitarian aid reaches them because of the fighting and Israeli restrictions. ISRAELIS INCREASINGLY DIVIDED Netanyahu has vowed to keep up the offensive until Israel achieves complete victory over Hamas and returns all the remaining hostages. But even some top Israeli officials have begun to acknowledge that those goals might be mutually exclusive. Hamas is believed to be holding the captives in tunnels deep underground and using them as shields for its top leaders. Israel has only managed to rescue one hostage since the war began, and Hamas says several have been killed in Israeli airstrikes or during failed rescue operations. A member of Israels War Cabinet, former army chief Gadi Eisenkot, said last week that the only way to free the remaining hostages was through a cease-fire. In an implicit criticism of Netanyahu, he said claims to the contrary amounted to illusions. Hamas has said it will not free more hostages until Israel ends its offensive. The group also is expected to make any further releases conditional on securing freedom for thousands of Palestinians imprisoned in Israel, including high-profile militants involved in attacks that killed Israelis. Israels government has ruled that out for now, but it faces rising pressure from families of the hostages, who are pushing for another exchange, and from Israelis frustrated by the security failures that preceded the Oct. 7 attack and by Netanyahus handling of the war. Thousands of people gathered in Tel Aviv over the weekend to call for new elections. Netanyahus far-right coalition partners are meanwhile pushing him to step up the offensive, with some calling for the voluntary emigration of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians from Gaza and the re-establishment of Jewish settlements there. Israel withdrew soldiers and settlers from the territory in 2005, two years before Hamas seized power from rival Palestinian forces. ___ Magdy reported from Cairo. A Palestinian restaurant chain owner who took flak for his inflammatory river to the sea menu header is hosting a free sabbath dinner on Friday in part to thank his Jewish customers for their support and to foster community. Restaurateur Abdul Elenani, 31, owns Ayat, a chain of popular Palestinian eateries named after his wife, a 34-year-old lawyer, and the daughter of Palestinian immigrants. The restaurant caused a stir in the wake of the Oct. 7 terrorist attack in Israel with its from the river to the sea fish options on the menu. The Anti-Defamation League calls the phrase antisemitic because it implicitly calls for the destruction of the state of Israel and the annihilation of Jews. Elenani, however, insists the phrase has a different interpretation. Ayat is hosting a free sabbath dinner in part to thank his Jewish customers for their support and to foster community. William Farrington This mantra stands for Palestinians to have equal rights and freedoms in their own country. In no way does this advocate any kind of violence. It signifies peace, and freedom, he told Side Dish. The explanation has been added to the new menus at his latest location in Ditmas Park, Brooklyn, which will host the free dinner. It will soon appear on menus at other Ayat outposts. Elenanis controversial messaging led to him being targeted with death threats and, almost as bad, the popular chain was hit with bad reviews. But he has remained firm in trying to control the narrative. Ayat is named after Elenanis wife, a 34-year-old lawyer and the daughter of Palestinian immigrants. ayat.nyc / Instagram You cant come to me and translate my verse, he said. You should ask me and I will give you my translation. Im not going to change it because you want to change the meaning to feed your story. Perhaps surprisingly, he has received strong support from his Jewish customers, he said. The sabbath dinner is a way for him to show thanks, though he is still working out details like hiring a kosher caterer. Ive always wanted even before this shabbat dinner concept to create something that brings Jews and Muslims together under one roof, and there is no better way than through food, Elenani said. Ayat caused a stir with its from the river to the sea fish options on the menu. @whereyoueat Elenani said he has received strong support from his Jewish customers. @whereyoueat The Middle East conflict shouldnt impact people here in New York. It doesnt make any sense. It should unite us more and not separate us. Elenani, who grew up in Brooklyn, launched the first Ayat restaurant in 2020, during the pandemic. Theyre now in the East Village, Ditmas Park, Bay Ridge, Industry City, Staten Island, and Allentown, Pa. On social media, Elenani and his wife, Ayat Masoud, posted: In the spirit of togetherness and understanding, we invite all our incredible neighbors, especially our Jewish neighbors, to a heartfelt shabbat dinner at Ayat Restaurant. Its not just about breaking bread; its about breaking barriers, fostering dialogue, and connecting on a human levelLets create a space where differences unite us, where conversations flow freely, and where bonds are forged. Together, lets weave a tapestry of understanding and compassion that strengthens our beloved community. Elenani said he has received strong support from his Jewish customers. ayat.nyc / Instagram Born in New York to Egyptian immigrants, Elenani says the dinner is also a step towards his ultimate restaurant vision of having both Jews and Arabs eating alongside each other. The larger concept I want to roll out is a massive warehouse, with a kosher kitchen on one side, a halal kitchen on the other, and communal tables in the middle, Elenani said. Everyone would then sit together at the communal tables to discuss life and normal human things that people discuss with each other. The concept is really needed right now, he said. Everybody is going against each other, and no one is thinking about bringing people together. Enough with the negativity! I want to bring opposites together and they arent even opposite. We all have a lot of things in common. The separations are stupid, because of politics. The Middle Eastern restaurant supports the people in Gaza as the war with Israel rages on. Gregory P. Mango Elenani also works as a building contractor, and owns a farm in central New Jersey. But his passion is the restaurant business. Pre-pandemic, Elenani launched Cocoa Grinder, a chain of coffee shops in Brooklyn, where they roast their own beans. Elenani and Massoud are also new parents. They have a 2-month-old daughter. She changed everything, Elenani said. Im more soft, less tough living for another person, and taking care of myself so that I can take care of her. Having a child, Elenani said, makes you question life and question yourself more. The first thing I said to myself when I saw her was, Am I a good person? How will she judge me? How will the world judge me? When former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson threw his support behind Nikki Haley in the GOP presidential race, his message was as much an indictment of the former president as it was an endorsement of Haley ahead of New Hampshires Tuesday primary. Anyone who believes Donald Trump will unite this country has been asleep over the last 8 years. Trump intentionally tries to divide America and will continue to do so. Go @NikkiHaley in New Hampshire, Hutchinson wrote on X, formerly Twitter, on Saturday afternoon. Haleys well-timed bump in the polls in the Granite State bolstered by a timely endorsement from the states popular GOP governor, Chris Sununu has elevated the first-in-the-nation primary as the event to watch this election season. Its also drawn Haley, a former governor of South Carolina and former Trump administration official, the backing of several of the loudest anti-Trump voices still left in the Republican Party. Around the same time Hutchinson called on New Hampshire voters to support Haley, GOP Gov. Phil Scott of Vermont did the same: After years of controversy, violent rhetoric and growing polarization, the very last thing we need is four more years of Donald Trump, Scott said in a statement, calling Haley our only chance to ensure America has the choice it deserves in November. Just over a week earlier, former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, whos been eyed as a possible third-party candidate, backed Haley ahead of Iowas caucuses, calling her the strongest chance for Republicans to put forward the best possible candidate in the general election. And the most-prominent New Hampshire newspaper, the Union Leader, joined the chorus this weekend, endorsing Haley, touting both her character and her experience. Despite its conservative bent, the paper backed Joe Biden in the 2020 general election, defying its long history of supporting conservatives in the general election. If you can select a Republican ballot on Tuesday, the editorial said, we urge you to select Nikki Haley as your next president. New Hampshire is ready for a change. America is ready for a change. The world is ready for a change. We want a better option than we have had for the past eight years, and Nikki Haley is that option. The slate of late-breaking endorsements would normally be a boon for a candidate hoping to sway voters in the waning days of a campaign. But for Haley, it also brings risk. The former U.N. ambassador has, like most of the GOP candidates, painstakingly avoided going after Trump head on. Only recently did she ramp up her criticism of the former president, and rule out the possibility that she would accept a job as Trumps vice president. While anti-Trump messaging may charm New Hampshires more moderate electorate which includes a significant number of independent voters its unlikely to appeal to the conservatives in other early voting states. And in recent campaign stops in New Hampshire, Trump has attempted to play up Haleys independent support, claiming that liberals are attempting to "infiltrate the Republican primary, in New Hampshire. Haley is also still missing the support of two of the most nationally recognizable Trump detractors: former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) and former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. Christies exit from the race earlier this month was poised to be a win for Haley, as polls indicated that likely Christie voters eyed Haley as a possible second choice in the race. But Christie, whose campaign hinged on taking on Trump, slammed Haley on his way out the door. Shes gonna get smoked, Christie was caught saying of Haley although he did not reference her by name. And you and I both know it. Shes not up to this. Haley is still trailing Trump by double digits in recent polls of Granite State voters, her surge appearing to slow. Even Sununu, her top surrogate in the state, has tempered expectations for her on Tuesday. "She doesn't have to win. I mean, look, nobody goes from single digits in December to 'you absolutely have to win' in January," he said Sunday during an interview on NBC's "Meet the Press." Trump, meanwhile, has scooped up the support of three of the other also-rans: North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Vivek Ramaswamy and most recently (and most stingingly) Sen. Tim Scott, Haleys fellow South Carolinian, as well as two of his 2016 primary foes, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio and Texas Sen. Ted Cruz. It comes right down to, what does America need for the next president? Scott said Sunday on CNNs State of the Union. The only conclusion, he added later, is Donald Trump. GLEN ROCK, Pa. (AP) A school board in southern Pennsylvania has voted to reinstate the districts old mascot logo portraying a Native American fighter, despite criticism that its outdated and culturally insensitive. The Southern York County School District voted 7-2 on Thursday to bring back the logo, which had been retired in April 2021 by a previous board that also chose to keep the name of the Susquehannock High School teams as the Warriors. The vote followed a lengthy debate including a nearly two-hour public comment session and an hourlong presentation by the Native American Guardians Association (NAGA), a nonprofit organization that lobbies against the removal of Native American mascots. Several parents spoke against reinstating the logo, saying the board was lacking in humanity and should be focused on education. Some students also said the logo debate has heightened racial bullying. Supporters of the logo cited the districts history and said many students and parents favor it but are afraid of being called racists. The school board has five new members who were elected last November after running with the old mascot on their campaign materials, changing the majority stance on the logo issue. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. HMS Diamond, left, alongside a US aircraft carrier. There has been a steep decline in the size of the Royal Navy - Ryan D McLearnon/US Navy/SWNS Cabinet tensions over defence spending have surfaced as Penny Mordaunt warned Britains national interests are at risk unless the Royal Navy keeps pace with nations such as Russia and China. Ms Mordaunt, a former defence secretary and leadership candidate, tweeted her warning above an image of a press article chronicling the decline in the size of the Royal Navy to a fraction of what it was in the last century. It came as Defence Secretary Grant Shapps failed to set a date for hitting the Governments target of increasing defence spending to 2.5 per cent of GDP, saying it would only be achieved when economic conditions allow. It emerged earlier this month that the Navy is facing such a severe recruitment crisis that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) is planning to decommission two ships to free up sailors for a new fleet of frigates. The size of the Royal Navy fleet has fallen from 232 ships, including eight aircraft carriers, in 1960 to 30 in 2022, including two new aircraft carriers. But, in her tweet, Ms Mordaunt, an honorary captain in the Royal Navy Reserve and MP for Portsmouth North, said: The Royal Navy and its partners must keep pace with the growing capabilities of other nations. If not, Britains interests cannot be secured. Secure our interests In the article in The Sunday Times, she added: We must not just ask ourselves by how much Russia and China are increasing their fleets, but why. The future Royal Navy must be able to continue to secure our interests, which are entirely predicated on being able to thwart attempts to deny us access to the seas of certain parts of the world. Mr Shapps was challenged on the BBC to set a date for hitting the 2.5 per cent target at a time when he had warned about rising global threats. He said it was comfortably above 2 per cent of GDP the Nato benchmark but not at 2.5 per cent yet. There is a trajectory upwards. I cant give you the exact date because weve always said its as the economic conditions allow. But the point is were working to a plan, he added. Responding to Ms Mordaunts comments, Mr Shapps said: Im in a post where there are a lot of people with opinions and a lot of people whove been in the military and armed forces will often express them. He defended the Chancellors focus on tax cuts rather than increasing defence spending, arguing people do want to see more of the money that they earn kept. Facing a pre-war world Last week, Mr Shapps made the case for increased Western defence spending, saying the UK was facing a pre-war world. In a speech last Monday, he set out the risks posed by countries, including China, Russia, Iran and North Korea, as well as terrorist groups in an increasingly dangerous world. The speech was seen as a pitch by Mr Shapps for extra defence spending. Before taking on the defence brief, Mr Shapps had backed a level of spending in excess of the Governments goal, arguing it should rise to 3 per cent. Last week, Lord Dannatt, a former chief of the general staff, hit out at the shrinking size of the Army, which he said had fallen from 102,000 in 2006 to 74,000 today and falling fast. He drew parallels with the 1930s when the woeful state of the UKs armed forces failed to deter Hitler, saying there was a serious danger of history repeating itself. But Mr Shapps insisted the size of the Army would not dip below 73,000 under the Tories. He said: Its not projected to go down to 50,000. Its actually, specifically, to 73,000, plus the reserves. 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. (KRON) A Honda CR-V crashed into sand barrels Saturday night on northbound I-280 near the US-101 southbound connector ramp, according to California Highway Patrol (CHP). The crash happened around 7:40 p.m., and a person exited the SUV. A white van, which was trying to avoid the debris from the sand barrels crash, struck the Honda and the person who was on foot on the highway, CHP said. The victim was taken to the hospital with major injuries. As of 10 p.m., the connector ramp from the crash scene remains closed. Caltrans is cleaning up the debris from the sand barrels. (Map courtesy of 511) Travelers in the area were told to expect delays. It is unknown if the crash was weather-related as rain poured across the Bay Area on Saturday. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. Patricia Foster writes what is known as the personal essay. And they are personal, indeed. Her very successful first book, All the Lost Girls: Confessions of a Southern Daughter, was followed by several more volumes, chronicling her own life experiences: moving out of the South, teaching, marrying, heartbreak, traveling. This volume, as the title Written in the Sky: Lessons of a Southern Daughter suggests, bookends her first volume. Several essays are explorations of racial subjects. More: Thriller is set on small college campus | DON NOBLE She examines in detail Virginia Durrs autobiography Outside the Magic Circle, the gold standard for a Southern womans racial awakening and conversion. She writes movingly of her experience at the Peace and Justice Memorial, with the descriptions there of grotesque lynchings, and thoughtfully about her own efforts to come to terms with the racial ignorance of her youth and her work over the years to achieve an empathy for the racial injustices of her time. For me, however, her greater strengths lie in the examinations of her closest relationships: with her immediate family. There are deeply moving accounts of Fosters visits home to be with her dying mother and, even more distressing, her dying sister. Don Noble Right to the last, the old sibling rivalry shows itself. Do we ever learn? Foster and her mother quarrel over issues that cannot be resolved between generations. Are young women at least partly responsible for what happens to them if, at 15 years old, they go to a party, dressed, as Mrs. Foster would say, provocatively, get drunk and then are assaulted? Is violence by people in the George Floyd protests acceptable? Even in what will be the last conversations with her mother, there is still that perpetual, American gap between the generations. Will we never acknowledge that we are formed, in large part, by the cultural values of our childhood? In what may be the best essay, Nowhere, she revisits her mothers childhood in a desperately awful mining town. There, her mother suffered poverty, hunger, even sexual abuse at the hands of her big brother, who should, of course, in a better world, have been protecting her. Fosters mother would persevere, however, graduate from college, become the wife of the town physician, and a perfect mother, taking Patricia and her sister, Jean, who herself becomes a doctor, to piano lessons, dance lessons, you name it. Everything clothes, car, yard, posture, everything, must be perfect. The Fosters have arrived, but the stresses of being what Foster calls Below are replaced by the incredible fragilities of Above. Instead of the confident ease of middle-class families my family was circumspect, on guard, alert to every slip in status. Anything could happen! Reversals Disappointments. Ruin. The anxiety of the newly arrived middle class in the South has never been better done. Patricias mother, invited to a teachers house for dinner as a young girl, cleans her plate, not understanding the Southern-lady protocol of leaving something uneaten. My goodness, someone has an appetite, the teachers mother says. Don Nobles newest book is Alabama Noir, a collection of original stories by Winston Groom, Ace Atkins, Carolyn Haines, Brad Watson, and eleven other Alabama authors. Written in the Sky: Lessons of a Southern Daughter Author: Patricia Foster Publisher: University of Alabama Press Pages: 213 Price: $24.95 (Paper) This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Personal essays by Patricia Foster explore family dynamics | DON NOBLE Choe Thae-bok, a former chairman of the Supreme People's Assembly (SPA), North Korea's rubber-stamp legislature, has died, the North's official news agency reported Sunday. Choe was 93. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un paid a visit to Choe's funeral bier with secretaries of the Central Committee of the ruling Workers' Party at dawn Sunday to express his deep condolences over his death, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said. "Kim Jong-un paid silent tribute to Choe Thae Bok who performed distinguished feats in the sacred struggle for the development of the WPK and the DPRK government with his boundless loyalty to the leader, transparent revolutionary principle and spirit of devoted service to the country and its people," the KCNA said. The DPRK stands for the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, the North's official name. The KCNA lauded Choe as "a revolutionary fighter faithful to President Kim Il-sung and Chairman Kim Jong-il and a veteran political activist of the Party and state who made distinguished contributions to the accomplishment of the revolutionary cause of Juche." Kim Il-sung is the North's late national founder and grandfather of current leader Kim Jong-un, while Kim Jong-il is the late son of the national founder and the father of the current leader. Juche, or "self-reliance," refers to the North's ruling ideology. Choe is believed to be the longest-serving chairman in the North's parliament, holding the position from 1998 to 2019. He was loyal to the regime throughout the three generations of its leaders and served in key positions in the fields of education and foreign affairs. His last public appearance was at an event to celebrate the North's founding day on Sept. 9, 2022. (Yonhap) Ukraines SBU security service must launch an investigation into the covert video recording of independent journalists, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in an interview with the UK Channel 4 on Jan. 20. Some say it was just a recording of media people and nothing happened, he said. I think otherwise. Read also: Ukrainian journalist on price for exposing government corruption interview Following the incident, the President promptly summoned the head of the SBU, Vasyl Maliuk, to his office. A criminal case was opened immediately, Zelenskyy said. I personally invited the head of the SBU and received details from the Prosecutor General. We need to find answers to all this, Zelenskyy said, indicating that the SBU will conduct an investigation to identify and hold the perpetrators accountable. Read also: National Police launch criminal probe into Bihus.Info surveillance The President had previously stated that any form of pressure on journalists is unacceptable, responding to the surveillance of journalists associated with the Bihus.Info project. Bihus.Info journalists are renowned for their important investigations into the Ukrainian government and politicians. A video surfaced online on Jan. 16 allegedly showing Bihus.Info staff using drugs. Bihus claimed that there had been illegal surveillance lasting about a year, with edited fragments from different times. In another case, unknown individuals attempted to break into journalist Yuriy Nikolovs Kyiv apartment. Nikolov had exposed inflated prices for Defense Ministry procurements, leading to the resignation of Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov and the parliament adopting a bill on transparent defense procurement. Nikolovs mother was at home during the break-in attempt. The SBU initiated a criminal case on Jan. 17 for illegal eavesdropping and video recording by the outlets employees. Law enforcement does not rule out violations of drug-related laws in the published materials. The media outlet Narodna Pravda, which published an illicitly sourced surveillance video the Bihus.Info team, has removed the video and closed its YouTube channel on Jan. 19. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine During the four years I spent getting a bachelors degree at Brigham Young University, my befuddled parents asked me more than once what I was actually studying. What did this major called humanities entail and why was it worth paying tuition for? It didnt help that my parents are Ukrainian and we struggled finding an equivalent to humanities in Russian and Ukrainian to help me explain what to them seemed like an irresponsible academic choice. What exactly would be my job upon graduation? they wondered. A marketing job, or maybe a job teaching languages? The truth is, I did not know myself. In my classes, I learned about literary theory, read Plato and Shakespeare for the first time, listened to classical pieces and memorized the title and composer of each one. For my Philosophy of Art class, the first assignment was to write an essay answering: What is Art? While the practical application of these studies seemed abstract and distant, I was sure of one thing I delighted in nearly every class and assignment. Humanities felt like a playground to explore and understand my own incoherent thoughts. My college days of studying humanities almost 20 years ago sprang to mind this week when I read Martha Nussbaums essay about her visit to Utah Valley University last year. Nussbaum, a philosopher and professor at the University of Chicago, had been invited to give a lecture on justice for nonhuman animals, the topic of her new book Justice for Animals: Our Collective Responsibility. She wrote in The Chronicle of Higher Education that at UVU, she witnessed one of the most heartening scenes in higher education that I have ever witnessed in my long career. An overflow crowd of about 150 people attended her lecture, where students contested her approach and thoughtfully engaged in the discussion, she wrote in the piece. She spoke as part of a required course, Ethics and Values, thats supported through a National Endowment for the Humanities grant and is funded by the state government. Over the past few years, budget cuts have shrunk humanities programs. West Virginia University laid off 76 people, including 32 tenured faculty members in areas of language and the arts, according to The New York Times. Other schools, such as the University of Alaska, North Dakota State University, Iowa State University and the University of Kansas, proposed cuts to their humanities programs. Related Looking back at her experience at UVU, Nussbaum makes the case for humanities education and identifies three benefits of the Ethics and Values course (which includes the history of ethics, ethical theory and applied ethics) and humanities education in general. First, students learn skills essential for good citizenship in our polarized society: how to debate about fundamental matters with civility and respect, and how to examine themselves in Socratic fashion, asking why they hold the beliefs they do, and how strong the foundation for those beliefs is. Secondly, Nussbaum writes, students become more desirable employees, because they have confidence in their own mental capacity and are relatively free from deference to mere fads. Other benefits include general problem-solving skills applicable in a variety of fields and resulting in long-term success, she writes. Finally, humanities students exude confidence and pride in their lives. The benefits go beyond the public sphere: Their curiosity and newfound self-mastery is likely to sustain them through lifes vicissitudes and give them a deep inner world into which to delve when the going is tough, Nussbaum writes. At her lecture, Nussbaum saw students filled with inner joy that, she writes, comes from discovering yourself. After graduation, I leaned into that joy of self-discovery. I got a job in the fundraising office of an international nonprofit in Washington, D.C., which meant doing a lot of spreadsheets and going to a lot of parties. I met fascinating people from across the world and felt that I could get along with many of them right off the bat. I was curious about where they came from and what drove them to do their work. This kind of outward orientation, I believe, was shaped by closely studying and analyzing the plots and characters, and their different perspectives and motivations, in my college humanities classes. I eventually became a journalist and I continued to ask questions that attempt to get at whats most important and true the kinds of questions that shaped our conversations in BYU humanities classes. While my parents remain puzzled by my choice to study humanities, they seem pleased by where that path has led me. Im fully on board with Nussbaums case: Humanities education has immense value. It teaches us how to be thoughtful, a necessary skill today amid the noise of the internet, and how to be generous toward the viewpoints of others. Humanities invite us to set our egos aside so that we can begin to inhabit the joys and struggles outside of our own. Because I am white and privileged, I am uncomfortable writing this piece. However, I would be far more uncomfortable not writing it. As we celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day I was drawn back to his Letter from a Birmingham Jail written in 1963. King closes the letter with: Let us all hope that the dark clouds of racial prejudice will soon pass away and the deep fog of misunderstanding will be lifted from our fear-drenched communities, and in some not too distant tomorrow the radiant stars of love and brotherhood will shine over our great nation with all their scintillating beauty. Peter Donohue Its been 61 years since he wrote this letter, an epistle of biblical quality and wisdom. This week a CBS poll showed between 72% and 82% of republicans asked, agreed with Trumps claim that migrants are poisoning the blood of our country. The historical reference to the Nazi racial slur is unmistakable and frightening. There are nice people on both sides of the Charlottesville white supremacy rally statement by then President Trump is a precursor of his present position. The Muslim ban Trump tried to impose at the outset of his presidency exemplifies his unspoken position on white supremacy. As we draw closer to the 2024 election the racial rhetoric and the attempts to restrict voting are evidence that nationally, equality is on the ballot and totally at risk. Early in Kings letter, he references the interconnectedness of all. I am cognizant of the interrelatedness of all communities injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly. The wisdom of these words is profound. They are lost to those who would deny another the right to vote or the right to immigrate to our country. This concept of interrelatedness reminded me of Thich Nhat Hanh whose primary belief was the interconnectedness of all. I remembered that King had nominated Hanh for the Nobel Peace Prize in 1967 and so checked to see when the two first met. Thich Nhat Hanh first wrote to King in June of 1965 seeking his help to bring peace to Viet Nam. Like Kings letter Hanhs reads like a biblical epistle explaining the legitimacy of the Buddhist monks self-immolation. Distinguishing it from suicide Hanh writes: The Vietnamese monk, by burning himself, say with all his strength [sic] and determination that he can endure the greatest of sufferings to protect his people.Their enemies are not man. They are intolerance, fanaticism, dictatorship, cupidity, hatred and discrimination which lie within the heart of man. Again, the wisdom of these words is irrefutable. People today resort to tribal behavior believing conspiracy theories that influence their decisions in choosing who leads our institutions; our country. Even our religious institutions have failed to heed Kings words and fail to recognize Hanhs interconnectedness. When King writes An unjust law is a code that is out of harmony with the moral law. To put it in the terms of St. Thomas Aquinas: An unjust law is a human law that is not rooted in eternal law and natural law. Any law that uplifts human personality is just. Any law that degrades human personality is unjust. All segregation statutes are unjust because segregation distorts the soul and damages the personality. I could not help but think of the recent refusal of the Catholic Synod to allow women deacons. To characterize the restriction on the priesthood as anything but discrimination is without merit. To call this a pivotal time is an understatement. We are at risk and must act at least in the confines of our own home, our own community. I urge you to read both letters as they are profound, and it seems unfathomable that they were written 60-plus years ago. To think that we have almost gone backwards and that we are far more polarized today may at first be discouraging but it may also be a wake-up call to action; to force us to do the right thing and stand up for decency, equality, and defend the dignity of all. King: Now is the time to lift our national policy from the quicksand of racial injustice to the solid rock of human dignity. This is the opinion of Times Writers Group member Peter Donohue, who has been involved in the arts in Central Minnesota for more than 35 years. His column is published the third Sunday of the month. This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: Peter Donohue: King and Hanh interconnected PG&Es greed CA PG&E customers see electricity rate increases on bills, (sacbee.com, Jan. 12) PG&E is the worst part of living in California. Its electric rates are three times the national average, and they have doubled in the past seven years. It makes California businesses uncompetitive and financially harms the residents who are its customers. PG&Es new TV ads call itself Californias hometown utility. What a farce. SMUD and Roseville Electric rates are less than half of PG&Es. They serve their customers. PG&E serves its shareholders at its customers expense. California deserves better than this greedy, incompetent utility. Michael Bloom Auburn Saving animals from slaughter CA officials faced backlash to Cedar the goats slaughter, (sacbee.com, Jan. 16) The story of Cedar the goat is tragic but not uncommon. More and more children participating in programs like 4H are having a change of heart after spending time with their animals. They come to see them not as science projects but as sentient beings with emotions and unique personalities. By the time that awakening occurs, these children some not yet in their teens may be locked into terminal sale contracts with county fairs. In California today, fair officials do not have to offer an opt-out option, but their rules cant contradict a state law. Social Compassion in Legislation, the nonprofit I founded 17 years ago to bring more compassion into laws and hearts in California, will be sponsoring legislation to create such a state law and ensure that 4H families have the right to save their animals from slaughter. Judie Mancuso Laguna Beach Opinion Duty to taxpayers Sacramento CA council may rescind city managers raise, (sacbee.com, Jan. 10) The issue is not whether the city manager or city attorney can or should be able to place items about raises on the agenda. This is a classic reframing of the issue by the mayor and city council to take public scrutiny away from the real issue: the mayor and council lack the will to keep salaries such as these in check. Instead of creating another bureaucratic procedural hurdle, put the issue of these salaries up for a public discussion and vote. And while they are at it, how about a performance review? Something most employees are obliged to undergo yearly. Why should these generously compensated employees be exempt from an examination of their job performance? It is not a conflict of interest real or perceived for an employee to ask for a raise. We just need elected officials who recognize their duty to taxpayers and act accordingly. Bill Motmans Sacramento Guerra/Jennings ordinance useless Two Sacramento council members propose citywide daytime homeless camping ban, (sacbee.com, Dec. 1) As I understand it, the ordinance proposed by City Council Members Eric Guerra and Rick Jennings would remove camps for all individuals in Sacramento City limits. They would have no alternative shelter and be subjected to tickets, fines and charges. How does this help unhoused individuals? What choice do they have for their basic survival needs? This ordinance is useless. Time and money need to be directed toward effective housing solutions and assistance for the unhoused. Sarah Patton Sacramento Protect Molok Luyuk This ridge is considered a California jewel. Heres how tribes are trying to protect it, (sacbee.com, May 1, 2023) Molok Luyuk is a ridge located on the eastern edge of Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument that includes federally managed public lands in Lake and Colusa Counties. This week, residents had the opportunity to participate in a community meeting session with officials from the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service. Over 200 attendees came, and all 75 public speakers strongly urged officials to add these public lands to the existing monument. Molok Luyuk is a special and sacred place for local tribes and for many residents who enjoy activities like hiking and mountain biking. The natural beauty of our home also drives tourism, which is key to the economic vitality of the region. Protecting these beautiful lands would be a gift to future generations. I urge President Joe Biden to respond to our communitys request that these unique lands be protected. Supervisor Eddie (EJ) Crandell Lakeport Manila has earned the dubious distinction of being the worst in the world for traffic among 387 cities in 55 countries (Getty Images) Philippines president Ferdinand Marcos Jr received backlash on social media for using a presidential chopper to attend the Coldplay concert to beat the capitals horrendous traffic. Mr Marcos arrived at the British rock band Coldplays concert on Friday and videos of him attending the show went viral on social media. Most Filipinos criticised the president and his family for using a helicopter with taxpayers money while remaining oblivious to the traffic conditions around metropolitan Manila, a metropolis of 16 overcrowded cities of about 13 million people. Manila has earned the dubious distinction of being the worst in the world for traffic among 387 cities in 55 countries, according to navigation and mapping firm TomTom. But that did not prevent Mr Marcos from making it to the show and reaching the concert venue, that is approximately 30km north of the capital, Manila. It would have taken concertgoers at least three hours to travel by road. Addressing the controversy, the Presidential Security Group said in a statement the Philippine Arena, the worlds largest indoor arena, saw an influx of 40,000 concert-goers resulting in unforeseen traffic complications along the route. The traffic situation posed a security threat to Mr Marcos who attended the Friday night concert with his wife, prompting the use of the presidential chopper, it added. Presedintele din Filipine starneste furie dupa ce a folosit elicopterul prezidential pentru a ajunge la concertul Coldplay - https://t.co/BEpxfj8cW9 Presedintele filipinez Ferdinand Marcos Jr. este criticat pe retelele sociale pentru ca a folosit un elicopter prezidential... pic.twitter.com/LUQ6gnELSM Europa Press RO (@europapress_ro) January 21, 2024 However, residents expressed frustration about the traffic situation in the city and the use of taxpayer funds by Mr Marcos, the son and namesake of the late strongman president, whose rule concluded almost four decades ago through a historic people power revolution. "Using official resources, like the presidential chopper, for personal and non-official activities is generally considered an abuse of power or misuse of government resources," Facebook user James Patrick Aristorenas said in a post on Saturday. We paid for the use of the chopper, fuel and security, who knows even for the tickets for everyone, Facebook user Arvine Concepcion said. Then-Harvard President Claudine Gay speaks about antisemitism during a congressional hearing in December. Gay stepped down as president in January after critics accused her of plagiarism. (Mark Schiefelbein / Associated Press) The plagiarism accusations first struck Claudine Gay when a right-wing activist published several examples of unattributed text from the Harvard president's academic writings. Though insufficient attribution wasn't the only controversy swirling around Gay her response to congressional questions about antisemitism on campus played a much bigger role it was the tipping point that forced her resignation this month. The next volley hit Neri Oxman, a former MIT professor and the wife of hedge fund manager Bill Ackman, who had campaigned vigorously for Gays ouster. The publication Business Insider reported that several paragraphs and sentences from Oxmans dissertation appeared to have been lifted from Wikipedia. Oxman apologized for the errors on social media. In response, Ackman wrote on X that he would be getting into the plagiarism review game as well. Ackman said his review would cover all the published work of all of MITs faculty, its president, Sally Kornbluth, and the universitys board members plus all the work of the staff at Business Insider, and possibly also the work of the faculties at Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Stanford, the University of Pennsylvania and Dartmouth. Vetting every publication from every academic over their career at a huge university like Harvard would take thousands of hours, said Chris Caren. He would know. Caren is the chief executive of Oakland-based Turnitin, the worlds largest provider of academic integrity software. The companys products include Feedback Studio, a program designed for high school and college instructors, and iThenticate, a more rigorous offering favored by academic journal editors. Students work in the computer lab at Cuyama Valley High School in New Cuyama, Calif. (Christine Armario / Associated Press) According to the company, 80% of U.S. college students attend schools that use Turnitins software to check student work for plagiarism. So do 50% of U.S. high school students. Nearly all of the leading scholarly journals use the companys products to check submitted articles for misappropriated language and missing citations, Caren said. (Turnitins programs analyze only text, he noted, and wont catch fudged figures, manipulated images or other data-related chicanery.) The widespread adoption of plagiarism-detection software in higher learning over the last decade means the prospect of a plagiarism check for most college graduates under the age of about 30 isnt much of a threat. Their essays, papers, theses and dissertations were almost certainly vetted in this way when they handed them in. But for older academics, subjecting work to the softwares level of scrutiny could well reveal attribution errors intentional or not that have never come to light before. And thats what a small but highly motivated sector of Turnitins customer base is counting on. We allow anyone to use them media organizations, political groups, Caren said of Turnitins products. If there are other firms that want to look into someone's past, it's the same technology, it's just being used by people we didn't design it for in the first place. Read more: Plagiarism charges downed Harvards president. A conservative attack fanned the outrage The National Science Foundation describes plagiarism as "the appropriation of another persons ideas, processes, results or words without giving appropriate credit." Harvard and MIT define it in similar language in their academic integrity guidelines. In academia particularly, it can be a devastating charge. "People get jobs, grants, and a litany of other opportunities based on their research that by default is assumed to be original to them. If it is later found out to not be, it would then be saying that they got these opportunities effectively based on fraud," said Christian Moriarty, a professor of ethics and law at St. Petersburg College in Florida. That's why "an accusation, unfounded or not, undermines their authority and position," he said. No one has accused Gay or Oxman of stealing data or high-level ideas. But some of their published works appear to contain expository sentences and paragraphs that closely match language in sources available at the time the type of plagiarism that software can most easily detect. Gay's accusers highlighted multiple instances of prose that echoed other sources. For instance, two paragraphs in her 1997 doctoral dissertation closely mirrored text in a paper by researchers who were not cited anywhere in the paper. Harvard said Gay requested corrections to some of the works. In Oxman's case, Business Insider identified 15 nonconsecutive paragraphs in her 2010 dissertation that closely resemble language that appeared in Wikipedia articles at that time. Most are definitions of technical terms and concepts. The publication also found passages in her research papers that echoed other sources. Read more: We found 95 instances of plagiarism in a USC scientists new book. Sales have been suspended Neither Christopher Rufo, the activist who first raised allegations against Gay, nor Business Insider disclosed what software they used to identify the problematic text. Turnitin programs were used to discover that parts of Melania Trumps 2016 speech at the Republican National Convention matched Michelle Obamas 2008 remarks to the Democratic National Convention, Caren said. The CEO said he also believes that the companys software was used to determine that Germanys former defense minister, Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg, had plagiarized in his doctoral dissertation, a massive political scandal in that country that led to the star politicians downfall in 2011. Though Feedback Studio is only available to institutions, iThenticate can be licensed by anyone. The program digests the text of a book, research paper or article in minutes and returns a detailed report that flags the percentage of phrases and passages in the document that match those published online and in Turnitin's database of academic journals. The report has to be checked by a human to weed out legitimate uses of quoted material. Though the process is time-consuming, its much faster than an equally thorough review would have taken in a predigital age. It's easier to search for plagiarism than ever before," said Jonathan Bailey, a copyright and plagiarism consultant in New Orleans. "The easier something is to do, the more people are likely to do it. The idea of using plagiarism accusations as a means to discredit rivals was around long before the invention of plagiarism-checking software, said Sam Bruton, director of the Office of Research Integrity at the University of Southern Mississippi. People have always had the ability to raise allegations of scholarly integrity for ulterior motives, be those motives personal (grudges, resentments), political or something different, Bruton wrote in an email. He challenged the idea that the spread of the software is primarily responsible for an increase in plagiarism accusations, attributing it instead to the hyper-politicization that has engulfed so many American institutions. But many educators and academics who use such programs in their daily work said that seeing them employed for political ends has been disheartening. The technology is designed to support instructors and help enforce proper citation guidelines, said Moriarty, who teaches other professors how to use such tools. People in the academic integrity field often dont like it or appreciate it or think its appropriate to use academic integrity software as a means to punish for punishments sake, Moriarty said. Read more: Column: Will billionaire Bill Ackman ever learn to shut up? Plagiarism-detection software cant determine how or why language similar to other sources appeared in an authors work, whether the issue violates an institutions code of ethics or what the consequences of such an infraction should be. For now, at least, only humans can do that. Human expertise is essential to maintaining the integrity of scholarly and academic work, said Greer Murphy, director of academic honesty at University of Rochesters College of Arts, Sciences and Engineering in New York. But such has always been true the sophistication of modern technology hasnt changed things. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times. A plan to cull bears in an Italian province has provoked anger among environmentalists, who say it threatens the animals existence. Trentino province, in northern Italy, said it would cull eight bears a year following a spate of attacks on people. We want to put the brakes on the growth of the bear population, to guarantee the safety of people, said Roberto Failoni, the member of Trentinos government responsible for its forests. However, Michela Brambilla, chair of the Italian inter-parliamentary group for the rights of animals, labelled the move a terrorist attack on bears that can be avoided by taking better care of the environment. Ms Brambilla told the Italian daily Corriere della Sera that the province should do more to educate locals and tourists on how to behave safely on the mountain. It would have been enough, for instance, to place signs advising tourists [on the danger of bears] and placing rubbish bins so that the bears dont eat trash left behind in the woods. Instead, they only think of culling plans, she said. The row has ignited a long-running debate on how to manage local bear populations while keeping people safe in the mountainous region. In July, judges at the Council of State in Rome ruled that a culling order for two bears in northern Italy be suspended. One of the bears, called JJ4, killed jogger Andrea Papi while he was running in the Brenta Dolomites in the Alps. The other bear, known as MJ5, had attacked a hiker in the same area weeks earlier. The judges ruled that brown bears were protected by a 1979 Bern Convention on wildlife and that culling represents a last resort to control their population. Italys section of the World Wide Fund for Nature said: Very dangerous bears are extremely rare cases and they are unpredictable. There needs to be an attentive assessment of each case so its impossible to determine annual culling quotas as the new plan foresees. WASHINGTON (DC News Now) The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) said it was investigating two separate shootings that left two men injured early Sunday morning. MPD said that at about 4:31 a.m., it responded to the 1700 block of 3rd St. Northeast for the report of a shooting. When police arrived at the scene, they found a man who was unconscious, but breathing. He was transported to the hospital. Officers said they are working to determine the location of the crime scene. Man shot, killed wife in Prince William County, police say At about 4:35 a.m., officers responded to the 200 block of Mississippi Avenue, SE for the report of a shooting. When police arrived at the scene, they found a man who had been shot. He was conscious and breathing. The man was transported to the hospital. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. A man was arrested for OVI on Saturday morning after a crash in Richmond. Shortly before 11 a.m., Richmond police responded to a crash involving multiple vehicles at the intersection of South 13th and A Street, according to Richmond Assistant Chief of Police Adam Blanton. Upon arrival, officers found a maroon Buick Lesabre driven by Tyrone Jarrett Jr., 30, with heavy front-end damage and a grey Ford Ranger driven by Jeffrey Geres, 67, on its drivers side. >> Ohio man lived with dead wife for 6 years, Sheriff says Geres had to be removed from the pickup truck by the Richmond Fire Department. Blanton said officers also located a maroon Buick Enclave parked and unattended with front end and passenger side damage. >> He was genuine; Neighbors reflect on relationship with Harrison Twp. man who died in house fire Both drivers were taken to Reid Health to be treated for their injuries. Investigators determined the maroon Buick Lesabre driven by Jarrett Jr. was heading southbound on South 13th Street and collided with the Ford Ranger traveling eastbound on South A Street. The Ford Ranger and Buick Lesabre both came to rest against the parked Buick Enclave in the 100 block of South 13th Street. Jarrett Jr. was arrested for OVI with a BAC .15 or higher and operating while intoxicated-causing injury, Blanton said. He was booked in the Wayne County Jail. PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now) The Prince Georges County Police Department (PGPD) said a police officer was hit by a van and one of the suspects was shot in Clinton early Sunday morning. PGPD said that at about 1:50 a.m., two patrol officers stopped at a closed gas station in the 7600 block of Crain Highway after seeing evidence of a possible breaking and entering in progress. Man killed after being struck by train in Prince William County When one of the officers approached the driver of a van that was parked in front of the business, the driver began to flee and hit the officer, which caused the second officer to discharge his gun. The driver continued to flee and a pursuit started. The driver and a second suspect were arrested at Branch Ave. and Old Silver Hill Rd. After the arrest, police discovered that one of the suspects was shot. The suspect is in stable condition. The officer struck by the van was also transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. By Kim Hyun-bin In the face of growing condemnation of the alleged arms transfers between North Korea and Russia, Moscows ambassador to Seoul has rejected the speculation, saying that there was no evidence vindicating the accusations of its violation of international law. The United States said earlier this month the North had provided Russia with several dozen ballistic missiles, some of which were used against Ukraine on Dec. 30, Jan. 2 and Jan. 6. As a result, foreign ministers from 49 countries issued a joint statement, Jan. 10, condemning the alleged arms deal. Russia is a responsible member of the international community and we uphold and observe all the decisions made by the U.N. Security Council, Russian Ambassador to South Korea Georgy Zinoviev said during an interview with The Korea Times at the Russian Embassy in Seoul, Friday. If there are any concrete facts that cause concern of international community and of our South Korean colleagues, then they should be presented through proper channels We have actually the proper mechanism in place that takes care of those kinds of allegations which is set by the U.N. Security Council the exact same body that imposed resolutions concerning North Korea. He added: We gave all the necessary explanations and I don't think there is a single fact in place that we do not observe the provisions of the U.N. Security Council resolutions. U.N. Security Council Resolution 1718, passed in 2006, bans North Korea from exporting heavy weapons, such as tanks, artillery and missiles, while requiring U.N. member states to prevent their transfer. Against that backdrop, North Korea and Russia have been flaunting their close ties lately, highlighted by a summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin last September and North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-huis recent trip to Moscow, during which she met with Putin. According to North Korea, Sunday, Putin has expressed his willingness to visit Pyongyang at an early date. In that respect, Zinoviev highlighted the exceptional friendship between Russia and North Korea, calling Pyongyang a "true friend" steadfastly supporting Moscow during international turmoil. "North Korea is one of the friendliest countries among our friendly countries. It not only didn't impose any sanctions on Russia but totally supported us in international organizations," the ambassador said. "The DPRK has proven itself to be a true friend in the recent turmoil events on the international arena, and it is only natural that we would enhance our cooperation." He specifically pointed out North Korea's support and solidarity with Russia, which saw different types of sanctions imposed from the international community. Turning to the complex dynamics of inter-Korean relations, the ambassador said the security challenges are posed by the continuous cycle of joint military drills in the South, countered by North Korea launching ballistic missiles and enhancing its nuclear arsenal. Each country takes care of its security concerns. I think South Korea does that in its own way, and in the way that you are doing it is perceived by North Korea as an immense threat to their security, he said. "And perhaps this is kind of a vicious circle that is going on and on on the Korean Peninsula with the missile launches from one part and with (joint) military exercises from here." The ambassador acknowledged the intricacies of the security landscape on the peninsula, emphasizing the need for dialogue and a diplomatic approach to break the cycle of tension. "It is crucial for both North and South Korea to find common ground and engage in meaningful dialogue to address the security concerns and move towards a more stable and cooperative relationship," he said. The owner of a convenience store in West Roxbury is facing charges after allegedly dealing drugs inside the shop, Boston police say. Isaac Rosa, 45, was arrested on Friday after receiving a community complaint regarding the alleged illegal drug dealing at Familia Grocery on Grove Street. Around 12:40 p.m., Boston police officers informed the mart owner that he was the subject of an investigation in order to execute four search warrants: for his person, business, vehicle and home. During the search, police say they found and seized: three bottles of Lactose, Gabapentin Pills, eleven plastic bags of white powder (cocaine), seventeen plastic bags of white rock (crack cocaine), seven plastic bags of tan powder (fentanyl), ten small blue pills believed to Percocet, four large heat-sealed bags containing Marijuana, several digital scales, assorted glass stem crack pipes, a large plastic bag containing Marijuana, a $1031.00 in United States Currency. Police say ten grams of crack cocaine, six grams of powder cocaine, twelve grams of fentanyl, several pounds of Marijuana, nine Gabapentin pills, and ten Percocet 30 pills were recovered. Rosa is facing charges of trafficking Class A Fentanyl, possession with Intent to Distribute Class B cocaine, possession with Intent to Distribute Class B Percocet, possession with Intent to Distribute Class D marijuana, and possession with Intent to Distribute Class E Gabapentin. Rosa will be arraigned in West Roxbury District Court at a later date. This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW AUSTIN (KXAN) One woman is dead and two other people are injured after a stabbing in north Austin turned into an officer-involved shooting early Sunday morning. Austin Police said the suspect, who was shot by officers, was in custody. Police said the relationship between the suspect and victims was currently unknown. APD Interim Chief Robin Henderson shared details of the incident Sunday. Henderson said Austin 911 received a call for emergency medical services around 12:29 a.m. to a home on Uttimer Lane. The caller said he was stabbed in the stomach and was bleeding. The caller also said a man was holding a knife with a woman victim inside the home. At 12:33 a.m., the first APD officer was assigned to the call. At 12:36 a.m., three APD officers in marked units arrived at the scene. The officers gathered information from a group of people outside the home, including a person with stab wounds who pointed officers toward the door. This embedded content is not available in your region. Henderson said officers heard screaming inside the home as they approached the door and forced entry through the front door. At 12:37 a.m., officers entered the door and found a man suspect with a knife holding a woman with stab wounds. To protect the life of that victim, officers discharged their department-approved firearms, striking the male suspect, Henderson said. The first injured woman was taken out of the home. Officers also found three unharmed children in the home. They were safely taken outside. A second woman with stab wounds was found on the floor of a bedroom. Henderson said officers attempted life-saving measures, but the woman died. The two people who were stabbed are in stable condition at a local hospital, Henderson said. Henderson said no officers were injured. Three officers discharged firearms and had four years, more than five years and eight months of service, respectively. They will be placed on administrative duty. The incident was captured on body cameras, and the video will be released within 10 business days, per APD policy. APD will conduct a criminal investigation by the APD special investigations unit with the Travis County District Attorneys office and an administrative investigation by the APD Internal Affairs Unit with the Office of Police Oversight. People with information can call the APD Special Investigations Unit at 512-974-6840 or the Capital Area Crimestoppers at 512-472-8477. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. VATICAN CITY (Reuters) - Pope Francis on Sunday called for the release of hostages, including six nuns, who were kidnapped on a bus in Haiti on Friday, and said he was praying for social harmony in the country. Armed gunmen hijacked a bus in Haiti's capital Port-au-Prince with at least six nuns on board and drove off to an unknown destination taking all passengers hostage, Vatican News reported on Saturday, citing the Haitian Conference of Religious group. "I have learned with sorrow of the kidnapping, in Haiti, of a group of people, including six religious sisters", Pope Francis said after his weekly Angelus prayer. "In my heartfelt plea for their release, I pray for social concord in the country, and I invite everyone to bring an end to the violence, which is causing a great deal of suffering to that dear population," he added. Violence has been escalating for months in Haiti as gangs jockey for power and seek to put pressure on interim Prime Minister Ariel Henry, ahead of the Feb. 7 expiry of a political accord that consolidated his power. The violence comes ahead of a court decision expected on Jan. 26 on a Kenyan-led multinational force to address gang violence in the country, one of the poorest in the Western Hemisphere. (Reporting by Gianluca Semeraro; Editing by Conor Humphries) (KRON) A Fremont food truck owner Shaan Sultaan is taking his passions to a brick-and-mortar restaurant. YSG Halal YeeShaans Grubb restaurant, which serves up halal Pakistan-American infusion comfort food, officially opened in Fremont. The owner and Fremont resident, Shaan Sultaan highly anticipates the shift in audience and culture that the restaurant will bring. The food trucks former location offered outdoor seating only which limited the demographic of customers. Beloved Fremont restaurant calls off closure Passionate about the taste of food, YeeShaans Grubb takes pride in its spices and sauces being made in-house. This restaurant has many comfort foods, such as quesadillas, burgers, loaded fries, and milkshakes. The restaurant takes pleasure in experimenting with food. The Yeeshaan burger has not only desi beef but a desi chicken patty with three signature house sauces. YeeShaans Grubb YeeShaans Grubb YeeShaans Grubb One of the milkshakes YeeShaans Grubb is known for is its falooda milkshake. The falooda dessert is common in South Asia. The owner enjoys serving the Ferrero Rocher-inspired milkshake and the reaction of the patrons. We love the expression on peoples faces (when they get the Ferrero milkshake), Sultaan told KRON4. They turn from adults to kids when you give them a whole mason jar with the rim covered in chocolate, nuts, and sprinkles. The Pakistan-American infusion restaurant is located at 4342 Thornton Avenue in Fremont. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. In a world of untrammelled free trade, we would import goods we need from countries where they can be made more cheaply without worrying about security of supply. We are not in such a world. Domestic production of food, for instance, cannot be entirely proxied out even if we wanted to do so. The same can be said of steelmaking. It is a strategic industry without which we are left at the dubious mercy of events beyond our control. In recent days, there have been warnings both from Nato and senior ministers that these times are more dangerous than any since the end of the Second World War. This is not the moment to risk what remains of our steel industry in pursuit of unrealistic carbon reduction targets. The fate of the Port Talbot steelworks is the most egregious example of this short-sightedness. The owners Tata are to close two blast furnaces and build a new green electric arc furnace plant, which is said to be more environmentally friendly. The decision means the loss of nearly 3,000 jobs in an area that is already deeply deprived. But to what end? The closure will reduce British carbon output by only 1.5 per cent. As steel will have to be imported from countries like China, global emissions might rise as a consequence. Does anyone in a position to influence these decisions appreciate how completely insane they appear to voters, or care if they do? Steel manufacturing has become uncompetitive because of high electricity prices, which successive governments have declined to address. The industry has been paying between 60 and 80 per cent more than counterparts in France or Germany. Even as the price of gas was falling in the years before the Ukraine war, British electricity prices doubled. We have closed our coal industry while China opened more pits to produce the steel we will need to import. The whole exercise is madness and, as reported at the weekend, predicated upon insufficient data about the feasibility of reaching net zero by 2050 before the target was enshrined in law five years ago. Labour, which would normally seek to protect the jobs at Port Talbot, is compromised by its own commitment to net zero and is reduced to making airy-fairy policy promises aimed at accelerating the drive to net zero, boosting jobs and keeping down energy prices. This is a false prospectus, and one that the electorate appears increasingly unprepared to follow. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer. The Presidents of Lithuania and Poland, Gitanas Nauseda and Andrzej Duda, will soon meet with Ukraines Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the so-alled Lublin Triangle format, the two leaders announced during a meeting in Vilnius on Jan. 21, news agency PAP reports. The Lublin Triangle is a trilateral regional alliance for political, economic, cultural, and social cooperation between Lithuania, Poland, and Ukraine, which aims to strengthen dialogue between the countries, support Ukraine's integration into the European Union and NATO, and jointly counter Russian aggression in Ukraine. It was established by the foreign ministers in July 2020. Read also: Duda warns of Putin forming coalition of evil as Russian invasion marks return of imperialism The two presidents also said that supporting Ukraine, which needs even more assistance than before, is a common priority. The meeting with Zelenskyy will take place in the near future, Nauseda said, with Duda also mentioning the upcoming meeting. Read also: Zelenskyy meets Polish President Duda in Davos to discuss policy of support "I hope that in the near future we will be able to meet in the Lublin Triangle format with our friend President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and discuss how to support Ukraine ahead of the upcoming NATO anniversary summit in Washington," said Duda. 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 In the fall of 1973, horrified by the Supreme Courts Roe v. Wade decision earlier that year, a lawyer in the Labor Department organized a meeting of a small group of women in her home. Nellie Gray, a Texan and veteran of the Womens Army Corps during World War II, worried that the anniversary of the monumental decision would pass by without being remembered. And she had reason to think so. Many considered this the end of the conversation over abortion. While the Catholic Church was vocally opposed to the practice of abortion, evangelical Christians had a mixed response. Christianity Today condemned the ruling as counter not merely to the moral teachings of Christianity through the ages but also to the moral sense of the American people while the largest Protestant denomination, the Southern Baptist convention, was initially ambivalent. A poll taken a few years before Roe found 70 percent of Baptists supported the right to abortion. Few pundits and prognosticators thought this would be a contested issue in American life. Yet what Gray and others catalyzed in those early days grew: 20,000 people showed up in January 1974 to march past the Capitol and on to the Supreme Court in what would become an annual rite for those who care about the sanctity of life. Evangelical philosopher Francis Schaeffer toured the country with Boston pediatric surgeon C. Everett Koop, giving lectures on the moral horror of abortion and touting their video and book, Whatever Happened to the Human Race? Pro-life ethicist Richard Land became the Southern Baptist Conventions chief public policy spokesperson. Ronald Reagan, who had signed legislation loosening abortion laws in 1967 as governor of California, ran for president in 1980 promising to oppose the practice. Shortly after he wrote a small book, Abortion and the Conscience of the Nation, outlining his beliefs. As the march grew into a movement, there were small yet significant victories along the way. The 1976 Hyde Amendment prevented the federal funding of abortion. The 1984 Mexico City Policy kept foreign aid going to abortion, though the policy has typically been enacted by Republican presidents and rescinded by Democratic presidents. Yet the biggest goal, overturning Roe, always seemed more aspirational than probable. Year after year pro-lifers worked to elect presidents to nominate and senators to approve Supreme Court justices who might be willing to strike down the case. Yet after many near-missessuch as 1992s Casey v. Planned Parenthood decisionit all still seemed impossible. Come 2022, many pro-life groups were meeting in anticipation of a half-century anniversary. Then the unthinkable happened: The Supreme Court reversed itself in the Dobbs decision in June 2022. What began in a living room in Washington in 1973 became one of the most effective social and political coalitions in American history, provokingthrough a mosaic of legislative, legal, cultural, scientific effortsthe nations conscience with a new moral vocabulary. So now what? The movement has some advantages now it did not have five decades ago: durable institutions, political leaders who champion the cause, and a public that favors modest restrictions on abortion. Yet today, as in 1973, enormous challenges confront those who care for the unborn. Ironically, the end of Roewhich once seemed impossiblecomplicates the legal and political fight. The pre-Dobbs legal argument was fairly straightforward. Even the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a champion of abortion, admitted that Roe was a flawed legal ruling. Now the arguments are more nuanced. Is abortion a state issue? A federal issue? Look no further than the Republican presidential primary contest for proof: Former President Donald Trump has criticized Florida Gov. Ron Desantis for signing a six-week abortion ban. Some candidates have insisted that the arguments against Roethat abortion should be decided by voters in the statesshould be the ongoing standard, while others argue the federal government has a role to play in regulating abortion. Dobbs was also a galvanizing event for the pro-choice community, which was eager to seize on this moment. Abortion supporters captured the zeal of their young base. They also won ballot victory after victory across even red states like Kentucky and Ohio. Stung by setbacks, some pro-lifers may despair. But we should notdespite the wishes of so manygo away. Instead we need the aspirational hope and long-term vision of those first courageous advocates. We still need to see ourselves as a movement. Every effective force for justice has taken the long view, even if that horizon stretched past their lifetimes. Abolitionist William Wilberforces fight to end the slave trade in Great Britain took him his entire life. The civil rights movement has been a long, slow, painful march. And ours will be as well, replete with setbacks and losses. Pro-choice advocates and many sympathetic media voices are quick to say that the pro-life movement was caught flat-footed for the day Roe fell. But that thesis is too simplistic. For years, pro-life advocates preached that the legal battle was just the beginning of the fight, which would then proceed state to state and would require much more changing of hearts and minds. Still, a new era will require new approaches. The legal fight, so persistent and effective, will take a myriad of forms, from working to stop the distribution of abortion drugs at the federal level to conscience protections for people of faith. We know legal restrictions on abortion work, as evidenced by the reduction abortions in the months following the Dobbs decision. The legislative approach will take many forms, too. Perhaps states with pro-life majorities will pass comprehensive restrictions while swing states adopt incremental ones. Legislators should be wise to carefully word their legislative language to include the rare exception for cases in which the mothers life is in danger and then effectively communicate those clarifications in the face of widespread misinformation and hyperbolic coverage. Pro-life public officials should talk about these hard cases with compassion and care. The Kate Cox case in Texas was an example both to correct the common misconceptions about the health of a mother and also demonstrate genuine compassion toward her. And pro-lifers should be steadfast, but realistic, at what can be accomplished at the federal level. Without a 60-seat pro-life majority in the Senate, even incremental restrictions will mostly stall in Congress. Yet the most important, long-term project is cultural. Though the pro-life message is a half-century old, we falsely assume every generation has heard it. New cohorts of young people may be awakened to the horror of abortion for the very first time and might be persuaded by the growing body of science that demonstrates life at the earliest stages of development. Pro-lifers should not give up the art of persuasion, adjusting and adapting the apologetic for a new age. Those conversations may happen in places we hadnt anticipated before Dobbs. Recent ballot defeats in conservative states like Ohio and Kentucky demonstrate that large cohorts of Republican voters, when asked as a single issue in a referendum, are less sympathetic to the pro-life cause. Shifting political maps have seen Trump bring in many working class, previously Democratic voters, to the Republican Party. Many arent part of church communities and are right-leaning when it comes to immigration and other issues, but are ambivalent about or even supportive of abortion. As Francis Schaeffer and others made the case in the 20th century, so too must a new generation make the case today with innovative approaches and persuasive arguments. Pro-lifers have always understood that abortion is downstream from other cultural issues, particularly the economic and social struggles of American families. Many women today are alone, abandoned by men who see abortion as a way of escaping responsible fatherhood. Thankfully, a network of thousands of pregnancy resource centers connect mothers with resources and communities, usually religious ones, that can help buoy motherhood in those early years. But we need to supplement this good work with a renewed emphasis on the goodness of the family. Sociologist Brad Wilcox and others have documented the social benefits of stable, two-parent families even as the share of single-parent homes continues to rise in the US. Conservatives should not hesitate to champion the family and find ways to stabilize homes economically. Many pro-life leaders are already thinking in these holistic ways. Conservatives should also recover a political philosophy of virtue, not in an self-righteous, preening sort of way, but in keeping with the spirit of the American founding. The Constitution was made for a virtuous and moral people, John Adams famously wrote. Many who champion faith do not, as so many progressives often argue, seek to construct a theocratic state. Rather, they acknowledge that freedom can become atomized anarchy without Judeo-Christian religious morality. Christianity emphasizes liberty to serve God and others in the context of community, as opposed to libertinism and unbounded individualism. Yuval Levin accurately diagnoses this malady in his book, The Fractured Republic: The capacity of individuals to define the terms of their own existence by defining their personal identities is increasingly equated with liberty and with the meaning of some of our basic rights, and it is given pride of place in our self-understanding. The American Founders understood this idea well. In his letter to the Massachusetts Militia, Adams wrote: Morality and virtue are the foundation of our republic and necessary for a society to be free. Virtue is an inner commitment and voluntary outward obedience to principles of truth and moral law. Private virtue is the character to govern oneself according to moral law at all times. Public virtue is the character to voluntarily sacrifice or subjugate personal wants for the greater good of other individuals or the community. Where it has influence, the pro-life movement should attempt to frame its arguments in the context of virtue. This might involve a distancing from amoral, barstool conservatism. Sometimes we may be forced into political alliances with imperfect characters. But we should not turn votes into endorsements of the worst behavior. While we welcome advocates where we can, we should be careful about platforming, as champions, those who champion a sexual ethic that feeds the abortion industry. Thankfully, many across the ideological spectrum are starting to question the aims of the sexual revolution and reconsider the virtues of stable, nuclear family life. As I write this, Im leaving Washington, D.C, and reflecting on another trip to the nations capital to join the protest Nellie Gray started a half century ago. The first march began four years before I was born. Yet I will fly home to continue teaching my own children, now teens, about the importance of standing up for the dignity of every human life. And I wonder, as they grow into adulthood, what stories will they tell. What movement will they inherit? What aspirational pro-life milestones will they see achieved in their time? We can, and must, hope and pray and act. Read more at The Dispatch The Dispatch is a new digital media company providing engaged citizens with fact-based reporting and commentary, informed by conservative principles. Sign up for free. Law enforcement in Kyiv identified the individuals that intimidated prominent Ukrainian journalist Yurii Nikolov, the Kyiv City Prosecutors Office reported on Jan. 21. Authorities identified residents of Kyiv, Zhytomyr, and Cherkasy oblasts and searched the suspects homes. Law enforcement reportedly seized computer equipment and mobile phones used to record the threats. Nikolov, who revealed procurement wrongdoing in the Defense Ministry under its previous leadership, said that at least two men approached his apartment on Jan. 14, aggressively banging on his door and verbally attacking him. Shortly after, a video appeared on the anonymous Telegram channel Kartochnyy Ofis, allegedly linked to the Presidential Office. The footage shows a man knocking on a door pasted with papers with the words "traitor, (military service) evader," and other verbal attacks. Nikolov is a co-founder and an editor of the Nashi Hroshi investigative media project. His investigations into inflated prices for food supplies and low-quality winter jackets for the military prompted the ousting of previous Defense Minister Oleksii Reznikov. Authorities opened criminal proceedings on Jan. 19. The penalty for obstructing journalists' work ranges from a fine to four years in prison. The investigation is ongoing and the issue of serving the suspects a notice of suspicion is being decided. No names have been revealed. Authorities are currently establishing the motive and circumstances behind the incident. Read also: Recent campaigns against journalists raise concerns about press freedom in Ukraine Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. A Muslim pupil taking Katharine Birbalsingh to court over a prayer ban was suspended last year for allegedly threatening to stab another child. The pupil at Michaela Community School in Wembley, north-west London, has launched a High Court challenge to the schools prayer ban, which she claims is discriminatory. Michaela, a free school founded by Ms Birbalsingh in 2014, is one of the top-performing state schools in the country and is rated outstanding by Ofsted. Court papers state that the pupil, who cannot be named, was suspended for five days last year for threatening to stab another pupil. According to the schools lawyers, the pupil accepted that she had said to another pupil: If you tell anyone I will stab you. The pupil then refused to say what she had said to the other pupil before making the threat, according to the school. Court documents referred to a behaviour record for the pupil, known as TTT to protect her anonymity, which stated: TTT was speaking negatively about the school and her plans to destroy it. She said it would involve fewer people than last time. She then threatened another girl by saying she would stab her if the girl said anything about it. Lawyers for the pupil claimed that the exclusion was a great shock to the pupil and that her account of events had not been taken into consideration. A quarter of Michaelas pupils are from disadvantaged backgrounds. However, last year 82 per cent of its sixth form pupils went to Russell Group universities, including Cambridge, St Andrews and Imperial. Around half of the 700 pupils at the school are Muslim. The school initiated a prayer ban in March last year after some pupils began praying in the playground. An online petition was launched demanding a prayer room be established. Teachers then began to receive threats and feared for their safety, according to the secular school. The school was also told of incidents in which Muslim pupils who were not praying faced intimidation from some other Muslim pupils. Prayer ban restored calm and order Ms Birbalsingh said that the schools governing body responded by banning prayer in school altogether, which she said restored calm and order to the school. In a statement released on Wednesday, she said: We have always been clear to parents and pupils when they apply to Michaela that because of our restrictive building combined with our strict ethos that does not allow children to wander around the school unsupervised, we cannot have a prayer room. At Michaela, those from all religions make sacrifices so that we can maintain a safe secular community. The pupils legal challenge is being funded by public money after she secured legal aid. The cost of the dispute is expected to run into the hundreds of thousands of pounds. 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. Han Dong-hoon, the leader of the ruling People Power Party (PPP), said Sunday he will do his job amid a report that the presidential office called for his resignation amid a controversy over candidate nominations for the April general elections. Channel A, a cable news channel, reported Sunday that mainstream members of the PPP requested Han's resignation amid the row over election nominations and that the presidential office also shared such a need. "The path that (I've decided) to walk for the people, I will do my job," Han said in a text message to reporters, indicating he has no intent to step down from the chairmanship of the PPP's emergency leadership committee. A controversy over the fairness of election nominations erupted after Han publicly supported a bid by Kim Gyeong-ryul, an outspoken member of the PPP's emergency committee, to run in a district in Mapo, western Seoul, for the upcoming parliamentary elections. The move spawned backlash from some PPP members that Han ignored the party's election nomination process with the so-called "private nomination." In response to the media report, the office of President Yoon Suk Yeol said the issue of Han's resignation is not a matter in which the presidential office would involve itself. A separate media report earlier said Yoon has withdrawn his anticipation and support for Han over the controversy surrounding election nominations. Han, a former justice minister, is one of Yoon's close aides. In regard to the report, a presidential official told Yonhap News Agency that Yoon has "strong" principles of supporting fair, transparent and systemic election nominations. Yoon's office said Friday if the party reviews "strategically made nominations," there should be certain principles and standards so that it does not look like giving preferential favors. (Yonhap) Russian president Vladimir Putin could visit North Korea at an early date, Pyongyang said, as the countries have ramped up efforts to strengthen ties amid international concerns. North Korea and Russia have pledged to establish a new multi-polarised international order and are undertaking deep strategic communication on various regional and international issues, the North Korean foreign ministry said on Sunday, according to state media KCNA. It comes as Mr Putin and foreign minister Sergey Lavrov met visiting North Korean foreign minister Choe Son Hui, in the first North Korean high-profile visit after leader Kim Jong-un travelled to the far-eastern Russian port of Vladivostok in September last year. Mr Kim had invited the Russian leader to Pyongyang who accepted the invitation to visit at an unconfirmed date. President Putin expressed deep thanks once again for the invitation of President of the State Affairs Kim Jong Un to visit Pyongyang at a convenient time and expressed his willingness to visit the DPRK at an early date, KCNA reported referring to North Korea with its official name. The prospect of a Russia-North Korea alliance in arms and military cooperation has raised concerns among Western countries and their allies in the Korean peninsula. This is particularly worrisome as Moscow enters its second year of the war in Ukraine and expresses a keen interest in fostering relations with adversaries of the United States. The White House has raised concerns that North Korea could be providing Russia with munitions to help prolong its fighting in Ukraine, possibly in exchange for badly needed economic aid and military assistance to help upgrade Mr Kims forces. Both Pyongyang and Russia have denied accusations by Washington and Seoul about North Korean arms transfers to Russia amid their deepening ties. Analysts say the rekindling of the partnership that has roots going back to the Soviet era may tip the scales, altering the dynamics in two volatile regions, both in Ukraine and the Korean Peninsula. Russia expressed deep thanks to North Korea for its full support to its war in Ukraine, the foreign ministry of North Korea said. It said Ms Choe and the Russian officials expressed "serious concern" over the United States expanding military cooperation with its Asian allies that they blamed for worsening tensions in the region and threatening North Koreas sovereignty and security interests. Tensions in the Korean peninsula have reached tipping points after North Korea said it will no longer pursue reconciliation with South Korea and is moving to formally describe it as a primary foe in its constitution. Pyongyang states that this action is in retaliation to US interference in the region, with the armies of Washington, South Korea, and Japan intensifying their joint military exercises exercises that Mr Kim portrays as invasion rehearsals. South Korea on Thursday urged the UN Security Council "to break the silence" over North Koreas escalating missile tests and threats. It was after North Korea on Friday said it conducted a test of a purported nuclear-capable underwater attack drone in response to a combined naval exercise by the US, South Korea and Japan last week. North Korea described Mr Putin as the closest friend and said their friendly relations have entered the course of a new comprehensive development. The Countess of Harewood, daughter of George V and an aunt of the Queen, died in 1965 leaving 5.6m in todays money - UNIVERSAL HISTORY ARCHIVE Elizabeth II intervened to ensure that the contents of a minor royals will were kept private. Staff at Britains National Archives censored documents revealing how the late Queen requested that her relatives will was kept secret, The Guardian reported. Staff had recently withdrawn the papers, removed sections of them and then re-released them back into the public domain. In a report written by the senior judicial official, Robert Bayne-Powell, in 1970, he described in a section removed by censors how the late Queen had requested the solicitors for the executors to apply to seal up the will of the Princess Royal, Countess of Harewood. I suggest that any royal will should be sealed up if the sovereign so requests, he added. The Guardian reported that two years ago staff at the National Archives in Kew in south-west London had removed a file containing official discussions on royal wills between 1957 and 1970. The file had been opened to the public in 2018 but when it was returned, sections of two documents as well as a letter had been withheld. The paper said it could see what had been censored having photographed the complete file in 2021. Fringe members The Countess of Harewood, daughter of George V and an aunt of the late Queen, died in 1965 leaving 5.6m in todays money. Staff at the archives also removed a letter dated June 1970 from the file in which a courtier in charge of the late Queens finances had told a Whitehall official that the wills of minor royals did not need to be kept private. The courtier, Lord Tryon, told the official: The Buckingham Palace lawyers consider that except in special circumstances (for example a will containing something which should not be made public) fringe members of the Royal family need not have their wills sealed. This should only be for HRHs. This suggested that courtiers were unsure if minor royals should have their wills kept private. The National Archives said that the documents had been removed, in consultation with the Ministry of Justice, as they contained information relating to communications with the monarch, which would be kept secret under a section of the Freedom of Information Act they 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. Keep your umbrellas handy as rainstorms will continue soaking Southern California through the weekend and into next week. We certainly have a lot more rain and snow coming into Southern California, said KTLA Meteorologist Kaj Goldberg. This is just Round One. Weve got a couple more fronts that will push through SoCal. Rainfall is expected through Monday with around 0.5 to 2 inches of rain across the coastal and valley regions and 2 to 4 inches in the foothills and mountains, according to the National Weather Service. Southwest-facing slopes will receive even more rainfall. On Saturday, showers across Ventura, Los Angeles and Orange counties, along with the Inland Empire, will continue through Monday night. Lingering showers across San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties could last through Wednesday. Incoming rainstorms for Southern California on Monday, Jan, 22, 2024. (KTLA) A Winnter Weather Advisory is in effect through Sunday, Jan. 21 at 1 p.m. (KTLA) Rainstorm totals for Southern California on the weekend from Jan. 20-22, 2024. (National Weather Service) Rainstorm totals for Southern California on the weekend from Jan. 20-22, 2024. (National Weather Service) Thunderstorm potential for Southern California from Jan. 20-22, 2024. (National Weather Service) Incoming rainstorms for Southern California on Monday, Jan, 22, 2024. (KTLA) Chances of thunderstorms will be most active on Monday from noon through the evening. The wet weather will create hazardous driving conditions throughout the Southland, with limited visibility and possible road flooding. If you are headed out, please be very careful driving over the next couple of days, especially when heading to work or school on Monday morning, Goldberg advised. Monday morning will be very dicey. Streets will be slick. Leave yourself plenty of extra time to get to work or school. A Winter Weather Advisory will be in effect through Sunday, Jan. 21 at 1 p.m., but will likely be extended into Monday, Goldberg said. Snowfall is expected at elevations over 6,500 feet with 6-12 inches of snow possible above resort levels, according to NWS. High surf and flood advisories are in effect for coastal areas from Oxnard to Long Beach until Sunday night at 10 p.m. Officials are urging the public to prepare and take caution during rainstorms. Some ways to prepare for the stormy weather include: Clearing out debris from rain gutters and waterways Having a backup plan for any outdoor activities Avoiding any flooded roads Using extra caution when driving due to slick roadways Staying up to date with the current forecast for any changes Overnight rain totals on Saturday night include: Redondo Beach .7 inches Long Beach .45 inches Downtown L.A. .3 inches Santa Ana .47 inches Woodland Hills .28 inches Whittier .35 inches Topanga .41 inches Chino Airport .25 inches The latest storm warnings and rainfall totals can be viewed on the National Weather Services website. A rainstorm forecast from KTLAs Meteorology team can be seen in the video player above. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. Labourers stand on top of the illuminated grand temple of Lord Ram ahead of its opening in Ayodhya Labourers stand on top of the illuminated grand temple of Lord Ram ahead of its opening in Ayodhya By Saurabh Sharma and YP Rajesh AYODHYA, India (Reuters) - A grand temple to Hindu god Lord Ram opens on Monday on a site in India millions believe is his birthplace, in a religious spectacle led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi months before he seeks a rare third term in elections. The construction of the temple is a 35-year-old, central promise of Modis Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and a contentious political issue that helped catapult the party to prominence and power. Hindu groups are portraying the inauguration ceremony in the northern city of Ayodhya as the peak of Hindu awakening after centuries of subjugation by Muslim and colonial powers. It is also being seen as the virtual launch of the deeply religious strongman Modis re-election campaign for general elections due by May. The temple site was bitterly contested for decades with both Hindus and Muslims laying claim to it and was a flashpoint for violence after a Hindu mob in 1992 destroyed a 16th century mosque which stood there. India's majority Hindus say the site is the birthplace of Lord Ram, and was holy to them long before Muslim Mughals razed a temple at the spot and built the Babri Masjid or mosque there in 1528. In 2019, the Supreme Court handed over the land to Hindus and ordered allotment of a separate plot to Muslims. On Monday, Modi will take part in the culmination of rituals to inaugurate the temple, for which thousands of members of BJP and its affiliates, religious leaders and devotees from across the country are expected to gather in Ayodhya. Some of Indias top business leaders, movie actors and sportspersons have also been invited for the consecration, organisers said. RELIGIOUS OUTPOURING, POLITICAL CONTROVERSY The Lord has made me an instrument to represent all the people of India during the consecration, Modi said on X as he began 11 days of special rituals ahead of the inauguration. Calling it a historic moment when Lord Ram will take his place in his grand temple, Modi has urged Indians to light lamps in their homes and neighbourhood temples on Monday evening and once again celebrate Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights which usually falls in October-November. The consecration of the temple feels more like the launching of the general election campaign rather than a religious ritual, said Prithvi Datta Chandra Shobhi, a political commentator who teaches at Krea University in southern India. The prime minister appears to inhabit the role of an emperor who is undertaking a major ritual sacrifice, he said. The temple has been built on a 2.67-acre (1.08 hectares) site inside a 70-acre (28.33 hectares) complex and only its first phase is ready. The second and final phase is expected to be completed in December 2025. The project is estimated to cost 15 billion rupees ($181 million) and is entirely funded by donations from within the country. India has witnessed an emotional outpouring among Hindus ahead of the consecration, with residential colonies and markets flying holy flags, organising special prayers and making plans to show the live telecast of Mondays event on giant screens. The inauguration has also sparked a political controversy with major opposition parties, including the main opposition Congress, declining invitations to attend saying it had been converted into a political, Modi event. Muslim groups were not happy with the 2019 court verdict which gave the site to Hindus but said they would accept it with humility. Nearly five years on, they indicated they had moved on. The construction of the temple is going on as per the direction of the Supreme Court, so we welcome it. I don't think there's any feeling of ill-will in the Muslim community, said Zufar Ahmad Faruqi, head of the Indo-Islamic Cultural Foundation that is building a new mosque in Ayodhya about 25 km (15 miles) from the temple. (Additional reporting by Shivam Patel; Writing by YP Rajesh; Editing by Raju Gopalakrishnan) (BCN) Last week a lawyer representing community group Berkeley Peoples Alliance sent a cease-and-desist letter to the City of Berkeley on Jan.11 accusing the city council of violating the Ralph M. Brown Act at two Nov. 2023 meetings. Berkeley resident and Berkeley Peoples Alliance Board Member and Nathan Mizell was also listed as a party to the cease-and-desist. The group alleges that the Brown Act violations occurred at city council meetings on November 21 and 28, 2023 after the meetings were interrupted by protesters. Multiple weather advisories issued and rainfall expected: NWS The letter, sent by the law office of Jonathan Weissglass, outlined the legal basis for the Berkeley Peoples Alliances claims against the city. The Brown Act, also known as Government Code 54957.9, dictates that when government meetings are willfully interrupted by a group or groups of people, the government body must first attempt to restore order by removing disruptive individuals. If that fails, members of the legislative body can have the room cleared of all attendantsapart from members of the media and continue in session, ideally readmitting individuals not responsible for the disruption. Weissglass claims that the Berkeley City Council did not attempt to remove the individuals interrupting the meeting, nor did they attempt to clear the room and re-admit individuals not responsible for the disturbance. Instead, Weissglass said, Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguin recessed the meeting and later held the remainder of the meeting in a different location, without allowing the public to be present. Although BPA and Mr. Mizell do not condone the use of force to remove individuals who are allegedly willfully interrupting a meeting, the Legislature provided that removal is a prerequisite to holding a City Council meeting without the in-person presence of the public, Weissglass said in the cease-and-desist letter. The Legislature has made its decision and that decision must be followed. Previously, Berkeley Peoples Alliance member Margot Smith sent a letter to the City of Berkeley on Nov. 28, 2023, accusing the city of Brown Act violations at Nov. 14 and Nov. 21, 2023, board meetings. City representatives were not available for comment on these accusations. Copyright 2024 Bay City News, Inc. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. AUSTIN (KXAN) Travis County DA Jose Garza and other leaders voiced concern about the hiring of former Austin Police Chief Art Acevedo for a newly-created city position, at a Saturday afternoon event honoring sexual assault survivors. Those survivors included plaintiffs of a 2021 lawsuit, which alleged that several agencies, including APD (led by Acevedo at the time), failed to properly investigate sexual assaults between 2006 and 2019. Flanked by those plaintiffs, Garza, along with Travis County Judge Andy Brown, Austin City Council Member Alison Alter and Congressman Greg Casar, championed survivors of sexual assault for their bravery. Garza mentioned Acevedos return in his remarks, saying that many of the changes implemented from the lawsuit were related to errors in leadership made during Acevedos time at APD. He said that under Acevedo and other officials a backlog of untested rape kits grew and a culture of disrespect for survivors of sexual assault festered. His return is a step backwards for survivors of sexual assault. His appointment represents a stunning disregard for their pain and for the values of this community. We are here to remember, but we are also here to celebrate, because even if Art Acevedo is coming back, we are never going back, Garza said. Sexual assault survivors wary about return of former police chief Numerous sexual assault survivors attended the event, which debuted the start of an art installation honoring the bravery of local survivors. They also created stained glass mosaics during the event, which will eventually be displayed at the Travis County DAs office. Kelly McWilliams, a plaintiff of the lawsuit, attended the art event. She said news of Acevedos return to the city has made her concerned for other victims of violent crime. My incident happened 20 years ago, Ive waited 20 years for justice. I dont even have justice, because of the way APD handled the case, McWilliams said. Heather Sin, also a plaintiff, said she hopes the public outcry about Acevedos hiring will be enough to reverse his employment with the city. Im hoping that we have enough voices out here now, even this public statement that happened today with different officials that sometimes a lot of people making enough noise is enough, Sin said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) says Hispanic voters have the same concerns as the general population, with added focus on conditions in Central and South America. [Hispanics] generally care about the same thing as everybody else. But they also do care about democracy and freedom in Latin America. So while they care about jobs, they care about education, they care about law enforcement, they also care about that, Scott told The Hill. That view is central to Scotts reelection campaign approach in Florida, a state where a quarter of the population is Hispanic. In my campaigns, if Im gonna run an ad, I generally run an ad in English and in Spanish. If Im doing events, Im doing events, like in the Panhandle and Im also at same time doing events in Miami. Or if Im in Tampa, I might do an event with the Chamber [of Commerce], then also do it with the Hispanic Chamber, he said. So Ive always reached out to everybody, because I represent everybody. That approach stands in contrast to mainstream thinking in national Hispanic-focused campaigns, where apples-to-apples bilingual outreach is slowly being replaced by tailor-made messages for individual cultural subsets. Scotts more traditional approach in part responds to the large number of different Hispanic groups in Florida. Hispanics in the way it works in Florida we have Cubans, Venezuelans, Colombians, Puerto Ricans, Nicaraguans theyre all different communities but its a good melting pot, but I reach out to each one of them and I do things with every group. I just never I never stopped talking to them, said Scott. His confident approach he has won three straight statewide elections also relies on his constituent services, which in 2022 were awarded the Congressional Management Foundations Democracy Award. Im running on my record and so, you know, the Im very Im very comfortable that Im going to continue to do my job and you know, my constituent services team won for the best constituent service team in the country, said Scott. But Scotts statewide wins have not been by large margins: In 2010 he won the governorship by about 1.2 percentage points, he was reelected in 2014 by a single percentage point margin and he won his Senate seat in 2018 against then-incumbent Sen. Bill Nelson (D) by less than two-tenths of a percentage point about a 10,000 vote difference out of more than 8 million votes cast. And Scott, along with Sen. Ted Cruz (Texas), is the closest thing Republicans have to a vulnerable incumbent in 2024. Both senators races are ranked as likely Republican by the Cook Political report, as opposed to the solid Republican rankings of the other nine GOP-held seats up for renewal. Scott is also facing a GOP primary opponent, Keith Gross, who pledged to spend copiously to unseat the incumbent, though as of September Gross had spent just under a million dollars compared to Scotts $12 million already spent in the 2024 cycle. Throughout his political career, Scott has successfully fended off attacks on the source of his fortune, a 2003 settlement after a complex fraud case involving the company he ran, Columbia/HCA, once the countrys largest health care company. Those attacks have continued in the GOP primary, and from challengers across the aisle, including Democratic front-runner former Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell (Fla.), who called the events leading to the settlement the largest Medicare fraud ever committed in the history of this country. Mucarsel-Powell, who was born in Ecuador, is playing full-court press on Hispanic media in Florida, doing nearly daily Spanish-language interviews on influential radio stations in an attempt to outflank Scott through cultural competence and Spanish-language fluency. The problem she has its not the language she speaks, its her positions, said Scott. Attack lines in the general election likely to be between Scott and Mucarsel-Powell are forming along predictable fronts. She runs around with people that are anti-police; I dont know Hispanics that are anti-police. She basically is, you know, she runs around with people that are anti-Israel. In my experience with Hispanics, theyre not anti-Israel. You know, she basically is a socialist. My experience with Hispanics is theyre not socialists, said Scott. Mucarsel-Powell, meanwhile, is attacking Scott as a political extremist for his support of former President Trump, whom she equates to authoritarian strongmen in Latin America. Its nice that Rick Scott is suddenly pretending to care about Latino families in Florida. But hardworking Floridians already know Rick Scott is a fraud who has advocated to raise taxes on the middle class, sided with dangerous insurrectionists, and written the plan to sunset Social Security and Medicare. Rick Scott is a threat to opportunities in this country and democracy at home and abroad, said Lauren Chou, a spokeswoman for Mucarsel-Powells campaign. Both candidates converge, however, in the importance that Florida Hispanics put in their representatives understanding Western Hemisphere politics. With Cubans, I mean, they care about the freedom and democracy in Cuba, generally, or Venezuelans, they care about what [President Nicolas] Maduro is doing or the Nicaraguans, they care about what [President Daniel] Ortega is doing, or if theyre Colombians, they care about what [President Gustavo] Petro is doing or you know, if theyre Argentines, they care about what [President Javier] Milei is doing, said Scott. Though U.S. citizens of Latin American and Caribbean origin are a powerful voting group, particularly in South Florida, Puerto Ricans in central Florida have changed the states political dynamics. Puerto Ricans are statutory U.S. citizens if theyre born in the territory, so even recent arrivals from the island are eligible to vote. In 2019 Florida became the state with the largest Puerto Rican diaspora, now more than a million strong. Like Hispanics with non-U.S. national origins, Scott is pitching kitchen table issues to Puerto Ricans, but hes also diverging with caveats from the Republican Party mainstream on an issue that polls particularly well with Floridas Puerto Rican community: statehood. First off, what they want to do is they want to take care of their families. No. 2, their futures, their kids, so they care about education. And the other thing is they want to have a low crime rate. Its important to talk about the issues and work with the issues that impact Puerto Ricans and, and acknowledge, I think I think Puerto Rico eventually will be a state. I think they have to get their fiscal house in order and whether everybody agrees with me here, Im one vote. Updated Monday at 11:37 a.m. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. AccuWeather meteorologists say that the damp, active pattern along the West Coast ushering rounds of rain will persist through Monday night. However, a stretch of dry weather may be on the horizon later this week for portions of Central and Southern California. A storm tracking into the West Coast will continue to bring soaking rain to locations from Washington to California through Monday night. Additional rainfall totals could range between 1-2.5 inches in some areas along the central and northern coasts. In the foothill areas to the south of Klamath National Forest, Shasta-Trinity National Forest and Lassen National Forest could contend with locally higher amounts of 3-4 inches from this latest storm. Farther south, across a large part of Southern California, steadier rain is in store. Some of that rain may fall at a heavy enough rate to lead to urban flooding. Downtown Los Angeles observed 0.41 of an inch of rain on Saturday, Jan. 20, and a trace of rain on Sunday, Jan. 21. On Monday, 1.28 inches of rain fell. "Dry weather returns across most of the state on Tuesday, then another piece of energy will move into the Northwest that can bring showers to Northern and Central California again," added AccuWeather Meteorologist Haley Taylor. Localized roadway flooding will continue to be a concern through Monday night as this band of rain tracks through the City of Angels. Nearby mountain locations can pick up even more rain, with localized totals upwards of 2-3 inches. Along the coast, there can even be a few rumbles of thunder. Coastal flood advisories and beach hazard statements were put in place through the end of the weekend, warning of strong rip currents, high surf, localized beach erosion and flooded roads along the coast. GET THE FREE ACCUWEATHER APP Have the app? Unlock AccuWeather Alerts with Premium+ As the storm pushes inland Tuesday, rain will begin to overspread towns in Utah, Arizona and New Mexico. Cooler air lingering in the parts of northern Arizona, south-central Utah, and western Colorado will allow for occasional snow showers in the highest elevations. Snow levels across the region will generally remain above 6,500 feet. Falling temperatures in Flagstaff, Arizona, as the storm moves through the region, will allow for snow showers at times through Tuesday morning. Daytime highs will stay mainly in the 30s through early week with overnight lows below the freezing mark. Snowfall totals are projected to range between 1-3 inches early this week in Flagstaff, with the chance for 6 inches in the highest levels above 7,500 feet. By Tuesday, a zone of high pressure will push into the Southwest coast and promote drier conditions for many California and western Nevada residents. Meanwhile, a separate storm will begin barreling into the Northwest with additional coastal rain and snow in the mountains. The late-week pattern across the West will favor drier conditions to the South and continued damp and dreary weather to the north. Cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles could experience a stretch of dry weather from late week into early next week, potentially longer if the pattern of high pressure persists. On Sunday, Jan. 28, the San Francisco 49ers will take on the Detroit Lions in their home field, Levi's Stadium, in Santa Clara, California. Forecasters looking ahead to the conditions say that the pattern is favoring generally dry conditions for Sunday, Jan. 28, in the Santa Clara area. "High pressure in place will help to hold off any showers on Sunday for the upcoming San Francisco playoff game, conditions look to remain mainly dry from late week onward into the upcoming weekend," noted Taylor. Temperatures can range in the upper 60s F on Sunday, Jan. 28, by the early afternoon hours, but then can fall into the middle to lower 60s by kickoff time at 6:30 p.m. ET (3:30 p.m. local time). Want next-level safety, ad-free? Unlock advanced, hyperlocal severe weather alerts when you subscribe to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app. AccuWeather Alerts are prompted by our expert meteorologists who monitor and analyze dangerous weather risks 24/7 to keep you and your family safer. Robert Jenrick said time will tell whether he was right to rebel over Rishi Sunak's Rwanda Bill - David Rose Robert Jenrick has refused to rule out running for the leadership of the Conservative Party. The former immigration minister said there was a path to victory for The Tory party in this years general election but it would require the toughest possible approach to immigration. Mr Jenrick spearheaded last weeks rebellion by Tory MPs over Rishi Sunaks Rwanda Bill by tabling amendments to toughen it up. He and 10 other rebel Tory MPs who were the only backbenchers to vote against the Bills third reading, are being called in on Monday by Simon Hart, the partys chief whip, to explain their actions. It comes as the Lords could vote on Monday to back a motion demanding that the Government delays the ratification of its Rwanda treaty until it can show that the country is safe for asylum seekers. Asked on The Camilla Tominey Show on GB News on Sunday whether he would stand to be Tory leader, Mr Jenrick said: Well, look, Im not ruling it out. But thats not my intention here. What I really want to do is make and hopefully win this central argument for the Conservative Partys future. What I am trying to do is to make an argument and part of that is around illegal migration. I think that for too long, too few politicians have gone and argued that we need to take the most robust action. And so if I can help the Conservative Party by making that argument very strongly, then I will do it because I think there is a path to victory at the next General Election. But it goes through taking the strongest possible approach on migration. Mr Jenricks amendments would have prevented individual migrants from mounting legal challenges against deportation and blocked injunctions by Strasbourg judges to stop flights but, with both the Government and Labour opposing, failed despite being backed by 60 Tory rebels. The Bill, itself, was passed by 320 votes to 276 after just 11 Tories voted against the Third Reading. Most rebels backed off voting against it amid warnings it would become a confidence issue and could topple Mr Sunak. In the aftermath, only one MP Dame Andrea Jenkyns has publicly admitted to submitting a no-confidence letter to Sir Graham Brady, the backbench 1922 Committee chairman, although it is claimed there may be as many as 29 who have done so. Mr Jenrick said: I chose to vote against the Bill because I felt that its a weak Bill that ultimately wont work. And we will have to see now if in August there are still small boats crossing the Channel, then it will be shown that my argument was right, the Governments was wrong. But I hope, of course, that the Prime Minister is successful because I want to see the small boats stop. I think this is doing immense damage. Think of the hotels, the billions of pounds wasted, the people who are dying in the Channel, the people smugglers are feasting on this appalling trade. I want to see the small boats stop. I believe that the way to do that is through the most robust action, and that view is formed having travelled around the world, having seen that the only countries in the world that have fixed this problem. Australia and Greece in recent years chose to take the hardest path. Thats what I was proposing. The Prime Minister ultimately wanted to do it in a different way. On Sunday Grant Shapps, the Defence Secretary, acknowledged that the Rwanda deportation plan was the only way to achieve Mr Sunaks pledge to stop the boats rather than simply reducing numbers. Its time to, you know, stop the boats and essentially send the planes, because there isnt another way again to solve this, and I just have to say, I appeal to Keir Starmer and Labour to stop frustrating and blocking Conservative efforts to stop these boats from coming, he 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. Envoy warns against direct weapons exports to Ukraine By Kim Hyun-bin Saying that the future of relations between Korea and Russia is "bright" but the way leading to them is winding, Russian Ambassador to Korea Georgy Zinoviev underscored Seoul's relatively favorable stance toward Moscow among what he referred to as "unfavorable nations, claiming this would help get the tense ties back on track. Amid the prolonged Russia-Ukraine war, Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol hinted at providing support other than humanitarian aid to Kyiv, prompting Russian President Vladimir Putin to issue a rare warning that implied devastating consequences for their bilateral ties. In addition, the Korean government, which joined the international community's financial sanctions against Russia in 2022, made a decision last month to tighten export controls on Russia, a move provoking Russian threats of retaliation. "If and when our Korean partners would be ready to once again enhance or enlarge the scope of our cooperation, I think that goodwill will most certainly be reciprocated by Russia, the ambassador said during an interview with The Korea Times at the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Seoul, Friday. "Korea is one of the friendliest among so-called unfavorable nations. I do hope that the Republic of Korea would be among the first so-called unfavorable nations that become favorable." Zinoviev, a career diplomat who took office earlier this month, said that Korea is different from some Western powers which want Russia defeated, humiliated or disintegrated, which the ambassador said is not the goal of South Korea's diplomacy and foreign policy. I do not think that that is kind of philosophy that is supported by our Korean partners, he said. On the contrary, the ambassador took Western countries to task for employing a deliberate strategy to accuse Russia of wrongdoings, which ultimately drove a wedge between Korea and Russia. "One more goal would be to drag Korea further apart from Russia. By that kind of allegations and accusations, we already experience some turbulence in our bilateral relations," he said. "While I think in the best interest of Russia and Korea is to contain that damage to get our relations out of turbulent area, perhaps some other countries would like them to enter into not just the turbulence but into the thunderstorm." Direct export of arms to Ukraine Against the backdrop of heightened global geopolitical tensions, the demand for weapons and ammunition has surged to unprecedented levels. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas confrontation have fueled this spike. As the conflict in Ukraine intensifies, the international focus is shifting toward Korea as the international community is urging the nation to contribute to the supply of much-needed ammunition to bolster Ukraine's defense efforts. Zinoviev expressed deep concerns over Korea supplying arms exports directly to Ukraine, warning of potentially severe consequences to bilateral relations. "We have expressed many times to our Korean partners that it would be very detrimental for bilateral ties if the Republic of Korea starts direct arms exports to the Ukrainian regime, and we do not want to see the ammunition killing Russian soldiers," Zinoviev said. He highlighted the gravity of such a scenario, suggesting that it could deal a heavy blow to the future prospects of their relations. The ambassador acknowledged that this position has been communicated to Korean officials through diplomatic channels and public statements. "We've seen several official statements by the Korean side that it is not going to and is not planning to have direct arms exports of weapons toward Ukraine and we take this position seriously," he said. Zinoviev expressed hope that Korea would continue to uphold this commitment for the sake of their future relations. He stressed the importance of considering not only the current situation but also anticipating the post-conflict era in Ukraine. "The conflict on the Ukrainian territory will end and I have no doubts that it will end by Russia achieving its goals that it has set for the special military operation which is demilitarization of the Ukraine and making sure that the Ukraine does not pose a threat towards Russia's security, the ambassador said. Russia welcomes return of Korean companies The ambassador expressed optimism about the potential for Korean companies to regain their foothold in the Russian market, highlighting the historical success of Korean businesses in Russia and the favorable attitudes Russian consumers had toward Korean products. "Well, Korean companies had a very strong and big share in Russian markets and it used to be very much respected and loved by Russian consumers," he said. "One of the names of an international company that came to the mind of a Russian consumer, if you just ask him on the street, would be Samsung." However, he acknowledged that the current situation has changed, with a decrease in the market share of Korean companies in Russia, revealing that only one out of 50 cars sold in Russia last year came from Korea while before the war 20 percent of cars were Korean-made. Last month, Hyundai Motor, Korea's leading carmaker, decided to sell its Russian manufacturing plant. The St. Petersburg facility, launched in 2010, halted operations in March 2022, citing disruptions in component supplies attributed to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Despite this decline, he underlined the absence of artificial restrictions or barriers imposed by Russia and added that Korean companies will be welcomed if they return at their convenience. "I would like to stress that unlike Western or Japanese companies, none of Korean companies publicly declared that they are leaving the Russian market due to political reasons. No one slammed the door," Zinoviev said. The ambassador expressed hope that Korean companies would consider returning to the Russian market, which he described as lucrative with numerous opportunities. He assured that Russia is open and welcoming to their return, stating, "We do hope that Korean companies have in mind the idea of returning to Russia as soon as possible, and we will be welcoming that." Cultural exchanges Zinoviev underscored the significance of cultural exchanges as a means of strengthening ties between Russia and Korea. As part of that, Moscow's state-owned Bolshoi Ballet is scheduled to perform in Seoul in April. "The meaning of this visit is to have our Korean friends enjoy first-class world culture through cultural exchanges," he said. "We do hope that our Korean friends will continue to enjoy the first-class world culture brought to them by Russian artists, as Korean artists are very welcomed in Russia as well." Zinoviev emphasized the resilience of people-to-people connections and cultural ties, noting their resilience amid the current global turbulence affecting other areas. He cited this as an example of a solid foundation that could help both nations return to normalcy and elevate their bilateral ties to a higher level. Several Romanian farmers' organizations sent a joint letter to Romanian government officials demanding that the country advocate for import limits on Ukrainian agriculture products ahead of the upcoming meeting of the EU Agriculture and Fisheries Council, Romanian outlet Digi24 reported on Jan. 21. Romania's Alliance for Agriculture, which represents several farmers' organizations, sent a letter to Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, and Agriculture Minister Florin Barbu, demanding a European Union decision be made that would safeguard Romanian farmers from the alleged market impacts of an influx of agricultural imports from Ukraine to the European market. Since the beginning of Russia's attacks on Ukraine's main agriculture port of Odesa, Ukraine has been forced to export large volumes of grain through the EU. As a result, grain imports in countries adjacent to Ukraine soared, distorting local markets and causing local farmers' grain to fall in price, which led to outcries and restrictions on both national and EU scales. Protesting Polish and Romanian farmers and truckers have been at the centre of blockades at Ukrainian border crossings for months, protesting the economic impacts of a free trade agreement that have sparked worries about uneven competition and risks to domestic production. The farmers' alliance demands that Ukrainian import limits be set based on the 2021-2022 annual or quarterly averages. The farmers are also proposing the creation of a tracking system that would determine the destination of Ukrainian agricultural products before their entry into the EU. "Otherwise, all three of you (the president, the prime minister, and the minister of agriculture) should assume and bear the consequences of the intensification of the protests in Romania and in the other member states, which will grow much faster than anyone expects and that the next step is for the disgruntled farmers from most of the EU member states to move and block the activity in Brussels," the letter read. The upcoming Agriculture and Fisheries Council meeting is set for Jan. 23 where the Council will hold deliberations on the "strategic dialogue on the future of agriculture in Europe." Earlier on Jan. 5, European Commissioner for Agriculture, Janusz Wojciechowski said he wants new restrictions on Ukrainian agricultural imports as the Commission mulls the extension of the free trade regime with Ukraine until 2025. Read also: Ukraine is third largest agricultural supplier to EU Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. The checkpoint in Romania on the border with Ukraine. Photo: Getty Images Romanian farmers have demanded that their government advocate for EU-level solutions that would protect them from the impact of Ukrainian agricultural imports on the European market. Source: Digi24, a Romanian news outlet, citing a letter by the Agricultural Alliance, an umbrella body for several farmers associations Details: The letter related to the upcoming meeting of EU agriculture and fisheries ministers is addressed to President Klaus Iohannis, Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu and Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Florin Barbu. The farmers want a solution at the EU level to ensure the "survival of European farmers". They propose to create a system that will ensure that the destination of agricultural products from Ukraine is determined before they enter the EU (for import, transit, etc.), the goods are weighed, the data is entered into an electronic system and "made available to all interested parties" all in order to ensure that each shipment goes exactly where it is intended. Romanian farmers want such a system to be put in place by 30 April 2024. The association also wants to introduce import caps for agricultural products based on annual or quarterly averages for 2021-2022. Romanian farmers are also demanding that Brussels be notified and that "safeguards" be automatically applied at the national level if violations of the rules by owners of agricultural imports or their carriers are detected in any of the EU member states. Background: Polish farmers are also expected to hold a major protest over imports from Ukraine on 24 January. On 20 January, the movement of freight traffic through the Halmeu-Diakove checkpoint resumed after the border on the Romanian side had been unblocked. This checkpoint was the last one to be blocked. The Siret-Porubne checkpoint was also unblocked on 20 January. The blocking of the Vicovu de Sus Krasnoilsk crossing point stopped on 19 January. On 16 January, reports emerged that the Romanian Agriculture Ministry and representatives of major agricultural organisations had reached an agreement on 15 January that satisfied several demands of farmers who had been protesting for six days and blocking the border with Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! Semafor Signals Insights from New York Magazine, Bloomberg, and Semafor The News Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis dropped out of the U.S. Republican presidential primary on Sunday and endorsed former President Donald Trump two days before GOP voters in New Hampshire go to the polls. Nobody worked harder, and we left it all out on the field, DeSantis said in a video announcing his exit from the race. He said he didnt have a clear path to victory. The Florida governors second-place finish in the Iowa caucuses did little for him in New Hampshire, where tracking polls showed him stuck in the single digits. Hes closer to zero than he is to me, former South Caronina governor Nikki Haley told reporters at a Thursday campaign stop. The final DeSantis stops in New Hampshire were in small venues, where political tourists and college students often got prime seats. Before a Friday night rally in Nashua, the perennial candidate Vermin Supreme climbed on a stage set up for DeSantis, leading a half-amused cheers from the crowd for free ponies and zombie power. Im the ghost of Bootgates past! said the candidate, who campaigns with an upside-down boot on his head. DeSantis told audiences that he would out-work both Haley and Trump, taking dozens of questions and pointing out that neither rival was being so open with New Hampshire voters. Trumps running for his issues, Haleys running for her issues Im running for your issues and your familys issues, DeSantis said, a line hed developed in Iowa after Haley was endorsed by Americans for Prosperity and her super PAC got a check from Democratic donor Reid Hoffman. SIGNALS Semafor Signals: Global insights on today's biggest stories. DeSantis' PAC may have hurt him Sources: NBC News, Semafor, Bloomberg Signs began emerging in December that DeSantis didnt have a future in the election, and there was a quick turnaround in support for his candidacy. Never Back Down, a super PAC supporting the Florida governor, started losing staffers in November. The super PAC handled many parts of DeSantiss campaign but in managing so much, it may have done the candidate a disservice, Semafors David Weigel noted. One reason is subjective, though its an opinion shared by plenty of operatives: Its ads havent been very good, he wrote. As Never Back Downs leadership became consumed by in-fighting, donors and campaign staff began to feel skeptical about DeSantiss chances in the primary, Bloomberg reported in December. Campaign operatives privately say Never Back Down has spent money irresponsibly, Bloomberg noted, while the super PAC viewed DeSantiss Florida campaign staff as a group of novices, who have no national political experience. DeSantis couldn't catch up in the polls to former President Donald Trump Source: New York Magazine DeSantis struggled to gain a foothold in his native Florida, and the polling gap between the governor and Trump continued to widen throughout his campaign. The state represented something of a turf war between Trump and DeSantis, and local government leaders rallied their support behind Trump. Among the issues DeSantis faced was upending the cult of personality which follows the former president, Jonathan Chait argued for New York Magazine. While Chait believed it was likely that DeSantis would be the favorite to win the primary, that changed after it became clear that Trumps sway over voters would not so easily transfer to DeSantis. Supporters predicted DeSantis's campaign would fall apart Source: Politico People who initially rallied behind the governor were disappointed and demoralized, one source told Politico in July, adding they expected other supporters would bail on the campaign if its trajectory didnt turn around. DeSantis shied away from attacking other candidates with the same vigor they showed him, and refused to engage with the mainstream media, election watchers noted to Politico. More than anything, the governor needed to focus on defining himself, one analyst said. Ron DeSantis is suspending his 2024 presidential campaign, according to an announcement video posted on X. We dont have a clear path to victory. Accordingly, I am today suspending my campaign, Mr DeSantis said. Im proud to have delivered on 100% of my promises. I will not stop now. Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts. - Winston Churchill pic.twitter.com/ECoR8YeiMm Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantis) January 21, 2024 The Florida governor went on to endorse the former president for the nomination. Ive had disagreements with Donald Trump, such as on the Coronavirus pandemic, and his elevation of Anthony Fauci, he said. Trump is superior to the current incumbent Joe Biden. I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee and I will honor that pledge, he continued. He has my endorsement because we can't go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear, or a repackaged form of warmed over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents. Meanwhile, Nikki Haley said Ron DeSantis ran a great race after receiving the news he had dropped out during a campaign event in New Hampshire. Hes been a good governor, and we wish him well, Ms Haley said at the Sunday afternoon event. Having said that, its now one fella and one lady left. The announcement comes just days ahead of the New Hampshire Republican primary, in which Mr DeSantis was polling in third place with single digits after winning second place in the Iowa Republican caucus. If Mr DeSantis received less than 10 per cent of the vote, as the polls are projecting, he would have been inelligble for any delegates per state primary rules. The Florida governors campaign was plagued by challenges long before the primary season kicked off in Iowa. Last month, Jeff Roe left his role as top adviser to Never Back Down, the super PAC backing the DeSantis campaign. The move came just hours after The Washington Post published a story about the internal disputes and suspicions between the PAC, the campaign and DeSantis allies. NBC News also published an exclusive report on Sunday detailing the pitfalls of the DeSantis campaign. This thing blew up on the launch pad, a former adviser to the governor told the outlet. They had six months to get ready for very serious strategic questions, the most important of which was how to deal with Donald Trump. They had no answers. We are nine months in, and they still have not figured it out. Mr DeSantis also cancelled his Sunday media appearances ahead of this announcement, with press secretary Bryan Griffin claiming it was due to scheduling issues. The move prompted questions about the future of his campaign hours before Sunday afternoons confirmation. The Independent has contacted the DeSantis campaign for additional comment. This is a developing story... Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis speaks during a campaign event on Jan. 17, 2024, in Hampton, N.H. DeSantis has suspended his Republican presidential campaign after a disappointing showing in Iowas leadoff caucuses, ending his White House bid on Sunday, Jan. 21, after failing to meet lofty expectations that he would seriously challenge former President Donald Trump. | Michael Dwyer, Associated Press Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended his campaign for president Sunday, just two days before the New Hampshire primary. DeSantis made the announcement in a video posted to X in which he also endorsed former President Donald Trump. The move comes after DeSantis lost the Iowa caucuses to Trump by 30 percentage points, according to the Deseret News. Following our second-place finish in Iowa, weve prayed and deliberated on the way forward, he said. If there was anything I could do to produce a favorable outcome, more campaign stops, more interviews, I would do it. But I cant ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources. We dont have a clear path to victory. Accordingly, I am today suspending my campaign. Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts. - Winston Churchill pic.twitter.com/ECoR8YeiMm Ron DeSantis (@RonDeSantis) January 21, 2024 Its clear to me that a majority of Republican primary voters want to give Donald Trump another chance, DeSantis continued. He has my endorsement because we cant go back to the old Republican guard of yesteryear, or repackage formed of warmed-over corporatism that Nikki Haley represents. Trump responded to DeSantis endorsement in a statement to Fox News Digital Sunday: Very honored to have his endorsement, Trump said. I look forward to working together with him to beat Joe Biden, who is the worst and most corrupt president in the history of our country. Related At a campaign event in New Hampshire on Sunday, Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley responded to DeSantis announcement. I want to say to Ron, he ran a great race. Hes been a good governor, and we wish him well. Having said that, its now one fella and one lady left, she said. Haley later released a statement where she wished DeSantis well and said she would continue her campaign, according to a Politico reporter. So far, only one state has voted, she said. Half of its votes went to Donald Trump, and half did not. Were not a country of coronations. Voters deserve a say in whether we go down the road of Trump and Biden again, or we go down a new conservative road. New Hampshire voters will have their say on Tuesday. WASHINGTON (AP) Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis suspended his Republican presidential campaign Sunday on the eve of the New Hampshire primary, ending a White House bid that failed to meet expectations that he would emerge as a serious challenger to former President Donald Trump. DeSantis announced his decision in a video posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. The ambitious big-state governor entered the 2024 presidential contest with major advantages in his quest to take on Trump, and early primary polls suggested DeSantis was in a strong position to do just that. He and his allies amassed a political fortune well in excess of $100 million, and he boasted a significant legislative record on issues important to many conservatives, like abortion and the teaching of race and gender issues in schools. Such advantages did not survive the reality of presidential politics in 2024. From a high-profile announcement that was plagued by technical glitches to constant upheavals to his staff and campaign strategy, DeSantis struggled to find his footing in the primary. He lost the Iowa caucuses which he had vowed to win by 30 percentage points to Trump. And now, DeSantis political future is in question after suspending his presidential bid after just one voting contest. The 45-year-old is term limited as Florida governor. This article is part of The D.C. Brief, TIMEs politics newsletter. Sign up here to get stories like this sent to your inbox. By the time Ron DeSantis pulled up his anchor from Iowa on Jan. 15, it was pretty clear to anyone watching that the Florida Governor was likely enjoying the high-water mark of his bid for the White House. Sure, he came in second place in the lead-off caucuses. But he had done so with the backing of the states popular Governor, and boasted the top money haul of anyone running for the GOP nomination. Ultimately, though, DeSantis trailed former President Donald Trump by 30 points despite heavy spending: the DeSantis campaign spent about $3 million on ads and his super PAC dumped $35 million, essentially burning about $1,500 per eventual supporter in the state. This was, as they say, a whole lot of money set on fire without a lot to show in the ash. Put simply: there werent a whole lot of reasons for DeSantis to summon optimism as he wrapped his work in Iowa, a legitimate operation that saw him visit every one of the states 99 counties and win not one of them. So, on Sunday, DeSantis bowed to the reality of the 2024 dynamic and suspended his campaign, effectively ceding the MAGA lane to its creator. His exit puts Trump one leg closer to a third nomination in eight years and perhaps within striking distance of another four years in the White House. "I can't ask our supporters to volunteer their time and donate their resources when we don't have a clear path to victory," DeSantis said in a video posted on social media, two days before the New Hampshire primary in which polling showed he was likely to come in a distant third. "Accordingly, I am today suspending my campaign." As he left the trail, DeSantis seemed resigned to falling in line for the good of the Republican Party. Trump is superior to the current incumbent, Joe Biden. That is clear," DeSantis said. "I signed a pledge to support the Republican nominee, and I will honor that pledge." To say that DeSantis campaign is one of the worst in history is a stunning statement, but one that isnt easily proven false. His launch via a glitchy Twitter rallyreplete with server meltdowns, hard-right rhetoric, dodgy facts, and a cameo from Elon Musk himselfproved that the executive competence aura around DeSantis might be more hallucination than halo. Once officially a candidate, DeSantis proved an awkward fit for the hagiography that preceded him. Yes, DeSantis crushed his re-election bid months earlier, but what worked in Destin didnt always translate to Des Moines. The campaign itself oozed inauthenticity, and it was evident at every put-your-finger-in-the-air moment. DeSantis went to war on fronts as varied as inclusive corporate policies, diversity-focused coursework, college free speech, bathrooms and locker rooms, even Mickey Mouses self-governance at the Magic Kingdom. Availing himself as the quartermaster of the culture wars seemed like a good choiceuntil it wasnt. The Trump, But Less Bad pitch went only so far. They never crafted him as Trump, But Better. The candidate being sold didnt match the hype, and voters knew it instantly. Money woes, staff infighting, strategy brawls, even wardrobe choices befell DeSantis orbit. While counting on Trumps supporters to transfer their loyalty to him, DeSantis was careful not to lay too tough a case at his former allys feet. Somehow, he expected defections to happen automatically without any effort at persuasion. DeSantis understood Trumps ability to turn on former friends without any compunction. DeSantis knew loyalty was not in Trumps toolbox, so he didnt count on lingering familiarity for any protection. Ultimately, DeSantis couldnt make the case why MAGA-styled Republicans would line up behind his facsimile when the original article was just as viableat least for now. Polls showed an utter indifference to Trumps looming legal challenges among Republicans, and Trump is not incorrect when he says every case and lawsuit brought against him only hardens his supporters resolve to have his back. From that reality, DeSantis never was able to ding Trump for realities that would have disqualified other candidates, those who are beholden to the rules of political gravity. Every Republican dream candidate ultimately faces this sort of crash. Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker was supposed to have been a political behemoth who won three statewide elections in four years. No one was tougher than Texas Gov. Rick Perry. Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty had the policy knowhow and the national buzz to run a technocratic machine. Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush had the organization and the gold-plated name to deliver him the nomination. All flamed out. Bigly. Since the Tea Party revolution of 2010, the Republican Party is looking for a nihilistic streak that found its personification in Trump. Everyone else trying to win under the old rules has been turned back and exiled. The candidates didnt figure it out until it was too late in 2016. Ultimately, the fight came too late this cycle and with too little urgency behind it. Which is why, the race now finds itself down to a two-person grudge match: Trump versus Nikki Haley, his one-time top diplomat to the United Nations. Trump is running as the original MAGA nihilist while Haley is pitching herself as an alternative to burning-it-all-down indulgence. Its not much of a glamorous dichotomy, but its what Republicans are left with. Make sense of what matters in Washington. Sign up for the D.C. Brief newsletter. Write to Philip Elliott at philip.elliott@time.com. Staff claim Scott Wagner was distracted by a giant jigsaw puzzle in the run up to the Republican presidential vote in Iowa - Matt Dixon /Matt Dixon A key figure behind Ron DeSantiss presidential bid has been criticised for doing a 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle during a critical point in the Florida governors campaign. Scott Wagner, head of the Never Back Down political action committee, has come under fire from staff within the group after Mr DeSantis finished in a distant second place in Iowa. They shared a photograph with NBC News of Mr Wagner working on the puzzle at the groups headquarters in West Des Moines, just days before the caucuses. Staffers are putting their dedication and devotion to electing Governor DeSantis and they come in and the CEO, the chairman of the organisation, is sitting there working on a puzzle for hours, one member of the group said. Mr Wagner told the network the puzzle was there when we arrived and became a sense of pride for the entire team and everyone chipped in a few minutes a piece to get it done. We worked non-stop together on operations in terrible weather conditions, he added. I am so proud of what we achieved in Iowa and will achieve beyond. The multi-million dollar Never Back Down operation had staked much of its capital on a strong showing in the first state to vote in the Republican nomination contest. Ron DeSantis came a distant second to Donald Trump in the Iowa ballot - Randall Hill/REUTERS Mr DeSantis was so confident of victory, he declared just last month: Were going to win Iowa. However, he trailed Donald Trump, who secured 51 per cent of the vote, by 30 points. It is just the latest criticism of Never Back Down, which entered the 2024 race with more than $80 million and spent huge sums recruiting staff to knock on hundreds of thousands of doors and make phone calls to potential voters in Iowa. The New York Times suggested the effort could go down as one of the most colossal bonfires of cash in American political history. Mr DeSantiss political campaign group is now laying off staff as it shifts operations out of Iowa. Throughout the latter half of last year several prominent Republican donors pulled or paused their contributions to the governors coffers as his poll numbers plateaued. 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. Theres a very real possibility of Donald Trump selecting former Fox host Tucker Carlson as his vice president if he secures the 2024 GOP presidential nomination. During an interview with Newsmaxs Rob Finnerty, Donald Trump Jr. stated that Carlson becoming Trumps VP clearly would be on the table. The disgraced media personality rose to fame on a network that promoted white supremacist rhetoric and falsehoods. As a reminder, heres a brief history of Foxs most heinous lies. Great Replacement Theory Photo: Richard Drew (AP) Fox News personality Tucker Carlson, who hosts the show Tucker Carlson Tonight, has pushed the heinous notion of great replacement theory for years. It states that white people are in danger of becoming a minority in the US due to immigration policies and social movements. This racist rhetoric was connected to the motive behind the violent Buffalo massacre that target Black people last year. Read more Screenshot: The Independent Fox News host Tucker Carlson couldnt help himself when he said that the 2020 police brutality protests were definitely not about Black lives. He didnt stop there as he added: Remember that when they come for you, and at this rate, they will. Anyone who has ever been subjected to the rage of the mob knows the feeling. Its like being swarmed by hornets. The backlash Carlson faced was imminent. 2020 Election Lies Screenshot: Fox News The reason Dominion Voting Systems is currently suing Fox News is for saying that the election technology company helped rig the 2020 presidential election (a claim that Donald Trump notoriously asserted). Recently, Rupert Murdochs testimony was made public as part of the lawsuit. The chairman of Fox Newss parent company admitted in a deposition that some of our commentators were endorsing the lie that the election was stolen. White House Affirmative Action Hires Screenshot: Fox News Last year, Tucker Carlson went on a tirade on how the hiring rules have become altered under the Biden administration and that Karine Jean-Pierre, like Kamala Harris and Ketanji Brown Jackson, was picked for the role of White because she satisfies a Democratic diversity quotaand nothing else. Its really simple. Show us your picture, and well tell you if youre qualified for the job, he stated. White Supremacy Deserves A Platform Photo: Mark J. Terrill (AP) In 2019, Laura Ingrahamhost of Fox News show The Ingraham Angle rallied behind white supremacists who she believed were unfairly censored on social media. This included the likes of Alex Jones, Candace Owens and Milo Yiannopoulos. Although hate should always be de-platformed, Fox rallied behind Ingraham. Anyone who watches Lauras show knows that she is a fierce protector of freedom of speech, the network said. Jesus Is White Photo: Chris Carlson (AP) A lot of ridiculous things have come out of Megyn Kellys mouthshe notoriously defended blackface after all. Back in 2013 during her show The Kelly File, she declared that Jesus is white. I just want the kids watching to know that, she said. How do you revise it in the middle of the legacy, of the story, and change Santa from white to Black? Even though evidence has shown that Jesus was born in Palestine, racism always defines logic. Racism Really Hurts White People Photo: Richard Drew (AP) Shortly before he was fired by Fox News in 2017, Bill OReilly spent years saying that racism is not a real problem in America and that if it is, its white folks who suffer. During his Talking Points Commentary in 2016, OReilly said that the left in America is demanding that the Electoral College system put into place in 1787 be scrapped since the left wants power taken away from the white establishment. He also said that the biggest desire for Democrats is that white working-class voters [becoming] marginalized. Slavery Wasnt So Bad Photo: Andrew Harnik (AP) In 2016, Michelle Obama gave a speech at the Democratic National Convention in which she talked about the progress American society had made by referring to the fact that the White House was built by slaves. In response, the opportunistic racist that OReilly is couldnt help but say that those same slaves were well-fed and had decent lodgings provided by the government. In addition, he said that Michelle Obama is essentially correct in citing slaves as builders of the White House but there were others working as well. Migrants Are Ruining America Photo: Richard Drew (AP) In 2022 during a broadcast, Fox News host Harris Faulkner told viewers that migrants at the southern border make our country look like what they left and our people are now forced to clean up their excrement. The Faulkner Focus often mimics the views of Tucker Carlson, pushing the horribly racist ideology that immigrants make America poorer and dirtier. Asian Culture Deserves To Be Mocked Photo: Mary Altaffer (AP) Fox host Jesse Watters has always used his platform to promote racist stereotypes of Asian people. In 2016, he did a series of mocking interviews in New Yorks Chinatown. It was so horrible that New York Mayor Bill de Blasio condemned the segment. Two years later, Watters used his show to make jokes about a New York Times editorial board hire, Sarah Jeong. Watters later apologized. Donald Trumps Impeachment Trial Was A Lynching Photo: Tom Williams (AP) In 2019 during his impeachment trial, Donald Trump tweeted: All Republicans must remember what they are witnessing herea lynching. But we will WIN! Of course, Fox News couldnt wait to side with the delusional former president. Host Lisa Boothe agreed with the statement, saying: I think the context and the point that President Trump was trying to make is that this is a terribly unfair process. Objectively, it is. I mean, you have Democrats holding this impeachment inquiry in secret, selectively leaking certain information. The network always manages to grossly outdo themselves whenever it gets the chance. More from The Root Sign up for The Root's Newsletter. For the latest news, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Click here to read the full article. Business group calls on Assembly to give more time as many remain underprepared By Jung Min-ho An industrial law under which employers can face a minimum one-year prison sentence in the event of a major accident is set to be extended this week so as to include small businesses, despite calls for more preparation time. The Serious Accidents Punishment Act, which came into force in 2022 to reduce accidents at workplaces run by larger companies, will also be applied to those with five to 49 employees on Jan. 27 after a grace period. If workers die or sustain major injuries as a result of insufficient safety measures, business owners or managers may face at least one year behind bars or fines up to 1 billion won ($750,000) an amount that could bankrupt a small business. As many business operators remain underprepared and ill-equipped for its implementation, their representatives as well as the ruling People Power Party (PPP) are calling for a reprieve of two more years so as to better prepare themselves. But as of Sunday, the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) has refused their requests. In a statement, the Korea Automotive Industry Alliance urged the National Assembly to approve a bill introduced by the PPP to postpone its implementation until January 2026. Auto parts companies with 49 or fewer employees account for more than 94 percent of the total, the organization said. Many companies have already been struggling amid the transition to electric vehicles If the law comes into force now, many will go out of business. If given more time, the group said it would work harder with the government to expedite their preparations, adding that it will require more time and state support. The DPK said it would cooperate to extend the grace period only if three conditions were met: the government admits its failure to help businesses prepare over the past two years, establishes an independent government agency for workplace safety matters and promises no more excuses regarding any further delays after the two-year extension. Ahead of the general elections, which are to be held in three months' time, the government is not expected to agree to any of these demands out of concern that the DPK would exploit them to its political advantage. Last week, Rep. Jung Hee-yong, a spokesman for the PPP, made it clear that the party would not accept such conditions. The law would apply not just to companies in what are considered high-risk industries such as construction and manufacturing but also to bakeries, restaurants, coffee shops and cram schools that employ five or more workers. It requires owners and managers to take proactive measures with staff and a budget that would be needed to prevent accidents. A fatal accident or one in which two or more employees sustain injuries that would require six months of treatment or longer could result in the prosecution of the owners or managers. In case of gross negligence, penalties could be particularly heavy. One big problem is that many small businesses cannot afford to hire a safety supervisor or a person with such expertise. Recent polls show that most small business owners say they are not ready for the law; some say they are not even aware of it. At a Cabinet meeting on Jan. 16, President Yoon Suk Yeol also called for the DPK to delay its implementation while promising to expand government support to help small businesses adjust to and prepare for the law. Currently, Russia can attack Ukraine with a volley of eight calibers Russia has swapped out a small missile ship for the frigate Admiral Essen in the Black Sea, Ukrainian Southern Defense Forces reported on Telegram on Jan. 20. The missile threat remains high, with Russia currently fielding the capacity to launch eight Kalibr cruise missiles at Ukraine. Eleven Russian ships have been deployed for combat duty in the Black Sea, including a Kalibr cruise missile carrier, which is capable of carrying a total of eight missiles. There is also one Russian ship stationed in the Azov Sea and three more in the Mediterranean, including two Kalibr carriers. Read also: Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Russian officials have warned of severe punishment for protesters after anti-Kremlin demonstrations broke out in a remote region. Police in Bashkortostan, 900 miles east of Moscow, have arrested 45 people since protests broke out on Wednesday, in the largest demonstrations in Russia since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Protests in Bashkortostan began in the city of Baymak, said OVD-Info, a Russian human rights group. The next day, protests spread to the capital of the republic, Ufa. The protests were triggered by the imprisonment of Fail Alsynov, a Bashkir activist who was sentenced to four years on Wednesday for making an alleged racist slur. His supporters say he is being punished for leading opposition to plans by well-connected Russian businessmen to develop mines. In a video posted on Sunday on the Telegram social media channel, Radiy Khabirov, Bashkortostans Kremlin-appointed leader, said that protesters would be punished. Protests are banned in Russia and those demonstrating face severe punishments - Reuters For those detained by law enforcement officers, this is immediately an end to their future careers, he said. At least 40 people were injured in the small town of Baymak on Wednesday in clashes between riot police and several thousand protesters. Russian media also reported that 1,000 people protested peacefully in Ufa on Friday, triggering more arrests. Protests are banned in Russia, but resentment in some parts of the country towards the government has been building since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine and the mobilisation of men into the army. The Kremlin has pushed mobilisation heavily along Russias fringes, including in Bashkortostan on the southern edge of the Ural Mountains. Roughly a third of Bashkortostans 4 million people are ethnic Bashkirs, a Turkic group linked closely to Tartars and Kazakhs. The protests come as the Kremlin prepares for a presidential election in March. Vladimir Putin wants to use the election to show popular support for his war, but gripes and protests by ordinary Russians have undermined this messaging. As well as protests in Bashkortostan, thousands of Russians are enduring a freezing winter after central heating breakdowns. Wives of mobilised soldiers are also continuing to call for their husbands to be returned from the front line. 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. Russia is demanding that public sector workers in the occupied territories of Ukraines Zaporizhzhya Oblast "voluntarily" donate blood for the needs of the Russian army, the National Resistance Center (NRC) said on Jan. 21. Occupiers are trying to increase the blood bank on the Russia-occupied territories due to heavy losses at the front, the NRC said. Read also: Russians coerce occupied Ukrainians with essential aid as passportization push intensifies Forcing the donation of blood is just one in a long list of violations of international humanitarian law committed by Russia, the NRC said. Read also: Russian forces seize homes in occupied territories of Ukraine under restoration pretense NRC Russia-occupied territories are facing a humanitarian crisis, with escalating problems with the supply of water, heat, and medicine, the NRC reported on Jan. 6. Furthermore, infectious disease is quietly spreading in Russian-occupied Mariupol, raising the specter of an epidemic in the city, the Mariupol City Council press service reported on Jan. 17. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Russia is ramping up its offensive operations on the front lines in Ukraine, per the UK MoD. It's likely taking advantage of the "freezing ground conditions" to move armored vehicles. Data from the Ukrainian General Staff suggests these attacks result in huge losses. Russia is ramping up its front-line offensives against Ukraine, likely taking advantage of the "freezing ground conditions" to move armored vehicles around the country, the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) said in an update on the conflict on Sunday. In the military intelligence update, the MoD said that data from the Ukrainian General Staff pointed "toward a steady increase in the intensity of Russian offensive activity across the front over the last two weeks." But Russia's mounting attacks are leading to huge losses to its military vehicles and personnel, the MoD said, citing data from the Ukrainian General Staff. From January 14 to January 18, it said the data suggested that Russian military vehicle losses had climbed 88%, while tank losses had soared 95%. The number of Russian casualties over the period had also increased by 15%, it added. For example, Russian forces are repeatedly carrying out large-scale infantry "meat assaults" on the city of Avdiivka, a Ukrainian commander said, CNN reported. "Assault after assault, non-stop. If we kill 40 to 70 of them with drones in a day, the next day they renew their forces and continue to attack," "Teren," an artillery reconnaissance commander of Ukraine's 110th Mechanized Brigade, told CNN. Russia has become increasingly reliant on high-risk frontal assaults, or "human-wave attacks," which attempt to overwhelm Ukrainian positions. 'When roads stop existing' A military vehicle in Bakhmut, February 2023. Marek M. Berezowski/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images Russian forces may be attempting to make the most of the hard, frozen grounds left by Ukraine's harsh winter before the spring thaw and mud season, which caught Russia out at the outbreak of the war in February 2022, set in again. The rapid melting of snow and ice in parts of eastern Europe in spring gives way to thick mud that makes travel extremely difficult. Russians call the period "Rasputitsa," translated as "when roads stop existing," The Guardian reported. The mud season causes problems for Russia and Ukraine, with artillery and military vehicles trapped in the sodden, heavy clay soil. Butm experts previously told Business Insider that Ukraine's US-provided Abrams tanks could be key during the mud season fighting. "The Abrams was made for this environment," Robert Greenway, a former adjunct fellow at the Hudson Institute think tank, said. "The mud could become impassable for almost any vehicle," Greenway said, "but the reality is that the Abrams is best equipped to deal with that environment, far better than any other tracked vehicle in existence." Read the original article on Business Insider Russian forces shelled Sumy Oblast 24 times, firing at eight communities along the border on Jan. 21, the Sumy Oblast Military Administration reported. The Russian military fired on the communities of Khotin, Yunakivka, Bilopillia, Krasnopillia, Velyka Pysarivka, Esman, Shalyhyne, and Svesa. Throughout the day, Russia assailed the border communities with mortar, artillery, drone, and grenade launcher attacks, while dropping mines onto two settlements. In total 96 explosions were recorded. No casualties or damage to civilian infrastructure were reported. The town of Bilopillia, with a pre-war population of about 16,000 residents, experienced the most intense attacks with 26 explosions recorded in the area. The community is located just eight kilometers south and 25 kilometers west of the Ukraine-Russia border. Shelling is a daily occurrence for the communities near Ukraine's northeastern border with Russia. Residents in the region's vulnerable border settlements experience multiple attacks per day. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Reports of explosions, fires in Russian rear, occupied Sevastopol after alleged Ukrainian strikes Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Russian forces shelled Sumy Oblast 37 times, firing at eight communities along the border on Jan. 20, the Sumy Oblast Military Administration reported. The Russian military targeted the communities of Bilopillia, Khotin, Krasnopillia, Yunakivka, Velyka Pysarivka, Seredyna-Buda, Esman, and Myropillia. Throughout the day, Russia assailed the border region with mortar, artillery, drones, and grenade launcher attacks, while dropping mines onto the village of Myropillia and surrounding areas. More than 173 explosions were recorded. No casualties or damage to civilian infrastructure was reported. The town of Khotin, with a pre-war population of about 2,290 residents, experienced the most attacks during the day with at least 44 explosions recorded in the area. The town is located 28 kilometers away from Sumy, the regional center. Shelling is a daily occurrence for the communities near Ukraine's northeastern border with Russia. Residents in the region's vulnerable settlements experience multiple attacks per day. Read also: Russian forces shell Donetsk Oblast, injure 2 Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. A Russian court has acquitted a Russian contract soldier who was accused of shooting and killing another soldier in the occupied Ukrainian city of Pervomaisk, claimed Russian propaganda publication Kommersant Jan. 20. The Novocherkassk Garrison Military Court cleared 41-year-old Chechen contract soldier, Zaindi Takayev, who was on trial for killing a 20-year-old Dagestani native, Magomed Shakhbanov. Read also: Russia's corpse conscription means Ukraine is always outnumbered but values life Zelenskyy Takayev shot Shakhbanov in the head during a feast in the courtyard of an apartment building in Pervomaisk in June 2022, according to Russian investigators. This account was corroborated by two women who were present at the scene. However, Takayev claimed that he did not kill his "comrade-in-arms," suggesting that the slain man was actually killed by unknown persons firing from the bushes nearby." The acquittal may have been influenced by contradictions and inconsistencies in the case file, according to Kommersant. Read also: Russian military executed three Ukrainian POWs from 82nd Air Assault Brigade, Air Force confirms Representatives of the victim and the prosecutor's office of the Russian Southern Military District have expressed disagreement with the court's verdict, intending to appeal. The prosecutor's office further indicated the possibility of unanimous jury acquittal under potential external pressure. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Russian forces advanced along the Kupiansk-Svatove-Kreminna axis on 20 January and captured the village of Krokhmalne. Source: Institute for the Study of War (ISW) Details: The ISW reported that geolocation data from 20 January showed that Russian forces had captured Krokhmalne, a village located 20 km to the northeast of Svatove. Russian military bloggers earlier claimed that Ukrainian forces had withdrawn from their positions in the vicinity of Krokhmalne. Geolocation data from 20 January also shows that Russian forces have made an insignificant advance to the east of Ivanivka (20 km to the southeast of Kupiansk). Russian forces also advanced to the southwest of Bakhmut. Geolocation data from 20 January shows that Russian forces have also gained territory in a small forest to the northwest of Klishchiivka (to the southwest of Bakhmut). The ISW said that Russian forces also made small gains in the area near the administrative border of Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia oblasts. Geolocation data from 20 January shows that Russian forces made limited gains to the southeast of Urozhaine (10 km to the south of Velyka Novosilka). Positional engagements continued along the entire front. To quote the ISWs Key Takeaways for 20 January: Russian President Vladimir Putin falsely claimed that Russia supports the "unconditional equality" and "sovereignty" of all states in a letter from 20 January to the Non-Aligned Movement Summit, contradicting Russias official position on its war in Ukraine and its wider imperial ambitions. Russian Ambassador to Denmark Vladimir Barbin threatened Denmark, a founding member of NATO, on 20 January in response to a recent US-Danish agreement allowing US forces access to military bases in Denmark. Russian energy exports to China significantly increased in 2023 amid increasing Russian reliance on oil revenues to manage the fiscal burdens of the war in Ukraine. European Union (EU) Internal Market Commissioner Thierry Breton stated on 20 January that the EU will have the capacity to produce 1.3 to 1.4 million artillery shells by the end of 2024 and will ensure that it delivers the "majority" of the shells to Ukraine. Russian forces made confirmed advances along the Kupiansk-Svatove-Kreminna line, near Bakhmut, and in the Donetsk-Zaporizhia Oblast border area amid continued positional engagements along the front. A Russian Storm-Z instructor claimed on 16 January that Rosgvardia (Russian Guard) personnel operating in occupied Ukraine have systematic issues with equipment and weapons storage. Occupation authorities continue preparations for the March 2024 Russian presidential election. Support UP or become our patron! Russian occupiers intensified their attacks on the front in recent days, which is likely due to frost, but their losses sharply increased Russian forces have intensified offensive operations at the front in the last two weeks, possibly attempting to leverage frozen ground conditions, UK intelligence said on X (Twitter) on Jan. 21. The frigid weather has facilitated the movement of armored vehicles in the area. Read also: New ballistics from North Korea. Which regions of Ukraine are in danger However, their losses have experienced a sharp increase, with troops losing 88% more equipment from Jan. 14-18 than over the previous five days. Tank losses surged by 95%, and casualties rose by 15%, according to data. Ukrainian forces eliminated 760 Russian troops the previous day, the General Staff reported on Jan. 21. Total Russian losses since the beginning of the full-scale invasion have exceeded 376,000 personnel. In December, UK intelligence estimated Russia's losses at over 300,000 military personnel since Feb 24, 2022, although Russian officials lack certainty about the exact casualty count. Read also: Russia fails to execute their initial plan to capture Avdiivka Given Russia's substantial losses in the war against Ukraine, it will take the invaders anywhere from five to ten years to rebuild highly qualified and experienced military units. Russian casualties at Avdiivka have increased significantly in recent weeks, said Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraine's HUR military intelligence services chief. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Ukrainian forces repelled 21 Russian assaults near Synkivka and Petropavlivka (Kharkiv Oblast) and Stelmakhivka (Luhansk Oblast) on the Kupiansk front over the past day. Source: General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Facebook, information as of 06:00 on 21 January Details: A total of 80 clashes between Ukrainian and Russian forces occurred over the course of the past 24 hours. Russian forces deployed S-300 guided anti-aircraft missiles to carry out three missile strikes on civilian infrastructure in Novohradivka (Donetsk Oblast) and four airstrikes. They also deployed multiple-launch rocket systems (MLRS) 58 times to attack the positions of Ukrainian troops and civilian settlements, injuring civilians and damaging around 40 residential buildings and other civilian infrastructure facilities. Russian forces deployed 2 Shahed-136/131 attack drones on the night of 20-21 January, with Ukrainian air defence disabling 1 Russian drone. Russian forces also carried out airstrikes on Chernatske and Seredyna-Buda (Sumy Oblast). A total of 140 civilian towns and villages came under Russian shelling in Chernihiv, Sumy, Kharkiv, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipropetrovsk, Kherson and Mykolaiv oblasts. Russia continues to maintain its forces near the Ukrainian border on the Sivershchyna and Slobozhanshchyna fronts and is conducting sabotage operations in the area in order to prevent Ukraine from transferring its troops to more vulnerable fronts. Russian forces are also building up minefields and explosive barriers as a protective measure along the Russian-Ukrainian border, in Belgorod Oblast. On the Lyman front, Ukrainian forces repelled six Russian assaults near Terny and Yampolivka (Donetsk Oblast) and another seven assaults in the vicinity of the Serebrianka forest and Bilohorivka (Luhansk Oblast). On the Bakhmut front, Ukrainian forces repelled eight Russian assaults in the vicinity of Bohdanivka, Andriivka and Klishchiivka (Donetsk Oblast). Within the area of responsibility of the Tavriia Operational Strategic Group on the Avdiivka front, Ukrainian forces are continuing to repel Russian attempts to encircle the city of Avdiivka. Ukrainian forces are holding the line and inflicting significant losses on the Russians. Over the course of the past day, Ukraines defence forces repelled 11 Russian assaults near Avdiivka and another 12 assaults to the south of Sieverne, Vodiane, Pervomaiske and Nevelske (Donetsk Oblast). On the Marinka front, Ukraines defence forces are continuing to hold the Russians back near Heorhiivka, Marinka and Novomykhailivka (Donetsk Oblast), where they repelled six Russian assaults. On the Shakhtarsk front, Russian forces did not undertake any offensive operations. On the Zaporizhzhia front, Ukraines defence forces repelled a Russian assault to the west of Verbove (Zaporizhzhia Oblast). Within the area of responsibility of the Odesa Operational Strategic Group on the Kherson front, Ukrainian forces are continuing to undertake operations to expand their foothold [on Dnipros left (east) bank]. Russian forces keep trying to push the Ukrainians out despite suffering significant losses. Over the course of the past day, the Russians undertook six unsuccessful assaults on Ukrainian positions. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces are undertaking active operations to inflict losses on Russian forces in terms of personnel and equipment and to wear the Russians out along the entire front. Over the course of the day, Ukrainian aircraft carried out airstrikes on six clusters of Russian military personnel, weapons and equipment, one air defence system, one ammunition storage point and one communication centre. Units from Ukrainian Rocket Forces and Artillery struck three clusters of Russian military personnel, weapons and equipment, one command post and one electronic warfare station. Support UP or become our patron! By Jung Da-hyun A self-driving bus service for pre-dawn hours will be launched in Seoul in the second half of this year. The service is expected to enhance convenience for early-morning commuters, according to the Seoul Metropolitan Government, Sunday. The autonomous bus will commence service at 3:30 a.m., 30 minutes earlier than the first conventional bus, which usually starts operations at 4 a.m. Similar to the self-driving buses that began nighttime services on Dec. 5, these buses will operate autonomously. One or two of these extra buses will be operated before the first scheduled bus on existing routes. The initiative is designed to cater to the needs of early-morning workers, such as street cleaners and office guards, who typically rely on the first bus of the day for their commute to work. Passengers who ride on the first buses of the day typically spend more than one hour commuting. Therefore, they expressed a desire for an earlier commencement of bus operations, according to the city government. In addition to the heightened demand, major routes from Seoul's peripheral areas to central areas of the city, like Gangnam and Yeouido, face notable amounts of congestion and safety concerns due to passengers standing inside crowded buses. In the early morning hours, a challenge also arises due to a shortage of drivers, as bus drivers are typically reluctant to do the early shifts. Despite the need to extend bus operations, the limited supply of drivers poses a natural constraint. In a strategic response to this challenge, the city plans to operate self-driving early morning buses, which are expected to fulfill passenger demand and expand bus services seamlessly, mitigating the constraints posed by the scarcity of bus drivers. Initially, the 160 bus route, covering Dobongsan Station to Yeongdeungpo Station via Jongro, Mapo and Yeouido Station, over a distance of approximately 25.7 kilometers, will be the first route for the autonomous bus operation. This route is considered the most congested among early morning buses, with more than 50 passengers riding on each of the number 160 bus during the dawn service. Additionally, considering factors such as safety and the operational conditions of self-driving buses, the route was chosen as a top priority, according to the city government. To prepare for the launch of these self-driving early morning buses, the city plans to establish essential infrastructure, such as configuring traffic signals. Collaborating with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, the goal is to designate a pilot autonomous vehicle zone by July. As we empathize with the early risers in the city, we are committed to implementing a transportation policy that supports the vulnerable this year as well, said Yoon Jong-jang, the head of the City Transportation Office at the Seoul Metropolitan Government. Map of air-raid warnings in Ukraine, with red marking territories where air-raid warnings have been issued. Source: alerts.in.ua Ukraines Air Force said on the afternoon of 21 January that Russia launched a missile on the city of Dnipro. Source: Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Details: The Air Force said that this might be a Kh-59 air-to-surface missile. Air-raid warnings were issued in several oblasts in Ukraine's east and south. Updated: Later the military reported that a Kh-59 air-to-surface missile had been destroyed in the Dnipro district in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Previously: Several hours earlier, Russia deployed ballistic missiles to attack Ukraines Kirovohrad Oblast. There were no casualties. Support UP or become our patron! The terminal of Russia's Novatek natural gas company near St. Petersburg has halted operations after an alleged Ukrainian drone attack caused a large fire at the fuel plant, Bloomberg reported on Jan. 21. Novatek's gas-condensate plant caught fire at the port of Ust-Luga in Russia's Leningrad Oblast following a possible coordinated effort by Ukraine to strike key targets on deep inside Russian territory, Ukrainian media reported. Ukrainian officials have yet to comment on the alleged attacks that caused explosions and large fires in several Russian cities overnight on Jan. 21. On Sunday, Russia's Defense Ministry accused Ukraine of launching multiple drone attacks and claimed that one drone was shot down over Tula, four over Smolensk, and one over Oryol. No casualties were reported by local authorities but other Russian media sources suggested that 150 people had to be evacuated. Novatek is the largest independent natural gas producer in Russia. According to Bloomberg, the plant processes stable gas-condensate - a byproduct of natural gas - into oil, while also exporting oil products to international markets. On Jan. 18, Ukrainian intelligence sources alleged that an overnight drone attack that hit an oil depot near St. Petersburg was carried out by Ukraine's military intelligence agency. Ukraine does not always directly claim responsibility for attacks inside Russian territory. Read also: Explosions, fires reported overnight deep in Russian rear in alleged long-range Ukrainian strikes Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. An air raid siren was announced in Ukraine's southern oblasts on Sunday evening due to the Russian attack drones. Source: the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Quote: "Kherson, Mykolaiv, Dnipro Oblasts, there is a threat of attack drones!" Updated: As of 22:39, the Air Force reported a Russian drone flying in the area of the city of Dnipro. Support UP or become our patron! One person has been killed and another one wounded as a result of a Russian bombardment of Krasnohorivka in Donetsk Oblast on Sunday. Source: Vadym Filashkin, head of the Donetsk Oblast State Administration, on Telegram; Donetsk Oblast Prosecutors Office Quote: "New victims of the Russian army this time in the Marinka hromada. [hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town, and their adjacent territories] The Russians bombarded Krasnohorivka with Grad MLRS and 152-mm guns. A 62-year-old man was killed and a 70-year-old man was wounded." Details: Donetsk Oblast Prosecutors Office added that the bodies of two locals aged 31 and 61 were found under the debris of destroyed households in the cities of Kurakhove and Krasnohorivka. In addition to this, two locals have been injured in their homes a 70-year-old elderly man and a 19-year-old boy who came to check the condition of the house, in which they used to live in, together with his parents. Both were taken to medical facilities to get professional treatment. Another victim of the Russian aggression was a 31-year-old female resident of the city of Hirnyka. The woman was driving a car on the highway to the village of Zoriane where she was going to visit her relatives. A projectile detonated nearby, and she suffered a contusion due to the blast wave. Background:Earlier on Sunday, Filashkin said that a man was killed and another person was injured in an attack on the city of Kurakhov, Donetsk Oblast. Support UP or become our patron! After almost a year of growing tension, state Rep. Mark McBride and state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters surprised many at the Capitol last week when suddenly they were making nice. Behind the scenes, however, the new 'friendship' between the pair was the culmination of a months-long effort by increasingly frustrated House leadership to rein in Walters, according to several people familiar with the efforts. Those efforts included pointed, closed door meetings with Walters, House Speaker Charles McCall and other leaders, as well as a legislative subpoena to Walters for documents. The effort intensified as internal polls showed Walters' popularity in freefall, interviews with people familiar with the situation said. It also helped that McBride, once considered Walters' arch nemesis, is a pragmatic politician and, at the same time, a player in leadership circles. During a Jan. 10 House budget hearing, Walters and the Oklahoma State Department of Education submitted the agency's yearly budget request to lawmakers. Walters spent most of the two-hour session outlining the rationale behind his funding requests for a handful of new proposals. The discussion was cordial, and Walters freely answered questions from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers. After the meeting, McBride said he was pleased. We met last week and I think the big reset was, 'Hey, this is appropriation and budget. Im not (on the) policy committee,' " McBride said. "This is about the money going to things (in education). I dont want to hear about certain things. Just come in here and tell me what were going to do to improve student outcomes and teachers. Those are my two big things have been for a long time." The hearing marked a major change in a relationship that, throughout most of last year, was more akin to a well-publicized feud rather than a policy discussion between two state political leaders. A photo of a letter received by state Rep. Mark McBride and Rep. Rhonda Baker from state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters' top adviser, Matt Langston. A yearlong fight between a lawmaker and the state schools superintendent Late last year, the tension between Walters and McBride, R-Moore, had grown to the point that McBride and fellow lawmaker Rep. Rhonda Baker, R-Yukon, issued a legislative subpoena on Dec. 19, forcing Walters to supply information the pair said they'd sought since the fall. That legislative subpoena, rare for a state lawmaker, was also signed by House Speaker McCall. In fact, it was the speaker's signature on the subpoena that raised the profile of the problem, McBride said. The speaker is very balanced. Hes not a guy thats just going to put his name on a subpoena just because. It had reached that level of what would you call it level of frustration that I said, What do we do? There are other things we could have done but, the thing is, they could have called me anything they wanted," McBride said. "They call me all kinds of names. I never did anything but ask questions, and they didnt want to answer them. The superintendent answered questions yesterday." That subpoena became the capstone to a yearlong range war that included: A debate that grew so ugly during the 2023 spring legislative session that Walters was "cut out of budget negotiations" with members of the House leadership because of his behavior, a source told The Oklahoman. "In the House, they were just exhausted by dealing with him," said a source, close to the situation who asked not to be identified. "So they worked the budget without him." Radio silence in July. Two months after the legislative session ended, McBride asked the Education Department for information about a teacher bonus recruitment program that Walters had announced in the spring. McBride didn't receive the information until he subpoenaed Walters in December. Extreme political rhetoric. Walters shared a posting on TikTok, which resulted in a bomb threat made against Ellen Ochoa Elementary School in Tulsa on Aug. 22. Officials said the threat appeared to be in retaliation for a librarian's public post. Walters shared the post to his superintendent account, with the caption stating, "Woke ideology is real, and I am here to stop it." After the incident, Democrats began calling for his impeachment. Silence again in the fall. In late October, McBride said hed been caught off guard by the resignation of the Education Department's program manager for grant development and compliance. That resignation was one of a series of resignations that occurred after Walters took over the department. At that time, McBride said, I really dont know whats going on over there. Nobody does. There is some lack of transparency. Adviser's letter in October. The resignations came at the same time McBride made yet another request for information from the Education Department. After that request, McBride said he and Baker received a note from Walters top adviser, Matt Langston, that read, Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. Rep. Mark McBride, R-Moore, chairman of the House Appropriations and Budget Education Subcommittee, speaks Jan. 24, 2023, at the state Capitol. House Republican leaders push back Langston's letter was slipped under McBrides office door at the Capitol after working hours. The letter sparked a furious response from the House's Republican leadership. Sources told The Oklahoman that McCall met with Walters "and let him know that type of behavior was completely uncalled for and inappropriate." Langston, however, made the issue even more explosive when he responded to the subpoena, telling The Oklahoman that McBride had "made up false narratives and has yet to show a serious effort to improve education in Oklahoma. All Oklahomans should question his political and ideological stances. Langston's statement, though, did not address the contents of the subpoena. Days after the incident, the House's second-in-command, Majority Leader Jon Echols, blistered Walters and Langston during an appearance on a televised talk show. Oklahoma state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters, left, and House education subcommittee Chairman Mark McBride speak Jan. 10 before a budget hearing at the Oklahoma Capitol. "Policy differences are fine, but what you saw was Chairman McBride, who is chairman of the Education committee, asking for information from the state Department of Education," the normally low-key Echols said during an appearance on KWTV. "And while it's well known that Chairman McBride and Ryan Walters don't get along, what's not well known, and what is not well taken, is the childish antics of a Texan, by the way, who is the chief of staff of the state superintendent, flaunting the Open Records Act and speaking nonsense to an elected official." Langston's letter, Echols said, was beneath the dignity of the state Education Department. "I was disgusted, never seen anything like it. It was embarrassing." After the incident, Walters sent a letter to some legislators defending his departments handling of what normally are routine applications for millions of dollars of federal reimbursement funds. McBride, chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Education, wasnt included. By December, the atmosphere between McBride and Walters had become so toxic that some legislative leaders were openly speaking about the possibility of impeachment. Then in January, the tension between McBride and Walters quickly melted. Speaking after last week's meeting, McBride said he was pleased by the change. I think it went awesome. It went how I wanted it to go. It was calm. We got questions answered," he said. "We all showed each other respect." "Like I said earlier, I think we need to reset. Am I going to agree with Ryan, or is he going to agree with me, on some of the other issues that are out there? No, probably not. But as far as funding for public education, that needs to be our focus in this room and before my committee. So what caused the thaw? Walters quickly replied to McBride and Baker's legislative subpoena and later, spoke at a House budget hearing, praising McBride and acting as if the pair had a long history of working together. Oklahoma state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters is pictured Jan. 10 at a House education subcommittee budget hearing at the state Capitol. "Weve been able to work together. Weve had a lot of great discussions," Walters said after the budget hearing. "I appreciated his feedback in the hearing today." I appreciated his commentary. I think were going to have a great (legislative) session. I really look forward to working together to improve Oklahoma education. I think it was a great hearing today. They asked a lot of great questions and gave us a lot of great feedback. So what exactly happened? According to several people closely familiar with the situation, the effort to rein Walters in began last spring. During 2023 budget negotiations, House leaders began sending Walters a series of messages, some quiet and some direct. House leadership also barred Walters and Langston from the common education budget negotiations. House leaders let Walters know they had issues with his staff and how he was operating the Education Department, according to the people, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about it. Still, it took more than one message. After Walters failed to provide information requested by McBride during the summer, the House again quietly put the education leader on notice. Then, in October, following Langston's letter, Walters was contacted directly by McCall. That meeting, one of the people familiar with it said, wasn't pretty. "He got chewed out pretty good," the person said. "There was no room for doubt. Walters knew he and Langston had pissed a bunch of people off and that included the speaker and the majority floor leader." Matt Langston, 31, is a key adviser to state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters. McBride said Walters' meeting with McCall sparked a subsequent conversation between Walters, himself and Baker. "We had a very good conversation," McBride said. "He asked me what I wanted in the committee hearing, and I shared with him that I just wanted to hear the budget. My job isnt this other stuff. My job is to fund education. It changed the tone. It was kind of a reset. He and I are not going to change our opinions. Im still going to push back on things, but hopefully we can do this in a different manner and be adults and not childish name-calling.While McCall's signature on the Walters subpoena was unexpected, it was Echols' appearance on television that resonated with Walters and other lawmakers. Echols, who normally works quietly within the GOP caucus, is not known for his temper or his public statements. After Langston's letter, Echols was absolutely furious, and his rare public demonstration of anger got Walters' attention. Other facts came into play, too. While the complaints and public expressions of frustration raised the tension between Walters and the House, they weren't the only thing that forced Walters to change his attitude. A series of polls, taken late in the year, showed that Walters' numbers are weak. At least three different polls one conducted by the governor's office, one by the House and one by the Senate each showed Walters about 20 points down from his previous high. Before the polls, many state lawmakers believed Walters had control of a large, loud group of supporters and numbers that made him all but invincible. This imagined strength prevented most lawmakers from questioning Walters' decisions and pushing back against Walters' extreme rhetoric. "The numbers were really bad," one of the people familiar with them said. "They showed Walters really underwater and showed that people were tired of 'career politicians.' The polls showed Walters that voters think he is just a extremist trying to score political points. The polls showed him weak. When the caucus saw those numbers, they realized that Walters wasn't bulletproof after all." Oklahoma state schools Superintendent Ryan Walters leaves a Jan. 10 House education subcommittee budget hearing. After word of the polls got around, those polls and the House leadership's public anger at Walters, the person said, showed the rank and file that the state schools superintendent "was no longer the golden boy." "Nothing is secret around politics," McBride said. "He (Walters) would have surely heard about what his polling numbers (are). Ive heard of five polls that are out there. Theyre not public polls, but individuals Ive talked to, four, Ive seen two and talked with people that knew about the other two. They were not favorable." Still, problems with Walters continued, McBride said, and Walters left the House with no choice but to issue a subpoena. "Thats a rare move, but it was the only move that we had," McBride said. "I went to the speaker and said, Hey, I cant get information. Anything I get is sarcasm from a staffer and we need answers. I think that was the changing point, the subpoena. I know he reached out to the speaker. He he turned over the stuff in a very timely manner and the childish behavior stopped." "I dont think Ryan was involved in that. If he was, I would be disappointed. Since then, Walters' relationship with House leadership has improved, but with the legislative session set to begin in about three weeks, Walters, one of the people familiar with the situation told The Oklahoman, "will need all the help he can get." "Few people want to deal with him," the person said. "They will listen if he can be reasonable, but if he gets out on a limb again, he'll fall." For McBride and other House members, even with the thaw, there are still questions that Walters and only Walters needs to answer. We still have lots of questions. As a matter of fact, somewhere around here, weve got a stack of questions that were working on sending over there that I didnt want asked during the meeting," McBride said. "I tried to keep it to appropriations and budget. I didnt hear the word woke. The Democrats were behaved." I know there were a lot of people angry about the press release he did (the other day, about not working with three nonprofit education service groups). I had some members come to me and I said, Were not going down (that road). I just read that thing and were just not going there. Langston, who is Walters' de facto chief adviser, did not attend when Walters presented the proposed Education Department budget to House members. McBride said that was a good thing. If we want to have a good relationship going forward, he (Langston) probably doesnt need to come over to the building," McBride said. "That would help things a lot.The Oklahoman asked a spokesman for Walters for an opportunity to speak with the superintendent after another recent legislative meeting, seeking Walters' perspective on how his relationship with the Legislature has changed. The spokesman declined to make Walters available for an interview. In addition, neither McCall nor his spokesman could be reached for comment.And McBride? Right now, he's just waiting and trying to help write a budget. "Weve got a job to do. He has a job to do. We want to stay focused on good policy and the budget. I did not have a lot of problems with his budget. Are we going to implement his whole budget? Well, I dont know," the lawmaker said. "That will be a negotiation. But as far as a leash? I still have my views on education and a lot of what my problem with him has been the rule of law. There are some things that you can do and some things you cant. He pushes the envelope. I think that will be a place where him and I disagree, but hopefully, we can disagree in a different manner going forward. This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Ryan Walters' feud with committee chairman is thawing. Here's why. (FOX40.COM) A woman was arrested after she allegedly stole thousands of dollars worth of Stanley cups from a retail store in Roseville. On Jan. 17, Roseville Police Officers responded to a retail store on the 6000 block of Stanford Ranch Road for a theft incident. Staff reportedly saw a woman take a shopping cart full of Stanley water bottles without paying for them. They said the suspect refused to stop for the store employees and stuffed her car with the stolen merchandise. Roseville PD said the womans vehicle was spotted as it entered Highway 65 from Galleria Boulevard and she was subsequently pulled over. A search of her vehicle led to the discovery of 65 Stanley products valued at nearly $2500, according to the police. While Stanley Quenchers are all the rage, we strongly advise against turning to crime to fulfill your hydration habits, Roseville Police said. The Roseville Police Department remains committed to stopping retail theft. Upscale clothing store to close Roseville Galleria location in January The 23-year-old Sacramento woman was arrested under suspicion of grand theft. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. Burgerville opened in Salem on Dec. 6, 1977, and was located at 1717 Hawthorne Ave. NE. This photograph was published in the Statesman Journal in May 1978, when regular gasoline was 58 cents a gallon. This is part of an on-going series answering "Why is that?" questions about Salem and the Mid-Valley. The question: Why doesnt Salem have a Burgerville? We have the answer. But first, a little history. The background: Burgerville is a family-owned fast-food chain in Oregon and southwest Washington. The late George Propstra was the founder after taking over his father's creamery business in 1956. The butter and egg business had evolved into an ice cream company, then expanded to offering cheese sandwiches at a restaurant. The first Burgerville opened in 1961 in Vancouver, Washington. It featured hamburgers garnished with a secret sauce, fries and beverages, with walk-up service only. The secret sauce reportedly was whipped up the night before the first restaurant opened, after Propstra and a friend decided the hamburgers were a bit dry. As the story goes, they threw together a few ingredients, and the secret sauce was born. The regional burger chain steadily grew to more than three-dozen locations all within a 90-mile radius of its Vancouver headquarters while banking on serving fresh food made with local ingredients. Like some other chains, it developed a cult-like following, not necessarily because of its burgers. The Burgerville faithful still eulogize its shakes, rosemary fries and halibut fish and chips. The restaurant continues to capitalize on local flavors and produce, such as shakes made from Willamette Valley berries and onion rings made with Walla Walla sweet onions. Some of its menu items are available only in season, adding to its allure. People who move away from the Pacific Northwest often complain how much they miss Burgerville, and it is one of their first stops when they return for a visit. The company once used that for an advertising campaign, with Propstra reading letters from actual customers. As iconic as Burgerville is in Oregon and Washington, it was and still is unfamiliar to most of the country. A small venue at Portland International Airport since 2014 may have helped spread the word. The company has often turned its limited market into a positive, from its inconveniently located campaign to its billboards on the edge of Burgerville territory warning drivers they would be passing the last Burgerville for more than 24,000 miles. Innovative advertising has been a staple of the chain. One of its best-known ads in the earlier days showed Propstra whacking a frozen hamburger patty against a semi-truck, scoffing at national food chains for importing frozen meat from out of state. Burgerville is proud to have served locally raised Pacific Northwest beef since Day 1. One advertisement that even the most loyal of followers may never have seen was for its breakfast line, illustrating the need to eat breakfast by showing President Ronald Reagan dozing off. The company pulled it after the negative backlash. The Burgerville territory today covers 39 locations, spanning north to Centralia, Washington, south to Corvallis, east to The Dalles, and west to Monmouth. Why doesnt Salem have a Burgerville? Salem once had a Burgerville and did for 14 years. The restaurant was at 1717 Hawthorne Ave. NE, on the northwest corner of Hawthorne and Market Street NE before the widening of Interstate 5 at that interchange. That area looks a lot different today, so it is difficult to pinpoint its exact location. The company built a $100,000 building, according to city permits published in the Statesman Journal, in the vicinity of where the former Newport Bay restaurant was and where Bag o Crab is now. One of the first advertisements published Jan. 17, 1978 in the Capital Journal newspaper for Burgerville in Salem. The Salem Burgerville opened Dec. 6, 1977, immediately endearing itself to the community. The following spring, it sponsored a Parrish Little League team, which it did every year. The restaurant became a go-to spot for locals and a fun stop for visiting families on their way to or from the Oregon State Fair. Children loved the train inside, where they could sit and eat their burgers and fries. Location, though, would ultimately become its downfall. The Salem Burgerville was a casualty of the I-5 widening project from four lanes to six in the early 1990s. Officials armed with the states right-of-way mandate swept through the Market interchange area and swallowed about 40 commercial properties. Dennys and Trachsel Buick were among other businesses forced to close or relocate. Burgerville was in the middle of expansion plans in 1990, hoping to double in size within the next five years. It had 33 locations at the time. The company president told the Statesman Journal for a business profile published May 27, 1990, that officials wanted to build more Burgervilles in Salem, although there were no immediate plans. The article included how officials also wanted to remodel the Hawthorne restaurant into the new Burgerville prototype but had delayed the project while waiting to hear if the outlet would be closed by planned expansion of the Market Street interchange. In less than two years, it had its answer. The Salem Burgerville closed in late January 1992. Residents have been hankering for it ever since. A 2011 online survey about downtown prompted this response from a Statesman Journal reader: Why doesnt the city put the money and effort into getting a Burgerville into Salem instead of wasting it on their fantasies of airlines in Salem? The absence of Burgerville has long been a sore subject among many, with lengthy comment threads showing up every couple of years on Reddit and on the Facebook page, You Know Youre From Salem, Oregon When There is even a Bring Burgerville Back to Salem! petition on the website ipetitions.com. Comments show it dates to at least 2014. Only 84 people have signed it, with the most recent posted on Sept. 26, 2023. Rumors about Burgervilles decision not to rebuild or open in another location in the state capital have varied over the years. Several versions include chain management having a falling out with the city and vowing never to open in Salem again. The city would not have been involved in the eminent domain process. The Oregon Department of Transportation would have been, and its right-of-way acquisition files were not readily available for this report. Current company officials told the Statesman Journal there is no truth to Burgerville vowing to never return to Salem. Burgerville's Nomad, its mobile food truck, parked in 2015 in front of what would become a new restaurant in Corvallis. The Corvallis Burgerville opened in 2016 and was the last site added to the Pacific Northwest chain. Some speculation has festered since the newspapers 2015 coverage announcing Burgerville would be opening a location in Corvallis at a former Wendys location. A Burgerville official at that time provided this explanation about leaving Salem: "Market Street was widened and they condemned us and chased us out of there. What they actually did was stage construction equipment on the former Burgerville site. When it came back together they wouldn't sell that property back to us. That restaurant never did real well. It was just OK. So we weren't in a big hurry to replace it." Company officials today say the location was not struggling nor surpassing sales expectations. Salem-area residents have two Burgerville options within a short driving distance, Albany and Monmouth. The Albany location opened in around 1973 and Monmouth in around 1984. Oh, by the way Burgerville pursued a location at Keizer Station at least twice, once early in the development and again later. It is not clear why those potential plans never panned out. But there is good news for Burgerville fans. The company is again exploring local options. There has been chatter for more than a year about Burgerville being interested in the former Sonic Drive-In locations, one on Lancaster Drive SE and one on River Road N in Keizer. Burgerville officials would not confirm or deny, but they did say the company has missed being in Salem, is looking forward to returning, and is pursuing many locations in and around Salem. An expansion announcement is expected soon, as early as next week. Capi Lynn is a senior reporter for the Statesman Journal. Email your "Why is that" questions to her at clynn@statesmanjournal.com. This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Why doesn't Salem have a Burgerville? Dispelling the rumors This year the Idaho Sled Dog Challenge has attracted its first musher from Texas, a native of San Angelo. Sled dog racing is a winter dog sport that involves the timed competition of teams of sled dogs that pull a sled with the dog driver or musher standing on the runners. Idaho Sled Dog Challenge in 2018. The 2024 Idaho Sled Dog Challenge has attracted teams from six states, including its first-ever racer from Texas - Trace Drake from San Angelo. Drake is competing in the 100-mile race on Jan. 29-30 and the Warm Lake Stage Race on Jan. 24-25 in Cascade, Idaho. The musher field also includes a mother and daughter, a father and son, and two brothers. "Sled dog racing is a challenging sport often run in extreme weather conditions, but the absence of weather this winter has been an even greater challenge," race founder and organizer Jerry Wortley said. "Although we are experiencing record low snow levels, trail conditions in Valley and Adams counties for the 2024 Idaho Sled Dog Challenge currently appear adequate to run the race, potentially with some modifications to the routes." According to Drake's Biography on the Idaho Dog Sled Challenge website, his kennel is TSA Kennels and his lead dog's names are Ovando and Chinook. Trace Drake from San Angelo. Drake got started in mushing by working for Alaska Icefield Expeditions on the Denver glacier, the website stated. When asked about his mushing highlights, this is how he answered: "Easily the glacier this far, the views are amazing, the people were wonderful, and the dogs absolutely magnificent and beautiful," according to the website. He said his future goals are to be the first Texan to win the Iditarod, an annual long-distance sled dog race held in Alaska in early March. This article originally appeared on San Angelo Standard-Times: San Angelo man to be first Texan to compete in Idaho Sled Dog Challenge The main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) on Sunday demanded President Yoon Suk Yeol apologize after Presidential Security Service (PSS) agents forcefully carried an opposition lawmaker out of an event last week. Rep. Kang Sung-hee of the minor progressive Jinbo Party was frog-marched by PSS agents out of an event held in the southwestern city of Jeonju on Thursday, after the presidential office described him as shouting and pulling on the president's hand. Kang has argued he was only asking Yoon to "change the principle of state affairs." But a presidential official gave a different account, saying the lawmaker held onto the president's hand despite warnings from security agents to let go. On Sunday, the DPK denounced the frog-marching as excessive and demanded Yoon's apology. "The security agents gagged Kang and lifted his limbs when the president was far away from Kang after shaking hands with him," Rep. Park Ju-min, the DPK's chief deputy floor leader, said in a press conference as he showed reporters a video of the incident. "It seems the Presidential Security Service was trying to protect (Yoon's) mood rather than his safety. ... This is a matter that should go as far as a dismissal of the chief of the PSS or Yoon's apology," he said. The DPK plans to jointly propose a resolution condemning the presidential office with other minor opposition parties, including Kang's Jinbo Party, with the goal of adopting the resolution at a plenary parliamentary meeting scheduled for Thursday. It also plans to submit a request to open a parliamentary steering committee meeting and summon officials from the presidential office for questions regarding the incident. (Yonhap) A screening of The Witness, a Russian propaganda film that spreads lies about the Russian war against Ukraine, was cancelled in a town in Italys Lazio region. Source: European Pravda, citing Tusciaweb and other local Italian news outlets Details: Donbass Italia, a pro-Russian Italian-language Twitter (X) account, and journalist Andrea Lucidi, also a Russia supporter, announced that The Witness will be screened at the San Leonardo Theatre in Viterbo on 18 February. Later local news outlets published a column by Giacomo Barelli, a local lawyer and politician, who said the film was full of lies, expressed his solidarity with Ukraine, and urged the theatre administrators and everyone else involved in organising the screening to cancel it. The theatre administration later issued a statement which suggested that the screening would no longer take place. "The San Leonardo Theatre received a suggestion and decided it was appropriate to cancel the screenings, given that the majority of people would consider this film controversial," the statement reads. Comments under Lucidis tweet announcing the screening indicate that efforts are being undertaken to screen the film in other Italian cities, including Milan. Previously: City officials in Modena, Italy, have revoked the permission that had earlier been granted for a Russian exhibition on the "fast recovery" of the occupied city of Mariupol. Support UP or become our patron! Shaler Township police are again renewing a call for help from the public as they search for a woman whos been missing for four years. Janet Walsh was 70 years old when she was last seen on Jan. 19, 2020, on Mount Royal Boulevard in Shaler. She has not been seen or heard from since. Police say Walsh left behind all her possessions, including her cellphone, at her residence. Her vehicle, a silver 2018 Chevrolet Trax, Pennsylvania Plate #KTW6007, has never been located. Walshs vehicle was possibly seen Conneaut Lake area shortly after her disappearance, though this is not confirmed, according to police. Anyone with information is asked to call the Allegheny County Police Tip Line at 1-833-ALL-TIPS. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW TRENDING NOW: 5 firefighters hurt while battling 5-alarm fire in Homestead Woman suing Kennywood Park, says cheese from Potato Patch fries gave her second-degree burn 4 people charged in connection with fraud ring targeted customers of Sewickley bank, police say VIDEO:5 firefighters hurt while battling 5-alarm fire in Homestead DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts Archway Homes helps sellers who want or need to sell a home without going through the often drawn out and sometimes painful traditional selling process. Real estate investors Jon and Stacy Bichelmeyer, owners of Archway Homes, buy homes in any condition. They have been buying and selling properties in the greater Kansas City area for over 20 years. They strive to make the difficult process of selling a home as stress-free as possible. They wrote the book on it. Literally! Home to Home Local Edition Kansas City Metro outlines the steps homeowners can take to sell their home. You can call their office to get a free copy for yourself. Billie T. recently worked with Jon to sell her house in Sugar Creek and raved about the experience. She had originally contacted another investor who buys homes for cash, but they kept her home tied up for over thirty days with repeated excuses why they could not close on it, so she contacted Archway. I would highly recommend Archway Homes, Billie said. Jon and his wife did what they said they would. Within seven to ten days of our first meeting, we were closed, and I was free to move on. The house needed some work, but I was able to just walk away, and I felt good about the terms and the experience. Anyone wanting to sell quickly should contact Jon, she added. Archway Homes features a no-obligation offer process. The first step is to call the office at 913-599-5000 to schedule an appointment. Jon will then walk through the home and can provide an offer price within 24 hours. Archway Homes can pay cash and close in as fast as three days. However, some sellers need the opposite approach, needing a delayed closing several months away. They may be downsizing and need time to find their next home, or they are building a home and need time for it to be completed. In that case, Archway Homes sets a closing date that will meet the sellers needs. We had one client who was waiting for a home to be built and construction was delayed, Jon said. They wanted to close on the home they were selling before the end of the year, but the new home wouldnt be finished until late January. We closed on the home on the date they needed but didnt take possession until the new one was completed, so they had the money they needed and didnt have to move twice. Archway Homes has purchased houses in all sorts of situations. Sometimes they are filled with clutter and are inherited property that would be difficult for the heirs to clean out. If this is the situation, Jons reply is always, I want the family to take what is of value to them and they can leave the rest. I want this to be easy and hassle-free for sellers. Recently, many of the houses purchased by Archway Homes are owned by baby boomers or empty nesters who are downsizing. By selling to Archway Homes, these sellers dont have to go through the hassle of preparing their homes for market, having them ready to show to potential buyers at a moments notice and waiting for an offer. They know quickly what they can get for their home and move on to the next stage of their life. We love helping these sellers, Stacy said. Usually, the owners have lived there for years and have kept the house in good shape, but it needs updating. We understand the unique challenges of baby boomers. Their time is precious: caring for elderly parents and young grandchildren, their personal health concerns, and wanting the retirement they deserve. The ease of selling to us can make a difficult time of transition worry-free. Sometimes the properties need extensive repairs, including poor foundations or roofs. Again, Archway Homes will buy the home and make the needed repairs, relieving the sellers of the hassle and expense. We are committed to working with sellers, even in difficult situations, to find a win-win for all, Stacy said. Jon is a third-generation real estate investor, following the career of his father and grandfather. I have been buying houses long before HGTV inspired the new investors in town. Sellers know that Ive been investing in our community for my entire adult life, and I continue to do so, Jon said. The other companies arent personally invested here like I am. I stand by my word. No one deal is more important than my name and reputation. Anyone who wants to sell a home quickly for cash should call Jon Bichelmeyer at 913-599-5000 or visit Archway Homes website at archwaypropertieskc.com to fill out an online form or to get a free copy of our book Home to Home Local Edition Kansas City Metro, Kansas and Missouri, call our office. Archway Homes Location: 15301 W. 87th St. Parkway, Suite B35 in the UMB Bank building Contact: Jon Bichelmeyer at 913-599-5000 or jon@archwayhomesinc.com Website: archwaypropertieskc.com Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) said he was optimistic that a border deal would be reached in the coming days, but he placed preemptive blame on House Republicans if the deal ultimately cannot get over the finish line. President Biden has been asking for congressional engagement and leadership. I am optimistic we are very close to finalizing in the coming days a package that will make that possible, Coons said in an interview on CNNs State of the Union. And if House Republicans refuse to take it up, to consider it and pass it, then they will own responsibility for another year in which millions of people suffer the journey of coming to our southern border, only to be either turned away or ultimately deported, Coons added. Coonss comments come as congressional leaders seek to reach an agreement each chamber can agree on. Last week, Biden invited Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and other congressional party leaders to the White House to meet with national security experts to underscore what he views as the urgency with which Congress must provide aid to Ukraine. A proposal by the White House late last year lumped border security in with funding for Ukraine, Israel and the Indo-Pacific region, but a bipartisan agreement has yet to be reached on the request by Congress. With a very narrow majority in the House, Johnson has faced pressure not to yield on hard-right conservative border policies, which would unlikely pass the Senate. Coons, in the interview, made clear Biden thinks addressing the border is important for our nation and emphasized the work the president has been pushing to get legislation to his desk. Its important for our nation, and its important politically, that we secure our border. Ill remind you, President Biden in his first State of the Union to Congress asked for congressional leadership in legislatively addressing our badly broken immigration system. President Biden in his supplemental funding request, now many months ago, asked for $14 billion to hire thousands more Border Patrol agents, Customs and Border agents, to deport more people who are here that have failed to prove that they have a right to asylum here. President Biden has been asking for congressional engagement and leadership, he added. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) blasted the Democratic National Committee (DNC) on Sunday for allowing South Carolina to be the first primary instead of New Hampshire. Well, what were seeing on the ground in New Hampshire right now is the passion and commitment to democracy that is one of the hallmarks of our state, Hassan said on NBCs Meet the Press. So even though the DNC made a terrible decision, we see strong energy for a write-in Joe Biden campaign, because Joe Biden has done what independent voters in New Hampshire have asked, which is worked across the aisle to deliver important bipartisan results to the people of our country, she added. The DNC reshuffled its 2024 primary calendar to make South Carolina the first-in-the-nation primary, which will be followed by New Hampshire and Nevada. President Biden will not appear on the New Hampshire ballot under the DNCs guidance, but a coalition of voters have launched a write-in campaign for the sitting president to ensure he still wins the state. The New Hampshire Democratic primary will not ultimately affect the numbers needed for the Democratic nomination because it violates the DNCs rules. Democratic challengers Rep. Dean Phillips (D-Minn.) and author Marianne Williamson will appear on the ballot, but they are still polling significantly behind Biden. Hassan emphasized that there is huge energy for a write-in campaign for Biden despite the DNCs decision. So, at the end of the day, thats what the choice is and thats what New Hampshire Democrats know, and thats why were seeing really good energy on the ground for a write-in campaign, Hassan said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. This article was originally published in New Hampshire Bulletin. In high school, Alice Wade spent a year planning how they would come out as transgender. And to be safe, they planned what to do if it went poorly. When I was 15, I made plans for what I would do, and which friends house I would go to, and how I would work to make enough money to live on my own if I had to become homeless, Wade told New Hampshire lawmakers earlier this month. Wade wanted to do it on their own terms. The process was gradual: first, Wade told their close friends, then a teacher, then their mom. Finally, they felt they could tell their dad. That was crucial, Wade said. Get stories like these delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter While it wasnt perfect, if my parents had found out before I was ready to tell them, I dont know if Id be alive here to give you my testimony, Wade testified. The experience of coming out in high school and the choice of when to inform parents is once again at the center of a legislative fight. State Senate Republicans are pushing for a bill this year that would require schools to disclose information to parents who ask for it, echoing efforts in the past two years that have fallen short. LGBTQ rights groups have said the bill could out a students sexual orientation or gender identity to their parents before they are ready to tell them. Senate Bill 341 would require any school staff member to answer any written requests sent by parents for information about their children within 10 days of receiving the request. School employees who feel that responding to such a request would put that student at risk of endangerment of physical harm, abuse, or neglect must file a report to the Division for Children, Youth, and Families within 48 hours, the bill states. The bill adds that any violation of the requirement to provide the information must be referred to the school board to determine disciplinary action, which can include termination. Under the bill, if a parent isnt satisfied with the school boards chosen disciplinary action, they can appeal the decision to the state board of education, which could make its own final call to terminate the staff person. Sen. Tim Lang, the Sanbornton Republican sponsoring the bill, likened it to the states right-to-know law, RSA 91-A. That law requires public officials to produce documents and information when requested by a member of the public, with exceptions for confidentiality. This bill extends that to the school setting, Lang said during a press conference held by Senate Republicans this month. The school is obligated to respond in an honest and complete answer, and not hide any information from the parent, he said. During a Jan. 3 hearing, some members of the public agreed. Bridgewaters Aubrey Freedman, who is gay, doesnt support pronoun changes in school. Its all about honesty, said Freedman. Nobodys outing anybody, (but) if the parents want to ask the school personnel a question, they should be honest. I dont think thats a big deal. But advocates and young trans people countered that they believed the bill would result in children being outed, and would complicate the trust that teachers are trying to build with students. Megan Tuttle, president of the National Education Association of New Hampshire, a teachers union, argued that parents and educators already work well together, and that the bill would fracture that relationship. Tuttle said the bills disclosure requirements would override the chain of command within schools, and could interfere with collective bargaining agreements. And she cited a recent report by a legislative committee studying the teacher shortage that found that a climate of culture and fear has helped drive educators from the profession. We believe Senate Bill 341 would only be an extension of the sort of legislation that the committee found was driving current and prospective educators away from the profession, she said. Barrett Christina, executive director of the New Hampshire School Boards Association, took issue with the appeals process to the state Board of Education, whose members are appointed by the governor and Executive Council, calling them unelected bureaucrats. Sara Smith, a retired teacher, also opposed the bill. I fundamentally believe in honesty, and if anybody asked me to lie I wouldnt, she said. But Smith said as a teacher, her fundamental purpose was to teach children to think for themselves. Part of that effort involved building a scaffolding and a foundation of trust among students that the teacher would be there for them. Teachers often have an open door for students to discuss personal issues, Smith said, which can help in the discovery of abuse and neglect issues. But once this law is enacted, students can no longer expect their teachers to keep confidential issues they have shared with them, Smith said. The bill comes on the heels of two major attempts in 2022 and 2023 to pass similar legislation. Each time, the effort was thwarted in the House, which was narrowly dominated by Republicans in the 2021-2022 session and is now nearly evenly divided between Republicans and Democrats. Opponents to the bills have raised concerns that requiring a school to divulge information to parents about a students sexual orientation or gender expression at school could lead to dangerous situations of abuse or neglect if the parents disapprove. Lang said the bill was intended to give an option for school officials to not inform parents and instead file a DCYF report if abuse is likely. But Chris Erchull, staff attorney at GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD), said the bill as currently written does not allow school staff the option to stop informing parents, even if they file the DCYF report. In an interview last week, Lang said he listened to some of the concerns and will be making tweaks to the bill in an upcoming amendment. Lang plans to add language to make clear that if teachers suspect abuse or harm could result, they do not need to disclose the information to parents, as long as they file a report with DCYF. And Lang said he would narrow the bill to apply to certified school staff, such as teachers and administrators, and not other staff members like bus drivers or custodians. I heard what people said, he said. Im adjusting accordingly the things I think are reasonable requests. Linds Jakows, an advocate who experienced their own retaliation from their father after being involuntarily outed in high school, said the bill would disrupt a delicate process. Many LGBTQ young people feel a strong need to come out to peers first, regardless of whether or not their parents are affirming, Jakows said. This bill doesnt explicitly name situations related to trans or LGBTQ youth like last years bill, but we know the forced outing will be the same. The bill is likely to spur months of acrimonious testimony and contentious floor votes. To Lang, the bill is simply about strengthening communication. I think weve lost sight of the fact that when we talk about trusting adults in the school system, the trust is between the parent and the teacher and the parent and the school system, Lang said And so this bill seeks to make sure that that trust is not eroded. New Hampshire Bulletin is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. New Hampshire Bulletin maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Dana Wormald for questions: info@newhampshirebulletin.com. Follow New Hampshire Bulletin on Facebook and Twitter. Editors note: This essay is part of Deseret Magazines January/February double issue addressing political polarization. Democrats and Republicans have long disagreed on policy issues thats the normal, useful contestation that drives democracy. Today, each side fears the other will destroy the nation if they achieve power. When obliterating the other side becomes the ultimate goal, democracies fall apart. How can we heal our countrys toxic polarization? Here are seven research-backed ideas for pundits, politicians, reporters and regular citizens to bring down the temperature. Call out your own party Humans are social creatures we want to belong. We look to those with status to tell us what it takes to be part of the in-crowd. That means politicians, pundits and ideological leaders should stand vocally against polarizing and hateful language and actions. Public stands by people seen as associated with a political side can change partisans perceptions, by making such behavior appear unacceptable to that group. Professors at NYU, Harvard and UCLA have found that it is most influential to criticize ones own tribe. That is because critiquing ones own group signals what is acceptable to group members in a way that taking potshots at the other side doesnt. Avoid bad jokes You might never dream of condoning partisan murder but you might still share a funny meme to that effect. Watch it: jokes have a particularly strong effect on normalizing prejudice far more than an overtly prejudiced argument. Particularly dangerous are jokes that employ violent rhetoric or dehumanize with language like groomers or animal comparisons. A slew of research shows that dehumanizing language removes inhibitions to perpetrating violence, especially when the language cultivates preexisting grievances and the speaker is respected by his or her group. Related Make social media kinder You may not be able to alter someones deeper beliefs, but there are three ways regular people can reduce the spread of hateful memes and curb prejudiced or polarizing speech on social media. First, remind users that online speech has real-world, offline consequences (both to the writer, since employers can see posts, as well as to the person or group targeted). Second, making a personal or empathetic connection with the speaker can lead to posts being deleted. Finally, humorous words or images that make fun of the original idea can also defuse the spread of hateful speech. Downplay the fringes, and highlight the median Americans are more polarized emotionally than ideologically we actually disagree on policy far less than people think. Stunningly, a majority of Americans agree on the broad strokes of abortion, immigration and gun legislation. Because partisans tend to have distorted views of who composes the other party and how many people believe stereotypical views attributed to that party, providing real information that overturns these beliefs can reduce polarization. Emphasize disagreement within parties Reminding people that partisans have a range of opinions can dial back polarization. Immigration policy can be framed as left versus right, or as a complex issue that pits some right-wing business owners against others, some left-wing unions against more progressive activists, and so on. The Difficult Conversations Lab at Columbia University found that when people read nuanced articles on policy issues that underscored this kind of intraparty disagreement, their conversations with people from the other party were of higher quality. Avoid repeating misinformation, even to debunk it Repetition leads our brains to think things are true, regardless of the accuracy of the information being repeated. This tendency is even stronger when people want to believe a piece of false information, because our brains seek out information we want to hear. So, if people read that the 2020 election was not fraudulent, many will remember there were questions about the 2020 election. The best way to avoid deepening misinformation is to simply state alternative information: American elections are well run. Support reforms that help political moderates Many countries are as emotionally and ideologically polarized as the United States but are in much better shape. America is in particular peril because polarizing the public has become a winning political strategy. With more than 80 percent of Congressional seats and 39 states controlled by one party, politicians have no incentive to speak to the center. Instead, the real elections are the primaries, which are dominated by small numbers of more polarized voters. That means politicians win votes and donations by intensifying the emotion of their base, not reaching out to the center. No wonder they benefit from telling voters that the other side is not just wrong, but is malevolent and immoral. Competition can change these incentives. Reforms like ranked choice voting in primary elections and Alaskas final four system allow all voters to get a say. These systems can moderate polarization and create more positive elections. Can America fix itself? Its time to give these ideas a try. Rachel Kleinfeld is a senior fellow and Aaron Sobel is a former James C. Gaither junior fellow in the Democracy, Conflict, and Governance Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. This story appears in the January/February 2024 issue of Deseret Magazine. Learn more about how to subscribe. Former ruling party leader Lee Jun-seok launches new political group By Lee Hyo-jin Despite efforts by People Power Party (PPP) interim leader Han Dong-hoon to attract voters, the ruling party continues to lack widespread approval, with ratings remaining at similar levels to those before the ex-justice minister became its leader. Han, a political novice who assumed office in late December after resigning from the justice minister post, has undertaken a rigorous campaign to fortify the conservative party's position in the upcoming April 10 general elections. During his first month in the role, Han traveled to various regions to expand the party's support base. His itinerary included trips to Daejeon, Daegu, Gwangju, Busan and Incheon. He also visited Cheongju in North Chungcheong Province, Wonju in Gangwon Province, Changwon in South Gyeongsang Province and Suwon in Gyeonggi Province. In each city, Han made efforts to connect with the local community, revealing his personal ties to each respective region, taking selfies with supporters and visiting local restaurants. The former minister, however, seems to be falling short of expectations that he would be a successful flag-bearer, capable of salvaging the party's election aspirations. In a Gallup Korea poll conducted from Tuesday to Thursday, surveying 1,200 adults aged 18 and over, the PPP secured 36 percent of support. The figure remained unchanged from the previous week, as well as the second week of last December, before Han took office. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.1 percentage points at a 95 percent confidence level. "Han Dong-hoon is a popular figure who grabs headlines with his public appearances and fashion choices. Yet, the problem is that public interest seems to be focused solely on Han rather than on his party's actions," said Park Chang-hwan, a political commentator and professor at Jangan University. Park commented that the former justice minister is good at capturing the media's attention, but he seems more like a "political influencer" than a party leader who should be able to effectively appeal to voters who are frustrated by the former PPP leadership or the liberal bloc. Another weakness of Han seems to be his "excessively close ties" with President Yoon Suk Yeol. Widely considered as the presidents right-hand man, Han was appointed as the Yoon administration's inaugural justice minister. "Han seems to be following the traditional playbook when it comes to the ruling party's relationship with the president. People want the governing party to offer candid advice to the president, rather than defending him at all costs," said Park. The outspoken PPP leader's rhetoric has been heavily focused on attacking the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) and its scandal-ridden leader Rep. Lee Jae-myung. However, Han's sharp rhetoric becomes somewhat restrained when addressing controversies surrounding the president and his wife, Kim Keon Hee. While the PPP struggles with stagnant ratings, former PPP leader Lee Jun-seok has officially launched his new political party, called the Reform Party, emphasizing its detachment from Yoon and hinting at cooperation with other parties. Lee, who has long been butting heads with Yoon and the PPP's mainstream members, branded his party as an alternative option for those who are displeased with the nation's predominantly bipartisan politics. "If one were to ask what we can do better compared to President Yoon Suk Yeol and DPK leader Lee Jae-myung, it would be 'reform,'" the 38-year-old politician said during a speech at the launch ceremony at the National Assembly, Saturday. He also said his party was created to show that "governing the world cannot be achieved solely with the prosecutor's sword," in an apparent message directed at Yoon, a former prosecutor. Russia-occupied Donetsk came under fire om Jan. 21, leading to at least 13 reported casualties, according to occupation authorities. The incident occurred in the Kirovskyi district in the Tekstylnyk neighborhood, where a market is located, claimed Alexey Kulemzin, the self-proclaimed mayor of occupied Donetsk, who accused Ukrainian forces of the shelling. Read also: Russian missile hits Donbas hospital during surgery video At least 13 people were killed and 10 injured in the market area due to the shelling, claimed Denis Pushilin, the head of a terrorist organization, the so-called Donetsk People's Republic (DPR). Ukrainian Journalist Denys Kazanskyi published a video on Telegram of a Russian occupier discussing the aftermath of the shelling. "The occupier at the scene openly admits the presence of Russian military personnel there, again hiding behind civilians and exposing them to retaliatory fire," Kazanskyi said. Read also: DPR terrorist leader Denis Pushilin sentenced to 15 years in prison in absentia Photos and videos of the shelling site are circulating on the internet. Explosions rocked Donetsk on Dec. 31, 2023 with occupation authorities claiming that four people were killed in an attack. Residents of Donetsk reported shelling of several districts on Dec. 19, 2023. The occupiers claimed 15 injured. 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 SHEPHERDSTOWN, W.Va. Shepherd Universitys Criminal Justice Lecture Series will present From Student to Street Cop: Personal Perspective on Entering the Law Enforcement Profession with police officer Calvin Wentworth on Wednesday, Jan. 24, from 1:10 to 2 p.m. This virtual presentation, which is free and open to the public, will focus on the challenges students have while preparing for a law enforcement career. College students who seek a career in law enforcement still face many hurdles after graduation such as the hiring process, the police academy and varying field training programs. Police officer Calvin Wentworth will present From Student to Street Cop: Personal Perspective on Entering the Law Enforcement Profession, virtually Wednesday, Jan. 24, from 1:10 to 2 p.m. Wentworth will discuss his experiences transitioning from a college student to a police officer, along with the applicability of a bachelors degree in criminal justice to the everyday life of a street cop, where healthy habits and a commitment to learning are important. Wentworth, who has a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from Western New England University, has been a patrol officer for the New Britain Connecticut Police Department since May 2020. He has investigated incidents that include family violence, motor vehicle theft, human trafficking and more. Most recently, Wentworth was trained as a field training officer, offering him the opportunity to train and evaluate probationary police officers after they complete the police academy. To attend the event virtually, go to www.shepherd.edu/sociology/cj-lecture. This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Shepherd U. to host virtual lecture on transitioning to police work Nearly three dozen state agencies face uncertain futures, with consequences for the citizens they serve. But unlike previous years, where lawmakers typically extended an agency's lifeline for eight to 10 years, this year lawmakers want a tighter leash. The road ahead for the Department of Transportation could be four years. Or maybe six. The Department of Homeland Security should get a two-year extension, a Senate committee recommended. But its House counterpart couldn't pin down a number, although members concluded the agency should not be "sunsetted," or recommended for termination. As for the Arizona Resource Advisory Council, which advises the federal Bureau of Land Management on the use of the 2.1 million acres of BLM land in Arizona? It should die as of July, yet another legislative review panel said. These and other recommendations will be debated in the coming months as part of the Legislature's duty to periodically review agency performance. Without a continuation, no matter how short, an agency will cease to operate as of July. Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs gives her State of the State speech to start the 2024 legislative session in Phoenix on Jan. 8, 2024. It's not like it used to be The proposed shorter terms are an abrupt departure from past practice. Critics see partisanship in the shift as the Republican-controlled Legislature copes with the first Democratic governor in 14 years. But lawmakers say they're simply doing their job, shining a light on bureaucratic machinations that don't always serve the public and demanding improvement. Count Sen. Priya Sundareshan among the skeptics who see the sudden change in practice as a response to divided government. She, like lawmakers of both parties, supports scrutiny of state agencies. But she said this round of proposals is too stringent. We are essentially weaponizing the audit process as a way to go after state agencies," Sundareshan, D-Tucson said as she voted against a proposal to "revise and consolidate" the duties of the Arizona Commerce Authority, the state's economic development arm. Gov. Katie Hobbs appoints the agency directors, and they report to her. To Sundareshan, the audit process is this year's version of the Senate's director nomination committee, which heavily scrutinized Hobbs' appointees before the whole process dissolved into a legal dispute now in court. Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs gives her State of the State speech to start the 2024 legislative session in Phoenix on Jan. 8, 2024. Scrutiny is the Legislature's duty Lawmakers, primarily Republican members, defend the shorter timelines as a way to ensure agencies do their job. "We believe in responsible government, we believe in effective government," Sen. Jake Hoffman, R-Queen Creek said. The Senate Government Committee, which he chairs, recommended two-year terms for the nine boards, committees and agencies it reviewed as a way to set a starting point for future negotiations. For two other entities, the committee recommended revisions to their mission or consolidations. Hoffman said the two years will buy time for the Office of the Auditor General to do the detailed performance audits required by law. The founder of the Legislature's Freedom Caucus, Hoffman acknowledged the terms will likely be longer after the full Legislature debates, noting House panels were going for "very long continuations." Sen. Jake Hoffman speaks to school voucher supporters and members of the media during a news conference outside the Arizona state Senate building in Phoenix on Jan. 8, 2024. Extensions vary from none to 10 Not all agencies received shortened extensions. The Arizona and Prescott historical societies were recommended for eight-year continuations. The Cotton Research Council and the Arizona Power Authority, which manages water distributions from Hoover Dam, also got eight years. But many others landed in the two- to four-year range after public hearings. That includes Hobbs' Office of Tribal Relations, which received a four-year recommendation from a House panel and two years from the Senate. "I think four-year continuations for any state agency are a waste of resources," Hobbs said after the House vote, noting the process includes an audit and multiple legislative hearings. "That wasn't really how the system was set up to be. Legislators use these to carry out their political agendas, and it just interferes with government continuation." Critics question how an agency can operate well if it's under constant audit. Besides, the Office of the Auditor General is short-staffed, Sen. Juan Mendez, D-Tempe noted. A full performance audit takes 20 months, according to legislative guidelines. Multiply that by nearly three dozen agencies and the task would seem impossible, he suggested. Yuma County Sheriff Leon Wilmot drove to Phoenix to promote the state Department of Homeland Security, calling it indispensable for his office's work on border safety. He urged the Senate Government panel to continue the agency "for as long as possible." In a later interview, Wilmot said the two-year extension recommended by the committee seems fruitless given concerns about the auditor general's ability to handle dozens of audits in a two-year timeframe. The reality is its not going to happen in two years," Wilmot said of the formal, deep dive review done by the auditor general. Plus, he added, his office, as well as the Homeland Security Department, are audited annually by the federal government, due to federal grant oversight. District 1 Sen. Ken Bennett smiles during an open session on March 20, 2023, at the state Capitol in Phoenix. Sen. Ken Bennett's Education Committee gave 10-year extensions to the agencies it had to review: The state Board for Charter Schools and the Arizona Commission for Post-Secondary Education. Bennett, R-Prescott, said there was no directive to push for shorter terms, although after his committee's vote, Senate President Warren Petersen asked him to consider eight years instead of 10. Bennett said he was OK with eight years, but nothing less. Bennett attributed the shorter terms to "individual members who dont like stuff happening at agencies, or dont like agencies themselves. Other ways to control agencies A former Senate president, Bennett doubts the auditor general has sufficient staff to do its deep-dive audits every two or four years. The best way to keep tabs on an agency is through its annual budget, he said. If something starts to go awry, lawmakers can put conditions on how its money is spent, he said. If problems persist, lawmakers can dig into individual programs and assert more control. You dont threaten them with terminating," Bennett said. Rep. Matt Gress, R-Phoenix, made a similar observation as a House panel pushed for a four-year continuation for the state Department of Child Safety. Several lawmakers backed a suggestion from Rep. Rachel Jones, R-Tucson, to limit the child welfare agency to two years. Rep. Rachel Jones during a legislative session at the Arizona state Capitol in Phoenix on March 21, 2023. A full-blown audit is not the only tool lawmakers have, Gress said. A better solution is to put stricter controls on the budget and to bring in agency officials to testify before lawmakers. Sundareshan sees this year's debates as an echo of the arguments over the Arizona Schools for the Deaf and Blind. The agency had received a fairly clean report from the auditor general, and early recommendations were for an eight-year renewal. But Hoffman intervened, pushing for a shorter timeline in the name of ensuring better educational performance. That set off a series of contentious and high-profile hearings attended by former students and advocates for deaf and blind children. In the end, lawmakers approved a four-year extension. This year, Senate Democrats introduced a bill to give the school a 10-year extension, although it has yet to be assigned to a committee. Gil Orrantia and Tim Roemer, two former directors of the Department of Homeland Security, defended the agency they ran under two Republican governors. Now is not the time to dismantle and sunset this agency, Orrantia told a House panel. He cited cyber security concerns as one of the key reasons to keep the agency up and running. Reporter Stacey Barchenger contributed to this story. Reach the reporter at maryjo.pitzl@arizonarepublic.com or at 602-228-7566 and follow her on Threads as well as on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter @maryjpitzl. Support local journalism. Subscribe to azcentral.com today. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Lawmakers push for shorter terms for Arizonas government agencies Bass Reeves, a former slave who became a deputy U.S. Marshal, is the subject of a new television series on Paramount Plus. From the hills of eastern Oklahoma, the legendary U.S. deputy marshal Bass Reeves rode with a posse into the Indian Territory, what is now Oklahoma. Setting out from Fort Smith, Arkansas, Bass Reeves once the slave of a Confederate from Texas in the Civil War would become a U.S. deputy marshal who is said to have brought back 3,000 fugitives from federal law in the days before Oklahoma was a state. The legends surrounding Bass Reeves have inspired a western series, a spinoff of the Yellowstone series, that has been streaming on Paramount+. Dave Kennedy, curator at the U.S. Marshals Museum in Fort Smith, Arkansas. In Fort Smith, in the U.S. Marshals Museum that opened July 1, curator Dave Kennedy continues to research the life of Bass Reeves, whose many myths and legends have even connected him to the inspiration for the Lone Ranger character in western fiction lore. The $47 million museum is expected to draw 125,000 visitors a year to the Arkansas River Valley with an economic impact of $13 million to $22 million. The timing of the Bass Reeves series is good for the museum where Reeves, a Fort Smith hero, is prominently displayed. Will the real Bass Reeves stand up? Hollywood and paperback writers are not the only ones who have created Bass Reeves fiction. There is plenty of it found in the family tales and oral history handed down, Kennedy said. He had a call from a woman in Little Rock who said she was certain Bass Reeves had been involved in an incident there. He had not. Kennedy said deputy marshals often had assignments in the days before paper records were always saved and stored. But many receipts for pay have been located and letters and other history exist in archives in Arkansas. Fort Reno is seen in this drawing after it was built in western Canadian County in 1875. If the military arrested someone who was held at Fort Reno, a deputy marshal would arrive to escort them to court. Once prisoners could ride in custody on a train, law officers could take trains from a U.S. fort to a courthouse jail in Fort Smith. Bass Reeves went all over central Oklahoma at different times, Kennedy said. Typically it depends on the warrant they had and whether the person had been arrested by the military. There was a unit of Black soldiers at Fort Gibson who delivered prisoners to Van Buren." How far west Bass Reeves rode remains an open question. Debra Kauffman is a full-time volunteer at the Fort Reno Visitors Center and Museum in Canadian County, Oklahoma, about 40 miles west of downtown Oklahoma City on flat prairie. Fort Reno was in the jurisdiction of the United States District Court for the Western District of Arkansas when Reeves was a deputy marshal. Whether he was ever at Fort Reno is not known. Debra Kauffman, volunteer at the Fort Reno Visitors Center and Museum, helps preserve the history of territorial days from the buildings that still stand from the late 1800s. Reeves, who escaped from slavery during the Civil War, was the go-to deputy marshal for picking up fugitives in Indian Territory. He could have gone to Fort Sill, then north to Fort Reno, according to at least one western magazine article, and back to Fort Smith. Reeves is said to have killed more than 20 men. His pistol, a Colt single-action Army service revolver, is in the U.S. Marshals Museum in Fort Smith. Kauffman said there is little history at Fort Reno about the U.S. Marshals Service and their role in the frontier days of federal law and order. Another frontier lawman was Chris Madsen, a U.S. marshal during the years Reeves was active. Madsen served in the 6th Cavalry and is buried at the Richland Cemetery in Canadian County. The old guard house remains at Fort Reno, a building that served as a jail during the territorial days before Oklahoma statehood. The jail has not been restored and is not safe to go inside. Reeves lived near Van Buren and raised a family there. His real story is told in the new U.S. Marshals Museum, on the banks of the Arkansas River in Fort Smith, just blocks from the federal courthouse where Reeves was a deputy marshal under the famous hanging judge Judge Isaac Parker. Reeves would work from 1875 to 1907 before Oklahoma became a state and Reeves became a police officer in Muskogee. Reeves stood 6 feet and 2 inches tall. He had superior aim with a rifle or pistol. He covered hundreds and hundreds of miles in uninhabited, wild land. Stories about him grew wild, too. More are coming in since the streaming western fiction series, said Kennedy, the curator of the Fort Smith museum. The Colt single-action Army revolver used by legendary U.S. deputy marshal Bass Reeves is on display at the U.S. Marshals Museum in Fort Smith, Arkansas. There are a lot of claims made about Bass, Kennedy said, noting that since Lawmen: Bass Reeves, was released, there has been an uptick in interest in the U.S. Marshals Service. In the first six months since the Fort Smith museum opened, there were 35,000 visitors from all 50 states and more than a dozen countries, he said. Recently, Kennedy and local historians, including Caroline Speir from the Fort Smith Museum of History, hosted a talk about Hollywood and western history. Whether all the facts are straight in the TV series is not as important as spreading the word about the life of a real person, a lawman of color, he said. Dave Kennedy, curator at the U.S. Marshals Museum in Fort Smith, Arkansas, talks about the Bass Reeves exhibit at the museum that opened July 1, 2023 and has had a growing stream of interest in the legendary deputy marshal featured in Lawmen: Bass Reeves on Paramount Plus. Here we are more than 100 years after the passing of Bass Reeves and we are talking about a person of color who was shoved out of the history of the region. Robert Medley is a former editor of the Fort Smith Southwest Times Record and current editor of the Piedmont-Surrey Gazette in Canadian County, Oklahoma. This article originally appeared on Springfield News-Leader: Bass Reeves show brings attention to Fort Smith's U.S. Marshals Museum EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) The Socorro Independent School District was recently awarded the Texas Thespians Premier Communities for Theatre Education Award, leading the way in fine arts education in the El Paso region, the district announced in a news release Friday, Jan. 19. Socorro ISD was one of 14 school districts in Texas to earn honors for exemplary theater arts education, according to the news release. Socorro ISD says the award recognizes and honors school districts that provide theater programs with the resources to achieve above standard, as rooted in the Educational Theatre Associations Opportunity to Learn Standards, Texas Theatre Knowledge and Skills for Fine Arts (TEKS), and support of International Thespian Society Troupe involvement. We are honored to be recognized by Texas Thespians for our commitment to providing our students a high-quality fine arts education, said SISD Fine Arts Director Armando Martinez. This award validates Socorro ISDs dedication to offering students ample opportunities to showcase their talents in the performing arts across the region and beyond. To qualify for the award, Socorro ISD answered detailed questions about curriculum, scheduling standards, class sizes, facilities, theater safety, technical equipment, production elements, overall support for the theater program, and thespian troupe involvement. Responses were verified and reviewed by Texas theater education specialists, according to the news release. Socorro ISD says research on theater education continues to demonstrate numerous educational benefits including the following: Teamwork skills How to give and receive constructive criticism Problem-solving Trust Cooperation and collaboration Additionally, theater education helps students develop a strong sense of self, build empathy and understanding amongst peers, and broaden their knowledge of the world around them while preparing them for future careers, according to the news release. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News. Saturday Night Live kicked off its 2024 season with a parody of former President Trumps ongoing legal battles and standing in this years race for the White House. The cold open sketch began outside of a fake New York City courtroom with Trump attorney Alina Habba, played by Chloe Fineman, where she called the judge in the former presidents defamation trial very unfair, and ridiculed Habbas experience. And I want to make this perfectly clear, I am new at this and I am learning, Fineman said. Now, the president may or may not stop for brief remarks, but due to a strict gag order, he will not be commenting on anything pertaining to this case, Miss Carroll or the judge. Trump last week appeared for a defamation trial in New York City where a jury convened to determine how much the former president has to pay for defaming longtime advice columnist E. Jean Carroll. It comes after a jury last year concluded Trump sexually abused Carroll in the mid-1990s at a New York City department store and later defamed her. Trump has denied the claims and repeatedly criticized Carroll, whom he claims has wrongly accused him. Moments later, Trump played by James Austin Johnson entered before mocking his own legal team. Youre great on TV, Johnson said to Fineman. Maybe the worst lawyer Ive ever had, which is quite an accomplishment. Look at this team this is the bottom of the barrel, folks, this is who said yes. Im in the lead for president, and this is the best I can get. Feels like a red flag, no? Johnson addressed the group of lawyers standing behind him, saying Youre not getting paid, by the way. The lawyers then left the scene and Johnson said he will be abiding by this horrible gag order, and proceeded to discuss the case, a violation of a gag order. So I will not be saying that the judge is an idiot or where he lives or what kind of crappy car he drives, Johnson said. The judge in Trumps separate civil fraud trial in New York imposed a gag order in October, barring the former president and his counsel from making public comments about the trial judges staff after Trump made false claims about the judges principal law clerk. Trump was later issued a fine of $10,000 for violating the order. Johnson eventually turned the focus to the 2024 election, where Trump remains the GOP frontrunner in a field that has reduced to himself, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and former United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley. Referencing Trumps win in the Iowa caucuses last week, Johnson said, We just got back from Iowa, where we won. Very big, very big in Iowa. I want to congratulate Mr. DeSantis on a truly embarrassing showing, Johnson continued. He went to 99 counties, but b**** couldnt win one. Ron DeStupid, Ron DeStupid. It just works. Johnson went on to congratulate biotech Vivek Ramaswamy, who dropped out last Monday after receiving low support in the Iowa caucuses and endorsed Trump. [Ramaswamy] dropped out of the race and has agreed to live in my suit pocket. I love my little Ratatouille,' he said. Johnson nodded to the upcoming primary in New Hampshire this week where he will face off against DeSantis and Haley, whom he said thought I was done, but Im back in a big way. Trump continues to lead in New Hampshire, according to a polling index by The Hill and Decision Desk HQ, though Haley has narrowed that lead and surpassed DeSantis for second place in recent weeks. Johnson compared himself to President Biden, his likely rival for the White House this year, claiming the president sniffs little girls hair. I am different, of course, I do far worse than that. You ever see that video of me dancing with Epstein? Boy, is that some dark energy, Johnson said, adding later, I wouldnt be surprised if that footage is fake. Of course, its very real, but you have to think, in many ways, it could not be. This was seemingly a reference to the video released in 2019 showing Trump and the late financier Jeffrey Epstein interacting at a party in 1992. The former president was shown dancing with women and talking and laughing and raised questions over the extent of Trumps relationship with Epstein, who was charged with sex trafficking and was later found dead in his jail cell ahead of his trial in 2019. His death was ruled a suicide. Johnsons Trump referenced the former presidents absence from the GOP debate stage and the apparent loyalty from some of his voters. But I love this country and its traditions. Thats why Im not doing any debates and barely doing elections. I dont need to, my people love me. I got the old people, theyre waiting in snow for two hours to vote for Trump. Ending the nearly five-minute dialogue, Johnson offered a look at the future for Trump, saying, But 2024 is going to be a very exciting year. Im either going to jail, be president or frankly, The Purge,' in reference to the film where all crime is legal for 12 hours one day a year. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. For more than two years, Channel 2 Action News has covered issues with stolen deeds impacting homeowners across the metro Atlanta area. Our coverage started in 2022, when Channel 2 investigative reporter Ashli Lincoln spoke with an Atlanta woman whose homes deed was stolen and then her house was torn down. In November, Lincoln reported that Linda Willis home was targeted due to its prime real estate location in the Old Fourth Ward near the end of 2021. Now, a South Fulton state lawmaker is introducing legislation that could make it harder for someone to steal a home in court. To do so, Rep. Mandisha Thomas bill would require people to use photo identification when buying or selling real estate, including when recording or modifying deeds for a home or other property. [DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] The proposed change comes after Channel 2 Action News reported on how Willis home was taken in Fulton County court. While not referenced in the legislation, the challenges Linda Willis faces were tied to a lack of photo ID proving someone was related to her when allegedly stealing her home right out from under her, then having it bulldozed. Linda Willis home used to be in the heart of the Old Fourth Ward on Ralph McGill Boulevard. She previously told Channel 2 Action News that a woman named Cencera Willis had hired a crew to demolish the home in November 2021. TRENDING STORIES: However, as previously reported, the problem, according to Linda Willis, is that she never put her home up for sale and had no idea who Cencera Willis was. Lincoln obtained documents from the Fulton County Probate Court showed Cencera Willis filed to be the administrator over Linda Willis property in 2021, appointing her deceased mother who just so happened to have the same first and last name as Linda Willis. Records from Fulton County Superior Court show in April 2021, Cencera conveyed the property by acquiring an administrators deed. Probate court documents showed Cencera Willis signature on the administrators deed paperwork. Thats when the Cencera had a crew come to destroy the house and clear the lot, even though Linda Willis still lived there. Cencera didnt have to prove being a relative of Linda Willis with her photo ID. Instead, the court took her at her word that she was the right person. Linda Willis lost her home as a result. During previous coverage, Channel 2 Action News and Lincoln tried to get a comment from Cencera Willis but she didnt respond. Now, Thomas legislation, House Bill 888, could close the gap in the process and require photo ID to prove relation when trying to change who controls a deed, or other documents related to real property and real estate. Under her proposal, HB 888 would allow the clerk of court to require someone presenting a deed or other document to produce a government-issued photo ID to continue the process. Records provided for this step would be available to the clerks office but would not be available for public inspection or copying, due to current Georgia public records laws, the legislation says. Additionally, should HB 888 pass, it would allow the Georgia Superior Court Clerks Cooperative Authority to adopt rules to implement the new requirements, meaning they could potentially set rules and other regulations for deed transactions and other real estate processes. Currently, the legislation is still going through committee reads in the Georgia House of Representatives. [SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter] IN OTHER NEWS: By Lee Hyo-jin Opposition parties are demanding an official apology from President Yoon Suk Yeol after a member of the minor opposition Jinbo Party was forcibly ejected from an event by the Presidential Security Service (PSS), which the liberal bloc characterized as "suppression against lawmakers." During a party meeting on Sunday, members of the main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) scrutinized the actions of presidential bodyguards who forcefully removed Rep. Kang Sung-hee of the progressive Jinbo Party from an event in Jeonju, North Jeolla Province, on Thursday. "It appears that the PSS was trying to protect the president's mood, not physically guard him," said Rep. Park Ju-min, the DPK's deputy floor leader. Following the incident, Rep. Kang claimed that he was forcibly dragged out just for asking Yoon to "change the direction of state affairs" without posing any physical danger to the president. However, Yoon's office gave a different explanation, stating that the lawmaker did not let go of the president after shaking hands and pulled the president toward him, prompting the president's security to escort him out of the hall. During Sunday's meeting, DPK lawmakers played a 30-second video of the incident which the presidential office distributed to the press. "The president had already moved past Rep. Kang after shaking hands, and that's when the PSS agents began covering Rep. Kang's mouth and grabbing his arms and legs," Park said. According to DPK lawmaker Rep. Yun Jun-byeong, who was also present at the event on Thursday, Rep. Kang told the president to adjust the direction of state affairs in a quiet tone as they shook hands. However, the lawmaker raised his voice as Yoon moved away. Describing the commotion as "violence and suppression against lawmakers," the DPK members demanded the head of the PSS step down and urged Yoon to issue an official apology. Along with three minor opposition parties Jinbo Party, Justice Party and the Basic Income Party the DPK plans to release a resolution denouncing the presidential office later this week. The DPK is reportedly reviewing the possibility of opening a National Assembly Steering Committee meeting to demand a further explanation from the presidential office. Sir Keir Starmer on Monday defends the National Trust against accusations of woke behaviour as he claims the Tories have gone to war with the charity. The Labour leader accuses the Government of getting so tangled up in culture wars of their own making that they have ended up turning on the same organisations they once regarded with respect in a desperate attempt to cling to power. In a major speech on his vision for the voluntary sector, Sir Keir tells an audience of faith, charity and community leaders that the Conservatives have undermined the proud spirit of service in this country by trying to find woke agendas in Britains valued institutions. In particular, he accuses the Tories of demeaning the valuable work of the National Trust by taking a divisive approach led by the politics of self-preservation. He also claims the partys rhetoric on the small boats crisis has helped demonise the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), which had the late Queen as a patron for 70 years. In recent years, the National Trust has faced growing anger over a series of decisions that have prompted claims it is following a woke agenda. Bosses have been accused of dumbing down by removing important items from display and turning historic homes into theme parks designed for children. There was also a significant backlash after it emerged Christian holidays had been excluded from the trusts inclusivity and wellbeing calendar. Last year, Lee Anderson, then a deputy Tory chairman, lashed out at the charity for publishing its own manifesto calling for concerted action on climate commitments, insisting: Brits expect the National Trust to protect our heritage, not lecture them on net zero. In 2022, Conservative MP Andrew Murrison set up an All-Party Parliamentary Group to scrutinise the trust, citing recent controversies around its strategic direction. Links to slavery and colonialism And in 2020, the Daily Express reported that a powerful group of Tory MPs were demanding the charitys status be reconsidered after it published its properties links to slavery and colonialism. The Conservative Partys official historian, Lord Lexden, also said the institution engaged in an act of folly by issuing the tendentious report, which singled out 93 sites connected to historical figures involved in the British empire. Addressing the Civil Society Summit in central London Sir Keir says: The Tories seem set on sabotaging civil society to save their own skins. They got themselves so tangled up in culture wars of their own making, that instead of working with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution an organisation the late Queen was patron of for 70 years to find real solutions to stop the small boats, their rhetoric has helped demonise them. Instead of working with the National Trust so more people can learn about and celebrate our culture and our history, theyve managed to demean their work. In its desperation to cling on to power, at all costs. The Tory Party is trying to find woke agendas in the very civic institutions they once regarded with respect. Let me tell you, waging a war on the proud spirit of service in this country isnt leadership. Its desperate. Its divisive. Its damaging. It comes to something when the Tories are at war with the National Trust. Thats what happens when politics of self-preservation prevail over commitment to service. Sir Keir also uses his speech to say a Labour government would create a society of service, bringing a new focus on those who build the bonds that connect us, the communities that nurture us, the institutions that support families and provide a bridge between the state and the market. He adds: In a society of service, doing the right thing will be rewarded. Working hard will pay off for people. And building caring, compassionate communities will make our country stronger, more prosperous, fairer for everyone. The Tories reacted by accusing Labour of sniping from the sidelines without putting forward any serious plan. Later this week, Sir Keir will tour the country to talk to people about his plan to make Britains streets safe. 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. Billionaire money talks loudest Are there voters who believe their single votes carry the weight of the person who just donated $6 million to Gov. Greg Abbott? The largest donation in Texas history by Jeff Yass, a Pennsylvania Republican multibillionaire supporter of school vouchers, may buy the state a voucher system. Most Texans want a first-class, adequately funded public school system serving every student. In a democracy, a citizen gets one vote, while a megadonor can get legislation. It is another example of inequality and exclusion. - Loveta Eastes, Fort Worth Administration let us down Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was recently admitted to the hospital for surgery without informing President Joe Biden or his own deputy of his absence. (Jan. 10, 3A, Defense Secretary Austin has prostate cancer, doctors say) Meanwhile, the U.S. took major military action against targets in Yemen. Who was in charge? If a major department head of a huge private company took leave without informing the chief executive, he or she would face serious consequences. But not in the Biden administration. Both Austin, for not reporting his absence and for poor performance, and Biden, for not taking corrective action, share responsibility in this fiasco. - William Brown, Arlington Abbott right to spread problem Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzkers open letter to Texas Gov. Greg Abbott in Sundays Star-Telegram is laughable. (16A) His point is obviously to keep immigrants who are in the country illegally in Texas. Pritzker writes that Abbott is dropping off asylum seekers without alerting us to their arrival at improper locations at all hours of the night. Hello, welcome to the party. That is exactly what is happening at thousands of locations along the U.S. border. Abbott is doing the right thing by letting Illinois share the burden of unfettered illegal immigration. Pritzker posits that federal reform is the key, however, as stated by Sen. Tom Cotton: The phrase comprehensive immigration reform is Washington code for amnesty, mass immigration and open borders in perpetuity. And the cold weather in Illinois Pritzker worries migrants are being subjected to without proper clothing? Sundays forecast high temperature in North Texas is 37 degrees, with a low of 33. Next question. - Mark Swanson, Mansfield Kids need warmer clothing While I agree that we went to school when it was this cold in the past, this time the schools made the right decision. (Jan. 18, 10A, DFW schools shouldnt have closed just over cold temps) In the past, parents bought coats, gloves and hats for kids having to wait for the bus, as the editorial suggests. Those waits sometimes are up to 30 minutes. But now, that isnt always the case. Many parents buy their kids only hoodies, and many dont have proper outerwear like we did in the past. Also, have you been in some of those classrooms in the winter? Even when it is above 32 degrees outside, some of them are freezing. - Beth Karpinski, Fort Worth Pro-life? Drop the uncivil bluster For most of the years Ive lived here, Ive viewed Texas proudly. We are a quirky bunch, lots of bluster and big talk. But lately, the big talk has turned mean, and the political bluster uncivil. And inhumane. The border crisis is undeniable. But can anyone call themselves pro-life if they are only concerned with the survival of an embryo and not a child drowning in the Rio Grande, or a child bused to a northern state in the middle of winter with no warm clothing and left stranded on the outskirts of the city? None of that is pro-life. And it most definitely is not in Christian teachings. To be pro-life is to care deeply about all life. - Wendy Stoecker, Arlington AUSTIN (Nexstar) The Department of Justice took a minute-by-minute approach in its investigation of law enforcements response to the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde. Its nearly 600-page report describes chaos, confusion and ignorance all aspects that the Texas House of Representatives found within their own investigation released just weeks after the 2022 mass shooting. RELATED: New DOJ report finds cascading failures in law enforcement response to Uvalde school massacre Thursday morning, the U.S. Department of Justice released its highly anticipated critical incident review of the active shooting at Robb Elementary School that killed 19 students and two teachers on May 24, 2022. The document reveals themes related to leadership failures on the day the Uvalde elementary shooting took place, as well as a lack of communication, collaboration and cooperation in the days and months following. I think that the DOJ report goes a long way in validating our concerns about the lack of communication, the lack of leadership, said State Representative Joe Moody, vice chair of the Texas House of Representatives Investigation Committee on the Robb Elementary Shooting. The Houses 77-page document uncovered the miscommunication among officers which led to a delay in stopping the shooter. The scene was chaotic, without any person obviously in charge or directing the law enforcement response, it reads. KXANs coverage of the Uvalde school shooting According to the DOJ report, the lack of structure not only contributed to the confusion and chaos during the incident, but also affected law enforcements post-incident response to preserving the integrity of the crime scene. Only two law enforcement officers in leadership positions with the main responding agencies had training in Incident Command Systems (ICS) and National Incident Management Sytems (NIMS), according to the DOJ report. Those two officers were Uvalde CISD Police Chief Pete Arredondo, who had completed 32 hours of training, and the Texas Department of Public Safety South Texas Regional Director Victor Escalon, who arrived shortly before the classroom was entered, had completed 88 hours, according to the report. In critical incidents, particularly events involving multiple jurisdictions and disciplines, the understanding and use of NIMS and ICS are essential to the successful sharing of information and coordination of resources, tactics, and investigations, the DOJ report states. New DOJ report finds cascading failures in law enforcement response to Uvalde school massacre There were also failures in leadership, command, and coordination. None of the law enforcement leaders at the scene established an incident command structure to provide timely direction, control, and coordination, the report states. Neither Arredondo nor Escalon took steps to provide leadership to those in the room, according to the report. Once children were finally rescued from the classrooms, a perimeter should have been established and direction with other leadership in the hallway should have been given by Escalon, according to the DOJ. The TXDPS regional director, and some other officers, walked past the law enforcement officers bringing injured and deceased victims out of the classrooms and entered classrooms 111 and 112 with no identifiable purpose or action, therefore compromising the crime scene, the report states. It wasnt until a few minutes later that a Texas Ranger on scene took control and ordered all law enforcement out of the crime scene, according to the DOJ. The Texas Ranger appeared to be one of the few leaders on scene who attempted to coordinate with other agency personnel and ended up in different interactions with all the major responding agencies, the report states. Internal memos find no fault in suspended Texas Rangers Uvalde response According to the report, a Texas DPS captain present at the crime scene ordered another officer to create a log of names for anyone who enters the crime scene; however, none of the officials filed reports after their walk-throughs, as is reportedly required by TXDPS. In addition to the integrity of the crime scene inside the school being jeopardized by leadership shortfalls, the DOJ report states DPS declined the FBIs offer to assist with the collection of evidence from the car wrecked by the shooter. The report states there was an urgent need to preserve the crime scene with a forecasted major storm moving in. As a result, the storm brought heavy rainfall and winds that washed out the crime scene and compromised the evidence, which included one of the subjects two rifles, casings from shooting at the funeral home employees, and other personal items inside the vehicle, according to the DOJ. KXAN found this wasnt the only instance DPS refused help or denied other agencies information further delaying the investigative process, the report states. The DOJs report states the FBI offered its victim specialists to help with the death notification process but were denied the ability to assist. Officials react to DOJ report of Uvalde shooting response They were told we got this by TXDPS, even though the TXDPS staff was untrained in this process, according to the DOJ report. Furthermore, the report states local investigations have been delayed due to the unwillingness to cooperate with a request by the City of Uvalde for evidence necessary to their internal review. UPDs internal investigation has been hampered by a lack of access to evidence that TXDPS was in possession of and not willing to share, the report states. U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland said that none of the 376 officers at the scene will face federal charges. One day after the release of the DOJ report, Uvalde County District Attorney Christina Mitchell called forth a grand jury to review evidence. Any charges related to the May 2022 shooting are left up to them. The report states Texas DPS and other law enforcement agencies failed to communicate in a culturally sensitive manner with victims family members. DOJ report: TX DPS official re-enacted Uvalde shooting in front of victims families Key among these failures was a lack of information released in Spanish, death notices delivered by undertrained personnel and insensitive leadership, the report said. According to Moody, the Texas House investigative committee also acknowledged a lack of information flow to families, especially those whose primary language is Spanish. The DOJ report says that press conferences were primarily held in English, despite requests for translation. Moody explained that the House had planned to release English and Spanish reports at the same time but received word that families wanted the documents immediately, rather than waiting for the translation. A Spanish report was eventually published. The federal agency also criticizes the Department of Public Safety for refusing to utilize resources from the FBIs victim specialists. The report details one press conference where a DPS officer re-enacted the shooting, in front of victims and families. IN-DEPTH: TX DPS official re-enacted Uvalde shooting in front of victims families Moody emphasized that the DOJ was better able to delve into how Uvalde and DPS officials communicated with the public. We certainly heard from some of the family members about, you know, the lack of care or lack of compassion, he said. Theres no right way to deliver such terrible information to people who have lost so much, but it certainly could have been better, should have been better. On Friday, the Texas Department of Public Safety released a statement thanking the DOJ for the tremendous amount of time and attention it has put into compiling the critical incident review. As DPS Director Steven McCraw first stated in the weeks after the shooting, the law enforcement response that day was an abject failure, and this reports observations underscore those failures, DPS said in its Friday statement. The State of Texas has already implemented some of the recommendations proposed by the DOJ review in order to prevent tragedies in the future. Paxton moves to end whistleblower lawsuit, judge orders sworn testimony to happen sooner A Travis County judge issued an order Friday for Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton to sit for a deposition on Feb. 1 in the lawsuit brought by four of his former employees. However, some of those plaintiffs and their attorneys expect Paxton to appeal. Judge Jan Soifer said Paxton will have to appear for and answer questions in an oral deposition at an Austin law firm on that day starting at 9 a.m. She said she reached this decision because his office failed to negotiate with the plaintiffs attorneys over times to schedule the deposition. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton moves to end litigation in whistleblower lawsuit The order also set dates for three of Paxtons top employees: Feb. 2 for First Assistant Attorney General Brent Webster, Feb. 7 for Chief of Staff Lesley French Henneke, and Feb. 9 for senior advisor Michelle Smith. KXAN never received any responses after reaching out twice Friday seeking comment from the Office of the Attorney General about the judges latest order. This story will be updated once anything is shared. This all comes a day after Paxtons attorneys submitted a filing that they said aims to end the lawsuit the former employees brought against his office. It also follows the Texas Supreme Court denying Paxtons request to block his deposition in the lawsuit from his former top-ranking deputies, who allege Paxton wrongfully terminated them after reporting him for alleged corruption to federal authorities. Attorney TJ Turner, who represents whistleblower David Maxwell, shared his reaction Friday to this filing, calling it a stunt intended to block the deposition from happening. I think the last thing Ken Paxton wants to do is put a hand on his Bible and tell the truth, and hes going to avoid that at all costs, Turner said. So I think there will be another legal maneuver, and well wait and see what that is. In their filing, Paxtons attorneys emphasized his belief that he did nothing wrong, noting the Texas Senate acquitted him at his impeachment trial last year. They also argue that the former employees claims include are not protected by the states whistleblower protection law. However, in the same document, they said Paxtons office hereby elects not to contest any issue of fact in this case and elects not to dispute the Plaintiffs lawsuit. That latter argument especially shocked Blake Brickman, a former deputy attorney general whos now suing Paxton. He said he saw what Paxton wrote in the filing as total vindication. This is a total 180 that Ken Paxton has done. He is now saying he is not contesting our facts. The impeachment trial was based on our allegations, and now hes saying what we said is true, Brickman said. The people of Texas really need to think about that. Conservative, rule-of-law Republicans really need to think about how disingenuous this attorney general is for him to say, actually, all these things are true now, right before hes about to get deposed, after he went through the impeachment. Its shocking. It really is. Brickman said he does anticipate Paxton to appeal the judges order. However, that last resulted in the Texas Supreme Court rejecting his request to avoid testifying under oath in the lawsuit. If Paxton does eventually go under oath, though, he could invoke his Fifth Amendment right and not answer any questions. Mike Golden, a professor at the University of Texas at Austin School of Law, said that could end up harming a defendant in a civil case like this. Here in a civil case, any witness, including the defendant or an employee defendant, can plead the Fifth Amendment and refuse to answer any particular question. Thats protected by the Constitution, and they cant be compelled to answer those questions, Golden said. But the flip side is, in the civil case, their refusal to answer that question gets used against them in court. The plaintiffs can argue to the jury: he didnt answer this question because he knew the answer will be bad for him, and he didnt answer 77 questions because he knew the answers were going to be bad for him. Thats the huge difference between how a criminal case works and a civil case [works]. In new campaign finance reports released this week, Paxton detailed how he spent nearly $2.3 million in campaign funds to pay for his legal defense in his impeachment trial. Record demand for electricity brings concern, confidence about future of the Texas power grid A round of frigid weather had many Texans facing subfreezing temperatures last week, and the Arctic blast led to record-breaking demand for electricity across the state. During those days, ERCOT called on Texans to conserve energy. But the state still set new records for power use. Numbers from ERCOT show the previous peak energy demand record for January was set back in 2018. Back then, Texans set the record at just under 66-thousand megawatts. Last Sunday, January 14, the state shattered that record, with peak demand closing in on 71-thousand megawatts. The next day, we shattered it again, with demand topping 76-thousand megawatts. Tuesday brought another record, with peak demand exceeding 78-thousand megawatts. But the new records have some worried about future demand on the system. Politics reporter Ryan Chandler spoke with the CEO of ERCOT about how the state will meet the need for energy. Ryan Chandler: Every time the supply and the demand on the grid gets a little too close, I notice that wind and solar are always the first scapegoats or points of blame because maybe the sun isnt out or theres less wind than we expect. But you know, of course, back in February 2021, natural gas was also hindered by the extreme cold, as well. Can you break down how all of the different energy sources that feed our grid play into the overall supply and which are the most reliable this week? Pablo Vegas, ERCOT CEO: Well, its really a question of needing to have all of the pieces of the puzzle working together in order to get through an event like this. And its really never our intent to try to place blame on any one source of energy. When were having challenges or when the grid gets tight, what we want to do is just try to explain facts as to whats happening on the grid. Those facts can vary based on what the season is and whats going on, and what time of day it is. For example, during the winter, were always going to see those peaks, typically when the sun goes down and things get very cold. So, obviously, solar resources wont play a role in helping to deliver energy during those peaks in the wintertime. And then, as we look at this week in particular, we really needed all of the pieces and parts to work together. So we needed the thermal power plants to be available, we needed the batteries to all be available and ready to go. And then wind is the main variable that we look at. That just depends on whether the wind is blowing for this event. The wind performance, the wind has been blowing a little bit less than what is seasonally normal this time of year. So that does help to contribute a little bit, but its not blame. Its just the fact the wind blows, sometimes it blows hard, and sometimes it doesnt blow hard. But the windmills themselves, theyve seen really good performance in terms of very little icing. So we havent been losing the available windmills to that kind of issue. So, all across the board, the electric supply fleet has really been performing very well during this week. Ryan Chandler: Lets talk long-term because this week were feeling pretty comfortable, but every December, January, February, people are still anxious ever since that February 2021 storm. Every time the temperatures plunge, we start worrying: Are the lights going to stay on? Am I going to stay warm? What are we doing as a state and as a grid in the next 5, 10 years to make sure that when the temperatures drop, we dont have to have this same conversation next year or the year after that? Pablo Vegas, ERCOT CEO: We certainly know a couple of things are going to likely remain true. One is: Texas continues to grow economically year over year. Texas is doing really well. A lot of people are moving to the state, businesses are moving to the state. So that helps to drive electric demand up. As a result of that, it requires infrastructure investments across the board. Weve seen the state legislature take up this issue and find ways to try to incentivize all different types of generation to get developed, including thermal dispatchable generation. Were already seeing a lot of growth on the electric grid from renewable sources. Were seeing solar and wind growing on the electric grid year over year. Were seeing batteries growing very rapidly on the electric grid. Were seeing that every year, the additions of those resources, and theyre making a big difference during the summers as well as during the winters. If we can add to that and balance that growth with some thermal dispatchable resources, which is what some of the legislation that was passed in the last session enabled and incentivized, then were really going to be able to get to that place where we know were going to be able to address whether its the hottest day or the coldest winter without having as many reliability concerns as we sometimes do today. Ryan Chandler: Are we seeing any impact from those investments? For people who may be unaware, the governor signed a pair of bills meant to provide loans and incentivize power plants to come to Texas and build more plants. It could cost as much as $18 billion, per some reports. Are we seeing any payoff from that investment? Any projects in the pipeline now? Yeah, weve already seen some announcements made from companies that are going to start to build new gas-fired power plants as a result of that incentive that came through the legislation. The governor and I were just down in Houston a few weeks back (for) an announcement that Calpine made about an investment. Theyre already making up their Freestone energy center. So, its definitely leading to companies making decisions to make investments and to help support the growing energy economy here in Texas. Poll finds border security, economy top issues for Texas voters as primary looms Texas voters will begin heading to the polls in just over a month for the primary elections. Early voting begins on Feb. 20 for the March 5 primary. New polling is giving early insight into how voters feel about the issues and the candidates. The Emerson College Polling/Nexstar Media poll asked 1,315 registered Texas voters about the upcoming presidential and senate primaries along with hypothetical November election scenarios. The poll found a variety of concerns motivating Texans to vote this year. Immigration and border security was listed by 29% of voters as the top issue facing Texas. The economy finished second at 22%, followed by healthcare at 12% and education and abortion access both at 9%. Threats to democracy, crime and housing affordability were also named. Among Democratic voters, a key primary race will determine who faces Republican Sen. Ted Cruz in November. In the Senate primary, 29% of Democratic voters polled plan to support Representative Colin Allred. State Sen. Roland Gutierrez trails with 7% support in the poll, just ahead of the 6% supporting Nueces County District Attorney Mark Gonzalez. A plurality of voters (37%) are undecided ahead of the March primary. While Allred has a double-digit lead over the other Democrats in the field, the poll still shows him short of the 50% threshhold to avoid a runoff to decide the nomination. In a hypothetical general election between Allred and Senator Ted Cruz, Cruz holds 42% of the vote over Allreds 40%, a statistical tie considering the polls credibility interval of +/- 2.6 percentage points. A race between Gutierrez and Cruz appears even closer, with Cruz receiving 41% and Gutierrez receiving 40% of support. In both cases, approximately 8% of voters choose someone else, and 11% are undecided. The poll shows that Texas voters expect a November rematch between Joe Biden and Donald Trump in the presidential election. In the primary poll, President Biden won support from 72% of Texas Democrats, giving him a strong lead for the nomination. Marianne Williamson trails with 6%, followed by 5% for Dean Phillips. Donald Trump leads the Republican primary with 69% of support from Texas voters. Hes trailed by former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley at 11% and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis at 9%. Trump is also ahead in a hypothetical general election battle, claiming 49% of the vote over Bidens 41%. Almost 90% of people in the Emerson College Polling/Nexstar Media poll said they were likely to vote in the upcoming state primary elections. That would be astonishingly high. Just 18% of registered voters participated in the 2022 primary election. In 2020, the last presidential primary year, 25% of Texas voters turned out for the March primary. As of now, Texas is home to 17.9 million registered voters, about 81% of the voting age population. Thats over a million more potential voters than January 2020. Emerson-College-Polling-Nexstar-Media-Texas-Primary-PollDownload The Emerson College Polling/Nexstar Media Texas poll was conducted January 13-15, 2024. The sample consisted of 1,315 registered voters, with a credibility interval, similar to a polls margin of error, of +/- 2.6 percentage points. The Democratic Senate Primary poll consisted of 460 Democratic Primary voters, with a credibility interval of +/- 4.5 percentage points. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin. They checked out without these prized and peculiar possessions. A travel company revealed the top 10 strangest things left in hotel rooms in the past year and the objects travelers have forgotten are quite unusual. EasyJet Holidays, a company that offers vacation packages to more than 100 destinations across Europe, surveyed 100 of the hotels in its network, and shared its findings. Dentures topped the list at No. 1. Witchcraft paraphernalia came in second and prosthetic limbs third. The rest of the list included, in order of ranking, a glass eye, grandmas lucky tea cup, thousands of German Mark coins stashed behind a toilets water tank, a clown costume, an inflatable boat, caviar and rosary beads. Holidays are a time for total relaxation, and we love knowing that our customers make themselves comfortable in our resorts, Matt Callaghan, EasyJet Holidays chief operating officer, said in the release. Our research with our hotel partners has been interesting and some of the lost and found items are unusual, but were pleased to see that our customers have been enjoying themselves. (KRON) A student was assaulted at University Village Albany on Saturday night. University Village Albany is a housing community for students and postdocs who are married or have dependents that the University of California Berkeley owns. 22-year-old arrested on multiple gun charges in Santa Rosa A resident confronted a man about prowling on his apartments patio around 10:50 p.m. on Jan. 20. The man proceeded to assault the student. According to UC Berkeley, the victim suffered injuries as a result of the assault. The suspect was described as a transient black man with medium-length curly hair. The suspect was last seen wearing dark clothing and carrying a white plastic bag. Anyone who has information on this crime is asked to call UCPD at (510)-642-6760. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4. Romelia Farinas moved to Miami from the Dominican Republic 10 years ago hoping to expand the healthcare career that shed been preparing for since childhood. After working for several years as a certified nursing assistant and a patient-care technician, she was encouraged by her employer to take the national exam to become a registered nurse, a natural career step. To prepare, she enrolled in Universal Career School, a private for-profit outfit. While preparing for motherhood she was six months pregnant she took the exam and passed. Her co-workers threw her a party. The celebration was short-lived. Despite passing the national nursing exam, called the NCLEX, she would not be getting her license due to a bureaucratic standoff between two states Florida, where she went to school, and New York, whose online portal administered the test. Floridas Department of Health would not discuss the matter with the Miami Herald. The school in Sweetwater is no help. Its closed, its offices abandoned, its website defunct. She owes $20,000 in student loans. The former location of Universal Career School in Sweetwater, now defunct. Farinas is the latest example of how students can get burned attending private, for-profit schools, which, in some cases, can have shaky accreditations and disappear overnight. The Herald spoke to eight women who are struggling with similar problems, leaving them in limbo, owing thousands. Its happening at a time when nurses are in short supply. According to Nurses.org, a clearing house for those in the profession, Florida is in the top five states projected to have the largest shortage of nurses. Among the women is Yaimi Perez, 40, who graduated from Miami Regional University in May 2022. Although she lives in Miami, she, too, took the test through the New York online portal, passing in 2023. New York is a popular option, especially among test takers for whom English is not their first language. The test is hard enough for native speakers but can be even harder for those who sometimes struggle with English. New York offers test takers unlimited opportunities to pass. Florida offers just three. The state that administers the test issues the license. Either way, at the end of the process, the nurses should be able to practice their profession in Florida On probation When Perez inquired with the New York State Education Department about her licensing status, it sent an email that she was on hold because her schools licensure status was probationary as indicated on the Florida Department of Healths list of nursing programs. Yaimi Perez graduated and passed the test to become a registered nurse. A bureaucratic standoff between New York and Florida has prevented her from getting her license. It didnt matter that the U.S. Department of Educations Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs said the school was fully accredited. The probationary status in Florida meant New York would not issue her the license. Unlike Universal Career School, Miami Regional University is still in business. In a statement , Miami Regional University pointed out that its nursing programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing. The university highlighted the COVID-19 pandemics negative impact on its associate nursing program test scores but stressed that its most recent passage rates have shown significant improvement. We are aware of New York states blanket policy banning licensure of out-of-state students as a result of investigations into other schools in Florida and we have advised all graduating students about the current situation in New York. A native of Cuba, Perez moved to Miami eight years ago. She is currently unemployed as she tries to determine the best route around her current predicament. Shuttered school Universal Career School, closed shortly after Farinas graduated in the spring of 2022. Now 40, she became interested in medicine at a young age attending a specialized high school for nursing in her rural hometown before moving to Santo Domingo to attend university. While studying medicine, she met her future husband, Edgar, who was visiting from Miami. The two married and moved stateside. Farinas began working as a certified nursing assistant at the Palace at Coral Gables, a high-end independent and assisted living community. She thrived in her new role, earning accolades like employee of the month before she was promoted to supervisor of the certified nursing assistants. She later transferred to HCA Kendall, where she currently works as a patient care technician. She decided to take her career to the next level by taking the NCLEX so she could work as a registered nurse a role requiring the ability to perform more advanced nursing tasks, including administering medications and managing patient care plans. Her employer, eager to promote her, offered a flexible work schedule so she could attend school. After graduating, she sat for the nursing exam through the New York portal at a testing site in Doral in March 2023. She passed, but became concerned when after a month she still hadnt received her license. Farinas reached out to the New York State Education Department. A customer service representative told her the department was investigating her alma mater and that her license was on hold. This information stunned Farinas because shed submitted her transcripts to the department in advance a prerequisite for sitting for the exam. Why didnt they give me that information ahead of time so I could decide if I take the test or not with the state? she asked. Its so unfair and frustrating. A letter to Farinas from the New York State Education Department said the Florida Department of Health and Florida State Board of Nursing had terminated her schools nursing program in June 2021. It noted that Farinas transcript indicated that she completed coursework at the supposedly terminated program in the fall of 2021 and that she graduated on Feb. 28, 2022. Since your education has not been approved, you should not have been eligible for the NCLEX examination, the letter read. Eligible or not, she passed on her second try. The letter to Farinas from the New York State Department of Education. Farinas told the Herald that during the last few months of her enrollment, the administration told her that the school was going to close but she was never informed of any prior termination of the nursing program. The other women who spoke to the Herald said they were similarly blindsided. Florida Rep. Anna Eskamani, a Democrat from Orlando. While Florida enforces a three-tries-and-youre out, policy, an applicant can earn another chance at the test by successfully completing a Florida Board of Nursing approved remedial course. Floridas responsibility State Rep. Anna Eskamani, an Orlando Democrat, believes that the onus is on Florida government officials to offer these women a path forward. Students who have completed their coursework and passed the required examination, she said, should not be punished due to a lack of accountability and oversight within the states for-profit college system. The Florida Department of Healths failure either to notify students of their colleges changing accreditation status or provide them with a transitional plan exacerbates these issues, according to Eskamani. At the very least, there also has to be accountability to get their money back from these institutions that have lied to them, she aid. Both Farinas and Perez are now paying off the debts they acquired to fund their education. Farinas, who said she and her husband are five months behind in their mortgage, took out approximately $20,000 in loans. Perezs debt load is higher about $36,000. Eskamani said it is not uncommon for state agencies to create an emergency process in situations like these, or when there is a workforce shortage, as there is in the nursing field. Be wary The world of nursing schools is in some cases fraught with fraud. Recently, three South Florida men were tried for allegedly running a nursing-school diploma mill. According to prosecutors, over 3,500 students paid between $10,000 and $20,000 for fake academic credentials from the now-defunct Palm Beach School of Nursing. The three were found guilty in December. Until a pathway forward is found, Farinas feels stuck. Because she says she didnt have access to her passing score, shes considered retaking the exam in Florida, but that option is costly, both in time and effort. Aside from the $200 exam fee, it would take months to prepare because the test is so challenging. Why do I have to pay for something thats not my fault? she said. After going back and forth with the New York State Education Department for nearly a year, Farinas received a letter two week ago from the department reiterating its decision to withhold her license due to questions surrounding her education. Except: It said it is willing to release her passing score to Florida so she can complete a separate application process for Florida to issue her a license. While grateful for this potential reprieve, Farinas maintains that the inability so far to get her license has caused irreparable financial harm. Romelia Farinas and her husband, Edgar, are struggling financially because of the standoff between New York and Florida. The delay totally changed our economic situation, said her husband, Edgar. New research has revealed that exposure to BPA-free plastic, which was previously considered safe for humans, could have major impacts on reproductive health. What happened? A team led by researchers at Rutgers University looked at the effects of breathing in tiny plastic particles, which they say is a common exposure method in our homes. The nanoplastics, which were free of a common additive called bisphenol-A (known commonly as BPA), were aerosolized and inhaled by rats. Previously, the scientific community has shown that chemical additives commonly used in plastics, like BPA, act as endocrine disruptors, meaning that exposure to these chemicals can increase, slow, or interfere with the bodys endogenous natural hormone function. This led to the popularization of BPA-free products. However, the new research suggests that even plastic without BPA can have comparable endocrine-disrupting effects at least in lab animals. Why is the research concerning? Plastic is all around us its in our clothing, everyday household products, and even in our water and its probably not going anywhere anytime soon. The production of single-use plastic rose globally by about 6.6 million tons per year from 2019 to 2021 despite tougher regulations, Reuters reported. Meanwhile, many scientists think that the disruption of sex hormones caused by exposure to plastics could account for declining fertility rates in the Western world, as Salon reported. One way the chemicals in plastics are affecting fertility is by contributing to dropping sperm counts, according to Dr. Shanna Swan, a professor of environmental medicine and public health at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, interviewed by Salon. Swan also indicated that exposure to endocrine disruptors in pregnant women can disturb prenatal development during pregnancy, which impacts later reproductive health and function in the child. What can I do to help with the plastic plague? Unfortunately, theres very little that people can do to reduce exposure at the moment, senior author of the study Phoebe Stapleton said in a statement quoted by Salon. You can be aware of your flooring, wear natural fibers and avoid storing food in plastic containers, but invisibly small plastic particles are likely in nearly every breath we take. That said, we can help reduce the amount of new plastics being produced by investing in reusable, more reliable items like metal razors, water bottles, shampoo bars, dissolvable dishwasher/laundry pods, and non-plastic sandwich bags. You can also recycle old products that contain plastic instead of throwing them out. For instance, Nikon has a program that lets you trade in your used camera for credit on a new one. Plus, some governments, corporations, and academics are trying to cut down on plastics. For instance, scientists have discovered how to break down plastic using hungry wax worms and fungus. Countries like England and France now have bans on plastic cutlery for most fast food and takeout meals, while major cities like Los Angeles have banned Styrofoam takeout containers. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the coolest innovations improving our lives and saving our planet. By Choe Chong-dae I associate the legendary music icon Ray Charles (1930-2004) with the genius of American music, especially in the realm of soul music. His lasting legacy reverberates across genres and generations. Pioneering soul music in the 1950s, Charles seamlessly blended blues, gospel, R&B, rock, country and jazz, creating timeless hits such as "Unchain My Heart" and "I've Got a Woman." Over five decades, Charles earned prestigious awards, solidifying his status as a global music icon. His technical mastery and creative spirit transcended borders, races and time, influencing musicians worldwide. His soul-stirring performances broke barriers and left an indelible mark on the global musical landscape. Charles's distinctive approach not only showcased his mastery of various genres but also revealed a profound relationship with audiences, influencing subsequent generations of musicians and leaving a lasting impact. Throughout his remarkable career spanning multiple genres, Charles received numerous honors, emphasizing the enduring legacy of this musical pioneer. The "Genius" will always be remembered as a trailblazer shaping the trajectory of contemporary music, leaving an indomitable imprint that continues to inspire music enthusiasts of all ages. A timeless example of his musical genius is his soulful interpretation of "Georgia on My Mind," a 1930 song by Hoagy Carmichael and Stuart Gorrell. Notably, Georgia officially recognized Charles's version in 1979, designating it as the state song, a testament to the profound impact of music in shaping cultural identity and solidifying Charles's enduring influence. Remarkably, Charles was among the first to reject the Jim Crow laws in the South. In a notable incident in Augusta, Georgia, in March 1961, he refused to perform in a segregated venue, standing his ground despite legal consequences. This principled stand against segregation underscored the deep-rooted discrimination of the era, portraying Charles not only as a musical genius but also as a courageous advocate for civil rights. Beyond music, Charles's resolute rejection of racial segregation added a powerful chapter to his legacy, depicting him not just as a musical genius but also as a fearless advocate for justice. His pivotal role in the civil rights movement, support for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and his refusal to perform at segregated concerts highlighted his devotion to equality. Although Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, declaring all slaves within the country (including those rebelling in the Southern Confederacy) forever free, the reality in the years that followed was far from the intended equality. Despite this significant step towards emancipation, Blacks continued to face severe inequality compared to whites. During the 1950s and 1960s, a time marked by the persistence of racial discrimination and segregation, many African Americans were still denied the right to vote, living under the harsh constraints of segregation and discrimination. They found themselves confined to lonely islands of poverty amidst the vast ocean of American material prosperity. A prominent figure in the fight for civil rights during this tumultuous period was the revered Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a true American national hero and a leading human rights advocate. Dr. King dedicated much of his life to the civil rights movement, particularly during its peak from 1954 to 1968, striving for justice and equality for all Americans, regardless of their race or background. Charles's unwavering devotion to philanthropy in support of the civil rights movement, particularly his steadfast support for Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., has profoundly impacted me. It serves as a poignant reminder of Socrates' proclamation that "all people are equal." Often overlooked is Charles's support for people with disabilities, as he too was visually impaired, defied societal norms and showcased his resilience through multifaceted activism. In essence, Ray Charles's legacy extends beyond musical innovation; he is remembered as a legendary artist who challenged discrimination, shattered barriers, and advocated for justice, equality, and the inclusion of individuals with disabilities. Choe Chong-dae (choecd@naver.com) is a guest columnist of The Korea Times. He is president of Dae-kwang International Co., and director of the Korean-Swedish Association. The stench is becoming unbearable and whats worse is that the suspicions that many of us have had about the rottenness of this SNP Government are being borne out with almost every day that passes. No, not just about its perpetual and damaging obsession with breaking up Britain but about the arrogance that stems from the untrammelled power of 16 years in office. It has come to a head with the astonishing revelations that while she was first minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, as well as her senior ministerial colleagues and civil servants, is said to have casually disposed of WhatsApp messages that provided information about how she ran the response to the Covid pandemic. That has now led to the families of those who suffered badly from Covid, as well as those who lost loved ones, to demand a police investigation as to whether laws about the retention of such documents and messages had been broken. On Saturday, Ms Sturgeon admitted that her messages had not been retained on my own device but she said she had been able to obtain copies of some. But in many ways a more sobering and shocking example of how cavalier with the truth her administration had become is shown with the emergence of a cabinet minute detailing how Ms Sturgeon and her ministers were considering how to politicise the fight against Covid. Incredibly, their decision was reached on the very same day as Ms Sturgeon was seen at one of her daily televised press conferences indignantly denying as nonsense that any such course of action was being contemplated. Her emphasis was on public health and she added: Anybody trotting out political or constitutional arguments is in the wrong place completely. There we have it: on a June day in 2020, when the death toll from Covid was terrifying the nation and Ms Sturgeons daily TV slots the so-called Zooms of doom had become compulsive viewing, her cabinet was working out how to make political hay from the pandemic. Not how to ease suffering but to score political points. It can only be imagined how such a move might be viewed among Covid victims everywhere. Seasoned observers of all parties, including nationalist veterans, have been shocked by the latest revelations, which show just now much official Scotland in the shape of civil servants in St Andrews House, the Scottish Governments Edinburgh headquarters appears to have been affected by the attitudes of ministerial bosses. There are few who would disagree with the verdict of Anas Sarwar, the Scottish Labour leader, who accused the SNP Government of being guilty on an industrial scale of lying and misleading the public. He included civil servants in his attack, saying the problem went beyond a few rotten apples at the top, in terms of ministers. Mr Sarwar added: It seems that even government officials were complicit. This view has been reinforced by evidence from the Covid Inquiry, which revealed that some officials had informed ministers and senior advisers about how messages are deleted. Nobodys laughing at these details, as revealed by these first episodes in the inquiry north of the border. Thats before ministers, including Ms Sturgeon and her senior advisers, begin giving evidence. As well as possibly facing a criminal investigation over deleted WhatsApp messages from the pandemic, the Information Commissioners Office is also being asked to investigate any potential breaches of the law after the UK inquiry heard on Friday that no messages whatsoever had been handed over by Ms Sturgeon. There is also the small matter of Operation Branchform, the more than two-year-long police investigation into the SNPs finances a huge black cloud that is still hanging over Scotlands governing party. It is difficult to imagine a more testing period than whats in store for Humza Yousafs team but, in the minds of most observers, they are reaping what they and their predecessors have sown. 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 Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu (R) on Sunday dug into former President Trump following his apparent confusion about Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), arguing the former president has lost the fastball. The comment came in response to a question by NBC Meet the Press anchor Kristen Welker, who pointed to Trumps speech last week, when he appeared to confuse Haley and Pelosi while discussing the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riots. Look, whether its Joe Biden or Donald Trump either one, get off the teleprompter, they can barely make a cogent point. I mean, really, Sununu said. Welker interjected to ask if Sununu was saying Trump is not mentally fit, to which the governor responded, Not in that moment, he sure as heck wasnt. I mean, look, the point is you have two nearly 80-year-olds fighting this thing out. Thats not what America wants. That is a great example of, this is not Donald Trump, the disruptor of 2016. This guy has lost his fastball. You know, thats a great example of it. We always want to go forward in America, right? We always want that next generation. Neither of these guys represent the next generation, Sununu continued. Sununu, whose state will hold its high-stakes primary on Tuesday, has endorsed Haley and appeared with her on the campaign trail in recent months. He came under criticism earlier this month, however, when he said he would support whomever the eventual Republican nominee is, even if it is Trump as a hypothetical convicted felon. Haley also called out Trumps mental fitness during another Sunday interview, arguing the former presidents mental fitness is not at the same level as it was the first time he won the White House in 2016. A polling index by The Hill and Decision Desk HQ shows Trump with a 11.1 point lead over Haley in the Granite State, while Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis trails far behind. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. The United States Supreme Court has agreed to review a decision by the Colorado Supreme Court that removed Donald Trump from the ballot in that state due to a violation of the 14th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. Maine has joined Colorado in banishing Trump from the primary ballot and other states have challenges before their courts also questioning Trumps eligibility to hold office. Section 3 of the amendment says 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. Former President Donald Trump speaks during the Alabama Republican Party Summer Dinner at the Renaissance Hotel and Conference Center in Montgomery Friday, August 4, 2023. The Supreme Court, in taking this case, will very likely render a decision that either universally qualifies Trump to run for office or universally disqualifies him. The Supreme Courts decision, one way or the other, will be greeted with massive dissent and will have a pronounced impact on the Nov. 5 presidential election. During his term as president, Donald Trump appointed three of the nine justices. In any normal legal matter, a judge placed in a circumstance such as this, would very likely recuse himself or herself due to the obvious conflict of interest. One of the determining factors in this case will be whether the three Trump-appointed justices recuse themselves. If they do not, it is difficult to see how anything resembling a fair and balanced decision will be reached. A heavily biased Supreme Court is disturbing. It is distributing no matter which way the court might be loaded, conservative or liberal. The Constitution is neither. It is a document that is supposed to establish how American government works and guarantee freedom for the American people. However, the document has always been interpreted by men and women who are biased. It could not be otherwise. More: Disinformation and propaganda pose real threat to America | GARY COSBY JR. The case itself must necessarily turn on whether Trump participated in insurrection or, and this is potentially the most telling point, gave aid and comfort to those who did. Many of his actions, or inactions on Jan. 6, 2021, appear to have violated this amendment, and he has not stopped giving aid and comfort to those who stormed the Capitol Building even after leaving office. Since Trump did not himself storm the Capitol building, his attorneys could argue that he did not participate in insurrection. That is a great deal like Bill Clintons denial that he had sex with the intern. The defense is in the semantics, or the definition, rather than in the action itself. And it is likely the concept that Trump didnt storm the building himself that lawyers will use to argue his case before the Supreme Court. They might make a case for him not participating, but it will be more than difficult to argue that he did not give aid and comfort to those who did. The courts decision will do one of two things. First, they could rule that Donald Trump can be removed from primary ballots. It is quite clear that Trump fomented the insurrection, fired up a mob, released it against the Capitol, and did nothing to stop what turned into an ugly, violent clash that claimed the lives of several people and endangered many others. Everyone in America saw what he did, heard his words, and saw his complacency toward the unfolding disaster, all of which is easily classifiable as violating the 14th Amendment. Gary Cosby Jr. If the justices do this, they will face enormous pressure from Trumps following, a group of devotees who have shown not the least hesitation to threaten the lives of those who oppose their leader. The resume of this group, and it is by no means a complete list, includes an attempt to arrest the governor of Michigan, an attempt to force a caravan of Biden supporters off a highway, death threats sent to court officials and an attack on the U.S. Capitol building. The justices could also rule that the former president is eligible to be on ballots in all 50 states. This is the path of least resistance and the path that requires the least courage. It will appease the Trump following and put the decision in the hands of voters. This is the most likely outcome, particularly if the three Trump-appointed justices do not recuse themselves. It is also the decision that will create the least public outcry. The language in the 14th Amendment is plain. Trumps behavior was obvious and continues to be obvious. The problem for the court and the problem for America in general is that Trumps threats of retribution against those who oppose him pose a danger to the peace and stability of our nation if the court rules against his challenge. Allowing each state to determine Trumps fate would doom any chance he has to regain the White House. Since this situation is without precedent, whatever decision the Supreme Court makes will resonate throughout the future history of the United States. Gary Cosby Jr. can be contacted at gary.cosby@tuscaloosanews.com This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Trump's election fate to be decided by U.S. Supreme Court Food prices are taking a bigger bite out of the wallets of Washingtonians than the residents of almost any other state in the U.S. Going further, a federal survey shows Seattle residents pay more for groceries than just about any other city in America. A new analysis shows that while the average household in the U.S. pays an average $270.21 on food at the grocery store, residents of Washington have to pay an average $287.67 weekly. That translates to more than $1150 a month. Seattles minimum wage was increased to $19.97 per hour in January of this year. The evaluation came from data from the U.S. Census Bureau Household Pulse Survey collected from Oct. 18-30, 2023 and presented in a new report on health and wellness website HelpAdvisor.com. The only states with higher weekly grocery costs are California ($297.72), Nevada ($294.76) and Mississippi (290.64). Alaska and Hawaii were excluded from the report. The state with the lowest food cost is Wisconsin, which comes in at $221.46 a week. When it comes to ranking individual cities for grocery prices, the data crunched and presented on HealthAdvisor.com lists Seattle as the sixth most-expensive city in the country, ahead of New York City, Dallas and Chicago. Weekly expenses in Seattle come in at $289.23 a week, or more than $1156.92 for the average household every month. The cities with higher average weekly grocery costs are Miami ($327.89), Houston ($302.65), Riverside, California, ($300.50), San Francisco ($298.44) and Los Angeles ($295.33). The U.S. Census Household Pulse Survey looked at data measuring the average amount of money households spent on food prepared and eaten at home. It did not take into account meals eaten at restaurants or other venues. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says the Consumer Price Index for food prepared and eaten at home was up 1.7% in November, in a year-over-year average. Ferguson takes on grocery chain merger over potential higher prices This recent analysis comes on the heels of Washington filing a lawsuit to block the proposed merger of the two largest grocery store chains operating in the state: Kroger, which owns Fred Meyer and QFC, and Albertsons, which owns Safeway. If Kroger and Albertsons merge, they will simply put dwarf the competition, Ferguson said. Shoppers will have fewer choices and less competition, and that results in higher prices. And Ferguson said the companies, themselves, know it. During our investigation, we reviewed hundreds of thousands of records. We uncovered internal chats between corporate executives and other employees, Ferguson said. After rumors of a proposed merger surfaced, a vice president of marketing with Albertsons wrote and Im quoting Youre basically creating a monopoly in grocery, with the merger. It makes no sense. In a statement to KIRO Newsradio, the companies said, We are disappointed in Attorney General Fergusons premature decision to file a lawsuit while the merger is still under regulatory review. This story was originally published by MyNorthwest. At least two people were killed and several others injured in a suspected Israeli drone strike on Sunday that targeted a car in southern Lebanon, security sources said. Ambulances rushed to the site near a Lebanese army checkpoint, according to residents. Security sources said that two Hezbollah terrorists had been killed in a direct hit. Their ranks were not revealed, though local media reported that one of those killed was from the VIP and Leaders Protection Unit. The Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia has been trading fire across Lebanons southern border with Israeli forces in support of Palestinian ally Hamas. It has marked the deadliest confrontation between Israel and Hezbollah since they went to war in 2006. Tens of thousands of people on both sides of the frontier have fled, and the fighting has raised concern of an even wider conflict. 04:58 PM GMT That's all for today Thank you for following our live coverage. The key developments were: At least two people were killed and several others injured in a suspected Israeli drone strike on Sunday that targeted a car in southern Lebanon, security sources said. The United States is taking the attack by Iran-backed militants on a base hosting US forces in Iraq over the weekend extremely seriously, the White House said. Saudi Arabias foreign minister said there can be no normalisation of ties with Israel without resolving the Palestinian issue. Hamas has said its October 7 attack on Israel was a necessary step against Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories. The UK said that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus opposition to Palestinian sovereignty is disappointing. Royal Navy missiles that have been used to shoot down Houthi drones in the Red Sea will be upgraded. 04:54 PM GMT Pro-Palestinian march in Brussels draws 9,000 Around 9,000 demonstrators marched through Brussels on Sunday calling for an end of Israels fierce bombardment and fighting in Gaza, in a pro-Palestinian protest that ended in the EU district. The march came a day before EU foreign ministers will meet their Israeli, Palestinian, Egyptian, Saudi and Jordanian counterparts in a string of meetings to discuss the ongoing war in Gaza and the plight of Palestinian civilians. Participants in the peaceful Justice for Palestine demonstration, whose size was estimated by Brussels police, yelled out stop genocide, Israel: terrorist and free Gaza. 04:37 PM GMT Bereaved family members plant trees in Israeli memorial Some of the bereaved families whose loved ones were killed in a Hamas rampage at the Nova music festival joined an Israeli Jewish nature project group on Sunday for a special tree-planting event at the site. Around 1,000 people planted about 200 seedlings in the scorched earth of the Reim parking lot where thousands of young people were partying in the dawn hours of Oct 7 when armed Palestinian infiltrators swept in. Ricarda Louk, mother of Shani Louk, 22, who was taken hostage by Hamas after being seized from the Nova festival - REUTERS/Tyrone Siu Family members and relatives plant trees in the memory of people who were killed and kidnapped during the October 7 attacks - REUTERS/Tyrone Siu According to police, 364 people were shot, bludgeoned or burned to death at the Nova festival in a stretch of tree-dotted brush near Kibbutz Reim. Another 40 people were taken hostage by Hamas back to the Gaza Strip, 5 km (2 miles) away, police said. I still cant believe that we are planting a tree instead of hugging our child, Ela Bahat, whose son Dror was killed at the festival, told Reuters. We buried him four days after on October 11, and this was the first day of the rest of our lives. I really hope that in any way, that from upstairs they will bring some peace to earth. 04:13 PM GMT US taking attack on troops at Iraq base extremely seriously The United States is taking the attack by Iran-backed militants on a base hosting US forces in Iraq over the weekend extremely seriously, the White House said Sunday. Multiple ballistic missiles and rockets were fired by Iranian-backed militants at Al-Assad Airbase in western Iraq late Saturday, the US military said, leading to one Iraqi and possible American casualties. It was a very serious attack, using a capability of ballistic missiles that posed a genuine threat, White House Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer said Sunday, reported by AFP. We are going to respond... to establish deterrence in these situations, and to hold these groups accountable that continue to attack us, Finer added during his appearance on ABCs This Week. You can be assured that we are taking this extremely seriously. Most of the projectiles fired at the base were intercepted by air defence systems, Finer and the Pentagon said. Since mid-October, there have been dozens of attacks on the approximately 2,500 US troops in Iraq and the around 900 in Syria, deployed there with other coalition forces to fight jihadists of the Islamic State group. Most incidents, including Saturdays attack, have been claimed by Islamic Resistance in Iraq, a loose alliance of Iran-linked armed groups that oppose US support for Israel in the Gaza conflict. 04:08 PM GMT Latest pictures of the IDF Israeli soldiers near the Israeli-Gaza border - AP Photo/Leo Correa A picture posted on Telegram by the Israel Defence Force - Israel Defence Force An underground tunnel which Israeli forces said they found during a raid in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip 04:02 PM GMT No normal Israel ties without path to Palestinian state, says Saudi's foreign minister Saudi Arabias foreign minister said there can be no normalisation of ties with Israel without resolving the Palestinian issue. Asked if there could be no normal ties without a path to a credible and irreversible Palestinian state, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud told CNN: Thats the only way were going to get the benefit. So, yes, because we need stability and only stability will come through the resolving the Palestinian issue. 03:30 PM GMT UK Defence Secretary: Netanyahu's opposition to Palestinian state disappointing, says Grant Shapps 03:21 PM GMT French warship treats around 1,000 injured Gazans off Egyptian shore About 1,000 people from Gaza have been treated in a French field hospital aboard a ship off the coast of Egypt, its captain told Reuters news agency, providing care for some as health infrastructure in the war-devastated enclave collapses. The Dixmude, a French helicopter carrier, has been docked in the Egyptian port of al-Arish, 50 km (30 miles) west of the Gaza Strip, since November. The vessel is equipped with wards, operating theatres and 70 medical staff. Nearly 120 injured people have been hospitalised on board, while hundreds more have been seen for outpatient consultations, including follow-ups on injuries and psychiatric issues, said Captain Alexandre Blonce, calling it an unprecedented mission. The French LHD Dixmude military ship, which serves as a hospital to treat wounded Palestinians - KHALED DESOUKI/AFP via Getty Images Gazans have struggled to get medical care at home as tens of thousands have been wounded, with most of Gazas 36 hospitals no longer functioning, and those remaining operating at far over capacity, the World Health Organization says. 03:09 PM GMT Hamas says October 7 attacks were a 'necessary step Hamas has said its October 7 attack on Israel was a necessary step against Israeli occupation of the Palestinian territories. Publishing a 16-page report on the attacks, the group also said that some faults happened... due to the rapid collapse of the Israeli security and military system, and the chaos caused along the border areas with Gaza. The document, reported by news agency AFP, was the groups first public report released in English and Arabic justifying the attacks when they broke through Gazas militarised border. Their attacks resulted in the deaths of about 1,140 people, mostly civilians. Hamas said on Sunday that the attacks were a necessary step and a normal response to confront all Israeli conspiracies against the Palestinian people. The militants seized about 250 hostages during the attack. Israel says around 132 remain in Gaza, of whom at least 27 captives are believed to have been killed. Israels bombardment and ground offensive have since killed at least 25,105 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Hamas also urged the immediate halt of the Israeli aggression on Gaza, the crimes and ethnic cleansing committed against the entire Gaza population and rejected any international and Israeli efforts to decide Gazas post-war future. We stress that the Palestinian people have the capacity to decide their future and to arrange their internal affairs, the statement said, adding that no party in the world had the right to decide on their behalf. 01:58 PM GMT More on the strike in southern Lebanon One of those killed in the suspected drone strike in southern Lebanon was a Hezbollah terrorist from the VIP and Leaders Protection Unit, according to local media. Five more people are understood to be injured, with four being treated in hospital. 01:46 PM GMT Netanyahu's opposition to Palestinian state disappointing, says Shapps The UK said on Sunday that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus opposition to Palestinian sovereignty is disappointing. I think its disappointing actually, to hear that from the Israeli prime minister, said Defence Secretary Grant Shapps. His comments came after Netanyahu doubled down on his refusal of a Palestinian state. According to a spokesperson for the Israeli prime minister, he claimed in a call with Joe Biden that Israels security needs left no space for a sovereign Palestinian state. In his conversation with President Biden, prime minister Netanyahu reiterated his policy that, after Hamas is destroyed, Israel must retain security control over Gaza to ensure that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel, a requirement that contradicts the demand for Palestinian sovereignty, a statement from the Israeli prime ministers office said. Mr Shapps told BBC Ones Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg that a two-state solution was the only option. Palestinians deserve a sovereign state, Israel deserves to have the full ability to defend itself, its own security, he said. Unless you pursue a two-state solution, I really dont see that there is another solution. 01:18 PM GMT Two Hezbollah fighters killed Two Hezbollah fighters were killed on Sunday in a direct hit by an Israeli drone on their vehicle in southern Lebanon, security sources said. Their ranks were not revealed following the latest Israeli strike in southern Lebanon near the border with Israel that has targeted dozens of Hezbollah fighters in the area, security sources said. 12:49 PM GMT Pictured: French military ship serving as a hospital to treat wounded Palestinians A wounded Palestinian man onboard the French LHD Dixmude military ship which serves as a hospital - KHALED DESOUKI/AFP via Getty Images Military medical personnel work onboard the French LHD Dixmude military ship, which serves as a hospital to treat wounded Palestinians, as it docks at the Egyptian port of Al-Arish - KHALED DESOUKI/AFP via Getty Images 12:33 PM GMT At least two dead after suspected Israeli drone strike in southern Lebanon At least two people were killed and several others injured in a suspected Israeli drone strike on Sunday that targeted a car in southern Lebanon, security sources said. Ambulances rushed to the site near a Lebanese army checkpoint, and it was not clear who was targeted in the strike, residents and security sources said. 11:53 AM GMT Political leaders view Palestinian blood as 'cheap', says Humza Yousaf Humza Yousaf has accused political leaders of viewing Palestinian blood as cheap as he criticised a lack of support for citizens in Gaza. The Scottish First Minister has been outspoken in his calls for a ceasefire and more aid to the region amid the ongoing conflict with Israeli forces. He has regularly shared updates on his own familys situation, after his mother and father-in-law were trapped in Gaza while visiting family. They spent several weeks there with limited supplies before fleeing through the Rafah crossing into Egypt. His brother Mohammed, an emergency doctor, and his elderly grandmother remain in war-torn Gaza. Speaking on BBC Ones Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme, Mr Yousaf was asked if he believed people placed a different value on the lives of Muslims and Palestinians. He replied: Without a shadow of a doubt. You take to anybody who is Palestinian, people in the Muslim community, they feel that the Palestinian blood is very cheap. 11:35 AM GMT UN's Guterres condemns Israel for 'heartbreaking' killings in Gaza United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has denounced Israel for the heartbreaking deaths of Palestinian civilians in Gaza and called it unacceptable to resist statehood for the Palestinian people. Israels military operations have spread mass destruction and killed civilians on a scale unprecedented during my time as secretary-general, Mr Guterres said at the opening of a summit of the G77+China in the Ugandan capital Kampala. This is heartbreaking and utterly unacceptable. The Middle East is a tinder-box, we must do all we can to prevent conflict from igniting across the region. 11:08 AM GMT Israel approves plan for Palestinian tax funds to be held by third-party country Israels cabinet on Sunday approved a plan for frozen Palestinian tax funds to be held by a third-party country, and reserved the right to decide when the money will be transferred to the Palestinian Authority. Under interim peace accords, Israels finance ministry collects tax on behalf of the Palestinians and makes monthly transfers to the Palestinian Authority, which has limited self rule in the occupied West Bank, but there have been constant wrangles over the arrangement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the cabinet decision was supported by Norway and the United States, which will be a guarantor that the framework holds. 10:51 AM GMT January 21, in pictures Bodies are collected in Gaza - Ahmad Hasaballah/Getty Image A car that was destroyed by Israeli air strikes on January 21 in Rafah - Ahmad Hasaballah/Getty Images) Palestinians gather near the rubble of a house demolished by Israeli forces during a raid in Hebron city in the occupied West Bank - MOSAB SHAWER/AFP via Getty Images 10:24 AM GMT UK to upgrade anti-drone missiles used against Houthis Royal Navy missiles that have been used to shoot down Houthi drones in the Red Sea will be upgraded, the Government has said. Britains Ministry of Defence says it will spend 405 million pounds to upgrade the Sea Viper Air Defence system which has been used to shoot down hostile drones over the Red Sea. As the situation in the Middle East worsens, it is vital that we adapt to keep the UK, our allies and partners safe, UK Defense Minister Grant Shapps said. Upgraded missiles will feature a new warhead, while a software update will enable the system to counter ballistic missile threats. Yemens Houthis, backed by Iran, have been attacking ships in the Red Sea since November, purportedly in support of Gaza. This month, the US and British naval forces reacted by shooting down their drones and missiles. Read more 10:14 AM GMT Israel has killed 20-30 per cent of Hamas terrorists, says US sources Israeli security forces have killed 20-30 percent of Hamass terrorists in the Gaza Strip, US intelligence agencies estimate, reported by the Wall Street Journal. The toll falls short of Israels goal of destroying the group, and the US believes the terror group still has enough munitions to continue fighting Israeli forces for a number of months. Last week, the IDF said that more than 9,000 Hamas operatives and members of other terror groups have been killed by the IDF in the Gaza Strip since the beginning of the war, in addition to some 1,000 inside Israel on October 7. In 2021, a senior IDF commander said that Hamas was believed to have around 30,000 fighters. 10:03 AM GMT Shapps says two-state solution is only option Defence Secretary Grant Shapps said he believes there is no other solution to the Israel-Hamas conflict apart from a two-state solution. He told BBC Ones Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg: Palestinians deserve a sovereign state, Israel deserves to have the full ability to defend itself, its own security. Unless you pursue a two-state solution, I really dont see that there is another solution. Now, youll get a lot of different views within the Israeli government, of course, it is a rainbow coalition. So we very much distinguish between the views of individuals and our overall support for Israel as a country. Defence Secretary Grant Shapps appearing on the BBC1 current affairs programme, Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg - Jeff Overs/BBC 09:48 AM GMT Protest against Israeli exhibitors at jewellery fair turns violent in Italy Police clashed with pro-Palestine demonstrators protesting the presence of Israeli exhibitors at an international jewellery exhibition in Vicenza on Saturday. Hundreds of protestors had attended a planned march to oppose Israels inclusion at the Vicenzaoro fair, one of the biggest industry events in the gold and jewellery world. Footage of the unrest shows protestors firing smoke bombs and flares as the two groups police rammed against each other. Lines of officers wearing blue hard hats and carrying shields appeared to be trying to push the group back. Sirens could also be heard as a water cannon was fired at the crowd, with demonstrators attempting to take cover from the blast behind their signs. In other clips, police officers could be seen dragging a protester away and hitting him with a baton. Read more here. 09:31 AM GMT Death toll in Gaza reaches 25,105, says health ministry A total of 25,105 Palestinians have been killed and 62,681 have been injured in Israeli strikes on Gaza since Oct. 7, the Gaza health ministry said in a statement on Sunday. Some 178 Palestinians were killed and 293 injured in the past 24 hours, the ministry added. 09:24 AM GMT Israeli soldiers kill 15 Palestinian gunmen in north Gaza Israels military said on Sunday that its soldiers had killed 15 Palestinian gunmen during fighting in the northern Gaza Strip. In the southern Gaza city of Khan Yunis, where Israel has been increasing pressure on Hamas in recent weeks, the military said that snipers, backed by air support, had eliminated a number of terrorists. 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. Prince Harry and Meghan have likely extended an olive branch to royal family after a tumultuous few years - Chris Jackson The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have sent their best wishes to both the King and the Princess of Wales, it has emerged. Prince Harry and Meghan reportedly contacted both senior royals in different ways last week, as the Princess recovered from abdominal surgery and the King prepared to undergo treatment for an enlarged prostate. The move will be considered an olive branch as the couple seek to build bridges after a tumultuous few years in which relations with the Royal family have plummeted. A source told The Mirror: The King and the Princess of Wales have received support from Prince Harry and Meghan regarding their health. The Duke and Duchess contacted both parties in different ways to pass on their concern and best wishes. The King and Queen had been enjoying a New Year break on the Balmoral estate when Charles received his diagnosis last Wednesday. They flew back to England on Friday and are understood to have spent the weekend separately, the King at Sandringham and the Queen, 76, at her private home, Ray Mill House in Wiltshire. King Charles and other senior royals have reportedly cut contact since damaging revelations in Harry's book - CHRIS RADBURN/REUTERS The King did not attend church on the Sandringham estate on Sunday as he usually does when in residence. Buckingham Palace has declined to disclose when he will be admitted to hospital and where he will undergo treatment. The Kings Serjeant Surgeon is Ranan Dasgupta, a urological surgeon who specialises in specific forms of treatment for an enlarged prostate and works at several hospitals, including the London Clinic, where the Princess of Wales is recuperating. The Princess was admitted to the private hospital, in Marylebone, central London, last Tuesday before undergoing surgery. She is not expected to be discharged for another week. Neither Prince William nor their three children are thought to have visited her this weekend. Meanwhile, the Duke of Sussex appeared at a star-studded awards gala on Friday night, when he was honoured as a Living Legend of Aviation. Prince Harry, John Travolta, Lauren Sanchez and Jeff Bezos at the Living Legends of Aviation event - Instagram In a speech as he accepted the award, he appeared to ridicule host John Travolta by accusing him of dining out on the story of how he danced with his late mother, Diana, Princess of Wales. He described how flying had taught him the power of discipline, the power of patience, and beyond that, the power of trusting your gut. Asked about his first flight experience, he joked: I think I was maybe seven or eight years old. Wessex Helicopter. I jumped into it, very excited, and then my father jumped in behind me at the controls and I was terrified. The King graduated from RAF College Cranwell in 1971, receiving his flying badge, or wings. During his training he became the first heir to the throne to take part in a parachute jump, completing a further seven at RAF Brize Norton. 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. German Taurus Systems GmbH, the company that produces Taurus cruise missiles, is ready to swiftly replenish missile stocks for Ukraine, German broadcaster Deutsche Welle said on Jan. 20. The company flatly refuted German Social Democratic Party and Defense Committee MP Johannes Arlts claims that the German defense industry could not rapidly replenish missile stocks. Read also: Berlin decries Russian strikes on Ukraine, but Scholz still opposes supplying Taurus missiles to Kyiv "We can push forward the production of new Taurus missiles, platform integration, and the overhaul of inventory at short notice, said Taurus Systems CEO, Joachim Knopf, according to MBDA Deutschland missile systems company on X (Twitter) on Jan. 19. The only prerequisite is that the customer has commissioned it." MBDA, to which Taurus Systems belongs, stated in November 2023 that it was able to rapidly increase Taurus missile production and integrate new technical advances, according to DW. Read also: German parliament to vote again on long-range Taurus missile transfer to UA likely by Feb. 22 The German Bundestag rejected a proposal on Jan. 17 to supply Ukraine with Taurus cruise missiles. Only 178 MPs voted in favor, with 485 voting against. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, during a visit to Kyiv in November 2023, told journalists that Ukraine would not receive the missiles from his country. These delays may be attributable to the hesitance of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who has expressed concern that Kyiv might use Taurus missiles to attack Russian territory. The German government condemned Russian strikes on Ukrainian territory on Jan. 3, calling them a war crime. However, a representative from the German government, Steffen Hebestreit, said that the country was still not ready to provide Taurus missiles. Read also: German opposition seeks Bundestag vote on supplying Taurus missiles to Ukraine NV 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 Shift feared to create security vacuum ahead of elections The understaffed police force and their seemingly limited experience in counterespionage investigations are becoming potential issues, as the police have assumed investigative authority for potential violations of the National Security Law from the National Intelligence Service (NIS). The transfer of jurisdiction took effect on Jan. 1, prompting concerns about whether the police are adequately prepared to effectively trace and apprehend espionage suspects, particularly in addressing security threats leading up to the April 10 elections. According to the Dong-A Ilbo newspaper, the number of individuals suspected of involvement in the spy ring case widely known as "Jatong" exceeds 70. However, the total number of police investigators assigned to the case is only 20. "Jatong" is an abbreviation of the Korean name of the Self-Reliant Peoples Liberation Front, an underground group started in 2016 in Changwon, South Gyeongsang Province. Prosecutors indicted four South Koreans in March last year on charges of founding the underground group, which was accused of taking directives from and working for North Korea. The four individuals are accused of recruiting over 70 South Koreans to work for the pro-North group under the guise of a grassroots fundraising organization. They were apprehended by NIS agents while in the process of establishing similar pro-North groups in 68 locations across the nation. The espionage case was transferred to the police this year as the revised National Intelligence Service Law came into effect in January, more than three years after it was approved by the National Assembly. The Democratic Party of Korea (DPK), which was the ruling party at the time, advocated a revision bill aimed at removing the intelligence agency's authority to investigate counterespionage cases. The DPK argued that rewriting the law was necessary to prevent alleged abuse of power by the NIS, including intervention in domestic politics and human rights violations. The police increased the number of staff responsible for handling espionage cases by 75 percent from the previous level. Despite this effort, there are allegations that the police force remains understaffed for the task at hand. The personnel shortage is not surprising. Counterespionage investigations are known to be time-consuming and labor-intensive. Historically, it's been reported that over 20 NIS agents were assigned to investigate a single spy suspect, which took several years of surveillance each time. The police's lack of experience in conducting spy investigations poses an additional barrier, making the jurisdiction transfer an uphill battle. Historically, the police played a limited role in espionage investigations, with the NIS taking the lead in such cases. The role of police officers had been predominantly supportive in nature. The transfer of jurisdiction was implemented with less than four months remaining before the April 10 general elections, in which 300 National Assembly seats are at stake. The timing of the jurisdiction transfer is sensitive, and there is increasing skepticism about whether the ill-prepared police can conduct espionage investigations effectively amid North Korea's escalating efforts to influence and interfere in the upcoming elections. Cyberattacks and social media campaigns, commonly employed tactics by North Korea, pose significant challenges and are likely to be used to influence election results in its favor. In a report released on Jan. 12, Ko Jae-hong, a senior research fellow at the Institute for National Security Studies, said North Korea has good reason to attempt to intervene in South Koreas elections. The DPKs winning of 180 parliamentary seats in the 2020 elections and what happened afterwards show why the North will want to go for it, he said in the report. After the election, the National Assembly approved the bill calling for a ban on sending anti-North Korea propaganda leaflets to the North (thanks to the DPK members overwhelming support for the bill). The leaflets, launched by North Korean defectors, irked the isolated state's leader Kim Jong-un, who reportedly feared the possible effect the propaganda materials could have in inciting the public to stand up to him. Cho Tae-yong, the new NIS director, said a security vacuum would be inevitable. "North Korea no longer sends spies to the South, he said during a National Assembly confirmation hearing held on Jan. 11. "Most espionage activities are now initiated domestically, with North Korean agents recruiting South Korean nationals to work for the North," he noted, claiming the NIS is better prepared than police to curb security threats under the changing environment. The seemingly inappropriate jurisdiction transfer appears to be causing more harm than good. As Cho noted, it is likely to fuel increasing anxiety over the potential security vacuum, particularly in the lead-up to the crucial general elections. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un may be tempted to intervene further in domestic politics by taking advantage of the perceived inexperience of the investigators. Lawmakers, particularly members of the DPK, should have given more thought to who would benefit most from the bill before passing it. Now, there is a need to take proper measures to prevent potential fallout from the new bill and seriously reconsider the decision if possible. A teen is in custody after a shootout in Beechview. Allegheny County dispatchers say emergency crews were called to Hampshire Avenue and Rutherford Avenue at 3:32 p.m. on Saturday. Pittsburgh Police say the incident began after a 17-year-old boy, identified in court documents as Marcus Glass, stole a tip jar from the taco stand at Las Palmas on the 1600 block of Broadway Avenue. He ran out of the store and police say he began shooting at employees who chased after him. The employees then shot back. No one was injured during the exchange. After responding to calls about the gunfire, police set up a perimeter in the area and officers began looking for Glass. Glass was caught after a K9 found him in the 1600 block of Belasco Avenue. He was taken to a hospital to be medically cleared. Once released from the hospital, police interviewed Glass. According to a criminal complaint, he told police his friend recently died, and he was looking for a way to make money quickly. He admitted to robbing Las Palmas of a tip jar. A gun was also found by a second K9 while police were searching for Glass. The complaint states the gun was reported stolen out of Swissvale in April. Glass is facing over a dozen charges, including aggravated assault, recklessly endangering another person and robbery. He is being held at the Allegheny County Jail without bond awaiting a preliminary hearing. Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW TRENDING NOW: 5 firefighters hurt while battling 5-alarm fire in Homestead Man killed, 3 others hurt in early morning Coraopolis shooting 4 people charged in connection with fraud ring targeted customers of Sewickley bank, police say VIDEO: Kids of beloved Lower Burrell pub owner shot, killed in December plan to reopen bar DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts Over a thousand people gather for a rally against right-wing extremism in front of the town hall. An alliance of trade unions, political parties and other organizations called for the demonstration under the slogan "Demo against the right - No footing for fascism". Andreas Arnold/dpa Following a day full of mass protests, tens of thousands of people are again expected to take to Germany's streets on Sunday to rally against the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party and its anti-immigrant stance. Police in Munich are expecting up to 25,000 participants while organizers of a rally in Cologne put the number of estimated demonstrators at some 10,000. Further protests are expected in several German cities, including Cottbus, Dresden and Chemnitz in the east. But the largest protest is likely to be in the capital Berlin, where an alliance of different organizations has called on people to gather in front of the Bundestag, or lower house of parliament, from 4 pm (1500 GMT). While police are only expecting 1,000 participants, past demonstrations have far exceeded initial estimates and Berlin is home to a very active protest scene. Germany has been swept by protests for over a week following the release of an investigative report which revealed that AfD members had attended a meeting of far-right extremists in November. At the meeting in Potsdam outside Berlin, participants discussed plans to repatriate asylum seekers and migrants deemed not assimilated enough, even those with German passports. The report by investigative outlet Correctiv published on January 10 has caused an uproar in Germany, where there is mounting dread among mainstream political parties about the surge in public support for the AfD. The party is riding high in the polls of three former East German states that hold regional elections later this year. At the Potsdam meeting, far-right extremists discussed topics like "remigration," a term frequently used in far-right circles as a euphemism for the expulsion of immigrants and minorities. Anti-AfD demonstrations have already drawn huge numbers of people. At least 300,000 people joined protests on Saturday, according to counts by the police and organizers, with roughly 35,000 people attending rallies in Frankfurt and Hanover alone. Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck has called the demonstrations as an encouraging sign for democracy. "Democracy lives from the people who stand up for it," Habeck told the Augsburger Allgemeine newspaper. Katrin Goring-Eckardt, a senior Green Party lawmaker from the eastern state of Thuringia, wrote on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday night that she was particularly pleased with the crowds in parts of the former East Germany, such as Leipzig, Erfurt and Dresden. "Everywhere in the East, people are on the streets for the democracy we fought for in 1989," she wrote. "Encouraging!" Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, speaking at a conference of her Green Party on Sunday, said "we must stand up for democracy with all our strength." She praised the growing protest against the far-right, especially in Germany's smaller and medium-sized cities. "That is the strength of our country," said Baerbock. Thousands demonstrate against right-wing extremism on the market square in Bremen. The demonstrations are a reaction to research by the media collective "Correctiv", which uncovered that radical right-wing circles had met with AfD officials and a leading head of the far-right Identitarian Movement in Potsdam in November 2023. Carmen Jaspersen/dpa DENVER When elementary school teacher Kristine Wussow began hearing about migrants being bused to her city by Texas with no support, she rushed to collect donations. On a recent day in January, Wussow, 50, and other volunteers handed out clothing, cookies and homemade baked ziti to Venezuelan migrants staying at a hotel-turned-shelter on the citys east side. Her heart broke, she said, seeing families living in tents in the cold. But she also worried whether the local generosity would dry up. When I reached out to my neighborhood, people poured out help. But if these folks were living in our actual neighborhood? I can see how that would be different," she said. "One woman who lives here in this neighborhood, she told us her neighbors are angry. They dont want to help." While Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, promote hard-line border policies in stump speeches and news conferences, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has effectively exported the border and all the problems that come with it to America's backyards. Americans who once watched humanitarian crises with pity or disdain from afar now are seeing it close up. A woman who boarded a bus for migrants in Texas helps a child after being dropped off within view of the US Capitol building in Washington, D.C. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has ordered buses to carry thousands of migrants from Texas to Democrat-led cities to highlight criticisms of President Joe Biden's border policy. More than half of Americans in a recent USA TODAY/Suffolk Poll this month said they support the idea of sending troops to the southern border and ordering the mass deportation of illegal immigrants. Only 43% said they opposed both, and 4% were undecided. Abbott's controversial migrant busing program crossed a threshold this month: Operation Lone Star has bused more than 100,000 migrants from the Texas border to Washington, New York, Chicago, Denver, Philadelphia and Los Angeles. Democratic leaders of the cities Abbott has targeted are pushing back against what they say are his cruel tactics. But theyre also complaining about too many immigrants arriving in their communities. Last Sunday, Illinois Gov. JB Prizker took out a full-page ad in the Austin-American Statesman pleading for Abbott to temporarily halt the migrant busing, noting the cold weather blanketing the nation. "This is not sustainable," Denver Mayor Mike Johnston said a few days earlier, noting that his city was now spending 10% of its annual budget on emergency housing and other migrant services. "Gov. Abbott has made it clear he wants to destabilize cities, sending thousands of migrants and asylum seekers here," said New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who recently sued the bus companies that have been delivering migrants to his city's doorstep. Meanwhile, the buses have kept coming. "You can applaud Abbott for having won the narrative war," said Muzaffar Chishti, senior fellow at the nonpartisan Migration Policy Institute. "He opened these salvos and he has had the last word. But he doesnt deserve a standing ovation. He is doing it for politics." Border problems in Texas Abbott contends Texas is engaging in a "historic border security effort" and shouldn't bear the full cost of assisting migrants, even as the state spends millions of dollars on the busing program. His press office didnt respond to an emailed request for comment. To make his point, he has pushed the bar for hard-line tactics at the border to extremes and has made Texas the go-to state for Republicans hoping to burnish their border security credentials in an election year. Abbott recently told a conservative talk radio host that Texas is "using every tool" from building border barriers to enacting a state law making it a crime to cross the Texas-Mexico border illegally. "The only thing that we're not doing is we're not shooting people who come across the border, because, of course, the Biden administration would charge us with murder," Abbott told the host. The three-term Republican governor later said no one should misconstrue his remarks to mean that migrants trying to cross the Rio Grande should be shot. Read more Mexican family's death at border looms over ongoing Justice Department standoff with Texas This month, House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., held a news conference in Eagle Pass, Texas, flanked by more than 60 Republican members of Congress. Out-of-state sheriffs have been loaning their deputies to patrol Texas border counties. The governors of at least 14 states including those crucial to the 2024 presidential election such as Florida, Iowa, Ohio and South Carolina have sent Texas their personnel and resources or deployed their own National Guard troops to Texas. Federal and Texas officials are locked in a legal dispute about who has jurisdiction over border territories and how much leeway the state has to deter migrants. The federal government went to court last summer to stop the state from placing buoys in the Rio Grande, and the two have been legally sparring ever since. Buoys set on the international boundary between Mexico and the U.S. were placed by the State of Texas on the Rio Grande as a measure to prevent migrants seeking asylum from crossing into Eagle Pass, Texas from Piedras, Negras, Coahuila, Mexico. In this drone photo Eagle Pass, Texas is on the left side of the frame looking east downriver. In the latest disagreement, federal officials accused the state of blocking its access to a park where it had set up a staging area to search for migrants, which contributed to the deaths this month of a woman and two children who drowned while trying to cross the river. Delivering busloads of migrants without a heads-up Domingo Garcia was in Washington, D.C., for a meeting in September 2022 when he got a call that two buses chartered by Texas had left dozens of migrants near the home of Vice President Kamala Harris. He and his staff at the League of United Latin American Citizens, the nation's oldest and largest Latino civil rights organization, rushed to the neighborhood to find more than 100 men, women and children huddled on the sidewalk, disoriented. They had no food, no money. It was such a cruel political act," said Garcia, president of the organization. At the time, Abbott said he deliberately orchestrated the drop-off to provoke a response from the administration and pledged to continue sending buses "until President Biden and Border Czar Harris step up and do their jobs to secure the border." Migrants who boarded a bus in Texas are dropped off within view of the US Capitol building in Washington, D.C. Texas border communities were then struggling to shelter thousands of Venezuelan migrants who unlike many other migrant groups with ties to friends and family were arriving without resources or a sponsor in the U.S. Border nonprofits have traditionally helped move migrants to cities across the U.S. by organizing directly with churches and shelters without creating humanitarian disasters. But the governors decision early on to deliver buses to the Fox News headquarters in New York and to the Harris residence in Washington drew criticism for political grandstanding, as did his unwillingness to give a heads-up about the arrivals to the mayors of the Democrat-led cities he targeted. In Denver, where officials say they've received 2 times the number of migrants per capita overall than any other receiving city, the mayor projects spending 10% of the entire annual budget aiding migrants this year. Migrants carrying their belongings walk though an illegal tent encampment as city officials close it down in Denver, Colorado on Jan. 3. About 36,000 migrants have arrived in Denver over the past year; Abbott's Operation Lone Star transported about 15,700 of them, according to Texas data. Juan Carlo Pioltelli, 32, arrived from El Paso, Texas, in December with his partner and their daughter and lived in an illegal encampment for a week. When you come here, you want the American dream, said Pioltelli, a Peruvian migrant who said he was uncertain who paid for their 600-mile bus trip.The guards in Texas told me that you can go to Denver and it would be good, but when we got here it was different, he said, shivering in the below-freezing air. All these people, all we want is to work. In order to work, though, the migrants must receive federal permits. Pioltelli and his family came without work permission or the contacts other more established immigrant groups have historically relied on to get jobs. Denver city officials earlier this month evicted about 300 migrants living in an unsanctioned tent city near downtown. But on the same day they relocated those migrants to more adequate shelter, another 300 arrived on buses from the border. Two buses transporting migrants from Texas arrive at Union Station in Washington, D.C. "If they arrive and are here for three months or six months or two years and can never work, we're going to need endless amounts of federal support for those individuals," Johnston said. And not only do they not want that, we don't want that. They just want to support themselves." Federal officials have been trying to speed the process of granting work authorization to migrants, who sometimes have to wait up to five years for a hearing to determine whether they can remain in the United States. Late last year, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services reported it had granted about 5,000 temporary work authorizations in about four months. Lacking money and resources, many of the migrants have been living in illegal, unsanitary tent cities like the one Pioltelli lived in for a week. Johnston called for the nation's 100 largest cities to develop a system to accept, process and assist migrants similar to the comprehensive federal system used for refugees from Syria and Somalia. Taking their disputes to court New York City has had the most enduring public fight with Abbott over the state's migrant busing operation. Three-year-old Moises, the son of Kristian Gonzalez Perez and Katiuska Leal Moreno, looks out the window as his bus gets ready to head out to New York City from the Migrant Welcome Center in El Paso, Texas. With the densest population in the U.S. and overseeing the largest number of migrants bused by Texas, Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine said hes proud that New Yorkers have done their best to provide for migrants despite receiving little support from the federal government. But, Levine, a Democrat, said New York has placed more than 68,000 in some sort of shelter, including 20,000 Manhattan hotel rooms. You know the saying, As New York goes, so goes the country,' Levine said. But we are fending for ourselves as more migrants are arriving and staying in shelters than leaving. This is going to weigh heavily on voters' minds. Democrats try to reshape the political narrative Rafael Collazo, executive director of the UnidosUS Action Fund, a Latino advocacy group, said Democrats need to counter narratives that immigrants are a cause of the nations economic and cultural problems. It only becomes a winning issue for a right-wing agenda if we allow that and their rhetoric goes unchecked, Collazo said. He said Democrats and advocates arent pushing aggressively enough to accuse Abbott of using people as political pawns. Some of the shenanigans are working for them in the moment as it relates to dealing with their real hardcore MAGA base, Collazo said. But it's still a very open question if it'll work for them in a general election. Meanwhile, Collazo said, local organizations providing support to migrants are frustrated because they dont have enough resources. This is work that theyre built to do," he said, but they are feeling the same strain as local governments. Collazo said its incumbent upon Democrats to have the courage to be honest with the American people and say the source of your economic stress is not undocumented refugees that are seeking asylum. The country's population would shrink in 2024 if it weren't for immigration, according to the Census Bureau. Economists say population growth is essential to grow the economy and shore up a labor market that has nearly 9 million reported job openings, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Many immigrants rights were established during the civil rights era, when leaders tried to establish a more fair and less racist immigration system, said U.S. Rep. Greg Casar, a Democrat from Texas. Those need to be improved now, but the country shouldn't go back to the days of scapegoating immigrants, he said. It's the oldest trick in the book to essentially blame our problems on the poor or the sick or those folks that are fleeing violence or those people that don't have a right to vote, Casar said. Casar said Abbott's approach, which he compared to that of George Wallace, a former Alabama governor and 1960s segregationist, could spark a backlash in an increasingly diverse Texas. "I think by trying to play to his mostly anti-immigrant base, I think Greg Abbott will still continue to accelerate political problems for himself. People as political pawns? Two years after the dropoff "stunt" at the Harris residence in Washington, Garcia, from the League of United Latin American Citizens, said Abbott's tactics still stand out. He said he hadnt seen such ploys in his 50 years of civil rights work, particularly where a politician would use refugees, Christians as political pinatas to be bashed and used and thrown away like what we're seeing with this group of Republican leaders. You would think that somebody at their church would tell them, 'This is not what Jesus would do," he said. Garcia complained that both sides have fallen short on addressing the problem, saying Democrats need to establish a legalization process. The campaign team and the administration have kind of been asleep at the wheel as the humanitarian immigration crisis has continued to build over the course of the last year, he said. And unfortunately, the Republicans have turned a humanitarian crisis into an opportunity for fearmongering, scapegoating and creating a whole presidential campaign over the fear of the other. Wussow, the Denver school teacher, said she worries the influx of migrants, and the challenges they're placing on local services, could harden the hearts of independent voters who now cannot avoid seeing the problem firsthand. Im going to be optimistic and hope that people will see these are all humans with needs, and hope for the best." A sign shows support for migrants being evicted from an illegal encampment in Denver. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Exporting the border: Texas Gov. Abbott reshapes immigration debate They say the identities of the Pioneer Press Treasure Hunt clue writers are the best-kept secret in St. Paul. But tracking down the life stories of the medallions those writers hid during the hunts early decades has proven to be nearly as intractable and has led to a historic reunion for the Pioneer Press. Earlier this month, an item believed to be an original treasure hunt medallion that was hidden in a majority of hunts between 1958 and 1987 popped up for sale on eBay. The initial asking price? $66,000. And on Jan. 16, former Pioneer Press promotions manager Diane Moser, who helped run the treasure hunt for nearly two decades between the 1970s and 1990s, donated another original medallion back to the Pioneer Press as a result of this reporting. This may be the first time in 25 or more years that the Pioneer Press is officially in possession of any of the six original bronze treasure hunt medallions. I saw this and just about fell off my chair, said Bill Gough, about the eBay listing. Gough found the hidden medallion as a college student in 1977, and he never expected to see the coin again after handing it over to the paper in exchange for a $1,500 prize, he said. Comparing nicks and blemishes on the eBay medallion to an archival photo, both Gough and devoted treasure hunter Jake Ingebrigtson, who have met with the sellers representative and have seen the medallion in person, are all but certain its the exact coin that was unearthed in a cigar box at Irvine Park 47 years ago. A representative for the anonymous seller said the medallion had been purchased by someone in Texas approximately a decade ago, for $10, at a flea market there. That person then gave the medallion to the seller as a gift. The representative said neither he, the seller, nor the person in Texas knows how the medallion ended up there. The representative declined to make the seller available for an interview, and the Pioneer Press was unable to independently identify the seller. Both the seller and his representative live in or near St. Paul, though neither is particularly familiar with the treasure hunt. This reporter met with the representative and examined the medallion in person in January. The eBay listing has raised a similar question among treasure hunters and newspaper employees alike: Wait the Pioneer Press is not still in possession of our original medallions? Whered they all go? No, evidently, were not. And we dont exactly know. Until now. Sort of. Medallion mystery Unraveling the medallion mystery feels like a wintertime treasure hunt in itself. The St. Paul Dispatch started the treasure hunt in 1952 by hiding a slip of paper in a small wooden toy chest. They did not commission medallions until a few years later, once the hunt had proven its popularity. In 1958, the papers promotions illustrator Roman Baltes sketched out a design, which hunt organizer Marshall Genshow gave to the now-defunct Carnes Stamp Co. There, as metalworker Frank Martin explained in the documentary No Time for Cold Feet, he cast six medallions: Five, he delivered to the newspaper, and one, he kept for himself. The medallions were in use until 1987, when hunt organizers switched from bronze to plastic medallions to stop hunters from using metal detectors, treasure hunt historian Jesse Anibas said. And winners were expected to immediately return the metal token to the newspaper, so it could be reused the next year. While modern plastic medallions are occasionally given as gifts to clue writers and hunt winners, the original set of five medallions was not intended to leave the Pioneer Press ownership. However, the medallions appear to have all vanished by at least the mid-1990s, according to conversations with more than a dozen former Pioneer Press employees, many of whom were either directly involved with or adjacent to the treasure hunt. So what happened? In the mid-1970s, the treasure hunts early leaders, Marshall and Ethel Genshow and Bob and Yvonne Momsen, passed the responsibility of hiding the medallion and writing cryptic clues to a new group of leaders: Bill Schneider and Jack and Diane Moser. Each of them except Diane Moser has since passed away. Others involved in hunts past, like Jim Ragsdale, have also died. By that changing of the guard, Diane Moser believes the Pioneer Press only had two medallions left, she said. In fact, Moser was surprised to learn just this month that the metalworker said five medallions not two had initially been given to the paper. How those three medallions went missing much earlier remains unclear. When Jack Moser retired in 1990, he took home a backup metal medallion that hadnt actually been hidden in several decades, Diane Moser said. Its not unexpected, former staff recalled, that committed employees would keep obsolete newspaper memorabilia. This is the medallion that Diane Moser elected to give to the Pioneer Press. The second medallion in the newspapers hands during the Moser era was the primary one, which she said was used for at least every hunt under her purview until 1987, if not many more before her. This would therefore be the coin Gough found in 1977, which he believes is the same medallion as is currently listed on eBay. As for the others: Ingebrigtson, a longtime hunter and two-time finder, owns a medallion he believes to be a third original one. Gough said a friend owns what could be the fourth; that person did not agree to an interview. The fifth medallions whereabouts remain unknown. The sixth medallion was kept by Martin, as the metalworker attested in a notarized 2006 affidavit reviewed by the Pioneer Press. It still remains with the family, as confirmed by a close relative who requested their privacy be protected. When Diane Moser retired in 1991, she left the primary medallion in her desk drawer so it could stay with the paper. But a series of shorter-tenured staffers subsequently took over Mosers desk, said former research director Jeanine Pearson, who worked at the paper from 1977 to 2012. If any of them noticed the medallion or kept it they didnt speak up, she said. As promotions department leadership changed somewhat frequently in the early to mid-90s, the coordination of the hunts logistics was a bit unstable, former employees said. By the time the late columnist Don Boxmeyer and architecture critic Larry Millett were tapped to write clues in 1994, the medallion was likely gone. I dont recall ever seeing it, said Millett, who hid the medallion with Boxmeyer until 2001 and retired in 2002. Thats not to say it wasnt there, but I dont recall seeing it. But newspapers arent very good at hanging on to stuff. Its not our strong suit. Current treasure hunt coordinator Lori Swanson said shes not aware of any bronze medallions being in the Pioneer Press hands during her tenure, which began in 2000. She does possess what she understands to be a set of letterpress blocks that match the bronze medallions design. Besides the medallions murky disappearance, how it ended up making a surprise reappearance some 20 years later in Texas is also still a mystery. Many longstanding or senior employees across nearly all departments in the 1990s have each said they do not remember seeing the medallion nor hearing discussions about where it went. Kathy Boxmeyer, Don Boxmeyers widow, said she doesnt believe her husband knew the whereabouts of any metal medallions when he was running the hunt, either. As of Jan. 20, the medallions listing on eBay is still active, and offers are being considered. As the sellers representative learned more about the treasure hunt and got to know Ingebrigtson and Gough, he became convinced the medallion should stay in St. Paul. He persuaded the seller to entertain lower offers in order that the medallion might be sold to someone local, rather than going to a high-rolling collector on the other side of the globe. The representative and the seller are currently evaluating a credible offer for $10,000, he said. Its important to stay here. Its too meaningful to the city, he said. And to fill in the missing details of the whereabouts of the other medallions, former Pioneer Press research director Pearson tossed out one final idea with a laugh: Do you know any good mediums? Related Articles Kyiv's law enforcement agencies have identified the individuals who broke into the home of investigative journalist Yurii Nikolov in order to impede his professional duties. Source: Kyiv City Prosecutor's Office on Telegram Details: According to reports, a group of people arrived at the journalist's home, broke through the door, and attempted to intimidate him, filming the incident on mobile phones. They turned out to be from Kyiv, Zhytomyr, and Cherkasy oblasts. Police conducted searches of their homes and seized material evidence, including computer equipment and mobile phones. Photo: Kyiv City Prosecutor's Office Investigative actions against the offenders continue, and the issue of notifying them of suspicion is being considered. Law enforcement officers are now investigating the circumstances and motivations behind their actions. Background: Yurii Nikolov, an investigative journalist, claimed that on 14 January, unknown people broke into his house in an attempt to intimidate him. Anonymous Telegram channels posted a video of men knocking on his apartment door and threatening him. Kyiv police said they had begun investigating reports of threats against the journalist. Support UP or become our patron! The victims were enjoying a night out in Leicester Square when they were overheard 'speaking Hebrew' - Getty Images Three people were attacked in Leicester Square, London, for being Jewish in the early hours of Sunday morning after they were overheard speaking Hebrew. The three victims, all in their twenties, were enjoying a night out when they were attacked by a group of men. A 28-year-old woman, Tehilla, told The Telegraph she was physically attacked and called the Metropolitan Police 10 times afraid she was going to die but that police did not attend. She was out with two male friends, both 25, who it is understood suffered blows to the head. The group were heading towards a nightclub when they were accosted for speaking in Hebrew but they walked away because they wanted to stay out of trouble. They were later threatened around 2am by people swearing in Arabic. They heard us talking and said, are you Jewish? Tehilla, who has lived in London since she was 13, told The Telegraph. I said yes, Im Jewish, and then they started chanting Free Palestine, and f--- Jews, all this kind of swearing at us. So we just tried not to get into trouble, to walk away, but they started following us and then all of a sudden, it started with like two or three guys, and all of a sudden, they called all their friends and 15 to 20 guys started attacking us physically. She said she had tried to intervene but they started attacking me as well. Police dont really care I hurt my leg, they punched me in the neck, she said. I tried to run away and I called the police so many times, at least 10 times and I kept crying to them, Im a girl, theres a group of guys attacking me and my friends because Im Jewish, please can you come, Im scared Im going to die. They dont really care. They kept saying Im sorry, it takes some time, you are not the only one that called tonight, she said, adding that she never thought this would happen in London. Its understood the police attended the scene 28 minutes after being called. They arrived at Tehillas house around 6pm on Sunday, some 16 hours after the first call, and are treating the incident as a hate crime. The Community Security Trust, a charity to support and protect Jewish people in Britain, said it would be raising the handling of the incident with the police. This appalling incident was reported to CSTs 24/7 control centre last night and we are in contact with the victims, a spokesman said. We will be raising it with the police and will provide ongoing support to the victims. A friend of the victims who wished to remain anonymous said they visited them at the hospital in North London where they were for a few hours and that the police never showed up despite claiming they would. We believe theres a two-tier police situation. The police are not tackling the weekly hate marches, they are not tackling anti-Semitism, they told The Telegraph. The feeling for the Jewish community is that the leadership of the police, the Government do not care about us, they added. The climate is very, very distressing for the British Jewish community. Det Supt Lucy OConnor said: We are investigating this incident as an anti-Semitic hate crime. I know how upsetting such inexcusable violence is for anyone who was injured or who witnessed the incident, and also for the wider community. I share their concerns. Officers arrived at the scene some 28 minutes after they were called. Of course, I wish we could have come to their aid sooner. The police investigation will now focus on speaking with the woman and any other victims or witnesses, as well as following up all lines of enquiry including analysis of CCTV. I urge any witnesses to get in touch. I can assure Londoners, tackling anti-Semitic crime is a priority for the Met. There is no place for hate in our city. A police spokesman said officers were called at 1.37am on Sunday 21 January to a woman assaulted in the area of Leicester Square and said the caller stated that she did not require an ambulance. Officers attended the location, arriving shortly after 2am, at which point all parties had left the scene. We understand that a woman subsequently attended hospital for treatment, the spokesman said. The incident is being treated as a hate crime. Officers will speak with the victim to take a statement and identify any other victims and witnesses. 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. Three people suffered serious injuries after a head-on collision in Pelham, New Hampshire Saturday morning. Members of the Pelham Police and Fire Departments responded to Sherburne Road near the Cutter Woods Conservation Area around 10:55 a.m. An initial investigation revealed an Infiniti G35 as traveling west when it crossed over the center line, striking a Honda CRV head-on. The driver of the Infiniti was med-flighted to New Hampshire to be treated for their serious but non-life-threatening injuries. A passenger inside the Infiniti was transported via ambulance for non-life-threatening injuries. The Honda driver was also transported for serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Sherburne Road was closed for approximately four and a half hours because of the crash. The Pelham Police Department would like to thank the Dracut MA Police Department, Hudson NH Police Department, Windham NH Police Department, and New Hampshire DOT for assisting with this crash and investigation, the Pelham Police Department said in a statement. Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts. Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW WASHINGTON (DC News Now) The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) said three teenage boys were arrested after assaulting and carjacking a rideshare driver in Southeast D.C. on Saturday afternoon. Police said that at about 5:20 p.m., the victim, who is a rideshare driver, picked up the three teens at South Capitol Street and Southern Ave. Southwest. The teens told the driver to take them to an alley in the area of Horner Place and Wilmington Place in Southeast. One of the teens then pulled out a gun and demanded the victims car keys. When the victim refused, the teens assaulted the victim, took the victims car and then left the scene in the victims car. DC police arrest two suspects for robbing church Police were able to arrest the teens and recover the and the victims car. The victim was taken to the hospital for treatment. MPD arrested and charged a 15-year-old juvenile male from Southeast D.C. with Armed Carjacking and Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle. Police also arrested and charged a 14-year-old juvenile male, of Hyattsville, Md., and a 15-year-old juvenile male, of Greenbelt, Md. with Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle. Anyone with information is encouraged to call police at (202) 727-9099 or text your tip to the Departments TEXT TIP LINE at 50411. MPD currently offers a reward of up to $10,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for a violent crime committed in the District of Columbia. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Ms Phillips said a TikTok campaign was needed because that is where most people under the age of 40 in her constituency talk to each other - Andrew Crowley A TikTok campaign is needed to boost uptake of the MMR vaccine amid the ongoing measles outbreak, Birmingham MP Jess Phillips has said. Cases of measles have soared across the West Midlands in recent months to their highest level since the 1990s, with 216 confirmed cases since October 1, and a further 103 probable cases, officials have said. Almost four in five cases have come in Birmingham, although the majority of the West Midlands has been affected by the outbreak. The city has among the lowest vaccination rates in the country, however, with just 75 per cent of people having had both doses of the jab. TikTok campaign needed Ms Phillips, the Labour MP for Birmingham Yardley, said a TikTok campaign was needed because that is where most people under the age of 40 in her constituency talk to each other, especially those with children. [Its] really really concerning, especially when you consider the evidence about [measles] being in more vulnerable communities, communities that already suffer poorer health outcomes, she told the BBC. We really have got to understand why this has happened so we can do everything we possibly can to get the messaging right [and] make sure there are the healthcare professionals in the community to go out so that the questions can be answered. She said that fake, anti-vaxxer sentiment was spreading online quicker than the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) was issuing advice and needed to be tackled. I think its criminal when people spread that fake news because its hurting people, its harming people, she said. Frankly those people should be held to task and account for essentially causing illness in these areas. Vaccination rates well below Dame Jenny Harries, the chief executive of UKHSA, said vaccination rates were well below what is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), which targets 95 per cent of the population having both doses of the vaccine. Currently, this stands at just under 85 per cent for England, but is much lower in Birmingham and parts of London, where outbreaks have occurred, as well as other cities, like Nottingham, Manchester and Liverpool. UKHSA has called on the public to get up to date with their vaccines and ask a trusted healthcare professional about any questions or concerns they have. Ms Phillips said this was hard to do for most people these days. I think a huge effort needs to be put in to make sure this is abated at 216 cases. She said both her children were vaccinated. Its not just a good parenting decision, its a good community decision because there are some people who cannot take the vaccine because they are ill, so I personally think it is a good parenting decision. Not sure enough being done Mark Pawsey, Conservative MP for Rugby, told BBC he was not sure enough was being done to tackle the outbreak and that people were very casual about taking the vaccine. I think part of the issue is because it hasnt been around for so long, I think my generation of people do understand the concerns because our parents knew exactly how severe this was. It hasnt been around for a long time and I think thats made people very casual about taking the MMR vaccine. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer. Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) signaled Sunday he was open to serving as former President Trumps vice presidential running mate days after he put his full endorsement behind the former chief executive in the 2024 race for the White House. Scott who ended his own presidential bid in November was asked about chants for Scott to serve as Trumps VP during a rally in New Hampshire on Friday when Scott formally endorsed Trump. The only thing I want is four more years of Donald Trump and a Republican majority in the Senate, a majority in the House and the White House, so that poor kids who are today growing up in neighborhoods like I grew up in, have a chance for a quality education. I want kids to look to their future and believe that America is their oyster, Scott told CNNs Dana Bash when asked on State of the Union if he wants to be Trumps running mate. Thats what I really want, he continued. And if I can help achieve that through my endorsement by being on the campaign trail in my home state of South Carolina for the next four or five weeks, and then beyond, thats the goal. If you dont think about yourself, but think about the country first, well be in good shape. Bash pointed out that Scott was not rejecting the idea of serving as vice president, saying, That wasnt a no. That door is wide open. Fair read? Well, Dana, you can, you can take it any way you want, Scott responded with a laugh. My goal is to do one thing. Its always going to do the same thing, make America and Americans believe in our future in the way that we do not today. Whatever that takes. Scotts endorsement came days ahead of the New Hampshire primary, set to take place Tuesday. Scott, whose campaign for president emphasized a message of hope, was first appointed to the Senate by Nikki Haley, who was governor of South Carolina at the time. The two clashed on the campaign trail, and Scotts endorsement of Trumps campaign is seen as a blow for Haley. Scott, in his CNN interview, defended endorsing Trump over Haley, saying its important for the party to unite behind Trump. Scott also said he texted Haley several times since ending his campaign, including the day before he announced his endorsement of Trump. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. By Bernard Rowan At university, I pursued a course on American foreign policy with the late Harry Howe Ransom. We began by studying diplomacy, the work of Harold Nicholson and various other topics. I authored a thesis on the idea of consensus in foreign policy. At that time, and still in my mind, I believe that history shows the rational use of consensus serves the cause of reason and reasonableness in foreign affairs. Unfortunately, consensus cant change an enemys mind. It cant alter the realities of power that obstruct peace. A determined enemy isnt convinced by entreaties of reasonableness in many instances. There are other realities in international relations that limit what foreign policy by consensus can accomplish in a particular context. These matters come to mind when reading Kim Jong-uns recent pronouncements that North Korea no longer will seek peaceful reunification with South Korea. On the one hand, this means little, as North Korea has never sought peaceful reunification with the South. Its operative policies dont incline to reason or reasonableness as a historical fact. Reunification has been the entreaty, while power projection, autarky and totalitarian fantasies have been North Koreas real policies. However, for the North Korean people, Pyongyangs radical departure isnt brinkmanship or clever diplomacy but a further stunting of the countrys potential. Changing North Koreas constitution signals the consummation of Kims power as a regime leader. That Kim feels empowered to do what his father and grandfather never did is telling. Changing the fundamental goals of the North Korean state shows Kim as an autocrat. North Koreans have no voice in their government and are left as puppets in dramatic pageants. Kim also finds his pulse emboldened given the ongoing support of China, Russia and Iran among others. That triumvirate of the Brave New World that must never be, continues to ramp trade, illegal and otherwise, and to cooperate in the new bipolarity as the Axis of Autocracy. While little by way of consensus really exists between this four-headed hydra, their work to destabilize the world of democracy, peace and progress grows. Grand pronouncements such as Kims gather would-be clients and partners, all seeking their own power projects and pursuits in a kind of Hobbesian sycophancy. When we see Kim confidently parading his daughter around like one of his, for-a-time, trusted officials, were intrigued by it all instead of seeing his behavior as the debasement of a child. Kim Ju-ae is the good and adorable face of a coin that has Kim Yo-jong as its opposite. It makes good media fodder. Its propaganda. The idea of a regency by Yo-Jong until Ju-ae is of age sounds like half a dozen cable television programs of late, and a good many disasters in history. North Korea now spends more on defense than its own people. In the idolatry and mass fantasy that constitute the Kim regime, on a scale much grander than his father and grandfather, Kim literally mortgages his daughters future to prop himself up. The continuation of the autocrat is the reason for everything that unfolds in North Korea. Soliloquy, egocentrism and self-immolation all blend into the surreal and bogus regime that is Pyongyang. Consensus is fleeting and subject to many variables, including the ends of policy, the means of policy and the information context. How allies arrive at a unified policy in the face of a determined adversary, autocrat, lunatic or whoever isnt easy. The alliance for democracy will need to continue the sober and prudent exercise of their mutual and international relations in the face of Kims regime. Fleeting and ultimately futile in the long term, its half-life continues to the detriment of the North Korean people, the region and the world. The fundamental reason for Koreas division will remain the stasis-to-conflict between the United States of America and the Peoples Republic of China. The latter thinks its star is rising. Of course, this only increases the chances of conflict over time. For the alliance for freedom, it will be vital not to cave to hype or to Chinas rise. It will be critical to unite around a consensus of policies among South Korea, the United States and Japan, among many other regional and international partners. This will be the kind of consensus that the enemies of freedom will try to pull apart. But that, my friends, is our world for today and tomorrow. Bernard Rowan (browan10@yahoo.com) is associate provost for contract administration and academic services and professor of political science at Chicago State University. He is a past fellow of te Korea Foundation and former visiting professor at Hanyang University. In San Luis Obispo, too many tenants are being cheated. Renters make up 60% of households in SLO, but are often given a raw deal by their landlords. An astonishing lack of checks and balances provides tenants with few tools to stand up for themselves. My friend Susan was cheated. For over two months, Susan lived with black mold in her closet because her landlord refused to take action to protect her health. Susan contracted multiple illnesses and was forced to move out. Despite not having lived in her home for months, her landlord insisted she continue to pay rent. Opinion My friend Chris was cheated. After three months of living with exposed insulation and wiring, a leaking fridge, broken windows and collapsed fences conditions that landlords are required to address Chris attempted to withhold rent to spur his landlord to act. His landlord threatened to evict him and lied by claiming its illegal to withhold rent, despite California law saying otherwise. According to a 2020 Tribune survey of nearly 200 SLO County renters, 83% of renters polled reported living with unsafe conditions. However, only 4% reported their issues to a city or county authority. Many tenants cite fear of landlord retaliation as the primary motivator for keeping their complaints secret. Even when tenants do decide to report their issue directly to their landlord, 30% of renters polled reported that their landlord refused to fix it. To provide safe, affordable and secure housing to SLO tenants, we need to measure so that we can manage. Unfortunately, we arent measuring enough. The lack of data on rental units in SLO County is a consequence of the tenant-landlord power imbalance. According to PolicyLink, a national research and action institute advancing racial and economic equity, there is little to no comprehensive, timely data available to understand the housing conditions and experiences of renters across the country. When basic information about rental units such as the address of the unit or contact information of the landlord is not reported to a housing authority, code inspectors must rely on tenant complaints to become aware of potential code infractions. However, the reality is that many tenants are afraid to report issues with their rentals. SLO needs a rental registration program that provides information on housing availability, helps connect prospective renters with available properties and eases tenants fear of unlawful eviction. These programs provide key information to municipalities by collecting information on the price of rent, occupancy status of the unit, contact information for the landlord and more. Additionally, the programs often create online pathways for tenants to report landlord negligence or abuse directly to local agencies. Measuring more puts a check on cheaters. According to a study by The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina cities with mandatory, proactive rental registration ordinances also found that the ordinances resulted in landlords bringing their properties into code compliance more rapidly, a decrease in residential fires and a reduction in code complaints. Rental registration programs are a ruler to measure fairness. Landlords who comply with codes lose nothing, and landlords who violate the rules are punished. Two municipalities on the Central Coast recently passed rental registration programs. In July 2023, the Salinas City Council adopted a residential rental registration ordinance, which will help the city develop and implement housing element requirements, support additional production of rental units and ... provide a robust platform to provide much-needed fair housing services and supports. Montereys rental registration program launched Jan. 1 and aims to inform future policy decisions about the regulation of the rental market. Not all landlords cheat their tenants. My friend Jims water heater recently broke and, without a second thought, his landlord paid for its replacement. However, not all tenants in SLO have Jims landlord, and they might lack Jims knack for self-advocacy. Many tenants in our city and county are discriminated against due to language barriers, immigration status or income levels. We all deserve safe, secure, affordable housing. We must advocate for a rental registration program that fills the information gap that perpetuates tenant abuse and protect our neighbors from being taken advantage of. Its harder to cheat when everyone is watching. Brenden Jacoby is a fourth-year communication studies student at Cal Poly. He is a member of the San Luis Obispo Rent Coalition and leader on the Cal Poly Debate Team. Topeka triple homicide defendant Yanez Sanford is seeking to have the case against him be dropped after 30 police body camera videos taken as part of the investigation involved were destroyed. Sanford was charged with crimes that included capital murder in 2020 after new evidence emerged about the killings, committed in 2016 at a southwest Topeka apartment complex, court records say. Sanford is accused of shooting Dominique Ray, 23; Camrah Trotter, 20, who was pregnant in her third trimester; and Trotters unborn daughter. The 30 videos, taken in 2016, were among evidence a judge ordered preserved in early 2021 in the case against Sanford, said a "motion to dismiss based on the state's failure to preserve evidence" filed Dec. 13 by Emily Barclay, senior assistant capital defender with the state's Death Penalty Defense Unit. When Topeka police asked for the videos in late 2021 from their body camera provider Scottsdale, Arizona-based Axon Enterprise, LLC they learned the videos had been destroyed at the end of their "five-year retention period," court records say. "There is no pathway for Mr. Sanford to receive fair trial with the deletion of nearly all of the body camera footage in this capital murder case," Barclay's motion said. "The deletion of this invaluable video footage violates his due process rights." Barclay asked that the case against Sanford be dismissed "with prejudice," in which case it couldn't be refiled. Motion hearings in the case are scheduled to take place beginning Jan. 30. Yanez Sanford faces charges that include capital murder linked to a triple homicide committed in August 2016 at this apartment complex in southwest Topeka. What happened to the videos? As part of the discovery process in which the two sides in a court case share information, the state has provided 1,500 pages of reports as well as jail phone calls, dispatch recordings, YouTube videos, phone downloads, surveillance tapes and interviews recorded at Topeka police headquarters, Barclay's motion said. "There is an abundance of discovery in light of this being a capitally-charged triple homicide," it said. "Notably missing are the Axon police body camera videos that would ordinarily accompany every single Shawnee County felony case, especially one of this magnitude." After the videos and other evidence were ordered preserved in February 2021, Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay notified then-Interim Topeka Police Chief Bryan Wheeles of that order, according to Barclay's motion. Wheeles became permanent police chief later in 2021. Topeka police apparently didnt ask Axon not to delete the videos and didnt realize the company intention to do so until after it had happened, court records said. Police learned in November 2021 that 30 Axon body camera videos taken as part of the investigation had been "deleted" and couldn't be recovered. The videos were destroyed before they could be shared with the district attorney's office, Barclay's motion said. "The Topeka Police Department provided an explanation that these videos were marked as 'evidence' which had a retention period of 5 years, ending in August 2021," it said. When the crimes involved were committed and the videos were shot in 2016, "There was not a standardized way of labeling videos," Barclay's motion said. Axon subsequently put in place the standardized labeling system it now uses, but that system was not made retroactive, said an email accompanying Barclay's motion that was dated Nov. 30, 2021, and written by Charles Kitt, now Shawnee County's chief deputy district attorney. "Furthermore, the videos in this case were on a 5-year retention schedule, so they were automatically purged from TPD's account a month or two ago," Kitt's email said. He asked that Topeka police complete a full audit of the "Axon issues" in the case. The Capital-Journal submitted a Kansas Open Records Act request Friday to Topeka's city government seeking copies of documents related to any such audit. Kitt's email said if the videos couldn't be recovered, he expected Sanford's attorneys would seek to have the charges against him dismissed. Kitt's email suggested similar circumstances were involved in a 2019 Douglas County case in which a defendant was charged with aggravated battery and driving under the influence. "In that case, the court dismissed the prosecution (with prejudice) for late discovery of evidence that was 'potentially exculpatory" or even 'explanatory,'" Kitt wrote. "I expect we will have to fight that fight if videos are lost here." "Exculpatory" means "to clear from guilt." This section of an email written by Shawnee County Chief Deputy District Attorney Charles Kitt making reference to a Douglas County case is among attachments to a motion seeking the dismissal of Shawnee County charges that include capital murder against Yanez Sanford. Who is Yanez Sanford accused of killing? Sanford, 41, faces charges that include capital murder linked to the 2016 killing of a man, a woman and an unborn child at Fairlawn Greens Apartments, immediately south of Topeka West High School at 5235 S.W. 20th Terrace. Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagay said Sanford fatally shot Dominique Ray, 23; Camrah Trotter, 20; and Trotters unborn daughter, who was to have been named Ariyah Trotter. Evidence showed Camrah Trotter had also been raped, Kagay said. Sanford was charged with crimes that included capital murder linked to the killings in September 2020, after new evidence emerged, court records say. Capital cases require prosecutors to file a notice of intent if they plan to seek the death penalty, which court records show hasn't been done in the case against Sanford. Yanez Sanford faces charges that include capital murder linked to a triple homicide committed in August 2016. He is asking that they be dismissed. Why do prosecutors say the case shouldn't be dismissed? Dan Dunbar a retired Shawnee County chief deputy district attorney working as a special counsel on the case filed a response Jan. 12 to Barclay's motion seeking to dismiss it. Dunbar wrote that for the case to be dismissed, Sanford's attorneys must satisfy the standards set out by a past U.S. Supreme Court ruling requiring them to " prove the missing axons have potential exculpatory value; and the absence of any comparable evidence; and the destruction was done in bad faith, i.e., the destruction was done knowing the potential exculpatory value of the recordings." While Barclay's motion contended there is no comparable evidence to what was present on the body camera videos, "comparable" does not mean "identical," Dunbar wrote. "The State anticipates presenting evidence regarding the axons that were deleted," Dunbar wrote. "Most of the officers either have prepared a report of their participation and/or have a recollection of what transpired while wearing their body camera." Dunbar said, "The State anticipates the Court will hear testimony explaining the innocent nature of the destruction of those videos and the process that was in place when the destruction occurred and how it has been remedied." The court document submitted by Dan Dunbar, special counsel representing the Shawnee County District Attorney's office, describes circumstances related to the destruction of 30 Topeka police body camera videos taken during an investigation into a triple homicide. Barclay then filed a response Tuesday to the prosecutor's response, arguing that: Video evidence, especially when it contains footage of the eyewitnesses in the immediateaftermath of a homicide, is potentially exculpatory or explanatory. The state cannot produce comparable evidence to live, simultaneous videos taken of theevents close in time to the triple homicide. Courts have found "bad faith" to exist in past situations that involved failure to preserve evidence. "The government had knowledge of exculpatory value before the deletion of the videos." She concluded: "Mr. Sanford submits that the destroyed video in question contained exculpatory value, that no comparable evidence exists, that it was destroyed in bad faith after being provided notice to preserve such videos, and that it was done with knowledge of the exculpatory value." Contact Tim Hrenchir at threnchir@gannett.com or 785-213-5934. This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: How 30 body camera videos in Topeka triple homicide case were destroyed The following is a transcript of an interview with 2024 GOP presidential hopeful Nikki Haley, the former U.S. ambassador to the U.N., that aired on Jan. 21, 2024. MARGARET BRENNAN: Good morning and welcome to Face The Nation. The New Hampshire primary is just two days away. Can anyone stop the Trump steamroll towards the Republican nomination? We go now to former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, who is hoping to be the one to stop him. She's on the campaign trail in Derry, New Hampshire. Good morning to you. NIKKI HALEY: Good morning. MARGARET BRENNAN: As you know, our CBS polling shows that you are the Republican candidate with the best chance at beating Joe Biden in a head-to-head race. And yet, Donald Trump is the party's frontrunner. Why do you think, Ambassador, that the Republican establishment isn't doing more to help you? NIKKI HALEY: Well, I mean, this is what primaries are all about. This is about the fact that, you know, people get to decide which way they want to go forward. What I have said, as you can either pick more of the same, or you can go forward with the new generational leader. More of the same is, you know, the fact that you've got 70% of Americans don't want to see a Trump-Biden rematch. More of the same as the fact that both of these presidents put us trillions of dollars in debt. And our kids are never going to forgive us for it. More of the same is the fact that we're gonna have two presidential candidates in their 80s. That's not what our kids want. That's not what we should want. You know, more of the same is the fact that we can't be a country in disarray and have a world on fire and go through four more years of chaos. We won't survive it. We've got to get a new generational leader. I'm making my case to the people of New Hampshire. New Hampshire sees it for what it is, they know that responsibility, and we're going to try and bring this home in two days. MARGARET BRENNAN: Well 26 Republican senators at this point and all of the House Republican leadership have lined up behind Donald Trump. Why? Are they afraid of him? NIKKI HALEY: Not surprised at all. And I'll tell you why. You'll see a lot of the South Carolina legislature line up behind him too. And it's because I've never really taken care of elected officials. You know, I've forced South Carolina legislature, they had to show their votes on the record. I made them pass ethics reform. I vetoed half a billion dollars worth of their pet projects. You look at Congress, what have I done? I said I want term limits. I said that I don't think they should get paid if they don't give us a budget on time. I've talked about mental competency tests. I call out elected officials because I think they need to be accountable to the people. I call out Republicans and Democrats when they don't do the right thing. So it's not surprising that that set is going towards Trump because he's going to take care of them. I'm not going to do that. I'm going to take care of the taxpayers. I've always done that my entire career, and I'll keep on doing it. MARGARET BRENNAN: Can you win in North Carolina- and excuse me- can you win in South Carolina? NIKKI HALEY: I won twice as governor. MARGARET BRENNAN: Well, as you just laid out, the South Carolina establishment is lining up behind Donald Trump. I want to ask you about something-- NIKKI HALEY: -- I mean, I'll remind you I was a tea party governor at the time, so I didn't have the establishment when I ran for governor the first time. I ran against the Lieutenant Governor and Attorney General, and a very popular congressman and I still won. And so it's about being down on the ground with the people and I plan on doing that again. MARGARET BRENNAN: Okay. Former President Trump on Friday, repeatedly and wrongly said that you were in charge of the January 6 security response at the Capitol, and he said your name four times. I want to play this for our viewers. DONALD TRUMP: They never report the crowd on January 6, you know, Nikki Haley, Nikki Haley, Nikki Haley. You know, they- did you know, they destroyed all of the information, all of the evidence, everything deleted and destroyed all of it. All of it. Because of lots of things like Nikki Haley, is in charge of security. MARGARET BRENNAN: It's unclear what he's talking about as being deleted. But you said yesterday, hearing this made you question Donald Trump's mental fitness. Is that the first time you questioned his mental fitness? NIKKI HALEY: If you look, recently, there have been multiple things. I mean, he's claimed that Joe Biden was going to get us into World War II. I'm assuming he met World War three. He said that he ran against President Obama. He never ran against President Obama. He says that I'm the one that kept security from Jan- from the Capitol on January 6. I was nowhere near the Capitol on January 6. But Margaret, you don't be surprised if you have someone that's 80 in office, their mental stability is going to continue to decline. That's just human nature. We know that. What I'm saying is, first of all, you're talking about somebody who's only going to be in office four years. Secondly, you're talking about someone who continues to- I mean, look, I don't know if he was confused. I don't know what happened. But it should be enough to send us a warning sign that if you look, Joe Biden, he's very different than he was two years ago. Are we really going to go into a situation where we have wars around the world, and we're trying to prevent war, and we're going to have someone who we can or can't be sure that they're going to get confused? It's a real issue. That's not being disrespectful. It's just a fact. MARGARET BRENNAN: Why do you think Trump's voters care about that? And when you worked in his Cabinet, did you ever question his mental fitness? NIKKI HALEY: When I worked in his Cabinet, I called him out if he was doing something wrong, I mean, I would show up, I pick up the phone and say "you can't do this. Instead, you could do X, Y, or Z," you know, so I always told him what I thought was in the best interest of the country when I was in his Cabinet. But this is different. I mean, we're seeing he's just not at the same level he was at 2016. I think we're seeing some of that decline. But more than that, what I'll say is, focus on the fact that no matter what it is, chaos follows him. Rightly or wrongly, chaos follows him-- MARGARET BRENNAN: -- Does he cause it? NIKKI HALEY: -- and America's tired. In some cases, he causes it. In some cases, he doesn't. But regardless, he's like a magnet to it. And so what happens is that puts the rest of America in chaos, and people are tired, and they're worried. I mean, kids right now in their 20s, they don't know if they're ever going to be able to afford a home. They don't know how this debt is gonna get paid down. They don't know if they're gonna find a job. You see people living- 60% of Americans living paycheck to paycheck. People talk about the economy that Donald Trump had us in, it was good, but he put us $8 trillion in debt in just four years. That's not what you do. MARGARET BRENNAN: I want to ask you about an ad that you have released that includes video and testimony from the mother of Otto Warmbier, who was an American student from the University of Virginia, who was taken prisoner in North- North Korea and died, as you know, after the Trump administration did bring him home. Pundits say national security does not matter to voters. Why do you think this story is one you need to tell? NIKKI HALEY: I think this really does show the contrast. So I worked with Cindy and Fred Warmbier. They're amazing people. And I will tell you as a parent, no parent wants to see their child returned to them the way they saw Otto returned. This was a happy, smart kid, he went to North Korea. And I mean, the thugs in North Korea tortured him and returned him back in a state that- that is unconscionable. And the difference is I told Fred and Cindy, speak up, get loud, make sure I will help you, let's partner. We're gonna call North Korea out. I passed the largest set of sanctions against them in a generation by pushing China and Russia to do it. But what did Trump do? Instead, he talked about love letters going back and forth to Kim Jong-Un Cindy would contact me she was so upset. And he went and said, "Oh, but Kim said that he wasn't aware of any torture that happened to Otto." All you had to do was look at Otto when he was returned back to his parents. But this goes back to a pattern. I mean, we saw this over and over again. It's not just that he congratulated China's President Xi, a dozen times after China gave us COVID. He congratulated the Chinese Communist Party on their 70th anniversary. We don't congratulate the Communist Chinese party. I remember at the United Nations, I had to sit him down and tell him to stop this bromance with Putin. I mean, you can't have someone who's trying to buddy up with dictators that want to kill us. Instead, you have to let them know what we expect of them. That's the difference. And when you've got wars all over the world now, and the instability that we had, our goal is to prevent war. And we can't do that by trying to buddy up with them. MARGARET BRENNAN: I want to ask you about clarifying your position here, because you've spoken about the complexity of the abortion, abortion issue personally for you. And you've said there's no national consensus, so there won't be a federal law. But you've also said if there were one passed, if it were six weeks, it was 15 weeks, or it was restrictions after 20 weeks, which you signed when you were governor, that you'd be okay with that. When we spoke yesterday to Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, she said that you would sign a national abortion ban. Would you? NIKKI HALEY: You know, it's so interesting, because this is a- you can't say that to the American people because all you're doing is putting fear and judgment in them. Yes, I'm unapologetically pro-life, but I don't judge anyone for being pro-choice. I've said I'm fine with a federal law. But the thing is, in order to get a federal law, you have to have a majority of the House, 60 senators and a signature of the President. Margaret, we haven't had 60 Republican senators in over 100 years. So no Republican president can ban abortions, any more than a Democrat president can ban any state law. What we can do is let's find consensus. I think we can find consensus to ban late-term abortions. I think we can find consensus to encourage adoptions and good quality adoptions. I think we can find consensus that doctors and nurses who don't believe in abortion shouldn't have to perform them. I think we can find consensus that contraception should be accessible, and I think we should find consensus that any woman who has an abortion, no state law should say she's going to jail or getting the death penalty. I will not demonize this issue. It's too personal. We have to start doing that. Democrats use fear and Republicans use judgment. This is too personal of an issue to use fear or judgment and I won't be a part of any of that. MARGARET BRENNAN: Okay, but you're not taking a ban off the table, which allows for Democrats to say that, that you would be on board. Can you say NIKKI HALEY:You are not MARGARET BRENNAN: You will not NIKKI HALEY: 60 senators- 60 senators would never approve a ban on abortion. That's a fact. That's a fact. So why put out something that's implying something's going to happen to the American people that is a lie. That's never going to happen with that NIKKI HALEY: You're not going to get 60 senators to agree to a ban (CROSSTALK) MARGARET BRENNAN: -- But you know democrats are using this as a way to motivate voters. Democrats are using this as a way to motivate voters -- NIKKI HALEY: -- Democrats-- MARGARET BRENNAN: so that they do get the math to add up one day. So if the math does add up-- NIKKI HALEY: -- No -- MARGARET BRENNAN: -- one day, would you sign a ban? NIKKI HALEY: This is the problem with Democrats. Democrats put fear in the American people. The American people don't need fear. They need confidence. They need security. They need to know that everything's gonna be okay. When it comes to the abortion issue, I will never put fear in the American people. I will tell them the hard truth. The hard truth is 60 senators will never agree to a full ban on abortion. That's a fact; Republicans or Democrats. 60 senators are not going to agree to that. I don't know what 60 senators are going to agree to. Right now they don't even agree to 15 weeks. So we've got a long way to go. Our goal should be how do we save as many babies as we can and support as many moms as we can. I had a roommate in college who was raped. I would never wish on anybody what she went through, wondering if she was pregnant. Everybody has a story. Let's be respectful of that. Stop putting fear into people thinking something's going to happen. That's not going to happen. MARGARET BRENNAN: Governor, we have to leave it there. Thank you for your time. Face the Nation will be back in one minute with Michigan Democratic governor Gretchen Whitmer. Stay with us. How Ozempic, other weight-loss drugs are "changing medicine" Basketball coach's exuberant celebration of son's scoring shot goes viral Michigan Democrats on what their "deal-breaker" issues are for 2024 The following is a transcript of an interview with Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders, a Republican, that aired on Jan. 21, 2024. MARGARET BRENNAN: Welcome back to Face the Nation. We go now to the Republican governor of the state of Arkansas, Sarah Huckabee Sanders. Good morning, Governor. GOV. SARAH HUCKABEE SANDERS: Good morning, Margaret. It's great to be with you. MARGARET BRENNAN: It's good to talk to you. You are one of the youngest, if not the youngest governor in the [country], the first female governor of Arkansas. I want to ask you about a number of things, including the current Arkansas law, we've been talking a lot about reproductive health. The law bans abortions except to save the mother's life in a medical emergency, no exceptions for rape or incest. Your Attorney General has twice recently rejected ballot measures that would repeal the ban and give a limited right to abortion up until 18 weeks of conception. As Governor, are you open to any ballot initiative? GOV. SANDERS: Look, I'm proud of the fact that Arkansas is one of the most pro-life states in the country. I'm unapologetically pro-life, I believe that we are a culture that protects life, that values life. I think that's who we are as a country. And I'll continue to support those measures. MARGARET BRENNAN: But- I know those are your personal convictions, but would you seek the opinion of your constituents on this? I mean, some of the Attorney General's objections. One of the things he objected to was replacing the word conception with fertilization. And another one, it was narrowing a medical emergency to threat to physical health and defining it just as that. I mean, they seem to be tweaks. On the premise though, would you be open to seeking the opinion of your constituents in a ballot initiative? GOV. SANDERS: Arkansas overwhelmingly pro-life state, I'm proud of that fact and proud of where we are. And we'll continue to push for things that I think protect all innocent human life. It's why we haven't just focused on pro-life legislation. But we've also done things in the foster and adoption care space. It's why I've spent so much time focusing on education, empowering every single Arkansan to have a great quality of life. We are looking at every aspect and making sure that we're doing what we can to protect and value life at every stage here in the state of Arkansas. MARGARET BRENNAN: So, it sounds like a no? You wouldn't want to put it on a ballot? GOV. SANDERS: I'm not going to put a blanket on anything that could come forward. But as it stands right now, I haven't seen anything that I would be supportive of. MARGARET BRENNAN: So, your state, you're talking about the sanctity of life, your state had one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the country, according to the CDC up until about 2021. Arkansas is one of the few states that hasn't extended postpartum care for mothers. Why don't you want those moms to get care for a full 12 months, as is being offered, instead of just 60 days? GOV. SANDERS: Well, I'm gonna have to disagree with the premise of your question saying that I don't want that. I certainly want us to do everything that we can to help during pregnancy and well after a child is born, which is why we have done things like focus on the foster and adoption care, we've put significant funding into our pregnancy crisis centers, we're focusing on things that help our mothers, including bring your kids to work at state government. We've expanded maternity leave for state employees, we included that in our education package. We have taken a number of steps that are very positive in this front. And we're going to continue to do that as long as I'm governor. MARGARET BRENNAN: But the states of Mississippi, Wyoming, Montana, South Dakota, they did extend for 12 months rather than the 60 days. So, I'm just wondering specifically on that option, why you opted out? GOV. SANDERS: We're gonna continue to look at options that we feel like best help people here in the state of Arkansas, we've done that in a number of ways and we're going to continue to do that over the course of hopefully the next seven years while I'm governor of Arkansas. MARGARET BRENNAN: So, I want to ask you as well about what is happening with the kids in your state. I was interested to see that you are not among the 15 Republican governors who rejected a new federal program to give food assistance to eight million children during the summer months. You opted into that-- GOV. SANDERS: I did. I-- MARGARET BRENNAN: -- A number of Republican guidance say on premise that- that- that- this- this violates conservative principles. So why are they wrong? And why are you okay with this federal program? GOV. SANDERS: Well, I want to focus on why I think it helps our state. Arkansas in the past has ranked at the bottom when it comes to food insecurity for children. I don't think any child should ever go hungry if we have options available to us to help improve that. That's exactly what we're going to do. That's why we've opted into this program. We're going to continue to look for ways to help and protect kids in our state. And I was proud to be part of that program. And we'll continue to look for options to help move Arkansas out of the bottom when it comes to food insecurity and into the top. MARGARET BRENNAN: You are, as we said at the get go there, the youngest governor in the country. And I wonder when you look at your party right now, what does it say about the party and about our politics that not only is the President of the United States at such an advanced age, but the Republican front runner Donald Trump, 77 years old here- are these much older individuals, really the new generation that you've been calling for? GOV. SANDERS: I think this election right now is very simple. It's a very clear contrast, you have two individuals who have a four-year record to run on. One has a record of success coming from a posture and a position of strength in Donald Trump, and one who comes from a position of weakness. Every single thing that voters actually care about, every single thing that drives voters to show up and cast their ballot. Donald Trump is winning on, whether it's the economy, whether it's securing the border, whether it's national security, whether it's taking a hard line against China, every single one of those major issues that really drive voters, Donald Trump is dominating Joe Biden on, and they both have clear records in which to run from, and I have no doubt that the matchup in November will declare Donald Trump a clear victor because of that- that contrast. MARGARET BRENNAN: Well, he's only four years younger than the president whose age you've- you've criticized, but your predecessor as governor, Asa Hutchinson, just recently ended his presidential bid and he endorsed Nikki Haley. He said, "Anyone who believes Donald Trump will unite this country has been asleep over the last eight years. Trump intentionally tries to divide America." Do you honestly, Sarah- Sorry, Governor Sanders, I'm used to calling you Sarah from- from the front row at the White House there? Do you honestly believe Trump is going to unite the country this time, when in the first term, that you were part of, the country was very divided? GOV. SANDERS: You know, one of the things that I think is so often left out of Donald Trump's story is the patriotism and the love of country that he brought back. We haven't seen that in this president-- MARGARET BRENNAN: -- What do you mean by that? GOV. SANDERS:-- In fact, we've seen the total opposite. We see people who believe in America again, who see the strength of our country. We brought back American manufacturing, we secured our border, we had a strong economy, our enemies abroad actually feared us and our allies actually respected us. Instead of the people now are across the- the other side of the world are laughing at us and taking advantage of the weakness of this President. Donald Trump-- you know, you joked a minute ago, you called me Sarah, instead of Governor, you know, your colleagues called me a lot of other things. I'll take Sarah all day over some of the things that the media and the left called me. But when those things were happening, the person who was defending me, empowering me to do my job was Donald Trump. I know that he can deliver again, because he's done it before. MARGARET BRENNAN: No-- Governor, I think we've always had a respectful exchange, you and I, so I don't think we're part of the media group you're talking about-- GOV. SANDERS: -- I didn't say you, I was-- MARGARET BRENNAN:-- Right. But- but on the substance of the question, in terms of uniting the country, I mean, some of the policy things you just rattled off, as you know, immigration has been broken for decades. And those border problems were border problems under President Trump. The Middle East policies he had didn't solve issues. I mean, in fact, we are seeing the conflict in Israel really flare up in a way, he didn't broker the peace deal he promised. He didn't get Russia out of Ukraine. She didn't improve relations with China. So how can you point to that as a- as a high point without recognizing that even he says the work was not finished? GOV. SANDERS: Well, that's why we need him to come back for four years because he didn't get to finish, but he certainly made significant progress. Our border was far more secure under President Trump, than under President Biden, I had the chance to go to the border myself. And while I was there, met with those who are standing on the front lines, including members of the Arkansas National Guard that we deployed, because the federal government is not doing their job, states are having to step up. And in meeting with those individuals, they told us that more people had come across in just that month, just that month on the terrorist watch list than in the entire four years of Donald Trump's presidency. Donald Trump was actually taking steps to secure our border, to strengthen our country. It's hard to argue that having a good economy, having safe and secure borders, taking a hard line against China, those are empowering and unifying things for our country-- MARGARET BRENNAN:-- Would you be his VP if asked? GOV. SANDERS: -- And only- hold on I want to just finish this one point. And only one of two people in the race has actually delivered on each of those things. And it's Donald Trump, not Joe Biden. MARGARET BRENNAN: And you'd be open to vetting to be his vice president potentially? GOV. SANDERS: Look, I absolutely love the job I have. I think it's one of the best jobs I could ever ask for. And I am honored to serve as governor, and I hope I get to do it for the next seven years. MARGARET BRENNAN: Next seven years. All right. That sounds like two terms. Maybe a no. Governor Sanders. Thank you. We'll be right back. How Ozempic, other weight-loss drugs are "changing medicine" Basketball coach's exuberant celebration of son's scoring shot goes viral Michigan Democrats on what their "deal-breaker" issues are for 2024 I met Herman Dreisbach in February of 2003 when he was 88 years old. His wife of 60 years had died the previous February, and he was selling his house to move to Atlanta, where his son and daughter-in-law lived. Holly Christensen Once a tall man, Mr. Dreisbach's upper back and neck stooped forward from osteoporosis; his slow gait belied muscles that had weakened with age and bones that ached. Each of the three times I visited his house, the final time with the home inspector, I had small children with me. Unperturbed by youngsters touring his tidy home, Mr. Dreisbach comfortably chatted with them. The last time we met, Mr. Dreisbach took my hand in both of his, and with tears in his eyes, he told me: "I hope you'll be as happy in this house as we were." He died nine months later. I've now owned what we call Dreisbach House for over 20 years. My first three children spent the bulk of their childhoods in the home, and my fourth son was born there. Then, for several years, I lived with the father of my youngest two children in his home and rented out Dreisbach House. No tenant kept the house as clean as I did. But I soon learned that messes can be cleaned and damages repaired. Still, my heart hurt when tenants were not gentle with the house. Little expense was spared when a maternal uncle of Mr. Dreisbach built the house in 1909. The exterior walls of the home are two layers of brick, which is why to this day none of the stairs or floors creak. Like a manufactured cave, all that brick keeps the house, which has hot water heat and no air conditioning, remarkably cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The Arts and Crafts interior includes quarter-sawn oak columns and panels, a fireplace with decorative tiles from a renowned turn-of-the-century manufacturer, multiple pocket doors and two original light fixtures. And because the home remained in one fastidious family for 94 years, it is in remarkable shape. Dreisbach House shares a driveway with its next-door neighbor to the south. In 2014, I bought that house, too. For more than 60 years, it belonged to Claire and Gloria Cressler. Claire had been a widower for three years when I first met him. Years later, he would die in my arms. In 2020, I moved into what we call Cressler House. I decided to stop renting Dreisbach House when my most recent tenants moved out. I owe less than $8,000 on the mortgage and, like its first owner, that puts me in a position to remodel the home without sparing many expenses. Now, a new thread will be added to the warp and weft of my byline throughout my years as a Beacon Journal columnist the process of transforming my beloved family home, the Dreisbach House, into a jewel. These columns will include design choices and the progress of projects, but also the histories of the people who previously lived here, as well as my family's history in these homes. Column changes I was hired in October of 2016 to write a parenting/family column for the Akron Beacon Journal. At the time, my eldest child was in college and my fifth (and youngest) child was in preschool. Those first years, I wrote mostly on parenting. Letters from readers often compared me to syndicated parenting columnist John Rosemond. Older readers regularly complimented me on how similarly to Rosemond's approach I parented, while younger readers wrote to say they admired how differently my parenting advice was to that of Rosemond's. Go figure. Throughout my time at the Beacon, I have often written columns that were pointedly political. In 2017, I explained why I, a mother of a child with Down syndrome, was opposed to the Down syndrome abortion ban passed by the Ohio legislature and signed by the governor. Just before that column ran, the Beacon's editor told me I'd get a lot of negative emails over it, but also that he knew I could handle it. I've gotten far worse emails since, particularly when I've written anything involving race. I know I've done something right when I've provoked the ire of bigots who take the time to let me know what they think though rarely about what I've written. No, bigots like to deride me as a person and, almost always, what I look like. Three of my children are now adults. The first two have multiple college degrees and full-blown careers. One is getting married later this year. My relationship with them all is understandably different than it was over seven years ago, and yet, two of my adult sons still call me almost every day. As a result, the content of my columns has expanded to topics facing our community, which often are issues that directly affect families. To best accommodate this array of storylines and opinions, my column has a new, and more appropriate, home in the print edition's community section. Here, I can have columns that are political, others that are personal, and some that are the ins and outs of a major project. I hope you'll enjoy reading future columns as much as I will writing them. Contact Holly Christensen at whoopsiepiggle@gmail.com. This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: History and home renovations to come | Holly Christensen Monday night: Des Moines, Iowa, celebrating victory with supporters over beer and popcorn. Tuesday morning: Manhattan, New York, on trial for defaming a woman he sexually abused. Tuesday night: Atkinson, New Hampshire, campaigning for the US presidency. Wednesday morning: court in New York again. Donald Trump, the former US president and frontrunner for the Republican nomination in 2024, has intertwined his political and legal calendars until they are all but indistinguishable. At rambunctious campaign rallies, he plays the victim and rails against a biased justice system. In sombre courtrooms, he creates a spectacle that guarantees airtime and fundraising to fuel his run for the White House. Related: Donald Trump beat his opponents. But can he beat the courts? | Sidney Blumenthal The jarring juxtaposition seems to be working. Trumps 91 criminal charges across four cases did not stop him winning 98 out of 99 counties in Mondays frigid Iowa caucuses, and interviews with his support base showed they accept his narrative of politically motivated prosecutions. He is leading opinion polls in New Hampshire and looks poised to become the Republican standard bearer. The court appearances are his campaign, Larry Sabato, director of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia. Hes spending much less time than the other candidates in the key states. Hes not spending as much on TV advertising. Hes doing all kinds of things that candidates for president usually dont do because hes got an ace card that none of the others have. This has convinced not just his supporters but in a broad-based way the whole Republican party that hes being oppressed, that Joe Biden is using the judicial system to try and put a stake in the heart of his toughest challenger for November. And they buy it. Trumps recent court appearances have been voluntary, not obligatory, at a time when his Republican rivals are crisscrossing states in search of votes. Last week the 77-year-old former reality TV star showed up for a hearing in Washington DC to hear his lawyers argue that he is immune from criminal charges for trying to overturn the 2020 election. A day later he was in Des Moines, Iowa, for a Fox News town hall. The duelling schedule evidently did him no harm in Iowa, where he romped to victory over the Florida governor, Ron DeSantis, by nearly 30 percentage points, more than twice the biggest winning margin ever achieved by a Republican. During his speech in Des Moines, Trump nodded to his legal tribulations: I go to a lot of courthouses because of Biden, because theyre using that for election interference. The following morning, he was in a Manhattan federal court again by choice to watch the selection of a jury that will decide whether he should pay damages for defamatory comments he made in office about the writer E Jean Carroll. Last year a jury concluded that Trump sexually abused her in a department store in 1996 and defamed her in 2022. That evening he headed to Atkinson, New Hampshire, for a campaign rally where he boasted about his win in Iowa but told supporters: If I didnt get indicted all these times and if they didnt unfairly go after me, I would have won, but it would have been much closer. I tell you, I dont know if I would have made the trade. I might have just liked the position were in right now. Come Wednesday, it was back to New York and the Carroll case. This time Trump was animated, shaking his head at testimony he disliked, passing notes to his lawyers and speaking to them while jurors were in the room. He was scolded by Judge Lewis Kaplan after a lawyer for Carroll complained that he was grumbling about the case so loudly that jurors could hear him. When the judge threatened to expel him, Trump retorted: I would love it. The judge admonished: I know you would. You just cant control yourself in this circumstance, apparently. Outside the courtroom, the Republican frontrunner then held a press conference, describing the trial as rigged and Carroll as a person I never knew. He complained that Kaplan, a Bill Clinton appointee, was a nasty judge and a Trump-hating guy who was obviously not impartial. Somehow he had made the case about himself rather than his victim. Maggie Haberman, author of Confidence Man: The Making of Donald Trump and the Breaking of America, told CNN: He showed up for her testimony and so instead of us talking about her testimony we are talking about the fact that he was making noises, he was overheard whispering to his lawyer. She added: He would have liked to have gotten thrown out because he would then claim he was a victim. Its heads he wins, tails the other side loses. Trump was not in court on Thursday so he could attend his mother-in-laws funeral in Florida. He will soon head back to New Hampshire to hold rallies ahead of Tuesdays primary election, where he could in effect seal the Republican nomination. As endorsements from senior Republicans pour in, it seems that the party has made a collective decision to carry the legal baggage of a man who now openly brags that he has been indicted more often than Al Capone. Charlie Sykes, editor of the Bulwark website and a former conservative radio host, said: Hes going to have a courtroom campaign because Donald Trump relishes the idea of being the martyr. He thinks that being associated with these trials will actually help him in the polls and so far hes not wrong. Every time hes been indicted, hes gone up. But Sykes believes that Trumps decision to attend the trial involving E Jean Carroll could be a mistake as he pivots to general election voters. How many Americans actually know about this case? Theres been such a firehose of indictments, hearings, charges. Now Donald Trump himself has decided that he is going to draw attention to a case that hes already lost, that has found him liable for sexual assault. Its hard for me to imagine any swing voters in the suburbs of Philadelphia or Milwaukee hearing for the first time about this case and thinking, yeah, this is the guy that I want to support for president. Anna Greenberg, a senior partner at polling firm GQR, also sees limitations in Trumps gameplan. She said: He saw that when he got indicted he got a major boost, and you saw it in the primary polls, and so he may be thinking if I engage with these trials against me and I rail and I attack, thats going to continue to give me some kind of benefit. I think he already got the benefit. I dont think theres any additive benefit for him but I think theres a real downside for him, which is thats how hes spending his time and not out on the campaign trail and doing the campaigning. Trump has pleaded not guilty in four state and federal criminal cases, including two claiming he tried to overturn his 2020 election loss to Biden. This week his lawyers filed paperwork in another case over his allegedly illegal retention of sensitive classified documents arguing that intelligence agencies were politically biased against Trump. Some observers fear that the scorched earth approach poses a far-reaching danger to civil society and American legal and political structures. Sykes, author of How the Right Lost Its Mind, added: Donald Trump is waging a concerted campaign to de-legitimize the justice system in America. He is trying to discredit not just prosecutors, but also judges and juries and the entire process of legal accountability and the damage is going to be long lasting and its going to be profound. Former President Donald Trump spent the three-year anniversary of his White House departure trying to sweep away the few remaining Republican obstacles to his third consecutive nomination, hammering former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and warning supporters against complacency two days ahead of the New Hampshire primary. We need big margins, Trump said at a rally in Manchester, because we have to send real unity as a message. But over more than 90 minutes, Trump delivered the vengeful message that he has made the focus of his campaign, moaning about the lost 2020 race; defending the January 6, 2021, rioters; pushing again for the Supreme Court to declare him and all presidents immune from prosecution; mocking President Joe Biden; and, with the most gusto, lashing out at Haley, his former UN ambassador and the candidate closest to him in Granite State primary polls. Even before he spoke, Trumps campaign beamed its message on a big screen above the stage with rotating slides attacking Haley over supposed ties to Democrats, Wall Street & Globalists and her positions on Social Security and other hot-button issues. When he took the microphone, Trump kept up the barrage. Nikki Haley is using radical Democrat money to run the radical Democratic campaign operation shes running, Trump said, referencing his rivals appeal to some centrist and anti-Trump political groups and donors. What the hell kind of Republican candidate is that? After running through a laundry list of policy criticisms, most pointedly Haleys campaign pledge to raise the retirement age for younger people, delaying their access to Social Security payments, Trump jabbed back at Haley over her suggestion that he is too old to be president again which followed an incident in which Trump confused her with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The concern I have is Im not saying anything derogatory, but when youre dealing with the pressures of a presidency, we cant have someone else that we question whether theyre mentally fit to do it, Haley, 52, said earlier Saturday of Trump, 77, at a rally in Keene, New Hampshire. Trump shot back at the rally, claiming hes recently taken a cognitive test, which he aced, before promising to let you know when I go bad. After finishing third in Iowa behind Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Haleys campaign is on the line in New Hampshire. A CNN/UNH poll released Sunday found that 50% of likely GOP primary voters there support Trump, compared to 39% who back Haley. Haley has the support of a majority 58% of registered undeclared voters, but the former president is backed by 67% of registered Republicans. Granite State voting rules and their potential to help Haley were a frequent target for Trump on Saturday night, as the former president groused over the potential for those who dont consider themselves Republicans or typically vote for the GOP to cast ballots in its presidential primary. But he added a false flourish to that case, telling the audience that Democrats, too, can take part on the Republican contest. They cannot. Registered Democrats cannot vote in the Republican primary, and registered Republicans cannot vote in the Democratic primary, New Hampshire Secretary of State David Scanlan told CNN earlier this week after Trump leveled a similar charge. Trump also looked ahead to the next major clash in the race: South Carolina. Its Haleys home state, where she was twice elected governor, but Trump leads there in the polls and among influential GOP leaders a handful of whom showed up in New Hampshire. We could be in our home state, but we chose to come up to New Hampshire for a reason, Rep. Russell Fry said. Gov. Henry McMaster invoked the Spice Girls really to tell voters what we want, what we really really want is Trump. Were going to be there in three weeks, so you know what Im doing, Trump said of his guests, adding, Im kissing ass. Again, it was Trumps desires that took centerstage. He repeated his contention that all US presidents, beginning with him, should have immunity from prosecution. This relatively new line of argument comes as Trump awaits a ruling from a federal appeals court regarding his attempts to overturn the 2020 election. In the meantime, hes argued presidents should never face legal consequences for their actions. The court hearing the claim has expressed skepticism, but Trump is continuing to make his case in public. On Saturday night, he invoked President Harry Trumans use of the nuclear bomb in Japan in 1945 as a case study. Look at Harry Truman, Trump said. He wouldnt have done, if you think Hiroshima, not exactly a nice act but it did end the Second World War probably, right? Nagasaki. He wouldnt be doing that; he said, I dont want to do that because my opponents will indict me. The US dropped atomic bombs on both cities toward the end of the war, killing at least 150,000 in Hiroshima alone, according to some estimates. Though the morality of the decision has been debated, no one sought to bring legal charges against Truman. Trump had much less to say about DeSantis. He even made a point of noting how little hed spoken about the Florida governor (before proceeding to mock his height at the prompting of a supporter). He had more kind words, though, for Hungarys right-wing prime minister, Viktor Orban. Its nice to have a strong man running your country, Trump said of the strongman, happily reciting the nice things that Orban has recently said about him. This story has been updated with new reporting. CNNs Kate Sullivan contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Former U.S. President Donald Trump has called Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who has repeatedly made anti-Ukrainian and anti-European statements, a "great leader" and a "strong man" during a rally in Manchester, New Hampshire on Jan. 20. "There is a great man, a great leader in Europe Viktor Orban," Trump said, recalling how Orban praised him. He is the Prime Minister of Hungary. He is a very great leader, a very strong man. Some people don't like him because he's too strong. Read also: I Know Putin and Zelenskyy well: Trump claims he can quickly end war in Ukraine Since the beginning of Russia's major invasion, Orban has repeatedly made anti-Ukrainian statements. Budapest does not support Kyiv with weapons and blocks EU financial aid. On Oct. 17, 2023, Orban personally met with Vladimir Putin in China, and after criticizing the EU and the United States, he said he was "proud" of the meeting. As the 45th U.S. President faced criminal charges, the Hungarian Prime Minister publicly supported him. More recently, he congratulated Trump on his victory after the first Republican caucuses in Iowa. Read also: Senior occupier defects to Netherlands, shell shortages, how the EU dealt with Orban The former U.S. president has repeatedly asserted that if he wins the 2024 election, he will be able to quickly end Russia's war against Ukraine, without specifying how. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine By Gram Slattery and James Oliphant MANCHESTER, New Hampshire (Reuters) - Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley and former President Donald Trump will make their closing arguments in New Hampshire on Sunday in a final stretch of campaigning for the Republican presidential nomination before voters go to the polls on Tuesday. Time is running short for Haley, who served as Trump's ambassador to the United Nations, to topple the Republican presidential frontrunner after his victory in the Iowa caucuses underscored his dominance in the primary race. If she cannot score an upset win in New Hampshire on Tuesday, her already-narrow path to the nomination could close altogether. Trump, who is leading Haley and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis here, addressed a stadium full of cheering supporters in Manchester on Saturday night, encouraging them to go the polls on Tuesday, when the primary will take place. But he also appeared to shift some of his focus to the next major nominating contest, in South Carolina in late February. At the rally, several high-ranking state and federal officials from that state spoke on Trump's behalf, including South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster. "They understand that I am the only candidate in this race who is going to save America and we're gonna get rid of this Biden disaster right away," Trump said. "So you know what I'm doing? I'm kissing ass." Haley has stepped up her attacks on Trump in recent days with a late-in-the-game move to draw contrasts with a businessman and politician whose time in the White House was characterized by chaos and who faces four criminal cases, including for his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 election that he lost to now President Joe Biden. Despite her shift, some Republican and independent voters say Haley should go further with her criticisms and that she has not hit her main rival hard enough throughout her campaign. "I think Trump needs to be put in his place," said Chris Jay, 57, a Republican who said he was leaning toward Haley but wanted her to lob more head-on attacks at the former president. Haley on Saturday knocked Trump, 77, for his age after he seemingly confused her with former Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi. Haley also criticized Trump for his affinity for strongmen such as Russia's Vladimir Putin and North Korea's Kim Jong Un. Trump, she said at a campaign event in Keene, New Hampshire on Saturday, needs to stop praising dictators. She said as his UN ambassador, she tried to break up his bromance with Putin. Trump has upped his already fierce attacks on Haley as well, targeting her given first name on his social media platform and amplifying false posts questioning her birthright U.S. citizenship. The daughter of two immigrants from India, Haley was bornNimarata Nikki Randhawa but has long used her middle name Nikki and later took her husband's surname. At the Saturday night rally in Manchester, Trump attacked Haley for her support among some wealthy donors who have also supported Democrats and called her a threat to social security. Above the stage where Trump spoke, a large screen showed messages critcizing Haley, alongside unflattering pictures of her. "Nikki Haley is loved by Democrats, Wall Street and globalists," one of the images on the screen read. (Reporting by Gram Slattery, James Oliphant and Nathan Layne; Writing by Jeff Mason; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) Former President Trump on Saturday suggested he has his pick for vice president and hinted people will not be that surprised by his choice of running mate. Asked by Fox News chief political anchor Bret Baier in New Hampshire about when he will decide who could join him on the ticket if he secures the nomination, Trump said, Well, its never really had that much of an effect on an election, which is an amazing thing, both election and primary. Its never really had much of an effect. I may or may not really [decide] something over the next couple of months. Theres no rush to that. It wont have any impact at all. The person that I think I like is a very good person, a pretty standard. I think people wont be that surprised, but I would say theres probably a 25 percent chance that would be that person, Trump continued. Asked if Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) who dropped out of the GOP primary race in November and endorsed Trump on Friday is on the list, Trump described the senator as a great guy while highlighting other political figures from the Palmetto State. You know, [Scott] endorsed me. Theres an example, [Nikki Haley] comes from South Carolina, Tim Scott is from South Carolina. But if you look [at] the governor, great governor, another senator [Lindsey Graham]. We happen to like Lindsey, Trump said. But, [Gov. Henry McMaster (R)] knows it very well. He endorsed me. Its very hard for a governor to endorse somebody when you havent I mean, Henry McMaster was the lieutenant governor under her and he endorsed me What does that tell you? In a Fox News town hall in Iowa earlier this month, Trump indicated he would be willing to consider any of the people who ran against him. Ive already started to like [Chris Christie] better, Trump said, in reference to the former New Jersey governor who dropped out of the primary race earlier this month. Christie and Trump have had a tumultuous relationship over the years, with Christies 2024 campaign largely squared on criticizing the former president. Trump has largely kept his cards close to his chest when it comes to who might join him on the Republican ticket. Several Trump allies have urged him to select a female running mate, suggesting names such as Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) and South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. By Park Jae-hyuk POSCOs non-shift employees, who are expected to work at least 40 hours a week, will be allowed to take a Friday off every two weeks, if they work at least 80 hours during the previous nine weekdays, according to the steelmaker, Sunday. The new system, which will take effect on Monday, is intended to boost productivity as it allows workers to go on trips or enjoy various activities for refreshment during longer weekends. POSCOs holding firm and the groups other affiliates are expected to adopt the same system. We have made continuous efforts to guarantee a work-life balance and create a happier workplace for our employees, the company said in a press release. Our employees can choose between the new system and the conventional five-day workweek. Given that Samsung and SK have already allowed flexible work hours for their employees to take a day off on Friday once or twice a month, attention has been focused on whether POSCOs latest move will help the trend become the new normal in Korea. Samsung Electronics labor and management agreed last June to give a Friday off once a month to employees who worked longer than their minimum monthly work hours. Some of SK Groups affiliates implemented a Happy Friday, which enables their employees to take a Friday off once or twice a month, after working overtime on previous weekdays. Although the affiliates of Hyundai Motor and LG have yet to adopt such a system, some of them have also allowed flextime, so that their employees can adjust their start and finish times for work, in contrast to traditional work arrangements that require employees to work from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with an hour-long lunch break. The main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) has sought to pass a law enforcing a four-and-a-half-day workweek, as the Yoon Suk Yeol administration tries to relax the maximum 52-hour workweek for certain business sectors. Korea is one of the countries with the longest work hours, DPK Chairman Rep. Lee Jae-myung said last November. Other countries are heading toward a four-day workweek, so it is improper to increase the maximum workweek. However, skepticism remains about the feasibility of a four-day workweek in Korea, as the country relies heavily on the manufacturing industry. Even after POSCO and several other major manufacturers decided to introduce flextime, their blue-collar employees doing shift work at factories running 24 hours a day have had to work as before. Small and medium-sized manufacturers also claim that it is impossible for them to introduce a four-day workweek, as most of them even ask their employees to work six days a week to supply their products to customers punctually. In addition, small companies say they cannot afford to hire additional employees to fill the vacancy for workers who take a day off once or twice a month. This is a joint project between Nexstar Media Group and Syracuse University. MANCHESTER, N.H. (NEXSTAR) Manchester is home to New Hampshires well-known political institute and to get questions answered ahead of Tuesdays first in the nation primary, we heard from an expert in the department. Donald Trump is well ahead in the polls, yet still people question how. Voters who dont back Trump want to know what his backers see in the former president. Executive Director of the New Hampshire Institute of Politics at Saint Anslem College, Neil Levesque, spoke about the loyalty of Trump supporters. Levesque is from New Hampshire and has hosted four presidential primary debates. Donald Trump has a connection with a certain segment of republican primary voters that Ive never seen before in politics. Levesques says his loyal backers trust, love, and believe in him. No one really has been able to make an argument to a solid Trump voter as to why they shouldnt vote for Trump. Even with four criminal indictment charges, Trump supporters have not turned their backs on him. New Hampshire voters have not penalized Trump for his lack of engagement in debates either which is evident from the polls. Its a fascinating situation because hes almost like a goal post. Hes been about 45% popularity here in New Hampshire for a whole year, despite all the indictments all the things going on all the opponents attacking him, all the money spent, still 45%. While the debate that was supposed to be held at Saint Anslem College was canceled, Trump is still making his way through the state to reach the people of New Hampshire. He has speeches and rallies scheduled throughout the weekend in Concord, Manchester and Rochester. Valentina LaFranca is a graduate student at Newhouse studying Broadcast and Digital Journalism and currently interns for WSYR News Channel 9. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Former President Donald Trump, right, shakes hands with Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.) as a group of South Carolina politicians join Trump on stage in Manchester, New Hampshire. Former President Donald Trump, right, shakes hands with Rep. Joe Wilson (R-S.C.) as a group of South Carolina politicians join Trump on stage in Manchester, New Hampshire. MANCHESTER, N.H. Three days before a New Hampshire primary in which former President Donald Trump hopes to defeat former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, he addressed a packed rally of his supporters alongside South Carolinas top Republican elected officials. Trump announced the group of conservative Palmetto State politicians Haleys successor Gov. Henry McMaster; Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette; State House Speaker Murrell Smith; Treasurer Curtis Loftis; Attorney General Alan Wilson; and U.S. Reps. William Timmons, Joe Wilson, and Russell Fry as evidence of Haleys political weakness. Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), a former presidential candidate, endorsed Trump on Friday, but was not present at Saturday nights event. The Radical Left Democrats are supporting Nikki Haley for one reason because they know shes very easy to beat. Shes gonna be very easy to beat. Shes them, Trump declared before introducing the elected officials, several of whom spoke on his behalf. Thats why Im so proud to be joined today by an incredible group of leaders from Nikkis home state of South Carolina where well be in about three weeks. Trumps effort to display dominance over Haley served a dual purpose. Since the eve of the Iowa caucuses, Trump has hammered Haley as a liberal infiltrator because of her reliance on the support of anti-Trump moderate Republicans and independents. To that end, he has made the misleading claim that Democrats are allowed to vote in New Hampshires Republican primary. In fact, while independents are free to vote in the states GOP primary without any advance preparation, registered Democrats who want to participate must have switched their registration to the Republican Party in early October. They want to turn liberal voters into Republicans for about two minutes while they vote and then go back to being liberal voters in the Democrat party, he said on Saturday night. Its terrible. After repeatedly suggesting changing party affiliation was as simple as changing a band-aid, he later made clear, in passing, that he understands that any Democrats who want to vote in the Republican primary needed to have done so by Oct. 6. Trump did not mention that South Carolina, where polling shows him with a large lead in that states Feb. 24 contest, does not have partisan registration of any kind. That means that people who vote consistently for Democrats are free to participate without any additional requirements. Dont listen to polls. Get out and vote. We need a big, big win against these terrible people.Former President Donald Trump Of course, Trumps show of force on Saturday night also set the stage for a strategy he is likely to employ should he either lose, or win only narrowly, in New Hampshire: Writing off the state as a liberal aberration, and encouraging his supporters to avenge him in the deeply conservative Palmetto State. Thanks to its population of Trump-skeptical moderate and libertarian voters, Trumps polling lead over Haley in New Hampshire, while substantial, is far narrower than it is in South Carolina. Dont listen to polls, he told the Manchester crowd, warning them against seeing his lead over Haley as a sure thing. Get out and vote. We need a big, big win against these terrible people. Judging by the raucous crowd of thousands assembled to see Trump in Southern New Hampshire Universitys arena on Saturday night, his base of supporters in the state does not lack for enthusiasm. Event staff closed the doors to the venue an hour before Trump got on stage, saying that the fire marshal said the arena was at legal capacity. Inside the arena though, there were many empty seats. Even as he savaged Haley with biting attacks, Trump enjoyed a jovial rapport with the crowd. Nikki Haley, I know her well, he began, prompting a chorus of boos and apparently a lone cry of bird brain from one attendee. The guys screaming bird brain. Only in New Hampshire does that happen! Trump responded. Haley was the core focus of Trumps speech, against whom he continued to marshal a combination of attacks from the right that she is a globalist who will cave to China, bankroll Ukraine, and fail to curb illegal immigration and from the left, by hitting her for her plans to raise Social Securitys retirement age. Trump went on an extended riff about the latter point toward the end of his speech, arguing that her position was both wrongheaded and politically stupid. Haley said she wants to raise the Social Security retirement age to match life expectancy, which means that she wants it to go up to about 77. Is everybody happy with that? he asked, eliciting a loud no from the audience. Its not going to happen with us. Haley has actually said that she would raise the age for younger workers to account for life expectancy, not to match average life expectancy exactly. Trump went on to outline how Haleys stance would cost her the election, just as former Wisconsin Rep. Paul Ryans plan to privatize Medicare undermined Mitt Romneys 2012 presidential bid when Ryan was his vice presidential candidate. Paul Ryans 2011 plan to destroy Medicare the same plan that led to Democrat ads, the most vicious ads showing Republicans wheeling granny off the cliff. Do you remember that? That was not good politics, Trump recalled. They lost that election. Republican presidential hopeful Nikki Haley speaks at a get-out-the-vote rally in Nashua, New Hampshire, on Saturday. She has pinned her hopes on a strong showing in the Granite State. Republican presidential hopeful Nikki Haley speaks at a get-out-the-vote rally in Nashua, New Hampshire, on Saturday. She has pinned her hopes on a strong showing in the Granite State. Trump instead implied that he could grow the economy enough by drilling for more oil liquid gold under our feet that benefit cuts would not be necessary to close Social Securitys funding gap. (There are no credible actuarial analyses that say the programs funding gap can be addressed solely through economic growth, though it is possible to shore up its finances with revenue increases alone.) He also blasted Haley for supposedly supporting a 23% national sales tax, based on a 2012 social media post in which she said she supported the Fair Tax proposal. (A select group of fiscally conservative, congressional Republicans have, for years, introduced a bill called the FairTax Act that would replace federal income, payroll, and estate taxes with a single 23% sales tax.) Think about that. Think. This is death this is death for a candidate, he said. The world doesnt know that. I thought Id let you know before the election. Trump treated Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis mostly as an afterthought though he noted that DeSantis had also voted to raise the Social Security retirement age, and backed the 23% sales tax as a member of Congress. I havent even mentioned the name of Ron DeSanctimonious yet because I think hes gone, Trump said toward the beginning of his speech. Someone in the crowd yelled out that DeSantis wears high heels. The claim is based on internet speculation that DeSantis uses lifts in his cowboy boots to make himself look taller. Our economy didn't suck when he was our president and I was finally doing the best financially in my life.Leslie Szabunka, food service worker He does not wear high heels, OK! He does not wear high heels! Trump joked with faux coyness. All right, maybe. Guy screams out, Hes got a new pair of high heels, Trump added. You cant do that. Its not polite. Dont do that. Ill have to admonish you. Trump supporters told HuffPost that they felt that the economy was better under Trump. Our economy didnt suck when he was our president and I was finally doing the best financially in my life, said Leslie Szabunka, a food service worker at a local college who was sporting a red Trump stocking hat. Mahmoud Attia, manager of a Nashua pizza place, and his wife, Wesam Al-Sayed, drove up to hear Trump speak with their three boys. After waiting in line in the freezing cold for an extended time, they were not able to get in before the arena reached capacity. Attia previously voted for Democrats, but regretted his vote for President Joe Biden and plans to rectify that with a vote for Trump this year. Trump has a strong personality. He knows what hes doing, said Attia, who immigrated from Egypt in the late 1990s. Hes not a mess like this guy, like crooked Joe Biden. Asked what issues he had with Biden, Attia replied, Economy sucks everything is bad. CONCORD, N.H. (AP) Donald Trump's effort to march to the Republican presidential nomination faces perhaps its greatest challenge on Tuesday when voters in New Hampshire hold the first-in-the-nation primary. With Ron DeSantis ending his 2024 campaign and endorsing Trump on Sunday, the primary becomes the first one-on-one matchup between Trump and Nikki Haley. The former president enters the contest emboldened by his record-setting performance in last week's Iowa caucuses. But New Hampshire has a more moderate political tradition and primary rules that allow unaffiliated voters to participate in the race. Trump-backed MAGA candidates have struggled here in recent years. Haley, the former U.N. ambassador and onetime South Carolina governor, is hoping to capitalize on those vulnerabilities, especially now that she is the only major candidate left in the GOP primary aiming to defeat Trump outright. DeSantis, even before dropping out altogether, had effectively surrendered New Hampshire to focus instead on South Carolina's Feb. 24 primary. But he did have supporters in New Hampshire who now must decide what to do. A Haley victory would usher in a more competitive phase of a primary that Trump has so far dominated. A Trump win, however, could create a sense of inevitability that he would become the GOP nominee for the third consecutive time. Dont forget Democrats have a primary, too. President Joe Biden is not on the ballot, having made South Carolina the first formal stop on the Democratic primary calendar. But New Hampshire is sticking to tradition and hosting its own Democratic primary anyway. Here's what we're watching for on Tuesday: CAN TRUMP BE STOPPED? If Haley can't beat him in New Hampshire, she may not be able to stop him anywhere else, even in her home state of South Carolina. The one-on-one fight between Trump and Haley is exactly what Trump's Republican critics have been clamoring for. Haley appears competitive and enjoys support among moderate voters and independents. She's also earned the backing of popular New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu. Still, Trump remains the favorite. Sensing a knock-out blow, the former president has called in his growing army of prominent supporters in recent days to help demonstrate his strength. South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, Trump's former opponent, endorsed Trump at a New Hampshire rally over the weekend. New York Rep. Elise Stefanik and Ohio Sen. JD Vance stumped for Trump on Saturday before an appearance from South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster. A significant number of New Hampshire Republicans insist they will never support Trump. And without a competitive Democratic primary in the way, many left-leaning unaffiliated voters could decide to support Haley. But that doesn't change the fact that Republican primary elections are typically decided by Republicans, and Trump's grip on the base appears stronger than ever. Still, New Hampshire loves a comeback story (just ask Bill Clinton), so we wouldnt rule anything out. WHERE DO DESANTIS SUPPORTERS GO? DeSantis was seen as a distant third-place finisher in New Hampshire even before ending his campaign Sunday. The Florida governor visited the state for the first time as a major 2024 primary candidate in June. After his 30-point drubbing in Iowa, where DeSantis had committed most of his time and resources, he surrendered New Hampshire before a single vote was cast. DeSantis actually spent the weekend campaigning in South Carolina, which hosts its primary election in five weeks. But dismal poll numbers don't mean DeSantis had no support at all in New Hampshire. With him having aimed for the most conservative factions in the GOP coalition and then endorsing Trump, it's possible his formal departure adds votes to the former president's vote totals. Could that be the difference between Trump managing a narrow victory over Haley or garnering a clear majority that he then uses to declare the nomination a done deal before Haley gets her home-state shot at him? HOW MUCH DOES ELECTABILITY REALLY MATTER? Publicly and privately, Democratic leaders have repeatedly acknowledged that they fear Haley much more than Trump in a prospective general election matchup against Biden. We're about to find out whether Republican primary voters agree. Haley has spent months telling voters that, without Trump's chaos and political baggage, she would be better positioned to defeat Biden in November. That argument didn't help her much in Iowa, where she finished just behind DeSantis. She's betting that voters in swing-state New Hampshire will place more value on her longer-term political appeal. Sununu, New Hampshire's popular GOP governor, has been at Haley's side for weeks reminding voters of Trumps dismal record in national elections ever since he entered the White House. It's unclear if the message has resonated. If it doesn't, it'll be because Trump has effectively convinced Republican voters that he not Haley is the most electable general election candidate. That's a risky bet, given his extraordinary legal problems, the attack he inspired on the U.S. Capitol and his demonstrated record of alienating suburban voters in successive elections. Biden's unpopularity is no doubt muddying the issue. Still, New Hampshire voters have an opportunity to cast a strategic vote Tuesday based on the one issue that seems to matter more than all else in today's politics: the ability to beat the other side. IT'S ALL ABOUT TURNOUT The end result may be tied most to who actually shows up to vote on Tuesday. Iowa saw one of its lowest turnouts in recent history in last weeks caucuses. Low turnout elections typically favor the candidate with the strongest support among the partys base. And in 2024, thats Trump. But Haley, with arguments about Trumpian chaos and electability, has been trying to appeal to independents and less-ideological moderate Republicans and independents. New Hampshire law allows unaffiliated voters to participate in either partys nomination contest. Democrats are not allowed to vote in the GOP primary, although voters had an opportunity to change their registration before an October deadline. Haley needs a large turnout, driven by those unaffiliated voters, to have a chance. New Hampshire Secretary of State David M. Scanlan predicted that 322,000 voters would participate in the GOP primary, which would be a record high. On the Democratic side, hes expecting just 88,000 given theres virtually no competition. A PRESIDENTIAL EMBARRASSMENT? It may not be the headline, but New Hampshire Democrats are voting for their presidential nominee as well. As much as Biden's team wants you to think they don't care about the outcome, they're paying attention. Biden won't be on New Hampshire ballot, of course. He's avoiding New Hampshire altogether after pushing the Democratic National Committee to award the nation's opening primary to South Carolina, a much more diverse state that's set to vote on Feb. 3. Furious about Biden's decision, the Live Free or Die state ignored the president's wishes and will host an unsanctioned Democratic primary anyway. There are several lesser-known Democrats on the ballot, including Rep. Dean Phillips, D-Minn., and progressive activist Marianne Williamson. Eager to demonstrate Biden's strength despite his absence, the president's allies in the state have been encouraging voters to write in Biden's name. The outcome will have no bearing on the number of delegates needed to secure the Democratic nomination. But an underwhelming finish, even in a write-in campaign, would represent an unwanted embarrassment as Biden tries to improve his political standing heading into the fall campaign. ___ Associated Press writer Bill Barrow in Atlanta contributed to this report. WASHINGTON Former President Donald Trump is trying to torpedo a bipartisan border security package, putting new pressure on Republicans to reject a deal that Senate negotiators have been crafting for months. Its the latest example of the former president leveraging his popularity within the GOP to influence Republican officeholders even as he lacks any formal powers to set the political agenda. If Trump openly campaigns against it, Republicans will have a hard time supporting the border security deal that is now favored by many senators in their own party. The proposal which has not yet been finalized would reportedly approve several conservative border priorities. The deal would call for stricter asylum standards and new deportation powers in exchange for a $106 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and other domestic and foreign goals that are related to the mission of keeping the country safe. Mike Johnson outside White House In an interview with House Speaker Mike Johnson Wednesday night, Fox News host Laura Ingraham said Trump told her he was against the deal, that hed urged Johnson to reject it, and that he was extremely adamant about it. He and I have been talking about this pretty frequently, Johnson said, noting that he would reserve judgment on the deal until the bill text is out. But it doesnt sound good at the outset. Trump also posted to Truth Social Wednesday that he opposes a border package unless we get EVERYTHING needed to shut down the INVASION at the southern border. He added that he has no doubt that Johnson will only make a deal that is PERFECT ON THE BORDER. Trumps comments are certainly not helpful, Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., said Thursday. But in the end, people are going to have to do what they think is right to solve what is a major crisis at our southern border at a time when we have more leverage than we would ever have. Senate Republicans make their case on the border deal Many Senate Republicans, including Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, have argued it is a unique moment to win conservative border policy, as Democrats wont want to support new restrictions under Trump and have an incentive to address migration. In a CBS News poll released earlier this month, just 32% of Americans said they supported Bidens handling of the border. But thats the same reason some House Republicans have opposed the package, arguing it would not only open the door to additional Ukraine aid, which several oppose, but that it could help Bidens reelection prospects and take away a politically salient issue for Trump to campaign on. Thats left Senate Republicans arguing that the package is a more conservative deal than theyd ever get with Trump in office and that it wouldnt hurt his prospects. I dont think its going to be like turning off the spigot tomorrow if we were to pass something, Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas. This is going to long be an issue, including through the election. Theres a lot of other stuff to run on too I dont think you need to hold a gun to your own head and say dont make me do this. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, wished Ketanji Brown Jackson luck at her confirmation hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee on April 28. Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., said Democrats wont agree to conservative border priorities without being forced to. It doesnt surprise me that Trump is talking to Johnson about the deal, Rounds told USA TODAY. But I think that the next administration, if its different than the Biden administration, will definitely want these tools in their arsenal. Johnson has not officially dismissed the bipartisan plan, which Senate leaders are hoping can come to the floor for a vote as early as this week. But he has said he would only support something that hews closely to House Republicans hardline border bill, which received no Democratic votes in the House and has no chance of survival in the Democrat-controlled Senate making successful border policy this year even more out of reach. Trump's influence in the GOP Since leaving office at the beginning of 2021, Trump has repeatedly flexed his influence in the party that he reshaped during his first term in office. In the months following Jan. 6, 2021 when a mob of Trump supporters attacked the Capitol after he repeatedly claimed he had won the election without evidence many Republicans distanced themselves from the former president and condemned his lack of action to interrupt the riot. But even then, only 10 Republican House members voted to impeach him and seven Republican senators voted to convict. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump points to the crowd, accompanied by his son, Eric, at a caucus night party in Des Moines, Iowa, Monday, Jan. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik) ORG XMIT: PNA310 In the years since, those attitudes have softened and Trumps power in the party has grown. In the 2022 midterm elections, he actively campaigned against those who he felt hadnt been sufficiently loyal, with mixed success. Hes weighed in on multiple Congressional fights, including the bid to replace former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy. He has pushed members to take action that would benefit him or punish his opponents, such as impeaching Joe Biden or face being immediately primaried. He has fostered relationships with GOP members and personally asked for their endorsements, leading to more than half of the caucus endorsing him before the Iowa Caucuses. Now, he remains the clear frontrunner to be the partys nominee for president. He took more than half of the votes in Iowa, which was the first presidential nominating contest of the election season, and is likely to similarly dominate the New Hampshire primary this week. Hes the leading candidate to be president coming out of our party, Rounds told reporters Thursday. So most certainly, individuals here will give deference to someone who is the leading candidate to be the next president. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: GOP lawmakers likely to face pressure from Trump to reject border deal (Bloomberg) -- Former US President Donald Trump holds 50% of support among likely Republican primary voters in New Hampshire versus 39% for former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, according to a CNN poll conducted by the University of New Hampshire. Most Read from Bloomberg Both candidates have seen an increase in support since the previous survey earlier this month, when Trump had the backing of 39% of voters and Haley registered at 32%, CNN reported. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis stood at just 6% in the latest poll, below the 10% level of support that would be needed to win delegates in line with GOP rules. Among voters who say they havent yet locked in a choice ahead of the New Hampshire primary on Tuesday, 51% broadly support Haley, while 28% are behind Trump and 14% favor DeSantis. In Democratic polling, about two-thirds of likely voters plan to support Biden, according to the survey. CNN said the poll was conducted from Jan. 16-19 from a sample of 2,348 New Hampshire adults, with a margin of error of plus or minus 2 percentage points. Read More: Wall Street Donors Plan Haley Fundraiser After New Hampshire Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek 2024 Bloomberg L.P. Hearing on possible expansion of landfill Kimble Companies permit is Jan. 31 DOVER An information session and public hearing about the draft solid waste permit-to-install issued to Kimble Companies will be at 6 p.m. Jan. 31 at the Dover Library. The public is encouraged to attend, comment, and ask questions. Reasonable accommodations due to a disability are available at the meeting. The permit, if approved, will allow Kimble Companies to expand the Kimble Sanitary Landfill vertically and horizontally. Kimble Companies proposes, in this solid waste permit-to-install application, to increase the landfills permitted space from the current 47 million cubic yards to 65.8 million cubic yards. If approved, this would allow the landfill to expand from 213.4 acres to 236.7 acres. A public hearing, where comments are welcome on the draft permit-to-install, will immediately follow the informational meeting Written comments can also be submitted through Feb. 14 by email at epa.dmwmcomments@epa.ohio.gov or by mail to Ohio EPA DMWM, P.O. Box 1049, Columbus, Ohio 43216-1049, attention Brian Dearth. A harness racing horse is exercised a the Tuscarawas County Fairgrounds in Dover, Tuesday, Jan. 16. Temperatures at the time were hovering around 10 degrees Fahrenheit. Kent man shares story about cardiac arrest DOVER Korey Loughry of Kent will be at the Dover Public Library at 6:30 p.m. Thursday to tell of his survival of multiple sudden cardiac arrests following an unexpected widow maker heart attack. Loughry shares his recollections of SCA and his long recovery in his book I Was Arrested: A Candid Memoir of One Cardiac Arrest Survivor. A book signing will follow the program. Joining Loughry will be Kari Klaserner, coordinator of Outpatient Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation at Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital, who will share information about cardiac arrest, nutrition and prevention as well as helpful resources that are offered locally. Register for the event at www.doverlibrary.org/events or call the library at 330-343-6123. Hiker to recount Mount Everest climb DOVER Sugarcreek native Larry Ike Compton will speak at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, at the Dover Public Library about his climb of Mount Everest. He will share pictures of his adventure and show a video he made himself while climbing the highest mountain on earth in 2022. Register for the program at www.doverlibrary.org/events or call the library at 330-343-6123. Shooting event set for Jan. 28 DOVER A Lucky X Shoot will be held at the Zoar Road Gun Club, 5681 Dover Zoar Road NE, at 9 a.m. Jan. 28. Prizes and lunch will be available. Tiny Art Show participants sought NEW PHILADELPHIA The Tuscarawas County Public Library System's Main Library, 121 Fair Ave NW, is seeking area artists to participate in its third annual Tiny Art Show in February. Professional and amateur artists are encouraged to participate. Participants can stop by the main library starting Monday to pick up a mini canvas. The library will have 100 canvases available for free and participants may supply their own canvas no bigger than 4x4 inches. This event is open to all ages and is first-come, first-served. Participants can decorate the canvas any way they wish and bring it back by 4 p.m. Feb. 3. The artwork will be displayed in the lobby display case for the rest of the month. Community members can vote for their favorite piece Feb. 19-28, with winners being announced in March. For more information about this event visit www.tusclibrary.org or call 330-364-4474. Nominations sought for Heckewelder Award NEW PHILADELPHIA The Tuscarawas County Historical Society is accepting nominations for its annual Zeisberger Heckewelder Award until Feb. 1. The award is given annually to up to four people and an organization who exemplify outstanding service to the citizens of Tuscarawas County or have enhanced a better understanding of the history of Tuscarawas County and made Tuscarawas County a better place to live. Nominees should have performed services benefitting the economic, social, moral, and cultural life of the area, whose endeavors have brought merit to Tuscarawas County, or who have made outstanding contributions to the quality of life or the preservation of history in the area. The nominee must be a resident of or be located in Tuscarawas County. Current public officeholders are not eligible. Winners will be announced in April and presented at the Tuscarawas County Historical Societys annual Founders Day Banquet in May. Nominations must be made in writing and include the nominees name, address, and phone number; the nominators name, address and phone number; a written explanation of why the nominee should be considered; a list of any leadership roles the applicant has held in Tuscarawas County and any supporting documents for the nomination. Mail to the society at: TCHS; P. O. Box 462; New Philadelphia, OH 44663 or drop off at the Tusc Kent Archives in Founders Hall on the campus of Kent State University Tuscarawas from 8 a.m. to noon Monday, Wednesday and Friday. For more information about the Zeisberger Heckewelder Award, contact the Tuscarawas County Historical Society at 330-308-7494, by email at tuschs@tuschs.org or visit www.tuschs.org. Ohio Mock Trial competition Friday NEW PHILADELPHIA The 2024 Ohio Mock Trial competition will be held on Friday at the Tuscarawas County Courthouse. Many local schools are participating, including Claymont, Dover, Garaway, New Philadelphia and Tuscarawas County Central Catholic. Austintown Fitch and Steubenville high schools will also be traveling to Tuscarawas County to participate. Winners will advance to the regional mock trial competition in February. Fundraiser set for Delphian Chorale NEW PHILADELPHIA The Delphian Chorales annual rigatoni dinner and variety show will be at 6 p.m. Saturday at the New Philadelphia First United Methodist Church, 201 W. High Ave. Tickets are $10 and are available for purchase from any Delphian Chorale member. Tickets may also be purchased at the door on the night of the show. Included in the meal will be rigatoni, salad, bread, drink and dessert. The Delphian Chorale students will perform during dinner. All proceeds will go toward the students trip to Cleveland in late May to see the Broadway show In the Heights. Roast beef dinner set for Jan. 28 SCIO Scio Volunteer Fire Department will have a roast beef dinner from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 28 at the Scio Fire Hall, 318 W. Main St. Adults $15, younger than 10 is $8. Eat in or carryout. This article originally appeared on The Repository: Tuscarawas County roundup: Hearing on Kimble landfill permit planned Two southern Idaho radio stations, including one in Nampa, were fined half a million dollars by the Federal Communications Commission for willful and repeated violations of rules related to on-air sponsorship disclosures. The parent company of the stations, New York-based Townsquare Media, was ordered Wednesday to pay $500,000 to the U.S. Treasury. The penalty follows an investigation by the Media Bureau, a division of the FCC, which licenses radio stations, that found that KIDO-AM (580) in Nampa and KLIX-AM in Twin Falls broadcast political advertisements and episodes of a hour-long program called Keep Idaho Red for over a year without disclosing that it was paid to do so by the Idaho Republican Party and later by Tom Luna, on behalf of Lunas company Tom Luna and Associates. Luna and Victor Miller, chairman of the Ada County Republican Party, were the hosts of each episode, and were solely responsible for producing the show and selecting guests, according to the order. Luna, former state superintendent of public instruction, was chair of the Idaho GOP for two years before being unseated by state Rep. Dorothy Moon in 2022. The order from the FCC said neither station provided on-air sponsorship identification announcements for the vast majority of episodes, nor advertisements that would have informed listeners who was paying for the content they were listening to. The violations occurred between October 2021 and March 2023. In addition, multiple episodes of the program contained appearances that constituted uses by legally qualified candidates for public office and communicated messages relating to political matters of national importance, FCC Media Bureau Chief Holly Saurer said in the order, was first reported by BoiseDev. Neither station uploaded records of any such candidate uses or messages to their respective online political files. Townsquare Media in a consent decree admitted to the violations and agreed to implement a comprehensive plan to ensure future compliance with its sponsorship identification and online political file obligations, as well as submit annual compliance reports to the Media Bureau, in addition to paying the fine. The media company is publicly traded and has an office off East Park Boulevard in Boise. A call to that office was referred to a Townsquare Media executive who did not immediately respond to an email requesting comment. Townsquare Media owns several other radio stations that serve the Treasure Valley, including Kiss FM, Lite FM, Power FM, Mix 106 and Wow Country. Government accuses Boises Norco, ex-CEO of overvaluing stock sold to employees Think summer, Boise. This three-band outdoor concert will hit the Idaho Center in June By Lee Min-hyung The nations ruling and main opposition parties are in a tight race to scout former top-ranking businesspeople ahead of the general elections scheduled for April, in efforts to win more votes amid the economy's ever-growing influence on the public. Koh Dong-jin, an adviser to Samsung Electronics, surprised political circles with his announcement that he would join the ruling People Power Party (PPP) on Jan. 22. He spent most of his career at the electronics firm after joining it in 1984. Koh is considered the key man in designing and developing its Galaxy smartphone series. He had also been president of Samsung Electronics mobile unit. It remains unclear which electoral district he will run for in the upcoming general elections slated for April 10. He is rumored to seek an electoral district in Suwon, Gyeonggi Province, where Samsung Electronics headquarters are located. Koh, if elected, will follow in similar footsteps of Rep. Yang Hyang-ja, another Samsung Electronics executive-turned-lawmaker. The PPP is known to have persuaded Koh to join the party so that he can share his tech expertise and help boost the economy. The main opposition Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) also succeeded in inviting former Hyundai Motor President Kong Young-woon to the party, in a similar bid to attract a ranking business leader. He will officially join the party today. Kong is an expert in corporate planning and setting business strategies at the nations largest carmaker. The journalist-turned-businessman was also in charge of public relations at the company after joining it in 2005 as a director. Kong will be tasked with handling diverse economic issues and developing policies for the livelihood of the public, according to the DPK. Industry officials said scouting businesspeople gives the public a fresh impression, as the nations political circles are dominated by legal experts and bureaucrats. Both of the figures have proven track records as successful businesspeople, an official from a conglomerate said. Scouting them, in itself, may also give a fresh mood to the public as well as party members. Tessa M. Gorman was sworn in as U.S. Attorney in the Western District of Washington on Tuesday. U.S. Attorney Gorman had served six months as Acting U.S. Attorney. She was appointed to the post by U.S. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. U.S. Attorney Gorman also issued a 2023 report to the community, highlighting the work of the U.S. Attorneys Office. Our priorities continue to include keeping communities safe, protecting civil rights, defending government agencies in litigation, and working on crime prevention strategies including improving reentry for those involved in the criminal justice system, writes the report. An alarming issue the office is seeing is an increase in hate crimes. Of key importance to the office and community are our cases involving civil rights, including hate crimes, writes the report. We are seeing a disturbing spike in threats and actions motivated by hate for diverse communities. She also touched on community safety regarding fentanyl and guns, tax crimes, cybercrimes, and environmental crimes. U.S. personnel were injured in an attack by Iran-backed militants on the Ain al-Asad air base in Iraq. U.S. Central Command said in a statement on X that the militants launched multiple ballistic missiles and rockets on the base early Saturday evening. Most of the missiles were intercepted by the bases air defense systems, it said, while others impacted on the base. The attacks also wounded at least one Iraqi service member. The injuries incurred by U.S. personnel were described as minor. The attack is the latest example of Iran-backed aggression against the U.S. in the Middle East since the start of Israels offensive in the Gaza Strip in October against Hamas. Read it at Reuters Read more at The Daily Beast. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas looks on during a House Committee on Homeland Security hearing titled "Worldwide Threats to the Homeland" at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. DHS agents raided an Ohio-based auto parts manufacturer recently. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI Jan. 21 (UPI) -- U.S. Department of Homeland Security officers have searched a Chinese auto parts maker that a congressional committee has accused of trade fraud. DHS officers executed the search warrant at Harco Manufacturing Group in Moraine, Ohio, on Thursday, according to the Dayton Daily News. Harco is a subsidiary of Sunsong, the Chinese parts manufacturer. Sunsong acquired Harco in 2015. The address for Harco is the same address Sunsong North America lists on its website. There is growing concern among U.S. lawmakers that some Chinese companies are evading U.S. tariffs, the news portals Axios and Bloomberg have reported. The search was "part of an ongoing federal investigation," a DHS spokesperson told Dayton Daily News. In September, the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party in September wrote a letter to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas accusing Qingdao Sunsong of moving some of its production to Thailand to evade U.S. tariffs. The letter identified Qingdao Sunsong's public filings, which say the company's products are subject to U.S. import tariffs of 25% imposed on certain goods made in China and that "in order to reduce tariff costs, the issuer has accelerated production in Thailand." In the letter to Mayorkas, Republican congressmen Mike Gallagher of Wisconsin and Darin LaHood of Illinois called Sunsong's actions a "case of blatant trade fraud that is having a catastrophic impact on American manufacturers." "The use of transshipment to evade United States tariffs is a serious violation of U.S. law and undermines American economic and national security," the lawmakers wrote. The Biden administration has kept many of the tariffs that the Trump administration imposed on China beginning in 2018. China has not met its commitment laid out in a 2020 trade deal with the U.S., which required the country to increase its purchases of U.S. goods and services. Utah House Speaker Brad Wilson announces his candidacy for U.S. Senate at a kickoff party in Draper on Wednesday, Sept. 27, 2023. | Scott G Winterton, Deseret News Republican Senate candidates Brad Wilson and Brent Hatch endorsed Donald Trump for president on Sunday, as other Republican politicos coalesce around the former president, including Utah Sen. Mike Lee. Wilson and Hatch are running for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Utah Republican Sen. Mitt Romney. They face several other GOP candidates in the states primary, including 3rd District Rep. John Curtis, Riverton Mayor Trent Staggs, and conservative activist Carolyn Phippen. Staggs has already endorsed Trump, as has Phippen, while Curtis has said hell vote for Trump if he is the Republican nominee, Wilson and Hatch both announced their support for Trump on X, shortly after news broke that Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis was ending his run for president and endorsing Trump. It is evident that President Trump is the right nominee for our party, Wilson wrote. I look forward to working in the Senate with President Trump to unite our party, secure a stronger future for America, and continue the fight for conservative leadership. ... President Trump has my full endorsement. Meanwhile, Hatch, whose father the late Sen. Orrin Hatch, supported Trump after he was elected, said he would continue his familys support of the former president. My father was one of @realDonaldTrumps closest allies in the U.S. Senate, he wrote on X. I will be the same as we work to reduce government spending, secure the border, and cut through red tape. Frankly, we all know President Biden is not capable of being the leader of the free world and needs to retire and get the care he obviously needs. Hatch ended his social media post with Make America Great Again. #MAGA. Brent Hatch, whos running for U.S. Senate, poses for a portrait during an interview with the Deseret News at the office of Hatch Law Group in Salt Lake City on Friday, Jan. 5, 2024. | Megan Nielsen, Deseret News Related In recent weeks, the presidential race had whittled down to a contest between three candidates DeSantis, Trump and former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley. With DeSantis out, and Trump still commanding large majorities in polls, several senators and candidates have come out in support of Trump in recent weeks. Only one state so far has had a chance to vote in the Republican primary. In the Iowa caucuses, Trump won 51% of the vote, while DeSantis finished with 21% and Haley with 19%. The New Hampshire primary is this Tuesday, where the latest CNN poll showed Trump with 50% support and Haley with 39% among likely Republican voters. DeSantis was far behind his competitors with only 6% support. This story has been updated. WASHINGTON Iranian-backed militants attacked U.S. and and Iraqi troops Saturday at a base in western Iraq with ballistic missiles and rockets, and some American service members are being evaluated for traumatic brain injuries, according to U.S. officials. The attack with ballistic missiles on the al-Asad base represents an escalation of the dozens of attacks mounted by the militants since Israel's invasion of Gaza. Until Saturday, most of the attacks have been relatively minor and involved drones and rockets in Iraq and Syria. Ballistic missiles can carry heavier explosive loads. The Biden administration has sought to contain the fighting to Gaza but has increasingly been drawn into skirmishes with Iranian-backed militants across the Middle East. In Yemen, the Pentagon on Saturday mounted its sixth attack on Houthi militants to destroy what U.S. Central Command said was an anti-ship missile that was poised for launch into shipping lanes in the Red Sea. Militants launched Saturday's attack on al-Asad with "multiple ballistic missiles and rockets," according to a statement by U.S. Central Command. Most of the missiles were intercepted, while others struck the base. Two U.S. troops sustained minor injuries in the attack, according to a Defense official who was not authorized to speak publicly. The number of troops wounded will fluctuate as service members report symptoms in the coming days. The missiles did not cause serious damage to the base, used by U.S. and Iraqi troops to counter ISIS militants. Tensions rise in Red Sea region as U.S. and Allies carryout airstrikes against Iran-backed Houthis in Yemen. Iranian-backed militias have launched 130 attacks against U.S. and coalition troops in Iraq and Syria since October, according to the Pentagon. In January 2020, Iranians fired 13 ballistic missiles at al-Asad and more than 100 troops had suffered traumatic brain injuries. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: U.S. troops wounded by Iranian-backed militant attack in Iraq The Ministry of Internal Affairs is looking for Petro Symonenko, who fled to Russia during the occupation of Kyiv Oblast Ukraine's Ministry of Internal Affairs has issued a warrant for Petro Symonenko, leader of the banned Communist Party of Ukraine, declaring him missing since Aug. 19, 2023, on the ministrys official website. Symonenko fled to Russia with the assistance of Russian special forces during the occupation of Kyiv Oblast, said Ukraines SBU security service. Read also: ARMA terminates contract with Ukrnafta for Medvedchuks gas stations, announces new tender As Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Symonenko, known for supporting Russian aggression, sought "evacuation" from the Russian leadership, the SBU reported on Aug. 11. The Kremlin ordered a special forces unit to escort him and his family out of the occupied town of Berezivka in the Makariv district of Kyiv Oblast. Following the arrival of Russian forces, Symonenko personally welcomed them and accommodated them in his own house. The Russian special unit "accompanied" Symonenko and his family through Russian checkpoints to Belarus in March, 2022. He then relocated to Russia, where he assumed the role of deputy head of the Central Committee of the International Communist Union "Union of Communist Parties Communist Party of the Soviet Union." Read also: Russian agent detained in Donetsk Oblast faces life for tracking Ukrainian frontline positions This pro-Kremlin organization operates under the control of the Russian Communist Party, led by State Duma deputy Gennady Zyuganov, the SBU said. Symonenko, under Zyuganov's direction, initiated a public campaign supporting Moscow's aggressive policy even before the start of the full-scale war against Ukraine. Participating in the International Meeting of Communist and Workers' Parties in Havana, Cuba, in October 2022, Symonenko attempted to legitimize the seizure of part of Ukraine's territory and the activities of the so-called "L/DNR." He also attended an "antifascist forum" in Minsk in April 2023, advocating for the continuation of Russia's war against Ukraine and justifying Kremlin narratives regarding the possible use of tactical nuclear weapons. Symonenko is accused of making public calls to overthrow the constitutional order and of justifying Russia's armed aggression against Ukraine since 2014. Ukraines National Security and Defense Council decided in March 2022 to halt any activities of political forces associated with Russia during martial law. The parliament banned the activities of pro-Russian parties in Ukraine on May 3, 2022. A few months later, the Eighth Administrative Appeals Court definitively prohibited the Communist Party of Ukraine's activities. Read also: Ukrainian journalist on price for exposing government corruption interview Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Ukraine plans to start building large units for nuclear power plants in cooperation with the United States in 2024. Source: Herman Halushchenko, Ukraines Energy Minister, during a national joint 24/7 newscast. Details: The Minister noted that the plans for 2024 include constructing large power units for nuclear power plants. These projects are being implemented in cooperation with Western countries, including the United States. Among the tasks for 2024, the ministry named decentralisation and increasing the capacity of distributed electricity generation, in particular through the installation of gas turbines, as well as continuing the repair campaign and replacing high-voltage power converters at substations and protection systems. As is known, Ukraine plans to build a total of nine new nuclear power units based on the American AR1000 technology. Reminder: Energoatom and Westinghouse signed an agreement on the purchase of the first AR1000 reactor unit on 17 December 2023. It was reported that a Westinghouse reactor for the new power unit at Khmelnytskyi NPP will cost Ukraine US$437.5 million. Support UP or become our patron! Former Communist Party of Ukraine leader Petro Symonenko, archived by Wikimedia from his now-defunct personal website. Ukraine's Interior Ministry has put the former head of the banned Ukrainian Communist Party, Petro Symonenko, on a wanted list, according to the ministry's site. Symonenko fled to Russia in March 2022 and became a deputy head of an international alliance of communist parties, according to Ukrainian investigators. He appeared at a pro-Russian forum in Minsk in 2022 and supported the invasion of Ukraine. He's charged with using the media to call for overthrowing the government and justifying Russia's aggression. He faces up to five years for the first charge and from five to eight years for the second. The Communist Party of Ukraine was founded in 1993, claiming to be the rightful successor to the communist party of the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic. Ukraine's security services have reported that the party supported Russian proxies in Donbas after the 2014 invasion. It was banned in 2015. Symonenko tried to run in the 2019 presidential election but was prohibited. Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Editors Note: This is issue 115 of Ukrainian State-Owned Enterprises Weekly, covering key events in the domain of SOEs, state-owned banks, and privatization in 2023. The Kyiv Independent is reposting it with permission. Ukrainian SOE Weekly is an independent weekly digest based on a compilation of the most important news related to state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and state-owned banks in Ukraine. The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of the editorial team of the Ukrainian SOE Weekly. The SOE Weekly is produced and financed by Andriy Boytsun. Communications support is provided and financed by CFC Big Ideas. The SOE Weekly is not financed or influenced by any external party. Editorial team: Andriy Boytsun, Oleksiy Pavlysh, Dmytro Yablonovskyi, Oleksandr Lysenko, and Mariia Kramar. Corporate governance of SOEs Cabinet completes the composition of Naftogazs supervisory board. On Dec. 29, 2023, the Cabinet of Ministers appointed Kostiantyn Marievich as a state representative and seventh member of Naftogazs supervisory board. This completes the board, Naftogaz said. Marievich had already served as a state representative on Naftogazs supervisory board from June 26-Sept. 11, 2019 when his powers were terminated early. Marievich served on that board together with another current board member, Ludo Van der Heyden, who had been appointed as an independent member on the same day as Marievich. As we reported in SOE Weeklys Issue 83, Marievich was also a state representative on the first supervisory board of Main Gas Pipelines of Ukraine (MGU) from Feb. 28, 2018 to Sept. 18, 2019. According to SOE Weeklys estimates, he received around Hr 6.40 million (around $239,000) in this post. In addition, Marievich served as a state representative on Ukrzaliznytsias supervisory board from June 20, 2018-Dec. 18, 2019. The Cabinet also approved him for appointment as a state representative on the supervisory board of Polygraph Combine Ukraine on March 7, 2023. We are not aware if the actual appointment took place. According to the Government Portal, Marievich joined the Cabinets staff in April 2016 as deputy chief of staff of Deputy Prime Minister Volodymyr Kistion. He was the State Secretary of the Economy Ministry from June 2020 to June 2021. In June 2021, he was appointed as a Deputy State Secretary of the Cabinet of Ministers. As we reported in June 2023 (Issue 95), the Cabinet had yet to appoint the seventh member to Naftogazs supervisory board, five months after the appointment of six members on 24 January 2023. Read also: Russian Novatek gas plant halts operations after suspected Ukrainian drone attack The supervisory board members appointed back then included Anthony Marino (board chair), Tor Martin Anfinnsen, Richard Hookway, and Ludo Van der Heyden as independent members. The state representatives included Rostyslav Shurma and Nataliya Boyko (deputy board chair). See Issue 72 for detail. Note that according to Naftogazs charter, the supervisory board should consist of seven members: a majority of independent members and a minority of state representatives. This meant that one more member of the supervisory board remained to be appointed, which could be either a state representative or an independent member. In Issue 104, we reported that the White House sent Ukraine a list of priority reforms, which, among other things, included appointing a seventh member on Ukrenergos and Naftogazs supervisory boards. Following this, Naftogazs CEO Oleksiy Chernyshov said that this is not a problem at all." One more state representative will be added. This condition is absolutely feasible, he said. Cabinet officially converts Energoatom into a joint-stock company. On Dec. 29, 2023, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the long-awaited transformation. According to YouControl, joint-stock company Energoatom was registered on Jan. 11, 2024. According to the Cabinets resolution, the joint-stock company is the legal successor of all property and non-property rights and obligations of the State Enterprise National Nuclear Energy Generating Company (SE NNEGC) Energoatom from the date of the companys state registration. The Cabinet also approved the new companys charter and supervisory board regulations and issued an ordinance for a competitive selection of independent supervisory board members. In addition, acting executive board members have been appointed until a permanent executive board can take their place. Petro Kotin, the CEO of SE NNEGC Energoatom, was appointed as an acting CEO of the newly established Joint-Stock Company Energoatom. Besides Kotin, the acting members of the companys executive board are: Yurii Sheiko former Acting First Deputy CEO / Chief Technical Officer of SE NNEGC; Hartmut Jacob former Deputy CEO; and Oleksandr Ostapovets former Inspector General / Director for Safety. In February 2023 (Issue 74), we reported that the Verkhovna Rada passed Draft Law No. 8067 on the corporatization of Energoatom on Feb. 6, 2023. According to the Radas Energy Committee, establishing good corporate governance of SOEs is one of Ukraines obligations under the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the EU. Read also: Ukraine is third largest agricultural supplier to EU Energoatom remains 100% owned by the state, specifically the Cabinet of Ministers. Its shares cannot be privatized or divided. As we wrote two and half years ago in Issue 40, decisions to launch Energoatoms corporatization have been in the works for a decade, starting at least with the National Action Plan for 2012 on the Implementation of the Program of Economic Reforms in Ukraine for 2010-2014. One year ago (Issue 79), we reported that corporate governance reform of Energoatom was among the governments top priorities for 2023. According to the Cabinet of Ministers Priority Action Plan, Energoatom was to be converted into a joint-stock company by May 2023. The nuclear power operator was also slated to receive a competitively selected supervisory board with an independent majority. The deadline was November 2023. In Issue 80, we reported that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a law on the corporatization of Energoatom on March 17, 2023. As we wrote in Issue 86, the Cabinet approved the conversion of Energoatom into a joint-stock company to comply with the law. The Cabinet established a commission for this purpose. It was chaired by Oleksii Sobolyev, Deputy Minister of Economy, and included Petro Kotin, Energoatoms CEO, Farid Safarov, Deputy Minister of Energy, and another eight members. As we reported in Issue 113, on Dec. 1, 2023, the Energy Ministry announced an agreement with the head-hunter firm hired to find Energoatom a supervisory board Executive Search Ukraine LLC (doing business as Amrop). See Issue 113 for more detail. For a detailed account on the corporatiaation of Energoatom, see SOE Weeklys Issues 40, 41, 53, 58, 69, 74, 79, 80, 86, and 113. Read also: Case against investment banker points to increasing pressure by state on business in Ukraine Cabinet appoints the supervisory board of UDI. On Dec. 29, 2023, the Cabinet of Ministers appointed the supervisory board of the joint-stock company Ukrainian Defense Industry (UDI). According to the Cabinets ordinance, the supervisory board members from Jan. 10 are: Oleksiy Honcharuk (Ukraine; former Prime Minister of Ukraine from August 2019 to March 2020) independent member; Serhiy Konovets (Ukraine; previously a member of the supervisory board at Ukreximbank and earlier, CFO at Naftogaz, currently, an independent member of the supervisory board at the Gas Transmission System Operator of Ukraine GTSOU) independent member; Tymofiy Mylovanov (Ukraine; President of the Kyiv School of Economics, Associate Professor of the University of Pittsburgh, former Economy Minister from August 2019 to March 2020, former chair of Ukroboronproms supervisory board) state representative nominated by the Economy Ministry; David Lomjaria (Georgia; a state representative on Ukrzaliznytsias supervisory board, Executive Vice President of Iberia Group, Managing Partner of Four Seas Trading and chair of the supervisory board of SunEnergy Bank all based in Georgia) state representative nominated by the Defense Ministry; and Linndy Smith (USA; President and CEO of an NGO called Arizona Defense & Industry Coalition AZDIC) state representative nominated by the Strategic Industries Ministry. The term of office of the supervisory board members is three years. According to UDI, on Jan. 16, Lomjaria was elected as the board chair. Board committees were also formed and the schedule of meetings for 2024 was approved, UDI added. As we wrote in June 2023, the State Concern Ukroboronprom was dissolved and replaced by a joint-stock company called Ukrainian Defense Industry (UDI). The concept of corporate governance reform and conversion of Ukroboronprom, including its target model and detailed action plan, was drafted by Andriy Boytsun, Oleksandr Lysenko, and Dmytro Yablonovskyi, members of the SOE Weekly team, as well as the international law firm Kinstellar, in March 2020. For a discussion of these documents, see the OECD Review of the Corporate Governance of State-Owned Enterprises in Ukraine. Read also: Polish farmers to hold large protest against imports from Ukraine We also reported that Ukroboronproms CEO Yuriy Husiev resigned, and the Cabinet of Ministers appointed Herman Smetanin as the CEO of newly established UDI. See SOE Weeklys Issue 95 for more detail. Cabinet unblocks the work of Ukreximbanks supervisory board after more than seven months. On Jan. 12, the Cabinet of Ministers approved an ordinance allowing Ukreximbanks supervisory board to start working despite being incomplete. As we reported in December 2023 (see Issue 113), even though the Cabinet appointed new independent members of Ukreximbanks board on May 30, 2023, the same ordinance blocked the boards work. Under the ordinance, supervisory board members serve for three years from the date on which all independent members officially assume their roles. At the same time, only five out six independent board members have been appointed after NBUs approval. See Issue 113 for detail. On Jan. 12, the Cabinet amended its May 30, 2023 ordinance, removing the requirement that all independent board members must be appointed in order for the board to assume its duties. Following that, the renewed supervisory board started its work on Jan. 17. Oleksandr Bevz, Yuriy Butsa, and Viktoriya Strakhova are state representatives, Sylvia Gansser-Potts, Razvan Munteanu, Robert Kossmann, Dominique Menu, and Rostyslav Futalo are independent members. Read also: Energy giant DTEK presses international partners to encourage flow of private capital to Ukraine Sense Bank appoints a new CEO. On Dec. 20, Sense Bank reported that its supervisory board had elected Oleksii Stupak as the new banks CEO following a competitive selection. According to Sense Bank, the selection was carried out with the assistance of the recruitment company Odgers Berndtson, with more than 30 candidates considered in the process. Stupaks candidacy is yet to be approved by National Bank of Ukraine (NBU). According to Sense Bank, Oleksii Stupak has 21 years of experience in the banking sector. He started his banking career in 2002 at Pravex Bank, where he was responsible for corporate and VIP clients. Since 2008, he has held senior positions at Credit Agricole Ukraine. Stupak joined Sense Bank in June 2019. He held the position of Corporate Business Director, after which he moved to the position of Head of Corporate Investment, Small and Medium Businesses. He has held this position to this day, the bank added. As we reported in Issue 98, Sense Bank, previously owned by sanctioned Russian oligarchs Mikhail Fridman, Petr Aven, and Andrey Kosogov, was nationalied in late July 2023. On July 23, 2023, the Individuals Deposit Guarantee Fund (DGF) appointed the supervisory and executive boards of Sense Bank, based on proposals from the Finance Ministry, with the approval of the NBU. On July 24, 2023, Sense Bank announced the start of work of the new executive and supervisory boards. See more in Issue 98. As we wrote in Issue 100, as soon as Aug. 14, 2023, Sense Bank reported that its CEO Dmytro Kuzmin had resigned for personal reasons. Deputy CEO Olena Zubchenko then started temporarily acting as CEO. The supervisory board would begin selecting and appointing a new permanent CEO as soon as possible, Sense Bank then added. Read also: US slaps new sanctions over Russian oil price cap breach HACC sets bail for Kudin in the Sennychenko corruption case. On Jan. 17, the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office (SAPO) reported that the High Anti-Corruption Court (HACC) set bail of Hr 9 million ($240,000) for the former First Deputy Head of the State Property Fund (SPFU) Denys Kudin in the case of misappropriation of funds from Odesa Portside Plant (OPZ) and United Mining and Chemical Company (UMCC). According to SAPO, Kudin has the following procedural responsibilities: to appear at every request of the detective, prosecutor and court; not to leave Kyiv without the permission of the detective, prosecutor, or court; notify the detective, prosecutor, or court of any changes in his place of residence and place of work; refrain from communicating with other suspects in the case and witnesses; deposit his passport for travelling abroad and other documents entitling him to leave or enter Ukraine with the relevant state authorities. The obligations are valid until March 17. As we reported in Issue 80, in March 2023, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and SAPO said that they exposed a criminal group run by the former head of the SPFU, Dmytro Sennychenko. Sennychenko headed the SPFU from September 2019 to February 2022. He filed his resignation letter in November 2021, but the Verkhovna Rada only approved his resignation on Feb. 17, 2022. Read also: Reuters: No risk of default for holders of Russian bonds in case of confiscation According to NABU, the criminal group headed by Sennychenko misappropriated over Hr 500 million ($13 million) from Odesa Portside Plant (OPZ) and United Mining and Chemical Company (UMCC) throughout 2019-2021, but it did not end there. The criminal groups members allegedly received Hr 2 billion ($53 million) in benefits while controlling the Odesa plant, NABU stated. See Issue 80 for more detail. As we reported in Issue 83, in April 2023 the suspects in this case, including Sennychenko, were placed on the wanted list. In November 2023 (Issue 112), we wrote that NABU and SAPO updated charges against all members of the criminal group allegedly led by Sennychenko. They are now also suspected of legalising criminal proceeds worth over Hr 10 billion ($267 million). According to NABU, Sennychenko had nine accomplices. See Issue 112 for detail. As we reported in Issue 114, on Dec. 12, 2023, NABU and SAPO served a notice of suspicion to Denys Kudin, former First Deputy Head of the SPFU. He also served on the supervisory board of OPZ. Kudin then confirmed that he had received the notice of suspicion. He stated that he would legally prove his innocence. In February 2023, Ukrnaftas CEO Serhiy Koretskiy wrote that Kudin, who had recently stepped down as First Deputy Economy Minister, was appointed to head Ukrnaftas department for strategy, development, and government relations. See Issue 75. Kudin was the First Deputy Economy Minister from November 2021. Earlier, he was First Deputy Head of the SPFU. Prior to that, he worked with Koretskiy for the WOG chain of petrol stations in 2013-2018. Banks Ukrainian banks make a profit of Hr 130 billion in the first 11 months of 2023; state-owned banks earn more than 60% of the total. Opendatabot wrote that the top 10 banks account for 87% of the total profit, or Hr 112.95 billion ($3 billion). The five state-owned banks made 61.5% of Ukrainian banks total profits. Hr 54.46 billion ($1.5 billion), or 41.7% of the total, was earned by PrivatBank, which has consistently held the lead. PrivatBanks earnings have doubled from Hr 26.33 billion ($169 million) compared to the first 11 months of 2021, the year before Russias full-scale invasion, Opendatabot added. Oschadbank is in the second place, with Hr 11.56 billion ($308 million) against Hr 1.37 billion ($36 million) in the first 11 months of 2021. Read also: Media: Sanctions forcing Russian companies out of Cyprus The recently nationalized Sense Bank is third with Hr 5.25 billion ($140 million), up from Hr 3.08 billion ($82 million) in the corresponding period of 2021. As we reported earlier, Sense Bank, previously owned by sanctioned Russian oligarchs Mikhail Fridman, Petr Aven, and Andrey Kosogov, was nationalized in late July 2023. See more in SOE Weeklys Issue 98. Ukreximbank earned Hr 4.93 billion ($132 million) in the first 11 months of 2023, compared to Hr 2.25 billion ($60 million) in the same period of 2021. Ukrgasbank earned Hr 4.08 billion ($109 million) against Hr 3.48 billion ($92 million), respectively. Energy sector Naftogaz Group paid over Hr 90 billion in taxes in 2023. On Jan. 15, Naftogaz Group reported that it paid Hr 83.4 billion ($2.2 billion) in taxes to the state budget and another Hr 6.8 billion ($181 million) to local budgets in 2023. As we wrote in 2023, Naftogaz Group paid: Hr 33 billion ($881 million) in taxes for the first four months (JanuaryApril 2023, see SOE Weeklys Issue 87); over Hr 48 billion ($1.3 billion) for the first seven months (JanuaryJuly 2023, see Issue 99); over Hr 70 billion ($1.9 billion) for the first nine months (JanuarySeptember 2023, see Issue 107); and over Hr 75 billion ($2 billion) for the first ten months (JanuaryOctober 2023, see Issue 111). Ukrnafta paid over Hr 25 billion in taxes in 2023. On Jan. 17, Ukrnafta reported that it paid over Hr 25.7 billion ($686.8 million) in taxes in 2023. According to the company, this includes Hr 4.36 billion ($116.5 million) of income tax. As we reported in Issue 111, Ukrnaftas CEO Serhiy Koretskiy said in November 2023 that the company paid Hr 12.3 billion ($328.7 million) in taxes in the first half of 2023, including Hr 3.3 billion ($88 million) in income tax. According to him, Ukrnafta planned to pay Hr 27 billion ($721.5 million) in taxes for the entire year 2023, including about Hr 5 billion($133.6 million) in income tax. Koretskyi also said back then that Ukrnafta projected Hr 95 billion ($2.5 billion) in revenue in the first year after the company was seized by the state. This would double the average annual figure over the past decade, he added. Read also: Reuters: BlackRock, JPMorgan Chase helping Kyiv raise funds for reconstruction bank According to Koretskyi, Ukrnaftas net profit for the first half of 2023 was Hr 14.1 billion ($376.8 million). As of November 2023, the net profit exceeded Hr 20 billion ($534 million). We have not been able to find Ukrnaftas audited or unaudited financial statements for 2021, 2022, or the first half of 2023 in the public domain to verify the above information. According to Ukrainian law, joint-stock companies, particularly those publicly traded, are obligated to publicly disclose various types of information, such as their financial statements. However, after the beginning of Russias full-scale invasion, the National Security and Stock Market Commission (NSSMC) allowed companies to withhold such disclosure. In June, NSSMC decided that this exemption would be effective until Jan. 1, 2024. After that date, joint-stock companies must resume public disclosure of the above information, including information that was not disclosed during the exemption period. As we wrote in SOE Weeklys Issue 90, Ukrnaftas financial plan for 2023, approved by the Cabinet of Ministers, expected Hr 74 billion ($1.8 billion) in net income from operations, Hr 12 billion ($320 million) in net profit, and Hr 25 billion ($668 million) in tax payments. As we wrote in Issue 100, in his analysis for Forbes Ukraine, CASE Ukraines economist Vasyl Povoroznyk contested Koretskyis statements on the companys quarterly profits, lower costs, higher production, and transparency. Read also: Zelensky asks Davos forum to invest in Ukraines peace He concluded that Ukrnaftas financial performance was driven by two factors: higher market prices for petrol and diesel (45% and 54%, respectively) and Ukrnaftas sale of gas which the company received as repayment of part of Naftogazs historical debt to Ukrnafta. Povoroznyk also said that the financial reporting disclosed by Naftogaz Ukrnaftas majority shareholder who includes Ukrnaftas reporting in its consolidated reporting did not square with numbers named by Koretsky. In Issue 68, we reported that the shares of Ukrnafta, Ukrtatnafta, Motor Sich, AvtoKrAZ, and Zaporizhzhiatransformator (ZTR) were seized for the needs of the state and transferred to the Defense Ministry on Nov. 6, 2022. Former CEO of the WOG chain of petrol stations, Sergii Koretskyi, became the CEO of both Ukrnafta and Ukrtatnafta on Nov. 8 and 10, 2022, respectively. See Issue 68 for detail. Energoatom fully paid compensation of tariffs for households under PSO for 2023. On Jan. 11, Energoatom reported that it has fully fulfilled its public service obligations (PSO) to provide households with affordable electricity. According to Energoatom, it has paid almost Hr 128 billion ($3.4 billion) for the PSO service to the Guaranteed Buyer since the start of 2023 while the expected cost was more than Hr 7 billion ($187 million) less. As a result, the company managed to reduce the total debt for PSO services by almost Hr 4 billion ($106 million) in 2023, Energoatom added. Read also: Talking business in Ukraine: Conversation with Monobank, countrys largest online bank The company said that the PSO model was extended until April 30. The government made this decision to reduce the financial burden on households due to the difficult economic situation caused by the full-scale war. As a result, the electricity price for households would continue to be Hr 2.64 ($0.07) per kWh, Energoatom said. As we wrote in Issue 109, after accumulating large debts due to losing the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Energoatom has been able to fulfil all PSOs again since September 2023. In Issue 110, we reported that the electricity market had a chain of debts of everyone to everyone worth Hr 60 billion ($1.6 billion). See Issue 110 for more detail. In Issue 113, we reported that Energoatom paid Hr 1.8 billion ($48 million) it owed to Ukrenergo for dispatch control services in November 2023. Defense UDI starts a partnership with Lithuanias innovative defense companies. On Jan. 10, UDI announced a partnership with four Lithuanian defense companies: NT Service, Brolis Semiconductors, RSI Europe, and DMEXS. According to UDI, the letters of intent were signed on Jan. 10 during the visit of President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine to Vilnius. NT Service, Brolis Semiconductors, RSI Europe, and DMEXS specialize in the development of sights, including thermal imaging, modern remote firing systems, electronic warfare, communications, and the like, UDI explained. As we wrote in SOE Weeklys Issue 114, Ukrainian state-owned defense companies reported during 2023 that they started manufacturing new weapons and signed cooperation and joint production contracts with counterparts in NATO member states. See Issues 74, 79, 88, 91, 97, 105, 108, and 111 for more detail. Confiscation of Russian assets, nationalization, and asset seizure Former owner of Sense Bank sues Ukraine over nationalization, demands $1 billion. On Jan. 4, ABH Holdings S.A. (ABHH), the previous nominal owner of Sense Banks shares, owned by sanctioned Russian oligarch Mikhail Fridman, announced that it filed a request for arbitration and a statement of claim against Ukraine on Dec. 29 2023. According to ABHH, it seeks full compensation for the unlawful expropriation of Sense Bank by the Ukrainian authorities through enforced nationalization. The claim has been filed with the International Center for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID), the worlds leading body for investor/state dispute resolution under the aegis of the World Bank in Washington, D.C. The amount claimed is more than $1 billion, ABHHs release reads. Read also: Romanian farmers demand import limits on Ukrainian agricultural products, threaten more protests Later, ABHH told Forbes Ukraine that it specifically demanded compensation for the illegal expropriation of the bank." No other form, such as the return of the bank or shares, is considered," the company said. The NBU told Ekonomichna Pravda (EP) that it was confident in the legitimacy of the decision to nationalize the bank. Kateryna Rozhkova, NBUs First Deputy Governor, told EP that the NBU would help the Justice Ministry to prepare for hearings on ABHHs claim. According to Rozhkova, Ukraine has every chance of having this dispute resolved in its favor. Rozhkova said that in deciding to nationalize Sense Bank, the regulator acted in the interest of the banks depositors and financial stability. By law, bank owners are obliged to maintain their capital and liquidity at an appropriate level. As Sense Banks former owners were under sanctions, they were unable to do so, she said. As we reported in Issue 98, Sense Bank, previously owned by sanctioned Russian oligarchs Mikhail Fridman, Petr Aven, and Andrey Kosogov, was nationalized in late July 2023. Read also: Prosecutors: Men who threatened Ukrainian journalist Yurii Nikolov identified Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Polish President Andrzej Duda on Sunday criticized the European Commission for blocking EU funds in what he said was "an attempt to force Poland to change" its government, adding he was open to negotiations over changes in the justice system. Poland's last government led by the nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) party was embroiled in a dispute with the European Union over Warsaw's court reforms and the rule of law, resulting in billions of EU funds for Poland being frozen. The new pro-EU government has pledged to regain access to the money by restoring the rule of law, but it faces resistance from supporters and allies of the former ruling party, including Duda and some high-profile judges. (Reuters) Key developments on Jan. 21: Multiple explosions, fires reported overnight in Russian rear due to alleged long-range Ukrainian strikes Explosions reported in occupied Sevastopol Air Force: Russian air defense sufficient on front lines, in Crimea but not on Russian soil Budanov: North Korea currently Russia's largest arms supplier Military: Russia's capture of Kharkiv Oblast village a 'temporary phenomenon' Russian attacks on Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia oblasts kill one, injure two over past day Explosions and large fires were reported in several Russian cities overnight on Jan. 21, in a possible coordinated effort by Ukraine to strike key targets deep inside Russian territory. The terminal of Russia's Novatek natural gas company caught fire in the port of Ust-Luga in Leningrad Oblast near St. Petersburg, Governor Alexander Drozdenko reported on Telegram. The terminal halted operations after an alleged Ukrainian drone attack caused a large fire at the fuel plant, Bloomberg reported on Jan. 21. The explosions in Ust-Luga were a result of a planned operation by the Security Service of Ukraine, according to an unnamed source in the agency cited by Ukrainska Pravda. Local authorities reported no casualties, but other Russian media sources suggested that 150 people had to be evacuated. Novatek is the largest independent natural gas producer in Russia. The fire was still ongoing as of 9 a.m. local time on Jan. 21, according to Drozdenko. Other attacks were reported overnight on Jan. 21 in Russia's Tula, Smolensk, and Oryol oblasts, targeting infrastructure critical to the Russian military. The Russian Defense Ministry accused Ukraine of launching multiple drone attacks and claimed that one drone was shot down over Tula, four over Smolensk, and one over Oryol. Citing its sources in Ukraine's special services, news outlet Suspilne reported that the Shcheglovskiy Val plant in Tula, where Pantsir mobile air defense systems for the Russian military are produced, was one of the targets. The Smolensk Aviation Plant, which produces Kh-59 cruise missiles used to frequently target Ukraine, was hit in the overnight attack, Hromadske reported, citing its source in Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR). The plant was previously hit in October and November 2023. Smolensk Oblast Governor Vasily Anokhin denied that there were casualties or property damage during the drone attack. A source from HUR confirmed to Ukrainska Pravda that the agency was also behind the attacks in Oryol and Tula. Since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, multiple attacks have been reported across Russian territory. Ukraine does not always claim responsibility for these attacks. An overnight drone attack that hit an oil depot near St. Petersburg was carried out by Ukraine's military intelligence agency (HUR), Ukrainska Pravda reported on Jan. 18, citing a source in intelligence. Explosions reported in occupied Sevastopol Local media and Russian occupation authorities reported several explosions in the port city of Sevastopol in occupied Crimea on Jan. 21. Around three explosions were heard in the early afternoon, according to a local correspondent for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty's Crimean service. Soon after, the head of the Russian-installed city authorities Mikhail Rozvozhaev reported that an airborne target had been shot down over the sea nearby. Later in the day, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed that two Ukrainian missiles had been shot down over the western coast of Crimea. As the full-scale war has developed, military facilities and infrastructure in Russian-occupied Crimea have become increasingly vulnerable to long-range Ukrainian drone and missile strikes. Most spectacularly, separate Ukrainian strikes in September 2023, reportedly with British-made Storm Shadow missiles, destroyed a Russian landing ship, submarine, and the headquarters of the Russian Black Sea Fleet in Sevastopol. Read also: Inside occupied Ukraines most effective resistance movements Air Force: Russian air defense sufficient on front lines, in Crimea but not on Russian soil Russia has a sufficient capacity for air defense on Ukraine's front lines and in occupied Crimea but not on Russian soil, Yurii Ihnat, a spokesperson for Ukraine's Air Force, said in an interview for Focus media outlet published on Jan. 20. Ihnat's statement follows reports that Ukrainian drones attacked oil depots in Klintsy in Russia's Bryansk region and the Russian city of St. Petersburg on Jan. 18-19. Klintsy lies around 80 kilometers from the border with Ukraine's Chernihiv Oblast, while Saint Petersburg is over 1,000 kilometers away. "Russian air defense is thinning out. They filled the front line and Crimea with it (air defense). But you see that the Russian territory is not so filled with air defense equipment," Ihnat told Focus's journalist. "Moscow, Saint Petersburg, (Russian leader Vladimir) Putin's bunkers will be more or less protected, but Ukrainian-made drones reach Moscow, St. Petersburg, and oil depots in other cities. This is a very good sign." Reports of drone attacks against military targets on Russian soil have increased in recent months. Kyiv usually doesn't officially comment on such strikes. Read also: F-16s for Ukraine: When will they arrive and what can they do? When asked by Focus what weaponry can help change the course of the war, Ihnat said that Ukraine can't effectively fight with an army "that surpasses us in terms of numbers and technology." "We need a tool from our partners to end the war. And this tool is high-tech long-range weapons," Ihnat explained, saying that in addition to U.S.-supplied ATACMS and Storm Shadow missiles delivered by the U.K., Ukraine needs Taurus missiles that Germany has so far refused to provide. "We need to have (large) numbers to beat the enemy more effectively. Then it will be a serious help to our brothers from the Ground Forces," he added. "We understand the conditions in which they are currently fighting at the front Artillery is firing, aviation is firing, drones are flying overhead to destroy you. This is extremely hard work Therefore, air support is critical, in particular, for long-range strikes to reduce the supply of enemy ammunition and logistics." According to the Russian military design bureau "Stratim," as cited by Russian state-controlled media TASS on Jan. 18, Russia is developing a cheaper version of the Iranian-designed Shahed drone called the "Hawk." Russian forces have extensively used Shahed-type kamikaze drones to attack Ukraine's cities and critical infrastructure. At the same time, Ukraine plans to produce one million drones in 2024, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Dec. 19 last year, recognizing the importance of this weaponry on Ukrainian battlefields. Read also: How Russias homegrown Lancet drone became so feared in Ukraine Military: Russia's capture of Kharkiv Oblast village a 'temporary phenomenon' Russia's capture of Krokhmalne, a village in Kharkiv Oblast, is a temporary phenomenon, the Ukrainian Ground Forces Command spokesperson Volodymyr Fityo said, as quoted by Hromadske on Jan. 21. In its morning summary, Russias Defense wrote that the village had been taken over by Russian forces. Fityo noted that Ukrainian troops had been moved to prepared reserve positions to hold the defense and prevent Russia from advancing further. "We simply don't report on the repulse of 100-200 meters, and for Russian propagandists, any victory must be presented to explain why they lost 7,055 soldiers at the front in the Khortytsia zone of responsibility in January alone," Fityo said during the live televised broadcast. He added that the front lines shift daily and that the loss of the small village, which had a pre-war population of 45, is a temporary phenomenon. Ukraine managed to repel 21 attacks near Synkivka, Petropavlivka, Kharkiv Oblast, and Stelmakhivka, Luhansk Oblast, the Armed Forces General Staff reported earlier in the day. 80 clashes took place on Jan. 20. Read also: Ukraine war latest: Government allocates record $466 million to military fortifications Budanov: North Korea currently Russia's largest arms supplier North Korea is currently Russia's largest arms supplier, Ukrainian military intelligence (HUR) chief Kyrylo Budanov told the Financial Times in an interview published on Jan. 21. North Korea has transferred "a significant amount" of artillery ammunition to Russia, according to Budanov. "This allowed Russia to breathe a little, Budanov said. Without (North Korea's) help, the situation would have been catastrophic. Russia has been struggling to keep up with the production of its weapons and munitions at a rate that matches its usage on the front. As a result, they have been compelled to seek military assistance from countries such as North Korea. "This has always been considered beneath them, its an indignity," Budanov said. Moscow and Pyongyang have significantly increased their military ties since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. A spokesperson for Ukraines military intelligence previously said on Jan. 15. that North Korea has supplied Russia with around one million rounds of ammunition, mainly 122 mm and 152 mm artillery shells. As reported both by Kyiv and Washington, Russia also used North Korean ballistic missiles against Ukraine for the first time in strikes against Kharkiv on Jan. 2. North Korea's state news agency, KCNA, also reported on Jan. 21 that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin is planning to visit North Korea in the near future. Read also: Media: Putin preparing to visit North Korea Russian attacks on Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia oblasts kill one, injure two in one day Russian attacks killed one civilian and injured two over Jan. 20-21 in Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia oblasts, local authorities reported. Russian forces attacked the city of Kurakhove with Grad rockets, killing one civilian and injuring another, Donetsk Oblast Governor Vadym Filashkin reported on Jan. 21. Residential buildings were targeted in the attack, according to Filashkin. A 31-year-old man was killed at the site of the rocket impact. A kindergarten and several houses were also damaged by the strikes, causing a fire to break out. While the fire has been extinguished, authorities are assessing its aftermath, the governor said. Kurakhove is located around 12 kilometers west of the front line, running near the destroyed town of Mariinka, which Russian forces took the last streets of in December. It was home to over 18,000 people prior to the full-scale invasion. Filashkin urged all residents remaining in Donetsk Oblast to evacuate the region. Russian forces struck Zaporizhzhia Oblast 95 times across 16 localities over a 24-hour period, regional governor Yurii Malashko reported on Jan. 21. A 71-year-old resident was injured in Huliaipole due to artillery shelling. There were two reports of the destruction of residential buildings. Russia continues to occupy a large portion of Zaporizhzhia Oblast, including all of its coastline. The region suffers frequent attacks. Russia conducted seven multiple rocket launcher attacks on Mala Tokmachka and Robotyne, as well as 26 drone strikes on Huliaipole, Orikhiv, Zaliznychne, Luhivske, Novoandriivka, Robotyne, Levadne and Poltavka. Sixty-two artillery shells hit Novodarivka, Novoandriivka, Mala Tokmachka, Charivne, Shcherbaky, Huliaipole, Lobkove, Kamianske, Piatykhatky and other settlements. Southern Kherson Oblast suffered 76 shelling attacks on Jan. 20, according to Oleksandr Prokudin, head of the regional military administration. On the same day, Russia shelled Sumy Oblast 37 times. In both cases, no civilian casualties were reported. Read also: Case against investment banker points to increasing pressure by state on business in Ukraine Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. During 2022-2023, the National Bank of Ukraine paid UAH 19.5 million (about US$520,000) for equipment and parts from the German company Oerlikon Balzers Coating, whose largest shareholder is sanctioned Russian oligarch Viktor Vekselberg. Source: Ekonomichna Pravda with reference to sources in the customs system. This information was also confirmed by the National Bank itself. Details: Ekonomichna Pravda reports that on 25 September 2022, the National Bank paid UAH 19.487 million (about USD 520,758) to Oerlikon for an installation to apply chromium nitride to a coinage tool. In August 2023, the NBU paid the same company UAH 13,900 (about USD 370) for ten titanium cathodes. Minting coins in circulation requires proper equipment and cathodes. Following a request from Ekonomichna Pravda, the National Bank confirmed the purchase. At the same time, they pointed out that the procurement procedure had begun in 2020, and the NBU had reached an agreement to purchase these goods in 2021, when there were no legislative restrictions on cooperation with Russian oligarchs' companies. "This purchase took place in early 2021. There are no manufacturers of such specialised equipment in Ukraine. Three international participants were allowed to present their bids: INORCOAT (Bulgaria), Teer Coatings Ltd (UK), and Oerlikon Balzers Coating (Germany, Liechtenstein). Based on the results of the bid evaluation, the contract for the supply of equipment was concluded in February 2021 with the German company Oerlikon Balzers Coating [part of the Oerlikon group - ed.], which "provided the lowest bid", the NBU explained. According to financial statements, Liwet Holding AG is Oerlikon's largest shareholder, with a stake of 42.7%. Viktor Vekselberg is Liwet Holding AG's largest shareholder, owning 44.46% of the shares. Customs data shows that the National Bank purchased goods from a company associated with a Russian oligarch for a total of UAH 19.5 million (about US$521,100) following the start of Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine.The final payment for the Oerlikon installation was made after the start of the full-scale invasion, in September 2022, and following the installation and testing of the corresponding equipment. The National Bank explains that they had no choice but to pay as "the unlawful termination of contractual relations would have led to multimillion-dollar losses for the National Bank of Ukraine, and also would have had a significantly negative impact on the technological process of producing circulating coins in Ukraine." In 2023, the NBU again purchased goods from Oerlikon, whose largest shareholder is Russian oligarch Vekselberg. The total purchase price came to 288. "This was necessary due to the warranty period of 12 months (until the end of October 2023), during which the use of non-original consumables is prohibited," according to the National Bank. They emphasise that all purchases from Oerlikon were made in accordance with the Ukrainian legislation in force at the time. At the same time, the NBU stated that they have revised their internal procurement procedures and strengthened their work in the area of sanctions compliance. "In addition, the National Bank has updated the standard purchase agreement forms and supplemented it with sanctions clauses and assurances that exclude the cooperation of the National Bank with persons subject to sanctions restrictions and/or associated with supervisory relations with sanctioned persons," the National Bank said in a response. The National Bank does not plan to make purchases from Oerlikon in 2024 and in the future. Support UP or become our patron! Ukrainian security services continued their special explosive operations on the territory of the Russian Federation during the night of 20-21 January. Source: Ukrainska Pravda (UP) sources in Ukraines security services Details: UPs sources said Defence Intelligence of Ukraine UAVs had attacked Russian military facilities in Smolensk, Tula, and Oryol. Quote: "The work planned by the Main Intelligence Directorate is underway," said one of the sources in security services. Another source in law enforcement said the night attack on a sea terminal in the Russian Ust-Luga of Leningrad Oblast was a special operation by the Security Service of Ukraine. A large fire broke out as a result of the drone attack, and the Russians evacuated their employees. The Ust-Luga Oil oil terminal in Leningrad Oblast processes fuel, with the majority of it going to the Russian military. Background: Russian media and local residents reported a powerful explosion and a fire in Tula's Proletarsky district, near the Shcheglovsky Val plant, which manufactures the Pantsir-S air-defence system. Support UP or become our patron! Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraines Defence Intelligence Chief, has said that Ukraines 2023 counteroffensive was not a "catastrophe", even though not everything was "fine", and that Ukraines Armed Forces cannot do without a mobilisation campaign. Source: Kyrylo Budanov in an interview with the Financial Times (FT) Details: When asked about Ukraines 2023 counteroffensive failing to achieve its objectives, Budanov said: "To say that everything is fine is not true. To say that there is a catastrophe is also not true." "Although the original plans suggested something different, we kept our promise. This summer, our units repeatedly entered Crimea," Budanov said. When asked about mobilisation, Budanov said "it is not even conceivable to think that we can do without mobilisation," adding that the shortage of manpower was "palpable". Budanov anticipates that Ukraine will continue to be able to contain Putins forces and has already proven that Russias supposed military might has turned out to be a "soap bubble". North Korea is Russias biggest arms supplier at present, Budanov said, with their weapons transfers allowing Russia "to breathe a little". "Without their help, the situation would have been catastrophic," he added. Background: Ukrainian military officials proposed at a meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Staff that an extra 450,000-500,000 people should be mobilised, but the issue is still being worked on, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on 19 December 2023. On 21 January 2024 President Zelenskyy said that he does not as yet see a need for the General Staff to mobilise 500,000 Ukrainians. Support UP or become our patron! The Novatek plant on the Baltic Sea coast has suspended operations after an attack by Ukrainian drones. Source: Bloomberg reports this with reference to information from Novatek. Details: As is known, the plant processes stable gas condensate into oil and ships petroleum products to foreign markets. It is located in the coastal zone, next to a specialised terminal where products are stored. According to Novatek, Bloomberg reports that the gas condensate processing plant in Ust-Luga has suspended all technological operations. No one was injured. In 2022, the company processed almost 7 million tonnes of gas condensate. Condensate is a by-product of natural gas and oil production. Reminder: The night attack on the marine terminal in Ust-Luga, Leningrad Oblast, Russia, which occurred on the night of 20-21 January, was a special operation by the Security Service of Ukraine. Support UP or become our patron! Ukrainian drones struck the Shcheglovskiy Val plant in Tula, Russia, a key facility producing the Pantsir-S air defense missile system, Ukrainian public broadcaster Suspilne said on Jan. 21, citing a source in Ukrainian intelligence. Shcheglovskiy Val, a major defense industry enterprise, is deeply involved in the development of guided weapons, air defense systems, rapid-fire cannons, and small arms. Read also: Ukrainian military intelligence hit Russian oil depot and gunpowder plant with drones - NV source Ukrainian drone attacks also extended to targets in the Smolensk and Oryol oblasts in Russia. Read also: Ukrainian drones seen over 3 Russian oblasts, damage to Kaluga Oblast infrastructure, Russia claims The Russian Defense Ministry earlier said that Ukrainian drones had attacked the Smolensk and Tula oblasts and, as usual, claimed to have downed all the drones. A fire broke out at the Ust-Luga port in Leningrad Oblast, Russia, on Jan. 21. Preceding the incident, nearby towns residents reported drone activity in the sky, followed by explosions. Ukrainian drones targeted an oil depot in Russias Leningrad Oblast in a special operation by the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Defense Ministry (HUR) on the night of Jan. 18. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Russian troops have slightly reduced the pace of their attacks in the Avdiivka sector, but Defense Forces are preparing for a resumption of assaults, spokesman for the Tavria sector Oleksandr Shtupun announced on national television on Jan. 21. Russian troops have not carried out air strikes in the area over the past two days. At the same time, the number of artillery attacks increased to over 700 on Jan. 20. Read also: UA Special Forces eliminate Russian unit near Avdiivka video "There were fewer combat engagements yesterday only 30, and the use of FPV drones," said Shtupun. But the enemy is regrouping, and we are preparing for an increase in their activity. The number of Russian troops in the area remains unchanged at about 40,000, he said. Read also: Commander-in-Chief Zaluzhniy describes the defense of Avdiivka and what the calculus is on holding it Russian forces intensified their offensive on Avdiivka beginning in October 2023, simultaneously with massive strikes on the town. Ukrainian Commander-in-Chief Valerii Zaluzhnyi stated that Russia had lost about 10,000 troops during a month of active assaults on Avdiivka. Head of the Main Intelligence Directorate, Kyrylo Budanov, stated that Russian losses during attempts to capture Avdiivka had recently increased significantly. Shtupun reported on Jan. 20 that Russian troops are concentrating assault and offensive actions on Avdiivka and Novomykhailivka in Donetsk Oblast. They are mostly attacking with infantry, almost without the use of armored vehicles. Were bringing the voice of Ukraine to the world. Support us with a one-time donation, or become a Patron! Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine Ukrainian Ground Forces have confirmed their withdrawal from the village of Krokhmalne (Kharkiv Oblast) but noted that it does not jeopardise neighbouring units. Source: Volodymyr Fito, Head of the Public Relations Service of the Ukrainian Ground Forces, on air during the national joint 24/7 newscast Details: Fito explained that the Ukrainian soldiers had left the village and moved to better and more prepared positions. Quote from Fito: "Krokhmalne, so you understand, was a settlement with a population of 45 people before the start of the large-scale war. It had, perhaps, 5 houses. The Russian aggressor destroyed these 5 houses, and therefore, our goal was to save the lives of Ukrainian defenders; their positions have been moved to the defensive lines prepared beforehand, where they are now holding the defence, preventing the enemy from advancing. This does not pose any threats to neighbouring units. I think this is a temporary phenomenon. The front line is changing daily." Background: On 20 January, the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reported that Russian forces had advanced along the Kupiansk-Svatove-Kreminna line and captured the village of Krokhmalne. Support UP or become our patron! Oleksandr Merezhko, a member of the Ukrainian parliament and Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Policy and Interparliamentary Cooperation, has demanded a robust response to remarks made by the "leader of another state" who has questioned Ukraine's sovereignty. Source: a Facebook post by Merezhko, as reported by European Pravda Details: The lawmaker said the state "must have some basic sense of self-respect". "It is completely unacceptable to pretend that nothing is happening when a leader of another state makes remarks that call the sovereignty of the state into question. This is a red line that requires a decisive and unequivocal response, especially when the leader of the other state is making such disgraceful claims ahead of a visit to the state whose sovereignty he denies," he said. Merezhko added: "In such cases, the visit should be cancelled, and the Foreign Ministry should issue a statement to protect the sovereignty and honour of its state." The Ukrainian official wrote the post following the latest wave of anti-Ukrainian remarks from Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who is scheduled to visit Ukraine on Wednesday. However, in comments under his post, Merezhko refused to either confirm or deny that he had formulated this demand in response to the Slovak prime ministers remarks, stressing that it was his "general observation as a lawyer in the field of international law". Background: Fico said Ukraine was a state under "absolute US influence" and hinted that it would have to give up part of its territory to Russia."There has to be some kind of compromise, which will be very painful for both sides. What do they expect? The Russians to leave Crimea, Donbas and Luhansk? Thats not realistic," Fico said. The Slovak prime minister noted that he intends to announce at the meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart Denys Shmyhal that he will block Ukraine's accession to NATO in every possible way. Previously, during a press conference with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, Fico reiterated his earlier claim that Russia's war against Ukraine "has no military solution". Later, he resorted to blatantly parroting the Russian propaganda narrative that the West had "forbidden the Ukrainian political leadership to conclude a truce" with Russia at the start of the full-scale invasion because it "relied on the idea that by pouring billions [of dollars] and weapons into Ukraine, Ukraine would deliver the wounded Russian bear on a plate". Support UP or become our patron! Locals at the scene following the shelling of the food market in Donetsk - ALESSANDRO GUERRA/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock/Shutterstock A strike on a crowded market in the Russian-occupied city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine has killed at least 25 people, according to Moscow-backed officials. Shattered shop fronts and bodies lying in the snow could be seen in videos posted on Telegram. Denis Pushilin, the Kremlin-appointed head of the occupied region of Donestsk, said Ukrainian artillery shells hit the market on Sunday morning and that 20 people had also been wounded. Information continues to be received about the consequences of the monstrous shelling of a busy market, he said. Ukrainian officials did not immediately comment, and The Telegraph was not able to verify the nature of the attack. Donetsk resident Tatiana said she heard an incoming projectile overhead, and hid under her market stall. I saw smoke, people screamed, a woman was crying, she told a local media outlet. The aftermath of the shelling of the food market in Donetsk - ALESSANDRO GUERRA/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock/Shutterstock Where is there anything military here? Its just a market, another resident named Tatiana told the same outlet. This is one of the strongest blows in recent times, she said. Moscow called it a barbaric terrorist attack that showed the need for its special military operation in Ukraine. The toll marks one of the deadliest attacks on the city since the outbreak of war in 2022. Moscow uses Donetsk as a logistics centre and staging post for its forces fighting on nearby frontlines. Over the weekend, the Russian army claimed to have captured two small villages as it continues to go on the offensive. Pro-Russian officials regularly claim attacks by Ukrainian forces. Earlier in January, officials in the Russian city of Belgorod near the border with Ukraine said a Ukrainian missile strike killed 25 people, mainly women and children shopping ahead of the Orthodox Christmas. This was denied by Ukrainian officials. Ukraine appears to have intensified attacks on Russian targets, although Ukrainian commanders have always denied targeting civilians. Also on Sunday, Russian officials said at least two Ukrainian drones had hit a gas field in the port of Ust-Luga on the Gulf of Finland, causing a massive explosion. Novatek, the operator of the gas field, said the fire was caused by an external factor and had resulted in no injuries. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month, then enjoy 1 year for just $9 with our US-exclusive offer. A Russian-registered charter plane with six people on board disappeared from radar screens over Afghanistan a day earlier, Russian aviation authorities said on Sunday, after Afghan police said they had received reports of a crash. The plane was a charter ambulance flight travelling from Thailand's Utapao Airport in Pattaya to Moscow via India and Uzbekistan on a French-made Dassault Aviation Falcon 10 jet manufactured in 1978, Russian aviation authorities said in a statement. About 25 minutes before the plane vanished from radar screens, the pilot warned that fuel was running low and that the plane would try to land at an airport in Tajikistan, Russian news outlet SHOT reported, citing an unnamed source. (Reuters) Ukrainian forces hit the Russian-occupied city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine, a retaliatory strike that left 25 people dead and 20 injured on Sunday. The citys Russian-backed mayor and regional governor said that Ukrainian artillery hit a busy marketplace in what the Russian government called a barbaric act of terrorism. Russia typically condemns Ukrainian attacks that kill civilians in the Donetsk region and other areas it has annexed. Its own air strikes, heavy shelling, and ground invasion of its neighbor have killed thousands of Ukrainians since February 2022. The international community widely views Russias actions as violations of international law, and the bloody conflict shows no signs of stopping on the eve of its two-year mark. Read it at Reuters Read more at The Daily Beast. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres speaks during a session at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2024 in Davos. Hannes P. Albert/dpa UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres reiterated his call for a two-state solution as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu again rejected the notion of a sovereign Palestinian state. "The right of the Palestinian people to build their own state must be recognized by all," Guterres said on Saturday in Kampala at a meeting of non-aligned states - nations that remained neutral during the Cold War. "The refusal to accept the two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians, and the denial of the right to statehood for the Palestinian people, are unacceptable." Guterres went on to say that the denial of a two-state solution was prolonging a conflict that had become a global threat to peace and security, contributing to polarization and strengthening extremism everywhere. He also renewed calls for an immediate ceasefire in the battle between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu continues to reject the notion of an independent Palestinian state once the Gaza conflict is over. "I will not compromise on full Israeli security control over the entire area west of Jordan - and this is contrary to a Palestinian state," he said on Saturday, reiterating his stance that any solution in the foreseeable future must include Israel's military control over the entire West Bank. The United States, an important Israel ally, has also been pushing for a two-state solution. In the spirit of recent Martin Luther King Jr.s holiday observances, I looked up famous MLK Jr. quotes. I once again came across one of my favorite subjects, HOPE: We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope. ~ Martin Luther King Jr. This time, not only did I ponder hope, but the first part of the quote speaks about accepting lifes disappointments. I think back on my life, and I think I became a glass-is-half-full kind of person in spite of those disappointments. Laura Schultz Pipis, executive director of the United Way of Monroe/Lenawee Counties I remember whenever I had difficulties or disappointments, including teenage angst, my mother would listen to me cry and wine. Being the ever-practical person, she would then look at me, put her hand under my chin and say, Buck up, girl!. Translation move on quickly! My parents actually told my brothers and me that we play the hands were dealt. We learned to deal head-on with whatever life brings and to keep moving in spite of those life bumps. We also learned that things always did get better eventually! As Ive mentioned before, my mother also preached, Never give up hope, kids its gotten me a long way in life. I think somewhere between buck up and never give up hope, perhaps we learned to not be afraid of life and its disappointments. This all makes me think about my 37 years as a social worker and addressing human services needs in this community. It can be daunting to address hunger, homelessness, childhood trauma, mental health crises, financial instability, health issues and more. I thrive on working with community partners to address these issues on a macro level. Theres never a quick solution to any of these difficult societal issues. However, we have many like-minded community partners who move together towards common good solutions. Sometimes its one baby step at a time or sometimes two steps back before three steps forward! As Dory says in Finding Nemo, just keep swimming! Just keep moving! Life is full of disappointments, but hope does not disappoint us. Let us not give up hope. Continuing in the spirit of Martin Luther King Jr. Day Observances, please note that the United Way is hosting our 4th Equity Challenge in a 21-week format with weekly email prompts Jan. 15 (MLK Jr. Day) through June 19 (Juneteenth). The challenge is a self-guided learning journey designed to deepen participants understanding of, and willingness to confront, racism, diversity, equity and inclusion. Participants will engage in a series of readings, videos, podcasts, and daily reflections as part of the program. The challenge facilitates a way for participants to identify and commit to their actions to advance racial equity. Participants can register at unitedwayMLC.org after Jan. 8. Please join us as we live united. We appreciate your support to help fight poverty, homelessness, food insecurity, mental health and substance use disorders, domestic violence, and other important community needs! The United Way funds 10 local Lenawee County agency programs and serves as a donor designation vehicle for 30+ additional agencies. We also sponsor countywide 2-1-1 services, and coordinate Project Ramp, 2 annual Health Check events, the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP), and Day of Action programs and services. All funds raised in Lenawee County stay in Lenawee County. To contact us, call us at 517-264-6821, email lpipis@unitedwaymlc.org, visit us at 136 E. Maumee St., Ste. 15, Adrian, MI 49221 or visit unitedwaymlc.org. Visit our Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok social media platforms, too! NOTE: We are moving our Adrian office just around the corner of our old space in the Gallery of Shops. Starting in February, we will be located in Suite 13 instead of Suite 15. We are partnering with Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Michigan in this new endeavor, swapping spaces! During the month of January, both Suite 13 and Suite 15 will be under renovation. You can still reach us via phone, email, social media or our website. Laura Schultz Pipis is the executive director of the United Way of Monroe/Lenawee counties. This article originally appeared on The Holland Sentinel: United Way: Disappointment begets infinite hope By Elias Biryabarema KAMPALA (Reuters) - United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday denounced Israel for the "heartbreaking" deaths of Palestinian civilians in Gaza and called it unacceptable to resist statehood for the Palestinian people. "Israel's military operations have spread mass destruction and killed civilians on a scale unprecedented during my time as secretary-general," Guterres said at the opening of a summit of the G77+China in the Ugandan capital Kampala. "This is heartbreaking and utterly unacceptable. The Middle East is a tinder-box, we must do all we can to prevent conflict from igniting across the region." Israel launched its offensive in Gaza after the Islamist militant group Hamas' Oct. 7 attack in which Israeli officials say more than 1,200 Israelis and foreigners were killed and 240 taken hostage. Israel's campaign has killed more than 25,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities on Sunday, and displaced most of the enclave's 2.3 million people from their homes. Over the course of the war, the Israeli military has expressed regret for civilian deaths but it accuses Hamas of operating in densely populated areas and using civilians as human shields, a charge the group denies. Guterres added that the refusal to accept the two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians is totally unacceptable, saying denying Palestinians the right to statehood "would indefinitely prolong a conflict that has become a major threat to global peace and security". Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appeared on Saturday to push back against U.S. President Joe Biden's remarks about Palestinian statehood after the war against Hamas ends. His office said that in talks on Friday with Biden, Netanyahu "reiterated his policy that after Hamas is destroyed Israel must retain security control over Gaza to ensure that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel, a requirement that contradicts the demand for Palestinian sovereignty". Guterres was in Kampala to attend the summits of G77+China and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). Leaders and senior officials from dozens of countries including South Africa, Iran, China, Turkey, Cuba, India, Vietnam and others attended the meetings. The G77+China is a group of 134 developing countries that champions the common interests of countries from the global south. A document released late Saturday at the end of the NAM summit included a condemnation of "the illegal Israeli military aggression on the Gaza Strip, the indiscriminate attacks against Palestinian civilians, civilian objects, the forced displacement of the Palestinian population" and called for an immediate and durable humanitarian ceasefire. (Reporting by Elias Biryabarema; Editing by Frances Kerry) (FOX40.COM) A California-based upscale clothing company will soon close its doors at the Westfield Galleria at Roseville location. A store representative at Banana Republic told FOX40.com its last day of operation will be on Jan. 24. Flemings Prime Steakhouse in Roseville moves forward with building plans The Banana Republic brand originated in 1978 in the Mill Valley and is known for its attainable luxury and heritage classics with a twist, according to its website. The Gap Stores, Inc. acquired Banana Republic in 1983. Roseville Gallerias Banana Republic store closing will leave just two other locations open in the Sacramento area; Arden Fair mall and Folsom Premium Outlets. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. A man makes his way to the Omni Mount Washington Resort toward the Nikki Haley event during a snowstorm in Bretton Woods, NH, Jan. 16, 2024. BRETTON WOODS, N.H. Rudy Glocker strolled into the Omni Mount Washington Resort on a mission to see former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, as snow blanketed the luxury hotels red tin roof. Glocker, a 54-year-old entrepreneur, had seen Haley once before at an event over the summer near his company, Burgeon Outdoors, a Lincoln, New Hampshire store that specializes in outdoor apparel. Her foreign policy expertise and leadership style impressed Glocker, a former Goldman Sachs executive. Ahead of the Granite States first-in-the-nation primary, he wanted to be sure he was backing the right candidate. She has a vision, said Glocker, a Harvard Business School graduate, who said the former South Carolina governor's approach evoked the problem-solving ability of a business owner. She expresses a desire to understand the issue, understand what drives it and to take action that will hopefully help solve the problem. Glocker is a part of a key demographic that Haley is counting on to overtake former President Donald Trump in Tuesday's primary: highly educated and fiscally conservative professionals. The departure on Sunday of Ron DeSantis left Haley and Trump locked in a two-person race in which the former president is the heavy favorite. Though Trump has held a commanding lead in the GOP field throughout the primary campaign, Haley began seeing momentum for her candidacy in New Hampshire last fall as she crisscrossed the state answering voters' questions at town halls. Upscale voters are an important part of her coalition there. New Hampshire is a relatively wealthy state that boasts proximity to the Boston area along with scenic mountains and coastal areas. Its median household income of roughly $90,000 is more than $10,000 higher than the national average, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. A USA TODAY/Suffolk University/Boston Globe poll in early January found that New Hampshire residents earning more than $100,000 a year were more likely than other voters to support Haley. She performs her best among highly educated voters who earned either college or advanced degrees. While combative rhetoric is a staple of Trump's speeches and also featured heavily in DeSantis's campaign appearances, Haley has a more measured style. The former South Carolina governor and former UN ambassador puts a strong emphasis on explaining her policy proposals, from the economy to the border to foreign policy. That appears to be part of her appeal to college educated voters. Much of primary politics is identity politics. When all the candidates have an R or a D next to their name, voters' choices often rely on intangible factors, Dante Scala, a political science professor at the University of New Hampshire, said. For Gail Myers, 69, that was exactly the case after meeting Haley at the Bretton Woods event Tuesday. "I felt like I was her long-lost sister," said Myers, who formerly owned her own drapery business. Myers and her husband, the former president and CEO of A.I.M. Mutual Insurance Companies, drove an hour and half from their home in Wakefield in the lakes region for the event. A friend who served in the South Carolina State Senate told them Haley was "the real deal." Haley's brief 20- minute address in the hotel's ballroom had Myers hooked. "Everything that she had to say was right on target. That was all my feelings," Myers said. "I'm definitely voting for her." Nikki Haley spoke in front of a crowd of voters at the Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire Jan. 16. 2024. Haley has courted supporters like Myers by hosting campaign stops at 4-star hotels in coastal and mountain vacation havens frequented by the wealthy, such as the Omni Mount Washington Resort in Bretton Woods, Portsmouths Wentworth by the Sea and the Inn on Main near Lake Winnipesaukee in Wolfeboro. In wintertime, travelers from New York and Massachusetts flock to resorts like Bretton Woods to ski down the White Mountains renowned peaks and cozy up by the fire in the lodges. During the summer, they line the streets of quaint downtowns near the seacoast, bumping shoulders with locals as they wait for dinner reservations at chic restaurants. New Hampshire also has rural voters of more modest means and blue-collar voters. Working class voters are a base of support for Trump both in New Hampshire and across the country. The USA TODAY/Suffolk University/Boston Globe poll found the former president performing well among those with a high school degree or some college. If Haley is to do well against Trump, she'll need to overperform in the white-collar communities where she has spent much of her time, such as Portsmouth and Hollis. "More than anywhere else in New Hampshire on Tuesday, I'm paying attention to those bedroom communities suburban communities in the southern tier of the state that make up the outer ring of metropolitan Boston," Scala said. The Sununu Factor Haley has an important supporter in New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu. Sununu is one of the most popular governors in the country and is himself among the states elite. His family owns and operates a ski resort in northern New Hampshire that he helped run before he was elected in 2017. As governor, Sununu has championed a platform of fiscal responsibility and traditional conservative policies, such as business tax cuts. His electoral success rate in the state is nearly unmatched he won four races before announcing last year that he would not seek another term. Sununu chalks his victories up to retail politics and says thats how Haley can pull ahead in the state, too. National strategies don't work in New Hampshire. You've got to be really genuine. You've got to connect with folks, he said in an interview. That's the fundamental rule. Former UN Ambassador and 2024 presidential hopeful Nikki Haley and New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu (R) exit Newfields Country Store after a get-out-the-vote campaign stop in Newfields, New Hampshire, on January 19, 2024. The state's primary is scheduled for January 23, 2024. (Photo by Joseph Prezioso / AFP) (Photo by JOSEPH PREZIOSO/AFP via Getty Images) ORIG FILE ID: 1937373955 Greg Moore, state director of Americans for Prosperity, an arm of the conservative Koch-backed group that endorsed Haley last November, noted that Sununu has a higher favorability than Trump with wealthy suburban voters. For instance, in the 2020 general presidential election, Trump lost the once-Republican stronghold of Bedford, a suburb of Manchester, to President Joe Biden. In the same election, Sununu carried the town by more than 70%. If Nikki Haley is smart, she's listening to him, as he sort of gives her advice as to how to position herself with those types of communities, Moore said. Fundamentally, I think that's an area where she can really clean up. Linda Wells, 65, is among the voters in the state who were turned off by Trump but is drawn to Haley's message. A former business analyst for Fidelity Investments, Wells said she is looking for a candidate who is "cool, calm, collected, logical and future-focused. I don't want Trump again. I'm tired of the drama, the Wolfeboro resident said after attending a November town hall for Haley. Just down the road, multimillion dollar mansions, including one owned by Sen. Mitt Romney, surrounded one of the state's premiere summer destinations Lake Winnipesaukee. Wells, an independent voter, has donated to Haleys campaign and is considering whether to volunteer for her on Election Day. I want somebody fresh and new that will spend her time and energy tackling the issues, Wells said. Haleys big business backing Haley's business background and popularity with donors drew attacks from other Republicans, including DeSantis and former GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy. Both sought to paint the former UN ambassador as beholden to Wall Street. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis during the fourth Republican Presidential Primary Debate presented by NewsNation at the Frank Moody Music Building University of Alabama on Dec. 6, 2023 in Tuscaloosa, Ala. Haley sat on the board of Boeing after leaving the Trump administration. In 2020, she stepped down over the companys pursuit of a federal bailout during the pandemic. Shes held several other board positions and has made millions from speaking engagements, private consulting and stock market holdings since leaving office, according to her financial disclosure forms. But in New Hampshire, voters such as Glocker say they dont see her business ties as a liability. Instead, they look at her professional pedigree, international background and time as a governor as a trifecta for a presidential candidate. In fact, one of the experiences Glocker said he valued most in Haley, a former accountant, was her time working as a bookkeeper for her familys South Carolina dress store. When I first met her, we talked about the challenges of running a small business, the former Goldman Sachs vice president said, recalling when Haley came into his store after her event over the summer. The pair talked like colleagues about the metrics behind the business sales growth, profit margins, overhead costs and Glocker said it gave him faith both in Haleys financial policy plans and her ability to dig into the granular and big picture as president. As a small business owner, one of the things is everybody at your firm looks to you for leadership and how to handle a situation, Glocker said. I think being honest and blunt, those types of things, is important. And I think Nikki Haley has some of those characteristics. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: The elite factor: How Nikki Haley is swaying affluent voters in New Hampshire US and UK strikes on Houthi fighters in Yemen will not deter the Iranian-backed group from attacking ships in the Red Sea, experts have warned, as tensions spike across the Middle East. While the US has launched at least seven rounds of strikes against Houthi positions in Yemen with the UK also involved in the first strikes last week experts have told The Independent that the strikes amount merely to a short-term solution to a problem that requires a long-term answer. There is nothing in the Houthis narrative to suggest they have any intention to stop, whatever the cost, says Alessio Patalano, a professor specialising in maritime strategy and doctrine at the department of war studies at Kings College London. US president Joe Biden said on Thursday that airstrikes would continue, even as he acknowledged that they may not halt the Houthi attacks. Are they stopping the Houthis? No. Are they gonna continue? Yes, he said. The Houthis began their attacks along the key maritime trade route in November, with the Hamas-allied group claiming they are aimed at bringing a halt to the war in Gaza. Hamas killed 1,200 Israelis, and took 240 more hostage around half of whom are still captive in Gaza during an attack on 7 October. In response, Israel vowed to eradicate Hamas, and has launched airstrikes and ground operations inside Gaza, backed up by a blockade. Health officials in the Hamas-controlled territory say more than 25,000 people have been killed. While claiming to target vessels bound for Israel, the Houthis have fired at more than 30 commercial ships since 19 November. Sailors on HMS Diamond fire Sea Viper missiles at Houthi drones earlier this month (UK MOD Crown copyright 2024) Utilising positions in northwestern Yemen that surround the Bab al-Mandab Strait, through which around 12 per cent of global maritime traffic travels, the Houthis have threatened to destabilise supply chains between Asia and Europe. Their attacks have forced hundreds of commercial vessels to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope, a lengthy detour beneath Africa, and more than doubled the insurance premiums on shipping companies looking to operate in the area. In late December, the US established a naval coalition in the Red Sea Operation Prosperity Guardian supported by the UK, to counter this threat. Professor Patalano says the initial strikes on Houthi positions have clearly had an effect. We went from upwards of 20 missiles and drones per [Houthi] attack to just single shots, he notes, citing this as evidence of the degradation of the groups offensive capabilities. But he describes the wider intention, to prevent Houthi attacks altogether, as naive. Baraa Shiban, an expert on Yemen at the Royal United Services Institute, a security think tank based in London, suggests that the US ability to destroy Houthi capabilities longer-term is the issue. This is something [the Houthis] are used to, he says. They are very mobile. They have adapted their military capabilities around how to sustain an aerial campaign against [targeted strikes]. Houthi supporters attend a protest in Sanaa, Yemen, against the US-led airstrikes (AP) According to Offshore Energy, a trade publication that specialises in maritime energy, oil supplies have not been endangered as companies such as BP and Shell have redirected their vessels away from the Red Sea. War insurance premiums, a tariff that must be paid by shipping companies to sail in dangerous waters, may have doubled to 0.7 per cent, but the industry can swallow larger rises, Prof Patalano says, citing the roughly 10 per cent premiums that applied during the tanker war between Iran and Iraq in the 1980s. But, as Mr Biden said, the Houthis still pose a threat, and the economic impact will grow if strikes continue for months. Going forwards, Prof Patalano says he believes the US will look to evolve its strategy with this new reality in mind. He says destroying the Houthis offensive capability, or convincing them to stop, appears impossible now, although the US will probably continue to try. It needs to be a combination of different strategies that minimise risks in different settings, he says. The US must also reduce the number of convoys going through the Red Sea, and look at extended escorting of commercial vessels in the area. That should be enough to keep the war insurance premiums at bay for a little longer. Joe Biden has admitted that strikes on Houthi positions have failed to deter further rebel action (EPA) There has been some acknowledgement from officials that there is a need for longer-term planning. The Royal Navy missiles that have been used to shoot down Houthi drones in the Red Sea will be upgraded, the UK government has said. The Sea Viper air defence system will get more effective missiles featuring a new warhead, and a software update that will enable it to defeat ballistic missile threats. It will help to protect the navys Carrier Strike group, and allow tracking, targeting and destruction of a variety of air threats more than 70 miles away. The 405m upgrade will be completed by 2032. It is hoped that the upgrade will help navy ships to better deal with more complex threats in the future. The defence secretary, Grant Shapps, said: As the situation in the Middle East worsens, it is vital that we adapt to keep the UK, our allies and partners safe. Sea Viper has been at the forefront of this, being the navys weapon of choice in the first shooting down of an aerial threat in more than 30 years. Our strong and enduring relationship with British industry has ensured we can deploy the latest technological capabilities wherever they are required, while supporting hundreds of jobs across the country and bolstering UK prosperity. In the meantime, however, the US runs the risk of the Houthis improving their reputation in the region, says Shiban, who spent years in the Yemeni government negotiating with the Houthis. Many Arab countries have been celebrating what the Houthis are doing as the only group that is trying to push back against Israel, he says. Maybe they are doing it for other reasons, to try to deflect from internal issues, but that is not what [many] Arab people see. For Shiban, this is something the US has not considered, and it risks serious adverse consequences. US hopes that attacks will cease if the war in Gaza ends are also misplaced, he believes. The Houthis want to have long-term leverage on the international community, and now they have demonstrated that, they have got that leverage, he says. The Houthis are here to stay. PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) A water main that broke near the intersection of West 30th and Washington Street in Vancouver practically swallowed an SUV. The SUV, with 2 people inside, fell into the sinkhole around 1:15 a.m. Saturday, Vancouver police told KOIN 6 News. The driver and the passenger were able to get out through the side door and the rear exit. No one was hurt, officials said. Vancouver Public Works handles the road closure and sink hole issue, police said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com. There are few things as heavenly as climbing into a warm, plush hotel bed after a long day of traveling. However, before you order room service and dive into a Law & Order: SVU rerun or immediately conk out, theres one thing you should always do. Actually, its the first thing you should do as soon as you walk into your room: Check for bed bugs. I have two really good friends who have gotten bed bugs in New York [hotels] before, HuffPost Senior Editor Caroline Bologna told us Raj Punjabi and Noah Michelson, co-hosts of HuffPosts Am I Doing It Wrong? podcast. The tiny critters, which feed on human blood while were sleeping, are about the size of an apple seed and big enough to be easily seen, but often hide in cracks in furniture, floors, or walls, according to a NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene guide to stopping bed bugs in hotels. The insects often hitch a ride into a hotel room in a guests suitcase or on their clothes and then continue to thrive there by snacking on new, unsuspecting travelers. Paris made headlines last year when scores of hotels were reportedly infested with bed bugs, but the city of light definitely isnt the only one facing this problem. In fact, a 2017 study found that eight out of 10 hotels had dealt with the pests during the previous year. It doesnt matter how nice the hotel is theyre not attracted to grime, Bologna noted. Bed bugs are attracted to warmth, blood and carbon dioxide all of which are amply provided by humans, so no matter how well-rated or luxurious a hotel might be, it could still be a haven for them. If you dont want to end up being a bed bugs next meal or potentially bringing them home with you in your luggage spend your first 30 seconds in your room doing a sweep of any area where they might be lurking. They like upholstery just look at the sheets, Bologna explained. Just peel back one of the corners of the bed, look at the seams of the mattress... just check. Check anything upholstered. Look at the headboard. Look at the chairs. If you dont see anything, youre probably totally fine. However, if youre still worried, there are a few more steps you can take. People who are really cautious like my friends who have had bed bugs put their suitcase in the bathtub... just not on upholstery, she said, so if there are any bed bugs in the room, they wont get into it. Most hotel rooms are carpeted, so just dont have your bag on carpeting. You can also attempt to bed-bug proof the fabric luggage stand in the room. Some people travel with plastic trash bags, Bologna said. You put the plastic around it and then put your suitcase on it, because bed bugs dont really hang out on plastic. If you do find bed bugs in the room, alert the hotel management immediately. If you decide you dont want to leave the hotel but you want to switch rooms, dont move to an adjacent room because that would be likely to have the same problem, Bologna warned. We also chatted about the best way to score an upgrade, the dirtiest parts of hotel rooms and hacks for cleaning them, and many more hotel secrets: After youve had a listen above or wherever you get your podcasts, subscribe to Am I Doing It Wrong? so you dont miss a single episode, including our investigations of the ins and outs of tipping, how to score the best deals on airline tickets, how to apologize or vanquish your credit card debt, how to find love online or overcome anxiety, online shopping tips and the secrets to taking care of your teeth and pooping like a pro. Need some help with something youve been doing wrong? Email us at AmIDoingItWrong@HuffPost.com, and we might investigate the topic in an upcoming episode. Related... Republican presidential candidate former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley addresses a gathering during a campaign rally, Friday, Jan. 19, 2024, in Manchester, N.H. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa) This is a joint project between Nexstar Media Group and Syracuse University. MANCHESTER, N.H. (NEXSTAR) Over the past week in New Hampshire, Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley said she plans to support service members, veterans, and their families by expanding Veteran Affairs healthcare, as well as implementing telehealth into treatment plans to make it more accessible. In addition, she addressed the high rate of homelessness among veterans, and the need to support them after they return home. Weve made progress with the VA, I get my healthcare from them. But, I think shes right that if we had more conversations things would get better, said Roy Hunter, 54, a U.S Army veteran. Paul Gonsalves is a Naval veteran who originally was a Chris Christie supporter, but switched his vote to Haley after the former New Jersey governor suspended his campaign. During Haleys visit to a local diner that afternoon, he was able to speak one-one-one with the former ambassador about military families and their needs. We were talking about military families and I asked about how her husband was doing and military spouses my wife did it for about 30 years, Gonsalves said. As far as Im concerned, the spouses are the real heroes, theyre the ones who hold down the fort. Haley has been vocal about her role as a military spouse on several occasions during her time in New Hampshire. When you have a loved one deployed, its your lone prayer that they just come back home to you safely, Haley said. For Gonsalves, Haleys personal experience having a loved one in the military was impactful, but her pledge to solve veterans homelessness was a key factor as well. We have a lot of veterans who are on the street that are homeless, and thats inexcusable, Gonsalves said. What theyve done for their country, we should feel ashamed to have them living like that. The number one question we have to ask ourselves is what our responsibility is as citizens. Eden Stratton is a senior Journalism and Political Science student at the Newhouse School at Syracuse University and has interned with the War Horse and the USA Today Network. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC. Sunday marks one year since a gunman opened fire at a Lunar New Year celebration at the Star Ballroom in Monterey Park, killing 11 people and injuring nine more. Community members are still grieving the loss of innocent lives, including Kevin Leung, a Kung Fu instructor at Star Ballroom who had to explain the tragedy to his young students. Devastated families of hit-and-run victims in Southern California seeking justice A year later, he says the students are doing well thanks to the help of their families. Weve been very fortunate to have a lot of support from the families and also the different members of the community, Leung told KTLA 5s Annie Rose Ramos. We actually were taken in by some of them [who gave] us a home, and it helped us have that conversation and help [the students] feel safe, and that was really important. Star Ballroom has remained closed since the massacre, and Leung believes it will stay that way for now. Rainfall, winter weather arrives in Southern California I think that, especially for a lot of Asian folks, its still a sensitive spot, he said. Even though they had the Buddhist ceremony to let the dead move on, [people] look at this place and still feel that little sense of uneasiness, and I think that still weighs heavily on peoples minds. A candlelight vigil remembering the victims is scheduled for 6 p.m. Sunday at the Monterey Park City Hall Front Lawn. For more information, click here. The perpetrator of the deadliest mass shooting in Los Angeles County history was identified as 72-year-old Hemet resident Huu Can Tran. Tran entered the Lai Lai Ballroom in nearby Alhambra 20 to 30 minutes later armed with a semi-automatic pistol that had an extended large capacity magazine probably with the intent to kill more people, L.A. County Sheriff Robert Luna said at the time. A 26-year-old man named Brandon Tsay disarmed him when he entered the dance hall, saving countless lives. After a standoff with law enforcement, Tran died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound roughly 25 miles from the scene. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA. By saying he'll quit contesting allegations of corruption leveled against him by whistleblowers in a lawsuit, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sought to accomplish two things: First, and perhaps most importantly, avoid at least for now having to publicly answer questions about the myriad accusations against him, which led to the Texas House impeaching him and ultimately the Texas Senate clearing him. And second, go back to calling his once-trusted top aides "rogue employees," political pawns and whatever else he wants. Paxton filed a motion Thursday saying he no longer wants to continue his court fight. He didn't admit wrongdoing; he just said he wasn't going to argue the point. But the next day, Travis County state District Judge Jan Soifer set a Feb. 1 date for the attorney general to sit for a deposition in the case. If Paxton is allowed to walk away from the case with no further legal proceedings, he could deny his political adversaries the potential opportunity to see him admit to wrongdoing or to plead the Fifth Amendment to avoid self-incrimination. At the same time, he's free to go back on the offensive and further cement his standing with the Texas GOP's conservative base. Attorney General Ken Paxton walks away without answering reporters' questions at a news conference May 26, the day before he was impeached by the Texas House. Paxton's statement and the accompanying filing with the 250th District Court in Austin about him wanting to walk away from the long-running litigation contain no shortage of bombast aimed at the whistleblowers who leveled the accusations of possible criminal misconduct against him, including that Paxton used his office to help a political benefactor, and, in turn, that benefactor helped Paxton's alleged mistress get a job. Paxton accused the whistleblowers of escalating a "crusade" against him and of seeking to "sabotage" his leadership as the state's top lawyer. But then, Paxton said in his recent motion that he "hereby elects not to contest any issue of fact in this case." It's fair to ask why the three-term Republican is eager to fire broadsides against his adversaries on paper, but he is avoiding having to sit for questions from their lawyers, as the Texas Supreme Court ruled that Paxton would have to do if the litigation continues. Paxton's official response, ostensibly, is that his walking away "precludes further unwarranted expense" to taxpayers for continued litigation and to have more time to file lawsuits and take other actions against the Democratic Biden administration. Another plausible explanation is that answering questions under oath is a huge risk for anyone, but especially for a politician. If the whistleblowers' allegations are true, Paxton would have to admit to them in a deposition or perhaps on the witness stand. Or he could invoke the Fifth and stay mum. Neither would be a good look. More: How Ken Paxton is seeking to extend the reach of his victory in the impeachment trial Another option would be to follow the playbook of former President Donald Trump, a Paxton ally. In some of the sundry court actions taken against him, Trump admits to nothing and he counterattacks with bombast and gusto. As much as they might hate to admit it, the former president's adversaries understand that it has been a pretty darned effective strategy at least for him. Paxton has sought to emulate Trump in the past. Recall that after the Texas House voted to impeach him on charges that mirrored those of the whistleblowers, the attorney general went before reporters and TV cameras to offer a Trumpian defense, calling the Republican House members who brought the charges corrupt and politically motivated. But once reporters tried to ask him questions, Paxton tucked his chin to his necktie and walked away without saying another word. During the Senate trial, Paxton's lawyers invoked Trump's catchall response to any allegations of wrongdoing made against him: "Witch hunt." More: 'Worth every penny': AG Paxton impeachment cost more than $4 million Paxton has the right to testify in his own defense, but he has chosen not to. In fact, he scarcely attended his impeachment trial reportedly opting to get a massage at a high-end Austin spa and resort instead of sitting through the first full day of the hearing. And he left it to his lawyers to take reporters' questions after the Senate acquitted him on all impeachment charges. If Soifer's Feb. 1 deposition order stands, questions will be asked of Paxton. And he'll be under oath. It's an open question whether he'll be playing offense or defense when, and if, that time comes. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Avoiding whistleblowers' questions has proven rewarding for Ken Paxton A group of Wall Street billionaires is planning a fundraiser for GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley in New York City after the New Hampshire primary, Bloomberg News reported. Billionaires Stanley Druckenmiller, Henry Kravis, Ken Langone and Cliff Asness are reportedly planning a fundraiser for Haley on Jan. 30, according to an invitation viewed by Bloomberg. A donor speaking on the condition of anonymity told the outlet that the event is just one part of a fundraising swing slated for Haley in between the New Hampshire and South Carolina primaries. The donor told Bloomberg that Haley will be visiting Miami and Palm Beach, Fla., after the Jan. 30 fundraiser in New York to meet with wealthy donors. She will then travel to California and Texas in the first two weeks of February to meet with additional donors, according to the source. Bloomberg reported that tickets for the fundraising event in New York City start at $3,300 and may be purchased for as much as $33,200. Bloomberg noted that Puck News first reported on the fundraiser. The Hill has reached out to Haleys campaign for comment. Haleys campaign announced earlier this month that she had hauled in $24 million in fundraising during the fourth quarter last year. The campaign said 83,900 new people donated to her between October and December and that she had $14.3 million in the bank by the end of 2023. The political wing of the conservative network led by billionaire Charles Koch endorsed Haley last year, marking the first time the deep-pocketed group threw its support behind a Republican candidate in the GOP primary. Haley is the only GOP challenger to former President Trump after Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced he was dropping out of the race Sunday. She is hoping to pull off an upset in New Hampshires primary this week, where she is trailing Trump by about 11 percentage points, according to The Hill/Decision Desk HQ. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Debating GOP contenders for the U.S. Senate include State Senator Matt Dolan, Secretary of State Frank LaRose, and luxury car salesman Bernie Moreno on Thursday, Oct. 26, 2023, in Akron, Ohio, at Portage Country Club. [Phil Masturzo/ Beacon Journal] This year, there are 33 United States senators up for re-election. That includes the seat in Ohio currently held by Sen. Sherrod Brown. That race will heat up on Monday night with the first Republican debate to see who will challenge Brown. As the top U.S. Senate race in the country, the entire nation will be tuned into Ohio for this first Republican debate," Ohio Republican Party chairman Alex Triantafilou said in a release. "We look forward to watching three strong conservatives make their case directly to Ohio voters as to why they are the best candidate to end Sherrod Browns 50-year political career and get our country back on track." Here's what to know about the debate, what time it starts and how to watch it: Who are the GOP candidates for the Ohio Senate race? State Sen. Matt Dolan, Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose and Cleveland businessman Bernie Moreno are running for the chance to unseat Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown. Voters will decide in the March 19 primary election which candidate will oppose Brown. What time is the Ohio Republican U.S. Senate? The debate is at 7 p.m. on Monday. It will take place at the WJW Fox 8 studio in Cleveland and air on television stations owned by Nexstar Media: WJW Fox 8 (Cleveland), WCMH (Columbus), WDTN (Dayton) and WYTV (Youngstown). It will also air on Fubo, which offers a free trial. Who is Donald Trump endorsing in the 2024 Ohio Senate race? In December, Trump backed Moreno. The former Northeast Ohio auto magnate initially considered a Senate run in 2022 before Trump intervened. "It's time for the entire Republican Party to UNITE around Bernie's campaign for Senate, so that we can have a BIG victory in what will be the most important election in American history," Trump posted on Truth Social. Who is Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine supporting in the 2024 Ohio Senate race? DeWine hasn't backed a candidate in the Ohio Senator race yet. "We have three very good people running for the United States Senate and whoever wins the primary, I will support that individual for United States Senate," DeWine said earlier this month. Get more political analysis by listening to the Ohio Politics Explained podcast This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Ohio Republican U.S. Senate debate: How to watch tonight Nikki Haley never seems to be far from Donald Trumps thoughts. Fresh off a landslide win in Iowa, the former president hopes to cement his hold on the Republican nomination contest in New Hampshire, which votes next, and only Ms Haley stands in the way. I dont even talk about DeSanctus - whatever happened to him? Mr Trump told a rally in Concord, using his nickname for Florida governor Ron DeSantis, who is polling a distant third in the state. But he had plenty to say about Ms Haley. His former UN ambassador, he said, wasnt tough enough, smart enough, or respected enough to be the commander-in-chief. Shes down very low [in polls]. Well finish it off. This could end it, he said ahead of Tuesdays election in the Granite State. Mr Trump is not wrong. The result could determine the trajectory of the Republican primary contest. If Mr Trump, 77, repeats the large margin of victory he secured in the Iowa caucuses last week, it is likely to be game over for Ms Haley, 52, and Mr DeSantis, 45. Haley head-to-head with Trump But Ms Haleys bet on New Hampshire has put her head-to-head with Mr Trump, and in contention to win the state. To power her to victory she is relying on a broad voter coalition, made up of Republicans who have tired of Mr Trump, and independents, who are able to vote in the states open primary. In a state where the motto is live free or die, non-party affiliated voters make up almost two fifths of the electorate. They may play an even more pivotal role this year because there is no real contest on the Democratic side. Aware of the threat, Mr Trump has already laid the foundation to claim foul play. He has claimed Democrats could infiltrate the race, although the deadline to switch party registration was in October. Mr Trump appears to be so unsettled by his 52-year-old rival he even uses her name seemingly unintentionally as he went on his tirade on Friday night in Concord. As he discussed the lack of security at the Jan 6, 2021 Capitol riots, he seemed to criticise Nancy Pelosi, the Democrat Speaker of the House of Representatives at the time, but used Nikki Haleys name. He said: By the way, they never report the crowd on January 6, you know, Nikki Haley. Nikki Haley, Nikki Haley, you know, they did you know they destroyed all the information and all of the evidence. Because of lots of things, like Nikki Haley is in charge of security. We offered 10,000 people, soldiers, National Guard. So whatever they want, they turned it down. Trump said his former UN ambassador wasnt tough enough, smart enough, or respected enough to be the commander-in-chief - REUTERS Like the apparition of a pantomime villain, the crowd booed, on cue, at the mention of the former South Carolina governors name. But some looked confused. Ms Haley had not been near the Capitol at the time, nor had she been in elected office, much less responsible for the security of the Capitol. Ms Haley lost no time in highlighting the gaffe, and pressing her advantage. He got confused Theyre saying he got confused, Ms Haley told her own supporters in Keene, western New Hampshire, the next morning. Im not saying anything derogatory, she continued, but when youre dealing with the pressures of the presidency, we cant have someone else that we question whether theyre mentally fit to do this. Ms Haleys willingness to hit Mr Trump with personal attacks is testament to the make-or-break stage of her campaign. Mr Trump, too, has ramped up the rhetoric in recent days, nicknaming Ms Haley Nimbra, in what has been criticised as a dog whistle reference to her given name, Nimarata. He has even given oxygen to a false birther conspiracy that Ms Haley is not eligible to become a US president on account of her Indian heritage. Steven Cheung, Mr Trumps campaign spokesman, has dismissed allegations of racism as faux outrage. Karoline Leavitt, the Trump campaigns press secretary, told The Telegraph they were very confident that he remains in a strong position to win. Its just too bad that Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis dont realise that they have no practical pathway to the nomination, she said, adding: If they want to keep staying in this race, we will fight them until theyre out. Ms Haley has been undeterred, criss-crossing the states snowy, rugged terrain, promising to shake every hand and answer any question. Its the Haley and Trump show all week, said New Hampshire-based strategist Jim Merrill, who held senior roles in campaigns of George W Bush, Mitt Romney and Marco Rubio. He said: Its one of the last opportunities for voters to send the message that they want to make a change from Donald Trump and I think Nikki Haley has positioned herself to be in striking distance. New Hampshire electorate challenge for Trump New Hampshires electorate, Mr Merrill added, poses a challenge for Mr Trump. It is wealthier, has more university-educated voters, and favours candidates who have broader appeal. But he cautions against viewing New Hampshires large independent constituency as a given advantage for Ms Haley. This is not a monolithic voting bloc, he said, describing it as a healthy mix of conservatives, libertarians and progressives. Added to which, Ms Haley must still contend with Mr Trumps unshakeable grip over the Republican grassroots. Hundreds of his supporters waited patiently in a snow-covered car park for over an hour to see the former president in Concord on Friday night. Some wore red MAGA woolly hats or scarves to shield them from the bitterly cold winds as temperatures fell to -7C. Others had brought camp chairs in anticipation of the lengthy queues. They included Jack Lianos, a 17-year-old student, who hopes to cast his first vote for Mr Trump in Novembers general election, by which time he will be 18. I love Trumps foreign policy, he said, a key voting issue for him. Hes not dumping money on other nations. I think that American money should stay in America. Like Jack, it was 40-year-old sales worker Geoffs first Trump rally. A self-described libertarian conservative, he wasnt an early convert to Mr Trump. But he was won over by the peace and prosperity he saw as the hallmark of the former presidents first term. I was managing a multi-million dollar company at the time and our best years were the Trump years, he said. Hes ready, as he puts it, for another go round with Trump. When he bounded onto stage, Mr Trump lost no time reminding them of their mission for Tuesday: turning out in record numbers. Margins are important, he told them. Not because of the people were running against... [but] because this could end it. He added: And then we can focus on Biden. 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. FRANKFORT As snow fell across the commonwealth, legislators at the Kentucky Capitol turned up the heat, debating controversial measures in committees and introducing a key budget proposal that could shape state spending for the next two years. The Safer Kentucky Act, a key Republican priority, advanced after a contentious hearing, and House Republicans introduced a budget proposal to counter Gov. Andy Beshear's. Meanwhile, senators seemed a bit more focused on fun as the upper chamber unanimously passed a bill expanding the number of riverboats where people can drink. Here's a breakdown of what happened during the third week of the session. The House and Senate are scheduled to gavel back in at 4 p.m., Monday. Safer Kentucky Act prompts raucous debate Kentucky Rep. Jared Bauman (R-Louisville, center) speaks alongside Rep. Jason Nemes (R-Louisville) at a General Assembly committee meeting over House Bill 5. Jan. 18, 2024 House Bill 5, the "Safer Kentucky Act," is moving forward to the House floor. But not without significant debate. The bill, put forward last week by Rep. Jared Bauman and other Louisville-area Republicans, advanced through the House Judiciary Committee on Thursday following a contentious two-hour debate. Families of Kentuckians killed in violent crimes in recent years spoke in favor of some of the 72-page bill's provisions, including relatives of Madelynn Troutt (a teen killed in a car crash involving someone released from jail due to a payment by a charitable bail organization), Jake Luxemburger (a 10-year-old killed in a car crash involving a man fleeing police) and Caleb Conley (a Kentucky State Police trooper shot and killed in a traffic stop). Opponents, though, argued the bill would put more people behind bars without focusing on rehabilitative services while also criminalizing poverty (the legislation would allow local governments to ban outdoor camping outside of designated locations) and placing unfair restrictions on charitable bail funds. HB 5, with 52 co-sponsors, passed through committee on a 13-5 vote. Its next stop is the House floor. Big money? House Speaker David Osborne, R-Prospect, gavels in on Jan. 2, 2024. The Kentucky House put forward its budget bill this week. "One-time" was the refrain around the Capitol as House Republicans described the budget proposal they introduced last week. House GOP leaders aim to spend about $1.7 billion of the state's estimated $3.7 billion rainy day fund but that spending will be for one-time only expenses. Their approach differs from Beshear's proposal rolled out in December, which foregoes dipping into the rainy day fund and instead focuses on amping up education and other spending over the long term. Beshear was critical of the GOP's plan Thursday, calling it regressive and missing key funding components. GOP House leaders split their budget into two bills: House Bill 1 focused on, aptly enough, one-time expenditures from the rainy day fund, and House Bill 6, focused on recurring expenditures. How the House budget proposal differs from Beshear's plan: Beshear's budget includes increases in the state's per-pupil education funding formula as well as across-the-board 11% pay raises for school employees through an increase in SEEK funding. The GOP version also includes increases in per-pupil education funding but foregoes across-the-board raises in favor of encouraging school districts to use additional funds for raises at the levels they see fit. The GOP version increases state funding of school transportation to 90% of costs by fiscal year 2026, the second year of the budget, while Beshear's proposal would fully fund school transportation. Beshear's budget proposal includes $172 million each year for universal pre-K, while the GOP version foregoes universal pre-K, which House leaders have said is a non-starter. Bourbon on boats The Senate unanimously passed a measure from Sen. Gex Williams, R-Verona, to increase the number of riverboats that can serve bourbon. If Senate Bill 62 passes, riverboats with as few as 40 passengers, rather than boats with 100 passengers, will be eligible to sell alcohol. The Kentucky locks reopening has allowed smaller boats on the Kentucky River, Williams said, and if the bill passes, riverboats can sell alcohol on bourbon tours up and down the river. Specifically, Frankfort's The Bourbon Belle, owned by Kentucky River Tours, will be able to sell alcohol on board during its river cruises, many of which ferry travelers to local distilleries. Affordable housing in the spotlight Snow at the Kentucky Capitol. Jan. 19, 2024 The lack of affordable housing and what state and local governments can do about it is shaping up to be a hot topic in this year's General Assembly. Republican-controlled committees in both chambers approved bills last week that will limit local governments ability to prohibit discrimination against low-income renters relying on Section 8 housing vouchers. Louisville and Lexington leaders pushed back, saying local lawmakers know their communities best and should be able to pass anti-discrimination ordinances unhindered by the state legislature. Louisville's lack of affordable housing is well documented and plans to improve the city's stock is a key goal of Mayor Craig Greenberg. He's pledged to build 15,000 units during his first term in office. A separate provision in the Safer Kentucky Act that outlaws camping in public spaces has drawn the ire of advocates for the state's unhoused population. More from the Capitol Sen. Whitney Westerfield and his wife Amanda are expecting three children, he told colleagues in the General Assembly on Friday. Here's a look at some other notable measures and moments this week in Frankfort: House and Senate members spoke out Thursday after viewing footage Wednesday provided by the Israeli government of the attacks by Hamas in Israel last October, with both chambers putting forward resolutions expressing support for Israel. Rep. Kim Moser, R-Taylor Mill, filed House Bill 10 Wednesday in an effort to cut into the state's maternal death rate. The legislation, with 17 co-sponsors, would expand insurance access for pregnant people and allow more access to services offered by Kentucky's Health Access Nurturing Development. Rep. Nick Wilson, R-Williamsburg, blamed an "inadvertent change" made during the filing process after he put forward a bill that would have struck first cousins from relationships barred by the state's incest law. He later refiled the legislation as House Bill 289, which would add language to Kentucky's law barring sexual intercourse between family members to include sexual contact." And finally, Sen. Whitney Westerfield, R-Crofton, said it's a good thing he isn't planning to run for another term, as he'll be pretty busy in the near future. He and his wife Amanda are expecting triplets this summer. Reach Rebecca Grapevine at rgrapevine@courier-journal.com. Reach Lucas Aulbach at laulbach@courier-journal.com. This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky General Assembly's Week 3 sees several key bills take steps Third in a series on the culture of engagement. A work environment where people feel respected and valued regardless of who they are, where they come from, their role or their viewpoints is important to create an engaged workplace culture. I equate this for its simplicity and directness to The Golden Rule. Some have expressed the idea as a Christian religious value that has no place in a public university. However, every major world religion has a version of the Golden Rule, and it is ubiquitous in positive cultures, ensuring all associated with any enterprise have equal opportunities. However, as each expresses their ideas and beliefs, they should demonstrate public virtue in recognizing the values and beliefs of others. William Arruda, writing for Forbes, says creating respect and belonging in any work culture involves a multifaceted approach that includes leadership commitment, policy development, training, open communication and ongoing evaluation. The initiative must start from the top. Leaders should demonstrate, through their actions and words, that respect and treating all with civility are core values of the organization. The development and communication of clear policies that outline what is expected regarding respectful behavior are important but are not a substitute for virtuous interaction between people. Dr. Walter Wendler, President of West Texas A&M University Virtue can be clearly defined, but discussing virtue in contemporary society is difficult, according to Catholic Women in Business. Even using the concept of virtuous behavior and treatment will cause consternation. People will ask," Whose virtue, under what circumstances, enforced how?" Here is a start. One individual or group should not demean or debase another individual or group to further any agenda in any workplace public or private. A positive view of workplace virtue should foster a discrimination-free work environment that rejects harassment of any type and provides equal opportunities for anyone. Promoting open communication and encouraging an environment where people feel comfortable sharing their ideas and concerns has value, according to a study by Axios HQ. Fostering a working environment that recognizes accomplishment and achievement, rather than group membership, provides the chance for anyone to be successful by criteria that are responsive to all. This includes a comprehensive effort when hiring to consider people from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives to further the organizational mission, goals and objectives. A work environment accommodating different needs and styles is an important and logical extension of the Golden Rule or the Law of Reciprocity. Holding self and other individuals accountable when they do not meet the standards of respect and civility is important and should be integrated into performance reviews and recognition programs. Regularly seeking feedback from all on the civility of the workplace and being open to making improvements in response to the expressed needs is a form of accountability in an organization. This should naturally lead to involvement in the decision-making processes, ensure a variety of perspectives are considered and valued and foster shared governance in University environments. The concept of shared governance is important in universities and valued in other settings of diverse enterprises. For example, David Rosowsky, writing in Forbes, says, "Shared governance is a cornerstone of American higher education. In fact, faculty shared governance has been called the second longest standing system of institutional shared governance in the world, second only to the Church." And it's not just the church and the university. The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing published an analysis of shared governance to increase the quality of patient care, telegraphing the same logic in churches and universities. Toyota uses a set of principles called The Toyota Way that starts with the simple concept of "Respect for People." It is not a stretch to call the Toyota Way the Golden Rule on wheels. Engagement and involvement in the extended community that the enterprise serves encourages and supports respectful, virtuous, work cultures. Such action helps to reinforce human commitments both internally and externally. At West Texas A&M University, we believe in integrating strategies of any version of a law of reciprocity that values treating people with dignity and civility toward a more respectful and powerful work culture. Such a culture benefits not only our faculty, students, staff and the constituents we serve but also improves overall performance and reputation. Walter V. Wendler is President of West Texas A&M University. His weekly columns are available at https://walterwendler.com/. This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Wendler commentary: The law of reciprocity (FOX40.COM) A crash in West Sacramento that involved a vehicle catching on fire left one person dead and another hospitalized, according to the citys police department. Police said that around midnight, a vehicle was found on Southport Parkway and Silverwood Road overturned and on fire. Brawl in Downtown Sacramento leads to car fire, pedestrian injury, and arrest Officers discovered two people at the scene. Emergency personnel determined at the scene that one of the people was dead. The other person involved has been sent to the hospital, but their condition remains unknown at this time. The investigation of this collision is being turned over to the West Sacramento Police Department Traffic Unit. The cause of the collision is under investigation and the names and further details of the collision are not being released at this time, the West Sacramento Police Department said in a press release. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40. If youre like me, you started reading newspapers for the comics. I started with kid-of-the-60s staples "Family Circus," "Dennis The Menace," "Peanuts." Over time, new favorites caught my eye: "Pearls Before Swine," "Opus" (before Berkeley Breathed ended the strip) and "The Far Side" by Gary Larson, who retired his single-panel comic for 24 years before teasing a refreshed approach in 2020. Larson and I attended Washington State University about a decade apart, so I followed his career with a step-version of pride known only to fans of perennial underdogs like the Cougs. Tastes change, subscribers evolve, old strips retire and new strips are born. As Breathed and Larson found, change can be restorative. We hope you agree and that youll embrace changes to The Arizona Republics weekday and Sunday comics lineups. Beginning Monday, Jan. 29, youll find the same number of weekday strips, 22, with a handful of comics replaced by "Jump Start," "Ziggy," "Crabgrass," "Crankshaft," "Baldo," "Frank & Ernest" and "Born Loser." Sunday's in-living-color comics section will be remixed by a few departures and the additions of "Peanuts," "Jump Start," "Ziggy," "Marmaduke," "Crankshaft," "Baldo," "Frank & Ernest" and "Born Loser." To make way for the new, we must let go of a few beloved comics. The strips being replaced are "Andy Capp," "B.C.," "Carpe Diem," "Doonesbury," "Drabble," "F Minus," "Fred Basset," "Macanudo," "Mother Goose," "Mutts," "Rose is Rose," "The Other Coast" and "Wallace the Brave." Reader feedback, surveys and staff research informed these choices. To prepare for the switch, a few reporters and editors from the USA TODAY Network, of which we are a part, spent the last half of 2023 examining the history of comics in newspapers, from Joseph Pulitzers The Yellow Kid to Arizonas own Bil Keane, the creator of "Family Circus." Keane lived in Scottsdale for five decades, drawing portraits of middle America from a home on Lincoln Drive. Keane died in 2011. Today, his son Jeff (Jeffy from the strip) carries on the family tradition. Oh, I always think of it as his cartoon, Jeff told Republic columnist Bill Goodykoontz in a recent interview. I don't have a problem with doing the cartoon. Its our family, is really what it is when Im doing the cartoon. I think of it as This is my mom, this is my dad, this was me, my brothers, my sister. Bil Keane, the "Family Circus" creator, died in 2011 and was a Paradise Valley resident for more than five decades. He lived with his family at his home north of Lincoln Drive, where he created his famous comic strip. And it brings me great memories when I'm doing that. Im nothing but proud of the opportunity to continue something that he created that I really think is a special cartoon in the newspaper. I think it has a unique place on the comics page. And were proud to run it. Appealing to the young and old is not an easy thing. Some cartoonists dont try. Others try and fail. A rare few defy age and time. Earlier this month, we ran a strip of the "Peanuts" crew readying for a school field trip in a patch of cold and snow not unlike the polar plunge gripping half the nation this week. Standing by a yellow bus, the oft-underestimated Sally Brown spoke as if she had climbed through a portal to the politics of today. If my ears fall off, Sally said, Im gonna sue the school board. "Peanuts" debuted in 1950. Much has changed, including "Peanuts." The summer after Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, "Peanuts" creator Charles Schultz integrated his cartoon. In that strip, he introduced the Black character Franklin Armstrong. While the Civil Rights Acts of 1964 and 1968 outlawed Jim Crow and enforced fair housing, many public spaces remained racially separate. "Schulz showed Franklin and Charlie Brown meeting on the beach at a time when beaches were segregated, said Jenny Robb, curator at Ohio State Universitys Billy Ireland Cartoon Library and Museum. Columbus Dispatchs Belinda M. Paschal interviewed Robb as we readied our comics refresh. "Schulz was sending a message, Robb told Paschal. A lot of papers were uncomfortable in the South, but he stood his ground. It's an important moment. Not every cartoon has the staying power of Charlie Brown. But I hope these new cartoons find a place in your daily Republic routine. If you want more comics than we offer in print, we publish a larger selection online at www.azcentral.com/comics. If you want your comics in a print format but accessible anytime, anywhere, our weekday and Sunday comics pages are available in The Republics daily eNewspaper on the azcentral app, desktop and tablet. Greg Burton is executive editor of The Arizona Republic and a regional editor for USA TODAY in the West. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Comics lineups to shift in The Arizona Republic. What to know Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is nudging President Joe Biden to lean harder into abortion rights as he seeks to win another term in the White House. I think it would be good if he did, Whitmer said, when asked during an interview on CBS Face the Nation, whether Biden should be talking about abortion more. I know that one tenet of his belief system is that women and only women, with their families, and healthcare professionals are the ones who know what decision is right for them. Whitmer, a Democratic governor of a purple state and a co-chair of Bidens reelection bid, has credited the abortion rights with helping Democrats win up and down the ballot in Michigan helping her win reelection in 2022, and helping Democrats win majorities in both branches of the state legislature, the first time in decades the states government flipped entirely blue. Top Biden campaign officials have flagged abortion rights as a top issue for the president, but Biden himself has been more restrained in talking about the issue than other Democrats. The president, who is Catholic, has described himself as personally not big on abortion because of his faith, but the landmark Roe v. Wade decision got it right, he said over the summer. Since then, hes slammed court rulings limiting abortion access and fought efforts to restrict the availability of abortion pills. Biden has been poised to run on what has been described as the strongest abortion rights platform of any general election candidate as he and his allies look to notch a victory in the first presidential election since Roe was overturned in 2022. But having Biden tout that message himself wouldnt hurt, Whitmer said in the interview, which aired Sunday. I think people want to know that this is a president that is fighting. And I think he has said that, to use maybe more, you know, blunt language, maybe that would be helpful, Whitmer said. Democratic Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer suggested that President Biden should talk about abortion more so people know he is a president who is fighting for the right to an abortion. Asked by CBS News Face the Nation anchor Margaret Brennan if Biden, who is of Catholic faith, needs to talk about abortion more, Whitmer said, I think it would be good if he did. I know that one tenet of his belief system is that women and only women at with their families and and health care professionals are the ones who know what decision is right for them, said Whitmer, co-chair for Bidens reelection campaign. And that he is fighting and going to continue to fight to make sure that that is squarely the ability [of] an American woman to make that decision. Brennan then asked if Biden needs to be the messenger on that more, to which Whitmer said, I dont think it would hurt. Whitmer argued people want to know their president is fighting and suggested more blunt language could be helpful. The topic of Bidens discussion, or lack thereof, around abortion was sparked by Whitmers earlier comments in the interview where she appeared confident with Bidens pledge to veto any national abortion ban. Brennan asked Whitmer if she believes this is a legitimate promise to voters, as Biden doesnt talk about abortion much. Biden is the nations second Catholic president in history and often attends Saturday evening mass with his family near his home in Wilmington, De., or in Washington, D.C. His faith has come into the spotlight at times when dealing with certain issues central to the Democratic Party but opposed by the Catholic Church, including abortion and transgender issues. Conservative Catholic bishops have expressed issue with Bidens support for abortion access, a view that sparked calls for the church not to offer him communion. Biden has not shied away from pointing out Republican attacks on abortion, has pushed for Congress to codify Roe v. Wade and, as Whitmer referenced, pledged to veto any attempted national abortion ban. As a practicing Catholic, Biden said in June he is not big on abortion but believes the Roe v. Wade decision got it right. In the wake of the Supreme Courts overturning of Roe. v. Wade in 2022, abortion access is widely seen by Democrats as a hot-button and key voter issue for 2024. Democrats in 2022 saw better-than-expected results in the midterms in the wake of these concerns. Whitmer on Sunday said she believes the topic of abortion mobilized a lot of voters and a lot of those who are not traditionally Democrats to give their support to her as a governor, who has been a vocal supporter of the right to an abortion. The Hill reached out to the White House for comment. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Editor's note: This is the debut of Curious Mississippi, a service to the readers of the Clarion Ledger. Readers can submit questions by email to CuriousMississippi@ClarionLedger.com and editors will pick out the best and reporters will answer them in an upcoming edition. Reader question No. 1: Why are there dips and humps in roads in Mississippi? The conditions of Mississippi's roads have everything to do with the soil underneath. In Jackson and throughout Central Mississippi, one soil can be blamed for most of the dips and humps in the roads Yazoo clay. A majority of the Yazoo clay deposits can be found in wait for it Yazoo County, as well as northeast Hinds County, through Madison County, Rankin County, Scott County and all the way to the state line. A traffic barrel covering a pothole at Lamar Street in Jackson is surrounded by other potholes at the intersection of North Lamar and Davis Streets Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023. "Central Mississippi, particularly the tri-county area, sits on top on top of a type of clay soil called Yazoo clay, a type of highly expansive clay soil that expands when water is added and contracts when water is withdrawn," said Robert Lee, Jackson's city engineer and interim director of the Department of Public Works. The public works staff, with Lee in-charge, maintains the city's infrastructure, such as bridges, traffic lights, stormwater management and, of course, streets. Lee has been battling the Yazoo clay for years now, which is responsible for most of Jackson's extensive road problems. MDOT preps for freeze: MDOT official say the department is preparing for extreme polar weather ahead 2024 freeze in Jackson: Jackson weather and water update: Hard freeze coming. How many remain with out water? Highways across the state are handled by the Mississippi Department of Transportation. Griffin Sullivan, MDOT's state materials engineer, who is responsible for testing soils throughout Mississippi, agreed with Lee. "It has everything to do with water. High-volume change soils, when they're exposed to moisture will actually swell up like a sponge and that would cause a hump in the road," Sullivan said. "Then vice-versa, in drought conditions these soils will change volume again and they'll actually shrink and that will cause a dip in the road." Unusually rainy seasons or exceptional droughts, like the one the state faced this past summer, create a lot of movement in the soils. "It's really a cycle and that cycle just continues depending on the amount of rainfall that happens or the amount of rainfall that doesn't happen," Sullivan said. A pothole sits on Museum Boulevard in front of the entrance to LeFleurs Bluff State Park and LeFleur Museum District in Jackson, Miss., Friday, Jan. 19, 2023. Just north is a second pothole with a traffic barrel sitting in it. Engineers can try to dig out the clay and replace it with a higher quality soil, but that can be difficult because a lot of Yazoo clay soil deposits are hundreds of feet deep. They can also try to treat the soil chemically with hydrated lime, which hardens the clay and stabilizes it before building roads on top of it. "You can't really get rid of the clay, so you just have to mitigate it as best you can," Sullivan said. MDEQ's environmental fines: Which MS companies and cities faced environmental fines in November? Reader question No. 2: Does the City of Jackson have pothole repair machines that are inoperative, and do they have trained personnel that know how to operate these vehicles? According to Lee, the city purchased a pothole repair machine years ago that used a tar-and-slag mix, a common material used to fill potholes. But long-term use determined the machine was not ideal for three main reasons: The pothole-repair machine had repeated maintenance issues with the tar-and-slag system that limited its use. Asphalt is a much better material to fill potholes, which the machine didn't use. The tar-and-slag material had to be purchased from a vendor in Vicksburg, causing further delays, whereas there are multiple plants in Jackson where the city can purchase asphalt. "Based on our experience, the tar-and-slag pothole repair machine was not an improvement over more traditional pothole repairs," Lee said. Look at this pothole in Jackson: Weeding out the problem: 6-foot ragweed plant grows out of pothole in west Jackson Upkeep of the city's streets is the job of the Paved Streets Division, which is currently facing a staff shortage like most of the city's departments. Lee said patching streets and filling potholes "is only a Band-Aid for these streets," and most need to be totally repaved. In October, the Jackson City Council voted to approve phase one of the city's "Street Resurfacing Project," which is repaving a total of 31 neighborhood streets in Ward 3 and Ward 7. Deciding what streets are next for the project is the job of the One Percent Sales Tax Commission. The commission uses 1% of tax revenue earned by sales tax about $12 to $13 million per year to fund capital improvement projects. Know of any other infrastructure issues in Jackson? Contact Charlie Drape at Cdrape@gannett.com. Curious Mississippi answers burning questions about life in Jackson and Mississippi. Email your questions to CuriousMississippi@ClarionLedger.com Support local journalism by subscribing to the Clarion Ledger and see some of the benefits of being a subscriber. This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Why are Mississippi roads so bad, filled with dips and humps? Gay. I was 9 years old, sitting alone in the ninth row of a cold school bus when I first heard the word echoing from the seats behind me. It was neatly packaged inside a quick but piercing insult as if it felt comfortable serving as a tool for violence. Although initially unaware of its significance, I could tell it felt both natural and out of place at the same time a feeling I knew all too well. Faggot. I was 12 years old, using social media as a means to understand my identity when I first encountered those six, seemingly innocent letters. Initially oblivious, I looked up the words meaning a simple action that altered my perception of myself. I realized I was not only abnormal but my very existence was offensive. Peter McGinnes In a society where LGBTQ+ education is not only scarce but actively censored, I was forced to learn about my community and myself through less reliable means: social media. With Instagram and YouTube as stand-ins for teachers, I matured without fully understanding who I was becoming and why I strayed from the status quo. My life became plagued with conflict catalyzed by an absence of LGBTQ+ inclusive education and representation. Despite this lack of representation, the LGBTQ+ community has been present throughout history. Starting as early as 9,600 BCE, its acceptance then extended into the Roman Empire and beyond exemplified most notably by Renaissance champion Leonardo da Vinci. However, the first push for LGBTQ+ inclusive education didnt occur until directly after the Stonewall riots of 1969. Although initially unsuccessful, this push prompted further movements the first successful one occurring 42 years later. As a part of the FAIR (Fair Accurate Inclusive and Respectful) Education Act of 2011, California became the first state to enact legislation requiring that the curriculum include information about the contributions and roles of LGBTQ Americans. However, in the 12 years since, only five other states have followed suit: Colorado, New Jersey, Oregon, Illinois and Nevada. While that progress is inspiring, many other states are deliberately censoring this education. Most notably, in 2022, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, signed the Parental Rights in Education bill (more commonly known as the Dont Say Gay bill). This piece of legislation, which only 40% of Floridians support, prohibits classroom discussions regarding sexual orientation or gender identity through third grade although, in April 2023, it was extended to the 12th grade. Additionally, presidential candidate Nikki Haley who most view as a moderate alternative to former President Donald Trump even stated that the law does not go far enough. Further, since the Florida legislation, 30 similar anti-LGBTQ+ education bills have been passed in 16 states. Legislation is not the only barrier, though; many teachers are hesitant about LGBTQ+ inclusive education as well. Specifically, a 2021 Education Week poll found that 43% of teachers, district leaders, and principals believe that LGBTQ+ matters should not be taught in schools even in an age-appropriate manner. This hesitation could stem from several factors: Teachers might fear parental backlash, face limited curriculum options or simply lack the necessary training. However, other teachers and faculty members believe that, at a time in which LGBTQ+ rights are being targeted throughout the country, it is more important than ever to promote LGBTQ+ education especially since 20.8% of Generation Z self-identifies as LGBTQ+. According to the American Bar Association, an LGBTQ-inclusive curriculum promotes a positive school environment and student well-being. Further, research indicates that a positive school environment for LGBTQ+ students increases academic motivation and decreases feelings of sadness, disconnectedness and even suicidal ideation. In fact, these indicators saw a drastic reduction when LGBTQ+ students felt as safe at school as their straight, cisgender peers. Considering that LGBTQ+ inclusive education directly improves the quality of life for one in five of our nations students without harming the other four, I find it difficult to comprehend the reason for its censorship and so should you. The general public is also hesitant to endorse LGBTQ+ inclusive education. In fact, a recent study from the University of Southern California revealed that only a mere quarter of respondents stated that they support such education at the elementary school level. However, this reluctance was largely based on blind, uninformed conclusions as half of the respondents stated they were unsure whether LGBTQ+ matters were even being addressed in educational curricula. Although a higher number supported LGBTQ+ inclusive education at the high school level, I contest that it is imperative to begin as early as possible. Drawing from personal experience, I know that, by the time LGBTQ+ students reach high school, the adverse effects of the absence of inclusive education have already taken their toll. To remedy this, I propose age-appropriate education. Many believe that more inclusive education means that primary school students would learn about detailed sexual education or complex theory, but that is simply not the case. Instead, according to teacher Sara Springer, primary school students might learn that no one should be treated unfairly because they are different and that families come in all shapes and sizes. Then, as students progress to middle school, they can learn about prominent LGBTQ+ figures, gaining insight into the challenges the community had to overcome to get to where it is today. Another criticism of LGBTQ+ inclusive education is that it will distract students from other aspects of education. In fact, in support of the Dont Say Gay bill, DeSantis stated: Schools need to be teaching kids to read, to write, they need to teach them science, history. While I completely agree with this sentiment, I believe compromise is possible and necessary. Former astronaut Sally Ride, the physicist who flew two space shuttle missions aboard the Challenger, breaks a bottle of champagne on the Spirit of Goodyear during ceremonies at Wingfoot Lake hangar in 2000. In English classes, teachers can assign books with LGBTQ+ characters even if they simply serve supporting roles (after all, it is the representation that matters). In history classes, curricula can highlight prominent LGBTQ+ figures (e.g. Marsha P. Johnson, Harvey Milk and Pete Buttigieg) and events (e.g. the Stonewall riots, Pride and the AIDS crisis). Finally, in science classes, students can learn about prominent LGBTQ+ scientists. For example, elementary schools currently revere astronaut and physicist Sally Ride as the first American woman in space without disclosing that she was, in fact, bisexual. Although these suggested curriculum changes seem minor, it is education like this that fosters more accepting school environments. In fact, California students who studied LGBTQ+ matters at school reported less bullying overall. Finally, by fostering age-appropriate LGBTQ+ inclusive education and dispelling misconceptions, we can create positive learning environments that not only inform students of an important community but also allow LGBTQ+ students the comfort and bravery to begin embarking on their journeys of self-discovery. So now, as you consider your stance on implementing LGBTQ+ inclusive education into national curricula, I urge you to think of the approximately 15 million American LGBTQ+ students who face bullying every day, just for being themselves. I urge you to think of the students who are forced to learn about their identity through unreliable typically damaging means. I urge you to think of the students who long for representation. I urge you to think of me. Former Akron resident Peter McGinnes is a high school senior at Western Reserve Academy in Hudson. This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Criticism of LGBTQ+ inclusive education does not add up MADISON, Wis. (AP) Republicans who control the Wisconsin state Assembly approved a bill Thursday that would guarantee parents the right to determine their childrens pronouns and pull them out of any classes that conflict with their personal beliefs. The Assembly passed the GOP-authored measure 62-35, sending it on to the state Senate. Democratic Gov. Tony Evers is almost certain to veto the proposal if it reaches his desk. The governor vetoed a similar Republican proposal in 2022. The bill would guarantee parents a host of rights, including the right to determine the pronouns their children are known by at school. These baby names are expected to trend in 2024 and these could go extinct The bill also would give parents the right to pull their children out of class based on religious reasons or personal convictions. They would have a right to be told of any surveys or evaluations that would reveal their or their childrens political leanings, sexual behavior or illegal behavior; any vaccinations the school offers; and whenever a controversial subject such as gender identity, sexual orientation or racism will be discussed. Parents could sue schools that violate those rights. The bills supporters say schools are ignoring parents, and the legislation will force administrators to listen to them. Parents in Waukesha County, a Republican stronghold, won a lawsuit in October that alleged Kettle Moraine School District officials used a male name and male pronouns to address their 12-year-old daughter without their consent. The girl was questioning her gender identity at the time. Opponents say the bill is an attempt to disrupt school protocols and amounts to censorship. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. MILLCREEK, Utah (ABC4) A woman was killed and her body left near a dumpster in Millcreek Saturday morning. Fred J. Edwards, 46, of Salt Lake City, will be booked into the Salt Lake County Jail on a murder charge, according to the Unified Police Department. Snowboarder recounts near-death experience after being caught in avalanche in Brightons backcountry At 6:20 a.m. on Jan. 20, the Salt Lake Valley Emergency Communications Center received a distressing call of a body located near a dumpster at 3994 S 300 W in Millcreek, UPD said. Officers quickly responded and found the body of Esperanza Chavez, 25, of Salt Lake City. Detectives started an investigation canvassing for surveillance footage. They said a nearby business provided footage that showed a black truck arrive at the scene at 12:28 a.m. In the footage, officers said they could see a male figure, identified as Edwards by his license plate, pulling a body from a vehicle. Attempts were reportedly made to dispose of the body in the dumpster, but police said Edwards left the scene, leaving the victim beside the dumpster. According to UPD, preliminary findings suggest the incident occurred in that vehicle and involved a shooting, resulting in the death of Chavez. Police apprehended Edwards at the University of Utah Hospital, where he was being evaluated. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. A woman on the phone with her sister heard an argument, followed by gunshots, Colorado police reported. The woman called 911 around 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 18, to report the incident, Aurora police said in a Jan. 19 news release. Officers responded to the sisters apartment and broke in when no one answered the door, police said. They found the 35-year-old woman with gunshot wounds. The identity of the woman, who died at the scene, has not been released, police said. Neighbors told KDVR that gunshots are not uncommon in the neighborhood. I hate to hear it but not really surprising in this neighborhood, Cory Garbiso told the station. Police ask anyone with information to call 720-913-7867. Aurora is about 15 miles east of Denver. Bullet hits two siblings riding with parents on California freeway, family friend says Husband hides 40-year-old wifes body in mountains after slaying, California cops say Body identified 31 years after biologist spotted remains in Nevada desert, police say A 41-year-old woman was seen dragging her newborn baby down a Hilo street after giving birth on the sidewalk, Hawaii police reported. Officers and emergency crews responding to reports of the incident shortly after 5:15 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 16, found the woman and baby at an intersection, Hawaii police said in a Jan. 18 news release. The mother, whom police described as being homeless, and baby were still attached by the umbilical cord, police said. When medics cut the umbilical cord, the woman tried to leave but was detained by police, the release said. The baby was breathing but not moving, police said. Mother and infant were taken to a hospital for treatment. Police released the woman pending further investigation after she was admitted to the hospital, the release said. The infant was determined to be in good condition and was transferred to the custody of Child Welfare Services, police said. Police ask anyone with information to call 808-935-3311 or contact detective Patrick Aurello at 808-961-8810 or patrick.aurello@hawaiicounty.gov. Woman found dead after sister hears gunshots over the phone, Colorado police say Hackers flood chats at California university with gory videos. Could really not unsee Bullet hits two siblings riding with parents on California freeway, family friend says OGDEN, Utah (ABC4) A woman was hospitalized with minor injuries Saturday after officials said she was struck by ice that fell from a frozen waterfall. Matthew Hess with Weber Fire said they responded to Waterfall Canyon at approximately 10 a.m. Womans body found near dumpster in Millcreek The woman, described as being middle-aged, was reportedly recreating at Waterfall Canyon with her friends and family. She was standing below the frozen waterfall when ice fell on her from about 40 feet, hitting her back and head, Hess said. Weber County Search and Rescue responded and helped bring her down the mountain, where she was transported to a local hospital. No further information has been released at this time. The National Park Service said while hiking in the winter can be a beautiful thing, it is important to keep various safety tips in mind. There are several things people can do to keep safe both before and during the activity. Before heading out, NPS said to be prepared, know where you are going, check the weather forecast, know trail conditions, and discuss your plans with others, to name a few. While hiking, it is helpful to have snowshoes and traction devices, know your route, be avalanche aware, and keep off the ice, NPS said. Remember when you head outdoors you leave behind the established comforts of home: food and water; shelter from the sun, wind, and weather; and easy access to emergency services, NPS said. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah. Kathleen Murray smiles on her lawn, which won her a contest due to its ugliness and dryness. Courtesy of Gotland. An Australian woman won a Swedish competition for the "World's Ugliest Lawn." The competition was launched to promote global water conservation. Kathleen Murray said she relies on "nature's lawn mowers," like wallabies, kangaroos, and echidnas. Not everyone would consider it a compliment, but an Australian woman is thrilled after an international panel gave her the "World's Ugliest Lawn" award. Officials from the Swedish island of Gotland launched the competition to "save water by changing the norm of green lawns," according to a press release from the island. Judges included Gotland officials and individuals from Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, and the US. "That's the genius of this competition. It uses humor to shine a light on such a serious subject," the press release said. "It awards those willing to proudly proclaim that theirs is the lawn which deserves disgusted glances from neighbors and a round of applause from around the globe." As a prize, the Swedish competition awarded Kathleen Murray of Tasmania with a "Proud owner of The World's Ugliest Lawn" t-shirt. The press release noted that all contestants had "a lot of ugliness to be proud of" in their dry yards. "Kathleen Murray's lawn boasts deep, dry divots created by three wild bandicoots (small marsupials endemic to Australia) and not one dust-covered decimeter is wasted on watering. For that, the planet, and its dwindling stockpiles of life-giving liquid, thanks you, Kathleen," the press release said. Murray, a 53-year-old mother of four, told The Washington Post she meant to start landscaping her yard, but eventually, she just gave up, allowing local burrowers and grazers such as wallabies, kangaroos, echidnas, and bandicoots to be "nature's lawn mowers." "They don't think my backyard is ugly," Murray told the Post. "They think it's beautiful." Read the original article on Business Insider This story was originally published by Grist . Sign up for Grists weekly newsletter here . Imagine if you could walk from your house to anywhere you needed to go in less than 15 minutes: the pharmacy, the bakery, the gym, and then back to the bakery. In a certain, conspiracy-addled corner of the internet, this urban planning concept of 15-minute cities gets a shady, sinister gloss. Conspiracy theorists evoke COVID restrictions and tout efforts to create walkable cities as steps toward climate lockdowns. They warn of a plot by the World Economic Forum to restrict peoples movements, trapping and surveilling them in their neighborhoods. They want to take away your cars, claims Clayton Morris, a former Fox News host, in a YouTube video thats been viewed 1.7 million times. YouTube is riddled with false claims like these, so its the place to document the evolution of arguments against taking action on climate change. A new report from the Center for Countering Digital Hate, a nonprofit based in London and Washington, D.C., working to stop the spread of disinformation, analyzed 12,000 videos from channels that promoted lies about climate change on YouTube over the last six years. Over that time, the reality of climate change long predicted by scientists has become increasingly difficult to dismiss. The report, released on Tuesday, found a dramatic shift from old denial argumentsthat global warming isnt real and isnt caused by humansto new arguments bent on undermining trust in climate solutions. The success is that the science has won this debate on anthropogenic climate change, said Imran Ahmed, the nonprofits founder and CEO. The opponents of action have shifted their attention. The report suggests that, rather than doing a victory lap, climate advocates may want to focus on defending climate policies and renewable energy as necessary and effective. As the world was besieged by intense heat, expansive wildfires, and catastrophic floods in recent years, YouTubers promoting disinformation increasingly embraced new denial narratives, such as that solar panels will destroy the economy and the environment, or that the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change is a fraud. What it is doing is creating a cohort of people who believe climate change is happening, but believe theres no hope, Ahmed said. People start watching YouTube at a young agein 2020, more than half of parents in the U.S. with a child 11 years old or younger said their kid watched videos on the platform on a daily basis. New polling from the center, released alongside the study, found that a third of U.S. teens say that climate policies cause more harm than good. Six years ago, these new denial claims made up 35 percent of deniers arguments on YouTube; now, they make up 70 percent of the total. The fastest-growing assertions were that the climate movement is unreliable and that clean energy wont work. To get this data, the Center for Countering Digital Hate analyzed video transcripts from nearly 100 YouTube channels that spout climate denial, using an artificial intelligence tool to categorize the arguments. One popular source is the channel of Jordan Peterson , a Canadian psychologist and culture warrior with 7 million followers. In an interview with Alex Epstein, the author of The Moral Case for Fossil Fuels, Epstein makes the case that climate advocates cant be trusted. Listening to a modern environmentalist is like listening to a doctor whos on the side of the germs, somebody who doesnt have your best interests at heart, Epstein says in a video entitled The Great Climate Con thats been viewed a million times, reiterating a point once made in the 1990s by the economist George Reisman in an article titled The Toxicity of Environmentalism . The report also points to the libertarian think tank The Heartland Institute and the media company BlazeTV, created by the former Fox News host Glenn Beck, as prominent sources of lies about climate change on YouTube. Videos from PragerU , a right-wing media outlet also known for spreading disinformation, paint solar and wind power as dangers to the environment and compare environmental activists to Nazis. Despite what the name may imply, its not actually a university, nor does it offer any degrees . John Cook, a researcher at the Melbourne Centre for Behaviour Change in Australia, has documented a similar rise in attacks on climate solutions by conservative think tanks and blogs . Its surprising to see misinformation on YouTube shifting so quickly, Cook said in an email. The future of climate misinformation will be focused on attacking climate solutions, and we need to better understand those arguments and how to counter them. Some research has shown that climate disinformation is compelling: A recent study in Nature Human Behavior found that its often more persuasive to people than scientific facts. And once people latch onto a falsehood, they find it hard to let go. Thats why stopping disinformation at the source is so important, according to Ahmed. The key right now is ensuring that we arent flooding our information ecosystem with nonsense and lies that make it more difficult for people to work out whats true or not, he said. Together, the YouTube channels that the center focused on garnered 3.4 billion views last year. And all those views means theres money involved: The report found that YouTube is potentially making up to $13.4 million a year in ad revenue from channels that post climate denial. Google, which owns YouTube, promised in 2021 to ban ads on its platforms alongside content that contradicts the scientific consensus that climate change is happening and caused by humans (though it hasnt enforced it well ). To counter the latest wave of disinformation, the Center for Countering Digital Hate recommends that Google should also prohibit advertisements on content that pushes misinformation about climate solutions, so that YouTubers wont be incentivized to publish more of it. (Content creators who partner with YouTube receive a share of the ad revenue .) If it wasnt profitable, would so many people see it as being a business to produce bullshit? Ahmed said. Were asking platforms to not reward liars with money and attention. This article originally appeared in Grist at https://grist.org/accountability/youtube-climate-denial-solutions-misinformation/ . Grist is a nonprofit, independent media organization dedicated to telling stories of climate solutions and a just future. Learn more at Grist.org By Nick Starkov KYIV (Reuters) - President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Saturday that he expected a number of new Western defence packages for Ukraine to be signed this and next month. "We are preparing new agreements with partners - strong bilateral agreements," Zelenskiy said in his nightly video address. "January and February should bring corresponding results. There are already specific dates when new and strong documents can be expected." After Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Kyiv's Western allies united in providing unprecedented military and other aid to help Zelenskiy defend his country. But with the war now dragging on towards its third year, little change along the front line in the past 12 months and growing opposition to more aid in the United States, funds and equipment in recent months have been slow coming in. Zelenskiy did not name the countries with which he hoped to finalise agreements. The Ukrainian president has spent weeks on an international diplomatic frenzy trying to secure more political and military support. He has often repeated that Russia's increased winter air strikes and Moscow's slow but gruelling offensive in Ukraine's east have underlined the need for more reinforcement of Kyiv's air and ground defences. Earlier this month, Britain, one of Kyiv's staunchest supporters, said it will increase its support for Ukraine in the next financial year to 2.5 billion pounds ($3.19 billion). French President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday he would head to Ukraine in February to finalise a bilateral security guarantee deal under which Paris would deliver more sophisticated weaponry, including long-range cruise missiles. (Writing by Lidia Kelly in Melbourne; Editing by Chizu Nomiyama) Photo: Office of the president of Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that as yet, he does not see a necessity for the General Staff to mobilise 500,000 Ukrainians. Source: Zelenskyy in an interview for the British TV programme Channel 4 News Quote: "Personally, I don't see the point in mobilising half a million people right now. I'm not saying this just to get people to like me. This is more than just lives; lives are the top priority. The second point involves the appropriate actions and operations. I haven't seen sufficient evidence to conclude that half a million should be mobilised. The third point is [it would require] more money. All that funding it doesnt come from our partners, and I want everyone to understand that." Details: Zelenskyy explained that all salaries and military training are covered by the Ukrainian budget. The president does however believe that mobilisation is needed in order to replace the soldiers at the front. Previously: Ukrainian military officials proposed at a meeting of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief's Staff that an extra 450,000-500,000 people should be mobilised, but the issue is still being worked on, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. Support UP or become our patron! President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU) will investigate the illegal surveillance of Ukrainian journalists and find those responsible. Source: Zelenskyy in an interview for British TV programme Channel 4 News Details: The interviewer asked Zelenskyy about the situation concerning independent journalists in Ukraine who have been "intimidated, some of them physically". Quote: "A criminal case was opened right away this is very important. I summoned the head of the Security Service of Ukraine and got the details from the Prosecutor General. Some people might say: Well, there was some video recording of journalists, but nothing happened. I think something did happen. And we have to find all the answers. So the Security Service will investigate this and solve the case." More details: The question about intimidation may have been referring to the situation around journalist Yurii Nikolov. But the Presidents reply about the "video recording of journalists" indicates that he was talking about the illegal surveillance conducted against the team from the investigative journalism project Bihus.Info. Background: On 16 January, a video was leaked online showing employees of the Bihus.Info investigative project apparently using drugs. The project's head, Denys Bihus, recorded a video message giving explanations and stated that everyone who works with Bihus.Info would take drug tests. Later, Bihus said that after talking to the people involved in the video, it transpired that members of the Bihus.Info editorial team had been under surveillance for about a year, and that fragments of intercepted conversations had been edited together from several episodes that took place months apart. The Security Service of Ukraine has reported that it is investigating the circumstances of the illegal bugging and filming of Bihus.Info staff. A criminal investigation has been opened under Article 359 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (illegal acquisition, sale or use of special technical devices for obtaining information). On 17 January, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with law enforcement officials, including Vasyl Maliuk, the head of the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU), to discuss the surveillance of the Bihus.Info journalists. Yurii Nikolov , an investigative journalist, has claimed that unknown people broke into his house on 14 January in an attempt to intimidate him. Anonymous Telegram channels have posted a video of some men knocking on his apartment door and threatening him. On 21 January, the Prosecutors Office stated that Kyiv's law enforcement agencies had identified the individuals who broke into Nikolovs home in order to impede his work. Support UP or become our patron! Move over Twilight Zone creator Rod Serling. There is indeed a fifth dimension a dimension not of sight and sound but of imagination. Its the dimension in which Donald Trump and his followers live. Trump and company would have us disbelieve what we saw and heard televised on Jan. 6, 2021. We are to imagine those who stormed the Capitol on that day were peaceful patriots acting out of love. He would likewise have us consider those imprisoned because of their acts of love to be hostages. Worse yet, Trump apologists would have us believe the attack was organized and spurred on by FBI operatives intent on framing Trump. I, for one, consider Trump to be an existential hero. Not in the popular sense, but in the philosophical sense. He wanders around creating his own self-serving reality. A case in point: Trump maintains he offered to send 10,000 troops to guard the Capitol before Jan. 6, but the offer was ignored. He further claims Liz Cheney, as vice chair of the January 6 Committee, destroyed the evidence of his offer. This would be laughable were it not for the worshipful, militant MAGA types who believe everything Trump says and defend everything he does. I was not going to write about Trump again this week. I recently passed another birthday, and I was going to write about the changes Ive witnessed in my 70-something lifetime. But then I heard President Bidens speech in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, on January 5. He said the things that needed to be said about Jan. 6, 2021 a second day that will live in infamy in American history. He also lambasted the sycophantic, cowardly GOP members who initially denounced Trump for inciting the January 6 riot, but who soon recanted and started making light of what happened. I think I can speak for my generation the fabled World War II Baby Boom Generation and say there were two things we never could have imagined happening in America the 9/11 attacks and the banana-republic-like attack Trump incited on the Capitol. And he did incite it. Dont try to tell me he was speaking figuratively when he said, You have to fight like hell or you wont have a country anymore. Even if you are inclined to give Trump a pass for saying that, what do you make of his studied inaction for over three hours while rioters were threatening legislators and vandalizing the Capitol? Trump was reveling in it. There are, of course, those who maintain Biden is senile. As I reported a year ago (Alzheimers its all in the family, Jan. 15, 2023), Ive witnessed the course of Alzheimers disease in five family members, and I even helped care for one. I know from personal experience that a seriously impaired person even reading from a teleprompter could not have given the kind of coherent and spirited speech Biden gave on Jan. 5. I could tell he spoke from the heart and meant it. I recently heard the comedian Wanda Sykes aptly sum up Bidens predicament and that of Democrats in general in the age of Trump. Were handcuffed to facts and reality, she said, while the other side can just make s**t up. Sykes may be overstating the case but not by much. TOKYO, Jan 18 (News On Japan) - Generative AI, capable of automatically creating text and images, is seeing increased utilization among many companies and local governments. In a primary school in Warabi City, Saitama Prefecture, teachers gathered in a classroom after the children had left for home to conduct a practical experiment in creating tests using generative AI. Instructor: 'We use generative AI to create our tests.' 'You are an excellent primary school teacher, a pro at creating questions.' The initial instruction wasn't simply a request for 'test creation' but rather directing the generative AI to create test questions as if it were a 'primary school teacher.' The key to getting well-crafted questions is not just asking simply but inputting detailed conditions. This teacher created health education questions for sixth graders and found it successful, but... Primary School Teacher: 'The questions are very long, so only students with an A grade might be able to read them fully.' Often, the desired questions are not yet achievable, and it seems necessary for users of generative AI to skillfully extract answers. Mikio Mizukami, Director of DX Consulting Division, Benesse HD: 'Many people feel challenged because they dont have enough knowledge about how to use it properly, and technical collaboration with other companies is also important.' While there are challenges in practical application, communication between companies and on-site practitioners is essential for further practical use. To address this, Japan's first industry association for the utilization of generative AI was established on Wednesday. Not only IT companies but also businesses in food and travel will participate, discussing ways to utilize generative AI in collaboration. Hiroaki Miyata, Representative Director of Generative AI Japan: 'We want to consider the future of Japan and the world together while collaborating.' Generative AI, capable of bringing significant changes, demands consideration of how to coexist with it." Source: TBS Miyazaki, Jan 18 (News On Japan) - A teenage girl was stabbed in the back while sleeping in her bed at her home in Miyakonojo, Miyazaki Prefecture, early Wednesday morning, with the perpetrator still on the run after the apparent attempted murder. Around 3:30 AM, the father of the girl reported to the police that his daughter had been stabbed. According to the police, a teenage girl in her late teens living in this house was stabbed in the back by someone, who then fled the scene. The girl was conscious when she was transported to the hospital. Six people, including this girl, live in the house, and she was reportedly sleeping at the time of the incident. The police are treating this as an attempted murder case and are searching for the perpetrator. Source: TBS Ishikawa, Jan 18 (News On Japan) - The U.S. Forces stationed in Japan have commenced disaster relief operations to aid those affected by the Noto Peninsula earthquake. On the first day of the support activities, January 17, a U.S. Forces transport aircraft loaded with supplies took off from the Japan Air Self-Defense Force's Komatsu Base, heading to Noto Satoyama Airport in Wajima City. Approximately 40 boxes were delivered, containing food, paper diapers, powdered milk, and chargers. Thirty personnel were involved in the mission. The support activities by the U.S. Forces are scheduled to continue on Thursday. Similar support was provided during the Great East Japan Earthquake under the name "Operation Tomodachi." Meanwhile, the death toll from the Noto Peninsula earthquake has reached 232, with the safety of 21 individuals still unknown. Source: NEWS TOKYO, Jan 18 (News On Japan) - Mired by confusion and suspicions, the Japan Clay Shooting Association will hold a general meeting to discuss the potential dismissal of all directors over suspicions of inappropriate use of funds solicited from corporate sponsors. The association has been embroiled in controversy after an anonymous letter accusing it of misconduct was sent to the Japanese Olympic Committee (JOC), alleging the misuse of funds raised from corporate sponsors for athlete strengthening in preparation for the Paris Olympics. An investigation by external lawyers has been ongoing amidst this turmoil. Amidst these circumstances, more than one-fifth of the full members from the regional associations, totaling 15 individuals, have claimed that the association is not being managed properly and have requested the dismissal of all 20 directors. At a board meeting held in Tokyo on the 17th, the association decided to convene an extraordinary general meeting in February to resolve whether to dismiss all directors. Additionally, there has been an intensification of internal strife within the board, with a faction opposing the current president putting forward a motion for his dismissal, which received a majority of votes. However, due to concerns over further turmoil, the conclusion was deferred. Source: NHK TOKYO, Jan 18 (News On Japan) - A government report on the transactions between major power companies engaged in power generation and the so-called "new power" companies that procure and sell electricity to consumers has been published. It points out that there may be violations of antitrust laws, as some major power companies impose conditions such as prohibiting resale. Since the liberalization of electricity, numerous "new power" companies, many of which do not own power generation facilities, have emerged, procuring and selling electricity to consumers. However, it has been pointed out that these companies are at a competitive disadvantage compared to major power companies that handle both generation and retail. The Fair Trade Commission has been investigating the actual situation. According to the report published on the 17th, "new power" companies procure approximately 50% of the necessary electricity through bilateral transactions with major power companies, indicating that transactions with these major companies are crucial. Furthermore, the report points out that some contracts for bilateral transactions between the two parties include conditions such as prohibiting the resale of procured electricity to other companies or restricting the areas where electricity can be sold to consumers. Such contractual terms may violate antitrust laws. Major power companies have indicated that they plan to lift or relax these contractual conditions from the next fiscal year onwards. The Fair Trade Commission has stated, "We want to continue to monitor transactions in the wholesale electricity market in cooperation with agencies such as the Agency for Natural Resources and Energy." Source: NHK TOKYO, Jan 18 (News On Japan) - The 170th Akutagawa Prize selection meeting was held in Tokyo on the 17th, where Rie Kudan's "Tokyo Metropolitan Tower of Sympathy" was chosen for the award. The Naoki Prize selection is still ongoing. Rie Kudan is a 33-year-old from Saitama Prefecture. After graduating from university, she worked as a research assistant and made her debut as a novelist in 2021 by winning a newcomer's award in a literary magazine with her work "Bad Music". This is her second nomination for the Akutagawa Prize, following "Schoolgirl" in the 166th selection two years ago, and it has now brought her the prestigious award. Her winning work, "Tokyo Metropolitan Tower of Sympathy", is set in a future Japan where a high-rise tower, designed as a comfortable detention facility for criminals based on the notion that "criminals are people who deserve sympathy", is built in a park in Shinjuku. The story portrays a female architect who designed the tower as she experiences discomfort with the excessively tolerant society and the pervasive presence of generative AI, and despite her struggles, she lives her life with strength. Source: NHK TOKYO, Jan 18 (News On Japan) - Morning Musume.'24's nationwide tour "Morning Musume.'24 Concert Tour Spring MOTTO MORNING MUSUME." is set to be held from March to May. As the first solo tour since the new formation, "MOTTO MORNING MUSUME." will kick off with a performance at Tokyo's J:COM Hall Hachioji on March 16, and will tour through Osaka, Aichi, Hokkaido, Miyagi, Nagano, Niigata, Fukuoka, Ehime, Hiroshima, Okayama, Gunma, and Tochigi, totaling 31 performances. The Hello! Project official fan club is accepting advance ticket reservations until 17:00 on January 25. The concert tour schedule for Morning Musume.'24 includes two parts for each day, with different opening and starting times. For example, the Tokyo performances at J:COM Hall Hachioji on March 16 (Saturday) will have the first part opening at 13:00 and starting at 14:00, and the second part opening at 17:00 and starting at 18:00. The tour continues with similar schedules across various prefectures, concluding with performances in Gunma and Tochigi on May 18 and 19, respectively. On the first day of the tour, is has been revealed that the last single of Mizuki Fukumura will be released, described as a song "that has never been seen in history." Source: Natalie TOKYO, Jan 18 (News On Japan) - Thirteen employees have been arrested for operating illegal men's esthetic salons in over 30 rooms of a condominium near Tokyo's Nakano Station, with sales exceeding 1 billion yen in a year. Yusuke Fujiwara (47) and twelve others are suspected of providing illegal sexual services to clients in a condominium room in Nakano Ward last October. According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Police, Fujiwara and others rented 33 rooms in a condominium near JR Nakano Station for their operations. The case came to light after residents of the condominium became suspicious of different men entering and leaving the rooms daily and contacted the police. The salon offered additional options like changing into revealing outfits that hinted at sexual services, besides the basic fee. The Tokyo Metropolitan Police believe the salon generated over 1 billion yen in sales in approximately one year. Source: ANNnewsCH FUKUSHIMA, Jan 18 (News On Japan) - The nori fishing industry in Soma City, Fukushima Prefecture, is thriving as efforts continue to recover production levels that declined following the Great East Japan Earthquake and nuclear disaster. This season's nori fishing in Matsukawa-ura, Soma City, began in the middle of last month. On the morning of the 17th, fishers boarded their boats before 6:30 AM and headed to the nori shelves used for cultivation. Upon arrival, they began harvesting the nori swiftly using specialized machinery. Matsukawa-ura in Soma City was once among the top nori producing areas in the country. However, due to the damage to aquaculture facilities caused by the earthquake and nuclear disaster 13 years ago, production volumes have remained low, with the production volume two years ago being only 15% of the pre-disaster levels. According to Hiroyuki Yamashita, a director of the Soma Futaba Fisheries Cooperative who engages in nori fishing, this season has seen the best growth since the resumption of fishing, as there were no impacts from heavy rain or typhoons. Additionally, Soma City's nori was exported to Europe for the first time since the disaster last November, and there are plans to expand sales channels, including exports to Asia and other overseas markets. Mr. Yamashita said, "Its appealing feature is the strong scent of the shore. We conduct inspections to ensure safety before shipping, so I would like everyone to try it." Source: NHK TOKYO, Jan 18 (News On Japan) - In an effort to support young people who may require emergency contraception, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government has announced plans to launch a new initiative in the spring of 2024, whereby healthcare professionals, such as nurses, will accompany individuals to medical facilities. This service is an extension of the existing "Tokyo Youth Health Support," also known as "Wakasapo," which aims to provide consultation on health and sexuality issues for teenagers from middle school age and up. Wakasapo has received numerous inquiries from young people concerned about potential unintended pregnancies. In response to these concerns, the Tokyo government has decided to expand its support for these youths. Specifically, starting this spring, nurses and other counselors from Wakasapo will accompany those who have consulted with them and are in need of emergency contraception due to contraceptive failure or sexual violence. A representative from the Tokyo government expressed their commitment, stating, "We want to become a safety net for young people, ensuring that no one has to face their worries and anxieties alone." Source: NHK The date of 21 January 2024 marks the centenary of the death of Vladimir Ilyich Ulyanov, better known to the world as Lenin. He was without doubt one of the greatest revolutionaries who ever lived. By his actions in leading the Bolshevik Party, this extraordinary man literally changed the course of history. [Originally published as the editorial for issue 44 of In Defence of Marxism magazine, available now!] Lenins whole life was dedicated to the emancipation of the working class, which culminated in the victory of the October Revolution in 1917. The significance of this event was aptly given by Rosa Luxemburg: Everything that a party could offer of courage, revolutionary farsightedness, and consistency in a historic hour, Lenin, Trotsky, and the other comrades have given in good measure. All the revolutionary honour and capacity which the Social Democracy of the West lacked were represented by the Bolsheviks. Their October uprising was not only the actual salvation of the Russian Revolution; it was also the salvation of the honour of international socialism. For the first time, save for the heroic but brief episode of the Paris Commune, the working class conquered power and held onto it. For this reason, the October Revolution can be regarded as the greatest event in history. Whatever the subsequent developments, it is an indelible conquest that can never be erased. And it is for this reason that, in the hands of the ruling class and its apologists, Lenin has become the most hated and slandered individual in history. Slanders While bourgeois commentators have sometimes been known to pay Marx a backhanded compliment for his analysis of capitalism, although of course they reject his revolutionary conclusions, Lenin has become a complete anathema. Of course, this should not surprise us. Just like the scurrilous attacks on the French Revolution by the vile English press at the time, the hacks of capitalism denounce Lenin and the Russian Revolution. Their aim is to discredit and blot out from history their real significance. This has been their task for more than a century. Therefore, Lenin is cast as a dictator, a German agent, a tsarist agent, a new tsar, and finally, the precursor to Stalin and Stalinism. The din has become a crescendo. The stories they peddle are so laughable as to make you blush to read them. There are literally hundreds of these ignorant so-called historians, all singing from the same hymn sheet and all churning out the same absurd blood-curdling claims about Lenin. Few, if any, are worth reading. Even the more polished works on Lenin are laced with poison. Bolshevism was founded on a lie, setting a precedent that was to be followed for the next 90 years. Lenin had no time for democracy, no confidence in the masses and no scruples about the use of violence. He wanted a small, tightly organised and strictly disciplined party of hard-line professional revolutionaries, who would do exactly as they were told. This sample is from the poison pen of Anthony Read in The World on Fire. Here lay the germs of government by terror, of the totalitarian aspiration to complete control of public life and opinion, notes Richard Pipes, in a horror story written to frighten those of a nervous disposition. Lenin was the first modern party chief to achieve the status of a god: Stalin, Mussolini, Hitler and Mao Zedong were all his successors in this sense, writes Figes, who is keen not to be outdone by the others. These well-heeled, well-paid charlatans will never give up. Their campaign of lies will continue until capitalism itself is overthrown. We should leave them to their dirty work, like the witches in Macbeth. Despite all their best efforts to sour the minds of the youth against Lenin and Bolshevism, things are not going as planned. People are beginning to question the official narrative, as with most things. Unfortunately for the literary lackeys of the bourgeoisie, their anti-communist drivel is not working as it should! Alas, as Professor Orlando Figes is forced to admit, The ghosts of 1917 have not been laid to rest. And, given the period we have entered, nor will they be. A beacon of hope This is a time of unprecedented turmoil. Capitalism as a socio-economic system has exhausted itself and tens of millions of people internationally are questioning its legitimacy. As a result, they are actively looking for a way out of this impasse. However, the old parties are increasingly discredited and millions have become sick to death of the mealy-mouthed reformists of all descriptions who only want to reform the system to one degree. But this is like asking a leopard to change its spots or trying to bail out the ocean with a spoon. Lenin stands out as a giant in contrast to all the words and deeds of the Lilliputian labour leaders, both right and left, who in practice have accepted the capitalist system. They too, along with the bourgeois, regard Lenin either with horror, or at best as simply out of date, his ideas having no value or relevance. But Lenin and his ideas are not so easily disposed of. The Marxist doctrine is omnipotent because it is true, he explained. It is, an integral world outlook irreconcilable with any form of superstition, reaction, or defence of bourgeois oppression. It is a theory to change the world, in which theory and practice are not separate, but form a unified whole. Therefore, Lenin, a true Marxist, dedicated his life to the victory of the world socialist revolution. In this regard, he stands out as a beacon for class-conscious workers everywhere. Today, there is a growing interest in Lenin and his ideas and there is an attempt, especially by many young people, to rediscover the genuine programme of Leninism and Bolshevism. This interest and the deep crisis of the capitalist system demonstrates the relevance of Lenin for the here and now. Bolshevism Lenin stood on the shoulders of Marx and Engels, and put into practice their ideas. Leninism is simply Marxism in the imperialist epoch of revolution and counter-revolution. Given the ruthless struggle against the old capitalist order, Lenin stressed the vital need to build a disciplined and theoretically-steeled party. He was a revolutionary of such vision that he could only be the leader of the most fearless party, capable of carrying his thoughts and actions to their logical conclusion. He fused his fate with the fate of the proletarian party and its aims. Given the treachery of the old Social-Democratic leaders, it was vital that a new revolutionary leadership was created. This meant that new Communist Parties had to be formed to organise the working class to take power. Unlike the old reformist parties, which had become largely electoral machines, these new parties would be modelled on the Bolshevik Party, both in organisation and revolutionary outlook. At the present moment in history, however, it is the Russian model that reveals to all countries somethingand something highly significantof their near and inevitable future, explained Lenin in Left-Wing Communism: An Infantile Disorder. Only the history of Bolshevism during the entire period of its existence can satisfactorily explain why it has been able to build up and maintain, under most difficult conditions, the iron discipline needed for the victory of the proletariat. The Bolshevik Party was able to play such a role, given its unique history and the role of Lenin. As he explained: Russia achieved Marxismthe only correct revolutionary theorythrough the agony she experienced in the course of half a century of unparalleled torment and sacrifice, of unparalleled revolutionary heroism, incredible energy, devoted searching, study, practical trial, disappointment, verification, and comparison with European experience. Thanks to the political emigration caused by tsarism, revolutionary Russia, in the second half of the nineteenth century, acquired a wealth of international links and excellent information on the forms and theories of the world revolutionary movement, such as no other country possessed. The Bolshevik Party under Lenin was the most revolutionary party in history. Lenin understood that such a party needed to be built before the revolutionary events broke. It certainly could not be improvised or spontaneously thrown up during a revolution, as this would be far too late. The whole experience of the past shows this to be the case. First of all, it was important to create a network of Marxist cadres, which would act as a framework around which a mass party could eventually be built. Given that revolution was a serious business, Lenin fought for the creation of a party of professional revolutionaries who would dedicate themselves to the revolution. Furthermore, the revolutionary party needed to be founded on the bedrock of Marxist theory. Without revolutionary theory, there can be no revolutionary movement, Lenin explained in What is To Be Done?, a work dedicated to the building of such a party. He was the theoretical gatekeeper of the party, which under his leadership developed its own, proletarian morality, based on the interests of the socialist revolution. For Lenin, this struggle for Marxist theory was an essential task. Therefore the role of Lenins Iskra was to engage in a resolute and persistent struggle to uphold the fundamentals of Marxism, which, he explained, was again placed on the order of the day. Lenin wrote What is to be Done? in a period of theoretical backsliding and revisionism within the Russian Social Democracy. Much of Lenins pamphlet is devoted to refuting the arguments of the Economist trend, which renounced the political struggle in the name of spontaneity and workerism. But it was also necessary to contend with the influence of so-called Legal Marxism, which gutted Marxism of all its revolutionary content. For Lenin, the defence of Marxist theory required more than the repetition of old formulas; it meant an application of the method of Marxism to the concrete situation. It was essential not to impose theory on reality. Reality was the starting point. As Lenin warned, theory, when it is reduced to an abstract dogma, can be misused to justify revisionism: Marxism is an extremely profound and many-sided doctrine. It is, therefore, no wonder that scraps of quotations from Marxespecially when the quotations are made inappropriatelycan always be found among the arguments of those who break with Marxism. He stressed that Marxism was not a lifeless dogma, or ready-made, immutable doctrine, but a living guide to action. This meant that it was vital to relate the ideas of Marxism to the real situation, and not engage in flights of fancy. Truth is concrete, he would often repeat. The great test for revolutionaries was to connect these ideas to the real movement of the working class. In this way, they could win support and bear fruit. Flexibility Lenin was always firm on principles, but very flexible on organisation and tactics. This was one of Lenins great strengths. He understood that the building of a genuine Communist Party, as with the Bolshevik Party, was not a straight line. To win over the workers, especially those still under the influence of the reformist parties, required flexible tactics. This was not a secondary matter. In his marvellous work, Left-Wing Communism: An Infantile Disorder, Lenin explained: Only one thing is lacking to enable us to march forward more confidently and firmly to victory, namely, the universal and thorough awareness of all Communists in all countries of the necessity to display the utmost flexibility in their tactics. Lenin developed a great feel for the situation and was able to size up things whenever there was a sharp turn in events. He was able to differentiate what was essential and what was secondary. As Trotsky explained: It was Lenins peculiar gift, which he possessed to the highest degree, that with his intense revolutionary gaze, he could see and point out to others what was most important, most necessary, and most essential. Those comrades who, like myself, were given the chance to observe Lenins activity and the workings of his mind at close quarters, could not help but enthusiastically admireyes, I repeat, enthusiastically admirethe perspicacity, the acuteness of his thought which rejected all that was external, accidental, superficial, reached to the heart of the matter and grasped the essential methods of action. The working class learns to value only those leaders who, having opened new paths, go forward with determination even if the proletariats own prejudices temporarily hinder their progress. Above all, Lenin was able to adapt to the changes taking place with foresight. This usually necessitated a change in tactics to correspond with the new needs of the situation. Again, these changes were not always straightforward and could lead to sharp polemics within the party. It was not for nothing that Bolshevism was known as a school of hard knocks. Lenin was able to adapt to the changes taking place with foresight / Image: public domain At each stage in the partys development, from the early circles of the underground to the mass work of 1905, right up to 1917 and beyond, Lenin had to overcome the resistance of those who clung to the methods of the past. At each proposed change of tactics, he was generally met with stiff resistance. The reason for this resistance was that the life of the party always develops a certain routinism. When the situation changes, this routinism conflicts with the new demands. There are many examples of this. The attempt by Lenin to professionalise the Russian Social-Democratic Labour Party (RSDLP) at its Second Congress in 1903, where he attempted to move the party away from the informal, small-circle mentality of the early period, actually led to a split between Bolsheviks and Mensheviks. The 1905 Revolution opened up new challenges. In order to take advantage of the open conditions, Lenin tried to break with the methods of the underground work. This brought him into conflict with the committeemen. These were dedicated revolutionaries who had grown up under the conditions of underground work, which shaped their outlook. So when the situation opened up for legal work, they found it difficult to adapt and became a barrier. This led to an almighty bust up. But Lenin was not prepared to give way. The new opportunities demanded a change in approach. Therefore, he had to engage in battle with the committeemen and their methods. It was time to open up the party! Lenin did not mince his words: We need young forces. I am for shooting on the spot anyone who presumes to say that there are no people to be had. The people in Russia are legion; all we have to do is to recruit young people more widely and boldly, more boldly and widely, and again more widely and again more boldly, without fearing them. This is a time of war. The youththe students, and still more so the young workerswill decide the issue of the whole struggle. Get rid of all the old habits of immobility, of respect for rank, and so on. Form hundreds of circles of Vperyod-ists from among the youth and encourage them to work at full blast Lenin demanded that the Bolshevik leaders break from the old routinism and place the organisation on a war-footing. If not, there was a real danger that the new opportunities facing the party would be squandered. Once again Lenin called for action: Only you must be sure to organise, organise, and organise hundreds of circles, completely pushing into the background the customary, well-meant committee (hierarchic) stupidities. This is a time of war. Either you create new, young, fresh, energetic battle organisations everywhere for revolutionary Social-Democratic work of all varieties among all strata, or you will go under, wearing the aureole of committee bureaucrats. The routinist approach of some of the Bolshevik leaders extended itself to their attitude to the newly-formed Soviets. The Soviets were thrown up spontaneously by workers in struggle, which were extended strike committees. They soon became an alternative power to the old tsarist regime. Rather than embrace these new class formations, some of the old Bolshevik leaders regarded them as competitors to the party. They took a completely sectarian approach. It took the personal intervention of Lenin to correct this mistake. In fact, Lenin regarded the Soviets as the embryo of a workers government, which was borne out in the events of 1917, showing his farsightedness. In 1905, the RSDLP, made up of both Menshevik and Bolshevik factions, was transformed into a mass party. This showed the enormous potential in the situation, but it did not last. The defeat of the 1905 Revolution ushered in a period of bloody reaction in Russia. The movement suffered a major setback. This in turn led to many desertions from the party, especially of the more petty-bourgeois types who could not take the pressure. The atmosphere within the party was very bad and the Bolsheviks were reduced to a shell. There were many problems in these years of reaction. Lenin was forced to break with those who had succumbed to the moods of despair and veered towards ultra-leftism on the one hand, such as those Bolsheviks who insisted on boycotting elections to the State Duma long after the revolution had been defeated, and on the other, those who wanted to dissolve the party entirely (the liquidators). Once again, Lenin had to enter into a struggle on the theoretical plane, against those who were attempting to revise the most basic philosophical principles of the Marxist movement, including materialism itself. It was in this period that Lenin wrote Materialism and Empirio-Criticism as a polemic against a trend in the Russian Marxist movement that was turning away from dialectical materialism and towards the philosophical dead-end of subjective idealism. On the organisational front, there had been attempts to fuse the Menshevik and Bolshevik factions following the 1905 Revolution. However, growing political differences had prevented this. The Mensheviks looked towards the liberals as the force to lead the revolution, while the Bolsheviks looked to the workers and poor peasants. Eventually, they went their separate ways, and the Bolshevik Party was formally constituted in April 1912. Re-arming the party The myth has been created that Lenin ruled the Bolshevik Party with a rod of iron, which was clearly not the case. There were many times when Lenin was in a minority, even within the leadership. Lenins authority was based not on waving a big stick, but on his political authority, built on a patient approach. When Lenin was faced with the February Revolution in 1917, the new tactics he advocated found little support. The revolution had led to the overthrow of tsarism and had thrown up a provisional government, made up of bourgeois representatives. At the same time the Russian workers set up Soviets on an even wider scale than in 1905. The Bolshevik leaders inside Russia especially Kamenev and Stalin were intoxicated by the revolution and the feelings of unity that prevailed in its early days. As a result, they took a completely wrong attitude towards the provisional government. Rather than oppose the government, they gave it critical support, including their support for the imperialist war. Lenin was furious. While still trying to leave Switzerland for Russia, he wrote a stream of articles his celebrated Letters From Afar, that formed the basis of his famous April Theses opposing the capitalist provisional government and calling for a new revolution. The Bolsheviks had long been brought up on the perspective of a democratic dictatorship of proletariat and peasantry, linked to the idea of provoking a socialist revolution in the West. While this formulation regarded the coming revolution as a bourgeois revolution to sweep away the vestiges of feudalism and prepare the ground for capitalist development, the leadership of this revolution would fall not to the bourgeoisie, who would play a counter-revolutionary role, but the workers and peasants. However, this formula had an algebraic character in that the question of which class would play the leading role in this alliance was left open, as an unknown quantity. The Bolshevik position was in marked contrast to the Mensheviks, who said the revolution was bourgeois and therefore must be led by the bourgeoisie. The workers, in their eyes, must play only a supportive role. Trotsky, on the other hand, had put forward his own theory of permanent revolution as the perspective for Russia. While agreeing with the Bolsheviks that the bourgeoisie was counter-revolutionary, he believed the only class capable of leading the revolution was the working class, supported by the poor peasants. However, rather than establishing a democratic dictatorship, Trotsky argued for a workers government that would first sweep away feudalism (the democratic tasks), but would then proceed to the socialist tasks. This socialist revolution, in turn, would provoke the revolution in the West, which would come to the assistance of the Russian workers. This gave it its permanent character. The position put forward by Lenin in April 1917 was fundamentally identical to that of Trotsky. However, this was resisted by the old Bolshevik leaders, who stuck to the original formula of democratic dictatorship. Lenin was forced to use his entire political authority to change the direction of the party. In that way, he had to confront the self-styled old Bolsheviks, who accused him of Trotskyism! In the face of the backsliding of the Bolshevik leaders, and given what was at stake, Lenin came out fighting: I shall prefer even an immediate split with anyone in our party, whoever it may be, to making concessions to the social patriotism of Kerensky and Co. to the social-pacifism and Kautskyism of Chkheidze and Co. He continued: The workers must be told the truth. We have to say that the government of Guchkov-Milyukov and Co. is an imperialist government all state power [must be transferred] into the hands of the working class, the enemy of capital, the enemy of imperialist war, and only then will they have the right to appeal for the overthrow of all kings and all bourgeois governments. He then turned his attention to the old Bolsheviks: But at this point we hear a clamour of protest from people who readily call themselves old Bolsheviks. Didnt we always maintain, they say, that the bourgeois-democratic revolution is completed only by the revolutionary-democratic dictatorship of the proletariat and the peasantry? Is the agrarian revolution, which is also a bourgeois-democratic revolution, completed? Is it not a fact, on the contrary, that it has not even started? My answer is: The Bolshevik slogans and ideas on the whole have been confirmed by history; but concretely things have worked out differently; they are more original, more peculiar, more variegated than anyone could have expected. To ignore or overlook this fact would mean taking after those old Bolsheviks who more than once already have played so regrettable a role in the history of our party by reiterating formulas senselessly learned by rote instead of studying the specific features of the new and living reality The person who now speaks only of a revolutionary-democratic dictatorship of the proletariat and the peasantry is behind the times, consequently, he has in effect gone over to the petty bourgeoisie against the proletarian class struggle; that person should be consigned to the archive of Bolshevik pre-revolutionary antiques (it may be called the archive of old Bolsheviks) For the present, it is essential to grasp the incontestable truth that a Marxist must take cognisance of real life, of the true facts of reality, and not cling to a theory of yesterday, which, like all theories, at best only outlines the main and the general, only comes near to embracing life in all its complexity. Theory, my friend, is grey, but green is the eternal tree of life. To deal with the question of completion of the bourgeois revolution in the old way is to sacrifice living Marxism to the dead letter. At the beginning of April 1917, Lenin was completely isolated within the Bolshevik Party when he raised the new perspective of socialist revolution. The old leaders had become a barrier, as with the earlier committeemen. The only leader to support him was Kollontai. The rest were opposed. But with the force of Lenins arguments and the experience of the Bolsheviks on the ground, he was soon able to win over the majority of the party and steer the course towards the October Revolution. Even then, in October 1917, in the days before the insurrection, he faced opposition within the leadership, especially from Zinoviev and Kamenev, who had been with him for years. Again, he had to put his entire political authority on the line to ensure the success of the insurrection. Everything had prepared him for this moment. They dared!, to quote Rosa Luxemburg. Lenin had put the ideas of Marxism into practice. There is nothing more that could be asked of the Russian workers. They had swept away capitalism and landlordism and established a Soviet Republic of the toilers. Internationalism For Lenin, the October Revolution was not an end in itself, but only the opening shot in the working class conquering power worldwide. This internationalism was not for sentimental reasons, but arose from the international character of capitalism, which had laid the material basis for a new classless society. In particular, it created an international working class, whose historic mission was to become the grave-digger of capitalism. It was on this solid foundation that Lenin formulated a principled, class position on the outbreak of the First World War in 1914, at a time when the parties of the Second International were all lining up in defence of their own capitalist class. And this struggle to preserve the banner of proletarian internationalism, in which Lenin found himself in a tiny minority, would culminate in the revolutionary overthrow of capitalism in Russia in 1917, and the establishment of the Communist International as the world party of socialist revolution in 1919. Lenin never entertained the idea of socialism in one country, as put forward by the Stalinists years later. This was the opposite of his perspective of world revolution. For Lenin, the Russian Revolution was not intended to build Russian socialism, which was a complete nonsense in such backward conditions. The victory in Russia, creating a proletarian citadel, was the starting point of the world revolution. It is no accident that he stressed that without revolution in the west, the Russian Revolution was doomed to fail. As Lenin himself explained on 29 July 1918: We never harboured the illusion that the forces of the proletariat and the revolutionary people of any one country, however heroic and however organised and disciplined they might be, could overthrow international imperialism. That can be done only by the joint efforts of the workers of the world We never deceived ourselves into thinking this could be done by the efforts of one country alone. We knew that our efforts were inevitably leading to a worldwide revolution, and that the war begun by the imperialist governments could not be stopped by the efforts of those governments themselves. It can be stopped only by the efforts of all workers; and when we came to power, our task was to retain that power, that torch of socialism, so that it might scatter as many sparks as possible to add to the growing flames of socialist revolution. This idea was expressed by Lenin again and again. Lenin relied completely on the success of the world revolution, and worked to bring it about. Lenin relied completely on the success of the world revolution, and worked to bring it about / Image: public domain However, the anti-Marxist theory of socialism in one country became the cornerstone of Stalinism. In fact accepting it became a condition of membership for the Stalinist Communist Parties. In 1956, following the revelations of Khrushchev about Stalin at the Twentieth Congress, there was a deep crisis in the ranks of the Communist Parties. This was then compounded by the crushing of the Hungarian Revolution by Russian troops later in the year. All that CP members had been taught was brought into question and there was much discussion about the partys past and the significance of the Russian Revolution. During the discussions, when quotations of Lenin were raised against the theory of socialism in one country, some leading CP members were so disorientated that they even questioned the validity of the October Revolution. I never found it possible (though I went on trying) to convince a Trotskyist that these quotations proved Lenin a mad gambler, wrote Alison Macleod, who worked for the Daily Worker. What right had he [Lenin] to overthrow Kerensky, if seizing power in Russia was not going to be enough? What right had he to stake millions of lives on a revolution in Germany, which he had no power to bring about? Completely shaken and disillusioned, Macleod left the CP in April 1957, after working on the Daily Worker for a dozen years, along with thousands of others. She and many others had been criminally miseducated and lied to by Moscow. As a result, many turned their backs on the revolutionary movement. Lenins faith in a successful revolution in Germany was no hopeless gamble, as Macleod claims. In fact, the chances of victory in 1923 were extremely high. After all, the German Communist Party (KPD) was the most powerful Communist Party outside of the Soviet Union and the crisis in the summer of 1923 (see IDOM issue 43) had produced a revolutionary situation. The masses were looking to the KPD for a way out. Unfortunately, the KPD leaders were not up to the task. When they went to Moscow for advice, Lenin was incapacitated following his strokes and Trotsky was away. Those who advised them were Stalin and Zinoviev, who urged restraint when the German Communists should have been preparing for power. As a result, the opportunity was missed, with terrible consequences. A successful German Revolution would have completely changed the course of world history. It would have broken the isolation of Soviet Russia and provoked a massive revolutionary crisis in Europe. However, its defeat resulted in bitter disillusionment, especially in Russia, that strengthened the hand of Soviet bureaucracy, laying in turn the basis for Stalinism. Stalinism, as a consequence, became a massive barrier to world revolution, and paved the way for the victory of Hitler with their theory of social fascism that split the German working class. This hen led to the horrors of the Second World War. This was not preordained. A successful revolution in Germany would have cut across such a development. But what was lacking in Germany was not a mass Communist Party, which existed, but a Lenin and Trotsky to lead it. Unlike the Stalinist leaders, Lenin had colossal faith in the working class and its ability to overthrow capitalism worldwide. But what was needed was a genuine revolutionary leadership to guide the struggle to its logical conclusion. That was the whole lesson of Bolshevism. In defence of Lenin It is not only in the interests of the capitalists, but also Stalinists, for their own reasons, to equate the clean banner of Lenin with the bloodstained regime of Stalin. There could not be a greater abomination. Despite his pivotal role, Lenin was a very modest man, nothing like the infallible caricature presented of him by the Stalinists. He frankly admitted his mistakes in order to learn from them. Many times after the October Revolution he would look back and laugh at the mistakes and stupidities they had made. Nevertheless, Lenin made fewer mistakes than most and was able to correct them. This enhanced his authority. His strength was not to be afraid of the truth, whatever the situation. Lenin was not born Lenin fully-formed, like Athena from the forehead of Zeus, as portrayed by the Stalinists over the years. Within this false scheme of things, there is no room for the development of ideas or even mistakes. Lenin is portrayed as an idealisation removed from reality. The Stalinists needed such a figure as a cover for their own supposed infallibility. They cynically turned him into a meaningless icon. But this is an entirely false picture and he was nothing like that. In reality, Lenin made himself. He continually extended his horizons, learned from others, and drew himself up every day onto a higher plane. He conquered the ideas of Marxism for himself and enriched his understanding at every step. This gave Lenin a schooling as no other. This gave him confidence and a sureness. The whole of his lifes work was dedicated to the struggle for Marxism and the building of the revolutionary party. His final years were a struggle against the tightening of his arteries and against the stranglehold of the Soviet bureaucracy, which threatened the degeneration of the revolution and with it the danger of capitalist restoration. This struggle was linked directly to the defence of the fundamental principles of Marxism, which Lenin had fought for his entire life. It was the contemptuous, chauvinist attitude of the Stalin clique to the national question, particularly in relation to Georgia, that alerted Lenin to the grave risk of political degeneration at the top of the Bolshevik Party itself. The centenary of Lenins death gives an opportunity to reflect on his extraordinary life and contribution and learn the lessons. It should allow us to discover the real Lenin and his ideas. This is not for any academic reason, but to prepare ourselves for the mighty events that impend. Today, we are still faced with the alternatives of socialism or barbarism. Given the bankruptcy of the old organisations, the crisis facing humanity can be reduced to the crisis of revolutionary leadership internationally. Our International, basing itself on the ideas of Lenin and the other great Marxist teachers, is assembling the forces internationally with the express purpose of resolving this crisis. To study Lenin today, in the midst of this world crisis, offers the most valuable concrete experience in solving the problems facing the working class in this epoch of war and revolution. For us the ideas of Lenin are as close as one can get to a manual for world revolution. But for many, even on the supposed left, they remain a closed book. We must leave the sceptics and cynics, who dismiss Lenin as out of date, to stew in their own juice. Communism is inextricably linked with the name of Lenin and the Russian Revolution, but the Communist Parties of today are communist in name only. Under Stalinism, they suffered a complete degeneration. They have long ago abandoned the ideas of Lenin and Bolshevism and have instead adopted a reformist outlook. The former Stalinists now merge with the campaign of the bourgeois historians to blacken the name of Bolshevism. Yes, they can denounce Lenin, they can tear down statues, they can plunder state assets, but there is one thing they cannot do: they can never kill an idea whose time has come. It is this fact that haunts them and gives them nightmares. With the growing interest in Lenin and communism, it is worth repeating the words of Lenin himself from 6 March 1919: They seem to be scared stiff that ten or a dozen Bolsheviks will infect the whole world. But we, of course, know that this fear is ridiculous because they have already infected the whole world With this thought in mind, we rededicate ourselves to the goal of recreating the Communist International on an even higher level. That means a defence of the ideas of Lenin and building the forces of genuine communism worldwide. That is our urgent task, one hundred years after Lenins death. TOKYO, Jan 18 (News On Japan) - Uniqlo has filed a lawsuit against three companies, including the operator of the Chinese fashion e-commerce site SHEIN, in the Tokyo District Court for selling counterfeit shoulder bags. The company is seeking an injunction to halt sales and approximately 160 million yen in damages. Uniqlo alleges that the shoulder bags sold on SHEIN are imitations of its "Round Mini Shoulder Bag," infringing on the Unfair Competition Prevention Act. According to Uniqlo, even if the colors and patterns differ, the shape of the bag's body and strap closely resembles their product. The company argues that this significantly undermines the high trust in their brand and product quality, hence demanding a halt to the sales of the said items and seeking approximately 160 million yen in damages. The company became aware of the SHEIN products in question by September last year and had posted warnings to consumers on its website. This is the first time the company has taken legal action against the sale of counterfeit goods in Japan, and Fast Retailing, which operates Uniqlo, commented, "We will continue to take appropriate measures, including legal action, against any infringement of our group's intellectual property." SHEIN SHEIN is a fashion brand headquartered in Singapore, founded in China in 2008, and sells clothing outside of China. Unlike other fast fashion brands, SHEIN operates an online retail business without physical stores and, according to the company's website, sells products in over 150 countries worldwide. By utilizing small and medium-sized apparel factories in southern China, such as Guangdong Province, the company sells low-priced goods and has garnered support from young women in foreign markets, including the United States. SHEIN launched a Japanese website in December 2020 and established a permanent showroom in Harajuku, Tokyo, in November of the previous year. With the proliferation of online shopping and a surge in app downloads worldwide, the company has significantly increased its sales. Foreign media report that from January to September of last year, SHEIN's sales reached $24 billion, or approximately 3.5 trillion yen. Source: NHK TOKYO, Jan 18 (News On Japan) - Tomoko Tamura, a member of the House of Councillors, is set to take the helm as the first female leader of the Communist Party, raising questions whether the appointment could serve as a turning point for the party, which has seen a slump in popularity. The new Chairwoman of the Japanese Communist Party emphasizes the need for sweeping societal changes and internal party reforms to achieve dramatic gender equality. Tamura is particularly remembered for her relentless scrutiny of the Abe administration over the "Cherry Blossom Viewing Party." She criticized the event's cancellation by the Prime Minister's personal decision, labeling it an example of privatization. The event, known for offering free participation, barrel sake, other alcohols, hors d'oeuvres, sweets, and souvenirs, could potentially violate the Public Offices Election Law if funded personally by politicians. A key expectation for Chairwoman Tamura is to increase party membership. The Communist Party faces challenges such as a decline in proportional representation votes and a reduction in the circulation of its newspaper, the "Shinbun Akahata." Additionally, the aging of its members has been cited as a cause of the party's declining fortunes. The previous chairman, Mr. Kazuo Shii, who served for 23 years and is now 69, faced calls for generational change within the party. Tamura, at 58, represents this new generation. Tamura, a member of the House of Councillors for the Japanese Communist Party, expresses her commitment to ending the political dominance of the Liberal Democratic Party and spearheading a significant political advance for her own party. Source: ANNnewsCH TOKYO, Jan 18 (News On Japan) - NEC, in collaboration with the traditional bread maker Kimuraya, has unveiled an innovative culinary creation named 'RenAI (Love) Bread,' a product that captures the essence of romantic feelings in its flavor. This unique bread utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) to analyze phrases from romance-themed television shows and lyrics from love songs, particularly focusing on fruits and sweets mentioned, to create a unique taste experience. Among the various flavors, 'Mutual Love' stands out, offering a refreshing sweetness akin to peaches, reminiscent of a successful first love coming to fruition. There are five varieties in total, including 'Tears of Heartbreak' and 'Jealousy' flavors, each designed to evoke different aspects of romantic experiences. Yuki Kitazawa, the Section Chief at Kimuraya Sohonten, expressed his hope that consumers would feel more positive about love after tasting their bread. "We want those who eat our bread to feel an uplifting spirit towards love," he said. This innovative range of bread will be available sequentially in supermarkets around the Kanto region starting February 1st, marking a significant step in the fusion of food technology and emotional experiences. Source: FNN TOKYO, Jan 18 (News On Japan) - The Tokyo District Public Prosecutor's Office has decided not to prosecute a taxi driver who was arrested for killing a pigeon on a street in Shinjuku Ward, Tokyo. The taxi driver, a 50-year-old man, was arrested last November on suspicion of violating the Wildlife Protection Law by running over a pigeon on a street in Shinjuku Ward with his taxi. According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department, a passerby called the emergency number 110 after hearing a taxi speeding off and then noticing it had hit a pigeon. During the investigation, the driver stated, "The road is for humans, so the pigeons should get out of the way." The Tokyo District Public Prosecutor's Office decided on Tuesday not to prosecute the man. The reasons for this decision have not been disclosed. Source: ANNnewsCH TOKYO, Jan 20 (News On Japan) - Police investigating a couple in their fifties found dead three days ago under the floor of their house in Adachi, Tokyo, have arrested a 30-year-old woman of Filipino nationality, an acquaintance of the couple, on suspicion of abandoning the bodies. The bodies of self-employed Takahashi Tokuhira (55) and his wife Kimie (52), who lived in the house, were discovered on January 16, believed to have been disposed of under the floor. The couple's son, who lived with them, had reported their disappearance two days before the bodies were discovered. Following this, the police searched under the house and found the two bodies, later identified as Mr. and Mrs. Takahashi. Multiple stab wounds were found on the upper bodies of the deceased, with forensic examinations revealing that the cause of death for both was heart damage from stab wounds to the chest. Footage from a security camera led police to the Filipino national, who claimed, "I don't know anything about it," denying any involvement. According to investigative sources, the suspect was previously in a relationship with the Takahashi couple's eldest son and is suspected to have had some financial disputes with them. The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department is further investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the couple. Source: NHK TOKYO, Jan 19 (News On Japan) - Two YouTubers known as 'R Detectives (R)', who specialize in recording videos where they apprehend individuals they suspect of illicit activities like voyeurism, were arrested on Tuesday for attempting to extort cash from an alleged voyeur. Masaaki Sato (34) and Takahito Takai (33), who posted a video on YouTube capturing their attempt to detain the man they accused of voyeurism, now face legal repercussions. The duo were involved in a scuffle with a man they accused of filming for YouTube near Yokohama Station in August 2023. During the altercation, they allegedly demanded hush money, claiming, "I hurt my wrist," "We could go to the police, but you wouldn't want that, would you?" and "How much will you pay for damages?" While bringing another man they accused of voyeurism to a police box in Kanagawa on Tuesday, Sato and Takai discovered that arrest warrants had been issued against them and were arrested on the spot. Social media has been critical of these 'citizen's arrest YouTubers', with comments like, "These guys aren't just citizen's arrest YouTubers, they're extortionists greedy for money," and "It seems more common for YouTubers to get arrested themselves rather than arrest others." Despite attempting to extort money from the alleged voyeur, when they realized they wouldnt succeed, Sato and Takai handed him over to the police and uploaded the video on YouTube, presumably for profit. In response to the investigation, Sato denied the allegations, stating, "I never demanded money from anyone." The police are investigating several other potential crimes associated with these individuals. Related articles: Charges Against 'Citizen's Arrest' YouTuber 'Rengoku Koroaki' Dropped Citizen's Arrest YouTuber Busted Defrauding Girlfriend of 2.5 Million Yen by Faking Rare Disease Ghost YouTubers busted for extorting haunted hotel 'guests' Source: FNN Ishikawa, Jan 19 (News On Japan) - An 87-year-old woman's beloved dog, Muumu, was saved from the rubble of her collapsed home almost 3 days after the massive earthquake hit her town on New Year's Day. Mitsue Wada, the 87-year-old owner, expressed her relief and joy, saying, "Muumu is my treasure." The rescue took place in Tachinomachi, located in the eastern part of Wajima City, Ishikawa, an area that had become isolated following the earthquake which measured a strong 6 on the Japanese scale, completely destroying several houses, trapping Wada and her 9-year-old poodle mix, Muumu. Wadas son, Shigezo Sakamoto, recalled their bond, "After my father passed away 10 years ago, Muumu was always with her, even sleeping on her futon. He was her constant companion for 24 hours a day." While Wada was rescued by local residents, Muumu was separated and left behind under the rubble. Sakamoto said, "My mother had given up hope for Muumu, becoming deeply depressed and exhausted." A specialized animal rescue team, 'Team U-Nyan,' based in Funabashi City, Chiba, and led by Usa, a 56-year-old representative, was en route to the disaster area. This team specializes in searching and rescuing pets during disasters. Following a family's SOS on January 4th, Usa and his team overcame landslides on foot to reach the site. Confronted with the immense pile of debris, Usa said, "The house was almost completely collapsed, we didnt know where to start looking." As they stood bewildered by the wreckage, Usa called out, "Muumu! Muumu! Stay there, good boy!" Hearing Muumus faint cries from under the house, Usa exclaimed, "Hes alive!" Soon after, with the assistance of two Self-Defense Force members who arrived by helicopter, the team carefully removed the debris. Muumu was found trapped in a space under a bed frame, unable to move due to a pipe bent in front of him. Usa managed to slide into the narrow gap in the rubble and reach Muumu. By enticing him with food, he successfully pulled Muumu out despite the looming danger of aftershocks. "It was truly gratifying to save a life, a part of the family," Usa reflected on the rescue. Miraculously unharmed, Muumu was safely returned to his family. He was later reunited with Wada, who is now living in a shelter in Itami City, Hyogo. When the reporting team visited Wada and Muumu on January 18th, she emotionally recounted, "When I saw him alive, I was so happy. I just wanted to see him. He is my treasure." Website: Team U-Nyan Source: FNN TOKYO, Jan 19 (News On Japan) - Dai-ichi Life Holdings, a major life insurance company, has decided to increase the starting salary for university graduates joining the company in April this year by 16% Amidst intense competition for talent acquisition, there is a growing trend to improve the treatment of the younger generation. According to the announcement, Dai-ichi Life Holdings has determined a policy to raise the starting salary for new employees who will join in April and are subject to relocation. The monthly salary, including a fixed amount of overtime pay, will be increased from the current 276,000 yen to 321,000 yen. The company plans to raise the wages of its employees by an average of 7% next fiscal year, taking into account the rise in prices, but the increase in the starting salary represents a rate of 16%. This is the first raise in starting salaries in four years, and the company states that it aims to "secure and retain excellent talent." As people's attitudes towards work change, including the choice to change jobs, competition among companies for talent acquisition has intensified, and there is a succession of moves to improve the treatment of the younger generation. Source: NHK OSAKA, Jan 19 (News On Japan) - A 31-year-old unemployed man has been arrested on suspicion of kidnapping a teenage girl for the purpose of committing indecent acts, after allegedly luring the junior high school student from Tokyo to his home in Osaka in exchange for sleeping pills. Naoki Urano, who is known as the "Emperor of Guri-shita" among kids who frequent the popular hangout spot in Osaka's Minami district, is being investigated for arranging to meet the schoolgirl he groomed through social media. The girl is suspected to have stayed for a week at his home, where she is believed to have taken drugs along with several other youths. She was found in a semi-delirious state. The police are investigating the detailed circumstances of the case. Urano has not made any clear statements regarding the allegations. Source: NHK TOKYO, Jan 20 (News On Japan) - Japan's lunar exploration spacecraft "SLIM" has achieved a historic feat by successfully landing on the Moon early Saturday morning. The "SLIM" spacecraft began its descent to the Moon from lunar orbit around 12:00 AM today, successfully landing on the lunar surface approximately 20 minutes later, as announced by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). This successful landing represents a first for Japan, a significant achievement in the field of space exploration. JAXA President Mr. Hiroshi Yamakawa expressed his excitement: "First of all, the fact that we have landed is a starting point. From here, we aim to further develop our country's technology, opening the way to access the Moon's surface." However, there are concerns that the batteries may run out within a few hours due to the solar cells not generating power. Priority is being given to the reception and acquisition of data from the landing, and analysis is underway to determine if the spacecraft achieved its targeted landing within a 100-meter margin of error. Source: ANN TOKYO, Jan 22 (News On Japan) - In the case where a couple in their 50s were found dead in their home in Adachi Ward, Tokyo, a bloodstained shoe, believed to belong to the wife, was found in the trash of the Filipino suspect. The bodies of self-employed Norihiro Takahashi (55) and his wife Kimie Takahashi (52), who lived in the house, were found on January 18, wrapped in sheets underneath their home. Nearby resident Hazel Ann Baguisa Morales (30), a Philippine national, was arrested on charges of abandoning the bodies. Morales, the former girlfriend of Takahashi's eldest son, has denied the allegations, stating, "I don't know anything about it." Investigations have revealed that the bodies were individually wrapped in sheets underneath the first-floor floor storage, and that there were traces of bloodstains wiped in several places inside the house. A subsequent search led to the discovery of a bloodstained knife. Both victims had been stabbed in the chest from the front, and police suspect the knife was used as a murder weapon. Meanwhile, a surveillance camera in the vicinity has captured footage of a suspicious individual acting in concert with Morales disposing of blood-stained clothing. According to investigative sources, Morales was previously in a relationship with the Takahashi couple's eldest son, who had previously consulted Tokyo police claiming he had lent "several hundred thousand yen" to Morales but was not repaid. Morales came to Japan several years ago and was working as a nursing assistant at a hospital in Saitama Prefecture. A former Tokyo Metropolitan Police detective points out some puzzling aspects of the case. "If a single woman were to kill both individuals, it would be nearly impossible unless the acts were simultaneous. Considering that there were multiple stab wounds on Mr. Takahashi's body and even wounds reaching his heart, a certain level of strength would be required. Therefore, if there was another person involved, it is likely a male." Morales has provided the following statement about her alibi on the day of the incident, stating, "I was helping a male friend search for a house." According to investigators, the possibility of other accomplices assisting in the crime is under consideration. Source: NHK KYOTO, Jan 20 (News On Japan) - The traditional 'Jazuna' festival, where locals are 'bitten' by a giant serpent made of straw to pray for a year of good health and freedom from illness, was celebrated Friday in Miyazu, Kyoto Prefecture. The 'Jazuna' festival originated during the Edo period as a response to an epidemic. A giant straw serpent, approximately 6 meters long and weighing around 50 kilograms, was hung at the village entrance to ward off disease. It is believed that being bitten by this serpent ensures a year of good health. Accompanied by the sound of conch shells, the serpent visits each household in the community. A local resident shared their hope: "I wish for everyone to grow healthy and strong. We prayed for good health and safety." Finally, the 'Jazuna' serpent, suspended from a ginkgo tree at the shrine, will watch over the town for a year, ensuring that no epidemics enter. Source: YOMIURI TOKYO, Jan 20 (News On Japan) - A chilling breakthrough has been made in the case where the bodies of a married couple were found stabbed to death under the floor of their house, with security footage showing a Filipino woman, who is currently under arrest, discarding blood-stained clothing in the trash. Hazel Morales (30) is suspected of disposing of the bodies of Tokihiro Takahashi (55) and Kimie Takahashi (52), on January 16. The couple's son, who lived with them, had reported their disappearance two days before the bodies were discovered. Following this, the police searched under the house and found the two bodies, later identified as Mr. and Mrs. Takahashi. Multiple stab wounds were found on the upper bodies of the deceased, with forensic examinations revealing that the cause of death for both was heart damage from stab wounds to the chest. Morales has been captured on a security camera near her home on the night of the 16th, disposing of blood-stained clothing alongside a male accomplice. According to investigative sources, Morales was previously in a relationship with the Takahashi couple's eldest son and is suspected to have had some financial disputes with them. It also came to light that the couple's eldest son had consulted the Tokyo Metropolitan Police, claiming he had lent "several hundred thousand yen" to Morales, indicating financial disputes. The Tokyo Metropolitan Police are seeking to identity of the person seen with Morales in the footage and the circumstances surrounding the couple's death. Source: FNN Nishinomiya, Jan 22 (News On Japan) - A 19-year-old Brazilian national has been arrested for shoplifting at a convenience store in Nishinomiya, Hyogo Prefecture, and allegedly punching the clerk in the face while fleeing. According to police, at around 4:00 AM on January 20, the man shoplifted items worth about 850 yen, including a gas canister, from a convenience store in Koshien Gobancho, Nishinomiya City, and attempted to escape. Subsequently, he assaulted a 54-year-old male store employee who had pursued him, inflicting minor injuries. Police were able to identify and apprehend the man, a resident of Amagasaki City, Hyogo Prefecture, based on security camera footage and other evidence. The suspect, charged with robbery and assault, reportedly admitted to the allegations during police questioning, stating, "There is no mistake." Source: MBS NEWS KYOTO, Jan 22 (News On Japan) - Five newcomers have officially declared their candidacies in the Kyoto mayoral election as campaigning kicked off on Sunday, with the incumbent who has served four terms over 16 years choosing not to run for re-election. The election campaign will focus on key issues such as the city's long-standing fiscal challenges, strategies to tackle over-tourism, and addressing the decline in the population, particularly among young residents. Supported by the Communist Party, Kazuto Fukuyama (age 62) emphasizes the need for improved childcare policies. (Fukuyama): "Let's use the tax money paid by the citizens to support their daily lives rather than just constructing buildings." Former Kyoto City Council member Yoshie Murayama (age 45) advocates for reform in city administration. (Murayama): "This election questions whether Kyoto will undergo change or remain unchanged." Former Kyoto Prefectural Assembly member Masashi Ninoyu (age 44) shows eagerness for fiscal reconstruction. (Ninoyu): "We should collect money from places like temples that charge admission fees, similar to the old city tax." Koji Matsui (age 63), endorsed by four political parties, appeals for cooperation beyond party lines. (Matsui): "We must continue to advance Kyoto's municipal government, which our predecessors worked hard to build." In addition, Yutaka Takie (age 35), a newcomer endorsed by various factions, has submitted his candidacy. The Kyoto mayoral election is scheduled for February 4th. Source: YOMIURI The 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) reaffirmed, at the end of its proceedings Saturday in Kampala, Angola, its support for the UN political process concerning the regional dispute over the Sahara, with a view to reaching a mutually acceptable political solution. The Heads of State and Government of the Non-Aligned Movement welcomed the process of negotiations held under the auspices of the United Nations, as well as the commitment of the parties to continue to show political will and work in an atmosphere propitious for dialogue, in order to enter into a more intensive phase of negotiations, says the Summits final Declaration. The 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement notes that the goal is also to ensure the implementation of the latest resolutions of the UN Security Council, which have consecutively underlined that the Moroccan autonomy initiative is serious and credible. The Final Document also highlighted the importance and relevance of the resolutions adopted since 2007 by the UN Security Council, including its resolution 2703 of October 30, 2023, which confirmed that the definitive political solution can only be a realistic, pragmatic, lasting political and compromise-based solution. This resolution, which established the round tables as the sole framework for the UN political process, clearly identified the parties to this process, calling on them to remain committed to it until its conclusion. It should be recalled that all the Security Council resolutions adopted since 2007, and clearly mentioned in the Final Document of the Kampala Summit, underline the pre-eminence of the Moroccan Autonomy Initiative as a serious and credible basis and the only point of arrival for the political process. The Final Declaration called on all parties to cooperate fully with the UN Secretary-General and his Personal Envoy for the Sahara, while welcoming their continued commitment to the political process under UN auspices. The final document of the Kampala Summit thus confirms Moroccos position insofar as the Non-Aligned Movement stresses the need to reach a political solution based on compromise and realism. King Mohammed VI was represented at the NAM summit by Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita. King Mohammed VI was represented at the official inauguration of Felix Tshisekedi, who has been re-elected President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), by Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rachid Talbi El Alami. The official inauguration ceremony took place on Saturday in the capital Kinshasa, in the presence of several heads of state or their representatives, foreign delegations, members of the diplomatic corps accredited to the DRC, and a number of civilian and military personalities. On this occasion, the House of Representatives Speaker expressed to the DRC President the warmest congratulations of King Mohammed VI and his sincere wishes for success in the pursuit of his mission to serve the development of his nation and the prosperity of the Congolese people. The House Speaker also conveyed to the Congolese Head of State the Kings willingness to enhance further the strong cooperation relations between the two countries in all fields, in the interests of the two brotherly peoples. President Tshisekedi, who has been in power since January 2019, won 73.47% of the vote at the December 20 presidential election, according to the results confirmed by the Constitutional Council. Morocco and Germany signed, Saturday in Berlin, an agreement to implement the second phase of the Agricultural and Forestry Technical Dialogue (DIAF) project, as part of bilateral cooperation between the two countries. The agreement, signed on the sidelines of the Berlin International Green Week, focuses on organic production and exchanges between the two countries in the fields of science, innovation, and sound agricultural practices. It also provides for the setting up of a joint technical working group to deepen and broaden bilateral cooperation in the future. The meeting was an opportunity for both parties to address extremely important issues concerning the food system, sustainability, and agriculture. German Minister of Agriculture and Food Cem Ozdemir, who initialed the agreement along with Minister of Agriculture and Forests Mohammed Sadiki, described relations with Morocco as very important. The agreement will raise the level of bilateral partnership and exchange knowledge in the field of organic production, the German official said. The DIAF project has three components: promotion of organic farming; professionalization of professional agricultural and forestry organizations (OPAF), and improved planning and control in the forestry sector. Earlier Saturday, Sadiki had held talks with Italys Minister of Agriculture and Food Sovereignty, Francesco Lollobrigida, on ways of strengthening cooperation between the two countries in the agricultural sector. On Friday, he conferred with Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development of Cote dIvoire, Kobenan Kouassi Adjoumani, on ways to strengthen cooperation between the two countries in the agricultural sector. An international network involved in organizing illegal immigration and human trafficking was dismantled Saturday by officers of the provincial judicial police of Sale, on the basis of accurate information provided by the services of the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance. The investigation into this case led to the arrest of four individuals, including a foreign national of Turkish nationality, presumed to be involved in organizing illegal immigration operations, a security source said. Ongoing security operations have also led to the arrest of thirty would-be illegal immigrants from India, Bangladesh and Pakistan. The suspects and would-be illegal immigrants were subjected to a judicial investigation to determine the ins and outs of this case and identify its possible links and ramifications on a national and international scale. The same day, a coastal surveillance unit intercepted an inflatable boat off Dakhla. The boat was carrying 108 Sub-Saharan would-be irregular migrants, including 28 minors, a woman, and a young girl, according to a press release from the General Staff of the Royal Armed Forces. The boat sailed from the Mauritanian coast and intended to reach the Canary Islands, the press release said. The rescued individuals received the necessary care before being handed over to the Royal Gendarmerie for the usual administrative procedures. These security operations are part of the intensive efforts deployed by the General Directorate of National Security and the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance to combat international networks involved in organizing illegal immigration and human trafficking. The Non-Aligned Movement Summit convened in Kampala, Angola, Januray 19-20, commended King Mohammed VI for his political initiatives and humanitarian and social actions to safeguard the interests and legitimate claims of the Palestinian population. In the final declaration adopted Saturday, the Heads of State and Government taking part in the 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement highly praised the central role of the Al-Quds Committee, part of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, chaired by King Mohammed VI, in defending the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people to establish a sovereign, independent and viable state with East Al-Quds as its capital, in accordance with the relevant international decisions and the Arab peace plan for the creation of two independent, internationally-recognized states. The Non-Aligned Movement also praised the role played by Bayt Mal Al Quds Al Sharif Agency, as the Committees executive arm, in preserving the Holy Citys legal status and identity, as well as protecting its places of worship. The Final Declaration also highlighted the pioneering role played by Morocco at the level of the United Nations that led to the adoption of several groundbreaking initiatives. In this vein, the Final Declaration referred to the Resolution against the Burning of the Holy Quran and Hate Speech, presented by Morocco on July 25, 2023 and adopted unanimously by the UN General Assembly 193 member states. The adoption of this resolution enshrined Moroccos role, in line with the high directives and enlightened vision of King Mohammed VI, as a regional and global leader in promoting the values of peace, tolerance and inter-religious and intercultural dialogue, as well as in combating the danger of hate speech conveyed by violent extremism, obscurantism, populism and racism of all kinds. The Kampala Summit also praised Moroccos role in peacekeeping and peacebuilding at UN level, notably through its presidency of the Central African Republic Configuration, and through its status as coordinator of the Non-Aligned Movement Working Group on UN peacekeeping operations. The Heads of State and Government likewise commended Moroccos significant contribution to the regional and international fight against terrorism. At another level, the NAM summit backed and encouraged Moroccan national and regional initiatives on human development and sustainable development, as well as on the fight against corruption, migration and climate change. In addition, the Kampala Declaration praised Moroccos key role in facilitating the UN process to support pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response (PPR). Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita represented King Mohammed VI at the NAM and led the Moroccan delegation that also included the Kingdoms Permanent Representative to the UN, Omar Hilale. Two human trafficking experts gave a presentation on human trafficking at the North Platte public Library on Saturday. Its not (just) somebody whos taken away, said Stacey Cahill, a mental health practitioner in Lexington and a presenter Saturday. Most of the time these people are in our backyards, going to schools. Theyre still part of the community, and theyre being exploited. Cahill founded the nonprofit Traffic Stop with Lisa Molina, an organization dedicated to educating the public about human trafficking. The two present throughout the area and are hoping to expand into other regions. Cahill said given the often unreported and high rates of human trafficking and sexual abuse, youre likely to know somebody whos being abused and somebody who is an abuser. Being a member of the Oglala-Lakota Sioux tribe, Molina said she has a vested interest in the issue because a disproportionate number of indigenous children are abducted and sold into exploitation. We know a lot of crimes and a lot of murders happen on reservations astronomical numbers, she said. So, when you think of human trafficking, think of who is being trafficked. Cahill also presented her new book, Traffic Stop: Human Division. Molina is the books editor. It is a story about a girl who falls into the trafficking cycle and how she gets out. Cahill introduced the main character as a chimeric twin who fused with her twin in the womb. Part of the book is written from the perspective of the twin. I have this gut feeling I was a twin and Ive always been fighting for the underdog, Cahill said. Thats just a part of who I am. And I have this sense of survivors guilt in a way, like I shouldnt be here but I am and so I did research on invisible twins and more about how that works and found out that would be a kind of a fund way to have her have a voice and give the story in her perspective from her body through somebody elses eyes. Cahill said the best way to make a family and child more resilient to outside influences like human trafficking is to just spend time with them. Parents should engage with their children and let them know they have someone to talk to. KYOTO, Jan 21 (News On Japan) - Kyoto's mayoral election campaign will officially launched on January 21, with the race to be contested solely by newcomers for the first time in 16 years due to the incumbent's retirement. Four independent newcomers have completed preliminary procedures with the Election Management Committee to declare their candidacy: Masashi Ninoyu, a former member of the Kyoto Prefectural Assembly (44); Kazuhito Fukuyama, a former vice president of the Kyoto Bar Association, supported by the Communist Party (62); Takaharu Matsui, a former Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary endorsed by the Liberal Democratic Party, the Constitutional Democratic Party, the Komeito Party, and the Democratic Party for the People (63); and Yoshihide Murayama, a former member of the Kyoto City Council (45). The campaign will feature debates on various issues, including measures to support education and child-rearing, strategies to combat the negative impacts of "overtourism," and efforts toward fiscal reconstruction. The acceptance of candidacy applications for the Kyoto mayoral election will take place from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, followed by a 14-day election campaign. Voting will be held on February 4, with the votes being counted on the same day. Source: NHK Haley supporters are likely outnumbered in New Hampshire. Photo: TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty Images Eight days after Donald Trump trounced his Republican rivals in the Iowa caucuses, New Hampshire will hold the first primaries of the 2024 presidential-nomination contest. The big question for the GOP on Tuesday night is whether Nikki Haley, whose poll numbers have been surging in the Granite State, can throw a scare into the front-runner, particularly now that Ron DeSantis has withdrawn from the race and endorsed the former president, making it a two-candidate race. Meanwhile, Democrats will hold a rogue primary, which is not sanctioned by the national party. Democratic candidates Dean Phillips and Marianne Williamson will appear on the ballot, while Joe Biden wont but voters can still write in the presidents name, and it looks like plenty will. Heres everything you need to know about the New Hampshire primaries, from what the polls say to when well know who won to how the results will impact the rest of the 2024 contest. . The Democratic and Republican New Hampshire presidential primaries will be held on Tuesday, January 23, 2024. Polls will open at varying times across the state but no later than 11 a.m. ET. (One tiny hamlet, Dixville Notch, will vote at midnight, with cameras out-numbering voters.) Polls must remain open until at least 7 p.m. ET, which is when some close, though a few are open until 7:30 p.m. or 8 p.m. Votes are counted reasonably quickly in New Hampshire, and are usually all in by a bit after midnight. . If Trump wins by the margins suggested by the polls, we should know the results pretty quickly. Trump leads Nikki Haley in the RealClearPolitics polling averages by 19.3 percent (55.8 percent to 36.5 percent), including polls taken as the field was shrinking. Fourth-place Chris Christie dropped out on January 11, fifth-place Vivek Ramaswamy dropped out on the night of the Iowa Caucuses on January 15; and DeSantis quit on January 21. The Christie withdrawal was expected to benefit Haley significantly and narrow Trumps lead. But post-Iowa polls testing Trump, Haley, and Ron DeSantis placed Trumps support in the low 50s and Haleys in the mid-to-high 30s (Haleys best credible recent poll, from CNN/UNH, shows her within 11 points of Trump, who leads her 50 percent to 39 percent). Perhaps the best indicator of trends is the daily tracking poll being maintained by Boston Globe/Suffolk, which has shown Trumps lead drifting steadily upwards from 14 percent on January 17 to 22 percent on January 23. Clearly Trump remains the solid favorite, and could easily hit the same percentage of the vote (51 percent) he won in Iowa. Cross tabs in one of the most recent polls, from St. Anselm College, showed Trump trouncing Haley among registered Republicans and Haley edging Trump among independents, who made up nearly half the likely voters. In theory, the state is much less hospitable to Trump than Iowa, where he won in a landslide. Aside from the heavy participation of independents in the GOP primary, the state has far fewer evangelicals, and significantly more college-educated voters, than Iowa. This, and not her own home turf of South Carolina, is probably Haleys best state. . No. In the run-up to the primary, Donald Trump has repeatedly accused Nikki Haley of encouraging Democrats to infiltrate the Republican primary. But in fact, the deadline for voters to change party registration for this contest was last October (new voters can register on the day of the primary). Sure, there will be self-identified Democrats registered as unaffiliated voters who might vote in the GOP primary. But thats not only legal but customary in the 23 states that allow independents to vote in party primaries. . Joe Biden, though it doesnt really matter. Last year the Democratic National Committee knocked New Hampshire from its first in the nation primary status, instructing the state to go second, after South Carolina (Iowa was removed from the ranks of early states altogether). But under New Hampshire law the states primary has to be first, and a Republican-controlled state government had no interest in accommodating Biden and the DNC. Thus, New Hampshire Democrats are holding an unsanctioned primary. Naturally, President Biden refused to file as a candidate in this rogue primary and didnt campaign in New Hampshire. Yet polls show him winning easily as a write-in candidate; hes at 62.7 percent in the RCP averages, with Dean Phillips at 10.7 percent and Marianne Williamson at 5.3 percent. There may be some initial confusion about the Democratic results on primary night: Write-in ballots in many jurisdictions are set aside until after votes for candidates on the ballot are tabulated. So it may take a while for Bidens full vote to be counted. . New Hampshire has held a primary to choose delegates to the major-party national conventions since 1916. Four years later it became the first primary on the calendar, a status that New Hampshires secretary of State is required to protect by moving its date forward as necessary. In 1948 New Hampshire allowed presidential candidates (not just delegates) to appear on the primary ballot, and the contest made its bones as major political phenomenon four years later, when the primary results made Dwight D. Eisenhower the Republican front-runner and knocked President Harry S. Truman out of the running for a second full term. New Hampshire voters in both parties have a reputation for a contrarian streak (and a demand for personal attention from candidates) that has produced a number of presidential primary upsets, such as John McCains big win over George W. Bush in 2000, which nearly blew up the overwhelming front-runners path to the nomination, and Hillary Clintons narrower win over Barack Obama in 2008, which ensured that contest would continue for months. New Hampshire has also often neutralized the effect of Iowa (whose caucuses took the initial spot on the calendar beginning in 1976). . Unlike last weeks Iowa caucuses, these are straightforward, state-run primaries at regular precinct voting sites. There is no in-person early voting, and voting by mail is limited to true absentee ballots in which an excuse is required. All absentee ballots must be received by primary day. Primaries are open to voters registered in the sponsoring party, and also to unaffiliated (i.e., independent) voters, who choose a party ballot when arriving at their precinct. New Hampshire has about 300,000 voters registered in each major party, and about 400,000 unaffiliated voters. So in the competitive GOP primary, the maximum voter poll is 700,000 voters; in 2016, around 260,000 votes were cast in the Republican primary. Republican National Conventional delegates will be awarded to any candidates receiving over 10 percent of the statewide primary vote. Because New Hampshire is defying its rules in terms of the date of the primary, Democrats will award no delegates at this point. . Probably not. New Hampshire is famously snowy in the winter, and forecasts indicate a chance of light snow falling on the evening of the primary. But temperatures will be in the 30s and 20s, unlike the subzero conditions that affected caucus voting in Iowa. . Theres a primary for both parties in Nevada on February 6, but the strongly pro-Trump state Republican Party decided to hold caucuses two days later to actually choose delegates, and have barred any candidates who participate in the primary. Nikki Haley is running in the primary and Donald Trump is running in the caucuses, so theres no real competition and the national media have ignored the state as irrelevant. South Carolina Democrats will hold a primary, their first DNC-sanctioned 2024 contest, on February 3; Biden is running hard there and should have zero problems. But South Carolina Republicans dont hold their primary until February 24, and thats where Haley will likely make her final stand if she is still in the race. That weird ass episode of Ted Lasso that focused on Coach. I actually turned it off Reply Thread Link I think that was the episode that killed my interest in the show tbh. Reply Parent Thread Link I enjoyed it, but it didn't really belong and it took up time that could have gone to something else. Reply Parent Thread Link I really didn't like that episode and the Christmas one. I read afterwards that Apple initially ordered 10 eps but then changed it to 12, so they were filmed as standalone episodes. Reply Parent Thread Link i liked the christmas episode mostly for the Higgins storyline. Normally in comedies hes the bubbling idiot who no one likes and has a sad life, but it was really sweet how players were psyched to go and share their customs and his kids were great. Reply Parent Thread Link Aww I loved the Christmas episode. Not sure if you're from or been to the UK, but it's the norm for big shows (particularly on the BBC) to do a stand alone Christmas Special, it's kind of a tradition, and I feel like this was Ted Lasso paying homage to that. The Coach episode tho...yeah no, awful. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link I thought it was an interesting episode from his POV, but it was really out of place for the show. Reply Parent Thread Link One of my least favorite episodes of anything Ive ever watched lmao I have no idea why I had such a visceral reaction to it but damn I hated that! Reply Parent Thread Link I loved that episode, my friends said it was like me though lol. Reply Parent Thread Link I actually liked that episode, but it did break from the vibe of the rest of the show. Reply Parent Thread Link I liked the parts with the three guys from the bar. Reply Parent Thread Link That was the first episode I thought of when seeing/reading this post, tbh! Reply Parent Thread Link Im still so annoyed about that episode lol Stranger in a Strange Land, fuck off and Nikki and Paulo is like hilarious upon rewatch, I saw one of them in something else and was like why do I immediately dislike this character omg NIKKI AND PAULO Reply Thread Link I love Nina and Pablo! Reply Parent Thread Link Lol I just watched the ep of The Simpsons about Principal Skinner not being who he said he is and you know what, I like that ep. I do understand the reaction to that ep tho. Reply Thread Link Same. I don't mind it. Reply Parent Thread Link Same. That one and the episode where Fat Tony died. Reply Parent Thread Link lol I was just thinking that when I saw it for the first time in forever! I used to hate it, it represents the end of the good era, etc., and now I think its hilarious. Maybe Im just more aware of how people will ignore reality and throw it out the window because its comfortable now. Ive become the No, its the children who are wrong meme about my past self. Reply Parent Thread Link It's an ok ep, people are so extra about it lol Reply Parent Thread Link I always liked that episode. It gave us classics like this: Reply Parent Thread Link I love that episode/backstory. Reply Parent Thread Link I like that episode. Not the best, but I do rewatch it from time to time, which is more than I can say for lots of other Simpsons episodes. To me the Frank Grimes episode signaled the end of the golden years of the show more than Principal and the Pauper. Reply Parent Thread Link The loss of Phil Hartman signals that for me. Or at least until season 12 cuz that's the point when I stopped watching religiously as a kid. Reply Parent Thread Link That b99 episode just doesnt make any sense. I stopped watching afterwards for a while. Reply Thread Link I know, it annoys the hell out of me. Someone like Amy would've had a long discussion about it before getting married, wtf?!?! Reply Parent Thread Link It was so out of character for both Amy and Jake. She would have never married a guy who didn't share her goals and he said multiple times in the past that he wanted kids. Who wrote this?? Reply Parent Thread Link same, i'm still pissed about it the whole episode everyone tried to convince Jake he was in the wrong when he had valid reasons to not have kids i was hoping they would actually understand his point and decide it would be best for both of them not to have kids, but magic didn't happen at least, everyone on imdb share the same sentiment lol Reply Parent Thread Link I wish comedies in general wouldn't shy away so much from the decision to not have kids. It seems like whenever the topic is brought up, every comedy character is always like yay let's have kids!!! Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Its very out of character. I hate when writers contrive arguments like this. He said he wanted kids and she plans out everything so this was like, the worst possible argument contrivance lol Reply Parent Thread Link Me too, absolutely hated it. It makes no sense that they wouldn't have discussed it before they got married, especially with Amy being so detail oriented. Completely out of character. Reply Parent Thread Link Whenever I've rewatched the show, when that episode comes on I'm suddenly motivated to do cleaning that makes too much noise for me to hear the TV Reply Parent Thread Link it was so dumb. it's like the writers thought "oh hey this pairing is doing too well so let's come up with the most non-sensical conflict to spice things up" Reply Parent Thread Link The only very small saving grace was Terry, the shows family man who clearly adores his children, being the voice of reason. I hated that episode not only bc it made no fucking sense but bc it perpetuates this pathetic, tired trope of childfree people not wanting kids bc they have to overcome some sort of family trauma first. Most of us simply dont want children and unlike most parents, weve actually thought our decision through. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link I watch that episode but I dont like it. And for Jake to just suddenly decide after half an hour that hes ready? Fffffff. Capt Kim in season 7 is FAR worse though. I always skip that one. Reply Parent Thread Link The fly episode of Breaking Bad. Reply Thread Link I knew this one would be mentioned somewhere lol. I absolutely hated it at the time, because it feels like it's just interfering with the storyline that you're dying to see advance, but on subsequent rewatches of the entire show, I'm not really bothered by it anymore. What's funny is I remember my friend's dad had been trying to convince her mom to watch the show with him, and she was finally like "ok I'll watch one tonight and if I like it I'll go back and start it from the beginning" and of course it ended up being that episode lol. She was like "this is the show you keep raving about..?" Reply Parent Thread Link lmao I would literally fight anyone who tried to start a show in the middle of a random season and then had something to say to me!! Reply Parent Thread Link Lol I actually love that episode and good bottle episodes in general Reply Parent Thread Expand Link i love this ep tbh Reply Parent Thread Link Fly is an awesome episode, reminds me of a stage play Reply Parent Thread Link It should have been called Bottle Episode, feel free to skip on rewatch. It was an okay episode, and it had the best line Ebola, where your insides fall out of your butt. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link For Buffy Where The Wild Things Are is awful but I have to actively block out Empty Places - the ones where Buffy's friends and family kick her out of her own house that she is paying for them to live in even though they also fell into the same trap she did so there was zero reason not to trust her leadership - because it still makes me so angry after all these years. It's also why I will always be at odds with the whole Spuffy thing because it was clear they were writing almost everyone completely out of character just to throw Buffy into Spike's arms, and also to "fix" the fact that they killed off a lesbian by putting Willow with Kennedy, it was like bad fanfiction. I'm mad even typing this >:( Also X-Files Home, big yikes. Reply Thread Link i was put off of spuffy by the attempted rape in the shower that then cut to a burger king commercial Reply Parent Thread Link I also have to block that one from my mind, really the whole thing was so gross. I love seasons 1-3 of Buffy more than anything, and even have a soft spot for 4/parts of 5 but after that you can tell Joss and Marti were working overtime to hurt and humiliate Buffy and there's a lot that's hard to watch there. The whole thing with Spike was unhealthy from the get go and I was less surprised than most when that happened. I forgot about the commercial though, jesus. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link I'm mad even typing this I don't blame you. All these years later and them kicking her out is still utterly infuriating and makes me want to go on a 20 minute rant about it. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Mine was Buffys Beer Bad the metaphor in that episode was just too heavy handed. Though it was nice to see Parker get his. And I love how 2 decades later, ONTD is still (rightfully) pissed that all those traitors kicked Buffy out of her OWN house. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Home isnt exactly a fun watch, but its objectively good. The part where Scully quotes Babe is gold and just classic horror. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link The other characters disrespected Buffy by acting like she was arrogant for wanting to lead, but no one else was fit to do it. Faith was too hot headed and didnt care as much about the lives of others. I dont care that she was reformed or whatever. She didnt have Buffys heart. Willow didnt have the confidence or the skills to lead. Xander was a useless and deserved a thumb to the eye. Anya was incredibly stupid. Giles was not Giles and I refuse to believe it was really him. Maybe Buffy didnt always hear everybody out, but she had been saving the world since she was 16. She knew what she was doing. I dont hate S7, but it had its problems. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Most of my skips are Xander related. I dont like Dead Mans Party, because of the grief he gives Buffy and how he gets away with it. He acted like Buffy running away came from nowhere, when he did nothing but criticise and even threaten Buffy over the whole Angelus thing. He also made it seem like Willow wouldnt understand her grief (by lying about her saying kick his ass), but refused to understand why Buffy couldnt turn to her so-called friends after her horrific trauma. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link I'm watching the X-Files for the first time right now and the episode that's up next for me? Home. Welp Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Speaking of the X files.. the weird episode of Frankensteins monster & cher. I get its supposed to be goofy but idk how I feel about it. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link I didn't hate Spuffy as a story about how she was so depressed she emotionally self-harmed with a guy she hated and knew was bad for her. I really fucking loathed it as soon as it became "slap a soul on the rapist and we'll pretend she'd ever fall in love with him after that." Especially when he did absolutely fuck all by way of making any amends or showing any real remorse. He was still gloating at Wood over slaughtering his mother several episodes later Reply Parent Thread Expand Link omg, I get mad at the people around Buffy a lot, but I think my blood pressure rises just thinking about that episode! Reply Parent Thread Expand Link It's crazy how much I love Buffy but how much I fucking despise like 50% of the episodes lmfao. Edited at 2024-01-22 01:42 am (UTC) Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Home scared the ever loving shit out me as a young insomniac child. Reply Parent Thread Link Sorry, but Buffys friends were notoriously unsupportive and judgmental and constantly questioning her and second guessing her decisions and choices. And the potentials consistently disliked and disrespected her. This was awful to see, but the only OOC moment there was maybemaybe Dawn. Reply Parent Thread Link on my xfiles rewatches i tend to skip season 8 and 9 (bar a few episode). no shade to doggett cause i do like him - but i am superficial and watch this show for mulder and scully together Reply Thread Link Completely same, I watch until Mulder's abduction and then the last two episodes where Mulder is back and he and Scully testify about everything and go run off into the sunset together. Also skipping all of the reboot other than the werelizard ep lol. My brother always ends the series when Mulder finds out what happens to Samantha and they play that Moby song. Honestly not a bad ending. Reply Parent Thread Link I actually don't block the horrible episodes from my memory. They live there rent free and torment me with their mediocrity. Like the Days and Nights of Sophia Petrillo. I don't need to see Sophia the conductor, or Sophia the grocery store justice keeper. Sophia the empathetic hospital volunteer? Sure, that's fine. Reply Thread Link I kinda like it cause it shows that she's in her 80s and way more active than the girls give her credit for (as they laze about all day) Reply Parent Thread Link Aw I like that ep Reply Parent Thread Link The West Wing 9/11 episode and generally any 9/11 episode Reply Thread Link Third Watch was incredible for the 9/11 stuff, though. Reply Parent Thread Link i hated the buffy episode normal again Reply Thread Link OMG That was one of my favorites as a kid. made me think what if I just dreamed up my whole life and am really siting in a hospital room? Reply Parent Thread Link Any episode of Murder She Wrote that begins with Jessica talking to the camera like, "you know I have a friend who once solved a murder..." and we don't see her again for the rest of the episode. Reply Thread Link I love this lol Reply Parent Thread Link I learned very quickly to skip those when I was watching the series through recently, lol. Just terrible. Reply Parent Thread Link I just go ahead and hit next episode. Girl get that executive producer cash but I'm not watching some overly bronzed old man solve bumble his way through a boring mystery when I could be watching Jessica Fletcher do it better. Reply Parent Thread Link lol I do love how she was like Im not shooting that many episodes, fuck off but also Im not watching them Reply Parent Thread Link Plus, no one needs to see Bill Maher shirtless. Reply Parent Thread Link The Golden Girls episode where they hire a housekeeper and think she's a witch or at least has some kind of mystical powers mainly because she has a Caribbean accent. Reply Thread Link That was Chanel numba 5 Reply Parent Thread Link I love the rest of Raincoats and Recipes, but I just skip the Rory/Dean scene at the end lol Stranger in A Strange Land is THE bad episode lol and it was in such an otherwise very strong season. I also hate the Charlie episode in season 2 (cant remember the name nowFire and Water maybe?) Reply Thread Link i like to block the epilogue from the first seasons of Digimon from my head. Reply Thread Link literally the worst omg Reply Parent Thread Link The Vineyard Valentine Gilmore Girls episode is the absolute worst- especially Luke acting like a gigantic asshole. Reply Thread Link I HATE that episode so much Reply Parent Thread Link I love the Gilmore Girls but there are some episodes in the later seasons that I now skip because I can't stand April and TJ (not offense to the actors, the characters are terribly written). Same with Frasier, later episodes with Daphne's mum and brothers are so grating. Reply Parent Thread Link I hate those episodes with Daphne's family. Reply Parent Thread Link I'm in Es-ca-row! I hate TJ. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link I fucking hate TJ I also can't stand Luke's sister and Jess Just hate the Danes family ig Reply Parent Thread Link I would have been fine with April and TJ if Luke hadn't turned into a complete idiot/asshole for no reason. Absolutely baffling writing decisions left and right. ugh Reply Parent Thread Link I don't acknowledge Fraser from when Daphne and Niles got together. Daphne's mum/family guest appearances are particularly awful. Reply Parent Thread Link It's a terrible episode, and I've also weirdly had a very similar experience (with my ex being the Luke) so it's simultaneously bad and triggering and I always skip it. Still better than the revival though! Reply Parent Thread Link Ive truly blocked that episode out of my mind Reply Parent Thread Link i have a thing where i LOVE to watch people being cringe so that's one of my fav episodes lmao Reply Parent Thread Link The owners of Vincenzos Ristorante in Omaha and Lincoln announced their retirement in a Facebook post Wednesday. We are getting up in years and retiring from this tremendous business is, well, its just time to do so, said Mike Frank and Bill Whitley. They also announced that they sold the restaurant to a wonderful company that buys businesses, retains the entire staff and makes the employees the owners. Vincenzos will be an employee-owned company, ensuring that the quality and traditions that have been so important to the success of Vincenzos will continue, they said. The partners opened the business more than 30 years ago. Over that time, they said, they have employed thousands of workers and followed regular customers who visited with babies in carriers and later to celebrate college graduations. Couples who dined before prom and homecoming at the restaurant now are bringing in their kids. Frank and Whitley said they plan to visit occasionally to catch up with guests who have become friends. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you, they said. Restaurants having sock drive Two Omaha restaurants Rib Shack Smokehouse and Big Mamas Kitchen and Catering are partnering with the Open Door Mission to collect socks and foot warmers. You can drop them off during business hours at Rib Shack, 10841 Q St., 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and noon to 8 p.m. Sundays; or Big Mamas, 2112 N. 30th St., Suite 201, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. The drive runs through Feb. 7. High teas on the horizon Masters Hand, a cafe and store in Tekamah, Nebraska, is taking reservations for high tea events scheduled over the next few months. Tickets are extremely limited so owners encourage you to sign up soon. Valentines Day American High Tea is Feb. 10; Princess American High Tea is Feb. 24; St. Patricks American High Tea is March 9 and Spring American High Tea is April 20. Each begins at 4:30 p.m. and costs $45 per person for beverages and food. Reservations are required at mastershandcandles.com/collections/events. Take a brewery tour Only 30 spots are available on a VIP Live Brewing Tour at Infusion Brewing Co., 6271 S. 118th St. For $35 per person, participants will get an in-depth look at the industry in a tour led by the head brewer. He will demonstrate how he does his job. A pulled pork luncheon and, of course, beer is included and you will be able to package your own custom six-pack. The event starts at noon on Feb. 3. Tickets are available at facebook.com/InfusionBrewing Charlestons west is moving The Charlestons location near 137th and West Dodge Road will close Monday to move to its new home at 105 N. 145th St. It will be closed through Jan. 28 and open at the new site on Jan. 29 at 11 a.m. In the meantime, the Charlestons near 76th and Dodge Streets will remain open. Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of January 2024 Koley Jessen Appoints Estwick and Langdon as Shareholders Koley Jessen attorneys Chris Estwick and Pete Langdon have been promoted to the position of Shareholder, effective January 1, 2024. "We are proud to celebrate both Chris and Pete becoming Shareholders," said Alex Wolf, President of Koley Jessen. "Their impressive track record of dedicated service, expert guidance, and unwavering commitment to our clients' success not only mirrors Koley Jessen's values but also enhances our collective ability to deliver outstanding legal solutions to our growing client base." Chris Estwick specializes in advising strategic acquirers, private equity sponsors, and closely-held businesses in middle-market mergers and acquisitions. He guides clients through the intricacies of structuring and closing deals, strategically optimizing both business and legal transactional terms while mitigating risk and achieving their strategic goals. Recognizing his achievements, Chris has been selected as a Super Lawyers Rising Star for 2022 - 2023. Outside of his professional endeavors, he contributes to the community as the President of the Urban League of Nebraska Board of Directors. Pete Langdon works with companies in all aspects of employee benefits, including nonqualified deferred compensation, incentive compensation, equity ownership, qualified retirement plans, health and welfare benefits, and general employment law matters. His focus spans the complexities of executive compensation and employment law, offering creative and effective solutions to complex problems on the federal, state, and local levels. Additionally, he skillfully drafts and reviews employment agreements while delivering strategic guidance on labor, employment, and benefits concerns, including their governing regulations. Pete has been recognized for his achievements by Best Lawyers in America. About Koley Jessen Koley Jessen is a strategically growing law firm serving the needs of businesses and their owners, executives, and professionals in Nebraska and around the country. Wilbur Jenkins Promoted to Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer WoodmenLife is pleased to announce the promotion of Wilbur Jenkins to Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer effective Jan. 1, 2024. In this role, Jenkins will become a WoodmenLife Executive Officer, while continuing to lead the Core Operations, Human Resources, and Strategic Initiatives divisions. He will also continue to oversee strategic planning for WoodmenLife, including a focus on human capital strategy and D&I. Jenkins joined WoodmenLife in April 2023 as Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer. Prior to joining the company, he had a long career in the insurance industry, starting out as an underwriter and progressing through various senior operational leadership roles. He has also successfully led Sales, Marketing and Human Resources functions at a regional level. "Wilbur has been an exceptional leader at WoodmenLife, consistently driving toward results and contributing to the success of major initiatives," said Denise McCauley, President & CEO. "We are excited about the valuable contributions he will make as an Executive Officer. With his expertise and dedication, we know that Wilbur will play a pivotal role in helping us achieve our strategic goals." Jenkins has a Bachelor of Science from South Carolina State University and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. He also holds Executive Leadership and Business Management certificates from Harvard Business School and Babson College, respectively. Jenkins is an active community member, contributing his time to Assault on Illiteracy, Junior Achievement, Meals on Wheels, Rescue Mission Homeless Shelter, and the Food Bank for the Heartland. Reading Lessons: With low reading scores continuing across Nebraska, The World-Herald is investigating why some Nebraska students are struggling to learn to read and what can be done to improve student outcomes. This is the second story in the series. You can read the first story about teacher preparation programs here. * * * It was a mild November afternoon when Jill Klichs first grade class gathered in the front of the room to hear a story. Klich began her lesson reviewing a list of vocabulary words she would say them out loud, students would repeat it, then she would explain the definition to prepare them for when they heard the words in the story. Friends, look at that word! Extravagance. Say it with me, Klich said, standing in the front of the room. It means big and bold and huge and beautiful. Yesterday in our costume parade, we had a lot of very extravagant costumes. A hand shoots up from a student sitting cross legged on the floor: "Is it another word to say fancy?" When Klich confirms he's right, he excitedly smiles back at her. The lesson was just one of many in a new English language arts curriculum thats being implemented this year at Ralston Public Schools. The district recently shifted to new materials that incorporate the science of reading, which is a body of research about how humans learn to read and how reading should be taught. Klich, who has taught in Ralston for 18 years, said the lesson is rooted in language comprehension, which includes things like vocabulary and background knowledge. She also teaches lessons about word recognition, which includes phonics and decoding words. "The science of reading shows that skilled reading comes from those interactions between the language comprehension and the word recognition," Klich said. "The main thing that our district has been talking about is having one of those without the other is really only having partial knowledge. That's not being as helpful to students becoming those fully skilled readers." The Nebraska Department of Education revised its English language arts standards in 2021 to align with evidence-based practices. This is something districts across the nation are also doing as more schools recognize that curriculum based on the science of reading is the best way to teach students how to read. The education department says on its website that all districts should be fully implementing the new standards by the current 2023-24 school year. But because Nebraska is a local control state, theres no requirement for districts to do so and schools dont have to use the science of reading in their curriculum. Many Nebraska districts have been updating their curriculum to reflect the new state standards, but some districts still depend on outdated materials. Some of the strategies being used aren't only rated ineffective, but experts say they actually are harmful to students who are learning to read. One key shift in Nebraska's reading standards calls for teachers to provide explicit instruction in phonological awareness, phonics and fluency skills that the science of reading has found essential. But some curriculum materials in current use are based on an approach called balanced literacy, which doesn't emphasize these skills and doesn't teach them systematically, according to the Iowa Reading Research Center. Research and reporting, such as the investigative podcast Sold a Story, have exposed that Americas poor reading scores have been linked to schools use of balanced literacy curriculum. After all, roughly 60% of Nebraska fourth graders are currently not proficient readers, meaning they read at a basic or below basic level. This is a problem that has existed since the 1990s and researchers say updated, science-based curriculum materials, coupled with training teachers on how to effectively use them, will help improve reading scores. Curriculum choices across Nebraska Tabitha O'Riley knows well the struggle of how curriculum materials can affect a childs reading. Shes a mother of three children in the Louisville Public Schools and her two sons, in second grade and fourth grade, had trouble with reading since they entered kindergarten. O'Riley said both sons were diagnosed with dyslexia after years of low reading scores and failed interventions. Like around the nation, many Nebraska schools don't offer much support for students with dyslexia. Research has estimated that at least one in five students have dyslexia and will only succeed in reading with structured, evidence-based instruction, which is not offered in balanced literacy methods. I mean, we were reading 30 minutes every night, O'Riley said. We were doing what they were asking us to do and any gains that we were getting were so small and it just didnt make sense. Louisville uses Really Great Reading, a program that was found to only partially meet expectations for alignment to research-based practices, according to EdReports, an instructional materials reviewing company. For example, in its review of Really Great Reading's first grade materials, EdReports says they contain some needed skills but are missing things like explicit instruction in the formation of letters. The materials also don't include all five components of skilled reading: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary and comprehension. O'Riley said her sons lost so much confidence in school they no longer wanted to go. She eventually pulled them from all reading instruction because she didnt think it worked for them. Instead, she enrolled them in an after-school private tutoring program that cost her family $800-$1,000 a month, but helped both children reach grade-level benchmarks for reading. Louisville officials didnt return multiple requests for comment. Ralston had used curriculum materials under a program called Collaborative Literacy before switching to the Amplify CKLA reading program this year. Collaborative Literacy earned lower ratings for evidence-based practices on EdReports, while Amplify CKLA has high ratings. The district chose to switch materials to align with new state standards, said Sara Zabrowski-Gates, director of teaching and learning. Because Ralston was using federal COVID-19 relief aid to purchase new curriculum, they were required to choose a company that had high ratings on EdReports, she said. The Nebraska Department of Education has partnered with other local organizations to offer EdReports reviews, along with other curriculum resources, on the website called the Nebraska Instructional Materials Collaborative. Weve been getting a lot of positive feedback, Zabrowski-Gates said about Amplify CKLA. At first it was 'Oh my gosh, its rigorous, this is hard for kids. And now were starting to see it shift. Its rigorous, but were seeing that its a good thing. Ralston officials piloted Amplify CKLA in the 2022-23 school year. The district has representatives from each grade level at every elementary school on a team to help give feedback on the program. Anne Harley, Ralstons assistant superintendent of teaching and learning, said while the materials may be more challenging, they contain research-based strategies and are working well for other districts. Previous curriculum based on balanced literacy often encourages students to use word analogies and pictures or context to identify words, a method called three-cueing. This approach has been criticized by cognitive scientists, who found that people who rely on context to identify words are poor readers. When we're saying just take a guess or let the picture help you or use pattern text we've done that for years and years, Harley said. And, you knowknow better, do better. Reading curriculum changing in Nebraska schools Many Nebraska districts have either switched to Amplify CKLA in the past few years or are in the process of doing so now. In the Omaha metro, Bennington has the program while Papillion La Vista is currently piloting it. Like Ralston, the Lincoln Public Schools is also implementing Amplify CKLA this school year. Lincoln switched from McGraw Hills Reading Wonders, said Takako Olson, director of curriculum, instruction and assessment. She said Reading Wonders has been one of the most popular English language arts programs used in Nebraska. Some districts use updated versions that include more evidence-based strategies, but Lincoln's version was older and had a balanced literacy approach. "We really wanted to make sure we were switching from balanced literacy, which is a recent practice that we used, to structured literacy, or the science of reading, Olson said. Other highly-rated curriculum includes the latest version of Reading Wonders, Into Reading and Wit & Wisdom, all used by the Millard, Omaha, Gretna and Westside districts. Bellevue Public Schools will be using Wit & Wisdom as part of their materials next year, but they also use Really Great Reading, the same company that Louisville uses. Like Lincoln, Grand Island Public Schools used an old version of Reading Wonders before switching to Amplify CKLA four years ago. Brittney Bills, the elementary English language arts curriculum coordinator at the time, helped the district with the change. Bills is now a principal in Blair Community Schools. Bills said she researched the company before Amplify CKLA was selected, but did receive some pushback from teachers when it was implemented. She said teachers who didnt agree with the new curriculum were used to balanced literacy. I would say higher education is a big problem here they are clinging to that practice, even though there is evidence that it's actually detrimental to kids, Bills said. Its really hard to articulate how tightly some people hold on to some of these practices, and I think a lot of it is rooted in fear, that what they loved about their classrooms has to go away when they start using different materials. And thats really not the case. In my experience, its the complete opposite. Bills said Grand Island students began to enjoy reading more and proficiency scores even jumped in some of the districts lowest-performing schools. Katherine Sauer helped Litchfield Public Schools, a district of about 120 students northwest of Grand Island, switch to Amplify CKLA last year as a first grade teacher. My group went from having a lot of kids who were not quite where the benchmark was to very few that were not there at semester, Sauer said. And I mean, to the point that our principal was like, This is awesome. This is amazing. It's working. Teacher training essential Bills said a lot of schools describe the materials they use as the curriculum, but its how teachers use the materials that makes the difference. I would argue that those materials themselves are not sufficient to be considered a correct curriculum, she said. Especially for teachers who didnt receive the proper training in the science of reading during college, theres extra work needed in order to know how to teach children to read correctly. Many schools have been starting to offer professional development to help teachers learn the why behind the science of reading. One training thats gaining popularity is LETRS by Lexia, a nationally renowned curriculum and professional development company that specializes in the science of reading. Megan Hammer works at Educational Service Unit No. 6 in Milford, Nebraska, helping schools with curriculum development while also being a certified LETRS trainer. She hosts training sessions with as many as 40 teachers at a time, but there are only fewer than 10 trainers like her across the state. LETRS was the best professional learning I've had around English language arts instruction in my 25 years (in the job), Hammer said. One of the biggest challenges for schools wanting to use LETRS is that its expensive and time consuming it can cost thousands of dollars to train a group of teachers in a two-year program. Some states have provided LETRS training with millions of dollars of funding. Nebraska offered some funded LETRS training this year, but it only served a limited number and might not continue next year. Accountability of school districts Roughly 30 states have passed laws that include some sort of science of reading requirement in public school systems, according to a 2023 study by FutureEd, an independent think tank at Georgetown University. Kansas, Oklahoma, Utah, Michigan and North Dakota are among states that require schools to implement instruction based on the science of reading. Some states, including Missouri, Colorado, Indiana, Mississippi and Texas, also require or recommend the use of materials from a state-approved list. In a few states, such as Arkansas, Louisiana and Florida, the three-cueing method is banned. Nebraska doesn't have rules like that for its school districts, Hammer said, because of its long tradition of allowing local school control. Districts aren't required to select certain companies for their reading curriculum or choose from a state-approved list. There's no penalty at this point for not having a more aligned program, but there's probably going to be more pressure on schools to make sure that they're using programs that are more aligned with the science of reading, Hammer said. For O'Riley, Nebraska's lack of a state-mandated literacy policy has prompted her family to move to Missouri. They will be packing up their things this year to move to a district she knows will use curriculum and instruction based on the science of reading. For my husband and I, its so hard because we both love education so much, O'Riley said. But its like, why cant our kids read or why is this not paying off? Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of January 2024 WASHINGTON Democrats hoping to hold their slim Senate majority after November are looking for upsets in two unlikely places, Texas and Florida, to help neutralize potential setbacks elsewhere. But that means the top opportunities for President Joe Biden's party to play political offense in Senate races are coming in Americas largest reliably red state and a onetime quintessential battleground that has moved decidedly to the right in recent years. Still, with West Virginia Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin not seeking reelection, his seat is likely to flip Republican. Retaining their 51-49 Senate advantage likely means Democrats must defend their other 22 seats on the 2024 ballot including party incumbents and independents who caucus with them while also gaining seats, and they say Texas and Florida are their best shot. Democrats nationwide have championed abortion rights and are looking to build on gains among suburban women and other key swing voters since the Supreme Court's overturning of the Roe v. Wade decision in 2022. The party thinks many Texas and Florida voters are with them in believing Republicans have gone too far in restricting reproductive freedom. Dallas mother Kate Cox made national headlines when she was recently forced to leave Texas to terminate a non-viable pregnancy after Republican officials argued she didn't qualify for an exception to its near total abortion ban. In Florida, activists secured enough signatures to put on Novembers ballot a referendum cementing access to abortion in the state constitution following statewide votes defending abortion access in Republican-leaning Ohio and even more solidly red Kansas and Kentucky. Democrats are also encouraged by Texas Republican Sen. Ted Cruz eking out reelection in 2018 by less than 3 percentage points over Democrat Beto O'Rourke. In Florida, meanwhile, Republican Sen. Rick Scott won his seat that year by around 10,000 votes out of 8.1-plus million cast. I think they are winnable states with the right Democratic candidate and the right Republican candidate," said Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. And I think were going to have both. Running for Senate in Florida is Democratic former congresswoman Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, who upset two-term Republican Rep. Carlos Curbelo in 2018 but lost her seat representing part of Miami and the Florida keys in 2020. In Texas, Democratic Rep. Colin Allred of Dallas will have to overcome primary challenger Roland Gutierrez, a state senator from San Antonio, before he can take on Cruz. Texas last voted Democratic for president in 1976. The party hasn't won any of the 28 statewide offices there for 30 years. O'Rourke, after nearly toppling Cruz and unsuccessfully running for president in 2020, lost the 2022 governor's race. Florida voted twice for Donald Trump, and Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis romped to reelection in 2022, as did Republican Sen. Marco Rubio. Just cause theyre the best options they have doesnt mean they're winnable, doesn't mean they're competitive, said Texas Republican strategist Matt Mackowiak. Peters, though, points to the most recent midterms, when Democrats defied Biden's low approval ratings and historical precedent by gaining a Senate seat and only narrowly losing the House majority. Having folks say, Well, the deck is stacked against you going into the election, its the exact same thing that happened last cycle," he said. Republicans have to defend only 10 seats and are looking to flip as many as eight held by Democrats, including West Virginia. Montana Sen. Steve Daines, chair of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, the partys campaign arm, said the Democrats, we know, are going to dump millions of dollars (in) out-of-state money to buy those two seats" in Florida and Texas, but he believes Scott and Cruz are strong incumbents. National Republicans are eying Ohio, where Democratic Sen. Sherrod Brown was first elected in 2006, and Montana's Jon Tester, also a three-term Democratic incumbent. Both states are expected to vote Republican for president. This team is not overconfident," Daines said. We know we also have a great map, but you cant fall in love with the map. He said strong candidates and messaging will make the difference, as well as a renewed push to encourage early voting and mail-balloting after Trump discouraged them in 2020. Biden's approval ratings remain soft, which could hurt Democrats in Senate races, though Trump also appears to be his party's likely presidential nominee and would bring his own top-of-the-GOP-ticket negatives. Only three of the six Senate candidates Trump endorsed won in 2022. Still, Daines said his party was learning from 22, and that he speaks with Trump and his team frequently" while working closely with the president to make sure that we are gonna be behind candidates that can win both the general election as well as the primary. Democrats have tried to characterize Republicans who are both allied with Trump and more moderate as extreme on abortion, arguing that the GOP is looking to take away access. We dont like government telling us what to do. Thats part of our personality, said Mucarsel-Powell, who helped collect signatures for Florida's abortion referendum. The 10 Senate seats most likely to flip in 2024 1. West Virginia 2. Montana 3. Ohio 4. Pennsylvania 5. Arizona 6. Nevada 7. Wisconsin 8. Michigan 9. Texas 10. Florida Analysis: Pennsylvania moves up list of contested Senate seats in 2024 LINCOLN Nebraskans have started encountering the states new voter identification requirements now that the window for requesting early ballots is open. Initial reports from counties show that things have been going smoothly so far, said Jackie Ourada, a spokeswoman for the Secretary of States Office. She said local officials reported that voters have been following the new requirements when returning their early ballot requests. Voters could start asking for early ballots last week, although the ballots themselves will not be ready to go in the mail until April 8. Voters can cast early ballots in person at county election offices starting April 15. A constitutional amendment passed by voters in 2022, followed by a state law in 2023, set out the requirements. They are going into effect for Nebraskas May 14 primary election. Every Nebraska voter should be thinking about how voter ID will impact their voting plan, whether that will be presenting an ID in the early voting process or showing up to the polls with an acceptable form of ID, said Secretary of State Bob Evnen. In Douglas County, there have been no issues with the first few early ballot requests and relatively few questions, said Valerie Stoj, public relations coordinator for the Douglas County Election Commission. But she said most early voting regulars are on a list maintained by the election office. The office will send request forms to those on the list starting Feb. 7, along with information about the voter ID requirements. When do I have to present ID? Information about a voters ID must accompany a request to have an early ballot mailed out. Voters must show their ID if they vote early in their county election office or if they cast their ballot at their local precinct on Election Day. What IDs are accepted? Voters have some options for IDs that are allowed under state law. The most common forms likely will be a Nebraska-issued drivers license or state identification card. Other options are: United States passports; military IDs; tribal IDs; IDs issued by local governments in Nebraska, such as schools, counties or cities; and IDs issued by public or private colleges and universities in Nebraska. A hospital, assisted-living facility or nursing home record, also known as a face sheet, can be used as well. The ID can be expired, but must show the voters name and photo. What if I dont have an acceptable ID? People who lack any of the accepted forms of ID and cant afford to get one can get a free state ID card for voting purposes. The ID cards are available through the Department of Motor Vehicles. Check here or with your county DMV office to learn more about the requirements for getting a state ID. One requirement is to provide a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship. People born in Nebraska can get a free certified copy of their birth certificate through the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services for use in getting their free state ID. Another alternative is a reasonable impediment certification. Such certifications are available for people who have a religious objection to being photographed or who cannot get an accepted ID because of disability or illness or because they lack a birth certificate or other required documents. Contact your county election office or the Secretary of States Office for more information. How do I present my ID when voting by mail? Voters must provide their ID when requesting an early ballot to be mailed to them. This can be accomplished by writing the drivers license or state ID card number on the application, attaching a photocopy of another acceptable ID to the application or attaching a reasonable impediment certification form. The photocopy only needs to show the side with the voters name and photo. The photocopy must accompany the request, whether they are sent in by mail, email, fax or in person. What if my county has all-mail balloting? Voters in counties or precincts with all-mail balloting have ballots sent to them automatically. They must submit their ID information when returning their ballot. What if I forget my ID when voting in person? People who vote in person, either early or on Election Day, but dont have an acceptable ID with them can cast a provisional ballot. For the ballot to be counted, the voter must go to the county election office by the Tuesday following the election to present an ID. Our best Omaha staff photos & videos of January 2024 A medical doctor at a public hospital in Sokoto State, Tijjani Faruk, has confessed to raping a married woman after administering sedative injection on her. According to Daily Nigerian, the husband of the patient, simply identified as Alhaji Shehu, said he was referred to the doctor by a family friend when his wife was diagnosed with fibroids late last year. A couple of months after the operation, he said the doctor called him on the phone, requesting that he send his wife for further medical examination the next day. He called me one Friday afternoon requesting me to send my wife to him for further medical examination on Saturday 10am. Unknown to me that the doctor had evil plan to rape my wife, I did as requested. When she woke up at 7pm on that Saturday, she discovered that Dr Tijjani Ahmad Faruq (TJ) had sexual intercourse with her while she was unconscious. When she asked him why he did that that to her, he gave no reason, but only apologized and pleaded with her to forgive him. When she asked Dr Tijjani about the family planning pills she was supposed to use in order to prevent immediate conception after the fibroid operation, he said she wont be able to conceive again. A series of womb ultrasounds carried out at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH) and Zafafi Hospital of Bello Way Sokoto showed that Dr Tijjani has instead of only removing the fibroid complained of, negligently sewed and blocked my wifes womb, thereby rendering her permanently sterile. But since that fateful day, I noticed that my wife had refused to visit his hospital whenever I directed her to do so. When she finally revealed the shocking news to me that her doctor raped her and everything that transpired on that day, I instructed her to go once again in order to have his confessions on tape. During the sting operation I arranged with my wife to get a proof, my wife confronted him again on why he raped her, the doctor was heard on tape saying this will be the end of your marriage if you tell your husband. Even on that very day she went to secretly have his confessions on tape, he struggled to rape her but she refused, Shehu said. In a petition written to the Commissioner for Health, Sokoto State, the lawyer of the victim, Muhammad Mansur-Aliyu, demanded justice for his client, saying the doctor should be made to face the full wrath of the law. According to Code of Medical Ethics in Nigeria, the doctor risks delisting from medical register and prosecution. Any registered practitioner who abuses his professional position, for example by committing adultery or indulging in any improper conduct or by maintaining an improper association with a patient, is liable to have his name erased from the Register. In this connection, any finding of fact which has been made in proceedings in the High Court of an appeal from a decision in such proceedings shall be conclusive evidence of the fact in any trial held by the Medical and Dental Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal, a provision in the Code of Medical Ethics in Nigeria said. The accused doctor had initially denied the allegations, but when the tape of his conversation with his patient was played to him by the investigative panel, he confessed to having sex with her. Confirming the incident, the state commissioner of Health, Ali Inname, said the ministry had constituted a panel to investigate the matter. Share this: There was wild jubilation in Ede, Osun State, the home town of Ademola Adeleke on Friday, following the tribunal judgement which upheld his election. The tribunal which sat in Abuja had declared Mr Adeleke winner of the September 2018 governorship election in Osun. Correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), who was in the town, reports that supporters of the Peoples Democratuc Party (PDP) as well people of Ede were seen dancing and singing victory song. At the country home of Mr Adeleke, who is currently a senator, large crowds were seen within and outside his premises singing and dancing. Okada riders, in their large numbers, were also seen using their motorcycles to display different skills to celebrate the victory. Speaking on the victory, Dupe Adeleke-Sanni, Adelekes elder sister, commended the judiciary for retrieving the stolen mandate. Mrs Adeleke-Sanni, who said she dedicated the victory to God and his late brother Sen. Isiaka Adeleke, said the victory was well-deserved. We thank God for returning our stolen mandate. It is not by our might or power but by the grace of God that we have the mandate back, she said. She, however, commended the people of Ede for standing with the family during the trying period, urging them to continue to stand with them. NAN reports that the Osun State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja had on Friday declared Mr Adeleke winner. The three-member panel said during its ruling that the re-run election that held on September 27, 2018, was illegal. The tribunal, therefore, deducted the votes scored by the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Gboyega Oyetola, in the re-run after declaring it illegal. The tribunal said Mr Adeleke won the election at the first ballot on September 22 and the re-run that INEC devised to reach a conclusion a week later was illegal. The declaration of Oyetola is null and void, the tribunal ruled in a majority decision of two with one member dissenting. (NAN) TOKYO, Jan 22 (News On Japan) - A man was rushed to hospital on Sunday afternoon after being found collapsed and bleeding near Shibuya's Hachiko statue after stabbing himself in the thigh. Shortly after 3:00 PM, a report was made to emergency services by a passerby in front of JR Shibuya Station, stating that a man in his 20s to 30s was stabbing his thigh with a knife. When the police arrived at the scene, they found a man in his 20s collapsed, bleeding from his thigh, and he was subsequently transported to the hospital. The man remained conscious and informed the responding police officers that he had stabbed himself in the thigh. The incident took place near Hachiko Plaza at Shibuya Station, and for a brief period, the area surrounding the scene was in a state of commotion. Source: FNN A commercial motorcyclist, Saheed Ambali, has narrated his ordeal in the hands of three hoodlums, who allegedly attacked him with machetes around the Fagbemi/Victor Street in the Ayobo-Ipaja Local Council Development Area of Lagos State. One of the hoodlums, PUNCH Metro learnt, had asked Ambali to convey him to a destination, but the 44-year-old declined. It was gathered that the hoodlums had a plan to steal Ambalis motorcycle with number plate KRD 310 QH. The hoodlums, who were identified as Chinedu Uzozie, Lekan Bashiru and Adeleke Lateef, allegedly cut Ambali with machetes and left him in a pool of his blood. Our correspondent gathered that after the attack, the hoodlums were about to abscond with the motorcycle when a tricycle operator blocked them. Ambali said eyewitnesses, who came to his rescue, saved him from dying, adding that they gave the hoodlums a hot chase and apprehended them at their hideout. The Oyo State indigene said, I was out around 7.30am and looking for passengers around Fagbemi/Victor Street, when the hoodlums stopped me to convey them to Church bus stop. I told them that I wanted to convey a woman to her destination, but when they realised that I did not want to convey them, they suddenly brought out machetes and used them to cut me on my head, hands and legs. I was on the floor covered in blood, but when the hoodlums wanted to run away with my motorcycle, a tricycle operator used his tricycle to block them and people, who witnessed the attack, pursued the hoodlums. When I was becoming unconscious, residents quickly rushed me to the Samas Hospital. I want these hoodlums to be prosecuted because of what they did to me. I am in serious pain and if not for the help I got, they would have killed me. An eyewitness, Abdulhafiz Balogun, said the manner in which the hoodlums attacked Ambali prompted the residents to torture them when they were eventually caught, adding that the quick intervention of the men of the Ipaja Police Division prevented the residents from subjecting the hoodlums to jungle justice. Balogun said, I just came back from the mosque and was praying inside when someone knocked on my door to inform me that some motorcycle riders were fighting, but when we moved closer, we discovered that it was some hoodlums who attacked Ambali. He was badly injured, so we quickly rushed him to hospital. We caught one of the hoodlums on the spot but the others ran into a bush. So, with the involvement of policemen from the Ipaja Police Station, we searched around and caught the second hoodlum where he was hiding in the bush. The last person, who scaled a fence to enter a building under construction, was caught inside a tank. After we caught the hoodlums, the youth tortured them, but the police brought the situation under control. In fact, the DPO of the station led some policemen to survey the area after the incident and educated the youth on jungle justice, saying if they had killed the hoodlums, it would have been bad because the law did not permit such. When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Bala Elkana, confirmed the arrest of the three suspects, adding that one of them, Lateef Adeleke, aka Tianko, was a notorious motorcycle snatcher, who was recently released after serving seven years in prison. He stated that Adeleke and his gang members met their Waterloo during the attack on Ambali, adding that a machete, knife and the snatched motorcycle were recovered from them. Elkana said, On May 11, 2019, around 8am, upon receiving information that three armed hoodlums were operating on Victor Street, Ipaja, policemen were quickly mobilised to the scene to engage them. The hoodlums, later identified as Lateef Adeleke, 23; Lekan Bashiru, 23; and Chinedu Uzozie, 21, all of no fixed address, were arrested by the policemen. However, one Saheed Ambali, who was injured with machetes and dispossessed of his motorcycle by the hoodlums, was rescued and taken to the Samas Hospital, where he is responding to treatment. A machete, knife and Bajaj motorcycle with number plate KRD 310 QH were recovered. The leader of the gang, Lateef Adeleke, aka Tianko, is notorious for snatching motorcycles from people; he just returned not quite long ago after spending seven years in prison. When he finished his term, he returned and formed a new gang and started robbing people again. The gang is well known for snatching motorcycles, but the members met their Waterloo when they attacked the motorcyclist. The suspects will be charged to court as soon as investigation is concluded. INEC The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Friday reacted to the judgement of the Federal High Court, Abuja which ruled that Rochas Okorocha be awarded his certificate of return as a senator. In view of the import and directives of the said judgement, the Commission will meet as soon as practicable to do the needful, INEC national commissioner on information and voter education Festus Okoye said in a statement. INEC refused to acknowledge Okorochas victory in February because the returning officer was made to announce the result under duress. Also, Imo State High Court upheld INECs decision not to issue Okorocha a certificate of return to acknowledge his victory as the Senator for Imo West Senatorial District. But Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court ruled that INEC has no reason not to issue Okorocha certificate of return. However, INEC reminded the court that while it ruled that Okorochas certificate of return be issued to him, the hearing of the case is still on and adjourned till June 26 at the state high court. Okoye said the commission is currently undertaking State-level reviews of the 2019 general elections and all the National Commissioners are either in or heading to their States of Supervision to coordinate activities relating to the review of the election. On the returning officer that announced the election result under duress, Okoye said, the Commission is worried that if electoral impunity is allowed to flourish, any individual can harass, intimidate and put the Commissions officers under duress, procure a favourable declaration and be rewarded with a Certificate of Return. The INEC national commissioner commended the Abuja High Court and assured Nigerians that the Commission will continue to obey judgements of all courts of competent jurisdiction. A Nigerian man, who has been identified as Safiu Kareem, has raised an alarm regarding the abduction of his father, Akeem Kareem, and an undisclosed number of individuals in the Ofosu area along the Benin-Ore Expressway. Safiu told The PUNCH correspondent that the bandits, who abducted the victims on Wednesday afternoon, were already demanding money. Speaking earlier on Thursday, he said his dad and his friends were travelling to Warri, Delta State, in a vehicle after attending a party in Osogbo, Osun State. He said the news of the abduction got to the family after the kidnappers contacted them through one of the phones taken from the travellers. My dad came to Osogbo for a celebration with his friends from Warri, Delta. They were returning on Wednesday. When they got to the Benin-Ore Expressway in the Ofosu area, they were stopped (by the kidnappers). The bandits were in army uniform. My dad was taken. A friend of my dad escaped. He was the driver. Safiu said one of the occupants who managed to escape told the family how his dad and others were taken while another occupant was shot. He said the incident was reported at a police station in Ofosu. They are asking for N20 million, he added. Safiu appealed to the police, military personnel and other security agencies to intervene and rescue his dad and others, saying, I dont want to lose my dad. The Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Funmilayo Odunlami, did not take calls or respond to a text message sent to her line. The Edo State PPRO, Chidi Nwabuzor, had not also responded to calls and a text message sent to his line over the incident as of the time filing this report. Concerns over the rising insecurity in the country have grown as Nigerians are demanding tough actions by the Federal Government against kidnappers. The security crisis came to a head last week when bandits took their operations to the Federal Capital Territory where they kidnapped 23 people in the Bwari area of Abuja. As part of efforts to tackle the menace, the Federal Government on Wednesday warned against raising funds for ransoms. Expressing concern about the abduction epidemic, the South-South governors on Thursday urged the Federal Government to do more in the management of security in the country. Some unknown gunmen have abducted an unspecified number of passengers over the weekend along the Akure-Ikere highway. The incident occurred between Iju and Ikere-Ekiti when the kidnappers attacked the vehicles the passengers were travelling in. At the scene of the incident, two vehicles, identified as a Toyota Corolla and a white Toyota Highlander, were discovered abandoned with none of the occupants present. The two vehicles had been riddled with bullets upon discovery by other travellers. According to sources, after the attack on the two vehicles, the travellers were moved into the forest around Iju by their abductors. While confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Ondo State Police Command, Funmi Odunlami, stated that the command was unable to ascertain the number of people involved. She explained that the anti-kidnapping unit swiftly responded to the incident and has been conducting a thorough search within the Iju forest. Odunlami added that no official reports had been received from the families of the owners of the two vehicles, and there were no reports of missing individuals in the state. Bar. Adata Bio-Briggs, the Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA, Rivers State branch, has told the touching story of a young mother. She shared the story of the 21-year-old mother, who lost her job as a bar girl in a hotel after her lover and co-worker absconded after he impregnated her. Today I met an innocent looking girl, I actually thought she was 15years old with a new born baby, she was looking pale, hungry and confused, she wrote in a Facebook post on Saturday, January 20, 2024. I asked her story, shes 21, she was a bar girl, got pregnant for the love of her life a fellow hotel worker who has now absconded, her boss chased her away and her mother told her not to come to her, that the man responsible must take charge. Her mother is with her new family, she doesnt know her father, its a cycle repeating itself. My heart aches and I want her story to change. I asked her what she can do and she said she could sell if she was given money to start. I gave her some money and asked her to come back on Tuesday to see what we can do for her to start something. Victor Ajidagba Tragedy struck on Wednesday as Victor Ajidagba, a 400-Level student of the Department of Nursing, University of Ibadan, slumped and died shortly after writing a test. Ajidagba was rushed to the University Clinic, known as Jaja Clinic, but all attempts to resuscitate and stabilise him was unsuccessful. According to students who witnessed the incident, the medical officers on duty fought hard to save his life by administering first-aid treatment but had to refer him to the University College Hospital (UCH), Oritamefa, Ibadan, when they discovered the severity of the case. He later died in the hospital, despite efforts of the medical officers at the UCH. File photo A report by TheCable has shown that residents of 17 villages in Igabi local government area of Kaduna state have been displaced following a clash between their security guards and suspected bandits. A security source told TheCable that the guards in the community had launched an attack on the camp of the suspects during the weekend. The source added that the guards were overpowered while some of them were unaccounted for. Out of fear that the armed gang could invade the communities, residents of the villages abandoned their homes. Some members of the vigilante mobilised themselves without reporting to the police and moved to a suspected hideout for bandits in Karewa, near Birnin Yero, the source said. They launched an onslaught on the bandits but were overpowered and three or four members of the vigilante were missing. Some people said they were killed. Communities around that area, feared that the bandits may come for revenge, bearing in mind that the vigilante members had launched an attack on them. They were scared of reprisals by the bandits and out of apprehension, they moved to Birnin Yero Primary School for safety. That was when security agencies got the information. A senior police officer, who did not want to be quoted told TheCable that a team of policemen had been deployed in the area. He said the security personnel are on the trail of the suspected bandits. The team of policemen, including mobile policemen are trailing the bandits and at the same time fortifying security around the area so that people will have confidence to return to their settlements, he said. The people moved out of fear because of the attack on the bandits in their hideout by the vigilante. I wonder why they decided to carry the operation without informing the nearest police station to them. But Jibrin Abdullahi, one of the victims, told NAN that the suspects launched an attack on his community. The bandits came to our village to attack us at about 1:00 pm on Sunday. The problems started when vigilante decided to help the community to deal with the bandits in their hideout, he was quoted to have said. The bandits dont allow us to go to farm, the vigilantes wanted to bring an end to this, but when they reached the bandits hideout they were overpowered and the bandits said since the community have decided to attack them we will not have peace. He identified the villages that were displaced to include, Tura, Unguwan Gebi, Unguwan Dangauta, Unguwan Nayawu, Unguwan Makeri, Jagani, Sabon Gida, Dallatu, Unguwan Alhaji Ahmadu, Sabon Gari, Kusau, Gidan Sarkin Noma, Unguwan Pati, Unguwan Tofa and Sauran Giwa. I have three wives but only two are with me I dont know where the other wife is now, as you can see, about 2000 people are displaced, he reportedly said. The village head disclosed that due to the activities of the bandits they no longer go to farm. I spent over N2 million on my farm, now for the past 25 days I cant go to farm due to bandits activities. Yakubu Sabo, spokesman of the Kaduna police command, was not available for comments as of the time this report was filed. BY CHIEF MIKE OZEKHOME, SAN, OFR, FCIARB; Ph.D. The abduction in broad daylight in Benin City;of the Honourable Justice Chioma Iheme-Nwosu, Ph.D, is the saddest reminder of a beleaguered nation in the asphixiating throes of death by installment. That her Police Orderly that accompanied her was brutally killed and dismembered in the process, in a most horrific manner, sends the chill down our spines. This is a noble woman of high virtue, a fecund mind and one of the finest Jurists of great erudition, currently dispensing justice in our intermediate Court, the Court of Appeal. It is heart-rending that Nigeria has been turned into a gruesome and crimson theatre of blood, with absolutely no government protection in sight. Whilst Nigerians are being mauled down across the nooks and crannies of Nigeria, the politicians are ever busy politicking, instead of spreading democracy dividends. Whilst the ink is yet to dry on paper as regards the February, 2019 elections, mindless politicians are already busy, strategizing and plotting for 2023! Nigeria has become an over heated and over politicised enclave; with no space for real genuine governance. And the hapless masses are the victims of this societal degeneracy and misplaced values. The Judiciary,the weakest and whipping child of the three arms of government (Alexander Hamilton, Federalist Paper No 78), is mostly at the receiving end. A minister or Senator (both of the Executive and Legislative arms of government, respectively), can afford to travel in convoys of fully armed security operatives. A Judge is mercifully left with just one Policeman, usually armed with obsolete firearms. He is plucked down and dismembered like a chicken. Yet,the Judge, especially Justices of the Court of Appeal, must traverse the nation, handling never ending sensitive appeals from election petition Tribunals, in jurisdictions other than their ordinarily accustomed places of abode or sitting. They are thus compelled by the cause and course of duty to travel by road, the very bad roads that are unmanned by security personnel. They thus fall easy prey to marauders. Justice Iheme-Nwosu, JCA, has just suffered this fate. I beg you, captors or kidnappers of Justice Chioma, in the name of ALMIGHTY GOD,to please release her unhurt. See her as your mother that you would never do anything to hurt no matter the circumstances. I beg you also in the name of humanity and of womanhood, as you read this, to set free, unharmed, unmolested and unhurt, this judicial Amazon. Please, please,please. I BEG YOU. PV: 0 By Michael Adeshina The Federal Government ramped up its precautionary measures against coronavirus by issuing a travel ban on 13 countries. The government also suspended the visas issued to nationals of those countries. They are the United States of America, the United Kingdom, China, Japan, Iran, Switzerland, Norway, Netherland, France, South Korea, Germany, Italy, and Spain. On Tuesday, the Presidential Task Force on Coronavirus announced a travel ban on officials from going to those countries. Secretary to the Government of the Federation Boss Mustapha announced the extended ban at a media briefing on Wednesday. These are all countries with over 1,000 cases of Coronavirus domestically, he said. The Federal Government is temporarily suspending all visas issued to nationals from these countries. Nigerians arriving from these countries will be subjected to supervised isolation for 14 days. The Federal Government of Nigeria is also advising all Nigerians to avoid travel to these countries. These restrictions will come into effect from Fri 20 March 2020 for 4 weeks subject to review, Mustapha said. A landlord, Olushina Dairo, has lost the use of his eyes as a result of an alleged attack by a fellow landlord, Sulaimon Badmus, over unpaid security dues in the Araromi/Mupin community, Iyana Iyesi area of Ogun State. Olushina was part of the team that was mobilised to collect security money. The Punch learnt that Badmus allegedly attacked Olushina by using a manual digger to hit him on the head while he was going from house to house to collect the dues. The Chairman, Araromi Community Development Association, Fatai Hamidu, said Olushina was immediately rushed to the nearest hospital and was subsequently transferred to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ikeja. Hamidu stated, The issue stemmed from a communal crisis. The former chairman was impeached over alleged misappropriation of funds and this led to the division of the association into two factions. Olushina is with our faction, while the other man, who used the digger to hit him, is one of our executive members, but we did not know that he was working for the other faction. On the day of the incident, we were moving from house to house to collect security dues. We had not got to the front of Badmus house when we suddenly heard a loud cry and people shouting that someone had been killed. I saw that Olushina was already on the floor in a pool of his own blood. We rushed him to the nearest hospital and he was subsequently transferred to LASUTH, but he is not getting any better; he cant see with his eyes. The first operation has been done and the doctors say another operation will be performed on him in six months. Olushinas wife, Deborah, who said she was not at home when the incident happened, alleged that the action of her husbands attacker was deliberate. The mother of three said, I was not at home on the day of the incident. On my way back home, I heard people shouting for help. When I got home, I did not meet my children and by the time I got to where the incident took place, I saw my husband on the floor. I was told that someone on the street, known as Onicandle, hit my husband with a digger. They said the landlords were having a meeting and Badmus just brought out a digger to hit him and since then, we have been battling to save his life. We recently just moved to the area. Before we moved in, we learnt that the former chairman was impeached for alleged misappropriation of funds. We learnt that the community wanted to get electricity from a company and the former chairman was allegedly collecting money but did not do anything. The man who attacked my husband with the digger is one of the followers of the former chairman. The whole incident was a conspiracy and a deliberate act, because the former chairman and his gang had threatened to foment trouble so that they could have the seat back. The Ogun State indigene said the culprit failed to attend to the medical bills of her husband until the police came to visit Olushina at the hospital, adding that her husband needed all the help he could get to make him see again. Deborah said, When the incident happened, instead of the culprit and his cohorts to rally around and show concern for my husband, they hired a lawyer to bail the attacker after he was arrested by the police. An initial operation was carried out on my husbands head costing N600,000. The police came to visit my husband at the hospital on the day the first operation was performed and when they saw the extent of the damage done, the case was transferred from the Ota Police Station to the state Police Command Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta. My husband is to undergo another surgery in six months time. The community was able to support but my husband has not been able to use his eyes. He needs all the assistance he can get to make him see again. It was gathered that Badmus was charged to the Ota Magistrates Court and remanded in the Ibara Prison, Abeokuta, while the case was adjourned till April 5, 2019. Invest & Get 20% In Just 90 Days Click HERE >> To Buy Cheap MTN & GLO Data Click HERE >> A Quick Loan Without Collateral Click HERE >> The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) says that Nigerians are looking up to the judiciary to do justice in the Presidential Election Tribunal. The party National Publicity Secretary, Mr Kola Ologbondiyan said this when he received a coalition of young professionals at PDP National Secretariat in Abuja on Friday. He said that the general expectation was that the judiciary, as the last hope of the common man, would be courageous in its judgement. Ologbondiyan said that the expectation was that the judiciary would be dauntless in addressing the substance of the petition by the PDP presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar. As a party, we have made a solid case before the panel. Our candidate had also presented his case supported by credible evidence, he said. Ologbondiyan urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the country and its democracy. We must keep hope alive believing that the judiciary will consider the substance of the matter and the evidence before it, he said. The convener of the coalition, Abubakar Magaji, was quoted as commending the leadership of the party for effectively mobilising Nigerians in the 2019 general elections. 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 Jan. 21, 1924: Citizens are advised to keep their garbage cans inside or, at least, in some unexposed place where they will not freeze, until the city garbage department calls for them. The department has come in for censure on the part of a few property owners because of the difficulty of handling the garbage in the freezing weather. 75 years ago Jan. 21, 1949: A five-day-old jurisdictional dispute between ironworkers and millwrights resulted in the temporary layoff of about 60 carpenters employed on the Ralston Purina company plant job, it was disclosed. Work is continuing on other portions of the project. 50 years ago Jan. 21, 1974: Freedom Oil Co. has bought the gasoline and oil business of C.W. Frey & Son, Inc. Arnold Owens, president of Freedom Oil Co. said letters would be mailed to Frey's customers informing them of the switch. Freedom Oil is headquartered at 206 S. Linden, Normal. 25 years ago Jan. 21, 1999: The McLean County Veterans Assistance Commission is moving from the Law & Justice Center to larger quarters in the historic McBarnes building, 201 E. Grove St. County officials once considered selling the building, which was originally constructed in the 1920s as a World War I memorial. 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 DECATUR World-renowned Decatur sculptor John McClarey has died after suffering injuries in a road traffic crash. His death on Friday was confirmed by Sangamon County Coroner Jim Allmon. As tributes to the 88-year-old McClarey whose sculptures of Abraham Lincoln were praised for their interpretation and inventiveness poured in over the weekend, his family and friends offered prayers for his wife Carole. She had been with her husband in the crash on Decatur's western edge and the couple's son, Stephen, said on his Facebook page that his mom had suffered "severe internal injuries" and remained in the ICU unit of Memorial Hospital in Springfield. "Mr. McClarey died from multiple blunt force injuries sustained in that accident," Allmon told the Herald & Review Sunday. "He died at 4:44 p.m. Jan. 19." The coroner said he was still working with the police agencies involved to develop a report on how the crash happened. The death of John McClarey marks the passing of one of the most prolific and celebrated artists in Central Illinois history who leaves a legacy of work all over the world. His talent and interest in historical figures, especially Abraham Lincoln, could be seen in sculptures proudly displayed as far away as Japan and as close as the Macon County Historical Museum in Decatur, his hometown. McClarey's fascination with the nation's 16th president began as a boy. According to his friends, he would tell the story of how he carved a sculpture of Lincoln out of a bar of soap. In 1959, McClarey received a bachelor's degree in sociology from Millikin University, then later a master's degree in U.S. history from Illinois State University. He taught history and sociology in Cerro Gordo and Edinburg public schools. By the 1980s, McClarey began focusing on sculpting. Twenty years later, his alma mater, Millikin University, would display two busts featuring important figures in the school's history, James Millikin and Albert Taylor, each made by McClarey. As a fellow artist and member of the Decatur Area Arts Council, Stella Carnahan knew McClarey and his wife through their connection with art. Theyre just very humble, God-fearing people, she said. But he didnt need us to advertise his abilities. The DAAC hosts a gallery reception on the first Friday of each month. The McClareys would often attend, Carnahan said. They liked Decatur and they contributed to Decatur, she said. Several of McClareys Lincoln sculptures are highlighted in the Looking for Lincoln historical organization. They and other statues can be seen throughout the state, including outside the Old State Capitol in Vandalia, and gracing various county museums and courthouse campuses, and the Lincoln Presidential Museum Complex and the Illinois Supreme Court, both in Springfield. McClareys Lincoln sculptures can also be found in New York City, Washington, D.C., Moscow, Cuba and Japan. One of his most recent statues was erected in front of the Mount Pulaski Courthouse, a state historic site where Lincoln practiced law. McClarey addressed the crowd that gathered during the unveiling ceremony in July, quoting Lincoln. He titled the statue The Pursuit of Truth, providing an analogy between the 16th presidents mind and the hard surface of a metal tombstone (Lincoln had been involved in a patent case involving metal tombstones.) I am slow to learn and slow to forget that which I have learned, McClarey said during the ceremony, reciting Lincolns words. My mind is like a piece of steel, very hard to scratch anything on it and almost impossible after you get it there to rub it out. Macon County Historian Mark Sorensen interviewed McClarey for a 2005 article. I was just amazed at how prolific he was, Sorensen said after learning of his friends death. The older he got, he just kept pumping things out. According to Sorensen, the Illinois State Historical Society commissioned McClarey to create a limited special bronze statuette of Lincoln in conversation with Frederick Douglas in 1863. Were selling it for $2,500, Sorensen said. Ayn Owens, founder of historic preservation organization History of the Heartland, had worked alongside the McClareys on various projects. I dont remember not knowing them, she said. Owens had witnessed McClareys interaction with the community and students through various venues explaining his art. It was very fascinating, she said. To have someone of that caliber walking in Macon County and contributing to our community, that is pretty historic. She described John McClarey as an "extraordinary talent," who had first carved out a successful career as a beloved teacher and then went on to reinvent himself as a masterful sculptor. Owens said his Lincoln work often sported whimsical touches that humanized Lincoln and highlighted the character of the 16th president. "His work especially appealed to children," she added. "He made Lincoln a person again. And John McClarey was a pretty amazing person himself." Herald & Review staff writer Tony Reid contributed to this story. Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketia, has denied reports that he was nearly assaulted during a meeting in Tamale in the Northern Region. There have been media reports of the NDC Chairman narrowly escaping assault at a party meeting in Tamale at the Golden Dream Hotel on January 6, 2024, where the Northern regional treasurer of the party, Hajia Shamima Yakubu, was allegedly subjected to severe beatings. But speaking in an interview on Neat FM's Me Man Nti programme, Asiedu Nketiah said no one attacked him. "People are now saying all sorts of things...I'm not in Tamale so how can I be assaulted? They're all lies..." he stated. Source: Peacefmonline.com Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority. Featured Video This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Axiom Space was founded in 2016 by Michael Suffredini, a former ISS program manager for NASA, and entrepreneur Kam Ghaffarian. An all-European crew including Turkey's first astronaut arrived at the International Space Station on Saturday on a voyage chartered by Axiom Space. Dubbed Axiom Mission 3 (Ax-3), it is the company's third launch to the space laboratory and the first where all three of the paid seats were bought by national agencies, rather than wealthy individuals. The spacecraft docked at the ISS at 1043 GMT and boarded within about two hours, according to NASA's livestream of the event. The SpaceX Crew Dragon fixed to the top of a Falcon 9 rocket blasted off from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in the US state of Florida on Thursday. It arrived at the ISS, which flies around 260 miles (420 kilometers) above the Earth, after a journey of about 36 hours, according to Axiom Space's website. Turkish pilot and Air Force colonel Alper Gezeravci is joined by Walter Villadei, an Italian Air Force colonel who has previously flown to the edge of space on a Virgin Galactic space plane, and by Marcus Wandt from Sweden, who is representing the European Space Agency. They are led by Axiom's Chief Astronaut Michael Lopez-Alegria, a Spanish and US citizen and former NASA astronaut. The Axiom-3 team was welcomed with hugs by the seven crew members already aboard the ISSfrom Japan, Denmark, the United States and Russia. 'Pretty exciting' "We have doubled the number of nationalities on board the space station, going from four to eight, which I think is a great testament to the international collaboration which underpins this marvelous space station," said ISS commander Andreas Mogensen in a livestream, welcoming the four-member Axiom crew. "The ride uphill was pretty exciting. It never gets old," added Axiom commander Lopez-Alegria. "I think we probably spent a few more hours in Dragon than we felt like we needed to," he said, smiling. "But it was all good." The new arrivals will spend about two weeks carrying out 30 experiments, learning more about the impact of microgravity on the human body, advancing industrial processes and more. Axiom Space was founded in 2016 by Michael Suffredini, a former ISS program manager for NASA, and entrepreneur Kam Ghaffarian. In addition to organizing private missions to the orbital outpost, the company is developing spacesuits for future NASA missions to the Moon. It is also building a commercial space station that it intends to initially attach to the ISS, then separate and orbit independently sometime before the ISS is retired. The exact costs of the Ax-3 have not been disclosed, but in 2018 when the company first announced the program, which involves chartering SpaceX hardware and paying NASA for services, it set a price tag of $55 million per seat. More recently, Hungary was reported by spacenews.com to be planning a $100 million deal with Axiom for a future mission involving one astronaut. Britain, which is striving to build a post-Brexit space strategy, has also signed an agreement for a future mission carrying UK astronauts. 2024 AFP This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Iran's Revolutionary Guards launched a research satellite Saturday, a minister said, putting it into a higher orbit in a new milestone for its aerospace program that has faced Western criticism. The United States has repeatedly warned Iran against such launches, saying the same technology can be used for ballistic missiles, including ones designed to deliver a nuclear warhead. The Islamic Republic says its satellite and rocket launches are only for civil or defense purposes, denying any ambition to develop a nuclear weapons capability. "The Soraya satellite of the Iranian Space Organization... was successfully launched with the Ghaem-100 satellite carrier of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps," the official IRNA news agency said. "This is the first time that Iran has successfully placed a satellite in orbits higher than 500 kilometers (310 miles)," IRNA said. The news agency cited Telecommunications Minister Issa Zarepour as saying that the satellite, which weighs about 50 kilograms (110 pounds), was put in orbit 750 kilometers above Earth. The Ghaem-100 carrier rocket is manufactured by the aerospace organization of the powerful Revolutionary Guards. It is the country's first three-stage solid-fuel satellite launcher. While Tehran has struggled with several satellite launch failures in the past, the successful launch of its first military satellite Nour-1, into orbit in April 2020, drew a sharp rebuke from the United States. Other Western governments have voiced similar concerns about Iran's aerospace program. Tehran has been under crippling US sanctions since Washington's 2018 withdrawal from a landmark nuclear deal which granted Iran sanctions relief in return for curbs on its nuclear activities, designed to prevent it from developing a nuclear weapon. 2024 AFP This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Deep field. Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STSCI Launched in 2021 on Christmas Day, the James Webb Space Telescope is the most complex, precise and powerful space observatory ever built. The telescope's unrivaled resolution and sophistication are due in no small part to the many cutting-edge devices it contains, including a guidance camera and a scientific instrument developed by researchers at Universite de Montreal's Institut de recherche sur les exoplanetes (iREx). Now these same scientists, under the direction of Rene Doyon, a professor in UdeM's Department of Physics, can see the fruit of their efforts and expertise, as initial data captured by the telescope has been made public. The first photo taken by James Webb was released by U.S. President Joe Biden on July 11, 2022, and is of unprecedented color and clarity. It is the deepest, sharpest infrared image yet taken of the distant universe: A cluster of galaxies formed over 13 billion years ago. Four more images were then unveiled live on July 12 from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. The images showed the Carina and Southern Ring nebulae in unparalleled sharpness, in addition to Stephan's Quintet, a visual grouping of five galaxies. James Webb's first-ever spectroscopy of the exoplanet WASP-96 b, located 1,000 light-years from Earth, was also made public. Using this technique to determine the chemical composition of a distant object, the telescope captured the distinct signature of water, as well as evidence of clouds and haze. Nathalie Ouellette, an astrophysicist, iREx coordinator and communications scientist for the James Webb Telescope, tells us more about these remarkable images. Carene Nabula. Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STSCI The images revealed clouds of gas and dust expelled by dying stars, galactic interactions and hitherto unseen stellar birth zones. What do you consider to be the most significant discoveries? First, like the general public, I was struck by the beauty of the imagesthey're so exquisite! Second, it's hard to say which image is my favorite, I guess it's like choosing your favorite child. The exoplanet spectrum is a favorite for me, because a Canadian instrument made it, and because it proved the presence of water and clouds, allowing us to rectify discoveries that had been based on less precise and sensitive data. Usually, when you're looking at exoplanets, the data don't always align; not so with James Webb, whose data turned out to be crisp and clean and revealed some incredible things. Also, as my research focuses on galaxy formation and evolution, I found the Stephan Quintet image spectacular, giving new insight into how galactic interactions may have driven galaxy evolution in the early universe. So these images are truly unprecedented for the human eye? Yes, because they show light that the human eye cannot see. The Hubble telescope looked mainly at visible light, but James Webb looks into the infrared, enabling us to detect different phenomena. For example, nebulae are somewhat mysterious objects because they are very dusty; there is a lot of gas blocking visible light. However, with infrared, we can penetrate the dust and obtain images like those of the Southern Ring and Carina nebulae. Credit: University of Montreal Are the photos the result of some kind of manipulation? Yes, and the team that produced the images for the unveiling is amazing. Remember, it's not an easy task to make invisible light visible. It required the work of artists and scientists who were able to translate infrared into the colors we can see. And the colors are not chosen at random: they serve to emphasize certain scientific and artistic aspects of the objects. What will astrophysicists be able to do with the photos unveiled today? There's still a lot of analysis to be done. The images were taken in just a few days, if not weeks. We're not even talking in terms of months! It's like opening a box full of jewels. We want to look at everything, individually, carefully. There's a lot to discover in the images. It's as if there's a galaxy hidden in every pixel. The discoveries seem endless. The telescope's scientific operations have also just begun. Scientists and astronomers from all over the world are beginning to take possession of the telescope for their own projects. And what's next for you at iREx's, using the Webb? One of the first and most exciting programs to be carried out with James Webb is the observation of the planets in the TRAPPIST-1 system. This is the biggest Canadian program for the first year, and is led by Universite de Montreal Ph.D. student Olivia Lim. As with the exoplanet presented today, Olivia will be looking at the atmosphere of these exoplanets, which are rocky and could therefore resemble the Earth. We're looking for a bit of an Earth twin, and maybe we'll find it in the TRAPPIST-1 system. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain The UK government has announced the "biggest expansion of the [nuclear] sector in 70 years." This follows years of extraordinarily expensive support. Why is this? Official assessments acknowledge nuclear performs poorly compared to alternatives. With renewables and storage significantly cheaper, climate goals are achieved faster, more affordably and reliably by diverse other means. The only new power station under construction is still not finished, running ten years late and many times over budget. So again: why does this ailing technology enjoy such intense and persistent generosity? The UK government has for a long time failed even to try to justify support for nuclear power in the kinds of detailed substantive energy terms that were once routine. The last properly rigorous energy white paper was in 2003. Even before wind and solar costs plummeted, this recognized nuclear as "unattractive." The delayed 2020 white paper didn't detail any comparative nuclear and renewable costs, let alone justify why this more expensive option receives such disproportionate funding. A document published with the latest announcement, Civil Nuclear: Roadmap to 2050, is also more about affirming official support than substantively justifying it. More significantin this supposedly "civil" strategyare multiple statements about addressing "civil and military nuclear ambitions" together to "identify opportunities to align the two across government." These pressures are acknowledged by other states with nuclear weapons, but were until now treated like a secret in the UK: civil nuclear energy maintains the skills and supply chains needed for military nuclear programs. The military has consistently called for civil nuclear Official UK energy policy documents fail substantively to justify nuclear power, but on the military side the picture is clear. For instance, in 2006 then prime minister Tony Blair performed a U-turn to ignore his own white paper and pledge nuclear power would be "back with a vengeance." Widely criticized for resting on a "secret" process, this followed a major three volume study by the military-linked RAND Corporation for the Ministry of Defense (MoD) effectively warning that the UK "industrial base" for design, manufacture and maintenance of nuclear submarines would become unaffordable if the country phased out civil nuclear power. A 2007 report by an executive from submarine-makers BAE Systems called for these military costs to be "masked" behind civil programs. A secret MoD report in 2014 (later released by freedom of information) showed starkly how declining nuclear power erodes military nuclear skills. In repeated parliamentary hearings, academics, engineering organizations, research centers, industry bodies and trade unions urged continuing civil nuclear as a means to support military capabilities. In 2017, submarine reactor manufacturer Rolls Royce even issued a dedicated report, marshaling the case for expensive "small modular reactors" to "relieve the Ministry of Defense of the burden of developing and retaining skills and capability." The government itself has remained coy about acknowledging this pressure to "mask" military costs behind civilian programs. Yet the logic is clear in repeated emphasis on the supposedly self-evident imperative to "keep the nuclear option open"as if this were an end in itself, no matter what the cost. Energy ministers are occasionally more candid, with one calling civil-military distinctions "artifical" and quietly saying: "I want to include the MoD more in everything we do". In 2017, we submitted evidence to a parliamentary public accounts committee investigation of the deal to build Hinkley Point C power plant. On the basis of our evidence, the committee asked the then MoD head (whonotablypreviously oversaw civil nuclear contract negotiations) about the military nuclear links. His response: We are completing the build of the nuclear submarines which carry conventional weaponry. We have at some point to renew the warheads, so there is very definitely an opportunity here for the nation to grasp in terms of building up its nuclear skills. I do not think that that is going to happen by accident; it is going to require concerted government action to make it happen. This is even more evident in actions than words. For instance hundreds of millions of pounds have been prioritized for a nuclear innovation program and a nuclear sector deal which is "committed to increasing the opportunities for transferability between civil and defense industries." An open secret Despite all this, military pressures for nuclear power are not widely recognized in the UK. On the few occasions when it receives media attention, the link has been officially denied. Other nuclear-armed states are also striving to maintain expensive military infrastructures (especially around submarine reactors) just when the civilian industry is obsolescing. This is true in the US, France, Russia and China. Other countries tend to be more open about it, with the interdependence acknowledged at presidential level in the US for instance. French president Emmanuel Macron summarizes: "without civil nuclear power, no military nuclear power, without military nuclear, no civil nuclear." This is largely why nuclear-armed France is pressing the European Union to support nuclear power. This is why non-nuclear-armed Germany has phased out the nuclear technologies it once lead the world in. This is why other nuclear-armed states are so disproportionately fixated by nuclear power. These military pressures help explain why the UK is in denial about poor nuclear performance, yet so supportive of general nuclear skills. Powerful military interestswith characteristic secrecy and active PRare driving this persistence. Neglect of this picture makes it all the more disturbing. Outside defense budgets, off the public books and away from due scrutiny, expensive support is being lavished on a joint civil-military nuclear industrial base largely to help fund military needs. These concealed subsidies make nuclear submarines look affordable, but electricity and climate action more costly. The conclusions are not self-evident. Some might argue military rationales justify excessive nuclear costs. But history teaches that policies are more likely to go awry if reasons are concealed. In the UKwhere nuclear realities have been strongly officially deniedthe issues are not just about energy, or climate, but democracy. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.